Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutTB Minutes 2026-01-26 1. Ithaca Fire Department Annual Report – Chief Moody 2. Public hearing and considering adoption of a local law allowing a monetary contribution to the City of Ithaca in support of Cass and Stewart Parks 3. Authorization to award contract – Concept level design and cost estimates – South Hill Recreation Way Extension Project 4. Committee Reports a. Budget b. Codes & Ordinances c. Personnel and Organization/ERC d. Planning e. Public Works f. Parks, Trails, Preserves & Recreation g. Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Organization h. Other – Earth Source Heat 5. Discuss AOT Resolutions 6. Consent Agenda a. Approval of Minutes b. Approval of Town of Ithaca Abstract c. Appointment to Conservation Board – Louck d. Approval and authorization for professional services – Use & Occupancy Permits revisions e. Approval of 2026 Rates – Engineering Services Contract 7. Review of Correspondence MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD Town Hall - 215 N. Tioga St. January 26, 2026 – 4:30 p.m. This meeting will be on ZOOM (ID 98910958241) for public viewing and participation and viewing only via YouTubeMeetingsLink AGENDA TBS 2026-01026 (Files 1/27) Pg. 1 MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD January 26, 2026 – 4:30 p.m. This meeting was held via virtually due to a State of Emergency associated with winter storm Fern, following the rules and regulations established by Governor Hochul and the Town’s Videoconferencing Policy MINUTES Board Members: Rod Howe, Supervisor; Pamela Bleiwas, David McCune and Diana Sinton Absent: Eric Levine, Susie Gutenberger and Rob Rosen Judy Drake, Marty Moseley, CJ Randall, Paulette Rosa, Joe Slater, and Justin McNeal Mr. Howe opened the meeting at 4:30 p.m. 1. Ithaca Fire Department Annual Report – Chief Moody – Attachment 1 Chief Moody went through his report highlighting personnel and staffing, increases in equipment repair costs and options for addressing that, and the types of calls they cover and tasks they do during winter events like last weekend. Mr. McCune asked about emergency response and Mr. Howe gave a summary and history of the service and the challenges associated with EMS services and what the County is doing to look into options for the future. Chief Moody went into detail on the effect on IFD staff and equipment when they respond to EMS calls and can be tied up for a very long time and therefore unable to respond to a fire or non-EMS call. The Board thanked him for his report. 2. Public hearing and considering adoption of a local law allowing a monetary contribution to the City of Ithaca in support of Cass and Stewart Parks Mr. Howe opened the public hearing; there was no one wishing to speak and the hearing was closed. Mr. Howe gave a brief overview, saying that Town Law requires a local law be adopted to authorize a monetary gift to another municipality. The City supplies the number of town residents who use Cass Park facilities at the end of the year and although Stewart Park does not have a mechanism to track usage, we do know town residents use it, and our Public Works Department provides support and equipment when needed. TBS 2026-01026 (Files 1/27) Pg. 2 TB Resolution 2026 - 013: Adoption of Local Law 3 of 2026, “Authorizing a monetary gift to the City of Ithaca to support Cass Park and Stewart Park recreational facilities Whereas, the Town Board adopted a budget for 2026 including an amount of $110,000.00 for a contribution towards City Parks, of which approximately $68,000 would result in a special benefit to Town residents, but the remainder would be considered a gift, and Whereas, pursuant to the Town’s New York State Municipal Home Rule powers, a local law may be adopted to authorize the Town to make a gift to another municipality where the gift furthers a public purpose of the Town, and Whereas, a public hearing was duly advertised and held on January 26, 2026, and all persons interested permitted an opportunity to speak on behalf of or in opposition to the proposed local law, 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 approval of the local law 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 therefore this action is not subject to review under SEQRA, now therefore be it Resolved that the Town Board adopts Local Law 3 of 2026 “Authorizing a monetary gift to the City of Ithaca to support Cass Park and Stewart Park recreational facilities.” Moved: Pamela Bleiwas Seconded: Rod Howe Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Howe, Sinton and McCune 3. Authorization to award contract – Concept level design and cost estimates – South Hill Recreation Way Extension Project Mr. Smith gave a brief overview, saying that this has been in the works for a while and now we have the needed easements to move forward with some design concepts. TB Resolution 2026 - 014: Authorization to Award Contract for Concept Level Design and Cost Estimates for the South Hill Recreation Way Extension Project (Burns Rd to Banks Rd) Whereas, the Town of Ithaca has received financial assistance from Tompkins County under the Tourism Capital Grant program for the purpose of funding concept level designs and cost estimates for the South Hill Recreation Way Extension project (Burns Rd to Banks Rd), and Whereas, on November 24, 2025, the Town received six detailed proposals to develop concept level designs and cost estimates for the South Hill Recreation Way Extension project (Burns Rd to Banks Rd), and TBS 2026-01026 (Files 1/27) Pg. 3 Whereas, members of Town Engineering, Public Works, and Planning staff have reviewed the proposals and qualifications of the firms and discussed the proposed recommendation with the Town’s Public Works Committee on December 16, 2025, and Whereas, it is recommended the award of a fixed fee of $34,336 (Thirty-Four Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-Six Dollars and Zero Cents) to MJ Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Land Surveying, P.C. (MJ), and be it further Resolved, that the total contract amount shall not exceed $34,336 (Thirty-Four Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-Six Dollars and Zero Cents), and be it further, Resolved, that the Town Board authorizes the award and execution by the Town Supervisor of a contract for design services with MJ Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Land Surveying, P.C., 21 Corporate Drive, Clifton Park, NY 12065, subject to the review by the Attorney of the Town. Moved: Diana Sinton Seconded: Dave McCune Vote: ayes – Sinton, McCune, Howe and Bleiwas 4. Committee Reports a. Budget – Next meeting will begin discussions on legal services moving forward and update on Fire Protection Services b. Codes & Ordinances - No quorum but a general discussion for new members. c. Personnel and Organization/ERC – No meeting due to weather event. d. Planning – Focus on updates from Hilary on sustainability efforts and meeting our goals and well as upcoming rollout of TGEN public outreach e. Public Works – Reviewed projects and 2026 CIP and ROW use permits. f. Parks, Trails, Preserves & Recreation – none g. Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Organization – none h. Other – Earth Source Heat – Mr. Howe reported that the project is not moving forward but they are looking at other ways or options to get off fossil fuels. 5. Discuss AOT Resolutions - Mr. Howe noted that Ms. Gutenberger is not present and as she is our representative, he would like to postpone discussion on these. Ms. Sinton added that they were discussed pretty thoroughly at the New Board Member training she and Mr. McCune just attended. 6. Consent Agenda TB Resolution 2026 – 015: Adopt Consent Agenda Resolved, that the Town Board approves and/or adopts the following Consent Agenda items: a. Approval of Minutes TBS 2026-01026 (Files 1/27) Pg. 4 b. Approval of Town of Ithaca Abstract c. Appointment to Conservation Board – Louck d. Approval and authorization for professional services – Use & Occupancy Permits revisions e. Approval of 2026 Rates – Engineering Services Contract Moved: Pamela Bleiwas Seconded: Rod Howe Vote: ayes – Bleiwas, Howe, McCune and Sinton TB Resolution 2026 - 015a: Approval of Town Board Minutes Resolved that the Town Board approves the minutes of January 12, 2026, as final with any non- substantive changes made. TB Resolution 2026 - 015b: Town of Ithaca Abstract No. 2 for FY-2026 Resolved that the governing Town Board hereby authorizes the payment of the said vouchers in total for the amounts indicated: VOUCHER NOS. 2025 1273 - 1291 2026 21 – 62 General Fund Town Wide 105,523.28 General Fund Part-Town 13,817.33 Highway Fund Town Wide DA 1,951.74 Highway Fund Part Town DB 47,565.34 Water Fund 25,612.23 Sewer Fund 10,537.55 Risk Retention Fund 170. Fire Protection Fund 463,290.00 TOTAL 668,467.47 TB Resolution 2026 - 015c: Appointment of new Conservation Board Member and Recommendation to Tompkins County Legislature for Appointment to the Environmental Management Council Resolved, that the Town Board appoints D. Peter Loucks, 116 Crest Lane, Ithaca, to the Conservation Board to fill a vacant seat, with the term ending December 31, 2027, and be it further Resolved, that the Ithaca Town Board hereby recommends and requests the Tompkins County Legislature appoint D. Peter Loucks to serve as the Town of Ithaca Conservation Board Representative on the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council. TB Resolution 2025 - 015d: Approval and authorization to sign contract for updating the Town’s Use & Occupancy Fee(s) in ROWs TBS 2026-01026 (Files 1/27) Pg. 5 Whereas, the Highway Superintendent and Town attorney require professional services to review, research, and redraft the Town’s right of way permitting and fees, specifically the Use and Occupancy Fee (U & O), and Whereas, Delaney CMS, LLC, 702 Curran Rd, Shortsville, NY, 14585, submitted a proposal on 1/19/26 that outlined the scope of work for updating the U & O Fees which was presented to the Public Works Committee on 1/20/26, and Whereas, the Public Works Committee, the Highway Superintendent and Town Counsel deemed the scope acceptable, complete, and beneficial to the Town and recommended moving forward with the service, now therefore be it Resolved that the Town Board approves and authorizes the Town Supervisor to sign the proposal as submitted and approves the expenditure not to exceed $7,560. TB Resolution 2026 - 015e: Approval of 2026 Engineering Services Rates Whereas the Town entered into an agreement with Barton & Loguidice on September 29, 2025, for engineering consultant services which included a provision for the submission and approval of 2026 Rates, and Whereas the Town Engineer has reviewed the proposed 2026 Rate Schedule and recommends approval by the Town Board, now, therefore be it Resolved that the Town Board approves the 2026 Rate Schedule for Engineering Consultant Services as submitted. 7. Review of Correspondence and Reports Community Science Data Jam – February 21st Association of Towns Gold Award - The meeting was adjourned upon a motion by Mr. Howe, seconded by Ms. Bleiwas, unanimous. Submitted by Paulette Rosa, Town Clerk 2025 ANNUAL REPORT ITHACA FIRE DEPARTMENT 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 ANNUAL REPORT A MESSAGE FROM THE OFFICE OF THE FIRE CHIEF As I look back on the past year, as Deputy Fire Chief and currently Acting Fire Chief, I am reminded that the success of the Ithaca Fire Department is built on one thing above all else: the hard work, dedication, and professionalism of the men and women who serve our community every day. Our firefighters, officers, and administrative support staff continue to represent the very best of public service. Whether responding to emergencies, training for the next challenge, maintaining our apparatus and facilities, or engaging with our residents, their commitment is the foundation of everything we accomplish. Our work is strengthened by the support we receive from other City departments. We are fortunate to collaborate with exceptional partners in various departments, including IPD, Legal, IT, Human Resources, Finance, Public Works, and many others, whose expertise and responsiveness enable us to operate at a high level. Their contributions, often behind the scenes, allow us to stay focused on our mission. I am grateful for their continued partnership and their shared dedication to making our city safer and stronger. Most importantly, we remain committed to providing high-quality, compassionate service to the diverse community we proudly serve. Every call, every inspection, every interaction is an opportunity to make someone’s day safer or better. That responsibility is never taken lightly. Our department will continue to prioritize readiness, professionalism, inclusiveness, and continuous improvement to meet the evolving needs of our residents, visitors, and businesses. It is my privilege to serve alongside the outstanding members of this department and to work in collaboration with our city partners. Together, we will continue to build a fire service that reflects the values, resilience, and diversity of the community we serve. Respectfully, Mike Moody Acting Fire Chief 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Strategic Outlook for 2026 The Ithaca Fire Department enters 2026 focused on maintaining high-quality service while navigating rising operational demands. The department continues to balance community expectations with the need to sustain readiness across fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, and technical rescue operations. CHALLENGES: The department will face several significant challenges in 2026. Apparatus maintenance and replacement costs continue to increase at rates significantly higher than inflation, placing a strain on long-term capital planning. Health insurance and labor costs are projected to increase, reflecting trends seen across the public sector. Essential equipment, including turnout gear, SCBA, and specialized rescue equipment, remains subject to higher price increases. These factors will require careful budgeting and continued evaluation of resource allocation to maintain operational reliability. OPPORTUNITIES: Despite these challenges, the department is well-positioned to achieve goals and priorities in the year ahead. IFD benefits from a highly motivated and skilled workforce that will continue to strengthen its capabilities through ongoing professional development and training. Opportunities exist to strategically expand training for the department across all disciplines to better serve the community. The department will continue to develop relationships with residents, businesses, and partner organizations to gain a better understanding of local needs and identify areas where IFD can provide additional value. Strategic evaluation of response models, resource deployment strategies, and data-driven planning will support efforts to deliver services effectively and efficiently. LOOKING AHEAD As IFD prepares for the coming year, the department remains committed to efficient utilization of public resources, continuous improvement, and maintaining the highest level of service to the community. By cooperatively addressing challenges and embracing opportunities, the Ithaca Fire Department will continue to serve the needs of the city and the town and strive to be one of the top fire departments in the State. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Response Data: 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Response Data: 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Response Data: 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Divisions and Operations: The Ithaca Fire Department (IFD) provides all-hazards emergency response to the City of Ithaca and the majority of the Town of Ithaca, covering 32 square miles and serving a population of approximately 85,000, including students from Cornell University and Ithaca College. The department staffs four fire stations with Firefighters/EMTs around the clock, 24/7/365. IFD maintains an ISO Public Protection Classification of 2, placing the department within the top 5% of fire departments in New York State for fire protection capability. To provide this level of service, the department relies on a coordinated structure of specialized divisions that work together to support the mission. The following pages offer an overview of these divisions: Administration, Emergency Response, Technical Rescue, Fire Prevention/Public Education, and Training. Together, these divisions form the foundation of our operational readiness, community risk reduction, and organizational development, ensuring the Ithaca Fire Department remains prepared, professional, and responsive to the needs of our community Central Fire Station/Administration East Hill Fire Station South Hill Fire Station West Hill Fire Station 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Pictured from left to right Jamie Ramirez – Administrative Coordinator Kristina Mein – Administrative Assistant Administration: The Administration Division oversees department-wide leadership, policy development, budgeting, and strategic planning. It consists of the Fire Chief, Deputy Chief (currently vacant), Administrative Coordinator, and Administrative Assistant. This team supports all operational and support functions, ensuring effective coordination with city and town leadership. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Emergency Response: The Emergency Response Division is the core of IFD’s daily operations. It is composed of four shifts, each led by an Assistant Chief and supported by eight Lieutenants and a staff of firefighters, totaling 69 uniformed personnel. Crews provide comprehensive all-hazards response capabilities, including structural and wildland fire suppression, emergency medical response, vehicle fires, motor vehicle accidents, and the investigation of fire alarms. This division delivers consistent, mission-focused service to the community and maintains readiness for a broad range of emergency incidents. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Technical Rescue: The Technical Rescue Division provides specialized response capabilities for a wide range of high- risk incidents. The division maintains operational capabilities in water rescue, including ice, swift- water, and open-water lake emergencies, rope rescue in complex gorge environments, and hazardous materials response as the designated Tompkins County HazMat Team. Additional areas of technical capabilities include confined space rescue, structural and trench collapse operations. These teams ensure the department can effectively manage complex technical incidents that require advanced training, equipment, and incident management capabilities. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Training Division: The Training Division is headed by an Assistant Chief/Municipal Training Officer and provides comprehensive training and professional development for all IFD personnel. The division coordinates: • Annual mandated fire, EMS, and technical rescue training. • Recruit firefighter onboarding and IFD-specific orientation training. • Multi-agency and regional training initiatives. • Certification and skills maintenance for specialized teams. The Training Division ensures that IFD members remain prepared, proficient, and compliant with evolving state and national standards. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Type 2025 Fire Safety & Property Maintenance Inspections - City of Ithaca 692 Fire Safety & Property Maintenance Inspections - Town of Ithaca 71 Permits Issued 746 Total Fire Safety & Property Maintenance Inspections 763 Public Education Events 45 Citizens Educated 5500 Fire Prevention Bureau Report: The Fire Prevention Bureau (FPB) is led by an Assistant Chief / Fire Marshal and is staffed by three Firefighters. The Bureau is responsible for administering and enforcing the Fire Code and Property Maintenance Code of New York State. Key responsibilities include: · Fire and life safety inspections in existing commercial buildings · Plan review and inspections for new construction and renovation projects · Permitting and inspections for food trucks, propane use, and special events · Oversight of the department’s Public Education programs, including community outreach, school programs, and fire safety initiatives. The FPB plays a critical role in reducing risk, ensuring code compliance, and fostering a safer built environment. A3410-1565 $64,977.02 A3410-1565 Fire Code Inspection Fees/CU A3410-1565 Fire Code Inspection Fee/ TOI $2,275.00 A3410-2189 A3410-2410 $675.00 A3410-2665 $267.00 A3410-2550 $17,905.00 A3410-2550 Total $119,680.27 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Clockwise from top left: FPB staff at a standpipe acceptance test, fire extinguisher demo on the Commons, safety presentation at Titus Towers, 2nd grade visit at South Hill Elementary. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Year To Date Pub Ed Totals: -EVENT NAME DURATION (HOURS) TOTAL ATTENDEES ADULT ATTENDEES TOTAL CHILDREN YOUNG CHILDREN SCHOOL CHILDREN SENIOR ADULT 1028 Ellis 1.00 1 1 Advocacy Center Extinguisher 1.00 25 25 BJM Pre-K Pub 0.50 16 4 12 12 BJM PreK & K 2.00 80 10 70 70 Belle Sherman 2.00 40 40 40 Belle Sherman 2.00 300 100 200 200 Cass Park Day 1.00 105 15 90 90 Cass Park Summer Camp 1.00 102 12 90 90 Cass Park Summer Camp 1.00 100 10 90 90 Cass Park Summer Camp 1.00 100 10 90 90 Citizen Preparedness 1.00 80 10 70 DIA Summer Concert 2025 3.00 200 50 150 50 100 Fall Creek 1.00 120 20 100 100 Fall Creek 2.75 120 20 100 100 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Year To Date Pub Ed Totals: EVENT NAME DURATIO N (HOURS) TOTAL ATTENDEES ADULT ATTENDEES TOTAL CHILDRE YOUNG CHILDREN SCHOOL CHILDREN SENIOR ADULT Fire Extinguisher Demo - Landlord 1.00 12 12 Fire Extinguisher Demo City 1.00 12 12 Food Truck 2.00 20 20 Food Truck Safety 3.00 20 20 Food Truck Safety 5.00 30 30 Food Truck Safety/Fire Extinguisher 1.50 10 10 GIAC Summer 1.00 100 100 100 Head Start 1.00 35 20 15 15 Home Depot 3.50 150 50 75 25 50 25 IFD Open 3.00 62 25 35 10 25 2 IPFFA 0.25 850 200 600 300 300 50 Learning 1.00 15 15 15 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Year To Date Pub Ed Totals: EVENT NAME DURATION (HOURS) TOTAL ATTENDEES ADULT ATTENDEES TOTAL CHILDREN YOUNG CHILDREN SCHOOL CHILDREN SENIOR ADULT No Mas Lagrimas/No 0.16 80 20 60 20 40 South Hill Elem 1.00 58 8 50 50 South Hill Elem. 4.50 75 15 60 60 South Hill Fall 1.00 200 50 150 150 South Hill Kindergarten Visit 2.00 60 60 60 Southside Pub Ed 1.00 175 50 125 25 100 Stepping Stones Preschool 1.00 30 10 20 20 Steps to Safety 1.00 100 100 Summer Concert Series 2.00 350 100 250 50 200 TOI Public Works Open House 3.00 250 75 150 50 100 25 Titus Towers Pub Ed 1.00 25 25 Washington Park Block Party 1.00 50 10 30 15 15 10 Wegmans Halloween 0.25 500 100 400 100 300 West Village Halloween Party 2.50 100 50 50 50 Total 72.66 5522 1428 3786 1087 2699 308 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Budget Report Fire Department Budget from 2025 Budget Book Line Category 2023 Actual 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 24 to 25 % Change 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Budget Report Fire Department Budget from 2025 Budget Book Line Category 2023 Actual 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 24 to 25 % Change 9085 SUPP BENEFIT PMT TO 102,091 87,328 176,937 103% SUB-TOTAL- FIRE 12,930,434 12,260,576 14,087,659 15% Administrative Costs from n/a $213,089.00 $181,752 -15% 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Volunteer Fire Police Unit: The Fire Police Unit is a dedicated group of trained volunteers who support emergency operations by providing traffic management, scene security, and public safety functions. Their presence enhances the safety of firefighters and community members during emergency incidents, large-scale events, and extended operations. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Retirees: • Fire Chief, Rob Covert • Assistant Chief Brian Weinstein • Firefighter Chuck Heath, Jr. • Firefighter Dean Hathaway 2025 Promotions: • Richard Brown, Assistant Chief (Municipal Training Officer) • Robert Shepherd, Assistant Chief (Fire Marhsal) • Michael Rankin, Lieutenant • Connor Jones, Lieutenant 2025 New Hires: • Gary Laskowsky • Peter Verfuss • Drew Hurd • Brendan Young • Eve Mascoli-Bochino • Alex Dihrberg We extend our sincere appreciation to our 2025 retirees for their years of dedicated service to the Ithaca community. Their commitment, professionalism, and sacrifice have strengthened this department and will leave a lasting impact. We also proudly welcome our newest members to the IFD family. We look forward to supporting their growth as they begin their careers of service. IN MEMORIAM Lieutenant Mahlon Irish, Jr. It is with great honor and profound sadness that we remember the life and service of Lieutenant Mahlon Irish, Jr. Lieutenant Irish devoted his life to the fire service. He began his career with the Homer Volunteer Fire Department in 1974, serving for 50 years. He was hired by the Ithaca Fire Department in 1991 and retired in 2012 at the rank of Lieutenant. Mahlon was a New York State fire instructor for over 40 years. He had a deep passion for fire service history. He was instrumental in restoring the City of Ithaca’s 1896 LaFrance horse-drawn steamer and maintained an extensive personal collection of vintage American LaFrance apparatus spanning every decade from 1920 to 1981. After his diagnosis, Mahlon became a tireless advocate for firefighter occupational cancer awareness, visiting 200 fire departments and educating over 3000 firefighters. Mahlon’s legacy of service, education, and dedication to the fire service and firefighter safety will not be forgotten. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Ithaca Fire Department accompanied by Cortland Fire provided an engine and crew to Binghamton Fire Department to cover a station during the services for their fallen brother, John JR Gaudet. 02/19/25 Ithaca Fire Department accepting a check of $250,000 from Senator Webb for a new fire boat. 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Thank You! Producing an annual report is a team effort. I want to thank the members who contributed information, statistics, photographs, and editing work. Your willingness to take on this work in addition to your regular duties demonstrates professionalism and pride in our organization, and it is sincerely appreciated. • Kristina Mein • Jamie Ramirez • Lt. Kevin Koehler • AC Rob Shepherd • Lt. Alix Gresov • FF Mac Chasman 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 ANNUAL REPORT