City Council

CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS, NEW YORK TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2000 CITY COUNCIL ROOM 7:30 P.M. PRESENT: Kenneth Klotz, Mayor Thomas Curley, Commissioner, Public Safety Michael Lenz, Commissioner, Finance Thomas McTygue, Commissioner, Public Works Bernard Mirling, Commissioner, Accounts OTHERS PRESENT: Phillip Klein, Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Representative Anthony Scirocco, Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Representative STAFF PRESENT: Christine Gillmett, Deputy Commissioner, Finance Carol Kennedy, Deputy Commissioner Accounts Bob King, Deputy Commissioner, Public Safety William McTygue, Deputy Commissioner, Public Works Jeffrey Wait, City Attorney PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR Bill Ennis and Peter Crowley, Saratoga Springs representatives to the Saratoga County Sewer Commission, said they were here tonight to discuss the Department of Public Works' request to place a moratorium on the flows from the Town of Wilton. He then distributed an informational package to Council members. Bill Ennis said the problems in this area are well documented. He said he compared the City's file to the County's file and has since submitted additional information to the City that was not in the City's file. He said it appeared the City's major concern was the integrity of the County sewer line and its ability to handle the flows from the City and the Town of Wilton. Bill Ennis said he and Peter Crowley witnessed the surcharge on January 20. He said the County arranged to have the lines visually inspected a with camera which showed a blockage. He said the line was cleaned last week and more than eight cubic yards of debris was removed. He said immediately after cleaning the line was again visually inspected and it showed that the line was in good shape with no cracks or leaks. He said, though, while the camera was in the line it became submerged which would indicate an increase in flow. Bill Ennis said the various engineers' reports indicated that there was plenty of capacity in this line and because the line will be replaced in the spring, the County Sewer Commission saw no reason to impose a moratorium. He said the replacement of this line will not guarantee that surcharging will not occur but they are confident that the County system will not contribute to the problem. He pointed out that historically, the line has handed a much higher flow. Bill Ennis said the County Sewer district is about to enter into an extensive evaluation of the system that will help the various communities deal with the problems that they face. Mayor Kenneth Klotz thanked Bill Ennis and Peter Crowley for their presentation. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Discussion - Sewer Joe O'Neill, Director of Public Works, said he was glad the lines had been visually inspected. He explained that the City did not ask for a moratorium on existing flows, but rather had asked for a moratorium on additional flows. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said this is a serious problem for the City. He said the City had been put on notice by DEC with a $75,000 fine. He reminded Council members that this surcharge is something the City has no control over. He said he was glad the line had been cleaned and was also glad to hear that the Town of Wilton would replace the line they had originally agreed to more than a year ago. Bill Ennis said it was not a year ago, but rather during the fall of 1999 when they had agreed to replace the line. He agreed a substantial amount of debris had been removed from the line. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked if they were confident that this surcharge would not happen again. Bill Ennis said there are a number of factors to consider on that matter. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said if the construction of this line was completed before the track opened, there should not be any problems. Bill Ennis said they hoped for the construction to be completed by June. Commissioner Michael Lenz asked where this debris had come from. Joe O'Neill said the pipe was approximately half full with debris. He said the pipe is 22 years old and on a relatively flat slope. He said he hoped the county would monitor and schedule regular cleanings. Commissioner Michael Lenz asked if this was a county pipe or a City pipe. Joe O'Neill said it was a county line. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked if this debris was what caused the surcharge. Joe O'Neill said yes. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked about the flows coming from the Town of Wilton. Joe O'Neill said the additional flows are a significant factor in this problem. He pointed out again that the camera was underwater at one point which means the pipe was filled. He said the flows cannot get down the line and it creates a surcharge. Joe O'Neill said they estimate the flow is at 179,700 gallons per hour. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked how much of the 179,700 came from the City. Joe O'Neill said there are only a few City houses on this line and the precise amount could be calculated. He said that logically, though, there should be a meter at the manhole reflecting what comes from the Town of Wilton. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked if this flow affected the City's rates. Joe O'Neill said the County has instituted a new methodology on rate charges. He said they charge a flat fee of $105 per unit. Mayor Kenneth Klotz thanked Joe O'Neill for his presentation. ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT Approval of City Council Meeting Minutes, January 18, 2000 Commissioner Bernard Mirling moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded for the approval of the January 18 City Council meeting minutes as written. Ayes all. Commissioners of Deeds Commissioner Bernard Mirling announced the appointment of the following individuals as Commissioner of Deeds with a term of two years: Monica Lee, Anthony Strauss, John Kelly, Gregory Santos, Scott Johnson, Sean O'Leary, Daniel Noeker, Michael Rayburn, Joseph Carey, John Carey and Glen Vidnansky all of the Police Department. Award of Bid - Motor Oil Upon the recommendation of the Department of Public Works, Commissioner Bernard Mirling moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to award the bid for Motor Oil to R.H. Crown Oil per their bid (lowest bidder). Ayes all. Award of Bid - Filters Upon the recommendation of the Department of Public Works, Commissioner Bernard Mirling moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to award the bid for Filters to Spa Auto per their bid (lowest bidder). Ayes all. Waive of Bid - Technical Support Services Upon the recommendation of the Records Department, Commissioner Bernard Mirling moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to waive the bid for Technical Support Service to Pyramid Business System in the amount of $4,800. This will be funded through the 1999-2000 State Archives and Records Administration grant. Ayes all. Local Government Record Management Improvement Fund - Grant Application (00-035) Upon the recommendation of the Records Department, Commissioner Bernard Mirling moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to confirm the previous approval by memo for authorization for the Mayor to sign the grant application to fund a file management project in the Engineers Office in the amount of $10,649. Commissioner Bernard Mirling commended Nancy Wagner, Records Department, on obtaining the second grant for the year for the records management system in City Hall. Ayes all. Report on Spit & Spat Fine Arts Coverage Commissioner Bernard Mirling explained to Council members that he has reviewed files and had numerous conversations with Cindy May and Jack Perry, Insurance Department, on insurance coverage in connection with Spit & Spat. He said the City distributed specs asking for quotes for City insurance coverage which included coverage of items located in Congress Park. He said Wise Insurance had given a cost of $.261 per $100 of value and requested the values of the art objects in order to determine a price. He said no values were submitted to the Wise Insurance Company since the values were unknown. He said no other company responded specifically to the request for a quote for coverage of Spit & Spat and the other fine arts listed. He said in recent conversations with representatives of the Capital Risk and Marshall & Sterling Insurance companies they indicated the policies they offered would have provided coverage under a blanket fine arts provision of the policy up to a $25,000 amount. Our Insurance Risk Manager, Jack Perry, does not believe the blanket coverage would have applied because it would be superceded by the fine arts coverage for other listed and valued objects that we did purchase. He said whether or not anyone was aware or should have been aware of this blanket coverage, the cost for City insurance, if purchased from Marshall & Sterling (the next lowest bidder) would have been $24,000 per year more than the policy purchased from John Wise. He said the City made the right choice in selecting the Wise policy. Ben Mirling said that specifications for this years' insurance coverage would be distributed tomorrow and they will seek a quote on Spit & Spat, fine arts, Tiffany window, stained glass windows, etc. He said there has been some discussion on asking for coverage of up to $50,000 if there is no appraised value given. He said he had contacted John Forbes about offering an appraisal on art objects (vases, memorials, Katrina Trask Stairway, Spit & Spat, etc.) in the park for a cost not to exceed $1,000. He said once he has the appraised value, he would then ask the insurance companies about insuring for the value or perhaps up to a specified dollar amount. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked about a time frame. Commissioner Bernard Mirling said he hoped the appraisal would be completed within the next ten days and perhaps an addendum could be placed in the insurance specifications. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said he had some detailed information on Spit & Spat from Matthew Hanlon and he would share that information with Commissioner Bernard Mirling. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked if this would be a replacement cost policy or a stated value policy. Commissioner Bernard Mirling said he was still exploring that issue, but it would likely be for the cost to make repairs. He said he would come back to the Council with more information at a later date on this coverage. FINANCE DEPARTMENT Payroll Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to approve the following payrolls: January 21, 2000 - $273,593.16 and January 28, 2000 - $353,915.36. Ayes all. Warrants Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Bernard Mirling seconded for the approval and payment of the 5DEC99 warrant #2 through #17 as follows: General Fund $ 89,946.40 City Center Authority 1,990.80 Water Fund 14,726.04 Sewer Fund 1,766.36 Capital Projects Fund 52,392.32 Special Assessment District - 0 - Trust Fund - 0 - Debt Service - 0 - Community Development 5,048.35 TOTAL $165,870.27 and the 1FEB20 warrant #2 through #13 as follows: General Fund $ 39,415.61 City Center Authority 3,870.57 Water Fund 3,595.20 Sewer Fund 948.19 Capital Projects Fund - 0 - Special Assessment District - 0 - Trust Fund 765.00 Debt Service - 0 - Community Development 2,669.13 TOTAL $ 51,263.70 and the MC990126 warrant #2 through #4 as follows: General Fund $ 14,555.29 City Center Authority 7,997.66 Water Fund 2,333.13 Sewer Fund 459.75 Capital Projects Fund - 0 - Special Assessment District - 0 - Trust Fund - 0 - Debt Service - 0 - Community Development - 0 - TOTAL $25,345.83 and the MC200126 warrant #2-#3 as follows: General Fund $158,651.61 City Center Authority - 0 - Water Fund 4,769.11 Sewer Fund 3,015.63 Capital Projects Fund - 0 - Special Assessment District - 0 - Trust Fund - 0 - Debt Service - 0 - Community Development - 0 - TOTAL $ 166,436.35 Council members agreed that when possible the dollar amounts would be eliminated or combined for reading at each Council meeting and the details would be given to the clerk to insert into the minutes. Ayes all. Budget Amendments Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to approve the budget amendments as presented (Attachment A). Ayes all. Budget Transfers Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to approve the budget transfers as presented (Attachment B). Ayes all. 2000 Final Tax Roll (00-036) Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Kenneth Klotz seconded to confirm the previous approval and adopt the 2000 Final Tax Roll as follows: RESOLVED, that the City of Saratoga Springs, New York, on this 1st day of February 1999 at 7:30 p.m. adopt and confirm the 2000 Tax Roll carrying a levy on the Inside District of $4,173,451.11 for the City and $2,287,075.99 for the County; total Inside District levy $6,460,527.10. Levy on the Outside District of $3,356,411.25 for the City and $1,882,611.04 for the County; total Outside District levy of $5,239,022.29 making a total tax levy of $11,699,549.39 and that the Commissioner of Finance be authorized to collect such a levy computed at the following rates per one thousand dollars of assessed valuation. Inside District Rates City $5.5913 County $3.067875 Outside District Rates City $5.4714 County $3.067875 FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saratoga Springs, New York adopt and confirm the relevy of the 2000 Utility Tax in the amount of $321,505.51. the relevy of the 2000 Utility Tax in the amount of $321,505.51. FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saratoga Springs, New York, adopt and confirm the 2000 Saratoga Lake Special Improvement Tax for the Saratoga Lake Improvement District in the amount of $22,016.36. FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saratoga Springs, New York, adopt and confirm the 2000 Special Assessment Tax for the Saratoga Springs Special Assessment District in the amount of $59,483.32 FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saratoga Springs, New York, adopt and confirm the 2000 Knolls Spring Park Water Improvement Tax for the Saratoga Springs Knolls Spring Water Improvement District in the amount of $55,364.00 Ayes all. Bond Resolution - Front End Loader (00-037) Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to approve the Bond Resolution for the front end loader in the amount of $106,100 as presented (Attachment C). Commissioner Michael Lenz said he found himself in the position of having to bring forward a motion to approve a bond resolution for an item he did not support. He said if the Council approved this resolution he would move forward with completing the necessary paperwork. He said if the Council wishes to fund the purchase of this front end loader through the capital register, this bond resolution is necessary. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said this item was part of the capital register, it went out to bid and was appropriately awarded through the bid process. Commissioner Thomas Curley said he supported the purchase of this item at the previous Council meeting, however, was not aware that there was an issue with financing. Commissioner Michael Lenz said there was $15,000 placed in the contingency fund to be used in part for an emergency purchase of a front end loader. Commissioner Thomas Curley said he assumed the total amount had been budgeted. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said the capital register was adopted by the Council and this front end loader was included in the capital register. He pointed out that before the year ends, there are many more items that he would bring forward that would need to be addressed. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked if there were any funds included in the capital register for this purchase. Commissioner Michael Lenz said the capital register was approved with a $15,000 contingency for the emergency purchase of this front end loader. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said the intent was to bond this purchase and that was why a lump sum was not included. Commissioner Michael Lenz said the $15,000 was for emergency purposes only. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said this was awarded at the last Council meeting and the equipment had been ordered. He said he did not approve of the adopted capital register and again said that before the year ends, he would come forward with many more necessary items. He said the existing front end loader is on its last leg. Christine Gillmett, Deputy Commissioner, Finance, asked what was the expected delivery date. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said they expected delivery soon. Commissioner Thomas Curley said he would like to table this motion for further information on financing. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked Christine Gillmett what was her understanding of the capital register budget. Christine Gillmett said it was her understanding that $15,000 had been included for an emergency purchase only for a front end loader. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked if the $15,000 could be used towards the debt service for this purchase. Commissioner Michael Lenz said there had been no discussion on that issue. Commissioner Michael Lenz said the City is nearing its self-imposed debt limit and we need to live within that limit. He said his proposal during the recent budget discussions was to have a one year moratorium on capital register purchases. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said his department has needs that must be addressed. He said he was not at the meeting at which the capital register was adopted and he would not have supported it. He pointed out that the Council would soon be asked to approve union contracts. Commissioner Michael Lenz said any increases to the contracts had been anticipated and were included in the contingency fund. Commissioner Thomas McTygue asked what would those costs be. Commissioner Michael Lenz said he could supply those figures. He pointed out though that the contract negotiations had nothing to do with the capital register and they are two completely different issues. Commissioner Michael Lenz said whether this issue was voted on tonight or at the next meeting, he would not support this request. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said there was still some room to bond because it was likely that the West Avenue amount would be less than anticipated. Commissioner Michael Lenz said that proposed bonding has been accounted for in the budget. Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Commissioner Michael Lenz seconded to table the motion. Ayes: Commissioner Thomas Curley and Michael Lenz. Nays: Commissioners Bernard Mirling and Thomas McTygue and Mayor Kenneth Klotz. Motion denied. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said there needed to be some clarification on the City's debt limit. He said it was his understanding that the Council was very close to that limit. Commissioner Michael Lenz said the $800,000 received from the County had been used to pay down the City's debt service. He said if the City continues to move forward at this pace, more of the debt service could be paid, thereby allowing more room for further bonding. He said he hoped to pay down the debt service to $1,000,000 below the limit. He said the City needs some breathing room in connection with the limit. He said it was not his intent to prevent purchasing, but too rather get a better handle on the City's debt. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said he was not happy with the City's debt limit. He said, though, that West Avenue may not require the anticipated $1.7 million. He said it was clear to him that some discussions were needed on this budget issue but he was willing this evening to support this request. Commissioner Thomas Curley said he saw no harm in waiting to clarify the funding mechanism before voting on this event. He said he simply wanted to understand the financing. Commissioner Michael Lenz said if this motion was approved, the $15,000 could be used to pay the first year's debt on this purchase. He reminded Council members that if this is approved, it will increase the City's debt by $106,000 and it would leave the City at approximately $700,000 away from its limit. Mayor Kenneth Klotz called the question. Ayes: Commissioner Bernard Mirling, Thomas McTygue and Mayor Kenneth Klotz; Nays: Commissioner Michael Lenz and Thomas Curley. Commissioner Michael Lenz said according to the City's Attorneys on bonding matters, a 2/3 vote (four affirmative) was required for this motion to pass. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said he would have the City's Attorney, Jeff Wait, look into that issue. Commissioner Thomas McTygue asked what should he do if the machine arrives before this issue had been worked out. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said this would be worked out before the machine arrives. Commissioner Thomas Curley said he could support the motion if he knew how the machine was to be financed. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said he would have Jeff Wait work with the Finance Office on this issue. Civil Service Executive Secretary Resolution (00-038) Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to approve the Resolution for the Civil Service Executive Secretary as follows: WHEREAS, the Saratoga Springs Municipal Civil Service Commission appointed Patsy Berrigan to the Executive Secretary position of the Municipal Civil Service Commission of the City of Saratoga Springs effective September 4,1995; and WHEREAS, the City Council of Saratoga Springs is desirous of continuing the salary, benefits, standard work week, holiday schedule, sick time, and any and all other rights, benefits and obligations of Patsy Berrigan with regard to her employment as Executive Secretary of the Municipal Service Commission of the City of Saratoga Springs; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED as follows: A. The salary for the Executive Secretary of the Municipal Civil Service Commission of the City of Saratoga Springs shall be $15,802.00 effective January 1, 2000. This annual salary reflects the January 1, 2000, CSEA City Hall bargaining unit contract increases. B. The standard workweek of the Executive Secretary of the Municipal Civil Service Commission of the City of Saratoga Springs shall be 20 hours per week. C. The Executive Secretary of the Municipal Civil Service Commission of the City of Saratoga Springs shall enjoy and be entitled to the same holidays as defined in the CSEA contract for the City Hall employees bargaining unit. D. Sick time shall be accumulated for the Executive Secretary of the Municipal Civil Service Commission of the City of Saratoga Springs at the rate of four hours per month. Upon completion of seven (7) years of continuous service, cash payment will be made for accumulated sick leave remaining in an employees' individual account upon the following basis at termination of employment or upon death of the employee while in the employ of the City shall be paid to the employee's beneficiary or estate. The Executive Secretary shall be paid twenty-five (25%) percent of accumulated sick leave up to a maximum of 200 days (cash payment of 50 days). It is understood that for the purpose of calculating sick time that Patsy Berrigan's service to the City of Saratoga Springs began on September 4, 1995. E. Paid vacation shall be provided to the Executive Secretary of the Municipal Civil Service Commission of the City of Saratoga Springs according to the schedule included in the CSEA City Hall employees bargaining unit. It is understood that for the purpose of calculating vacation time that Patsy Berrigan's service to the City of Saratoga Springs began on January 1, 1989. F. This contract will be reviewed and resubmitted on an annual basis by the Commissioner of Finance. Ayes all. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked when the Civil Service Commission had been moved to the Finance Department. Commissioner Michael Lenz said it happened in 1999. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked if that required a charter change. Commissioner Michael Lenz said this move did not require a charter change, although he thought it had been addressed at a Council meeting. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said it was not addressed by the Council just as the Building Inspector change had not been addressed by the Council. Commissioner Thomas Curley reminded Commissioner Thomas McTygue that a suit was brought against the City by the Building Inspector and it was determined by the Courts that the Building Inspector's Office move was legal. Commissioner Michael Lenz said he would research the legality of moving the Civil Service Commission to the Finance Department and he had no objection returning it to the Mayor's Office if that was indeed necessary. Ayes all. Clarification - Assistant CD Director Anniversary Date Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to give the date of December 1 as the anniversary date for Cindy Phillips, Assistant Community Development Director. Ayes all. Time Warner Cable Contract Approval (00-039) Commissioner Michael Lenz moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to request authorization for the Mayor to sign the contract with Time Warner Cable for Road Runner Internet service. He said this contract includes the $399 installation fee and $339 monthly fee. Ayes all. Waive of Bid - Systems Integrity Commissioner Michael Lenz withdrew this item from discussion. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Waive of Bid - Spa Steel Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to waive the bid to Spa Steel in the amount of $1,190 for sidewalk forms. He said this money was within his budget. Ayes all. Waive of Bid - Dump Truck Options Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to waive the bid for the purchase at $3,710 each for options to be included in the purchase of two dump trucks from NYS contract. Ayes all. Discussion - Sewer Previously discussed. Ball #2 Pump Station Joe O'Neill said there is a need to look seriously at the infrastructure in the Grande Industrial Park. He said a while ago, the County, at a cost of $12,000, and the City, through in-kind services, reviewed and analyzed the infrastructure relating to water and sewer. He said they discovered this pump station is at capacity. He said this pump station has reached its life expectancy and it would cost approximately $125,000 to replace. Joe O'Neill said there is a J2K program that might allow for some money for the City for these improvements and they are looking into that possibility. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked if there was any possibility of getting some County money. Phil Klein said he was not aware that the City was having a problem with this pump station but if he was given the details he would be willing to check with the County to see if there might be some available funds. Phil Klein asked how many pump stations are in this industrial park. Joe O'Neill said five. He said they are all at capacity and will need improvements and/or replacement. Phil Klein said this seemed to be an issue that needs immediate attention and he was willing to work with the County on possible funding. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said this seemed like another capital item that was an emergency. Paul Male, City Engineer, said this pump is very near its life expectancy and it needed immediate attention. He said this pump problem is only the beginning of several more. Commissioner Michael Lenz asked how long has DPW known about this problem. Paul Male said it has been an ongoing problem. He said the discharge from Ball Metal is a gelatinous and is hard on the pump station. He said none of the existing pumps in this park meet existing industry standards. He said City employees have done extensive work on these pumps. Joe O'Neill reminded Council members that Universal Packaging would be closing in the near future, however, they hoped there would be another tenant soon after their departure. He said this could be an issue for a new tenant. Phil Klein asked if there was a contingency fund to draw from for this work. Christine Gillmett said to the best of her recollection there was approximately $90,000 in the sewer contingency and $400,000 in the water contingency funds. Bill Ennis pointed out that this problem is not unusual. He said recently the Town of Halfmoon had a similar problem and instituted a moratorium. He said the Town of Halfmoon made a request to the County for some funding which was denied. He reminded Council members that items such as these said the Town of Halfmoon made a request to the County for some funding which was denied. He reminded Council members that items such as these have a shelf life and that needs to be under constant consideration. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY Waive of Bid - Lap Top Computer Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Commissioner Michael Lenz seconded to waive the bid to AmRel Systems, Inc., for a Rocky Rugged II lap top computer in the amount of $5,502.00 which would be funded through a grant. Ayes all. Waive of Bid - Intermediate EMS Training Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to waive the bid to HVCC for tuition fees and text book costs for 14 people in the amount of not to exceed $10,500. Ayes all. Waive of Bid List - Traffic Signal Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Commissioner Michael Lenz seconded to approve the waive of bid list for traffic signal equipment, materials, parts and services as presented. Ayes all. Calls for Service Update Commissioner Thomas Curley reported that there had been 2,432 fire department calls and 18,329 police department calls during 1999. Kirby Road Project (00-040) Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to accept the PILOT program agreement on the Kirby Road project. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said this project has received all necessary approvals including the Planning Board's. He said this is a good project for the community. He said the $14,400 which would be provided to the City each year would be shared with the County and School on the same percentage basis as now exists. Commissioner Thomas Curley said this PILOT program will allow for affordable rental units for senior citizens in this community. He noted that the City Attorney is working on a resolution. Ayes all. Waive of Bid - Millennium Badge Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Mayor Kenneth Klotz seconded to approve the waive of bid for millennium badges for the police department in the total amount of $3,569.50 ($60.50 per badge) from Rosen Uniform. He said police department personnel have agreed to pay for these badges through their clothing allowance. Ayes all. Executive Session Commissioner Thomas Curley requested an executive session for discussion on contract negotiations. Council members agreed. MAYOR'S OFFICE Resolution - Kirby Road Project Previously discussed. Staff Upgrade - Mike Peter (00-041) Mayor Kenneth Klotz moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to approve the upgrade for the program assistant position at the Urban Cultural Park from Grade 3, Step 6 to Grade 8, Step 6 effective January 1, 2000. Ayes all. City Attorney Report Jeff Wait, City Attorney, said he had been reviewing cost saving measures for the City in connection with legal issues. He said he has focused on outside litigation costs. He reminded Council members that the individual contract with James Roemer had not been renewed, however, the contract with his firm had been. He said there would be a cost savings by not renewing the individual contract, however, these services will need to be acquired elsewhere. He said between the two contracts approximately $51,000 was paid to James Roemer and his firm last year. Jeff Wait said outside litigation costs last year for DPW totaled $29,309 and outside litigation costs for the Accounts Departments totaled $161,000. He said the Accounts Department litigation proceedings were in connection with assessments. He said there are approximately 30 tax certiorari cases which include two rather large cases. He said there has been no decision yet on how these cases would be handled or by whom. He said there are between eight and ten cases that will be coming up in the next six weeks. He said as a temporary measure, he could handle some of the cases, but it was only a temporary measure. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked Jeff Wait if the City could decrease the cost of tax certiorari cases from last year's total. Jeff Wait said yes. Jeff Wait reminded Council members that both the City Court and Family Court cases have been returned to the County thereby creating an additional savings for the City. He said, though, there were still some outstanding invoices from last year that need to be paid so the savings would not be as great as initially suggested. Jeff Wait said there are potentially Article 78 cases, however, there have been only four in the last four years. He said he would like to get involved in the early stages of litigation issues to resolve some of the minor issues. He said he had been working with Commissioner Thomas McTygue on the latest DEC issue. He said usually in the early stages an expert is not needed, therefore, there could be some savings generated. Jeff Wait suggested that greater oversight was needed on the invoices of outside counsel. He said these invoices should be closely scrutinized. Jeff Wait said there are also ways to increase revenues to the City by redrafting the City's truck ordinance so as to allow the City to keep a larger portion of the fines received. Commissioner Thoams Curley said he thought legislation had been adopted several years ago which was more conducive to the City. Tony Izzo, Assistant City Attorney, said the present proposal would include items not included in the 1995 legislation. Mayor Kenneth Klotz thanked Jeff Wait for his presentation. Schedule Public Hearing - Historic Preservation Tax Deduction Mayor Kenneth Klotz said the City has received a request from the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation to enact a local law that would offer a partial city property tax deduction for up to ten years on renovations or additions to existing structures in the City's historic districts. He then asked that a public hearing be scheduled for 7:25 on Tuesday, February 15, 2000. Council members agreed. Franklin Community Center Awareness Day (00-042) Chris Mathiesen, representing the Franklin Community Center, said as part of the Leadership Saratoga program, a group of those participants have chosen Franklin Community Center as their project which will benefit the community. He said the center director is Priscilla Corwin. He explained that the Franklin Community Center provides a food pantry, clothing distribution, meeting rooms, housing, etc. for community members. Chris Mathiesen said as part of their project they would like to increase community awareness and they will hold an open house on Wednesday, March 29. He invited Council members to attend this open house. He then asked that Wednesday, March 29 be designated as Franklin Community Center Awareness Day. Mayor Kenneth Klotz moved and Commissioner Bernard Mirling seconded to designate Wednesday, March 29 as Franklin Community Center Awareness Day. Ayes all. Patricia Corwin, Director, Franklin Community Center, thanked Council and Leadership Saratoga for their support. She also thanked Commissioner Thomas McTygue for all the work his staff has provided for the center. CAPTAIN Appearance Bill Casey, CAPTAIN representative, said this organization is meeting all of the municipalities throughout the County to educate them on CAPTAIN. He said CAPTAIN provides a safe environment for youth ages 16-18 who are runaways or homeless. He said there are no alternatives for homeless youth in this area. He said since opening this home, there has been 140 calls and 60 youth staying there 7 of whom have been from the City of Saratoga Springs. Bill Casey said this is a non-profit organization with a total budget of $700,000. He then invited Council members to attend the open house at the end of April. West Avenue Update Mayor Kenneth Klotz reminded Council members that a public hearing on the formation of the West Avenue Special Assessment District is scheduled for February 15 at 7:15 p.m. He said the West Avenue Redevelopment Advisory Committee had been asked to review the issues that were raised at the workshop and public hearing and to make recommendations to the City Council. Matthew Jones, Chair, West Avenue Redevelopment Advisory Committee, said they have reviewed and adopted proposed boundaries and formula for this proposed SAD. He said if the Council should choose to accept the recommendation of the committee the Council should then move forward with the February 15 public hearing. He then submitted a map showing the proposed revised district boundaries. He said a few parcels were deleted because they were located outside of the corridor which would benefit from these improvements. Matthew Jones said the cost of the project was reduced by approximately $150,000 which now brings the total estimated cost to $1,550,000. Matthew Jones explained that the committee had reached a consensus on the formula by proposing three levels of payment. He said the first recommendation was for residential homes to have a cap of $150. He said the second recommendation was that the land assessment be the basis of the SAD formula and that those already connected to existing water receive a 50 percent credit and those connected to the existing sewer system receive a 15 percent credit. He said the third recommendation is that the amount be shared equally (50/50) between the City and the SAD. He suggested the 50/50 split be adopted each year. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked if this would require both map and text amendments. Matthew Jones said yes. He said, though, they expect some minor amendments to this proposal over the next few months. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked about the time line. Matthew Jones said if the Council adopts these recommendations at their February 15 meeting, they would be in good shape. He said they would not begin collecting this money from the SAD until February 1, 2001. Matthew Jones said he would work with both Joe Williams, Assistant City Assessor and Commissioner Bernard Mirling on this issue. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked if DOT's deadline had been moved. Matthew Jones said the deadline has been move to March. Mayor Kenneth Klotz recommended that the City Attorney's Office revise the draft legislation for the special assessment district as per the recommendations of the committee. He said a final version of the legislation will be sent to the City Council by February 7, 2000 Broadway & Circular Street Mayor Kenneth Klotz said there has been some concern expressed over the condition of the unoccupied land at the intersection of Broadway and Mayor Kenneth Klotz said there has been some concern expressed over the condition of the unoccupied land at the intersection of Broadway and Circular Street. He said the City needs to be proactive on this issue and try to find a way to solve this problem. Commissioner Thoams McTygue said there was an attempt in past years to obtain an easement from these parcels for a turn lane. He said this would be a good time to work on that issue again. He further suggested that the City consider purchasing the KFC parcel which would allow the City to correct the deficiencies at this intersection. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said it was his understanding that the asking price for the gas station parcel was extremely high. He suggested that perhaps the City might consider condemning the parcel, placing a fair market value on it and then selling. Commissioner Thomas Curley said it was his understanding that the easements had been obtained. Geoff Bornemann, City Planner, said he too thought the easements had been obtained. Commissioner Thomas Curley said he would like to see this intersection upgraded to allow for smoother traffic flow. He said perhaps through eminent domain the land could be obtained. Mayor Kenneth Klotz asked if the taxes were up to date on these parcels. Commissioner Michael Lenz said he was not sure, however, he would check. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said it was also necessary to find out if the City has a right-of-way on these parcels. Spring Run Trail Update Mayor Kenneth Klotz reported that the snow storm on January 18, 2000, forced the cancellation of the scheduled meeting with EPA and Niagara Mohawk on the coordination of plans for the Spring Run Trail. He said they are still attempting to resolve some of the remaining programs via a conference call that will be held with all the parties tomorrow afternoon. He said at the next Council meeting he hoped to be able to report on the successful resolution of the issues and that the project can get back on track. Discussion - Code Enforcement Mayor Kenneth Klotz said there was a meeting held last evening among the City Boards, Commission and Council. He said it seemed to be the feeling of Board members that code enforcement was the biggest area of concern. He said he had been looking into this issue and wanted to move forward in giving the Building Inspector the issuance tickets. Commissioner Thomas Curley said with the Council's approval of another code enforcement officer for his department will help in this area. He said in connection with The Saratogian's editorial concerning the issuance of tickets, the building inspectors may acquire the necessary materials to do his job. He said the addition of computers throughout City Hall will also help in this area. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said he was willing to work with DPS on this matter. City Court/Family Court Mayor Kenneth Klotz reminded Council members that these cases had been returned to the County. He said he had originally estimated a savings of $15,000 for the City, however, because of some outstanding bills that would be decreased by about $2,600. Black History Month Mayor Kenneth Klotz mentioned that February was Black History Month and there would be numerous events scheduled throughout the community over the next month including the Solomon Northup exhibit at the Urban Heritage Park. Capital Register Mayor Kenneth Klotz said the Council needs to move forward with a six-year plan. He asked Council members to start thinking about 2001 and any projects that might become emergencies for 2000. He suggested that Council members make a wish list, a list of absolutely essential items and then come up with a list somewhere in between the two. He reminded Council members that there are revenues that also need to be considered when making this list. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said he had been working with Senator Schumer's office and they had suggested that perhaps there could be some federal grants available. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said he would bring back his requests/recommendations at the next meeting. He reminded Council members that there are many items that have been put off over the years. He said the drainage on the west side is one of those issues that needs to be revisited. He said he had some issues that would likely need attention this year. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said it would be wise to look at the emergency situations. Commissioner Thoams Curley agreed it was necessary to look at the problem areas such as aging infrastructure and heavy equipment. He suggested though that the City develop a mechanism to set aside funds each year to pay for these large purchases. He said large purchases/repairs need to be anticipated, as much as possible. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said he has brought items to the table every year that have been turned down. He said the City needs a long term capital replacement program and should stop purchasing items only when they break. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said since the capital register fell under his office he would be more than willing to work with the various departments on this issue. Commissioner Michael Lenz agreed this fell under the Mayor's office. He said he had only requested a one year moratorium on large purchases to allow the City to get a better handle on its debt service. He said apparently, according to Commissioner Thoams McTygue, there is another emergency that needs attention and would require the City to bond even more. He said we simply cannot keep bonding because eventually we would reach our debt limit. Commissioner Thoams McTygue said the Connolly plan is 20 years old and perhaps it was time to revisit that plan. He said the Finance Department should make a recommendation on that plan. Commissioner Michael Lenz pointed out that the City did not get to its debt limit by not funding projects. He said it was only a matter of time before we reached our limit. Commissioner Thomas McTygue again said the Finance Department should made a recommendation on the Connolly plan. Commissioner Michael Lenz said his recommendation would be to adhere to the Connolly plan. EOC Contract Mayor Kenneth Klotz moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to extend the contract with EOC, 20 Walworth Street, for projects to be funded by CDBG funds. Dennis Brunelle, Director EOC, said they are nearly finished with the project, however, they ran into some time delays and simply need more time. He said they are at 90 percent completion. He informed Council members that this home is being converted to a two-family, low income residents. Ayes all. Saratoga County Arts Council Agreement Commissioner Kenneth Klotz said there has been a request from the Arts Council to modify their contract with the City to allow consideration of capital expenditures that they have made to the property. He said he will bring this item back to the Council for further discussion. Reappointment - Recreation Commission Mayor Kenneth Klotz announced the reappointment of Bob Spratt to the Recreation Commission. Ball #2 Pump Station - Previously discussed. Parking Deck - final payment Mayor Kenneth Klotz informed Council members that the final bill from Bast Hatfield had been submitted for payment for the parking deck in the amount of $24,435.02. Mayor Kenneth Klotz said this would close out this project. Commissioner Thomas McTygue asked if there were any other funds to be withheld. Paul Male said there were some warranty bonds on this project. Commissioner Michael Lenz asked if his department would be able to get a full breakdown of costs for this project. Paul Male said he would work with Christine Gillmett on that request. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said he would like to see a detailed list of revenues as well as expenditures. Brause Project Escrow Account Mayor Kenneth Klotz informed Council members that Mike Toohey, representing Brause Development, had contacted him and requested some technical changes to this escrow agreement. He said it seem to indicate that they are anxious to keep their site plan approval active. Executive Session Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Commissioner Bernard Mirling seconded to adjourn to executive session at 10:10 p.m. Ayes all. Council members returned at 10:20 p.m. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Kenneth Klotz seconded to adjourn the meeting at 10:20 p.m. Ayes all. There being no further business, Mayor Kenneth Klotz adjourned the meeting at 10:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Kathy Moran Clerk Approved: