T H E G E N E V A C I T Y C O U N C I L JOURNAL OF PROCEEDINGScityofgenevany.com/wp-content/uploads/13-Sept-6.pdf · SCOTT LAFARO ART INSTALLATION Sage Gerling said the Public Art

T H E G E N E V A C I T Y C O U N C I L

JOURNAL OF PROCEEDINGS

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 6, 2017 – 7:00PM

Presiding – Ron Alcock, Mayor Present – Matt Horn, City Manager

1. ROLL CALL PRESENT: Clr. Greco, Clr. Camera, Clr. Gramling, Clr. Valentino, Clr. D’Amico, Clr.

Marino, Clr. Eddington, Clr. Hagerman (arrived at 7:05pm)

2. GENEVA FOUNDRY UPDATE – City Manager Horn

{H3137652.1} 1

Status Update : Foundry Remediation Update

September 6, 2017

I. NYSDEC Neighborhood Remediation Update

A. NYSDEC Community Outreach

NYSDEC erected Project Bulletin Boards at both staging areas on State Street

and Lehigh Avenue.

o The bulletin boards contain updated project related information in both

Spanish and English.

o Additional project signs have been erected on fences along State Street

and Lehigh Ave and include site contact information.

NYSDEC continues to work with City to re-visit properties where owners

have not responded to date to DEC’s initial request in Spring 2017 for

property access.

NYSDEC held a conference call with the City on September 5th

to provide an

update.

NYSDEC has issued No Further Action (NFA) letters for 18 properties and

continues to evaluate other properties that may receive NFA.

B. Status of Remediation at the “Priority Sites”

Properties have been identified as a priority site “based upon use (such as day

care facilities), proximity to the former foundry site, and ability to secure

access with the property owner.”

1. NYSDEC Remedial Design

NYSDEC’s Project Engineer continues to develop engineering designs

(excavation and restoration plans) for the sites.

Designs for additional Phase 1 parcels on Jackson St, Center St.,

and State St. are underway.

NYSDEC is continuing analysis of screening soil sampling results

obtained this spring.

NYSDEC is planning to conduct a second round of screening/pre-design

sampling being this fall.

Evaluation of potential sampling locations is ongoing.

Letters requesting access for sampling expected to be issued in mid

September.

{H3137652.1} 2

2. Remedial Construction

As shown on the attached Remedial Status Figure, there has been a fair

amount of remediation activity since the last City Council meeting

22 State St: Awaiting fencing and landscaping.

81 State St: Awaiting fencing, landscaping, and punch-list items.

65 Genesee St: Mostly complete except for ROW on Genesee St due

to fiber optics; also awaiting asphalt, fencing and landscaping.

42 Jackson St: Awaiting sidewalk and asphalt driveway installation

38 Jackson St: Partly remediated; site being used to haul material to

and from rear of 34 and 28/30 Jackson St on construction road lined

with timbermats.

40 Jackson St: Complete but awaiting asphalt, sidewalks and

landscaping

34 Jackson St: Excavation complete; restoration in progress (sod

installed)

28/30 Jackson St: Excavation complete; completed drainage system;

restoration in progress.

90 Center St: Trees removed; began excavation in street ROW and

along east property line to install drainage system and tie into storm

sewer system.

3. NYSDEC’s “Look ahead”

NYSDEC intends to continue excavation of 90 Center, and continue

remedial work along Jackson Street, on east side of Center St, then move

back to 88 Center and up toward State St.

NYSDEC anticipates conducting excavations through late October with

final restoration in November (assuming asphalt plants and sod farm

remain open until Thanksgiving).

NYSDEC will be mobilizing a second excavation crew on east side of

Exchange Street when returning to continue remedial actions during

spring 2018, with the first crew expected to resume remediation of design

parcels west of Exchange Street.

C. Work at the “Boundary Sampling” Sites

o NYSDEC continues to prepare screening parcel sampling maps and

review/validate the analytical data.

o The City has requested a detailed update on the boundary sampling

D. Foundry Remediation

{H3137652.1} 3

NYSDEC has approved the Remedial Action Work Plan (RAWP) and the

Community Participation Plan (CPP) pursuant to the Brownfield Cleanup

Agreement the City executed with NYSDEC, both of which are available in

the Library.

NYSDEC recently approved a Grading Plan, which will be implemented once

the remediation work is completed.

The City intends to commence the work this fall, which will start with

additional sampling at the Foundry.

Clr. Hagerman said he has witnessed and heard from residents that Jessica has gone over and above what was expected of her in this role. Jessica Avila provided the following foundry engagement update: “This week marks a benchmark for my foundry liaison role. As of today, every home has been visited as part of our direct outreach strategy. I am appreciative to the Foundry Action Committee for their list of recommendations, and I was able to take this list directly to the residents to calibrate what specific residents would like to see and what their needs were. I have visited every residential property in the Foundry Area. I visited 165 homes where I was able to sit down and talk to the residents. And gave them:

• Information packets about our programs, my business card, and other contact phone numbers like DEC, DOH, and the consultant team. The text for these were in both English and Spanish.

• I have given out 20 Bark Park applications for homes that were interested in the membership to the Bark Park.

• There are 32 residents who are interested in receiving raised beds in early spring. The current budget and future allocations will support this.

• It has been a great experience and I look forward to continuing the conversations and sharing of information with them.

I left contact information at 54 homes when someone was not available. An average of 65 households have visited both the Farmers Market and Curbside for produce vouchers each week:

• As we know there are several residents that cannot make it on Thursday or Friday morning due to their work schedules or transportation, there are at least two households each week that I do enjoy shopping for and delivering to their homes.

• There are also some neighbors who shop for each other if they cannot make it to the markets. They just let me know who is picking up the vouchers, it’s great to see networks of neighbors working together.

One need suggested by the Foundry Action Committee was coordination of supervised play. We extended this offer to affected households, and worked to determine what would work best for them. Ultimately, only one household confirmed the need very late in the season. We will begin now to work toward developing a more responsive framework for next year’s offering. This work has been tough, but very necessary. As a foundry-impact area resident myself, I was able to speak to the residents, as a neighbor. There were emotional conversations, angry conversations, and conversations during which we shared our hope for the future of our homes and our neighborhood. I am dedicated to continuing this work for the duration of the remediation. My next steps are to target homes that have not turned in their access agreements to DEC. We want to make sure that they are aware of the process, and connect them to the correct people if they have questions or are hesitant to give the DEC access to their property. I am looking forward to the next opportunities to gather direct input from residents on services for 2018. I am available at any time for your questions or whenever any of you would like an immediate update”. City Manager Horn said Jessica completed the first phase quicker than he anticipated and was impressed with the quality and volume of data compiled during this period of time. He said Clr. Valentino reached out and asked what the goal is or what a picture of success would look like in 2018. Staff would like to schedule a Foundry Work Session in the foundry neighborhood with City Council so that Council can hear

directly from those residents of what they would like to see happen moving into 2018. This will be an opportunity for residents to ask questions, give feedback and for staff to assemble some themes so that they can have a clear direct picture of residents’ needs. Jessica will be available for translation if necessary and staff will provide activities for children, in an effort to lower as many barriers as possible to getting people there. Staff will make arrangements to schedule this Work Session on Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at St. Francis @6:00pm. Clr. Valentino said this is a good idea and he would like to see the focus be on Council listening to residents and limiting feedback and dialogue to the people that are living in the contaminated environment right now.

3. PROCLAMATION HONORING RESTORATION OF WASHINGTON STREET CEMETERY ARCH

Mayor Alcock presented John Brennan with a Proclamation honoring the reinstallation of Washington Street Cemetery Arch. He recognized the efforts of the Geneva Historical Society, the Founders Square Neighborhood Association, the many philanthropic donors and the City crews that supported the restoration and reinstallation of the Washington Street Cemetery Arch. John Brennan read the following: “Whereas, the Geneva City Council has identified “cultivating pride of place” and “talent capitalization” among our imperatives for success; and, Whereas, even though the City Manager did say at one time, the best place was at the bottom of the lake; and, Whereas, since Geneva can only be equal to the sum of its parts; and, Now, Therefore it be Resolved that John Brennan, on behalf of the Geneva Historical Society (and others) is hereby authorized and directed to say a hearty and sincere thank you to a cast of characters at top levels led by Charlie Blowers, Mark Perry and Will Czaplak and the Honorable members of this City Council (and a few previous ones) led by his Honor Mayor Ronald Alcock and the proprietor and staff of the Anthony Aiesi Fabrication Studio for a magnificent and superior job of the repair and installation of the Washington Street Cemetery Arch, indeed, Geneva’s oldest public monument, and the continued efforts of caring people such as yourselves, will provide to the City of Geneva a healthy and glorious future. Thank you”.

4. PRESENTATIONS: MARSH CREEK RESOURCE RECOVERY PARK City Manager Horn said both Jesse and Sidney spent the bulk of their summer developing a feasibility study and business plan to do something to transform the Marsh Creek Resource Recovery Park into a place where people can celebrate environmental sustainability from regional landfills. He said they worked with contractors, consultants, fellow students, institutions, etc., of whom he has received phone calls from stating he has hired two of the smartest and hard-working people they have ever worked with.

Jesse Singleton, HWS senior student and Sidney Mittiga, Geneva High senior, both natives of Geneva provided an overview of their compilation of research and recommendations (see attached presentation).

Jesse thanked City Council for allowing them the time to speak tonight with a special thanks to Jacob Fox from Organix Green Industries; Maureen Baratellli, Marketing and Design Consultant and his partner and colleague Sidney Mittiga. Sidney extended a special thanks to Jesse who she said has been very fun to work with and has become a great friend, to Jim Carpenter, Head Engineer on this project who has been a

tremendous help with cost estimations and more and a final “thank you” to Mr. Horn for allowing them this great opportunity to become so environmentally active in our community.

SCOTT LAFARO ART INSTALLATION Sage Gerling said the Public Art Committee has already seen this presentation and is in full support of it and recommended this team present to City Council prior to embarking on such a large fundraising effort. This team is eager to receive Council feedback. Both Kevin Dunn and Ted Aub, HWS Political Science Professors presented to City Council their vision of creating a larger than life statue of Scott LaFaro in the format of a Plaza located downtown near Scott LaFaro Drive and the Smith Opera House that would honor Geneva’s rich tradition in music and arts. Professor Aub displayed a sample of the life-size sculpture that they hope to exhibit downtown. He reminded Council that Scott LaFaro was one of the greatest jazz musicians of the 20th Century who died tragically very young. Professor Dunn said the plaza will be designed as a multi-use plaza where formal or informal music performances can take place. They’re currently working on logistics and fundraising. He added Scott’s family is also very involved in this process. Jeffrey Blankenship, HWS Assistant Director of Art and Architecture shared a preliminary drawing of the proposed plaza and site to be located at the northeast corner of Seneca and Scott LaFaro Drive near the public parking lot off of Seneca Street, noting the City may lose a couple of parking spaces. The proposal calls for a slightly raised platform of about 16” (4 rising steps) about street level. Professor Aub (designer of the statue) said the 7’ sculpture would be cast in bronze and will cost approximately $80,000, noting he and Professor Blankenship will offer their services at no charge as their gift to the City of Geneva. He added this speaks to our cultural heritage and will make a great destination point downtown. When Clr. D’Amico asked if this would reduce sidewalk space, Professor Blankenship said there will be no adjustment necessary to sidewalk space. Clr. Hagerman said he thinks this is an exciting proposal and a lot of work has gone into creating this model. He doesn’t foresee an issue with parking spaces and feels this would be a great focal point. Clr. Valentino complimented the group on their thoughts and efforts and thinks this is quite unique.

5. PUBLIC HEARINGS: SALE OF CITY-0WNED PROPERTIES

Mayor Alcock opened Public Hearing at 8:10pm for the following properties:

• 21 HILLCREST AVENUE

• 97 HILLCREST AVENUE

• 43 HUMBERT STREET

• HUMBERT STREET, LOT#90.15-3-62 David Haight said he wants to keep 21 Hillcrest Avenue as an owner-occupied property. He said he understands that there’s some discussion that an investor might buy it and he wants to say “no” to that. As no other persons of interest came forward, Mayor Alcock closed Public Hearing at 8:11pm.

6. CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Eddington; seconded by Clr. Gramling MOVED THAT the minutes of the Regular August 2, 2017 meeting be approved

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

7. CORRESPONDENCE The City Clerk reported the following: On August 8, 2017, a Summons Notice for Rite Aid Corporation – Tax Certiorari Action was filed against the City of Geneva Board of Assessment Review. Claim alleges illegal, unequal and excessive assessment of property known as 420 Hamilton Street, Tax #104.18-3-53. On August 11, 2017, a Summons Notice for Guardian Glass was filed against the City of Geneva Board of Assessment Review. Clam alleges unequal, excessive and misclassification of assessment of property.

On August 12, 2017, a Summons Notice for Geneva Land, LLC was filed against the City of Geneva Board of Assessment Review. Claim alleges unequal and excessive assessments for properties known as 1 White Springs Road and White Springs Road Tax year 2017-2018. On August 15, 2017, a Summons Notice for Autozone was filed against the City of Geneva Board of Assessment Review. Claim alleges unequal and excessive assessment of property known as 462 Hamilton Street.

8. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Alcock opened Public Comment at 8:12pm. Jim Meaney, 102 North Street. Mr. Meaney said the Geneva Foundry disaster has been a trying time in the recent history of the City, most importantly for the many families who live in the contamination zone around the former Foundry site. Since the contamination was first made public last October, the City has engaged in a series of blunders in addressing the concerns and fears of those affected by the contamination that the City knew about for more than 20 years but kept it a secret. The reasons for the lack of notification is still a mystery to everyone, as the official stance of the City has gone from “we lacked the expertise to know what the test results meant, so we didn’t tell anyone” to the sudden claim that the City was prevented from disclosure due to a confidentiality clause in their contract with the DEC. Foiled documents showed that consultants hired by the City informed officials that the test results did show an inherent danger to

residents, which was big lie number one, and then the DEC issued statements that made it clear that no such clause existed, which was big lie number two. While the recent catastrophic equipment failure at the Marsh Creek Waste Water Treatment Plant that resulted in 5,000 gallons of untreated sewage did not present as much of a direct danger to the health of City residents as the Foundry disaster, it provided an opportunity for the City to show that they have learned from the mistakes made in the handling of the Foundry disaster over the past 11 months. Sadly, the City’s response made it clear that when it comes to environmental hazards faced by lower-income residents of Geneva, they would prefer to engage in damage control rather than pro-actively and transparently informing the public. An internal email was sent after the spill to all of Council downplaying the event and never mentioning it wasn’t just an ordinary sewage spill but the contamination of a residential stream that flows through Ward 6. He said residents should have been given at least a “heads up”. Just over 24 hours after the spill, 100+ people gathered around Gulvin Park for a softball game and had no idea that the nearby creek was contaminated with untreated sewage. A few days later, the City’s response was to talk about how the spill wouldn’t have much of an impact on the lakefront. When the people of Ward 6 were wondering why nobody told them about the spill, the City was busy letting everyone know that the lake and our newly renovated multi-million- dollar lakefront was going to be okay. That says a lot about the real priorities of this Council. He said here we are at a time when City officials are trying to rebuild the trust of residents and do what’s right in relation to the Foundry, and once again, you’ve shown that you have no clue about how to rebuild this broken trust. If it had been Castle Street that suffered a toxic spill and sent contamination flowing through the backyards of quarter-million-dollar homes rather than 60 thousand-dollar homes along Wadsworth instead of next to Gulvin Park, he’d have to wonder if the City would have been more proactive in at least issuing some kind of warning. On second thought, he said, he doesn’t have to wonder, he already knows the answer. As no other persons of interest came forward, Mayor Alcock closed Public Comment at 8:16pm.

9. ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 273 OF THE GENEVA MUNICIPAL CODE – SANITARY CODE, 2ND

READING

City Manager Horn presented the following ordinance: WHEREAS, the City of Geneva’s Comprehensive Plan charges Council with taking actions to support

livability in Geneva’s neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, City Council created the College Area Livability Task Force to support initiatives that enhance

quality of life in the neighborhoods surrounding Hobart and William Smith Colleges; and

WHEREAS, the Task Force has been working with residents to identify issues that denigrate neighborhood

conditions; and

WHEREAS, the Task Force has identified the exterior use and storage of furniture and other items

principally designed for interior use as a blight on neighborhood properties; and

WHEREAS, such use results in the rapid deterioration of such items, and can lead to mold, insect

infestation, and other unsanitary conditions; and

WHEREAS, the Task Force seeks to amend the Code to prohibit such use.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Geneva City Council, hereby and in due form, does

amend Chapter 273 of the Geneva Municipal Code as follows:

§ 273-11 Dumping (Amended to Read):

No person shall dump and/or store any trash/recyclables or organic waste upon any property, public or

private, including his/her own, or place furniture and other materials principally designed for interior use in

exterior locations including porches and lawns, in the City of Geneva, except for the purposes of

composting, waiting for trash/recyclables pickup by a licensed hauler, or the biennial setting out of

landscape waste for municipal pick-up as set out in § 273-7 and 273-10.

This change to become effective on two readings by the Geneva City Council.

FIRST READING: August 2, 2017

RESOLVED this 6th day of September, 2017

Based on the recommendation of the College Livability Task Force, City Manager Horn said this

amendment reinstitutes prohibition of materials designed for interior use to be used outside. There has

been no change since first reading.

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Eddington; seconded by Clr. Valentino MOVED THAT this ordinance be approved for second reading and adoption


10. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALE OF CITY – OWNED PROPERTY – 3683 COUNTY ROAD 6

City Manager Horn presented the following resolution:

WHEREAS, the City of Geneva owns real property at 3683 Country Road 6 tax map # 119-1-67.110; and

WHEREAS, the Geneva City Council has deemed that the property no longer serves a public purpose

and should be sold to an adjacent property owner; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on the potential sale of this property on August 2, 2017; and WHEREAS, the sale of this property is determined to be in the best interest of the City of Geneva,

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Geneva City Council, hereby and in due form, directs the City Manager and City Attorney to prepare and execute documents necessary to affect the sale of property at 3683 Country Road 6 tax map #119-1-67.110 to Jason Feinberg for $3,000.

RESOLVED this 6th day of September, 2017.

City Manager Horn said it has been determined that this property would serve a higher community development purpose by being sold to an adjacent property owner. He said the sale of this property would restore it to taxable status. Proceeds will be appropriated to the undesignated General Fund balance.

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Eddington; seconded by Clr. Greco

MOVED THAT this resolution be approved MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

11. RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING PUBLIC HEARING – 2018 GENERAL, WATER, AND SEWER FUND

BUDGETS

City Manager Horn presented the following resolution: WHEREAS, City Council has received the City Manager’s budget proposal for 2018; and

http://ecode360.com/10596251#10596251

http://ecode360.com/10596256#10596256

WHEREAS, the City Charter calls for the scheduling of a Public Hearing to hear comment on the budget

proposal in advance of budget adoption.

WHEREAS, City Council anticipates adopting the 2018 budget at a special meeting on October 25th, 2017.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Geneva City Council, hereby and in due form does set a

Public Hearing on the City Manager’s Budget proposal for 2018 for 7:00 p.m. on October 4, 2017.


City Manager Horn’s budget proposal was presented to Council at a Special Work Session in August and this hearing is set for the regular Council Meeting in October.

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Valentino; seconded by Clr. Greco MOVED THAT this resolution be approved


12. RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING PUBLIC HEARING – LOCAL LAW OVERRIDING PROPERTY TAX CAP

City Manager Horn presented the following resolution: WHEREAS, City Council has identified “Sustainability”, “Economic Prosperity”, and “Social Equity” as

Strategic Imperatives for Success; and

WHEREAS, the 2018 budget calls for an investment plan to address each of these imperatives; and

WHEREAS, revenues necessary to fund these investments include property tax revenues that may exceed

a statutory cap set by the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, override of the property tax cap will require adoption of a local law, and holding of a

corresponding public hearing.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Geneva City Council, hereby and in due form, does

establish a public hearing to receive comment on the property tax cap and use of the override mechanism,

and directs the City Manager to schedule the hearing for October 4, 2017 at 7:00 p.m.


As presented in the budget proposal, City Manager Horn said the levy does not exceed the statutory property tax cap. He said although it is close, and the State law requires City Council to enact a local law if the adopted tax levy will exceed the amount prescribed by the statutory formula, this is hearing is set for the regular Council meeting in October for the purpose of a precautionary override.

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Valentino; seconded by Clr. Eddington MOVED THAT this resolution be approved


13. RESOLUTION DECLARING LONG PIER EXTENSION AS AN UNLISTED ACTION AND AUTHORIZING CITY COUNCIL AS LEAD AGENCY Sage Gerling presented the following resolution: WHEREAS, the City of Geneva intends to construct Access Improvements to Seneca Lake Phase IV Project: Long Pier Extension, and; WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Geneva has expressed its interest and intention to undertake an environmental assessment of the proposed adoption under the auspices of the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act ("SEQRA”); and WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the proposed adoption qualifies as an Unlisted Action under SEQRA. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Geneva, New York that the Access Improvements to Seneca Lake Phase IV Project: Long Pier Extension is classified as an Unlisted Action pursuant to SEQRA and further consents to act as Lead Agency and to perform such coordinated review with other potentially involved agencies as required. RESOLVED this 6th day of September, 2017. Sage Gerling said this is the Environmental Review for the Long Pier Extension and Review of Parts 1 and 2, Environmental Assessment Forms (EAF). Before declaring the City as Lead Agency, a review was sent out to agencies that need to be involved such as, Office of General Services, DEC, US Army Corps of Engineers, US Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Services, Department of Services, Office of Coastal, Local Government and Community Sustainability and Seneca County Manager’s Office and all responses were affirmative to go ahead with this.

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Greco; seconded by Clr. Valentino MOVED THAT this resolution be approved


14. RESOLUTION DECLARING LONG PER EXTENSION AS HAVING NO ADVERSE IMPACT

Sage Gerling presented the following resolution: WHEREAS, the City of Geneva intends to construct Access Improvements to Seneca Lake Phase IV Project: Long Pier Extension, and; WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Geneva, as Lead Agency, has determined that the Access Improvements to Seneca Lake Phase IV Project: Long Pier Extension qualifies as an Unlisted Action under SEQRA; and WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the action will not result in any adverse environmental impacts. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Geneva, New York that the Access Improvements to Seneca Lake Phase IV Project: Long Pier Extension, an Unlisted Action pursuant to SEQRA, will result in no adverse environmental impacts. RESOLVED this 6th day of September, 2017 Sage Gerling outlined Parts 1 which refers to the project, approvals that are needed, the land uses and potential development, etc. and Part 2 is the actual determination in which staff feel will not have any adverse impacts for this extension. When Clr. Camera asked whether there will be a pump out station, Ms. Gerling said there is one there now but not currently in use. Clr. Camera would like it to be in a very easy place for boaters to get to, so that they can be encouraged to use them. He asked how the 300ft will terminate, specifically if there is a feature at the end. Ms. Gerling said there will be a beacon light but it’s still in the design stage and she has not seen what the actual structure will look like. Clr. Camera suggested the possibility of a small wetland at the end in hopes of sheltering some additional wildlife, noting it could be very attractive. Clr. Eddington suggested utilizing the old lighthouse tower in that area. Clr. Valentino asked, by passing this resolution, if it would preempt us from reaching out for any support for this project in terms of funding. City Manager Horn said it would not, but that it just cements our environmental review for the State process – this does not preclude us from applying for Federal funds.

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Valentino; seconded by Clr. Hagerman MOVED THAT this resolution be approved


15. RESOLUTION DECLARING CERTAIN ITEMS AS SURPLUS

City Manager Horn presented the following resolution: WHEREAS, the City of Geneva no longer has use for the following items:

• X4 FUJI Police Mountain Bikes

- 1CFJ8J00709

- 1CFJ8L05090

- 1CF8A16787

- 1CF8A16674

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Geneva, New York, that the above equipment be declared surplus property, and

FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED the proceeds from the sale surplus equipment be placed in the Equipment Amortization Fund Account.

RESOLVED this 6th day of September, 2017. City Manager Horn said these are all police mountain bikes proposed to be auctioned. Proceeds will be applied to the Equipment Amortization Fund. Clr. Valentino asked if there is another avenue, such as donation or a reuse. City Manager Horn said staff can pursue every avenue and he will follow up on this with the Bicycle Center.

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Eddington; seconded by Clr. Greco MOVED THAT this resolution be approved


16. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALE OF CITY – OWNED PROPERTY, 21 HILLCREST AVENUE


WHEREAS, the City of Geneva owns real property at 21 Hillcrest Ave, tax map # 104.6-3-36; and

WHEREAS, the Geneva City Council has deemed that the property no longer serves a public purpose and should be sold at auction; and

WHEREAS, a public auction was held for this property; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on the potential sale of this property on August 2, 2017; and WHEREAS, disposal of this property is determined to be in the best interest of the City of Geneva,

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Geneva City Council, hereby and in due form, directs the City Manager and City Attorney to prepare and execute documents necessary to affect the sale of property at 21 Hillcrest Ave, tax map # 104.6-3-36.


~ AND ~

17. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALE OF CITY – OWNED PROPERTY, 97 HILLCREST AVENUE


WHEREAS, the City of Geneva owns real property at 97 Hillcrest Ave, tax map # 104.6-4-38; and

WHEREAS, the Geneva City Council has deemed that the property no longer serves a public purpose and should be sold at auction; and

WHEREAS, a public auction was held for this property; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on the potential sale of this property on August 2, 2017; and WHEREAS, disposal of this property is determined to be in the best interest of the City of Geneva,

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Geneva City Council, hereby and in due form, directs the City Manager and City Attorney to prepare and execute documents necessary to affect the sale of property at 97 Hillcrest Ave, tax map # 104.6-4-38.


~ AND ~

18. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALE OF CITY – OWNED PROPERTY, 43 HUMBERT STREET


WHEREAS, the City of Geneva owns real property at 43 Humbert St, tax map # 90.15-3-58; and

WHEREAS, the Geneva City Council has deemed that the property no longer serves a public purpose and should be sold to an adjacent property owner; and

WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on the potential sale of this property on August 2, 2017; and WHEREAS, disposal of this property is determined to be in the best interest of the City of Geneva,

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Geneva City Council, hereby and in due form, directs the City Manager and City Attorney to prepare and execute documents necessary to affect the sale of property at 43 Humbert St, tax map # 90.15-3-58.


~ AND ~

19. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALE OF CITY – OWNED PROPERTY, HUMBERT STREET LOT, #90.15-3-62 City Manager Horn presented the following resolution:

WHEREAS, the City of Geneva owns real property at Humbert St - Lot, tax map # 90.15-3-62; and

WHEREAS, the Geneva City Council has deemed that the property no longer serves a public purpose and should be sold to an adjacent property owner; and

WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on the potential sale of this property on August 2, 2017; and WHEREAS, disposal of this property is determined to be in the best interest of the City of Geneva,

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Geneva City Council, hereby and in due form, directs the City Manager and City Attorney to prepare and execute documents necessary to affect the sale of property at Humbert St - Lot, tax map # 90.15-3-62.


ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Valentino; seconded by Clr. Eddington MOVED THAT items XI. G-J be approved in a block


Adam Blowers said property 21 Hillcrest Avenue will be sold for $72,000; 97 Hillcrest Avenue sold for $59,000 – both are under stipulation and deed restriction that it has to be owner-occupied. The 21 Hillcrest Avenue property will be bought, renovated and sold to someone, adding under the stipulation – it cannot be rented out. When Clr. Valentino asked if the stipulation carries to the new owner, Mr. Blowers said the stipulation carries with the property for five years no matter who owns it. Property 97 Hillcrest Avenue will be sold to a family intending to downsize. Property 43 Humbert Street will be sold for $1,000 to a property

owner who has an adjacent property to this property which was demolished. The Humbert Street vacant lot will be sold for $750 so that the buyer can gain some additional space. Referring to Mr. Haight who commented earlier tonight, Clr. Valentino said Mr. Haight was concerned about other people do work at the 21 Hillcrest Avenue property. City Manager Horn said staff made the award to the bidders on the site and after they made that award, both bidders asked for the opportunity to do some work on the properties to get it moving along. They were advised that it was all “at risk” and they had to indemnify the City. The City crews however cleared yard debris that was left on the site.

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Valentino; seconded by Clr. Eddington MOVED THAT these resolutions be approved


20. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Alcock opened Public Comment at 8:40pm.

Charles King, Washington Street. Mr. King encouraged Council to take a look at the Long Pier Extension in the area that is blocked by the boat docks, as it looks like a negative growth area with stagnant water. His concern is that it might be an eyesore for the lakefront. Unidentified Speaker. With regard to the Long Pier with boats coming in and out of the extension, he questioned whether the additional boat traffic was considered as part of the environmental review. Sage Gerling said another SEQRA Review will be done once we know how many slips and what the actual configuration will be. In terms of the 2018 budget, he said it was helpful to hear the presentation but has received some feedback that they’re having a hard time understanding or accessing the budget. He wondered if there will be any additional effort to further explain the contents of the document. City Manager Horn said in additional to Council work sessions and the public hearing, staff is always available for conversation. He added if there is something that is wholly misunderstood, we can definitely do some outreach on that. The Speaker said although the Citizen’s Guide is helpful, he recommended a more built out clarification, because it doesn’t convey the same detail as the full budget. Jeff Henderson, 399 S. Main Street. Mr. Henderson said there has been a row house located across the street from where he lives that has been vacant for at least seven years or more. He said it is slowly deteriorating, noting it was purchased by a contractor that lives in Brooklyn. He said the house needs a lot of work. It is in terrible condition, is an eyesore, becoming very dangerous and is a health hazard. City Manager Horn said today the occupied building has the same standard as the unoccupied building. He said it can be reported by using See Click Fix, by reaching out to the Fire Department directly or to him so they can engage with the owner directly to at least get the minimum amount done. He added staff is evaluating the development of a vacant building registry, which will add a layer of local contact or local interaction to be sure people are not just buying property and walking away from it. As no other persons of interest came forward, Mayor Alcock closed Public Comment at 8:45pm.

21. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS

Clr. Eddington reported the following:

• Zoning Board – approved a variance request at 90 Center Street for a 6ft high fence where only a 4” high fence is allowed. Also approved relief to a 2½’ high requirement in the corner for site distance consideration due to being a dead-end street; 6ft was allowed as relief to the shrubs and trees that are going to be removed as part of the remediation project. The fence will be used as a buffering to the F industrial zoning block. Received confirmation from Zoning Board that a recent sub-commission at 512 S. Main Street was conforming.

Clr. Camera reported the following:

• Trump Statement. Clr. Camera read the following: “For a while now I have had the feeling that some of our residents are wondering about this City Council and where it stands in matters of race relations and equal justice given recent positions taken by our president. I am pretty sure that they don’t have anything to fear from this CC, but I am going to speak out for myself so it is clear where I stand. President Trump is so dangerous in his ignorance, temperament, and lack of moral character that Steve Schmidt, the former head of John McCain’s 2007 campaign for president and a Republican Party strategist called for every elected Republican official down to the local level to disavow their support and repudiate his presidency. Just because I am a registered Democrat doesn’t mean that I should be left out. Trump’s defense of the bad behavior of Nazis, KKKers, and white supremacists in Charlottesville and yesterday’s directive on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) - a move to expel 800,000 people of color from our country are two more indications that he is unfit to lead this Country. He has no concept of our nation’s values or history and is unprepared for this high office. Thank God his national security team is honorable and intact. Given the state of international affairs, hopefully, they will re-double their efforts to contain him while the case for his removal is prepared. So you ask, why does a two-bit, locally elected, part-time, City Councilor in Geneva, NY need to say anything about the presidency and national politics? Well, one facet of my role as a public servant is to assure that, at least, I respect and seek factual information as a precedent for making or supporting public policy. I have tried to anchor my positions and votes on facts not feelings, not the personalities of my colleagues, but rather by the content and merits of their arguments. I can always do better. And the citizens of Geneva deserve to have a voice in a local and inclusive government, in which their input and participation is welcomed and seriously considered in our deliberations and actions. This is the juncture in history, with this president in particular, when all citizens and local officials might want to share a similar purpose: oppose the Trump presidency, its tacit support of this country’s hate groups, its attack on the free press, and its disregard of the facts while we, residents and CC together, pursue fact-based solutions to local issues and problems. Making this effort everyday will enhance our decision-making process and improve on-going civil collaboration in this community. Simultaneously, by doing this, we will preserve and reflect a better example of good governance at this already failed presidency and the current sorry state of many important departments in our Federal government”.

• Lafayette Avenue Reconstruction I noticed in the 2018 Budget Draft that was circulated by Staff last week that under Capital Improvement Plans, the Lafayette Ave reconstruction – “Resurfacing, Curb, and Drainage” - has been moved back from 2018 to 2020. I have been a City Councilor of the 4th Ward going on six years and have never advocated or lobbied for special treatment for the street I live on. I did not feel that was appropriate and not the reason that I got elected… to essentially, “get mine.” When I came on board CC after the 2008 election I tried to learn about the issues and advocate for things that would improve the prospects for all Genevans, not just me and not just my own Ward. Starting with the 2015 Capital Improvement Plan (in the CC Budget document), I was heartened to see that Lafayette Ave had made it into the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan. It completely made sense. One would have to be blind not to notice that most of Lafayette Ave is in very bad shape - no curbs, many sunken drainage catch basins, multiple patches with many over places where water mains have had to be repaired and black-topped areas above the curb-line (between the sidewalk and the curb) where some residents can park their cars. Lafayette clearly needed a do-over and it was gratifying to see that the City’s street repair process – the convergence of leaking pipes, bad curbs, and bad drainage – had finally identified this street for rehab. Please correct

me if I am wrong, but I think we approved the City budget 3 times with Lafayette Ave. slated for rehab in 2018? Now I see in the proposed 2018 Budget draft’s Capital Improvement Plan Section, Lafayette Ave reconstruction has been postponed to the 2020 Budget year. I think this is unfair to the residents of Lafayette Ave and we all deserve a public explanation of why other projects have now been placed ahead of this one.

• Sewage Spill Into Marsh Creek

Are there things to learn from this mishap? Of course there are. And we as stewards of the north end of Seneca Lake need to do this quite openly and welcome public input. Lessons that I may suggest include the obvious ones:

• Indications are that in the backup system there were a couple of failures of equipment and

sensors. Perhaps a recommissioning of the sensors and SCADA should be initiated given the

fact that much of the pumping equipment is new and recently installed.

• Should there be video monitoring of the critical remote pumping stations’ equipment rooms?

• Given that Marsh Creek runs through a City playground and some populated neighborhoods

should the City develop a posting system for City residents.

• Perhaps the City should not rely on the DEC alert system to notify the Parks Commission. It

takes too long for the message to filter down to State Park officials. Perhaps instead there is a

cost-effective way to implement our own warning system directly to local Seneca Lake State

Park officials while simultaneously trigger the DEC alert.

• Are there ways to test Seneca Lake water in key locations at our intake and outflow points and

make these data available to our residents and the public in general on a regular basis similar

to the way that FLI’s Seneca Lake Water Quality Buoy presents mid-lake water conditions.

I am sure City staff can think of more. I also, think that given the impacts of Hurricane Harvey on the Southwest Texas lowlands, we should consider stepping back a bit and looking at some ways a regional disaster or flood could impact our City and the WWTP and WTP. Beaumont, Tx is going on a week without potable water service for over 100,000 residents. Maybe we should ask ourselves some bigger “what if” questions:

• What, if any, are some potential threats to our ability to process water or treat our effluent?

• Have we ever done a risk assessment?

• Is a risk assessment necessary?

I know that when the Geneva area experienced some very heavy rains a couple of years ago, significant flooding of buildings’ basements on Linden St. as well as the boiler and dressing rooms of the SOH occurred. So, I have to ask:

• Is our Cemetery Creek conduit study and ensuing work going to solve this potential problem in

the future?

• Does the scope of our investigation of the Cemetery Creek situation need to be expanded?

• Are there still some broken sewer lines in the vicinity that are cross-connecting with storm

sewers that are involved?

• How can the City be more pro-active about this situation?

• Are we going to renovate with DRI money these areas of the SOH and still let them continue to

be exposed to flooding?

• Scruffy Downtown - Brick Inlays on Downtown Sidewalks. I have on more than one occasion

mentioned and circulated my position on the general appearance of the central downtown section of

the City of Geneva. Back in 2015 I circulated a paper that documented the “scruffy” appearance of

downtown and my suggestions for addressing these conditions. One of the areas that I identified as

needing significant attention were those brick areas of the downtown sidewalks. The only thing that

came of this paper was the City making a place in the City Budget called “Detailing” taken from the

paper with small allocations of monies to the BID to implement projects to clean up the central core.

Recently, I have become aware that the City is now starting to ask downtown property owners to repair

the brick sections of the sidewalk when a property is sold. I am not sure that the approach we are

taking in the neighborhoods (fixing sidewalks at the time of property sales works for downtown). The

neighborhoods can tolerate this incremental approach, but not downtown. Virtually all the areas of

inlaid brick downtown present a problem for pedestrians with numerous trip points in the transition line

between brick and pavement in addition to many sunken and rutty areas. I think we should declare a

moratorium on this policy for downtown because it should be addressed all at once and is partly the

result of the City’s own installation. In my opinion, these brick areas need to be addressed

systematically and with a new theme and pattern of brick which requires a City-wide government

solution and not one that falls on individual shop-owners.

City Manager Horn said we’ve already pulled back from enforcement on the brick and anyone who was

charged to do that in recent days or weeks has been asked to hold off and keep their repairs to the

concrete sidewalk itself.

• Working Session - Trash Haulers He reminded the public to attend the Trash Hauler Work Session on Wednesday, September 20, 2017 at 6:00pm at the Public Safety Building.

Clr. Hagerman reported the following:

• BID – Clr. Hagerman said their undergoing interviews and still accepting applications for an Executive Director position.

• Recapped Cruisin’ Night event – successful event with monetary gain. Clr. Greco reported the following:

• 9/11 Ceremony – Seneca Lake Long Pier at 10:00am. He thanked Doris Myers, Lori Guinan and Kevin Powers for all the work that they do for this event.

• Dumping Waste – he said there has to be a better way of covering this contaminated soil other than by placing a canvass over it. He said it’s a mess, especially when the wind blows and the canvass blows off. City Manager Horn said staff has talked with the DEC and he will apply some pressure to get a much more local contact.

Clr. Valentino reported the following:

• Telephone Calls – Clr. Valentino said he has received several phone calls in the last month and he compliments Matt, Neal and their staff for their quick response and some of the best actions on those issues.

• Events Center – he would like to be able to show the community a timeline in terms of what’s going on and what the outcome is going to be. He added he would like to do something similar with DRI projects as well.

Clr. D’Amico reported the following:

• Farmer’s Market – he had an opportunity to meet with Matt at the Farmer’s Market and it was a very friendly and fluent atmosphere. He added he saw Jessica interacting with residents and folks down there and it was very engaging, noting he plans to spend more time at the Farmer’s Market.

• 2018 Budget – Clr. D’Amico publicly complimented Matt and his management team for rolling out the fastest budget process he has seen without a tax increase.

• Planning Board -met on August 21st. Unanimously approved an Architectural Review to construct a 6,000sqft building at the Ag Tech Building. Tabled approval for Charlie Bauder to purchase a building on Crystal Street until he can provide a little more information.

• Geneva Housing Authority Meeting – he attended the meeting in Clr. Greco’s absence. For all their properties, they have a 93% occupancy rate. Executive Director, Andy Tyman will meet with Mary Krause regarding a County housing plan. Director Tyman is a member on a committee looking to sell the De Sales Building, sent 125 RFP’s and received no responses. Both the Geneva Housing and Elmcrest Buildings tested “negative” for contamination.

• LDC met today – Sage Gerling gave a presentation on Race for Space. (first recipient, Lake Drum Brewery). Still taking applications until October 24th, winner to be notified on December 7th. Sage Gerling and Rhonda Everdyke are working on putting together an award package.

Clr. Marino reported the following:

• Historic South – held another successful annual Moonshadow Over Pulteney Park event this year. She thanked Jim and Jennifer Spates for their leadership and attention to details and everyone else from Historic South and City staff who helped make that event possible.

• Livability Task Force – set goals for upcoming year, next meeting is September 25th at 6:00pm at City Hall.

• Coffee Hour – at L & R. She thanked Clr. Camera for joining her and she will hold another coffee hour in October.

• Founders Square Annual Good Neighbor Day – Sunday, September 17th and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, they will host activities. The Washington Cemetery Arch is going to be rededicated during that time. Everyone is welcome to attend. She invited the Mayor to come and read a Proclamation. As the Mayor will be out of town on that day, he deferred to Deputy Mayor Greco.

Clr. Gramling reported the following:

• Clr. Gramling said though social media, he will continue trying to keep folks updated. He added through his own personal experience and experience through this process with the DEC, he is happy with the process and impressed with how organized and quickly remediation is moving along.

• Tools for Social Change – they have started dialogues on training regarding the Economic Opportunity Task Force to begin developing programming, which is inclusive in the Comp Plan.

Mayor Alcock reported he will be on vacation for the next two weeks and Deputy Mayor Greco will act in his capacity.

22. CITY MANAGER REPORT City Manager Horn thanked Clr. Gramling and Sage Gerling for their work with Tools for Social Change (TFSC) on the Let’s Talk Economic Opportunity for both the model development and the roll out, specifically the challenges that we’re facing on the poverty side. He added TFSC took the initiative and began creating the framework for data gathering. There are currently 20+ people out in the community gathering this information. He recognized Chris Doak, a HWS student in his last semester has been interning in his office. He will also be a guest writer for the blog this fall taking on a monthly column from the cubicle perspective in City Hall. Farmer’s Market is ongoing and there are lots of slots left through October 19 th from 7:30am to 10:00am. He said it is an opportunity for everyone to connect and see the good work that is happening from the GNRC and the incredible support that Jessica is able to deliver. He asked any interested Councilor to please reach out to him with their availability.

He thanked Greg Woodworth from Stonybrook Whole Hearted Foods and to Ted Baker for hosting he and Greg on his radio show to talk about the Innovation Kitchen, which is up and running. He added we are moving into the shared operation phase which will launch in January, 2018. He thanked City Council and the community for their support of this initiative.

23. EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING THE PROPOSED ACQUISTION OF PUBLIC PROPERTY

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Eddington; seconded by Clr. Gramling

MOVED THAT Council move into Executive Session at 9:24pm MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Eddington; seconded by Clr. Greco

MOVED THAT Council adjourn Executive Session at 9:40pm MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

24. ADJOURNMENT

ACTION TAKEN by Clr. Valentino; seconded by Clr. Greco MOVED THAT this meeting be adjourned at 9:41pm


Documents

T H E G E N E V A C I T Y C O U N C I L JOURNAL OF PROCEEDINGScityofgenevany.com/wp-content/uploads/13-Sept-6.pdf · SCOTT LAFARO ART INSTALLATION Sage Gerling said the Public Art