Staff:  K. Fuller, Recorder; E. Marx, Commissioner of Planning and Public Works; W.
Sczesny, Highway Division; R. Nicholas, Airport Manager; A. LeMaro,
Facilities Director, D. Ellis, Weights and Measures; C. Nelson, Public Works
Administrator; B. Eckstrom, K. Thompson, Solid Waste; J. Wood, County Attorney

Excused: D. Randall, Chair, N. Shinagawa

Call to Order

 Ms. Kiefer, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order at 3:07 p.m.

Agenda Additions/Deletions

There were no additions to, or deletions from the agenda.

Persons Wishing to Address the Committee

 There were no persons wishing to address the Committee.

Minutes of March 14, 2006

 It was MOVED by Ms. Mackesey, seconded by Mr. Booth, and approved by voice vote of members present to accept the minutes of March 14, 2006, as submitted.

Hillview Road Landfill Citizens Advisory Committee

 It was MOVED by Ms. Mackesey, seconded by Mr. Booth, and approved by voice vote by members present, to reappoint Dooley Kiefer to the Hillview Road Landfill Citizens Advisory Committee for a term that expires December 31, 2006.

Solid Waste Division

 Ms. Eckstrom, Director, reported that the new flat fee structure has alleviated traffic problems previously existing at the Recycling and Solid Waste Center as well as bringing the facility into compliance with State requirements.  She provided written information indicating punch-card purchases for a two-week period of March 1 – 15 increased from 5 in 2005 to 387 in 2006, and it is anticipated this number will continue to increase.  Ms. Eckstrom then spoke of the flat fee presently in place, noting that individuals are utilizing the facility 1/3 to ½ as much as previously, indicating they are bringing larger loads to take advantage of the $10 flat fee.  As a result, the Solid Waste Facility is experiencing revenue losses.  Ms. Eckstrom discussed this problem with Mr. Ellis of Weights and Measures, indicating the need for a tiered system, and stating it would be less expensive to pay a fine associated with a tiered system rather than having the revenue loss.  As a result, Mr. Ellis spoke directly to the Commissioner of Weights and Measures and was granted approval to use a tiered fee system.  The resolution that follows will provide a tiered fee system that will more accurately reflect the costs associated with handling of the solid waste.

 It was noted by the members of the Committee that the estimated loss figure is approximately $80,000 when calculated by the number of days.  Ms. Eckstrom felt the figure would increase with time as the first weeks of implementation was during a period the facility is used less.  Mr. Marx said that individuals rapidly determined how to use the present flat fee structure to their advantage.  Ms. Eckstrom said not all coupons purchased have been used yet which makes it difficult to determine if consumers were changing habits on facility use.

 Ms. Kiefer indicated her belief that if the fee is modified to the tiered system it is important that the fees for this category of vehicles (pick-up trucks and full-size vans) not be changed again this year.  Ms. Eckstrom said that although it is not her intent to change again, there is a resolution on file that allows her to make adjustments as necessary.  She believes that there will be further discussions of fees during budget time.  Mr. Booth noted that the fees charged by the facility are still less than other solid waste facilities.

RESOLUTION NO.  - ESTABLISHING A TIERED FLAT-FEE STRUCTURE FOR VEHICLES WITH A NET LOAD WEIGHT OF LESS THAN 1,000 POUNDS THAT TIP SOLID WASTE AT THE RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE CENTER (RSWC)

 It was MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Ms. Mackesey, and approved by voice vote  by members present, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature.  RESOLUTION APPROVED.

 WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 264 of 2005 the Legislature established a flat-fee structure for charging cars, pick-up trucks and full-size vans for tipping of garbage at the Recycling and Solid Waste Center (RSWC), and

 WHEREAS, the Legislature established a five-dollar rate for cars, minivans, and sport utility vehicles and a ten-dollar rate for pick-up trucks and full-size vans, and

 WHEREAS, the implementation of the flat-fee structure has considerably improved the flow of traffic at the RSWC since its implementation on March 1, 2006, and

 WHEREAS, the ten-dollar flat-fee for pick-up trucks and full-size vans does not meet actual costs, and

 WHEREAS, a more equitable system would charge vehicles carrying large quantities of solid waste more than vehicles carrying significantly less waste, and

 WHEREAS, when initially discussed with the County Director of Weights and Measures he was informed by Regional New York State Weights and Measures staff that a tiered system was illegal, now he has received approval from the New York State Commissioner of Weights and Measures to administer this three-tiered system, and

 WHEREAS, by adopting a three-tier system for charging vehicles with net loads of garbage less than 1,000 pounds, the County can continue the flat-fee structure and ensure that the County does not suffer significant financial losses, now therefore be it

 RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure and Budget and Capital Committees, That the tipping fee at the RSWC for vehicles with net loads of garbage less than 1,000 pounds shall be as follows:

    Weight  Flat Fee
0 to 333 lbs      $10
334 lbs to 666 lbs    $20
667 lbs to 999 lbs     $30

 RESOLVED, further, That these changes shall take effect on April 17, 2006,

 RESOLVED, further, That the five-dollar rate for cars, minivans, and sport utility vehicles remain in effect.
SEQR ACTION:  TYPE II-20

 Mr. Ellis, Weights and Measures, provided the Committee with written 2006 Goals.  It was noted that the goals were basically the same as previous years.  Mr. Ellis indicated the most difficult task he faces is to be able to arrange and consolidate work efficiently due to the changing nature of business availability.  Ms. Kiefer made the following suggestions:

 Goal 2 – It was suggested that with regard to consumer complaints the Committee be provided with one or two written reports during the year indicating the complaints and how  handled.
 It was suggested to add a Goal 5 that would encompass Mr. Ellis’s responsibilities with respect to the Neighbor Notification Law (pesticides).  Mr. Ellis said he makes certain that retailers have appropriate signage; if there is none he provides them with the necessary information to post.  He noted that WalMart has added a permanent metal sign in the pesticide section of their store.

20 Year Capital Plan

 Mr. Marx stated he is hoping to have the draft report completed in April.  Committee members briefly discussed whether the discussion should take place without all members present.  Mr. Booth noted that he had spoken to Mr. Shinagawa who indicated his choice for priority has not changed.

 Mr. Marx noted that Mr. LeMaro amended information previously provided to show more details of what the various cost estimates included.  He then provided a sheet to members that listed several different scenarios of project priorities, and estimated costs associated with the choices.  It was noted that overall, the total costs for the various options were very similar.  It was noted that the dollar amounts did not account for inflation.

 Ms. Mackesey expressed concern in making a decision when no decision has been made to commit to a project.  A brief discussion took place during which it was noted that a decision by the Committee does not commit to a project, but rather, recommends the order in which major space needs and facility problems should be dealt with.  It would assist as a planning and budgeting tool to provide the Legislature with the ability to forecast future financial needs of the County based on information such as the Space Needs and Location study.

 Ms. Mackesey indicated she does not necessarily agree with spending funds to build a new Center of Government building when the County presently has facilities.  The purpose of the Space Needs and Location study was explained, noting that it encompassed future needs of the County for additional space as well as providing for better efficiencies by consolidating departments that closely work together.

 In response to Mr. Booth’s question about what costs would be associated with doing nothing for ten years, Mr. Marx indicated it would cost $15 million even if nothing were done simply due to maintenance needs.

 Ms. Kiefer said she believes the priorities set previously should remain, with the Health Department the first priority, however, she expressed concern regarding record storage.  Mr. Marx indicated that that the work proposed for the Old Library ($2.5 million) included items that would resolve the record storage concern in the building.  Ms. Kiefer stated her desire to have the County look at potential properties for sale to determine if they would be more suitable for this purpose.  Mr. Marx said the County is normally informed immediately when properties are listed.

 Mr. Marx stated that the scenarios provided is an attempt to identify needs, not a way to balance fiscal responsibility for the taxpayer and what is good for the County.  He would dislike spending $15 million for repair to the buildings since it will ultimately be more costly in the future when space needs and building deterioration will require other options.  He stated that if the County cannot determine a sound fiscal plan then future construction would not take place.

 Following the discussions it was determined that at the next meeting the Committee will tour the Public Safety building, the Old Library building, and then convene at the Scott Heyman Conference Room to make a final determination of priorities.

Human Services Building Acoustic Study

 Mr. LeMaro, Facilities Director, reported to the Committee there has been a constituent complaint related to noise from a fan unit installed on the roof of the Human Services Building.  He said the resident had made a similar complaint last year, which had been verified by Mr. Tunney, former Assistant Director, and was mitigated.  Now, as a result of the Energy Performance Contract modifications, the fan unit is utilized to use the outside air to cool particular areas of the building.  These modifications have again created the noise pollution within this individual’s home, located two blocks from the Human Services Building, and it appears to be the only effected property.

 Mr. LeMaro contacted Angevine Acoustical Consultants, Inc., of East Aurora, New York and was informed the approximate cost for a proposal that would include an assessment of the situation would be $5,000, with and additional $5,000 to design the appropriate modifications to resolve the problem.  He would like to move forward with the assessment as Senator Winner’s office has also been contacted regarding this problem.  Ms. Kiefer inquired whether there was any engineering class at Cornell University that might be able to take this on as a project.  It was unknown whether this would be possible.  Mr. LeMaro said the $5,000 figure was the initial estimate, however he believed that it could be less due to the documentation and blueprints available for review.  It was suggested by Mr. Marx that perhaps an hourly rate could be used to hold costs down.  The Committee agreed.  Mr. LeMaro said he could arrange the agreement to have a “not to exceed” clause; he believes it would take 2-3 days of the engineers time.

Airport

 Ms. Kiefer noted the resolutions before the Committee are the first since the creation of the Air Services Board.  She asked for clarification of how the process is designed to operate with regard to resolutions.  Mr. Marx explained that the Air Service Board was endorsing the recommendation made by Airport Manager, Mr. Nicholas.

Award of Contract - Café/Gift Shop

 Mr. Nicholas explained that two of the bids received were basically for the same service currently in place and would require funding from the County, and one was not adequate due to lack of experience as well as presenting an incomplete proposal.  The proposal being recommended is one that would have minimal financial impact to the County and indicated plans that are parallel to the desire of the airport.  Ms. Kiefer asked about staffing and was informed the proposal calls for two individuals at all times of operation.  In addition it was noted that the County does not have estimates for any anticipated maintenance expense; it does know there may be possibly be the expense of a griddle purchase.

 Mr. Nicholas noted that the proposal will provide much the same menu as presently exists.  In addition, it will continue to provide food within the terminal area, particularly for early flights.  Mr. Booth asked what made this proposal different from the others.  Mr. Nicholas explained that over the course of years the initial food service company, which started as ServRite, was successful for a period of time, and was bought out by Fine Host, and then by the present vendor, Aramark.  Each change resulted in increases in cost to the airport for management fees.  The new proposal is from a local individual who presently holds other contracts with the airport, which have been successful.  In addition, it was noted by the operator there is little overhead expenses involved.  In response to a question by Mr. Booth, Mr. Nicholas noted that the $3,053.88 figure was based on a formula developed and will assist with initial start-up costs.

RESOLUTION NO.        - AWARD OF CONTRACT- TERMINAL CAFÉ/GIFT SHOP – ITHACA TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT

  It was MOVED by Ms. Mackesey, seconded by Mr. Booth, and approved by voice vote by members present, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature.  RESOLUTION APPROVED.

WHEREAS, the café/gift shop contract with Aramark Corporation is due to expire on April 30, 2006, and
WHEREAS, a Request for Proposals (RFP) was duly advertised and four (4) proposals were received and the proposal from Fairweather Enterprises Inc., d/b/a/ The Second Landing, of Ithaca, New York,  is deemed to be in the best interests of the airport and airport users, and
WHEREAS, the Air Service Board has reviewed the Airport Manager's recommendations and supports awarding the contract to Fairweather Enterprises Inc., now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the County Administrator be authorized to sign a five-year contract with Fairweather Enterprises Inc., commencing on May 1, 2006 and expiring on April 30, 2011.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

RESOLUTION NO. - AWARD OF CONTRACT- TERMINAL PARKING LOTS – ITHACA TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT

  It was MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Ms. Mackesey, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature.  Ms. Kiefer inquired about the less expensive proposal submitted and was informed by Mr. Nicholas that the individual was an operator of parking in Pennsylvania but did not have specific airport parking experience.  While he noted it may not be a significant operational difference the fact that this particular experience did not exist combined with lack of some necessary budget information in the proposal did not make a significant enough difference to warrant awarding the bid.  Ms. Kiefer noted that consideration of salaries provided to employees was also reviewed in the bid process; she was glad to see this.  Mr. Nicholas noted he recognizes the County’s belief that a living wage should be provided.  In addition, he noted the present parking company’s manager has maintained his position for ten years, which he views as an indication of satisfaction for the company.

 A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows:  Ayes – 3; (Legislators Booth, Kiefer, and Mackesey); Excused – 2 (Legislators Randall and Shinagawa).  RESOLUTION APPROVED.

WHEREAS, the parking lot contract with Standard Parking Corporation is due to expire on April 30, 2006, and
WHEREAS, a Request for Proposals (RFP) was duly advertised and three (3) proposals were received, and the proposal from Standard Parking Corporation of Cleveland, Ohio is deemed to be in the best interests of the airport and airport users, and
WHEREAS, the Air Service Board has reviewed the Airport Manager's recommendations and supports awarding the contract to Standard Parking, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the County Administrator be authorized to sign a three-year contract with Standard Parking commencing on May 1, 2006, with options to renew annually for a further two years until 30 April, 2011.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
Notes:

Background:

Currently this is a management contract with the County paying a fee for Standard Parking Corporation to operate the facility on our behalf. All expenses, maintenance costs are borne by the County and the County receives all net revenues.  This would be a continuation of the same type of contract for a 5-year period.

This contract produced approximately $ 180,000 net revenue for the airport in 2005. It is expected to produce a similar amount in 2006.

 Ms. Kiefer asked if an Energy Star product preference could be made for the purchase of equipment at the Airport.

Approval of Contract – Exterior Landscaping

 Mr. Nicholas noted that all bids received were significantly higher than the previous 5-year contract, noting that the present contract holder underestimated the cost of services.  Although this resulted in a 47 percent increase, the funds are available in the current airport budget.  In response to Ms. Mackesey, Mr. Nicholas said the contract includes all mowing, tree and shrubbery pruning, and fertilizing all grounds outside of the airport and in the parking lot areas.  Ms. Kiefer inquired if the bid specifications included use of environmentally protective products and practices  and was informed that it did.  Ms. Mackesey felt it was a great deal of money to spend on this type of service.  Ms. Kiefer suggested replacing grass with a low-maintenance ground cover to save on the expense.  Ms. Kiefer suggested perhaps speaking with Cooperative Extension or a consulting a horticulturist could provide other ideas.  The matter will be brought to the Air Service Board for further suggestions.  Mr. Booth inquired about the possibility of amendments to the agreement should the landscaping needs be reduced, and was informed the contract allows for changes.   Ms. Mackesey suggested that perhaps the conversion could occur with funds available in the present contract and utilize the contractor to make the changes.

  During further discussion the Committee supported the idea that the contractor being awarded the bid could assist in developing and converting the grounds to ultimately reduce the expenses.

RESOLUTION NO.        - AWARD OF BID – EXTERIOR LANDSCAPING – ITHACA TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT

      It was MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Ms. Mackesey, and approved by voice vote by members present, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature.  RESOLUTION APPROVED.

       WHEREAS, the Finance Department advertised and received three bids for a 5-year contract to maintain the exterior landscaping of the airport terminal building, and
      WHEREAS, the lowest responsible bid was received from Green Scene of Ithaca, and
      WHEREAS, the total cost for the 5-year contract, beginning in the spring of 2006, will be $132,197.64, now therefore be it
      RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the bid be awarded to Green Scene of Ithaca,
      RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute said contract with Green Scene of Ithaca.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

The two other bids were:

Pro-Lawn of Ithaca (existing contractor) ($ 153,804.00)
Scenic Landscape ($ 197,709.00)

The expiring 3-year contract was valued at $ 53,700. This contract represents a 47% increase over the old contract.

The cost of the exterior landscaping is part of the normal operational budget.

Budget Adjustment

 It was MOVED by Ms. Mackesey, seconded by Mr. Booth, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members present, to approve the following budget adjustment.  BUDGET ADJUSTMENT APPROVED.

Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport
Revenue Acct           Title            Amt  Approp Acct  Title_________
5611.44592 Community Air     $  33,750 5611.54442 Professional Services
  Service Grant
5611.4592 Community Air     $140,000 5611.54333 Education and Promotion
  Service Grant
Explanation:  Continuation of Cornell Business Development Services Agreement.  Marketing and Airline Services.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

Notes: This is a grant that will allow Charles Hamilton’s continuation as a part-time employee assisting the airport and Air Service Board.  The balance of the funds will be utilized to provide advertising and marketing to increase usage of the airport.

 It was noted that Mr. Hamilton will work half-time as of April 1, 2006.  Mr. Nicholas noted he will also be working half-time as the CEO for a new company opening up on South Hill.

Notification of Upcoming Contract for Airport Engineer

 Mr. Nicholas reported that the five-year contract with C&S Engineers has expired and there is a need for an RFQ to be sent to eligible New York State airport engineers.  He intends to have this prepared to go out within the next month in order to allow an award of bid by the end of May.  He stated that although the contract has already expired the new contract does not need to be in place until another project requiring services is needed.

Update on USAir

 Mr. Booth inquired about the impact of US Air’s decision to eliminate the Pittsburgh flight.  Mr. Nicholas stated it will not effect the airport significantly as this flight was not highly used; he has always felt it was not an adequate schedule to the needs of the community.  In addition, Mr. Nicholas said US Air is looking at Charlotte as a potential hub.

Highway Division

Highway and Bridge Status Report

 The Committee reviewed the written report provided.  Items of interest are noted below.

· Ellis Hollow Road – since the project was initially started in 2001 and subsequently postponed, there is a need to meet with the consultants and update the cost estimates; this project is 100% local funding.
· A request was made to include the length of road/bridge being constructed/rehabilitated in the report, and where possible, the date the project will start; it was noted some dates are amended at State request.
·  A request was made to also indicate the road classification.  Ms. Kiefer once again asked for a tutorial for the Committee on terminology associated with highway projects. (Mr. Marx indicated there is a project underway to compile basic information that will be made available to municipalities, public, and Committee members.)
· Halseyville Bridge reconstruction is 100% local funding.
· A discussion of amending ownership of various bridges occurred; it was noted discussions such as this would be required prior to commencement of a project.
· Red Mill Bridge – at this time no alternative funding has been located for this project.  It was thought that discussions with the new SHPO officer may be more amenable than the previous individual.
· Ringwood Road – the State did not have any significant comments and purchases of Rights-of-Way and necessary resolution adoption is taking place.
· Newfield Depot Road Bridge – although the first public hearing is scheduled for April 20, the project may be deferred to provide funding for the Hanshaw Road project.  This information was requested to be provided at the public hearing.
· A request was made to notify Legislators of public hearings and other items of interest in their districts.
· Hanshaw Road – The bid award will take place in September; possible work on utilities will occur in the fall, with main construction anticipated to begin in Spring 2007.
· Coddington Road – Ms. Mackesey expressed concern that work will also be taking place on the Aurora Street bridge.  Mr. Sczesny said he will coordinate all projects with municipalities to avoid traffic congestion.  It was requested that the coordination notices also be made available to Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT).
· Station Road – the Highway Division is waiting for word from the railroad before it can proceed.
· A request was made to include construction completion dates on the list of projects that are awaiting Federal and/or State reimbursement before they can be closed out.
· Banks Road Bridge – Mr. Scezsny reported that this Town of Caroline bridge was closed as a result of breakage of 7 out of 8 cables that support the concrete structure of the bridge.  It was believed this occurred within the last several months.  The County bridge crew will do the repair work.  Mr. Booth indicated a discussion should take place as to who pays for the repair work.

Public Works Department 2006 Goals

 Ms. Kiefer asked that Committee members consider if any Division Goals suggest any changes to the Committee workplan.

 The Committee reviewed the written goals for each of the Public Works Divisions.  Mr. Booth said he believes the issue of diversity should be more inclusive in the plans as it is a priority goal for the Department.  Members spoke of the term “diverse applicant” and were informed that developing the most appropriate terminology is difficult.  Ms. Nelson will distribute the training manual she is preparing that will cover the topic more thoroughly.  Ms. Kiefer asked if completion dates for some of the mentioned goals could be added and was informed by Mr. Marx that divisions need to balance workloads as needed and therefore it is difficult to set dates; he does not believe it would be useful.  Ms. Kiefer stated she believed it might assist with the Committee agenda to know what is occurring at any given time within the divisions.  In response to an inquiry from Ms. Mackesey, it was noted that intermunicipal discussions would include discussions of jurisdictional responsibility for roads throughout the County.

 It was noted that the civil service exam for Deputy Director of Facilities has taken place with the results expected within six to eight weeks.  Following the results interviewing will take place.

 Ms. Kiefer offered the following suggestions/comments relating to the goals:

· The Re-Business program should have a list of which businesses signed on and what they have done.  She noted the program sounds similar to one previously implemented.  Ms. Kiefer would like to see how many called versus signed-up.
· Require haulers to use different-size recycling containers.
· Objectives B, C, and D assume Freeville will take leachate from the Caswell Road Landfill; text should be revised accordingly.

Mr. Booth strongly reiterated the need to have the generator installed in Building C.

Facilities and Infrastructure Committee Goals

 Members present were ready to accept the revised lists but believed it was not appropriate to act without the full Committee.

Commissioner of Planning and Public Works

 Mr. Marx did not have a report.

Adjournment

 Ms. Kiefer declared the meeting adjourned at 5:28 p.m., without objection.

Respectfully submitted by Karen Fuller, Deputy Clerk