HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-PDB-1953 PLANNING BOARD' PROCEEDINGS
City of Ithaca, N.Y.
Regular Meeting 4:00 P.M. March 9, 1953
PRESENT:
Chaff rman .. Brown
Commissioners •- Hetzgarz Dick4as- , Gaurnier, Price and Osborn
Zoning Officer., Thorne
Engineer - Case
Clerk .. Blean
On recommendation of Chairman Brown, one minute of silence was
observed in memory of Floyd X, Springer,
XT S Minutes of the preceding meeting ••rete read by the Clerk and
dummy—approved,
'ST HILL AERJ&- MMM Engineer Cass reported that adverse 'weather
eonditi0 on several occasions, prevented the making of the
West Hill aerial mars and that another attempt will be made as soon
as tre+ather permits,
n 0 0 P 1IN DUE Chairman Brot-rn presented
jin t �e'-amount of , 30.00 representing dues for the year 1953 to
the Vii, Y. S. Federation of Planning Boards.
By Commissioner Dickens, Seconded by Commissioner Price
RESOLVED, that the bill be approved for payments
Carried
C V .0 CEt Chairman Brown announced that Comm. Osborn together
with ir. b Stutz- representing the Library, and Mr. Fot-rler, repre-
senting the Council of Social Agencies, had been acting as a committee
to study the civic center proposal. Mrs. Osborn made a progress
report. After further discussion the matter was . continued 7-lith the
committee together T,rith Comm. Metzgar and Mayor Cook for further
'study,
oA�,MA HJGT7AY, BY-4A.SS Chairman Brown suggested an informal,
the recordw discussion of the alternate route, as prepared by
Mr. Thorne, for taking route 13 traffic through the city, since he
felt that the Planning Board has been criticized for their action
already taken in the matter. Mr. Thorne presented slides and maps
sho*aing the route proposed by the State and his alternate route,
and explained both in detail, After much discussion it was suggested
that the Board of Public '*Yorks and other City Officials be invited to
participate in a full discussion of the matter. Mr. Thorne was thanked
for his presentation and explanations.
By Commissioner Gaurnier, Seconded by Commissioner Metzgar
RESOLVED, that the next meetingg of the Planning Board be held on
Monday, 'March 23, 1953 at 4:00 P,M, in the Common Council Room in
Cit Hall; and that members of the Board of Public 'Jorks� the Board
of Public Storks Committee of the Common Councils Mayor Cook and
Superintendent of Public Works Laverty be invited to attend this
meeting for a full discussion of both proposals.
Carried
Chairman BroTm announced. that it **could be in order at this
iimm elect a Chairman for the ensuing year, appointed 11r, Price
as Acting Chairman, and excused himself from the meeting.
By Commissioner Osborn, Seconded by Commissioner Dickens
RESOLVED, that Mr. BroT-rn be nominated to . succeed himself as Chair.,
of the Planning Board for the ensuing year. As there wereno
ether nominations, a vote teas taken which resulted In Mr, Brotmts
unanimous election.
Upon request of CbAirman Brotm, Commissioner Gaurnier
reported on tb4., project to p ica forsythia- in and around the city.
He explained the idea, 0#01ginating frith the Garden Club of tr:c
city, would co the planing of barren sports and approaches to tl_.�
city, and that ` was receiving very favorable response throughout
the city.
MOTION the meeting `raP adjourned;, . + ,
Geo, A. Blean
Cit Cle
Y
PLANNING BOARD PROCUDINGS
City of Ithaca, N.Y.
Regular meeting 4:00 P.M. March 23, 1953
ISENT:
Mayor — Cook
Chairman — Brown
Commissioners — Metzgar, Dickens, Taber, Gaurnier, Osborn
Aldermen � Johnson, Scott, TTilkinson, Decker, Dickens
Bd. of Public Works Commissioners — Conley, Egan, Gaurnier, Colbert
Supt. of Public Works Laverty
engineer — Cass
Zoning Officer — Thorne
Attorney — Dahmen
Clerk — Blean
Mayor Cook presided and explained that the Planning Board had
requested this Joint meeting t^rith the Board of Public T-lorks and
others interested in the proposed rerouting of Route 13 traffic
tjhrough the city. '
Chairman Brown outlined the purpose and functions of the
,Planning Board and in turn called upon Mr. Thorne t•rho presented and
explained a map shor-ring the alternate route under study by the
Planning Board as contrasted with the State route. He urged
its serious consideration from a safety viewpoint as T-rell as its
paving the ?gay for industrial development of undeveloped lands.
Fie estimated a loss in assessed valuation of approximately
$200,000. along the State route due to depreciation. Commissioner
Conley feared the breaking off of cordial relations betT►een the
City and State Highway Department in Syracuse, by considering an
alternate at this time upon which no engineering studies have been
made. He expressed the opinion that the State Department officials
may be quite annoyed if their proposal, which has been in the
making for a long time, is discarded; and may mean a loss of
State aid in helping the City solve its traffic problems.
Superintendent Laverty praised the Thorne proposal as a traffic
by—pass but pointed out that the State proposal is an arterial
route rather than a by—pass, designed to get traffic to and through
congested areas and affords the City remuneration for the con—
struction of some 10 or 15 WUas of streets and the maintenance
thereof. He estimated that abandonment of the State plan woula
mean a loss to the City of $1,000,000, over a period of years;
that construction of the alternate route would very likely mean
abandonment of the present city dumping area, and that the excess
cost thereof over the State proposal would have to be borne
entirely by the City,
Commissioner Gaurnier informed those present that he. had
consulted the State arterial engineers in Syracuse and had been
told that the alternate route would not be considered by the State
because it had a grade ere.esing; " that, being a by—pass, there
could be no roads intersecting it, and finally the cost was
prohibitive,, Many other comments both pro and con were heard
from those present and Mayor Cook closed the meeting by thanking
the Planning Board members for their work and their request for
this Joint meeting.
Mayor Cook then declared the meeting duly adjourbed+
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
156
PLANNING COI-3-I SSION PROCEEDINGS
City of Ithaca,N.Y.
Regular heeting 4:00 P.M. May 18,1953
PRESENT:
Chairman - Brolyn
Commissioners - Dickens, Osborn and Price
Zoning Officer - Thorne
City Engineer- Cass
Clerk - Blean
Deputy Clerk - Sinsabaugh
MITES: Einutes of the preceding meeting T,rere duly approved.
WEST HILL AERIAL SURVEY: Engineer Cass reported that certain field
data must be compiled by his office before any further work can be
done on the aerial survey maps. . He called attention to the increasing
interest in various tracts in the :Jest Hill area. 11r. Mineah,
interested in developing part of the Williams property, t,ras present
and explained some of his problems. Yr. Cass called attention to
the present rules and regulations governing new subdivisions and the
need for their immediate revision. After further discussion in
regard to these rules Chairman BroT•rn requested Mr. Thorne to proceed
T-rith a revision and he suggested that the Board reconvene on June lat.
to consider Mr. Thorne' s recommendations.
ON 140TION the meeting was adjourned ned to reconvene .June 1, 1953•
GL-
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
Regular Meeting 4:00 P.M. June 1, 1953
PRESENT:
Chairman - Brot•m
Commissioners - saber, Price, Dickens and. Osborn
Zoning Officer _ Thorne
Engineer - Cass
Clerk - Blean
Deputy Clerk - Sinsaba.ugh
Chairman BroTrn introduced "�r. Parson, a graduate student at Cornell.
University, T•rho presented a proposed master planning man for Ithaca
compiled for his thesis. His T-rork included many maps and studies
covering facilities, schools, playgrounds, recreational areas, tuning
fork and many other phases of planning which he explained in detail
to thoes present. He explained that a copy T•rould be left in the main
library at Cornell and -another at the College of Architecture where
they would be open for inspection to any interested city officiA.ls.
SUBDIVISIOII RULES & REGULATIONS: Mr. Thorne presented a progress
report on his revision of the Rules and Regulations governing neTr
subdivisons and the approval of plats therein. He estimated the
need of a further two Weeks time to make further studies and check on
certain phases of the t-rork ••ith the City Attorney. It Teras agreed
to adjourn this meeting until June 15, 1953 for further discussion.
LAZJA REQUEST: Engineer Cass reporter? on a request received from
EX. Lazja to rough grade one block of '.Marren Place from Hook Place
northerly.
By Commissioner Osborn: seconded by Commissioner Price
RESOLVED, that Mr. Lazja be granted permission to extend Warren
Place to the north side of his property only and establish rough
grades in this street subject to tentative grades to be established
by the City Engineer.
Carried
CHILDRENS HOi.E PROPERTY: Discussion ensued as to T•rhat use might be
made of the property recently purchased by the Childrens' Home ana
Its effect on streets and other land uses of adjacent property.
By rON
issioner Dickens: seconded by Commissioner Taber
RESD, that Mr. Thorne be and hereby is directed to communicate
frith oials of the Child rens' Home in an effort to ascertain their
plans rding this property.
Carried
ON MOTthe meeting; 't,ras adjourned to reponvens June 15, 1953.
V
'�� •4RD
PLANNING pJ! PROCEEDINGS
City of Ithaca, N.Y.
Regular meeting 4i00 'P:M* June 15i 1953
PRESENT:
Chairman - Brotrn
Commissioners - Metzgar, Taber, Dickensi Gaurnier, Osborn, Price
Zoning Officer - Thorne
Attorney - Dahmen
Engineer - Cass
Clerk - Blean
MIES: Minutes of the preceding two meetings were duly approved.
CIVIC CENTER Upon request of the Chairman, Commissioner Osborne
made a brief progress report regarding the civic tented
PUBLIC RELATIONS: Commissioner Osborn called attention to the fact
that a great many people do not knot�r 'Ghat the Planning Commission is
trying to do and recommended that something be done from a public
relations viei-rpoint. She suggested that representatives from
neighborhood organizations be invited to attend some of the meetings
to observe what the aims of the Planning Board are. Chairman'Bros^m
reported that the Chamber of Commerce Trould be very interested in
having such representation at the meetings. Commissioner Gaurnier
suggested that the powers and duties of the Planning Commission be
clearly outlined and defined and he also suggested that Joint meetings
be held quarterly or semi-annually T-rith the Board of Public Works.
By Commissioner Osborn: seconded by Commissioner I%,etzgar
RESOLVED, that an invitation be .extended to civic organizations and
the Chamber of Commerce to have representation present at future
meetings upon request.
Carried
By Commissioner Gaurnier: seconded by Commissioner Taber
RESOLVED, that the Board of Public Works be requested to meet at
least semi-annually with the Planning Commission to discuss mutual
problems; and that the Mayor be notified accordingly with a copy
being transmitted to the Vice Chairman of the Board.
Carried
AERIAL SURVEY: Upon request of the Chairman, Engineer Cass presented
a brief progress report on his phase of the work in connection T"ith
the aerial survey maps. He T-,,as unable at this time to estimate when
the Trork Trill be completed.
Commissioner Price entered the meeting at this time.
SUDDIVISION RULES & REGULATIONS: Chairman Brom called upon Zoning
Officer Thorne *-rho presented a draft of his revision of the proposed
rules and regulations covering nets subdivisions and the approval of
plats therein. He read and explained the entire draft and after it
had been discussed by thoepresent several deletions, additions and
corrections *,sere noted.
By Commissioner Gaurnier: seconded by Commissioner Price
RESOLVED, that the proposal T-rith the corrections noted therein be
referred to the City Attorney for approval; and that he be requested
to report back to the Planning Commission at a meeting to be called
next month at T•rhich time final action will be taken by this Beard
and referred to the Common Council for enactment.
Carried
ON MOTION the meeting -was adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting 4:00 P.is. July 28, 1953
PRESENT:
Chairman - B r.ourn
Commissioners - Metzgar, Taber, Osborn, Gaurnier and Dickens
Assessor & Zoning Officer - Thorne
Engineer - Cass Civic: Organization Renresenta&ion
City Clerk - Blean S. Hi Donald Card
Deputy Clerk - Sins•abaugh Bryant Tract - William Black
MINUTES: Minutes of the preceding meeting were duly approved.
Chairman BroT•Yn welcomed Ur. Card and fir. Black as guests at the
meeting. Mrs. Osborn suggested setting a regular meeting time
possibly monthly. Definite action t•ras postponed.
NEW SOUTH HILL SCHOOL LOCATION: Mr. Thorne presented maps shw-ring
the Speno tract, the proposed site for the ne*-r South Hill School.
By Commissioner Dickens: seconded by Commissioner Osborn
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board hereby approves the purchase
by the Board of Education of this tract as a site for the neer school
and further that the Planning Board recommend the purchase of the.
salient to the south of this property for school use.
Carried
AERI?,L SURVEY: Engineer Cass presented a progress report and.
estimated that it T•Tould be serveral 't-reeks yet before his survey work
will be completed.
i CIVIC CENTER: Commissioner Osborn presented a r*ritten report on
the proposal of a neva civic center. She revieT,red the report and
explained. that the Committee, consisting of for. Harry Stutz,
Roland G. FoTaler, Commissioners hetzgar, Osborn and BroTan has had
several meetings, felt that there Teas a need for additional
recreational facilities, and that since a request had come to the
Planning Board from a group of interested citizens for consideration
of this matter, had agreed to recommend to the Planning Board that
i,,ir. Thorne be authorized to make a study of needed new and improved
recreational facilities, and that the Board arrange for funds to
give fir. Thorne the supplemental help needed for this purpose; the
-study to be in four parts as follohrs;
1. Location of additional facilities
2. Contents - or 14hat elements should be a past of such an
integrated plan.
3. Costs
4. Financing - ho,-r t-rould tae get the funds? Investigation shol-red
that many civic centers had to be subsidized.
What could Tae reasonably expect as expenses and
income?
She further explained that the Committee was conscious that the
priority to be assigned to the various components of an integrated
plan deserved very careful consideration.
By Commissioner Gaurnier: seconded by Commissioner Taber
RESOLVED, that the report as submitted by the Committee be
accepted with thanks and approved by the Planning Board; and further
that the sum of 41,000.00 of the 1953 budget be allocated to
Air. Thorne to cover the cost of making the study as recommended. '
Carried
STB-DIVISION RULES & REGULATIONS: Zoning Officer Thorne presented his
final draft of the proposed rules and regulations covering neTr sub-
d1visions and the approval of plats therein. After discussion the
draft eras approved and signed by members present.
By Commissioner Osborn: seconded by Commissioner Hetzgar
RESOLVED, . that the `"lub-division Regulations for the City of Ithaca,
N. Y. as aanroved and signed by members of the Planning Board this
28th. day of July 1953, be and hereby are approved in all respects,
and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council be requested to
enact said Sub-division Regulation into the laws of the City of
Ithaca.
Carried 159
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS"
Page 2. July 28, 1953
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS: Zoning Officer Thorne presented,
proposed amendments to section 3-a of Article 4 and section 3-a of
Article 5 of the Zoning Ordinance intended to restrict building on
corner lots. . After discussion it was agreed that cases arising
should be given individual consideration.
By Commissioner Gaurnier: seconded by Commissioner Taber
RESOLVED, that the proposed amendments be not accepted.
Carried
ZONING ORDINANCE AHEi NDEENTS: Proposed amendments to the Zoning
Ordinance were presented by Mr. Thorne and acted upon as follo •rs:
By Commissioner Taber: seconded by Commissioner Ifetzgar
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board hereby approve the amendment of
the Zoning Ifap of the City of Ithaca, N. Y. to` make a• Business
District of all the remaining frontage on South Cayuga Street, the
300.-block, not now a business district, to the depth of 150 feet
on the west side, all the xray to Titus Avenue, and to the complete
lot depths on the east side, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council be requested to
adopt said amendment,
Carried
By Commissioner Metz_a,ar: seconded by Commissioner Gp.urnier
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board hereby approve the amendment,
of section 5 of Article I of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of
Ithaca by adding thereto the follo1iing definition:
Apartment. An apartment is a suite or set of rooms, or a
single room, complete T•rith sanitary and zrith or T•ithout
cooking facilities, used by a family or by
individuals, as a dy-telling.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council hereby is
requested to adopt said amendment.
Carried
By Commissioner Metzgar: seconded by Commissioner Osborn
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board hereby approve the amendment of
Section 3-d of Article 5 of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of
Ithaca, N. Y. to read as follows:
No building lot in the A-Residence District may have an area
of less than 5000 square feet per single family dr•relling, nor
less than 3000 square feet per family nor 1000 square feet per
person, for conventional type dwellings housing more than one
family.
No building in this district may be altered or converted so as
to result in a ratio of lot area to apartment, less than 2500
square, feet per family or 800 square feet per person. New
apartment buildings may be built in these districts on lots
providing a ratio of not less than 1500 square feet per family
or 500 square feet per person.
In these districts, the total portion of the lot covered.by
buildings shall not exceed 35%.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the .Common Council hereby is
requested to adopt said amendment.
Carried
ON MOTION the meeting was adjourned at the call of the Chairman.
Geo. A. Bl can
City Clerk
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
Regular Iieeting 7:30 P.M. August 24, 1953
PRESENT:
Chairman - Broirn
Commissioners - Metzgar, Dickens, Price, Osborn, Taber
Assessor & Zoning Officer - Thorne
Deputy Clerk - Sinsabaugh Civic Organization Representation
West Hill - Prof. McDaniels
Chamber of Commerce.- J Lacey
MINUTES,: Minutes of the previous meeting were duly approved.
WESTMOUNT ASSOCIATES LAND DEVELOPMENT: Chairman Br011n read a letter
addressed to the Planning Board of the intent of the Westmount
Associates to develop and build 48 houses in the West Hill area on a
tract of land o't-med by James Knapp. The proposed layout T,ras also
shown on an accompanying map . Chairman Brown then read a letter
addressed to the Westmount Associates written by Zoning Officer Thorne,
pointing out the necessary steps to be taken in compliance with
sub-division regulations. These points here discussed by both the
Commissioners and the Westmount Associates in a round table discussion.
It was decided that a topographical survey would be necessary before
the final details could be Trorked out and brought before the Commission
for approval.
PLANNING BOARD BUDGET: Chairman BroTm read the request presented in
1952 for budget estimate needs in 1953• He explained that the work of
a Planning Board is necessarily general and not alvTays predictable
in that the past five years no one had questioned the spending of the
Planning Board, and he felt that all expenditures made had been
necessary ones. In the discussion follo--ring, it was decided to
proceed as previously planned. Zoning Officer Thorne stated that
much of the time he gave to the Planning Board was done on outside
time such as nights and holidays in answer to Alderman 11111rinsons
statement that his duties as Building Commissioner and Assessor should
take his full time.
REGULAR MEETINGS: The need for a regular monthly meeting time was
discussed and a time agreed upon.
Moved by Commissioner Taber; seconded by Commissioner Osborn
RESOLVED, that the regular meeting of the Planning Board shall
be held the second Monday of each month at 4:00 P.M.
Carried
RIGHT OF WAY - CONNECTING ROAD: A sketch of proposed connecting road
leading to the new developments and other possible developments from
Chestnut Street and to give a direct route to West Hill School was
shown by Zoning Officer Thorne. It was felt that the necessary land
should be acquired by the City to make these connections.
Moved by Commissioner Price; seconded by Commissioner Taber
RESOLVED, that mindful of situations in the past where failure to
look ahead has proved costly, and in vieT-r of the imminent development
of areas on West Hill to the north and northwest of the school,
Indicating traffic problems in the not distant future, the Planning
Board have studied this problem, and submit a sketch herewith, which
offers a sensible and fairly economical solution.
We respectfully recommend that this neer street, connecting
Chestnut Street T•rith Westfield Drive and Campbell Avenue to the north,
be laid out, and right-of-tray acquired with the least possible loss
of time. Lots in this area are being sold or offered all the time,
and in faixness to all parties, and safety and long-range economy for
the City, i-re feel that early action should be taken.
Carried
ON MOTION the meeting was adjourned.
Howard J. Sinsabaugh
Deputy Clerk
1bu
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDIhTGS
CITY OF ITHACA,N.Y.
Regular Meeting 4 P.M. October 19, 1953
PRESENT:
Chairman - Brown
Commissioners - Metzgar, Osborn, Dickens, Taber and Gaurnier
Zoning Officer - Thorne
City Engineer - Cass
Chamber of Commerce Representative - L. P. Smith
City Clerk - Blean
MINUTES: Minutes of the preceding meeting were duly approved.
CHESTNUT ST. : Upon request of Chairman Bro,!.rn, Engineer Cass reported
that the Board of Public Works had taken no definite action on the
Planning Board' s recommendation regarding the acquisition of a
right of spray and laying out of a proposed connecting 6treet'between
Chestnut Street and 'Festfield Drive until it is decided hoTr it will
fit into the over-all plans for this area. He explained that, T•rhile
Mr. and Firs. Mord.off T•rould prefer to have such a street in the rear
of their house, they T•rere making reservations for such a right-of-tray
in their plans for the sale of lots in this area. Mfr. Cass reported
that he expected delivery of the topography maps by November 20th.
CAMPBELL AVE. : Mr. Cass reported that the City had started T,rork on
the gravel-basing of Canr,-)bell Avenue as requested by Yr. Paul Taber,
the developer, and that i'r. Taber -,.Tas installing about 1000 feet of
sanitary sewer pipe to service lots in this area.
CIVIC CENTER: Upon request of Chairman Broi-rn, Mr. Thorne reported
progress in the stu:4 being made regarding new and improved recreational
facilities.
BUDGET 1954: Chairman BroT�m presented a proposed i�4,000.00 Planning
Board Budget for 1954 as prepared by Mr. Thorne. He suggested a
general discussion at this time in regard to the budget needs, aims,
objectives and powers of the Planning Board. It T•ras the general
opinion among those present that, 14hile the Planning Roard had been
duly established by the Common Council, and given poioers and duties
as ;prescribed by the General City and Municipal Lav,rs, the Board is
not officially recognized by the Council. Instances T-rere cited where
the Planning Board was ignored in planning matters. It 1•ras also felt
that 'T,Tithout ample budget funds with which to T-Tork very little
planning can be accomplished. The services of a full time City
Planner and a draftsman together T-*ith such other technical or
clerical help as might be necessary T,ras suggested. Chairman Brown
suggested that, if the present Planning Board is not recognized,
some thought be given of recommending to the Council that a Regional
Planning Board, with representation from City, To-TTn, Village and
other adjacent areas, be established and given ample funds with which
to TTork and coordinate planning on a regional basis. The need for a
Planning Board was generally agreed upon but it was the consensus
of opinion that the Present Board must first seek recognition fror:
the Common Council before making any attempt to establish a Regional
Planning Board.
By Commissioner Taber: seconded by Commissioner Osborn
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board request the Common Council for
recognition of the powers and duties as set forth in the General City
Law and General Municipal Law.
Carried
By Commissioner Osborn: seconded by Commissioner 12etzgar
RESOLVED, that the Chairman be authorized to have a proper budget
request prepared to include the services of a full time City Pla.nner,
a draftsman or draftsman together with such other necessary office
and field expenses as may be necessary from time to time to properly
accomplish the aims and objectives of the Planning Board; together
I•Tith a list of projects, in the order of their priority, T-rhich are
noT,r under consideration by said Planning Board.
Carried
It Was agreed that another meeting of the Planning Board be held
on October 31, 1953 to consider the proposed budget request before
its presentation to the Common Council.
AUDIT: Chairman B roT•*n presented Mr. Thorne' s bill in the amount of
u 4.84 for traveling expenses incurred in attending the National
Planning Conference held in Detroit, October 10-15, 1953•
PLANK?IP?G BOARD PROCEEDINGS
Page 2 October 19, 1953
By Commissioner Taber: seconded by Commissioner Osborn
RESOLVED, that the hill as presented be approved and recommended
to the Common Council for as-)»roval P.nd subsequent payment.
Carried
ON IAOTIOIv' the meeting T-Tas adjourned to reconvene October 31, 1953 at
9 A. M.
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
PLANNING BOAR? - ROOXEDINGS .
Adjourned City of Ithaca,'N.Y.
Regular HeetinV g A.?i. ' October 31, 195
PRZSENT:
Chairman - Brown
Commissioners: ketzgar, Taber, Osborn, Dickens, Gaurnier and Price
toning Officer: Thorne Chamber of Commerce Repr. - L. P. Smith
City Engineer - Cass
C Irk : Bbe an
MIS: Minutes of the preceding meeting were duly approved.
BUDGET .. 1954: Chairman Brown read a prepared statement entitled "Future Planning
For The City Of Ithaca", a copy of which is ettached.
After agreement as to the premise taken in the first part of the Chairman' s
statement, the second part entitled "Needed Planning For The City of Ithaca" was
discussed in detail. The Chairman then presented six different proposals for
a budget for the Planning Board for 1954 as foll.:)we:
#1 City Planner $6.000.00
Draftsmen 3,000.00
Office help 10000.00
Total �! $10,000.00
#2 City Planner . 6.000.00
Professional help 1.000.00
Office help 10.,00
Total 590001.00
#3 City Planner 6.000.00
Office help $00.00
Total 6,500.00
#4 Consulting Planner 3.000.00
Office help 900.00
3,500.00
#5 City Planner 4,500.00
Consultant 11200.00
Office help $00.00
Total 6,500.00
#6 City Planner 4,400.00
Consultant & draftsman 2,000.00
Office help
Total 7,200.00
All six plans were discussed and #6 *was approved as a basis for submitting
a budget for 1954.
By Commissioner Uetzgar: seconded by Commissioner Price
RESOLVED, that the statement prepared and submitted by Chairman Brown be
accepted and approved; and that a Planning Board budget for the year 1954,
In accordance with proposal #6 as outlined above in the total amount of
$7,200.00, be and hereby is approved and ordered filed with the Common Council
for approval.
Carried
Chairman Brown was commended for his work in this matter.
ON MOTION the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. BUan
City Clerk
October 30, 1953
FUTURE PLANNING FOR THE CITY OF ITHACA
The city of Ithaca for many years has had a Planning Commission, and
in late years the Common Council under New York State law established an of-
ficial Planning Board. Down through the years more has been accomplished
than the average citizen realizes. But projects such as the planning of
Stewart Park, the Municipal Golf Course, and the Municipal Airport, have by
now almost been taken for granted. Furthermore, Ithaca, unlike many cities
of its size, has had a strong zoning ordinance, which has been brought up to
date within the past few years by this Board. There have been many instances
of the influence of these Planning Bodies, but seldom have the citizens recog-
nized this long-range planning effort. Recently, however, both the Press and
the Radio have publicized the activities of this Board, which has helped con-
siderably in obtaining favorable reaction on the part of the public.
But there comes a time, and I believe it is now here, when future
planning for the city of Ithaca becomes not only increasingly important, but
actually r
ne�essay . In this small city where citizens, regardless of partisan
politics, ,~aitch in to do a community service, there is not only a real interest,
but a willingness to serve on city boards and committees. This fact is one of
the things that makes Ithaca a prosperous and progressive community.
However, during the last few years this very commendable action has
tended toward groups of laymen assuming some of the duties and responsibilities
in the field of planning, traffic control, and urban expansion. The activities
of these citizen-groups have accomplished much for Ithaca, even though it repre-
sents many hours of labor and time gladly given. But, there is still a lack of
professional direction of fundamental research to bring about a fulfillment of
the objectives.
- 2 -
We as a Board have to a great degree been no different. We have, per-
haps, realized the planning job to be done for Ithaca, but still we are laymen
and not professionals. Like other boards and committees, we have shown a will-
ingness to work for the betterment of Ithaca, but we are severely handicapped
by the lack of a sufficient budget to provide for necessary research and full-
time professional help. An editorial in the "Ithaca Journal", October 30,1953,
points out this fact, as a need to be recognized by Ithacans.
I'm sure, after meeting with you for several years, that all of you are
forwaxd looking in your thinking, and fully realize the need for a major step
in the Winning development in this city.
Ithaca is fortunate in having a capable and efficient staff of experts
in all branches of its government. But, planning, which is so important to
the future of this city, has had to rely on the part-time and extra hours of
an already over-worked and extremely capable official. It is hardly fair to
him, or to this Board, or to the citizens of Ithaca, that we continue as we
are, without the services of a full-time Director of Fcanning and an inadequate
budget.
If we are in agreement as to the premise taken above, I would like to
go over with you some of the jajEBRing problems that are facing us today. Some
of this work has been started and not completed, some of it has been taken
over by other Boards and Committees (perhaps justly so, because of lack of
activity of this Board) , and finally, there are necessary ulanniprojects
that have not even been considered for action, because of ladle of professional
help and sufficient money to carry the project to completion.
Here are some of the immediate -Plannin needs for this city, letrs
discuss them fully, before we decide on a budget request to the Common Council.
I
V - 3 - �/
NEIDED PLANNING FOR THE CITY OF ITHACA
I Population Research
A. Distribution of population
B. Forecast of population trends
C. Mapping and graphing of this information
II Master Plan
A. Business district planning
1. Parking
2., Shopping habits
(a) Central business section
(b) In city neighborhood shopping areas
(c) Relation to out-of.-city shopping areas
3: Analysis of business zoning
1� Appearance of business district
5. Conformity of traffic signs
6. Planning of rear store delivery
(a) Recommend land acquisition for through alleys
7. Public transportstian
B. Arterial routes
1. Thorough study of effect on business district
2. Planning of adjacent streets and areas
3. Cooperation and laison with BPW to obtain action on routes
�}. Acquaint public and business men with the advantages
C. Development of West Hill and similar areas
1. Immediate completion of topographical maps
2. Complete street plans
3: Work with subdivision openers to conform plans
1} Get plans on official map
D. Recreational area studies
1. Determine needs from population studies
2. Locate future play areas in relation to population needs
Study needs of social organizations immediately
Determine need and location for:
(a) Swimming pool, Indoor and outdoor
(b) Indoor sports housing
(c) Outdoor facilities
E. Housing conditions
1. Mapping of sub-standard areas
2. Plan upgrading of areas, or relocation of families
3. Continued revision of zoning in relation to better housing
F. Future Industrial Sites
1. Closer cooperation between Chamber of Commerce,
Ithaca Enterprizes, the Mayor' s Industrial Committee,
and similar groups and the Board
2. Type of industry and its effect on:
(a) Economy of city
(b) Housing
(c) Traffic
3. Zoning and location of similar and related industries
G. Public Buildings
1. Determine need and priority of:
(a) City hall
(b) Library
(c) Recreational buildings
(d) War Memorial
(e) Convention facilities
(f) Public schools
(g) Armory
(h) Other buildings
2. Locate these buildings in relation to:
(a) Population distribution and growth
(b) Parking and transportation
(c) Conformity of good architectural design
3. Capital budget planning for their construction
III Ca-pital Budget
A. Recommend long term capital budget for all municipal capital
improvements.
1. Obtain cooperation and confidence of Common Council &
BPP that Planning Board can prepare and recommend this
budget.
2. Establish and recommend priorities of capital improvements
3. Acquaint public with needs and benefits of these improve-
ments
IV Official Map
A. Prepare and recommend official map of city for adoption of
Common Council in accordance with General Cities Law.
B. Locate and establish arterial routes
C. Locate and establish new streets in new subdivision areas
D. Keep map constantly up to date
V Guidance of Private DeveloVment
A. Keep abreast of careful zoning
B. Obtain firm subdivision control through proper ordinances
C. Patch upgrading or downgrading of areas and apply necessary action
D. Insist on conformity to zoning and subdivision ordinances.
1. Suggest to Board of Zoning Appeals careful consideration of
non-conformity to ordinances and that they suggest to us changes
in zoning laws needed to strengthen their jurisdiction
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VI Greater Ithaca
A. Study existing data in relation to city planning
B. Study effects of outadde planning on Ithaca
1. Arterial and through routes
2. Nater and sewer connections in relation to capital
budget
3. Fire and police protection
4. School consolidation
5. Suburban shopping areas effect on business district
IMPORTANT: Further planning of a Greater Ithaca cannot legally be
accomplished by a city Planning Board. A Regional Planning Board
with proper delegated authority, professional help and a budget can
fulfill and hasten this objective. This Planning Board can by its
own activity provide the incentive for such a Regional Board to be
formed.. Thus, it behooves us, for the good of this city and Greater
Ithaca, to someway convince the Common Council of the urgent need
for full—time and continued planning for the future.
Respectfully submitted for your consideration,
H. Stilwell Brown., Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA PLAIMING BOARD
PLANNING BOARD PHOCEEL INGS
rieKular Fleeting 4:00 P.M. Aovember 9, 1953
PLESEA11
Chairman Brown
Commissioner - Dickens
Ch9mber of Comm. Representative L. P. Sm ith
City Engineer - Cass
Clerk - Blean
Due to lack of a quorum the .meeting was adjourned.
Regular Meeting 4:00 PJ'... December 14, 1953
PRESENT :
Commissioners. - Osborn, hetzgar, 'Taber, Gaurnier and Price
Chamber of Comm. hepresentative - L. P. Smith
Engineer - Cass
Clerk - Blean
In the absence of Chairman Brown, who was at a Common Council
Finance Committee meeting relative to a proposed budget for the
Planning Board for 1954, Commissioner Osborn presided.
MINUTES: Minutes of the last regular meeting held October 31 , 1953 '
were duly approved.
.UBDIVISION RULES: Commissioner Osborn reported that the subdivision
rules had been approved by the Council and are now in effect.
_ 'TOPOGRAPHICAL MAPS - WEST HILL AREA: Engineer Cass reported that all
of the topographical maps for the West Hill area 'have been received.
He presented aerial and topographical maps of this section for the
Commissioners' study. He called attention to about seven distinct
real estate developments in this area where the owners contemplate
work early in 1954. He explained that considerable engineering work
remains to be done to solve problems relating to roadways and water
a,nd sewer mains to serve the area. He foresaw one or two right-of-
way ,problems. A suggestion of Commissioner Gaurnier that all West
Hill property owners be invited to attend a future Planning Board
meeting to discuss and help solve any problems that may arise as a
result of preparing a master plan for this section was endorsed by
those present.
By Commissioner Gaurnier: seconded by Commissioner Price
RESOLVED, that the payment to Robinson Aerial Surveys , Inc. in the
amount of 41,840.00 for the topographical maps be approved.
Carried
ON MOTION the meeting was adjourned.
Ueo. A. Aean"/
City Clerk
,t
Plan
ers Ash
More Funds
FoirNext Year
The Planning Board today re-
quisitioned the Common Coun-
cil for,;$7,200 next year for the
salary of a,-full-time planner,
consultation and drafting fees,
and office expenses.
The budget request was ac-
companied by a lengthy ,report
emphasizing ;an immediate need
for more planning. -Signed .by
Chairman H. Stilwell'Brown, the
report stated, "There has come
a time when future planning for
the City of Ithaca is not only in-
creasingly important, but actual-
ly necessary." '
Board members approved ask-
ing the Council for $4,400, the
planner's salary; $2,000 for con-
sultatiori and drafting�and $800
for office supplies. This requisi-
tion .is' $3,400 more than the
council budget for the board this
year. The board has spent only
$2,500 of the $3,2800 allocated.
Several proposed b u d g e t s
ranging;from $3,800 to '$10,000
were discussed,before the board
settled on the $7,200 as "an
amount actually:needed." It was
emphasized that the commission
ersare not submitting a figure
with a thought'. to subsequent
negotiations butare ready Jo
justify` a need for the specific
amount designated.
Cited as immediate" planning
needs are a population research,
master plan, capital budget, of-
ficial map, guidance of private
developments and "Greater Ith-.
aca." As for the last, the board
noted that authority to do some-
thing in that direction would de--
pend on the creation of •a re-
gional planning'board.
In• discussing the master plan;
4e board talked of business dis
I*iet planning that would in-
volve studies of parking, shop-
p�ng habits deliveries at the rear
of :business establishemnts, ar-
trial routes, development of
such areas as West Hill and the
Titus Flats, recreational area
studies, housing, future indus-
trial sites and public buildings.
The board's capital budget pro-
posal
ro posal ties in with the master'
plan in that long-term financing
vouid be considered in connec .1
_,,on with the major undertak-`'
ings.
PLANNING BOAZ PROCESDIMS
CITY OF ITHACA 99-Y.
Executive Session 4:00 P.M. Janus^ry 4, 1954
PRESENT:
Chairman - Brown
Commissioners - Metzgar, Dickens, Gaurnier, Osborn, Price and Taber
Aldermen - Wilkinson and Connolly
M-)yor - Cook
Assessor & Bldg. Commr.and Zoning Officer —Thorne
Clerk - Blean
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING: While in executive session before the Mayor, Aldermen and
Nir. Thorne entered the meeting,discussion took plpce relative to the working out
of plans and detlils for the appointment of Mr. Thorne as Director of Planning
and at the sme time have him continue as Assessor until July 1, 1954. It was
agreed that Mr. Thorne was the choice of members of the Planning Board for the
position if details can be worked out satisfactorily. Mr. Thorne entered the .
meeting at this time and Chairman Brown explained all the details as discussed
during the executive session, and pointed out that everything was subject to
Council Approval. fi;r. Thorne accepted.
By Commissioner Gaurnier: seconded by Commissioner Osborn
WWREAS, after careful consideration of all aspects of the problems of Planning,
R,,! it is the unanimous opinion of members of the Planning Board that the services of
' a full-time Director of Planning is urgently needed to best serve the interest
of the citizens of the City of Ithaca,
NOW THE'REFOFT BE IT RESOLVED,- that the Common Council be and hereby is requested
to create the position of Director of Planning, ^t an annual base salary of
$6,500.00; and that the position be declared in the exempt group of employees
under the Civil Service Rules of the City; and that the term of office be for
three years, with appointment by the Planning Board.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council be requested to amend the salary
schedule accordingly. Motion Carried
By Commissioner Metzgar: seconded by Commissioner Price
RESOLVED, that, upon creation of the position of Director of Planning by the
Common Council, Henry C. Thorne be appointed Director of Planning for the City
of Ithaca for term of three years at an annual base salary of $6,500.00, and
that the salary as Director of Planning take effect as of July 1, 1954.
Carried
By Commissioner Osborn: seconded by Commissioner Nettgar
WHEREAS, the services of a full-time Director of Planning will not be available
to the Planning Board until July 1, 1954,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Planning Board hereby respectfully
request the Common Council that an amount up to $3,000.00 of the 'tentative budget
for 1954 be earmarked for extra professional help to expedite and immediately
complete the development plan for West Hill..
Carried
OF MOTIF.! the meeting was adjourned. �!
4i
Geo. A Biean
City Clerk
164