HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-01-16 Common Council Meeting AgendaOFFICIAL NOTICE OF MEETING
A Regular meeting of the Common Council will be held on Wednesday, June 1, 2016, at
6:00 p.m. in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall, 108 East Green Street, Ithaca,
New York. Your attendance is requested.
AGENDA
1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
2. ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
3. PROCLAMATIONS/AWARDS:
4. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
4.1 Presentation of Quarterly Employee Recognition Award
5. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
5.1 Presentation by the City of Ithaca Youth Council
5.2 Update/Presentation For Southside Community Center Task Force
6. PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
7. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR:
8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
City Administration Committee:
8.1 Department of Public Works – Amendment to Personnel Roster - Resolution
9. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
9.1 Ithaca Welcomes Refugees - Resolution
9.2 Babe Ruth License Agreement - Resolution
9.3 A Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of $236,000 Bonds of the City of Ithaca,
Tompkins County, New York, to Pay the Cost of Certain Water and Sewer
Capital Improvements in and for Said City
9.4 City Controller’s Report
9.5 Consideration of the Natural Area Commission’s Recommendations Regarding
401 Lake Street – Resolution
A. Declaration of Lead Agency – Resolution
B. Determination of Environmental Significance – Resolution
C. Consideration of Resolution
Common Council Meeting Agenda
June 1, 2016
Page 2
10. PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
10.1 Consideration of the Natural Area Commission’s Recommendations Regarding
401 Lake Street - Resolution
A. Declaration of Lead Agency – Resolution
B. Determination of Environmental Significance – Resolution
C. Consideration of Resolution
10.2 2016 HUD Entitlement Action Plan – Resolution
10.3 An Ordinance to Amend The City of Ithaca Municipal Code, Chapter 325, Entitled
“Zoning,” To Amend the Street-Level Active Use Requirement in the Collegetown
Area Form Districts
10.4 An Ordinance to Amend the City of Ithaca Municipal Code Chapter 164 Entitled
“Dogs and Other Animals”; §164-2(B) and §164-4; and to add Article III entitled
“Backyard Chickens”
11. REPORTS OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES:
12. NEW BUSINESS:
13. INDIVIDUAL MEMBER – FILED RESOLUTIONS:
14. MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS:
15. REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS:
16. REPORT OF CITY CLERK:
17. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
18. MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS:
18.1 Approval of the May 4, 2016 Common Council Meeting Minutes – Resolution
19. ADJOURNMENT:
If you have a disability that will require special arrangements to be made in order for you
to fully participate in the meeting, please contact the City Clerk at 274-6570 at least 48
hours before the meeting.
______________________________
Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC
City Clerk
Date: May 26, 2016
8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
City Administration Committee:
8.1 Department of Public Works – Amendment to Personnel Roster -
Resolution
WHEREAS, it is anticipated that the current Financial Clerk will soon be retiring; and
WHEREAS, the Department wishes to sustain a competent support staff and reorganize
the responsibilities of the financial function within the Department; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Personnel Roster of the Department of Public Works be
amended as follows:
Add: one (1) Financial Management Assistant (40 hours/week)
And; be it further
RESOLVED, That upon the retirement of the current Financial Clerk, the position
vacated through retirement shall be abolished effective on the employee's retirement
date; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the funding for this change shall be derived from existing funds within
the Department of Public Works budget.
Civil Service Law, Section 22: Certification for positions. Before any new
position in the service of a civil division shall be created or any existing
position in such service shall be reclassified, the proposal therefore,
including a statement of the duties of the position, shall be referred to the
municipal commission having jurisdiction and such commission shall
furnish a certificate stating the appropriate civil service title for the
proposed position or the position to be reclassified. Any such new
position shall be created or any such existing position reclassified only
with the title approved and certified by the commission. Effective 1978
City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission
108 East Green Street - Ithaca, NY 14850
New Position Duties Statement
Department head or other authority requesting the creation of a new position,
prepare a separate description for each new position to be created except that one
description may cover two or more identical positions in the same organizational
unit.
Forward one typed copy to this Commission.
1. Department Bureau, Division, Unit or Section Location of Position
Department of Public Works Department of Public Works Department of Public Works
2. Description of Duties: Describe the work in sufficient detail to give a clear word picture of the job. Use a separate paragraph for each kind
of work and describe the more important or time-consuming duties first. In the left column, estimate how the total working time is divided.
Job Title: Financial Management Assistant
Percent of
Work
Time
40
40
15
5
Job Duty
Performs a variety of financial account-keeping activity related to general ledger accounting,
budgeting, accounts payable, accounts receivable and external and internal reporting
Prepares and processes the necessary documentation in the areas of payroll, billing,
payments, purchasing and inventory control
Performs an office administration role, interfacing with the public ( residents, vendors, etc. )
and internal employees to disseminate information and assist in resolving issues
Performs related clerical duties as required
3. Names and Titles of Persons Supervising this position (General, Direct, Administrative, etc.)
Name Title Type of Supervision
Michael Raftis Manager of Fiscal Operations - DPW Direct
4. Names and Titles of Persons Supervised by Employee in this position None
Name Title Type of Supervision
5. Names and Titles of Persons doing substantially the same kind and level of work as will be done by the incumbent of this new
position
Name Title Location of Position
Camille Little
Financial Management Assistant Water & Sewer
Jean Mikula Financial Management Assistant Streets & Facilities
6. What minimum qualifications do you think should be required for this position?
Education:
High School graduate or possess a high school equivalency diploma
Minimum Qualifications:
Three ( 3 ) years full-time paid experience, or it’s part-time paid or volunteer
equivalent, maintaining financial accounts and records
Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Good knowledge of modern methods used in maintaining financial accounts and records
Good knowledge of modern office procedures, including the ability to utilize common business software
programs at an acceptable rate of accuracy and speed
Ability to analyze data, prepare reports and maintain organized files
Ability to understand and interpret complex oral instructions and/or written directions
Ability to effectively interact with colleagues and a diverse local community
Having the physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position
7. The above statements are accurate and complete.
Date: 4/19/16 Title: Manager of Fiscal Operations - DPW Signature: Michael Raftis
Certificate of Civil Service Commission
8. In accordance with the provisions of Civil Service Law Section 22, the City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission certifies that the
appropriate civil service title for the position described is:
Title:
Jurisdictional Classification:
Date: Signature:
Action by Legislative Body or Other Approving Authority
9. Creation of described position
Approved
Disapproved
Date: Signature:
Return One Completed Copy To Civil Service Commission May 13, 2016
9. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
9.1 Ithaca Welcomes Refugees - Resolution
WHEREAS, The Refugee Act of 1980 declared that it is “the historic policy of the United
States to respond to the urgent needs of persons subject to persecution in their
homelands” and gave the President the power to handle an “unforeseen emergency
refugee situation” such as one involving “grave humanitarian concerns”[i]; and
WHEREAS the people of the City of Ithaca and their government have a long history of
opening their community and welcoming refugees; and
WHEREAS, Mayor, Svante Myrick, has publicly stated his support for Ithaca’s welcome
of refugees during the current international crisis; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is proud to be an ethnically diverse city, with 10.4% of its
residents born outside the United States indicating that Ithaca is truly a city of
immigrants[ii]; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is proud of its immigrant communities, many of whose
members arrived here as refugees; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca should stand ready to respond in this humanitarian crisis
in which the number of refugees fleeing the conflict in Syria to neighboring countries has
now eclipsed four million[iii], thus confirming the Syrian refugee crisis as the world’s
single largest refugee crisis in almost a quarter of a century; and
WHEREAS, refugees to the United States are subject to the highest level of security
checks of any category of traveler to our country[iv]; and
WHEREAS, refugees are vetted by the National Counterterrorism Center, the FBI’s
Terrorist Screening Center and the Departments of State, Defense, and Homeland
Security; and
WHEREAS, refugees are subject to additional screening that verifies what caused them
to flee their homes; and
WHEREAS, the intense background and medical checks required of refugees can take
as much as two years to complete[v]; and
WHEREAS, more than half of the refugees brought to the United States have been
children[vi]; and
WHEREAS, a public statement that Ithaca is a welcoming community demonstrates our
community’s compassion and global concern; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca, as part of the world community, can and should play a
role in the collective response to human suffering and prejudice; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council, a body that represents people from a multitude of
ethnicities and religions, reaffirms the City’s commitment to remain a place of support
for the refugees who have, in past years, made Ithaca their home; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca affirms and expresses a commitment to be a
welcoming community to any and all future refugees who have gained sanctioned
entrance into the United States of America.
[i] 94 STAT.102.PUBLIC LAW 96-212-MAR. 17, 1980. Public Law 96-212
(https://www.congress.gov/bill/96th-congress/senate-bill/643)
[ii] From US Census Data (http://www.city-data.com/city/Ithaca-New-York.html#b)
[iii] As of this writing, UNHCR counts 4,390,439
(http://data.unhcr.org/syrianrefugees/regional.php#)
[iv] http://www.rcusa.org/uploads/pdfs/Refugee%20resettlement%20-
%20step%20by%20step%20USCRI.pdf
[v] Why It takes Two Years for Syrian Refugees to Enter the U.S.,
(http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/ 2015/11/20/us/why-it-takes-two-years-for-syrian-
refugees-to-apply-to-enter-the-united-states.html)
[vi] US Boosts Efforts to Help Syrian Refugees (Voice of America, 9/3/15)
BACK-UP ITEM 9.1
Ithaca Welcomes Refugees (IWR) is an interfaith, nonpartisan, community-based
collective, inspired by the Syrian Refugee Crisis to serve refugees. Our aim is to help
refugees, starting at a local level, with priority given to those bearing the additional
stigmas of hate and fear. Our work will include resource gathering, fundraising,
resettlement assistance, and awareness efforts. We hope that these efforts may result
in the development of Ithaca itself as a welcoming host community in this time of great
global need.
We feel it is important to recognize that refugees attempting to flee violence and
instability in their home countries deserve our compassion and assistance, not our fear
and bigotry. Welcoming refugees is an important humanitarian step for us to take,
benefitting both refugees and the communities in which they settle. We in Ithaca have
benefited greatly from the contributions of people from many countries, creating the
diverse multicultural community we love and admire.
(For inclusion with June 1, 2016 Common Council agenda)
9.2 Babe Ruth License Agreement - Resolution
WHEREAS, Ithaca Babe Ruth League serves the area’s youth by providing social and
athletic recreational opportunities for its members and guests through baseball leagues,
clubs and games; and
WHEREAS, Ithaca Babe Ruth Baseball League is proposing to fund and install a new
12’ x 12’ storage shed next to Field 9 in Cass Park; and
WHEREAS, the Parks Commission and Board of Public Works have reviewed the
proposal and support the installation of the new shed; and
WHEREAS, City staff support installation of the new shed so long as staff approves final
location of the shed, staff is allowed access to the shed, Ithaca Babe Ruth Baseball
provides insurance and maintains the shed in good condition for the duration of the
license, and that ownership of the shed transfers to the City at the end of the license;
and
WHEREAS, pursuant to City of Ithaca Municipal Code Chapter 170 entitled “Use of City
Real Property”, any non-transitory use of City parkland requires a license, and Section
170-5(G) vests in the Common Council sole authority to grant approval of any license to
use City parkland; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council finds that the licensing as described above
enables the public to enjoy the recreational and athletic opportunities offered by Cass
Park, and thereby fulfills a valid park purpose; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council finds that the licensing of an exclusive shed
space narrowly-tailored to the equipment-storage needs of the Ithaca Babe Ruth
League effectively serves the public in enjoying the recreational and athletic
opportunities offered by the Cass Park; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the Mayor, upon the advice of
the City Attorney, to enter into a license agreement charging an annual fee based on
the Marine Commercial appraisal category of $0.48 per square foot, adjusted annually
in accord with the Consumer Price Index, for the installation of the shed and use thereof
with the following conditions:
1) City staff approve the location,
2) City staff are allowed access,
3) Ithaca Babe Ruth Baseball League maintains the shed in good condition for the
duration of the license,
4) Ithaca Babe Ruth Baseball League provides proper insurance as required by the
City, and
5) Ownership of the shed be transferred to the City at the end of the license
agreement, or if the City prefers, the group will remove the shed from the
premises and return the site to its original condition;
and; be it further
RESOLVED, Said license shall be for a one year term with provisions for automatic
renewal, but providing the City unfettered ability to revoke or modify said license upon at
least nine months’ written notice that the Common Council has so resolved; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, The license agreement shall require Ithaca Babe Ruth League to:
1) submit documentation ensuring that participation in its activities is available to all
members of the public via membership application and payment of fees, which
may not be unreasonably large, said unreasonableness to be evaluated after
accounting for discounted or income-sensitive opportunities for participation in
the Babe Ruth League’s activities, and
2) file with the City Clerk an annual report on:
a) the then-current fee structure for membership,
b) the reasonableness of said fee structure, and
c) community participation opportunities and events being offered by the
League.
9.3 A Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of $236,000 Bonds of the City of
Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, to Pay the Cost of Certain Water and Sewer
Capital Improvements in and for Said City
WHEREAS, all conditions precedent to the financing of the capital projects hereinafter
described, including compliance with the provisions of the State Environmental Quality
Review Act as a Type II Action, have been performed; and
WHEREAS, it is now desired to authorize the financing of such capital projects; now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED, by the affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds of the total voting
strength of the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, as
follows:
Section 1. For the object or purpose of paying the cost of certain water and sewer
capital improvements in and for the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, there
are hereby authorized to be issued $236,000 bonds of said City pursuant to the
provisions of the Local Finance Law, apportioned among such capital improvements in
accordance with the maximum estimated cost of each. The capital improvements to be
financed pursuant to this bond resolution, the maximum estimated cost of each, the
amount of bonds to be authorized therefore, the period of probable usefulness of each,
and whether said capital improvements are each a specific object or purpose or a class
of objects or purposes, including in each case incidental improvements, equipment,
machinery, apparatus, appurtenances, furnishings and expenses in connection
therewith, are as follows:
a) Replacement of water main on 200 block of Dryden Road, in and for said City, at
a maximum estimated cost of $131,100. It is hereby determined that the plan for the
financing of such specific object or purpose shall consist of the issuance of $131,100 of
the $236,000 bonds of said City authorized to be issued pursuant to this bond
resolution. It is hereby determined that the period of probable usefulness of the
aforesaid specific object or purpose is 40 years, pursuant to subdivision 1 of paragraph
a of Section 11.00 of the Local Finance Law; and
b) Replacement of sewer main on 200 block of Dryden Road, in and for said City, at
a maximum estimated cost of $104,900. It is hereby determined that the plan for the
financing of such specific object or purpose shall consist of the issuance of $104,900 of
the $236,000 bonds of said City authorized to be issued pursuant to this bond
resolution. It is hereby determined that the period of probable usefulness of the
aforesaid specific object or purpose is 40 years, pursuant to subdivision 4 of paragraph
a of Section 11.00 of the Local Finance Law.
Section 2. The aggregate maximum estimated cost of the aforesaid objects or
purposes is $236,000, and the plan for the financing thereof is by the issuance of the
$236,000 serial bonds authorized by Section 1 hereof, allocated to each of the objects
or purposes in accordance with the maximum estimated cost of each stated in Section 1
hereof.
Section 3. The faith and credit of said City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York,
are hereby irrevocably pledged for the payment of the principal of and interest on such
obligations as the same respectively become due and payable. An annual
appropriation shall be made in each year sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on
such obligations becoming due and payable in such year. There shall annually be
levied on all the taxable real property of said City, a tax sufficient to pay the principal of
and interest on such obligations as the same become due and payable.
Section 4. Subject to the provisions of the Local Finance Law, the power to authorize
the issuance of and to sell bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance and
sale of the bonds herein authorized, including renewals of such notes, is hereby
delegated to the City Controller, the chief fiscal officer. Such notes shall be of such
terms, form and contents, and shall be sold in such manner, as may be prescribed by
said City Controller, consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law.
Section 5. The powers and duties of advertising such bonds for sale, conducting the
sale and awarding the bonds, are hereby delegated to the City Controller, who shall
advertise such bonds for sale, conduct the sale, and award the bonds in such manner
as he shall deem best for the interests of the City; provided, however, that in the
exercise of these delegated powers, he shall comply fully with the provisions of the
Local Finance Law and any order or rule of the State Treasurer applicable to the sale of
municipal bonds. The receipt of the City Controller shall be a full acquittance to the
purchaser of such bonds, who shall not be obliged to see to the application of the
purchase money.
Section 6. All other matters, except as provided herein relating to such bonds,
including determining whether to issue such bonds having substantially level or
declining debt service and all matters related thereto, prescribing whether manual or
facsimile signatures shall appear on said bonds, prescribing the method for the
recording of ownership of said bonds, appointing the fiscal agent or agents for said
bonds, providing for the printing and delivery of said bonds (and if said bonds are to be
executed in the name of the City by the facsimile signature of the City Controller,
providing for the manual countersignature of a fiscal agent or of a designated official of
the City), the date, denominations, maturities and interest payment dates, place or
places of payment, and also including the consolidation with other issues, shall be
determined by the City Controller. It is hereby determined that it is to the financial
advantage of the City not to impose and collect from registered owners of such serial
bonds any charges for mailing, shipping and insuring bonds transferred or exchanged
by the fiscal agent, and, accordingly, pursuant to paragraph c of Section 70.00 of the
Local Finance Law, no such charges shall be so collected by the fiscal agent. Such
bonds shall contain substantially the recital of validity clause provided for in section
52.00 of the Local Finance Law and shall otherwise be in such form and contain such
recitals in addition to those required by section 52.00 of the Local Finance Law, as the
City Controller shall determine.
Section 7. The validity of such bonds and bond anticipation notes may be contested
only if:
1) Such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose for which said City is not
authorized to expend money, or
2) The provisions of law which should be complied with at the date of publication of
this resolution are not substantially complied with,
and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty
days after the date of such publication, or
3) Such obligations are authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution.
Section 8. This resolution shall constitute a statement of official intent for purposes of
Treasury Regulations Section 1.150-2. Other than as specified in this resolution, no
monies are, or are reasonably expected to be, reserved, allocated on a long term basis,
or otherwise set aside with respect to the permanent funding of the object or purpose
described herein.
Section 9. This resolution, which takes effect immediately, shall be published in
summary form in the Ithaca Journal, the official newspaper, together with a notice of the
City Clerk in substantially the form provided in Section 81.00 of the Local Finance Law.
9.5 Consideration of the Natural Area Commission’s Recommendations
Regarding 401 Lake Street
A. Declaration of Lead Agency
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council has reviewed the Natural Area
Commission’s (NAC) recommendations regarding the city-owned 401 Lake Street
property (tax parcel #12.-1-2); and
WHEREAS, a majority of the Common Council did not support the NAC’s
recommended actions:
1. Retain 401 Lake Street for public use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca
Falls Natural Area;
2. Fund demolition and removal of the vacant house at 401 Lake Street;
3. Direct staff to circulate a concept memo to rezone 401 Lake Street and tax parcel
#12.-1-1 from R-3b to P-1;
4. Authorize submission of a grant application to fund management plans; and
WHEREAS, Common Council prefers to sell the property at 401 Lake Street for the
highest marketable price, a Type I action under the City Environmental Quality Review
Ordinance (CEQRO) due to the site’s close proximity to Fall Creek and the Ithaca Falls
Natural Area, which requires environmental review; and
WHEREAS, NAC item #4 above is a Type II action that requires no further
environmental review at this time; and
WHEREAS, State Law and Section 176.6 of CEQRO require that a Lead Agency be
established for conducting environmental review of proposed actions in accordance with
local and state environmental law; and
WHEREAS, State Law specifies that the Lead Agency shall be that local agency which
has primary responsibility for approving, funding or carrying out the action; and
WHEREAS, no other agency has jurisdiction to fund, approve or undertake the
proposed action; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council does hereby declare itself Lead
Agency for the environmental review of the above listed action to sell the property at
401 Lake Street.
B. Determination of Environmental Significance - Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council has reviewed the Natural Area
Commission’s (NAC) recommendations regarding the city-owned 401 Lake Street
property (tax parcel #12.-1-2); and
WHEREAS, the City is considering sale of property located at 401 Lake Street as an
alternative action if a majority of the Common Council does not endorse the NAC’s
recommendation regarding 401 Lake Street; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council declared itself Lead Agency for the
environmental review of this proposed action; and
WHEREAS, the proposed action is categorized as a Type I action under the City
Environmental Quality Review Ordinance (CEQRO), which requires environmental
review; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council, acting as Lead Agency for the
environmental review, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Full Environmental
Assessment Form, Part 1, and Part 2, prepared by Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency staff;
now; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council hereby determines that the
proposed action to sell property located at 401 Lake Street will result in no significant
impact on the environment and that a Negative Declaration for purposes of Article 8 of
the Environmental Conservation Law be filed in accordance with the provisions of Part
617 of the State Environmental Quality Review Act.
C. Consideration of the Natural Area Commission’s Recommendations
Regarding 401 Lake Street – Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca acquired property located at 401 Lake Street (tax parcel
#12.-1-2) and vacant tax parcel #12.-1-1 through tax foreclosure proceedings in 2015;
and
WHEREAS, the 401 Lake Street property contains a vacant, boarded-up 840 square
foot single family dwelling located immediately adjacent to Fall Creek; and
WHEREAS, on June 3, 2015, the Common Council took action to:
o retain ownership of the 401 Lake Street and tax parcel #12.-1-1;
o direct staff to consider rezoning 401 Lake Street and tax parcel #12.-1-1
from R-3b to a P-1 zoning district designation
o designate tax parcel #12.-1-1 for inclusion in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area;
and
WHEREAS, on June 3, 2015, a decision whether to retain 401 Lake Street for public
use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area was postponed
pending review by the Natural Areas Commission (NAC); and
WHEREAS, the NAC recommends the following actions:
1. Retain 401 Lake Street for public use and designate it for inclusion in the
Ithaca Falls Natural Area;
2. Rezone 401 Lake Street and the adjacent tax parcel #12.-1-1 from R-3b to P-
1;
3. Demolish and remove the vacant house at 401 Lake Street;
4. Undertake a management plan for the Ithaca Falls Natural Area; and
WHEREAS, The City also encourages the retention of useable housing, not only to
provide residences but also to generate property tax revenue; and
WHEREAS the house at 401 Lake Street could be made habitable and does not detract
from the view or enjoyment of Ithaca Falls; and
WHEREAS the City has already set aside the large parcel adjacent to the site as a
Natural Area; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the house at 401 Lake Street not be demolished by the City but
instead by offered for sale in some manner to be determined.
CITY OF ITHACA
FULL ENVTRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT rORM (FEAF)
Purposc; This Full Environmefital Assessmert Form (FEAF) is designed to help applicsnts and egencies deternrine, in an orderly
manner, whether a project or action may be significant, Thc qucstion of whether an sction may be significant is not always easy to
answer. Frequently, thcre arc aspects ofa proposed actiol th6t are subjective or immcasurable, lt is also undeBtood thos€ who
determine signiricsnce m8y haye linle or no formal knowledBc of the enyironment or may not be aware of the broader concems
affecting the question of significance.
The FEAF is intended to provi& a mcthod whereby applicsnts aod agencies can bc assured the determination process has bcen
"t
FEAF Components:
l'srt l:Provides objective dsta and information about a given action and its site. By identirying basic project dat8, it assists
in a rcview ofthe analysis that takes place in Parts 2 and 3.
Focuses on identiling the range ofpossible impacts that may occur from a project or aciion. lt provides guidance as
to whether an impact is likely to be considered small lo moderate or whcthcr it is I potentially large impact. The form
also identifies whether an impact can be mitigated or rcduced,
If any impact in Part 2 is identified as potentially large, then Pan 3 is used to evaluate whether or not the impact is
actually imponant.
THIS AREA IS FOR LEAD AGENCY USE ONLY
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE-TYPE I AND UNLISTf,D ACTIONS
ldentify the portions of FEAF complcted for this action: l-Fhart I f r lPart 2 []Rrrt I
Upon review ofthe information recorded on this FEAF (Paris, 2, and 3, ifappropriate), and any other supporting information, and
considering both the magnitude and imponance ofcach impact, it is reasonably determined by the Lead Agcrcy that:
E]e. The froposed Action wlll not r€sult in any large and imponant impact(s) and will not have a significant impact on the
environment; therefore, A NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.
!n. elthough the proposed action could have a significant impact on the environment, thcre will not be a significant effect
for this Unlisted Action, b€cause the mitigation measurcs desfiibed in PART 3. have been requircd; therefore, A
CONDITIONED NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.
!C. the proposed action may result in one or more large and important impacts that may have a signilicant impact on the
environment; therefore, A POSITM DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.
A Conditioned Negative Declaration is only validfor Unlisted Actions.
l'ar.l 3
Name of Action:
Citv of lthaca Common Cou ncil
Name and Title of Responsible Officer in Nels Bohn, IURA Di rofCD
Signa
Signa
Date;
ture of Responsible Ollic
ture of Preparer
v
118 z0t6
ad gc
l'>arl 2i
Name of Lead Agency:
rrkelLakt 5trr rle for
Agency:
FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM (FEAF)
PART I-PROJECT INFORMATION
(prepared by project sponsor/applicant)
NOTICE: This document is designed to assist in determining whether the action proposed may have a
significant effect on the environment. Please complete the entire form, Parts A through E. Answers to these
questions will be considcred part ofthe application for approval and may be subject to further verification and
public review. Provide any additional information you believe will be needed lo complete Parts 2 and 3. It is
expected that completion of the FEAF will depend on information currently available and will not involve
new studies, research, or investigation. If information requiring such additional work is unavailable, so
indicate and specify each instance.
Name of Action: 401 Lake Street - Sale for Highest Marketable Price
Location of Action: 401 lake Street, lthaca, NY(tax map #t2.-L-21
Name of Applicant/Sponsor: City of lthaca
Address: 108 E. Green Street
City/1'own/Village: lthaca State: NY ZIP: l4a50
Business Phone: (507) 274-6550
Name of Owner (if different): Same
Address:
City/Town/Village ZIP:
Business Phone:
Description of Action:
Sell City-owned property at 401 Lake Street for the highest marketable price.
2
State:
Please complete each question (indicate N/A, if not applicable)
A. sIrB DESCRTPTIoN
Ph sical seltin ofoverall ect, both develo d and undevelo ed areas
Urban ffi Industrial ffi Commercial ffieuuti. ffi For".t1. Present Land Use
[fl] AgricuJtural llJl Other:
2. Total area ofprojcct area: acres 2,400 square leet (Ofut,sen unit.t apply to.following section also.)
Aftcr Comple tion
1,600
Approximate Area (Units in Questiort 2 ttpply to lhis section.)Currently
1,600
2a. Mcadorv or Brushland non-cultural)
2c. A cultural
2b. Forested
2d. Wetland Article 24 ofEnvironmental Conservation Law (ECL)]as
2e. Water Surface Area
2f. Public
800800
2h. [ ]nvc ated rock, earth, or fill
2i. Roads, buildings, and other paved surfaces
a. What is predominant soil typc(s) on project site (e.g., HdB, silty loam, etc.): Unmapped
x
b. Soil Drainage:
% of Site
2 cindicate. Other
Poorl Drained
Moderately Well-Drained
Well-Drained % of Site
100 % of Site
es
b. What is depth of bedrock? <1
[lo lNza4a. Are there bedrock outcroppings on project site?
. What is depth to the water table? 3+ (feet)
5. Approximate percentage ofproposed project site
with slopes:l5%o or greater_2o -o/o
l0-150h 40 00-10% 40 %
a. Is project substantially contiguous to, or does it
contain a building, site or district, listed on or
eligible for the National or State Register of
Historic Places?
b. ...Or a designated local landmark or located in a
local landmark district?
o [vzeES
CS o
7. Do hunting and/or lishing opportunities currently
exist in the project area?es lNo [v/a lf y"r, identify each
Fall Creekspecies:
29. Water Surlace Area
(feet)
T x
,(
x
SITF], DESCRIPTION concluded
According 1o: UNA-134
ldentify each species: Canadian Primrose, Bird's Eye
Primrose are identified in the adiacent UNA
9. Are there any unique or unusual landiorms on the
project site (i.e., cliffs, other geological
formations)?
CS
8. Does project site contain any species ofplant
and/or animal life identified as threatened or
endangered?
,/A Unknown
CS IA
If yes, explain:
o10. Is project site currently used by the community or
neighborhood as an open space or recreation
atea?
Describe: High quality views of lthaca Falls
es o
Describe: Lake St. Parcel #12.-1-2 is located
contiguous to UNA-134.
DvreCSo12. Is project within or contiguous to a site
designated a Unique Natural Area (UNA) or
critical environmental area by a local or state
agency?
13. Streams within or contiguous to project area
Dve
NA
oes
ln acres,Si S
Describe:
Names of stream(s) or name(s) of river(s) to which
Fall Creek
Name(s)
15. Has site been used for land disposal of solid
and/or hazardous wastes?
4. Lakes, ponds, or wetland areas within or
contiguous to project area:
16. Is the site served by existing public utilities?
a. IfYes, does sufficient capacity exist to allow
connection?
b. If Yes, will improvemcnts be necessary to
allow connection?
lNo S.ila
D.to Dvle
o!v", fJN nNra
ES
ES
4
lilves lNo lNte
Describe: Fall Creek Gorge cliffs overlooking lthaca
Falls, Recreational River corridor
11. Does present site offer or include scenic views
known to be important to the community?
it is a tributary:
B. pnolscrDESCRrPTIoN
l. Physical dimensions and scale ofproject (fill in dimcnsions as appropriate): 40'x60'
la. Total conliguous area owned by project sponsor in acres: or square feet: 2,400 SF
1b. Project acreage developed:8OO SF Initiallv:800 sF Ultimatelv: 0
lc, Project acreage to remain undeveloped:z 400 sF
1d. Length of project in miles (if appropriate):NA or feet:
1e. Ifproject is an expansion, indicate percent ofchange proposed:NA
1f. Number of off-street parking spaces existing:1 proposed:0
lg. Maximum vehicular trips generated (upon completion of project) per day: NA and per hour:
th. Height oftallest proposed structure in feet. 0 No new structures proposed
lj. Linear feet of frontage along a public street or thoroughfare that the project will occupy? 0
2. Specify what type of natural material (i.e., rock, earth, etc.) and how much will be removed from the site:
o or added to thc site: 0
3. Specify what type ofvegetation (trees, shrubs, ground cover) and how much will be removed from the site:
acres: 0 type of vegetation:
Will an mature trees or other locall ortant vegetation be removed for this ro ect?No
Are there an lans for re-vegetation to lace ve tation removed during construction?No
6. Ifsingle-phase project, anticipated period of construction:NA months (including demolition)
7. If multi-phased project, anticipated period of construction:months (including demolition)
7a. Total number ofphases anticipated 1
7b. Anticipated date of commencement for first phase: June month 2015 year (including demolition)
7c. Approximate completion date offinal phase:Ausust month 2015 year.
7d. Is phase one financially dependent on subsequent phasesZ ffiVes ffio x N/A
8. Will blasting occur during construction? ffiYes ffio /A If yes, explain:
9. Number ofjobs generated during construction: 0 After project is completed:0
10. Number ofjobs eliminated by this project:0 Explain:
ll. Will project require relocation of any projects or facilitiesffiY". [E[No ffila If yes, explain:
l2a. Is surfacc or subsurface liquid waste disposal involvcdflYes o ffila; if yes, explain:
l2b. If #l2a is yes, indicate type of waste (sewage, industrial, etc):
l2c. If surface di , where s ecificall uill effluent he dischar 1
13. Will surface area of cxisting lakcs, ponds, streams, or othcl surfacc waterways be incrcased or dccrcased
by proposal? ffiYes x o ffiNla If yes, explain
l4a. Will cct or any portion ofprojcct occur wholly or partially within or contiguous to the 1OO-year fl
plain?x
". ffio ffiXln site is located adjacent to a floodway, but site is not in a flood zone
5
PROJECT DESCRIPTION concluded
ect or any pofiion ofproject occur wholly or partially within or contiguous to: Ca)'uga Inlet
Cascadilla Creek, Cayuga Lake, Six Mile Creek, or Silver Creek? (Circle all that apply.)
l.lh.
x
4c. Does project or any portion of projeot occur wholly or partially within or contiguous to wetlands as
described in Article 24 of the ECL? EYes o ffiNla;
l4d. If#14a., b., or c. is yes, explain: Parcel is located adjacent to Fall Creek
x5a. Does project involve disposal of solid waste? lE-lYes o ffiNle
es, will an existi be used?l5b. If#15a. is solid waste di osal facilit CS IAo
15c. If#15b. is yes, give name ofdisposal facility
x
15d. Will there be any wastes that will not go into a sewage disposal system or into a sanitary landfill?
o ffila Ifyes, explainffiv"t
5e. Will any solid waste be disposetl of on site? ffiV"t @No ffi/A If yes, explain
xWill project use herbicides or pesticides? ffiYes o ffila If yes, specify:16.
x
17. Will project affect a building or site listed on or eligible for the National or State Register of Historic
Places or a local landmark or in a landmark district? ffiYes o ffile; if yes, explain:
x18.Will project produce odors? ffiYes o ffiia If yes, explain:
x x
duct operating noise exceed the local ambient noise level during construction?
o ffiln Aficr construction? ffiYes
19.will ect
o ffila@v".
xWill project result in an increase of energy use? ffiYes o ffifA If yes, indicatc type(s):_
l. Total anticipated water usage per day in gals./day:0
Itttilt
6
Docs
and its location:
Source of water: _
(1. zoNlNc AND pLANNING tNFoRMA't toN
l Does the proposed action involve a planning or zoning decision? ffiYes o I lN/A It ves
indicate the decision required:
ffi Zoning Amendmcnt ffi Zoning Variance ffi Ne Revision of Master Plan ffi Srbdiri.ion
ffi Sit" Plun ffi Special Use Permit ffi Resource Management PIan ffi Other:
-
2. What is the current zoning classification of site? R-3b & w;th Recreational Riyer Overlay
If the site is developed as pcrmitted by the Dresent zoning. rvhat is the maximum potcntial development?
Recreational River regulations prohibit new residential construction within 150 feet of Fall Creek, but
allow legally existing residential structures to remain and be expanded by up to 500 sq. ft. Therefore,
present zoning allows a 500 sq. ft. expansion of the existing 800 . ft. residential structure.
ls proposed use consistent with present zoning?x Ycs ffi o ffiNra
Il#4 is no, indicate desired zonin
7. Is the proposed action consistent with the recommcnded uses in adopted local land-use plans?
Yes ffio ffi/A If no, explain:
8, What is the dominant land use and zoning classification within a % mile radius of the project?
(e.g., R-la or R-1b) R-3b and P-l
Is the proposed action compatible with adjacent land uses?x ES ffio ffi/a explain:
10a. Ifthe proposed action is the subdivision ofland, how many lots are proposed? NA
I0b. What is the minimum lot size sed? NA
11. Will the proposed action create a demand for any community-provided services? (e.g., recreation,
education, police, lire protection, etc.)? ffiYes @fvo ffi/a explain:
If yes, is existing capacity sufhcient to handle projected demand? ffiV"t ffio ffilA
Explain:
If yes. is existing road network ad
ffives ffino ffi/R Explain:
equate to handle additional traflic?
1
6. If the site is devcloped by the pggppg! zoning, what is the maximum potential development of the site?
NA
12. Will the proposed action result in the generation oftraffic significantly above present levels?
ffiv". ElNo ffiNrn
D. appRovals
1. Approvals: Common Council approval is required
2a. ls any Federal permit required? ffiYes o ffi/e Specify
2b. Does project involve State or Federal funding or financingflVes x o ffila If Yes, Specify:
2c.Local and Regional approvals:
Agency I "* ". ^" I
Type of
Approval Required
Suhmittal
Date
Approval
Date
Common Council Yes Authorize designation
into N atural Area; fund
demolition
s/16 5/76
Board ofZoning Appeals (BZA)No
Planning & Development Board No
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Commission (ILPC)
Board of Public Works (BPW)No
Fire Department No
Police Department No
Building Commissioner Yes Demolition permit 6/16 6/76
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
(IURA)
No
8
E. TNRoRUATIoNAL DETAILS
Attach any additional infonnation as may be needed to clari! your project. Ifthere are or may be any adverse impacts
associated with your proposal, please discuss such impacts and the measures which you propose to mitigate or avoid
them.
F. l,nnrnrcATloN
I certify that the information provided above is true to the best ofmy knowledge.
Applicant/Sponsor Name :Nels Boh n
Signature:
Title: IURA Director of Community Development
*:r:l * rl rr * rr il rr * * * ,( rl:l r( END OF PART I **:krr***rr*********
9
,.STANDBY-PROPOSED FEAF PART 2 FOR ITEM 9.5"
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part 2 - Pro lm
Project Name:
Date Created: 4/18/16
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Red uced by
Proiect Change?
I'IiPACT ON LAND
1. will there be an effect as a result of a physical change to project site? [ ves [ruo
Any construction on slopes of 1 5% or greater (1s-foot rise per
100 feet of length) or where general slope in the project
exceeds'10%.
Yes No
Construction on land where depth to the water table is less
than 3 feet.Yes No
!ves !ruo
Yes No
Construction that will continue for more than 1 year or involve
more than one phase or stage.Yes No
Evacualion for mining purposes that would remove more than
1,000 tons of natural material (i.e., rock or soil) per year.Yes No
Construction of any new sanitary landfill !ves !uo
Construction in designated floodway !ves INo
Ii71 Eves X No
2. Will there be an effect on any unique land forms found on the site (i.e., cliffs, gorges,
geological formations, etc.)? ! Ves [ ruo
Specific land forms (if any)
1of 1l
4118t2016
tr tr
n
Construction of parking facility/area for 50 or more vehicles.tr
Construction on land where bedrock is exposed or generally
within 3 feet of existing ground surface.n n
tr tr
tr
tr
Other impacts (if any):
Demolition and clearance of 840 square foot, vacant residential
structure.
tr !ves [ruo
Paftz -P ect lm acts
Date Created: 4/'18/'16
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON WATER
3. Will project affect any water body designated as protected (under article '15 or 24 of
Environmental Conservation Law, E.C.L.)? ! Ves I No
Oevelopable area of site contains protected water body Yes No
Dredging more than 100 cubic yards of material from channel
of prolected stream.!ves !ruo
Extension of utility distribution facilities through protected
water body.!ves ! ruo
Construction in designated freshwater wetland
Other impacts (if any)
! ves ! tto
4. Will project affect any non-protected existing or new body of water? ! Ves I tto
A '10% increase or decrease in surface area of any body of
water or more than '10,000 sq. ft. of surface area.[ves!ruo
flves ! uo
Fall Creek, Six Mile Creek, Cascadilla Creek, Silver Creek,
Cayuga Lake, or Cayuga lnlet?!ves!ruo
lves ! tto
2of11
4t18t2016
Lake Street - Sale for
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Project Name:
tr
!ves ! ruo
Construction, alteration, or conversion of body of water that
exceeds 10,000 sq. ft. of surface area.
Other impacts (if any):
tr
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-P ect lm acts
Project Name:
Date Created: 4/18/16
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON WATER (cont.)
5. Will project affect surface or groundwater quality? ! Ves I No
Project will require discharge permit
Project requires use of source of water that does not have
approval to serve proposed pro.iect.
Construction or operalion causing any contamination of a
public water supply system.! ves ! tto
Project will adversely affect groundwater ! ves fl uo
Liquid effluent will be conveyed off the site to facilities which
do not currently exist or that have inadequate capacity.
Project requiring a facility that would use water in excess of
20,000 gallons per day or 500 gallons per minute.Yes No
Prolect will likely cause siltation or other discharge into an
existing body of water to the extent that there will be an
obvious visual contrast to natural conditions.
Yes No
Proposed action will require storage of petroleum or chemical
products greater than 1 ,100 gallons.!ves ! No
Other impacts (if any)
3of11
!ves ! ruo
!ves !ruo
tr tr !ves ! No
tr tr
tr tr
tr
Ives ! ruo
4t1812016
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Paft 2 - Pro lm
Project Name:
Date Created: 4/'18/16
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
La rge
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON WATER (cont.)
6. Will project alter drainage flow, drainage patterns, or surface water runoff? ! ves I No
Project would impede floodwater flows Yes No
Project is likely to cause substantial erosion
Project is incompatible with existing drainage patterns.!ves ! No
!ves ! No
IMPACT ON AIR
Project will induce 500 or more vehicle trips in any 8-hour
period per day.lves ! ruo
Project will result in the incineration of more than 2.5 tons of
refuse per 24-hour day.
Project emission rate of all contaminants will exceed 5 lbs
per hour or a heat source producing more than 10 million
BTUs per hour.
!ves Ino
Other impacts (if any)
!ves ! tto
4of11
411812016
n tr
tr !ves I No
Other impacts (if any):
7. Will project affect air qualityZ ! Ves I ttto
n n
tr tr !ves ! ruo
tr n
tr tr
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part 2 - Pro lmpacts
Project Name:
Date Created: 4/18/16
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Proiect Change?
IMPACTS ON PLANTS AND ANIMALS
8. Will project affect any threatened or endangered species? !ves I tto
Reduction of any species, listed on New York or Federal list,
using the site, found over, on, or near site.Yes No
Yes No
Application of pesticide or herbicide more than twice a year
other than for agricultural purposes !ves !ruo
Other impacts (if any)
!ves !uo
9. Will pro
I ves
posx ed action substantially affect non-threatened or non-endangered species?
No
Proposed action would substantially interfere with any
resident or migratory fish, or wildlife species.!ves I tto
Proposed action requires removal or more than y2 aue of
malure woods or other locally important vegetation.
Other impacts (if any)
Yes No
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4t1812016
Marketable
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
tr tr
Removal of any portion of a critical or significant wildlife
habitat.n
tr
! ves ! tto
tr n
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Sale for Highest Marketable Price
Date Created: 4/18/16
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON AESTHETIC RESOURCES
'10. Will proposed action affect views, vistas, or visual character of the neighborhood or
community? ! ves Iuo
Proposed land uses or proposed action components
obviously different from, or in sharp contrast to, current
surrounding land use patterns, whether man-made or natural
Yes No
!ves ! No
Proposed action will result in elimination or major screening
of scenic views known to be important to the area.!ves I No
other impacts (if any):
Eves nruo
IMPACT ON HISTORIC AND ARGHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
11. Will proposed action impact any site or structure of historic, prehistoric, or paleontological
importance? ffives !ruo
Proposed action occurring wholly or partially within, or
contiguous to, any facility or site listed on or eligible for the
National or State Register of Historic Places.
Any impact to an archaeological site or fossil bed located
within the proiect site.!ves !ruo
Proposed action occurring wholly or partially within, or
contiguous to, any site designated as a local landmark or in a
landmark district.
Other impacts (if any):
Site was location of gate house/entrance to the historic lthaca
Gorge Walk attraction developed in the 1860s. Historic elements of
the prior use, such as stone foundation walls/steps, may be
damaged bv buildine demolition.
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411812016
Proposed land uses or proposed action components visible to
users of aesthetic resources which wall eliminate or
significantly reduce their enjoyment of aesthetic qualities of
that resource.
n
tr
!ves [ruo
n tr !ves [ruo
X Ives I No
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part 2 - Pro lm
Project Name:
Date Created: 4/18/15
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
La rge
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION
12. Will the proposed action affect the quantity or quality of existing or future open spaces, or
recreational opportunities? fi Ves ! No
The permanent foreclosure of a future recreational
opportunity.Yes No
A major reduction of an open space important to the
community.Yes No
Other impacts (if any): Project will expand the lthaca Falls
Natural Area to include the propedy at 401 Lake Street,
thereby enhancing the quantity and quality of future
open spaces.I ves ! tto
IMPAGT ON UNIQUE NATURAL AREAS OR CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL AREAS
13. Will proposed action impact the exceptional or unique characteristics of a site designated
as a unique natural area (UNA) or a critical environmental area (CEA) by a local or state
agency? [ ves !No
Proposed action to locate within a UNA or CEA?Yes No
Proposed action will result in reduction in the quality of the
resource. (visual quality and character of Fall Creek
Gorge will be improved by removal of the vacant
structure)
x Xves Eruo
Proposed action will impact use, function, or enjoyment of the
resource.fl ves ! tto
Other impacts (if any)
NoYes
4118t2016
- Sale
tr tr
n tr
N
tr
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City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part 2 - Pro ect lm cts
Project Name:
Date Created:4/18/15
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
III/IPACT ON TRANSPORTATION
14. willthere be an effect to existing transportation systems? ! ves I tto
Alteration of present patterns of movement of people and/or
goods.
Proposed action will result in major traftlc problems
Other impacts
!ves I No
IMPACT ON ENERGY
Proposed action causing greater than 5% increase in any
form of energy used in municipality.
Proposed action requiring creation or extension of an energy
transmission or supply system to serve more than 50 single-
or two-family residences.
Ives !ruo
Yes No
Lake Street - Sale for Marketable
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
tr n !ves I No
tr !ves ! No
tr
15. Will proposed action affect community's sources offuel or energy supply? !Ves I tto
tr !ves !ruo
Other impacts (if any):
tr
8of11
4n8t2016
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part 2 - Pro ect lm acts
Project Name:
Date Created:4/18/16
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
La rge
lmpact
IMPACT ON NOISE AND ODORS
16. Will there be objectionable odors, noise, glare, vibration, or electrical disturbance during
construction of, or after completion of, this proposed action? ! Ves I trto
Blasting within 1 ,500 feet of a hospital, school, or other
sensitive facility?!ves !ruo
Odors will occur routinely (more than one hour per day)!ves ! ruo
Proposed action will produce operating noise exceeding local
ambient noise levels for noise outside of structure.Yes No
Proposed action will remove natural barriers that would act as
notse screen !ves ! No
Yes No
IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH
17. Will proposed action affect public health and safety? [ Ves I Uo
Proposed action will cause risk of explosion or release of
hazardous substances (i.e., oil, pesticides, chemicals,
radiation, etc.) in the event of accident or upset conditions, or
there will be chronic low-level dascharge or emission.
Yes No
Proposed action may result in burial of "hazardous wastes" in
any form (i.e., toxic, poisonous, highly reactive, radioactive,
irritating, infectious, etc.)
!ves ! tto
Proposed action may result in excavation or other
disturbance within 2,000 feet of a site used for the disposal of
solid or hazardous wastes.
!ves !ruo
Proposed action will result in handling or disposal or
hazardous wastes (i.e., toxic, poisonous, highly reactive,
radioactive, irritating, infectious, etc., including wastes that
are solid, semi-solid, liquid, or contain gases).
ldentified asbestos containing materials identified in the
asbestos survey will be removed in accordance with state law
prior to demolition.
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4118t2016
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
tr tr
tr n
Other impacts (if any):tr tr
n tr
tr tr
x tr !ves I No
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part 2 - Pro lm acts
Project Name:
Date Created: 4/1 8/16
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH (cont.)
!ves ! No
Use of any chemical for de-icing, soil stabilization, or control
of vegetation, insects, or animal life on the premises of any
residential, commercial, or industrial property in excess of
30,000 square feet.
Other impacts (if any)
[ves ! tto
IMPACT ON GROWTH AND CHARACTER OF COMMUNITY OR NEIGHBORHOOD
18. Will proposed action affect the character of the existing community? ! Ves I No
The population of the city in which the proposed action is
located is likely to grow by more than 5% of resident human
population.
Yes No
The municipal budgets for capital expenditures or operating
services will increase by more than 5% per year as a result of
this proposed action.
Yes No
Proposed action will conflict with otficially adopted plans or
goals.!ves !no
Proposed action will cause a change in the density of land
use.!ves ! tto
Proposed action will replace or eliminate existing facilities,
structures, or areas of historic importance to the community Yes No
Development will create demand for additional community
services (e.9., schools, police, and fire, etc.)Yes No
Proposed action will set an important precedent for future
actions.
Proposed action will relocate 15 or more employees in one or
more businesses.!ves ! ruo
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4t1812416
Potential
Large
lmpact
Storage facilities for 50,000 or more gallons of any liquid fuel.
!ves ! ruo
tr
tr
n
tr
tr tr
tr tr
!ves I No
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part 2 - Pro lm
Project Name:
Date Created: 4/18/16
- lf any action in Part 2 is identified as a potential large impact,
or if you cannot determine the magnitude of impact, proceed to Part 3 -
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
!ves [ruo
19. ls there public controversy concerning the proposed action? [ Yes !! unknownNo
11 of 11
4t18t2016
IMPAGT ON GROWTH AND CHARACTER OF COMMUNITY OR NEIGHBORHOOD (cont.)
Other impacts (if any):
10.1 Consideration of the Natural Area Commission’s Recommendations
Regarding 401 Lake Street - Resolution
A. Declaration of Lead Agency - Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council has reviewed the Natural Area
Commission’s (NAC) recommendations regarding the city-owned 401 Lake Street
property (tax parcel #12.-1-2); and
WHEREAS, the City is considering the following action:
1. Retain 401 Lake Street for public use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca
Falls Natural Area;
2. Fund demolition and removal of the vacant house at 401 Lake Street;
3. Direct staff to circulate a concept memo to rezone 401 Lake Street and tax parcel
#12.-1-1 from R-3b to P-1;
4. Authorize submission of a grant application to fund management plans; and
WHEREAS, items #1 and #2 above are Type I action under the City Environmental
Quality Review Ordinance (CEQRO) due to the site’s close proximity to Fall Creek and
the Ithaca Falls Natural Area, which requires environmental review; and
WHEREAS, items #3 and #4 above are Type II actions that require no further
environmental review at this time; and
WHEREAS, State Law and Section 176.6 of CEQRO require that a Lead Agency be
established for conducting environmental review of proposed actions in accordance with
local and state environmental law; and
WHEREAS, State Law specifies that the Lead Agency shall be that local agency which
has primary responsibility for approving, funding or carrying out the action; and
WHEREAS, no other agency has jurisdiction to fund, approve or undertake the
proposed action; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council does hereby declare itself Lead
Agency for the environmental review of the above listed action.
B. Determination of Environmental Significance - Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council has reviewed the Natural Area
Commission’s (NAC) recommendations regarding the city-owned 401 Lake Street
property (tax parcel #12.-1-2); and
WHEREAS, the City is considering the following action:
1. Retain 401 Lake Street for public use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca
Falls Natural Area;
2. Fund demolition and removal of the vacant house at 401 Lake Street;
3. Direct staff to circulate a concept memo to rezone 401 Lake Street and tax parcel
#12.-1-1 from R-3b to P-1;
4. Authorize submission of a grant application to fund management plans; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council declared itself Lead Agency for the
environmental review of this proposed action; and
WHEREAS, the proposed action is categorized as a Type I action under the City
Environmental Quality Review Ordinance (CEQRO), which requires environmental
review; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council, acting as Lead Agency for the
environmental review, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Full Environmental
Assessment Form, Part 1, and Part 2, prepared by Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency staff;
now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council hereby determines that the
proposed action listed above generally regarding 401 Lake Street (tax parcel #12.-1-2)
will result in no significant impact on the environment and that a Negative Declaration
for purposes of Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law be filed in accordance
with the provisions of Part 617 of the State Environmental Quality Review Act.
C. Adoption of Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca acquired property located at 401 Lake Street (tax parcel
#12.-1-2) and vacant tax parcel #12.-1-1 through tax foreclosure proceedings in 2015;
and
WHEREAS, the 401 Lake Street property contains a vacant, boarded-up 840 square
foot single family dwelling located immediately adjacent to Fall Creek; and
WHEREAS, on June 3, 2015, the Common Council took action to:
• retain ownership of the 401 Lake Street and tax parcel #12.-1-1;
• direct staff to consider rezoning 401 Lake Street and tax parcel #12.-1-1 from R-
3b to a P-1 zoning district designation
• designate tax parcel #12.-1-1 for inclusion in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area; and
WHEREAS, on June 3, 2015, a decision whether to retain 401 Lake Street for public
use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area was postponed
pending review by the Natural Areas Commission (NAC); and
WHEREAS, the NAC recommends the following actions:
1. Retain 401 Lake Street for public use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca
Falls Natural Area;
2. Rezone 401 Lake Street and the adjacent tax parcel #12.-1-1 from R-3b to P-1;
3. Demolish and remove the vacant house at 401 Lake Street;
4. Undertake a management plan for the Ithaca Falls Natural Area; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca comprehensive plan, Plan Ithaca, recommends that land
use decisions be made in accordance with the Future Land Use Map, which designates
both parcels in an Environmentally Sensitive land use category; and
WHEREAS, Plan Ithaca also includes a goal that “[g]orges throughout the city will be
protected to ensure their continuation as critical natural assets for current and future
use”; and
WHEREAS, the proposed P-1 zoning district allows public recreation and municipal
uses and facilities, but prohibits residential uses; and
WHEREAS, the City Administration will consider NAC recommendations requiring
funding, such as demolition of the structure at 401 Lake Street; and
WHEREAS, Under the City Environmental Quality Review Ordinance (CEQRO), the
NAC recommendations are classified as follows:
• Type I (due to proximity to Fall Creek) - Designation of city-owned parcels into
the Ithaca Falls Natural Area
• Type I - Rezoning to P-1
• Type I (due to proximity to Fall Creek) - Demolition of structure at 401 Lake
Street
• Type II - Development of management plans; and
WHEREAS, the proposed action under consideration by the PEDC is designation of 401
Lake Street and tax parcel #12.-1-2 into the Ithaca Falls Natural Area and circulation of
a concept memo to rezone the above properties, which are classified under the City
Environmental Quality Review Ordinance (CEQRO)as a Type I action and an Exempt
action, respectively; and
WHEREAS, the proposed action under consideration by the City Administration
Committee to fund demolition of the vacant structure at 401 Lake Street is a Type I
action; and
WHEREAS, environmental review has been completed for proposed actions; now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Planning and Economic Development Committee for the City of
Ithaca hereby directs staff to prepare and circulate a concept memo to rezone property
located at 401 Lake Street and the adjacent City-owned tax parcel #12.-1-1 from R-3b
to P-1; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby designates the property located at 401
Lake Street for inclusion in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Planning and Economic Development Committee directs staff to
prepare and circulate a standby proposed resolution and environmental review for an
alternative action to sell 401 Lake Street at highest marketable price in the event that
the resolution to retain and demolish the structure at 401 Lake Street is defeated.
“STANDBY – PROPOSED ALTERNATIVE RESOLUTION – ITEM 10.1”
10.1 Authorization for Disposition of Surplus City Property Located at 401 Lake
Street (tax map #12.-1-2) - Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca acquired property located at 401 Lake Street (tax parcel
#12.-1-2) and vacant tax parcel #12.-1-1 through tax foreclosure proceedings in 2015;
and
WHEREAS, the 401 Lake Street property contains a vacant, boarded-up 840 square
foot single family dwelling located immediately adjacent to Fall Creek; and
WHEREAS, on June 3, 2015, the Common Council took action to:
retain ownership of the 401 Lake Street and tax parcel #12.-1-1
direct staff to consider rezoning 401 Lake Street and tax par cel #12.-1-1 from R-
3b to a P-1 zoning district designation
designate tax parcel #12.-1-1 for inclus ion in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area; and
WHEREAS, on June 3, 2015, a decision whether to retain 401 Lake Street for public
use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area was postponed
pending review by the Natural Areas Commission (NAC); and
WHEREAS, the NAC recommends the following actions:
5. Retain 401 Lake Street for public use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca
Falls Natural Area
6. Rezone 401 Lake Street and the adjacent tax parcel #12.-1-1 from R-3b to P-1
7. Demolish and remove the vacant house at 401 Lake Street
8. Undertake a management plan for the Ithaca Falls Natural Area; and
WHEREAS, a majority of Common Council did not endorse the NAC recommendation;
and
WHEREAS, as an alternative the City is considering sale of the property located at 401
Lake Street for the highest marketable price; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca comprehensive plan, Plan Ithaca, recommends to return
dilapidated, vacant, and/or underutilized properties to productive use” (Community
Livability section); and
WHEREAS, Plan Ithaca further supports the expansion of the supply of housing within
the City; and
WHEREAS, Under the City Environmental Quality Review Ordinance (CEQRO), the
sale of real property adjacent to a Natural Area is a Type I action; and
WHEREAS, environmental review has been completed for proposed action; now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council for the City of Ithaca hereby finds that property
located at 401 Lake Street is surplus for municipal purposes; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council for the City of Ithaca hereby authorizes
disposition of property located at 401 Lake Street (tax map #12.-1-2) for the highest
marketable price; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor, subject to advice of the City Attorney, is hereby
authorized to execute agreements to implement this resolution, including but not limited
to a real estate brokerage agreement, a purchase and sale agreement and conveyance
of deed; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That any expenses of the IURA directly associated with marketing and
sale of the property at the request of the Mayor shall be reimbursed from proceeds from
the property disposition.
108 East Green Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
(607) 274-6559
To: Common Council
Community Advisory Council
Natural Areas Commission
Planning Board
Department Heads
From: Nels Bohn, Director of Community Development
RE: PEDC Recommendation on 401 Lake Street
Date: April 18, 2016
At their April 13th meeting, the Planning & Economic Development Committee (PEDC) considered the
Natural Area Commission’s (NAC) recommendation regarding property located at 401 Lake Street. The
NAC recommends:
Retain 401 Lake Street for public use and designate it for inclusion in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area;
Fund demolition and removal of the vacant house at 401 Lake Street;
Rezone 401 Lake Street and adjacent city-owned parcel #12.-1-1 from R-3b to P-1; and
Undertake management plan for the natural area and Recreational River corridor.
By a vote of 3-1, the PEDC recommended that the property be retained by the City, designated as part of
the Ithaca Falls Natural Area, and direct staff to circulate a concept memo to rezone the properties. The
City Administration will consider a companion resolution on April 20th to authorize demolition of the
vacant, boarded-up home at 401 Lake Street.
Recognizing that there is likely to be some disagreement at the Common Council meeting whether to
retain or sell the house at 401 Lake Street, the PEDC directed staff to develop a standby alternative
resolution in the event the resolution to retain the property as a Natural Area is defeated. The alternative
resolution authorizes sale of the property for the highest marketable price. The proposed alternative
resolution and environmental review documents are attached.
Background
The major options for future use of 401 Lake Street appear to be:
1. demolish & clear
2. re-use for public use
3. offer for sale
Constraints on future use of the house include:
Ithaca
Urban
Renewal
Agency
A. small footprint (420 sq. ft.) - only authorized for 1-bedroom rental use currently
B. Small 40’ x 60’ substandard lot size
C. location in Recreational River overlay zone - limits lifetime residential expansion to 500 sq. ft.
D. house has not been occupied for several years - boiler disconnected, prior water damage (but still
Maintains good "bones")
E. asbestos survey identified the presence of asbestos in attic insulation and flashing around chimney
($9K abatement expense)
I am not aware of any feasible and appropriate public use identified for this structure. There has been
interest expressed in the past by private parties to acquire the property. The NAC recommends
demolition and returning the site to natural condition. This is a policy decision for the Common Council to
decide, but I urge that some decision be made as it is inconsistent for the City to hold a boarded-up,
vacant structure that is highly visible by visitors to the adjacent Ithaca Falls natural area when the City
seeks private property owners to address boarded-up, vacant structures. Holding the property also
imposes a burden on DPW resources.
Plan Ithaca, the city's comprehensive plan, encourages both increased housing and preservation and
protection of sensitive natural areas, particularly gorges.
The Housing section recommends the development of more housing within the City and encourages that
vacant and underutilized properties be returned to productive use (Community Livability section).
The future land use map in Plan Ithaca identifies this house as located within an "environmentally
sensitive" land use category. According to the Plan, "this district acknowledges areas with unique natural
features and characteristics that warrant special attention to preserve and protect attributes. " (Land Use
Section). The Plan also establishes as a goal: "[g]orges throughout the city will be protected to ensure
their continuation as critical natural assets for current and future use." (Natural Resources section).
By action of the Common Council last year, the adjacent vacant parcel acquired through tax foreclosure
was designated as part of the Fall Creek Natural Area, so 401 Lake is surrounded on 3 sides by the Natural
Area.
I urge the Common Council to either demolish the structure or return the property to the tax rolls.
CITY OF ITHACA
FULL ENVTRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM (FEAF)
Purpose: This Full Environmcntal Assessment Fonn (['EAF) is designed to help applicans and agencies determine, in an orderly
manner, whether a project or action may be significant. The qucstion ofwhcther an action may be significant is not always easy to
answer. Frequently, thcre arc asp€cas of a proposcd action that are subjective or immeasurable. lt is also understood those who
determine significance may have linle or no formal knowledge of thc environmcnt or may not b€ awarc of the broader concerns
affecting the question of significance.
The FEAF is intended to provide a method whcreby Epplicsnts and agencies can be assured the delermination process has been
orderly, comprchensive in nalure, yet flexible enouSh to allow introduction of informstion to fit a project or action.
FEAF Components:
Prrt l;Provides objective data and information about a givcn action 8nd its site. By idcntirying basic project data, it assists
in 8 r€view ofthe analysis that takes place in Parls 2 and 3.
Focuses on identirying the range ofpossible impEcts that may occur from a project or action. lt provides guidance as
to whether an impact is likely to bc considered small to moderate or whether it is a potentially large impact. The form
also identifies ryhcahcr an impact can be mitigatcd or rcduced.
lfany impact in Pan 2 is identified as poaentially large, then Part 3 is used to evaluate \ hether or not the impact is
actually imPortant.
l'rrt 2:
Part.l:
THIS AREA IS FOR LEAD AGENCY USE ONLY
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE-TYPE I AND UNLISTED ACTIONS
Identity lhe portions of FEAF completed for lhis rction: fl ]Parf I rl2 rtJ
Upon rcview ofthe information rccorded on this FEAF (Parts, 2, and 3, ifappropriate), and any other supponing information, and
considering both thc magnitude and imporlance ofeach impact, it is reasonably determined by the Lead Agency that:
f[. the lmposea Action will trot rcsult in any large and imponant impsct(s) and will not have a significant impact on the
environment; thercforc, A NEGATM DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.
ElB. Although thc propos€d action could have a significant impact on the environment, there will not be a significant effect
for lhis Unlisted Action, because the mitigation measur€s des$ibcd in PART 3 have been reguired; thcrcfore, A
CONDITIONED NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED,
'l'hc proposcd aclion may rcsult in one or more large and impoflant impacts lhal may have a significant impact on the
environment; lherefore, A POSITIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.
A Conditioned Negative Declarotion is only valid/or Unlisted Actions
Narne of Action: 401 Lake Street - Desisnate Parcel in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Citv of lthaca Common Council
Name and f itle of Responsible Officer in l,ead Agency : Nels Bohn, IURA Director of CD
Signature of Resgrnsible Ollicer i
Dale: Am r 113 6
v
Name of Lead Agency:
Signature ol Preparer:
FULI, ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM (FEAF)
PART T-PROJECT INFORMATION
(prepared by project sponsor/applicant)
NOTICE: This tlocument is designed to assist in determining whether the action proposed may have a
significant effect on the environment. Please complete the entire form, Parts A through E. Answers to these
questions will be considered part ofthe application for approval and may be subject to further verification and
public review. Provide any additional information you believe will be needed to complete Parts 2 and 3. It is
expected that completion of the FEAF will depend on information currently available and will not involve
new studies, research, or investigation. If information requiring such additional work is unavailable, so
indicate and specify each instance.
Nameof Action: 401 Lake Street - Designate Parcel in Natural Area and Demolish structure
Localion of Action: 401 Lake Street, lthaca, NY (tax map *L2.-L-21
Name of Applicant/Sponsor: City of lthaca
Address: 108 E. creen Street
City/'lown/Village: lthaca State: NY ZIP: 14850
Business Phonc: (5071 274-6550
Name of Owner (if diflerent): Same
Address:
CitylTour/Village:State ZIP
Business Phone:
,,
Retain the City-owned 401 Lake Street parcel acquired through tax foreclosure proceedings for public
use and designate it for inclusion in the adjacent lthaca Falls Natural Area.
Demolish and remove the vacant single family dwelling at 401 Lake Street.
Description of Action:
Please complete each question (indictrle N/A, if not applicable).
A. srrr DESCRJPTIoN
Ph sical setti of overall ect, both develo ed and undevelo d areas.
lElluruun ffi Industrial ffi commerciat ffiRrbti. ffi Forest
ffiAgricultural ffi Othe.:
Present Land Use:
Total area ofproject area: acres 2,400 section also.)I llowinlouare f'eet Chosen units
Currentlv Alter CompletionApproximate Area (Unils in Question 2 oppl! to this section.)
2a. Meadow or Brushland (non-agricultural)
1,500 1,6002b. Forested
2c,ricultural
2d. Wetland [as per Article 24 ofEnvLonmental Conservation Law (ECL)]
2e. Water Surface Area
2f. Public
2h. Unvegetated (rock, earth, or fill)
8002i. Roads, buildings, and other paved surfaces 800
2j. Other (indicate type)
3a. What is predominant soil type(s) on project site (e.g., HdB, silty loam, etc.): Unmapped
x
Well-Drained % of Site
Moderately Well-Drained 100 % of Site
b. Soil Drainage:
4a, Are there bedrock outcroppings on project site?CS o
4b. What is depth of bedrock?(feet)<1
4c. What is depth to the water table?(leet)3+
l5o/o or gtealeLz0 .Yo
l\-l\Yo 40 %0-10Yo 4O o/o5. Approximate percentage ofproposed project site
with slopes:
Is project substantially contiguous to, or does it
contain a building, site or district, listed on or
eligible for the National or State Register of
Historic Places?
ES IA
specles
x o
ES Jrlro $zab. .. . Or a designated local landmark or located in a
local landmark district?
7. Do hunting and/or fishing opportunities currently
exist in the project area?es [No f]Nle tfy"r,identifyeach
: Fall Creek
2s. Water Surface Area
n Poorly Drained % of Site
4
SI'TE DESCRIPTION concluded
According to: UNA-134
Identify each species: Canadian Primrose, Bird's Eye
Primrose are identified in the adjacent UNA
ES o !Nl,,r Unknown8. Does project site contain any species olplant
and/or animal life identified as threatened or
endangered?
9. Are there any unique or unusual landforms on the
project site (i.e., cliffs, other geological
lbrmations)?Describe: Fall Creek Gorge cliffs overlooking lthaca
Falls, Recreational River corridor
CS No lNle
10. Is project site cunently used by the community or
ncighborhood as an open space or recreation
arca?
Describe: High quality views of lthaca Falls
ES o11. Does present site offer or include scenic views
known to be important to the community?
12. Is project within or contiguous to a site
designated a Unique Natural Area (UNA) or
critical environmental area by a local or state
agency?
Describe: Lake 5t. Parcel #12.-1-2 is located
contiguous to UNA-134.
es $o $ra
14. Lakes, ponds, or wetland areas within or
contiguous to project area:
13. Streams within or contiguous to project area:
Name(s)
Names of stream(s) or name(s) of river(s) to which
it is a tributary:Fall Creek
15. Has site been used for land disposal of solid
and/ol hazardous wastes?
()es ENra
Describe
16. Is the site served by existing public utilities?
a. If Yes, does sulficient capacity exist to allow
connection?
b. If Yes, will improvements be nece ssary to
allow comection?CS o
No
o
ES
CS
!Y"' F-h.to [vla
If yes, explain:
b. Size(s) (in acres):
NA
5
B. pno.lncrDESCRrPTIoN
I Physical dimensions and scale of ect (fill in dimensions as a lo te 40' x 50'
la. 'l'otal conti us area owned b ect s nsor ln acres ol' uare feet: 2,400 SF
I b. Pro develo d: 800 SF In itiall : 800 SF Ultimately; 0ecl acrea
lc. Project ac to remain undevelo 2,400 sF
ld. Length of project in miles (if appropriate):NA or feet:
le. If project is an expansion, indicate percent of change proposed NA
lf. Number of off-street parking spaces existing:1 proposed 0
lg. Maximum vehicular trips generated (upon completion ofproject) per day: NA and pcr hour:
lh. I Iei ht oftallest ropo sed structure in feet. 0 No new structures pro osed
I , Linear feet of front e alo blic strect or thoro fare that the project will occ 0
Specify what type of natural material (i.e., rock, earth, etc.) and how much will be removed from the site
0 or added to the site: 0
3. Specify what type of vegetation (trees, shrubs, ground cover) and how much will be removed from the site
acres: 0 type of vegetation:
4, Will any mature trees or other locally important vegetation bc removed for this project? No
Are there an lans for re-vegetation to lace ve etation removed duri construction? No
Ifs lc-ect, antici od ofconstruction: NA10
If multi-hased ect, antici ted eriod of construction:months includin demolition
7a. Total number of hases antici ated
7b. Antici ted date of commencement for first phase: _----_.!g1g_ month 20L6 ar includin dcmolition
7c, Approximate com Ietion date offinal ase: August month 2016 year
7d. Is phase one financially dependent on subsequent phasesl ffiYes ffio X IIN/A
8. Will blasting occur during conslruction? EYes EilNo /A Ifyes, explain: _
9. Number ofjobs generated during construction 0 0
10. Number ofjobs eliminated by this project:0 Explain:
11. Wilt project require relocation of any projects or facilitiesflY"r IEJIUo @NlA Ifyes, explain:
l2a. ls surface or subsurface liquid waste disposal involved?lElYes o ffiia; if yes, explain:
l2b. lf #l2a i s yes, indicate type of waste (sewage, industrial, etc):
l2c. If surface d sal, where s ificall will cf'fluent be discha ed?
13. Witl surface area ofexisting lakes, ponds, streams, or othcr surface waterways be increased or decreased
by proposal? ffiYes x o ffiNla If yes, explain:
l4a. Will p or any portion ofproject occur wholly or partially within or contiguous to the 1O0-year flood
plain?
IO ect
es ffio ffiln Site is located adjacent to a floodway, but site is not in a flood zone
6
a
months (including demolition)
L
After project is completed:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION concluded
t or any porlion ofproject occur wholly or pa(ially within or contiguous to: Cayuga Inlet
, Cascadilla Creek, Cayuga Lake, Six Mile Creek, or Silver Creek? (Circle all that apply.)
14h. Docs CC
x
4c, Does project or any porlion of project occur wholl or partially within or contiguous to wetlands as
o ffila;described in Article 24 of the ECL? ffiYes
14d. If#14a., b., or c. is yes, explain: Parcel is located adjacent to Fall Creek
x15a. Does project involve disposal of solid waste? mYes o ffile
s, u,ill an existi solid waste di15b. If # l5a. is osal facili be used?ES o
l5c. If#15b. is yes, give name ofdisposal f'acility:and its location:
x
l5d. Will there be any wastes that will not go into a sewagc disposal system or into a sanitary landfill?
o ffila If yes, explain:ffives
5e. Will any solid waste be disposed of on site? ffiYes ffi1. ffilA If yes, explain:
x16. Will project use herbicides or pesticidesZ flYes o ffile If yes, specify:
x
roject aflect a building or site listed on or eligible lor the National or State Register of Historic
Places or a local landmark or in a landmark district? lE-lYes o ffiie; if yes, explain
Willp
x18.Will project produce odors? ffiYes o ffiNla If yes, explain:
xx
uct operating noise exceed the local ambient noise level during construction?
o ffila After construction? ffiYes
t9.will ect
o ffile@ve.
x0. Will project result in an increase of energy use? ffiYes o
l. Total anticipated water usage per day in gals./day:0
tEntffir
7
7.
ffiUlA llyes. indicale lype(s):
Source of watcr:
C. zonINc AND PLANNING INFORMATION
1. Does the proposed action involve a planning or zoning decision? ffiYes o I lN/A lt ves
indicate the decision required
lFil Zoning Amendment ffi Zoning Variance ffi New/Revision of Master PIan ffi Subdiri.ion
ffi Sit" Plun ffi Special Use Permit ffi R.rource Management Plan ffi Other:
-
2. What is the current zoning classification of site? R-3b & with Recreational River overlay
If the site is developed as pemitted by thc present zoning. ra,hat is the nraximum potential development?
Recreational River regulations prohibit new residential construction within 150 feet of Fall Creek, but
allow legally existing residential structures to remain and be expanded by up to 500 sq. ft. Therefore,
present zoning allows a 500 sq. ft. expansion of the existing 800 sq. ft. residential structure.
Is proposed use consistent with present zoning?x e' ffio ffiia
5. If #4 is no, indicate desired zoning:
6. Ifthe site is developed by the prorrosed zoning, what is the maximum potcntial development of the site?
NA
7. Is the proposed action consistent with the recommended uses in adopted local land-use plans?
es I[-]N.:o ll]tNlA lf no. exolain
8. What is the dominant land use and zoning classification within a % mile radius of the project?
(e.g., R-la or R-lb) R-3b and P-1
9. Is the proposed action compalible with adjacent land uses?es ffio ffi/A Explain:
10a. If the proposed action is the subdivision ofland, how many lots are proposed?NA
10b. What is the minimum lot size proposed?NA
11. Will the proposed action create a demand for any community-provided services? (e.g., recreation,
education, police, fire protection, etc.)? ffiYes JEJINo ffila expUin:
Explain:
12. Will the
ffiY".
action result in the generation oftraffic significantly above present levels?
o ffiln
If yes,
ffives
is existin
ENo
g road network ad
ffi/A Explain:
equate to handle additional traffic?
8
If yes, is existing capacity sufficient to handle projected demandZ ffiVes ffio ffila
D. appRovals
l. Approvals: Common Council approval is required
a Is any Federal permit required? ffiYes x o ffi/A Specify
b. Does project involve State or Federal funding or financing?ffiYes x o ffiza If Yes, Specify:
Suhmittal
Date
Approval
Date
Common Council Yes Authorize designation
into Natural Area; fund
demolition
s/t6 s/L6
Board of loning Appeals lBZA)No
Planning & Development Board No
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Commission (ILPC)
Board of Public Works (BPW)No
Fire Department No
Police Department No
Building Commissioner Yes Demolition permit 6/76 6/76
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
(IURA)
No
9
2c, Local and Regional approvals:
Aqency | "* r"*" I
Type of
Approval Required
E. INpoR-naATIoNAL DETAILS
Attach any additional information as may be needed to clarii/ your project. lfthere are or may be any adverse impacts
associated with your proposal, please discuss such impacts and the measures which you propose to mitigate or avoid
them.
See comments from City Historian, Mary Tomlan regarding late 19th Century lthaca Gorge Walk.
F. vERrFrcATroN
I certify that the information provided above is true to the best of my knowledge.
Applicant/Sponsor Namc:Nels Bohn
Signature:
f-itle:IURA Director of Community Development
,r * * rr * * * * * * r( * * :r * * * END oF PART I * :r * * * * * t( * * :l r. * * * * rt
l0
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Designate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Per 4113116 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON LAND
'l.Will there be an effect as a result of a physical change to project site? [ Ves f]No
Any construction on slop€s of 15olo or greater ('1s-foot rise per
100 feet of length) or where general slope in the project
exceeds 1 0olo.
Conslruction on land where depth to the water table is less
than 3 feet.!ves I No
Construction of parking facility/area for 50 or more vehicles Yes No
Construction on land where bedrock is exposed or generally
wrthin 3 feet of existing ground surface !ves I No
Construction that will continue for more than 1 year or involve
more than one phase or stage.Yes No
Evacuation for mining purposes that would remove more than
1,000 tons of natural material (i.e., rock or soil) per year.Yes No
!ves ! ruo
Yes No
Other impacts (if any):
Demolition and €learance of 840 square foot, vacant residential
structure.X !ves [ ruo
2. Will there be an effect on any unique land forms found on the site (i.e., cliffs, gorges,
geological formations, etc.)? E Ves I tto
Specific land forms (if any)
1of11
4/1812016
n !ves ! No
tr
tr tr
Construction of any new sanitary landfill.
Construction in designated floodway.tr n
tr ! ves ! tto
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Designate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Pet 41131'16 PEOC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Larg e
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON WATER
3. Will project affect any water body designated as protected (under article '15 ot 24 ol
Environmental Conservation Law, E.C.L.)? ! Ves I No
fl ves I tto
Oredging more than 100 cubic yards of material from channel
of protected stream.!ves flno
Extension of utility distribution facilities through protected
water body.!ves !ruo
Other impacts (if any)
!ves !No
4. Will project affect any non-protected existing or new body of water? f] Ves I tto
A 10% increase or decrease in surface area of any body of
water or more than 10,000 sq. ft. of surface area.lves!ruo
Construction, alleration, or conversion of body of water that
exceeds 10,000 sq. ft. of surface area.!ves !ruo
Fall Creek, Six Mile Creek, Cascadilla Creek, Silver Creek,
Cayuga Lake, or Cayuga lnlet?lves!No
!ves ! No
4t18t2016
Developable area of site contains protected water body.tr
n tr
Construction in designated freshwater wetland.tr tr !ves !ruo
tr
tr
Other impacts (if any):
tr
2o111
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: tt01 Lake Street - Designate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Per 4113116 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON WATER (cont.)
5. Will project affect surface or groundwater quality? ! ves I No
Project will require discharge permit.!ves !ruo
Project requires use of source of water that does not have
approval to serve proposed prolect.Yes No
Construction or operation causing any contamination of a
public water supply system.Yes No
Project will adversely affect groundwater !ves !ruo
Liquid effluent will be conveyed off the site to facilities which
do not currently exist or that have inadequate capacity.!ves !uo
Project requiring a facility that would use water in excess of
20,000 gallons per day or 500 gallons per minute.lves I no
Project will likely cause siltation or other discharge into an
existing body of water to the extent that there will be an
obvious visual contrast lo natural conditions.
Yes No
Proposed action will require storage of petroleum or chemical
products greater than '1,'100 gallons.!ves !ruo
Yes No
3of11
4t18t2016
n
tr
n
n
n
n
tr tr
tr
Other impacts (if any)i
tr n
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Oesignate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Per 4l'13116 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON WATER (cont.)
6. Will project alter drainage flow, drainage patterns, or surface water runoff? ! ves I no
Project would impede floodwater flows flves I uo
Prolect is likely to cause substantial erosion
Project is incompatible with existing drainage patterns
Other impacts (if any)
IMPACT ON AIR
7. will project affect air quality? ! ves [ ruo
ProJect will induce 500 or more vehicle trips in any 8-hour
period per day.
Project will result in the incineration of more than 2.5 tons of
refuse per 24-hour day.
Project emission rate of all contaminants will exceed 5 lbs
per hour or a heat source producing more than 10 million
BTUs per hour.
Other impacts (if any)
4 ol11
tr !ves fl No
tr !ves ! ruo
!ves ! no
tr n !ves ! No
n tr flves ! uo
tr tr fl ves ! tto
tr !ves ! ruo
4118t2016
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Designate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Per 41131'16 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Red uced by
Project Change?
IMPACTS ON PLANTS AND ANIMALS
8. Will project affect any threatened or endangered species? ! Ves I tto
Reduction of any species, listed on New York or Federal list,
using the site, found over, on, or near site.
Removal of any portion of a critical or signiflcant wildlife
habitat.
Yes No
Other impacts (if any)
Ives ! No
9. Will proposed action substantially affect non-threatened or non-endangered species?
! ves I tto
Proposed action would substantially interfere with any
resident or migratory fish. or wildlife specres.! ves ! rvo
Proposed action requires removal or more than y. acIe ol
mature woods or other locally important vegetation.!ves ! tto
Other impacts (if any)
Yes No
5of11
4118t2016
tr n !ves !uo
tr tr !ves !ruo
Application of pesticide or herbicide more than twice a year
other than for agricultural purposes.tr tr
tr u
tr n
tr
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Designate in NatuEl Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Per 4113116 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON AESTHETIC RESOURCES
'10. Will proposed action affect views, vistas, or visual character of the neighborhood or
community? !ves INo
!ves ! No
Proposed land uses or proposed action components visible to
users of aesthetic resources which will eliminate or
significantly reduce their enjoyment of aesthetic qualities of
that resource.
Yes No
Proposed action will result in elimination or major screening
of scenic views known to be important to the area.Yes No
Other impacts (if any):
Yes No
IMPACT ON HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOG'CAL RESOURCES
11. Will proposed action impact any site or structure of historic, prehistoric, or paleontological
importance? ffives !No
Proposed action occurring wholly or partially within, or
contiguous to, any facility or site listed on or eligible for the
National or State Register of Historic Places.
!ves !uo
Any impact to an archaeological site or fossil bed located
within the proiect site.Yes No
Proposed action occurring wholly or partially within, or
contiguous to, any site designated as a local landmark or in a
landmark district.
!ves ! No
Other impacts (if any):
Site was location of gate house/entrance to the historic lthaca
Gorge Walk attraction developed in the 1860s. Historic elements of
the prior use, such as stone foundation walls/steps, may be
damaged by bu ilding demolition
[]ves !uo
60f11
4t18t2016
Proposed land uses or proposed action components
obviously different from, or in sharp contrast to, current
surrounding land use patterns, whether man-made or natural.
tr n
n
tr
n
tr
tr
tr N
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Designate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Per 4113116 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Larg e
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION
12. Will the proposed action affect the quantity or quality of existing or future open spaces, or
recreational opportunities? [ ves ! uo
The permanent foreclosure of a future recreational
opportunity.!ves ! ruo
A major reduction of an open space important to the
community.!ves ! ruo
Other impacts (if any): Project will expand the lthaca Falls
Natural Area to include the property at 401 Lake Street,
thereby enhancing the quantity and quality of future
open spaces.I ves ! tto
IMPACT ON UNIQUE NATURAL AREAS OR CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL AREAS
13. Will proposed action impact the exceptional or unique characteristics of a site designated
as a unique natural area (UNA) or a critical environmental area (CEA) by a local or state
agency? X ves E t'to
Proposed action to locate within a UNA or CEA?Yes No
Proposed action will result in reduction in the quality of the
resource. (visual quality and character of Fall creek
Gorge will be improved by removal of the vacant
structure)
Ives ! ruo
Proposed action will impact use, function, or enjoyment of the
resource.Yes No
Other impacts (if any)
7of11
411812016
tr
tr
tr tr
X tr
tr tr
!ves ! No
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Designate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Per 4113116 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Mod erate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON TRANSPORTATION
14. Will there be an effect to existing transportation systems? ! Ves [ ruo
Alteration of present patterns of movement of people and/or
goods.! ves ! tto
Proposed action will result in major traffic problems Yes No
Other impacts
!ves ! ruo
IMPACT ON ENERGY
15. Will proposed action affect community's sources of fuel or energy supply? ! Ves [ ruo
Proposed action causing greater than 5% increase in any
form of energy used in municipality.Yes No
Proposed action requiring creation or e)dension of an energy
transmission or supply system to serve more than 50 single-
or two-family residences.
!ves [ruo
Other impacts (if any)
80f11
4t18t2016
tr
tr tr
tr n
tr Ives !ruo
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Designate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Per 4/13/16 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
Ii,PACT ON NOISE AND ODORS
Blasting within 1,500 feet of a hospital, school, or other
sensitive facility?!ves !ruo
Odors wall occur routinely (more than one hour per day)Yes No
Proposed action will produce operating noise exceeding local
ambient noise levels for noise outside of structure.Yes No
Proposed action will remove natural barriers that would act as
noise screen.!ves I No
Other impacts (if any):
IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH
17. Will proposed action affect public health and safety? ! Yes I No
Proposed action will cause risk of explosion or release of
hazardous substances (i.e., oil, pesticides, chemicals,
radiation, etc.) in the event of accident or upset conditions, or
there will be chronic lowJevel discharge or emission.
Proposed action may result in burial of "hazardous wastes" in
any form (i.e., toxic, poisonous, highly reactive, radioactive,
iritating, infectious, etc.)
Yes No
Proposed action may result in excavation or other
disturbance within 2,000 feet of a site used for the disposal of
solid or hazardous wastes.
Yes No
Proposed action will result in handling or disposal or
hazardous wastes (i.e., toxic, poisonous, highly reactive,
radioactive, irritating, infectious, etc., including wastes that
are solid, semi-solid, liquid, or contain gases).
ldentified asbestos containing materials identified in the
asbestos survey will be removed in accordance with state law
prior to demolition.
! ves I r',,to
4t1812016
15. Will there be objectionable odors, noise, glare, vibration, or electrical disturbance during
construction of, or after completion of, this proposed action? ! Ves I t',to
tr tr
tr tr
tr tr ! ves ! tto
tr tr !ves [ruo
tr n
tr n
x n
9of11
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part2-Projectlmpacts
Project Name: 401 Lake Street - Designate in Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created: Revised Pet 41131'16 PEDC meeting
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Larg e
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Project Change?
IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH (cont.)
Yes No
Use of any chemical for de-icing, soil stabilization, or control
of vegetation, insects, or animal life on the premises of any
residential, commercial, or industrial property in excess of
30,000 square feet.
Yes No
Other impacts (if any)
Yes No
IMPACT ON GROWTH AND CHARACTER OF COMMUNITY OR NEIGHBORHOOD
18. Will proposed action affect the character of the existing community? ! Ves [ ruo
The population of the city in which the proposed action is
located is likely to grow by more than 5% of resident human
population.
! ves ! t'io
The municipal budgets for capital expenditures or operating
services will increase by more than 5olo per year as a result of
this proposed action.
Yes No
Proposed action will conflict with offlcially adopted plans or
goals.Yes No
I ves I t'to
Proposed action will replace or eliminate existing facilities,
structures, or areas of historic importance to the community lves I t,ro
Development will create demand for additional community
services (e.9., schools, police, and fire, etc.)!ves ! No
Ives ! No
Proposed action will relocate 15 or more employees in one or
more businesses.
10 of 11
4t18t2016
Storage facilities for 50,000 or more gallons of any liquid fuel.tr n
n tr
tr
Proposed action will cause a change in the density of land
use.
tr
Proposed action will set an important precedent for future
actions.
tr !ves ! No
City of lthaca Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF)
Part 2 - Pro lm
Project Name:
Date Created: Revised Per 4l'13116 PEDC meeting
- lf any action in Part 2 is identified as a potential large impact,
or if you cannot determine the magnitude of impact, proceed to Part 3 -
Small-to-
Moderate
lmpact
Potential
Large
lmpact
Can lmpact Be
Reduced by
Proiect Change?
!ves [ ruo
Other impacts (if any)
19. ls there public controversy concerning the proposed action? [ Yes ! tto I Unknown
11 o{ 11
4/1812016
Lake
IMPACT ON GROWTH AND CHARACTER OF COMMUNITY OR I{EIGHBORHOOD (cont.)
City of lthaca
FUtt ENVIRONMENTAT ASSESSMENT FORM - Part III
ProJect Name: rt01 Lake Street - Deslgnate ln Natural Area and Demolish Structure
Date Created:4/13/15 Per PEDC meetint
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Retain the City-owned 401 Lake Street parcel acquired through tax
foreclosure proceedings for public use and designate it for inclusion in the
adjacent lthaca Falls Natural Area.
Demolish and remove the vacant single family dwelling at 401 Lake Street.
Demolition of the structure at 401 Lake Street may remove and/or damage potentially significant
historic elements remaining on site from the lthaca Gorge Walk that was a popular commercial
recreation attraction from the late 1860s onward. The present vacant house appears to have been
built on the site of the former arched entrance and shingled gate house entrance to the lthaca
Gorge Walk. Stone masonry walls, steps and other landscape elements may, or may not, remain
intact on-site.
Required M itiqation
1. Priorto demolition conduct, in con.iunction with the City Historian, a review ofthe physical
features ofthe site, including landscaping, masonry work and the building located at 401
Lake Street for significant historicalor archeological importance related to the lthaca Gorge
Walk that operated along the north side of the Fall Creek gorge in the late 1860s onwa rd.
2. lf significant historical or archeological features are identified, retain such features to the
maximum extent feasible consistent with demolition and removal of non-contributing
portions ofthe building to the historical context and include an interpretative plaque about
the lthaca Gorge Walk.
i:\cohmun'ty d.velopment\dispornoni\crty lax fo.ecl6uret\2015\401 lake st\401 lak. demolhionv€alform pa.t 3'r{,1 lake n demlton 4-13-16 r.vised.de
Page 'l of '1
IMPACT ON HISTORIC RESOURCES
Prepared by: Nels Bohn, Director of Community Development,
Ithaca Urban Renewal Atency
10.2 2016 HUD Entitlement Action Plan – Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca (City) is eligible to receive an annual formula allocation of
funds to address community development needs through the U.S. Department of
Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Entitlement program from the Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and the Home Investment Partnerships
(HOME) program funding sources; and
WHERAS, the City has contracted with the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) to
administer, implement and monitor the City’s HUD Entitlement program in compliance
with all applicable regulations; and
WHEREAS, on an annual basis an Action Plan must be submitted to HUD to access
HUD Entitlement program funding allocated to the City; and
WHEREAS, the 2016 Action Plan identifies a specific list of budgeted community
development activities to be funded from the 2016 HUD Entitlement program allocation
and associated funds administered by the IURA; and
WHEREAS, funding available to be allocated through the 2016 Action Plan funding
process is anticipated to include the following:
$661,371.00 CDBG 2016 allocation
$21,749.57 CDBG 2014 de-obligated funds
$130,000.00 CDBG 2016 projected program income
$328,050.00 HOME 2016 allocation
$41,115.40 HOME 2015 carryover and de-obligated funds
$273,869.00 HOME 2014 de-obligated funds
$215,875.00 Neighborhood Housing Initiative bond funds
$1,672,029.97 Total, and
WHEREAS, the IURA utilized an open and competitive project selection process for
development of the 2015 Action Plan in accordance with the City of Ithaca Citizen
Participation Plan; and
WHEREAS, at their April 14, 2016 meeting, the IURA adopted a recommended 2016
Action Plan; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council for the City of Ithaca hereby adopts the IURA-
recommended 2016 Action Plan, dated April 14, 2016 for allocation of the City’s 2016
HUD Entitlement Program award along with additional funds listed above totaling
$1,672,029.97; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Urban Renewal Plan shall be amended to include activities funded
in the adopted 2016 Action Plan.
10.3 An Ordinance to Amend The City of Ithaca Municipal Code Chapter 325,
Entitled “Zoning,” To Amend the Street-Level Active Use Requirement in the
Collegetown Area Form Districts
ORDINANCE NO. 2016-
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca that
Chapter 325, Zoning, be amended as follows:
Section 1. Chapter 325 (“Zoning”), Section 325-45.3 (“Street-Level Active Uses
Required”) of the Municipal Code of the City of Ithaca is hereby amended as follows:
325-45.3B Street-Level Active Uses Required
(1) Within the MU-2 district, street-level active uses are required[ on the
entire street-level of] for the street-facing portions of all buildings
fronting on those portions sections of College Avenue, Dryden Road,
and Eddy Street designated on the map below.
(2) Active street-level uses are one of the keys to vitality of the
Collegetown core area and are defined as uses that encourage
high levels of pedestrian activity, enliven the streetscape, and
create well-lit space with ample visibility into the storefront
area. Active uses [are defined as] include, but are not limited
to, the following:
(a) Retail store or service commercial facility
(b) Restaurant, fast food establishment, or tavern
(c) Theater, bowling alley, auditorium, or other similar places of
public assembly
(d) Hotel
[(e) Library or fire station]
(e) [(f)] Public park or playground
(f) [(g)] Bank or monetary institution
(g) Confectionary, millinery, dressmaking, and other activities
involving light hand fabrication as well as sales.
(3) Additional uses may be permitted if the Planning and
Development Board determines them to be an active use and
grants special approval for the use. The Planning Board may
also grant a special approval of a non-active use if a property
owner is able to show that the physical structure is not easily
adaptable to be used as one of the above listed active uses.
Street-level actives uses required in areas shown in solid red.
Section 2. Severability. Severability is intended throughout and within the provisions of
this local law. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this
local law is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction,
then that decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion.
Section 3. Effective date. This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in
accordance with law upon publication of notices as provided in the Ithaca City Charter.
4/14/2016FundingSponsorRequest Match 2016 CDBG 2016 HOME 2016 CDBG PI 2014 HOME 2015 HOME 2014 CDBG NHI BondsTotalSummary Description$661,371 $328,050.00 $130,000.00 $273,869.00 $41,115.40 $21,749.57 $215,875.00 $1,672,029.97#Housing 1 Housing for School Success TBRAIURA$92,890$0$77,104.40$77,104.40TBRA and case management for 3 homeless families with children at BJM 2 Security Deposits Catholic Charities$40,000$7,823$40,000.00$40,000.00security deposit assistance for 75 LMI households2a Security deposit inspectionscontract$4,000$0$4,000.00$4,000.00professional contract for HQS inspection of non-HCV units3 LKNB Homeowner Rehab Love Knows No Bounds$51,000$16,500 $36,334.72$36,334.72homeowner rehab for 3 households with incomes below 60% AMI4 304 Hector St INHS$100,000$269,294$100,000.00$100,000.00new construction first time homebuyer CLT home affordable at 80% AMI5 202 Hancock Townhomes INHS$567,000$1,792,013$40,256.00$273,869.00$215,875.00$530,000.00new construction 7 first-time homebuyer CLT townhomes affordable at 80% AMI6 Mini RepairINHS$35,000$38,128 $30,000.00$30,000.00maintenance and very minor repair for 70 homeowners below 80% AMI7 Morris Ave Homes Habitat for Humanity$75,000$230,500$33,884.60$41,115.40$75,000.00new construction 2 for-sale homes affordable at 60% AMIEconomic Development8 Work Preserve Job Training and Placement Historic Ithaca (CBDO)$67,500$58,816 $45,750.43$21,749.57$67,500.00job training and placement for 4 LMI individuals with employment barriers9 HETPGIAC (CBDO)$112,961$22,400 $100,000.00$100,000.00job training and placement for 10 LMI individuals with employment barriers10 ED Loan FundIURA$100,000$0$100,000.00$100,000.00creation of 3 part-time positions for LMI individualsPublic Facilities 11 Heating System & Code CorrectionsDICC$22,489$4,511 $22,489.00$22,489.00replace heating system and correct interior door code violations12 Advocacy Center Garage RenovationAdvocacy Center$10,317$4,064 $10,317.00$10,317.00renovate garage to provide storage for donated materials to help equip households leaving the shelter13 Wading Pool RenovationsGIAC$200,000$101,000 $185,000.00$185,000.00expand existing wading poolPublic Services 1a Housing for School SuccessIURA$11,580 $0 $11,580.00$11,580.00case management related to project #114 A Place to Stay case managementCatholic Charities$27,118 $0 $17,625.65$17,625.65case management for 5 homeless women in transitional housing9a Work Preserve Job ReadinessHistoric Ithaca$20,000 $17,569 $20,000.00$20,000.00job readiness training for 20 LMI individuals with employment barriers related to project #1215 Immigrant ServicesCatholic Charities$30,000 $28,915 $30,000.00$30,000.00case management for 100 immigrants to access employment, services, etc16 211 Info and ReferralHSC$20,000 $216,980 $20,000.00$20,000.00support for 2-1-1 call centerAdministration17 CDBG Admin.IURA$132,274.20$132,274.20$132,274.20Planning, administration and monitoring for the CDBG program18 HOME Admin.IURA$32,805.00$32,805$32,805.00Planning, administration and monitoring for the HOME programTotals:$1,615,044 $2,800,690 $661,371.00 $328,050.00 $100,000.00 $273,869.00 $41,115.40 $21,749.57 $215,875.00 $1,642,029.97$0.00$0.00 $30,000.00$0.00$0.00$0.00$0.00unallocatedMinimum Required Set-aside of HOME funds for CHDO Activities: $49,207.50CDHO Set-aside Funding (202 Hancock): $530,000.00CHDO Setaside compliance:Y Public services cap:$99,206(15% of 2016 CDBG award)plus $14,843 in deobligated 2015 Housing FirstIURA Recommended Action Plan2016 HUD Entitlement Program, City of Ithaca, NYFUNDING AVAILABLEProjectunexpended 2014 HETP award$26,272.40 unallocated in 2015 roundreturned funds 2014 402 S. Cayuga
BACK-UP ITEM 10.3
TO: Planning & Economic Development Committee
FROM: Megan Wilson, Senior Planner
DATE: May 5, 2016
RE: Proposed Amendment to Collegetown Area Form Districts
Since it was adopted in 2014, the Collegetown Area Form Districts has included a
requirement for active uses on the street-level of all buildings in portions of the MU-2
district. Allowed active uses are defined in a list of seven possible categories, such as
retail, restaurant, or hotel. As plans for development in Collegetown have been
presented, it has become clear that there are additional active uses that may be
desirable but are not included in the adopted list. The proposed amendment would
allow the Planning and Development Board to determine whether a use meets the intent
of the active use requirement, and such uses would be granted special approval by the
Board. This change would be consistent with the street-level active use requirement
recently adopted for the primary Commons.
In addition to the new provision allowing special approval of uses by the Planning
Board, staff is also recommending changes to the list of approved active uses. The
proposed amendment would remove “library” and “fire station” from the list and would
add light hand fabrication as an active use. These changes will make the list consistent
with the list of active uses for the primary Commons.
The draft ordinance is attached for your review. Staff will attend the May 11th Planning
& Economic Development Committee meeting to answer any questions. If you have
any questions prior to the meeting, please contact me at mwilson@cityofithaca.org or
274-6560.
CITY OF ITHACA
108 E. Green Street — 3rd Floor Ithaca, NY 14850-5690
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, BUILDING, ZONING, & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Division of Planning & Economic Development
JOANN CORNISH, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development – 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA – 607-
274-6559
Email: dgrunder@cityofithaca.org Email: iura@cityofithaca.org
10.4 An Ordinance to Amend the City of Ithaca Municipal Code Chapter 164
Entitled “Dogs and Other Animals”; §164-2(B) and §164-4; and to add Article III
entitled “Backyard Chickens”
ORDINANCE __-2016
WHEREAS, Chapter 164 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code prohibits the keeping of
chickens in the City; and
WHEREAS, the City has received requests from citizens to allow chickens in backyard
coops and there is an active backyard chicken movement within the City; and
WHEREAS, chicken keeping is part of a larger sustainability trend to allow citizens to
grow their own foods – including fruits, vegetables and honey production – by reducing
barriers, which restrict local food production. These sustainability trends are congruent
with the City’s Comprehensive Plan goals, such as support for our community gardens
and active living initiatives; and
WHEREAS, the Common Council desires to enable the keeping of backyard chickens in
the City; now, therefore
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca as
follows:
Section 1. Findings of Fact. The Common Council finds that backyard chickens, if
properly maintained, can prove a positive initiative for the City, promoting food
sustainability, increasing animal welfare and providing fresh eggs free from pesticides
and chemicals, without presenting a nuisance to neighboring residents or properties.
Section 2. Amendments to Section 164-2(B).
Section 164-2(B) shall be amended to read as follows:
Exception. This section shall not apply to the keeping of chickens to the extent
authorized by Article III of this Chapter, nor to any educational, scientific or research
institution maintaining, with adequate safeguards as to public health, safety, comfort
and convenience, any animals or other creatures for scientific, medical or other
research purposes.
Section 3. Amendments to Section 164-4
Section 164-4 shall be amended to read as follows:
Except as provided in the Agriculture and Markets Law, a violation of this article
constitutes a civil offense punishable in accordance with § 1-1 of the City of Ithaca
Municipal Code except that the unlawful keeping of chickens in the City shall be
punishable as follows:
(a) $250 for the first violation:
(b) $500 for the second violation: and
(c) $750 for the third or subsequent violation.
These penalties shall be in addition to any other penalties provided by law.
Section 4. Creation of Article III to Chapter 164
An Article III of Chapter 164 is hereby created as follows:
Article III: Backyard Chickens
164-21: Definitions
Lot: As defined in section C-73(C)(1) of the City Charter.
Lot Square Footage: As defined in section C-73(C)(1) of the City Charter.
Property Class Code: As defined in section C-73(C)(1) of the City Charter.
Rear Yard: As defined in section 325-3 of the City Code.
164-22 Backyard Chickens
The prohibition against keeping chickens in this Chapter shall, during a two-year pilot
program that shall expire on May 1, 2018, not apply to up to twenty pilot applicants
approved for the keeping of up to four female chickens (hens) per 3,000 Square Foot
Lot while the animals are kept in such a manner that all requirements of this Article are
satisfied.
164-23: Requirements for Keeping Chickens
A. Chickens may only be kept on those Lots with a Property Class Code of 210,
215, 220, 240, 250, or substantially identical successor designations.
B. Chickens may only be kept on those Lots possessing a Lot Square Footage of
not less than 3,000 square feet.
C. No chicken facility or any structure that houses chickens or any fenced pen area,
either temporarily or permanently, shall be located within any of the following
prohibited areas:
1. Within the setback requirements of the zone in which it is located;
2. Within twenty feet of any adjacent Lot’s residential principal structure or
accessory structure that contains a residential unit, or within five feet of
any principal structure on the Lot housing the chickens; and
3. Within five feet from any abutting residential property line, unless the
adjacent owner agrees in writing to a lesser setback.
D. Chickens may only be kept by a domiciliary of a dwelling unit located on the Lot
on which the chickens are kept.
E. Chickens must be kept in and confined in a properly designed and constructed
coop or chicken house, or a fenced and covered enclosure that is at least 4
square feet per chicken in size, which additionally includes a run. Each covered
coop and run combined shall be located in, and shall not cover more than 50%
of, the Rear Yard of the Lot.
F. It shall be unlawful for any person to allow hens to run at large upon the streets,
alleys or other public places of the City, or upon the property of any other person.
G. During daylight hours the adult chickens shall have access to the chicken coop
and, weather permitting, shall have access to an outdoor enclosure on the
subject property, adequately fenced to contain the chickens and to prevent
access to the chickens by dogs and other predators.
H. Chicken feed must be in rodent resistant and weather proof containers.
I. A chicken coop, and the premises where the chicken coop is located, shall be
maintained in a condition such that the facility or chickens do not produce noise
or odor that creates a nuisance for adjoining Lots and the responsible domiciliary
and the owner shall remove any odorous or unsanitary condition. The Lot owner
shall be responsible for the repair on any adjoining Lot of any damage caused by
the chickens, including but not limited to damage to dwellings, structures and
yards, and shall be responsible for any unsafe condition.
J. The person keeping the chickens shall abide by all Solid Waste Storage and
Collection standards of the City's Exterior Property Maintenance Code, §331-7.
K. Roosters and Guinea Fowl are expressly prohibited, regardless of the age or
maturity of the bird.
L. Pilot registration pursuant to Section 164-24 is required for the keeping of
chickens.
M. Approved pilot registrants must complete a seminar regarding the care of
chickens in an urban environment from the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office,
or similarly qualified organization acceptable to the Clerk’s Office.
164-24: Pilot Registration Process and Parameters.
A. No more than twenty pilot registrations for the keeping of chickens shall be
approved under this Article III.
B. Registration shall take place at the City of Ithaca Clerk’s Office upon
submission of a $35 registration fee, and verification of a completed
chicken-keeping seminar.
C. The City Clerk and Police Department shall, at least three months prior to
the expiration of the pilot program, report to a Committee of the Common
Council on the status of the pilot program.
D. Should the pilot program not be extended after the two-year period,
Cornell Cooperative Extension Office may help rehome the hens in the
program.
E. The City Clerk may revoke registration for a specific site via written notice
to the property owner when the City Clerk or designee finds, at his or her
sole discretion, that any requirements of this Article are not met, a
rebuttable presumption of which shall be created by (a) a record of three
or more complaints to the Ithaca Police Department about a specific site’s
chickens, (b) on the recommendation of Cornell Cooperative Extension, or
(c) on the recommendation of the Ithaca Police Department. Upon
revocation, the City Clerk shall notify the owner in writing of the same, in
compliance with sub-section 164-25, and if the revocation stands, the
owner must remove the hens from the property in coordination with such
assistance as may be available from the Cornell Cooperative Extension
Office, who may assist with rehoming them.
164-25: Remedies Not Exclusive.
The remedies provided by this Article are cumulative and not mutually exclusive and are
in addition to any other rights, remedies, and penalties available to the City under any
other provision of law.
A. Any chickens that are not kept as required in this Article shall be deemed a public
nuisance and the owner or custodian shall be given thirty days to rectify the
conditions creating the public nuisance. In any case in which the City intends to
correct a violation of this chapter, including removing and confiscating any chickens
present, and then bill the property owner for the correction of the violation, the City
Clerk or his/her designee shall notify the registrant and the owner of the property
and, where relevant, the registered agent who has assumed responsibility as
outlined in § 178-5 of this Code, in writing, of any violation of this chapter.
B. Any notice required by this section shall be served in person or by mail to the
address on the registration form and the address appearing on the City tax roll,
requiring such person, within a time specified in such notice but in no event less
than thirty days from the service or mailing thereof, to comply with this chapter and
to abate the nuisance and, as appropriate, to remove the chickens. Such notice
shall also state that the property owner may contest the finding of the City Clerk by
making a written request to have a hearing on the matter held at the next regularly
scheduled meeting of the Board of Public Works.
C. Any request for such a hearing must be mailed and postmarked or personally
delivered to the City Clerk within fourteen days of the service or mailing of notice,
and any such written request for a hearing shall automatically stay further
enforcement concerning the alleged violation pending such hearing. The decision of
the Board of Public Works, by majority vote, shall be binding, subject to any further
judicial review available to either the City or the property owner.
D. Upon the failure of a registrant or property owner to comply with the notice of
violation of this chapter (or, alternatively, to request a hearing as aforesaid within the
time limit stated in such notice, or upon a Board of Public Works’ determination,
after such a hearing, that a violation exists), the City Clerk shall refer the matter, by
memorandum, to the Superintendent of Public Works, who shall cause such
premises to be put in such condition as will comply and shall charge the cost thereof
to the owner of said premises, including a charge of 50% for supervision and
administration. The minimum charge to the property owner for such work shall be
$50.
E. The City Chamberlain shall promptly present to the owner of any parcel so corrected
a bill rendered for such services, as certified by the Superintendent of Public Works.
If not paid within 30 days, the cost thereof shall be assessed against the property,
added to its tax and become a lien thereon, collectible in the same manner as
delinquent City taxes. Appeals from this section shall only be permitted if written
notice of appeal is received by the Ithaca City Clerk within 45 days after the mailing
of the bill from the Chamberlain, and such appeals shall be taken to the Board of
Public Works.
Section 5. Severability. Severability is intended throughout and within the provisions of
this Ordinance. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this
Ordinance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction,
then that decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.
Section 6. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon
publication as provided for in the City Charter.
BACK-UP ITEM 10.4
Backyard Chickens Summary
(For inclusion with June 1, 2016 Common Council Agenda)
The city of Ithaca is considering a two-year pilot program that would allow 20 City of
Ithaca residences to keep backyard chickens.
Regulation Summary
Maximum of four hens per 3,000 square foot lot
Roosters and Guinea Fowl are prohibited
Chickens must always be contained within a coop or enclosure
Chickens are not allowed to run at large
Chicken coops must be at least 20 feet from the primary lot structure and at least 5 feet
from any abutting residential property line
Registrants must complete a seminar regarding the care of backyard chickens from the
Cornell Cooperative Extension Office
Registrants must sign an affidavit through the City Clerk’s office as part of the
registration
If at any time a permit is revoked, or the owner is unable to care for their hens, the
Cornell Cooperative Extension Office will work with the owners to rehome the hens.
Additional information for residences in the pilot program:
Registration Process:
There is a one-time $35 registration fee, paid to the Ithaca City Clerk’s office
It is recommended to work with Cornell Cooperative Extension Office staff for any
questions or guidance related to coop construction and general chicken keeping.
OFFICIAL NOTICE OF MEETING
A Regular meeting of the Common Council will be held on Wednesday, August 3, 2016,
at 6:00 p.m. in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall, 108 East Green Street,
Ithaca, New York. Your attendance is requested.
AGENDA
1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
2. ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
3. PROCLAMATIONS/AWARDS:
4. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
4.1 Presentation of Employee Quarterly Recognition Award
5. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
6. PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
7. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR — COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR:
8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
City Administration Committee:
8.1 Department of Public Works —Amendment to 2016 Budget - Resolution
8.2 Finance — Controller's Office — Request to Amend Personnel Roster - Resolution
8.3 Department of Public Works - Streets & Facilities - Amendment to Personnel
Roster - Resolution
8.4 Department of Public Works —Water and Sewer - Amendment to Personnel
Roster for the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) - Resolution
8.5 Department of Public Works - Amendment to 2016 Budget - Resolution
8.6 Department of Public Works — Ithaca Area Waste Water Treatment Plant
(IAWWTP) Recommendation to Fund Professional Services Agreement with
SourceOne to Assist in the Preparation of the New York State Energy Research
and Development Authority (NYSERDA) New York Prize Phase 2 Request for
Proposals (RFP) 3044 Grant Application — Resolution
9. PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
9.1 Resolution to Select Artwork for a Mural Installation on the West Facing Entry
Wall of the Green Street Parking Garage
9.2 Resolution to Select Artwork for the Electrical Boxes on the Commons: "An
Electrical Box Mural Project"
9.3 Resolution to Select Artwork for the Public Art Commission's Rainwater Art
Project on City-Owned Sidewalks
9.4 Resolution to Endorse Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program
i
Common Council Meeting Agenda
August 3, 2016
Page 2
10. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
10.1 Department of Public Works — Request to Establish a Capital Project for
Americans with Disability Access (ADA) Ramps and Pedestrian Enhancements
in Various Locations around the City - Resolution
10.2 Department of Public Works — Establishment of Capital Project Funding for
Carbon Monoxide Detection - Resolution
10.3 City Controller's Report
10.4 Discussion Item With Possible Vote: An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 114 of
the City of Ithaca Municipal Code entitled "Natural Areas", Section 114-7 entitled
"Prohibited Activities"
11. REPORTS OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES:
12. NEW BUSINESS:
13. INDIVIDUAL MEMBER — FILED RESOLUTIONS:
13.1 Alderperson Murtagh - Resolution to Select Artwork for a Mural Installation on the
Bank Alley Newspaper Box
14. MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS:
14.1 Appointment to the Board of Public Works — Resolution
14.2 Appointment to Cable Access Oversight Committee — Resolution
15. REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS:
16. REPORT OF CITY CLERK:
17. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
18. MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS:
18.1 Approval of the July 6, 2016 Common Council Meeting Minutes — Resolution
19. ADJOURNMENT:
If you have a disability that will require special arrangements to be made in order for you
to fully participate in the meeting, please contact the City Clerk at 274-6570 at least 48
hours before the meeting. �w J� ,OAi,, //J J)�N((YVn
Ville Conley Holco b, CMC
City Clerk
Date: July 28, 2016
AN
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8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
City Administration Committee:
8.1 Department of Public Works —Amendment to 2016 Budget - Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is collaborating with the Town of Ithaca and Tompkins
County in a one-year pilot program to increase the number of Natural Area Rangers for
the Six Mile Creek Natural Area; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca and Tompkins County have each agreed to contribute
$7,500 to match the City's budget of $15,000 for this program; and
WHEREAS, City staff has agreed to share data with Town and County officials at the
end of the 2016 season in order to determine the success of the enhanced program and
to determine whether this collaboration should be continued in the future; now, therefore
be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council approves an amendment of the 2016 City of Ithaca
Budget to accommodate the increase in revenue collected and the related seasonal
employment expenses as follows:
Increase Revenue-
A7111-2705 Parks Gifts/Donations $15,000
Increase Expenditures:
A7111-5120 Parks $15,000
A
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8.2 Finance — Controller's Office — Request to Amend Personnel Roster -
Resolution
WHEREAS, the Controller's Office has been informed that the current Accounts
Payable Coordinator will retire at the end of July; and
WHEREAS, the Controller's Office will take this opportunity to upgrade the position to
Administrative Coordinator, allowing for more accounting and payroll functions to occur
within the office; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the authorized personnel roster for the Finance Department—
Controller's Office be hereby amended as follows:
Add: One (1) Administrative Coordinator (40 hours/week)
and be it further
RESOLVED, That upon the retirement of the Accounts Payable Coordinator, the
position shall be deleted from the Finance — Controller's Office Department Roster; and,
be it further
RESOLVED, That funding for said roster amendment shall be derived from existing
funds within the Finance Department— Controller's Office budget; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this position of Administrative Coordinator shall be designated as a
confidential position pursuant to section 201.7(a) of New York State Civil Service Law
and shall be assigned to the confidential employees compensation plan at salary grade
8.
4
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BACK-UP ITEM 8.2
orFITf►
CITY OF ITHACA
vo a 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
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Office of City Controller
�Pp RAV Telephone: 607 /274-6576 Fax: 607/274-6415
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Administration Committee
FROM: Steven P. Thayer, City Controller
DATE: July 13, 2016
RE: Request to Amend Personnel Roster
We were recently notified that our long-term Accounts Payable Coordinator, Connie
Baker will be retiring on July 29, 2016. This is a big loss to the department and the City as
Connie goes out the door with many years of knowledge and expertise.
We will take this opportunity to upgrade the Accounts Payable Position to an
Administrative Coordinator. This upgrade will increase the skill base in accounting and payroll,
which will allow our office to be more flexible with other positions in the office in the future. In
addition, we have an upcoming retirement with our Payroll Coordinator. With various future
vacant positions in both the Controller's Office and Chamberlain's Office, we anticipate future
cost savings.
We anticipate Connie will continue to assist with the Accounts Payable Coordinator
duties, by contract or a temporary position, after she retires July 28th. It will take time to hire an
Administrative Coordinator and the job duties will still need to get done.
We expect this position upgrade and improvements in various software areas such as
Payroll and Capital Projects, will produce future efficiencies and cost savings. This upgrade will
be accomplished within existing budget authorizations in our office.
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."
AMR
144
AIN
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BACK-UP ITEM 8.2
Civil Service Law,Section 22:Certification for positions. Before any new City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission
position in the service of a civil division shall be created or any existing 06 East Green Street-Ithaca, Nl(14850
position in such service shall be reclassified,the proposal therefore,
Including a statement of the duties of the position,shall be referred to the New Position Duties Statement
municipal commission having Jurisdiction and such commission shall Department head or other authority requesting the creation of a new position,
furnish a certitkate stating the appropriate civil service title for the prepare a separate description for each new position to be created except VW one
proposed position or the position to be reclassified. Any such new description may cover two or more identical positions In the same organizational unit.
position shall be created or any such existing position reclassified only Forward one typed copy to this Commission.
with the fide approved and certified by the commission. Effective 1978.
1. Department Bureau,Division,Unit or Section Location of Position
Finance Department Controller's Office City Hall,first floor
2. Description of Duties:Describe the work in sufficient detail to give a clear word picture of the job. Use a separate paragraph for each kind
of work and describe the more important or time-consuming duties first. In the left column,estimate how the total working time is divided.
Job Title: Administrative Coordinator
Percent or Job Duty
Work
T1me
25 Performs coordination and supervision of maintaining financial,payroll and accounting records for City and Finance
Department
25 Performs various duties related to payroll preparation,budget preparation on the MUNIS financial system,invoicing,
Accounts receivable,accounts payable,audits and various other accounting fauctions
15 Prepares various monthly,quarterly,and annual financial reporting activity for Citywide and departmental wide
10 Assists with reviewing various financial reports
10 Works in the MUNIS financial system,works with spreadsheets and database programs
5 Develops accounting and office policies as necessary
5 Trains staff`on MUNIS Flnanchd system related to all aspects of accounting functions
5 Performs other office dudes as required
(Attach additional sheets if more space is needed)
S. Names and Titles of Persons Supervising this position(General,Direct,Administrative,etc.)
Name Title Two of Supervision
Steve Thayer Controller Direct
Scott Andrew Deputy Controller Direct
Aim
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4. Names and Titles of Persons Supervised by Empioyee in this position
Name TW Type of Supervision
5. Names and Titles of Persons doing substantially the same kind and level of work as will be done by the incumbent of this new
position
Name Title Location of Position
June Overslaugh Administrative Coordinator Fire Department
JoAnne Phillips Administrative Coordinator DPW-Water and
5. What minimum qualifications do you think should be required for this position?
Education: High School 4 years Years
College Bachelor Years,with specialization in Financial admin support or
College Associate Years,with specialization in _Financial admin support
Experience: (list amount and type)
B years with High School diploma
4 years with Associates Degree
2 years with Bachelor's Degree
Essential knowiedges,skills and abilities:
Good knowledge of office management
Good knowledge of software applications including;database.Spreadsheets and MUNIS
Ability to prepare financial statements,reports,budgets
Ability to communicate effectively
Type of license or certificate required:
7. The above statements are accurate and complete.
Date: 1 G Title: C;GY'l/)VjLe-f/ Signatu
Certificate of Civil Service COMMISSIA
8. In accordance with the provisions of Civil Service Law Section 22,the City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission cert' that the
appropriate civil service title for the position described is:
Title: L�LST"4�- '11 �1.!CQ "J
Jurisdictional ClasaiFication:
Date: lb (` Signature;
Action§y Legislative Body or Other Approving Authority
S. Creation of described position
0 Approved
* Disapproved
Date: Signature:
Return One Completed Copy to Civil Service Commission
Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca
Jurisdictional Class: Competitive
Adopted: 01/06/05, 01/21/09
ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for
coordinating and managing the daily administrative activities of a department or division,
including the preparation and maintenance of financial, operational, payroll and personnel
records, budget preparation, the establishment, implementation and improvement of office
policies, procedures and systems, and public information activities related to the work of the
department or division. The work is performed under the general supervision of the
administrative head of the organizational unit in which the position is located, with considerable
leeway allowed for the exercise of independent judgment. The position is distinguished from
that of Administrative Assistant by its greater scope of office management responsibilities and
greater autonomy. The position is distinguished from that of Office Manager in that an
Administrative Coordinator does not regularly supervise the work of subordinate clerical and
financial staff. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Coordinates and supervises the maintenance of agency financial, payroll, personnel, attendance
and job accounting records;
Independently performs a variety of administrative activities, such as payroll preparation, budget
preparation, billings, accounts receivable, accounts payable, job costing, leave time
accounting, etc;
Prepare or oversees the preparation of the departmental or division budget, annual periodic
activity reports, financial reports, budgetary reports, etc;
Plans and oversees the collection, tabulation, organization and analysis of financial, statistical
and operational data; compiles, prepares and analyzes a variety of complex financial,
statistical and operational reports;
Develops, implements and improves office policies, procedures and systems;
Develops and maintains computer programs to compile and manage departmental statistical
and financial data;
Trains agency staff in administrative procedures and the use of agency record-keeping systems;
Serves as a liaison between department employees and the Human Resources Department,
including serving as an information resource for employees, coordinating the enrollment
of employees in Human Resources programs such as orientation and training, etc;
Prepares, disseminates and distributes public information regarding departmental activities and
projects;
Coordinates and disseminates a variety of information within the department or with other
departments or agencies;
Oversees the requisition, purchase, receipt and inventory of agency supplies and equipment and
maintains inventory records;
Participates on interdepartmental administrative teams to develop and improve citywide
processes and procedures;
Reviews incoming mail and answers general correspondence.
May conduct departmental orientation programs.
May oversee the filing and administration of Workers Compensation claims.
Administrative Coordinator
Page 2
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of office management; thorough knowledge
of office and financial record-keeping practices; thorough knowledge of modem office practices,
procedures and equipment; good knowledge of standard office software applications, including
database, spreadsheet, word processing applications; good knowledge of the agency's
programs, objectives and goals; ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
ability to prepare financial statements and reports, budgets, operating reports and a variety of
other reports relative to program activities; ability to compile and prepare financial and statistical
data; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; ability to review and
evaluate program procedures, methods, forms, etc.; ability to successfully work with and serve a
diverse local community; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
a. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university
with a Bachelor's Degree in a financial, administrative or office support field and two (2)
years of full-time paid clerical, administrative or office management experience, or its part-
time paid equivalent, which shall have included the preparation or maintenance of financial
records or accounts; or
b. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered two-year college with
an Associate's Degree in a financial, administrative or office support field and four(4) years
of full-time paid clerical, administrative or office management experience, or its part-time
paid equivalent, at least two (2) years of which shall have included the preparation or
maintenance of financial records or accounts; or
C. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and six
(6) years of full-time paid clerical, administrative or office management experience, or its
part-time paid equivalent, at least two (2) years of which shall have included the
preparation or maintenance of financial records or accounts; or
d. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of(a) (b) and
(c).
8.3 Department of Public Works - Streets & Facilities - Amendment to
Personnel Roster - Resolution
WHEREAS, a Custodial Worker has just retired from the Streets and Facilities,
Buildings and Grounds unit; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Public Works has a need for a Building and Grounds
Maintenance Worker to perform minor repairs as well as custodial duties; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the Department of Public Works
Personnel roster as follows:
Add: One (1) Building and Grounds Maintenance Worker (40
hours/week)
Delete: One (1) Custodial Worker (40 hours/week)
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the funding for this change shall be derived from existing funds within
the Department of Public Works budget.
BACK-UP ITEM 8.3
City of Ithaca New Position Duties Statement
Civil Service Law, Section 22:Certification for positions. Before any City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission
new position in the service of a civil division shall be created or any 108 East Green Street-Ithaca,NY 14850
existing position in such service shall be reclassified, the proposal
therefore, including a statement of the duties of the position, shall be New Position Duties Statement
referred to the municipal commission having jurisdiction and such Department head or other authority requesting the creation of a
commission shall furnish a certificate stating the appropriate civil new position, prepare a separate description for each new
service title for the proposed position or the position to be position to be created except that one description may cover two
reclassified. Any such new position shall be created or any such or more identical positions in the same organizational unit.
existing position reclassified only with the title approved and certified
by the commission. Effective 1978 Forward one typed copy to this Commission.
1. Department: Public Works Division: Streets and Facilities Section: Building Services
Location of Position: Southside Community Center—305 South Plain St. Ithaca NY 14850
2. Description of Duties: Describe the work in sufficient detail to give a clear word picture of the job. Use a separate
paragraph for each kind of work and describe the more important or time-consuming duties first. In the left column,
estimate how the total working time is divided.
Job Title: Buildings and Grounds Maintenance Worker
Percent of Job Duty
Work Time
10 Performs a variety of building cleaning activities including dusting, sweeping, mopping,
vacuuming, cleaning windows and stripping, waxing and buffing floors.
Performs minor grounds keeping tasks as required including mowing the grass, raking, picking up
10 litter, sweeping, snow and ice removal from sidewalks, steps, ramps, porches and other
pedestrian commons areas.
05 May lock or unlock the building as required.
05 Performs housekeeping and cleaning tasks throughout the building.
05 Operates a variety of equipment relative to cleaning activities, including dry and wet vacuums,
carpet cleaners and floor strippers and buffers.
05 Empties wastebaskets, collects and disposes of garbage, trash, yard waste and recyclables.
05 May operate a pickup truck.
05 Loads and unloads materials and supplies and records goods received and shipped
05 Moves furniture, supplies and other equipment and assembles new shelves or furniture.
05 Performs manual labor related to building and grounds maintenance and repair
05 Repairs playground equipment, picnic tables and benches
05 Makes inspections of property to ascertain repair needs
05 Performs and documents monthly fire extinguisher inspections and monthly emergency lighting
and exit signs operational tests.
05 Performs non-mechanical building maintenance isuch as changing light bulbs and filling soap,
toilet paper and paper towel dispensers.
05 Prepares surfaces and paints exteriors and interiors of buildings and structures
05 Performs minor preventive maintenance on HVAC equipment, such as changing air filters or
checking status of heating and cooling sytem on computer.
1
Percent of Job Duty
Work Time
05 Check operating status of Roof Top Unit(RTU), hot water boiler and air compressor and blow
down boiler and/or air compressor as needed.
05 Performs semi-skilled building maintenance and repair including changing ballasts, rewiring
lights, repairing toilets, and patching or replacing sheetrock and floor tiles
100 Total
Updated: 06/15/11
3. Names and Titles of Persons Supervising this position (General, Direct,Administrative, etc.)
Name Title T e of Su ervision
Nann, Steven G. Building Maintenance and Solid Waste Supervisor Gen., Direct&Admin.
4. Names and Titles of Persons Su ervised by Employee in this position
Name Title Type of Supervision
None
6. Names and Titles of Persons doing substantially the same kind and level of work as will be done by the incumbent of this new
position
Name Title Location of Position
Parker, Bryan Buildings and Grounds Maintenance Worker Streets&Facilities
6. What minimum qualifications do you think should be required for this position?
Education: High School 4 Years
College Years,with specialization in
College Years,with specialization in
Experience: (list amount and type)
One(1)year of full-time paid experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, in general building construction,
cleaning buildings, building maintenance, or repair work.
Essential knowledges,skills and abilities:
Working knowledge of materials and equipment used in the cleaning of buildings including solvents and other
chemicals; ability to operate a variety of equipment relative to cleaning activities including dry and wet
vacuums,carpet cleaners and floor strippers/buffers; ability to read labels and instructions relative to the safe
use of chemicals and cleaning materials and equipment;Working knowledge of modern buildings and grounds
maintenance and repair practices;
Working knowledge of safety precautions and practices associated with modern buildings and grounds
maintenance and repair work;working knowledge of the practices and techniques or one or more of the
standard trades; ability to effectively,efficiently and safely use tools and operate equipment related to building
and grounds maintenance and repair including; screwdrivers,wrenches, pliers,drills, plungers,chisels and
hammers; ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions;ability to successfully work with and
serve a diverse local community; mechanical aptitude;willingness to work under adverse weather conditions;
physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
Type of license or certificate required: Possession of a valid New York State Class D driver license or a
valid driver license equivalent to a New York State Class D driver
license at the time of appointment and maintenance of said
license for the duration of employment.
7. The above statements are accurate and complete.
2
Date: 6-27-16 Title: Assistant Superintendent of DPW Signature:
Certificate of Civil Service Commission
8. In accordance with the provisions of Civil Service Law Section 22, the City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission certifies that the
appropriate civil service title for the position described is:
Title:
Jurisdictional Classification:
Date: Signature:
Action by Legislative Body or Other Approving Authority
Creation of described position
Approved
Disapproved
Date: Signature:
Return One Completed Copy To Civil Service Commission
Updated: 06/15/11
3
8.4 Department of Public Works —Water and Sewer -Amendment to Personnel
Roster for the Water Treatment Plant (WTP)- Resolution
WHEREAS, The City of Ithaca Water Treatment Plant (WTP) has need of succession
training overlap for the Laboratory Technician to meet the needs of the WTP with the
planned retirement of the current Laboratory Technician on December 22, 2016; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca WTP has immediate need for succession planning
overlap with a second position in the Title of Laboratory Technician; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Water Treatment Plant currently has a funded and vacant
20-hour per week Financial Management Assistant position on their Personnel Roster
for 2016 from which funds for this second position could be derived; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Water Treatment Plant Laboratory position is currently
funded for 35 hours per week and 40 hours per week is needed to meet the WTP
needs; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca WTP will budget to provide for the Laboratory Technician
position at 40 hours per week in the 2017 and future budgets; and
WHEREAS, the Civil Service Commission will be reviewing the New Position Duties
Statement for the second overlapping Laboratory Technician position for the City of
Ithaca Water Treatment Plant; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council approves, contingent upon approval by the Civil
Service Commission of the New Position Duties Statement, that effective August 1,
2016, the Personnel Roster of the Water Treatment Plant be amended as follows:
Add: (1) Laboratory Technician (40 hours/week)
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That upon the retirement of the current Laboratory Technician, the existing
thirty-five (35) hours/week position will be deleted from the Personnel Roster of the
Water Treatment Plant; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funding for this change shall be derived from within the existing
departmental budget.
BACK-UP ITEM 8.4
CITY OF ITHACA
WATER TREATMENT PLANT
202 Water St.
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-273-4680
Fax: 607-216-0460
M E M O
TO: City Administration Comm. &Civil Service Commission
FROM: Charles Baker, Chief Operator
RE: Creation of an Overlapping Position and change to 40 hrs/wk
DATE: June 14,2016
Our current Lab Technician has submitted notice that her last day of work with the City will be on December 22,2016.
This will leave us without an essential position for operations and with the water project going on would leave us in a
hole,so to speak. Fulfilling regular training needs for the position would be troublesome with the project coming to an
end (and moving into the new building)around the same time period. That will be chaotic at best to keep things
functional alone. The current completion date for the project is around the 27th-29th of December(although there may
be a new extension on that date). The lab will need to be set up with the new equipment, older existing equipment (in
trailers and some packed away)will need to moved and set up and the USGS work will need to be moved back to the
WTP. This is while still meeting our NYSDOH and DEC sampling/analysis requirements for operations and regulations.
To be able to do all this and maintain a smooth transition for the lab and the lab tech position I am requesting that we
hire a new lab tech, provisionally,and then have this person work with Jan (and lab staff) until Jan is done. This
overlapping position will provide the time to get this person familiar with our lab needs prior to the move and be better
prepared for the move. Getting things up and running faster and smoother for operations will be a preferred
requirement for this time period.
Jan's position as lab tech was set at 35 hours/week to accommodate her schedule. We have the need for a 40
hour/week position and would prefer this. A Monday through Friday coverage is what is needed. Once Jan is done,the
35 hour/week position would be deleted and the new position of 40 hours/week would remain.
As a result of this priority need in the lab, I am asking to not fill the Financial Management Asst. position (20
hours/week)for 2016. The funds for this position (approx. $18,330)would be used for the overlapping Lab Tech
position (at 40 hrs/wk). This has already been discussed with DPW Supt., Mike Thorne with no objections. Technically
we will not have the actual space (at the WTP)for the Fin. Mgmt Asst. until we are in the new building.
Thank you for your review and hopefully,approval,of this request.
BACK-UP ITEM 8.4
Civil Service Law,Section 22:Certification for positions. Before any new City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission
position in the service of a civil division shall be created or any existing
position in such service shall be reclassified,the proposal therefore, 108 East Green Street - Ithaca, NY 14850
including a statement of the duties of the position,shall be referred to the New Position Duties Statement
municipal commission having jurisdiction and such commission shall Department head or other authority requesting the creation of a new position prepare a
furnish a certificate stating the appropriate civil service title for the separate description for each new position to be created,except that one description may
proposed position or the position to be reclassified. Any such new cover two or more identical positions in the same organizational unit.
position shall be created or any such existing position reclassified only Forward one typed copy to this Commission.
with the title approved and certified by the commission. Effective 1978
1. Department Bureau, Division, Unit or Section Location of Position
DPW Water& Sewer WTP, 202 Water Street
2. Description of Duties: Describe the work in sufficient detail to give a clear word picture of the job. Use a separate paragraph for
each kind of work and describe the more important or time-consuming duties first. In the left column, estimate how the total working
time is divided.
Job Title: Laboratory Technician
Percent of Job Duty
Work Time
34% Watershed Related Work: USGS samples—analysis,education programs; attendance and presentations at workshops,
conferences,working group meetings, developing reports related to stream, lake and other watershed data; learning to
apply federal, state, and local rules/requirements concerning work within the watershed or affected water ways; assisting
with grant applications along with grant follow up data/reports; collecting various watershed related samples, preparation
for analysis, analyze samples or ship samples.
25% Regulatory Work: Assists with all the requirements for meeting federal, state and local water,wastewater production/
treatment regulations, (this could include help with requirements for industrial pre-treatment, storm water and recreational
waters).This would include samples, analysis, shipping samples, learning to interpret results; applying the regulatory
standards to results, helping to maintain adequate records so the data can be used for other required reporting.
35% Quality Assurance/Certification:Assists with maintaining the proper records, calibrations,equipment, procedures/
methods and training needed to maintain the laboratories/facilities certifications.This would include items such as
balance checks, sample spikes and recovery, blank samples, bottle checks, lab equipment checks and calibration,
sampling equipment checks and calibration, proficiency testing, updates to methods/procedures and all the required
documentation that goes along with these type of items, (this was not an inclusive list). Maintenance on lab, and sampling
equipment.
2% Customer Service&Outreach: Providing data, information, reports, etc.to customers, contractors, consultants, city staff/
agencies, on lab data, methods, procedures, etc.Assists with hands on learning events for school age groups; may help
during plant tours by providing information, or with presentations concerning the laboratory work, methods, and watershed
related activities/data.
2% Safety:Assist with safety programs for the laboratory, and related items. Updates operators to any new protocols; may
help with sampling/monitoring as it relates to spill events that could affect the treatment facilities and systems.
2% Training:Assists with the training of operators for any new methods/procedures within the lab; assists with the training of
new operators in relationship to laboratory testing, methods,safety, etc.; may assist with the training of volunteers that are
part of watershed monitoring groups—for sampling, analysis, etc.; learns& receives training related to the lab, plant
operations,watershed, and regulatory requirements.
(Attach additional sheets if more space is needed)
June 23,2016
3. Names and Titles of Persons Supervising this position(General, Direct,Administrative, etc.)
Name Title Type of Supervision
Chuck Baker Chief Operator Admin., Direct
Brendan Kearns Senior Operator General
Roxanna Johnston Watershed Coordinator/Lab Director Direct
4. Names and Titles of Persons Supervised by Employee in this position
Name Title Type of Supervision
For training only Operators&Operator Trainees General& Direct
W&S Projects Laborers General
5. Names and Titles of Persons doing substantially the same kind and level of work as will be done by the incumbent of this new
position
Name Title Location of Position
Open Seasonal WTP
Various Operations(OT) WTP
6. What minimum qualifications do you think should be required for this position?
Education: High School 4 Years+2 yrs. exp(specific setting) Waste/waste water analysis
College 2 yrs Years+course work in Chemistry, ecology,env.sci/studies, Biology
Experience: (list amount and type): If high school graduate only—needs experience in water/wastewater analysis—2
yr. college—appropriate course work/credits.
Essential knowledge,skills and abilities: Basic laboratory skills, coursework or experience for background abilities,
ability to learn,work independently; good communication skills,technical.
Type of license or certificate required: 1)Only a valid drivers' license, and the ability to obtain a valid NYS drivers'
license within a reasonable amount of time.2)Must be able to run
proficiency tests, and pass—to keep lab/facility certifications.
7. The above statements are accurate and complete.
Date: Title: Asst.Superintendent DPW,W&S Signature:
Certificate of Civil Service Commission
8. In accordance with the provisions of Civil Service Law Section 22,the City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission certifies that the
appropriate civil service title for the position described is:
Title:
Jurisdictional Classification:
Date: Signature:
Action by Legislative Body or Other Approving Authority
9. Creation of described position
❑ Approved
❑ Disapproved
Date: Signature:
Return One Completed Copy to Civil Service Commission .lune 23,2016
8.5 Department of Public Works - Amendment to 2016 Budget - Resolution
WHEREAS, a pedestrian warning signal comprising of a concrete pole and flashing
beacons in the vicinity of Belle Sherman Elementary school has failed; and
WHEREAS, staff has reviewed the location and recommends the pole, and its
equivalent on the other side of Cornell Street, be replaced, along with the flashing
beacons mounted on the poles by City crews, at an estimated cost of$14,000; and
WHEREAS, the current balance in the unrestricted contingency account is $115,000;
now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council authorizes funding in the amount of$14,000 be
transferred from account A1990 — Unrestricted Contingency to account A3311-5479 —
Equipment Parts for the purpose of replacing said poles.
BACK-UP ITEM 8.5
o�aITH �� CITY 4F ITHACA
108 East. Green Street, Itliaca, New fork 14850-5690
�. . �
°:- OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER
ti
Telephone: 607274-6530 Fax: 607274-6587
To: City of Ithaca Administration Committee
From: Eric Hathaway, Transportation Engineer
Date: June 14, 2016
Re: Replacement of Flashing Beacon by Belle Sherman Elementary School
A pole with two mounted flashing beacons on the east side of Cornell Street near Belle
Sherman elementary school has failed due to structural issues. We would like to have our City
crews replace the pole and beacons for this location and for the corresponding pole and
beacons on the other side of Cornell Street and accomplish and related site work.
We estimate the cost of this work, to be done by the City Electrician and City Crew to be
approximately$14,000 for solar-powered beacons. The Board of Public Works has
recommended at their June 13, 2016 meeting that funds be authorized by Common Council to
replace poles, install beacons and perform related site work from your unrestricted contingency
budget in order to accomplish this work. Thank you.
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."
8.6 Department of Public Works — Ithaca Area Waste Water Treatment Plant (IAWWTP)
- Recommendation to Fund Professional Services Agreement with SourceOne to Assist
in the Preparation of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
(NYSERDA) New York Prize Phase 2 Request for Proposals (RFP) 3044 Grant Application
— Resolution
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Area Waste Water Treatment Facility (IAWWTF) is a facility owned by
the City of Ithaca and the Towns of Dryden and Ithaca, and governed by the Special Joint
Committee (SJC); and
WHEREAS, the IAWWTF has been leading a community wide exploration of using the plant as
a resource for a distributed electricity supply platform for a local microgrid; and
WHEREAS, SourceOne completed a NY Prize Phase 1 Feasibility Study that has been
approved by NYSERDA and thus qualifies this project for Phase 2; and
WHEREAS, IAWWTF has received a proposal for assisting with the preparation of the Phase 2
application that must provide a detailed work plan for advanced engineering from SourceOne for
the amount of$48,960; and
WHEREAS, the SJC approved the expense at its July 13, 2016, regular meeting; now, therefore
be it
RESOLVED, That the SJC recommends that SourceOne be selected to complete the Phase 2
application technical details for the amount of$48,960; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Mayor, the Town of Ithaca Supervisor, and the Town of
Dryden Supervisor be authorized to sign the agreement; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the funding for the professional services agreement is contingent upon the
approval of the City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca and Town of Dryden; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby recommends funding this proposal contingent upon
action by all wastewater owners and their respective attorneys committing their percentage of
reimbursement shares to the Joint Activity Fund CP421 J as follows:
Municipality Percentage Project Cost
City of Ithaca 57.14 $27,975.74
Town of Ithaca 40.88 20,014.85
Town of Dryden 1.98 969.41
$ 48,960.00
and be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends Capital Project#421J Microgrid for Electric
Power Feasibility by an amount not to exceed $48,960, for an amended project authorization of
$148,960; and be it further
RESOLVED, That funds for said amendment shall be derived from Capital Reserve J1 or
existing operating funds.
9. PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
9.1 Resolution to Select Artwork for a Mural Installation on the West Facing
Entry Wall of the Green Street Parking Garage
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Public Art Commission (PAC) has been established to,
among other duties, review and advise the Common Council on proposals for the
exhibition and display of public art in the City's public spaces; and
WHEREAS, in 2010, the PAC created a mural and street art program to beautify blank
walls within the City, while providing local artists from all sections of the community an
opportunity to showcase their work; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works approved several locations for future murals and
street art, including walls in the City garages on Green Street and Seneca Street, by
resolution on May 19, 2010; and
WHEREAS, local artist Lachlan Chambliss has submitted his mural proposal "Portals to
Peace" as part of the PAC's Mural and Street Art Program; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Chambliss was selected by a group of community members to paint a
mural that celebrates Muslim culture; and
WHEREAS, the PAC held a public comment period on the mural design and location at
its meeting on June 22, 2016 to gather input on the proposed installation, and the public
responses to the proposal have been positive; and
WHEREAS, the mural will be privately funded, and the installation will be budget neutral
to the City, and
WHEREAS, while a quorum was not present at its meeting on June 22, 2016, a majority
of the members in attendance supported sending the proposal to Common Council for
its consideration; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council selects Lachlan Chambliss's
mural proposal "Portals to Peace" to be installed on the west-facing entry wall of the
Green Street Parking Garage and to be added to the City of Ithaca's public art
collection; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the selected artist may proceed with the installation of his mural upon
the execution of an agreement with the City as reviewed by the City Attorney.
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CITY OF ITHACA
H BACK-UP ITEM 9.2 - 9.3
108 East Green Street—3rd Floor Ithaca,New York 14850-5690
Hx DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING,BUILDING,ZONING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Division of Planning&Economic Development
JOANN CORNISH,DIRECTOR OF PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT
PeR�iEo� PHYLLISA A.DeSARNO,DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning&Development-607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA-607-274-6559
Email: dgrunder@cityofithaca.org Email: iura@cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
TO: Planning&Economic Development Committee
FROM: Megan Wilson, Senior Planner
DATE: July 7, 2016
RE: Public Art Commission's 2016 Projects
The Public Art Commission (PAC) has been working on two exciting projects this summer and would
like to recommend artwork for Common Council approval.
Commons Boxes: An Electrical Box Mural Project
As part of a third installment of the successful 21 Boxes project, mini-murals will be installed on the
three new electrical boxes on the Commons. The PAC worked with the Commons Management Team
to issue a call for proposals and select three designs for the boxes. The selected designs were distributed
for public comment, and the response to the proposed artwork has been mostly positive. A quorum was
not present at the special meeting on July 7, 2016, all PAC members in attendance supported Common
Council's approval of the designs submitted by Erica Brath, Jennifer Gioffre and David Todd, and
Catherine Montgomery for installation on the three new electrical boxes on the Commons. The project
will be funded through a grant from the Community Arts Partnership of Tompkins County.
Rainwater Art Project
The PAC is proposing the installation of rainwater art on City-owned sidewalks. To create the artwork,
a stencil is placed on an area of sidewalk that is then sprayed with a paint that seals the concrete to
moisture. When it rains, the area surrounding the stenciled design changes color from the moisture while
the stenciled area remains dry, revealing the artwork. Rainwater art appears only when the ground is
wet; it is completely invisible during dry weather. The installation is temporary, and the paint wears
away with foot traffic, weather, and shoveling. Examples of this type of work are attached and a short
video can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBwpON6HIR8 The Board of Public Works
approved nine locations around downtown Ithaca for the project in April 2016.
While the PAC will ultimately install the artwork themselves, they wanted community involvement in
the project. Members developed a list of possible designs - images, phrases, and quotes-and released
an electronic survey for the community to vote on their favorite ideas. Nearly 100 people voted, and the
PAC is now seeking approval for the top 10 designs. The project will be funded by a grant from a
private foundation.
Staff will attend the July 13th Planning& Economic Development Committee to discuss the projects and
answer any questions. If you have any questions, please contact me at (607) 274-6560 or
mwi lsongcityofithaca.org.
9.2 Resolution to Select Artwork for the Electrical Boxes on the Commons: "An
Electrical Box Mural Project"
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Public Art Commission (PAC) has been established to,
among other duties, review and advise the Common Council on proposals for the
exhibition and display of public art in the City's public spaces; and
WHEREAS, in 2010, the PAC created a mural and street art program to beautify blank
walls within the city while providing local artists from all sections of the community an
opportunity to showcase their work; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works approved several locations for future murals
and street art, including municipal electrical boxes throughout the city, by resolution on
May 19, 2010; and
WHEREAS, in 2012 the PAC launched a project to beautify 21 municipal electrical
boxes through the creation of mini-murals by selected artists, and a second round
of the project was completed in 2014; and
WHEREAS, due to the success of the two projects, the PAC has initiated a third round
of electrical box murals to be completed in 2016, including the three new electrical
boxes installed on the Commons; and
WHEREAS, the project will be funded through a grant from the Community Arts
Partnership of Tompkins County and will be budget-neutral to the City; and
WHEREAS, the PAC issued a Request for Proposals earlier this spring and after
reviewing all of the submissions with the Commons Management Team, distributed 3
proposals for public comment; and
WHEREAS, the PAC held a special meeting on July 7, 2016, to review public
comment, and while a quorum was not present, all members in attendance as well
as the liaisons supported Common Council's selection of the artwork submitted by
Erica Brath, Jennifer Gioffre and David Todd, and Catherine Montgomery to be
installed on the 3 new electrical boxes on the Commons; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council selects the submissions of the
following artists for Commons Boxes: An Electrical Box Mural Project: Erica Brath,
Jennifer Gioffre and David Todd, and Catherine Montgomery (as shown in "Common
Boxes Mural Proposals (2016)"); and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the selected artists may proceed with the installation of their
murals on their appointed electrical box upon the execution of an agreement with the
City (as reviewed by the City Attorney).
BACK-UP ITEM 9.2
Commons Boxes Mural Proposals (2016)
Box#1 —North Cayuga Street: "Commons'ers"by Erica Brath
V
Description: "With this design I hope to illustrate the energy of the newly redesigned Commons, a
central gathering spot for people from around Ithaca and beyond. I've incorporated several elements
of downtown culture,including the Ithaca Festival parade,with the main dancers and performers;
Press Bay Alley with the strung lights,Circus Culture acrobats and,probably the most popular new
attraction for the block-long stretch,the now-annual Wizarding Weekend with a Quidditch rider on
a Boxy Bike;and the Apple Festival—the stilt walker is juggling apples. I've also incorporated the
surrounding elements of Taughannock Falls in the center,and Cornell University and Ithaca College
by red in the left(Cornell side of the Commons) corner and blue (Ithaca College side of the
Commons) on the right."
With grant support by New York State Council on the Arts,administered by the Community Arts Partnership
COMMUNITY ARTSPARTNERSHIPBP
Box#2—Bank Alley: "Cayuga Migration"by Catherine Montgomery
f'
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Description: "This figurative work features the silhouettes of local birds set in a black and copper
background. This piece has a sense of place bringing a graphic urban ascetic and softening it with
out abundant and prominent local fauna."
With grant support by New York State Council on the Arts,administered by the Community Arts Partnership
COMMUNITY ARTSPARTNERSHIP SP
Box#3—North Aurora Street: "Shockingly Delicious!"by Jennifer Gioffre&David Todd
t
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Description: "We'd like to transform the North Aurora street electrical box into a delicious display
of treats. Inspiration came to us from two sources. First was the proximity of the electrical box to
Madeline's, everyone's favorite dessert stop on the commons. Second,the shape and metallic case
of the box itself reminded us of a classic dessert refrigerator. We think this design is unique because
instead of simply covering the electrical box,we would be incorporating the form into the design,
including its locked doors as part of the art work."
With grant support by New York State Council on the Arts,administered by the Community Arts Partnership
COMMUNITY ARTSPARTNERSHIPg*
9.3 Resolution to Select Artwork for the Public Art Commission's Rainwater Art
Prosect on City-Owned Sidewalks
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Public Art Commission (PAC) has been established to,
among other duties, review and advise the Common Council on proposals for the
exhibition and display of public art in the City's public spaces; and
WHEREAS, the PAC has proposed the installation of rainwater art, artwork that is only
visible during periods of rain, on City-owned sidewalks around downtown Ithaca; and
WHEREAS, the installation will be temporary, and the artwork will wear away with foot
traffic, weather, and shoveling; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works approved nine locations for the project by
resolution on April 25, 2016; and
WHEREAS, the PAC wanted community involvement in the project and released an
online survey in June 2016 that allowed the public to vote for their favorite rainwater art
designs; and
WHEREAS, the project will be funded through a grant from a private foundation and will
be budget neutral to the City; and
WHEREAS, at its meeting on June 22, 2016, the PAC reviewed the top 10 designs
>E selected by the community and unanimously voted to recommend that the Common
Council approve the designs, as shown in the attached "2016 Rainwater Art"
information, for installation on City-owned sidewalks around downtown Ithaca, as
approved by the Board of Public Works; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council selects the design shown in the
attached "2016 Rainwater Art" information, as recommended by the Public Art
Commission, for installation on approved City-owned sidewalks around downtown
Ithaca as part of the Rainwater Art Project.
BACK-UP ITEM 9.3
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BACK-UP ITEM 9.3
® 2016 Rainwater Art
#1
"Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet."
- Bob Marley
#2
M
#3
Life isn't about waiting for a storm to pass.
It's about learning how to dance in the rain.
Public Art Commission
2016 Rainwater Art
#4
#5
"Let the rain kiss you."
- Langston Hughes
#6
Public Art Commission
2016 Rainwater Art
#7
Without the rain, there would be no rainbow.
#8
4W
#9 "The world is mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful."
- e.e. cummings
#10
Find freedom standing still in the storm.
9.4 Resolution to Endorse Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program
(RESP)
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has goals of reducing energy use and greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions, and according to the March 2016 Tompkins County Energy
Roadmap, in order to meet the goal of reducing GHG emissions 80% by the year 2050,
the community will need to achieve at least a 35% reduction in energy use in existing
buildings through retrofits and upgrades; and
WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan recommends that the City "collaborate with
Tompkins County and/or local municipalities to explore required disclosures of energy
use for all properties" and the adopted Energy Action Plan recommends to "investigate
point of sale energy audits" and to "explore voluntary certification programs and
incentives such as Energy Star or Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index;" and
WHEREAS, the NYS Reforming the Energy Vision initiative has a goal of helping
consumers make better and more informed energy choices; and
WHEREAS, a residential energy score program would benefit residents of all income
levels by providing the ability to better understand and reduce energy-related living
costs; and
WHEREAS, a project team, composed of representatives of the Towns of Caroline,
Danby, Ithaca, Ulysses and the City of Ithaca, with consultation from Cornell
Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County and the Tompkins County Planning
Department, was formed in 2013 to work on a residential energy score project; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca, working on behalf of the project team, submitted and
was awarded grant funding from NYSERDA's Cleaner, Greener Communities program,
and contracted with subject matter experts Performance Systems Development to
develop deliverables for the project; and
WHEREAS, the original project proposal was to develop and adopt a local law or
ordinance to require a home energy rating be disclosed at the time of listing for sale;
however, due to pubic feedback and the lack of incontestable legal authority to enact
such a law, the project team opted to develop a voluntary program and phased
implementation plan; and
WHEREAS, extensive public outreach guided the creation of the first draft report of the
program and implementation plan, completed on February 24, 2016. The second draft
was informed by more than 250 comments collected from additional public outreach,
and was presented to the governing boards of the five partner municipalities between
May 23 and June 15, 2016, with a comment period ending on June 17, 2016, and
comments on the second draft were incorporated into the final report, titled "Tompkins
Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan;" and
WHEREAS, the grant contract with NYSERDA requires the project team to present the
final report to the governing boards of each of the five partner municipalities for
consideration of adoption, including a formal vote; and
WHEREAS, funding for implementation of the RESP program will be primarily sought
from outside sources, and the City's endorsement of the program will strengthen
funding requests; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca endorses the Tompkins
Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan, dated July 6, 2016.
CITY OF ITHACA
1TH
°°°°. 108 East Green Street Ithaca,New York 14850-5690
��vy MAYOR'S OFFICE
Pea NICK GOLDSMITH,SUSTAINABILITY COORDINATOR
Telep'yc��pORI1tEd��b�
Email: ngoldsmith@cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558
Back-Up Item 9.4
To:Common Council
From: Nick Goldsmith,Sustainability Coordinator
Date:July 21,2016
RE:Residential Energy Score Project
The purpose of this memo is to provide background information for the upcoming Residential
Energy Score Program discussion at Common Council.
The Residential Energy Score Program(RESP)team,a consortium of five municipalities in
Tompkins County,received a grant from NYSERDA to develop a home energy rating and
disclosure program.The main deliverable of this project is the attached Tompkins Residential
Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan,which describes a voluntary program.
One goal of the program is to enable energy efficiency to be valued in real estate transactions by
increasing consumer and homeowner awareness and understanding of energy use in homes.The
program is designed to support the City's and the regions energy and greenhouse gas emission
reduction goals by increasing energy efficiency in the housing sector.
Extensive outreach to the public and to municipal boards guided the creation of the first draft
report of the program.The second draft was informed by more than 250 comments collected from
additional public outreach,and then presented to the governing boards of the five partner
municipalities in May and June for feedback.To address this feedback,several changes and
clarifications were incorporated into the final Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and
Implementation Plan.The final program document,11 attachments,and other RESP documents
can be downloaded at the project website:www.town.ithaca.ny.us/resp.
The grant contract with NYSERDA requires our project team to present the program document to
the governing boards of the partner municipalities for"consideration of adoption,including a
formal vote." Adoption is no longer appropriate,since the program is entirely voluntary,but we
hope to have a resolution of endorsement passed at the August Common Council meeting.This
endorsement will also help in the upcoming search for outside funding for this project.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions at ngoldsmith@cityofithaca.org or on my cell at
917-270-1683.
BACK-UP ITEM 9.4
Tompkins Residential Energy Score
Program and Implementation Plan
Prepared for:
New York State Research and Development Authority
Sam Kraemer, Project Manager
Prepared by:
Emelie Cuppernell, Performance Systems Development,
for The Residential Energy Score Project Team
CFA#CGC30040/Contract#39504
Deliverables 8.2 and 8.3
Submitted: July 6, 2016
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
NOTICE
This report was prepared by Emelie Cuppernell in the course of performing work on the Residential
Energy Score Project for the Town of Ithaca,contracted for and sponsored by the New York State Energy
Research and Development Authority(hereafter"NYSERDA").The opinions expressed in this report do
not necessarily reflect those of NYSERDA or the State of New York, and reference to any specific
product, service, process,or method does not constitute an implied or expressed recommendation or
endorsement of it. Further, NYSERDA,the State of New York, and the contractor make no warranties or
representations,expressed or implied, as to the fitness for particular purpose or merchantability of any
product, apparatus,or service, or the usefulness, completeness,or accuracy of any processes, methods,
or other information contained, described,disclosed, or referred to in this report. NYSERDA,the State of
New York,and the contractor make no representation that the use of any product, apparatus, process,
method, or other information will not infringe privately owned rights and will assume no liability for any
loss, injury, or damage resulting from,or occurring in connection with,the use of information contained,
described, disclosed,or referred to in this report.
NYSERDA makes every effort to provide accurate information about copyright owners and related
matters in the reports we publish. Contractors are responsible for determining and satisfying copyright
or other use restrictions regarding the content of reports that they write, in compliance with NYSERDA's
policies and federal law. If you are the copyright owner and believe a NYSERDA report has not properly
attributed your work to you or has used it without permission, please email print@nyserda.ny.gov.
1
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
Acknowledgements
The Residential Energy Score Project Team consisted of the following individuals:
• Katie Borgella-Deputy Commissioner of Planning,Tompkins County
• Matt Cooper—former Code Enforcement Officer,Town of Danby
• Emelie Cuppernell—Project Manager, Performance Systems Development
• Nick Goldsmith- Sustainability Coordinator,Town and City of Ithaca
• Paul Hansen—Code Enforcement Officer,Town of Danby
• Darby Kiley-Planner,Town of Ulysses
• Mike Niechwiadowicz-Director of Code Enforcement,City of Ithaca
• Anne Rhodes-Community Organizer,Cornell Cooperative Extension TC
• Greg Thomas—CEO, Performance Systems Development
• Irene Weiser-Town Board Member,Town of Caroline
Prior to completing this report,the Residential Energy Score Project Team completed three (3)formal
meetings with the project's Technical Advisory Committee and received valuable feedback and support.
The committee included industry experts and professionals from a diverse background to help shape
and evaluate program options.These members included:
• Kristin Ahlness—Realtor,Audrey Edelman RealtyUSA
• Cliff Babson—Facilities Manager, Ciminelli Real Estate Corporation
• Carol Chernikoff-Chief Lending Officer,Alternatives Federal Credit Union
• Diana Drucker—Realtor,Greenstreet Real Estate
• Will Graeper-Home Energy Advisor, Halco
• Jon Harrod—President,Snug Planet
• Frank Howe—Director of Energy Services Department,Tompkins Community Action
• Norma Jayne-Executive Officer, Ithaca Board of Realtors
• Brent Katzmann -Real Estate Broker,Warren Real Estate
• Joseph Laquatra -Professor, Department of Design and Environmental Analysis, Cornell
University
• Roxanna Marino-Senior Research Associate,Cornell University
• Greg May- Residential Mortgage Lending and Operations Manager,Tompkins Trust Company
• Craig Modisher-Owner, Ironwood Builders
• Sherry Nedrow-Customer Advocate, NYSEG
• Art Pearce—Consultant
• Scott Reynolds-Director for Real Estate Development, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services
• Lou Vogel—President,Taitem Engineering
The Residential Energy Score Project Team would also like to acknowledge the support from NYSERDA,
Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships,The Tompkins County Department of Assessment,The U.S.
Department of Energy, and The Residential Energy Services Network.
2
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
vow Table of Contents
Listof Figures................................................................................................................................................5
1. Executive Summary...............................................................................................................................6
2. Background...........................................................................................................................................7
3. Program Overview................................................................................................................................9
4. Program Elements............................................................................................................................... 11
4.1. Home Rating................................................................................................................................11
4.1.1 Rating System............................................................................................................................. 11
4.1.2 Recommendations..................................................................................................................... 13
4.1.3 Timing.........................................................................................................................................13
4.1.4 Recommendations.....................................................................................................................13
4.2. Tompkins Residential Energy Score............................................................................................13
4.2.1 Recommendations:.................................................................................................................... 15
4.3. Home Energy Label..................................................................................................................... 15
4.3.1 Recommendations:....................................................................................................................19
4.4. Cost.............................................................................................................................................19
4.5. Value...........................................................................................................................................20
4.6. Program Administration and Design...........................................................................................21
4.7 Consideration of Concerns..........................................................................................................22
5. Implementation ..................................................................................................................................26
5.1. Phase One:Secure Funding ........................................................................................................26
5.2. Phase Two: Hire Program Implementer .....................................................................................26
5.3. Phase Three: Complete Program Design ....................................................................................27
5.3.1 Design the Label.........................................................................................................................27
5.3.2 Design Education and Outreach Plan.........................................................................................27
5.3.3 Determine Alignment of HES to HERS Energy Predictions ........................................................27
5.3.4 Set up Database System for recording and tracking data .........................................................28
5.3.5 Data Infrastructure Requirements.............................................................................................28
5.3.6 Creating MLS Data Connection..................................................................................................30
5.3.7 Infrastructure Deployment........................................................................................................32
5.3.8 Staffing.......................................................................................................................................33
3
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
5.4. Phase Four: Pilot.........................................................................................................................33
5.5. Phase Five:Voluntary Launch.....................................................................................................34
5.5.1 Start Accepting Ratings..............................................................................................................35
5.5.2 Begin Marketing and Education Plan Including Label................................................................35
5.5.3 Evaluation and Adjustments—Policy Optimization...................................................................35
5.6. Phase Six: Revise Program based on Evaluation.........................................................................36
6. Conclusion...........................................................................................................................................36
7. Glossary...............................................................................................................................................37
8. Bibliography........................................................................................................................................39
9. List of Attachments.............................................................................................................................40
4
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
List of Figures
Figure 1: Residential Energy Score Program as a cyclical process................................................................6
Figure 2:An energy score provides a simple metric to help understand the energy use and efficiency of a
home.............................................................................................................................................................8
Figure 3:A step by step look at the Home Energy Score Process...............................................................10
Figure 4:The RESNET Home Energy Rating Systems Index vs.the DOE Home Energy Score....................14
Figure 5: Image of One Label Design Considered in Vermont....................................................................18
Figure 6:The Home Energy Labeling Information Exchange (HELIX) can facilitate the delivery of the score
from the program database to the multiple listing service........................................................................31
Figure 7:SEED Platform Concept of Operations.........................................................................................32
5
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
1. Executive Summary
The Residential Energy Score Project(RESP)team', a consortium of five (5) municipalities in Tompkins
County, received a grant from New York State Energy Research and Development Authority(NYSERDA)
to develop a Home Energy Rating and Disclosure Program.The team is proposing a voluntary, residential
energy score program for homes within Tompkins County.This project is aimed at increasing consumer
and homeowner awareness and understanding of energy use and energy efficiency in homes.The
program is designed to support the region's energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction goals by
increasing energy efficiency in the housing sector of Tompkins County.
As described in this document, homes in
Tompkins County will have the option to receive 5. Owners
an energy rating that generates a numerical Invest in 1. Rating
Energy Performed
score.The score, and accompanying information, Efficiency on Home
will allow homeowners, homebuyers, realtors, Upgrades
and others to understand the energy use of the
structure, and to compare the energy use of
homes across the county. While there are many
ways to describe the energy efficiency of a house, 4. Market
some descriptions prove more useful than others. Values 2. Label
Energy Generated
An asset rating, a key part of the proposed Efficiency
program, provides one clear metric that removes
the influence of occupant behavior,fuel price and %4** 3.
weather fluctuations. It's helpful to think of this Consumers 00e
as an EnergyGuide Label for a home,similar to Fully
Informed
those provided for major appliances.The asset Figure 1:Residential Energy Score Program as a cyclical process
rating provides homebuyers a way to compare
the estimated energy use of homes they are considering and the estimated annual cost to run them.
This transparency provides homeowners and buyers an opportunity to value energy efficiency in the real
estate transaction, motivates homeowners or sellers to improve their score,and allows greater
opportunities to highlight investments in energy efficiency at time of sale (Figure 1). Policymakers gain
reliable data about status, progress, and target areas for needed assistance and opportunities for
reducing emissions in the community.
This document describes a proposed home energy score program for Tompkins County, including
recommendations for designing a home energy label, phases for implementation of the program and an
evaluation plan for policy optimization going forward.
The RESP team consists of representatives from the Towns of Danby,Caroline,Ithaca and Ulysses,and the City of
Ithaca,as well as support from the Tompkins County Planning Department and Cornell Cooperative Extension.
VAP
6
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
The recommendations include:
1. Two nationally recognized, industry backed rating systems should be incorporated to allow for
including new and existing homes and multifamily units while still providing the value of one
consistent number for comparison across homes.The team has named this one number the
TomPKINS RESIDENTIAL ENERGVSCORE. Although "Tompkins" is included in the name,the score and
units are applicable anywhere, not limited to Tompkins County.
2. The Score should range from roughly 0-200+in units of energy use per year in MMBtu's of site
energy.
3. The program should incorporate ratings at any time, but encourage ratings at significant points
in the homeownership life cycle.These points include:time of home energy audit, retrofit,or
renovation;time of home inspection;time of code inspection; and time of real estate
transaction.
Phase 1 involves securing funding for development and implementation to move the program forward.
Funding allows Phase 2,securing an implementer to drive the program forward,to take place.The
Program Implementer will work with the Project team to complete Phase 3, including program design,
marketing,education, and program infrastructure. Rolling out the actual program and allowing
participation starts with a pilot (Phase 4)and then moves to a voluntary program accompanied by heavy
marketing and education (Phase 5). During the transitions from phase 4 to 5,the Implementer should
evaluate progress,data,and public feedback to make appropriate adjustments to the program going
forward. Finally, in Phase 6,we suggest evaluating the program and local readiness or need for a home
energy scoring mandate or law. Here we present these stages in detail for a comprehensive
understanding of the proposed program, implementation, and the ability to manage data and evaluate
effectiveness.
A recent white paper by Better Buildings® identified the invisibility of energy efficiency and the lack of a
standardized data field to incorporate into the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)as the two top barriers to
valuing energy efficiency in residential real estate transactions. (Elizabeth Stuart, November, 2015)The
proposed program in this document,with wide-spread adoption,would remove these barriers in
Tompkins County.
Other expected outcomes of this project include the following: local job development; reduced
greenhouse gas(GHG)emissions; increased comfort and safety for homeowners;durability of the
housing stock; partnerships with Realtors and other key industry professionals;and increased energy
and economic security.
2. Background
Tompkins County has a goal of an 80%reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2008 levels by 2050.
Where will these reductions come from?The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)estimates that
roughly 20%of the energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in the United States come from our
homes.According to the March 2016 Tompkins County Energy Roadmap:Evaluating Our Energy
7
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
Resources,it will be critical to reduce energy demand in order to meet emissions goals.The Roadmap
determined that to meet emissions goals by 2050,the community will need to achieve at least a 35%
reduction in energy use in existing buildings through retrofits and upgrades.This project is aimed at
helping meet the region's energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction goals by increasing energy
efficiency in the housing sector of Tompkins County with a residential energy score PROGRAM!The
practice of providing a metric to represent the relative energy efficiency or energy use of a home is
often referred to as home energy scoring,or labeling.
This project is in line with other efforts across New York State,the Nation,and the Globe. New York
State is currently undergoing huge changes with Governor Cuomo's comprehensive energy strategy,
Reforming the Energy Vision (REV),which is a major overhaul of the state's current approach to energy
efficiency and programs. REV is designed to help consumers make better and more informed energy
choices,enable the development of new energy products and services, protect the environment, and
create new jobs and economic opportunity throughout New York State.Very recently on the national
level,the Senate on April 20th 2016 overwhelmingly passed the Energy Policy Modernization Act,which
included language from the SAVE Act and includes many substantial energy efficiency provisions. And
beyond the United States, a Global Universal Climate Agreement"was reached on December 12, 2015
in Paris to support the creation of growth, innovation and solutions for a low-carbon world.
A home energy score brings these efforts to homes and the homeowner, buyer,and renter level in a
real,tangible way.The score or rating allows the market to view the estimated annual energy use of a
home in one comparable metric.Scores,or ratings, have become standard practice for many items in
our lives:we have miles-per-gallon ratings for cars,energy guide information for major appliances,
credit scores for our finances, and cholesterol levels for our bodies. (Figure 2).The value of a score is
that it provides a quick, consistent, and clear way to see where something falls in comparison with
others or with a certain standard or goal.Awareness of a metric often inspires and allows for changing
that metric.Without a home energy score, homes and real estate transactions lack a way to value or
compare the energy efficiency of homes. Energy efficiency often becomes invisible. Home energy
labeling and disclosure programs aim at making this information visible,giving homeowners more
incentive to invest in energy efficiency.
Wouldn't it be great to understand a home's
energy efficiency like a car`s miles per gallon? The Residential Energy Score Project(RESP)team,a
consortium of five (5) municipalities in Tompkins County,
^ received a grant from New York State Energy Research
4G tviQG and Development Authority(NYSERDA)to develop a
MEASURING MEASURINGA Residential Energy Score and Disclosure Program. Current
R
CAS EFFICIENCY' HOME-S Eff Ic IENCf
-- ---- residential energy disclosure programs around the world
The Residential Energy Score Project(RES use a range of approaches to evaluate the relative energy
Aims to solve this problem in Tompkins County— efficiency of a home and make this information available
Figure 2:An energy score provides a simple metric to to relevant parties.A detailed review of these programs
help understand the energy use and efficiency of a
home.
2 Words in SMALL CAPS are defined in the Glossary.
8
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
was performed as part of this project, and can be found in Attachment 2.
The momentum of labeling initiatives around the country is growing rapidly. Ratings are currently being
adopted by a dozen or so states either as a regional pilot initiative or in some cases, like Vermont,
Connecticut, and Massachusetts,as part of a state-wide home labeling program.While this concept is
relatively new to policies in the United States, in some places like Denmark and the Australia Capital
Territory, residential energy rating disclosure programs have been around for over 15 years.
Prior to completing this report,the Residential Energy Score Project Team completed over a dozen
outreach events including:three(3)formal meetings with the project's Technical Advisory Committee,
four(4)targeted meetings with representative realtors,two(2) meetings with the Tompkins County
Climate Protection Initiative,one (1) public presentation,one(1) meeting with the County Assessment
Department, and one(1) meeting each with the Ulysses Town Board,the Danby Town Board,the Ithaca
Town Board,and the City of Ithaca Planning Committee.The team had two (2) meetings with the
Tompkins County Council of Governments, one (1) meeting with Northeast Energy Efficiency
Partnerships (NEEP),a presentation to the Northeast Home Energy Rating Systems(NEHERS)Alliance,
and a meeting with Attorney Susan Brock to discuss legal issues surrounding a law or ordinance. Surveys
were sent out following most of these events to solicit additional ideas and feedback.
The Technical Advisory Committee for the RESP is made up of experts from targeted industries of
relevance to this project including realtors, lending officers, builders, raters, home performance
professionals,engineers, brokers, utility representatives, and low income advocates.
After looking at numerous evaluations of existing energy disclosure programs,the following are the key
recommendations for programs to be most effective:
1. Engage with local real estate agents and other stakeholders;
2. Create consistent targeted outreach via public communication,education,and marketing;
3. Rely on existing, nationally recognized rating systems,which ensures quality assurance;
4. Allow disclosure before or at time of listing to allow homeowners and buyers to use the
information more effectively;
5. Link participants to appropriate resources to drive home efficiency improvements
(contractors, incentive programs,do-it-yourselfers);
6. Create a strong implementation plan for confirming participation;
7. Have a quality assurance process in place;
8. Create a written plan for evaluating and updating the PROGRAM;and
9. Work toward wide-spread adoption by the majority of homes.
3. Program Overview
In this PROGRAM,a certified energy rater would visit a home to perform a rating, or a comprehensive
home energy assessment,which often includes diagnostic testing using specialized equipment,such as
a blower door,duct leakage tester,combustion analyzer and an infrared camera,to evaluate the home's
9
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
energy related assets.A complete list of the data collected during these inspections can be found in
Attachments 4 and 5.The information collected during the rating can be used to not only generate a
score, but also to calculate estimated annual energy costs for the home and provide recommended
energy improvements.This information is delivered to the homeowner, builder, Realtor,or other
interested party,on a report or LABEL.The LABEL provides valuable information on how the home is
operating from an energy use standpoint and where improvements can be made to increase the homes
energy efficiency.The label and score can be made available to the public at the homeowner's
discretion, at time of sale or rental. When a house is for sale,a LABEL communicates investments made
that may not be visible,such as added insulation,and potential home buyers can anticipate the costs of
energy bills and future efficiency upgrade needs.The label gives Realtors a standard way to discuss the
energy features of a home. Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships(NEEP)explains how these policies
provide needed information to consumers, "like miles-per-gallon ratings on automobiles,or nutritional
labels on food, energy performance disclosure gives consumers the tools to make informed choices and
inform themselves upfront about poor buildings and building components, higher-than-anticipated
energy bills, discomfort,or unplanned renovation needs." (Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships,
2013)
1F`j -.w
r„
HOoW
u i
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A
�c
aX4<-` `cam e
Q��
Q deo a a° �� &,Vk``� tech c`J Aq �y
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tF
1 2 3 4 5 6
E
7
Utility Costs Reduced
CO2 Emissions Reduced
.Green Jobs Increased
M rr
rr rr
se as rr rr
•s sa
Figure 3:A step by step look at the Home Energy score Process
10
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
4. Program Elements
4.1. Home Rating
At the heart of this program is the use of a home energy rating,specifically an asset rating,which
evaluates the energy efficiency of a home.The rating is intended to provide a simple way for
homeowners and buyers to distinguish between high efficiency homes and lower efficiency homes and
to provide guidance on the savings potential of various improvements. A rating is done by a trained and
certified rater,who will spend roughly two(2) hours in an existing home taking measurements and
performing diagnostic tests,such as the blower door test,to determine the leakiness of the structure.
This information is then entered into computer simulation software to create an energy model of the
home and determine, among many other things,the rating. In addition to the rating,the rating software
may be used for code compliance, estimated annual energy use, and potential savings as a result of
home performance improvements. Energy efficiency and use in homes is complicated,and there are
many ways to think about and capture energy savings and efficiency of a home,such as behavior change
(turning down the thermostat),embodied energy(looking at the sum total of the energy necessary for
an entire home life-cycle),and energy source (coal vs.wind). In this project we focus on the efficiency of
the assets that make up the structure itself,such as insulation, infiltration levels,and heating
equipment,and use this to estimate the average energy use per year, assuming typical fuel prices,
typical occupants, and typical weather3.
4.1.1 Rating System
Asset ratings create a score by evaluating a home's actual physical structure and mechanical systems,
and major lights and appliances.The physical structure includes size,window properties, insulation
levels,shading, infiltration, and home location,to name a few. Mechanical systems include the home's
heating, cooling, and hot water heater,as well as some large appliances.A rating is a similar process to
what most people know of as an energy audit, however, unlike an audit,a rating provides a clear metric
to compare homes to each other and generally involves stringent third party quality assurance and
oversight of the rating data and the individual inspector's certification.An audit often focuses on a
specific occupant and opportunities for that occupant,whereas a rating focuses more on the structure
itself, independent of the current occupant.A rating requires additional data collection beyond what is
needed for a typical NYSERDA home performance or weatherization program. Homes participating in
NYSERDA's low-rise new construction program already receive a rating,as described below.
An ASSET RATING removes occupant behavior and use patterns from the assessment,allowing the energy
performance of buildings to be easily compared to each other for a prospective buyer. Currently in New
York,the"New York State Truth in Heating Law,"which has been in effect since 1981, requires sellers
3 Both rating systems use national standard assumptions about the standard or average occupant,weather averages for a
specific area,and usage assumptions.The actual assumptions used can be found in the Mortgage Industry National Home
Energy Rating Systems Standards for HERS:hV://w%N-w.resnet.us/blop-/wp-
content/uploads/2015/il/RESNET Mortgage Industry National HERS Standards.pdror the DOE Home Energy Score
• http•//energy pov/eerelbuildinps/home-energy-score-calculation-methodology
11
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
and landlords to provide prospective buyers and tenants with the past two years of utility bill
information upon request.This can be informative, but energy use in a particular home can vary
significantly depending on who lives there and how they operate the home.The ASSETRATING removes
this wild card. ASSETRATINGs are used in other national labeling and compliance programs across the
nation,such as ENERGY STAR homes,and come with third party certification and quality assurance (CIA).
The nationally accepted rating system used for residential new construction is the RESIDENTIAL ENERGY
SYSTEMS NETWORK(RESNET)HOME ENERGY RATING SYSTEM INDEX(HERS INDEX). More than one million new
homes have been rated using HERS since 1995.The HERS Index is the nationally recognized system for
inspecting and calculating a home's energy performance. It is the standard used to qualify homes for the
ENERGY STAR, Passive House, LEED,and the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home.A HERS rating is required for
homes participating in NYSERDA's low-rise new construction program. In April of 2016, New York joined
nine other states and adopted the voluntary performance compliance path for the 2015 International
Energy Conservation Code (IECC)State Energy Code,which will go into effect in October of 2016.
Currently New York is on the 2009 IECC.This Energy Rating Index Compliance Option establishes a new
voluntary performance compliance path for the 2015 version of the IECC.This means that a home can
meet the state's energy code by obtaining the required HERS Index.The HERS Index can be used on
single family buildings,duplexes,townhomes,and units within multifamily buildings.
While the HERS Index is well suited for very high-efficiency homes and new construction,the rating
system used for most existing homes of average to low energy efficiency is the U.S.DEPARTMENTOF
ENERGY'S(DOE)HOME ENERGYSCORE(HES). HES, launched in 2012, is an asset rating developed to show
energy efficiency and opportunities for improvement in existing homes. As of January 2016, more than
32,000 homes have received the Home Energy Score. HES is currently being adopted by a dozen or so
states either as a regional pilot initiative or, in some cases,as part of a state-wide home labeling system.
Connecticut launched the nation's first statewide Home Energy Score Program in April of 2015.
The team performed considerable research to determine the appropriate rating system(s)to use for the
program. More detailed information on programs across the country that are considering, or have
already implemented, residential energy rating and disclosure programs can be found in the Residential
Energy Score Project's"Report on Existing Home Energy and Disclosure," included here as Attachment 2.
The report looks at these programs to see the various ways energy efficiency has been evaluated and
how and when this information has been made available to influence consumers. Based on this
research,the project team recommends generating a "Tompkins Residential Energy Score"from either
of the two national rating systems-the Residential Energy Services Network's Home Energy Rating
Systems Index(HERS Index)and the Department of Energy's Home Energy Score (HES Score)for this
project.
Both the HERS Index and the HES Score provide a standardized, nationally recognized method for
conveying the energy performance of a home. Using both systems will allow the program to capture
both new and existing homes,single-family detached homes,as well as units in multifamily buildings.
These systems come backed with quality assurance oversight,training options for certifying Raters, and
connections to national programs,such as ENERGY STAR and LEED. For detailed information on the data
12
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
collected during a Home Energy Score rating see Attachment 4, "Home Energy Scoring Tool Data
Collection Sheet" and for a HERS Index Rating Attachment 5, "RESNET HERS Index Rated Features."
4.1.2 Recommendations
The program should use both the HERS and the HES rating systems to generate a projected Millions of
British Thermal Units per year(MMBTu/year)value. Using two rating systems is optimal for greatest
participation in the program,while still providing the value of one consistent number for comparison
across homes.
4.1.3 Timing
A home rating can take place at any point in time, but to maximize the benefit and limit the interruption
to occupants,the program would encourage ratings at significant points in the homeownership life
cycle. For an existing home,these points include:time of home energy audit; HVAC tune up; retrofit or
renovation;time of home inspection prior to home sale;time of code inspection for renovations or
additions involving a building permit;and the time of real estate transaction such as listing or sale. For
new construction,the rating often involves at least one inspection during construction and a final
inspection once built.
These all represent times when an outside agent is in the home performing evaluations or work and a
rating could be an added service without a lot of added time or resources.The professionals performing
these other services are also great candidates to become certified raters and expand their business
offerings.These are also times when homeowners are considering home improvement options and
could benefit from information that would help them understand the opportunities for energy related
improvements and influence the rating. Feedback from the project's Technical Advisory Committee
suggested that soon after a home purchase is the perfect time to offer homeowners a rating because
that is when people are thinking about making home improvements. Many programs across the nation
that are adopting home energy rating and disclosure programs are bundling them with either the real
estate transaction or home performance programs.
4.1.4 Recommendations
The program should incorporate ratings at any time, but encourage ratings at significant points in the
homeownership life cycle.These points include:time of home energy audit; HVAC tune up; retrofit or
renovation; home inspection;code inspection;time of real estate transaction such as listing or sale;and
new construction.
4.2. Tompkins Residential Energy Score
The purpose of the TOMPKINS RESIDENTIAL ENERGYSCORE, or"THESCORE," is to provide one metric for
understanding and comparing the energy use of homes and provide some context for where a home lies
in a range of homes.After considering public feedback and research done on this topic, a score based on
millions of British Thermal Units per year,or MMBTu/year, is recommended for this project. MMBTu is
the industry standard for discussing units of residential home energy use, and is in line with other
scoring/labeling efforts, such as the Vermont example (Figure 5).A lower score is associated with lower
MMBTus, indicating lower energy use and anticipated utility costs. Using a score based on an energy
13
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
unit is beneficial because it does not change with the changing cost of fuels. Estimated energy costs can
be generated from the rating based on the current or area average fuel rates at the time of the rating
and can be revised later if rates change.While annual energy cost is one of the primary interests of
prospective buyers or renters,the Score based on energy, rather than dollars, is more meaningful for
comparing the energy use of one home to another. If a homeowner generates 100%of the energy used
on-site, looking at costs could be very misleading when trying to understand the expected energy use of
the home.
Using MMBTu/year also allows translating different rating systems into a single score.When looking at
the HERS Index(Figure 4, left), a lower number is associated with higher energy efficiency. In contrast,
the DOEHoME ENERGYSCORE(Figure 4, right) uses a higher number to indicate lower energy use. In
addition, both scores are based on different assumptions and used for different purposes,which makes
comparing one to the other impossible. For example,one cannot say that a HERS Index of X is equal to a
HES Score of Y. Both rating systems, however, use software that generates estimated MMBTu/year for
the home based on the assets of the home evaluated in the rating. Using an MMBTu/year score allows
the incorporation of either system, and includes all residential housing stock in the program with the
same scoring system.
HERSIndex
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Figure 4:The RESNET Home Energy Rating Systems Index vs.the DOE Home Energy Score
Energy use in MMBTUs can be expressed in two distinct ways: "SITE ENERGY,"which is the energy used at
the home and measurable by the utility meter or fuel tank,and "SOURCE ENERGY,"which includes all
energy used in generating and delivering the energy to the home. Another way to think of SOURCE ENERGY
is that it includes where the energy came from (e.g. New York,Canada)as well as what form it was in
(e.g. wind,coal, oil) before it arrived on site. SOURCE ENERGY takes into account transmission losses and
the efficiency of creating that form of energy. For example, electricity use measured at the home (SITE
ENERGY)does not include the raw energy used to create the electricity in the first place. When we create
14
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
electrical power, approximately two thirds of the power is lost.The inefficiencies involved in producing
and distributing electricity are significant, but electric heat and appliances are nearly 100%efficient at
transferring heat within the home.Source-based energy use factors are applied to the SITE ENERGY,
dependent on fuel type,to account for generation and transmission losses or the energy used to extract
and deliver the fuel.While there are benefits to using each method,the lessons learned by the Vermont
Working Group with their statewide labeling initiative should be considered.They eventually went with
SITE ENERGY"to keep the explanation of the energy score relatively simple,avoid controversies regarding
which source-based factors to use,and in order to give full credit to on-site renewables." (Energy
Futures Group, 2013)
Credit for renewables and on-site energy generation was identified as an important element during
outreach for this project.The current recommendation for this project is to use estimated MMBTu/year
to include both new and existing home rating systems,and display these in SITE ENERGY units, unless an
appropriate alternative way to credit or highlight renewables in the program is identified.The presence
of renewables and onsite power generation can be included on the label, as described later in this
document.
4.2.1 Recommendations:
The program should use the MMBTus derived from either the HERS Index or the HES Score to convert
the rating data into one comparable number,creating the homes TOMPKINS RESIDENTIAL ENERGYSCORE.
The Score would range from roughly 0-200+, and would reflect the projected annual site energy use of
both new and existing homes.
4.3. Home Energy Label
Once a rating is completed on a home,the calculated Score and other relevant information should be
presented on a LABEL or report.While the rating itself, in the absence of a PROGRAM,can produce a score,
the PROJECT TEAM is suggesting a LABEL that would be more relevant and informative than just a number.A
label provides a visual and a descriptive explanation of what the score means in terms of energy use,
estimated energy costs,and where the score falls in relation to other scores in the area. It can also guide
the owner by suggesting cost effective improvements or list the biggest energy uses in the home.A label
would allow for including ratings on the entire range of housing stock in Tompkins County(new and
existing, high and low efficiency),and serve to facilitate home energy improvements.To view more
detailed information on the local housing stock,see Attachment 3, "Review and Analysis of Preliminary
Data in Tompkins County."A LABEL provides information to help understand the home's score, and
provides additional relevant information and resources,such as access to local weatherization and
assistance programs, resources for homes in the historic district,or home performance contractors.
While the Score of MMbtu/year is a projected annual energy use,other information such as the
presence of renewables,an efficiency metric such as MMbtu/year per square foot,and size of the house
can be added to the label.
It is envisioned that this LABEL could be used in various ways-for instance as a helpful resource for
homeowners considering making investments,or as a document to display on a sign or electrical panel-
but that it would be used primarily in the real estate market to share energy information about homes
15
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
that are for sale or rent. On the following two pages, Figure 5 shows an example of a LABEL used in
designing the Vermont Home Energy Profile as part of their statewide labeling initiative. Vermont,
Massachusetts, and Connecticut are all creating or already have in place statewide voluntary energy
scoring and labeling programs of existing homes.
16
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
HOME'STHIS 1 THIS HOME'Si
ENERGYVT '1COST
ENEIR•
ENERGY 9/10I,
93MMBtu $3,137
PROFILE
ANNUALLY
The Vermont Home Energy
Profrelated
ort pmts three • Expected Annual Ener Usage
related components of P Energy 9
home energy:usage,cost,
and efficiency.The profile This scale represents how much energy your home is expected to use over the course of a year,placed on a scale of
is based on the home's 0 to 200-,where zero energy usage is most efficient.
structure and heating,
cooling,and hot water This home's usage:93
systems.Energy usage and MMBtu/yr
costs are estimates only.
Actual usage and costs
may vary and are based
on many factors such as ppppppp
weather and occupant
behavior.See reverse side LOWEST
for details. ENERGY
HIGHEST
USE
ENERGY
NOME:INFORMATION USE
LOCATION:
123 Main Street
Anytown,VT
05000 MMBtu/yr
0 40 111 2 .
YEAR BUILT: High Performance home Avg.VT home
2005 Built t^energv rode fRBES 201"
SIZE (SO.FT.): 11I,
3.029 Expected Annual Energy Costs*
REPORT INFORMATION The breakdown of fuel usage is Propane $1,578
based on the fuels used in this 631 gal ■
PROFILE ISSUE DATE_ home and average fuel costs as $2.50(gal
X/XX120XX of June 2015. Electric $1,559
10.396 kWh
ASSESSOR: $0.15/kWh Propane Electric
John Doe
ORGANIZATION:
Common Sense Audits
886E9215990 Energy Features that Contribute to this Home's Profile
Envelope Tightness:650 CFM50 Primary Heating System/Fuel:Propane Boiler Windows:Double-pane
Attic Insulation:R-38 Primary Heating System Efficiency:88 AFUE
Effoem Vemton�t Wali insulation:R-19 Water Heating:Propane,Indirect
17
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
U.S.DEPARTMENT OF
U,OENERGY Home Energy Score ?'l ENERGY
The Homs Erorwy Sc oro is a rwb o[rateg system that«OWN the e—gy ew�c envy
U.S.DOE HOME ENERGY SCORE of a nova?a sed on me nave$st—baa aro hearig.w=.g.aro trot water systems Amxess
The data utilized to produce this home's Vermont Home Energy 1 y14—tlT
Profile can also show how your home compares to others yet 161.4 - 0500°
nationwide.The U.S.Department of Energy(DDE)Home Energy '00e 9 A—rd type Final
Score uses a 10 point scale to describe your home's efficiency Assessrrenl d to OBADMIS So re i0,62639
where 10 is the most efficient.For more information about this 1 2 9 4 H Hadorne Ener.gygy scor5,14 VT-vEtC 000r
e Verson
home's national score,visit www.homeenergyscore.gov v2o15.t3bWff
Uses More Enmpy Uw t su Erwe honw wwt 9ywom.gov
t�._.-.---
HOW DOES THE VERMONT HOME ENERGY PROFILE WORK? USEFUL TERMINOLOGY
Vermont Horde Energy Profile is a tool to assess a home's energy consumption and MMBTU-1 MILLION BTUS-A btu(British Thermal Unit)is a unit of energy,specifically
average associated costs.The lower the expected MMBtu on a scale of 0-20Q the better! the amount of energy required to raise 1 Ib.of water 1 degree Fahrenheit.For reference,
A low MMBtu identifies a home as energy efficient with a smaller carbon footprint and this is approximately the amount of energy released by burning 1 wooden match.
lower energy costs.The Vermont Home Energy Profile also allows for the comparison 1 MMBtu=7 gal fuel oil,10 therms of natural gas.11 gal of propane.or 293 kWh of electricity.
of one home's energy costs and use to another home.The MMBtu calculation is based
on a home"s size,insulation levels.draftiness,heating and cooling systems,and hot ENERGY CODE-Vermont's Residential Building Energy Standards(RBES)were
water heating efficiency.This profile is based on the building features themselves, enacted in 1998.These standards set minimum energy performance guidelines for
not on how a particular occupant uses the building.Number of occupants,behavior, new construction and renovation building features.For more information see
weather,indoor temperature,lighting and appliance usage,are standardized to www.publicservice.vermont.gov/topics/ertergy_efficiency/rbes
calculate normal,average energy use based on the assets which make up the home.
A home's actual energy use will vary with conditions such as occupancy.behavior, ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
weather,and changes to the home.Assessments are completed by qualified Assessors
who must meet DOE certification requirements. CARBON FOOTPRINT
As it relates to this profile,the amount of CO2(in lbs.)released into the atmosphere per
ASSUMPTIONS year as a result of the energy used to operate your home.Total carbon footprint includes
Average Vermont fuel prices are used to generate the estimated annual energy costs the products we consume as well as transportation and other activities,You can calculate
presented in this score.Values are obtained from the Vermont Fuel Price Report. your carbon footprint from the data supplied by your Vermont Home Energy Profile.
The following table shows pricing assumptions used in this report Learn how by visiting_
COMPARING THE COST OF HEATING FUELS " g01kfimatecfwnge/ghgemissions/ind calculatochtml
TYPE OF ENERGY BTU/UNIT fP S/MMBTU HIGH LOCATION EFFICIENCY
EEFFICIENCY 5(MMBN
Curious how your neighborhood ranks in terms of total cost of home ownership and
Fuel Oii,tial bn 13s.z0o so% $zs7 sza.16 9s% W35— transportation?Take a look at the Center for Neighborhood Technology's
xerosem.Gallo. 136,600 80% $324 $29.60 9 ogy's Housing and
Transportation Affordability Index at http://htaindex.cnt.orq/map
Propane.(eibn 91,600 90% 52.50 53414 91% 529.37
natural Gas.therm 100,000 80% $1.43 $17.91 95% $1506 ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS
rkctncNy.Nth The following programs can help get you on the path to making your home more
(Resistive Head 3.412 l00% So.tS S43.46 The
efficient.
ENctrlray.xt1 1a12 5615 240% $10.32
Ic,WcjuIiRte HWtPemp) Efficiency Vermont• 888-921-5990 - www.efficiencyvermont.com
wsoa,rod rl.— 22000.000 1 60% $22714 1 $1721
PNietx lo. 16.400,060 1 80% $294 I s2z" Vermont Gas Systems•802-863-4511 •www.vermontgas.com
•rrt nAxai gas a�n pissed on rhe rate etteaiw SSM.'oma green isms Pe�N4s updatrO 9JI9A4.
C-9 twtM bsw Burlington Electric Department •802-865-7342• www.burlingtonelectric.com
M*//W Mksemktnrmont4w/puMkrtbas/ruef_mport
NeighborWorks of Western Vermont -802-438-2303 • www.nwwvt.org
REFERENCE HOMES FOR EXPECTED ENERGY USE SCALE Vermont's WeatherizationProgram• www.dcfvermont.goy/oeo/weatherization
LOWEST ENERGY USE-A highly efficient home that produces as much energy as it
consumes is considered a Net-Zero Home.This home would have a 0 Score.
AVERAGE VERMONT HOME-An average Vermont home is defined as 1,972 square
feet.oil boiler and integrated hot water,built to Vermont's minimum energy code E/ ffI �VWFw�nt
specifications(RBES 2011).
HIGH PERFORMANCE HOME-Efficiency Vermont's highest performing residential new Efficiency Vermont was created by the Vermont Legislature and the Vermont Public Service
construction service tier.These homes can be up to 75%more energy efficient than a Board to help all Vermonters reduce energy costs,strengthen the economy,and protect
home built to code. Vermont's envNKonment.For more information,contact Efficiency Vermont at 888-921-5990 or
HIGHEST ENERGY USER-Some of the most inefficient homes in Vermont can consume visit www-efficierxyvermont.com,
over 200 MMBtu/year in total energy.
Figure 5:Image of One Lobel Design Considered in Vermont
18
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
4.3.1 Recommendations:
The program should encourage,and allow an easy option for, homeowners to disclose the Score and
Label generated from the rating at time of sale or rental. However, no information collected during a
rating can be made available to the public without the written permission of the participating
homeowners. Based on the Residential Energy Score Project's community outreach and feedback
throughout the project,the label for this project should,at minimum, include the following in order to
be most effective:
1. The home's TomPKINS RESIDENTIAL ENERGYSCORE;
2. Where the home falls on a continuum of Scores;
3. Estimated annual home energy costs;
4. The homes efficiency in units of MMBtu/square foot;
5. The presence and source of onsite power generation, such as solar and wind;
6. If the home is located in a historic district;
7. Basic home information collected by the rater(address,square footage,year built);
8. Information on where to access local support such as financial incentives and subsidies to
support low-income population and to improve a home's score;and
9. Date when energy score rating was performed.
Numerous state and local programs exist to support low-income and low-to-moderate income
homeowners access resources and financial support for home energy improvements, however many
homeowners are not aware of them or how to participate.The back of the label can provide basic
information on what these programs are and how to contact. For a list of programs and financial
support, see Attachment 11, "Related Programs and Financial Mechanisms in New York and Tompkins
County."
Along with the date of rating, a disclaimer or language should be included that "this rating represents
the state of the house on Date and is subject to change with major home renovations, replacement of
major appliances,and any significant change to the home's structure."
When generating the annual home energy costs,or costs by fuel type,the fuel price assumption should
be listed on the report.The team should also consider using the state-level fuel and electricity rates
available from Energy Information Exchange (EIA) by eGRID subregion. Emissions&Generation
Resource Integrated Database (eGRID) has a more comprehensive look at the environmental attributes
of electric power systems in different regions. Also possible to include are occupant behavior
assumptions, a link to assumptions,and/or a statement that annual energy use is based on typical
occupants,occupant behavior, and meteorological year.
4.4. Cost
The cost of hiring a Rater to perform the Home Rating may vary from house to house,and from one
rating provider to another, but based on the team research,the expected range is$300-$500 per home
if performed independently(not as an add on to another service).The cost could be less if the rating is
performed at the time of another service,such as a home energy audit,or home inspection.The rating
v
19
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
process involves 2-4 hours within a typical home,followed by 1-4 hours of computer modeling and
reporting.The time involved depends on the size and complexity of the home and the rating system
used (HES or HERS). All certified raters must belong to a provider, and fees cover software licensing,
mandatory quality assurance inspections and registering the ratings with the national database.
To encourage voluntary participation,the cost of the ratings could be covered by outside funding or be
subsidized to reduce or eliminate the cost to homeowners. Outreach and education in the community
will help individuals, businesses, non-profits,agencies,and municipalities understand the value of
having multiple homes scored.These entities may be willing to consider incentives to fund part of the
rating costs.There is value to multiple groups in having homes scored in a community.These benefits,
described below,would be communicated to these groups as part of the outreach around the program,
and they would be encouraged to consider incentives to fund a part of the rating costs. Pursuing funding
options and partnerships through local and statewide agencies should be part of the phased roll-out of
the program. Some of these agencies include NYSEG, NYSERDA, municipalities, local corporations, and
local foundations.
4.5. Value
The Residential Energy Score Project Team sees the project providing value to many groups.Some of
these benefits are described below.
1. Homeowners:This rating will identify energy and cost-saving priorities for home energy
improvements. Homeowners will receive recognition and visibility of existing energy efficiency
features and improvements in the real estate market.
2. Homebuyers and Renters: The Score and Label will help consumers avoid the "surprise"of
higher-than-expected energy bills or unplanned renovation needs.The program will provide
consumers with more information about the projected operational costs of owning the houses
under their consideration as well as opportunities for improvement. Expected monthly energy
costs is a big piece of missing data for many new homeowners and renters in Tompkins County,
many of whom move from areas that are not climatically similar to the Northeastern United
States,or don't have as old of a housing stock. On March 29th of 2016, Fannie Mae announced
their new"HomeStyle Energy Mortgage" loan designed to support borrowers in their efforts to
increase energy efficiency and reduce utility costs for their homes. In order to qualify for this
loan,a home must have either a HES or HERS Rating performed. An FAQ for the new HomeStyle
Mortgage in included with this document as Attachment 6 as well as the announcement as
Attachment 7.
3. Realtors: Realtors will benefit from more credible information for their clients.They will be
"better informed on documenting and quantifying how energy efficient a home is,allowing
them to more confidently market energy efficient features." (American Council for an Energy-
Efficient Economy, 2014) In Chicago, preliminary analysis of an energy disclosure policy found
that home listings that disclosed energy costs spent less time on the market and had a higher
closing rate, regardless of how much or how little energy they used. (Elevate Energy, 2014)This
20
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
supports the idea that consumers value more information, even if that information is not
favorable.There is value in understanding the full picture of home ownership. During outreach
for this project, a Realtor reported that she often hears from newcomers to the area that they
are concerned about costs to operate inefficient old homes in Tompkins County. This program
would help explain and reassure people that some of these old houses have been retrofitted
and are indeed energy efficient.
4. Policymakers: Policymakers will get more access to data on the energy use of the existing
building stock,to both inform future policy development and track progress toward meeting
local climate and/or energy reductions goals for buildings.The program creates opportunities to
target homes in need and create more synergies between policies, programs,and the actual
housing stock.Over time, ratings also allow for tracking improvements and savings.
5. Home Performance Contractors and Auditors:These trades will benefit from a new business
opportunity.They have the option to become raters themselves and add this service to their
existing service as a value-added offering.They may also benefit from the assumed increase in
demand for home improvements.A rating pre and post energy efficiency retrofit work is a great
way to validate the results beyond a simple payback.
6. Builders: Builders can benefit by being better prepared for code and future code requirements.
The rating compliance option is part of the 2015 energy code, which newly permitted homes
must comply with starting in October of 2016,and has already been written in to the 2018 IECC
language. Having a rating on a new home also gives energy efficient builders recognition for a
home performing above code requirements.
7. Related Agencies: Having the rating data stored and easily accessible supports other agencies
that can benefit from accessing rating information, outside of a proposed sale of a home.These
agencies include the Tompkins County Department of Assessment, municipal planning boards,
and home performance programs.Activities associated with this might include supporting
energy code compliance,or making better energy policy decisions about a given area.
8. Everyone: For the entire population,the Tompkins Residential Energy Score would give people a
common language to discuss energy efficiency and energy use in homes,and create a
population more aware of its energy consumption. This serves as a base for discussing and
encouraging efforts to increase energy independence and economic security as a community
and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
4.6. Program Administration and Design
Although ratings are already available and happening,there is value in having a local HOME ENERGY
RATING and Disclosure PROGRAM. Working with two existing national rating systems and developing our
own program gives us the most advantages.The proposed program, ideally implemented by one central,
local agency,would provide one consistent Score,the TOMPKINS RESIDENTIAL ENERGYSCORE, (derived out of
either the HES or HERS rating system)and a locally meaningful LABEL to provide context.The Program
21
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
10 would provide important infrastructure, including a centralized database to track all Scores and allow for
easy transfer to a Multiple Listing Service(MLS).The central database allows controlled access to data to
compare and verify Scores,the ability to analyze the set of Scores to educate policy decisions moving
forward, and the ability to evaluate and determine program effectiveness.
The central agency,or PROGRAM IMPLEMENTER,would complete the program design and drive the process
forward.An energy efficiency program implementer generally oversees and facilitates the local
education and marketing efforts on the value of participation,facilitates training of local certified raters,
generates the Score and LABEL, provides quality assurance,engages with local contractors and real estate
professionals, and provides periodic evaluations of the program.This role of program implementer and
the details of the program design are described in more detail in this report in Phase 3.
Goals for Effective Program Administration
The infrastructure used to oversee, process,and support the PROGRAM should address four keys goals:
1. Cost Effectiveness-The overall administrative process of performing the rating,generating the
LABEL, and getting it into the MLS must be cost effective. If the cost is too high,then there will be
pushback from homeowners and Realtors.A high cost for a voluntary rating will result in little
participation.
2. Quality Assurance-The system needs to establish confidence in the rating numbers.A system
with little or no quality assurance will eventually reduce consumer confidence in the usefulness of
the Score.
3. Time Efficiency-The administrative process needs to be timely.A synchronous process where
ratings can be done along with other events,such as energy retrofit or solar installation,and data
stored for retrieval when the house is to be sold,will also help reduce time pressure to deliver a
rating when a house is going on the market. If the rating takes place at some point during the
home sale process, a fast process will reduce the chance that the rating is responsible for delays
in sales. Selling a house has many steps and there is reluctance to add to this burden.
4. Sustainability-The administrative process needs to be sustainable.Startup costs may be more
significant than can be funded by transaction fees, and external funding may be needed. Ongoing
administrative costs will need a source of continued revenue, most likely through transaction
fees.
4.7 Consideration of Concerns
In presentations to the public and various groups of stakeholders,several issues were raised as concerns
by both the RESP team and feedback from the Technical Advisory Committee and public about the
design and implementation of the program.These include:
1. Consider how the program may impact a home's assessed value and taxes;
2. Avoid creating disproportionate negative impacts on the low income population;
3. Homeowner privacy concerns;and
22
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
4. Considerations for historic districts.
These concerns are described below, along with related information relevant to this project.
1. Home value: Importance of considering the impact of a score on the assessed value and sale price
of a home.
Concerns were expressed that a Score may affect the assessed value of a home and/or the sale price of
a home,with possible implications on property taxes.
Assessed value is based on market forces;values are adjusted when there are obvious changes in the
local housing market that can be applied across similar properties.
Based on discussions with the Tompkins County Department of Assessment("Assessment"), energy
efficiency features historically have not affected market value.There are a number of barriers that
would have to be overcome before a home energy score could be factored into an assessment or show
an effect on assessed value:
• Assessment would need to have access to and confidence in the energy score.
a. For example, if score data is stored in MLS,Assessment does not have an easy,
automated way to access that information.Assessment does not have access to
disclosure documents from sellers,so if that technique is used,a system may be needed
to share the score with Assessment.
b. Assessment would also need to be confident in the quality and validity of the data
because the data are coming from a third party and not generated by Assessment staff.
• Assessment would need a system to track and manage energy score data.
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance specifies what data are collected and
stored in the assessment database. Individual county or municipal assessors cannot add fields,
and therefore there is no way to collect or store additional information,such as an energy score,
in its Image Mate database. A separate database would need to be developed,which would add
complexity to the process of determining assessed value.
• In order to find a correlation between variations in energy score and variations in value,there
would need to be enough homes scored and sold in same market area. "Enough"could be a
small number of homes in one area, but the difference in sales price would have to be large
enough to appropriately quantify and attribute to the score.
• If in the future there is a sale price change that can be attributed to the energy score,
Assessment would need to develop a method to apply value changes to homes without a score.
Regarding sale price, a Score will be only one factor among many that a prospective buyer will consider,
along with other important information like location,school district,size, acreage, kitchen design,or
age.Although there are reports that show that homebuyers are willing to pay more for newly-built
homes with an energy efficiency certification such as Energy Star or LEED for Homes, research
conducted as part of this project found no evidence of a relationship between changes in a home's
energy rating score and changes in its sale price. In other words, no indication was found that a home
with a better(or worse)score would necessarily yield a higher(or lower)sale price. However,there are
other benefits to obtaining a score.As noted in the "Realtors"segment of section 4.5, above,there is
evidence that disclosing a score,even if the score is unfavorable, helps to sell a home.The information
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Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
itself,whether positive or negative, is helpful to the buyer. It is hoped that as scores become
widespread,awareness of the energy use of a home will become part of a buyer's informed decision
making and that we will have more energy conscious and informed consumers in the area.
2. Low-Income residents: Importance of avoiding disproportionate negative impacts on the low
income homeowner and renter population.
Concerns were expressed that low-income homeowners whose homes score poorly, but who cannot
afford to do the upgrades that would result in a better score,would therefore not be able to sell their
homes.
Issues related to home value and salability are addressed above.The concern that low-income
homeowners may not be able to afford energy efficiency upgrades will be addressed by emphasizing the
availability of several programs for low-income people to help pay for, or fully subsidize some upgrades.
Attachment 11. Related Programs and Financing Mechanisms in New York and Tompkins County
contains an example of information that could be used on the Home Energy Label and in outreach
efforts for the RESP program.The RESP Program will also create ties with agencies that offer financial
incentives to low-income people for energy efficiency upgrades, such as Tompkins Community Action
and NYSERDA.
A score provides valuable information to help low-and middle-income home buyers and renters by
giving them more information about the energy use and potential utility costs of a home they are
considering.This is currently a problem when renters unexpectedly face extremely high energy bills
when they move in,which will have to be paid throughout the duration of their occupancy,or when
home-buyers realize that they can only avoid high energy bills by either doing upgrades to the property
or living in uncomfortable or unsafe conditions.The RES Program allows low-income buyers and renters
to factor in the cost of energy to their decision about whether a prospective property will be affordable.
A recent report released by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, highlighted the
higher-energy burdens(percentage of income spent on energy bills)experienced by low-income and
minority households when compared to the average household.The report also highlighted that families
with higher energy burdens are at greater risk for respiratory diseases, increased stress,and they can
experience increased economic hardship and difficulty moving out of poverty. One strategy mentioned
in the report for improving energy efficiency in low-income communities is incorporating energy
efficiency education into program design.The report states that"state and local governments can set
policy directives that support low-income energy efficiency, including disclosure and benchmarking
policies for multifamily buildings." (Drehobl& Ross, 2016)
3. Disclosure and Privacy:Importance of honoring people's desire to control data about their lives.
Concerns were expressed about how the information collected would be stored and disclosed,and to
whom.
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Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
Currently RESNET hosts a website that allows a home to be searched by address to find only the HERS
Index number on a home, if it has received one.The site shows only the address of the house and the
rating, no information about the homeowner,occupant,or other characteristics of the home is
displayed. All RESNET Raters must abide by the RESNET Code of Ethics,which states: "Raters, Home
Energy Survey Professionals or a rating organization shall not disclose information concerning the rating
or home energy survey for a specific home to parties other than the client or the client's agent without
the written permission of the client or the client's agent except to report to the Rating or Home Energy
Survey Provider for the purposes of registration,certification or quality assurance."The DOE Home
Energy Score currently does not have a publicly accessible database.
There is already a lot of information about homes that could be considered private available to the
public through the Department of Assessment's online database, Image Mate, as well as through other
sources. Image Mate Basic was created for use by the public and provides free and convenient access to
real property information such as:the property address; a history of assessed value and sale value;year
built; square footage;types of heating/cooling systems and fuel used; presence of a solar energy
system;and general condition of the property.A complete list of data publicly available from the
Department of Assessment can be found in Attachment 10. Any database developed for the Residential
Energy Score project will not add significantly to the information that is already publicly available from
other sources.
CResearch shows that for a rating project to have the greatest impact on affecting the housing market
and driving energy efficiency,Scores need to be available to prospective buyers during the listing and
sale process, preferably through realtors.Also, if the program is to be effective, citizens will need to
become more aware of what a good Score is, and what Scores near-by homes or homes that are similar
to theirs have.The program can collect data on participating homes to determine the average score,
without making each individual home's score available to the public. Information from a home rating
can be made available only with the homeowner's written permission. It will be important for everyone
to have a sense about whether their home is "Average," "Below Average,"or"Better than Average" in
energy use.This awareness will help to encourage home-owners to get needed upgrades.
As the project moves into the implementation phase,the Project Team will request more input from the
public to determine the exact means and limits of disclosure.
4. Historic Homes and Homes in Historic Districts: Importance of not jeopardizing homes that are
protected because of their historical significance.
Concerns were expressed that homes with historical value or in a historic district have limited options to
upgrade and improve a potentially poor score.
While some restrictions are placed on upgrades to homes in historic districts and homes protected as
historic, many upgrades are still permitted,and many home performance options do exist. Resources
for historic homes, including information about energy efficiency upgrades and related tax credits,are
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Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
available on the City of Ithaca's Landmarks Preservation Commission webpag e.The relevant link will be
listed on the back of the Label.
During program design it will be important to continually consider these four primary topics that have
been raised as concerns by the RESP team,the Technical Advisory Committee,and the general public. As
implementation progresses, additional opportunities will be created for people to help craft strategies
to make the RESP successful and meet these challenges.
5. Implementation
Staging the implementation in phases allows time to develop the PROGRAM in further detail,set up
appropriate infrastructure,and prepare the market to engage successfully in the program.The six
phases of implementation include the following:
1. Phase One: Project Team secures funding for development and implementation to move the
program forward;
2. Phase Two: Project Team acquires a Program Implementer;
3. Phase Three: Program Implementer works with Project Team to complete the program and Label
design, marketing and education plans, program infrastructure including data management,and
evaluation plan;
4. Phase Four: Program is rolled out with a limited Pilot Program to determine how the program can be
most effective;
5. Phase Five:Voluntary Program begins, accompanied by intensive marketing and education;and
6. Phase Six: Evaluation of program design and possibilities for improvement.
Below,the phases are presented in detail for a comprehensive understanding of the proposed program,
implementation, and the ability to manage data and evaluate effectiveness.
5.1. Phase One: Secure Funding
Without adequate funding,the program cannot move forward. Funding options may include private
foundations, NYSERDA, NYSEG, participating municipalities,community based non-profit groups, or
other private organizations such as the National Association of REALTORS° (NAR).
Funding consists of stages:
1. Start-up funding to complete program and label design,set-up infrastructure, and provide
training;
2. Funding for a pilot;and
3. Funding on an annual basis to run the program after initial launch.
5.2. Phase Two: Hire Program Implementer
Determining where to situate the project and what entity will be responsible for implementing the
PROGRAM and tracking data is critical to initiating the project.The project team has identified Cornell
Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County as one possible candidate.
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Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
The PROGRAM IMPLEMENTER would be responsible for:
1. Overseeing and Guiding Program Design;
2. Training and Policy Support;
3. Education and Outreach;
4. Program Optimization;
5. Program Quality Assurance;
6. Results/Data Tracking;
7. Facilitating Connections with Local Workforce and Home Performance Programs; and
8. General Program Administration.
5.3. Phase Three: Complete Program Design
Here we look in detail at the key elements related to designing and implementing the Residential Energy
Score PROGRAM.
5.3.1 Design the Label
The creation and design of the LABEL needs to include stakeholder feedback,consumer input, and
consideration of the local concerns and priorities. LABEL design should strongly consider feedback from
public outreach for this project, as well as the lessons learned from the Vermont Energy Labeling
Working Group during their development of a voluntary residential building energy label. In Vermont,
realtors,their regional Multiple Listing Service (MLS)organization, home performance contractors,the
U.S. Department of Energy,different states and the public all provided feedback on proposed scoring
metrics and label designs. (Energy Futures Group, 2013)
The Vermont group determined that a score in units of MMBTu/year for total estimated energy
production based on an ASSETRATiNG was the best metric.The LABEL also included projected energy costs
and a general description of the home. Ideas for the LABEL obtained during the RESP team outreach,
outlined in the Home Energy Label Recommendations section of this report,section 4.3.1, should be
included.
5.3.2 Design Education and Outreach Plan
Outreach and education must focus on the value of the rating to the homeowner, homebuyer,seller,
buyer's and seller's agents, renter,and home performance contractors. It must also highlight the goal
and need for carbon emission reductions and the role this project plays in both achieving that goal and
in the creation of informed policy decisions going forward. For more details supporting outreach and
education to different groups, review section 4.5 of this report.
5.3.3 Determine Alignment of HES to HERS Energy Predictions
Using two rating systems is key to allowing incorporation of existing market ratings on new construction,
very high efficiency homes,and multifamily units via the RESNETHOME ENERGY RATING SYSTEM(HERS)INDEX
and a feasible path for the average existing homes to obtain a score via the DEPARTMENTOFENERGY's
HOME ENERGYSCORE(DOE HES). Both of these ASSETRATiNG systems use a modeling tool that will
determine energy use projections in MMBTu's per year. Research is needed to determine how well
27
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Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
these projections line up to one another for the same house. For example, if we look at the same home
using the two approaches,will they deliver a similar enough projection in energy use? Understanding
how these line up with one another, and the potential margin of error is critical to a score that includes
both.
5.3.4 Set up Database System for recording and tracking data
There are three key types of data that need to be tracked and maintained for a program to be
successful:
1. Available Workforce:A database of local certified raters and Contractors that have an
understanding of the program and are able to asses a home for the Score and perform retrofit
work.The need for additional local qualified contractors to perform the work in a reasonable
time period;
2. Participating Home Data: Data on houses participating, including the Scores, address,date of
rating,and other relevant information;
3. Evaluation Data:Quality assurance and consumer and participant feedback data, including when
and why the rating was performed.
5.3.5 Data Infrastructure Requirements
DATA INFRASTRUCTURE refers to the digital structure supporting data storage,sharing, and management.
Data infrastructure may include a web portal and a database. In the design of a process and data
infrastructure for program and data management, it is essential to develop a description of the
requirements and data points needed to meet the overall goal.The following list of requirements for the
infrastructure reflects the Residential Energy Score Project Team's research on current programs, best
practices, and local needs.
1. Store and Access data on Participating Raters
There will be multiple participating raters, both HERS and HES certified,that will likely represent a range
of public and private organizations.The qualifications for these raters are maintained by RESNET or DOE,
and raters need to verify these qualifications annually.The program should maintain a list of local
participating raters both for certification validation and for the public (homeowner, Realtor, buyer)to
locate a local rater via a web portal.
2. Store and Access data on Rating Partners
Each rating system (HERS and HES) requires a rater to belong to a rating provider for quality assurance
oversight.These providers can often coordinate to share information and strengthen a program's
effectiveness. Multiple organizations would be supporting the delivery of ratings, both as a part of
private enterprise as well as in the delivery of energy efficiency programs,such as Assisted Home
Performance with ENERGY STAR, Low Income Weatherization, and ENERGY STAR labeled Homes.
Information on the providers who have raters participating in the program should also be accessible.
•
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Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
3. Generate a Label
The infrastructure needs to support information from both the HES and HERS rating data and populate
the common LABEL. It needs to take in data from approved sources (such as the software tools approved
by these rating systems) in order to produce this LABEL. A mechanism for generating a local,graphically
rich LABEL is necessary, incorporating all of the items highlighted in section 4.3.1 of this paper. The SCORE
should to be stored for retrieval along with the data used to generate the LABEL for each home.The
system must allow for limits on who can access information about an individual home.
4. Automated Quality Assurance
Before the LABEL is produced,the data need to be reviewed to check for obvious errors. Paperless
automation the checks data for basic accuracy is crucial to speed up Quality Assurance (QA)and to
reduce costs. Timing is important for QA.This review needs to happen before the data are made
available to interested sellers or fed into the MLS,or in any way made publicly available. National
experience has shown that data errors are more likely to be introduced when energy scores are input
directly into the MLS by Realtors or other professionals. Rating data review by RESNET and DOE will be
much delayed and not support timely review of rating scores before submission. When a rating is being
used immediately to influence the sale of a home,quality assurance should be fast and highly
automated.
Performance Systems Development has created an automated review tool for RESNET energy ratings
used by energy raters in 13 states and by utility-funded new home programs. The same database
application, Compass, has been extended with funding from DOE to support the DOE HOME ENERGYSCORE
tool. This may be the only database application in the country with support for both RESNET HERS INDEX
ratings and DOE HOME ENERGYSCORE ratings.
5. Field Quality Assurance
A certain percentage of jobs are given field QA under the terms of both the DOE HES and the RESNET
HERS rating.This quality assurance involves a third party performing the rating again to verify results
and reviewing electronic and paper documentation to ensure the rater is abiding by the rating standards
and performing diagnostic testing appropriately.These QA data are reported to both RESNET and the
DOE for tracking and maintaining a rater's certification. Leveraging these national field inspection
requirements is important for maintaining a low cost of delivery. This can be achieved by verifying and
tracking that a rating has been submitted to these entities.This saves the program from needing to
perform a separate field QA.
6. Storage and Retrieval of Ratings
The home rating would ideally happen simultaneously with different types of events,such as home
performance audit, home inspection,or post sale,when data can be collected more cost effectively by
trained individuals. Because these events are not necessarily aligned with the time a home is listed for
29
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
sale,the rating information needs to be stored somewhere,and made available for input into the MLS at
the appropriate time.
While it is ideal for the public to have access to the TomPKINs RESIDENTIAL ENERGYScoRE data outside of the
MLS,some information associated with the rating may need to remain private. The control over which
data may be shared is a key requirement of the program,and the infrastructure needs to provide access
restrictions so that different stakeholders can access different subsets of data. For example, realtors
may benefit from having access to information about Scores by category of regions of the county and at
various price points.
Having information from the ratings combined with other information,such as participation in
weatherization or local renewable energy programs, age of home, and whether or not retrofit work has
been performed, is essential to program evaluation and optimization. It is also tied to the ultimate goal
of better understanding the opportunities available to improve energy performance of the housing in
Tompkins County.The program needs flexibility in the portal or chosen iNFRASTRucruREW capture this
additional information.
7. Training
To make ratings broadly available in the market,training will need to be made available on a recurring
basis, and raters will need to be recruited.Training on the specific program, including the local
submission and labeling process,would also be necessary.
5.3.6 Creating MLS Data Connection
There are two key database applications that need to be connected -a data repository for the
information described above and the Realtor Multiple Listing Service(MLS). Many similar databases,
such as the MLS and Department of Assessment databases, are not linked. Currently in Tompkins
County,the Department of Assessment manually inputs information that they find on the MLS and vice
versa. It is a goal of the program that the Score for homes could be included in online real estate and
rental marketplace databases such as Zillow,Trulia,and Realtor.com. Opportunities for this are better
now than ever.The Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO) recently added a "Green Verification
Metric"field to their Data Dictionary which references both the DOE HES and the RESNET HERS systems.
This dictionary creates common standards that lists and describes how all real estate data fields can be
included in an MLS and encourages consistent terms and data structures.This new Green Verification
Metric is defined in the dictionary as:
"A final score indicating the performance of energy efficiency design and measures in the
home as tested by a third-party rater. Points achieved to earn a certification in the High
Performance Rating field do not apply to this field. HERS Index is most common with new
homes and runs with a lower number being more efficient.A net-zero home uses zero energy
and has a HERS score of 0. A home that produces more energy than it uses has a negative
score. Home Energy Score is a tool more common for existing homes and runs with a higher
30
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
number being more efficient. It takes square footage into account and caps with 10 as the
highest number of points." (Real Estate Standards Organization, 2016)
This provides the structure for including the Score in the local MLS in Tompkins County.There are
systems available and in development that would aid in connecting the rating data or Score into the
MLS.The U.S. DOE announced on September 15, 2015 an award providing three years of funding to
Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships(NEEP)to support the development of HELIX,or the Home
Energy Labeling Information Exchange in an effort to "expedite the creation of large-scale home energy
labeling policies and programs that support the market valuation of energy efficiency in homes by
making U.S. DOE HOME ENERGY SCORE(HES) data accessible to local Multiple Listing Services(MLS)and
other market interests". (Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships, 2015)
._.. __ YNJLIIPLE 1l5EN�IC SERVICE:"
Figure 6:The Home Energy Labeling Information Exchange(HELIX)can facilitate the delivery of the score from the program
database to the multiple listing service
Another tool available that supports home energy rating and disclosure programs is the DOE's Standard
f Energy Efficiency Database Platform,or SEED. SEED is an open source database application for
4 managing information related to energy scores on buildings. SEED was created to support the
management of benchmarking mandates for large cities but is now being adapted for use with
residential ratings. NEEP is currently exploring ways for HELIX to leverage SEED to facilitate this process.
NEEP released a one-page information sheet on HELIX,found in Attachment 8 to this document,that
states that HELIX will support incorporating home rating information into the MLSs "while providing
appropriate data security and privacy protections." (Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships, 2015)
One key capability of SEED is to manage energy data for large numbers of buildings.SEED can collect
information from property assessment and other existing databases and match this information up with
energy ratings submitted by qualified raters(Figure 7).
SEED Platform Concept of Operations
SEED Phmkwm
�- *.—.- Data Sources I
Database Upen _ 1
on a Stand Analyte Tom
Taxotwrrht ' �_ �
31
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
Figure 7:SEED Platform Concept of Operations
The SEED database itself is not intended for use by energy raters, Realtors or homeowners, but rather
supports data management for governments and programs.SEED can be connected to user friendly web
portals that can allow raters, homeowners or program staff to input or access information.These basic
web portals can be easily created and would have very low maintenance costs. Some cities are investing
in enhanced web portals that contain data mapping and data visualization tools.An example of this can
be seen in Philadelphia's commercial benchmarking portal, a website that allows individuals to easily
create visual reports on emissions, building size, building type,and score for the city.
In addition to collecting the data on a home from the rater,the program must also generate the LABEL..
SEED has an option to install a plug-in application as an extension. A plug-in created to generate the
local LABEL could be an option for this program design.A one-page information sheet on SEED can be
found in attachment 9. It's important to note that this database includes controlling the disclosure of
information as determined by the individual program set up but can allow data sharing with other third
parties at the client or homeowners'discretion.As part of implementation and infrastructure
development,the team should consider feedback received during outreach on homeowner privacy
rights and concerns.
Another related tool is Compass, developed by Performance Systems Development.This tool could be
used to provide the portal for energy raters to submit ratings to the program,to automate quality
assurance checks on the rating information,and to generate the local LABEL. This information could be
used in combination with SEED for storage. PSD also has direct experience with the visual connectivity
functionality of SEED through its role as the developer of the interconnection between SEED and EPA
Portfolio Manager benchmarking system under a contract with Lawrence Berkeley National Lab (LBNL)
and US DOE.
5.3.7 Infrastructure Deployment
The initial deployment of the information technology(IT)system would require the development of a
detailed plan for IT implementation that is beyond the scope of this report. Once the IT system is
planned,the deployment can happen in stages. Deployment would start with a database,web portal,
and the creation of the data connection to the MLS.
The next stage of IT deployment would be the development of the portals for credentialed users to
access data or supply data to the system. These web sites can also provide homeowners with access to
a list of qualified raters and link to other energy efficiency resources in the county.
The final stage of IT deployment would be the development of a public-facing portal with data
visualization and reporting tools to help increase understanding about an individual homes score,and
energy use in Tompkins County housing as a whole.The portal could include reports that are designed
for various audiences,such as Homebuyers or Renters, Realtors,or the Tompkins County Department of
32
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
Assessment.The exact information that is displayed will consider homeowner privacy concerns and
should first be proposed for public feedback.
If adequate funding is available for program start up, investing some of these funds in automation for
the LABEL generation and CIA can help reduce the cost of ongoing support for the rating effort.While
automation of the process is an important end goal, low initial rating volumes may require offering the
label with more manual generation process,such as a spreadsheet application.This application could be
used by the qualified energy efficiency consulting staff. Similarly, manual CIA review can be used at the
initial launch.
Ongoing support for the ratings requires an efficient and responsive review process. There is
considerable time pressure in the process of listing a home. Being able to demonstrate that the staffing
and systems are in place to make the process of obtaining a rating,getting a CIA review, and posting it to
the MLS quickly and efficiently will go a long way to addressing the concerns of the real estate
community and the public.
5.3.8 Staffing
The program would require both IT support and energy efficiency consulting support as well as general
administrative roles. Determining detailed staffing needs would be dependent on the implementer and
final program plan and IT design.
5.4. Phase Four: Pilot
Starting participation with a pilot phase would allow for testing the design and effectiveness of the
PROGRAM on a smaller scale. One option for a pilot is to target 25%of all single-family homes in
Tompkins County that are built,sold or significantly retrofitted in approximately one year, until 250
homes are rated,scored, and labeled:
• Location—throughout Tompkins County;
• Duration—approximately one year;
• Target 250 single-family homes and apartments for labeling—HERS rating for all new house
construction and units within multifamily buildings 4 stories or less in height; HES rating for all
major retrofits and 10-25%of existing homes sold (ratings performed in advance so that the
label is available at time of house listing);
• Staff—2-3 full-time raters certified for HES and HERS;
• Program implementer to design label,collect data,drive participation through education and
outreach, and evaluate the program as described below;
• Education and outreach—work with municipal building departments to target all new
construction and all major retrofits;work with realtors to educate prospective sellers to have
rating performed before listing house;work with all residents to voluntarily get rating/label and
to understand what the label means;and
• Cost—ROUGH BALLPARK$300,000 is needed to cover the staff time so that ratings are FREE to
those participating in pilot.
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Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
During the pilot phase,the following aspects of the program should be evaluated and fine-tuned:
1. Effectiveness and relevancy of the LABEL;
2. Training needs of local workforce on HES and HERS Certification;
3. LABEL generation process;
4. Retrieval and storage of data;
5. Quality Assurance;
6. Potential negative impacts on low income population;
7. Best time/most frequent time that a rating occurs;
8. The ability of the TOMPKINS RESIDENTIAL ENERGYScoRE PROGRAM to influence home improvements,
home purchase decisions,and purchase price;and
9. Available funding for home energy retrofit work.
Program evaluation and reporting should include feedback and discussions with the Technical Advisory
Committee,the Residential Energy Score Project Team,and participating municipalities.
In addition to accepting new homes into the program,the pilot phase should encourage labeling homes
that have had ratings in the past and adding these data to the program database.This will need an
added layer of quality assurance to ensure the data are accurate and still relevant.
5.5. Phase Five: Voluntary Launch
The team has determined that a voluntary program is the best approach for several reasons.The legal
review that was performed as part of this project(Attachment 1) revealed that at this time there are
potential legal limitations in New York State for municipalities to create an ordinance or law requiring
home energy scoring. Realtors expressed concerned that a mandate at time of sale could add extra
stress and burden on sellers at an already stressful time.
Launching the program on a voluntary basis will provide the opportunity to evaluate whether the free
market can scale the program appropriately and capture the public's enthusiasm for home rating and
scoring. A voluntary program could build toward a mandate in the future, if desirable and legally
permissible,and could use the staged implementation approach described later in this document.A
voluntary program should include an increased priority on providing education on the value of asset
ratings.
An initial voluntary phase,where participation is optional, is useful to figure out best practices and allow
the DATA INFRASTRUCTURE to be tested and fine-tuned. Research, however,shows that voluntary rating
program participants are disproportionately owners of high-performing homes, and they participate out
of an interest in certifying or recognizing their homes, rather than to drive retrofit. (Dunsky Energy
Consulting and Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships, 2009)This is one reason that a mandatory
program may be a preferred long-term goal.Without getting large-scale adoption,the program will not
reach its goal.
The voluntary program should capture all ratings that have already been completed or are already in
process in the area, independent of the program. Some homes in Tompkins County are already
34
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
voluntarily receiving HERS Index and HES ASSET RATINGS due to their owner's desire to obtain certification
as ENERGY STAR, Passive House, LEED for Homes, and participation in NYSERDA's Low-rise New
Construction Program. 173 homes in Tompkins County received a HERS Index between 2011 and 2015.
As of May 2016, no HES ratings have been performed in Tompkins County.While 173 homes is a small
number in light of the 20,000 one(1)and two(2)family residential properties in Tompkins County, it
shows that there is already a starting base of homes in the area that have asset ratings and will continue
to acquire asset ratings independent of the program.The program needs to include the existing ratings
in the Tompkins Residential Energy Score database,while also educating consumers and others about
the value,and driving demand for ratings to happen going forward. In order to get additional
participation, homeowners need to see a clear value, or incentive,to participate. Below,steps are listed
for launching the program.
5.5.1 Start Accepting Ratings
Once the IT systems are in place with the ability to track and generate the Tompkins Residential Energy
Score and label,the program can begin accepting participants. Ratings could be submitted by either
HERS or HES raters and tracked in the chosen infrastructure.
5.5.2 Begin Marketing and Education Plan Including Label
This phase would require the development of marketing and educational materials to support the
program that targets Realtors, homeowners, homebuyers, raters, home performance contractors,code
officers, and home inspectors.This should include the value of the rating and the value of energy
efficiency, logistics for how to participate in the program, and how to use the information on the label.
The Department of Energy(DOE),the Residential Energy Services Network(RESNET),and the Northeast
Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP)offer great educational resources and templates.The program
should utilize local organizations,such as Cornell Cooperative Extension and Solar Tompkins to
strengthen efforts.The RESP team,through its outreach efforts, identified the top four(4) messaging
motivators:
1. Saving money;
2. Knowing what to expect in monthly energy costs;
3. Saving energy;and
4. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
5.5.3 Evaluation and Adjustments— Policy Optimization
Analyze data to help determine rates of adoption,trends in the types of homes participating, and major
hurdles and opportunities to increase participation.This should include customer feedback as well as
data analysis. Key ideas for policy optimization should include most frequent time of rating, if ratings are
tied to home performance work,and where there are obvious gaps in participation among the
population (e.g. income level, region, housing type).This information helps guide the program going
forward,and helps validate funding needs and program effectiveness,cost sharing, and integration with
cy
other programs. Evaluation should specifically look at participation and the ability to support low-
35
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
income households and households that statistically are more likely to have a higher energy burden
such as African-American, Latino, and Renters. (Drehobi& Ross, 2016) If only certain types of homes or
individuals are participating,the data on "average Tompkins county home score"could be skewed.The
program should target outreach to as diverse a group as possible and evaluate trends in participation.
Regular evaluations should revisit the idea of a mandate,specifically whether and when a mandate is an
appropriate option. Ultimately the value of the program and its effectiveness at creating value in energy
efficiency in real estate transactions and driving energy improvements is dependent on wide-scale
participation. If the market drives sufficient participation, a mandate is not necessary.
S.6. Phase Six: Revise Program based on Evaluation
After evaluation is complete, review results and consider how to best strengthen the program.This
could include increased marketing,additional workforce training,creating incentives to enhance
participation rate,and re-visiting the legality and advisability of creating mandates for participation.
6. Conclusion
A residential energy score program for the participating municipalities and across the County should
allow for the largest participation possible by incorporating both the RESNETHERS INDEX for new homes
and the DOE HOME ENERGYSCORE for the existing housing stock. Displaying the TOMPKINS RESIDENTIAL
ENERGYSCORE in units of estimated SITE ENERGY use in MMBTUIYEAR would allow the program to
incorporate both systems. With this approach, homeowners can compare all rated homes to each other
and account for renewable and on-site energy production on the label.
It is important to remember that without large adoption,the program will struggle to meet the ultimate
goals of valuing energy efficiency in real estate transactions and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For
example, if only some refrigerators received EnergyGuide information, or only some cars had miles per
gallon ratings,the information would begin to lose relevance. If we cannot compare the score of one
home to another,or see where it ranks in the range of homes in Tompkins County, it becomes much less
valuable. In order to achieve this wide-spread adoption,the Residential Energy Score Project team is
proposing a staged approach to allow for public education, market readiness,and further program
development,such as developing the LABEL, marketing materials, and necessary DATA INFRASTRUCTURE.A
central implementer overseeing this process and creating connections with local programs and existing
workforce is essential for success.A pilot and voluntary program with regular evaluation,assessment,
and discussion about future options ensures program optimization.The proposed Tompkins Residential
Energy Score Program will assist Tompkins County municipalities in moving toward a more sustainable,
energy independent,and healthier future for all residents by increasing consumer awareness,
understanding, and ability to value the energy use and efficiency in homes.
36
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
7. Glossary
Asset Rating-Asset ratings create a score by evaluating a home's actual physical structure and
mechanical systems, and major lights and appliances.The asset rating is scored by the national
calculation methodology(NCM). Using an approved calculation tool, an assessor creates a model of the
annual CO2 emissions from the building.
Data Infrastructure-Data infrastructure refers to the digital structure supporting data sharing and
management. Data infrastructure may include a web portal and a database.
DOE Home Energy Score—The Department of Energy Home Energy Score is similar to a vehicle's miles-
per-gallon rating.The Score allows homeowners and homebuyers to identify how much energy a home
is expected to use and provides suggestions for improving its energy efficiency. It also allows
homeowners to compare the energy performance of their homes to other homes nationwide.
Home Energy Rating—also referred to as a "rating" in the document,a Home Energy Rating refers to
the process of evaluating a home's energy efficiency and performance in a standard way that can be
compared to other homes by focusing on the energy efficiency features of the home itself.The two
most common type of home energy ratings used today are OPERATIONAL RATINGS and ASSETRATINGS.
Label-The label acts as a standard method to graphically communicate home rating information for
both existing and new home construction.The label is generated from approved data sources (such as
the two rating software tools)and is stored for retrieval along with the data used to generate the label
for each home.
MMBtu's-1 MMBtu is equal to 1 million BTU (British thermal unit). All fuel energy use can be converted
to this unit. One BTU is approximately equal to the energy released by burning one kitchen match.
Operational Rating-Also known as "Measured Energy Rating", an Operational Rating is based on
measured amounts of delivered and exported energy.The measured rating is the weighted sum of all
energy carriers used by a building and is a measure of the in-use performance of a building.This
measurement is relevant to the certification of actual energy performance.
Program -A residential energy disclosure program evaluates the relative energy efficiency and energy
use of homes, evaluates opportunities for improvement, and standardizes the availability of this
information in a given market.
Program Implementer-The Program Implementer is responsible for developing and implementing the
program. Responsibilities include: overseeing and guiding program design,training and policy support,
education and outreach, program optimization, program quality assurance and enforcement,
results/data tracking,facilitating connections with local workforce and home performance programs,
and general program administration.
37
■ir. E
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
RESNET HERS Index-The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index is the industry standard by which a
home's energy efficiency is measured. It's also a nationally recognized system for inspecting and
calculating a home's energy performance.
Site Energy-Site energy is the amount of energy consumed by a building as reflected in the utility bills.
Analyzing site energy can illustrate how the energy use for an individual building has changed overtime.
It does not include any inefficiencies or losses that happen transmitting energy to the house from its
original source.
Source Energy-Source energy represents the total amount of raw fuel that is needed to operate a
building. By taking all energy use into account,the score provides a complete assessment of energy
efficiency in a building. It includes all transmission,delivery, and production losses.
Tompkins Residential Energy Score or"The Score"-The Score allows homes in Tompkins County, New
York to view the estimated annual energy use of homes in one comparable metric based on an asset
rating
38
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
8. Bibliography
American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. (2014). Residential Energy Use Disclosure:A guide for
Policymakers. ACEEE.
Drehobl,A., &Ross, L. (2016). Lifting the High Energy Burden in America's Largest Cities:How Energy
Efficiency Can Improve Low Income and Underserved Communities. April:ACEEE.
Dunsky Energy Consulting and Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships. (2009). Valuing Building Energy
Efficiency Through Disclosure and Upgrade Policies.
Elevate Energy. (2014,April 22). Energy Cost Disclosure in Residential Listings in Chicago:A Preliminary
Snapshot. Retrieved from http://www.elevateenergy.org/wp/wp-
content/uploads/ECDOrd_Analysis_FINAL.pdf
Elizabeth Stuart, L. B. (November, 2015). Capturing Energy Efficiency in Real Estate Transactions.
U.Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building
Technologies.
Energy Futures Group. (2013). Vermont Energy Labeling Worknig Group:Development of a Voluntary
Residential Building Energy Label.
Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships. (2009). Valuing Building Energy Efficiency Through Disclosure
and Upgrade Policies. Dunsky Energy Consulting.
Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships. (2013).Building Energy Rating and Disclosure Policies Update
and Lessons From the Field.
Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships. (2015, November 15th ). Home Energy Labeling and
Information Exchange One Pager. Retrieved from http://www.neep.org:
http://www.neep.org/sites/default/files/resources/Home%20Energy%20Labeling%201 nformatio
n%20Exchange%20One-Pager.pdf
Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships. (2015, December 15). NY BUILDING ENERGY CODE. Retrieved
from www.neep.org: http://www.neep.org/bulletin-board/ny-building-energy-code
Real Estate Standards Organization. (2016,April 28). www.reso.org. Retrieved from
http://www.reso.org/data-dictionary/
39
Tompkins Residential Energy Score Program and Implementation Plan
9. List of Attachments
1. Memo: Legal Issues for Home Energy Rating and Disclosure Program
2. Report on Existing Home Energy Rating and Disclosure Laws and Programs and Best Practices
3. Review and Analysis of Preliminary Data in Tompkins County
4. Home Energy Scoring Tool Data Collection Sheet
S. RESNET HERS Index Rated Features
6. HomeStyle Energy Mortgage FAQ
7. HomeStyle Energy Mortgage Announcement
8. HELIX—Information Sheet
9. SEED—Information Sheet
10. County Assessment Department Data from ImageMate
11. Related Programs and Financing Mechanisms in New York and Tompkins County
•
40
10. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
10.1 Department of Public Works — Request to Establish a Capital Project for
Americans with Disability Access (ADA) Ramps and Pedestrian Enhancements in
Various Locations around the City - Resolution
WHEREAS, Section 14-k of the New York State Transportation Law establishes the
Multi-Modal (MM) Programs 1,2,3 and 4 that may fund eligible project costs for capital
projects approved by the Commissioner of Transportation; and
WHEREAS, on February 9, 2015, the Board of Public Works discussed possible
projects to submit for New York State MM funding and selected a project to improve
sidewalk curb ramps to meet requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and to
enhance pedestrian street crossings at various locations around the City; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has been nominated to receive $250,000 from the New
York State Multi-Modal Program for ADA ramps and pedestrian enhancements such as
curb bulbouts; and
WHEREAS, Common Council approves this reimbursement project; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby establishes Capital Project#831
"Pedestrian Enhancements, Bulb-outs and ADA Ramps", in an amount not to exceed
$250,000 for the purposes of designing and constructing such improvements; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That funding for said Capital Project shall be derived from the issuance of
Serial Bonds with the understanding that all eligible expenses will be reimbursed by the
New York State MM Program; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor of the City of Ithaca is hereby authorized to enter into any
and all agreement(s) with the State of New York related to this project, upon review by
the City Attorney; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this project be undertaken with the understanding that the final cost
of the project to the City of Ithaca will be roughly 0% of said portion, currently estimated
at $0 of the $250,000 authorized for this portion of the project, in monies and in-kind
services as managed by the Superintendent of Public Works and monitored by the City
Controller.
ob
BACK-UP ITEM 10.1
O� ITHJCITY OF ITHACA
(F �: 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
W :`.
OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER
ti Telephone: 607/27 -6530 Fay: 607/274-6587
To: City of Ithaca Administration Committee
From: Eric Hathaway,City Transportation Engineer
Date: June 14,2016
Re: Bulbouts and ADA Ramps,NYS Multi-Modal Funding
In February 2015,staff brought the Board of Public works five project ideas to consider submitting
to New York State for Multi-Modal Funding. After some discussion, we decided to pursue a
project that would make improvements to pedestrian safety and curb ramps to meet our
obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Title II of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,
as amended. In doing so, we will look for opportunities to make pedestrian enhancements as
well, including moving the curb where feasible to create bulbouts, or as they are also known,
chokers or neckdowns.Bulbouts shorten the crossing distance for pedestrians,improve sightlines
and provide a safer place to stand while crossing the street.Sometimes,they also make it possible
or easier to meet the grades required by ADA. We also propose to investigate other pedestrian-
related treatments, such as flashing beacons, signage and striping that will enhance pedestrian
safety.
G Staff submitted the project request in March, 2015 and have been notified that we have been
nominated to receive funding in the amount of $250,000. There is no required City match;
however,much of this work will relate to sidewalk design and construction through the Sidewalk
Improvement Districts,so there will be some matching funds in a way.The Multi-Modal program
is a reimbursement program,so the City needs to borrow the money in the first instance and file
for reimbursement after the fact. The only expense not eligible for reimbursement is the cost of
borrowing the money.
In order to keep the accounting separate and to progress the project,staff is recommending that
the City establish a capital project and fund it in the first instance. This has been recommended
by the Board of Public Works at their June 13, 2016 meeting and we are now looking for your
approval.
Some preliminary locations that staff consider to be good candidates for using this money to
design and construct pedestrian improvements include:
• Intersection of West Clinton Street and South Plain Street
• Intersection of North Cayuga Street and Lewis Street
• Cornell Street at crosswalk between Belle Sherman Elementary School and Belle
Sherman Annex.
• Hillview Place crosswalk for South Hill Elementary School
• Intersection of Chestnut and Elm Street,adjacent to Lehman Alternative Community
School
• Thurston Avenue and Stewart Avenue
• Irving Place and Ithaca Road
An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."
There are potentially other locations that we will encounter that would benefit from pedestrian
enhancements,so we would prefer not to limit the scope of this project to specific location at this
time. If you have any other suggested locations or questions, or would prefer to approve the
projects on a case-by-case basis,please feel free to contact us.
10.2 Department of Public Works — Establishment of Capital Project Funding for
Carbon Monoxide Detection - Resolution
WHEREAS, New York State has adopted a rule (Section 1228.4 of Title 19 NYCRR)
requiring carbon monoxide detection in commercial buildings in 2016, which, according
to the building and fire codes, includes municipal buildings; and
WHEREAS, many City-owned facilities have carbon monoxide sources and thus will
need to be brought into compliance with this regulation; and
WHEREAS, staff has estimated that the total project cost will be approximately $50,000;
and
WHEREAS, this expense was not budgeted for in 2016; and
WHEREAS, the current balance in the unrestricted contingency account is $101,000;
and
WHEREAS, on June 13, 2016, the Board of Public Works recommended that Common
Council establish a project (either a capital project or a transfer from contingency
accounts) in the amount of$50,000 to address the New York State carbon monoxide
regulation; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That a sum not to exceed $50,000 is hereby appropriated from account
A1990 —Unrestricted Contingency and transferred to account A1620-5225 — Other
Equipment.
BACK-UP ITEM 10.2
dF CITY OF ITHACA
*NOV, Gam` f� 108 East Green Street, Suite 202 Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER
tt0` Telephone; 607/274-6530 Fax: 6071274-6587
To: Board of Public Works
From: Tim Logue,Director of Engineering
Date: May 19,2016
Re: Carbon Monoxide Monitoring project
In 2015,New York State adopted a rule (Section 1228.4 of Title 19 NYCRR) requiring
carbon monoxide detection in commercial buildings,which,according to the building
and fire codes,includes municipal buildings. Many of our City-owned facilities have
carbon monoxide sources and thus will need to be brought into compliance with this
law. The term"carbon monoxide source" means"any appliance,equipment, device or
system that may emit carbon monoxide (including,but not limited to, fuel fired
furnaces;fuel fired boilers;space heaters with pilot lights or open flames;kerosene
heaters;wood stoves;fireplaces;and stoves, ovens, dryers,water heaters and
refrigerators that use gas or liquid fuel), garages,and other motor vehicle related
occupancies."
This is an expense that was not budgeted for in 2016. I am recommending that the City
establish a project with a budget of$50,000 to address this requirement. I ask that you
recommend to Common Council that we do so.
10
An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." Ct?
10.4 Discussion Item With Possible Vote: An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 114
of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code entitled "Natural Areas", Section 114-7
entitled "Prohibited Activities"
ORDINANCE NO. 2016-
6E IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca that
the City of Ithaca Municipal Code Chapter 114 entitled "Natural Areas" be amended to
read as follows:
Section 1. Chapter 114, Section 114-7 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code entitled
"Prohibited Activities" is hereby amended to read as follows:
§ The following activities are prohibited in all of the natural areas of the City of Ithaca,
unless expressly permitted or carried out pursuant to a duly issued permit:
A. Camping.
B. Littering
C. Amplified sound.
D. Wood cutting.
E. Trapping.
F. Rock and ice climbing and rappelling.
G. Hunting and shooting.
H. Motorized vehicle riding.
I. Bicycle riding.
J. Plant digging.
K. Flower picking.
L. Consumption of alcoholic beverages.
M. Fires of any kind.
N. Bathing floating, iumpinq swimming or otherwise entering the water of any
natural area located within or owned by the City of Ithaca shall constitute
Trespass Entering the water for fishing purposes and for wading up to one's
navel is exempt from this provision.
Section 2. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion
of this ordinance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent
jurisdiction, then that decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of
this ordinance.
Section 3. Effective date. This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in
accordance with law upon publication of notices as provided in the Ithaca City Charter.
BACK-UP ITEM 10.4
osim, CITY OF ITHACA
t..._ ...
108 East Green Street,Ithaca,New York 14850-6590
4.0 OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK Telephone: 607-274-6570
Department of Public Information &Technology
Julie Conley Holcomb, City Clerk Fax: 607-274-6432
MEMORANDUM
To: City Administration Committee
From: Julie Conley Holcomb, City Clerk
Date: July 8, 2016
Subj: Proposal to Amend Chapter 114 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code entitled "Natural
Areas", Section 114-7 entitled "Prohibited Activities".
The purpose of this memo is to provide information regarding a proposal to amend the Natural
Areas legislation to add new language to the "Prohibited Activities" as follows:
N. Wading bathing floating iumpinq swimming or otherwise entering the water of any
natural area located within or owned by the City of Ithaca shall constitute Trespass.
Entering the water for fishing purposes is exempt from this provision.
Swimming the gorges has been a public safety issue the City has been addressing for many
decades. The City created the Natural Area Ranger program in 1984 following the tragic death
of a local teen.
Chapter 250 of the City Code entitled "Peace and Good Order", Section 250-3 Entitled
"Swimming" states: "No person shall bathe in, swim in, or for purposes of swimming and/or
bathing enter any of the waters within the City of Ithaca except in those waters officially
designated as swimming or bathing waters." The reference to this section of the Code has not
been successful in prosecuting swimming violations in Court.
In an attempt to clarify the regulations of the natural areas for members of the public, and to
ensure that those regulations are enforceable through the judicial process, I am proposing that
additional language be placed in the Natural Areas Chapter of the Code to indicate that entering
the waters of any of the natural areas located within or owned by the City shall constitute
Trespass. Upon the approval of this language, new signs will be purchased and posted in
appropriate locations.
If you have any questions or concerns about this proposal, please feel free to contact me at
(607) 274-6570 or jholcomb@cityofithaca.org.
Is
13. INDIVIDUAL MEMBER FILED RESOLUTIONS:
13.1 Alderperson Murtagh - Resolution to Select Artwork for a Mural Installation
on the Bank Alley Newspaper Box
WHEREAS, in 2010, the Public Art Commission (PAC) created a mural and street art
program to beautify blank walls within the city, while providing artists from all sections of
the community an opportunity to showcase their work; and
WHEREAS, local artist Meredith Lawhead originally submitted her proposal "Greetings
from the Commons" in response to a call for mural proposals for the new Commons
electrical boxes, and the Commons Team has proposed Ms. Lawhead's design for
installation on the back side of the newspaper box located in Bank Alley on the
Commons; and
WHEREAS, public comment was sought on the proposal through notification of
surrounding property owners, Downtown Ithaca Alliance members, and City staff, and
the response to the proposal has been mostly positive; and
WHEREAS, the PAC did not meet to provide a recommendation on this proposal but
individual members reviewed the design and location and submitted their comments,
and
WHEREAS, the mural will be funded by the Downtown Ithaca Alliance, and the
installation will be budget-neutral to the City; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council selects Meredith Lawhead's
mural proposal "Greetings from the Ithaca Commons" to be installed on the newspaper
box in Bank Alley on the Commons and to be added to the City of Ithaca's public art
collection; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the selected artist may proceed with the installation of her mural
upon the execution of an agreement with the City as reviewed by the City Attorney.
BACK-UP ITEM 13.1
My Proposal is a painted "Greetings from the Commons"card. Each letter of "Commons",
will have Imagery of the shops, cayuga lake, and other factors of ithaca that people come
from all over to see and be a part of.
Within the different letters (not in this order)I would like one to have the cornell clock tower
peaking out with the Johnson Art Museum, Next I want one letter to have Cayuga lake seen
from either East shore or Stewart Park. One letter with the farmers market. One letter in
black and white showing the commons when it was first designed. One letter displaying the f
estivities of Apple fest, as well as another letter showing Ithaca festival.
aZen
14
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List of Materials-
-2pints of White house paint
-2pints of yellow housepaint
• - 2pint red house paint ,
-2 int blue house paint
-house painting brishes
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14. MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS:
14.1 Appointment to the Board of Public Works — Resolution
RESOLVED, That Marshall MacCormick be appointed to the Board of Public Works to
fill a vacancy with a term to expire December 31, 2018
14.2 Appointment to Cable Access Oversight Committee — Resolution
RESOLVED, That Sue Perlgut be appointed to the Cable Access Oversight Committee
to fill a vacancy with a term to expire December 31, 2016.