HomeMy WebLinkAboutTB Packet 2026-02-23MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD
February 23, 2026
215 N. Tioga St. @ 4:30 pm
This meeting will also be on ZOOM (ID 98910958241) for participation and/or viewing and on
YouTube Link for your convenience.
AGENDA
1. Presentation – Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Coalition
2. Supervisor’s and Town Departments Year End Reports and 2026 Goals
3. Committee Reports
• Budget
• Codes & Ordinances
• Personnel and Organization/ERC
• Planning
• Public Works
• Others
• Economic Development
• Parks, Trails, Preserves & Recreation
• Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Organization (CWIO)
• Tompkins County Council of Governments (TCCOG)
4. Association of Towns Conference Highlights
5. Consent Agenda
a. Approval of Minutes
b. Town of Ithaca Abstract
c. Approval of Budget Amendments/Transfers
d. Approval of an MOU to provide services - Town of Lansing Code Enforcement
e. Resolution of Appreciation – Chris Jung
f. Appointment of ZBA Alternate – S Friedman
g. Approval of Establishment of NYSLRS Work Day
6. Reports of Town Officials/Correspondence
Town Supervisor’s & Deputy Supervisor’s 2025 Accomplishments
and 2026 Goals
Networking/communication/meeting related
Monthly Town Supervisor calls
Regular phone calls with county leadership
Weekly Management Team meetings
Regular meetings with Cornell University leadership
Tompkins County Council of Governments (TCCOG) participation
Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council (ITCTC) leadership role
Occasional updates to Ithaca City Council and Tompkins County Legislature (in partnership w/
Deputy Supervisor)
Ithaca College conversations with community liaison
Occasional WHCU radio updates
Coordinate Group of Six meetings to review sewer agreements and intermunicipal cooperation
Coordinate meetings related to Coddington Valley Rail Trail
Sewer Joint Committee of the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility
2025 Major Highlights from Supervisor:
• 2026 budget was adopted, addressing key initiatives while remaining fiscally responsible.
• Negotiated and approved a new multi-year fire protection contract with the City of Ithaca.
• Updated Tutelo Park interpretive sign.
• Coordinated Tompkins Green Energy Network (Community Choice Aggregation) meetings.
• Adoption of the updated Ithaca Energy Code Supplement.
• Coordinated NYS reimbursement for property Town purchased along Inlet Valley for future
extension of Black Diamond Trail.
• Engaged in securing funding for Sage Preserve.
• Supported Town departments as they work to balance neighborhood preservation and
conservation goals with much-needed residential and mixed-use development projects.
Deputy Supervisor 2025 Highlights
• Continued T-GEN/CCA, including document review, strategy meetings.
• Revised IAWWTF/Village of Cayuga Heights Plant-to-Plant Agreement to redirect
revenue to the Town related to VCH flows. Updated Pretreatment Agreement.
• Attended IAWWTF Capital Improvement Project meetings with Barton & Loguidice and
stakeholders.
• Identified need for revision and submission of Median Household Income data to enable
qualification for fully-subsidized IAWWTF financing from New York Environmental
Facilities Corporation. Coordinated with GIS planner.
• Attended meetings with NYSDEC in response to proposed SPDES permit revisions.
• Conducted thorough review of water quality reports and technical guidance documents
prior to writing, distributing and submitting intermunicipal stakeholder letter to NYSDEC
questioning permit modification processes and science.
• Coordinated with Community Science Institute to receive ambient water quality data to
support our position regarding the proposed SPDES permit modification.
• Engaged in Fire Protection contract research, review of consultant’s report, and
negotiations with City of Ithaca.
• Continued review of joint Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission documents.
• Revised Short-Term Rental law to balance perceived needs in Conservation Zones.
2026 goals
• Ensure smooth transition for two new board members
• Secure funding for Town Hall energy efficiency improvements
• Participate in discussions regarding equitable medical emergency response
• Secure new legal representation
• Successful negotiation of labor contract with Public Works’ Teamsters Union
• Negotiate new fire services contract with Village of Cayuga Heights
• Work with Planning Department on major initiatives
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Town of Ithaca
Department of Code Enforcement (and Zoning)
2025 Year End Report
The Department:
In 2025, our department experienced no changes in personnel. The team consists of five field inspectors, one director, and tw o
administrative assistants.
Accomplishments in 2025:
In addition to the items identified in the matrix below, the following activities were completed in 2025:
• Development Review
o Reviewed 17 new development applications in coordination with the Planning and Engineering Departments.
o Notable projects included Beginnings Credit Union, Maplewood II, the Cornell open-air aviary, multiple
subdivisions and lot line modifications, Ithaca College residence hall renovations, and Learning Farm site plan
revisions.
o Met with developers, in coordination with Planning and Engineering staff, to review proposed development
scenarios prior to formal application submission.
• Zoning Board of Appeals
o Processed, reviewed, and organized 35 Zoning Board of Appeals applications, including associated public
hearings.
• Fee Schedule Updates
o Updated building permit fees and consolidated Engineering and Public Works Department fees into a single
comprehensive fee schedule.
• Local Law Review and Amendments
o Reviewed and provided comments on proposed amendments to:
▪ Chapter 234 – Subdivision of Land Regulations
▪ Chapter 270 – Ordinary High Water Line
▪ Chapter 270 – Permit to Build (amended language)
▪ Chapter 270 – Zoning Violations and Penalties (amended language)
▪ Chapter 270 – Accessory Buildings in Side Yards (Residential Zones)
▪ Chapter 270 – Short-Term Rentals in Conservation Zones
▪ Chapter 270 – Public Hearing Notice Requirements and Variance Expiration Timeframes
▪ Chapter 144 – Ithaca Energy Code (updated to include net-zero requirements for new commercial and
residential buildings)
▪ Chapter 157 – Flood Damage Prevention Law
• Ithaca Energy Code
o Participated in the Ithaca Energy Code Working Group with the Planning Department to update the Energy
Code.
• Interdepartmental Support
o Provided front office coverage for the Town Clerk’s Department on an as-needed basis.
• Training and Representation
o Represented the Town at FEMA Floodplain Review trainings and meetings.
• Short-Term Rental Monitoring
o Published a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a short-term rental monitoring company, resulting in the
selection and transition to a new monitoring provider.
Goals:
• Develop an Energy Code checklist for individuals to utilize when applying for permit applications.
• Update and develop documents pertaining to the 2025 NYS Uniform Code that can be used by our department.
• Update and develop documents pertaining to the 2025 NYS Uniform Code for applicants and add them to our department
website page to assist applicants in understanding what is required for certain applications.
• Continue to work with the Engineering Department and the Public Works Department on various projects.
• Continue to work with the Planning Department and Town Committees on local law amendment proposals.
• Provide training to staff, contractors, architects, engineers, and other professions about the Ithaca energy Code and 2025
NYS energy Code.
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• Conduct an in-depth review of fire inspections that are conducted by the IFD for the Town
• Provide training staff in situational awareness and de-escalation techniques.
• Continue to work with the Ithaca Fire Department and the NYS Office of Fire Prevention and Control to issue operating
permits and fire inspections for large properties, such as Cornell and Ithaca College, based on their inspection reports.
• Continue to strengthen our intermunicipal relationships.
Current major projects carrying over to next year:
• Cornell:
o Cornell Game Farm Road Field Hockey Complex
•
• 602 Elmira Road, Storage Facility project • Coddington Road Community Center expansion
• 635 Elmira Rd., Comfort Inn Hotel • Beginnings Credit Union interior alterations
• Cayuga Medical Center Pharmacy • Cayuga Medical Center Generator Building
• 1358 Mecklenburg Rd., Carrowmoor Solar project • Ithaca College Track, Stadium, and Buildings
Anticipated major projects for next year:
• Cornell:
o Mirabito Gas Station – redevelopment
o Maplewood II- housing project
• Possible amendments to chapter 125, due to updates
required by NYS from the adoption of the 2025 NYS
Uniform Code and Energy Code.
• 602 Elmira Rd, Storage Facility project • Verizon Wireless Personal Wireless Service Facility
(tower)
• 272 Enfield Falls Rd, Learning Farm Kitchen • South Works Development- two phases of the residential
portion of the project
• Continued review of the Subdivision law
amendments
• Bomber Heights, Solar project
• Review the sprinkler local law for any amendments or updates, based on updates to the 2025 NYS Uniform Code
amendments.
Conclusion:
In 2025, we experienced another increase in the total number of permits submitted and issued. The year remained very active and
served as a transition period, with continued training of a new staff member. Our department remains committed to strengthening
internal training, particularly in the use of the OpenGov and Deckard databases. Ongoing training not only improves operational
efficiency but also ensures consistent application and enforcement of newly adopted and amended local laws. We continue to ac tively
review and provide feedback on proposed local law changes to support clarity and effective implementation. With recent updates to
the New York State Uniform Code Collection, we anticipate the need for additional training and associated expenses to ensure staff
remain current with updated requirements. We are committed to improving inter-department communication, streamlining system
workflows, fostering collaborations between departments, and strengthening municipal relationships. Our unwavering goal remains to
assist, whenever possible, our constituents, applicants, and the general public. We will continue to prioritize providing exceptional
service while maintaining the utmost importance of public health and safety.
A comprehensive summary of reports and activities is provided below. Attached to this report are supplementary graphs and a matrix
from our department. Upon request, a copy of the report submitted to the State can be provided.
Respectfully Submitted,
Marty Moseley
Director of Code Enforcement
(and Zoning Department)
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Condensed view of the 2025 activity for the Code Enforcement (and Zoning) Department
All Applications: 1256
All Permits Issued: 1119
Address Issued/Re-Issued 53
Sign Permit Applications 30
Sign Permits Issued 23
Total Inspections Conducted: 6107
Stop Work Orders Issued: 3
Do Not Occupy Notice: 2
Order to Remedies Issued: 23
Total Certificates Issued: 691
Temporary Certificates Issued: 21
Operating Permit/Fire Safety Applications: 376
Operating Permits Issued: 227
Short Term Rental Applications Received: 28
Short Term Rental Permits Issued: 27
Fire Safety Certificates Issued: 163
Rental Registry Applications Received: 70
Rental Registry Operating Permits Issued 93
Complaints Received: 168
Zoning Compliance Letters 14
Zoning Variance Applications Received: 35
Zoning Variances Approved: 28
Zoning Variances Withdrawn 6
Total Fees Collected: $ 443,403.20
Total Cost of Construction: $ 89,701,294.43
0
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2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Number of Permits Issued vs Inspections Conducted
Inspections Conducted Permits issued
4
$-
$50,000.00
$100,000.00
$150,000.00
$200,000.00
$250,000.00
$300,000.00
$350,000.00
$400,000.00
$450,000.00
$500,000.00
$-
$20,000,000.00
$40,000,000.00
$60,000,000.00
$80,000,000.00
$100,000,000.00
$120,000,000.00
$140,000,000.00
$160,000,000.00
$180,000,000.00
$200,000,000.00
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Cost of Construction vs Fees Collected
Cost of Construction Fees Collected
0
200
400
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1200
$-
$20,000,000.00
$40,000,000.00
$60,000,000.00
$80,000,000.00
$100,000,000.00
$120,000,000.00
$140,000,000.00
$160,000,000.00
$180,000,000.00
$200,000,000.00
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Cost of Construction vs Permits Issued
Cost of Construction Permits issued
January 16, 2026
Town of Ithaca Conservation Board Activities &
Accomplishments for 2025
Awarded its 22nd annual Richard B. Fischer Environmental Conservation Award to
Richard Schoch and held a tree planting ceremony in the Town’s Culver Road
Preserve where a Shagbark Hickory tree was planted;
Environmental Review Committee continued to provide comments on 2 site plan
projects, including the Mirabito Redevelopment project and the Ithaca College
running track;
Provided support to the Town’s Deer Management Program ;
Continued to update and monitor the Conservation Board Facebook page
(http://www.facebook.com/IthacaConservationBoard) and the Instagram page
(https://www.instagram.com/townofithacaconservationboard/);
Reviewed and provided feedback on the Town’s draft Local Law for Flood Damage
Prevention;
Finalized the ethnobotanic trail at Tutelo Park, which features biocultural
information on 11 native plants, and hosted a guided walk in September of the new
trail (https://townithacany.gov/tutelo-park-plant-walk/);
Hosted guests on various topics including Caroline Marschner (Invasive Species
Extension Associate), Hilary Swartwood (Town of Ithaca Sustainability Planner),
and Joe Talbut (Town of Ithaca Parks Superintendent);
Recruited one new full member in 2025.
DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING
Stormwater, Sanitary Sewer, Potable Water, Roads, Parks, and Trails
114 Seven Mile Drive, Ithaca, N.Y. 14850
ENGINEERING@TOWNITHACANY.GOV
PHONE: 607.273.1656
FAX: 607.272.6076
www.townithacany.gov
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2025 Annual Report
2025 Engineering Accomplishments
The Engineering Department continues to provide engineering support amongst all
departments throughout the town and constituents within the community.
There have been some staffing changes to the Engineering Department in the last year. Justin
McNeal has taken on a new role as the Senior Civil Engineer/Town Engineer.
Stormwater/MS4:
Reviewed 37 Simple SWPPP permits and 3 Basic SWPPP permits.
Review and approved 3 Full SPDES SWPPP and 1 Town Full SWPPP. Managed and
reviewed 14 ongoing Full SPDES Permits.
New SPDES GP-0-24-001 for MS4s was issued by DEC in 2024. Numerous staff hours
were spent reviewing and revising the Town Storm Water Management Plan
(SWMP) for compliance with the requirements for years 2 and 3 of the permits.
Re-evalutated our inventory of end sections, storm sewer systems, and tracked tasks
completed by DPW relative to the MS4 permit.
Represented the town at the Tompkins County Storm Water Coalition.
Attending numerous trainings relative to the MS4 permit and Stormwater Design
Manual.
Water and Sewer:
Administered 33 EPP permits and 1 Water and Sewer Availability Request.
Design for the 2025 Miscellaneous Water Main Replacement Project Phase 1 was
completed and awarded.
The Inlet Valley Pump Station Improvements Project was successfully bid and
awarded.
Completed the 2024 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project.
Supported DPW on various maintenance and improvement projects.
Highway:
Managed design consultant for the King Rd W Box Culvert Replacement Project.
Successfully bid and awarded the construction contract.
Supported DPW on various maintenance and improvement projects such as striping,
pavement replacement, and pavement maintenance.
Project Management of Townline Bridge Replacement Project (BridgeNY Grant)
Buildings/Maintenance:
Project management and design review of Town Hall Weatherization Project.
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Project management, review, successfully bid, and award of the Mezzanine/Court
Clerk Project.
Project management and completion of the PWF MEP Project.
GIS- (Geographic Information System):
We modeled sewer capacities as requested.
Our GIS Analyst has been updating our Townwide sewer model to work with the
updated ArcGIS Pro software.
Provided mapping services and support to all Town Departments.
Recalculated water and sewer benefit units.
Critical role in the development and implementation of DPW asset management
program.
Planning:
Reviewed proposed subdivision, site plans, and other Planning Board projects.
Provided support and review of award E. Shore Dr Connector Project (TAP Grant).
Provide technical oversight and provide requirements for the Site Design Manual.
Parks/Trails/Preserves/Cemeteries:
Design review has been completed for Babcock Ridge Trail project, and the project
was successfully bid and awarded.
Supported DPW on various maintenance and improvements.
2026 Engineering Priorities
Continue providing support and aiding all Town Departments in their endeavors.
Provide sustainable, effective, and cost-effective solutions and designs for Capital
Improvement and Maintenance Projects.
Complete the projects and perform Tasks identified on our workplan (See attached).
We are hoping to fill the Director of Engineering position and get settled into the new
roles throughout the department.
Date:02/12/2026
Justin
McNeal
Max
Villanueva
Sam
Harris
Emily
Rodgers
Madison
Clapp
Connor
Crandall
Senior
Civil
Engineer
GIS Analyst Civil
Engineer
Civil
Engineer
Engineer
Tech
Engineer
Tech
Admin
Staff Director
A. Capital Projects
2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Project X X X
King Road West Box Culvert-Rehab X
PWF MEP and Structural Improvements X X X
TH Mezzanine/Court Renovations Project X X X
Town Hall Weatherization Project; Part B-Design X X
Townline Road Bridge X X
East Shore Dr Safety Corridor X X
Stone Quarry/Commonland/Winners Circle Watermain
Replacement X X X
Babcock Ridge Trail X X
2026 Sanitary Sewer Rehab X X
2027 Wildflower Water Main Replacement Project X X X
IAWWTF CIP
B. GIS Projects
Updating the Town Sewer Model X
Cartegraph Updates X X
Updating MS4 Mapping X X
C. Misc. Projects
Site Design Manual X X
King Rd W. Monkmeyer Drainage X
Joint Interceptor Study X X
Lower Stone Quarry Rd Study X X
Coddington Rd SHRW Parking
Sewer Agreements X
Renwick Pedestrian Bridge X
D. PWF Projects
Master Plan X
PWF Security Fence (Grant Funded)
E. Codes
Town Wide Storm Water Management Plan-MS4 X X
MS4 Website Construction X X
Subdivision Code X
Sewer Code Updates X
F. Development Review
Mirabito Pine Tree Rd X X
Amabel X
Elmira Road Storage Units X
Learning Farm X X
Carrowmor Solar X X
Various Cornell Projects X X
Longview
Southworks X
Comfort Inn X X
Maplewood Phase 2 X X
Ithaca College Track X X
CMC X X X
Confier NNC X
Simple SWPPPs X X X
Basic SWPPPs X X
External Plumbing Permits X X X
G. Future CIP
Mitchell St Sewer X X
NE Bypass X
Pine Tree Tank/Pine Tree Rd Demo/Modifications X
2026 Engineer Projects and Tasks
Town of Ithaca
Finance Office 2025 Year End Report
• Prepared the 2026 Budget within the tax cap and a 4.3% increase in the tax levy.
• Successful audit for 2024. Annual Financial Report (AUD) submitted to NYS Comptroller.
• After reaching record high interest earnings in 2024 ($1.48 million), rates cooled a bit in 2025
(as expected) yet still earned the town $1.27 million in revenue in 2025. This was in line with
2023 earnings of $1.29 million in 2023. For comparison, interest earnings in 2022 were $285k.
The town has investments with Tompkins Community Bank (high yield savings account and
CD’s) as well as NY Class.
• To reduce fraud risks and improve efficiency, the Finance Office has converted many vendors
to electronic payments. This has resulted in more timely vendor payments, and reduced cost for
printing/mailing checks.
• The town continues to expand the use of online payments for water/sewer, tax collection,
permitting and other various services across all departments.
• HR and Finance worked jointly on the creation and filling of a support person that backs up both
administrative functions. This was a joint initiative centered around succession planning and
anticipated evolution of duties going forward. Having someone cross trained in Payroll/HR &
Finance creates greater stability and continuity in these key administrative areas.
• New tax collection software was launched for the 2026 tax season. Staff are working with the
vendor to refine the process but generally pleased with the outcome. Also of note, the
percentage of tax dollars collected through online and electronic payment options has nearly
doubled from last year to this year. The Town worked with large tax service organizations to
facilitate electronic payments on behalf of their customers which has vastly improved efficiency.
2026 Goals –
• Review of procurement policy and current/past practices to identify opportunities for improved
workflow efficiencies while remaining compliant with NYS law and regulations.
• Work with Edmunds GovTech on the conversion away from Harris (the town’s current Enterprise
software suite used for Payroll & Finance). Go live is anticipated for end of 2026 – Jan 1 2027.
• Continue to develop opportunities to use Laserfiche to improve records management, workflow
and reporting.
• Work collaboratively with all departments in the development and implementation of the
recommended 2027 budget.
• Assist in the recruitment and training of the new Deputy Finance Officer due to retirement.
Human Resources 2024 Year End Report, by Judy Drake
▪ Civil Service: Maintained compliant requirements
o Received approved payroll certification as required by civil service law.
o Requested several provisional positions to be in the NYS HELPS program.
o Reviewed changes for positions and reclassifications. 2 position reclassified.
o Position changes at the Town, SCLIWC and GTCMHIC due to retirements,
resignations/terminations: 4 retirement, 65 resignation, 1 termination, 6 internal promotions
and 13 new hires.
o Staff levels as of 12/31
▪ Town: 59:60 FT/ 1 PT Vacant: 1- Finance Officer
▪ BP: 20:22 FT/ 0 PT Vacant: 1- WTPO Trn, Sr. Account Clerk
▪ GTCMHIC: 4:4 FT/ 0 PT Vacant: none
▪ Town and BP Personnel Committee and Employee Relations Committee staff support
o Consistent meetings with each committee monthly- prepared minutes/agendas
o Discussed and recommended revisions to several policies
o Completed review and update of Personnel Manual for website posting and required
website legal postings.
o ERC reviewed suggestion box comments and reviewed policies.
o Scheduled and arranged trainings -DEI & Belonging
o Created and conducted revised Workplace Safety Survey
▪ Completed TEAMSTERS negotiations for 2025-2027 Agreement
▪ Safety Committee- co-chair- reviewed injury and incident claims
▪ Benefits Administrator for:
o Health, Dental, Life, Short Term Disability, Flex Spending, Workers’ Compensation ,
Deferred Compensation & NYS Retirement System
o Greater Tompkins County Municipal Health Insurance Consortium
▪ Serve as the Director representing the Town and serves as Board Past Chair
▪ Member of sub committees-Joint Committee on Plan Structure & Design, Audit
Committee, Finance Committee, Operations Committee and the Executive
Committee
▪ Human Resources support to Greater Tompkins County Municipal Health Insurance
Consortium- attended monthly staff meetings, updated staffing plan and wage scale.
▪ Human Resources support to Bolton Point Commissioners and staff –attend weekly
management team meetings, updated and reviewed 5-year staffing plan.
▪ Commercial Insurance coordinator for Town and Bolton Point - Worked on insurance claims
against the Town and Bolton Point, processed insurance certificate requests.
▪ Payroll management and law compliance – ran payroll collaboratively with Debby Kelley
o 125 w-2’s issued, 1095 and 1094 C forms regarding health insurance coverage were
completed and sent with w-2’s – Completed budget work for 2025 for Town, BP & GTC
2025 Priorities:
• Install an electronic timekeeping system that integrates with payroll.
• Succession planning for retirements through 2027, onboard new staff, fill new positions created
for 2025 and vacant positions. Focus on reducing turnover, so less recruiting.
• Work on electronic personnel filing system.
• Work on editing Personnel and Safety Manuals.
Town Planning Department Annual Report
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Town of Ithaca Planning Department
2026 Priorities & 2025 Year End Report
The following provides an overview of the Planning Department’s accomplishments in 2025 and
proposed 2026 priorities for implementation in the following Comprehensive Plan policy areas:
• Land use and development
• Housing and neighborhoods
• Natural resources and environment
• Energy and climate protection
• Agriculture
• Recreation
• Historical Resources
• Transportation
• Municipal services and infrastructure
• Community services
• Economic development
Planning Department Proposed Priorities for 2026
• Continue work towards adoption of a South Hill TND (traditional neighborhood development) regulating plan.
• Complete acquisition of 135 acres to establish new Sage Preserve on South Hill, including finalizing grant
management with the Park Foundation and Tompkins County, respectively, which helped fund the acquisition.
• Begin Tompkins Green Energy Network (T-GEN) community engagement process in collaboration with City
of Ithaca and NYS PSC-approved Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) administrator Local Power.
• Review and revise Town Code zoning and land use regulations per Codes & Ordinances Committee 202 6 Work
Plan per recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan; priority is completing revisions to the Subdivision
Regulations (Town Code Chapter 234).
• Submit application to NYS Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) for NYS-96 Pedestrian Improvements.
• Continue to collaborate with Engineering, Finance, and Public Works to identify and prioritize capital projects,
project management, and anticipated grant funding to further Comprehensive Plan goals.
• Continue work on the Site Design and Development Criteria Manual with Engineering and Public Works.
• Manage the STREETS ’27 project in collaboration with the Forest Home Improvement Association.
• Participate in development of the Housing Needs Assessment and Housing Strategy updates, led by Tompkins
County Department of Planning & Sustainability and Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency.
• Complete the Greenhouse Gas Inventory for Government Operations for the Town of Ithaca .
• Manage grant administration and assist with construction (to be managed by Town Engineering Department) of
a pedestrian trail and parking area for the 74-acre Babcock Ridge (portion of Culver Road Preserve) with
funding awarded from a 2022 NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation grant.
• Begin feasibility study for the South Hill Rec Way Extension (Burns Rd. to Banks Rd.) with funding awarded
from a 2022 Tompkins County Tourism grant.
• If awarded, begin work on Pro-Housing Community Technical Assistance Grant project to create a model in
ArcGIS Urban that considers fiscal impacts of development in three TND Future Land Use Character Areas.
• Continue to solicit applications for the Town’s Purchase of Development Rights Program.
• Stay updated on regulatory and permit updates relative to recent NYS Freshwater Wetlands Regulations revisions.
• Stay updated on NYS initiatives to reform the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), highlighted as a
priority in the current Executive Budget, anticipated to impact housing and infrastructure projects.
• Continue background research to support anticipated application to the new Community Reforestation (CoRe)
Grant Program for removal of invasive species and restoration of forested natural areas in Town Preserves.
• Participate in update to County’s Hazard Mitigation Plan, led by Tompkins County Department of Planning &
Sustainability.
• Continue to evaluate options for establishing a Town historic preservation program.
• Continue to scan and organize historic physical Planning Department records electronically.
Town Planning Department Annual Report
2
Accomplishment Highlights for 2025
LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT
• The Planning Department received 15 new development review applications in 2025 (e.g., Mirabito Re-
Development, Ithaca College Residence Hall Renovations, Cornell Wildlife Rehabilitation Aviary , Cayuga
Medical Center Emergency Generator Project, and Cornell Game Farm Road Field Hockey Field). This
included seven subdivision requests (involving two or three new lots); one sketch plan review; one SEQR
Lead Agency declaration (for a Type I Action); twelve site plan reviews; eight special permit approvals; and
one recommendation to the Town Board. Actions associated with these applications and other Board
responsibilities resulted in 30 Planning Board actions.
• For comparison, board actions in recent years were as follows: 10 in 2024; 20 in 2023; 32 in 2022; and 35 in
2021.
• Completed update of Flood Damage Prevention Local Law (Town Code Chapter 157) to coincide with new
FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (effective date 6/18/2025); hosted flood insurance informational session at
Town Hall on 7/15/2025 in cooperation with the City of Ithaca.
HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS
• Prepared revised draft amendments to Town Code Chapter 234: Subdivision Regulations
• Issued Request for Qualifications for assistance with State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) process
relative to adoption of the South Hill TND (traditional neighborhood development) regulating plan.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT
• Managed the grant (Tompkins County) and implementation for the ethnobotanic trail at Tutelo Park.
• Coordinated the purchase agreement, survey mapping, subdivision approval, and Town Board authorizations
for the potential acquisition of 135 acres on South Hill.
• Coordinated the purchase agreement, NYS parkland alienation approval process, survey mapping, subdivision
approval, and Town Board authorizations for the relocation of Saponi Park on Seven Mile Drive.
• Update to the Town Park, Recreation, and Open Space Plan continued.
• Deer management plan implementation continued.
• Coordinated final design drawings and grant administration for the Babcock Ridge Trail project.
AGRICULTURE
• Completed one new agricultural easement (Pokorney) on Hayts Road on approximately 71 acres.
• Continued to progress an agricultural easement (Holmes) on Hayts/Sheffield/Bundy Rads on 84 acres.
• Completed annual agricultural conservation easements inspections / monitoring: Indian Creek Farm, Laughing
Goat Fiber Farm and the Mallon property were all found in compliance.
• Completed annual wetland conservation easement inspections / monitoring: Ithaca College’s Raponi and Rich
Road wetland mitigation sites, and the Ridgecrest Rd./Little property wetland CE were all found in
compliance.
ENERGY AND CLIMATE PROTECTION
• Participated in the NYSERDA Stretch to Zero program quarterly meetings with other municipalities.
• Updated the Ithaca Energy Code Supplement (IECS) in cooperation with the City of Ithaca.
• Continued Green New Deal implementation (details in supplemental presentation and report to Town Board).
• Worked with an interdepartmental team to advance greenhouse gas reduction in Town facilities: provided
project management and/or other support on energy assessments, planning for implementation, and funding
application.
Town Planning Department Annual Report
3
• Worked with an interdepartmental team on the Town Hall Weatherization project grant application to NYS
Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; support included extensive research, preparation of
detailed budget, organizational, and project narratives, as well as project management.
• Applied for three grant opportunities through NYSERDA, Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN),
and the Preservation League of NYS to support the Town Hall Weatherization project.
• Started developing an updated greenhouse gas inventory for government operations (all Town-owned
buildings) in line with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan Energy and Climate Protection goals.
• Joined ICLEI - Local Governments USA professional organization, which provides resources and tools to help
local governments reach their climate and emissions targets.
• Assisted Public Works with streetlight rebate applications.
• Negotiated a new electric supply contract in partnership with Finance.
• Supported Public Works in implementation of Green Fleet Policy.
• Collaborated with Public Works and Finance to begin analyzing the Town’s Procurement and Green
Procurement policies.
• Leveraged Town efforts by working with student interns.
HISTORICAL RESOURCES
• Developed draft Town/City Landmarks Preservation Law; worked towards establishing a joint City/Town of
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission in cooperation with City Planning and Common Council.
TRANSPORTATION
• Continued progress towards construction of the East Shore Drive Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Corridor
Project – anticipated to be completed in 2027 — to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists on East Shore
Drive (NYS-34) between Boynton Middle School and the Ithaca Youth Bureau.
• Adopted Tompkins County Joint Safety Action Plan and Vision Zero Policy to complete the Safe Streets
Tompkins (Safe Streets for All) planning process.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
• Continued maintenance of the Planning Department’s webpages for the Town’s website.
• Continued maintenance of OpenGov; Town staff continues to work with OpenGov staff to improve electronic
intake of development review application process and suggest new features.
• The process of scanning and organizing files electronically continues to be a department priority for records
management and associated Freedom of Information act (FOIL) requests.
• Continued coordination with GIS staff to develop data layers for Town staff reference within OpenGov and
ArcGIS Online; collaborated on new Esri license structure for 2026.
• The Planning Department continues to provide staff support and coordination for the Planning Board,
Conservation Board, Planning Committee, Codes and Ordinances Committee , and Agricultural Committee, as
well as providing support across departments and assistance to residents and landowners in the community.
• The Planning Department continues to provide staff support and cross-coverage for the front-end Codes
Department and Town Clerks.
MUNICIPAL SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
• Submitted an application to Pro-Housing Community Technical Assistance Grant program (new in 2025), for
funding to create accurate representations of large multi-phase development projects that are anticipated to be
paced as long-term buildouts located in emerging growth areas close to major employers and activity hubs.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
• Completed recertification as a Pro-Housing Community and coordinated a successful grant application for
$5M in Pro-Housing Supply Infrastructure funding for the SouthWorks Beacon Woods project.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
114 Seven Mile Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850
Phone: 607-273-1656 Fax: 607-882-2472
Roads, Parks, Trails, Sewer, and Water
www.town.ithaca.ny.us
2025 Town of Ithaca Department of Public Works Annual Report
The Town of Ithaca’s Department of Public Works (DPW) was successful in accomplishing
many tasks during the 2025 fiscal year. Below is a summary of some of the major projects and
accomplishments that the group of 30 DPW Staff members performed:
Department of Public Works Permitting
Town Staff administered 20 Right of Way Permits, 1 temporary road closure permit, 12
driveway culvert permits, and 21 Tutelo Park Permits collecting a total of $8,611.00. A
total of $280,372.13 was also collected in performance bonds throughout the year.
Streetlights
After several years of implementing a streetlight conversion project, the Town finally
signed off on converting 272 of the Town’s streetlights from high pressure sodium to
new, LED lighting that is proven to be more energy efficient. Project closeout was
delayed due to the Town’s decision to pursue state of the art wireless controls. Each
streetlight was originally converted to a wire mesh communication network that was
determined to be non-communicative in several locations across the Town. It was
determined that some of the spacing of the lights was too much of a distance apart. The
communication was corrected with New York Power Authority who swapped out the old
wire mesh communication to LTE standalone nodes. Completion documents were signed
October of 2025.
Pine Tree Road Pedestrian Walkway
Town staff learned that there were no legal rights for maintenance of a pedestrian walk
that parallels Pine Tree Road from Synder Hill Road to Ellis Hollow Road. Visual
inspection determined that storm drainage was in disrepair and asphalt surfaces we in
need of maintenance. Town staff worked with Tompkins County and Cornell University
to make necessary repairs to the storm drainage and draft an agreement that outlined
maintenance responsibilities moving forward. The agreement was reviewed by the Town
Board and signed by the Town Supervisor early December.
Cartegraph
Town of Ithaca Department of Public Works Staff continue to educate themselves with
the complexities of this program as well as continue to find additional areas for its use.
Cartegraph Asset Management software produced by OpenGov continues to be built out
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
114 Seven Mile Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850
Phone: 607-273-1656 Fax: 607-882-2472
Roads, Parks, Trails, Sewer, and Water
www.town.ithaca.ny.us
by the Town’s GIS Analyst and Administrative Assistants as well as the remainder of the
Department of Public Works staff that utilizes it to monitor and maintain the Town
assets.
Fleet
It was determined in 2024 that the Town’s fleet radios could no longer communicate with
emergency services in the area due to being aged and outdated. Money was budgeted for
the purchase and installation of new fleet radios in 2025. Approximately 20 pieces of
vehicles and equipment were upfitted with newer 800 series radios so staff can
communicate with each other as well as contact emergency services during events such
as natural disasters. The Town’s Department of Public Works is deemed an Emergency
Operations Center through the Town’s Emergency Preparedness Plan.
Snow Removal Cameras
Department of Public works staff worked with Adirondak Cabling to procure and install
2 new snow and ice monitoring cameras on East Hill and South Hill. The cameras
complement the two existing cameras that the Town acquired through a New York
Power Authority grant that was included in the Town’s Streetlight Conversion Project.
The existing cameras from that project were installed in the Northeast and West Hill
portions of the municipality. All cameras allow Town staff to view live stream images of
key locations of the Town’s road network to monitor winter weather coming through the
area. The cameras are also paired with infrared road temperature sensors that allow
supervisor to make educated decision to dispatch Department of Public Works snow and
ice personnel. The cameras have been proven to be efficient and cost effective.
Department of Public Works Open House
On Saturday September 13th 2025, the Public Works Department hosted an open house.
The open house included Town staff as well as staff from Bolton Point, the Ithaca Fire
Department and the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Department. This event is held every
couple of years and has progressively grown more successful. All entities involved
displayed key pieces of equipment that are utilized in their respective profession. The
event attracted many residents, especially small children, who got to experience the
equipment from the perspective of the Public Employees for the day.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
114 Seven Mile Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850
Phone: 607-273-1656 Fax: 607-882-2472
Roads, Parks, Trails, Sewer, and Water
www.town.ithaca.ny.us
Key initiatives for the Department of Public Work in 2026 –
The Highway Department is looking to coordinate the asphalt restoration of approximately 3.10
miles of roadways as well as pavement maintenance of approximately 8-10 miles of the Town’s
existing highways. The Town’s Road Crews are also looking to complete a sizeable stormwater
project on West King Road. Related to the administrative side of the Town’s Highway Division
portion of the Department of Public Works, Town Staff is looking forward to establishing
updated right of way permitting per recommendations from the Town’s consultant CMS
Delaney. Water and Sewer Crews are looking to foreshadow the work of the Town Engineering
Department in their endeavors to replace short sections of failing water main throughout the
Town as well as continue to maintain all the new backup generators throughout the utility
system. Town’s Parks Maintenance Teams will be busy with aiding contracted construction
crews to develop the Babcock Preserve and the new infrastructure associated with
accommodating the expansion of this preserve to the Town’s existing parks and trails network.
Parks crews will also be looking into the future to monitor and maintain some of the newer
preserves and trails such as the new Flores preserves and South Hill Trail Extension on South
Hill. In summary, DPW staff will be focusing on many departmental wide maintenance
endeavors continuing to utilize Cartegraph Asset Management System to continue teambuilding,
innovation, and efficiencies.
TOWN CLERK’S OFFICE
Paulette Rosa
Ashley Colbert & Monica Moll, Deputy Town Clerks
The Town Clerk’s Office is the “face” of the Town, and we take that role very seriously; we are
welcoming and helpful to everyone that enters or calls.
TASK Completed
Dog Licenses / Impounds 1084 / 10
Accessible Parking Permits 478
Marriage Licenses / Domestic Partnerships 115 / 6
One-Day Officiant Licenses 27
Marriage Transcripts / Long Forms 75 / 20
Apostilles 14
FOIL Requests (Substantial) 39
Notary Services Ashley (200), Monica (116) & Paulette (25) 341
Noise Permits 4
West Hill Community Garden Applications 10
ZBA and PB - Attend and produce minutes 17
TB - Prep, attend and finalize all documents 22
Newsletter / Web Postings 12 / 30
We assist all departments with various tasks associated with:
Bid/RFP Advertising/Processing 12
Local Law Processing 19
Public Interest Order/Permissive Referendum Processing 8
Petition/Complaint Processing 5
Lawsuits 3
Contract Processing 32
County Filings – Easements/Misc 18
Abstracts – Tracking/Processing 7
Highlights for 2025
• Moved all Town Clerk permitting/licensing processes to Laserfiche.
• Created Laserfiche Form templates for routine tasks that interface with other departments.
• Assisted Codes, Engineering and Highway with Laserfiche processes, forms and records
management.
• Began framework discussions with Planning for Laserfiche processes, forms and records
management.
• Significant research supporting Town Board and other departments associated with major
projects, incidents and lawsuits.
Goals for 2026
• Continue with Laserfiche roll out of records management and processes with all departments.
• Succession planning by filing/recording historical knowledge of the Town Clerk
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING
DEPARTMENT OF CODE ENFORCEMENT & ZONING
215 N. Tioga St 14850
607.273.1747
http://www.townithacany.gov
From: Hilary Swartwood, Sustainability Planner
To: Town Board Members
Date: February 17, 2026
Subject: Potential Partnership with NYC Building Department on Energy Code Dashboard
The Town of Ithaca recently partnered with New York City’s Department of Buildings on a NYS
Department of State Local Government Efficiency grant to create a shared dashboard to support
compliance with NYC ’s Local Law 97 (LL97) and the Town of Ithaca’s Energy Code Supplement (IECS).
This dashboard will align with the Town of Ithaca’s Comprehensive Plan Energy and Climate Protection
goals to “incorporate sustainability and climate protection into long-term planning [EC-1]” and ”reduce
energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in buildings and infrastructure [EC-2].” It also aligns
with the Town’s Green New Deal goal to reach carbon neutrality town-wide by 2030.
Both jurisdictions will implement the E2 (Energy + Emissions) Dashboard: a live, online platform to
support compliance with LL97 and IECS by monitoring performance, strengthening enforcement, and
streamlining workloads. Led by NYC ’s Department of Buildings, the dashboard will integrate existing data
to improve performance monitoring, enforcement prioritization, and workload management and is
intended for municipalities of varying size and complexity, thereby establishing a replicable shared-
services model. Outcomes include early identification of high-risk buildings, targeted enforcement,
reduced administrative burdens through automation, improved interagency coordination, and emissions
and compliance forecasting. Deliverables include a live dashboard, integrated data pipelines, S tandard
Operating Procedures and user guides, staff training and a report documenting efficiency gains and
replication guidance.
Each municipality is requesting $250,000 ($500,000 total ) which includes a $25,000 local match per
municipality ($50,000 total), from New York State. The project scope, timeline, and deliverables have
been structured to align with this funding level while allowing for phased implementation if necessary.
The dashboard will be intentionally modular and scalable so that meaningful efficiency gains can be
achieved even if the full amount of requested funding is not secured as expected. The grant application
was submitted on February 4, 2026; NYS typically announces awards for Local Government Efficiency
grants each May.
Potential E2 Dashboard Project Implementation Timeline (totaling 2 years)
1. Phase 1: Project Initiation and Procurement (Months 1-4)
2. Phase 2: Requirements Definition and Detailed Design (Months 5-7)
3. Phase 3: Data Integration and Dashboard Development (Months 8-14)
4. Phase 4: Pilot testing and Iterative Refinement (Months 15-18)
5. Phase 5: Deployment, Training, and Documentation (Months 19-22)
6. Phase 6: Evaluation, Reporting, and Replicability (Months 23 -24)
Page 1 of 4
MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD
January 12, 2026
TB Resolution 2026 – : Adopt Consent Agenda
Resolved, that the Town Board approves and/or adopts the following Consent Agenda items:
a. Approval of Minutes
b. Town of Ithaca Abstract
c. Approval of Budget Amendments/Transfers
d. Approval of an MOU to provide assistance to Town of Lansing Code Enforcement
e. Resolution of Appreciation – Chris Jung
f. Appointment of ZBA Alternate – S Friedman
g. Approval of Establishment of the NYSLRS Standard Work Day
TB Resolution 2026 - a: Approval of Town Board Minutes
Resolved that the Town Board approves the minutes of February 9, 2026, as final with any non-
substantive changes made.
TB Resolution 2026 - b: Town of Ithaca Abstract No. 4 for FY-2026
Resolved that the Town Board authorizes the payment of the following audited vouchers in total
for the amounts indicated:
VOUCHER NOS. 2025 1305 - 1307
2026 112 - 150
General Fund Town Wide 48,058.81
General Fund Part-Town 8,102.02
Highway Fund Town Wide DA 85,077.25
Highway Fund Part Town DB 9,800.95
Water Fund 8,659.86
Sewer Fund 2,110.01
Trust and Agency 20,476.11
TOTAL 182,285.01
TB Resolution 2026 - d: Approval of MOU with Town of Lansing for Code Enforcement
services
Resolved that the Town Supervisor is authorized to sign an MOU with the Town of Lansing for
Code Enforcement Services as presented.
TB Resolution 2026 - e: Recognition of Christine Jung’s Dedicated Years of Service
Whereas, Christine Jung has served the Town of Ithaca with dedication for over 12 years, and
Page 2 of 4
Whereas, Christine was appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals on January 1, 2013; and
Whereas, Christine brought her professional experience in project coordination at Cornell
University, having worked at developing construction manuals that were based on building codes,
Whereas, Christine carefully listened and thoughtfully asked questions of applicants, and discussed
aspects of the project that were pertinent to the variance being requested and always weighed the
interests of the neighborhood to reach a balanced decision,
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca is grateful for Christine’s service and has greatly benefited from
her thoughtful review of zoning variances and her desire to serve our municipality; and
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca is indebted to Christine for her invaluable contributions to the
community; now, therefore, be it
Resolved that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca, on behalf of the Town and its residents,
expresses its sincere appreciation and gratitude to Christine Jung for her years of dedicated service
to our community.
TB Resolution 2026 - f: Appointment of Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate Member
Whereas there is a vacant Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate Member position due to a
resignation, and the Selection Committee recommends appointing Stuart Friedman, 219 Rachel
Carson Way, be it
Resolved that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby appoint Stuart Friedman as a
Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate Member for the term of February 23, 2026, through
December 31, 2026.
TB Resolution 2026 - g: Establishment of NY State and Local Retirement Systems
Standard Work Day
Whereas, the New York State and Local Retirement Systems requires municipalities to set a
standard work day to report all employees participating in the New York Retirement System; and
Whereas, Town last updated the list to the retirement system in June 2023; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca, location code 30222, does hereby set the
following standard work day for the following classifications as required by the NY State and
Local Employees’ Retirement System for the Town of Ithaca based on a time keeping system or
records of activity maintained and submitted by these members:
Five days a week, six hours a day:
Town Supervisor Members of Planning Board
Councilperson Members of Zoning Board of Appeals
Page 3 of 4
Justices Crossing Guards
7.5 hours per day, 5 days a week 8 hours per day, 5 days a week
Senior Planner Highway Superintendent/Director PW
Planner Director of Planning
Sustainability Planner Director of Code Enforcement
Planning Intern Director of Engineering
Deputy Finance Officer Finance Officer
Bookkeeper to the Supervisor Town Clerk
Human Resources & Finance Specialist Human Resources Manager
First Deputy Town Clerk Network Manager
Deputy Town Clerk Network Specialist
Court Clerk Senior Civil Engineer
Principal Account Clerk Typist Civil Engineer
Senior Account Clerk Typist Senior Engineering Technician
Account Clerk Typist Engineering Technician I
Administrative Assistant IV (TH) GIS Analyst
Administrative Assistant III (TH) Deputy Highway Superintendent
Administrative Assistant II (TH) Parks Maintenance Manager
Administrative Assistant I (TH) Water/Sewer Maintenance Supervisor
Information Aide (TH) Senior Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Project Assistant Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Computer Systems Support Aide Maintenance Supervisor
Maintenance Worker
Working Supervisor
Heavy Equipment Operator
Motor Equipment Operator
Laborer
Sr. Code Enforcement Officer
Code Enforcement Officer
Electrical / Code Enforcement Officer
Codes Safety Inspector
Account Clerk Typist (PWF)
Administrative Assistant I (PWF)
Administrative Assistant II (PWF)
Administrative Assistant III (PWF)
Administrative Assistant IV (PWF)
RESOLVED, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby set the following standard work
day for the following classifications as required by the NY State and Local Retirement System
for Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission:
8 hours per day, 5 days a week:
General Manager Finance Manager
Assistant Production Manager Production Manager
Page 4 of 4
Assistant Distribution Manager Distribution Manager
Water Treatment Plant Operator Assistant Sr. Water Treatment Plant Operator
Water Treatment Plant Operator Electrical & Mechanical Technician
Sr. Electrical & Mechanical Technician Sr. Water Maintenance Specialist
GIS/IT Specialist Water Maintenance Specialist
Distribution Operator Distribution Operator Assistant
Principal Account Clerk Typist Senior Account Clerk Typist
Account Clerk Typist Information Aide
Administrative Assistant I, II, III and IV
RESOLVED, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby set the following standard
workday for the following classifications as required by the NY State and Local Retirement
System for Greater Tompkins County Municipal Health Insurance Consortium:
8 hours per day, 5 days a week:
Executive Director Finance Manager
Clerk of the Board Benefits Specialist
7.5 hours per day, 5 days a week:
Administrative/Computer Assistant Benefits Manager
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
Between the Town of Lansing and the Town of Ithaca
for Code Enforcement Services
TO: Rod Howe, Supervisor, Town of Ithaca
FROM: Ruth Groff, Supervisor, Town of Lansing
DATE: February 17, 2026
RE: Code Enforcement Services
This memorandum sets forth the agreement between the Town of Lansing (Lansing) and the Town of Ithaca
(Ithaca) on the details related to the provision of code enforcement services by Ithaca to Lansing for a
temporary period to facilitate the enforcement of codes in Lansing.
Background
The Town of Ithaca has indicated it was willing to allow the Town of Lansing to utilize an Ithaca Code
Enforcement Officer as needed for a flat hourly rate without charging associated, pro-rated fringe benefits while
the Town of Lansing appoints a new Personnel Officer and considers its search process and/or other long-term
enforcement solutions.
The Towns are entering into this memorandum pursuant to NY Executive Law 5 381(2) and General Municipal
Law Article 5-6, which allow towns to enter into agreements for one town to administer and enforce in the
other town the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and the New York State Energy
Conservation Construction Code.
General
1. The Town of Lansing confers on the Ithaca Code Enforcement Officer any authority that has been
conferred on the Lansing Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to the Lansing Town Code § 108-5 or other
applicable law, rule or regulation.
2. The Towns agree that the Ithaca Code Enforcement Officer shall not be an employee of the Town of
Lansing in performing his/her services under this memorandum.
The Town of Lansing Agrees To:
1. Pay the Town of Ithaca at the rate of $36.00 per hour for certified code enforcement services, for the
period commencing February 23, 2026, through December 31, 2026, unless terminated earlier upon
written notice by either party of its intent not to continue the Agreement.
2. Provide office space and access to a phone, computer and copier, Town Stamp and supplies for the
Ithaca code enforcement officer.
3. Provide access to the Town’s permitting system and property files as needed.
4. Provide a Town vehicle for visiting work sites as needed.
5. Provide general liability.
6. Provide a safe and friendly workspace and remote computer access, if required, to work from home.
7. Arrange access to the code enforcement officer to review open permits and to consult on code
enforcement projects.
8. Defend, indemnify and hold the Town of Ithaca harmless for claims, actions, suits, demands, damages,
liabilities, obligations, losses, settlements, judgments, costs and expenses (including without limitation
reasonable attorney's fees and costs) resulting from code enforcement services provided in good faith
by Ithaca.
9. Pay the Town of Ithaca promptly for properly invoiced expenses. The Town of Lansing issues payments
on the third Thursday of each month for invoices received by the previous Wednesday.
The Town of Ithaca Agrees To:
1. Provide a certified code enforcement officer who is firm but friendly to assume responsibility for:
a. Monitoring open building permits (for demolitions, renovations, new construction, roof repairs,
heat pump installations, etc.) by providing guidance as needed by contractors as well as periodic
inspections as necessary.
b. Responding to residents' and/or contractors' questions about building code specifications and
designs, on an as-needed basis.
c. Preparing building permits for Code Officer review and approval, as necessary.
d. Documenting and following up, as time permits, on derelict properties and property
maintenance code violations, on an as-needed basis.
e. Provide plan review services for projects, on an as-needed basis.
f. Provide inspection services for residential and commercial projects, on an as-needed basis.
g. Provide guidance and advisory support to the Code Officer regarding the NYS Uniform Code and
NYS Energy Code on an as-needed basis.
2. The Code Enforcement Officer will also:
a. Document hours spent on updating department and project records.
b. Consult with code enforcement officer regarding complex or unclear projects.
c. Report to the Town Supervisor any significant violations or problems related to public safety or
personal safety prior to issuing citations or stop work orders.
e. Prepare a summary of work on completion of their interim service.
3. The Town of Ithaca will hold the Town of Lansing harmless for work-related injuries.
4. The Town of Ithaca will send to the Town of Lansing an invoice documenting the hours worked x the
salary rate of $36.00.
Approved: _________________________
Date: _____________________________
Ruth Groff, Supervisor, Town of Lansing
Approved: _________________________
Date: _____________________________
Rod Howe, Supervisor, Town of Ithaca