Staff:  K. Fuller, Deputy Clerk, C. Nelson, Public Works Administrator, B. Eckstrom, T.
Richardson, K. Thompson, P. Cowles, Solid Waste Division; W. Sczesny, Highway
Department; E. Marx, Pubic Works Commissioner; R. Nicholas, Airport; A. LeMaro, S.
Christoffersen, Facilities, S. Whicher, S. Martel-Moore, Administration

Guests:  O. Gustofson, Cornell ECO

Call To Order

 Ms. Kiefer, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order at 2:35 p.m.

Changes/Additions to Agenda

  The following item was added to the agenda:

· Authorizing A License To Enter – Cornell University Chemical Disposal and Radiation Burial Sites – Continued Remediation, Monitoring and Maintenance Work at Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport

Persons Wishing to Address the Committee

 No persons wished to address the Committee

Correspondence

Regarding Joe Sirico

 Ms. Kiefer spoke of correspondence from Mr. Nicholas, Airport Manager, respecting his taxi company and the airport, and  requested the topic be placed on a future agenda for further discussion.

Minutes of June 13 and 27, 2006

 It was MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Ms. Mackesey, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members present, to approve the minutes of June 13 and 27, 2006, as amended.

Commissioner of Planning and Public Works Report

 Mr. Marx requested an executive session during the meeting to discuss potential real estate negotiations. It was decided to move this until later awaiting arrival of more Committee members.

Cornell Chemical Disposal Site and Radiation Disposal Site and Approval of License to Enter

 Mr. Gustofson, Operations Manager at the Chemical and Radioactive sites, provided Cornell's annual report regarding the university's chemical and radioactive waste sites near the airport.  The Committee received maps and graphs of the sites and was provided a brief history of the sites.

Mr. Shinagawa arrived at this time (3:00 p.m.).

Mr. Gustofson's report and his responses to various questions highlighted the following points:

Chemical Disposal Site – created in the 1950’s, closed in the late 1970’s; capped in the early 1990’s; chlorinated solvents, e.g. TCE

· The cap on the chemical disposal site has assisted in reducing the size of the plume.  Water is pumped out of the surrounding area to the disposal site.
· Although the plume is slowly shrinking, it is anticipated that it will be approximately 30 years before it is totally gone.
· TCE at the site is absorbed in the soil and shows itself at various times throughout the year based upon the moisture content of the soil.
· There are seasonal variations in well testing; September is usually the driest month, and has the highest numbers.
· Occasionally, increased readings occur which may be due to container deterioration.

Radiation Disposal Site, created in the 1950’s, closed in the late 1970’s; paradioxane and tritium

· During last two to three years testing has been for paradioxane.
· Work was completed to seal leakage by drilling and grouting any existing fractures in bedrock beneath the radiation disposal site.   It is anticipated the procedure will not need additional work for at least 30 years up to a maximum of 50 years.
· Pumping of groundwater shows a reduction in paradioxane levels.
· Upon indicating significant/allowable traces of chemicals at well sites, the plan is to shut the pumps off.  Monitoring will continue until all show 50 parts per billion, which is DEC’s cleanup directive.
· Although there is tritium present in groundwater, the trace readings are below drinking water standards.

Surface Water is sampled in March and September

Treatment Plant

· Uses carbon filters for organic compounds, and ultraviolet radiation for paradioxanes.  There is no treatment for tritium.
· Testing is done monthly.  Effluent is released into a small stream nearby.
· The filters are periodically sent out to be regenerated for reuse.

Additional Discussion

· Cornell University's annual operating budget for these sites is an estimated $500,000; to date Cornell Has spent almost $10 million for the monitoring and mitigation at the sites.
· The treatment plant has a collection system installed to filter hazardous waste.
· According to Mr. Nicholas, operation and maintenance of the University's sites, including well monitoring, have no difficulties for actual airport operations.
· Testing is completed by an independent laboratory in South Carolina per Department of Environmental Conservation requirement.
· The DEC Record of Decision required capping and containment for cleanup which has been implemented; we are not in the monitoring phase.
· Copies of the annual report are available at the airport, Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County Planning Department, and at Cornell University.
· Some preliminary interest at Cornell is possibly using new bacteria to neutralize contaminants.

RESOLUTION NO.  - AUTHORIZING A LICENSE TO ENTER – CORNELL UNIVERSITY CHEMICAL DISPOSAL AND RADIATION BURIAL SITES – CONTINUED REMEDIATION, MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE WORK AT ITHACA TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT

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

      WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins signed consecutive Licenses to Enter for Cornell University to install and maintain groundwater wells and to install and maintain an underground collection system in connection with contamination emanating from their chemical disposal and radiation burial sites, and
      WHEREAS, the most recent License to Enter expired on June 8, 2006, and there is a need for Cornell University to continue remediation, monitoring, and maintenance work at the groundwater wells located on airport property, and
      WHEREAS, said remediation, monitoring, and maintenance is likely to be necessary for many years to come, now therefore be it
      RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to sign a License to Enter for a period of five (5) years, commencing on June 9, 2006,
      RESOLVED, further, That maps of well locations showing pollution plumes, all relevant data, and all appropriate reports be timely filed at the locations agreed upon as necessary among the County Airport Manager, the County Planning Department, and the County Environmental Health staff and that Cornell University keeps the appropriate Legislature Committee informed about their progress by way of an annual presentation to that committee.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

Award of Bid – Snow Blower

RESOLUTION NO.                - AWARD OF BID – HEAVY DUTY ALL-WHEEL DRIVE SNOW BLOWER – ITHACA TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT

 Mr. Nicholas indicated although he had hoped for additional bidders, the one bid received came in within the estimated cost of $450,000 to $500,000.

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

 Ms. Kiefer inquired whether the vehicle had energy-efficient standards and was informed that it had the standard diesel pollution controls.  Mr. Marx indicated that next year there would be significant changes to emission and energy efficiency with this type of vehicle.

      WHEREAS, the Finance Department has duly advertised for bids to purchase a heavy duty all-wheel drive snow blower for the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, and
      WHEREAS, one bid was received as follows:
                          Tracey Road Equipment (for Oshkosh Truck Corp.)     $ 500,525
, and
       WHEREAS, the budget for said vehicle is as follows:

                          FAA   (95%)                                 $ 475,499
                          NYSDOT (2.5%)                          $   12,513
                          Airline Rates & Charges (2.5%)   $   12,513
                          Total                                              $ 500,525
now therefore be it,
       RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That subject to grants being received from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), the bid be awarded to Tracey Road Equipment of East Syracuse, New York with a bid of $500,525,
       RESOLVED, further, That the local share be derived from the airport budget and that the Finance Director be authorized to advance payments for this piece of equipment until reimbursement is received from the FAA and NYSDOT.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-25

Explanation – Projected estimates for this equipment were between $450,000 to $500,000.

Correspondence

 Ms. Kiefer informed Mr. Nicholas of a desire to at a future meeting discuss the correspondence he sent to Mr. Sirico.

Annual Reports

 Annual Reports for the Airport, Facilities Division, Solid Waste, and Public Works were provided for review of Committee members.  They will be discussed further at an August meeting.

2006 Public Works Goals and Objectives

 The 2006 Public Works Goals and Objectives were provided for review of Committee members.  They will be discussed at an August meeting.

Executive Session

 It was MOVED by Ms. Mackesey, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present, to enter into an executive session to discuss real estate negotiations.  The Committee entered executive session at 3:30 p.m.

 On motion, the Committee exited the executive session at 3:46 p.m.

Introduction of Assistant Director of Facilities

 Members of the Committee and staff were introduced to Mr. Steve Christofferson, newly hired Assistant Director of Facilities, who began work yesterday.

Emergency Generator Recommendations

 The Committee reviewed the Emergency Generator Recommendations made by the Emergency Management Planning Team.  Mr. LeMaro indicated the recommendations were a result of a department head and a feasibility study performed with the assistance of LaBella Associates, and

 Mr. Randall arrived at this time, and took over chairing the meeting.

 Mr. LeMaro reviewed the recommendations and noted that it would be less expensive to purchase portable generators at this time and if deemed necessary, permanent at a later date.  The selected buildings would require wiring the building to accommodate the generators, with portable generators using diesel fuel, and permanent generators being dual-fuel capable of using natural gas and diesel fuel.  Mr. LeMaro indicated the generators would serve the first two floors of Biggs B, Mental Health, and Human Services Building; they have limitations with regard to the amount of energy produced (lights and elevators) and would not be enough to provide for heat or air conditioning by themselves.  In the event more energy is required, multiple generators could be used.  In addition, a permanent generator would allow for an immediate changeover.  Mr. LeMaro noted that if generators are used for more than a day the local utility company reimburses the County for time off the grid.

 It was noted that the Building “C” generator bid was awarded last week.  It is anticipated to have the installation complete by October or November of this year.

 Members were provided with information about existing generator capability at the Public Safety, Emergency Response Center, 911 Control, Public Works, Mental Health, Airport, and Crash/Fire Rescue buildings.

With regard to the Health Department generator recommendation, Mr. LeMaro stated that upon construction of a new Health Department the portable generator (estimated cost of $45,000) could be utilized at another location.  Ms. Nelson stated that a generator is required at the Health Department due to State regulations related to computer reporting requirements for an ongoing connection.

In response to Ms. Kiefer’s inquiry, Mr. Marx said the funds for the Health Department wiring and generator will be requested from the contingent fund this year, with the subsequent generator recommendations being built into the appropriate budget year.  A resolution requesting these funds will be forthcoming.

Ms. Mackesey expressed concern regarding the purchase of generators, which she believes is a result of post-911 and is a large expense that may not be necessary.   Ms. Kiefer agreed with Ms. Mackesey’s statement and said she has a greater concern for global warming than a war on terrorism.  Mr. Marx indicated this is an open proposal subject to change as desired.  Ms. Kiefer asked if there could be further breakdown of the expenses and was informed it could be done; the estimate of $45,000 for portable generators can be deducted from the project, which will provide the estimated cost of wiring modifications.

Mr. Booth spoke of previous discussions regarding the need for generators, which identified the need to provide power to Building “C”.  In addition, he said he just read of a self-initiated blackout in Queens to assist in maintaining power to other surrounding areas.  He indicated generators are an investment that may never be used, but it is wise to install them.  Mr. Randall spoke of the Town and Village of Groton’s plans to share a generator between the two municipalities.

2007 Budget Highlights

 Individual Division Heads provided the following highlights about their budgets:

Public Works Administration

 Mr. Marx indicated there is a need to change the Public Works Administration budgeting.  The 2006 budget included a one-time OTR for the half-time salary of the Commissioner of Planning and Public Works.  At the present time two options are being reviewed:  (1) have each Division contribute a portion of the expense for Public Works Administration as has been done in the past, or (2) to make the Public Works Administration a stand-alone division with its own budget; which would require an appropriate reduction of the division’s present budgets and an OTR target request to establish the baseline budget.  In addition, contributions from the enterprise divisions (Airport and Solid Waste) may continue to some degree as well.  Ms. Kiefer felt it made sense to choose option 2.  It was noted by members of the Committee that either way funds would be transferred in some manner from divisions and/or the general fund.  Mr. Booth noted the Commissioner cannot be an OTR.

Solid Waste Division

 Ms. Eckstrom reported that the 2007 budget projections indicate a five percent increase in the cost of maintenance and an increase in the capital set-aside for future needs.  There is an upcoming purchase of a new bailer at a cost of approximately $750,000.  She noted that although 2005 showed a $160,000 surplus, none is anticipated in 2006.  Ms. Eckstrom indicated this is due to a request at the 2006 expanded budget meeting not to use funds from the fund balance in 2006; as a result of revised revenue projections coupled with not utilizing the fund balance and a decrease in recycling revenue.  She indicated that in conjunction with the 20-Year Plan the Division will continue and expand programs as well as work to develop a Reuse Center, develop a single-stream recycling program, increase material revenue and tonnages, and green purchasing.

With regard to the annual fee, Ms. Eckstrom noted that a $1 increase in the annual fee results in approximately $50,000 of income.   This year she is recommending a $2 increase for a total annual fee of $54.  She stressed that although there exists a twenty percent fund balance, this is in place for the anticipated maintenance expenses in the next several years.  The requested fee increase is to offset inflation and to maintain the facility.  Ms. Eckstrom said the capital costs and the leachate costs, presently about $1 million, will be subsiding in the future, however she anticipates that within the next five years there will be substantial expenses for upgrades to the building and equipment.  These costs should drop within an eight-year period.

Hillview Road Landfill

 Ms. Kiefer reported the Hillview Road Landfill Advisory Board met the previous evening and discussed the possibility of cutting back some well monitoring and the possibility of siting another well that will assist in clarifying the flow.  Ms. Eckstrom spoke of the Department of Environmental Conservation’s initial belief that there was the possibility of no further monitoring necessary after 25 to 30 years; she takes exception to this.  She will be speaking to Mr. Thompson about the suggestions.

Airport

 Mr. Nicholas indicated his revenue is a result of contracts with the airlines that began in 1994 and will continue through 2007.  The contracts allow for up to a five-percent annual increase, a one-time annual purchase of an item costing $50,000, and incorporates a reserve fund of $25,000.  To date there have not been any problems with this arrangement, however the airport terminal is now 12 years old and things will need to be replaced.  Although the initial contracts had attempted to include depreciation within it the airlines did not desire to do so at the time.

 Mr. Nicholas does not expect much change in the budget, however, he indicated there are requests within the budget for items not approved in the 2006 budget, (1995 pick up truck replacement, lounge furniture, HVAC equipment).  At this point he is not certain if these items can be included within the 2007 budget.  He spoke of the $4.8 million Capital Projects that would require a local share of $120,000 that is built in the operational budget.  In addition, it is hoped to receive a State grant for several projects, which would require a 20 percent local share of $44,000, and which would also be built into the operational budget.  As a result of the refinancing of the debt service in 2004, there has been a reduction of $40,000 and an extension to 2018, which has assisted to alleviate some financial difficulties.  Mr. Nicholas said this year’s enplanements are not as high as anticipated, however it is hard to predict how the balance of the year will be.

Facilities

 Mr. LeMaro said he has two budgets, one for operations and one for utilities.  He spoke of a twenty-two percent increase in building repairs that is noted within the 20-Year Capital Program.  Mr. LeMaro spoke of the need to increase this line in order to catch up on repairs that have been deferred as well as the need to complete larger items such as roof repairs, sidewalks, parking lots, etc.  The dollar amount of the OTR increase is $400,000 which would allow for some projects to be completed, however, he noted next year the amount should be $800,000 in order to complete items that should be done.  Mr. LeMaro said this could be considered a capital project if the items were bundled, however since the individual projects are under $100,000 it would more appropriately should be included in the operational budget.  In addition to the above request, Mr. LeMaro will ask for a $25,000 OTR for service contracts, and $100,000 for vehicle replacements that have been deferred over the past three years.  He said the vehicle repairs are excessive due to the age of the vehicles used by the technicians.

 Mr. LeMaro said for the utility budget, he plans to request an OTR from the contingency fund for natural gas, basing it on the present rate and consumption levels.  He noted it is difficult due to the volatile nature of the natural gas market, but he anticipates the request to be $40,000 - $50,000.

 Mr. LeMaro spoke of the need to replace some boilers that are 40-50 years old.  He also indicated that the replacement boiler installed at the Public Works building has saved fifty percent of the natural gas previously used.

 In response to a question by Mr. Booth, Mr. LeMaro said the elevators are inspected monthly by an outside firm.

Highway

 Mr. Sczesny stated that everything in his budget revolves around the cost of oil.  He had looked at an OTR to offset the increases in fuel and materials; however, the Finance Director suggested it would be better to set aside funds in contingency for this purpose when it may be needed.  Mr. Sczesny reported the cost of blacktop is increasing every thirty days; presently it is in excess of $50 per ton/$1,000 per truck.  He spoke of surface treating roads by sealing them to extend the life of roads.  He also reported that the rental rates for the county equipment that will assist in providing funds for equipment replacement in the future.  The State has also increased their rental rates that will benefit the Division as the County contracts with the State for snow and ice removal. He will have a $150,000 OTR that will reflect the amount of increase in costs related to the capital project.

 Snow and Ice Agreements
 Mr. Sczesny reported that the snow and ice contracts with municipalities are being reviewed.  He has provided proposals to all but Newfield, which is not interestedc, and is attempting to move aware from a time and materials contract to one of a flat rate.  He believes that the town highway superintendents will approve of the flat rate suggestion.

Road Swaps

 Mr. Sczesny is making suggestions to three different towns regarding road swaps to eliminate the situation where various municipalities own small portions of roadways.  This would be to amend ownership of the particular roads that would be beneficial for road maintenance and snow and ice removal.

Authorization to Execute Right-of-Way Funding Agreement

RESOLUTION NO.  - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE RIGHT-OF-WAY FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – RINGWOOD ROAD BRIDGE (BIN 3314160) OVER CASCADILLA CREEK

 It was moved by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature for approval.  It was noted the funds within the resolution are only for the design and right-of-way portion of the project.  A voice vote resulted as follows:  Ayes – 5; Noes – 0.  RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, a Project to replace the Ringwood Road Bridge over Cascadilla Creek, BIN 3314160, P.I.N. 3753.20, (the Project) in the Town of Dryden, is eligible for funding under Title 23 United States Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be borne at the ratio of eighty percent Federal funds and twenty percent non-Federal funds, and
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 8 adopted on January 19, 2005, approved the Project and authorized execution of an agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation regarding administration and funding of Scoping, Design (Phases I-VI), and Right-of-Way Incidentals, and
WHEREAS, in order to expedite advancement of the Project and realize potential total project cost reductions, the New York State Department of Transportation requires the County to appropriate one hundred (100%) percent of the project costs and then file for reimbursement of eligible costs, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project by making a commitment of one-hundred percent of the non-Federal share of the costs of Right-of-Way (ROW) Acquisition, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the Tompkins County Legislature hereby approves the above-subject project and authorizes the County of Tompkins to pay in the first instance one hundred percent (100%) of the Federal and non-Federal share of the costs of Design, ROW Incidentals, and ROW Acquisition work for the subject Project or portions thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the sum of $117,766 is hereby made available within account HZ5103.59239.53.11, Ringwood Capital Project Account, to cover the cost of participation in the ROW Acquisition phase of the Project,
RESOLVED, further, That in the event the full Federal and non-Federal share costs of the project exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Tompkins County Legislature shall convene as soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification by the New York State Department of Transportation thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Highway Manager be and is hereby authorized to execute all necessary Agreements, certifications, and reimbursement requests for Federal Aid and/or Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the New York State Department of Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the administration of the Project and the municipality’s first-instance funding of Project costs and permanent funding of the local share of Federal-aid and State-aid-eligible Project costs and all Project costs within appropriations therefore that are not so eligible,
 RESOLVED, further, That a certified copy of this resolution be filed with the New York State Commissioner of Transportation by attaching it to any necessary Agreement in connection with the Project,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II - 2

Highway Capital Projects Status Report

 The Committee received a report for review.

Budget Adjustment – Highway

 It was MOVED by Ms. Mackesey, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members present, to approve the following budget adjustment:

Highway
Revenue Acct           Title                 Amt              Approp Acct               Title
599  Fund Balance  $65,000  5130.52233 Highway Equipment
Explanation:  Purchase of Loader
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

Flood Damage

 The following information was provided relating to flood damage within the County:

· Spring Street Extension - At this time the design is in place to mitigate the problem at the top of the hill and the ditch.  It is anticipated Federal Emergency Management Agency FEMA will cover 100 percent of the costs and the work should be completed within the next 3-4 weeks.
· Overall damage from the storms occurring between June 26 and July 10 is estimated to be $2.2 million statewide; with an estimated $650,000 in Tompkins County.
· Normally FEMA will cover 75 percent, with the State and local municipality equally sharing the balance; the Governor has indicated the State will cover the full 25 percent.
· The Town of Caroline has the most damage, estimated to be approximately $250,000.

Road Swaps – Continued

 Mr. Sczesny has presented the Town of Ulysses with a Memorandum of Understanding regarding a change of ownership of approximately 1.5 miles of roads within the town.  At this time he is awaiting their response to the proposal, which, if accepted, will be brought forward for full Legislature approval.

Project Approval Requests

 Members of the Committee reviewed the Project Approval Requests (PAR) submitted by the division.  Suggestions to modify the form as well as questions pertaining to various projects were discussed.

Ms. Kiefer was excused at this time (5:30 p.m.).

The following items were noted:

· All airport projects are funded through Federal and State grants, with local share built into the airport budget; no County funds are required.
· To move to a single-stream recycling program $875,000 would be required to provide appropriate modifications, the cost would be approximately $1.50 increase in the annual fee to cover annual maintenance of the program.
 

It was MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members present, to approve submission of the Project Approval Requests as amended.

Solid Waste Capital Project Status Report

Attempts are being made to determine the best solution for the Caswell Road leachate as the proposed agreement with the Freeville Waste Treatment Plant is not viable.  As the cost to truck the leachate has significantly increased, on-site options will be reviewed.

Status Report of Fee Changes Made at the Solid Waste and Recycling Center

 Ms. Eckstrom reviewed information contained on the report provided.  She indicated that as a result of data being collected a minor modification may be requested to more accurately reflect solid waste collection.

Solid Waste Enforcement
 Mr. Cowles, Enforcement Officer, reviewed his written report on Solid Waste Enforcement.  He noted that for the last several years there has been an increase in the number of illegal dumping complaints.  Mr. Cowles reported there were 347 complaints for 2005, and his projection is 360 for 2006.  Last year $4,500 was collected in fines and surcharges related to the County Code.

 Mr. Cowles spoke of his duties that require him to physically observe removal of illegal trash without the appropriate tags; searching illegally dumped trash to determine the origin; coordinate Town, group, and illegal dumpsite clean-up efforts; enforce facility regulations; and appropriately fine individuals with uncovered loads.  In addition, it was noted that Mr. Cowles acts on behalf of the County and Solid Waste Division when violators are brought before town and village courts to answer citations.

Recycling and Solid Waste Financial Summary

 The Committee was provided with a written financial summary of marketable recyclables.

Adjournment

 On motion, the meeting adjourned at 6:10 p.m.
 

Respectfully submitted by Karen Fuller, Deputy Clerk