Called to Order
Mr. Joseph called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 15 Legislators. (Legislator Kiefer arrived 5:34 p.m., Legislator Schuler arrived
5:55 p.m.); Excused: 2 (Legislators Kiefer and Schuler)
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Chair Joseph read the following proclamations and declared:
· May 2004, Mental Health Awareness Month - accepted
by Catherine Wedge of the Mental Health Association.
· May 2004, Foster Care Month - accepted by Tim
Stephenson of the Department of Social Services. Mr. Stephenson thanked
the Legislature and the one hundred foster families in Tompkins County for
their continued support.
· May 2004, Tompkins Community Action Month - accepted
by Lee Dillon, Director of Tompkins Community Action. Ms. Dillon thanked
the Legislature for their support over the past thirty-eight years and invited
members to the Annual Meeting on Friday, May 21, 2004, where Meg Powers will
speak on the topic of energy.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
No member of the public wished to speak at this time.
Privilege of the Floor by Legislators
Ms. Blanchard, District No. 1 Legislator, reported she
had attended the opening of the new Offender Aid Restoration (OAR) offices
located on West Seneca Street. She provided informational brochures
and noted the organization has a better facility, new staffing, and feels
it will be a robust organization. Ms. Blanchard then announced that
as a result of a working partnership between Cornell University and the County,
a Park Fellow will be working with the Air Service Task Force for the next
several months. The stipend for this individual is being funded by
Cornell University. She then called the Legislators' attention to three
graphic plans displayed of transit authority buildings that will be constructed.
Ms. Kiefer arrived at this time (5:34).
Ms. Robertson, District No. 13 Legislator, announced that the Finger Lakes
Election Committee will have tables located at the Ithaca Festival and the
Greater Ithaca Activities Center Festival. Any individuals wishing
to volunteer for a two-hour shift should contact Ms. Robertson.
Ms. Herrera, District No. 5 Legislator, announced the Ithaca Festival will take place this weekend.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Legislator, expressed his gratitude for members
of the Legislature's attendance at Memorial Day functions. He then
provided an update on the Farm Service Agency's proposed relocation, stating
that he had received communications from Congressmen Boehlert and Hinchey
requesting any decision be postponed. He thanked his fellow Legislators
for their support in his efforts to maintain the Farm Service Agency offices
in Tompkins County.
Mrs. McBean-Clairborne, District No. 2 Legislator, spoke of the May 23rd
performance of the Jackie Robinson Marching Band and Steppers; this is a
100-strong, African-American youth group formed in the City of Ithaca.
She said this was a wonderful event and thanked all for their support and
participation.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Legislator, announced that on June 12th the Dryden
Dairy Day festival will take place. He then said he is appalled that
two months have passed without a State budget; as a result the County's budget
planning is difficult. He hopes that the Legislators will write to
their State representatives to express their disapproval of the delay.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Mr. Guy Gerard, City of Ithaca resident, spoke against
the idea of a County Executive form of government. Mr. Gerard feels
that it should be kept out of the political arena and that the present form
of government more clearly represents the residents of the County.
In addition, he expressed his belief that in the event a County Executive
were elected, it would be difficult to remove and replace the individual
if their job performance proved to be unsatisfactory.
Report from Municipal Official(s)
Mr. Barber, Town of Caroline Supervisor, spoke of the
intermunicipal group meetings that have taken place since February 2004 to
discuss mutual benefits of intermunicipal cooperation. He suggested
that any Legislator that has not attended a meeting should do so to assist
with moving forward on a variety of initiatives.
He then reported that at a recent Municipal Officers Association
meeting a discussion regarding electronic voting equipment and centralization
took place. Members felt that insufficient data had not been gathered
from municipalities and the municipal officials desired participation in
any decision regarding this topic. He provided Ms. Kiefer, Chair of
the Consumer and Community Affairs Committee, with letters from the municipal
officials expressing their desire to participate.
Ms. Kiefer informed Mr. Barber that at the next Consumer
and Community Affairs Committee the topic of centralization will be discussed,
these letters could not have come at a better time, since we are at the point
in our study of needing input from the municipalities.
Chair's Report
Mr. Joseph announced that he received a notice regarding
Environmental Excellence Awards. This award if for business, non-governmental
organizations, government, municipality, or individual, and can be in three
categories: innovations, sustainability, or partnership. Individuals
interested in nominations should contact Mr. Joseph.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher as a follow-up of the Cornell University partnership meeting,
noted that the Air Service Task Force Park Fellow is a result of an arrangement
with the partnership with Cornell University. In addition, this partnership
is working on health department issues as well as others. He said the
meeting was positive and will continue on a quarterly basis.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood did not have a report.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported that the recent foreclosure auction
was a success with seventy bidders participating. Of the properties
available at the auction, all were purchased and resulted in a net gain of
$65,000 with $21,000 in redemption fees. He noted that all of the owner-occupied
properties were redeemed prior to the auction.
Additions of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
There were no resolutions added to the agenda.
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
There were no resolutions withdrawn from the agenda.
Approval of Resolution(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Mr. Proto, and
unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to approve the following
resolution(s) under the Consent Agenda:
RESOLUTION NO. 101 - AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF DUES FOR THE NEW YORK WESTERN
REGION COMMISSIONERS’ ASSOCIATION – DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously
adopted by voice vote by members present under Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County Administrative Policy Section 01-08 on “Dues, Memberships, Subscriptions” has been referenced, and
WHEREAS, it has been determined that the annual payment of $25.00 for dues
for the Commissioner of the Department of Social Services to participate
in the New York Western Region Commissioners’ Association:
1.) a. directly relates to the Commissioner’s position;
b. directly benefits the performance of official duties and provides interaction and
information that will increase the efficiency of County government; and,
2.) is not of a personal nature, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That
the Department of Social Services is authorized to pay the annual dues of
$25.00 to the New York Western Region Commissioners’ Association.
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RESOLUTION NO. 102 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE QUITCLAIM DEED – PROPERTIES REDEEMED BEFORE COUNTY AUCTION
MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously
adopted by voice vote by members present under Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County works with property owners
to allow them to redeem their property prior to auction, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of Government Operations Committee,
That the County Administrator is authorized to execute a Quitclaim Deed conveying
property acquired by the County through 2004 tax foreclosures, back to the
previous owners upon payment of all back taxes, penalties, interest and fees
as follows:
Town of Danby
15-1-10.9 Karen
R. Brower
Town of Danby
26-1-8
Vance A & Patricia A. Woodward
Town of Dryden
24-1-1.1 Jodie
J. Hawks
Town of Dryden
45-1-28
Randy Hall
Town of Dryden
25-1-31.12 Anthony V. Ferro
Town of Dryden
30-1-30.22 Douglas N. Gillogly
Jr.
Town of Lansing
33-3-20
John V. Marchell
Town of Newfield
2-1-6.3
Sandra E. Wintermute
Town of Newfield
2-1-6.6
Sandra E. Wintermute
Town of Enfield
7-1-13.22 Robert A. & Ann B. Thomas
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RESOLUTION NO. 103 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE QUITCLAIM DEEDS -SALE OF FORECLOSURE PROPERTIES AT PUBLIC AUCTION
MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously
adopted by voice vote by members present under Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, by tax foreclosure proceedings, the County acquired certain parcels in the County, and
WHEREAS, said properties were sold, contingent upon Legislature approval, at public auction on May 26, 2004, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That
upon payment in full of the bid price, plus current taxes and filing fees,
the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute quitclaim
deeds for all parcels sold at the public auction.
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Approval of Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda
MOVED by Mr. Booth, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously
adopted by voice vote by members present, to approve the following appointments
under the Consent Agenda:
Board of Human Rights Commissioners
Willard Ticknor Daetsch - Term expires December 31, 2006
Nathaniel C. Guest - Term expires December 31, 2006
Bryn Lovejoy-Grinnell - Term expires December 31, 2006
Tompkins County Youth Services Board
Maureen Kelly - City of Ithaca representative -Term expires December 31, 2006
RESOLUTION NO. 104 - DIRECTING THE COUNTY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE A LOCAL
LAW REVISING THE CHARTER TO REFLECT A COUNTY EXECUTIVE FORM OF GOVERNMENT
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Totman. Mr. Todd
said he does not feel the resolution will pass at this time and plans to
follow Mr. Lane's Advice and refer the matter to the Government Operations
Committee. He wished to make the following points with regard to a
County Executive form of government: (1) this decision will require
a change in the Tompkins County Charter, which will be a long and difficult
process; (2) in order to change to a County Executive form of government
it requires a referendum to be approved by the electorate of the County,
not the Legislature; (3) the determination of duties, terms, etc. would be
recommended by the Legislature; and (4) he believes the budget will not be
able to be controlled until a County Executive form of government is in place.
Mr. Todd said many successful counties have County Executives in place and
that very few now have County Administrators.
Mr. Lane said he respects the position Mr. Todd has taken;
he feels that the process of reviewing this form of County government being
undertaken by the Government Operations Committee is the appropriate action
to make an informed decision.
It was MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and
unanimously approved by voice vote of members present to refer the matter
of the following resolution to the Government Operations Committee.
MOTION CARRIED.
WHEREAS, the County Charter currently provides that certain
executive functions shall be performed by a County Administrator appointed
by the Legislature (a “County Administrator” form of government), and
WHEREAS, the County would benefit from a change in the
Charter to provide for an elected County Executive (a “County Executive”
form of government), and
WHEREAS, the method of changing the Charter is to adopt a local law reflecting such changes, and
WHEREAS, a change in the form of government would require
extensive changes to the Charter as most sections of the Charter would have
to be revised, and
WHEREAS, the adoption of a local law changing the form
of government would be subject to a mandatory referendum, and
WHEREAS, if the Legislature desires to change the Charter
to reflect a County Executive form of government the drafting of the local
law should begin soon so that it could be adopted in time to be placed on
the November 2004 General Election ballot as a referendum issue, and
WHEREAS, it would be wasteful and pointless to direct the County Attorney
to draft a local law changing the form of government if, in fact, the Legislature
wishes to maintain the current form of government, and
WHEREAS, in the event that the Legislature does not wish
to adopt a County Executive form of government it should reflect that decision
by vote, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the County Attorney is hereby directed
to draft a local law revising the Charter to adopt a County Executive form
of government.
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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Ms. Robertson, Chair, reported the Committee met on May
26th and will meet again on June 9th. At the May 26th meeting Mr. Robert
DeLuca, Deputy Mental Health Commissioner, spoke of the Single Room Occupancy
(SRO) facility project that began approximately fourteen months ago.
This facility would provide approximately twenty-five beds available for
mentally challenged individuals who may not have housing.
Ms. Schuler arrived at this time (5:55 p.m.).
Ms. Robertson said that Mr. DeLuca said the length of
time to receive the funding, which was approved in the 2003 State budget,
for the project is extraordinarily lengthy. As a result, communications
are taking place with Assemblywoman Lifton's Office to move this project
along. She said that communication from neighborhood groups expressing
concern over the SRO will be responded to; however, at this time it is difficult
since no determination has been made about the location of the SRO.
Ms. Robertson reported that Department of Social Services Commissioner Carey
and Mr. Herden, Director of Administrative Services for the Department, provided
the 2003 report and noted that at the end of 2003 there was a net savings
of $1.7 million when compared to what had originally been anticipated; this
savings was due to two one-time events. She said that actual spending
on mandated programs was up approximately $2 million dollars, and the non-mandated
programs were reduced by almost $1 million in 2003. At this time the
2004 projections are to come in $500,000 under the budget for the local share,
provided New York State does not make any significant changes in the proposed
budgets.
Ms. Robertson reported that the Finger Lakes Independence
Center provided a report on their ramp program. This program assists
individuals to maintain residency in their homes subsequent to hospitalization.
In addition, the Committee heard a brief report from Tompkins Tioga Neighborhood
Legal Services. Ms. Robertson said the Committee also received an update
from Ms. Stein of the County Office for the Aging on the long-term care point-of-entry
programs. She said that Tompkins County has been providing this service
for many years. In addition, she noted that at this time the State
Department of Social Services and State Office for the Aging are in the process
of determining which one will be the lead agency.
RESOLUTION NO. 105 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS
FOR TRANSPORTATION GRANT FUNDS AND ASSOCIATED BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Ms. Blanchard.
Ms. Kiefer asked whether the grant would be received as a lump sum or if
it would be divided over time. She was informed that the funds would
be divided between the two applicable budget periods. Mr. Winch asked
what type of transportation it applied to. Ms. Rob ertson said it includes
subsidizing car loans and repairs, auto insurance, tires, AAA memberships,
children's car seats, fuel cards, and taxi fare for eligible persons to assist
them either in attaining or maintaining employment. Ms. Blanchard noted
the funding was due to a job access grant developed to assist individuals
residing in the outlying areas of the County to obtain transportation.
She said that although it was designed for transit services, TCAT routes
don’t reach all the individuals in the outlying areas, which resulted in
the present program. Mr. Proto inquired if the individuals from the
Learning Web who recently attended a Legislature meeting would be eligible
and it was recommended that they contact Ms. Bush of the Department of Social
Services to discuss eligibility. Mr. Lane congratulated the staff of
the Department of Social Services for obtaining this grant. He said
the three-legged stool referred to gain independence from Social Services
are child care, transportation, and education. This grant assists in
the transportation area.
A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows: Ayes - 15; Noes - 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS Tompkins County’s Department of Social Services
was recently apprised of an opportunity to access $210,199 of one hundred
percent Federal funds to address the transportation needs of certain qualifying
residents of the County over the next ten months, and
WHEREAS the Department proposes to utilize these funds
to subsidize car loans and repairs, auto insurance, tires, AAA memberships,
children's car seats, fuel cards, and taxi fare for eligible persons to assist
them either in attaining or maintaining employment, and
WHEREAS the bulk of the those funds would necessitate expenditures in this
calendar year, which were not anticipated in the current 2004 budget, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services
Committee, That the Department of Social Services is authorized to accept
and utilize this funding,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance shall make the following budget adjustment on his books:
REVENUE: A6010.44610
Federal: DSS Admin $134,365
APPROPRIATION: A6010.54404
Pass Through Expense $134,365
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Ms. Robertson announced there will be a meeting taking
place with SunRx, a prescription services vendor regarding a County-offered
prescription plan, on June 9th.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chair, said the work of the Committee
is reflected in the resolutions presented at this and a future meeting.
In addition, he reported the Committee approved a request to fill a deputy
sheriff position.
RESOLUTION NO. 106 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENT AND APPROPRIATION OF UNSPENT GENERAL FUNDS FROM 2003 TO VARIOUS ACCOUNTS
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman.
Mr. Penniman spoke of the report he had prepared that provided historical
information on the rollover process.
It was MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Totman
to amend the adjustment entitled Jail - Vehicle, to $55,000, for a total
Jail adjustment of $105,000. Mr. Winch inquired what the funds were
for and was informed it would cover the purchase of a vehicle for the Corrections
division. A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows: Ayes
- 12; Noes - 3 (Legislators Herrera, McBean-Clairborne, and Schuler).
MOTION CARRIED.
It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Ms. Herrera, to
add an adjustment entitled Human Rights - Salary for Receptionist Spring/Sum.
'04, to $55,000, for a total Human Rights adjustment of $7,583. Ms.
Kiefer said it is an appropriate use for this department's rollover.
Ms. Martel-Moore, Humean Rights Department head, said she feels it is more
cost effective to provide a transitional period for the individual currently
in this position who would be required to seek public assistance if terminated
at this time. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr reported that the vote to eliminate
this adjustment request was 3-2 at the Committee level. Mr. Lane said
at the Committee meeting he was in favor of maintaining this position through
the summer. Mr. Penniman said he believes many individuals utilizing
the service could afford legal counsel. Ms. Martel-Moore, Director
of Human Rights, said that the majority of individuals coming to the Human
Rights Commission for assistance cannot and that it is not allowed by New
York State Law. A discussion continued regarding the use of volunteer
services for the work presently provided by this individual. In addition
it was noted that the Commissioner of Personnel is seeking other employment
within the County suitable for a transfer for the individual. Mr. Lane
and Mrs. McBean-Clairborne said they feel the motion should be supported.
Mr. Booth said he will not support it, he feels that funds utilized for salary
and fringes is inappropriate. Ms. Martel-Moore noted the individual
assists with bi-lingual clients. A voice vote on the motion to add
funding for the position resulted as follows: Ayes - 11; Noes - 4 (Legislators
Blanchard, Booth, Todd, and Totman). MOTION CARRIED.
A short roll call on the main motion resulted as follows
- Ayes- 14; Noes - 1 (Legislator Booth). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, various departments have been certified by the
Director of Finance to have unspent appropriations and excess revenues from
2003 resulting in a surplus of $1,483,530 on the County’s books as of December
31, 2003, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to County Fiscal Policy, surplus funds have been requested
for use in the amount of $753,154 in the current year budget, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services, Planning, Development
and Environmental Quality, Public Safety, Government Operations, Consumer
and Community Affairs, Facilities and Infrastructure, and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the following transactions are approved:
BUDGET APPROPRIATION:
FROM: General Fund Balance $ 451,245
TO:
Planning - Fiscal Imp. Analysis and other services 8020.54442 19,530
Planning - Printing comp plan, draft, final; environ. direct. 8020.54330 4,320
Planning - Advertising public meetings on comp plan 8020.54402
1,450 $ 25,300
Fire & EMS - Communications Equipment 3410.52222
35,000
Fire & EMS - Program Expense 3410.54400
15,000
Fire & EMS - EMS Assistant Director 4189.51000180 13,669
Fire & EMS - Fringes 4189.58800 5,331 $69,000
Probation Community Justice Center - Salary 3160.51000650
6,886
Probation Community Justice Center - Fringes 3160.58800
2,685
Probation Community Justice Center - Fringes Adm Svs. 3160.58800
150
Probation Community Justice Center - Comp. Equipment 3160.52206
2,000
Probation Community Justice Center - Inst. Books/Videos 3160.54332
3,000 $ 14,721
Sheriff – Professional Services 3113.54442
30,000
Sheriff - Vehicles 3113.52231 25,000
Sheriff – Misc. Equipment Purchases 3113.52220
7,277 $ 62,277
Jail - Vehicle 3150.52231 55,000
Jail - Professional Services 3150.54442
15,000
Jail - Cameras 3150.52220
35,000 $105,000
Weights & Measures - Computer Equipment 3630.52206 3,500
Weights & Measures - Office Supplies 3630.54303 1,500
Weights & Measures - Printing 3630.54330
300 $ 5,300
County Clerk - Salary 1411.551000
27,491
County Clerk - Office Equipment
1410.52206
6,791
County Clerk - Salary
1410.51000
9,500
County Clerk - Professional Services 1410.54442 5,300 $49,082
Board of Elections - Computer Equipment 1450.52206
4,060
Board of Elections - Computer Software 1450.52230
855
Board of Elections - Office Equipment 1450.54330
1,500
Board of Elections - Travel and Training 1450.54412
1,200 $ 7,615
County Historian 7520.54400
1,000 $ 1,000
Facilities – Maintenance Equipment 1620.52220
5,000 $ 5,000
Recreation Partnership - Program Expense 7021.54400
10,461 $ 10,461
Tompkins Co. Legislature - Computer Equipment 1040.52206
1,244 $ 1,244
Assessment - Project Assistants for Disclosure Hearings
1355.5100049 15,562
$ 15,562
County Attorney
1170.54442 2,058
$ 2,058
Personnel - Fringe 1987.58800
4,346
Personnel - Professional Services 1430.54442
49,000
Personnel - Training
1430.54412
6,696
Personnel - Salary 1431.51000
10,000 $ 70,042
Human Rights - Salary for Receptionist Spring/Sum. '04
8040.51000506 3,566
Human Rights - Intern/Project Assistant Summer 2004 8040.51000049 2,940
Human Rights - Fringe 8040.58800 1,077 $ 7,583
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RESOLUTION NO. 107 - ESTABLISHMENT OF GUIDELINES AND FISCAL TARGETS FOR
ALL COUNTY BUDGETING UNITS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE 2005 BUDGET
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Todd.
A modification of the language containing negotiated salary changes and associated
fringe costs was accepted as friendly. Mr. Winch inquired if the resolution
holds departments "harmless" for salary increases and was informed that was
the case. Mr. Lane noted that as negotiations are taking place the
department heads are unable to determine what the budget line would be.
Mr. Whicher noted that the resolution would provide the ability for the finance
department to make adjustments due to expenditures. A voice vote on
the motion resulted as follows: Ayes - 15; Noes - 0. RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Fiscal Policy specifies that
a fiscal target is the maximum amount of general revenue spending authority
that a department head or program director may request without initiating
an Over-Target Request, and changes in fiscal targets should be communicated
to department heads and program directors as timely as possible in order
for them to submit their budget requests by August 2, 2004, and
WHEREAS, staff contracts will not be established in time
prior to submission of the 2005 department budget requests, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Legislature wishes to establish
targets for departments and agencies in preparing 2005 budget requests, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital
Committee, That fiscal targets for all budgeting units for preparation of
the 2005 budget are hereby established as follows:
1. For not-for-profit agency grants, the amount approved
in the 2004 adopted budget less any over-target funding designated as one-time
less any funds re-appropriated from previous years
2. For Human Service and Criminal Justice agencies receiving
reimbursement pursuant to the Sales Tax Agreement between the County and
City of Ithaca, the fiscal target shall be equal to the current year appropriation,
including the sales tax revenue, minus any one-time adjustments for prior
years. The target is now equal to the local county share.
3. For all County departments, an amount equal to the general
revenue portion of the 2004 adopted County budget, less any over-target funding
designated as one-time, less any funds re-appropriated from previous years.
4. Any salary changes and associated fringe costs or savings
will be paid through or received by the General Fund.
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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Lane, Chair, reported the Committee met May 20th and
spent the majority of the meeting discussing a County Executive form of government.
He said the Committee has visited Chemung County and plan to visit Chatauqua
County in the near future. Mr. Lane commented on the reports from the
Assessment Department, noting there were 232 grievances out of 22,560 assessment
modifications compared to 613 grievances out of 17,392 assessment modifications
in 2003. Mr. Lane then spoke of a resolution proposed at the Committee
level that failed and will be brought forth as a member-filed resolution.
He then reported that Ms. Skinner, Public Information Officer, reported she
is working with staff to develop working relationships with media contacts.
In addition, the Public Information Advisory Board has been discussing ways
to promote citizen involvement to understand how State and County tax is
determined and how the policies involve private lives. Ms. Skinner
also suggested reviewing the process of minute taking within the County.
Mr. Lane reported it was suggested by Ms. Herrera that the County review
contracting policies and include the area of diversity and other areas within
the discussions.
RESOLUTION NO. 108 - APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND FOR TERMINAL PAY - COUNTY ADMINISTRATION OFFICE
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Herrera. Ms. Kiefer
noted this resolution pertains to the former Deputy County Administrator.
A short roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 15, Noes – 0.
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, County Administration had an employee,
resign effective December 5, 2003, at a cost of $3,113 for terminal pay,
and
WHEREAS, the Fiscal Policy of Tompkins County allows for
terminal pay from the Contingent Fund, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations
and Budget and Capital Committees, That the Director of Finance appropriate
a total of $3,113 to the County Administration budget for terminal pay,
RESOLVED, further, That the money be distributed to the following accounts:
FROM: A1990.54440 Contingent Fund $ 3,113
TO: A1230.51000 Regular
Pay $ 2,451
A1230.58800
Fringe
$ 662
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RESOLUTION NO. 109 - REVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL POLICY NUMBERS
01-03 - TRAVEL/TRAINING AUTHORIZATION, AND 04-10 - TRAVEL AND TRAINING EXPENSE
REIMBURSEMENT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Schuler.
Mr. Proto stated that there is not a policy requiring individuals to report
to appropriate program committees the results of any training/conferences.
He believes that minimally a written report should be submitted. A
voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes - 15; Noes -
0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, there is a need to revise the procedure for travel/training
authorization and travel and training expense reimbursement, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations
Committee, That the following policies be adopted and incorporated into the
Administrative Policy Manual:
01-03 - Travel/Training Authorization
04-10 - Travel and Training Expense Reimbursement
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RESOLUTION NO. 110 - AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL LAW
NO. b OF 2004 - A LOCAL LAW PROVIDING FOR ASSESSMENTS TO BE CONDUCTED AT
PERIODS PROVIDED BY RESOLUTION OF THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Booth. Mr. Lane
said this member-filed resolution would require a local law to amend the
current assessment policy. He is bringing this forward now as a determination
of this matter would need to be known by July for budgetary purposes.
A discussion ensued with varied opinions on this topic. Ms. Herrera
felt that it would not be appropriate to modify the assessment procedure,
indicating to put it in a political position of modification as outlined
in the resolution was inappropriate. Mr. Lane said that the resolution
was brought forward as the Assessment Department needed guidance prior to
budget preparation. In addition, he expressed concern regarding the
State funding for annual assessment may not be available in the future.
If the County were to go to a three-year assessment schedule there would
be no funding for two years but would be in the third. Mr. Lane said
we are one of the few counties within the State that have undertaken annual
assessments.
Mr. Penniman noted that some individuals property taxes are more than they
had paid for their homes. He inquired what the Assessment Director's
opinion on the matter was and was informed by Ms. Coggin, Director of Assessment,
that she believes that while it is a lot of work, annual assessments make
it more equitable and fair. In addition, Ms. Coggin stated she did
not believe there would be any financial benefit to three-year assessments.
Ms. Robertson said that she believes the problem to be taxes, not assessments,
and recommended involvement with PushBack. Mr. Proto indicated he believes
part of the County's difficulty is the land banking of property by non-taxable
entities. Mr. Joseph believed this resolution would only create further
discussions on the wrong issue; that the issue is more to do with mandates
and spending; more time spent on the assessment issue would put everyone
off-track.
Mr. Lane said he believes the education provided by the Assessment Department
has led to a better understanding of the process, but to deny a public hearing
does not allow input.
Ms. Kiefer feels the ability to adjust the schedule annually would be a disservice
to residents and she 110will not support the resolution.
Mr. Todd and Mr. Totman both said three-year assessments are too long a period.
Mrs. McBean-Clairborne said she often hears complaints about taxes, but hears about the assessments more.
Mr. Totman spoke of previous attempts to have people discuss this issue and
said he has tried without success. He does not believe it could happen.
A voice vote on the motion occurred as follows: Ayes - 5 (Legislators
Blanchard, Booth, Lane, McBean-Clairborne, and Proto); Noes - 9. MOTION
FAILED.
WHEREAS, the County Department of Assessment currently
performs annual assessments of properties in the County, and
WHEREAS, the annual assessment has placed an excessive burden on the Assessment
Department causing the Department to request additional staff, and
WHEREAS, the County Legislature believes that it would
be in the best interest of the public to be able to modify the present assessment
periods, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That a public hearing be held before the Tompkins
County Legislature in Legislative Chambers of the Tompkins County Courthouse,
320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on Tuesday, June 15, 2004, at 5:30
o'clock in the evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. b of 2004
- A Local Law Providing for Assessments to be Conducted at Periods Provided
by Resolution of the County Legislature. At such time and place all
persons interested in the subject matter will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Legislature is
hereby authorized and directed to place proper notice of such public hearing
in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
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Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chair, reported that the Emergency Response
Center is virtually complete. At this time there is a slight delay
for the cutover date due to the need to complete telephone connections.
It is anticipated that this will occur by late July. In addition, the
cooperative effort with the Town of Ithaca for the construction of a new
tower location on South Hill is continuing. He said that at this time
all the necessary information has been gathered to negotiate a contract with
Motorola for this project.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, said the Committee will meet on
Thursday, June 3rd at 2:00 p.m. The first half of the meeting will
be continued discussions with Jacobs Facilities consultants with the goal
of formulating all the information necessary to provide a presentation to
the full Legislature on July 6th.
RESOLUTION NO. 111 – PROGRAM RECONFIGURATION – SHERIFF’S OFFICE
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Booth. A
voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 12; Noes - 0; Excused - 3 (Legislators
Koplinka-Loehr, Proto, and Winch temporarily out of room). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Sheriff’s Office is divided into four programs
known as Civil, Uniform, Criminal Investigation, and Court Security, and
WHEREAS, the current program configuration is artificial
in that staff assignments and program responsibilities are interchangeable
and do not reflect the function of the agency as it is currently organized,
and
WHEREAS, the current program configuration has caused
confusion during the budget review process of mandated payments, mandated
responsibilities and locally controlled spending, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget
and Capital Committees, That effective with the 2005 budget, programs be
reorganized to form three Budgeting Units: Civil, Uniform (Law Enforcement
Division), and Court Security,
RESOLVED further, That Program 4200, Uniform Division be renamed Law Enforcement Division,
RESOLVED further, That the following programs be combined
to form one program known as Program 4200, “Law Enforcement Division”:
FROM: Program 4100, Criminal Investigation (3112)
Program 4200, Uniform Division (3113)
TO: Program 4200, Law Enforcement Division (3113)
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
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Report from the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee
Mr. Booth, Chair, deferred to Mr. Totman with regard to the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 92 - CONTINGENT FUND APPROPRIATION OF $64,066 TO PAY FOR
COUNTY SHARE OF THE COST OF THE DEMOLITION OF OLD AIRPORT TERMINAL - ITHACA
TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Booth, to
lift from the table Resolution No. 92 of 2004, Contingent Fund Appropriation
of $64,066 to Pay for County Share of the Cost of the Demolition of Old Airport
Terminal - Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport. A voice vote resulted
as follows: Ayes - 11; Noes – 1 (Legislator Kiefer); Excused - 3 (Legislators
Koplinka-Loehr, Proto, and Winch temporarily out of room). MOTION TO
LIFT FROM TABLE CARRIED.
Mr. Joseph said he feels that the members of the Legislature
know the outcome of the vote to take place. He is opposed to the resolution
but voted on the procedural motion at the last meeting to allow it to be
brought back. He did so because he believes if this is what the majority
wants it should not be stopped by parliamentary measures.
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Booth.
A roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 8 (Legislators Blanchard,
Booth, Koplinka-Loehr, Lane, Proto, Todd, Totman, and Winch); Noes - 7 (Legislators
Herrera, Joseph, Kiefer, McBean-Clairborne, Penniman, Robertson, and Schuler,).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County entered into an agreement with
Taughannock Aviation for cost sharing associated with the demolition and
removal of the Old Terminal Building at a cost not to exceed $70,000, and
WHEREAS, Taughannock Aviation has satisfactorily completed
the demolition of the Old Terminal and submitted an invoice of $64,065.50
to the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport for the County’s share of cost of
demolition, and
WHEREAS, the County Finance Director has advised
that the financial resources of the Airport Fund are currently inadequate
to absorb the payment for the demolition cost of the Old Terminal, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure
and Budget and Capital Committees, That an appropriation of $64,066
be authorized from the Contingent Fund to provide for the cost of the demolition
of the Old Terminal Building,
RESOLVED, further, That the Airport Fund shall reimburse
the Contingent Fund for the $64,066 when resources become available,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized
to make the following budget appropriations in implementation of this resolution:
From: A1990.54400
Contingency Fund
$64,066
To :
CT5610.54400 Airport
$64,066
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II- 2
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Mr. Booth reported a discussion occurred regarding the
Dryden Dry dam. The discussion came about due to a request for electrical
service adjacent to the property. He noted that he became aware at
this meeting that Tompkins County is a co-owner of the property where the
dam is located due to Federal funding regulations. The Committee will
be discussing the need to complete inspections on this dry dam. In
addition, discussion occurred regarding the Solid Waste Fee formula as it
applies to institutions (including educational facilities) and whether the
formula requires modification.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Mr. Proto, Chairman, said the Committee meets on June
9th at which time they will be discussing the Request for Qualifications
being prepared regarding County building issues. He noted comments
will be incorporated within the RFQ.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning, Development and Environmental Quality Committee
Ms. Herrera, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on
June 2, 2004, at 2:00 p.m. at which time they well receive an update on the
Tompkins County Comprehensive Plan, act upon resolutions presented by the
Strategic Tourism Planning Board, will be introduced to the new STPB Director,
Fred Bonn, and will review resolutions from Workforce Development.
Report from the Consumer and Community Affairs Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on
June 3, 2004, at which time the Committee will hear about alternative charter
options for the Tompkins County Public Library. In addition, the Board
of Elections will have information related to Help America Vote Act and the
impacts of centralization of voting equipment. Ms. Kiefer noted the
County Clerk will provide a brief presentation on the proposal to provide
documents on file via internet.
Approval of Minutes
It was MOVED by Ms. Booth, seconded by Ms. Robertson,
to approve the minutes of the May 18, 2004. A voice vote resulted as
follows: Ayes - 12; Noes - 0; Excused - 3 (Legislators Blanchard, Koplinka-Loehr,
and Penniman). MINUTES APPROVED.
Adjournment
On motion, the meeting adjourned at 7:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Karen Fuller, Deputy Clerk.