Call to Order

 Ms. Schuler, Member, called the meeting to order at 2:05 p.m.

Agenda Additions/Deletions

 The following item(s) were added to the agenda:

 Highway Division - Update on Brown Road
 Highway Division - Update on Coddington Road/Hanshaw Road Public meetings

 There were no deletions from the agenda.

Persons Wishing to Address the Committee

 There were no persons wishing to address the Committee.

Minutes of September 27, 2005

 It was MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Winch, and approved by voice vote of members present to accept the minutes of September 27, 2005. [Ms. Kiefer offered changes following her arrival which were accepted by consensus.]

Highway

Brown Road

 Mr. Lampman reported preliminary information has been received from New York State Department of Transportation for the traffic count conducted two weeks ago to determine traffic patterns for the Brown Road/New York State Route 13 intersection.  The State placed counters on Brown Road, Sapsucker Woods Road, New York State Route 13, Thornwood Drive, and Warren Road in an effort to provide sufficient information for the study.  In addition, a manual count will be conducted several afternoons at the Brown Road/New York State Route 13 intersection to provide information during peak times to determine the manner in which motorists are utilizing that particular intersection.

Hanshaw Road

 Mr. Lampman said the public hearing was held regarding the proposed Hanshaw Road project.  At the hearing residents expressed both desire and opposition to having a sidewalk/walkway included in the project.  He reported Ms. Valentino, Town of Ithaca Supervisor and other Town representatives who stated they were considering taking over maintenance and liability responsibility for the sidewalk/walkway.  Upon this disclosure, some individuals in opposition said they would be in agreement if the Town were to put it in writing.
 Mr. Lampman said the consultants would be doing individual site visits on Warren Road, and _________________ will do Hanshaw Road.

 Mr. Marx noted a walkway indicates use by more than the immediate neighborhood, to access particular destinations.

 Mr. Penniman arrived at this time (2:15 p.m.).

Chair's Report

 Mr. Penniman stated he requested individuals to arrive earlier than anticipated to allow a break prior to the Expanded Budget Committee at 4:00 p.m.

Taughannock Aviation

 Due to Mr. Dennis' inability to attend the meeting due to a conflict, this item was deferred to a future meeting.

Airport

RESOLUTION NO.      - AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF SUPPLEMENTAL GRANT AGREEMENT (NO. 10) TO THE TEN-YEAR MASTER AGREEMENT FROM THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (NYSDOT) TO CONSTRUCT THE RELOCATION OF PARALLEL TAXIWAY (PH. 2), PURCHASE RUNWAY FRICTION METER, PERFORM ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR OBSTRUCTION  REMOVAL, AND DESIGN THE RELOCATION OF THE PARALLEL TAXIWAY (PH. 3) - ITHACA TOMPKINS  REGIONAL AIRPORT

 Mr. Nicholas explained this resolution is to accept the State portion of 2.5 percent of these Federal projects being done this year.  Ms. Schuler inquired about the obstruction removal work and was informed a meeting of stakeholders plus the Planning Department will be called soon.

 It was MOVED by Mr. Winch, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, to submit the following resolution to the full Legislature for approval.  Mr. Todd asked how the local share is funded and was informed that the funding is from airline fees and rentals.  Ms. Kiefer requested a breakdown of each project's share of this figure (see below).

 A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows:  Ayes - 5; Noes - 0.  RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
 
      WHEREAS, the County has received a grant offer from the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) in the amount of $ 101,041 to assist with the above mentioned projects, and
      WHEREAS, the budget for these projects is as follows:
   Federal Aviation Administration Share (95.0%) Account No. HT 5601.44592      $3,838,551.00
   NYSDOT Share                (  2.5%) Account No. HT 5601.43592      $   101,041.00
   Local Share                       (  2.5%) Account No. HT 5601.45031      $   101,041.00
      Total                                                                                       $4,040,633.00
, and
      WHEREAS, the local share of $101,041 has been factored into the 2005 airport budget and will be paid for through airlines fees, and
      WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Transportation share may be increased by up to fifteen percent (15%) to a maximum of $116,197 based on approved eligible costs, now therefore be it
      RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the New York State Department of Transportation Supplemental Grant Agreement (No. 10) be and hereby is accepted and that the County Administrator is authorized to execute the required documents.
SEQR ACTION : TYPE II-2

Note: FAA grants have already been received covering 95% of these costs.

         The State grant break-out is as follows:

*Construction of the Parallel Taxiway (Phase 2) - State Share = $90,362. This project was originally reduced because there wasn't enough money and then fully reinstated when they found more money.  As a result, the FAA issued two grants for the project and the State did the same ($63,696 plus $26,666).

*Purchase Runway Friction Meter, Perform Environmental Assessment for Obstruction Removal, and Design Relocation of the Parallel Taxiway (Phase 3) - $10,679

Total State Grant = $101,041

Breakdown of Resolution authorizing acceptance of Supplemental Grant Agreement No. 10 to the 10-Year Master Agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total NYSDOT No. 10 Grant Amount =  $101,041 ($ 10,679 plus $90,362)

Friction Meter                                                                                 $  55,000
Environmental Assessment for Obstruction Clearance                  $175,000
Parallel Taxiway Relocation (Phase III) - Design                          $188,000
Airport Administration Costs Allowance                                       $    4,155
Independent Fee Estimates Allowance                                           $    5,000
                                                                        Total                        $427,155
2.5% of $427,155 = $10,679
**Construction of Parallel Taxiway (Phase II)                            $3,614,482

2.5% of $ 3,614,482 = $90,362
Note: **Total Phase II Construction is $4,249,867.50 plus $ 230,000 for Construction Inspection and Contract Administration for a total of $4,479,867.50. The amount not covered by grants received this year is covered by unused portions of FAA/NYSDOT grants received in 2002.

RESOLUTION NO. - AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL CONSULTANT AGREEMENT NO. 15 WITH C&S ENGINEERS, INC., FOR CONSTRUCTION OBSERVATION AND ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR RELOCATION OF THE PARALLEL TAXIWAY (PHASE II) - ITHACA TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT

 It was MOVED by Mr. Winch, seconded by Mr. Todd, to present the following resolution to the full Legislature for approval.  Mr. Nicholas explained this is the inspection/administration for the Phase 2 construction contract which just began.  It was bid out and awarded at just under $4.3 million.  This resolution will allow C&S Engineers to perform the    administrative and inspection duties associated with the project.  It is hoped the project will be completed by the end of this year's construction season.  Ms. Schuler inquired if the construction company has been utilized previously and was informed by Mastropaolo of C&S Engineers that they are a large contracting firm that has a good working experience.

 A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows:  Ayes - 5; Noes - 0.  RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

 WHEREAS, the Legislature has awarded the contract for construction of Relocation of the Parallel Taxiway (Phase II) to Chemung Contracting for $4,249,867.50, and
      WHEREAS, the Legislature has accepted two Federal grants that will finance ninety-five percent (95%) of construction, construction observation and administration of said project, and
      WHEREAS, a matching grant of two and one-half percent (2.5%) is expected from the New York Department of Transportation with the other two and one-half percent (2.5%) already factored into the 2005 airport budget, and
      WHEREAS, there is a need to have a contract for Construction Observation and Administration Services with respect to the above mentioned project, now therefore be it
       RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That subject to the required Independent Fee Estimate being performed to confirm that the fees are fair, Supplemental Agreement No. 15 with C&S Engineers for Construction Observation and Administrative Services in the amount of $230,000 be approved and financing of the contract is as follows:
      Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (95.0%)                $218,500.00
      New York State Department of Transportation (2.5%)             $    5,750.00
     Local (Airport Operational Budget) (2.5%)                              $    5,750.00
      Total                                                                                         $230,000.00
      RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute the required documents,
      RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be authorized to make payments for this project until reimbursement is received from the Federal Aviation Administration and New York State Department of Transportation.
SEQR ACTION : TYPE II-2

Discussion on Recent Airplane Accident

 Mr. Winch said he understood that airport personnel responded to the recent small aircraft accident that occurred several miles from the airport.  He asked if the County personnel learned anything from their response, or if they had noted any concerns.  Mr. Nicholas said the accident occurred within two miles of the airport and it is policy to call in other responders to cover the airport while the on-site staff responded to the accident.  It is his understanding the staff laid down the appropriate foam to decrease the possibility of fire due to sparks and to take proper care of any loose fuel.  He noted that the accident appears to be from pilot error and is a rare occurrence.  He feels the staff responded well and treated it in the well-trained routine manner.  He said the pilot was fortunately uninjured and the local municipal aid responded well.

Air Service Task Committee

 Mr. Penniman said he would like to schedule a meeting with the Air Service Committee.  It had been discussed to meet at 1 p.m., however, due to meeting conflicts it will begin at 1:30 p.m.  He noted the November 8, 2005 meeting will be held at the Solid Waste Facility.

Capital Payment Summary Reports

 The Committee reviewed the capital payment summary budgets.

Minutes

 Ms. Kiefer requested to amend the minutes of September 27, 2005.  Consensus of the Committee was to approve the recommendations.

Recess

 Mr. Penniman called recess from 2:42 - 2:52 p.m.

Wind Energy

 Mr. Marx stated the suggestion to purchase wind energy was discussed previously when the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance (MEGA) chose an option of purchasing a percentage of energy from wind.  At that time it was decided by the County not to budget for this particular energy source.  He said the option is appearing on the agenda due to a request from former Legislator Stuart Stein and Legislator Barbara Blanchard was urged the County to reconsider.  He also said Mr. Whicher, County Administrator, believes the purchase of wind energy fits with the County goals of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction.   Mr. Marx said a confirmed price would be available upon Mr. LeMaro's arrival, but he believed the annual cost if signing a three-year contract would be $8,060.

 A discussion occurred during which Ms. Kiefer reiterated her previous concern that there is only one for-profit company that would be the supplier.  She said this supplier has repeatedly been requested to provide information to the Environmental Management Council (EMC) about costs of production and whether profits are planned to be used to construct more wind turbines  Ms. Kiefer stated that while the EMC is supportive of alternative electricity generation it is uncomfortable about spending taxpayer's money this way.  Mr. Marx said he believes the wind energy market is such that if adequate purchases are made, the industry additional construction will take place.  Mr. Penniman inquired the cost for wind energy and was informed by Mr. Marx it is an additional $.023 per kwh.  Ms. Kiefer noted the Town of Caroline has chosen to purchase wind-generated electricity, however, the funding for this is not from the taxpayers.  She said it is difficult to vote against but she has the stated concerns.

Mr. Winch inquired what guarantee does the company offer regarding production.  He would like to know if the production is not as great as anticipated would the County still be obligated to the contract.  He stated that due to the company being a private enterprise that doesn't show records he could see potential criticism from constituents such as EMC and is concerned about the proposal.  Mr. Marx said he believes the wind energy market is such that it will increase in size if the demand increases.  Ms. Kiefer again stated she is concerned about one provider and cannot understand why no other companies are operating in our service area.  Mr. Todd asked how the power would come to the County and was informed the energy comes to the grid and is distributed from there.

Mr. Penniman said he is concerned that due to the limited supply and adequate markets  that it could raise the prices on this form of energy unless more can be made available.  Mr. Marx said new wind energy methods are being developed and it is believed demand will cause an increase in this market.  It was noted other municipalities are having discussion related to the purchase of wind energy as well.

Mr. LeMaro arrived at the meeting at this time and provided additional information.  The only company able to supply wind energy is Community Energy.  Initially when the proposal was made the cost was $.02 per kwh, it is now approximately $.025.  He explained if the County signed a  contract for a five-year commitment, MEGA will subsidize $2,000 which would then bring the cost to approximately $.02 per kwh.  Mr. Marx also said the information received from MEGA would more accurately reflect other cost-saving measures the County is undertaking.  Mr. LeMaro could not provide information regarding Mr. Winch's earlier question on production levels.  Mr. Winch believed that while the County desires pursuing alternative energy sources the fact that the only company available does not share its accounting or production information it could cause difficulties.  Mr. Penniman asked if it was the only company that MEGA approached and was informed there are only two companies in the state, one in Madison County and one in Lewis County.

Mr. Winch asked what happens if Community Energy doesn't produce as much as it claims it will; will the County still pay?  He recalled when methane digesters were first developed and thought to be a good energy alternative.  Shortly after implementation it was discovered it was not efficient and corroded equipment at a faster pace than normal systems.  He feels more information should be obtained and that the companies should be able to prove themselves and develop without subsidies prior to a commitment.  Mr. Penniman felt that there are limited locations in the state for wind energy to be effective.

At this time Mr. Penniman asked if anyone would like to make a motion.  No motion was made.

Facilities Division - Additional Position Recommendation

 Mr. Penniman reported he had been approached by Mr. Winch about the need for another technical position in the Facilities Division to provide preventive maintenance coverage that is currently not completed.  Mr. Winch explained that he is concerned about the amount of money spent on outside contractors due to "emergency" work having to be done; which at this time exceeds the cost of an employee.  He believes it would be beneficial to add an individual for preventive maintenance that would maintain equipment on a regular basis and will make a motion to do so during budget discussions.  The proposed amendment would be in the amount of $65,000 which would cover the cost of one full-time employee with some overtime built in, since work often must occur outside normal working hours when other staff are not present.

Mr. Penniman asked about the number of outside contractors being utilized.  Mr. LeMaro explained he makes every effort to limit outside contractors but unfortunately is in a position where he does not have enough staff to cover the necessary maintenance work.  Although he would have requested an additional staff member he had not due to the County Administrator's directive of a zero percent increase.  He stated that at the present time he has six FTE technical positions, five years ago there were ten positions with fewer buildings.  In response to Mr. Penniman's question regarding deferred projects due to lack of staff, Mr. LeMaro said projects not being undertaken include County Library entrance and bike racks, sidewalks, replacing transformers in buildings, fire alarm system work at Public Safety and the Old Jail, chiller replacement at Biggs B, etc.  Mr. LeMaro believes an additional technician will assist in completing projects such as these.

Ms. Kiefer stated that this year during budget review by the County Administrator new initiatives were automatically removed or funding was taken out of other areas.  She recalls the former "Cost-Savers" category that allowed for funding that did not have an immediate result, but showed that over time there is a savings to the County.  She believed this would have been considered one.

The Committee was asked if they would support this amendment.  Mr. Todd said he was not ready to; the others did.  It was recommended that Mr. LeMaro determine what specific technician he would seek.  Mr. LeMaro believed it would be a technician for HVAC work.

Request to Fill Position(s) - Facilities

 It was MOVED by Ms. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present, to approve the following positions:

Cleaner - Public Safety Building and Emergency Response Center - 35 hours per week - Working Rate - $23,646

Cleaner - Mental Health Building - 35 hours per week - Working Rate - $23,646

Update on Assistant Director Position - Facilities

 The Committee was informed that at this time four applications were approved by Personnel for consideration.  Letters will be written to obtain additional information from individuals.

Adjournment

 Mr. Penniman declared the meeting adjourned at 3:45 p.m., without objection.

Respectfully submitted by Karen Fuller, Deputy Clerk