HomeMy WebLinkAboutTB Minutes 2025-10-27MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD
October 27, 2025, 4:30 p.m.
215 N Tioga St.
AGENDA
ZOOM (ID 98910958241) YOUTUBE LINK
1. Public Hearings and consider adoption of:
Subject to permissive referendum:
a. The release of the existing Saponi Park parcel and the acceptance of adjacent substitute parkland
located on Seven Mile Dr., and
b. The purchase of development rights (Holmes) by conservation easement on approximately 84-acre
located on Hayts, Sheffield, and Bundy Roads with an estimated cost not to exceed $260,000.
and on the following budget related items:
c. The proposed increase to the Town of Ithaca Water Rates
d. The proposed increase to the Town of Ithaca Sewer Rents
e. The 2026 Assessment Rolls for the Special Benefit Districts and Special Benefit Areas
f. The Preliminary 2026 Town of Ithaca Budget
2. Consider Approval of 2026 Employee Wages
3. Discuss the Preliminary Budget and Consider adoption of the 2026 Town of Ithaca Budget
4. Consider award – 2025 Miscellaneous Water Main Replacement Project Phase 1
5. Committee Reports
a. Budget
b. Codes & Ordinances
c. Personnel and Organization
d. Planning
e. Public Works
f. Other
6. Consent Agenda
a. Approval of Town Board Minutes
b. Approval of Town of Ithaca Abstract
c. Approval of Bolton Point abstract
d. Approval of Holiday List
e. Approval of Snow & Ice Agreement
f. Approval of Civil Service Position – Human Resources & Finance Specialist
g. Ratify appointment of Principal Acct Clerk Typist – BP – Fisher
h. Acknowledge GTCMHIC 2026 Wage Scale and Wages
i. Setting Public Hearing regarding the repeal and replacement of Town Code Chapter 144:
Ithaca Energy Code Supplement Local Law and Chapter 250, to add Yield signs to both
entrances of one lane bridges on Forest Home Dr
j. Acknowledge receipt of Conservation Easement Annual Inspections
k. Approval of Designation and Sale of Surplus Equipment
l. Ratify Appointment of Working Supervisor – Fellows
7. Executive Session: Discuss the current litigation from Verizon Wireless pertaining to 111
Wiedmaier Ct
8. Consideration of Stipulation of Settlement and Consent Order - Town of Ithaca and Verizon
Wireless
Adjourn
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 1
MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD
October 27, 2025, 4:30 p.m.
MINUTES
Board Members Present: Rod Howe, Supervisor; Members, Susie Gutenberger, Pamela
Bleiwas, and Rob Rosen (Videoconference) Absent: Eric Levine, Rich DePaolo, Margaret
Johnson
Present: Judy Drake, Dana Magnuson, CJ Randall, Paulette Rosa, Joe Slater, Kelly Anderson,
Mike Smith, and Justin McNeal,
Mr. Howe opened the meeting at 4:30 p.m. and noted that Mr. Rosen was attending via
videoconferencing under the Town’s policy.
1. Public Hearings and consider adoption of:
Mr. Smith gave a brief overview of the first two items, noting that these have been before the
Board multiple times through the various steps of the process and this is the final approval steps
for each.
a. The release of the existing Saponi Park parcel and the acceptance of adjacent
substitute parkland located on Seven Mile Dr.
Mr. Howe opened the public hearing; there was no one wishing to speak and the hearing was
closed.
TB Resolution 2025 – 118: Authorization to Release the Existing Saponi Park Parcel to
Eddy Hill Inc. and Acceptance of Substitute Parkland from Eddy Hill Inc. for the new
Saponi Park
Whereas, the Saponi Meadows Subdivision was approved in 1994, which created Peachtree
Lane, Apple Blossom Land and Amber Lane. As part of this approval, Saponi Park was
dedicated to the Town of Ithaca in 1995 as the park land requirement. The 1994 plans showed
future phases and roads which would have continued to the south on the 21.6-acre Eddy Hill Inc.
property, filling in the gap between Peachtree Lane and the current park property; and
Whereas, the park property and the remaining Eddy Hill Inc. property have been farmed since
1994 and the current owners have stated they have no intention of developing the property into
additional residential lots; and
Whereas, the Town has not made any improvements to the park property; and
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 2
Whereas, the current landowners and the Town feel there would be substantial public benefits to
relocating the park approximately 1,100 feet to the north, adjacent to the residential development
that it went with; and
Whereas, on February 11, 2025, the Town of Ithaca and Eddy Hill Inc. signed a “Memorandum
of Understanding Respecting Park Relocation and Land Purchase and Swap Agreement”; and
Whereas, the use of designated parkland for non-park or private sector use requires that the
alienation of parkland process be undertaken with New York State Legislature; and
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca wishes to discontinue the use of the existing Saponi Park for park
and recreation purposes and wishes the New York State Legislature to authorize and empower
the Town of Ithaca to alienate Saponi Park so that the Town can acquire another property of the
same size and within 1,100 feet on the same road; and
Whereas, this is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Town Board is acting in an
uncoordinated environmental review with respect to this action and made a negative
determination of environmental significance on April 14, 2025; and
Whereas, in the summer of 2025, the Town obtained permission from the New York State
Legislature (Assembly Bill A8371 and Senate Bill S7834) and the Governor (signed August 15,
2025) to alienate the existing parkland and replace it with another property of the same size; and
Whereas, the Town Board held a duly noticed public hearing on October 27, 2025, to consider
comments from the public regarding the proposed release of the existing Saponi Park parcel to
Eddy Hill Inc. and acceptance of substitute parkland from Eddy Hill Inc. for the new Saponi
Park; now, therefore be it
Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca authorizes the release of the existing
Saponi Park parcel to Eddy Hill Inc., to accept a new parcel of the same size from Eddy Hill Inc.
for the new Saponi Park, and authorizes the Town Supervisor to execute the necessary
documents, subject to the approval of the Attorney for the Town and satisfaction of all
requirements in the adopted alienation legislation, and be it further
Resolved, that the Town pay the incidental costs (recording fees and other similar expenses) as
incurred in order to complete such closing; and be it further
Resolved, that pursuant to Section 64 (2) of Town Law, this resolution is subject to a permissive
referendum in accordance with Article 7 of Town Law (§ 90), and the Town Clerk is directed to
publish and post a notice of adoption of this resolution, within ten days of its adoption, together
with a copy or an abstract of the resolution and a notice stating it is subject to a permissive
referendum.
Moved: Susie Gutenberger Seconded: Rod Howe
Vote: ayes – Gutenberger, Howe, Bleiwas and Rosen
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 3
b. The purchase of development rights (Holmes) by conservation easement on
approximately 84-acre located on Hayts, Sheffield, and Bundy Roads with an
estimated cost not to exceed $260,000.
Mr. Howe opened the public hearing; there was no one wishing to speak and the hearing was
closed.
TB Resolution 2025 - 119: Authorization to Purchase an Agricultural Conservation
Easement on Tax Parcel No. 24.-5-1.6 (Julia Holmes Trust / Hayts, Sheffield and Bundy
Roads)
Whereas, the Town Board has adopted a Policies and Procedures Manual (July 12, 1999, updated
March 13, 2006 and January 7, 2008) with specific guidelines and criteria for implementation of
the Agricultural Land Preservation Program; and
Whereas, the owner of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24.-5-1.6 (Julia Holmes Trust / Hayts,
Sheffield and Bundy Roads) has submitted an application for the potential sale of the
development rights to the property through the purchase of an agricultural conservation easement
by the Town of Ithaca; and
Whereas, an appraisal was completed in January 2024 with the easement value determined to be
$260,000; and
Whereas, the Town has established a reserve fund for open space preservation and park and
recreation facilities, and such fund contains sufficient monies for the purpose of the acquisition
of this conservation easement; and
Whereas, a draft agricultural conservation easement and preliminary site plan have been
prepared for the project and have been presented to this Board; and
Whereas, pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (“SEQRA”) and
its implementing regulations at 6 NYCRR Part 617, it has been determined by the Town Board
that the acquisition of a conservation easement is a Type II action pursuant to 6 NYCRR Section
617.5(c)(39), and thus the acquisition of the conservation easement is not subject to review under
SEQRA; and
Whereas, the Town Board held a duly noticed public hearing on October 27, 2025 to consider
comments from the public regarding the proposed acquisition of the agricultural conservation
easement; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes the execution of the
proposed agricultural conservation easement with Julia Holmes Trust for the receipt by the Town
of an agricultural conservation easement on approximately 84 acres of vacant land located on
Hayts, Sheffield, and Bundy Roads in the Town of Ithaca; and it is further
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 4
Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca authorizes the payment to Julia Holmes
Trust of $260,000 for such easement upon closing the transfer, receipt of the executed deed of
the easement, and approval of the attorney for the Town of the title to such easement; and it is
further
Resolved, that payment of said funds are to be made from the Town’s Parks, Recreation & Open
Space Plan Account; and it is further
Resolved, that the Town pay the incidental costs (recording fees and other similar expenses) as
incurred in order to complete such closing; and it is further
Resolved, that the Town Supervisor is hereby authorized to execute said agricultural
conservation easement and other related documents on behalf of the Town; and it is further
Resolved, that pursuant to General Municipal Law Section 6 (c), this resolution is subject to a
permissive referendum in accordance with Article 7 of the Town Law (payment of funds are to
be made from the Town’s Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Account, which is a reserve
fund), and the Town Clerk is directed to publish and post a notice of adoption of this resolution,
within ten days of its adoption, together with a copy or an abstract of the resolution and a notice
stating it is subject to a permissive referendum.
Moved: Pamela Bleiwas Seconded: Susie Gutenberger
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
Public hearings continued - Mr. Howe opened the remaining public hearings as a block.
Residents of West Haven Rd neighborhood spoke against additional funding for TCAT and
recent issues. (Attachment 1)
Six residents spoke about the recent change to TCAT routes to go on West Haven Rd. which
resulted in having a full-size bus travelling down the road 36 times a day. Residents have ridden
the bus to gather information and stated that at no time have they seen more than 14 riders and
more commonly there are about 7 riders. They felt this was a gross mismanagement of resources
and unnecessary expenses for TCAT.
They felt that the noise and fumes from the buses were disrupting their peaceful, rural
neighborhood unnecessarily.
They noted that TCAT called a “community meeting” and although they had submitted a list of
questions, none of them were addressed, and instead they were admonished by TCAT
representatives for not supporting public transportation and told the route changes would not be
altered, and they would get used to the noise.
The residents urged the Town Board not to support TCAT given their unwillingness to work
with residents and waste of resources.
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 5
There was no one else wishing to address the Board and the public hearings were closed.
Mr. Howe noted that TCAT funding would be discussed during a later agenda item.
c. The proposed increase to the Town of Ithaca Water Rates
Mr. Howe noted that this is a standard resolution each year to set the water rates.
TB Resolution 2025 - 120: Increasing Water Rates Chargeable to Consumers of Water in
the Town of Ithaca Effective November 15, 2025
Whereas, the Town Board wishes to revise water rate schedules for all Town of Ithaca Water
Improvement Areas; and
Whereas, a duly advertised and posted public hearing was held on October 27, 2025, and
Whereas, pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act ("SEQRA") and its
implementing regulations at 6 NYCRR Part 617, it has been determined by the Town Board that
adoption of the proposed resolution is a Type II action because it constitutes "routine or
continuing agency administration and management, not including new programs or major
reordering of priorities that may affect the environment," and thus not subject to review, now,
therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Town Board hereby establishes a water rate of $10.41 (was $9.91) per 1,000
gallons of water consumed with the following water rate schedule:
WATER RATE SCHEDULE
Effective November 15, 2025
The rate charged for water consumption shall be $10.41 per 1,000 gallons of water consumed.
The foregoing rate will be the rate charged for all regular quarterly bills sent on or after January
1, 2026. Actual or base consumption may occur prior to January 1, 2026.
Notwithstanding the foregoing rates, the following minimum base charges shall be applicable to
the meter size indicated below for regular quarterly bills issued on or after January 1, 2026. The
table below also shows the amount of water consumption that is permitted before the minimum
base charge would be exceeded:
METER SIZE
(INCHES)
BASE CONSUMPTION
(Gallons)
MINIMUM CHARGE
3/4 5,000 $ 52.03
1 15,000 $ 156.08
1-1/2 22,500 $ 234.12
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 6
2 45,000 $ 468.25
3 70,000 $ 728.39
4 100,000 $1,040.55
6 175,000 $1,820.96
Multiple Housing and mobile home parks of over 2 dwelling units, using a master meter, will be
computed as follows: The quarterly master meter reading will be divided by the number of
dwelling units and the water charge will be figured on this number as if the unit was individually
metered. The water charge will then be multiplied by the number of units on the master meter
and this will be the billing rendered. If the calculation of the water consumed per dwelling unit
is less than the allowable consumption for a three-quarter inch meter, then the billing will be
calculated by multiplying the number of units on the master meter times the minimum charge for
a three-quarter inch meter.
The water application fee for each new application for water service shall be the charges for new
water connections charged by the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission
including application fees, meter charges, service tap fees, inspection fees, accessory materials,
installation costs, and any other fee or cost charged by the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal
Water Commission for connecting new water services.
Moved: Susie Gutenberger Seconded: Pamela Bleiwas
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
d. The proposed increase to the Town of Ithaca Sewer Rents
Mr. Howe noted that this is a standard resolution each year to set the sewer rents.
TB Resolution 2025 – 121: Increasing Sewer Rents in all of the Town of Ithaca Sewer
Improvement Areas Effective November 15, 2025
Whereas, the Town Board wishes to revise the sewer rent schedules for all of the Town of Ithaca
Sewer Improvement Areas; and
Whereas, a public hearing, duly advertised and posted, was held on the 27th day of October 2025,
and the public was permitted an opportunity to be heard on the proposed increase; and
Whereas, pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act ("SEQRA") and its
implementing regulations at 6 NYCRR Part 617, it has been determined by the Town Board that
adoption of the proposed resolution is a Type II action because it constitutes "routine or continuing
agency administration and management, not including new programs or major reordering of
priorities that may affect the environment," and thus this action is not subject to review under
SEQRA; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Town Board establishes and imposes the following:
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 7
(1) Effective November 15, 2025, there is hereby imposed a sewer rent payable by all users
connected to the Town-wide sewer system at a rate of $7.94 (was $7.22) per 1,000 gallons of
water consumed.
In addition, and notwithstanding the foregoing rate structure, there shall be a minimum base charge
for regular quarterly bills sent on or after November 15, 2025, in the amount of $39.70, which
minimum charge is based on 5,000 gallons of usage, regardless of whether that amount is used.
Multiple housing and mobile home parks of over two dwelling units, using a master water meter,
will be computed as follows: The quarterly master water meter reading will be divided by the
number of dwelling units and the sewer rent charge will be figured on this number as if the unit
was individually metered. The sewer rent will then be multiplied by the number of units on the
master water meter, and this will be the billing rendered and the amount payable. If the calculation
of the water consumed per dwelling unit is less than the amount that would be permitted before
exceeding the minimum sewer rent set forth above, then the billing will be calculated by
multiplying the number of units served by the master water meter times the minimum sewer rent
set forth above.
In the event a property is connected to a public sewer, but is not connected to a water meter, the
sewer rent shall be based upon estimated water consumption as reasonably determined by the
Director of Public Works based upon recognized methods of estimating typical consumption for
the type of facility involved (e.g., gallons per day per bedroom).
Moved: Susie Gutenberger Seconded: Pamela Bleiwas
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
e. The 2026 Assessment Rolls for the Special Benefit Districts and Special Benefit
Areas
Mr. Howe noted that this is the standard resolution establishing the assessed values in
coordination with Tompkins County Assessment.
TB Resolution 2025 - 122: Adoption of the 2025 Assessment Rolls for Special Benefit Districts
and Special Benefit Areas for Tax Year 2026
Whereas, the Town Board held a properly advertised public hearing at the Town Hall, 215 North
Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on the 27th day of October 2025, to consider the 2025 Assessment
Rolls for Special Benefit Districts and Special Benefit Areas for the Town of Ithaca for Tax Year
2026; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, the Town Board approves and adopts the 2025 Assessment Rolls for the Special Benefit
Districts and Special Benefit Areas of the Town of Ithaca for Tax Year 2026 as follows:
Fire Protection District: Assessed Value - $1,774,051,241
Water Improvement Benefit Area: Units Available & Connected – 7,803.57
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 8
Ad Valorem Water Improvement Benefit Area: Assessed Value - $771,032,012
Sewer Improvement Benefit Area: Units Available & Connected – 7,477.82
Ad Valorem Sewer Improvement Benefit Area: Assessed Value - $786,156,572
Moved: Pamela Bleiwas Seconded: Susie Gutenberger
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
f. The Preliminary 2026 Town of Ithaca Budget (Action agenda item below)
2. Consider Approval of 2026 Employee Wages
TB Resolution 2025 - 123: Approval of 2026 Employee Wages
Whereas, the governing Town Board of the Town of Ithaca has reviewed the proposed wages for
the Town of Ithaca non-collective bargaining employees for the year 2026, utilizing the 4.5% wage
scales approved by the Town Board July 28, 2025; and
Whereas, the Town Board has reviewed the wages established by the collective bargaining
agreement with the Public Works unit represented by Teamsters Local 317 at the 4.5% cost of
living increase; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the said wages for the non-
collective bargaining employees and collective bargaining employees for 2026, as filed in the
Human Resources Office.
Moved: Susie Gutenberger Seconded: Pamela Bleiwas
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
3. Discuss the Preliminary Budget and Consider adoption of the 2026 Town of Ithaca
Budget
Mr. Howe stated that minor changes had been made. He noted that the Budget Committee
discussed:
1. The TCAT request and the proposal of 50% funding and beginning in the Spring.
TCAT responded that it would be better for them to start in January.
2. They discussed the Fire contract amounts and we are still working through the 2024
billing, and we have done our best to estimate the costs for 2026 without a new
contract.
3. Moved a vehicle replacement from 2024 to 2025.
Mr. Howe brought the TCAT request compromise of $25k for Inlet Valley service, noting that the
West Haven issue is separate from this request.
We would draw the funds from fund balance to stay below the 2% cap.
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 9
Board members were concerned regarding the comments they heard during the public hearing
portion of the meeting, and they had reservations on whether TCAT is in a position to use the
funds as they have stated they would as they are in financial and staffing problems.
They discussed ways to ensure the funds were used for the stated purpose and ensure that reports
on the ridership were shared. Ms. Anderson noted that there would be a contract for this funding
which could require language regarding the Board’s concerns and require reports and statistics.
Mr. Howe noted that this is not a commitment to any future funding and would be on a trial basis.
Motion made by Mr. Howe to add $25,000 for the specific purpose of extending service to the
Inlet Valley, seconded by Ms. Gutenberger; unanimous.
Turning to the budget as a whole, Mr. Howe noted that even though our overall budget has gone
done, taxes have gone up because we are tapping into fund balance less than last year.
TB Resolution 2025 - 124: Adoption of the 2026 Town of Ithaca Budget
Whereas a properly published and posted public hearing was held on October 27, 2025,
regarding the 2026 Preliminary Town Budget (Budget), and
Whereas the Town Board reviewed and discussed the Budget and made the following change:
1. Add $25,000 to TCAT for the specific extension of services to the Inlet Valley area
now, therefore, be it
Resolved that the Town Board adopts the Preliminary 2026 Town of Ithaca Budget as submitted,
as the Final 2026 Town of Ithaca Budget.
Moved: Rod Howe Seconded: Pamela Bleiwas
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
4. Consider award – 2025 Miscellaneous Water Main Replacement Project Phase 1
Mr. O’Neal gave a brief overview, noting that it came in under budget.
TB Resolution 2025 - 125: Authorization to Award Construction Contract for 2025
Miscellaneous Water Main Replacement Project Phase 1
Whereas, on October 17, 2025, the Town of Ithaca Town Engineer received bids for the 2025
Miscellaneous Water Main Replacement Project (Improvement), and
Whereas, pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (“SEQRA”) and its
implementing regulations at 6 NYCRR Part 617, it has been determined by the Town Board that
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 10
approval, construction and implementation of the Improvement are a Type II action due to the
Improvement being a “replacement, rehabilitation or reconstruction of a structure or facility, in
kind, on the same site….”; and
Whereas, at its meeting on August 25, 2025, the Town Board adopted a Public Interest Order (TB
Resolution 2025-092) establishing the Improvement and the Town of Ithaca 2025 Miscellaneous
Water Main Replacement Project Improvement Area and authorizing a maximum amount of
$1,428,645.00 to be expended on this Improvement this was subject to permissive referendum in
the manner provided in Town Law Article 7 and Town Law Section 209-q, no referendum was
requested, and,
Whereas the Town Engineer reviewed the bids and qualifications received and has determined the
lowest responsive bid for Base Bid and Bid Alternate 1, in the combined amount of $349,527.00
was submitted by the lowest responsible bidder, Wenzel Landscaping LLC, 170 Prescott Ave.
Elmira, NY 14903.
Whereas an additional 10% for contingency is recommended in the amount of $35,000.00 for a
total of $384,527.00: now therefore be it
Resolved, that the Town Board hereby authorizes the award of the contract for the Town of
Ithaca for the Base Bid and Bid Alternate 1 for the 2025 Miscellaneous Water Main
Replacement Project Phase 1 Construction Contract to Wenzel Landscaping LLC.; and be it
further
Resolved, that the Town Supervisor is authorized to execute such contract subject to review of the
final contract documents by the Director and the Attorney for the Town; and be it further
Resolved, that the Town Engineer is authorized to approve change orders to such contract upon
receipt of appropriate justification provided the maximum amount of such change orders shall not
in the aggregate exceed $35,000.00 without prior authorization of this Board, and provided further
that the total project cost, including contract, engineering, legal, inspection, and other expenses,
does not exceed the maximum authorized cost of $384,527.00 for the project.
Moved: Pamela Bleiwas Seconded: Rob Rosen
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
5. Committee Reports
a. Budget – Discussed earlier.
b. Codes & Ordinances – No meeting – Ms. Randall noted that there was a memo in
the packet regarding some revisions to the Town Code that went through the
Committee and went through those topics which will be presented at the next meeting
for action.
c. Personnel and Organization – Ms. Bleiwas reported that they discussed and
recommended the job description for the Human Resources/Finance Specialist,
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 11
changes to the vacation buy-back policy and the change to the pay day from Friday to
Thursdays. They also continued review and revisions of the Board Procedures and
Protocol Manual.
d. Planning – No meeting – Did report that a group has been meeting with the Forest
Home neighborhood for traffic calming efforts and an RFQ has gone out for help with
that.
e. Public Works – No meeting
f. Other – RFP s out on the extension of the Black Diamond trail between Burns Rd. to
German Cross Rd.
Ms. Johnson reported that CWIO had a tour of the Bolton Point Water Facility and
their efforts to combat pollution in the lake.
6. Consent Agenda
TB Resolution 2025 - 126: Adopt Consent Agenda
Resolved that the Town Board adopts/approves/ratifies the following Consent Agenda items:
a. Approval of Town Board Minutes
b. Town of Ithaca Abstract
c. Approval of Bolton Point abstract
d. Approval of Holiday List
e. Approval of 2025/2026 Snow & Ice Agreement
f. Approval of Civil Service Position – Human Resources & Finance Specialist
g. Ratify appointment of Principal Acct Clerk Typist – BP – Fisher
h. Acknowledge GTCMHIC 2026 Wage Scale and Wages
i. Consider setting Public Hearing regarding the repeal and replacement of Town
Code Chapter 144: Ithaca Energy Code Supplement Local Law and Chapter 250,
to add Yield signs to both entrances of one lane bridges on Forest Home Dr
j. Acknowledge receipt of Conservation Easement Annual Inspections
k. Approval of Designation and Sale of Surplus Equipment
l. Ratify Appointment of Working Supervisor – Fellows
Moved: Susie Gutenberger Seconded: Pamela Bleiwas
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
TB Resolution 2025 - 126a: Approval of Minutes
Resolved that the Town Board approves the draft minutes of the meeting on October 6, 2025, as
final, with any non-substantive changes made.
TB Resolution 2025 - 126b: Approval of Town of Ithaca Abstract No. 20
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 12
Resolved that the Town Board authorizes the payment of the following audited vouchers in total
for the amounts indicated:
VOUCHER NOS. 2025 947 - 1024
General Fund Town Wide 90,429.19
General Fund Part-Town 39,767.81
Highway Fund Town Wide DA 48,122.76
Highway Fund Part Town DB 57,918.79
Water Fund 45,191.18
Sewer Fund 36,123.24
Capital Projects 17,841.96
Fire Protection Fund 795,987.00
Trust and Agency 31,278.75
TOTAL 1,162,660.68
TB Resolution 2025 - 126c: Bolton Point Abstract
Resolved that the governing Town Board approves payment of the following audited numbered
vouchers for the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission:
Voucher Numbers: 405-452
Check Numbers: 21426-21473
Capital Impr/Repl Project $ 3,622.71
Operating Fund $ 102,122.11
TOTAL $ 105,744.82
TB Resolution 2025 - 126d: Acceptance of Floating Holidays for 2026.
Whereas, there is an annual poll conducted of all Town Hall, Public Works Facility, SCLIWC and
GTCMHIC employees to determine their preference for next year’s floating holiday for each
location; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby accept the Floating Holiday for 2026
for Town Hall staff as Friday, January 2, 2026, as requested by a majority vote of the employees
of Town Hall; and be it further
Resolved, the Town Board does hereby accept the Floating Holiday for 2026 for Public Works
Facility staff as Monday, July 6, 2026, as requested by a majority vote of the employees that work
at the Public Works Facility; and be it further
Resolved, the Town Board does hereby accept the Floating Holiday for 2026 for SCLIWC staff as
Thursday, July 2, 2026, as requested by a majority vote of the employees that work for SCLIWC;
and be it further
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 13
Resolved, the Town Board does hereby accept the Floating Holiday for 2026 for GTCMHIC staff
as Monday, December 28, 2026, as requested by a majority vote of the employees that work for
GTCMHIC.
TB Resolution 2025 - 126e: Approval of and authorization to sign, a three-year Snow and
Ice Agreement with Tompkins County
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca and Tompkins County have contracted with each other for removal
of snow and ice from County and Town roads since October 2002; and
Whereas, the current contract has expired on September 30th, 2025; and
Whereas, the agreement has been submitted for renewal of a 3-year term, from October 1st, 2025,
through September 30th, 2028; and
Whereas, the Town Board reviewed the Agreement as submitted at its September 27th, 2025,
meeting, now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Town Board authorizes the Town Supervisor to execute the Snow & Ice
Agreement with Tompkins County as submitted.
TB Resolution 2025 – 126f: Creation of Human Resources & Finance Specialist Position
under Civil Service
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca established compliance under the New York State Civil Service
Agency to qualify employment positions in the Town of Ithaca in accordance with Section 22 of
Civil Service Laws, Rules and Regulations; and
Whereas, by regulation of Civil Service Law the Town must create a position and approve the
job description before making an appointment; and
Whereas, the Town has determined the need to create a Human Resources & Finance Specialist
position; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby establish the additional following
position in accordance with the applicable New York State and Tompkins County Civil Service
rules:
1. The following position is established in the competitive class pursuant to Section 44 of the
Civil Service Law:
1-(One) – Human Resources & Finance Specialist
And be it further
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 14
Resolved, the Town Board does hereby approve the job description for the said position as
created and monitored by Tompkins County Civil Service with the position being placed in
Office Job Classification E.
TB Resolution 2025 - 126g: Ratify Appointment of Principal Account Clerk/Typist-
SCLIWC
Whereas, the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission on October 9, 2025,
appointed Winona Fisher to the Principal Account Clerk Typist position, effective, September 9,
2025; now, therefore be it
Resolved, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby ratify SCLIWC’s appointment of
Winona Fisher to the Principal Account Clerk Typist position, effective, September 9, 2025, at
the hourly wage of $31.55, in Job Classification 4, with no change in their full time benefits.
TB Resolution 2025 - 126h: Acknowledge Greater Tompkins Co Municipal Health
Insurance Consortium Wage Scale and Employee Wages for 2026
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca was established as the “Employer of Record” for the Greater
Tompkins County Municipal Health Insurance Consortium (Consortium); and
Whereas, on September 25, 2025, the Board of Directors of the Consortium approved of the
2026 budget which included the wages for the staff based on step increases for 2026; and
Whereas, on October 15, 2025, the Executive Committee of the Consortium approved of the
2026 Job Classification and Wage Scale with a 4.5% cost of living increase; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, the governing Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby acknowledge the
Consortium’s 2026 wages as detailed in the Human Resources Office for payroll services and civil
service payroll certification.
TB Resolution 2025 - 126j: Acknowledgement of the annual inspections of certain
conservation easements
Resolved that the Town Board acknowledges receipt of the annual conservation easement
inspections of agricultural conservation easements of – Laughing Goar Fiber Farm; Indian Creek
Farm; Maria Mendez – 471 Bostwick Rd.
TB Resolution 2025 - 126i: Set Public Hearings
Resolved that the Town Board will hold public hearings at its meeting held on November 10,
2025, which begins at 5:30 p.m. at Town Hall, regarding adoption of the following proposed
local laws affecting the Town of Ithaca Code:
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 15
a. Repeal and replacement of Chapter 144, Ithaca Energy Code Supplement, and
b. Amending Chapter 250 Vehicle and Traffic, to add yield signs – Forest Home One-Lane
Bridges
at which time all persons wishing to speak for or against the proposed action shall be heard.
TB Resolution 2025 – 126k: Designation and Sale of Surplus Items
Whereas, a municipal online auction is held from time to time hosted by Auctions International
located in East Aurora, NY, and
Whereas, the following items have become surplus/no longer needed by the Town:
Fleet ID# 84 – Marathon Crack Filler Tar Kettle Trailer Mounted
Fleet ID #20 – 2020 F350 Super Cab – W/ Plow
Fleet ID#16 – F450 XLT Medium Duty w / Custom Box
(2) Pressure Washers - Shark Model HPB-353007h
(1) Fan – ¼ HP Model msc-243
Scissor arms for dump box – 37” x 37”
Resolved, that the Town Board declares said above-described equipment to be surplus and no
longer needed by the Town and authorizes said items to be placed in auction with the proceeds
going to the appropriate funds.
TB Resolution 2025 – 126l: Ratify Promotional Appointment to Working Supervisor
Whereas, there are currently a vacant Working Supervisor position due to a retirement; and
Whereas, the Director of Public Works/ Highway Superintendent has determined through
interviews and evaluation that Colin Fellows, Motor Equipment Operator, possesses the
necessary knowledge, skills, and ability to satisfactorily perform the duties of the Working
Supervisor position; and
Whereas, the Director of Public Works/ Highway Superintendent promotionally appointed Colin
Fellows to the Working Supervisor position, effective October 20, 2025; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby ratify the Director of Public
Works/ Highway Superintendent’s regular promotional appointment of Colin Fellows as full
time Working Supervisor for the Public Works Department, effective October 20, 2025; and be it
further
Resolved, this is a 40 hour a week position, at the hourly wage of $35.82, in Job Classification
“V”, with no change to their full-time benefits; and be it further
Resolved, if Colin Fellows successfully completes the mandatory eight (8) week probationary
period there will be no further action required by the Town Board.
TBS 2025-10-27 (Filed 10/31) Pg. 16
7. Executive Session: Discuss the current litigation from Verizon Wireless pertaining to
111 Wiedmaier Ct
Motion made by Mr. Howe, seconded by Ms. Bleiwas, to enter executive session to discuss
current litigation, Verizon vs Town; unanimous
Motion made by Ms. Bleiwas, seconded by Ms. Gutenberger to reenter open session, unanimous.
8. Consideration of Stipulation of Settlement and Consent Order - Town of Ithaca and
Verizon Wireless
TB Resolution 2025 - 127: Approval of and authorization to sign the Stipulation of
Settlement and Consent Order associated with the Verizon vs the Town of Ithaca, Ithaca
Town Board and the Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals
Whereas Bell Atlantic Mobile Systems, LLC d/b/a Verizon Wireless filed Civil Action No. 3:25-
cv-00409-ECC-ML against the Town of Ithaca, the Ithaca Town Board and the Ithaca Zoning
Board of Appeals regarding the denial of an application by Verizon Wireless of an area variance
for a 134’ foot wireless telecommunications facility at 111 Wiedmaier Court, and
Whereas the parties have negotiated a proposed Stipulation of Settlement and Consent Order
(Settlement), and
Whereas the Town Board has discussed the proposed Settlement and sought legal counsel in
Executive session at its meeting on October 27, 2025, now, therefore, be it
Resolved that the Town Board approves the Settlement as submitted and authorizes Counsel
and/or the Town Supervisor to execute any associated documents necessary to finalize the
Settlement.
Moved: Pamela Bleiwas Seconded: Susie Gutenberger
Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Gutenberger, Howe and Rosen
The meeting was adjourned upon motion and a second; unanimous.
Submitted by
Paulette Rosa
Town Clerk
TOWN OF ITHACA
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING AND PUBLICATION
I,Ashley Colbert,being duly sworn,say that I am the Deputy Town Clerk of the Town of Ithaca,Tompkins County
New York;that the following notice has been duly posted on the sign board of the Town Clerk of the Town of Ithac
and the notice has been duly published in the official newspaper,Ithaca Journal:
ADVERTISEMENT/NOTICE Public Notice
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF ESTOPPEL Originally published on ithacajournal.com on
=
NOTICE OF ADOPTION 10/14/2025
Regarding Permissive Referendum for Notice of Public Hearings The Town Board will hold
Saponi Park Release,Purchase of ...“17°
Development Rights and Budget Related public hearings at which all persons willing to speak
Items shall be heard,on Monday,October 27,2025,at
Town Hall,215 N.Tioga St.,at 4:30p.m.,on the
Location of Sign Board Used for Posting:|following proposed actions:Subject to permissive
Town Clerk’s Office referendum:1.Release of the existing Saponi Park
215 North Tioga Street parcel and the acceptance of adjacent substitute
Ithaca,NY 14850 parkland located on Seven Mile Dr.,and 2.The
purchase of development rights (Holmes)by
conservation easement on approximately 84-acre
located on Hayts,Sheffield,and Bundy Roads with an
_estimated cost not to exceed $260,000.and on the
|following budget related items:1.Proposed increase
(dbus (Meet to the Town of Ithaca Water Rates (Increase to
Ashley Colbert $10.41/from $9.91 Quarterly minimum of $52.03)2.
Deputy Town Clerk Proposed increase to the Town of Ithaca Sewer Rents
(Increase to $7.94/from $7.22 Quarterly minimum of
$39.70)3.The 2026 Assessment Rolls for the Special
Benefit Districts and Special Benefit Areas 4.The
:preliminary 2026 Town of Ithaca Budget
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 14"Paulette Rosa Town Clerk
day of October 2025.Oct.14,2025
,
"11745608
ABBY L.HOMER
Notary Public -State of New York
No.01HO6086105
Town website at www.townithacany.gov
Date of Posting:October 14,2025
Date of Publication:October 14,2025
STATE OF NEW YORK)
COUNTY OF TOMPKINS)SS:
TOWN OF ITHACA)
otary Pu
Qualified in Cortland County 2MyCommissionExpiresJan.13,20e¢7