Chair Mink 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 Representatives.

Privilege of the Floor by the Public

Richard Miller, Vice President of the Library Board of Trustees, read the following resolution adopted by the Board of Trustees on November 23, 1999:

"WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Public Library is about to enter the new millennium and a new facility within the next several months, and

WHEREAS, the need for adequate funding for the programs and resources of the Library has been and remains critically important in order to meet the needs of the community, and

WHEREAS, over the last several years the funding for the Library has been accomplished by a working partnership of public and private sources, and

WHEREAS, there have been shortfalls in the necessary funding, and

WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins has provided the majority of the necessary funding for the Tompkins County Public Library in the past, and

WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins was asked to substantially increase its funding to the Tompkins County Public Library for next year, and

WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives has studied the needs of the Tompkins County Public Library and the community , and has adopted a budget including a substantial increase in funding for the Tompkins County Public Library for the year 2000,

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED,

That the Board of Trustees recognizes the effort put forth by the Board of Representatives in studying the request of the Tompkins County Public Library and the needs of the community, and

That the Board of Trustees appreciates the increased funding for the Tompkins County Public Library as adopted in the new Tompkins County Budget, and

That the Board of Trustees thanks the individual members of the Board of Representatives, and

That the Board of Trustees pledges to continue to work cooperatively with the County Board of Representatives in creating an outstanding public library for the citizens of Tompkins County".

Paul Bonaparte-Krogh, Executive Director for Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County, announced the Annual Meeting was held on November 4^th. At that meeting the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County Association recognized Representative Evans as the 1999 recipient of "Friend of Extension Award".

Members of Boy Scout Troop 13 from Trumansburg stated their attendance at this meeting is a requirement towards receiving their merit badge.

Wendy Skinner, Public Information Coordinator for Tompkins County, stated during the budget deliberations there were comments relating to the poor sound quality in the Board Room. She said she has placed information on all Board members desks and asked that members consider a proposal to move microphones to a stand that prevents them from having direct contact with the desks. This change should eliminate the sound-board effect that viewers have complained about. Ms. Skinner asked that Board members submit comments on this proposal to her as soon as possible.

Privilege of the Floor by Board Members

Mr. Winch, District No. 8 Representative, reported on a meeting he hosted in the Town of Newfield on November 19^th concerning the purchase of a hardfill site by the City of Ithaca in the Town of Ithaca. He said because the property borders the Town of Newfield, members of the Newfield Town Board and many residents have raised concerns about this property. The meeting was attended by representatives of the City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca, Town of Newfield, and residents living near the proposed site. Mr. Winch said one of the reasons there is a lot of concern is because there is a fragile aquifer less than 1,000 feet away downstream. He said the meeting was very productive, and that there may be future meetings.

Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, reported on the traffic accident that occurred in the Village of Dryden a few weeks ago in which an officer was injured. He said Officer Gonzalez remains in the hospital with very serious injuries. Last Friday, the Dryden community, Cornell Public Safety, and people from across Tompkins County, attended a fund raiser at the Dryden Fire Department and the Veteran's Memorial Home. Mr. Lane said this showed once again how the Dryden community comes together during difficult times. He said Officer Gonzalez means a great deal to the community and asked that the public continue to keep him in their prayers.

Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, reported the Southworth Library in Dryden has joined the Finger Lakes Library System. Mr. Lane said the fact that the Southworth Library was one of only two independent libraries left in the State was something that the Board of Trustees spent a great deal of time discussing. He attributed the decision to changes in personalities, cost, and the technological revolution.

Report from the County Administrator

Mr. Erb reported he attended the FEMA emergency management course last week in Emmittsville, Maryland. There were approximately 75 representatives from Tompkins County in attendance. The training involved various lectures on disaster preparation, emergency management, and a fairly extensive simulation exercise that was specifically tailored to Tompkins County. He said the impact of administrative decisions on operations is quite dramatic. In some of the follow-up meetings, it became apparent that the County plays a major role in emergency management because disasters do not respect town lines and the County is the conduit to the State and Federal emergency management agencies. He said it became evident that more time needs to be spent updating Tompkins County's plans and procedures, and all present made a commitment to continue local preparation meetings. Overall, Mr. Erb felt all of those present came away from the training with a greater understanding of the importance of coordination and cooperation.

Report from the County Attorney

Mr. Theisen reported at the last meeting on the Kendra's Law, and said the County has received no petitions in the first month this Law has been in effect.

Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda

On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote the following resolution(s) were added to the agenda:

Passage of the Health Care Reform Act for 2000

Authorizing Payment of Moving Expenses for the New Assistant Manager - Tompkins County Airport

Resolution of Appreciation - Gretchen Sachse

Addition of Resolution(s) and Appointment(s) to the Consent Agenda

On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote, the following resolution(s) and appointment(s) were added to the Consent Agenda:

Authorization to Disburse Funds - County Administration

Implementation of the 2000 Budget - Departmental Fees

Implementation of 2000 Tompkins County Budget - Memberships

Delegation of Authority to Authorize Certain Tax and Solid Waste Fee Refunds Under $500

Creation of, Abolition of and Changes in Positions - Various Departments

Correction of Errors

Designation of Newspaper

Apportionment of Mortgage Tax

Appointment of Temporary Board of Assessment Review Members to Serve on Administrative Hearing Panels

Authorization to Increase Hours - Nutrition Aide - WIC Program - Health Department

Authorization to Accept Grant Funds and Budget Adjustment - Source Water Assessment Program

Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda

There were no resolutions withdrawn from the agenda at this time. Following Mr. Lane's Planning, Intergovernmental Relations, and Education Committee report, he withdrew the resolution from the agenda entitled Restructuring County Environmental Management Council and Amending Resolution No. 103 of 1971 (Version B)

Approval of Resolution(s) and Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda

On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote, the following resolution(s) were adopted under the Consent Agenda:

RESOLUTION NO. 280 - CORRECTION OF ERRORS

MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Clerk of the Board be and hereby is authorized to correct any manifest errors in the 1999 minutes of the Board or in reports of any committees.

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RESOLUTION NO. 281 - DESIGNATION OF NEWSPAPER

MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the official newspaper for the County of Tompkins for the publication of all local laws, notices and other matters required by law to be published pursuant to County Law, Article 5, Section 214, Subdivision (2), and Local Law No. 1 of 1992 be designated from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2000, as follows:

Ithaca Journal, Ithaca, New York

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RESOLUTION NO. 282 - APPORTIONMENT OF MORTGAGE TAX

MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

WHEREAS, the County Clerk and the Finance Director have presented their report concerning mortgage tax receipts for the period April 1, 1999, through September 30, 1999, pursuant to Section 261 of the Tax Law, and the same have been apportioned to the various municipalities thereto, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the apportionment presented for said period from April 1, 1999, through September 30, 1999 be and hereby is approved.

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WHEREAS, the Division of Assessment will implement a county-wide revaluation for the year 2000 Final Assessment Roll, and

WHEREAS, Real Property Tax Law 523-a permits the County Board of Representatives to appoint up to six Temporary Board of Assessment Review members to serve on Administrative Review Panels, and

WHEREAS, Real Property Tax Law 523-a permits the compensation of Temporary Board of Assessment Review Members, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the following six Temporary Board of Assessment Review Members be appointed to serve on Administrative review panels for a term that expires December 31, 2000:

Paul Banfield, Tompkins County Trust Company

Mike Cannon, M&T Bank

Alice Moore, Audrey Edelman and Associates

Edie Spaulding, Audrey Edelman and Associates

Bob Shaw, Real Estate Broker

George Conneman, Cornell University

RESOLVED, further, That Temporary Board of Assessment Review members be compensated at a rate of $50 per session with a maximum annual compensation of $250.

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WHEREAS, the WIC Program has recently undertaken a computerization project statewide and the program is in need of increased hours for the Nutrition Aide to meet the needs of WIC clients, and

WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Health has authorized the program to increase the hours, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That one position of Nutrition Aide (08/524), labor grade H, competitive class, be increased from 25.5 hours per week to 35 hours per week, effective immediately,

RESOLVED, further, That these changes are 100 percent funded by the WIC Program grant.

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WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Health has provided funding for source water assessment activities under the 1996 Amendments to the Safe Water Drinking Act that requires the State to complete assessments of the source waters serving public water systems, and

WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Health Department is eligible for $13,250 to complete these assessments, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the Health Department is authorized to accept said funds,

RESOLVED, further, That the Department is authorized to execute any and all agreements necessary to complete the requirements of this grant,

RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized to make the following budget adjustment to his year 2000 books:

REVENUE: A4090.43489 Other State Grants $13,250

APPROPRIATION: A4090.52220 Departmental Equipment $13,250

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RESOLUTION NO. 286 - AUTHORIZATION TO DISBURSE FUNDS - COUNTY ADMINISTRATION

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Quality Planning Committee, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized and directed to disburse all appropriated funds up to the amount of the appropriation included in the 2000 budget, provided that whenever a contract is required funds will be disbursed in accordance with the terms of said agreement.

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RESOLUTION NO. 287 - IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 2000 BUDGET - DEPARTMENTAL FEES

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Quality Planning Committee, That all increases in fees and changes in methods of charging fees specifically identified in the departmental budget requests, recommended by the Budget and Quality Planning Committee for 2000, and included in the 2000 budget adopted by the Board of Representatives, are hereby authorized and approved.

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RESOLUTION NO. 288 - IMPLEMENTATION OF 2000 TOMPKINS COUNTY BUDGET - MEMBERSHIPS

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the appropriate program committees, That memberships in all municipal organizations specifically listed in 2000 budget requests, approved by the appropriate program committee, and included in the 2000 budget adopted by the Board of Representatives, are hereby authorized and approved,

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RESOLUTION NO. 289 - DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN TAX AND SOLID WASTE FEE REFUNDS UNDER $500

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

WHEREAS, Section 556 of the Real Property Tax Law authorized a tax levying body to delegate the payment of tax refunds due to a clerical error of an unlawful entry (an unlawful entry is any information on the tax roll that violates the Real Property Tax Law), and

WHEREAS, Solid Waste Fee refunds are authorized under Resolution No. 181 of 1996, and

WHEREAS, it is the opinion of the Budget and Quality Planning Committee, That such delegation would be beneficial to the taxpayer and more efficient in processing said refunds, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Quality Planning Committee, That the County Director of Assessment shall transmit refund recommendations to the County Administrator,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator is hereby authorized to make payments of any refunds as if the Board of Representatives had performed this audit in compliance with Paragraph 1-7 of Section 566,

RESOLVED, further, That any refund of $500 or more must be approved by the Board of Representatives pursuant to Paragraph 8(b) of Section 556 of the Real Property Tax Law,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator shall transmit on or before the 15th day of each month a report to the Board of Representatives of all the refunds processed,

RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall only be in effect during the calendar year 2000.

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RESOLUTION NO. 290 - CREATION OF, ABOLITION OF AND CHANGES IN
POSITIONS - VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the appropriate committees of the Board of Representatives, That the following positions be created effective January 1, 2000:

ASSESSMENT

1. Assistant Director of Assessment - Internal Operations, (87-269), labor grade P(16),

1. Senior Cleaner, (7-803), labor grade G(7), competitive class, 40hrs/wk

1. Cleaner, (4-801), labor grade D(4), labor class, 35hrs/wk

1. Public Health Sanitarian, (14-595), labor grade N(14), competitive class, 35.0 hrs/wk

1. Captain Deputy Sheriff (88-193), labor grade Q(17), competitive class, 40 hrs/wk

1. Case Aide, (8-511), labor grade H(8), competitive class, 35hrs/wk

1. Principal Account Clerk, (11-673), labor grade K(11), competitive class, 40hrs/wk

1. Customer Service Representative, pending classification

ASSIGNED COUNSEL PROGRAM

1. Program Coordinator, (13-670), labor grade M(13), competitive class, increase from 35 to 37.5 hours

1. Administrative Assistant, (12-535), labor grade L(12), competitive class, increase from 35 to 37.5 hours

1. Receptionist, (5-506), labor grade E(5), competitive class, increase from 20 to 35 hours

.75 Youth Care Worker, (9-657), labor grade I(9), competitive class, increase from 26.25

PUBLIC HEALTH

.6 Senior Account Clerk Typist, (9-529), labor grade I(9),competitive class

.5 Planner/Evaluator, (11-672), labor grade K(11), competitive class, 17.5 hrs/wk

.5 Planner/Evaluator, (11-672), labor grade K(11), competitive class, 17.5 hrs/wk

.5 Administrative Assistant, (12-535), labor grade L(12), competitive class, 17.5 hrs/wk

SOCIAL SERVICES

.5 Keyboard Specialist, (5-507), labor grade E(5), competitive class

.5 Administrative Assistant, (12-535), labor grade L(12), competitive class

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Approval of Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda

On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote the following appointment(s) were made under the Consent Agenda:

Community Affirmative Action Committee

Alice D. Cole - Department Head Representative - Expiring December 31, 2000

Ethics Advisory Board

John Marcham - Expiring December 31, 2003

Assessment Review Board

Nancy Watts - Expiring December 31, 2004

Criminal Justice Advisory/Alternatives to Incarceration Board

Marilyn Ray - At-large Representative - Expiring December 31, 2002

Louise Miller - At-large Representative - Expiring December 31, 2002

Family Court Advisory Council

Abigail De Loache - At-large Representative - Expiring December 31, 2002

Judith Johnson - Probation Department Representative - Expiring December 31, 2002

Stuart Grinnell - Mental Health Representative - Expiring December 31, 2002

E911 Operations Committee

Brian Wilbur - Ithaca Fire Chief or Designee - Expiring December 31, 2002

Peter Meskill - Tompkins County Sheriff - Expiring December 31, 2002

Kenneth Lansing - Village Police Chief Representative - Expiring December 31, 2002

Library Board of Trustees

Brigid Huberman - Expiring December 31, 2002

Ronald Ehrenberg - Expiring December 31, 2002

Rich Miller - Expiring December 31, 2002

Human Rights Commission

Susanne Davis - Expiring December 31, 2002

Joel Gagnon - Neighborhood Representative - Expiring December 31, 2002

Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee

Mr. Winch, Chairman, said the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The next meeting will be December 9^th at 9:15 a.m.

RESOLUTION NO. 291 - RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION FOR C. JUDSON KILGORE, M.D.

MOVED by Mr. Winch and unanimously seconded and adopted by voice vote.

WHEREAS, the position of Chief Medical Examiner is charged with investigating and certifying the cause of death for all unnatural and /or unattended deaths in the County, and

WHEREAS, the Medical Examiner often conducts his work under difficult circumstances and is called upon at all hours of the day and night, and

WHEREAS, Dr. C. Judson Kilgore has faithfully served in this capacity for nearly three years with distinction, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the Board of Representatives extend their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Kilgore for his dedication and years of service to our community.

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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee

Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the 2000 revaluation in the Assessment Department is on schedule. He said fluctuations will not be as dramatic as the last time this process was done. He said he would like the Department to provide the Board with a presentation on revaluation and the hearing process at the first Board meeting in February. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr reported the negotiations with AES Cayuga about their assessment are proceeding and they hope to have successful completion of those negotiations within the next month. He reported on the Information Technology Department and said Tompkins County is now the leader in the State in terms of GIS compliance. A brief report was given on the goals established by the Committee at the beginning of the year. Ms. Kiefer will continue to meet with the County Administrator to review administrative policies and procedures, the Committee has reviewed a draft organizational structure that continues to be worked on by the County Administrator, and the Board has participated in and continues to participate in diversity training sessions. He said those goals will continue into next year.

WHEREAS, the New York State Unified Court System and the Office of Supreme and County Court Clerks recommend changing the Court Attendant’s pay, and

WHEREAS, it is recommended that regular Court Attendants be reimbursed at the rate of $6.90 per hour and where extra responsibilities are warranted such as assignment to magnetometer support, Family Court calendars, and courtroom coordination duties Court Attendants are authorized to receive $7.90 per hour, and

WHEREAS, a minimum of one hour’s pay will be paid to any Court Attendant reporting for duty and time-and-one half rates will be paid for over forty hours per week, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Board of Representatives authorizes changing the Court Attendants rate of pay effective January 1, 2000, from $6.20 to $6.90 and from $7.20 to $7.90 for extra responsibilities.

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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning, Intergovernmental Relations and Education Committee

Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported on the labor negotiations taking place at Tompkins Cortland Community College. After three months of intense negotiations, a tentative agreement was reached and he expects this Board to take action on this at the next Board meeting. Mr. Lane said most of the business conducted at the last meeting is reflected in the resolutions on the agenda.

WHEREAS, Tompkins County has been successful in obtaining Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Small Cities Community Development Block Grant program funds for Economic Development that total $1.5 million, and

WHEREAS, these funds have provided low-interest loans to businesses and companies in Tompkins County that have expanded operations to help leverage over 120 additional jobs for low and moderate-income people, and

WHEREAS, these loans are being repaid to the County’s revolving fund thereby creating the need to establish an Economic Development Loan Oversight Committee to recommend redistribution of the funds as per the "Economic Development Loan Guidelines for Tompkins County Small Cities Economic Development Loans" (as adopted by Resolution No. 152 of 1999), now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning, Intergovernmental Relations and Education Committee, That an Economic Development Loan Oversight Committee be established,

RESOLVED, further, That the Oversight Committee consist of the following, Board of Representatives-appointed, membership:

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or designee be authorized to sign documents related to the aforementioned project.

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WHEREAS, the Commercial Center Revitalization Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee) was assigned responsibility for providing advice on the award of grant funds for the revitalization of rural commercial centers, and

WHEREAS, the Advisory Committee has reviewed the applications for funding and has made recommendations based on the program guidelines of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program, and

WHEREAS, the recommendations of the Advisory Committee are within the budget for the Commercial Center Revitalization program, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning, Intergovernmental Relations and Education Committee, That the following projects be approved:

Town of Caroline (bus shelter landscaping) $2,202.00

Town of Caroline (handicap ramp and entrance) $1,000.00

Village of Groton (chimes) $3,500.00

Town of Danby (Danby General Store) $2,795.50

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts related to these projects.

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Town of Caroline (bus shelter) : Type II-2

Town of Caroline (handicap ramp & entrance) Type II-2

Village of Groton (chimes) Type II-1

Town of Danby (for Danby General Store) Type II-2

Ms. Kiefer called attention to two of the second version where it states "total membership shall be at least 28". She said this is the resolution she introduced a couple of meetings ago and at the Board meeting where this was discussed she agreed to and the Board voted on wording that says "total membership" shall be at least 21 with a maximum of 28".

It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, to change the wording to say "total membership shall be at least 21 with a maximum of 28". She said the reason she is proposing this change is because the EMC currently has 28 members, and continues to find these members valuable and it is difficult for her to see the value in removing three members.

Mr. Lane said all EMC terms end at the end of this year. There are already vacancies that exist on that advisory board; therefore, he feels no one would be removed from membership.

A voice vote on the amendment resulted as follows: Ayes - 8 (Representatives Davis, Joseph, Kiefer, Koplinka-Loehr, Penniman, Proto, Schuler, and Stein); Noes - 5 (Representatives Blanchard, Evans, Lane, Mink, Totman, and Winch); Excused - 1 (Representative Todd was temporarily out of the room). MOTION CARRIED.

A voice vote on the resolution as amended resulted as follows: Ayes - 13; Noes - 1 (Representative Winch); Excused - 1 (Representative Todd was temporarily out of the room). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council was created by the Tompkins County Board of Representatives in 1971 by Resolution No. 103, and

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 103 was substantially amended in 1990 by Resolution No. 476, and

WHEREAS, the County Board of Representatives wishes to now alter the structure of the Tompkins County EMC to improve its effectiveness and efficiency and for ease of reference, proposes re-adoption of the entire original Resolution 103 of 1971, incorporating all subsequent amendments, and

WHEREAS, preservation and improvement of the quality of the natural and human made environment within the County of Tompkins in the face of population growth, urbanization, and technological change with their accompanying demands on natural resources, are of increasing and vital importance to the health, welfare and economic well-being of the present and future inhabitants of the County, and

WHEREAS, it is recognized that the natural environment has intrinsic value, that humans are dependent on it for survival, and the natural and functional beauty of our surroundings condition the quality of our life experience, all of which cannot be protected without the full cooperation and participation of all local governments in the State and County working in concert with each other and with other public and private institutions, agencies and organizations, and

WHEREAS, establishment by the County of Tompkins of a council for environmental management is a needed step in fostering unified action on environmental problems among local governments and among public and private agencies and organizations located within the County, and

WHEREAS, the purpose of the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council shall be to identify problems, propose priorities and promote coordination of activities in the development and management of our natural resources and to provide a public forum for the discussion and resolution of these problems and completion of proposed projects, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning, Intergovernmental Relations and Education Committee That:

1. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE TOMPKINS COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL. The Board of Representatives of the County of Tompkins hereby creates and establishes a council which shall be called the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council, hereinafter called the EMC, pursuant to Article 19 of the Conservation Law.

2. MEMBERSHIP AND TERM. The County Board shall appoint all members to the EMC, who shall serve at the pleasure of the County Board. The membership of the EMC shall consist of the following:

a) Municipal Members. Each city, village and town governing body within Tompkins County shall be entitled to a voting member on the EMC as follows:

4. POWERS AND DUTIES. The powers and duties of the EMC shall be to:

a) Interact regularly with the Appropriate Board Committee.

b) Advise the County Board of Representatives, through the appropriate Appropriate Board Committee, on matters affecting the preservation, development, and use of the natural resources and conditions of the County insofar as they have a bearing on environmental quality and, in the case of human activities and developments, with regard to any threats posed to environmental quality, so as to enhance the long-range value of the environment to the people of the County.

c) Develop and conduct a program of public information in the County which shall be designed to foster increased understanding of the nature of environmental problems and issues and their solutions.

d) Develop and recommend a program to improve the coordination and effectiveness of public and private projects and activities in the County and State in accord with the purposes of this resolution, working in cooperation with local CAC/CBs and local planning boards, insofar as such agencies have been established, and with other public and private agencies, focusing particularly on those matters relating to environmental quality which require intergovernmental action.

e) Conduct, with appropriate coordination with existing or prospective work of a similar nature performed within the County, studies, surveys, and inventories in accord with the general purposes of this resolution, including but not limited to surveys and studies for identification of those open spaces, natural areas, marshlands, swamps, and other wetlands and other natural and scenic features which are of a local, County or regional significance and for which records shall be maintained, and make recommendations to the Appropriate Board Committee for the appropriate preservation and use of such areas and features.

f) Recommend to the Appropriate Board Committee plans and programs for environmental improvement for inclusion in the County master plans, including but not limited to the recommendations in the report and plan required in section five of this resolution.

g) When authorized by further resolution of the County Board of Representatives, the EMC may accept by gift, grant, devise, bequest, or otherwise, property both real and personal in the name of the County, as may be necessary to conserve and otherwise properly utilize open spaces and other land and water resources within the boundaries of the County. Such real property may be accepted in fee for land and water rights, or as any lesser interest, development right, easement, including conservation easement, covenant, or other contractual right including conveyance with limitation or revisions.

5. REPORTS.

a) The EMC shall, within twenty (20) days following each meeting, submit a copy of the draft minutes along with pertinent supporting materials to the Appropriate Board Committee. The EMC shall also submit an annual report to the Appropriate Board Committee no later than the 31^st day of March of each year, concerning the activities and work of the EMC, and from time to time shall submit such other reports and recommendations as are necessary to fulfill the purposes of this resolution.

b) The EMC shall review the state of the County environment as a whole, and shall prepare and submit an annual report of its findings to the Board of Representatives. This report shall also include an account of the EMC’s activities and accomplishments which shall be based on accurate records of its meetings and other works.

6. APPROPRIATION TO THE EMC. The members of the EMC, including the non-voting liaison and associate members, shall receive no compensation for their services as members thereof, but may be reimbursed for reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties, provided appropriations are made available by the County Board for this purpose. The Board of Representatives shall annually review and determine the need for staff support as may be necessary for the conduct of the EMC’s official business.

RESOLVED, further, That the structural changes to the membership of the EMC detailed in this resolution shall be effective on January 1, 2000.

RESOLVED, further, on recommendation of the Planning, Intergovernmental Relations and Education Committee, That the aforesaid amendments to Resolution No. 103 of 1971, incorporating all subsequent amendments, be and hereby are adopted.

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Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda

Chair Mink granted Mr. Lane permission to withdraw the following resolution from the agenda: Restructuring County Environmental Management Council and Amending Resolution No. 103 of 1971 (Version B)

Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee

Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The next meeting will be December 9^th at noon. He said at the last meeting the Committee set aside time to discuss the Economic Strategy Plan. Discussion on the Plan was to continue at the December meeting; however, at that meeting the Committee will receive a substantial report from Martha Armstrong of TCAD (Tompkins County Area Development) who will report on what has happened since the Plan was released and what TCAD plans to do in carrying out recommendations contained in the Plan. Mr. Stein said he would provide Board members with a copy any written material produced by Ms. Armstrong, as well as an audio cassette of the meeting.

RESOLUTION NO. 296 - RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION - GRETCHEN SACHSE

MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously seconded and adopted by voice vote.

WHEREAS, Gretchen Sachse, Ph.D., was appointed in September 1995 by the Tompkins County Board of Representatives to serve as County Historian, and

WHEREAS, the role of County Historian is charged with serving as an almost singular encyclopedic historical resource, providing public reference services by appointment, e-mail, mail, or telephone to help provide answers to questions about local history and research in the County, and

WHEREAS, the County Historian conducts her work throughout the county and is called upon with questions at all hours in both public and private occasions, and

WHEREAS, since her appointment to the role of County Historian, Gretchen has served the citizens of Tompkins County as a dedicated and faithful guardian of the historical resources of our county, and

WHEREAS, before her appointment to the role of County Historian, Gretchen had voluntarily contributed as many as 2000 hours each year for almost twenty years to educate community members about Tompkins County local history and its importance in their lives, and

WHEREAS, in her many capacities over the past three decades as teacher, mentor, role model and researcher, Gretchen has inspired thousands of county residents in their own enthusiasm for local history and its relevance to their lives, and

WHEREAS, due to the vision and initiative of Gretchen Sachse, many hundreds of thousands of dollars of grant funds have been secured for the benefit of community members to be able to expand their awareness of our local historical legacy, and

WHEREAS, Gretchen Sachse has researched and written bi-weekly history columns for the Ithaca Journal for many years, addressing current issues through their historical counterparts or antecedents with a view to making topics both countywide and diverse, and

WHEREAS, Gretchen's standards as a historian included thoroughness, rigorous attention to detail and judiciousness, tracing questions back to their origins or the truth of a situation, and

WHEREAS, Gretchen is committed to life-long learning and is deeply committed to the philosophy that local history can be enjoyed and put to practical use by everyone from pre-schoolers to the very old, from genealogists to the New York State Department of Transportation, and

WHEREAS, local citizens from all walks of life have benefited directly and indirectly from the breadth and depth of local history information presented in innumerable exhibits prepared under Gretchen's guidance, where she interchangeably used the tools of historians, folklorists, art historians, cultural, geographers, child psychologists, and others as needed, all the while being consulted as a "shining light! " and "community asset" by colleagues, museum directors and community festivals organizers, and

WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives wishes to thank Gretchen for her many years of dedicated service to the Board of Representatives and the residents of Tompkins County, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, That the Board of Representatives extend their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Gretchen Sachse for her dedication and years of service to our community,

RESOLVED, further, That a certified copy of this resolution be forwarded to Gretchen Sachse.

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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee met this morning and approved a policy for how the County will maintain road shoulders in the future. She said the policy clearly defines the County's intention to provide safe and usable shoulders for bicyclists and pedestrians. The Committee authorized the extension of the snow and ice agreement with the towns for another three-year period. Arel LeMaro provided the Committee with a report on the condition of the Courthouse flagpole and the adjacent area; he is in the process of putting some cost estimates together on repair. Ms. Blanchard reported the Committee authorized the bidding for the Salmon Creek Road and Renwick Drive bridges which are the first of the ISTEA bridges. The bids for those projects will be advertised early next year. Ward Hungerford was authorized to move forward with negotiations with the City that will allow the County to co-purchase an excavating machine with the City of Ithaca that will be available for use by the County, City, and other municipalities.

WHEREAS, J.L. Lewis, Inc., has completed their HVAC contract for the Tompkins County courthouse HVAC project, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the following claim against the County of Tompkins, be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:

VENDOR PAYMENT REQUEST ACCOUNT NO. AMOUNT

J. L. Lewis, Inc. 9 (Final) HB1601.16.43 $16,461.40

RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay said claim from Account No. HB1601.59239.16.43.

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RESOLUTION NO. 298 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS – VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS

MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety, Government Operations, Facilities and Infrastructure and Health and Human Services Committees, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his books:

PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE

Sheriff

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________

3113 42626 Drug Forfeiture $600 3112 54412 Travel and Training

Explanation: Monies needed to cover the cost for Investigator Dan Drew to attend the Thirty-Second Annual Regional Criminal Investigation School.

Information Technology Services (#60)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________

1683 42228 Revenue $300 1683 54412 Travel and Training

1683 42228 Revenue $100 1683 52230 Computer Software

Explanation: For FEMA conference in Maryland November 29 through December 3, 1999 and to purchase ESRI Licenses and Corel Select.

Information Technology Services (#58)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________

1683 42228 Revenue $300 1683 52206 Computer Equipment

Explanation: For purchase of CD Writer for GIS.

Public Works – Highway (#57)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________

5110 42680 Insurance Recoveries $1,787 5110 54312 Highway Materials

Explanation: Insurance recovery for Guiderail damage.

Public Works – Highway (#52)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________

5130. 42665 Sale of Equipment $17,454 5110 52233 Highway Equipment

Office for the Aging – Highway (#23)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________

6783 44772 Federal Revenue $134 6783 54491 Subcontracts

Explanation: Revenue increase permits increase in Adult Day Program.

Office for the Aging

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________

6776 42070 Contracts for $90,000 6776 54491 Subcontracts

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WHEREAS, a national search was conducted to recruit an assistant airport manager with suitable qualifications, and

WHEREAS, the best qualified candidate is currently employed at the John Wayne (Orange County) Airport in Santa Ana, California, and

WHEREAS, it is considered desirable to offer this incentive to get an assistant airport manager with the experience and expertise of this candidate and help to offset the moving expenses from California which will be far in excess of the $1,500 allowance, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Facilities and Infrastructure Committees, That the costs of moving the prospective assistant airport manager from California, up to a maximum of $1,500 be paid by the County from the Airport's operating budget.

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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee

Mr. Evans, Chairman, reported the Committee met November 28^th. John Beach, STOP-DWI Coordinator, reported DWI arrests are up from last year by 35 percent and that one-third of these are prior convictions and twelve and one-half percent are from traffic accidents. The Committee also spent time discussing a local law brought by Mr. Beach for the formation of a Traffic Safety Board. Action on this subject was deferred to the next meeting. A report was given by OAR that there have been 51 bails so far this year. This is an increase over last year. Regi Teasley, Executive Director for OAR, reported she will be resigning from her position during this month. Mr. Evans said it will be very difficult to replace her. Sheriff Meskill reported on the Jail population and said that number has been increasing lately.

WHEREAS, the Sheriff’s Office has two employees who were disabled or injured and unable to perform their duty, and

WHEREAS, the Fiscal Policy of Tompkins County allows for such replacement pay for employees who have been out longer than two months, and

WHEREAS, with the exception of one correction officer this should take care of the replacement pay for this year, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee and Budget and Quality Planning Committee, That the Director of Finance appropriate a total of $75,126 to the Sheriff’s budget for replacement pay for the period of August 1, 1999 through December 31, 1999,

RESOLVED, further, That the money be distributed to the following accounts:

FROM: CONTINGENT FUND A1990.54400 $75,126

TO: UNIFORM DIVISION A3113.51000 Regular Pay $ 22,234

A3113.58800 Fringe 5,558

CORRECTIONS DIVISION A3150.51000 Regular Pay $37,867

A3150.58800 Fringe 9,467

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RESOLUTION NO. 301 - INCREASE IN HOURS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

WHEREAS, the duties of Domestic Violence Prevention Coordinator have been expanded to include monitoring the STOP Grant and the Child Fatality Grant contracts and budgets, and

WHEREAS, these additional responsibilities require significant time, coordinating agencies, reporting to grantors and preparing grants for continued funding, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the position of Domestic Violence Prevention Coordinator (64/346), labor grade N(64), confidential competitive class, be increased from 35.0 to 40.0 hours per week effective January 13, 2000.

RESOLVED, further, That this is a change in annual salary from $35,427 to $40,485,

RESOLVED, further, That no additional monies are needed for this change in hours, as position is fully grant funding dependent.

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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Quality Planning Committee

Mr. Joseph, Chairman, had no report.

RESOLUTION NO. 302 - APPROVAL OF SAVINGS PLAN PURSUANT TO THE 1999 EARLY RETIREMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM AND 2001 FISCAL TARGET ADJUSTMENT

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Proto. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 14, Noes - 1 (Representative Kiefer); Excused - 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives authorized participation in the 1999 Early Retirement Incentive Program, and

WHEREAS, one eligible employee in the Buildings and Grounds Department has voluntarily chosen to retire during the open period, and

WHEREAS, the Buildings and Grounds Division has submitted a savings plan pursuant to regulations stipulated by the New York State Retirement System whereby they will apply 1999 anticipated surplus created by attrition and unpaid leave of absences towards the required savings, and

WHEREAS, such plan has been reviewed and recommended by the County Administrator, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure and Budget and Quality Planning Committees, That the employee listed below be authorized to retire under the terms of the 1999 Early Retirement Incentive Program:

David Thomas, Electrician, Buildings and Grounds Division

RESOLVED, further, That the 2001 Fiscal Target for Buildings and Grounds be reduced by $3,550.

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RESOLUTION NO. 303 - AMENDMENT TO 2000 ADOPTED BUDGET – DISTRICT ATTORNEY

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.

WHEREAS, the 2000 Proposed Budget for the District Attorney was amended on November 16, 1999 to include $21,785 in rollover funding, and

WHEREAS, this amendment resulted in a reduction to total Over-Target Requests for the District Attorney when in reality, the rollover funding was to be used to support a loss in partial funding for a Victims Advocate / Recovery Specialist position previously paid to the District Attorney by the STOP-DWI program, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Quality Planning Committee, That the 2000 Adopted Budget be further amended to reflect the $21,785 in one-time over-target spending,

RESOLVED, further, That this action increases the General Fund Appropriation for one-time over-target spending by $21,785.

Tax Rate Impact: no impact

GFB Appropriation for One-Time Items: no impact

GFB Appropriation for Deferred Tax Increase: no impact

Change in Available Surplus Funds $21,785 decrease

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RESOLUTION NO. 304 - PASSAGE OF THE HEALTH CARE REFORM ACT FOR 2000

MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Davis. Mr. Stein said he had originally intended to have this go through the Health and Human Services Committee; however, he has been told if the Board waits that long, it will be too late to do this. If this legislative bill is not enacted, the following programs will be lost: rural health networks, Child Plus Program, bad debt and charity pools at hospitals, assistance to graduate medical programs, and a number of other small programs. He said guidelines and procedures that govern hospitals, doctors, and other health care providers will also be lost. A voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes - 15, Noes - 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, more than 3 million New Yorkers, nearly one in five residents under age 65, do not have health insurance, and

WHEREAS, three out of four New Yorkers who are uninsured are working, and

WHEREAS, the number of uninsured in New York is higher and growing faster than in the rest of the nation, and

WHEREAS, the current New York State Health Care Reform Act (HCRA) will expire on December 31, 1999, and

WHEREAS, there continue to be significant needs in the New York State population for the health care services and supports that have been provided by the HCRA, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives urges that the Governor and legislature meet in immediate special session to address the expiration of the Health Care Reform Act,

RESOLVED, further, That we urge the passage of the HCRA 2000 as passed by the Assembly, or simple renewal of the existing law,

RESOLVED, further, That this resolution be transmitted to the Governor, Senators Seward and Kuhl and Assemblyman Luster.

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Report from the Air Service Task Force

Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Task Force has been working cooperatively with a group from the Park Fellows from the Cornell Business School on ways to improve service at the Airport. A week ago the Park Fellows had the final presentation on their project in which they presented several very interesting ideas. A copy of that will be placed on file in the Board Office for review. The next meeting will be December 17. At that time they will discuss what direction they will take in 2000.

Report from the Communications Capital Project Committee

Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee jointly hosted a presentation with the Public Safety Committee on the Towers project. She said Dutch Hill Antenna Systems was asked to look at the proposal by Motorolla that was being considered, and to tell the County if there were ways the system could be done better or co-locating the antennas that are needed with other communications providers. She said the report indicated that a very good system could be built with the nine microwave towers and the one building-mounted site as is being proposed, provided that they are of an adequate height. If this were done, the County's emergency radio coverage would be increased from 65 percent to 95 percent of the County. It was pointed out by Sheriff Meskill and several others in the public safety area that there are many dark areas in the County and that the frequencies are often too weak to penetrate the walls of buildings. In addition to having that information, the Committee reviewed the possible tower locations and released the information to the media. The Committee also heard about the possibilities of co-locating antennas with other cellular and antenna providers.

Report from the Library Coordination Committee

Mr. Proto, Chairman, reported the Committee met last Friday and expects to complete a final report soon. He said at this time they are working on identifying a list of items that will be being broken down into a findings statement. He said he hopes that will lead the Committee to making its final recommendations. The next meeting will be December 14^th at 9 a.m.

Report from the Information Management Committee

Mr. Evans, Chairman, reported the Committee met briefly today and reviewed Y2K issues. At this time the only change that needs to be made is to the County's mail server. An emergency plan for ITS has been established to deal with any emergency that may arise during Y2K. Mr. Evans said a meeting will take place in January to discuss reorganization of the Committee.

Report from the Electric Power Committee

Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported those people who have signed up with NYSEG Solutions should have received a separate bill from NYSEG Solutions. He said customers can expect to receive two bills per month, and those who signed up before mid-September should have a rate of 3.15 cents times the kilowatt hours used. Those who signed up after April pay 3.35 cents/kwh, in contrast to 3.7 cents/kwh if you stayed with NYSEG. He also noted that NYSEG has not yet set up a budget payment system. He said customers should look on their NYSEG bill for a credit for electric power and a zero charge for sales tax.

Report from the Public Safety Building Space Committee

Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet on December 10^th at 9 a.m. At that meeting the Committee will receive newer cost estimates on options they are looking at. They will also be comparing renovation costs to new building costs.

Approval of Minutes of November 9 and 16, 1999

It was MOVED by Mr. Evans, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote, to approve the minutes of November 9 and 16, 1999 as submitted.

Adjournment

On motion the meeting adjourned a 7:00 p.m.