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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-IURA-1992-01-07 C��y CCk4 Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency/Community Development Agency Tuesday, January 7, 1991, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Benjamin Nichols, Patricia Kennedy for item IIIa-2, Anne Jones, Doug Dylla, 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. The Mayor and Norton requested additional items for the agenda. The Agency agreed to change former item III to IIIb and to make the following additions: IIIa Chair Reports. 1. CHAS 2. Personnel/Executive Session IV-2. CDBG 1992 V-2. CDBG 1992 Potential Projects II. Approval of Minutes of December 3, 1991 The minutes of December 3, 1991 were approved unanimously. IIIa. Chair Reports 1. CHAS The Mayor announced that the City had received a letter from HUD indicating that additional tables were required for the CHAS. The letter also stated that the City had only been required to do an abbreviated CHAS. Norton and the Mayor both stated that HUD never issued complete guidelines for the CHAS, until after the submission deadline. The Agency agreed with Norton that since the work for the CHAS was completed, it would be best to comply with HUD' s request. Minutes IURA/CDA January 7, 1992 IIIa-2. Personnel Executive Session Action Taken: Dylla moved and Jones seconded a resolution to direct the City Attorney to defend the Agency in a suit filed against it. RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA directs and authorizes the City Attorney to defend the Agency against the suit it was served with on January 3, 1992. Approved unanimously. Norton stated that she is reviewing the CD Manual and will work with the Budget and Administration Committee on making the manual' s language more precise. Ilib. Staff Reports - CAC Membership Norton stated that the CAC needs more members. She listed the current members and the areas they represent. Norton further explained that CAC members have to live in the City or represent a City constituency. She listed people who had been recommended to her. Agency members made suggestions as well. The agency discussed the representation. The Mayor stated that he would see to the completion of the CAC membership. IV. Housing and Neighborhoods 1. Housing Proposals Norton's memo to the Neighborhoods and Housing Committee with the attached Affordable Housing Proposal Summary, dated December 12, 1991, was entered into the minutes. Norton briefed the Agency on the Housing Proposals that had been received. The Committee in its meeting of December 17, 1991 had given its highest rating to the proposal from Housecraft Builders. Norton had requested additional information from the other sponsors. She stated that the original deadline had been extended to the end of January. The CAC will be called together to review the proposals. Jones noted that the upstairs floor of the Chartwell Building on Meadow Street had been taken over by the Red Cross, presumably because of a lack of clients for the SRO's. It appeared from the discussion that followed that there is a greater need for 2 Minutes IURA/CDA January 7, 1992 efficiency apartments than for SRO's. Dylla concurred that many groups he worked with similarly are of the opinion that no more SRO's are needed. IV-2. CDBG 1992 Norton stated that the deadline for the 1992 CDBG application had not been set yet. However indications are that it might be as early as mid March. V. Economic Development 1. HiWay HiFi Norton reported that Lee Kasian from HiWay HiFi submitted a request to the IURA/CDA for a 60 day extension on his loan commitment (until April 16, 1992) . She recommended that this be done because work on the project is well underway. Dylla moved and Jones seconded a resolution to extend the deadline of the loan commitment of the HiWay HiFi project. RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA recommends that the deadline of the loan commitment for the HiWay-HiFi project be extended to April 16, 1992. Approved unanimously. V-2. CDBG 1992 Potential Projects Dylla asked whether fire detection measures on properties on the Commons would be an eligible activity for the 1992 CDBG application. Norton responded that CD regulations might not permit this. Dylla asked whether CDBG funds would be available to create a position at INHS for someone who could facilitate the services required by some people who need efficiency apartments. Norton would look into this. Norton stated that Sicherman had suggested to include 2 housing proposals in the 1992 CDBG application. He will visit Ithaca to attend the IURA/CDA meeting of February 4, and to meet with each of the sponsors to discuss their proposals. Norton asked advice from the Agency on the Public Service component of the 1992 CDBG application. She reviewed the process followed last year. 3 Minutes IURA/CDA January 7, 1992 Jones stated that she would not take part in the discussion concerning public service projects because she is on the board of an organization planning to submit a proposal. The Agency agreed to include the Public Service component in the 1992 application and discussed the special criteria. Dylla moved and Jones seconded a resolution to include Public Service project(s) in the 1992 CDBG application. RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA has determined that the 1992 CDBG application should include a Public Service component of no more than $25, 000. Sponsors will be selected using the 1991 criteria with the addition that preference will be given to project(s) creating jobs for youth, especially minority youth, and to project(s) sponsored by a partnership of service organizations. Approved unanimously. Norton agreed to do the outreach for this component. Norton further announced that she is working with Stayhome Healthcare on the preparation of a potential Economic Development project. VI. Budget and Administration - Financial Statement The Small Cities Grants Summary, dated December 1991 was entered into the minutes. VII. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:40 pm. C:\W\Min\Minute92.Jan iLIDJL 4 Minutes of the Community Advisory Committee February 6, 1992, 4pm Council Chambers, City Hall Present: CAC: Jeremy Schwartz, Deirdre Silverman, Tom West, Crystal Jackson, Carol Mallison, Clarence Reed, Michael Cannon, George Hagood, Andy Foster Sponsors: Jeff Furman, Marcia Fort Staff: Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 4:10 pm by Patricia Norton. She welcomed the new members of the CAC and asked everyone to introduce themselves. II. CDBG Application Update A. Role of CAC B. Purpose of CDBG C. Application Process Norton gave a brief presentation about the role of the CAC and how the CDBG application is put together. The CAC will review the proposals for the 1992 CDBG application and make recommendations to the IURA/CDA. The IURA/CDA, after review of the CAC recommendations, will make its recommendations to Common Council. Norton listed some of the projects that were funded through previous applications and explained HUD' s definition of low and moderate income levels. The application will contain 3 components: housing, economic development and public service. Norton mentioned that projects had to meet the design criteria designated by HUD for the comprehensive grant competition. HUD issued ten criteria and each grant application has to address at least four of them. Norton stated that no points will be issued by HUD on public service projects, but the projects add to the comprehensiveness of the application. Norton further stated that the application deadline will be around the middle of April. In order for the application to be on the agenda of Common Council' s April 1 meeting, the CAC has to complete its meeting schedule this month. HUD will notify the City of its rating of the application after about 75 days. Norton stated that the City had received 2 housing proposals, one economic development proposal, and 4 proposals for public service projects. With one exception, all sponsors will present their CAC Minutes February 6, 1992 projects at the CAC meeting of February 13. Norton urged the members to read the proposals that were handed out today. Answering a question from Mallison, Norton stated that although the City had been receiving low ratings by HUD these past years, it ranked no 1 in 1991. Reed explained that this was because of a well administered application process in 1991. IV. Presentation Community Enterprise and Entrepreneurial Training Project - Jeff Furman and Marcia Fort Norton explained that Marcia Fort and Jeff Furman were here today to present their proposal because of scheduling difficulties with next week' s meeting. The Community Enterprise and Entrepreneurial Training Project proposal was entered into the minutes. Fort and Furman gave a brief explanation about the project and gave some background information on their previous experience in related fields. Furman stated that business can be a force of social change and that a successful business can contribute to the community. CAC members asked questions. In response, Fort and Furman stated that they will conduct the initial interviews of potential participants with sensitivity. They will use various forms of publicity to alert young people to this program: they are looking for people around the ages of 16 to 23. The classes probably will take place at GIAC, late afternoon or evenings. The nature of the business ventures will be determined by the students themselves. A variety of mall fundraisers will be organized for the necessary additional funding. Furman and Fort stated that they will try to do this project even when only part of it receives funding through the CDBG. Reed and others expressed approval of the project. Norton stated that she will visit the Buffalo HUD office this week and will discuss this project. She will report on this discussion at the next meeting. V. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 4:20 pm. C/W/min/92CACFe6. 022 2 2414 z_ L Minutes of the Community Advisory Committee February 13, 1992, 4pm Council Chambers, City Hall Present: CAC: Jeremy Schwartz, Deirdre Silverman, Tom West, Crystal Jackson, Carol Mallison, Clarence Reed, Michael Cannon, George Hagood, Andy Foster, Pam Mackesy, Lucy Brown, Susan Cummings Sponsors: Jerry Weisburd, Anne Bookhout, Charles Nocera, Paul Mazzarella, Lee Dillon, Cheryl Caister, Guy Gerard Staff: Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 4: 10 pm by Patricia Norton. She welcomed everyone and asked the CAC and staff members to introduce themselves. II. CDBG Application Update Norton announced that competition for 1992 CDBG funds will be stiff. She further called attention to the ranking and rating forms handed out today. These forms will be used at the next meeting to rate all proposals. III. Sponsor Presentations for 1992 CDBG Application All 6 proposals presented today for the 1992 CDBG application were introduced into the minutes. III-1A. Housing - INHS Rental Housing Project Paul Mazzarella gave a brief talk on INHS' s proposal for Low Income Rental Housing. He announced a change in the original proposal. The eight units presently earmarked for this project will require less rehabilitation than was previously estimated. INHS' request has been lowered to $95,000; all of it to be used for rehabilitation. Site control of the eight properties still has to be realized. Mazzarella answered a number of questions from the CAC and staff. INHS expects to finish the project in 3 to 4 months. INHS intends for the houses to remain in their affordable housing pool. INHS' vacancy rate of 3% demonstrates a great need for affordable rental units. CAC Minutes February 13, 1992 III-1B. Housing - West Inlet Project Mazzarella spoke briefly about possible roles for INNS in the management of the West Inlet Project. One possibility is for INHS to receive the funds and lend them to House Craft Builders, another is for INHS to receive the funds and to make them available to the homeowners, offering them a mortgage package that would make the price of the units affordable to low/mod income people. Jerry Weisburd gave a summary of the West Inlet Proposal. He is requesting $300,000 to make at least 51% of his housing project affordable to low/mod income people. He presented architectural renditions of the proposal as it would look, with and without cluster development. In addition, he presented sketches of houses as he planned to build them on the site. The planned units will vary in size from 2 to 4 bedrooms with 1, 1 1/2 or 2 bathrooms. Weisburd answered a number of questions. He stated that the cooperation with the City had been excellent. City staff has been helpful with finding appropriate solutions. A number of decisions are still being made. Mallison commented that the City should encourage private developers to build affordable housing. She and Cannon expressed approval of the proposal. Cummings commented that the Neighborhood and Housing Committee of the IURA/CDA had given high ratings to the proposal. Questions were asked about recapturing the subsidies when the homes are resold. There was some support for such a method. Questions were also asked about the maintenance and ownership of the open space. Weisburd stated that some of the open space will be offered to the City but generally he will await the decisions from the Planning and Development Board. III-2. Economic Development - Community Home & Health Care, Inc. Anne Bookhout presented the proposal from CHHC. The CHHC is requesting about $100,500 start up funds for a new home health care business. The project will create 25 jobs. Bookhout answered a number of questions from the CAC. She explained the different funding mechanisms for home health care services. She discussed salaries, training and benefit package for their personnel. Norton explained that HUD requires that low/mod income people get preference. Cannon confirmed that it is not possible for an organization like CHHC to get private funding. 2 CAC Minutes February 13, 1992 III-3A. Public Services - Red Cross Chuck Nocera presented the proposal from the Tompkins Chapter of the American Red Cross. The Chapter is requesting $25,000 to provide case management for specific groups of homeless people. Nocera answered questions from the CAC. He stated that the homeless population served by the Red Cross in Ithaca is rising rapidly; an estimated 200% increase over the last few years. He guessed that about 70% of his clients are from the City, and that the remaining 30% included people who used to live here. Silverman stated that some people come here because of job opportunities, and as this fails they become part of the homeless population. Nocera stated that if half of the project were to be funded it would be realized but on a lesser scale. The Shelter staff is very committed to their project; they are continually trying to increase their funding. III-3B. Public Services - EOC Lee Dillon presented the EOC proposal. She stated that funds are requested for a Section 8 Housing Program that is mandated but not funded by HUD. This new program is called Family Self Sufficiency. EOC presently serves 270 households. Dillon will provide Norton with the number of City residents served by the program. III-3C. Public Services - Alcoholism Council of Tompkins County Cheryl Caister presented the proposal from the Alcoholism Council of Tompkins County, an alcohol awareness/intervention program aimed at youth. The CAC discussed the kinds of clients served by the Council, and how referrals were made. Caister will provide Norton with the number of City residents served. If the project were to be funded only in part, the Council implement it in part with a half time staff person. IV. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 6: 10 pm. OvevaCk C/W/min/92CACF13.022 "212 3 Minutes of the IURA/CDA Tuesday, February 4, 1992, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Mayor Ben Nichols, Anne Jones, Matthys Van Cort, Harry Sicherman, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken, Deirdre Silverman for items I, III-2, VI-2. I. Call to order The meeting was called to order by the Mayor, Benjamin Nichols at 4:05 pm. There was no quorum for today's meeting, therefore all decisions were postponed until the next meeting. II. Approval of Minutes of January 7, 1992 No quorum. ✓ bcLc-,se. kL4v,cs W e- vlCk- -C.,., ck • III. Staff Reports Norton stated that Ithaca will be unable to meet the threshold requirements for the 1992 applicationf' A discussion followed as to how remaining 1987 funds could best be used. Sicherman stated that there might be a way to convince HUD to grant us a waiver from the threshold requirements this year but he was not optimistic. 4.2 Ac`e.,..c y d..-cc:.Ve_d t1--e-40 40 cA,Q III-1. CAC Membership A current list of CAC membership was distributed among the Agency members. III-2. CHAS The Mayor and Norton announced that the City's CHAS had been approved by HUD. Jones asked about the County' s CHAS. Norton answered that the County is doing an abbreviated CHAS. Silverman stated that the CHAS is a most valuable document for other grant applications. III-3. Planning & Development Committee-Action of CD Commission The Mayor announced that it had been proposed by Common Council to terminate the CDA part of the IURA/CDA. In addition it was Minutes IURA/CDA February 4, 1992 proposed to put terms on IURA membership. This will be carried out after the application deadline. IV. Housing and Neighborhoods 1. West Inlet and INHS Proposals - 1992 CDBG application Sicherman stated that both housing proposals will be valuable components of the 1992 CDBG application. The clustering of the West Inlet development still has to be reviewed by the various agencies. IV-2. Shelter Plus Care - Deirdre Silverman/HOMES,Inc. Deirdre Silverman from HOMES, Inc presented the Shelter Plus Care proposal. The memo from Silverman to Norton, dated January 27, 1992 was entered into the minutes. The proposal will benefit people who cannot live in a group setting, but who need support services. The Agency and staff asked questions. Silverman explained the financial aspects of the proposal. HOMES and the City are forming a partnership to apply for the Shelter Plus Care funds. The City is the applicant because a non for profit organization cannot apply directly for HUD funds. The City will be responsible for the environmental review and for monitoring the program. HOMES will carry out the program and will do most of the work involved with writing the application. It will need to be documented that the HOMES' proposal conforms to the City' s CHAS. Jones and the Mayor approved of the proposal. Norton will contact other members by phone to obtain their vote on the proposal. It was agreed that if further approval is received the Mayor will be authorized to sign the appropriate documents. C7 vi a�i►wer.' S�1tlek'1 C..w.w.. ,�c n.cf€ c�Q unNn 'yeti.�.,S CLSec. CsN:c�.$ Sl,c. .,s c<a�cec + c,A c....\ /]uO�C"'�'iUe f:2r\CCS �J.JCLI,f� 7v41A��fG.Gt {Y'o-✓l N-11.42_ .SL�c\S�c\v4 l)Foc-C- o '- 1��..`Et\.�S.zt� �,. :..��C c..nnc WC"' S' & Gv.Ua�:c c1 "*1\rc 1n¢.e.Ca Q-sALAA1\c�..:1 ��,.Sr.uc u.�,.:FS ♦v\ lC C aw. .. .�n� a{ . SoLv�a� AkeLk E N Ic-J$DA .cc(Ns c"---- ' 2ES "e "sr 'Vc AA'.rc CQ s�bw`�tiFe a Fk� e\.� \A.�. C.� a�„_d a���l�S, T V. Economic Development - Community Health and Home Care Jones expressed concern that the CHHC business will take away customers from existing businesses. Sicherman stated that it needs to be documented that there is an unmet market demand. 2 Minutes IURA/CDA February 4, 1992 VI. Public Service Activities - 1992 CDBG application No reports VII. Budget and Administration - Financial Statement The Small Cities Grants Summary of January 1992 and the CD loan balances from January 1991 to January 1992 were distributed and entered into the minutes. VIII.Other business EXECUTIVE SESSION Action taken: The City Attorney's office will not handle the Bokaer matter. The Mayor will discuss matters with the City Attorney. Norton will get a cost estimate of proposed measures. IX. Adjonment The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 pm i\ ` e. C:\W\Minu\minuFeb4.022 3 Ll.ex is Minutes of the Community Advisory Committee February 23, 1992, 4pm Second Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: CAC: Carol Chernikoff, Deirdre Silverman, George Hagood, Susan Cummings, Carol Mallison, Clarence Reed, blichaea Cannon, Andy Foster, Lillie Tucker Sponsors: Susan Rausch and Paul Bonaparte-Krogh from the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County Staff: Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken I . Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 4 :05 pm by Patricia Norton. She announced that the presentation on Landmark Square by Rick Cowles could not take place because he was ill . Norton will give the CAC a briefing on the project . Cowles could make his presentation at the next meeting. Norton welcomed everyone and asked those present to introduce themselves. The next meeting will be a joint meeting and public hearing with the IURA. It will be the last CAC meeting scheduled for the 1993 CDBG application cycle. Norton further announced that HUD has not made a ' decision concerning the application deadline nor has it ruled on the application's funding limit . The two documents called "Proposal for Affordable Home Ownership Project by Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INNS) , dated November 24, 1992 and "Ithaca Dental Clinic" from the Groton Health Care Center were entered into the minutes . II . Approval of Minutes The minutes of the CAC meeting of February 9, 1993 were approved as distributed. The minutes of the CAC meeting of February 16 were approved as amended. The amendments were as follows . Under Item II-2, in the fifth paragraph the word "new" should be inserted before the word "Medicaid" , under Item II-1, in paragraph 4 and paragraph 5, "home owners club" should be replaced by "home buyers club" , and in the last paragraph under item II-1 "correct" should be replaced by "address" . CAC Minutes February 23, 1993 III. Applicant Presentation for 1993 CDBG Application Norton stated that presentations of 5 minutes by CDBG applicants will be made. Afterwards the CAC will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the proposal. Norton repeated the criteria stated during last week's meeting for evaluating the projects . III-2 . Public Service Cooperative Extension/Landmark Square - Sue Rausch The proposal called "4-H and Urban Outreach Programs" with attached budget was entered into the minutes. Norton introduced Sue Rausch, Program Manager and Paul Bonaparte- Krogh to the Committee. Rausch and Bonaparte-Krogh highlighted some of the items listed in the proposal . They are applying for CDBG funds to expand the Cooperative Extension program at Landmark Square. Part of the funds will be used to hire a part time Program Coordinator. The Program Coordinator will manage the 4 different programs which Cooperative Extension will provide on-site. These programs include new initiatives like Home Economics, Food and Nutrition, Agriculture, and a continuation of the 4-H Program. One year ago, Marann Management, which is managing Landmark Square on behalf of the absentee landlord, made an apartment available to Cooperative Extension to run an after school 4-H Program one day a week. The program was modeled after a Cooperative Extension program run successfully at West Village Apartments. In 1992, 25 youths were served at Landmark Square. Only 2 still live in the project. The turnover in the housing complex is very high and reaching the community is very staff-intensive. Outreach is directed at youth as well as parents and other adults . Cooperative Extension would like to provide the four programs on site as transportation to off-site areas is difficult for residents . It is important to have a community room as a central place. This makes it possible to reach all the people living in the housing project with a variety of programs geared to their needs. Rick Cowles will continue to make a room available for the project . The CAC members asked questions regarding the position of Program Coordinator and about the experience the Cooperative Extension has with such a position. It was established that Cooperative Extension had proven the effectiveness of on-site outreach at West 2 CAC Minutes February 23, 1993 Village. In order to successfully involve the community outreach had to be done door to door on a person to person basis . This is very staff intensive work. At West Village, people from the surrounding community have been admitted at the discretion of the owner. In this project, the outreach will be done only at Landmark Square. Cowles will have to decide on whether people from the surrounding neighborhood will be able to attend the programs; problems with liability insurance could influence this decision. Norton explained that two budgets for the Cooperative Extension project had been developed, because the funding limit is not yet known. She stated that the project is an eligible Public Service activity because it provides an increased level of service. The timing of the project coincides well with the grant . If the application is approved, funds will be available in September, which is when the program is expected to start. The CAC requested more comments from the community on the success of the program at West Village. The Committee gave the proposal its endorsement . III-1. Housing Landmark Square - Chartwell Plus Associates The document called "Landmark Square Proposal - CDBG February 18, 1993 with site-plan attached" was entered into the minutes . Norton explained that she would present what she knew of the project, but that Rick Cowles would be available next week to answer questions . Chartwell Plus Associates is requesting an estimated $350, 000 for this proposal . The IURA will make a loan to the developer. Norton explained the project using the distributed site-plan. She showed the location of the garages that were to be demolished, the places where new parking, lighting and landscaping were planned. There is one vacant house which is not part of the site as sold to Cowles . Norton listed the planned repairs and renovations . The CAC discussed the section fronting Meadow Street . These housing units, mostly vacant, will be replaced with a mixed-use commercial structure. The upper story will have efficiency and one-bedroom units . There will be no loss of housing units but a reduction in bedrooms, once the entire project is completed. However, the CDBG project does not include the mixed use building on the front third of the site. The CAC took an interest because 3 CAC Minutes February 23, 1993 design and completion schedule on the front third of the site will effect the overall appearance of the project. The pump station on the corner of Meadow Street is property of the City. There were questions as to how this rather basic structure could be enhanced so as to fit better into the whole renovation. Further discussion centered on pedestrian safety, the sidewalk on Wood Street and the dangerous route the Titus Tower residents have to take when they go shopping on Meadow Street. If no sidewalk could be added to the Southside of Wood Street, the CAC hoped traffic signs and traffic lights could be installed to make the passage safer. Access to public transportation could be facilitated by building a bus stop shelter. It is possible that the City could contribute a bus shelter. Cummings and others stated that the sports field often floods . Improved drainage could extend the use of the field. Questions were asked whether measures could be taken to prevent the condition of the Landmark Square apartments from deteriorating again. Norton and Mallison thought that a local owner and on-site management would prevent this. Hagood had concerns about the use of local contracting businesses for the project . The track record of Better Housing of Tompkins County, the managing agency, was discussed. This Agency has experience with similar housing projects and is also in contact with other agencies that have done similar work. Mallison explained that INHS did not want to manage the property because of their present work load and because they are managing already one project for Chartwell Plus Associates . They endorse the Chartwell Plus' choice of managing agency. Because not all questions on the project could be answered by Norton, the Committee requested that Rick Cowles and Becky Bilderbeck from Better Housing of Tompkins County be asked to come to the next meeting. IV. Recommendations to the IURA - Resolution Norton distributed the budget for the 1993 CDBG application. She requested comments from the CAC. 4 CAC Minutes February 23, 1993 She stated that since funding was available for all proposed projects no ranking and rating was necessary. She suggested the CAC should vote on whether or not to accept the proposals and make recommendations . Norton explained that Challenge Industries might enter a proposal for this year's application for their joint micro-film project with Cornell University. They are currently negotiating with staff on the terms of the loan. The CAC proposed substituting an infrastructure project if the Challenge Industries' project did no go through. Norton stated that unless a strong activity could be found, an addition might weaken the application. The CAC endorsed the proposals and the budget for inclusion in the 1993 CDBG application, as presented by Groton Community Health Care Center, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services and the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County. They especially welcomed the proposal for the Dental Clinic in Ithaca. They preferred to wait with endorsing the Landmark Square Project till they had had an opportunity to discuss the project with Rick Cowles and Becky Bilderbeck. Final decision on the complete CDBG proposal and budget will be made next week by the CAC during the joint meting with the IURA. IV. Adjournment Norton asked the CAC members to contact her with any concerns about the proposals before next week's meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 5:35 pm. C/W/min/93CACF23 . 0231 ?Ihoeck &i) Qw eek oL 5 Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency/Community Development Agency Tuesday, March 3, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Clarence Reed except for items I, II and III-2, Susan Cummings, Matthys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding for item III-2, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken I. Call to order The meeting was called to order at 4: 10 pm by the Chair, Benjamin Nichols. The Mayor proposed to add to the agenda item III-2 The Annex, report by Sieverding. Norton requested item VIII-3 for review of proposed CD budget. The Agency agreed. II. Approval of Minutes of January 7 and February 4, 1992 The minutes of January 7, 1992 were approved as distributed. The minutes of February 4, 1992 were approved with 3 amendments: 1. Under item III: the first sentence is extended with "because funds for previous grant years were not expended" . 2. Under item III: at the end of the paragraph a new sentence is added: " The agency directed staff to apply for a waiver. " 3. Under item IV-2: at the end of the item a new paragraph is added: "On February 5, 1992, Cummings agreed with serious reservations. She was concerned that additional low-income units with supportive services would subtract from the existing stock of unsupervised low-income units. She questioned the need for additional supportive units in the community. RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA directs and authorizes the Mayor to sign the appropriate documents for the Shelter Plus Care application, submitted jointly by the City and HOMES, INC. " III. Staff Reports 1. CAC Recommendations for 1992 CDBG Application: Report and Resolution The CAC recommendations for the 1992 CDBG application are listed under items III through VI. Item VI also includes the resolution of approval. Minutes IURA/CDA March 3, 1992 Norton announced that the deadline for the CDBG application is May 8, 1992. Norton further announced that HUD will only approve projects with 12 or more points for impact. This would not have affected last year' s application, but it would have disqualified the 3 successful applications previous to the 1991 submission. All information obtained from HUD indicates that we have to submit a very competitive application. The application meeting schedule was discussed. The Agency recommended to keep to the original schedule leading up to the April Common Council meeting. III-2. The Annex - report Sieverding gave a report on the City Hall Annex. The deadline for submitting proposals had passed. A discussion followed about the various options open to the IURA/CDA. It was agreed to continue to try selling the building and to explore various leasing options. Legal counsel will be sought on this subject. Sieverding will work with the Economic Development Committee on the sale of the Annex. IV. Housing and Neighborhoods 1. Report West Inlet and INHS Low Income Housing Proposals Norton distributed the plans for the West Inlet proposal. She listed the concerns voiced by neighbors of the development, the Conservation Advisory Council and the Planning and Development Board. Van Cort explained the concept of cluster housing. The density of_ the proposed project is less than allowed for that property. The presence of Hackberry trees on the property has raised concerns with the Conservation Advisory Council (CAC1) about the possible existence of 3 species of butterflies whose lifecycles depend on these trees. These butterflies are not rare, but their occurrence this far north is less common. Hackberries do occur in other parts of the Tompkins County area as do the afore mentioned butterflies. The CAC1 feels that the possibility of the existence of the butterflies requires thorough environmental safeguards. The kind of protective measures that should be taken as well as their cost, their impact on acquiring commercial mortgages and the amount of time required for environmental impact studies will be discussed in further meetings between the various parties. 2 Minutes IURA/CDA March 3, 1992 Extra costs are a concern because Housecraft Builders is working with a very small profit margin in order to keep the units affordable. The time requirements are of concern because of the application deadline. Cummings suggested providing as much information as possible on this project and as early as possible to the members of Common Council. The drainage system will be reviewed by the engineering department and to date has not been found to be a problem. Reed reported that the Community Advisory Committee (CAC2) had no concerns about the project. The Agency approved the recommendations by the CAC2 on this project. The INHS proposal has been amended to include 5 rental units in 3 buildings. INHS will buy the properties with their own funds. The Agency approved the recommendations by the CAC2 on this project. IV-2. Shelter Plus Care - Report and Resolution Cummings clarified her position on the proposal, as she had stated it to Norton on February 5, 1992. The Agency discussed the matter and agreed that no further action had to be taken beyond the amendment to item IV-2 of the minutes of February 4, 1992 and the resolution it contained. V. Economic Development - Community Health and Home Care Norton stated that documentation is being put together to prove that no existing services are duplicated by this proposal. Site. control is expected to be in effect before the application deadline. The agency approved the recommendations made by the CAC2 on this project. VI. Public Service Projects - Community Entrepreneurial Training Project Norton stated that the CAC had ranked this project higher than the other 3 public service project proposals. She explained that Common Council Member Barbara Blanchard had indicated that Agora provides similar services. A meeting will be arranged soon between Blanchard, Agora, Furman and Fort to coordinate the provision of services. She indicated that the CAC had recommended to open the 3 Minutes IURA/CDA March 3, 1992 project to all low income youth. The Agency agreed that program enrollment should be limited to City youth. They further decided that it was essential to have GIAC as the base of the project and that Furman was very important to the project. The Agency approved the recommendations by the CAC2 on this project. Reed moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to accept the recommendations of the CAC2 for the 1992 CDBG Application. WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency/Community Development 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/CDA has received the recommendations by the Community Advisory Committee on the 1992 CDBG application which it made after careful review of the proposals submitted to the City, now therefore be it RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA after review of the CAC' s recommendations for the 1992 CDBG Application has approved this package of projects and budget and recommends it to Common Council for their review and approval. Approved unanimously. VII. Budget and Administration 1. Benefit Policy Administrative Assistant Discussion of this item was forwarded to the Budget and Administration committee. VII-2. Financial Statement The Small Cities Summary of grants and loan funds, dated February 1992 was distributed and entered into the minutes. VII-3. Proposed CD budget The proposed CD budget was entered into the minutes. The Agency recommended reviewing the budgets from previous years when this budget is submitted to Common Council. They also recommended to mention that the salaries include a possible COL. Van Cort noted that a portion of the fringe benefits for the Executive Director is presently being charged to the IURA/CDA; previously they were not. 4 Minutes IURA/CDA March 3, 1992 VIII.Other Business No reports. IX. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 6: 10 pm. ,A (-042 c\ fask, , C:\W\Min\MinutMa3.032 5 p. . Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency/Community Development Agency Tuesday, April 7, 1992, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Clarence Reed, Susan Cummings, Doug Dylla, 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 Minutes of March 3, 1992 The minutes of March 3, 1992 were approved as distributed. III. Staff Reports - 1992 CDBG Application Norton announced that procedures against Fall Creek Associates have begun and a Legal Judgement will be filed. The Mayor will write to Mr. Bokaer about this, after discussing the matter with the Assistant City Attorney. The Agency directed the Mayor to delay proceedings only after payment in full is made at once by Fall Creek Associates. RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA directs and authorizes the Mayor to notify Mr. Bokaer of Fall Creek Associates (FCA) of its decision to file a Legal Judgement against FCA. Proceedings will be halted only when payment in full is made at once by FCA. Approved unanimously The Mayor stated that the Charter and Ordinance Committee of Common Council is reviewing the status of the CDA and IURA. A decision is expected in June, 1992. Norton confirmed that the CDBG application deadline is scheduled for May 8, 1992. She further announced that the City had submitted to HUD a request for a waiver of the 1992 CDBG threshold requirements. She expressed optimism that a waiver might be granted. She emphasized however that the City could not expect this next year if unexpended funds were not obligated by then. Dylla moved and Reed seconded a resolution stating that the Agency Minutes IURA/CDA April 7, 1992 will review the status of the unexpended funds at their August meeting. RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA will aggressively market the unexpended Economic Development funds until the August, 1992 meeting at which time the Agency will review the fund' s uses for purposes of reprogramming. Approved unanimously. IV. Economic Development 1. Community Health and Home Care - Report Norton reported on the ED committee meeting of March 31, 1992 where the proposal by Community Home and Health Care, dated march 30, 1992 was reviewed. At that meeting Anne Bookhout had explained that CD funds were essential for the success of the proposal. The organization was about to close on a site for their operations. They will be ready to start September 1992. Norton stated that the job creation of this project is an important component of this year' s application. The Committee had adopted by resolution the proposal set forth by Anne Bookhout on the following terms: a $10,000 grant together with a $90,000 loan with an interest rate of 3%, compounded annually beginning to accrue on June 1, 1993, secured by equipment and accounts receivable. After 5 years the terms of the loan will be reviewed by the IURA/CDA. If the organization is very profitable either a balloon payment or an accelerated payback schedule will be requested. Annual financial statements will be required. Anne Bookhout agreed to the terms except to the call provision. Van Cort proposed to structure the loan so that the interest rate can be reviewed after 5 years. Norton will check with the City Attorney about the correct formulation of the terms. IV-2. DigiComp Research Co. - Report The proposal made by Ohm Gupta from the DigiComp Research Co. to the ED Committee meeting of March 31, 1992 was discussed. Gupta needs to relocate his company and is looking at several locations. He would prefer to locate in Carpenter Business Park. He would like to construct, in 2 phases, a 20,000 sq. ft. building, preferring it to be U-shaped and one story high. For Phase I of the project, about 40 Parking places will be required, for phase II an additional 20 spots will be needed. A $90, 000 CD loan is an essential part of the plan. 2 Minutes IURA/CDA April 7, 1992 Gupta met with Harry Sicherman to discuss the project. The job creation of the project has been reviewed. There is concern about the types and the cycles of job creation and whether they will be available to low and moderate income people. The lease agreement will include an agreement schedule contingent upon financing and subdivision approval. Norton will consult HUD on this proposal. UDAG funds might be more appropriate. V. Housing and Neighborhoods. West Inlet Project - Report Norton reported that the preliminary subdivision had been approved by the Planning and Development Board. The project was further approved by Common Council as part of the 1992 CDBG application. For their next meeting the Planning and Development Board will request specific information about items like drainage. VI. Public Service Activities. No reports VII. Budget and Administration 1. Benefit Policy Administrative Assistant - Resolution The memo from Norton to van Leuken, dated February 26, 1992 was entered into the minutes. The Budget and Administration Committee had met before the April 7, 1992 IURA/CDA meeting to discuss the memo. The Committee recommended to the Agency to approve the terms of the memo, specifically to grant life insurance. Reed moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to grant life insurance to the administrative assistant under the terms of the CD Manual. RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA will purchase a term life insurance of $25,000 for the Administrative Assistant as set forth under the terms of the CD manual. VII-2. Financial Statement The Small Cities Summary of grants and loan funds, dated March 1992 was distributed and entered into the minutes. 3 Minutes IURA/CDA April 7, 1992 Jones asked about the unused funds of the Learning Web. Norton explained that the Learning Web will submit pay stubs for reimbursement on a quarterly basis. The first request will be made this month. VIII.Other Business The Agency decided to call a meeting in May only when presented with urgent business. Dylla asked about the follow-up on the Staff Meeting on Economic Development of September 17, 1991. He requested to have this on the agenda of the next meeting. IX. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:05 pm. hroaeA 1`-kkck2 k off. C:\W\Min\MinuApr7.042 4 Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency/Community Development Agency Wednesday, June 24, 1992, 1 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Mayor Benjamin Nichols, Clarence Reed, Doug Dylla, Robert Colbert, Constance Colbert, Herman Sieverding, Matthys Van Cort, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken I. Call to order The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Benjamin Nichols at 1:05 pm. II. Lease Assignment Evaporated Metal Films, Inc. Executive Session Action taken: The following five (5) documents were entered into the minutes: 1. Summary of proposed lease terms 2. Map Cherry Street Industrial Park 3,4,5. Proposed resolutions #680, #681, #682 Dylla moved and Reed seconded a resolution to approve the proposed resolutions #680, #681, #682 as amended. WHEREAS, the assignment of the Lease with Evaporated Metal Films (EMF) by the IURA/CDA will save existing jobs and will expand jobs in the future, and WHEREAS, this assignment will allow very small businesses to obtain space to start their business, therefore be it RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA adopts the following resolutions: #680. Asignment of EMF Lease, amended to read 2 acre instead of 1.5 acre in the first paragraph. #681. Termination of Precision Filters Lease #682. Lease for Two Acre Parcel- Cherry Street Industrial Park and authorizes the Mayor to execute the Lease Modification Agreement and the new Lease Agreement upon the recommendation Minutes IURA/CDA June 24, 1992 of the City Attorney and the Director of the Department of Planning and Development. Approved unanimously. The management of Precision Filters will be notified in writing of the decision by the IURA/CDA. Sieverding and Van Cort will meet with Don Chandler on his return next month. A press release will be issued after the meeting with Chandler. IV. Postponement of Mortgage - Robin Summers Reed moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to approve the request by Robin Summers for a postponement of mortgage. RESOLVED, that the IURA/CDA approves the request by Robin Summers for a postponement of mortgage. Approved unanimously. V. HOMES Program Norton explained to the Agency the availability of funding through the HOMES program. She gave a summary of the funding requirements. She stated that INHS and MHATC qualify as Community Housing Development Organizations, so the City does not compete with these Agencies when it applies for funding. The following methods for outreach were agreed on: 1. Put a Display Ad in Saturday's Ithaca Journal 2. Meet with Phil White to discuss the property on Cayuga Street 3. Provide information to the Rental Housing Committee in their meeting today. 4. Contact local Home Builders. Dylla suggested to target the funding to a specific area or building. III. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 2:20 pm. C:\W\Min\MINspIUR.062 2 vCc` �u� Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency/Community Development Agency Tuesday, July 7, 1992, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Susan Cummings, Doug Dylla, Chuck Guttman, 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 . The Agency approved the addition of 4 items to the Agenda: 1II-2, Personnel; III-3, Computer Purchase; IV-2, Evaporated Metal Films, Inc. ; VII-1, Circus. II . Approval of Minutes of April 7, 1992, and June 24, 1992 The minutes of April 7, 1992, and June 24, 1992 were approved as distributed. On July 28, 1992 Common Council Member John Schroeder informed staff that the third paragraph under item III of the April 7, 1992 minutes should read "Planning and Development Committee" in stead of "Charter and Ordinance Committee" . III . Staff Reports The memo from Norton to the IURA, dated July 7, 1992, was entered into the minutes . III-1 . Community Development Commission vs. IURA The memo dated December 30, 1991 from the City Attorney, Chuck Guttman, to the Planning and Development Committee of Common Council was entered into the minutes. Guttman stated that the Planning and Development Committee of Common Council had reviewed recommendations by Staff (and HUD) and had decided to recommend disbanding the CDA. The CDA is set up under a local law, the IURA is set up under State law. Additionally, the Committee favored appointing the members of the IURA to limited terms . The Mayor stated that it was his intention to request all present members to resign and than re-appoint them to fixed but staggered terms, so that each year one member's term would expire. The Minutes IURA July 7, 1992 Agency discussed the length of the terms and the date of appointment . The Agency is requesting the P&D Committee to consider the following: 1 . that the IURA members be appointed to 4 year terms (with Cummings requesting that a different way for staggering be found) 2 . that these terms be staggered and go from July to July, to coincide with the time table of the CD Application. Members commented that the IURA does not benefit from a rapid turn- over but rather needs experienced people, and that the IURA should not be a political instrument . In addition, the Mayor stated that a legal document will be drawn up transferring any rights and obligations from the IURA/CDA to the IURA. III-2 . Personnel Executive Session Action taken: The Agency kept to its earlier decision to offer a $500 settlement to Katherine Evans. The City Attorney will convey this decision to Evans' attorney and report to the Agency on any further developments . III-3 . Computer Purchase Norton explained the reasons for the request to purchase an additional computer. An existing Department computer (Triumph 286 plus) will be moved to the work station of the CD Administrative assistant to alleviate scheduling problems regarding the use of the existing CD computer. The new computer (#386) will be operated by the Deputy Director, and will give the CD Department access to the new programs it needs . The #386 costs $2400, which can be paid for from UDAG miscellaneous revenue funds . Dylla moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to use $2400 of UDAG miscellaneous revenue funds to purchase a computer. RESOLVED, that the IURA directs and authorizes staff to use $2400 of UDAG miscellaneous revenue funds to purchase a new computer. 2 Minutes IURA July 7, 1992 Approved unanimously. IV. Economic Development 1 . Digicomp Research Co - Report Guttman reported that Digicomp's President, Om Gupta is writing a Letter of Intent to sign a lease once the environmental audit has been completed. The Agency discussed the City's responsibilities regarding the environmental assessment of Carpenter Business Park. Dylla moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to do a Phase I Environmental Assessment of Carpenter Business Park to be financed by UDAG miscellaneous revenue funds . RESOLVED, that the IURA directs and authorizes staff to have a Phase I Environmental Assessment done of Carpenter Business Park and to finance this assessment with UDAG miscellaneous revenue funds. Approved unanimously. IV-2 . Evaporated Metal Films, Inc It was reported that a letter had been written to Mr. Chandler of Precision Filters to inform him of the IURA's decision. Negotiations with the Colberts are continuing under the terms set by the IURA. Guttman reported that the Colberts will be able to use their option for the remaining one acre site after they have either created 150 jobs, or need to expand their building by 5000 sq. ft . , or are otherwise able to show to the IURA that they need the site. V. Housing and Neighborhoods 1 . Public Transit 1990 Funds - Reprogram $4790 to MHA Pogo Parcel site The Agency discussed the request to reprogram $4, 790 of 1990 CDBG funds scheduled for the Floral Avenue MHA housing project bus shelter. The MHA housing project was moved to the Pogo Lot and the MHA has requested permission to use the funds for general construction. Cummings moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to reprogram the portion of 1990 CDBG funds to MHA general construction. 3 Minutes IUR.A July 7, 1992 RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the reprogramming of the portion of 1990 CDBG funds ($4790) from the bus shelter of the Floral Avenue MHA housing project to be used for general construction of the MHATC housing project on the Pogo Lot. Approved unanimously. V-2 . TFBW - Sidewalk Repair Costs The Task Force for Battered Women's lease was reviewed by the City Attorney, who found that the Task Force is responsible for the repair of their side walk. The IURA is the property owner of the leased building. The Agency resolved to request DPW to repair the sidewalk at the City' s costs . The Mayor will make this request . If payment by the City is not possible the repair will be paid for by the IURA. It was further proposed to include a provision for an escrow account for upkeep of the property in any future lease with the Task Force. VI . Budget and Administration 1 . Financial Statements The Small Cities Summaries of grants and loan funds, dated June, 1992 were distributed and entered into the minutes. VI-2 . Staff Contracts Executive Session VII . Other Business 1 . Circus It was reported that the DPW had agreed to the use of Carpenter Business Park for the one day performance by the Great American Circus. However the IURA is the owner of the site. Norton cited the different items the Circus and the City had agreed on. The agency discussed the matter. Cummings requested that inquiries be made to make certain that the Circus was honest and did not intend any fraud. Concern was expressed about preserving the For Lease/For Sale sign. Dylla moved and Cummings seconded a resolution for the IURA to issue a one day license to the City for the use of the Carpenter Business Park. 4 Minutes IUR.A July 7, 1992 RESOLVED, that the IUR.A will issue a one day license to the City for the use of the Carpenter Business Park for the performance by the Great American Circus. Approved unanimously. VII-2 . CD Manual The Agency asked staff to begin with amending the CD manual in areas that did not need the City Personnel Department's advise. VIII .Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5 :30 pm. kvizA)-e_ck C: \W\Min\Minute92 .jul 5 Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Tuesday, September 1, 1992, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Susan Cummings (except for item I and II) , Doug Dylla, Matthys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding (for Item I, II and IV) , Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken, John Efroymson (except for item I and II) 3 L[cLc'-e,,( , �zQd I . Call to order The meeting was called to order at 4 pm by the Chair, Benjamin Nichols . The Agency approved the addition of 4 items to the Agenda: III-5 Task Force, III-6 New Name of Agency, VI-3 CD Manual, VI-4 Affirmation of Acting Executive Director. II . Approval of Minutes of July 7, 1992 The minutes of July 7, 1992 were approved as distributed. III . Staff Reports 1 . Approval 1992 CDBG Norton announced that the 1992 CDBG application had been approved by HUD. The West Inlet Project had been the main contributor to its success . Cummings asked questions as to what makes an application successful . Norton explained that a subsidized housing project build by a private developer build outside of a traditional low income will receive high ratings because HUD considers direct home ownership a priority. The City also has demonstrated that it has the expertise to properly screen clients for subsidized housing. However, the City' s projects are scattered throughout the City, not concentrated in a defined Target Area. This diminishes our ratings. Norton plans to review applications from other communities during her next visit to HUD-Buffalo, to better understand HUD' s rating and ranking process . Minutes IURA September 1, 1992 III-2 . HUD Monitoring Visit Norton briefed the Agency on the visit by HUD representative Margaret Rafferty. Rafferty came to review progress on open CDBG grants . She was concerned about the lack of progress on economic development activities . The City will probably receive a finding for this . HUD will give the City a set deadline for progress on unexpended ED funds : 30 days for the HiWay HiFi project and 120 days for other unexpended ED funds . The City will have to submit a proposal for $90, 000 in unexpended economic development funds . The Agency discussed various possibilities to use the unexpended funds . The owner of the Ithaca Gun property is looking for business tenants. Challenge Industries is looking into a microfilm project with Cornell University. Norton will discuss a possible new proposal from MHATC during her October visit to HUD-Buffalo. III-3 . 1993 CDBG Application Process Norton reported on the outreach planned for the 1993 CDBG Application Cycle. Ads will be placed in the paper, RFP's will be sent out for Housing, and a mass mailing will be done for Economic Development . In addition, Norton plans to give talks as she did in previous years . She is preparing a press conference with the recipients of this year's grant. III-4 . Update on DHCR - HOMES Program Norton reported that outreach has taken place but so far no inquiries have been received. III-5 . Task Force Norton explained that there appeared to have been an oral agreement with the Task Force with Battered Women about setting up an escrow account of $2000 for maintenance. This agreement was in a copy of a TFBW lease, but did not appear in any of our lease documents . She reported that this requirement has been incorporated into the new lease that will be signed shortly. The Mayor reported that the DPW has decided to waive charges on the sidewalk repair in front of the Task Force's property. III-6. New Name of Agency The Mayor further reported that the Agency's name is now officially the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency. This decision was made during the meeting of the Planning and Development Committee of Common Council 2 Minutes IUR.A September 1, 1992 during their July 20, 1992 meeting. The decision is effective immediately. It is the Mayor' s intention to reappoint the present board members with staggered terms. IV. Economic Development 1 . Cherry Street Industrial Park - Evaporated Metal Films, Inc. (EMF) /Precision Filters (PF) Lease Agreements Sieverding reported that the lease assignment with the Colberts regarding the 2 acre site south of the Evaporated Metal Films (EMF) building in Cherry Street Industrial Park had been changed. This property had been assigned to Precision Filters, Inc. (PF) under certain conditions which PF had not met. This gave the IURA the right to call the lease with 60 days notice. The Agency had notified the owner Don Chandler of its decision. When Sieverding, Van Cort and Don Chandler met on July 7 to discuss this matter, Chandler had indicated that he was in the process of securing financing commitments for a 20, 000 sq. ft . addition to his building. If the new building is constructed, Chandler will need a half acre for additional parking. Provided that financing would be obtained, Chandler expected to begin construction by the summer of 1993 . Sieverding and Van Cort met with the Colberts and worked out a new agreement with them, which Chandler agreed to in concept as well . The new proposal calls for a division of the 2 acre site into roughly 1 1/2 acre to be leased to the Colberts and a 1/2 acre to be held for PF. If PF does not construct the proposed addition by a pre-set time schedule the site will go back to the IURA, and could then be leased to the Colberts. The first lease with the Colberts calls for a closing in mid- September and includes the ground lease for the EMF property and one additional acre. A second lease with the Colberts will be executed for the .37 acre site. An option agreement will be executed with PF for the . 63 acre site. The Mayor commended staff for their hard work renegotiating the agreement . The Economic Development Committee met on August 27, 1992 to review the changes in the agreement . They approved of the modifications and recommended the new agreement to the full Agency for their approval . 3 Minutes IURA September 1, 1992 Reed moved and Jones seconded a resolution to approve the modified agreement with the Colberts, EMF and PF. WHEREAS, the IURA, as part of the assignment of the Evaporated Metal Films, Inc. 's (EMF) lease agreed to lease the 2 acre parcel of land immediately south of the EMF site to Robert and Constance Colbert, as more fully described in the attached preliminary survey map from T.G. Miller P.C. , Engineers and Surveyors, Ithaca, NY, dated August 19, 1992 and, WHEREAS, this 2 acre parcel was leased to Precision Filters (PF) , said lease requiring PF to either expand its existing facility or increase its employment by January, 1992, and WHEREAS, because PF has not fulfilled either of these two conditions the IURA elected to terminate its lease with PF, and WHEREAS, Precision Filters, upon receiving notification of the IURA'S intent to terminate the lease indicated that it was in the process of securing financing commitments for an approximately 20, 000 sq. ft . addition to its existing facility, and WHEREAS, additional land is necessary to provide parking for this addition, and WHEREAS, the only available land in Cherry Street Industrial Park is the 2 acre parcel south of the EMF site, and WHEREAS, Robert and Constance Colbert, in view of PF's desire to expand, have agreed to lease a smaller portion of the 2 acre site, now THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA lease 1 .37 acres of the 2 acre parcel to Robert and Constance Colbert, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the IURA execute and option agreement with PF for the remaining .63 acre, said option agreement containing target dates by which time PF will have secured financial commitments and taken other courses of action demonstrating that it will be positioned to begin construction on its proposed addition by October, 1993, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if by October, 1993 PF has not commenced construction of its addition, said parcel of land will be leased to Robert and Constance Colbert under the same terms and conditions previously approved by the IURA, and 4 Minutes IURA September 1, 1992 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED , that the Mayor, upon the recommendation of the City Attorney and Director of Planning and Development, be authorized to execute the appropriate lease and option agreements necessary to implement this change. Approved unanimously. It was further stated that the environmental audit done by Chandler will be limited to the North West part of Cherry Street Industrial Park. IV-2 . Digicomp Research Co - Report Sieverding reported that Gaynor Associates completed the Phase I environmental audit for the entire Carpenter Business Park. The audit was clean and therefore the firm did not recommend a Phase II audit . The results have been sent to Om Gupta. Gupta's attorney and the City attorney will get together to negotiate the terms of the lease. Sieverding stated further that the project will need as much subsidized financing as possible. V. Housing and Neighborhoods 1 . 1990 Bus Shelter Funds for West Inlet Project Norton reported that the Planning and Development Committee of Common Council had requested that the funds earmarked for the bus shelter for the Mutual Housing (MHATC) Project on Floral Avenue should be used for the bus shelter of the West Inlet Project also on Floral Avenue. The City has the right-of-way on both sides of the street . The project does not require reprogramming. The funds will be moved to the West Inlet Project. Reed moved and Jones seconded a resolution to rescind IURA resolution #687, which approved the reprogramming of 1990 CDBG funds to the Mutual Housing Projects on the Pogo Lot. RESOLVED, that the IURA rescinds resolution #687 at the request of the Planning and Development Committee of Common Council and authorizes staff to move the $4790 of 1990 CDBG funds for the bus shelter on Floral Avenue to the West Inlet Project also for construction of a bus shelter. Approved unanimously. 5 Minutes IURA September 1, 1992 VI . Budget and Administration 1 . Financial Statements The Small Cities Summaries of grants and loan funds, dated July, 1992 and August, 1992 were distributed and entered into the minutes . VI-2 . Renewal of CD Bookkeeper Contract Norton stated that she was preparing a new contract for the Agency' s bookkeeper, Pamela Solomon. The Agency members discussed her performance; they are very pleased with the quality and efficiency of her services. Cummings moved and Jones seconded a resolution to approve the new contract with Solomon. RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes and directs the Mayor to sign the new contract with independent contractor Pamela Solomon for bookkeeping services at the hourly rate of $14 . 00 . Approved unanimously. VI-3 . CD Manual Norton reported that she is now revising the CD manual based on comments she has received. VI-4 . Acting Executive Director Van Cort requested formal affirmation from the Agency of the appointment of Herman Sieverding, Deputy Director of the Planning and Development Department, as Acting Executive Director of the IURA during Van Cort 's absence. Jones moved and Reed seconded a resolution to affirm Sieverding's appointment as Acting Executive Director. RESOLVED, that the IURA affirms the appointment of Herman Sieverding, Deputy Director of the Planning and Development Department, as acting Executive Director during Van Cort 's absence. Approved unanimously. 6 Minutes IURA September 1, 1992 VII . Other Business . No reports VIII .Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:25 pm. 47'-A 92_ )L3 0 L, C\W\min\minute92 .Spt 7 4 � C1c:� Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Tuesday, October 13, 1992, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Susan Cummings, Clarence Reed, Matthys Van Cort, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken I . Call to order The meeting was called to order at 4:10 pm by the Acting Chair, Susan Cummings. The meeting was then turned over to the Chair, Benjamin Nichols . The Agency approved the addition of three items to the Agenda: Item IV-7 "Fall Creek Associates" , item VI-1 "Subordination of Henry St John Mortgage" and item VI-2 "Declaration of Pogo Parcel as a blighted area" . II . Approval of Minutes of September 1, 1992 The minutes of September 1, 1992 were approved with one amendment . On page 1, under the paragraph "Present" , the name of Clarence Reed was added. III . Staff Reports 1 . Response to HUD Monitoring Review The City' s response to the Monitoring letter from HUD dated 9/4/92 was discussed. Norton and Van Cort explained to the Agency that HUD gave us a monitoring finding on the program income. The $91, 000 of program income from the West State Loan Program must be spent before any other funds can be drawn down from our line of credit . The program income funds will be spent on the next eligible expenses. This will in turn create a credit on the line of credit with the government . The uses of Program Income are subject to the same restrictions and obligations as are CDBG funds . The use of Miscellaneous Revenue like UDAG/HODAG is more flexible. Program Income funds have been kept here in order to meet the contractual obligations to HUD in the event a grant is not funded one year. Staff suggested that, in order to maintain a reserve fund balance here, the program income be spent on the City's contribution to INHS and not to HODAG. As the HODAG is classified as Miscellaneous Revenue, the IURA could keep it in a fund balance here. Cummings was concerned about channeling the HODAG funds to CDBG Administration. Reed confirmed that the Agency had agreed to Minutes IUR.A September 1, 1992 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED , that the Mayor, upon the recommendation of the City Attorney and Director of Planning and Development, be authorized to execute the appropriate lease and option agreements necessary to implement this change. Approved unanimously. It was further stated that the environmental audit done by Chandler will be limited to the North West part of Cherry Street Industrial Park. IV-2 . Digicomp Research Co - Report Sieverding reported that Gaynor Associates completed the Phase I environmental audit for the entire Carpenter Business Park. The audit was clean and therefore the firm did not recommend a Phase II audit. The results have been sent to Om Gupta. Gupta's attorney and the City attorney will get together to negotiate the terms of the lease. Sieverding stated further that the project will need as much subsidized financing as possible. V. Housing and Neighborhoods 1 . 1990 Bus Shelter Funds for West Inlet Project Norton reported that the Planning and Development Committee of Common Council had requested that the funds earmarked for the bus shelter for the Mutual Housing (MHATC) Project on Floral Avenue should be used for the bus shelter of the West Inlet Project also on Floral Avenue. The City has the right-of-way on both sides of the street . The project does not require reprogramming. The funds will be moved to the West Inlet Project . Reed moved and Jones seconded a resolution to rescind IURA resolution #687, which approved the reprogramming of 1990 CDBG funds to the Mutual Housing Projects on the Pogo Lot . RESOLVED, that the IURA rescinds resolution #687 at the request of the Planning and Development Committee of Common Council and authorizes staff to move the $4790 of 1990 CDBG funds for the bus shelter on Floral Avenue to the West Inlet Project also for construction of a bus shelter. Approved unanimously. 5 Minutes IURA September 1, 1992 VI . Budget and Administration 1 . Financial Statements The Small Cities Summaries of grants and loan funds, dated July, 1992 and August, 1992 were distributed and entered into the minutes . VI-2 . Renewal of CD Bookkeeper Contract Norton stated that she was preparing a new contract for the Agency's bookkeeper, Pamela Solomon. The Agency members discussed her performance; they are very pleased with the quality and efficiency of her services. Cummings moved and Jones seconded a resolution to approve the new contract with Solomon. RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes and directs the Mayor to sign the new contract with independent contractor Pamela Solomon for bookkeeping services at the hourly rate of $14 .00 . Approved unanimously. VI-3 . CD Manual Norton reported that she is now revising the CD manual based on comments she has received. VI-4 . Acting Executive Director Van Cort requested formal affirmation from the Agency of the appointment of Herman Sieverding, Deputy Director of the Planning and Development Department, as Acting Executive Director of the IURA during Van Cort' s absence. Jones moved and Reed seconded a resolution to affirm Sieverding's appointment as Acting Executive Director. RESOLVED, that the IURA affirms the appointment of Herman Sieverding, Deputy Director of the Planning and Development Department, as acting Executive Director during Van Cort's absence. Approved unanimously. 6 Minutes IURA September 1, 1992 VII . Other Business . No reports VIII.Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5 :25 pm. ,,,,,o•e, .,--, Glk-4,02-A-ce-- +\92__ L- C\W\min\minute92 .Spt 7 • Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Tuesday, October 13, 1992, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Susan Cummings, Clarence Reed, Matthys Van Cort, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken I . Call to order The meeting was called to order at 4:10 pm by the Acting Chair, Susan Cummings . The meeting was then turned over to the Chair, Benjamin Nichols . The Agency approved the addition of three items to the Agenda: Item IV-7 "Fall Creek Associates" , item VI-1 "Subordination of Henry St John Mortgage" and item VI-2 "Declaration of Pogo Parcel as a blighted area" . II . Approval of Minutes of September 1, 1992 The minutes of September 1, 1992 were approved with one amendment . On page 1, under the paragraph "Present" , the name of Clarence Reed was added. III . Staff Reports 1 . Response to HUD Monitoring Review The City' s response to the Monitoring letter from HUD dated 9/4/92 was discussed. Norton and Van Cort explained to the Agency that HUD gave us a monitoring finding on the program income. The $91, 000 of program income from the West State Loan Program must be spent before any other funds can be drawn down from our line of credit . The program income funds will be spent on the next eligible expenses . This will in turn create a credit on the line of credit with the government . The uses of Program Income are subject to the same restrictions and obligations as are CDBG funds . The use of Miscellaneous Revenue like UDAG/HODAG is more flexible. Program Income funds have been kept here in order to meet the contractual obligations to HUD in the event a grant is not funded one year. Staff suggested that, in order to maintain a reserve fund balance here, the program income be spent on the City' s contribution to INHS and not to HODAG. As the HODAG is classified as Miscellaneous Revenue, the IURA could keep it in a fund balance here. Cummings was concerned about channeling the HODAG funds to CDBG Administration. Reed confirmed that the Agency had agreed to Minutes IRRA October 13, 1992 set aside funds to cover an "off-year" . He proposed that the program income be used to fund some HUD approved activity. The Agency discussed measures that could be taken to reduce costs in an off-year. Norton stated that $80, 000 per year is needed for Administration and Program Delivery. Van Cort stated that the IURA office is staffed at a minimum already with one full time and one half time person and that to lay off staff in a off-year will jeopardize the City's contractual obligations to HUD for the open CDBG grants . Bookkeeping and consulting staff is needed for the same reasons. If no reserve is kept, the City is still responsible for funding the administrative staff necessary. The Agency was in agreement that the program income from the West State Loan Program should be spent as directed by HUD, that a $91, 000 credit would be created on certain line items on our line of credit, and that any further action would be taken at a future meeting. They also agreed that the IURA office has brought a substantial amount of Federal Funds to the City. INHS would still receive the same annual contribution from the City, but the contribution would be made up of program income funds and not HODAG. INHS already meets the regulatory requirements for the expenditure of program income. Norton proposed setting up a Revolving Loan Fund with future program income generated form economic development loan paybacks . This entire issue was referred to the Budget and Administration Committee for consideration and recommendation. III-2 . Review of HUD Rating of 1992 CDBG Application Norton confirmed that the City's 1992 CDBG Application ranked third in this year's Small Cities competition in upstate New York. HUD's scoring on the individual grant criteria was different this year. The City was not awarded any points for locating housing outside a low/mod area. Both housing activities, West Inlet and INHS Rental Management, scored extremely well . Reed concluded that criteria change from year to year but that the overall results of the 1992 CDBG Application show that good work was done in its preparation. 111-3 . CHAS - Update No reports . 2 Minutes IURA October 13, 1992 IV. Economic Development 1 . Center Ithaca - Chapter 11 Reorganization Plan Van Cort reported that negotiations between the City and Center Ithaca are continuing. The use of public space and the rights of the tenants are two items being discussed. Common Council will have the final vote on the negotiated reorganization plan. The Agency took no action on the reorganization Plan and deferred the item to Common Council. IV-2 . Rick Cowles' Economic Development Loan - Resolution Executive Session Action taken: The Agency discussed the economic development loan which was reviewed by the Economic Development Committee. The loan was for a tenant in the Clockworks Project on Third and Meadow Streets . The requested loan of $90, 000 has been structured for 12 years with the interest set at the prime rate, which is 6%, and with a balloon payment in the 8th year. Payments in the first year will be for interest only. An option to extend the loan by one year after the eighth year will be included. The Agency had no objections to the terms of the loan but requested more information on the tenant before they could take final action. Norton stated that she would bring the requested information before the Agency in a special meeting to be called as soon as possible. The project will use unexpended economic development funds from 1987 and 1990 . HUD recently gave the City 120 days to submit a proposal for these funds . IV-3 . Cherry Street Industrial Park - Update No reports . IV-4 . HiWay HiFi - Authorization for the Mayor to Sign Contracts The HiWay HiFi contract has been approved by HUD. Contract negotiations will now take place legally between the City Attorney and Counsel for HiWay HiFi . 3 Minutes IURA October 13, 1992 Reed moved and Cummings seconded the resolution to authorize the Mayor to sign the contract with HiWay HiFi . RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the terms of the contract with HiWay HiFi and directs and authorizes the Mayor to sign this contract subject to review by the City Attorney and the Executive Director of the IURA. Approved unanimously. IV-5 . Community Health and Home Care (CHHC) - Authorization for the Mayor to Sign Contracts The contract with Community Health and Home Care has been approved by HUD as well as by CHHC. Reed moved and Cummings seconded the resolution to approve the contracts with Community Health and Home Care. RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the terms of the contract with Community Health and Home Care, Inc. and directs and authorizes the Mayor to sign this contract subject to review by the City Attorney and the Executive Director of the IURA. Approved unanimously. IV-6 . Challenge Industries - Proposal for 1993 CDBG Application Norton explained the proposal made by Challenge Industries, Inc. They have submitted a proposal for a microfilming project that will cost between $95, 000 and $115, 000, to be conducted in cooperation with Cornell University. The University wants to abandon their own microfilming service but is very interested in keeping the service in the community. Cornell University would therefore like to develop the microfilming capacity at Challenge Industries . Norton will get more precise numbers on the proposed job creation. The Agency proposed to give at least part of the funds in the form of a loan. IV-7 . Fall Creek Associates (FCA) The Economic Development Committee reported that they recommended that staff accept the rent assignment from Renee's Restaurant which will cover Fall Creek Associates' monthly loan payment. A condition for acceptance of the rents is postponement of the judgement proceedings which the Committee approved. If at any time in the future payments are not made, Tsvi Bokaer has stated that 4 Minutes IURA October 13, 1992 Fall Creek Associates will waive legal right to judgement proceedings . The judgement which was initiated is valid for one year. If CD re-initiates proceedings after that period, the legal costs of preparing judgement will be incurred again. It was decided that costs incurred in the process of legal proceedings will be charged to loan recipients . Jones moved and Reed seconded a resolution to waive the proceedings for a legal judgement against Fall Creek Associates . RESOLVED, that the IURA has agreed to halt the proceedings for a legal judgement against Fall Creek Associates as long as regular payments are made through the rent assignment with Renee's with the understanding that legal proceedings will be resumed at once in case of default. Approved unanimously. V. Budget and Administration 1 . Financial Statements The Small Cities Summaries of grants and loan funds, dated September 1992 were distributed and entered into the minutes. V-2 . Appointment of Agency Members The Mayor stated that the reappointment of all Agency members had been approved by Common Council during their September 7, 1992 meeting. All members had accepted their appointment for the terms stated and were duly sworn in by the City Clerk. The members' terms are as follows. Anne Jones' term expires June 30, 1993 ; Clarence Reed' s term expires June 30, 1994; Susan Cummings' term expires June 30, 1995; Doug Dylla's term expires June 30, 1996 . VI .Housing and Neighborhoods 1 . Subordination of Henry St John Mortgage INHS is refinancing its rental properties . Cummings moved and Reed seconded a resolution to approve the subordination of the Henry St John mortgage to the new mortgage on the HSJ building. The IURA's mortgage remains in second position. 5 Minutes IUR.A October 13, 1992 RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the request by INHS to subordinate its mortgage for the Henry St. John Building to the refinanced first mortgage on the property. Approved unanimously. VI-2 . Declaration of Pogo Parcel as blighted site Van Cort explained that the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County (MHATC) is applying for non-for-profit status from the IRS. Their application would be enhanced by a declaration from the IURA that the Pogo parcel is part of a blighted area. Reed moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to declare the Pogo Parcel a blighted site. WHEREAS, the Pogo Parcel is adjacent to the back of a super market, and WHEREAS, this Parcel is the former site of the sewage treatment plant with a trash handling facility nearby, and WHEREAS, the Parcel is within the designated urban renewal area, and WHEREAS, the Parcel is located in a census track where 52% of the families are below the poverty level and earn 50% or less than the area median income, and WHEREAS, numerous studies have identified the problems of blight of this Parcel, and WHEREAS, these studies have recommended that housing be constructed to counteract these problems, now THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA has determined that the area of the Pogo Parcel is a blighted area, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the IURA has determined that the Mutual Housing Project on the Pogo Parcel as executed by the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County, will be of great benefit to the area because it will counteract this process of blight. Approved unanimously. 6 Minutes IURA October 13, 1992 VII . Other Business No reports VIII .Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 pm. C\W\min\minute92 .Oct 7 CA-L,pQA L_ Minutes of Special Meeting/Conference Call Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Monday, October 19, 1992, 10 am Department of Planning and Development, City Hall Present : Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Clarence Reed (by conference call) , Matthys Van Cort, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken I . Call to order The meeting was called to order at 10 am by the Chair, Benjamin Nichols . II . Reprogram Request for CD/Economic Development Funds Norton stated that the tenant of the Clockworks Project developed by Rick Cowles on Third and Meadow Streets is Pal's Sporting Goods. There are Pal's stores in Elmira, Sayre and Corning and the store specializes in sport shoes and clothing. Pal's is requesting a loan of $90, 000 to complement the loans already in place. The private financing in place is contingent upon the $90, 000 in CDBG financing. The funds will be used for first year inventory costs and working capital. The terms of the loan were discussed and tentatively agreed to by the Agency in their meeting of October 13, 1992 . They are as listed below. The loan of $90, 000 is on a 12 year amortization schedule with a balloon payment at the end of the eighth year. The interest rate will be set at the prime rate; with interest-only payments in the first year. An option to extend the loan by one year after the eighth year will be included. There will be repayments on the loan of about $10, 000 per year. Seven jobs will be created for low and moderate income people. Norton stated that guidelines for hiring will be included in the final contract . The Mayor will include some names for the outreach list . The Economic Development Committee had stated its preference for giving low income City residents priority for the jobs . Norton is taking this information to Common Council's Planning and Development Committee meeting. Minutes IURA October 19, 1992 Jones moved and Reed seconded a resolution to approve the loan. RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the Economic Development Loan to Pal's Sporting Goods for working capital and inventory in the store proposed for the Clockworks building on Third and Meadow Streets under the terms agreed to by the Agency, and directs and authorizes the Mayor to sign the legal documents subject to review by the City Attorney and the Executive Director of the IURA. Approved unanimously. III .Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 10 :15 am. C\W\min\minute92 .Oc2 k ` 2 Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Tuesday, November 3, 1992, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : Benjamin Nichols, Susan Cummings, Clarence Reed, Doug Dylla, Herman Sieverding for items I - IV, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken L,y si�si \\..R 6AVcsz, v W At 4∎A _ Mnrr_2},.:.r1 I. Call to order The meeting was called to order at 4 :10 pm by the Chair, Benjamin Nichols . The Agency approved the addition of 4 items to the Agenda: Item III-2 "Pal's Sports Center - Update" , Item V-2 "Audit - report" , Item VI "Reports on CDBG Housing Projects" and Item VII "Conflict of Interest - INHS" . II. Approval of Minutes of October 13, 1992 and October 19, 1992 The minutes of October 13, 1992 and October 19, 1992 were approved as distributed. III. Staff Reports 1. 1993 CDBG Application - Outreach Norton reported on the outreach for the 1993 CDBG application. To publicize the availability of Housing loans, a display ad was placed in the Ithaca Journal and Housing RFP's were sent to buildersvand others with a possible interest in developing low/mod cne.j.c•��� income housing. The deadline for submitting proposals is November 30, 1992 . A similar mailing for Economic Development outreach has been done. III-2 . Pal's Sports Center - Update Norton reported that she had received negative comments on the project from some Ithaca merchants. There was objection to the concept of subsidizing a business that will compete with existing businesses . The Agency confirmed that the unexpended funds have been publicized for a number of years and that no fundable proposals were received till that of Pal's Sports Center was submitted a few months ago. Sieverding stated that the success of the Clockworks project hinges on the approval of this project. Cummings proposed that a one page memo be written detailing the outreach done for these funds for Minutes IUR.A November 3, 1992 Common Council . The unanimous consensus of the Agency was that this proposal was the best one offered for their review after years of intensive marketing of the funds. It fulfilled the requirements of job promotion and revitalization of the downtown business area. IV. Economic Development 1 . Center Ithaca - Reorganization Plan Sieverding gave the Agency an extensive update on the City's negotiations with Center Ithaca. The documents distributed to the Agency on this item are filed in the Central "Center Ithaca" File in the Planning and Development office. The public use of the Atrium and the rights of the tenants are two items under discussion. The Agency's consensus was that the Atrium plan was a good one, but that the plan's language should be much more precise. Common Council will have the final vote on the negotiated reorganization plan. HUD considers the UDAG closed out . All decisions regarding the UDAG are up to Common Council and the Agency and require no input from HUD. Reed stated that the IURA decision to award the project to a local developer had proven to be a good one. Cummings moved and Reed seconded a resolution to approve the proposed Center Ithaca Reorganization Plan. WHEREAS, the IURA holds a second and third mortgage on the Center Ithaca property as security for a $1, 445, 000 Urban Development Action Grant loan to Center Ithaca Associates to construct the building and a $250, 000 loan on the underlying land, said loans now totaling approximately $2, 198, 350 in principal and accrued interest, and WHEREAS, in spite of a total restructuring of both the financial and physical structure of Center Ithaca in 1984 as proposed by Halcyon, Ltd. , consultants to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which has resulted in more leasable and marketable space in the Center the project has not been able to make all of its debt service payments, and WHEREAS, the amount of initial and accrued debt is such that it is economically infeasible that given the amount of leasable area within Center Ithaca and the commercial rent structure in the Ithaca market it will ever generate sufficient income to service this debt, and 2 Minutes IURA November 3, 1992 WHEREAS, the income Center Ithaca is capable of producing suggests it can only support a value of approximately $2 .73 million, and WHEREAS, in view of the above Center Ithaca Associates has filed for protection from its creditors under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code to allow it to propose a reorganization plan that will allow it to restructure its debt relative to the income it is able to generate in this market, and WHEREAS, Center Ithaca has developed a reorganization plan to restructure all its debt in a fashion that it believes will create a more financially stable Center Ithaca, and WHEREAS, as a major creditor the City can cast a vote to accept or reject the proposed plan, now THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA agrees to the modified terms of the Plan of Reorganization for Center Ithaca which establishes the amount of the City's interest in Center Ithaca at 14 .5% of Class V creditors or approximately $316, 500, such amount to accrue interest at the prevailing long term federal rate and be payable in 2032, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the IURA recommends that Common Council negotiates an appropriate Atrium Agreement with Center Ithaca Associates, which continues and clearly defines the rights and privileges of the City and the public to the Atrium, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor be authorized to execute all documents necessary to cast an affirmative vote on the plan and implement the reorganization plan upon the recommendation of the Agency's Attorney and Executive Director. Approved unanimously. V. Budget and Administration 1. Financial Statements The Small Cities Summaries of grants and loan funds, dated October 1992 were distributed and entered into the minutes . Norton explained the new listing of 1987 projects . From now on reprogrammed projects will be listed in the specific grant years where the funds originated. 3 Minutes IURA November 3, 1992 V-2 . Audit - Report Norton reported that the IURA office has been audited as part of the City Audit . Because of the large number of Federal Funds the Ithaca Urban Renewal Office complied with all Single Audit requirements . These are federal audit requirements for recipients of the largest amount of federal dollars in a municipality. The Agency requested a report of the Audit . The Mayor reported that the City Comptroller was satisfied with the results of the Audit . VI . Housing and Neighborhoods Reports on CDBG Housing Projects The Chartwell/Fairfield Crossing Project is being finished and the first 4 units are expected to be rented this December. The INHS House Recycling project is on schedule. Stakes are being pulled up on the grounds of the West Inlet Project . The stakes and connecting ribbons were places to protect and identify the Hackberry trees and other tree species on the site. The Mutual Housing Association's project will begin receiving bids tomorrow. The new architect has modified the plans so that the bids received will be within the budget level. VII. Other Business Conflict of Interest/INHS The letter form Paul Mazzarella, Executive Director of INHS dated November 2, 1992 to the IURA was entered into the minutes . Norton explained the background of the request . Cummings moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to grant the request for a waiver. RESOLVED, that the IURA recommends that the request for a waiver of federal regulations governing Conflict of Interest be granted so that Charles Rollins, Jr. , a relative of a member of the INHS Board of Directors may be awarded contracts on either INHS-owned or client-owned properties. Approved unanimously. VIII .Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 pm. C\W\min\minute92 .Nov 4 V� ©AAAe_,, vuev�S /6V z 6N LAP-a4 . Lk Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Tuesday, November 2, 1993, 4 pm Room 201, City Hall Present: Benjamin Nichols, Bill Myers, Clarence Reed, Doug Dylla, Susan Cummings, 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 IV-3 , Micro Enterprise Project and Item V-3 , Update Training CD Coordinator. II . Approval of IURA Minutes of October 5, 1993 The Agency discussed the West Inlet project, as described in the October 5 minutes under item VI-1, prior to approving them. The minutes of the IURA meeting of October 5, 1993 were approved as distributed. III . Staff Reports Strategy for 1994 CDBG Projects Norton announced that Requests for Housing Proposals had been sent to 23 parties . The RFP's will be followed up with phone calls . In addition, an ad was placed in the Real Estate Section of the Ithaca Journal on October 23 , 1993 . Norton received only a limited number of responses so far. INHS is planning to submit a proposal for Mutual Housing Phase II . New York State notified INHS that they might be interested in funding part of the Mutual Housing Phase II project. Funding from both federal and state sources will be required to finance the project. Norton asked Dylla to join in next week's meeting with Paul Mazzarella and Van Cort to discuss the financing for Phase II . The Red Cross is considering submitting a proposal for housing funds to convert office space into transitional housing for single parents . EOC is looking for additional space for a Single Room Occupancy building. The SRO would be for single men. The Agency advised not to locate this SRO in the West State Street area as that area already contains many shelters . Minutes IURA November 2, 1993 Jeff Furman will be submitting a micro-enterprise project. HUD 's guidelines for micro-enterprise activities differ from the standard Economic Development guidelines. Furman's proposal will include expansion of the Youth Enterprise Program and a Peer Lending Group project. The Agency liked the Peer Lending proposal . Dylla suggested using CD funds for the risk pool rather than using them to loan out. Myers stated that his bank has a micro enterprise manual for lenders. He emphasized that the training of lenders was essential for the success of the Project. Dylla requested that future grants include park improvements similar to this year's Wood Street Park Improvement project. He suggested setting aside $20, 000 for improvements for parks like Conway Park or for bike pathways . Norton explained that public facility projects enhance a comprehensive application only when they are associated with an application's economic development or housing project. The Mayor suggested adding a park improvement project to the MHA Phase II proposal . Van Cort added that ADA regulations have made the building of playgrounds very expensive. IV. Economic Development 1 . Strategy for 1994 Economic Development Projects Dylla gave a summary of the Economic Development Committee meeting of October 12, 1993 . The Committee reviewed outreach efforts for Economic Development projects over the last few years . The Committee's conclusion was that a targeted approach might yield better results . The Committee recommended that special consideration be given to minority and women-owned businesses, to businesses wishing to expand or locate on West Sate Street and to projects which create jobs for youth. Myers suggested to add projects that will result in reusing vacant properties . Dylla asked the ED Committee to set up a mechanism whereby ED projects are generated all year long. Norton is planning to do extensive outreach for Economic Development projects . IV-2 . Amendment to ED Guidelines The Agency discussed the Revised CDLF Guidelines . Two new amendments were added: the inclusion of special consideration given to minority and women-owned businesses and to businesses expanding or locating on West State Street. 2 Minutes IURA November 2, 1993 The Agency agreed that Norton should formulate the guidelines to show that all eligible ED projects will be considered but that preference will be given to those projects that address the above priorities . Dylla moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to approve the amended Revised CDLF Guidelines, dated 10/15/93 . RESOLVED, that the IURA approves and adopts the Revised Community Development Loan Fund Guidelines of October 15, 1993, amended to reflect that special consideration will be given to minority and women-owned businesses and/or businesses wishing to expand or locate on West State Street. Approved unanimously. IV-3 . Micro-Enterprise Projects Norton announced that HUD is very interested in funding Micro- Enterprise Projects . The City has funded 2 micro-enterprise projects with HUD provided funds, Youth Scoops in 1985, and CEETP/Youth Enterprise in 1992 . HUD would like to make use of the City's expertise and experience by making Ithaca the site of a training course in Micro-Enterprises for future beneficiaries . Norton is working with Jeff Furman to design a micro-enterprise program for the 1994 CDBG Application. V. Budget and Administration 1. Draft Human Resource Policies Norton stated that the Human Resource Policies has been reviewed by the City's Personnel Director, Val Saul, and is now being reviewed by the Assistant City Attorney, Pat Kennedy. The draft policies were distributed with all changes printed in bold. The Budget and Administration Committee will meet to review the Policy. The Mayor asked about the perception that CD staff receives better benefits than City staff. Van Cort stated that CD Staff is so small that benefits are being tailored to individual needs . He added that CD Staff has no job security. Norton added that City employees have better health and retirement benefits . V-2 . Financial Statements The Small Cities Grant Summaries, dated October 1993 , was entered into the minutes . 3 2 Minutes IURA November 2, 1993 The Agency complimented staff on the closing out of grants and completion of projects . V-3 . CD Coordinator's Request for Training Norton reported that the airfare, hotel and other costs, for traveling to the second training session, which was approved at the last meeting, would be about $1600 . She further reported that no scholarships were made available by the training organization. A national development certificate will be issued to participants after completing all four sessions of the course. VI . Housing and Neighborhoods 1 . Section 17 Program Update Norton explained that the Section 17 program was initiated in 1985 to enable landlords to rehabilitate their properties in exchange for keeping the rents below Fair Market Rents . Several Landlords are paying off their mortgages . Norton expects $36, 000 in program income to be generated. Mark Goldfarb will pay off a $20, 000 mortgage due to the fire ar inarq � his apartment complex. B sold her property and paid x7, `AL : back the $5, 000 principal balance left on the mortgage. Chrystean Fields is in default on her mortgage after selling her property in February. She owes $8000 on her mortgage. VI-2 . Update on INHS House Recycling Administering the House Recycling Project has been reassigned to other INHS Staff. A schedule has been adopted to complete the 1991 CDBG project. At completion, 6 units in 6 properties will have been recycled. Norton expressed concern that the up till now unused funds of this project may make it difficult for the City to meet the threshold requirements of the 1994 CDBG Application. The Agency strongly recommended to INHS to consider both the adverse impact on the neighborhood caused by delay in finishing the project and the City's funding requirements . The Agency urged INHS to complete all the houses before submission of the 1994 Block Grant. 4 Minutes IURA November 2, 1993 VII . Other Business No reports . VIII.Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5 :30 pm. C\W\Min\Minute93 .NOV 5 Minutes Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Tuesday, December 1, 1992, 4 pm Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Benjamin Nichols, Susan Cummings, Anne Jones, Doug Dylla, Herman Sieverding for items I - IV, 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 Minutes of November 3, 1992 The minutes of November 3, 1992 were approved with 2 amendments . On Page one under "Present" the sentence "Notification of Anne Jones' absence was received prior to the meeting" was added. Under item III-1, fourth line after "builders" the words " , non- for-profit agencies, " were inserted. III . Staff Reports Staff reported to the Agency about public response regarding the Economic Development Loan to Pal's Sports Center. No additional negative comments had been received after the Public Hearing of November 10, 1992 . Cullen from Cullen Sporting Goods had contacted Margaret Rafferty at HUD after speaking at the Common Council meeting and the Public Hearing. Rafferty had explained to him that the City was obligated to act within 120 days on the HUD monitoring concern she had made and that the project appeared to conform to HUD's criteria for ED projects . ` Mr. Sheik from Sr i had asked Norton to make presentations at meetings of Downtown Ithaca, Inc. The Agency suggested to include Downtown Ithaca Inc. in future outreach. Van Cort reported that the newspaper article from Barbara Blanchard had been helpful in informing the public on this issue. Van Cort stated that he planned to write an article as well. Norton gave a report on the Annual Performance Report (APR) of the CHAS. The APR will include 1992 CDBG activities only. It will be r Minutes, IURA December 1, 1992 distributed to members of the IURA and the CAC and various agencies concerned with housing issues. This APR will transition the City towards an Abbreviated CHAS. Norton is doing this at the advice of HUD. The format of the abbreviated CHAS is better suited for smaller cities like City. Unlike entitlement communities, the City competes for all outside funding sources and thus is unable to predict the availability of maz.. funding sources and therefore is unable tooldcpea comprehensive yew housing plan. If the transition to the abbreviated CHAS rules were cHzs not made, the City would have to report each year on all the activities of all organizations in Ithaca that concern themselves ,1. eI� with housing. Norton and Dylla had attended the State CHAS meeting in Binghamton. Dylla reported that it is generally assumed that the Counties will assume the CHAS responsibilities in the future. The State CHAS is an unwieldy document. The State received a CHAS from so many communities that they have trouble processing the information on an aggregate basis. IV. Economic Development 1. Center Ithaca - Atrium Agreement The Center Ithaca Atrium Redesign Agreement (11/6/92) was distributed and entered into the minutes. Sieverding explained the changes in the Atrium agreement to the Agency. The Agency approved of the changes. Sieverding further announced that the November 19, 1992 Bankruptcy Court Hearing on the Disclosure Statement had been moved to January 17, 1993 . The Reorganization Agreement will be on the agenda of Common Council's January meeting. IV-2 . Digicomp Research Co - Lease Approval The memo from Sieverding, dated December 1, 1992, regarding the Carpenter Business Park was entered into the minutes . Sieverding reported that the City Attorney and Digicomp's attorney are working on the final details of the lease agreement. Gupta had requested a clause that would allow him to buy the land before the 20th year. There is a concern that the City will lose control over the use of the site much earlier than anticipated. The Agency proposed several options for the negotiations for an early sale's clause. No sale could be allowed till after the 5th year. In addition, it could be stipulated that the sale would have to have the approval of the City, with the City promising not to 2 Minutes, IURA December 1, 1992 unreasonably withhold such approval as long as the sale results in a project which still conforms to the approved land uses. Approved uses as listed in the covenant do not include the use for retail, wholesale or warehouse facilities. In addition, a timetable could be developed whereby the earlier the site is purchased the closer to market value the sales price will be. Dylla moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to authorize staff to continue negotiations with Digicomp Research Co. RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes staff to continue its negotiations with Digicomp Research Co regarding the land lease in Carpenter Business Park, providing that acceptable terms can be reached regarding the sale of the land before the 20th year. Approved unanimously Sieverding further reported that the funds for the Appalachian Regional Commission Grant for Carpenter Business Park had been approved. The administrative work to draw down the $150, 000 is underway. Margaret Rafferty of HUD Buffalo had been very helpful in completing the request. V. Budget and Administration Financial Statements The Small Cities Summaries of grants, dated November 1992 were distributed and entered into the minutes . VI. Housing and Neighborhoods RFP Housing - Report Norton reported that the deadline for the Housing RFP was November 30, 1992 . RFP's were sent to approximately 21 local not for profit agencies and builders . She had followed up the mailing with a phone call to all the recipients. She had received one proposal from INHS and 2 inquiries . The INHS proposal was for a homeownership program, to promote new homeownership of 15 units for $300, 000 . The Agency suggested extending the deadline if necessary. The Mayor will make a short statement on the Housing RFP at tomorrow's Common Council meeting. 3 Minutes, IURA December 1, 1992 VII. Other Business No reports VIII.Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 pm. C\W\min\minute92 .DEC 4