Chair Mink called the public hearing to order at 5:30 p.m.

James Hanson, Planning Commissioner, said a project is being proposed for the Northside Waterfront Area of the City of Ithaca. He said the Planning Department is proposing to apply to the State of New York for a Small Cities Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $750,000 that will be lent out to the County's Economic Development Loan program for the development of the infrastructure in Carpenter Park. The repayment agreement will be negotiated between Tompkins County and the Carpenter Park developers. Cynthia Yahn, developer, provided the Board with a brief description of this commercial project.

Alan Cohen, City of Ithaca Mayor, said he has concerns that the site drawings for Carpenter Business Park are also showing the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) site that the County is working towards acquiring. He was informed by Ms. Yahn that no site plan has been submitted for Carpenter Business Park and no site plan has been drawn that indicates that the DOT is part of this project or application. She said Carpenter Business Park is the only site involved in the application.

No one else wished to speak. Ms. Mink closed the public hearing at 5:36 p.m.

Public Hearing - Small Cities Community Development Block Grant

Ms. Mink called the public hearing to order at 5:36 p.m.

Mr. Hanson explained it is the Planning Department's intention to loan these funds through the Economic Development Loan Program to Environmental Associates of Dryden, New York with a negotiated rate for construction, equipment, and working capital. No one wished to speak and the public hearing was closed at 5:37 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 Koplinka-Loehr)

Privilege of the Floor by the Public

Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke concerning the issue of hiring a consultant to study how City-owned recreational facilities will operate in the future. She said in past years she has complained about the Cass Park pool because a basketball hoop and slide have been added. She said she feels the pool is now a playground and usable by only the people who enjoy these types of activities and has made it uncomfortable for adults who would like to just swim. Ms. Gougakis asked that comments from the public be solicited about what they would like to see in the parks.

Alan Cohen, City of Ithaca Mayor, spoke in support of the County hiring a consultant to study how City-owned recreational facilities will operate in the future. Mr. Cohen said this is an attempt to take a comprehensive look at all the recreational facilities that are enjoyed by residents of the entire County. He said these are facilities that are owned and maintained exclusively by the City of Ithaca and are regional assets. Mr. Cohen said the City is happy that the County Board is recognizing that fact and cooperating with them to take a joint look at how these facilities are used and what the long-term maintenance of them should be.

Mr. Cohen also provided the Board with an update on the Cayuga Green project. He said this is a multi-use project that is in the concept-development stage on the property that is adjacent to the Tompkins County Public Library. A public input session will take place on August 9^th at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn. This will be an opportunity for members of the public to speak with various staff people on particular subjects and give input. Mr. Cohen said nothing has been decided and that they are open to hearing any and all comments. Mr. Cohen said he is bringing this issue to the Board at this time because he is not clear on what the County’s position is on this subject. He distributed copies of a handout he just picked up at the Library that was the subject of a recent article in the Ithaca Journal. Mr. Cohen questioned the use of a taxpayer-funded facility to distribute these materials.

Michael Raffee, State Sports Chair for Rugby at the Empire State Games, spoke of the 24^th Annual Empire State Games, and said Tompkins County was well represented at those games. He called the Board’s attention to the successes at the Games. He said there has been a large increase in the number of participants from Tompkins County and commended them on their performances. Mr. Raffee also spoke as a representative of the Ithaca Chapter of the American Red Cross and said many Tompkins County residents have participated in emergency management drill and disaster responses throughout the country. He said a number of residents have traveled to disaster areas throughout the country and have stood ready to volunteer to assist when they are needed. Mr. Raffee commended emergency services personnel in Tompkins County who recently participated in the disaster drill at Titus Towers.

Sheriff Peter Meskill alerted the Board that the Jail is at full capacity. He said over the last three weekends the capacity has exceeded 100. He said the Jail is at the point where it is possible they will need to board prisoners out to other counties. He stated he has been in contact with the Commission of Corrections to discuss expanding the current variance that has been granted to Tompkins County. Mr. Meskill announced this evening is National Night Out in Newfield.

Privilege of the Floor by Board Members

Mr. Winch, District No. 8 Representative, reported this evening is National Night Out in Newfield. He said the Sheriff’s Department will be well-represented this evening and that many agencies will be on-hand to show the community what they do to assist residents. Mr. Winch referred to Mr. Raffee’s comments regarding the Empire State Games and said his neighbor received five gold medals at those games. He announced the Mellon Foundation of Lansing will be hosting the Annual Farm City Day on August 25^th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, announced prior to this meeting he attended a session at the Chamber of Commerce regarding the lake, water and wastewater. An update was given by the City of Ithaca on the Wastewater Treatment Plant including the upgrade that is planned for Cayuga Heights. Mr. Proto said there is $11.5 million needed to go forward with the next phase and municipalities will be approached to support the application. Mr. Proto said it is important that the County be involved in these discussions if it will be approached to help with funding.

Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, announced the 175^th anniversary of the Eight Square School House is approaching. She called the Board’s attention to a new publication by the Solid Waste Division entitled the Reuse Directory. Mrs. Schuler also announced a Felony Drug Court commencement ceremony will take place on August 15^th at the Old Courthouse.

Mr. Stein, District No. 3 Representative, commented on the Eight Square School House in that it is one of only two in New York State and is the only one on its original site. Mr. Stein referred to the document that was distributed by Mayor Cohen regarding the Cayuga Green project. He said the Library Board of Trustees has used this avenue to express its position on the matter and does not see anything wrong with this. He feels this is part of the democratic process.

Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, announced the NYSAC Fall Conference is approaching. He said there are several interesting subjects on the agenda for the conference.

Ms. Kiefer, District No. 10 Representative, announced on August 25^th a follow-up to the local activity and study of reform of the Rockefeller Drug Laws will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at the Women’s Community Building. At the end of that forum an action period will take place.

Mr. Joseph, District No. 12 Representative, referred to Mr. Stein’s comments on the Public Library and bus terminal. He said he has been lobbied by various people over the last few weeks. He asked what the County’s role in a bus station actually is. Ms. Mink responded the County does not have a formal position in deciding that issue unless it involves County property. Mr. Stein has been appointed to participate in discussions on the Cayuga Green project because of the agreement that exists with the City about the Public Library.

Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, called the Board’s attention to the proposed budget calendar that has been placed on members’ desks.

Chair’s Report and Appointment(s)

Ms. Mink reported to the Board that Henry Theisen, County Attorney, has been hospitalized at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. She said over the past eight years Mr. Theisen has provided the Board with good advice, good humor, and a very steady temperment in performing his duties for the County and urged the Board to send their thoughts and well wishes.

Report from the County Administrator

Mr. Whicher reported on Freedom of Information procedures and the need to track electronic correspondence. Mr. Wood will be putting on a workshop on this so that departments are more knowledgeable in handling these types of requests.

Mr. Whicher also reported the County’s legal expenses for the redistricting lawsuit are between $30,000 - $60,000. He said it appears this figure will only increase as time goes on. Mr. Whicher said he does not have information on what expenses other municipalities are incurring. It was requested that Mr. Whicher obtain information from municipalities on how much this legal matter is costing residents.

Mr. Whicher said he just completed his review of departmental budgets and complimented them for submitting responsible budgets.

Mrs. Smithers distributed a list of programs that have budgets that need to be reviewed to all committee chairs and said program committee's review meetings need to be scheduled through the Clerk of the Board as soon as possible.

Wendy Skinner, Public Information Coordinator, asked that the Board consider whether or not they would like program budget review meetings televised in September. She said all Expanded Budget and Capital Committee meetings will be televised.

Report from the Finance Director

Mr. Squires reported he distributed the latest information on the sales tax.

Report from the County Attorney

Mr. Wood reported he expects a decision very soon in the redistricting lawsuit. He reported the motion to dismiss in the Padula legal matter was not granted.

Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda

On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the following resolutions were added to the agenda.

Authorization to Execute Construction Funding Agreement with NYSDOT – Bridge Painting

Authorization to Issue Design Approval – Bridge Painting

Reaffirming Improvement – Bostwick Road Facility

To Adopt a Negative Declaration of Environmental Significance

Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda

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

Audit of Final Payment – Frey & Campbell, Inc. – Tompkins County Public Library

Audit of Final Payment – Collins & Walton, Inc. – Tompkins County Public Library

Audit of Final Payment – R. C. Daniel, Inc. – Tompkins County Public Library

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

It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to approve the following appointment(s) and resolution(s) under the Consent Agenda:

Appointment(s)

Tompkins County Youth Board

Patty VandeBogart – Town of Danby; term expires December 31, 2001

Personal Emergency Response Service Advisory Board

Lorinda May – Tompkins County Health Department; term expires December 31, 2001

RESOLUTION NO. 174 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS – VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS

Moved by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present under the Consent Agenda.

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

Office of the Aging(#33)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) __________

6781 44772 Federal Revenue $10,988 6781-51000559 Salary
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 692 6781-51000529 Salary
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 200 6781-54414 Local Mileage
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 26 6781-54330 Printing
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 100 6781-54452 Postage
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 80 6781-54472 Telephone
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 2,914 6781-58800 Fringes
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $10,000 6781-54491 Subcontract
Explanation: New Federal dollars will fund an expanded, volunteer based program to support caregivers. Subcontract to provide respite for caregivers.
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Department of Social Services(#34)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)

6141 44681 Fed HEAP $172,232 6141 54400 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Explanation: Additional Federal allocations for the Autopay, Application, and Emergency components of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) have just been released by the New York State OTDA.
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Youth Bureau (#35)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) __________
7021 42770 Other Misc. Revenues $ 640 7021 54420 Program Expenses
7022 43820 Programs for Youth $5,000 7022 54400 Program Expenses
7026 42070 Contrib. For Pvt. Agencies $ 200 7026 54400 Program Expenses
Explanation: The Town of Newfield recently approved being a part of the Recreation Partnership. The Town’s fee for the rest of 2001 will be $640. The Youth Bureau was notified on July 2, that we have been awarded a CCSI Tier III "Field Initiated Ideas" Grant for support for parent advocates. The monies are to be used between July – December 2001. The United Way payment to the Town of Ulysses is passed through the Youth Bureau budget. Reimbursement for 2001 services has increased by $200 to $6,700 from $6,500.
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District Attorney (#36)

Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s) __________
1165 42626 Fed. Forfeit.- restricted $9,407.73 1165 52206 Computer Hardware
1165 42626 Fed. Forfeit.- restricted $ 715.40 1165 52230 Computer Software
1165 42625 Fed. Forfeit.- restricted $ 258.66 1165 52206 Computer Hardware
Explanation: These transfers will purchase new printer, new network file server, and upgraded network software – all is recommended by ITS.
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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee

Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee met jointly with the Budget and Capital Committee yesterday to discuss the resolution that follows:

RESOLUTION: 175 - AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTING SERVICES RELATED TO RECREATION FACILITIES STUDY AND CONTINGENT FUND APPROPRIATION – YOUTH BUREAU

Moved by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman.

Mr. Stein said he has had a lot of misgivings about this resolution that will cause him to vote in opposition of this. He said the unspoken intention of this is that the County would likely find a way to move the cost of management, upkeep, and repair of these facilities to the County. At this point he does not feel the County should be doing this. After listening to Ms. Gougakis’ comments, he questions whether the County should be discussing items such as whether there should be another pool and whether or not things such as a basketball hoop should be installed in a pool. Mr. Stein said this is a municipal facility and not a County responsibility.

Mr. Totman agreed with the comments made by Mr. Stein and said he does not believe this is something the County should be involved with.

Mr. Penniman expressed a desire to support the Recreation Partnership. He said although this is a City facility, it is used by everyone in the community. He said he would like to analyze the best way to use these facilities and recognize the opportunities for new revenue and more efficient operations.

Mr. Winch agreed with Mr. Stein’s comments and said he feels the items that will be looked at are ones that should have been addressed since the facilities were built.

Mr. Lane said he believes that municipal cooperation is the direction that should be taken and that the County should take a leadership role. He said during the time he chaired the Planning Committee, considerable time was spent looking at issues of the County and City Youth Bureaus and their operations, as well as the Recreation Partnership. He said it is important to have intermunicipal cooperation because of the configuration of the Ithaca City School District extending into many surrounding towns. He said this is intended to look into reducing costs for everyone.

Ms. Blanchard said she has been on the Recreation Partnership's renegotiation committee. One of the main thrusts that Partnership was to look at was the expenses because the venues that programs operate in are very costly. She said the purpose of this is to look at ways to save money and to examine the cost effectiveness of combining the City and County Youth Bureaus in a way that would achieve a cost savings.

Mrs. Schuled pointed out that last September we placed $10,000 into contingency for this; awaiting development of a clear scope of study and now it is ready to move forward.

Mr. Proto expressed concern that some of the information that the consultant will be charged with gathering should have already existed. He expressed concern over the timing of this and said these are aging facilities and the costs to maintain and repair them will be very high.

Ms. Mink said one of the items that has made her proud to serve on this Board is that the Board has been data-driven. It has always looked at issues and analyzed them before decisions have been made. She believes this is the appropriate time to look at this issue.

Mr. Todd said Lansing made a decision a long ago not to participate in the Recreation Partnership because of the large array of youth services it already has; therefore, he will not support the resolution.

A roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 9 (Representatives Blanchard, Davis, Joseph, Kiefer, Lalley, Lane, Mink, Penniman, and Schuler); Noes – 5 (Representatives Proto, Stein, Todd, Totman, and Winch); Excused – 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

Ms. Mink appointed Representatives Winch and Penniman to serve as County Liaisons to these discussions.

WHEREAS, Tompkins County, in the 2001 County Budget, authorized the County to participate in joint study of recreational facilities currently owned by the City of Ithaca, partially financed by the Town of Ithaca, and used by residents of the County, and

WHEREAS, $20,000 in appropriations was already approved in Youth Bureau’s 2001 budget along with revenues of $15,000 anticipated from the City of Ithaca and $5,000 from the Town of Ithaca, with the understanding that the County would be the contractor and fiscal agent for the joint study, and

WHEREAS, the County’s share of the $30,000 study ($10,000) was authorized for placement in the County’s Contingent Fund until the scope of work and consultant had been identified, and

WHEREAS, an inter-municipal Recreation Facilities Committee comprised of the County, City of Ithaca and Town of Ithaca has developed a scope of work to include two components; the first component will include the following tasks:

• Evaluation of the operation of Cass Park; Stewart Park facilities; and the Newman Municipal Golf Course including an assessment of the capital improvements needed and the current plans for equipment replacement and improvements in light of regional market trends.
• Recommend strategies to either reduce costs or maximize revenues to lower the publicly-subsidized costs of the facilities. Describe how such strategies will affect the quality of programs or accessibility by low-income families.
• Recommend alternative approaches for owning, financing, and managing the facilities and delivering programs including public/private partnerships and privatization options.
• Review the current facility-exchange relationship with the Ithaca City School District with respect to the equity of the arrangement for all parties.

WHEREAS, the Recreation Facilities Committee has recommended that the remaining portion of the study which includes outlining the pros and cons and fiscal impact on New York State aid of consolidating the City and County Youth Bureaus be completed locally, and

WHEREAS, the second component may require the help of a different consultant, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of Health and Human Services and Budget and Capital Committees, That the County appropriate $10,000 in one-time funding from the Contingent Fund to increase the appropriation in the Youth Bureau’s budget from $20,000 to $30,000,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee be authorized to execute contracts for both portions of the project not to exceed $30,000 (up to $27,000 for Economics Research Associates and the balance for related contracts),

RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following Budget Appropriation:

                            FROM: 1990.44400 Contingency Fund $ 10,000

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

Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 18 and had a report from the Planning Commissioner on the Southern Tier East Regional Planning Development Board and some of the services the County is receiving from them since it elected to drop out as a member. The Committee also had a visitor from the Council for Local Environmental Initiatives to provide an update on the County’s project for energy efficiency. A report was given by the Environmental Management Council on gas drilling. He said the County has been approached by various gas and oil companies about the potential for gas drilling on County land. This matter has been referred to the Environmental Management Council. Mr. Penniman said due to the extensive discussions that have taken place in regard to gas drilling and energy conservation he has appointed an Energy Subcommittee that will meet on August 15^th at 11 a.m. The full Committee will meet at noon on that day.

RESOLUTION NO. – MAKING A NEGATIVE DETERMINATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE IN RELATION TO RESOLUTION NO. H of 2001

Moved by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice voter by members present.

Moved by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Totman. Mr. Stein said this does not fall into the concept of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program. Other members did not feel that providing funding to a private business to improve their property unless there is a special reason that the business can be clearly distinguished from others. Following discussion it was agreed that this would be referred back to the advisory committee and brought back to the Board at a later date. Chair Mink gave Mr. Penniman permission to withdraw this resolution from the agenda.

It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, to nullify the previous resolution because what it was in support of has been withdrawn. MOTION CARRIED.

RESOLUTION NO. 176 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION GRANT – ROGUES HARBOR INN OF TOWN OF LANSING

Moved by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Todd. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 13, Noes – 1 (Representative Lalley); Excused – 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

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 Committee, That the following project be approved:

Rogues Harbor Inn of Town of Lansing $3,250.00

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts related to these projects.
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RESOLUTION NO. 177 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION GRANT – TOWN OF LANSING

Moved by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

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 Committee, That the following project be approved:

Town of Lansing – Construct and install sign for municipal

buildings in the Town’s Commercial Center $ 3,750.00

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts related to these projects.
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RESOLUTION NO. 178 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION GRANT – TOWN OF DANBY

Moved by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

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 Committee, That the following project be approved:

Town of Danby – Improvements to Exterior of Town Hall Meeting Room $7,500.00

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts related to these projects.
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RESOLUTION NO. 179 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION GRANT – TOWN OF ENFIELD

Moved by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

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 Committee, That the following project be approved:

Town of Enfield – Enhance Enfield Center with planters,

new signage, street lighting, and a park bench with small flower garden $4,278.00

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts related to these projects.
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RESOLUTION NO. 180 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION GRANT – HAMLET OF JACKSONVILLE / THE JACKSONVILLE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Moved by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Mr. Proto said he would like the review guidelines circulated to all Board members because of the questions that have been arisen relating to public and private businesses. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 14, Noes – 0, Excused – 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

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 Committee, That the following project be approved:

Hamlet of Jacksonville / The Jacksonville Community Assn. $6,635.00

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts related to these projects.
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RESOLUTION NO. 181 - ACCEPTANCE OF PROPERTY ACQUISITION REPAYMENT PLAN - CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION OF TOMPKINS
COUNTY

Moved by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 212 of 2000 authorized $180,000 for the purchase of 303 West Lincoln Street to provide additional space to accommodate programs of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County (CCETC), and

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 212 further resolved that CCETC shall prepare a plan outlining the method by which the County would recover its investment in the acquisition of 303 West Lincoln Street, and

WHEREAS, CCETC in consultation with the County Director of Finance and the County Administrator has proposed a 20-year repayment schedule consistent with current tax exempt financing conditions, and

WHEREAS, a repayment amortized over 20 years at a rate of 4.5 percent will provide the essential flexibility for CCETC to develop external funding sources to facilitate the retrofitting and consolidation of facilities, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning and Budget and Capital Committees, That the County Attorney is authorized to develop a multi-year repayment agreement with CCETC that provides for semi-annual lease payments of $6,896.99 commencing September 1, 2001.
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Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee

Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 24^th and most of the business conducted at that meeting is reflected in the resolutions on the agenda. Mr. Lane said there was discussion about expansion of the Crash, Fire, Rescue building at the Airport. That project will be bid in the Spring of 2002. Ms. Eckstrom, Solid Waste Manager, reported the recycling budget that ended on June 30, 2001 showed a surplus of approximately $28,000. He reported that Broome County’s facility has collapsed and they have been allowed to bring things to the Tompkins County Recycling Center temporarily. Mr. Lane said the Ellis Hollow Road project is at the point where an engineer will soon be selected. Once this happens public meetings will be held. He also reported on the FEMA grant the Town of Dryden will be receiving from the Virgil Creek Flood Control Project.

RESOLUTION NO. 182 - APPROPRIATION FROM HIGHWAY MACHINERY FUND BALANCE - 2000 SURPLUS FUNDS

Moved by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd. Mr. Joseph said he will support this because it is in line with the County’s fiscal policy. However, in looking at the justification for uses of the money he said in a year when there is a difficult budget situation is on the horizon it appears that a lot of new equipment is being purchased. A short roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 14, Noes – 0, Excused – 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the Highway Machinery Division has been certified by the Director of Finance to have unspent appropriations and excess revenue from 2000 resulting in a surplus on the County 's books as of December 31, 2000, and

WHEREAS, pursuant to County Fiscal Policy, surplus funds may be requested for use in the current or following year budget, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works and Budget and Capital Committees, That the following transactions are approved:

Budget Appropriation:

FROM: DM0599.0000 Highway Machinery Fund Balance $ 69,480

TO: DM5130. 54470 Building Repairs $ 9,480

DM5130.54306 Automotive Supplies $ 22,500

DM5130.52233 Highway Equipment $ 37,500

Total $ 69,480
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Moved by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

WHEREAS, the State of New York provides financial aid for municipal waste reduction and municipal recycling projects, and

WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Solid Waste Management Division herein called the MUNICIPALITY, has examined and duly considered the applicable laws of the State of New York and the MUNICIPALITY deems it to be in the public interest and benefit to file an application under these laws, and

WHEREAS, it is necessary that a Contract by and between THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, herein called the STATE, and the MUNICIPALITY be executed for such STATE Aid, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, and the Tompkins County Board of Representatives:

• That the filing of an application in the form required by the State of New York and conformity with the applicable laws of the State of New York including all understanding and assurances contained in said application is hereby authorized.
• That the County Administrator or designee is directed and authorized as the official representative of the MUNICIPALITY to act in connection with the application and to provide such additional information as may be required an to sign the resulting contract if said application is approved by the STATE.
• That the MUNICIPALITY agrees that it will fund its portion (50 percent) of the cost of said Municipal Waste Reduction and/or Recycling Project which pays for public education and personnel costs related to waste, reuse, and reduction.
• That five (5) Certified Copies of this Resolution be prepared and sent to the NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION, ALBANY, NEW YORK 12233-7253, together with ONE complete application.
• That this resolution shall take effect immediately.

RESOLUTION NO. 184 - CHANGE ORDER ASI SIGN SYSTEMS – RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE CENTER EXPANSION

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

WHEREAS, the construction of the DEPOT and expansion of the Public Drop-off Area required new signage and modifications of existing signs, and

WHEREAS, ASI Sign Systems was awarded the signage contract, and

WHEREAS, subsequently the Solid Waste Division determined that there was a need to modify the existing signs Public Drop-off area, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the contract amount be increased by $2,852.00, therefore the new contract price shall be $11,852.00, funds being available in Capital Account HH.8164.59239.81.69,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute change orders of up to ten percent (10%) of the contract total,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute this change order on behalf of the County.

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RESOLUTION NO. 185 - AWARD OF BID – LEACHATE TRANSPORTATION FROM THE HILLVIEW LANDFILL AND THE CASWELL LANDFILL TO THE ITHACA AREA WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT IN ITHACA, NEW YORK

Moved by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

WHEREAS, the Department of Finance – Division of Purchasing has duly advertised for bids for the transportation of Leachate for the Tompkins County Public Works Department, and

WHEREAS, one (1) bid for Leachate Transportation from the Hillview landfill and the Caswell landfill to the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant in Ithaca, New York was received and publicly opened on Monday, July 2, 2001, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the bid for Leachate Transportation from the Hillview landfill and the Caswell landfill to the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant in Ithaca, New York be awarded to WeCare Transportation, LLC of Jordan, New York, for a price of $23.30 per 1,000 gallons,

RESOLVED, further, That the funds are available in the Solid Waste Management Division budget, account 8166.54442,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute this bid on behalf of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20

RESOLUTION NO. 186 - AWARD OF BID – BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – OLD 76 ROAD OVER OWEGO CREEK WEST BRANCH (BIN 3314080)

Moved by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present. Mr. Lane noted the amount of $387,950.78 is the full price of which half will be Tompkins County’s share.

WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department has duly advertised for bids for the replacement of the bridge on Old 76 Road (BIN 3314080) over the West Branch of Owego Creek, and

WHEREAS, two bids were received on July 23, 2001 and publicly read, and

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 12 of 2001 authorized an agreement with the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation whereby Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development funds will supplement the cost to construct said replacement bridge, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the bid be awarded to Economy Paving, lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $387,950.78, which is a fifty-fifty split with Tioga County,

RESOLVED, further, That the Highway Division be authorized to implement this bid and execute change orders with total values not to exceed ten percent (10%) of the aforementioned bid amount on behalf of the County, funds to be provided from account D54411.5111.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-2

RESOLUTION NO. 187 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE CONSTRUCTION FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – BRIDGE PAINTING

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

WHEREAS, a Project for Tompkins County Bridge Painting, P.I.N. 375323, (the Project), is eligible for funding under Title 23 U.S. Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be borne at the ratio of 80 percent Federal funds and 20 percent non-federal funds, and

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 48 adopted on March 6, 2001 approved the Project and authorized execution of an agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation regarding administration and funding of Scoping, Design (Phases I-VI) and ROW Incidentals, and

WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project by making a commitment of 100 percent of the non-federal share of the costs of Construction, Construction Inspection and Supervision, and

WHEREAS, in order to expedite advancement of the Project and realize potential total project cost reductions, the New York State Department of Transportation requires the County to appropriate one hundred (100%) percent of the project costs and then file for reimbursement of eligible costs, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives hereby approves the above-subject project and authorizes the County of Tompkins to pay in the first instance one hundred percent (100%) of the federal and non-federal share of the costs of Construction, Construction Inspection and Supervision work for the subject Project or portions thereof,

RESOLVED, further, That the sum of $308,000 is hereby made available within account D5111.54411, Road/Bridge Contracts, to cover the cost of participation in the Design phase of the Project,

RESOLVED, further, That in the event the full federal and non-federal share costs of the project exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall convene as soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification of the New York State Department of Transportation thereof,

RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Highway Manager or designee be and is hereby authorized to execute all necessary Agreements, certifications and reimbursement requests for Federal Aid and/or Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the New York State Department of Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the administration of the Project and the municipality’s first instance funding of Project costs and permanent funding of the local share of federal-aid and state-aid eligible Project costs and all Project costs within appropriations therefor that are not so eligible,

RESOLVED, further, That a certified copy of this resolution be filed with the New York State Commissioner of Transportation by attaching it to any necessary Agreement in connection with the Project,

RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately,
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II - 1

RESOLUTION NO. 188 - AUTHORIZATION TO ISSUE DESIGN APPROVAL - BRIDGE PAINTING

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

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 48 of 2001 authorized an agreement with the State of New York to design the repainting of various bridges in Tompkins County, and

WHEREAS, preliminary project design has been developed in conformance with the applicable environmental laws, design standards, and accepted engineering practice; no exceptions to accepted design standards were included; all permits have been identified and will be secured prior to letting; and project costs are reasonable, and

WHEREAS, the design consultant, Popli Consulting Engineers & Surveyors of Penfield, NY, and the County Highway Manager have certified completion of all procedural requirements needed prior to design approval of the project, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Chair of the Tompkins County Board of Representatives or designee be and hereby is authorized to execute documents granting Design Approval whereby completion of project final design shall be authorized.

SEQR ACTION: TYPE II – 1

RESOLUTION NO. 189 - TO ADOPT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE

Moved by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

WHEREAS, pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act a short form environmental assessment form was completed to review the potential environmental impacts of Resolution No. 190 (proposed improvements to the Bostwick Road Campus), and

WHEREAS, the adoption of this resolution is not a TYPE I action for SEQRA purposes, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of Public Works Committee, That the adoption of Resolution No. 190 is an unlisted action pursuant to SEQRA,

RESOLVED, further, That the adoption of Resolution No. 190 will result in no significant environmental impacts.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted (EAF on file)

RESOLUTION NO. 190 - REAFFIRMING IMPROVEMENT- BOSTWICK ROAD FACILITY

Moved by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 13, Noes – 1 (Representative Proto); Excused – 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the Facilities Division needs to move out of its location at Biggs A and Bostwick Road has been identified as the most suitable location for their operations, and

WHEREAS, the Bostwick Road campus is in need of physical improvements, and

WHEREAS, the co-locating of the Facilities Division, Public Works Administration, Highway and Engineering will enhance services delivery to the public, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the County shall proceed with the Capital Improvements at the Bostwick Road Campus.

SEQR ACTION: Unlisted (EAF on file)

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

Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee met prior to this meeting to discuss the resolution on the agenda. He reminded members the August meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting will be September 4^th. Mr. Stein spoke of the State budget and said the State Legislature approved the extension of the County’s three percent sales tax and approved the authorization to increase the hotel and motel tax from three to five percent.

RESOLUTION NO. 191 - FUNDING HISTORIC PUBLICATION THROUGH APPROPRIATION OF UNSPENT FUNDS AND BUDGET ADJUSTMENT – COUNTY HISTORIAN

Moved by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mrs. Schuler. A short roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 14, Noes – 0, Excused – 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, the County Historian has asked to facilitate the publication of a book regarding historic landmarks in Tompkins County, and

WHEREAS, photographs have been collected through a collaborative effort by Historic Ithaca and numerous volunteers, and

WHEREAS, the County wishes to enter into an agreement with Dewitt Historical Society through the County Historian’s budget for the design, editing, printing, and marketing of this book, and

WHEREAS, the County Historian has $9,799 available in surplus funds from the 1999 and 2000 budgets, and wishes to use $4,500 from the 2001 budget to fund this project with the agreement that proceeds from the sale of this book will be returned to the County Historian so that other publications and/or initiatives may be funded, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and Budget and Capital Committees, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following budget appropriation and adjustment:

APPROPRIATION:

BUDGET ADJUSTMENT:

                    APPROPRIATION: County Historian Program Expense 3,701
                    REVENUE: County Historian – Other Misc. Rev. 3,701
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Report and Presentation Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee

Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet on August 9^th at noon.

RESOLUTION NO. 192 - CREATION OF POSITION - DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS

Moved by Mr. Totman, seconded by Ms. Blanchard. Mr. Proto asked what outreach has taken place with volunteer fire departments on this. Mr. Whicher clarified the intent of this is to relieve him of direct management for seeing the 911 Center and Communications project to completion. He said he has involved the 911 Committee and would be happy to meet with anyone to address any concerns that may arise.

A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 14, Noes – 0, Excused – 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.

WHEREAS, Tompkins County is in the process of building a Communications Center to serve the County’s Public Safety needs, and

WHEREAS, Tompkins County is in the process of designing and deploying a County-wide Public Safety Communications System, and

WHEREAS, there is a need to hire a project manager for the construction of the center and the communications system, and

WHEREAS, the recent consolidations of Fire/EMS and Police dispatch in a single temporary center has proven the need for a Center Director, and

WHEREAS, funding for the position is available through the Department of County Administration, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the position of Director of Emergency Communications Center (88/188), labor grade R, standard workweek 40.0 hours be created in the office of the County Administrator effective immediately.
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Report from the Budget and Capital Program Committee

Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee cancelled the last meeting and is awaiting the County Administrator’s recommendations on 2002 budget requests.

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

Ms. Kiefer, Vice Chair, reported the Committee met on August 2^nd at noon. At that meeting the Public Information Coordinator shared a survey she has drafted for advisory board members. This is part of a follow-up to see how well things are going and whether training is needed or uniformity in, for example, recruitment of members is possible and desirable. Ms. Kiefer said the Committee also approved funds to pay for the legal costs relating to the redistricting lawsuit, and discussed charter changes for the Information Technology Services Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 193 - CORRECTION TO BOARD RESOLUTION NO. 135 OF JUNE 19, 2001 - AUTHORIZATION FOR PROGRAM RECONFIGURATION – CENTRAL SERVICES

Moved by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 135 of June 19, 2001 transferred Program 6215 Central Services from County Administration to Personnel, and

WHEREAS, staff support for oversight of this program was also transferred but mentioned in a "Whereas" and not specifically addressed in any "Resolved" in Resolution No. 135, and

WHEREAS, Civil Service Law requires that the Board grant approval for the transferal of positions between departments, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the position of Administrative Services Coordinator, (63-341), 40.0 hours, be transferred from County Administration to Personnel effective May 28, 2001,

RESOLVED, further, That no funding adjustments are required.
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Report from the Communications Capital Project Committee

Ms. Blanchard, Chair, began her report by noting that the Director of Communications is a major step in advancing the public safety communications project because it will provide a "top-hand" for the County Administrator to advance all aspects of this very complicated project. Ms. Blanchard updated the Board on activities and said the month of July was taken up with special presentations. She spoke of the communications system upgrade and said they have completed the development of the functional specification for the microwave network and will now be moving on to the development of the Request for Proposals. They will be following the model of the solid waste management facility request for proposals that included a comment period by candidate responders at the beginning of the process.

Ms. Blanchard said the Committee discussed the dire state of the County’s paging system which is the lifeblood of the volunteer firemen and emergency medical personnel. She said it is vital that they have an effective paging system. Although this is separate from the radios, it has to be integrated into the system. They have decided to fast track that aspect of the project and develop a specification for achieving an improved paging system. The next meeting will be on August 28^th at noon.

Mr. Lalley reported on July 30^th a three-hour Wireless Workshop was held with more than 50 people from Tompkins County in attendance as well as persons from other neighboring counties. He said the workshop covered important planning issues for the County and towns and a video of the presentation is available through the Public Information Coordinator.

Approval of Minutes of July 17, 2001

It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to approve the minutes of July 17, 2001 with the corrections submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.

Recess

Chair Mink declared recess from 7:30 p.m. to 7:35 p.m.

Executive Session

It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to enter into executive session at 7:35 p.m. to discuss litigation. The meeting returned to open session at 8:18 p.m.

Adjournment

On motion the meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m.