Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. concerning 2001-2002 Operating and Capital Budget Requests - Tompkins Cortland Community College. No one wished to speak and the public hearing was closed 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: 14 Representatives. Excused – 1 (Representative Schuler).

Privilege of the Floor by the Public

Jesse Strock, Ithaca resident, spoke concerning the resolution on the agenda entitled Recommending the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative No. 3, No Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes National Forest While Permitting Leasing of and Revenue from Mineral Rights. He said while he is glad the Board is taking up this issue and opposes drilling, he feels the best solution would be alternative number four rather than three. He said alternative three not allow any surface occupancy on the forest and does not allow drilling wells to be put on the forest. It does, however, make it easier for surface disturbance to occur so environmental damages would not be eliminated. He said the Hector and Lodi Town Boards, Senator Clinton, Congressman Hinchey, and Assemblyman Luster have voted to support alternative four.

Andrew Sleeper, Town of Ithaca, spoke concerning the resolution on the agenda entitled Recommending the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative No. 3, No Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes National Forest While Permitting Leasing of and Revenue from Mineral Rights. Mr. Sleeper agreed with the contents of the resolution but urged the Board to amend the resolution and adopt alternative number four rather than three. He noted the Schuyler County Legislature adopted alternative four and as well as

Nathan Winograd, the new Executive Director for the SPCA, introduced himself to the Board. He said he will be working towards improving the relationship the SPCA has with the community and asked Board members to contact him should any concerns arise.

Steve Uzman, West Danby resident and member of the Environmental Management Council (EMC), spoke concerning the resolution on the agenda entitled Recommending the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative No. 3, No Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes National Forest While Permitting Leasing of and Revenue from Mineral Rights. Mr. Uzman explained the reasons behind the EMC's unanimous support for alternative number three. He said alternative three permits drilling under the Finger Lakes National Forest from directionally drilled wells on private lands, but does not permit surface occupancy. He said alternative four has the same surface-occupancy restrictions. However, surface disturbances either on lands that were leased with no surface occupancy or on lands not leased can occur anyway through two processes - special use permits or easements. He said in alternative three directionally-drilled wells from private lands would allow the federal government to have some oversight; under alternative four the federal government would have no say and would have no oversight. Then, in addition to the enhancement of governmental revenues that would come in alternative three from wells that were directionally-drilled into the potential resources, there would be minimal but some federal oversight, in addition to the DEC oversight that occurs in both alternatives three and four.

Wendy Skinner, Public Information Coordinator for Tompkins County, announced the videotapes of the presentations that were given to the Communications Capital Project Committee will be replayed on Channel 15 at 7 a.m., 1 p.m., and 7 p.m. on July 23 and 24. Copies of those videotapes will also be made available. Ms. Skinner also announced that several emergency services personnel and community agencies are holding a mass-casualty disaster drill at Titus Towers on July 24^th at 9 a.m. A press conference will be held tomorrow to announce to the public that this will be happening.

John Hamilton, Brooktondale resident, spoke concerning the resolution on the agenda entitled Recommending the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative No. 3, No Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes National Forest While Permitting Leasing of and Revenue from Mineral Rights. He asked that the Board adopt alternative number four rather than three because he feels there will be a lot of surface disruption in alternative number three. Mr. Hamilton said it is very important to many people that this small piece of forest land be left intact.

Privilege of the Floor by Board Members

Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, announced Carol Szcepanski, Town of Danby Clerk, has been selected by the New York State Town Clerk's Association as the District Director of that organization.

Report from the County Administrator

Mr. Whicher reported his office continues to work on the 2002 budget. He called attention to the document he distributed to all members entitled Public Safety Communications System Project Overview that was included in all Board members' folders this evening.

Report from the County Attorney

Mr. Theisen brought the Board up-to-date on the redistricting litigation and said he expects a hearing will be held by the end of the week with Judge Mulvey.

Report from the Finance Director

Mr. Squires distributed the latest sales tax information for the County at the second quarter. He said the figures show a slight increase over last year and said the income the County is receiving is within the parameters of the budget. Mr. Squires said he also got the latest information on taxable sales and has distributed this information to the Board also, noting that the apparel group brings in significant revenues and warning that next year Tompkins County will get zero for clothing under $110.

Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda

On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote the following resolutions were added to the agenda:

Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chairman permission to withdraw the following resolution(s) from the agenda:

Chair Mink had no report or appointment(s).

Appointment(s) Approved Under the Consent Agenda

It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to approve the appointment of Mary E. Harrington to the Fire, Disaster, and EMS Advisory Board for a term to expire December 31, 2003, as the Town of Caroline Delegate representative.

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

Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 5^th and discussed the upcoming budget process. The Committee looked at several alternatives no longer having program committee review, expanding program committees, and expanding both program and budget committee. After a lengthy discussion and many motions being made, the result was that the Board will continue to meet as it has for the last few years with having program committee review and expanded budget committee meetings.

RESOLUTION NO. 157- ADOPTION OF 2001-2002 OPERATING BUDGET - TOMPKINS CORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE

    MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lane, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, a proposed operating budget for Tompkins Cortland Community College for the fiscal year September 1, 2001 through August 31, 2002 has been presented to the Board of Representatives of the County of Tompkins pursuant to County Law and Section 6306 of the Education Law, and
   WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives has conducted a public hearing on said proposed budget on the 17^th of July 2001, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That said proposed 2001-2002 operating budget in the amount of $18,424,000 of which the sponsoring counties contribution is in the amount of $3,431,243 be and the same is hereby approved,
    RESOLVED, further, That the Board of Representatives of Tompkins County includes in the 2001 Tompkins County Budget an amount to be determined pursuant to the approved plan for said College in effect as of September 1, 2001, and that the amount, when determined, be raised by taxation in the County of Tompkins in the fiscal year 2002,
    RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall become effective upon the adoption of a concurrent resolution by the Cortland County Legislature.
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RESOLUTION NO. 158 - ADOPTION OF 2001-2002 CAPITAL BUDGET – TOMPKINS CORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE

MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of Tompkins Cortland Community College has presented to this Legislature a Tentative Capital Budget for fiscal year 2001-2002, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That said 2001-2002 Capital Budget in the amount of $150,000 of which the sponsoring counties contribution is in the amount of $0 be and the same is hereby approved and adopted,
    RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall become effective upon adoption of a concurrent resolution by the Cortland County Legislature.
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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning Committee

Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not held a regular meeting since the last Board meeting. He said the Committee will meet tomorrow at noon and will look at a new round of Commercial Center Revitalization Grants. He said all Board members should have received information from Paul Bonaparte-Krogh, Executive Director of Cooperative Extension, regarding the financing plan for Extension's new building. This item will be discussed at the Budget and Capital Committee meeting on July 19^th. Mr. Penniman said a special meeting of the Committee was held today to discuss the resolution that was added to the agenda.

RESOLUTION NO. 159 - RECOMMENDING THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOREST SERVICE SELECT ALTERNATIVE NO. 3, NO SURFACE OCCUPANCY ON NATIONAL FOREST LANDS, WHICH PROTECTS THE FINGER LAKES NATIONAL FOREST WHILE PERMITTING LEASING OF AND REVENUE FROM MINERAL RIGHTS

    MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Proto. Mr. Penniman said alternative four does not allow any leasing of the mineral rights and alternative three would involve the forest service leasing mineral rights and would also give them permission to put stipulations in the contract that would provide for additional regulation on how the drilling is done.

    Ms. Blanchard said the EMC has done a very good job in providing the Board with a recommendation on this issue and feels the Board should adopt the resolution as presented.

    Mr. Stein said based on the recommendation of the EMC he feels the Board should adopt the alternative presented.

    Mr. Lane agreed with the comments made by Representatives Blanchard and Stein. He feels the recommendation by the EMC is well-thought out and commended them for looking at the economic impact.

    Mr. Winch said he has always supported natural resources and quality management of forest land. He said while he is not questioning the work of the EMC, he has not had adequate time to look into the matter himself. Mr. Winch said the questions he has are: What is the land use of the private land where the drilling would have to happen if it is not done on the forest land? Are there designated areas that would not disrupt managed forest land or wildlife habitat? and Is there scrub land that could be used. He said his no vote will be a due to the lack of information he has received and should not be taken as non-support of the EMC or in favor of any other alternative.

    Mr. Totman agreed with Mr. Winch's comments.

    Mr. Penniman apologized for the short time period for Board members to consider this issue. He explained the deadline for submission of public input for the DEIS (Draft Environmental Impact Statement) is August 1^st and this is the last County Board meeting before the deadline. He said part of his motivation into this late is all the actions of the surrounding towns and to support Schuyler County and their resolution against the drilling.

    It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Ms. Davis, to amend the resolution by adopting Alternative Number Four rather than Three.

    Mr. Joseph said he feels Alternative Three is a reasonable compromise and would be inclined to support it. However, because of the opposition in the surrounding towns and those who have spoken in favor of Alternative Four, he could also support that option. He said the amount of gas there is trivial and the benefits are to the people who get to sell it that includes the Forest Service, the federal government, and the surrounding towns who are saying they don't want it.

    Mr. Lalley said with Alternative Four they would still have the option to drill by going straight down and tapping into the vein. He said this is a small piece of "sacred" land that the Board has the ability to protect. He feels the Board should support the amendment and protect this land.

    Ms. Kiefer said she feels the best chance there is for the USDA to make any change in what they are currently supporting is to go with Alternative Three. She said she might feel differently if she were convinced that Alternative Number Four meant there would mean no disturbance in the forest but it does not. Because through the procedures that were mentioned by Mr. Uzman that were separate from leasing, there is no guarantee there would be no disturbance. She said what hasn't been mentioned during this discussion is the EMC's suggestion that the money being garnered from the mineral rights be used towards perhaps site acquisition within the forest or to refill and maintain the strategic petroleum reserve.

    Mr. Todd stated he has been signing gas leases for approximately forty years, and said the payment on those leases has gone from a dollar an acre to seven dollars an acre with the current lease he has now. He said he is concerned that if the federal government signs those leases that there will be no economic advantage to anyone in this County and that the royalty will all go to the federal government. Mr. Todd said for this reason he supports Alternative Number Four.

    Mr. Proto said two of the towns he represents have a great deal of State land in them and he is very concerned about what impact this will have on his towns. He said he does not want to restrict what a private landowner can do with their land and wants to make sure the Board relays a message that the Board is concerned about energy as well as wanting to make sure no one destroys the land.

    A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 6 (Representatives Davis, Joseph, Koplinka-Loehr, Lalley, Mink, and Todd); Noes - 8 (Representatives Blanchard, Kiefer, Lane, Penniman, Proto, Stein, Totman, and Winch); Excused - 1 (Representative Schuler). MOTION FAILED.

    A voice vote on the original resolution resulted as follows: Ayes - 10, Noes - 4 (Representatives Koplinka-Loehr, Todd, Totman, and Winch); Excused - 1 (Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

    WHEREAS, the Finger Lakes National Forest, located in Schuyler and Seneca Counties and operated by the United States Department of Agriculture (U.S.D.A.) Forest Service, is considering allowing oil and gas exploration and development on forest lands, and
    WHEREAS, the Finger Lakes National Forest is the smallest national forest in the nation, and is already heavily fragmented by roads, pastures, and private lands, and the activities associated with energy exploration and drilling, as described in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement, will increase this fragmentation, and
    WHEREAS, the noise, destruction and heavy traffic, which are inevitable by-products of any drilling operation, are incompatible with the peaceful setting and recreational opportunities now enjoyed by many Tompkins County residents within the Finger Lakes National Forest, and
    WHEREAS, the U.S.D.A. Forest Service has prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) identifying Alternative 2 (Leasing under a More Restrictive Surface Occupancy Land Base) as the preferred option for the oil and gas exploration and development in the Finger Lakes National Forest (FLNF), and
    WHEREAS, oil and gas exploration and development on forest lands will have an effect on the Finger Lakes National Forest, adjacent properties, nearby municipalities and area watersheds, including several in Tompkins County, and
    WHEREAS, the U.S.D.A. Forest Service’s preferred alternative (Alternative 2) would result in surface disturbances within the forest, fragmentation or natural habitats, potential introduction of additional invasive species, and loss and/or interruption of public recreational use and enjoyment of the forest, and
    WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council has determined that Alternative 3 (No Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands or Split Estates) appears to better address these environmental concerns while still allowing the U.S.D.A. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to obtain revenues from the leasing of mineral rights within the Finger Lakes National Forest, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives urges the U.S.D.A. Forest Service to select Alternative 3, which provides the strongest overall environmental protection to the national forest by preventing any surface drilling, while still earning significant revenues for the federal, state and local governments,
    RESOLVED further, That the Clerk of the Board of Representatives be directed to send certified copies of this resolution to Congressman Amory Houghton; the Department of Agriculture; Paul Brewster, Forest Supervisor; Schuyler County; Seneca County and the Town of Hector.
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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee

    Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the committee met on July 5^th and reviewed the public's ability to access committee deliberations on the budget process. There was discussion about where meetings should be held and whether or not they would be videotaped or televised. The Committee referred the proposals Tompkins County has received to lease County lands for drilling to the EMC for review and recommendation. The Committee also reviewed the internal configuration of County Administration and its relationship to County departments. He said the Assessment Department was given preliminary approval to begin the software installation of Assessment data onto the County's website so they can show us what it will look like and how it will work. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr said the Committee also discussed changing the County's procurement policy and what level the threshold will be for putting items out to bid. During a discussion regarding voting machines several questions were raised and the Committee decided to postpone this item and gather more informaiton.

RESOLUTION NO. 160 - INCREASE IN HOURS FOR SECRETARY/PARALEGAL AIDE TO THE COUNTY ATTORNEY

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

    WHEREAS, due to a hiring freeze and the uncertainty of budget funding for 2002 and beyond, the newly vacant position of Administrative Services Coordinator in the County Administrator’s Office will continue to remain vacant for an undetermined period, and
    WHEREAS, staff resource needs can be partially satisfied through an inter-departmental support arrangement with the County Attorney’s Office, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the position of Secretary/Paralegal Aide to the County Attorney, (61/337), Labor Grade K (11), confidential, be increased from 35.0 to 40.0 hours per week representing an increase in salary of $4,408 (from $30,856 to $35,264) effective July 23, 2001,
    RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator’s Office will utilize and appropriately reimburse the County Attorney’s budget for one-quarter of this position (.25 FTE) for as long as this agreement is mutually acceptable to both parties.
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RESOLUTION NO. 161 - CAPITAL CLOSE-OUT – TELEPHONE UPGRADE

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

    WHEREAS, the Telephone Upgrade Capital Project was approved in the 1999 Budget, and
    WHEREAS, this Project has been completed as originally described, and
WHEREAS, the original funding of $378,000.00 was appropriated from the General Fund and the actual project costs were $334,746.05 resulting in a residual of $43,253.95, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital Committees, That the $43,253.95 be returned to the General Fund.
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Explanation:

This project was intended to upgrade all Major County telephone switches (PBX’s) to a common baseline, replacing the outdated and aging equipment currently in place. This would include Voicemail and new digital telephones for all installations identical to systems deployed at Human Services Building. The project would include digital trunking to the upgraded locations which would feature a higher quality of service and integrated dialing throughout the majority of the County telephony plant. Tie lines would be eliminated and replaced with four-digit dialing as well as direct call transfer, call conferencing, and voicemail retrieval between buildings. Further, the software capabilities of the new switches will support more sophisticated call routing into the public telephone networks permitting a 50 percent reduction in local distance costs, and the future possibility of routing the County phone calls to any long distance or local access communications supplier(s).

Locations proposed for upgrade include: Courthouse Complex, Mental Health, Biggs B, Public Safety, and the CFR building. The Human Services building (which already uses the proposed equipment) would be integrated into the system consistent with all other locations, leveraging the investments already in place there. To increase overall reliability each switch would have its own uninterruptible power supply and the ability to operate independently in the event of any single switch failure. New software capabilities of the switches would also enhance the County’s future ability to fully support the same capabilities that smaller off-site offices such as Human Rights, Solid Waste, and Public Works have at a lower incremental cost than stand-alone phone switches.

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

Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 10 and continued discussion about the Public Works Cabinet charge. This is the organizational document that was approved for the various divisions. He said the Committee heard from Arel LeMaro, Facilities Manager, about the solar panels at the Library on issues that had arisen. Mr. Lane said problems are being addressed and the system seems to be working well. Robert Nicholas, Airport Manager, informed the Committee about a problem he had encountered during the taxiway construction. There was a removal of the old concrete pad at the fuel farm and during that process it was found there had been some leakage and spillage into approximately 900 cubic yards of earth under the concrete pad. He reported that area has been excavated and the problem is being addressed. Mr. Lane announced the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bostwick Road Facility will take place on July 24^th at 2 p.m. He also reported the Highway Division's webpage has been updated and will be online soon.

RESOLUTION NO. 162 - AUTHORIZING 2001 FEDERAL SECTION 5307 GRANT – TOMPKINS CONSOLIDATED AREA TRANSIT

    MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, the Secretary of the United States Department of Transportation is authorized to make grants for mass transportation projects pursuant to Section 5307 of Chapter 53, Title 49 of the United States Code (formerly Section 9, Federal Transit Act of 1964), and
   WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins is the designated recipient of Section 5307 urban formula transit funds and will apply on behalf of Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) to receive and use said funds, and
    WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins agrees that TCAT shall function as the Grantee under the Federal Grant Agreement to receive and dispense the Federal assistance funds described in this Grant and that TCAT, as the Grantee, shall assume all responsibilities for fulfilling all Federal terms and conditions as set forth in this Grant, and
    WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to submit a request for a grant of funds to Federal Transit Administration, in the amount of $616,953 to be used for operating assistance for 2001 and for small capital projects as approved by the Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council and are included on the 1999-2004 Transportation Improvement Program, as amended, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives authorizes the County Contracts Coordinator to execute and file an application on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the United States Department of Transportation and the New York State Department of Transportation for the 2001 Section 5307 Grant,
    RESOLVED, further, That the County Contracts Coordinator is authorized to execute a supplemental grant agreement on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the United States Department of Transportation and Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit to formally designate Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit as the Grantee for this grant and that the County is not in any manner subject to or responsible for the terms and conditions of this Grant Agreement and is a party to this Grant Agreement only to assign the right to receive and dispense Federal funds to Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit as Grantee.
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Explanation: Federal Section 5307 transit funding in the amount of $616,953 is for 2001. The total also includes operating assistance for rural transit (Section 5311) that was transferred to Section 5307 urban transit program by the New York State Department of Transportation. The projects are identified in the approved Transportation Improvement Program of the Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council.

The projects are:

Preventive Maintenance: purchase spare parts for TCAT bus fleet - $40,603 total, $32,482 (Federal share).
Bus Washer: purchase replacement bus washer at TCAT - $110,000 total, $88,000 (Federal share).
Passenger Signs: purchase stop information signs - $9,776 total, $7,821 (Federal share).
Project Administration: support TCAT planning and purchasing staff - $43,750 total, $35,000 (Federal share).
Shop Equipment: purchase shop equipment for TCAT - $6,000 total, $4,800 (Federal share).
Short Term Transit Planning: complete planning and operations studies for TCAT services - $10,000 total, $8,000 (Federal share).
Operating Assistance: Federal operating assistance - $440,850, (Federal share).

RESOLUTION NO. 163 - REDUCTION OF HOURS FOR ONE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT – FACILTIES DIVISION

    MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, Resolution No. 268 of 2000 increased the hours of Administrative Assistant in the Public Works Department from 35.0 hours to 40.0 hours, and
    WHEREAS, restructuring has occurred since that time and duties have been realigned to better serve the needs of the Public Works Department, and
    WHEREAS, the reduction in hours is approved by the Facilities Manager, County Administrator and Commissioner of Personnel, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That one (1) position of Administrative Assistant (12/535), labor grade L (12), in the Facilities Division is hereby reduced from 40.0 hours to 35.0 hours effective July 23, 2001.
    RESOLVED, further, That no additional funding is needed.
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Report from the Health and Human Services Committee

Mr. Proto, Vice Chairman, reported the Committee met on June 20^th and had a discussion on Mental Health Bylaws and Charter changes and a brief discussion on the recreation partnership. Mr. Proto reported the Board of Health had its first look at the Health Department's budget. They reluctantly passed the budget; however, they have sent a letter expressing concern over the impact the proposed budget will have. The Committee will meet tomorrow at 9 a.m.

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

Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the annual New York State Association of Counties meets once a year to take up resolutions which are later brought before the Governor and State Legislature expressing the position of counties throughout the State. He said he is a member of one of those committees and he received notification that this year they would like to have resolutions provided to them in advance of their meeting so they can review them more thoroughly. Mr. Stein asked if any Board member or department head wishes to have the County take a resolution to NYSAC to be included in this process that they be submitted soon. Mr. Whicher said he will alert department heads at their next meeting.

Ms. Kiefer asked if the County Board will have a chance to take a position on the resolution. Mr. Joseph asked if we could ask NYSAC to oppose the proliferation of Empire Zones.

Mr. Stein said the Committee met today and heard from Janet Steiner, Library Director, on various grants the Library has received from outside the County. He said this shows the Library is very active in soliciting funds from sources other than the County. He reported the Library has left positions vacant and the projected savings in the 2001 budget is approximately $100,000. Mr. Stein also reported on the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance and said that program is being moved out of the County. A resolution relating to this will appear on the next Board agenda.

Mr. Stein announced the August meeting has been canceled. The next meeting will be September 4 at noon.

RESOLUTION NO. 164 -FUNDING OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GRANTS-ITHACAEVENTS.COM AND WINTER GRANTS PROGRAM AND BUDGET ADJUSTMENT

    MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, Tompkins County has a grant program for tourism development using funds drawn entirely from the Room Occupancy Tax, and
    WHEREAS, Tompkins County has requested and reviewed grant applications for recommendation to the Tompkins County Board of Representatives through the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board and the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That the following grants are approved using funds budgeted for Development Grants:

Community Arts Partnership - Ithacaevents.com Website $25,000
Convention and Visitors Center - Winter Marketing Initiative $14,600
    RESOLVED, further, That $17,680 shall be paid from the 2001 budget for Room Occupancy Tax (6475.5444),
    RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following budget adjustment:
                APPROPRIATION: 6475.41113 Room Tax Revenue $21,920
                REVENUE: 6475.54444 Development Grants $21,920
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or designee shall be authorized to sign any documents related to the aforementioned projects.
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RESOLUTION NO. 165 - AUTHORIZING THE RE-PROGRAMMING OF UNUSED SMALL CITIES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS

    MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, in previous years, Tompkins County applied for and received funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Small Cities and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program on behalf of two local businesses, AXIOHM and CBORD, and
    WHEREAS, these two loans resulted in unused monies available for re-programming under the HUD administered Small Cities CDBG program, and
    WHEREAS, Tompkins County believes that the unused monies can be effectively used to meet community development needs by funding another local business, Environmental Associates, Ltd., now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic Development Loan Oversight Committee and the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That Tompkins County is hereby authorized to submit an amendment to HUD to re-program the unused monies previously allocated under the Small Cities CDBG program to the Environmental Associates, Ltd., expansion project,
    RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator, or his designee, be authorized to sign all documents related to the submission documents required by HUD to complete the proposed re-programming of unused Small Cities CDBG funds.
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RESOLUTION NO. 166 - AUTHORIZING PUBLIC HEARING FOR SMALL CITIES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FOR RE-PROGRAMMING OF UNUSED MONIES

    MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) previously funded economic development applications for AXIOHM and CBORD under the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, and
    WHEREAS, these two loans resulted in unused monies which is now available for re-programming under the Small Cities CDBG program, and
    WHEREAS, Tompkins County is required to have public hearings pursuant to any Small Cities CDBG program applications for funding, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That a public hearing date be set for August 7, 2001, to be held at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Representatives,
    RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board of Representatives is authorized to place proper notice of this public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
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RESOLUTION NO. 167 - AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF APPLICATION FOR SMALL CITIES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FOR 2001 FUNDING

MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present. James Hanson, Planning Commissioner, noted that Tompkins County has done so well we had leftover HUD monies. He noted that Canal Corridor monies should be committed by September 30 so we don't risk losing it. Ms. <ink asked what the project is and Mr. Hanson said it will be infrastructure for Carpenter Park.

    WHEREAS, the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant program is an important source of funding to address community development objectives in the County, and
    WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Waterfront Plan, published in January of 1997, recommended "Improved linkages to the West End and Downtown Business Districts," and
    WHEREAS, the Carpenter Business Park Development Project, located in the West End, is consistent with the Waterfront Plan and meets certain identified community development needs for the County, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That Tompkins County is hereby authorized to apply for 2001 CDBG funding for the Carpenter Business Park Development Project,
    RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee be authorized to sign all documents related to the submission of the required Questionnaire for the Small Cities application and any materials required by the Governor’s Office for Small Cities.
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RESOLUTION NO. 168 - AUTHORIZING PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR SMALL CITIES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FOR 2001 FUNDING

    MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, economic development applications for the New York State Governor’s Office for Small Cities’ (GOSC) 2001 funding for the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program will be accepted until November, 2001, and
    WHEREAS, Tompkins County would like to apply for these 2001 Small Cities CDBG funds, and
    WHEREAS, Tompkins County is required to have two public hearings pursuant to any 2001 applications for funding, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That two public hearing dates be set, one for August 1, 2001, to be conducted by the Planning Department and held in the Scott Heyman Conference Room, and one for August 7, 2001, at a regular scheduled meeting of the Board of Representatives,
    RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board of Representatives is authorized to place proper notice of these public hearings in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

RESOLUTION NO. 169 - MAKING A NEGATIVE DETERMINATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE IN RELATION TO RESOLUTION NO. 170 OF 2001

    MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Penniman. Ms. Kiefer said she cannot support this because no copy of the Environmental Assessment was provided with the resolution. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 13, Noes - 1 (Representative Kiefer); Excused - 1 (Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

    WHEREAS, in Resolution No. 170 of 2001, the County is being asked to authorize the loan of County Economic Development Revolving Loan Funds to the Alternatives Fund, Inc., and
    WHEREAS, the Economic and Workforce Development Committee of the Tompkins County Board of Representatives has reviewed and accepted as adequate an Environmental Assessment Form with respect to that action, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That Resolution No.170 of 2001 is an unlisted action,
    RESOLVED, further, That the Economic and Workforce Development Committee hereby makes a negative determination of environmental significance in regard to Resolution No.170 of 2001.
SEQR ACTION: Short EAF On File

RESOLUTION NO. 170 - AUTHORIZING LOAN OF MONIES FROM COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REVOLVING LOAN FUNDS

MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Penniman. Ms. Kiefer said she cannot support this because no copy of the Environmental Assessment was provided with the. Mr. Proto asked who would handle this and was told AFCU. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 13, Noes - 1 (Representative Kiefer); Excused - 1 (Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

    WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund provides loans to businesses at below-market interest rates to facilitate project implementation, and
    WHEREAS, these loans are made using repaid United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Small Cities Community Development Block Grant funds which are targeted to benefit low and moderate income persons or to eliminate a slum or blighting condition, and
    WHEREAS, the Economic Development Loan Oversight Committee, has recommended that Economic Development Revolving Loan Funds be used for small business development and training programs developed and administered by the Alternatives Fund of Ithaca, Inc., now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That Tompkins County is hereby authorized to sign a Loan and Development Agreement with Alternatives Fund, Inc.,
    RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to sign all documents related to this loan, and that the County Finance Director be authorized to appropriate funds from the Fund Balance Account, comprised of previous years’ program income from repayment of economic development loans in the following manner:

REVENUE
CD599 Fund Balance Program Income Prior Years $200,000
EXPENSES
8693.54400 Program Expense $200,000
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
(Short EAF on file)

RESOLUTION NO. 171 - ACCEPTANCE OF INVEST JOB START GRANT AND BUDGET ADJUSTMENT - TOMPKINS COUNTY WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, Tompkins County was recently awarded a $756,500 grant from the New York State Department of Labor for the InVEST Job Start Program, and
    WHEREAS, the InVEST Job Start Program provides unemployed and low-wage workers with opportunities to upgrade their skills, and
    WHEREAS, the funds are payable only if specific milestones are met, and
    WHEREAS, it is anticipated that over 190 individuals in Tompkins County will benefit from these programs, and
    WHEREAS, it is desired to include a portion of the funds in the 2001 budget with the remainder being budgeted for 2002, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That the County hereby accepts the grant in the amount of $756,500,
    RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized to make the following budget adjustment to his books for 2001 with the remainder being included in the 2002 budget:
                REVENUE: CD6290.44790 Federal Aid Job Training $278,500
                APPROPRIATION: CD6290.54491 Subcontracts $278,500
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

Ms. Mink introduced George Lattimer, Westchester County Board Chair, who is visiting from White Plains. Mr. Lattimer thanked Tompkins County for its Human Rights Law, which they have used as a model. Ms. Mink thanked Mr. Lattimer for sharing his County's "best practices".

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

Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 12^th and reviewed the written reports from the various departments that report to the Committee. It was reported the STOP grant Request for Proposals is due to arrive in Albany, however, it isn’t expected to do as well as in the past as a result of the State budget. It was reported the Community Justice Center now has three regular clients and others are coming into the program. Mr. Totman said through the recommendations of the County Administrator and Communications Capital Projects Committee, a resolution was approved to create a position of Communications Director for the 911 Center. A resolution will come to the Board at the August meeting once a job description has been finalized. The next meeting will be August 9^th at Offender Aid Restoration.

RESOLUTION NO. 172 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT THE BULLET PROOF VEST PARTNERSHIP GRANT

MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office applied for grant monies from the United States Department of Justice in the amount of $2,503.63 for participation in the Bullet Proof Vest Partnership Grant, and
    WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office has been awarded a grant from the United States Department of Justice in the amount of $2,503.63 for participating in the Bullet Proof Vest Partnership Grant, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the County accept the grant of $2,503.63 to be used for the purpose of the aforementioned grant,
    RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is directed to make the following adjustments to his books for 2001:
Budget Adjustment
Revenue A3113.42770 Other Miscellaneous Revenues $ 766.50
A3150.42770 Other Miscellaneous Revenues $1,737.17
Appropriation A3113.52220 Department Equipment $ 766.50
A3150.52220 Department Equipment $1,737.17
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

RESOLUTION NO. 173 - AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT AND BUDGET ADJUSTMENT FOR THE GRANT KNOWN AS THE 1997 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL FORMULA GRANT PROGRAM WITH THE DIVISION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE  SERVICES – PROBATION DEPARTMENT

MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

    WHEREAS, the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services has made available to counties a low-cost Probation automation system known as Prober Plus, and
    WHEREAS, the grant requires a local cash match in the amount of $1,667, previously approved in the 2001 budget, and
    WHEREAS, the automation system has been purchased and installed in the Probation Department, and
    WHEREAS, it is anticipated that Prober Plus will allow the Probation Department to avoid increased clerical costs for data entry, and
    WHEREAS, the Probation Department needs to replace three computers that are not compatible with the system, and
    WHEREAS, the Division of Criminal Justice Services has approved $5,000 in Byrne Funding for the Tompkins County Probation Department, which is a 75 percent reimbursement of approved expenditure, now therefore be it
    RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the Probation Department be authorized to enter into a contract for the grant known as the 1997 Edward Byrne Memorial Formula Grant Program with the Division of Criminal Justice Services,
    RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustment for 2001:

REVENUE:
        3141.44389 Other Public Safety Aid $1,000
        3142.44389 Other Public Safety Aid 4,000

APPROPRIATION:
        3141.52206 Computer Equipment $1,000
        3412.52206 Computer Equipment $4,000
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

Report from the Charter Review Committee

Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 12 and continues to discuss Article Two of the Charter and Code. The next meeting will be July 26 at 10:15 a.m.

Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee

Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee met on July 9^th and heard an update on the Department of Transportation relocation project. Funding for that project is tied up in the State budget, but they are working to ensure that the project is ready to move forward as soon as the budget is passed. Ms. Blanchard reported the Committee spent a lot of time reviewing Public Safety Communications System Overview and urged all members to read this document that was placed on all desks this evening. She reported for the past two Mondays, the Committee has been hearing vendor presentations from people who have something to recommend for the public safety communications upgrade. Ms. Blanchard clarified some misunderstandings about the vendor presentations as they were mischaracterized in the Ithaca Journal as being intended for the public. She said these were not meetings that were intended for public comment but to inform committee members and technical staff who had indicated they had a desire to learn more about the technical side of the project; they were, however, open to the public. She said the presentations were videotaped and are available through the Public Information Coordinator. She reminded members on July 30 a wireless workshop will be held in the Borg Warner Room at the Tompkins County Public Library from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. This workshop is intended for municipal officials and will focus on how they can control their end of the communications system. It was noted the Environmental Management Council and the Municipal Officials Association are also jointly sponsoring the workshop on July 30^th. The next meeting will be August 28^th. Until that time, intensive work will be done on the Request for Proposals.

Report from the Information Management Committee

Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee met this morning and spent time reviewing the privacy policy and Assessment data being placed on the Internet. The Committee discussed what a monumental undertaking this may be for the Information Technology Services Department and that it could take considerable time to implement. She said the Public Information Advisory Board will be given the information proposed to be placed on the Internet and asked to comment.

Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee

Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on July 27 at 8:30 a.m.

Chair’s Comment

Ms. Mink said she had a request by Representative Proto that someone should check into what is happening at the State level in terms of asking libraries to re-form districts along school district lines. This is something that could have a big impact on what the County is doing with the Public Library and rural libraries. Ms. Mink asked Mr. Proto to look into this matter and consider reconvening the Library Coordination Committee if necessary.

Approval of Minutes of July 3, 2001

It was MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to approve the minutes of July 3, 2001 as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.

Adjournment

On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:23 p.m.