HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-PDB-1956 f PLANNING} BOARD PROCEEDINGS
f, CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
E Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m. January 9, 1956
I
P17S NT:
Mayor - Ryan
t Commissioners - Mrs. Agda Osborn, B.W. Taber, 14m. M. Egan, John W. Reps, James D.
Murphy and Mrs, Catherine S. Fabbricatore
j Chamber of Comm. Rep. - Richard Gram
Director of Planning - Thorne
Engineer - Cass
Clerk - Blean
Fars. Osborn, Chairman of the Board during the past year, introduced tics.
#.catore whom she announced had been named as Chairman by the Mayor to succeed
irk `1�Ira. Fabbricatore then called the meeting to order and presided as Chairman.
i
` Minutes of the last regular meeting and the special meetings held on
Dai ..19th and 28th were duly approved.
,��,Q 1 �+N,Q9 ANS: Harold E. Simpson, Attorney for the N.Y. Telephone Co. ;
appeared end renewed a request that action be taken to amend Section 5, Article VII
Of the-Zoning Ordinance to permit the Telephone Co. to make full use of its property
on N. Tioga St. for building purposes without having to provide the off-street park
ing ,space now required by this section. He predicted that by 1958 the present build-
ing w ll have to be enlarged to meet increasing demands and argued that, since the
baling is not an office building, the Telephone Co. should be permitted to extend
04b iilding over the entire site. He noted that plans are now under way to provide
quaere for the Company's business office at another location and urged relief from
the . sent requirements of the ordinance on the grounds that this is an exigency
axid_that granting of the relief requested will not adversely affect general planning
fob the ,City. An engineering representative of the Company who was present esti-
mated that eighty employees, mostly telephone operators and service exployees will
evrentually occupy the building over a twenty-four hour period but not more than
forty"at one time.
It was pointed out that this matter has already received considerable study by a
special committee of the Board. Comm. Peps urged a comprehensive review of the en-
tire Zoning Ordinance to include this section and suggested that the Committee be
parapeted to report on this section at an early date if it feels it is important
e h to warrant its being changed. The Chairman appointed Commissioners Egan
&W-'Reps to, serve with B:1. Taber on this special committee.
p ",DIRECTOR'S Director Thorne reviewed the work, of the present and
paid �-Ianning Boards and cited improvements at Stewart Park, Golf Course, Airport,
Borgholtz Tract, seater Shed and Six Mile Creek, as being the result of plarming
st,6its. He;noted the adoption of the present zoning ordinance in 1950 which was
the result of.-: long planning studies, the major street plan for West Hill, exten-
sion of Grandview Avenue on South Hill and approval of many subdivision layouts
Wh3.ch',have added several hundred thousand collars of assessed valuation to the tax
Ptt3.1.
JAI _SUBD=ION: The Clerk read a letter from Paul Taber announcing his in-
tention of increasing the size of lots "V and 11P as shown on a map of 111r1EST INT
SUBDIVISION" approved by this Board on May 16, 1955. He sought official approval
of the change indicated.
Coags. Reps expressed the opinion that no official approval of the Planning Board is
necessary and that lir. Taber is within his rights in changing the lots if he so
desires.
By Corm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board offers no objection to the change -,in lot size as
indicated by Mr. Taber. Carried,
Z= CRAW-F, - E. BU_FFALQ__S=: The Clerk reported that a petition had been pre-
sented to the Common Council for a zone change from A-residential to commercial in
the 300 block of East Buffalo Street which will permit the property at 312 E.
Buffalo Street to be used for commercial purposes. Robert Reed Colbert, the peti-
tioner, indicated that he intends to purchase this property and erecta one-story
masonry and steel office building thereon estimated to cost `,100,000, if it can be
re-zoned to permit such use.
By Comm. F.ePs: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the Fleck be authorized to advertise a public hearing on this peti-
tion to be held at the next regular meeting of the Planning Board -on Feb. 13, 1956.
Carried.
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204
W. STATE<a=R.,R. MS29 The Clerk r eported tha�l the Cowwri Council "had re-
ceived complaints concerning the low periods of time that traffic is being, dela
at the railroad crossing on W. State St and that it bad referred this matter to the
Planning Board for study and reoonr<dendat on. The Chairman referred it to the Direc-
tor of Planning for his recommendation.
SALARX_ - 2]A&= OF G: Com.. Osborn eacpressed her concern over recent
action taken by the Common Council in reducing the salary of the Director of Pbm-
ning from $7,000 to $b,000. She called attention to Mr. �'s years of faithful
service to the City, many in dual capacities and at a very, nbldnal rate. She exill.
pressed her opinion that Mr. `Thorne has always given fullsmlue for the salary paid
him and that the reduction in salary at this time is not justified.
By Comm. Osborn: seconded by Com. Taber
'� that the Mayor be requested to call a special meeting of the Comm C6uncil'
to reconsider it's action taken in regard to Mr. Thorne's salary and that this Board
reconrantd that it .be re-established at $7,000•
Covin. Egan suggested that the Council can reconsider this matter without the;necessity
a special meeting. Comm. Reps`'suggested that a special cotmi ttee of the Board
be estarbli:shed to work a detailed work program for the coming year for the Hoard,
ccaplate with the technical staff required to carry out such a program and present
it to. the Common Council with a revised budget requisition, He stated that he be-,
U&iod the job of Director of Planning is worth $7,000 but that he felt this is a
better-method of presenting it to the Council. He recommended that this be done
poor to`the next regular meeting of the Council.
' Qow. Osborn declined to withdraw her motion and a roll call vote was taken on it
4 -4 resulted as follows:
Ams 2 Osborn, B.W. Taber
WS: 3 Egan, Reps, Murphy Motion lost
Thy Win. `Reps: seconded by Comm. ;Egan
AESOLVEO that the Chairman be directed to appoint a committee to draft a recommend•
did work program outlining a techAcal staff needed, their duties and salaries to
ba imIuded therein; and that this committee present its report and recommendation
zt
. a special meting of the Planning Boafd to be called by the Chairman prig to
e `regular meeting of the Common Council. -
Carried.
The, datefor this special meeting was set for Jan. 30, 1956 at 4:00 p m. and the
! ;appointed Commissioners Reps, Osborn and Murphy to act as a Committee in
L,IASION: Comm. Reps recommended establishing a liasion with the new Toa
` tics Planning Board and Ithaca'a Board of Education.
+ owl* Reps,_ seconded by Can. Osborn
that the,Chairmaan be directed to contact the Chairman of the Ithaca Tnwr
P i* Board and initiate discussions of liasion relations between the two
bpa�ds which may lead to the possible future establishment of a greater Ithaca
Federation eligible for 5M State and Federal assistance; and that the
ltilia� be directed also to contact the Chairman of the Ithaca School'Board in .
lax' effort Carried. .
.. T • Comm. Reps reported that Federal'and, State
' ► to cities to t Federal aid is available
• Conn. Reps reported the
la: inf; =ban renewal projects. He also stated that
0", ties for P metropolitan cr rep.onal
F' `a7- aid up to 5 is available to meti�ep
encs es and recc ended that thtse avenuss of aid be explored.
plann3.ng
-** 4' . that .the or of Pang'be authorized and directed "to raarite Fedsr�:
" adng officials and request thein to meet with Ittiacas Pla=ningBoard,.
K,t ' earliest mmen ence and explain hcw Ithaca may become eligitale for Fed"I
andtote aid under the Urban Renewal and Urban Assistance Programs.
Carried.
' 1UFt: The Chairman noted that the Common Council Chambers will be available
for mewetinrgs .of the Planning Board and suggested that action be taken at'thi:s time
to set the time and place formeetix*s of the Board for the coming year.
ay".0Egan: seconded by Cam. Reps
1 Me that regular meetings of the Planning Bow be continued on.the s.eccnd
Monday of each month at 4:00 p.m., and that the eti gs be held In the
Cecil Chambers located' at City-"X13.«. Carried.
" motion the meeting was ad jam;,
dao. "A� '
a'\
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
Special Meeting 4:00 P.M. January 30, 1956
PRESENT:
Chairman - Fabbricatore Attorney - Lee
%ayor - Ryan Director of Planning - Thorne
Commissioners - Osborn, Murphy, Reps, Egan Engineer - Cass
Aldermen - Sullivfn,, Johnson Clerk - Blean
BUDGET, STAFF, PROGRAM: Chairman Fabbricatore announced that this Special meeting
had been called to hear a committee report relating to a proposed work program, budget,
and staff required for the Planning Board. She called upon Comm. Reps who presented
and distributed, and reviewed in detail a lengthy report covering these items.
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the report as presented be accepted and approved.
Conn. Osborn suggested that the salary of the Director for the year 1956 be discussed
as recommended in the report. Comm. Egan commended the committee on the comprehensive
report rendered, Notion Carried.
Comm. Egan offered a motion that the 'Judget as contained in the report be filed with
the Council with a letter of transmittal asking the Finance Committee of the Council
to meet with members of the Planning Board at its earliest convenience to consider
same. During the discussion which ensued he later withdrew his motion.
'Comm. Osborn again urged a discussion of the Directors salary for 1956 and she moved
that salary of the Director for 1956 be set at $7,000 the same as paid in 1955. There
was no second to her motion and it was declared lost for lack of a second. Comm. Reps
stated that due to the lack of job specifications for the position of Director it is
difficult to approve a salary at more than the minimum for the position. Comm. Osborr
called attention to Mr, Thorne's years of service in the field of planning and expres-
sed her opinion that a reduction in salary in his case is not justified.
On suggestion of Comm. Reps the budget as contained in the report was referred to the
Council for consideration with an expressed willingness on the part of the Planning
Poard to meet with the Finance or any other Committee of the Council to 1-Thom it may be
-eferred. Considerable discussion ensued relating to the delay in calling for a civi-,
•arvice examination for the position of Director and as to the length of time before
_ze can be arranged. Attorney Lee expressed his opinion that it T•►ould take a minimum
,f six weeks to have one prepared by the State Civil Service Dept. and suggested that
.,he Civil Service Comm. be requested to explore the possibility of arranging an exam-
ination locally.
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. 'Ieps
RESOLVED, that the Chairman be auuhorized to appoint a committee to draw up job speci-
fications for the positions of Director of Planning and Associate Planner; and that
the Civil Service Commission be requested to prepare examinations and advertise for
same as soon as possible. Carried.
Attorney Lee suggested that if the Civil Service Commission is provided with the nece-
sary funds it may be possible to expedite the holding of these examinations by having
them prepared locally.
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. riurphy
'RESOLVED, that the Planning Board request the Common Council to provide the Civil Ser-
-ice Commission with sufficient funds to prepare these examinations locally if neces-
ary to expedite the procedure. Carried.
M&NDED: By Comm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Osborn
ESOLVED, that page 7 of the report as approved be amended by changing the title Ster-
grapher to Senior Typist. Carried.
0"0 =T - TRANSFER TO PLAIWING BOARD: Comm. Reps recommended that action be
taken to authorize the transfer of Miss Crysler, formerly a senior typist in the office
of the City Assessor, to the position of Senior Typist for the Planning Boarr1.
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Corms. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board approve Miss Cryslerts transfer from the tssessorts
office 'to the Planning Board as Senior Typist; and that the Civil Service Commission
be requested to approve such transfer. Carried.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. B1ean
City Clerk
N`�V
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
i
Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m. February 13, 1956
PR,9EW:
Chairman - Fabbricatore
Mayor - Ryan
Commissioners - Osborn, Paul Taber, Reps, Egan, hurphy
Chamber of Commerce Rep. - Gram
Alderman - Johnson
Attorney - Lee
Director of Planning - Thorne
Clerk - Blean
MINUTES: Comm. Reps requested that his report under the caption "Planning Assis-
tance" as recorded in the minutes of the meeting dated Jan. 9, 1956 be corrected
to read as follows:
PLS ASSISTANCE: Comm. Reps reported that Federal Aid is available to cities
for planning urban renewal projects. He also stated that Federal aid up to 50% is
available to metropolitan or regional planning agencies and recommended that these
avenues of aid be explored.
This correction was ordered and it was moved by Comm. Egan, seconded by Comm.
Murphy and carried that the minutes of Jan. 9th, as corrected, and the minutes of
the special meeting held Jan. 30th be approved.
ZONE CHANGE --E. BUFFALO STREET: Chairman Fabbricatore opened the public hearing
advertised for this time regarding a petition for a zone change from A-residential
to commercial in the 300 block of East Buffalo Street to permit the erection of an
office building at 312 E, Buffalo Street. Opposing the requested change were Mr.
Leonard Liberman, 310 E. Buffalo Street, Dr. Job, President of Ithaca College, and
`'Ir. James Buyoucos of 417 E. Buffalo Street who spoke also on behalf of Mrs. Braun- :
of 414 E. Buffalo Street. Dr. Job reported that Ithaca College has long range pla: .
for the development of its property on the east side of Buffalo Street and that to
change the zone in the 300 block to permit commercial use therein would seriously
detract from the plans of the College in this respect. Mr. Buyoucos opposed it on
the basis of spot zoning and he predicted it would aggravate the already serious
parking problem on this street.
Chairman Fabbricatore closed the hearing and it was moved by Comm. Osborn, seconded
by Comm, Egan and carried that the petition be referred to a committee to be named
by the Chairman for study and report back to the Board.
Carried.
ZONING ORDIN"CE AMENDMENT: Mr. Harold Simpson, Attorney for the N.Y. Telephone
Company, again appeared and inquired if the Board is ready to take action to amend
the zoning ordinance which will permit the Telephone Co. to make full use of its
property on N. Tioga Street for building purposes. He was informed that the Chair-
.,tan of the Committee investigating this matter is absent and no report is ready a,
this time.
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT - BD. OF APPEALS: The Clerk read the following proposed
amendment to the Zoning Ordinance:
Article XII - Board of Zoning Appeals
Section 1. Organization of Board of Appeals. The Board of Zoning Appeals shall
consist of six members, as provided in Section 81 of the General City Law. The
Board as now constituted shall continue as such Board under this Ordinance, and
vacancies occuring therein shall be filled as provided in said Section 81. The
Board at its first regular meeting each year shall elect one of its own members as
Chairman. In the absence of the Chairman at any meeting the Board shall choose an
Acting Chairman for that meeting.
He reported that it had been referred to this Board by the Common Council for re-
commendation.
By Comm. Paul Taber: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that the Clerk be directed to advertise a public hearing to be held at
the next regular meeting of this Board on March 12, 1956 regarding this proposed
change. Carried.
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February 13, 1956
F.Y.S. UJ==ON OF PLANNING: The Clerk presented an invoice in the amount of
'30.00 from the N.Y.S. Federation of Planning for membership for the year 1956.
By Comm. Osborn; seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that membership in the N.Y.S. Federation of Official Planning Boards be
continued by this Board and that the invoice as presented be approved for payment.
Carried.
DUTIES IFIC IONS DIRECTOR OF EIAMMG_ CIATEThe Clerk re-
ported that he had notified the Civil Service Commission of this Boardts desire to
have examinations for the positions of Director of Planning and Associate Planner
prepared locally if possible. He further reported that the Civil Service Commiss-
ion has advised that as soon as specifications for the positions are received,
action will be taken toward their adoption and the most feasible examination pro-
cedure.
In this connection Chairman Fabbricatore announced that she had appointed Comm. Egan,
Paul Taber and Reps as a committee to prepare specifications. Comm. Egan, Chairman
of this committee, read a proposed statement of duties and qualifications for the
position of Director of Planning.
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the proposed statement of duties and qualifications for the position
of Planning Director be approved and adopted.
Carried.
Comm. Egan then presented and read a similar statement for the position of Associate
Planner.
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. RIurphy
RESOLVED, that the statement of duties and qualifications for the position of
Associate Planner be approved and adopted, and submitted to the Civil Service Com-
mission for approval pending provision of funds in the budget for such position.
(Copies of both statements are filed with the original minutes) Carried.
,UBLIC RELATIONS COMTITTED: Comm. Reps expressed his concern regarding a statement.
:blished in the Ithaca Journal on Feb. 2, 1956 released by the Director of Plannir
iving his views concerning the role and need for planning in Ithaca. He suggeste,
Lhat publicity bordering on policy statements of the Board should first be cleared
through the Board, its Chairman, or a proper committee on public relations. Ituas
pointed out that such a committee was appointed by the Board on June 20, 1955, but
that this committee is not operating at the present time since two of its members
are no longer Board members. Comm. Paul Taber, the remaining members, noted that
several meetings had been held while the committee functioned.
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Egan
REESOLVED, that the Chairman of the Boarl be authorized to appoint a Public Relations
Committee. Carried.
In this connection Director Thorne explained that he had tried to reach Mir. Taber
on two or three different occasions relative to his statement but was unable to do
so because Mr. Taber was in Florida. He further commented that his statement had
' sen left with the Press for at least a week or more before it was published.
�'LANNING ASSISTANCE: On recommendation of Comm. Reps, Chairman Fabbricatore direc-
;ed Mr. Thorne to follow up his correspondence with Federal and State Planning
3fficials regarding aid in planning for Ithaca.
PLANNING L A . c",s: Chairman Fabbricatore reported she had written Town Planning
Officials and the Board of Education as requested at the last meeting but that she
has not heard from either group yet.
ARTERIAL ROUTES: Comm. Reps recommended that the Board re-examine the arterial
routes proposed for the City with a view to changes which may be necessary or as
to the priority of its different phases. He called attention to the proposal of a
new High School on the High School athletic field and the proposed transfer of
Biggs Hospital to the County, both of which may have some effect on priority. He
stated that the Board should take the initiative to make recommendations on arterial
routes to the State rather than wait for the State to decide what is best for
j Ithaca. He told Board members that Prof. Emeritus H.W. Riley of the Cornell Agri-
cultural Engineering Department has prepared a map showing all of the proposed
suggestions regarding route f96 and suggested that Prof. Riley be invited to present
his findings to the Board.
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that Prof. Riley be invited to attend the next meeting of the Planning
Board and present his map for a discussion of this matter; and that his appearance
at this time be made a special order of business of the Board.
Carried.
e
n
OR
7
"w ible for organising and acting an effective planning program
f 'A0 city and metropolitan area under the polio* direction of the city
PUbTAng Board.
U' =.SSSOF WI�IRI
Attends all meetings of Planning Board and advises Board on technical
matters. Supervises and directs professional and sub,-professional staff
in preparation of plans for municipal improvements. Participates in teahni-
cal planning studies dealing with land use, population, transportation facili-
ties, recreation areas, schools, utility services and other elements of the
comprehensive community plan. Prepar-s or supervises the preparation of urban
renewal and capital improvement programs. Prepares technical reports and re-
view and revises reports submitted by subordinates. Carries out public re-
_� la°Ejona.progJr&m, to acquej t aitisene with planning program. Confers with local
fiele' erg eaS°�h representatives of other ,units: of government on problems
of mutual concern,
TTRBA FNS—4L- DQE SI AI�t ABILIT L
Thorough knowledge of the principles and techniques of city and regional
Planning. Ability to plan and direct the Work of the staff. Understanding
of research methods and, techniques required in urban planning. Ability to
prepare clear, accurage reports. Capacity to present planning ideas and
proposals simply and forcefully, and to arrange and conduct meetings, hearings
and discussion groups. Ability to establish and maintain effective working
relationships with associates, subordinates -nd the public. The position calls
for a person with imagination, tact, enthusiasm, good judgment and the ability
to cooperate with other officials.
ACO�PPABI� TRAINING M MEEMIIEWCE
(a) Graduation from a recognised college or university with a
Bachelor's degree in city or regional planning, architecture, engineering,
administration, government, geography or economics. Four years of full-
time experience in municipal or Bounty planning, or
(b) Completion of a university program leading to a Master's degree
in city or regional planning. Two years of fully-time experience in municipal
or County planning, or
(c) An eruivalent oo i3s t, on of-�w4: exper:Lqp" "
1, n,
In
iris ' VIU Wtan
programs. Experience with regional or metropolitan planning a ency•
Ex-
perience in suburban planning problems. Member or Associate Member of American
Institute of Planners.
'a'� � !' www.-„t:�. •� � .y>r s 'y�'< ” de ?y r o� -rM r` + '�'°�'�`a.: �+ .�-^" y„ �4r, ��I..: ..- r�'wV aC
IIffier Ileneral direction of Planning Director carries out research
or dosi gn studies as part of the community planning programs of the
Planning office.
us=.NUAW .W
Prepares studies cid' papulation, land use, housing, traffic, recreation,.
schools, parking public buildings, utilities and other elements of that *ort.
prebeaasive development plan. Analyzes existing conditions and prepare# plans
for Improvements. Prepares sketches, designs, reaps and reports to support.
recommendations. Makes field surveys and inspections of areas under study.
lxw dx*o subdivision plate subwdtted to Planning Board for approval and re..
parts on needed changes in subdivision design. Studies and reports on pro-
posed zoning changes submitted to the Planning Boa#d. Gonfers with staff
members of other departments on subjects of matual concern. Assists P3ammng
Director in his duties. 'May supervise draftsman and Planning Assistants in
preparing studies and plans.
Inowledge of the prinsiples and techniques of city and regional planning.
Ability to organize and conduct physical planning or planning research studies.
A working knowledge of zoning and subdivision prinieples and requirements.
Ability to prepare sketches, maps and designs for use in reports or public
presentation. Xhowledge of municipal finance and capital budget procedures.
Ability in oral and written-presentation of planning ideas. Understanding of
the legal basis for zoning. subdivision regulations and other regulatory •
controls and their administration.
"=A= LRAZING AND KVWJ=
(a) Graduation from a recognized college or University with a
Bachelor's degree in architecture. engineering, government.' geograpby or
eeonw ics. Two years of full-time experience in municipal or county plan.-
ning, or
(b) Graduation from a recognized college it university with a
Bachelor's degree in city or regional planning. One year of full-time
Bey ew Jn s ni.cipal or county planning, or
A utafversity program leading to a Ma seer t s +des °
rsgoael 1paiwft
;. or a lter'a degree in public
y In planning.,„ W m
_ 3 _
February 13, 1956
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. Osborn
RESOLVED, that an invitation be tendered members of the Planning Board off' the
Town of Ithaca and to the Superintendent of Public 'rlorks to attend this meeting also.
Carried.
OFF STREET PARK=: Upon inquiry by Comm. Reps, Director Thorne reviewed briefly
the work being undertaken under his supervision. When asked by Comm. Reps regard-
ing the proposed site for off-street parking at the corner of Seneca and Aurora
Streets Director Thorne noted that this Board had recommended the site as a good
location but had taken-no action•as to whether it should be of a public or private
nature or whether open ramp type,or other type of parking should be provided.
During the ensuing discussion Director Thorne advised that he can have a recommen-
dation regarding two proposed off-street parking sites ready for presentation at
the next meeting.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
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PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m. March 12, 1956
PRESEFT:
Chairman - Fabbricatore
Commissioners - Osborn, Paul Taber, Murphy, Egan, Reps
Mayor - Ryan
Attorney - Lee Tawe of It ca PIgnningBd. 1 mbers
Director of PlanningThorne
Engineer - Cass - Prof. E.B. +�Tatson
Richard Gram
Supt. of Pub. Wks. - Laverty
Clerk - Blean
Prof. Emeritus H.W. Riley
MINUTES: Minutes of the preceding meeting were duly approved.
PUBLIC HEARIIW - ZONING OPDINAICE- g : Chairman Fabbricatore announced that
a public hddring had been duly advertised for this time regarding a proposed amend-
ment to the Article XII of the zoning ordinance giving the Bd. of Soning Appeals
the power to elect its own chairman.
No one appeared to be heard on this subject.
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. Osborn
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board recommends to the Common Council that Article XII
of the Zoning Ordinance be amended in this respect as proposed by the Council.
Carried.
A TERIAL ROUTES: Upon invitation, H.W. Riley, Prof. Emeritus of Cornell University,
Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, appeared to exhibit, review and compare his idea.-
with
dea.with all other proposals received to date for arterial routes entering the city
which are designed to re-route heavy truck traffic away from hill streets. After
being welcomed by Chairman Fabbricatore, and in turn, thanking the Board for grant-
ing him this opportunity to present his views in these matters, Prof. Riley review-
ed his exhibit which included a topographical map of Ithaca and surrounding areas
showing, and bringing together for the first time. a total of eight proposals, in-
cluding his own, for the relocation of state highways entering Ithaca, together
With his own scale model creation of a proposed traffic separation pian designed to
utilize the two unused spans beneath the present route 13 overpass on the Elmira
Rd. over Cayuga Inlet and the L.V. RR Co. tracks. In addition he presented and
distributed photographs of the map and model to each member of the Board. In doing �
this he acknowledged his indebtedness to the Ithaca Journal staff for the photo-
graphy work.
Chairman Fabbricatore thanked Prof. Riley for snaking this information available to
the Board and Comm. Reps suggested that the Planning Board, in cooperation with
local Town Boards affected take steps to agree in general on a concrete proposal in
this matter for recommendation to the State. He predicted that if such an agree-
ment can be reached between the city and towns, District Engineer William Robinson
of Syracuse will find it much easier to act and Ithaca will stand a better chance of
getting favorable action and of getting it sooner than if left for the State to de-
cide.
By Eoftissioner Osborn: seconded by Commissioner Reps
PP,SOLVED, that the Chairman be authorized to appoint a committee of the Planning
,oird to make a study of these proposals in cooperation with members of the local
L'own Boards affected by the respective routes.
Carried.
Prof. Watson assured the Board of the cooperation of the Town of Ithaca's Planning
Board in this matter.
HIGH SCxOOL: The Clerk read a letter from W..L Gragg, Supt. of Schools, requesting
authorization of the Planning Board to underteke plans to erect a public high sahool
on property owned by the City School District in the N. Cayuga Street area known as
the High School Athletic Field and asking that he be advised of any specific infor-
mation the Board would require during the initial stages cf planning.
By Comm. Murphy: seconded by Conn. Egan
'SOLVED, that the request be referred to a committee of the Board, to be appointed
by the Chairman, for study. Carried.
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Larch 12, 1956
RELOCATION OF FIRE ANIES: The Clerk read the following recommendation.from the
Board of Fire Commissioners:
i "The Fire Commission recommends that Companies 1, 29 3, 4, and 5 be relocated
as follows:
That one (1) pumper company be located west of the Lehigh Valley Railroad
tracks in the vicinity of the northwest corner of the city. That one (1) pumper
company be located on South Hill in the vicinity of the industries. That one (1)
pumper company be located it, the vicinity of the southwest corner of the city.
That No. 3 Ladder Company and one (1) pumper company be located in or near the busi-
ness district. That No. 4's be converted to a .pumper company and the purchase of
necessary equipment be made when new location is ready for occupancy. That all
companies except the two located in or near the business district be housed in
single units and that all companies including the two in or near the business dist-
rict consist of apparatus room, bunk room with the necessary facilities, meeting
room and/or recreation room and kitchen. That if possible to locate at present lo-
cation the alarm equipment and the chief or administrative office.
j That the present locations of Companies No. 6, 7 and 9's remain unchanged."
He reported that the Mayor had directed that this recommendation be referred to the
Planning Board for study,
By Comm. Murphy: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that this recommendation be referred to a committee, to be appointed by
the Chairman, for study and report. Carried.
ZONES 1GE - 312 E. BTJFFALO STREET: By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. Paul Taber
WHEFL;AS, a public hearing was held by this Board on Feb. 13, 1956 regarding a pe-
tition for a zone dhange on E. Buffalo Street to permit the property at 312 E.
Buffalo Street being used for commercial purposes, and
T&IERFAS, a special committee of the Planning Board has studied this petition and j
recommends, for the best interests of all concerned, that no change be made,
;HEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Planning Board recommends to the Common Council
that the petition for a zone change in this area be denied.
Carried.
.ONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT: Comm. Egan, in the absence of Comm. B.W. Taber, repos
sd that a majority of the members of the special committee appointed to study the
request of N.Y. Telephone Company asking for relief from parking space requirements f
of the zoning ordinance as it affects its property on N. Tioga Street recommend
amendment of the zoning ordinance as follows:
Place an asterisk after the term "office building" in section 5 of Article VII
of the zoning ordinance and add a footnote to read, "An office building not normally
or customarily visited by clients, patients, customers of the occupants of the
building, or by members of the general public shall not be required to provide more
than one (1) parking space for every one thousand (1,000) square feet of floor area'-!
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board recommends to the Common Council that section 5
of Chapter VII of the zoning ordinance be amended in accordance with the recommenda•-
tion as presented. Carried.
?UDGET: Comm. Reps reported that as a result of action taken at a Special meeti:.:
of the Common Council held Feb. 28, 1956 regarding the Planning Board's budget he
had met with Mr. Thorne two days later to review the budget proposal. He noted th
some difference of opinion exists as to the speed of the program and he recommends ,
that a special meeting of the Planning Board be scheduled to afford Mr. Thorne an
opportunity to state his views in this matter,
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the Chairman be requested to call a special meeting of the Planning
Board to be held Monday, March 19, 1956 at 4:00 p.m. .for this purpose.
Carried.
VJ29 RY .B: Director Thorne called attention to the fact that money appropria-
ted in the tentative budget for temporary help for the Planning Board has been exr
haustedBy Comm:. Egan: seconded by Comm. Osborn �
R?SOLVED, that this matter be considered at the special meeting.
Carried.
OFA'-STREET PARKING: Director Thorne advised that he had prepared written reports
on the subject of off-street parking. Due to the lateness of the hour it was de-
cided to postpone this matter until the special meeting also.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean til
City Clerk
V
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDIIZS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
Special Meeting 4:00 p.m. March 19, 1956
PRESENT:
Chairman - Fabbricatore
Commissioners - Osborn, Paul Taber, Egan, Murphy, Reps
Chamber of Comm. Repr. - Gram
Attorney - Lee
Director - Thorne
Engineer - Cass
Clerk - Blean
I
B FT: Upon being asked by Chairman Fabbricatore to present his views on the
proposed program and budget submitted by the Planning Board, Director Thorne stated
that he had no objections to the proposed ambitious program or the staff require-
ments. He then reviewed a list of planning objectives which he himself had pre-
sented to the Board on June 9, 1950, the similarity of which he compared with the
present proposal.
Comm. Reps reported that the Board feels the staff proposed is a bare minimum needed
in the next two to two-and-one-half years if a comprehensive plan including urban
renewal and regional planning, in addition to usual routine, is to be undertaken.
He deplored the lack of comprehensive planning by the Board in the past and ex-
plained that the program submitted was based on standard planning practice with
no representation that its contents are original. Noting that Mx. Thorne has pre-
viously objected strongly to the need for two, associate planners, Comm. Reps ex-
pressed his concern over the Director's lack of enthusiastic support of the pro-
posed budget, and he urged the Director to be a little more vigorous in his support
thereof. i
Director Thorne replied that he was in agreement with the staff requirements if it
is based on creating an original planning set-up to include a study of urban re- j
newal and regional planning. Comm. Reps then explained that budget items for
materials and supplies, which were based on approximately 12% of salaries as stand-
!;rd practice, had been revised and that he and Yx. Thorne had agreed to a reduction
from $2,850.00 to ' 2,500.00. He noted recent Council action restoring the Director
salary to 1'k7,000.00 which increases total salaries to T20,000.00, making a total
revised budget of $22,500.00. Director Thorne asked that some funds be provided
for temporary help and it was agreed to include $1,000.00 for this purpose making
a total revised budget as follows:
Total Salaries :120,000.00
Temporary Help 1,000.00
Expenses 2,500.00
$23,500.00
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. Osborn
RESOLVED, that a revised budget for the Planning Board for the year 1956 in the
total amount of ` 23,500.00, as outlined above, be approved and a requisition of
like amount filed with the Common Council.
Carried.
PF-STREM PARKING: Director Thorne presented a written report of his study of
,ff-street parking comparing the proposed site at Seneca and Aurora Streets with
one in the westerly half of the 100 block of W. Seneca Street extending through to
Buffalo Street. He stated that since all present parking areas are south of State
Street he had confined his study to suitable sites on the north side. Copies of
his report were distributed to mem'oers of the Board.
By Comm. Osborn: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the report be referred to the entire Board for study and considera-
tion at the next meeting. Carried
FE-WALASSIST,ANCE: Director Thorne reported on his telephone conversation with
Mr. David Lutin, a field representative for the N.Y. Office of the Federal Renewal
Assistance Administration, who indicated he would come to Ithaca as invited by the
Board.
By Comm. Paul Taber: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that Mr. Thorne be directed to continue his correspondence with Kr. Lutir:
and invite him to Ithaca at his convenience sometime after April 9th. , for an even-
ing meeting with the Planning Board to explain the assistance available to cities
under the urban renewal and regional planning programs. � M
Carried. e-12
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March 19, 1956
In this connection Comm. Reps advised that the Planning Director of the City of
Detroit trill be at Cornell on April 4th and 5th and is scheduled to deliver a
public address on April 4th at Franklin Hall on an urban renewal program under-
taken in Detroit. He urged all members of the Board to attend if possible.
BOARD OF EDUCQJION - TRANSFER OF PROPERTY: Comm. Egan recommended approval of
the transfer of city-owned lands adjacent to the High School Athletic Field and
the Bergholtz Tract lying north of Rosemary Lane to the Board of Education to be
used for school purposes in connection with the erection of a new high school in
this area.
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board does hereby go on record as approving the trans-
fer to the Board of Education of city-owned land requested for school purposes in
connection with the erection of a new high school on the site of the present High
School Athletic Field.
Carried.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
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1
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m. April 9., 1956
PR,SENT:
Chairman Fabbricatore
Commissioners - Osborn, Paul Taber, Murphy, Egan, Reps
Attorney - Lee
Director of Planning - Thorne
Engineer - Cass
Supt. of Public Works - Laverty
Rep. Chamber of Commerce - Gram
Clerk - Blean
SES: Minutes of the last regular meeting and the special meeting held on
March 19th, were duly approved.
zONING ORDINANCE AHEM Rr - PETITION: Mrs. Herbert H. Williams read a petition
signed by several interested citizens exp,-essing their concern with the permitted
violations of the present zoning ordinance, their opinion that the ordinance is
loose and ambiguous, thus permitting too many loop holes, and interpretations, and
requesting a redrafting of the ordinance as an essential first step under the new
planning program. Mrs. J.L. Hoard concurred with the contents of the petition, and
urged action in this direction.
J.S. MILLER III SUBDIVISION, PLANS: Mr, Benjamin Boynton appeared and presented
plot plans for the J.S. Miller III subdivision for the Board's preliminary approval,
and his presentation was referred to the Director of Planning for study and recom-
mendation.
ZONE CHANGE - CORE" STREET & VALLEY ROAD AREA: The Clerk read a letter from Evan
J. Morris requesting that a petition presented in June 1955, and subsequently denied,
for a rezoning of the area in the vicinity of Cornell Street and Valley Road from
its present A-1 to a suggested higher or "AA" Residential District be reconsidered
at this time. He expressed the feeling of property owners in this area that their
petition is justified and urged favorable action on it. The Clerk reported that
the petition had been denied by the Planning Board on Sept. 12, 1955, reported back
to the Common Council and referred to its Charter & Ordinance Committee without any
further action beingtaken thereon to date.
Chairman Fabbricatore referred the request to a Committee comprised of 3.W. Taber,
Comm. Reps, and Comm. Egan together with the Director of Planning for review and
report.
LOMM ORDINANCE AMENDMENT: The Clerk reported that at a meeting of the Common
Council held April 4, 1956, Mr. Harold E. Simpson, on behalf of N.Y. Telephone Co.,
presented a proposed amendment to Section 5 of Article VII of the zoning ordinance
to provide that the designation "office building" shall not be deemed to include
any building which is not normally visited by clients, patients, or customers of
the occupant of the building, or by members of the general public. He reported
further that the Common Council had referred the proposal to the Planning Board for
its advisory report thereon. Comm. Reps reviewed action already taken on this
matter as a result of its being presented directly to the Board by Mr. Simpson and
suggested that in the future no action be taken on such requests until directed to
do so by the Council.
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that no requests for amendment of the zoning ordinance be acted upon by
this Board without first having been received and considered by the Common Council.
Carried,
By Comm. Paul Taber: seconded by Comm. Egan
14]EREAS, this proposed amendment of the zoning ordinance has already received con-
siderable study by a special committee of the Planning Board, and
I&IMMAS, upon the recommendation of said committee, action was taken by this Board
on March 12, 1956 recommending to the Common Council adoption of an amendment in
this respect providing for one parking space for every one-thousand (1,,000) square
feet of floor area,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Planning Board reaffirm its former stand
taken March 12, 1956 on this amendment and advise the Council accordingly.
Carried.
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April 11, 1956
FEDERAL ASSISTANCE: Director Thorne reported that Mr. Rutin, field representative
for the N.Y. office of the Federal Renewal Assistance Administration, can come to
Ithaca on either April 23rd or 24th in the afternoon. Details regarding the final
arrangements for such a meeting with Mr. Iutin and interested officials in adjacent
Towns were referred to Director Thorne to work out in cooperation with the Chairman.
OFF--ST= PARKIIG: Director Thorne presented revised figures as a part of his
interim report on off-street parking tozeflect the amortization of bonds in the
annual costs shaven and also to include a contingency item in each case. Comm. Reps
expressed himself in favor of the site at Seneca and Aurora Sts. for an off-street
parking lot only if it is to include central Fire Headquarters and the City Hall
eventually. Otherwise he termed it economically unsound. Engineer Cass and lir.
{ Gram each reviewed in detail off-street parking studies made by a special committee
of the former Traffic Commission and by the Chamber of Commerce, and it was sugges-
ted by Comm. Reps that all information obtained be made available to this Board in
considering Mr. Thorne's report.
By Comm. Osborn: seconded by Comm. Reps
RESOLVED, that the Chairman be authorized to appoint a committee to study this
matter and bring back to this Board its recommendation thereon including a summary
of the information compiled during studies of off-street parking by all groups to
Cate. Carried.
ASSOCIATE PLANNERS: Came. Reps suggested that some steps be taken to notify Plan-
ning schools throughout the country advising that job vacancies for two Associate
Planners are open in Ithaca in order that provisional appointments be made if
possible. He further suggested that a comrtmittee, to exclude himself, be appointed
to screen applicants for these positions.
By Came. Egan: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that Comm. Reps be authorized to write to planning schools throughout the
country and advise of the need of two associate planners here and take such other
appropriate action as he deems necessary to get this information before students
graduating from planning schools this June.
Carried.
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On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
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PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
Special Meeting 7:30 p.m. April 23, 1956
{� PRESENT:
Chairman - Fabbricatore
j Commissioners - Osborn, Paul Taber, Egan, Reps, Murphy
11 Aldermen - Horn, Gibson, Stimson
Bd. of Pub. Wks. Comms. - Bradford, Miller, Saperstone
Attorney - Lee
Director of Planning - Thorne
Engineer - Cass
Clerk - Blean
Urban Renewal Administration Representative - Mr. David Lutin
URBAN RENEWAL: The regular order of business was dispensed with and Chairman
Fabbricatore introduced Mr. Lutin to those present. Mr. Lutin reviewed "Urban
Renewal" and explained that it's purpose is to prevent the spread of blight into
good areas, rehabilitate and conserve areas which can be economically restored,
and continue the clearance and redevelopment of areas which cannot be saved. Where
blight and slums already exist special types of Federal assistance are available
to help cities and towns to reclaim declining areas and make decent homes available
to slum dwellers. To qualify for these aids, the community, through a workable
program approved by the local governing body and by the Housing and Home Finance
Administrator, commits itself to the attainment, within a reasonable time, of the
following objectives:
1. Adequate local codes and ordinances, effectively enforced.
2. A comprehensive plan for development of the community.
3. Analysis of blighted neighborhoods to determine treatment needed.
4. Adequate administrative organization to carry out urban renewal programs.
5. Ability to meet financial requirements,
6. Responsibility for rehousing adequately families displaced by urban re-
newal and other governmental activities.
7. Citizen participation.
He stated that Federal aid is available up to 2f3's of the net cost for clearing
slum areas or replanning blighted areas for rehabilitation. Nin. Lutin commented
on his inspection with Director Thorne of the following three areas in the City:
1. Floral Avenue and "Island" area.
2. Northwest triangle including Adams, Hancock, First, Second, Third, Fourth
and Fifth Streets.
3. Cleveland Avenue area
i
He noted that, while entire clearance might be necessary in the first area, the
other two have spots in need of rehabilitation. He explained that the City could
purchase delapidated property through negotiation or condemnation and sell to an
interested developer on the condition that it be rehabilitated.
After a general discussion and question and answer period, Chairman Fabbricatore
thanked Mr. Lutin for his presentation and explana ion of "Urban Renewal" and
the meeting was adjourned. t�
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
PLANNING BOARD P.T.O0:DINC=S
CITY OF ITHACf , N.Y.
Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m. May 14, 19SS�
PRESENT:
Vice-Chairman - Reps
Commissioners - B.W. Taber, Egan, Paul Taber, Murphy
Mayor - Ryan
Attorney - Lee
Director of Planning - Thorne
Engineer - Cass
Clerk - Blean
In the absence of Chairman Fabbricatore, due to illness, Vice-Chairman Reps presided.
MINUT73: Minutes of the last regular meeting and the special meeting held April 23rd
were duly approved.
BICYCLE PATHS: The Clerk read a letter from Constance E. Cook suggesting that the
City provide bicycle paths to the Stewart Park area, one along N. Cayuga St. and
another coming down from the Heights.
SUBDIVISION: The Clerk read a letter from H.C. Thorne, Director of Planning, pre-
senting plans submitted under date of May 8, 1956 by Mr. Ben Boynton for a sub-
division proposed to be formed on the Miller property lying between 1006-1008 East
State St. and Valley Road near the south end of Elmwood Avenue,
By Comm. Paul Taber: seconded by Conan.- B.W. Taber
RESOLVED, that the proposed subdivision plans as submitted be referred to a Committee
and Mr. Thorne for study and report back to the Planning Board with recommendations
thereon at a subsequent meeting. Carried.
Vice-Chairman Reps appointed Commissioners B.T-T. Taber, Paul Taber and Wm. Egan as
such a committee.
ASSOCIATE PLANNERS: Comm. Reps informed Board members that he had written heads
of planning schools throughout the country in regard to the need of associate plan-
ners and had very discouraging answers. He stated that he had been informed that
all June planning graduates have accepted jobs already. He advised that the position.
are being advertised in a publication of the American Society of Planning Officials.
He reported that two planning assistants who have agreed to work during the summer
months are expected to report for work about June 15th and that Mr. Tucker will
continue as part-time draftsman on a temporary basis.
He reported that job specifications for the positions of Director of Planning and
Associate Planner have been agreed upon with local Civil Service Commission and
have been forwarded to the State Civil Service Commission with examinations schedul-
ed for later in the year.
URBANROW—AL: Comm. Reps brought up the matter of urban renewal for discussion.
After some discussion, it was suggested by Comm. Paul Taber that a committee be
appointed to study this matter with a view to presenting a recommendation for pre-
sentation to the Common Council thereon.
STS CQ 'S: Comm. Reps suggested consideration be given the matter of
establishing standing committees of the Board. It was agreed that this would be a
desirable move and it was left to the Chairman with power.
DZE TORIS BE=: Director Thorne informed the Board that he eras continuing to
assemble basic planning information all the time with emphasis on no particular
project at present. Comm. Paul Taber reported that the last 0 & D traffic survey
which was made by the State in 1948 is in need of being brought up to date but
doubted if the State would be willing to do so at this time. He commented that it
may have to be done locally if at all.
NETRZ=AN MMING Cogan. Reps presented mimeographed copies of an amend-
ment to Article 12-.8 of the General Municipal Law - Metropolitan, Regional or
County Planning Boards-which he noted has been signed by the Governor. He reported
that he had informally discussed the matter with officials of the Town of Ithaca's
Planning Board and suggested that other towns and villages in the neighborhood
which may be interested be invited to participate.
By Comm. Paul Taber: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the Chairman appoint a Committee to explore the possibility of estab-
lishing a Metropolitan Planning Board; and that such a committee be instructed to
discuss the matter with the proper officials of neighboring towns and villages and
invite their participation, if interested, as provided for under the amendment to
Article 12-B of the General Municipal Law.
Carried.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean, City Clerk
r
PLAlNkW BOARD lROC�DIN<33
_- CITY OF ITNACP, N.Y.
` ';_ Regular Meeting 4:00 P.M. June 11, 1956
PPFSENP:
'Chairman - Fabbricatore
Commissioners - B.1W. Taber, Murphy, Paul Taber, Egan, Reps
-= Tiayor - Ryan
Attorney - Lee
Director of Planning - Thorne
Enp-ineer - Cass
Clerk - Blecn
HnWW: Minutes of the preceding meeting were duly approved.
N.Y.S.CIT22ENSI 90MCILT,A?RKSHOP: Chairman Fabbricatore announced that the N.Y.S.
Federation of Official Planning Organizations is cooperating with the N.Y.S. Citizens'
Council in a workshop program to be held at Hobart College, Geneva, N.Y, on June 14-
17• The program this year is giving attention to urban renewal, directed particu-
larly toward smaller municipalities.
By Cain. Egan: seconded by Comm. Taber
RESOLVED, that Director of Planning Thorne be authorized to represent the City at
this workshop. Carried.
I
MILUM IM10: Caanm, B.W. Taber reported that the preliminary subdivision f
plans for the Miller subdivision does not provide the necessary entrance and evress
to the property on its eastern side known as the Sawdon Est* property, and that
therefore the Committee suggests that before any development is started the possibi-
lity of developing the Miller and Sawdon properties as one piece of property be
thoroughly explored, and also that the Miller and Sawdon interests and other in-
terested parties get together and see if plans cannot be worked out in this respect
for the mutual interest of the people in the entire area and the City of Ithaca.
He reported further that the Committee feels that if these properties can be de-
veloped jointly, fewer exceptions to the present subdivision regulations will be
necessary and result in a more desirable subdivision plan.
Alternate plans for development of the entire area, one by Director Thorne and one
by Mr. Norbert Schickoel who represented the Sawdon Retate,were discussed. It was
the sense of the Board that approval be withheld pending some solution which will
provide access to the Sawdon property for its future development.
By Comm, B.W. Taber: seconded by Casae. Mu r#W
RESOLVED, that the preliminary plan as submitted for development of the Miller
property be denied. Carried.
ARTERIAL ROUTES: Comm. Paul Tabor presented and reviewed a report covering the
status of the State's arterial routes in the City to date. His report recommended
that certain changes which have taken place since the State's data was compiled
eight years ago should be evaluat6d before the Planning Board makes further recom-
mandations regarding the location of arterial routes in the City. The changes re-
ferred to include the followIM:
1. Maving Tompkins Co. Memorial Hospital to the Biggs site an route 96.
2. Construction of a proposed new Nigh School on North Cayuga St.
3. Development of the Tompkins Co. Airport and the adjacent Research Center.
4. Increased =caber of cars.
S. Tremendous increase in urbanisation in all directions which has taken place
since 1948.
the report reoaamanded more technical study needs to be made of the north-south
route across the western part of the city in consultation with the State Distriot
Engineer and in the meantime if general agreement can be reached on the location of
routes 96 and 13 into the city that these two plus the route across the western
Part of the City should be considered promptly by this Board for reoomaaendatior to
the Coamon Council.
37 Comm. Taber: seconded by Comm. Repo
ISSCLVED, that the Committee appointed to studkr arterial routes be enlarged to con-
tinue such study with surrounding areas; that the Director and his staff be empower.
ed to further study the north-south route within the city and to consult with state
engineers thereon; and that a definite reommwiation on the north-sough route and
routes 96 and 13 be made to this Board at an early date.
Carried.
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June 11, 1956
ASSSWIATE LMR: Comm. Reps reported that one applicant, Mr. Robert Titus, had
been interviewed for the position of Associate Planner, and he recommended his
provisional appointment to such position.
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Cam. Murphy
RESOLVED, that Robert Titus be and hereby is appointed provisionally to the position
of Associate Planner, effective,Jnly 1. 1956, at the minimum salary rate for the
position of $5,000. annually; and that the Civil Service Commission be requested
to hold the necessary examination for the position.
Carried.
IQ== IZLP: Comm. Reps reported further that Peter Eschweiler and James Bell
are expected to report for work on June 18th as plautng assistants on a temporary
basis during the summer months.
MONNEL C bU=: On recommendation of Com. Paul Taber it was agreed that a
committee comprised of the Chairman and two other members of the Board be named
to meet with the Director and interview applicants for positions with the Planning
Board. Chairman Fabbricators named Commissioners Paul Taber and B*W. Taber to such
a committee and again on recommendation of Paul Taber, Commissioner Reps agreed to
be available for consultation.
STAMM,CO==: Chairman Fabbricatore announced that she wished to delay the
appointment of standing committees of the Board for further thought.
SUMERMEJT,=: Consideration of dispensing with meetings of the Board during the
summer months of July and August resulted in its being agreed that the regular
monthly meeting will be held during these months this year.
MUMAH 3AD�V7�SEN PIS:
, George Mineah presented preliminary plans for subdivision
of his property on West Hill and his presentation was referred to Comm, B.W. Taber,
Paul Taber and Egan as a committee for study and report.
P$T&M L4'= On request by Comm. Reps, Director Thorne reported briefly on
the workbming carried on in his office at present and stated that with additional
help it is expected that work will be concentrated on the development of a land
use map together with the continued compilation of basic planning information.
Comm. Reps suggested that Mr. Thorne contact federal officials during his attendance
at the planning workshop at Geneva and ascertain the procedure and forms necessary
for applying for federal planning advances under the urban renewal program.
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On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
PL"MG BOARD PROCEm-, n S
CTTY OF TTRACA, P.Y.
Regular Meeting 4:00 P.M, July 9, 1956
PRESENT:
Chairman - Fabbricatore
Commissioners - Egan, Repel Murpby+
Mayor - Ryan
Director of Planning - Thorne
Clerk - Blean
KMZM: Minutes of the preceding meeting were duly approved.
STANDING Cg=T=a: Chairman Fabbricatore presented a written proposal of stand-
ing committees of the Board along with suggestions of the matters over which each
would have jurisdiction (copy of proposal attached). She then gamed members of
each of the proposed committees, the first named in each instance beim chairman
of the respective committees.
RESEARCH: Osborne Nurphy, Paul Taber
TRAFFIC & PARKIM-. Paul Taber, B.W. Taber, Reps
COMMJNITY FACILITPE & SERVICES: Xurp by, Osborn, BY. Taber
URBAN RENEWAL & HOUSING: Reps, Paul Taber, Egan
ZONING & SUBDI`TISION: BY. Taber, Osborn, Egan
FINANCE & CAPITAL BUDGET: Egan, Murphy, Reps
EXECUTIVE: Fabbricatore, Paul Taber, Reps
AIRPORT FACIES: The Clerk reported that the Board of Public Works had requester
the Planning Board to make a study of the municipal airport for recreational pur-
poses and other usage and to submit a preliminary report thereon within three
months back to the Board of Public Works, Commenting on this subject, Comm. Egan
noted that when Percy Field and the Bergholtz Tract are turned over to the Board
of Education for school purposes there will be need for additional recreational
and play areas.
The request was referred to the Como►unity Facilities and Services Committee for
study and report.
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CIVIL SERVICE EXAMINATIONS: Comm. Reps reported that the Secretary of the local
Civil Service Commission has advised that positio nnouncements for Director of
Planning and Associate Planner have been approved/ e State Civil Service Commis-
sion and that applications for theme positions will be accepted up to Oct. 24th
for examinations to be held on Nov. 24th.
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METROPOLITAN PLAMMM BM: Comm. Reps reported that Mayor h-.ran, Chairman
Fabbricatore, Attorney Lee and Comm. Reps, together with the Mayor of the Village
of Cayuga Heights, and Supervisors from the Towns of Ithaca and Lansing had atten-
ded an informal meeting recently in the Mayor's office to discuss the formation of
a Metropolitan Planning Board and its operation. He reported that it is expected
further meetings on the subject will be held later on. He stated that since that
time the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca had adopted a resolution requesting the
Board of Supervisors to create a County Planning Board by Jan. 1, 1957, and that
if nothing develops by that date, the Town Board may agree to join a Metropolitan
Board.
DIREECMRS ORT: Director Thorne presented and reviewed a written report covering
his activities since the June meeting. His report noted that Miss Crysler is
suffering from a tumor with complications and is therefore absent from work on
sick leave.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
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Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
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PROPOSED COM,=TEE ORGANIZATION PCP THE ITHACA CITY PLANNIM BOARD
General
The Planning Board is the legal head of the departmental organization for
planning in Ithaca. While the Board must and should rely on its staff for the
great bulk of technical studies and recommendations, it is ultimately responsi-
ble for all recommendations or decisions approved by a majority of its members.
For this reason it is important that Board members have an opportunity to re-
view and revise, if necessary, all work of the staff.
It would be desirable if all members of the Board could be completely
familiar with all aspects of planning in Ithaca. This is not possible if the
Board expects to carry out its responsibilities and promises for preparing con-
prehensive development plans within a relatively short period of time. Organiza-
tion of the Board into a number of permanent committees, each dealing with a
major phase of planning, appears to be the only feasible method of procedure.
A32 matters referred to the Board by the Common Council or other body and
approved for further study should be referred to appropriate committees. Where
necessary, staff assistance should be provided to committees on terms agreeable
to the Chairman or Executive Committee, the committee chairman and the Planning
Director. Content of studies originating with the staff in accordance with the
annual work program adopted by the Board should be approved by appropriate
committees at an early stage, and preliminary staff findings and recommendations
should be reviewed from time to time as progress continues.
Special committees may be needed from time to time, but they should be
created only where referral to one of the standing committees would not be
appropriate. There may also be matters of such far-reaching and pressing impor-
tance that the Board may prefer to act on them as a Committee of the whole.
Matters coming before the Board primarily of a fact-finding or informational
nature might well be referred to the Planning Director for a staff report at the
Chairman's discretion.
Sueggated Committee StMgturA and Jurisdiction
Seven three-member committees should be established. The Chairman of the
Board would be Chairman of the Executive Committee and ex officio member of all
other committees. To provide for an approximately equal division of work among
the other six members of the Board, each member should serve as Chairman of one
committee and member of two others.
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The following is a list of the proposed committees along with suggestions
of the matters over which each would have jurisdiction:
1. Research - This Committee should review staff studies and prepare
reports on the basic trends affecting the city. These topics
should include the following: land use, population, economic
base, neighborhood organization and similar elements.
2. Traffic and Parking - The committee should consider and submit
recommendations for street, arterial and highway improvements
and for automobile parking. The committee might also study such
related transportation items as railroad grade separations, bus
and truck terminals, airports, and bus service.
3. Qommunity Facilities and SRrvices - This committee should provide
recommendations on such related community and neighborhood facilities
as schools, parks, fire stations and public buildings; and such ser-
vices and utilities as sewers and water supply and flood control
measures.
4. Urban Renewal„and�Housine - This committee should first organize
material for submission to the Housing and Horne Finance Agency in
order to qualify the City for planning advances. The committee
should then submit recommendations for redevelopment, rehabilita-
tion or conservation of blighted areas in the city.
5• Zoning gnd subdivision - The committee should study all proposed
amendments to the zoning ordinance originating by petition or by
referral from the Common Council. It should also undertake a
comprehensive review of the existing zoning ordinance. This com-
mittee should review all subdivision plats submitted to the Board
for approval.
b. ElMnpe and Can tal Budget - Initially the responsibility of this
committee would be to establish the procedure to be followed in pre-
paring a long-range capital improvements program. In co-operation
with the Research Committee this committee should also project trends
in the tax base, municipal expenditures and future revenues. Once the
procedure for capital budgeting is established, the committee would
prepare or help to prepare a six-year capital budget each year for
submission to the Common Council,
7. Executive Committee - This committee should be authorized to act
for the Board in the intervals between meetings. It should prepare
a recommended annual work program and budget for submission to the
Board. The committee should provide liason between the Board and
any metropolitan planning agency. It should meet with the staff
at frequent intervals to coordinate staff and committee activity.
It should be authorized to approve the final text of official re-
ports for public distribution after Board review of the general
content. This committee should be responsible for public relations
and news releases.
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SuaaPstions for Committee Proce&Xes
It is inevitable that the chairman of each committee will carry major
responsibility for the preparation of committee reports. In order to re-
lieve other members of unnecessary work, the chairman alone might have one
or more informal conferences with staff members assigned to aspects of the
committee's work. It might also be desirable for the chairman to invite other
city officials or citizens to attend committee meetings. On rare occasions
it may be advisable for a committee to hold public hearings or invite organi-
zations to present their views on major policy matters. The problem of liason
between committees should be considered; informal meetings of committee chair-
men should be frequent.
Committees should submit all final reports and major interim reports in
writing. These reports should be circulated to members several days prior to
Hoard meetings so that more informed discussion and decisions will be possible.
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PLANING BOARD PPOCSEDIIAIS
CITY Or XTHACA, N.Y.
Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m. August 33, 1956
PF,ESENP s
Vice-Chairman - Reps
Commdesioners - Osborn, B.W. Taber, lit OW. Egan
rlayorr - Ryan
Planning Director - Thorne
Associate Planners • Titus and Chase
Attorney - Lee
Clerk - Blean
In thg absence of Chairman Fabbricatore, Vice-Chairman Reps presided. He intro-
duced Associate Planners Robert E. Titus and Alan L. Chase to the members present.
MTS=: Minutes of the preceding meeting were duly approved.
i ,OC QTS PLANNER - Comm.
Malt CaReps announced that at a special meeting of
the Board he:.d on J�y . tth,and attended by Chairman Fabbricatore. Commissioners
Egan, B.W. Taber, and himself, Mr. Alan L. Chase was appointed provisionally to the
position of Associate Plamor, effective August 1, 1956, at the minimoum salary rate
for the position of $5.000.
AM= JAQ=_MSt Reporting for the Comnuhity Facilities A Services Committee,
Comm. Mamphy noted that the Planning Staff is presently engaged in a study of pro-
posed f'ature %,se of the municipal airport on Taughan ock Boulevard.
CAPITAL BtJDI'dET: Comm. Egan reported progress an a capital budget and expressed the
hope that a report an this item will be reach for the next.meeting of the Board.
Comm. Reps reviewed correspondence he has had regarding urban re-
newal.
tIROR4B =M D-111310=: Comm. B.W. Taber _presented a committee report on
the proposed Geo. Himah subdivision plans for his qty an West Hill as follows:
"This Committee wishes to report to the Plaradrig Board that before Mr. 1lineahIs
request can be approved by the Committee a more complete and accurate map not be
submitted by the developer. The preliminary map f aila to chow proper entrance and
egress an the owners property through Taylor Plaoes proposed street grades, etc.
It is suggested that a map of the proposed sub-division, that will meet the approval
of the Director of Planning, be supplied by the anther of the property, so that fur-
ther consideration may be given to this project.
By Comm. H.W. Tabers seconded by Comm. Egan
RESCUED. that the report as submitted be accepted and approved.
�OI+tAP The Clerk reported that a petition had been filed at the
July 11th meeting of the Council by Thaler & Thaler requesting that the Zoning Map
be amended from an "A" Residential to a Business Distarict.as it relates to the
Lroperty located at 310 U. Aurora St. and that the Covacil had referred it to the
Flanning Board for consideration at thin meeting with a request that its findings
thereon be reported back to the Charter & Ordinance Camnittee of the Cam= Council
not later than August 15th.
Comm B.W. Taber presented a committee report on the petition as follows:
"This Committee wishes to report to the Planning Board that in its opinion the
petition in question should be denied. This Committee believes it is in the besir
interests for the City of Ithaca that individual parcels of property in "A" Rest«
dential Districts shoo]d not be changed to Business Districts,
By Cam, B.W. Taber: seconded by Comm, Egan
RESOLVED, that the report as sabm fitted be accepted and approved: and that the Plan-
ning Board reoaemend to the Charter & Ordlunce Committee that the petition be denied.
Carried.
GA3 : The Clerk reported that the Council had been requested by the Board
cif Public Works to take same action to restrict the ever increasing amber of gaso-
ine stations being erected in the City, and that in turn the Council had referred
the matter to the Planning Board for its study and recommendations.
This mutter was referred to the Zoning & Subdivision Committee for study and report.
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August 33 1536
ZO dRDA_u" s Coax. Reps recommended that article XII at the Zoning
Ordinance, Board of Appeals* be aaended and he prresented a draft at a pe'vposed
amendment and referred it to the Zoning b Subdivision Cohemittes for sir vlth the
request that he be notified of Committee meetings relative to this matter so that
he can attend and fVtW discuss the reoonwended changes.
FEARIM, OF FWO-Z9: Can. Reps offered the suggestion that the Board establish the
practice of allotting a period of about fifteen minutes at the close of saoh Board
r:ee•ting to permit anyone interested to discuss any actions taken dwing such wast-
ing. He asked for the consensus of the Board. Noting the p emoe of Mr. Thaler
who was interested in the petition for a sonIM map anendmwt acted upon at this
reefing, he asked Mr. Thaler to express his feeling its this respect.
Mr. Thaler expressed hie dissatisfaction because he had not been given an owar. �
tunft y. even though he bad requested it, to verbally discwss his petition with e
coo-cm ronittee of the Board before its action taken at this meeting. He argued that
he rhould have been afforded the oppoetvehitW to weplain the purpose and intent of
the petition. Coma. B.W. Taber agreed that Mr. Thaler had not been hoard an this
sub eat before the sub-ommittee but explained that the Cannittee had felt the pe.
tit on was full and complete and selfs*p2snatory as suibat tted. final deoision use
deferred pending return of Chairman Fabboricatore.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Oso. A. Blom
City Clerk
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PLAMNM BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
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Regular Meeting 4:00 P.M. Sept. 10, 1956
PRESENT:
Nice-Chairman - Reps
Commissioners - Osborn, B.W. Taber, Paul Taber, HuTI1r, Egan
Director of Planning - Thorne
Staff Members - Bell, Eischweiler, Chase end Titus
Clerk - Blean
In the absence of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman Reps presided.
MUM: Mimtes of the last regular meeting were duly approved. •
WEST,WOOD V.0 §MITISIONt Mr„ Jas. S. Knapp presented and reviewed prelud ary
plans for the development of his property on Westwood Knoll and requested tenta-
tive approval thereof. Comm. B.W. Taber reported that he had examined the plan
with Mr. Knapp and reported that it appears to meet all subdivision requirements
with the possible exception of an excessive street grade at one point which may
'0e overcome in final plans. After a review by members of the Board, Comm. B.W.
Taber reoommended its tentative approval.
By Cam. B.W. Taber: seconded by Comm. Paul Taber
MSMVED, that the subdivision plan in its preliminary form as presented by Mr.
Knapp be tentatively approved subject to completion of final details necessary
for final approval by this Board. Carried.
Mr. Knapp thanked Mr. Thorne for his help and advice offered in the preparation
cf his plan. Comm, Paul Taber commended Mr. Thorne and his staff for helping in
this regard with their technical knowledge and termed it a fine service to pros-
pective developers.
MIOM, PLA NNM MQAMUTZON: Comm. Reps presented and reviewed a written re-
port of the Executive Cormdttee of the Planning Board on proposed regional plan-
ning.
By Caron. Paul Taber: seconded by Comm. Mwphy
RESOLVED, that the report as submitted be approved and adopted and that it be sub-
mitted to the Common Council requesting its endorsement.
Carried.
EQPOLATION TRENDS: Reporting for the Research Committee, Coram. Osborn described
a study to be made by the Planning Staff of population distribution and trends in
the City and Town of Ithaca, listing age groups and sex, existing now and pro-
Jected to 1970. She anticipated that a complete report on this subject will be
ready by the December meeting.
By Cam. Osborn: seconded by Comm. Paul Taber
RESOLVEDs that the report be accepted and approved.
Carried.
CMMM FAMITIPS: Conan. Nurphy reported that niers of the Planning Staff
have been making a study of recreational and other facilities and asked Mr. Bell
to inform members of his findings to d ate. Mr. Bell exhibited and reviewed maps
and charts showing existing plcyfields, neighborhood parks, large parks, and semi-
public or special activity areas in the city together with proposed standard re-
quirements for each type, facilities provided in each area at present adjusted
to meet the proposed standards and thus show required needs in each instance.
Studies of playfields included Central School, Fall Creek, E. Hill, St, John,
Wood- Meadow St. area, Belle Sherman and West Hill.
Three possible land uses of the municipal airport on Taughannock Blvd, were exhi-
bited and reviewed. They included the combined use for light industrial and re-
creational areas, use of the total area for park purposes, and the combined use
as an airport and recreational areas. Vice-Chairman Reps complimented Mr. Bell
for his work and fine presentation of his accomplishments.
&MINU3„9Z=!§ RMT: Vice-Chairman Reps noted that a report by Director
Thorne was filed at the last regular meeting and then called on Mr. Thorne, who
tpresented and reviewed his written report on activities of the department from
hen to date.
VACAMN. On his own recommendation. Mr. Thorne's &=Yual vacation was left to
be taken at his own convenience.
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sept. lO, 1956
j+ERMMAL PARKING: Cams. Paul Taber noted with interest continued study of
peripheral parking included in the Directorss report and expressed his opposition
to the use of city streets for overnight parking. He suggested the Zoning Ordi-
nano* be amended with a retroactive clause if possible to require that property
owners be required to provide off-street parking faacilities for their tenants.
The matter was left with the Parking & Traffic Committee.
MAN MORM& Comm. Reps reported that Kr. Chase is engaged in preparing anterial
for ultimate submission to the Federal goverment for a planning advance.
ZONDStl .,AHMMMN. &I=STs Comm. Osborn expressed her cometh in
the need of a study of taming in the entire 300 block of N, Aurora St. rather than
the spot saning requested which affects the property at 310 N, Aurora 3t. only.
It was decided to &sit Council action an the petition before it noon.
On motion the sheeting w as adjourned.
Geo d Blean
City Clerk
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PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m. October 89 1956
PRESENT:
Chairman - Fabbricatore
Commissioners - Osborn, Paul Taber, B.W. Taber, Egan, Murphy, Reps
Mayor - Ryan
Attorney - Lee
Director of Planning - Thorne
Associate Planners - Titus & Chase
Clerk - Blean
"U T-Q: Minutes of the preceding meeting were duly approved.
OVM-- GM,PARKW: Chairman Fabbricatore reported that the Council had requested
the Board to make a study of overnight parking on city streets and that she had
referred this matter to the Traffic & Parking Committee.
ARTERIAL ROUTES: Comm. Paul Taber read a written report on Highways and Parking
recommending that the next step in arterial development be a north-south route
across the western part of the city which will connect with route 13 where it enters
the city from the east, will avoid congested residential areas, will provide for a
practical connection with route 96 from the north and provide an easy, safe access
to routes 13 and 34 south and probably relocation of 96B. A number of proposals
in relation to the "Thorne Plan" were presented and drawings of the several pro-
posals were exhibited and explained by Mr. Thorne.
By Comm. Paul Taber: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that the report and recommendation as submitted be accepted and approved;
and that the several proposals in relation to the "Thorne Plan" be referred to the
Mayor's Committee as a basis for "give and take" consultation withihe State Dept.
of Public Works to determine a mutual agreeable -p� to
By IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council speech
Morse the route agreed
to by the Mayor's Committee in order that Ithaca's future development and the safe-
ty of our citizens be protected and in order that the State may undertake engineer-
Ing studies and schedule construction plans.
Carried.
URB&.*I RIM Associate Planner Chase exhibited maps of his studies on urban re-
newal since the last meeting. Comm. Reps reported that the Urban Renewal Committee
had met vtith Mr. Frank Batstone from the New York office of the Urban Renewal Ad-
ministration and reviewed this material with him as well as possible renewal pro-
ject sites in the city.
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Paul Taber
RESOLVED, that an application for an urban renewal planning advance be prepared;
and that this application be reviewed by the Planning Board and submitted to the
Common Council for approval before submission to Federal Officials.
Carried.
ZONE gMo -.30Q BOOK OFA}.AURORA SMET:
By Comm. B.W. Taber: seconded by Comm. Murphy
WiEREAS, the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, New York has requested the Plan-
ning Board to study the "300" Block of North Aurora Street for the purpose of re-
zoning the present A Residence District in said block, so that premises in said
block could be used for professional and business office buildings, and
__WHEREAS. a study of said area has been made by the Planning Board and it appears
that several of the premises in the "300" Block of North Aurora Street are presently
being used for business and professional offices, and that the area is well suited
for business and professional office buildings, and there are other areas in the
City of Ithaca similarly being used, in A Residence Districts, and which are prob-
ably not in compliance with the present Zoning Ordinance, and
WHEREAS, it appears that part of the "300" Block of North Aurora Street is presently
zoned for business, and the amendments hereafter proposed will be in the interests
of the public safety, health and general welfare,
Nt THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Planning Board recommend to the Common
Council that the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Ithaca dated August 1. 1950, be
amended, and that a new Article VI-A be added thereto to read as follows:
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October 8, 1956
, TICLE VI..A
RRA=M SIMS MTRICT
agction 1. UFA:
Professional and business office buildings, and all uses permitted in the A-I ,
or A Residence Districts.
Professional or business signs subject to second paragraph of Section 11 of
i..rticle XI.
The Restricted Business District is intended primarily to form a reasonable tran-
sition from Business Districts to nearby Awl or A Residence District.
Stiction 2. Yard Area and Height Recuirements:
This section applies only to new construction or to major alterations on exist-
ing buildings.
(a) The front yard shall be as deep as the average of those within one hundred
feet on either side thereof, but need not be more than ten feet.
(b) The side yards shall be at least five feet wide, and their combined width
shall be at least fifteen feet.
(c) The rear yard shall be at least 13% of the depth of the lot, except that it
need not be more than twenty feet.
(d) No building lot shall have an area of less than 3,000 square feet, nor a
lot frontage of less than forty feet.
(e) The total area covered by buildings in Restricted Business Districts shall
not exceed 50% of the lot area.
(f) No building shall exceed forty feet in height.
Section 3 . ggng1ruction ReggirWgnts:
This section applies only to new construction or to major alterations on existing
buildings.
In the Restricted Business District all construction shall conform to the Ithaca
Building Code Provisions applying within the fire limits described in Part '14,
Article -8 of current Ithaca Building Code.
SAction 4. &ouirements for Parking Facilities:
Shall be the same as in Section 5 of Article VII of the Zoning Ordinance.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Planning Board of the City of Ithaca recommend
to the Charter and Ordinance Committee of the Common Council, and to the Common
Council, that the Zoning Map of the City of Ithaca be amended so that all premises
fronting on the "300" Block of Borth Aurora Street, except those premises now in a
ID'usiness District, be changed from an A Residence District to a Restricted Business
District under Article VI-A of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Ithaca, said
2-1emises being shown an Flap iro. 139 of the Maps of the City of Ithaca, and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Plarring Board of the City of Ithaca approve these amendments,
and that the amendments be referred to the Charter and Ordinance Committee of the
Common Council so that said Committee can hold a public hearing on the proposed
amendments.
Due to her residence being located in the 300 block of N. Aurora St. , Comm. Osborn
abstained from voting. Carried.
REGIONAL PLAkuiILZ: The Clerk reported that the Common Council had approved in
principle the report of the Executive Committee of the Board on regional planning
and requested the Board to continue its study and file its definitive report thereon
with the Council. Chairman Fabbricatore reported that the report has met -with
similar approval from the Town of Ithaca and Village of Cayuga Heights and recommen-
ded the City Attorney be authorized to draw up articles of agreement thereon with
Town and Village officials.
By Comm. Fabbricatore: seconded by Comm. Egan
USOLVED, that the City Attorney be authorized and directed to meet with Town and
Village officials and prepare articles of agreement regarding the formation of a
Regional Planning Board and submit this material to the Board for approval.
Carried.
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October S. 1956
iQICIPAL AIRPORT_: Comm. Murphy presented the following report on the Municipal
Airport for approval and presentation to the Board of Public Works:
The Committee on Community Facilities and Services submits this preliminary
report on the study of the municipal airport to the Board of Public Works at their
request.
This study was made by the Planning Board staff to determine possible recrea-
tional and other uses of the municipal airport.
In conjunction with the airport study, James Bell of the Planning Board staff
is making an inventory of recreation needs in Ithaca for the present and future.
His study includes playgrounds, existing playfields, neighborhood parks, large
parks, special activity areas and semi-public areas. To discover recreation needs
in the future population projections are being made and standards of recreational
acreages&termined.
The work on the recreational project is in its final stages and the results
of this particular subject will be analyzed in the near future.
A final decision of the land use of the municipal airport cannot be made until
an understanding with the Board of Education has been reached as to how much land
is needed by the schools for recreational use, a study of their building plans for
new schools, and until the school proposal is voted upon.
Therefore the study of the city airport situation has resulted in three pos-
sible alternative plans at this time,if the present use is to be changed,all of
them within the range of possibility. Charts and d ravings have been made ofeach
of these plans and they are available as part of this preliminary report. The
plans include the combined use for light industrial and recreational areas, use
of the total area for park ?purposes, and the combined use as an airport and/or
heliport and recreational area.
Committee of Community Facilities & ServicE
James D. Murphy, Chairman
Agda Osborn
3.W. Taber
By Comm. Murphy: seconded by Comm. Reps
RESOLVED. that the report be accepted, approved and referred to the Board of Public
?forks. Carried.
DMCTOR tS REPORT: Director Thorne presented and read his report on the It ork of
the staff since the last meeting. "
SPECIAL TRAMSPORTATIMI: Comm. Paul Taber predicted the possibility of a problem
for Tompkins County Memorial Hospital in obtaining adequate bus service to the
hospital when it is relocated on the Trumansburg Road site. After some discussion
as to the Board's jurisdiction in such a matter itMs referred to the Traffic &
Parking Committee for study.
On motion the meeting -taas adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk
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10/23/56
THIS AGREEMENT, made as of the a day of , 1956, by,
between and among the CITY OF ITHACA, TCS► 01' ITHACA, and VILLAGE OF CAYUGA
HEIGHTS, municipal corporations of, the County of Tompkins, State of New York,
hereinafter referred to as the "Constituent municipalities",
WITNESSETH :
_ WHEREAS, Article 12B, Section 239b, of the General Municipal Law, as
amended by Chapter 609 of the Laws of••1956, authorized the governing bodies of
cities, towns and villages in any county to collaborate in establishing a
Regional Planning Board to consist of representatives of the constituent
municipalities to be selected ir. a manner to be determined by agreement among
the participating municipalities; ar-d
?REAS, the governing bodies of the constituent municipalities recognize
the need for regional planning in the area included and contained within the
corporation limits of the City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca, and Village of Cayuga
Heights; and
WHEREAS, by proper resolutions the governing bodies of the constituent
municipalities have authorized their respective municipalities to join and
associate together in the creation of a Regional Planning Board to be known as
the "ITHACA VALLEY 2XGI0oAL PLA,►+ LZ BOARD";
a0W, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and obligations
herein contained, it is agreed by, between and among the constituent munici-
palities as follows:
1. In conformity with Article 12B of the General Municipal Law, and in
compliance with the duly enacted resolutions of their governing bodies approving
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said Planning Board in prir_ciple as follows: Resolution of the City of Ithaca,
adopted at the meeting of its Common Council held on October 3, 1956; resolution
of the Village of Cayuga Heights, adopted at the meeting of its Trustees held on
1956; and resolution of the Town of Ithaca, adopted at the
meeting of its Board held on , 1956; the City of Ithaca, the
Village of Cayuga Heights, and the Town of Ithaca do hereby create a Regional
Planning Board, to be known and designated as "Ithaca Valley Regional Planning
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Boarl", hereinafter sometimes referred to as the Board.
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2. The powers of the Board shall be such as are set forth ir. said
Article 12B of the General Municipal Law, as amended from time to time, and
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particularly as set forth in Section 2�qd thereof, and the area *vrlthin which
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the Board shall perform and exercise such powers shall be the region contained
and included within the boundaries of the City of Ithaca, the Town of Ithaca
and the Village of Cayuga Heights, as the same now exist and as they shall from
time to time be delineated in the future, as well as such regions as shall be
represented by other municipalities which may hereafter become constituent
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municipalities hereunder. `
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3. The Board shall initially consist of seven members, to be appointed
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in such manner as the municipality making such appointment may determine, four I
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by the City of Ithaca, two by the Town of Ithaca, and one by the Village of
Cayuga Heights. The initial appointments by the City of Ithaca shall be as
follows:
One member for one year,
One member for two years,
Two members for three years;
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and the initial appointments by the Town of Ithaca shall be as follows:
One member for two years,
One member for three years;
and the initial appointment by the Village of Cayuga Heights shall be one
member for three years. Upon the expiration of the initial appointments, all
appointments shall be for a term of three years. A quorum shall consist of a
majority of all the members of the Board in office. The Board shall elect its
own Chairman and Vice-Chairman. In the event of a vacancy caused by death,
resignation or otherwise, of any member, such vacancy shall be filled for the
unexpired term. The representation from any constituent municipality shall not
include more than one member holding public office excepting appointive member-
ship on a municipal or other planning board or commission. Each member of the
Ithaca Valley Regional. Planning Board shall be 21 years of age or over and shall
have been a resident of his or her respective municipality for a period of not
less than five years, and shall be eligible for reappointment upon the expira-
tion of his or her term.
4. The members of the Ithaca Valley Regional Planning Board shall serve
without salary, but all expenses incurred in the performance of their duties
shall be reimbursed to them.
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5. The City of Ithaca, the Town of Ithaca, and the Village of CaYuga
fs .
Heights, in conformity with the aforesaid resolutions of their governing
bodies, do hereby agree that the expenses for the operation and functioning of
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the Ithaca Valley Regional Planning Board for the year 1957 shall be the sum of
F $7,000.00, and each constituent municipality hereby assumes its pro rata share
as follows:
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City of Ithaca $ 4,000.00
Town of Ithaca 20000.00
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Village of Cayuga Heights 19000.00
The Board may apply for and receive financial or other assistance from the
�v--C7 0'ZAGENci Fs
Federal and State governments, or from foundations, but no
appropriation to this Board shall be conditioned upon the receipt of any such
assistance. The City of Ithaca shall provide office space without charge.
6. The fiscal year of the Board shall coincide with the calendar year.
7. Each constituent municipality shall pay an amount equal to 25 per
cent of its pro rata share of the annual expenses on or 'before the 10th day
of each of the following months: January, April, July and October.
8. The Board shall maintain and keep records of all receipts and
disbursements, which records shall be audited annually by a Certified Public
Accountant. A copy of each annual audit report shall be furnished to each j
constituent municipality.
9. The Board shall commence operations as of January 1, 1957• It
shall convene its organizational meeting within thirty days after the final
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execution of this agreement. All subsequent meetings thereof shall be held
at the time and the place to be fixed by the Board.
10. The constituent municipalities shall from time to time admit other
municipalities upon terms and conditions to be agreed upon by the
governing bodies of the constituent municipalities.
11i Any constituent municipality shall have the right to iithdraw from
the Board at the end of any calehdar year by giving three months written notice
to the Chairman of the Board and to the governing bodies of the constituent
municipalities; and failure by a constituent municipality to appropriate its
proportionate share of the expenses of the Board for the succeeding year in its
current budget shall constitute a withdrawal of said member and said member
shall be thenceforth denied all right of participation on the Board.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this agreement to
be executed in the names of the respective municipalities by their duly
authorized officers, and the corporate seals of the said municipalities duly
affixed as of the day and year first above written.
CITY OF ITHACA
By
TCWN OF ITHACA
BY
VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS
By
X4441AG BOARD PROC OMMOpS
d= Or 17RAGAS •+$Ze ;
sp le"I )160 g 4130 pity eot#bw 23, 1956
PRESENT:
Chairman ,. Fabbricatore
Commisaiemers - Osborn, B.W. Taber, Paul Tabere NxTby6 Eger, Reps
Mayor - Ryan
Attorney - Lee
Director of Plarri„g - Thorne
Clerk - Blean
REGIONAL ETA-0 lLyG BQM AMU*-%T , (hada Fabbrioatore a"nounced that this
special meeting had been called to approve an agreement or- Regional Planning be-
tween the City, Town of Ithaca, an& the Village of Cayuga Heights._. A draft of a
proposed agreement it this respect was presented, read and reviewed by the_.City
Attorney. On_r eeommendation of Comm. Reps an ame"(1ment was made in Seetion_3 on
page 3 as follows: The sentence "The Board may apply for and receive financial or
other assistance from the Federal and State goverrments, or from corporations or
j foundations,..etc...” was changed to read "The Board may apply for and receive
financial or other assistance from the Federal and State goverrmerts, or from pri-
vate fourdations or agencies, etc..."
By Comm. Reps: seconded by Comm. Murphy
RESOLVED, that the draft of the agreement or Regional Plan*'+irF between the City#
Tom of Ithaca and Village of Cayuga Heights as amended be approved and submitted
to the Common Council at its special meeting tonight for consideration and final
approval. Carried.
GASOLI17E STATIO1L OFD lY -4E: Comm. B At. Taber presented and reviewed a draft of a
proposed ordinance covering gasoline stations• as follows:
PROPOSED GA30 1 STATIN, ORDIIYA"CE
Section 1. Statement of Neceos tv
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A. It appears that the unregulated and unrestricted operation of filling or
service or gasoline or motor supply stations canbecome a serious public
hazard to life and limb and that the operation of filling or service or
gasoline or motor supply stations is in need of regulation so that a peaceful,
quiet enjoyment of the adjacent areas may be had by the citizens of the city
living in those areas.
B. That the regulation of the location and the corstruction .of filling or service
or gasoline or motor supply stations is necessary to compromise the conflict
which may arise between the operation of such business and the erjoymert of
adjacent residential areas.
C. The traffic problems that are. increased by the ingress and egress of all types
of motor vehicles, the advertising sig^a_ ard other lights, vibration, noise
and dust and danger of fire and/or explosions, the necessity of curb cuts
peculiar to the operation of such stations are factors which warra"t its being
the subject of regulatior.
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D. Thet the Plannirg Board of the City of Ithaca believes that it is necessary
in the public interest and for the reasons herein mentioned to regulate the
location of all filling or service or g asoline or motor supply stations
operating i„ the City of Ithaca aind to establish uniform regulations for the
location and site co"trol of the same within the City of Ithaca.
9=tio 2. Resid,antial Districts
A. No filling or service or gasoline or motor supply station shall hereafter be
located in any A-1 Residence District, A Residence District, B Residence
District or"Restrioted Business District.
Section 1, Business or Indugtria1 Districts
A. No filling or service or gasoline or motor supply station shall hereafter be
erected in any business or industrial district unless said building structure
or premises to be used for such business shall conform and comply *rdth all the
provisions of the building code "m it effect in the City of Ithaca.
B. It is also recommended that no such filling or service or gasoline or motor
supply stations shall be erected or Located within 450 feet of any hospital,
$ehool, church or other institutio" or-.place of public assembly where large
numbers of people congregate.
During his presentation Comm. Paul Taber entered.
By Comm. B.W. Taber: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that the Plar"ing Board reeoww d to the Charter & Ordinarce Committee of
the Common Council that,"the above suggested aedina"ee be adopted.
Carried.
2
October 23, 1956
BUDGET,,,: Chairman Fabbricatore preserted and reviewed in detail a proposed
budget for the Plarni^g Board for the year 1957. She reported that it had beer
prepared with the cooperation of the Director of Planr_ing.
By Conan. Osborn: s econded by Cones, Mwphy
RESOLVED; that the budget as presented tm the total amount of $289150.00 be
approved and submitted to the Common Council for consideration and final approval.
Carried.
Cr motion the meeting was adjourned, /
so. A. B1ean
City Clerk
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V
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PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
R M t'
Regular ee .�.ng 4:40 p.m, Nov. 12, 1956
PRESENT:
ihairman - Fabbricatore
Commissioners - B.W. Taber, Murphy, Egan, Reps
Director of Planning - Thorne
Clerk - Blean
MINiITES: Minutes of the last regular meeting and the special meeting held on
Oct. 23rd were duly approved.
ARTERIAL ROUTES: Chairman Fabbricatore reported that a proposal for revision
of arterial routes within the City had been presented to and approved by the
Common Council on Nov. 7, 1956•
RESIGNATION - MRS. OSBORN: Chairman Fabbricatore announced that Mrs. Osborn had
tendered her resignation as a member of the Board due to her election as an
Alderman from the Fifth Ward. She commended Mrs. Osborn for her work and enthu-
siasm as a member of the Board and expressed the Board's best wishes to her in
her new duties as an Alderman.
URBAN RENEWAL: Coruna Reps reported on two meetings held on urban renewal and
reviewed the staff wcrk and studies made by Mr. Chase,h Hed stated . Qat a �r 3e0 oP
t'r e location of. a project area^'ior wRA an application
will be made for a Planning advance. G'Monz .
CAPIT L BUDGET: A report entitled, "Formulating A Capital Improvement Program
For Ithaca'', was presented and reviewed by Comm. T, h. Egan. After some discussion
it was decidsd that the report be mimeographed and distributed to members of the
Board prior to a^.tion thereon.
By Comm, Reps: seconded by Comm. Egan
RESOLVED, that a special meeting of the Planning Board be scheduled for Monday,
November 26, 1956 at 4:04 p.m. and that a review of the reporr presented by
Comm. Egan by made special areas of business at that time.
Carried.
PQV ING DIRECTOWS REPORT: Director Thorne presented and reviewed his report
on activities of his planning staff since the last meeting.
POPULATION TRENDS: Comm. Reps asked the status of the study being made of popu-
lation trends and he was advised by W. Thorne that there is no report at this
time but hoped to be able to report thereon at the December meeting.
On motion the meeting was adjourned. /
0/, ce
Geo, A. B?_ean
City Clerk
V
PLANNING BOARD PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, N.Y.
Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m. Dec. 10, 1956
PRESENT:
Chairman - Fabbricatore
Commissioners - B.W. Tabery Murphy, Egan, Reps
Mayor - Ryan
Director of Planning - Thorne
Associate Planners - Chase & Titus
Clerk - Blean
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MINUTES: Comm. Reps requested that the minutes of the last meeting as they relate
a to Urban renewal, be corrected to have the second sentence read as followst
f
"He stated that a selection of the location of a project area has been made for
which an application win be made for a Planning advance."
By Comm. Egan: seconded by Comm. 73.14. Taber
RESOLVED, that the Clerk be directed to correct the minutes accordingly and that
they be approved as corrected. Carried.
RELOCATION OF FIRE STATION. CITY HALL AiID CITY LIBRARY: The Clerk presented and
read the following resolutions relating to the relocation of Central Fire Station,
City Hall and the City Library which were adopted by the Common Council on Dec. 5,
1956:
By Alderman Johnson: seconded by Alderman Wilkinson
WHEREAS, the majority of the Common Council passed the resolution for an off-
street parking area at the northwest corner of Aurora and Seneca Sts. with the
understanding that this was just a part of the plan to provide off-street parking
along the entire 200 block of E. Seneca St. , and
WHEREAS, it is not economically feasible to acquire the properties now involved
in the Condemnation Proceedings which provide for so few parking lots without in-
cluding the parking lots that would be available with the elimination and reloca-
tion of the Central Fire Station and City Hall, and
WHEREAS, the only economic utilization of the present sites now under condemna-
tion is to include the land now occupied by the Central Fire Station and City Hall,an(
WHEREAS, it has further been recommended by the Board of Fire Underwriters that
Central Fire Station be relocated,
NOT,f THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council, to further expedite the develop-
ment of this off-street parking area in the entire 200 block of E. Seneca St. , direct
the Planning Board to complete its plans for the relocation of Central Fire Station
not later than three months from now and within five months the relocation of City
Hall.
RELOCATION OF CITY HALL: By Alderman Osborn, seconded by Alderman Horn
RESOLVEED, that the Common Council request the Planning Board to study the feasi-
bility of relocating City Hall and to r eport back to the Common Council within
five months. Carried.
CORNELL LIBRARY RELOCATION: By Alderman Stimson, seconded by Alderman Porter
RESOLVED, that the Common Council request the Planning Board to study the feasi-
bility of relocating and establishing a city library in the relocation of City Hall
and toireport back to the Common Council within five months.
Carried.
Chairman Fabbricatore referred the resolutions and the requests contained therein to
the Community Facilities ez Services Committee of the Board for study and recommen-
dation.
URBAN RENE11AL: Comm. Reps reported that he had met with Attorney Clynes and one of
the Aldermen from the ward in which is located the site of an urban renewal project
and explained details in connection therewith and that a visit from Mr. Lutin, Urban
Renewal Administration Representative, is anticipated to review a draft of an appli-
cation which it is expected will be presented at the January meeting if possible.
REGIONAL PLANNING BOARD AGREEMENT: Chairman Fabbricatore reported approval by the
Common Council of an article of agreement between the City, Town and Village on
Regional Planning subject to some minor details to be agreed upon by the respective
attorneys.
PLANNING DIRECTORTS REPORT: Director Thorne presented and reviewed his report on
activities of his planning staff since the last meeting.
Upon inquiry by Comm. Reps, Mr. Thorne described in detail the work being done on
private parking studies referred to in his report.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
Geo. A. Blean
City Clerk