Ms. Mink called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m.

Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members

Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Present: 15 Representatives.

Privilege of the Floor by the Public

Marge Dill, Executive Director for the Human Services Coalition, distributed copies of the 1999 Information and Referral Directory to all Board members. Ms. Dill said the Directory contains a list of all services in Tompkins County.

Joyce Muchan, Chair of the Human Rights Commission, spoke of a recent question that was raised regarding the effectiveness and success of new Tompkins County residents on advisory boards. She said anyone who comes in to this community is valued as well as is what they bring to the community.

Privilege of the Floor by Board Members

Dooley Kiefer, District No. 10 Representative, gave a report on the status of the Cornell-Community Waste Management Advisory Committee's recommendations for alternative technologies to replace the Cornell Vet College incinerator project. Ms. Kiefer submitted the following statement for the record:

"It has been more than eight months, with very little to show for it.

• We've been waiting for a Cornell Project Team to be named, after which we are to meet with them to arrive at how best to continue the community advisory role;

• Meanwhile Dean Don Smith has proposed one-hour quarterly meetings at which he will keep us informed and there have been two such meetings to date:

February 4 - where we learned (1) of the Dean's desire to proceed with installing a temporary incinerator (a package crematory); (2) that the position of biosafety engineer had just been advertised in the Cornell Chronicle; and (3) that SUCF is working toward having DEC be the lead agency for the alternative technology project.

To date this proposal for a new temporary incinerator has raised anxiety among some community members, who see it as inconsistent with our recommendations. I don't necessarily see it that way. We've asked for a special meeting with relevant CVM persons to discuss this proposal, and it has been scheduled for March 30."

Charles Evans, District No. 3 Representative, urged Board members to fill out the survey on the Space Study as soon as possible.

Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, urged the public to vote in this evening's annual village elections.

Mr. Stein, District No. 3 Representative, reminded Board members that the Cornell Cooperative Extension Board has been going through an extensive review process. They are trying to find a way to come closer to what the County Board wishes to achieve with its annual expenditures. Mr. Stein noted the County appropriates $550,000 to Cooperative Extension each year. Mr. Stein said a meeting will be held from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. tomorrow to respond to concerns about the future of programs in Tompkins County. He urged Board members to attend, even if they cannot stay for the entire meeting. Ms. Kiefer asked if it would be possible for Board members unable to attend that meeting to receive a copy of the concerns mentioned and offer comments. Mr. Stein said he did not know; however, Mr. Evans, Liaison to Cooperative Extension, will ask.

Mr. Todd, District No. 6 Representative, thanked everyone for the calls and well wishes he received while he was recently ill. He said he is very happy to be back.

Chair’s Report and Appointment(s)

Ms. Mink reported a year ago the County entered into an agreement with Conifer Realty Corporation to develop the Biggs A building as a residence for older citizens. She said Conifer's obligation to purchase the building was contingent on their receiving State tax-exempt bond initiative program money. In the fall of last year Conifer was informed that they did not receive that funding. Representatives from Conifer and the Deputy County Attorney met with State representatives and were told that Conifer's application was a good one and did not know why it had not been funded. Ms. Mink said it looked as if the State was going to move forward with a new round of funding early this year and as such, this Board authorized a resolution to extend the County's contract with Conifer to allow this to happen. Ms. Mink said there has been no new round of funding and representatives from the State are saying they do not know if this will happen. Conifer has formally withdrawn its offer to the buy the building and has stated that the County should pursue other options for the building.

Ms. Mink said this does not mean the County's relationship with Conifer has necessarily ended because if there is still no other interest that has come forward by September, they would like to apply for tax-exempt bonds from a different funding stream. Ms. Mink said she will be asking the Biggs Disposition Committee to reconstitute itself and establish a meeting date to discuss this.

Ms. Mink also responded to the request made by Representative Winch at the last Board meeting to take some sort of action in preparation for receipt of monies involved in the tobacco litigation settlement. Ms. Mink asked the Budget and Quality Planning Committee to discuss whether the County should apply different criteria for spending that money or whether it should be considered as general revenue and dealt with as part of the regular budget process.

Ms. Mink also reported on the Y2K Information Network and stated there should be a comprehensive article appearing in the Ithaca Journal in the next week starting with individual preparedness. She said the plan is to do a series of articles relating to this subject in order to conquer some fears. Ms. Mink commended Wendy Skinner, Public Information Coordinator, for the work she has done on this subject.

Report from the County Administrator

Mr. Erb said NYSAC has made it one of its priorities for this legislative session to reinstate flexibility on some of the sales-tax issues. He said in one case they are looking to allow counties to opt in and opt out of the permanent decision to remove sales tax on clothing. Mr. Erb said there are two bills in the legislature now, one was filed by Assemblyman Luster, and would reinstate as a local option sales tax on textbooks within Tompkins County. There is another bill that was filed that would do the same thing State-wide. Mr. Erb said he does not know what the status of those bills is at this time.

Report from the County Attorney

Mr. Theisen reported on the tobacco litigation and said the counties of Erie, Westchester, and New York City have filed appeals in that case. The New York State attorneys have recently made a motion in the court to expedite those appeals. Mr. Theisen said he and other county attorneys have faxed letters to the court supporting that motion. Mr. Theisen said today the New York Law Journal reported that an additional $400,000 will be added to the amount coming to New York State from the tobacco industry.

Report from the Finance Director

Mr. Squires reported the County is in the process of foreclosing on 38 parcels with a total of $72,000 in outstanding tax liabilities. These parcels include only two residential properties; one is owner-occupied and one is a rental property. Mr. Squires commented that this is the lowest amount that the County has foreclosed on in the last decade. He said the Department completed its investigation in accordance with the Land Policy and did not find any properties that were judged to be an environmental liability. A foreclosure auction will be held in April.

Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda

It was MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Evans, and unanimously adopted by voice vote, to add the following resolution(s) to the agenda:

Granting Approval to Enter into a Contract with Jack Veneski, CPA for an Analysis of Department of Social Services Space Occupancy Costs, Including an Asset Depreciation Model

Increase Hours of Accounting Supervisor Position at Department of Social Services

Creation of Position - Workforce Development Center

Authorizing the County of Tompkins to Participate in the Electric Power Cooperative Purchase

It was MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote, to waive the Rules of the Board to add appointments to the new Tompkins County Strategic Planning Board to the Consent Agenda.

Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda

Chair Mink gave Ms. Blanchard permission to withdraw from the agenda the resolution entitled Authorizing a Public Hearing - Lease Agreement with Cortland Savings Bank for Installation and Operation of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) - Tompkins County Airport.

Resolution(s) Approved Under the Consent Agenda

The following resolution(s) were approved under the Consent Agenda:

RESOLUTION NO. 46 - AUTHORIZATION TO INCREASE 2000 FISCAL TARGET - HUMAN RIGHTS

MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

WHEREAS, target funding was approved in the 1999 Budget for a clerical position in the amount of $12,500 including fringe benefits, and

WHEREAS, the cost of a receptionist in a half-time position (20.0 hours per week) for 1999 is $14,882, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Quality Planning Committees, That the 2000 Fiscal Target for the Human Rights Department be increased by $2,322.

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RESOLUTION NO. 47 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENT - OFFICE FOR THE AGING

MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustment on his books:

Office for the Aging (#14)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________

6780.42705 Gifts and Donations $430 6780.54491 Subcontracts

Explanation: Increase in donations allows increase in subcontract services.

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RESOLUTION NO. 48 - AUTHORIZING CHARGE STRUCTURE - SMOKING- CESSATION CLASSES - HEALTH DEPARTMENT

MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

WHEREAS, currently there are no formal smoking-cessation programs available to the general public within Tompkins County, the Department receives a steady trickle of calls from people seeking a program to help them quit smoking, and there have been several requests made to Employee Health, and

WHEREAS, the Department intends to use the "Freedom from Smoking" program as developed by the American Lung Association for smokers living in Tompkins County on a trial basis, with the intent to evaluate the level of interest from the general public and employees and to evaluate the quit- rate after one month, six months, and one year, and

WHEREAS, the Department must purchase one handbook per participant at a cost of twenty-five dollars and will offset some of the costs associated with the eight-week program, and

WHEREAS, the Board of Health unanimously endorses this program, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services and Budget and Quality Planning Committees, That the Tompkins County Health Department implement this program with a sliding-fee charge structure below to offset the associated costs.

RESOLUTION NO. 49 - FISCAL TARGET ADJUSTMENT – SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

WHEREAS, one position of Secretary has been re-assigned from Criminal Investigation to the Civil Division of the Sheriff’s Department, and

WHEREAS, Fiscal Targets for the Sheriff’s Department are assigned by program area, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget and Quality Planning Committees, That the 2000 Fiscal Target for the Civil Division be increased by $34,394 with a commensurate decrease in the Criminal Investigation Fiscal Target,

RESOLVED, further, That the 1999 Budget be adjusted to move $25,100 Payroll and $6,253 Fringe from Criminal Investigation to the Civil Division.

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RESOLUTION NO. 50 - AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF TOMPKINS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ELECTRIC POWER COOPERATIVE PURCHASE

MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under the Consent Agenda.

WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins and the County of Tioga entered into an agreement for the purchase of electric power with NYSEG Solutions, Inc., and

WHEREAS, the contract provides that political subdivisions within the counties including the counties themselves may obtain electric power under the contract, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the County of Tompkins agrees to participate in the cooperative purchase agreement and may, thereby, purchase electric power under the contract with NYSEG Solutions, Inc.,

RESOLVED, further, That the Contracts Coordinator be and hereby is authorized to enter into an agreement with NYSEG Solutions, Inc., for the purchase of electric power.

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Appointment(s) made Under the Consent Agenda

Strategic Tourism Planning Board

James Hisle, term expires December 31, 2000, representing hotels and bed and breakfast restaurants

Scott Wiggins, term expires December 31, 1999, representing hotels and bed and breakfast restaurants

Micky Roof, term expires December 31, 2000, representing retail

Renata Ballard, term expires December 31, 1999, representing retail

Nancy Battistella, term expires December 31, 2000, representing recreation/agriculture

Paul Tatar, term expires December 31, 1999, representing recreation/agriculture

Carol Kammen, term expires December 31, 2000, representing culture

Nancy Goody, term expires December 31, 1999, representing culture

Rachel Lampert, term expires December 31, 2000, representing arts

John Reis, term expires December 31, 1999, representing arts

Margie Malepe - IC, term expires December 31, 2000, representing University/College

Ralph Janis - Cornell, term expires December 31, 1999, representing University/College

Claudia Montague Wheatley, term expires December 31, 2000, representing media, communication, and travel industry

Ted Schiele, term expires December 31, 2000, representing media, communication, and travel industry

Charles Trautmann, term expires December 31, 1999, representing media, communication, and travel industry

Tompkins County Youth Board

Gale Smith - Town of Ithaca Representative - term expires December 31, 2001

Hillview Road Landfill Citizen's Advisory Committee

Frank Proto - Town of Danby Representative - term expires December 31, 2001

Chair's Appointment

Ms. Mink appointed Carol Kammen to serve as Chair of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board.

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

Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported on TCAT and said the Committee authorized two capital-project bids, one for a fare-collection system and one for a telephone bid. He said the Committee had discussion on a proposal by a local businessman running a taxi system for a share-ride proposal. He said the Committee asked that the TCAT advisory board review the proposal. Mr. Penniman will be the liaison to that board and will keep the Committee updated. Mr. Stein said the Committee heard a monthly report from Tompkins County Area Development. An update was also given by the Ithaca Housing Authority on the Individual Development Accounts. The Committee discussed the question of whether to pursue the effort to define the livable wage. At this time the Committee does not have sufficient time to deal with the issue. Last year’s information on the subject will be distributed via Representative Koplika-Loehr, to various Cornell University contacts to see if there is any group there that wishes to investigate the issue in depth. If a group does not step forward the Committee will consider hiring a consultant to take on this task. Mr. Stein will keep the Board informed on this. He said the Committee heard a very interesting report from the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau in the area of arts, culture, and tourism. A report was also given by Jeanne Boodley of the Engineering Division about upgrading the downtown Visitor’s Center in Clinton Hall. Mr. Stein said the Committee discussed celebrations funding again and asked Ms. Blanchard to provide the Board with this update.

Ms. Blanchard said after a great deal of discussion and consideration of other proposals, the Committee voted to abolish the special line for celebrations and to roll the $12,500 that had been set aside in that line out of room-tax money, back into the general tourism grant program. Any communities or groups wanting funds for celebratory events, will be advised to submit their applications along with everyone else.

Mr. Stein reported on the Workforce Development Board and stated that Debbie Giordano is the Director of that program. He said this is part of a process of change that is happening from the federal level on down. There are certain requirements that are being imposed upon each county to respond to the new federal laws having to do with workforce development. One of those requirements is that there be a workforce development board and a set of bylaws to govern that board. He announced a meeting will be held on March 23 to discuss appointments to the board and its bylaws.

RESOLUTION NO. 51 - GRANTING APPROVAL TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH JACK VENESKY, CPA FOR AN ANALYSIS OF DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES SPACE OCCUPANCY COSTS, INCLUDING AN ASSET DEPRECIATION MODEL

MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.

WHEREAS, in order to receive Federal and State reimbursement for the cost of the Department of Social Services’ occupancy of the 320 West State Street (the Human Services Building), the County must generate, submit, and obtain federal and state approval for an analysis of its space occupancy costs, including an asset depreciation model for the building, and

WHEREAS, Jack Venesky, CPA, who has recognized competency in this type of work has submitted a proposal to perform the required work for a flat fee of $12,000, and

WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services will seek to provide funding for this purpose in its 1999 Professional Services Appropriation, and if such funds in this line are depleted before the end of 1999, the Department may return to the Board to replenish this account, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That the County Administrator, or his designee, execute a contract with Jack Venesky, CPA to perform the services from March 17^th through June 15^th, 1999,

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RESOLUTION NO. 52 - INCREASE HOURS OF ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR POSITION AT DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr. Ms. Dolan said the Department is not requesting any new funding for 1999 and will evaluate this along with all of the other department’s needs for the budget year 2000. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 15, Noes – 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services has need for additional services from its Accounting Supervisor, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That the position of Accounting Supervisor (1592), white collar grade N-14, competitive class, be increased from 35.0 to 40.0 hours per week effective March 22, 1999.

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RESOLUTION NO. 53 - CREATION OF TEMPORARY POSITION - WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER

MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Penniman. Mr. Stein said this resolution received the unanimous approval by the Economic and Workforce Development Committee; however, it was defeated by a 2-3 vote in the Governmental Operations Committee. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman of the Governmental Operations Committee, stated that there were questions raised by that Committee about process, not about the need for the position. He said one of the goals of the Governmental Operations Committee this year is diversifying the County’s workforce and the Committee was willing to postpone the resolution pending receipt of answers to those questions. It was noted that this is a three-month temporary position and that a search will be undertaken at the appropriate time for a full-time position.

Ms. Kiefer questioned the necessity of this resolution, and said since BOCES is going to continue providing this service until June, a search could start now for filling the full-time position and they could likely have a person in place by July. She said this is why she did not support this in Committee.

Ms. Giordano said this person would be helping her with the JTPA and assisting with other areas related to the Workforce Investment Act. She said the County could not just take over JTPA on July 1 and have everything in place to operate the program at the same time. She said there are processes and programs that need to be established before assuming that responsibility.

A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 11, Noes – 4 (Representative Davis, Kiefer, Koplinka-Loehr, and Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the Employment and Training Director wishes to create one half-time temporary position of Job Developer, and

WHEREAS, this position shall be funded through June 30, 1999, under the 1999 Workforce Development budget, and

WHEREAS, it is anticipated the Job Developer will become full-time and funded under Job Training Partnership Act formula funds effective July 1, 1999, and shall continue so long as such funds or similar funds exist, and

WHEREAS, no new money is needed in the 1999 budget for the position, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That one half-time temporary position of Job Developer, labor grade K (11)-743, white collar, be created.

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

Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee met briefly before the Board meeting to consider the previous resolution on the agenda. He said at the Committee’s regular meeting on March 4 there was an update given on the Y2K process and a back-up plan by the Information Technology Services Department. Aurora Valenti, County Clerk, reported on initiatives the Clerk’s office is undertaking that relate to computer modernization. He said the Commissioner of Personnel also updated the Committee on the County’s Affirmative Action efforts.

RESOLUTION NO. 54 - ELECTION OF 25 YEAR RETIREMENT PLAN FOR CORRECTION OFFICERS UNDER SECTION 89-P AND 603(1) OF RETIREMENT AND SOCIAL SECURITY LAW

MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Ms. Blanchard. Ms. Kiefer asked about the Resolved that says no new monies are needed to fund this plan, and asked if this refers only to 1999. Mr. Squires said there is a one-time payment that is required in order to adopt the plan and money is reserved and available for that purpose. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 15, Noes – 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the agreement between Tompkins County and Correction Officer Local 2062 stipulates the County will offer no later than June 30, 1999, a retirement plan which provides for a retirement benefit of one-half of final average salary at any age after completing 25 years of creditable service, and

WHEREAS, the New York State Retirement System has verified the estimated past service cost to be borne by Tompkins County at $160,000, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Quality Planning Committees, That the Board of Representatives of the County of Tompkins does hereby elect to assume the entire additional cost required to provide the twenty-five year retirement plan under Section 89-P and 603(1) of the Retirement and Social Security Law,

RESOLVED, further, That no new monies are needed to fund this plan,

RESOLVED, further, That the effective date of this plan shall be June 30, 1999.

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Mr. Koplinka-Loehr offered to withdraw this resolution to allow Board members the opportunity to review changes before the next meeting in the hope that this resolution will receive unanimous support by the Board. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr withdrew the resolution from the agenda.

RESOLUTION NO. 55 - REFUND OF TAXES – VILLAGE OF DRYDEN (REROB LLC)

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

WHEREAS, this Board is informed that an error has been made in the 1998-99 tax roll of the Dryden School District, namely parcel 9-1-4.2, assessed to REROB LLC, was erroneously assessed at $1,400,000 due to failure to enter Supreme Court Order, Index 96-425 and 96-732, resulting in overpayment of 1998-99 Dryden School Taxes, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the entry on the tax roll be corrected to reflect a total of $1,175,000 less the Real Property Tax Law Exemption Section 485b amount of $365,800 and in accordance with Real Property Tax Law, Section 556 the total tax be changed from $18,449.67 to $15,811.77,

RESOLVED, further, That the Dryden School Tax Collector is directed to correct the 1998-99 tax roll,

RESOLVED, further, That the amount of $2,637.90 be refunded to REROB LLC,

RESOLVED, further, That the amount of $2,637.90 be charged back to the Dryden School District.

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WHEREAS, there is a need to clarify certain language in the Code of Ethics pertaining to other employment while in County service, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That a public hearing be held before the Board of Representatives in Board Chambers of the Tompkins County Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on Tuesday, April 6, 1999 at 5:30 o’clock in the evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. c of 1999 – Amendment to Local Law No. 2 of 1997 – Establishing Standards of Conduct for Officers and Employees of the County of Tompkins. 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 Board is hereby authorized and directed to place proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.

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Report from the Public Safety Committee

Mr. Evans, Chairman, reported the Committee met briefly before this meeting and approved a Request for Proposals for a microwave coverage study for the new 800 mhz communications system. The next Committee meeting will be March 23 at noon. in the Scott Heyman Conference Room.

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

Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported on an article that appeared in today’s Ithaca Journal relating to the fair wage plan and a misunderstanding that may result because of the article's headline. Mr. Joseph said the particular fair wage plan that was adopted by this Board was targeted at a particular group of people -- those who work for agencies that receive grant funding from the County. He said the Human Services Coalition was asked to put together a proposal that the County adopted. When the Coalition put the proposal together they included two agencies they thought were grant-funded; however, they were funded by fees. He noted money was not turned down by agencies and that this was simply a mistake that occurred when the proposal was being put together. Mr. Joseph said there were two agencies that were so inspired by the County’s debate and discussion that they went ahead and raised salaries before the County got to them. He said there was only one agency who actually turned down the money and did not raise the wages for one employee that was covered by County funding. This was because the same agency had eight other employees in the same job title who were not County-funded and did not feel it would be fair to raise one person’s salary and not the others.

RESOLUTION NO. 57 - ENDORSING STATE LEGISLATION EXTENDING EXISTING SALES AND USE TAX AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF TOMPKINS

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Ms. Davis. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 14, Noes – 1 (Representative Proto). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins has had the authority to enact an additional one cent of sales and use taxation since December 1, 1992, and has enacted such taxation, and

WHEREAS, this authority has been exercised since that date and expires November 30, 1999, and

WHEREAS, this Board by Resolution No. 215 of 1998 requested the members of the New York State Senate and Assembly who represent Tompkins County to draft, sponsor, and support legislation extending this authority beyond November 30, 1999, and they have done so and have introduced S2068/A3556 "AN ACT to amend the tax law, in relation to extending the expiration of the provisions authorizing the County of Tompkins to impose an additional one-half or one percent of sales and compensating use taxes" that extends this authority to November 30, 2001, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Quality Planning Committee, That this Board endorses and requests State approval of legislation known as S2068/A3556, and urges its elected representatives in the Senate and the Assembly to support this legislation.

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Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. He said there was a meeting of the economic development loan subcommittee that has been looking at the bylaws for the revolving loan fund. He said that group completed its work and will be sending a recommendation to the Planning, Intergovernmental Relations and Education Committee. Mr. Lane thanked members of that subcommittee for their time and hard work. Mr. Lane said the subcommittee working on the Environmental Management Council review met and will meet again in April. He asked Mr. Stein to provide the Board with a report on the Homeownership Program.

Mr. Stein said since 1994 the County Planning Department has applied for funding from the federal government through HUD for Homeownership Program funds to help low- and moderate- income households throughout the County become homeowners. He said today that program completed the closing of a purchase of a home for its 100th family. He said this is a major milestone for the program and noted to date none of these homes have been foreclosed upon.

Report from the Old Library Reuse Committee

Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee continues to look at County space requirements. A report was given by Jeanne Boodley and James Kazda on what the future space projections would be of the Courthouse building by the County and State. He said the Committee is also looking at what it costs the County to rent space in other buildings. He said the Committee has learned that the County will run out of space sooner than anyone had expected. Mr. Lane asked Ms. Mink to consider expanding the three-person Committee to include more Board members.

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

Mr. Winch, Chairman, provided the Board with an explanation of the resolution approving smoking-cessation classes that was adopted under the Consent Agenda. He said Irene Stein, Director of the Office for the Aging, attended the last meeting and provided the Committee with an update on the Personal Emergency Response Service program. In 1998, the County made 114 installations and 108 removals. He said there are currently 276 machines that are in homes with an additional 33 units available. Ms. Stein also told the Committee that she has a legislative initiative for $5,000 to help start replacing some of those units that are becoming outdated. Mr. said asked if there is any Board member who would be willing to serve as liaison to the Alcoholism Council or the Economic Opportunity Corporation to let him know.

WHEREAS, it is a goal of Tompkins County to keep the elderly in independent living as long as possible and appropriate, and

WHEREAS, the Community Service Program to the Elderly (CSE) and the Expanded In-Home Services to the Elderly Program (EISEP) enable the frail, isolated elderly to remain safely in their homes and communities, and avoid institutionalization, and

WHEREAS, the governor's proposed budget for fiscal year 1999-2000 requires localities to provide additional local share for these programs, and

WHEREAS, such proposed funding changes have the net effect of either reducing services in times of increasing demand for them and increasing likelihood of unnecessary institutionalization or increasing the local tax burden, and

WHEREAS, the CSE program has not received any increase in funding for many years, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the Board of Representatives urges the Governor, Assemblyman Luster and State Senators Kuhl and Seward to eliminate proposed CSE and EISEP reductions and increase funding for the CSE program.

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

Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee met this morning and authorized a five-year extension to the agreement the County has with Cornell University for discount parking at the Tompkins County Airport. The Committee heard about the possibilities for acquisition of a property at 83 Brown Road. She said at this time the price is not within the County’s range; therefore, that issue will not be moving forward. The Committee approved a resolution urging the restoration of highway and bridge funding, and that will come before the Board at the next meeting. Ms. Blanchard said the Committee had discussion about a proposed policy for dealing with rebuilding County roads and the shoulders of roads. The Committee will probably approve this policy in May and then bring it to the Board. Ward Hungerford, Highway Manager, reported on road projects that the Highway Division will be working on this year. There was also discussion on doing some exploratory work on the possibility of a protective roof for the back entrance of the Courthouse. Ms. Blanchard said the Committee also received some information about performance measures at the Recycling and Solid Waste Center. This information will soon be placed in Board member’s mailboxes.

RESOLUTION NO. 59 - AWARD OF BID - PARALLEL TAXIWAY RELOCATION CONSTRUCTION - TOMPKINS COUNTY AIRPORT

MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Todd. Mrs. Schuler said she supports the project; however, she won't support it because of the vendor’s lack of environmental sensitivity in Cortland County. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 14, Noes – 1 (Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the Purchasing Department has duly advertised for bids for construction of the Parallel Taxiway Relocation project, and

WHEREAS, four (4) bids were received and duly opened on March 5, 1999, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That subject to grants being received from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), the bid be awarded to Suit-Kote Corporation of Cortland, New York as the lowest responsible bidder with a bid of $949,861,

RESOLVED, further, That the budget for the Parallel Taxiway Relocation Construction is as follows:

FAA Share (90.0%) 5610.4592 $854,875.00

NYSDOT Share ( 5.0%) 5610.3592 47,493.00

Local Share ( 5.0%) 5610.5031 47,493.00

Total 5610.9239 $949,861.00

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute a contract with Suit-Kote Corporation,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute grant agreements with the FAA and NYSDOT when said grant offers were received,

RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be authorized to borrow monies if necessary until reimbursement is received from the FAA and NYSDOT.

SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-2

WHEREAS, a contract has been awarded to Suit-Kote Corporation for construction of the Parallel Taxiway Relocation, and

WHEREAS, there is a need for engineering oversight and administration of the construction contract, and

WHEREAS, after examining the qualifications of a number of suitable airport engineering consultants, C&S Engineers of Syracuse was selected by the County to provide such services at the airport for a five-year period, and

WHEREAS, subject to the fee for the administration and inspection contract being determined acceptable through the performance of an Independent Fee Estimate (IFE), in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute an agreement with C&S Engineers, Inc., to provide administration and inspection services for the Parallel Taxiway Relocation construction project for a cost not to exceed $113,651,

RESOLVED, further, That the budget for the inspection contract is as follows:

FAA Share (90.0%) 5610.4592 $102,285.00

NYSDOT Share ( 5.0%) 5610.3592 5,683.00

Local Share ( 5.0%) 5610.5031 5,683.00

Total 5610.9239 $113,651.00

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute grant agreements with the FAA and NYSDOT when said grant offers are received,

RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be authorized to borrow monies, if necessary, until reimbursement is received from the FAA and NYSDOT.

SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

Report from the Electric Power Committee

Mr. Stein, Chairman, had no report.

Report from the Information Management Committee

Mr. Evans, Chairman, reported the Committee met today and discussed Y2K issues. Mr. Evans said there are two people in the Information Technology Services working on Y2K issues at 30 percent of their time and that good progress is being made in this area. Mr. Evans said the report he has previously referred to is now on file in the Board Office. Mr. Evans corrected the statement he made at the last meeting, and said there was one local response to the RFP. At this time the Department is looking at how to deal with that response.

Report from the Library Construction Committee

Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee met today and began reviewing the schematic design for the building. She said the architect is extremely conscious of staying within budget.

Report from the Library Coordination Committee

Mr. Proto, Chairman, reported the Committee met last week and continues to refine the information that is being gathered. He said they are preparing a questionnaire that will be distributed to libraries. At the last meeting Janet Steiner, Tompkins County Public Library Director, reported on what is going on with the various library directors. She also reported on what is available at school libraries. The next meeting will be April 13^th.

Report from the Public Safety Building Space Committee

Mr. Joseph reported the Committee went yesterday to Wayne County to look at their public safety building. Tomorrow the Committee will travel to Tioga County to look at the facility there.

Miscellaneous

Ms. Mink noted that at least four Board members - Blanchard, Joseph, Koplinka-Loehr, and Penniman, will be away for the second meeting in April so we will consider canceling it.

Approval of Minutes of March 2, 1999

It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Evans, and unanimously adopted by voice vote to approve the minutes of March 2, 1999. MINUTES APPROVED.

Adjournment

On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:28 p.m.