City Council

City of Mount Vernon, New York 1 ROOSEVELT SQ. RM. 104 CITY HALL, MOUNT VERNON, NEW YORK 10550 & VIA FACEBOOK.COM/MOUNTVERNONNY :21 O-.-s- J - .a' 'l #'-% - '-.// .-e)4 ia53 !892 Meeting Agenda Final Wednesday, January 22, 2025 7:00 PM CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CITY HALL City Council  City Council Meeting Agenda - Final January 22, 2025 A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF THE MOUNT VERNON CITY COUNCIL HELD ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2025. Scheduled for 7:00 pm in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, Mount Vernon, New York. *** This meeting was held in the City Council Chambers, with virtual participation via ZOOMand CMVNYFacebook. The meetingwas not closed to the public. *** PRESIDING: Danielle Browne, President OTHERS: Nicole Bonilla, Deputy City Clerk; Antoinette Anderson, Legislative Aide; Johan Powell, Deputy Corporation Counsel. CALL TO ORDER / PLEDGE OF ALLEGI.'U'JCE Council President Danielle called the meeting to order and provided general house-keeping Browne rules, including encouraging citizens to share the meeting on social media and what to do "in case of emergency". Council President Browne explained the 3-minute-plus-1 public cornrnent rule. She then asked a Councilperson to lead the council in the Pledge of Allegiance. Council President then proceeded to the Public Speakers session of the evening (listed below as public comment). PUBLIC COMMENT REFERRAL SESSION Roll Call administered by Deputy City Clerk Nicole Bonilla REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES AND ACTION THEREON To the Council: LEGISLATION AND PUBLIC WORKS 1. of the Mayor: An Ordinance Office Authorizing the Mayor and Chief of Staff to attend the National League of Cities (NLC) Congressional City Conference in Washington D.C. LPW 2. Department of Public Works: An Ordinance Authorizing the LeaseAgreementfor Office Space at 6 Gramatan Avenue, Suite 203, Mount Vernon, NY 10550 LPW Ordinance Establishing a List of Qualified MLuvpira"'onrneneIntaioisfustaPuinbalAciiityWcoornkssuita'nts LPW 4. Board of Water Supply: An Ordinance Authorizing The Board of Eater Supplyto Add a Position Entitled "Water Resource Specialist". LPW Page 1 of 3  City Council Meeting Agenda - Final January 22, 2025 of Water Supply to Add Position 5. Boardof WaterSupply:An Ordinance Authorizing the Board Entitled "Water Quality Analyst". LPW To the Council: HUMAN RESOURCES to the Mount Vernon Youth Bureau's Ready 6. Youth Bureau: An Ordinance Granting Permission 4Life to Sponsor a College Tour. HR To the Council: PUBLIC SAFETY AND CODES lJ,i)bepartment ofPublic Safety:AJI OrdinanceAuthorizingthe Mayorto Execute an Agreement Insight Corporation for the renewal Plan for the Police of the Nice Inform V& with Interaction Department PSC Amending Ordinance No.l4, Adopted July 10, 8. Department of Public Safety: An Ordinance Authorizing the Mayor to Enter into an Agreement with 2024, Entitled "An Ordinance Mobile Computers for the Department of Securewatch24 for the Purchase of 21 Tablet-Style Public Safety", PSC To the Council: FINANCE AND PLANNING Office of the Comptroller: An Ordinance Authorizing the Mayor to enter into an Agreement with 9. of Transportation to Receive a $IM Innovative Finance and Asset the Department US Concession Grant FP DevelopmentAgency J7%'p:.J,,i,,ustrial (IDA):Resolution requestingNew YorkStateSenatorJamaal T. James Gary Pretlow for introduction of Home Rule Legislation to Assembly Member Bailey and the collection of Hotel Occupancy Tax in the City of Mount amend Tax Law to authorize Vernon FP An Ordinance to Authorize the Conveyance of O Vernon Avenue, Mount -7 -q 'i;w Department: ernon, NY, to Myrtle Jones and to Authorize the Mayor to execute all necessary documents FP Page 2 of 3  Meeting Agenda - Ftnal January 22, 2025 Ctty Council ':jpmTJmC'e'mCbeorunycam'leAscRaerySolpuIWotniowRe'rqoureSil'tnrogaNue Tax Fee FP OTHER BUSIN'ESS/CLOSING COMMENTS Page 3 of 3  jAN 2 2 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CHIEF OF ST AFF TO ATTEND THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES (NLC) CONGRESSIONAL CITY CONFERENCE IN WASHINGTON, D.C. WHEREAS, by letter dated January 7, 2025, tlie Mayor has requested legislation authorizing Mayor, Shawyn Patterson-Howard, and Chief of Staff, Malcolm Clark, are hereby autliorized to attend the National League of Cities (NLC) Congressional City Conference in Washington, D.C. from March 10th to March 12th, 2025; and WHEREAS, the National League of Cities (NLC) Congressional City Conference will be held in Washington, D.C. from March IOth to March 12th, 2025; and WHEREAS, the conference will provide an opportunity for Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard and Chief of Staff Malcolm Clark to advocate for Mount Vernon's local priorities, meet with federal officials, and learn from policy experts, Administration officials, and other local leaders; and WHEREAS, the cost of registration for the conference is not to exceed $780.00 per person, and the total cost of the trip, including transportation, Arntrak, incidentals, and hotel, is not to exceed $4,000.00; and WHEREAS, the expenses for travel, hotel fees, and incidentals will be expensedfrombudgetAl210.402-Travel; Now,Therefore,BeItResolvedThat The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Authorization to Attend Conference. The Mayor, Shawyn Patterson-Howard, and Chief of Staff, Malcolm Clark, are hereby authorized to attend the National League of Cities (NLC) Congressional City Conference in Washington, D.C. from March 10th to March 12th, 2025. Section 2. Expense Limitation. The cost of registration for the conference shall not exceed $780.00 per person. The total cost of the trip, including transportation, Amtrak, incidentals, and hotel, shall not exceed $4,000.00. Section 3. Budget Allocation. The expenses for travel, hotel fees, and incidentals shall be expensed from budget A 1210.402 - Travel. Section 4. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval by the Board of Estimate and Contract. APPROVED AS TO FOFIM COUNCIL 0 ('a (fi a' distant CorporationCounsel President LL a* -(1) a) .a) APPROVED 000 CC)CLCO Dept. Mayor (F)Alil,1(E.Ir,ill(.,- - J AGREEMENT AN ORDINANCE FOR AUTHORIZING OFFICE SPACE AT THE LEASE 6 GRAMATAN AVENUE, SUITE 203, MOUNT VERNON, NY 10550 HX-4N%,7 Whereas, by letter dated December 23, 2024, the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works has requested legislation authorizing the Mayor to enter into a lease agreement for office space at 6 Gramatan Avenue, Suite 203, Mount Vernon, 't:jlll,ilX'(:11:.:L1111,7ij'a., NY 10550, for a term cornmencing 21:L""at on June 1, 2025, and concluding on May 31, 2027, under the terms outlined below; and C2 Whereas, the Department of Public Works ("DPW") and the Board of Water Supply ("BOW") are tasked with completing the City's Sewer Rehabilitation and Lead Service Line Replacement projects; and Whereas, the DPW and BOW require office space to accommodate the personnel and equipment necessary to manage these projects efficiently; and Whereas, the current space at 6 Grarnatan Avenue, Suite 203, Mount Vernon, NY 10550, has been identified as suitable for housing 5-10 personnel, with the lease terms spanning from June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2027; and Whereas, the fiinding for this lease will be sourced from grant-funded monies provided by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation ("NYSEFC"), ensuring no additional burden on local taxpayers; and Whereas, the funds will be deposited into Revenue Code A3902 and appropriated to DPW Budget Code A1440.405, with an aggregate funding amount of $500,000 available for the lease period; and Whereas, the lease terms include an annual base rent of $57,288.60 in Year l and $59,007.26 in Year 2, with monthly installments payable at the lessee's discretion; and Whereas, this office space will facilitate of essential project personnel, the work including the City Engineer, Stormwater Sewers Foreman, BOW Coordinator, Administrator, BOW Field Coordinator, and BOW Data Entry Clerk; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Authorization. is herebyauthorizedto enterinto a lease The Mayor agreement for office space at 6 Gramatan Avenue, Suite 203, Mount Vernon, NY 10550, for a term cornrnencing on June 1, 2025, and concluding on May 31, 2027, under the tern'is outlined below: 1. Lease Year 1: Base Rent of $57,288.60, payable in monthly installments of $4,774.05. 2. Lease Year 2: Base Rent of $59,007.26, payable in montMy installments of $4,917.27. 3. Utility and maintenance are to be included as stipulated in the lease agreement. Section 2. Funding. shall be funded through grant monies Lease payments from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation, with fundsdeposited into Revenue Code A3902 and appropriated to DPW Budget Code A1440.405 for the lease period. Payments shall be made monthly or quarterly at the lessee'sdiscretion. i,f.,jJ-E '4:2: J Section 3. Use of Space. The leased space shall be used exclusively to support the personnel and operations associatedwith the City"s Sewer Rehabilitation and Lead Service Line Replacement projects. The following personnel shall initially be stationed 'HELD at the location, with additional personnel added as project needs evolve: City Engineer Stormwater Coordinator '. ' 2' 2," J.':r't 'l IT2".'i Sewers Foreman BOW Administrator BOW Field Coordinator BOW Data Entry Clerk Section 4. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its approval by the Board of Estimate & Contract. APPROVED AS TO FORM NCIL 0 o [14 g,Corporation Counsel Pre'sident o APPFIOVED @)- .a) a) APPROVED COaCn Dept.  s:I:) ,'@,'.i .2G: ..!;%i,2! AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A LIST OF QUALIFIED ENVIRONMENT AL/SUST AINABILITY CONSULT ANTS. 'n's'tlj WHEREAS, by letter dated January 6, 2025, the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works is seeking City Council approval to establish a list of qualified Environmental /Sustainability consultants; and WHEREAS, this initiative follows the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) advertised on August 1, 2024, aimed at pre-qualifying consultants with the necessary expertise for sustainability projects; and WHEREAS, three submissions were reviewed, and two consultants were selected: Green Westchester and Kim Lundgren Associates Inc.; and WHEREAS, the list supports the City's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and will expedite future projects initiation and completion. The request is ffiade by the Director of Sustainability and supported by the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Authorization to establish a list of qualified Environmental /Sustainability consultants. The City Council hereby authorizes the establishment of qrialified Environmental/Sustainability Consultants. Section 2. Establishing List of Qualified Environmental/Sustainability Consultants. a) RFQ advertised on August 1, 2024, to identify and pre-qualify consultants. b) Three submissions reviewed based on local needs, technical competence, experience, project approach, and green credentials c) Selected consultants: o Green Westchester - 26 Glencar Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10801 o Kim Lundgren Associates, Inc.-10 Post Office Square, 8'h fl., Boston, MA 02109 d) The list promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. e) Expedites consultant selection process for future projects. Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its approval by the Board of Estimate and Contract. Councilperson APPROVED AS TO FORM THIS ORDINANCE ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL President ATTEST: ..-:-' ::y'tiq-4-; City Clerk APPROVED Date APPROVED Dept. By Mayor ,i,'.1: (ah.'(l': L/'oi ((allj.l"7. .=,r. 4' AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING ADD A POSITION THE BOARD ENTITLED OF WATER SUPPLY TO "WATER RESOURCE SPECIALIST" WHEREAS, by letter dated January 14, 2025, the Commissioner of the Board of Water Supply is requesting the addition of a "Water Resource Specialist" position to support the Lead Service Line Replacement Program; and WHEREAS, this position has an annual salary of $70,800.90, Grade 8C-Step 4 and will be funded by a $2 million grant from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (NYS EFC) effective January 1, 2025; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Authorization to add a position. The Board of Water Supply is hereby authorized to add a position within said department under the terms outlined below: a) The Board of Water Supply is seeking to add a "Water Resource Specialist" position. b) The position is necessary for the Lead Service Line Replacement Program. c) The program is funded by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (NYS EFC). Section 2. Funding and Salary a) The annual salary for the position is $70,800.90. b) The position is classified as Grade 8C-Step 4. c) Funding comes from a $2 million grant from NYS EFC. Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its approval by the Board of Estimate and Contract. APPROVED AS TO FORM RDI COUNCIL 0 o ('N (O m istant Corporation Counsel C%I a) a' a> o c (U c "O o L(S)S tti APPROVED APPROVED CLCf) Dept. Mayor 'f Ja"":<':l"(.i-a'-a':i AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZNG THE BOARD OF WATER SUPPLY TO ADD 5 A POSITION ENTITLED "WATER QUALITY ANALYST". WHEREAS, by letter date January 14, 2025, the Cornrnissioner of the Board of Water Supply has requested the addition of a "'Water Quality Analyst" position to the 2025 office budget effective January 1, 2025; and WHEREAS, this role is crucial for complying with the New York State Department of Health's mandate to implement a Backflow Prevention Program, ensuring public health safety; and WHEREAS, the "Water Quality Analyst" position will manage administrative functions, enhance water quality management, and ensure regulatory compliance. The position has an annual salary of $70,800.90, Grade 8C-Step 4 with funds already included in the Board of Water Supply's 2025 budget; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Authorization to add a position. The Board of Water Supply is hereby authorized to add a position within said department under the terms outlined below: a) The Board of Water Supply requests to add a "Water Quality Analyst" position. b) This position is essential for complying with NYS DOH mandates. c) The role will oversee the Backflow Prevention Program and address water quality concerns. Section 2. Responsibilities and Benefits. a) The "Water Quality Analyst" position will manage administrative functions of the Bacldlow Prevention Program. b) The position will enhance operational efficiency and public confidence in water quality management. c) The role includes conducting system audits, reviewing standards, and identifying best practices. d) The "Water Quality Analyst" position will monitor compliance with state and federal regulations and recommend risk mitigation strategies. Section 3. Financial Details. a) The annual salary for the position is $70,800.90, Grade4. 8C-Step b) The necessary fiinds are included in the 2025 budget under code 001-521- 521002, Section 4. This ordinance shall take eff ediately the Board of Estimate and Contract. APPROVED AS TO FORM COUNCIL 0 o asdfstant Corporation Counsel President ('%i i a go i,, a= -City C(erk APPROVED o Dept. Mayor J',f"'i!'ia: g" i7'gr,,I"l"r'l AN ORDINANCE GRANTING PERMISSION TO THE MOUNT VERNON YOUTH BUREAU'S READY 4LIFE TO SPONSOR A COLLEGE TOUR WHEREAS, by letter dated January 15, 2025, the Executive Director of the Youth Bureau has requested that legislation be enacted granting permission to the Youth Bureau's Ready4LIFE to sponsor a HBCU College Campus Tour for 27 youth and eight (8) staff members from February 18-21, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Ready4LIFE (R4L) HBCU College Tours plays a vital role in the college selection process for program participants. Its primary goal is to expose aspiring college students to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), fostering increased interest in higher education and providing them with valuable insight into campus life and academic opportunities; and WHEREAS, this initiative supports the Youth Bureau's commitment to promoting academic achievement and enhancing opportunities for higher education among participants of the Ready4LIFE program; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Purpose: Requesting authorization for eight (8) staff members and twenty-seven (27) youth to attend the City of Mount Vernon Youth Bureau's Ready4LIFE HBCU College Tour from February 18 to February 21, 2025. Section 2. Costs: The total estimated cost of the four-day trip and three (3) nights is not to exceed $25,000, including: College Tour:4 days & 3 nights: $9,261.00 Lunch & Dinner for 34 attendees: $7,700.00 Transportation: $7,000.00 Parking Fees: $120.00 Rental Fees: $400.00 Funds are available under the following Ready4LIFE Budget Codes: A7335.458 (Miscellaneous) A7335.402 (Travel) Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval by the Board of Estimate and Contract. APPROVED AS TO FORM NCIL msistant Corporation Counsel Presidbnt hA'Tffi} o APPROVED Dept. Mayor  'i r r a AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR 4 l q. TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH INTERACTION INSIGHT CORPORATION FOR THE RENEWAL OF THE NICE INFORM V7 PLAN FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT HELD Whereas, by letter dated January 7, 2025, the Interim Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety has requested legislation authorizing Mayor to execute an agreement with Interaction Insight Corporation to renew the NICE Inform V7 Plan for the period beginning April I, 2025, and ending March 31, 2026, at a total cost of $7,604.00; and Whereas, on January 24, 2024, the City Council of Mount Vernon approved a consent agreement with Interaction Insight Corporation for the NICE Infomi V7 Plan, and on January 30, 2024, the Board of Estimate and Contract approved said agreement; and Whereas, the NICE Inform V7 Plan enables the recall of all inbound and outbound telephone conversations within the Police Department to ensure operational efficiency and compliance; and Whereas, the agreement includes essential remote and onsite support services that are critical to maintaining the functionality and reliability of the NICE Voice Recording System; and Whereas, it is in the best interest of the City of Mount Vernon to continue this agreement to maintain the operational integrity of the Police Department's communications systems; and Whereas, the cost of the annual renewal for the period from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, is $7,604.00, and said cost will be satisfied from Budget Line A1680.216; and Whereas, the renewal of this agreement is necessary to ensure uninterrupted service and support for the Police Department; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. The Mayor is hereby authorized to execute an agreement with Interaction Insight Corporation to renew the NICE Inform V7 Plan for the period beginning April 1, 2025, and ending March 31, 2026, at a total cost of $7,604.00. Section 2. The funds for this agreement shall be appropriated from Budget Line AI680.216. Section 3. The agreement shall provide for remote and onsite support services as outlined in the terms of the agreement with Interaction Insight Corporation. Section 4. This Ordinance shall take effcct immediately upon its approval by the Board of Estimate & Contract. Councilperson APPFIOVED AS TO FORM THIS ORDINANCE ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL /Assistant Corporation Counsel President ATTEST: %<I"iS:l' ,CiatyClerk APPROVED Date APPROVED Dept. By Mayor "7  AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE N0. 14, ADOPTED JULY 10, 2024, ENTITLED "AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH SECUREWATCm4 FOR THE PURCHASE OF 21 TABLET-STYLE MOBILE COMPUTERS FOR THE DEP ARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. The sixth decretal paragraph, Section 2:6 and Section 4 of Ordinance No. 14, adopted July 10, 2024, entitled "AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH SECUREWATCH24 FOR THE PURCHASE OF 21 TABLET-STYLE MOBILE COMPUTERS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" Whereas, by letter dated June 19, 2024, the Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety has requested legislation authorizing the Mayor to enter into an agreement with SecureWatch24 for the purchase of 21 tablet-style mobile computers for the Department of Public Safety to enhance operational efficiency and provide officers with critical technology in their vehicles; and Whereas, the Department ofPublic Safety has equipped its fleet ofmarked Police vehicles, purchased in 2022, with mounts needed to place mobile computers within the cars; and Whereas, the Department of Public Safely needs to purchase 21 tablet-style mobile computers to be placed within these mounts to enable officers to complete more paperwork while within their vehicles, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the need to return to Police Headquarters; and Whereas, the mobile computers will allow officers to access the Department's Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Records Management Systems (RMS), both current and anticipated new systems, and will also enable access to body-worn camera and in-car video footage on evidence.com while on the street; and Whereas, SecureWatch24 is an approved vendor by the New York State Office of General Services (NYS OGS) to provide tablet-style mobile computers, available under NYS OGS Contract PC 69031 ; and Whereas, the total cost for the 21 mobile computers, including a 3-year warranty, will be $147,039.00, which will be a one-time purchase satisfied from Budget Line A3120.416 [A3120.203ARP SDI-001 3.16]; and Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain, and enact: Section 1. Purpose. This ordinance authorizes the Mayor to enter into an agreement with SecureWatch24 to purchase 21 tablet-style mobile computers for the Department of Public Safety, which will enhance operational efficiency and provide officers with critical technology in their vehicles. Section 2. Definitions. For this ordinance, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated: 1. 'GSecureWatch24": The vendor approved by the New York State Office of General Services to provide tablet-style mobile computers. 2. "Mobile Computers": Tablet-style computers designed for use by the Department of Public Safety in vehicles.  r !. \ "T=i7,L7 aljr'7i l,)l,, 3. G'CAD": Computer Aided Dispatch. 4. "RMS": Records Management Systems. 5. "Department of Public Safety": The department responsible for public safety in the City of Mount Vernon. 6. 'GBudget Line A3120.416 [A3120.203ARP SDI-001 3."6"]: The budget line allocated for this purchase. Section 3. Authorization. The City Council hereby authorizes the Mayor to enter into an agreement with SecureWatch24 for the purchase of 21 tablet-style mobile computers for the Department of Public Safety at a total cost of $147,039.00. Section4. Funding. The total cost of $147,039.00 for the 21 mobile computers shall be satisfied from Budget Line A3120.416 [A3120.203ARP SDI-001 3.161 2024 Budget. Section 5. Procurement. The mobile computers will be purchased through SecureWatch24 under the New York State Office of General Services Contract PC 69031. Section 6. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval by the Board of Estimate & Contract. New Matter Underlines Deleted Matter in Brackets [ ] /' / ApPRoVEDAsToFoR President APPROVED Dept. Mayor Page 2 j.l7.!.l( ?, ll%".i 2L7rL, H. AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE INNOVATIVE FINANCE & ASSET CONCESSION GRANT PROGRAM. WHEREAS, by letter dated January 15, 2025, the Comptroller has requested legislation authorizing permission for the Mayor to enter into agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for the $1M Innovative Finance & Asset Concession Grant Program grant. The budget period for the grant award is thirty-six (36) months, commencing on February 1, 2025; and WHEREAS, this Cooperative Agreement fiinds and sets out the ternns and conditions (Provisions) governing a collaborative effort between the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the City of Mount Vernon (Recipient) for project,"TargetitxgMoum Vernon's Transit- OrientedAssets"; and WHEREAS, this is a cost reimbursement Cooperative Agreement. The responsibility for conducting activities under this Agreement lies primarily with the organization named in this Agreement (Recipient). DOT, through its designated representatives, shall consult and coordinate in the conduct of the activities performed during the period of this Agreement; and WHEREAS, the maximum value of cooperative agreements is $2 million. Cooperative agreements of up to $1 million are offered at 100 percent federal share (no required non-federal match). Amounts in excess of $1 million are offered at 50 percent federal share (50 percent required non-federal matcli). For example, a cooperative agreement of $2 million in federal aid would be matched by $1 million of non-federal funds, supporting a $3 million effort; and WHEREAS, the City has been identified as a recipient of these funds, which will support infrastructure and transportation-related improvements to enhance the community; and WHEREAS, the acceptance of this grant and execution of an agreement with USDOT is in the best interest of the City and its residents and by signing the signature page, the Recipient accepts the terms and conditions as stated; NOW, THEREFORE, The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Authorization. The Mayor is hereby authorized to enter into an agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for the $1M Innovative Finance & Asset Concession Grant Program grant. Section 2. Acceptance. That all grant funds received under this agreement shall be utilized strictly in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth by the u.s. Department of Transportation. Section 3. Cost Sharing or Matching Funds. The maximum value of cooperative agreements is $2 million. Cooperative agreements of up to $1 million are offered at 100 percent federal share (no required non-federal match). Amounts in excess of $1 million are offered at 50 percent federal share (50 percent required non-federal match). For example, a cooperative agreement of $2 million federal aid would be matched by $1 million of non-federal funds, supporting a $3 million effort. Section 4. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval by the Board of Estimate and Contract. ouncilperson APPROVED AS TO FORM 0 'u:,' (: 5: LL -(1) a) .a) :,fAp( a!i PR(%iVIiD APPROVED 000 a)CLa) Dept. Mayor city<e9  77L -, l.' 1.: iT,,111%,a -.la A RESOLUTION REQUESTING NEW YORK STATE SENATOR JAMAAL T. BAILEYAND ASSEMBLY MEMBER JAMES GARY PRETLOW FOR INTRODUCTION OF HOME RULE LEGISLATION TO AMEND TAX LAW TO AUTHORIZE THE COLLECTION OF HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX IN HELf5 THE CITY OF MOUNT VERNON. WHEREAS, Section 1202 of the New York State Tax Law allows municipalities to adopt and amend local laws imposing a tax upon persons occupying hotel or motel rooms, bed and breakfast, and other tourist rental stay facilities; and WHEREAS, the City is prepared and budgeted to implement this occupancy tax and seeks the support of the City's elected representatives in the New York State Senate and Assembly after discussion and acknowledgement by the City Council; and WHEREAS, upon the introduction of legislation the City of Mount Vernon will take further action to submit a home rule request pursuant to Article IX of the Constitution in support of legislation to authorize the City to implement a hotel and motel tax rate of up to five and eight seven five present (5.875%) of the per-diem rental rate for each room; NOW, THEREFORE, be it RESOLVED, the City Council of the City of Mount Vernon, duly convened in regular session does hereby: RESOLVE, that the City of Mount Vernon City finds that the implementation of a hotel and motel tax rate would benefit the City by providing additional revenues for use within the City of Mount Vernon, and be it further RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby requests that New York State Senator Jarnaal T. Bailey and Assembly Member James Gary Pretlow, as elected representatives of the City of Mount Vernon, introduce legislation to authorize the City to adopt a local law giving the authority to implement the hotel and motel tax rate at a rate of up to five and eight seven five present (5.875%) of the per-diem rental rate for each room; and be itfurther RESOLVED, that the City Council requests the bill be drafted to include additional language clarifying that for the purposes of this particular section of law, definition of the terms "hotel" or "motel" are to mean and include any facility providing on an overnight basis and shall include those facilities designated and commonly known as"bed and breakfast" and "tourist" facilities; and be it further RESOLVED, that the City Council requests the bill include additional language for the purpose as to enable authorized local law(s) enacted by the City to provide that any tax imposed shall be paid by the person liable therefor to the owner of the hotel or motel room occupied or to the person entitled to be paid the rent or charge for the hotel or motel room occupied for and on account of the City of Mount Vernon imposing the tax and that such owner or person entitled to be paid the rent or charge shall be liable for the collection and payment of the tax; and be it further II,i.1. : {F,:J: 2.-4'aT., RESOLVED, that the City Council requests the bill include additional language relating to the deposit of revenues resulting from the imposition of the tax be added with the purpose as to authorize the City to retain the necessary revenue to defer the expense of the City in administering such tax and the balance of such revenues shall be allocated to use within the City of Mount Vernon as so determined by the City of Mount Vernon City Council; and be it further RESOLVED, that the City Clerk is hereby directed to forward certified copies of this resolution to New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey and Assembly Member James Gary Pretlow. Councilperson APPROVED AS TO FORM THIS ORDINANCE ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL --i President ATTEST: a):.:.-: 2.tl 3,CityClerk APPROVED Date APPROVED Dept. By Mayor ID t.t:.a.@t <7i(-( 111r 7 l) AN ORDINANCE CONVEYANCE TO OF O VERNON AUTHORIZE AVENUE, THE MOUNT VERNON, NY, TO MYRTLE JONES AND TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO HELI) EXECUTE ALL NECESSARY DOCUMENTS Whereas, by letter dated January 10, 2025, the Corporation Counsel has requested legislation authorizing the conveyance of the vacant lot located at O Vernon Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY (Block 4047, Lot 12), to Myrtle Jones, the owner of the adjoining property at 286 McClellan Avenue; and Whereas, Myrtle Jones purchased property at 286 McClellan Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY, in 2012, which shares the same BIOCk and Lot number (Block 4047, Lot 12) with an adjoining vacant lot located at O Vernon Avenue; and Whereas, due to an error by Ms. Jones's title company, Partners Abstract Corp., the back taxes for 286 McClellan Avenue were paid in 2014, but the taxes for the adjoining vacant lot were inadvertently omitted; and Whereas, this error resulted in the City of Mount Vernon retaining title to the vacant lot at O Vernon Avenue despite the delinquent taxes being later paid in full by the title company; and Whereas, the Real Estate Committee, at its September 29, 2023, meeting, reviewed this matter and recommended the transfer of O Vernon Avenue to Myrtle Jones to rectify the longstanding error; and Whereas, this conveyance is not a real estate sale but rather a deed transfer to address the administrative oversight and return the vacant lot to its rightful owner; and Whereas, it is in the interest of justice and faimess for the City of Mount Vernon to complete this transfer without further delay; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Authorization to Convey. The City Council authorizes the conveyance of the vacant Jot located at O Vemon Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY (Block 4047, Lot 12), to Myrtle Jones, the owner of the adjoining property at 286 McClellan Avenue. Section 2. Execution of Documents. The Mayor of the City of Mount Vernon is hereby authorized and directed to execute all necessary documents, including but not limited to a deed of conveyance and any closing documents, to effectuate the transfer of the subject property to Myrtle Jones. Section 3. No Consideration. This transfer is made at no additional cost to Myrtle Jones, as it is intended to correct an administrative oversight and not as a sale of real property. it  Section 4. Severabi}ity. Suppose any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this Ordinance shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid. In that case, such a judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of this Ordinance. Still, it shall be confined to the clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part thereof directly involved in the controversy in which such judgment shall have been 'nbtI> rendered. Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect upon its approval by the Board of Estimate & Contract. Councilperson APPROVE ORM THIS ORDINANCE ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL /Assistant Corporation Counsel President ATTEST: ELy:-,4'..i.l',' CityClerk APPROVED Date APPROVED Dept. By Mayor Page 2 /l  A RESOLUTION REQUESTING NEW YORK STATE SENATOR JAMAAL T. BAILEY AND ASSEMBLY MEMBER JAMES GARY PRETLOW FOR INTRODUCTION OF HOME RULE LEGISLATION TO INCREASE TRANSFER TAX FEE HELD WHEREAS, by letter dated January 13, 2025, City Councilman Javon Boxhill requested a resolution requesting New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey and Assembly Member James Gary Pretlow introduce a state bill authorizing an amendment to Local Law 2023-4 to increase Transfer Tax Fee; and WHEREAS, a letter dated November 16, 2023 from Comptroller Morton requesting a Home Rule to amend Article VII, Section 234-45 of the Code of the City of Mount Vernon entitled Real Estate Tax, 234-45; and WHEREAS, in December 2023, the City Council adopted Law 2023-4 to increase the Transfer Tax Fee. This fee is regulated by state law specific to the City of Mount Vernon, NOW, THEREFORE, be it RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby requests that New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey and Assembly Member James Gary Pretlow as elected representatives of the City of Mount Vernon to introduce a Home Rule to increase the Transfer Tax Fee; and be it fiirther RESOLVED, that the City Clerk is hereby directed to forward copies of this resolution to Senator Jamaal Bailey and Assemblyman James Gary Pretlow. Councilperson APPROVED AS TO FORM THIS ORDINANCE ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL /Assistant Corporation Counsel President ATTEST: -'S'-,'.2Qi,=,i ' CityClerk APPROVED Date APPROVED Dept. By Mayor