Present: D. Winch, F. Proto, S. Stein, S. Davis, C. Evans

Staff: I. Stein, K. West, J. Luu, B. Benjamin, J. Andersson, B. Grinnell-Crosby, J. Wood, S. Kerr

Guests A. Gifford, P. Bonaparte-Krogh, Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County; S. Griffin,

Mr. Winch called the meeting to order at 9:16 a.m.

It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote to approve the minutes of August 5, and August 12, 1999 as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.

Mr. Andersson reported that the process for determining fees has remained the same, the department has tried to balance the fees with the expenses related to each program. The fees for 2000 have changed very little, there have been some very minor increases and decreases. The largest increase was in large-scale sewage and soil testing, increasing $25 per permit.

Mr. Stein asked if there are have been complaints about the fees from the public. Mr. Andersson stated that most of the complaints are for sewage permits and this is because the people applying aren’t used to having to pay for a permit. He stated prior to a permit being issued the Health Department looks at several maps of the area, the size of the lot is checked to make sure it meets code, and site visits are done to look at the soil and what type of system is best. The system is then developed and the permit is issued. During construction the Health Department answers questions for the homeowner and contractor and upon completion the system is inspected.

Mr. Stein expressed concern about the cost to the individual homeowner and stated many may view this as already being paid for in their property taxes. He asked if the fee has always been as high as $175. Mr. Andersson stated that through the years the fee has increased. He stated that most permits are for single family residences, but there are also some businesses and mobile home park owners who obtain permits. He stated that the Health Department does not charge for another permit should the system fail. Mr. Proto stated that a significant amount of time is spent on the permit process. He stated that this is to insure that septic systems aren’t placed too closely to wells and the amount of money for the work and inspections does not cover the work involved. Mr. Andersson stated that other counties are charging atleast as much for this service and some do not do as much work. Mr. Proto stated that the check system is necessary to insure the necessary work is being completed properly.

Mr. Winch asked about the stability in the changes of the fees. Mr. Anderson stated that the amounts are lower, but not so much as to make a dramatic impact on the budget.

It was Moved by Mr. Evans, seconded by Mr. Proto and unanimously adopted by voice to vote to approve the proposed 2000 Environmental Health Fees. MOTION CARRIED.

It was Moved by Mr. Evans, seconded by Ms. Davis. Ms. Kerr stated that the Health Department would like to add medical social work to their Home Health Care Program. She stated that in order to do this, the Department will have to apply to New York State to change the department’s operating certificate and the position will be contingent on funding in the department’s 2000 budget. Mr. Winch asked if there is a connection between this social work position and those in the Department of Social Services. Ms. Kerr stated that the position is completely separate from the Department of Social Services and the Health Department cannot utilize social workers from the Department of Social Services. Ms. Kerr stated that the position is incorporated into the Health Department’s base budget request for 2000 and the position will work with families who have been referred from the home health nurses to provide connections and resources within the community. The person will also make home visits, counsel families, make recommendations on the appropriate steps to take, and also help with discharge services. She stated the person in the position will work half-time and she does not anticipate problems filling the position. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 5, Noes – 0. MOTION CARRIED.

WHEREAS, Tompkins County Health Department currently operates a certified home health agency (Tompkins County Home Health Care) and is interested in adding medical social services to its operating certificate, and

WHEREAS, the provision of medical social services will meet the needs of patients with complex family issues and to assist health department staff in coordinating appropriate resources, and

WHEREAS, the addition of a Medical Social Worker would enhance our agencies ability to obtain managed care contracts, preferred providers status and further our goal of reaching certification through Join Commission Accreditation Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), and

WHEREAS, the quality improvement committee and the Professional Advisory Committee has repeatedly recommended the addition of a Medical Social Worker based on needs identified through patient record reviews, and

WHEREAS, the department has proposed the addition of a Medical Social Worker through the 2000 budget process as part of the base budget, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the Health Department is authorized to seek approval from the New York sate Department of Health to add medical social services to its operating certificate.

SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

Mr. Winch stated that the Shelter Valley Water Works has been a water distribution system in the Newfield area for many years. He stated that there have been some problems over the years and Mr. Bury, who operates the system, has been approached on several occasions and asked to turn the operations of the system over to an independent operator. He stated that Deputy County Attorney Jonathon Wood on behalf of the Board of Health, and Mr. Andersson from the Health Department have spent a lot of time on this case.

Mr. Andersson stated that the system was built in the late 1960’s and services mostly single family residences. He stated that Mr. Bury runs the system under permission of the Public Service Commission as a regulated utility. He stated that Mr. Wood and himself have been working with the Newfield Town Board to get them to operate the facility. Mr. Jack Agansky from the New York State Public Service Commission recently attended a working session of the Town Board and he indicated that the Public Service Commission has the power to transfer authority to another entity and he would recommend this action if someone came forward to run the facility. Mr. Andersson stated that the Newfield Town Board currently runs another facility within the town and this is done in other parts of New York State as well. The working session of the Town Board indicated that they are seriously considering this action and this will be considered at tonight’s Town Board meeting. Mr. Andersson stated that this action would be an interim solution to the problem and noted the Town has been working with TG Engineers to look at the entire water district and improvements that are needed. He stated it is hoped that a project will emerge that will extend the water lines and incorporate the Shelter Valley Water Works into the water district.

Mr. Winch stated that the water works is 8500 feet away from the current water system and to connect the line would cost a considerable amount of money. He stated that there is the possibility of starting the extension by Superior Disposal and up to Route 34 and 96 to Jim Rays Mobile Home Park. He stated that this might be seen as an economic development zone and noted the properties in this area have a very fragile water system.

Mr. Winch stated that the first meeting held with the Town Board was on August 24, 1999 and Mr. Andersson, Mr. Wood, Jack Aganski from the Public Service Commission and Chris Nill from Rural Housing Incorporated Rural Community Assistance Program, Susan Pratt from Assemblyman Luster’s office and a representative from TG Miller Engineers were in attendance. Mr. Nill will be working on a long-term solution for the project to get funding and Mr. Wood offered county legal assistance to the project.

Mr. Wood stated that the Board of Health asked him and Mr. Andersson to meet with the Town Board. He stated that the solution he presented was to have the County take the system and have the Town run it. He stated he offered the County’s help in acquiring the property; legal services, the appraisal and surveying of the property and help with negotiations. He stated the County would not own the system, but would help the town acquire the system and run it until they found a better way to run the system. Mr. Aganski offered the Public Service Commission position and this will be a better option for the Town. The Town Attorney needs to contact the Public Service Commission and the Town Board will need to adopt a resolution that they will accept the system if the Public Service Commission transfer authority. The resolution is on tonight’s board agenda and the process should take less than a month to get the Town running the system. If this does not happen, the County’s option would take place and this would be done through eminent domain and then the Town would operate the system.

Mr. Winch stated that Mr. Bury has indicated that he would like to have someone else run the system. Mr. Bury feels the system has a lot of value and this would allow him to own the system but have someone else operate it. Mr. Winch stated that the Shelter Valley residents are very supportive of this action taking place and noted those residents currently pay more money for their water than the residents of the Village of Newfield. Mr. Stein stated that there is a clear distinction between owning and operating the system. He stated there would be no transfer of funds to Mr. Bury. Mr. Anderson stated that Mr. Bury will retain ownership and noted Mr. Bury claims he is not making any money on the system. Mr. Andersson stated that there was an increase in fees recently and he is not sure how this will be handled. Mr. Wood stated that if the Town Board and the Public Service Commission take action, the money the residents have been paying Mr. Bury would now go to the Town. Mr. Stein asked if significant repairs are needed to the system. Mr. Wood stated that this is a concern of the Town, but the system is not in poor condition, it just isn’t run properly. If the Health Department or Public Service Commission indicate that changes to the system are needed the Town would be able to raise the rates. There is no reason to believe that money is going to be lost if the Town takes over the operation.

Mr. Wood stated that Mr. Bury has claimed that he has been losing money and this would be a benefit to him. Mr. Wood stated that another group ran the system for a short time in the past and they claim they made money on it. Mr. Stein asked why the Town doesn’t take the property and run the system if it doesn’t have any value to Mr. Bury. Mr. Winch stated that eventually it will become part of the Newfield Water System and won’t be used or will be purchased and become part of the expansion. Mr. Winch stated that over a year ago the Public Service Commission placed a value on the property and the homeowners were going to purchase the system. Mr. Bury tried to increase the cost because of the repairs he has made and the deal fell through with the homeowners. Mr. Proto asked what will happen if the Town passes a resolution and then repairs are needed to the system. Will the Town go to the fund that has been developed by the homeowner fees to make the repairs and who will be responsible if the money in the fund isn’t sufficient. Mr. Andersson stated that the Public Service Commission stated that the owners will be responsible, but this isn’t expected. The money will come through the users through increased rates. Mr. Winch stated that the rates were increased a few years ago to make improvements, but not all of the improvements were made and there was a surplus in funds. The residents are confident that the system can be run and maintained. Mr. Winch stated he views this as a very positive thing and the residents support it. He stated that Mr. Bury also owns other property in the area and he will be paying a fee for water.

Mr. Proto asked if the homeowners are aware that when the expansion of the system takes place that the town will not be paying for all of the residents to be hooked in. Mr. Winch stated that the residents have been well informed.

Mr. Stein asked if Mr. Bury still owes fines. Mr. Andersson stated that there is currently $1,000 outstanding in fines and this has been referred to the County Attorney for collection.

Ms. Gifford stated that Cooperative Extension is working on two new programs. One is a new financial management program called "Power Partners", and the other is a radon testing program.

Ms. Gifford stated that Cooperative Extension was approached by New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) to help implement a financial management program. The program helps people pay off outstanding electric bills, as well as teach behavior modification. To be eligible for the program, participants must be at 200 percent of poverty and qualify for the HEAP Program. The bill must be 30 days late and the bill must be in the participant’s name. NYSEG will stop late payment fees, lower monthly payments and match the participant’s payments dollar for dollar. The participant must also agree to participate in the financial management program. Ms. Gifford distributed an 18-month calendar, which is used as a money management tool to help the individual keep track of expenses. She stated the individual will also receive newsletters, the first of which will focus on developing a spending plan. She stated that workshops will also be held. There are currently 184 participants in the program with a total of 1254 people being identified as eligible in Tompkins County. The program is being introduced to human service professional in the community to raise awareness about the program. NYSEG paid for development costs, the printing of the calendars, and will provide reimbursement to the County for each person enrolled.

Mr. Stein stated that as part of the deregulation process, NYSEG was mandated by the Public Service Commission to offer a financial management Program. Mr. Winch asked what the measurement tools are for the success of the program. Ms. Gifford stated that a measurement tool is being developed at Cornell University and an elaborate research project may be done on behavior modification. Mr. Proto stated that he believes this program will be very beneficial and asked if Cooperative Extension is in the position to have someone provide personal follow-up with individuals once they get into the program. Ms. Gifford stated that there is not a case manager on staff at Cooperative Extension to do this work, but NYSEG has people on staff that will be making contact with the people. Mr. Proto asked if NYSEG is in a position to fund a person to do the work. Ms. Gifford stated that this isn’t known at this time as this is only the first 18 months of the program.

Ms. Gifford stated that Cooperative Extension received a small grant from the New York State Health Department for a Radon Education and Testing Program. The program is divided into two parts, general community education (what are the risks, how to mitigate, etc.), and also targeting 50 homes in Tompkins County where Tompkins Community Action will place test kits in the homes and get test results. If a high level of radon is found, the Health Department will be involved to help with options for mitigation.

Mr. Stein stated that there are radon problems in Tompkins County and stated this can be very frustrating to homeowners because it costs a substantial amount to mitigate. Ms. Gifford stated that there were four counties in the State targeted and Tompkins was one of them. She stated that once the areas of need are identified, there may be funds available for mitigation. She stated Cooperative Extension will also be working with homebuilders because there are structures that can be built that are radon resistant.

Ms. Gifford provided an update on the lead prevention program, noting that funds are received annually from the New York State Department Health to provide education on prevention and the need for testing in children. Information is also made available on lead abatement. She stated that public health providers provide lead testing, and if high levels are found they investigate into the source. She stated that Cooperative Extension works very closely with the Public Health Department.

Ms. Gifford stated that more children are being tested than in the past, but there is still need for more education. Work is being done on the real estate disclosure that states if there is lead based paint in the home and if it isn’t known, the potential occupant can do testing. She stated she believes the increased number of cases is based on more people being tested.

Budget Adjustment –Foodnet

It was Moved by Mr. Evans, seconded by Mr. Stein. Mr. Stein asked if the repayment of $90,000 through fund raising is typical. Ms. Stein stated that Foodnet moved to a new location last year and asked the County for $110,00 for renovations and new equipment. The County approved $90,000 and Foodnet agreed to repay $90,000 in 1999 through their fundraising campaign. They have since needed more money for their operating expenses for the remainder of 1999 and they are seeking to change the repayment schedule to 2000.

Mr. Benjamin stated that there was money in the 1999 budget for rent and utilities, but since Foodnet was working to become operational at their new location it was necessary to use part of the operating expenses in the 1999 budget toward capital expenses. He stated that the capital that was expected from the fundraising campaign hasn’t yet been received and this is causing a deficit. He stated typically the Contingent Fund would be used to cover the shortfall. He stated that the repayment schedule looks solid and Foodnet believes they will receive the revenue, but it isn’t known when that will be received. Much of their money comes from private foundations, etc., and sometimes those funds are spread over a period of years. He stated that Ms. Stein is being conservative to insure the operating expenses and if the revenues are realized, this will speed up the repayment process.

Mr. Proto asked if the timeframe for repayment is realistic for Foodnet. Mr. Griffin stated that Foodnet has a one-year payment plan because they believe it is important for the County to know that they are actively seeking donations and that Foodnet is working enthusiastically toward an active fundraising campaign. He stated that Foodnet has identified several areas for use for the money and the goal is over $400,000 to replace vehicles, kitchen equipment, computers and other materials as well as provide building renovations. The $90,000 County contribution is part of the $490,000 total target. Mr. Griffin stated that their campaign has many foundation requests that have been acknowledged, but it isn’t known at this time when the money will be received. It also includes private and corporate contributions along with local and national foundations. Mr. Proto asked what the timeframe is for the major gift campaign. Mr. Griffin stated that pledges will be received over the next three years.

There was lengthy discussion about the role of government loaning agencies money. It was the consensus of the Committee to seek a policy decision after the beginning of the year. Ms. West stated that a budget adjustment is not needed, an amendment to the Foodnet contract will need to be completed. Mr. Evans withdrew his original motion. It was Moved by Mr. Evans, seconded by Ms. Davis and unanimously adopted by voice vote to approve the amendment to the Foodnet contract to move the repayment schedule of the $90,000 to the year 2000. MOTION CARRIED. Ms. Stein was asked to report back on the status of the contract at the next committee meeting.

Budget Adjustment – College for life-long learning

It was Moved by Mr. Evans, seconded by Ms. Davis and unanimously adopted by voice vote.

REVENUE: 6794.4308 State Revenue $3,942

APPRORPIATON: 6794.51000 Salary $1,680

6794.54472 Telephone 20

6794.54452 Postage 75

Explanation: Increase in State Revenue for College for life-long Learning.

Board of Health

Mr. Proto stated the Board of Health at their last meeting discussed the Bury water situation and Article 6, Water and Sewer Regulations.

Health Planning Council

Ms. Davis reported the Health Planning Council did not meet in August.

Mr. Evans reported the Community Mental Health Services Board did not meet in August.

Personal Emergency Response Services Board

Mr. Stein reported the Personal Emergency Response Services Board did not meet in August.

Greater Ithaca Activities Board

Ms. Davis reported that GIAC Board has met and everything is going well.

Mr. Proto stated that the Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca Board of Directors met last week at the Convenient Care Center. The Convenient Care Center has been opened for one year and everything is running smoothly.

Mr. Evans reported that Youth Board did not meet in August.

Office for the Aging Advisory Board

Mr. Evans reported the Office for the Aging Advisory Board did not meet in August.

Mr. Evans reported the Senior Citizens Council did not meet in August.

A report was given by Cooperative Extension earlier in today’s meeting.

Alcoholism Council of Tompkins County

Mr. Stein reported that he is still working to get in contact with the Alcoholism Council of Tompkins County.

Harm Reduction Coalition

Mr. Proto stated the Harm Reduction Coalition would meet next week and have an update on the waiver.

On motion the meeting adjourned 11:25 a.m.

Respectfully submitted by Jennifer Luu, Administrative Assistant, Board of Representatives.