City Council

CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY COUNCIL ROOM TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2004 6:30 P.M. PRESENT: Commissioner Thomas Curley, DPS Michael Lenz, Mayor Commissioner Matthew McCabe, Finance Commissioner Thomas McTygue, DPW Commissioner Stephen E. Towne, Accounts ALSO PRESENT: Anthony Scirocco, Supervisor (arrived 7:00 p.m.) Phil Klein, Supervisor STAFF PRESENT: Patrick Design, Deputy Commissioner, DPW Christine Gillmett-Brown, Deputy Commissioner Finance Debbie Harper, Deputy Commissioner Accounts Alicia Wardell, Deputy Mayor Matthew Dorsey, City Attorney PUBLIC HEARING Lodging and Eating & Drinking Establishment Ordinance Tony Izzo said this has been a lengthy process culminating in a complete redraft of Chapter 136 now entitled Lodging and Eating & Drinking Establishments. He said under this redraft, all affected City departments including DPS, DPW and the Building Inspector will now review applications for lodging and eating & drinking establishments. He said applicants will now be required to submit an entire package including floor plans, drawings, narrative description of the services to be provided, etc. He said those packages will be forwarded to the various departments for their review and then finally back to the Accounts Department for the issuance of the appropriate permit. Tony Izzo said the sidewalk café section was unchanged except for the updating of insurance requirements. Tony Izzo said there was an e-mail from Mr. Trattles concerning the lack of reviews by the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals. Tony Izzo said those reviews will be conducted by those boards, when necessary. He also noted that there was a letter from the Inn at Saratoga concerning their name, marketing and the license under which they may apply. Tony Izzo said the ordinance now has a definition for an Inn that the Inn at Saratoga does not fit, however, they may apply under the appropriate definition and market themselves any way they see fit. Tony Izzo said the committee chose to add a vested rights section. He said that vested rights are really a land use/zoning concept. He said the committee chose to add this section to allow existing businesses to apply under the old definitions for a period of two renewals. He said committee members believed that allowing businesses two renewal periods was sufficient time to allow them to become compliant. Commissioner Stephen Towne said there have been two distributions to Council members on this subject. He said there was a public outreach meeting held on March 31. He said the committee attempted to address some of the issues brought up during that public outreach meeting. He said the committee addressed Mr. Trattles concerns on the appropriate reviews and parking. He reminded Council members, though, that this is a licensing ordinance only. He said that applicants are required to be compliant with all other City codes and ordinances when applying for a permit. He said that issues such as parking would be reviewed by the Planning Board. Mayor Michael Lenz opened the public hearing. Page 1 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 Eileen Oliver, 181 Phila Street, rooming house operator, said she faxed a letter to all Council members today. She asked that Council members review that letter and address her concerns. She said she was very concerned that she could be legislated out of business. She said when applying for her current license, she did her due diligence and met all requirements of City ordinances. She said she has a large investment in her property. She also noted that there are two other establishments, Westchester House and Kimberly Inn, that will be effected by this ordinance. She said that requiring a minimum length of stay for a rooming house was not appropriate. She said she also called DOH on the minimum length of stay and they informed her that they have nothing that pertains to minimum length of stays. Tony Izzo said the committee had a subcommittee investigate this matter and after discussions with DOH representatives, it was determined that the minimum seven day length of stay for rooming houses was appropriate. He said, though, that this letter from Eileen Oliver's attorney arrived very late today and it might be appropriate to take some time to address her concerns. Commissioner Matthew McCabe asked if the ordinance could be adopted this evening and then address her issues later. Tony Izzo said there is no variance procedure for this ordinance. He said it would require an amendment by the Council to make changes after it is adopted. Mayor Michael Lenz asked if this was discussed during the committee’s meetings. Tony Izzo said yes. Tony Izzo said that the committee believed that lodging establishments with longer periods of stay had different impacts on the neighborhoods and those with shorter stays. Commissioner Stephen Towne said there were two issues in Eileen Oliver’s letter B the minimum length of stay and a request for a complete grandfathering of existing businesses. He explained that with a grandfathering clause of two renewal periods, in effect could give some businesses up to 2 3/4 years depending on when the license comes due. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked if there was some contact with the establishments that might be effected by this ordinance. Tony Izzo said there was a public outreach session last week. Commissioner Stephen Towne said there was a 1 1/2 hour meeting last week with business owners, the ordinance has been posted on the WEB, and there was a mailing to business owners. Commissioner Thomas Curley asked what was the history of lengths of stay at Eileen Oliver’s establishment. Eileen Oliver said frequently they are less than seven days. Commissioner Stephen Towne said this has been on his agenda five times over the last several months and the committee had met about a dozen times. He said if there are objections this evening he would be willing to withdraw his request for a vote and have some more research done on Eileen Oliver’s concerns. It was agreed there would be no vote on this matter this evening. There being no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Michael Lenz closed the public hearing. DeMeo Zoning Amendment Mayor Michael Lenz said this is a public hearing on a revised petition from Mark and Stacey DeMeo for a zoning map amendment that would change the classification of about three acres on the north side of Newark Street from Rural Residential-1 (single family on 2 acre lots) to Suburban Residential-2 (single-family on 20,000 square foot lots). The land includes the DeMeo property and three other property owners. On March3, 2004 the Planning Board, on a 6-0 vote, issued a favorable advisory opinion on the revised petition. The petitioner provided the required proof of notice for this hearing to adjacent property owners. Appearing before the Council was Bill Thompson, surveyor and Mark DeMeo, petitioner. Bill Thompson said this parcel is located on Newark Street. He said that until June 2003 the parcel was zoned UR-1 but then changed to RR-1. He said the problem arises because the previous owner sold off a one acre parcel without the benefit of City approvals. He said the DeMeos want to clean this up and make the parcel compliant with City regulations. He said though that RR-1 requires two acres. He said the are now proposing Page 2 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 to rezone the parcel from UR-1 to SR-2. He said they appeared before the Planning Board and received a favorable advisory opinion. Mayor Michael Lenz opened the public hearing. There being no one wishing to speak, Mayor Michael Lenz closed the public hearing. CDBG Funding Recommendations Brad Birge, Community Development Director, said at the last Council meeting the committee submitted recommendations to the Council on the 2004 CDBG program totaling $535,000. He said this program is funded through the block grant development program. He said the recommendations have been circulated and placed on the City’s WEB site. He said that this is scheduled for a vote for the next Council meeting on April 20. Mayor Michael Lenz opened the public hearing. Dennis Brunnelle, member of the Housing Partnership Board of Saratoga County, said the recommendations made by this committee are sound, solid recommendations based on good criteria. He commended the advisory committee on their diligence and thoughtful review of the applications. He said he felt strongly that there needs to be an affordable housing trust fund. He said it would give the opportunity to encourage and facilitate those individuals in the workforce in obtaining affordable housing. He said it is becoming a serious matter that the small businesses of this community are having a difficult time meeting their employment needs due to the lack of affordable housing. He urged the Council to consider the recommendations of the advisory committee and in particular the trust fund. Rev. Jay Eckman, President Saratoga Housing Improvement Project, said that about ten years ago, then Commissioner Edward Valentine had the vision to participate on the SHIPO project on South Franklin Street. He said that with the help of Rachel Jagereski, previous Community Development Director, the Adirondack Trust Company and Edward Valentine it was a successful project with housing for people who live and work in this community. There being no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Michael Lenz closed the public hearing. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Michael Lenz called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD Tracey Millis, Maple Avenue/Maple Dell/Maple Neighborhood Association President, said the neighbors in this area are very unhappy with the proposed changes to their addresses. He said this is the 11th address change since 1972 and they want something done. He said they have tried to contact the appropriate individuals in City Hall and they want some discussion with someone in City Hall to address this matter. David Bronner, 5 Royal Henley Court, said he was against having a voting booth at Skidmore College. He said on election day in 2003 he saw voting being disrupted by faculty, those running for public office and election inspectors. He said it was a very poor voting environment. He said there should not be an exclusive voting venue for Skidmore students. He said that upon surveying 11 colleges in the area, only two have voting booths on campus B Albany with 17,000 students and Skidmore. He suggested that the voting venue be changed to an off campus location. He said that by moving the voting venue off the campus, it allows the students to interact with residents of the City. He said it is also an opportunity for the students to show their Page 3 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 support of the City. He said it teaches them a good lesson that voting in your “living room” is not the way it is in the real world. He said sometimes it takes an effort to get to voting location. He said there is no valid reason to have a voting venue at Skidmore College. Carol Maguire, 294 Caroline Street, asked that Council members consider adding a brief biography of Board members to the WEB site. She said it would be nice for the public to know what their professional experience is while serving on a board. Patria Fleming, Skidmore College student, thanked the Council for the communication that has taken place between the City, College administrators and the students. Mayor Michael Lenz said he would talk to Commissioner Thomas Curley about the 911 changes in the Maple Avenue/Maple Dell area. He said he was unaware of all the background and how this came to be. He said he would do some research and get back to Mr. Millis. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY Fire Department Presentation Chief Robert Cogan said during the first quarter of 2004 there were 598 calls which averages 7 calls per day with a response time of 6.4 minutes. He said there were 88 kinds of incidents. He said training is underway and will remain so for the rest of the year. He said they are required to have 100 hours of training each year. He said the EMS training/status will be maintained. He said last year there was a total of 5,500 hours spent on training. He said they have reviewed approximately 60 proposals from the Planning Board and they are working with some rather large projects on fire code issues. He said fire inspections remain on track. He said generally most establishments are compliant and when they are not they are referred to Code Enforcement. He said they are creating a database and have so far inspected 600 properties. He said all of the information is placed in the database so that when there is a call, it is easier for the firefighters to know where they are going when entering the building. He said there continues to be a lot of community involvement with fire prevention programs. He said they do many tours for school aged children and they now have a smoke bus. Chief Robert Cogan said they were just informed that they have received a grant in the amount of $124,000 from FEMA. He said it requires a 10 percent match, however, that has been satisfied with the Ztron system which was just purchased at a cost of $15,000. He said the grant will also cover the cost of updating the self contained breathing apparatus. He said they were also notified that they were not selected under the second round of applications, however, they will try again. He said they have another grant application to be submitted for $331,000 for traffic light and cardiac and fire equipment. Chief Robert Cogan said on March 31, the new aerial fire truck was placed in service. He said the vehicle is currently being housed at the West Avenue Fire Station, but once the work was done on the Lake Avenue floor reinforcement, the truck would be moved to that location. He said in February a gear extractor/sanitizing equipment system was installed. He said this enables the staff to clean their suits with some assurance that hazardous material is removed. Chief Robert Cogan said they continue to respond and to work with the County on HazMat issues. He said they recently completed HazMat health examinations on employees which provides baseline information and enables the City to track their exposures. He said they have participated in the county disaster preparedness program through drills and more drills will be held later in the year. Dr. Timothy Brook chairs that committee. Commissioner Thomas Curley said he appreciated the efforts of Chief Robert Cogan in compiling this data and reporting to the Council. He said this report shows the transition of the more expanded role of firefighters in this community. He also noted that the relationship with the County continues to grow and the County has been very cooperative in working with the City. He thanked Chief Robert Cogan for this presentation. Page 4 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS South Broadway Project B Lead Agency Status (04-064) Commissioner Thomas McTygue said there had been some discussion on the City accessing funds from the Open Space Bond to purchase the parcel at Ballston Avenue and Route 50 to be used for a turning lane and a mini park. Mayor Michael Lenz said he was in New York City last weekend and he talked to the owner of that parcel. He said there is a desire by that owner to donate the land to the City, however, his partner (brother) recently died so there were some issues to be worked out. He said if they do not donate the land, it was likely that the bond could be accessed for this purchase. He said he did send a letter to the owner indicating the City’s desire to take ownership of this parcel. Paul Male said the City needs some assurance that the parcel has been cleaned up per DEC regulations. Mayor Michael Lenz said the site apparently has a clean bill of health from DEC. He said he would continue to work with the owners and hope for a donation of the parcel. Paul Male presented a resolution to the Council for the South Broadway/Ballston Avenue Rehabilitation project for lead agency status. He said this resolution was provided by DOT and cannot be changed. He said if the Council adopts this resolution, the City would be requesting lead agency status. He said he would then notify involved agencies asking for the approval of the City’s request to be lead agent. Mayor Michael Lenz asked if the City was the lead agency on the previous South Broadway project. Paul Male said no that was a DOT project. He said the City was the lead agency on the West Avenue and the traffic signal projects. He said the other involved agencies includes DEC, DOT and other state agencies. He said it would be very unlikely that one of those agencies would have the desire to be lead agent on this project. Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded the following resolution: Establishment of the City of Saratoga Springs as Lead Agency under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) regulations, for the South Broadway/Ballston Avenue Rehabilitation (PIN 1754.55) WHEREAS, the City of Saratoga Springs as owner of the subject State Highway, is currently progressing a project to rehabilitate 0.8 km of NYS Route 9, from 125m (410 feet) north of West Fenlon Street to a point approximately 50m (164 feet) north of the Ballston Avenue/West Circular Street intersection; and WHEREAS, the City of Saratoga Springs has previously entered into an agreement that establishes Barton &Loguidice, P.C. as its engineering consultant for the South Broadway/Ballston Avenue Rehabilitation Project; and WHEREAS, the project is classified as an Unlisted Action under the SEQRA regulations (6NYCRR Part 617), based upon review by the City’s engineering consultant for the project, thereby requiring a determination of significance to be made; and WHEREAS, the City of Saratoga Springs seeks to be established as the project Lead Agency; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLED, that the City of Saratoga Springs be established as the SEQRA Lead Agency for the South Broadway/Ballston Avenue Rehabilitation Project. Ayes all. School District Easement (04-065) Matthew Dorsey, City Attorney, said that this parcel is located in the Grande Industrial Park. He said the school Page 5 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 would give the City an easement and the water lines. He said Paul Male, City Engineer, expressed some concerns and suggested that the approval be contingent upon his concerns being addressed. Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to accept the easement and water lines from the school district contingent upon the concerns of the City Engineer being addressed. Ayes all. MAYOR=S OFFICE National Crime Victims’ Rights Week B April 18-24 Proclamation (04-066) Mayor Michael Lenz presented the following proclamation: WHEREAS, while our American system of justice has long served as a model for the protection of the rights of the accused, it has only recently begun to pay due attention to the rights, needs and concerns of crime victims; and WHEREAS, the impact of a crime upon the victim, and upon the victim’s family and friends, can be severe and enduring. There is a pressing need in every community for adequate counseling, protection and resources for all persons who have been harmed by crime; NOW, THEREFORE, I, MICHAEL A. LENZ, Mayor of the City of Saratoga Springs, hereby proclaim the week of April 18th to April 24th, 2004, as Crime Victims’ Week in the City of Saratoga Springs and I also hereby urge all citizens to support the efforts of the Kathleen A. Campion Foundation as they present their candlelight vigil on April 18 at the New England Presbyterian Church and to show support throughout the year for crime victims and their families. Designation of Registered Historian with the Association of Public Historians Mayor Michael Lenz said he recently received a letter from the Association of Public Historians which recognizes and designates former City Historian Martha Stonequist as a Registered Historian. He said the letter goes on to state the Martha Stonequist met all of the professional requirements and is only 1 of 14 individuals in the state with this designation. He said it was an honor for both her and the City. Commissioner Thomas Curley requested that copies of that letter be forwarded to members of the Council. Mayor Michael Lenz agreed. Telecommunications Consultant to Assist the Planning Board Mayor Michael Lenz said the Council received a second recommendation from the Planning Board to retain a telecommunication consultant to assist with the review of the analysis of alternative locations for a special use permit application from AT&T wireless for a telecommunication facility on the roof of Moore Hall, 32 Union Avenue. He said the first consultant recommend by the Planning Board was unable to secure all the necessary insurance requirements and the contract was withdrawn. He said at their March 24, 2004, meeting the Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that a second firm, The Center for Municipal Solutions, Inc., be retained in an amount not to exceed $8,000. He said the total cost for this service will be reimbursed by AT&T Wireless. Mayor Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to authorize the Mayor to sign a professional service contract with The Center for Municipal Solutions, in an amount not to exceed $8,000, contingent upon the review by the City Attorney and the Risk Manager. This authorization is also contingent upon the project applicant placing $8,000 in an escrow account with Page 6 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 the City. Ayes all. Geyser Road Traffic Consultant to assist the Planning Board Mayor Michael Lenz said the Council received a recommendation from the Planning Board to retain a traffic consultant to assist with the review of the traffic impact from a proposed 110 lot residential subdivision at 98 Geyser Road. He said on February 25, 2004, the Accounts Department sent out a request for proposal (RFP) for professional services for this work. Six responses to the RFP were received and evaluated by the Planning Board. He said at their March 24, 2004, meeting the Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that the firm of Creighton Manning Engineering, LLP be retained in an amount not to exceed $9,500. The total cost for this service will be reimbursed by the subdivision applicant, the Saratoga East Avenue Associates, LLC. Mayor Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to authorize the Mayor to sign a professional service contract with the consulting firm of Creighton Manning Engineering, LLP, in an amount not to exceed $9,500, contingent upon the review of the City Attorney and the Risk Manager. This authorization also is contingent upon the project applicant placing $9,500 in an escrow account with the City. Ayes all. NYSDOT to Blacktop Arterial Mayor Michael Lenz said the NYSDOT plans to blacktop the arterial the first week of May. He said this is a short term improvement for this road. He said they will try to do the work at night. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said the arterial comes right up to the old firehouse on Broadway and he wanted DOT to deal with that section also. He asked that the Mayor send a letter asking that they address that issue. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said that one of the first streets that the City will blacktop is a portion of Weibel Avenue and then the east bound section of Union Avenue, near the track. Administrator of Planning & Economic Development Mayor Michael Lenz said he had been working with both Civil Service and the CSEA on this position and based on those discussions he proposed that this position be established at a Grade 18 with an exam to be scheduled in late fall. He said the salary of the position will range from $80,000 to $100,000. Deputy Mayor Alicia Wardell said this is a promotional examination. She said there are only two qualified candidates from within the City and they planned to hire from within. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said he was not prepared to discuss this issue this evening. He said he had an item scheduled for executive session later on his agenda and he would prefer to wait until that was discussed before acting on this matter. Real Estate Committee Report (04-067) Matthew Dorsey said information was distributed to Council members on the recommendations of the Real Estate Committee to sell the alley near Vermont Street to adjacent to property owners Bereton and Metzger for $500 each. He said the parcel size is 20x75. He said the committee proposed to offer it to each of the individuals and if one was not interested to sell the entire parcel to one for $1,000. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said he would like a written statement from the individual who is not interested in purchasing stating that fact. Mayor Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to authorize the offer of one half of the parcel (20x75) to both Brereton and Metzger for $500 each and if one is not interested than the whole parcel be sold to the other for $1,000. Ayes all. Matthew Dorsey said the second parcel was a 5x160 strip of land off of Congress Street near the Burgess Inn. He said the Real Estate Committee recommended that it be sold to the J.A. Foods, LLC. for $5,000. He said Page 7 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 that amount may seem high, but with the purchase of this land the parcel becomes more valuable due to on site parking. Mayor Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to sell the 5x160 strip of land off of Congress Street near the Burgess Inn to J.A. Food, LLC for $5,000. Ayes all. Senior Affordable Housing Project Presentation B Olsen Development/Whitney Capital Gary Olsen said he was here this evening to request that the Council consider a PILOT for this project. He said they have appeared before both the Planning Board and the Design Review Commission and have received those approvals for the 105 unit affordable senior housing project on West Avenue. He said they are now at the point where they are completing the building plans. Matthew Dorsey said he had spoken to Jeff Cannon attorney representing the applicant on this matter. He explained that under this form of government, Commissioner Matthew McCabe is considered the Chief Financial Officer and under the Private Housing Finance Law he is considered the supervising agency. He said in that capacity, Commissioner Matthew McCabe now needs to consent to the establishment of the development corporation and to also give preliminary approval to submit the applications to the Planning Board. He said at that point, the applicant will return to the Planning Board under the Development Company title, obtain approvals and then return to the Council for consideration for the PILOT. He reminded Council members that a few years ago there was this same type of PILOT for a project on Kirby Road. He said at this time the project is currently under consideration for financing by the state. Jeff Cannon said he has been working with the applicant on the financing arrangement. He said they have submitted an application to the Department of Housing and Community Renewal for financing of this project and they hoped for a positive response in the early summer. He said construction would begin shortly after those approval are received. Commissioner Stephen Towne asked about the age and income requirements for this project. Gary Olsen said a single person may make no more than $26,100 (based on current median income) and two people may make no more than $29,000 (approximately). He said the minimum age is 55 for at least one of the occupants. Commissioner Stephen Towne said the composition of the City has changed over the years and the income has gone up considerably. He asked if there had been a pattern of change in the median income. Gary Olsen said that the median income is set based on a larger geographical area than just the City. Commissioner Stephen Towne asked if the project had been fully leveraged. Gary Olsen said the partner is putting up $8 million of the $14 million. Commissioner Stephen Towne asked for clarification on the PILOT process. Jeff Cannon said that Commissioner Matthew McCabe needs to give preliminary approvals for the formation of the development company. The development company then needs to return to the Planning Board for an approval and then return to the Council for an approval. If that is done, then the development company will ask the Council for a PILOT. Commissioner Stephen Towne asked when would it go back to the Planning Board. Jeff Cannon said immediately. Mayor Michael Lenz asked about the length of time and the funding. Jeff Cannon said the project is more likely to be funded if there is long term commitment to the project, therefore, they have committed to 50 years with a buyout. He said the tax credit program is for 15 years. Land Acquisition Mayor Michael Lenz reminded everyone that the Council recently held a workshop on this matter and Behan Associates completed a summary of that workshop and distributed it to Council members. He said the Council has several options to consider B multiple facilities, one large facility or a smaller facilities. He said that costs now need to be determined and the recreation task force had been asked to develop some of those costs. He said when that was completed it might be appropriate to hold another workshop. Page 8 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT District Voting Plan B Update Commissioner Stephen Towne said a few months ago he came to the Council to explain the review process of the previous election. He said he shared a letter with the Council that went to the Board of Elections which summarized the issues. He said in that letter he asked for their input and their suggestions on ways to fix areas of concern. He said that at a previous meeting he consolidated districts 7, 11 and 12 and their new location is at the Senior High. Commissioner Stephen Towne said the second issue was Skidmore College which was somewhat more problematic. He said since that time he has had several discussions with President Phillip Glotzbach on the issues of the past election. He said tonight he wanted to acknowledge President Phillip Glotzbach and Dean Oles, Dean of Student Affairs, Skidmore. He said he also wanted to assure everyone that a voting booth will remain on campus. He said he is working with the Board of Elections and President Glotzbach and President Glotzbach had given his personal assurance that voting will be done is a respectful way on campus. Commissioner Stephen Towne said President Glotzbach and Skidmore are both assets to this community and he was delighted to work with President Glotzbach. President Phillip Glotzbach said that Skidmore has been part of this community for more than 100 years. He said the community is also an asset to the college. He noted that this year there were 6,000 applications for only 640 slots. He said Skidmore has a $90 million budget and brings students from all over the country and from 19 foreign countries. He said he is pleased to be working with Commissioner Stephen Towne on this voting matter. He said they have chosen that rather than to try to address the previous issues that they be put behind them and to move on. He said there were three issues: First: everyone has a right to vote. Second: it must be determined what is the appropriate location for individuals to vote at. He said it was determined at the last election that students were not voting where they were registered. He said students who live at Moore Hall or on Union Avenue should not be voting at the Skidmore campus. He said they will do everything possible to ensure that the students vote at the correct location. Third: there is an educational component to this voting process. He said the students should be involved in the voting process. He said during the last election candidates came to the campus and presented their position. He said they believe a voting venue on the Skidmore campus was right, however, they would look for a different location. He said he wanted this partnership to work. Mayor Michael Lenz said he was glad to have President Glotzbach in this community. He said this is a good starting point for the City. He noted that the City does utilize Skidmore students as interns and they are a vital and active participants of this community. Commissioner Stephen Towne said he appreciated President Glotzbach and Dean Oles coming this evening. He said he looked forward to a long and committed relationship. Executive Session B Land Acquisition Mayor Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to adjourn to executive session at 8:15 p.m. for discussions on land acquisition. Ayes all. Council members returned at 8:45 p.m. and Mayor Michael Lenz reported that no action was taken. ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT Approval of March 16, 2004, meeting minutes Page 9 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded to approve the March 16, 2004, meeting minutes. Ayes all. Approval of March 22, 2004, recreation workshop minutes Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded to approve the March 22, 2004, recreation workshop minutes. Ayes all. Approval of March 22, 2004, water workshop minutes Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded to approve the March 22, 2004, water workshop minutes. Ayes all. Commissioners of Deeds Commissioner Stephen Towne announced the appointment of the following individuals as Commissioners of Deeds with a term of two years: Glen Barrett, Gary Forward, Christopher Ozolins, Russ Terpening, Michael Welch, Joseph Arpei, Denis Butler, Dave Levanites, Timothy Sicko, Paul Veitch, Stacy Rigano & David Krylowicz all of the Police Department and Kate Sherwin of the Accounts Department. Award of Bid B Motor Oil Upon the recommendation of the Department of Public Works, Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to award the bid for motor oil to Farrell Oil Company for $190 for 15W40 and $196 for 10W30, 55 gallon drums. This bid has been reviewed by the Purchasing Department and meets Purchasing Guidelines. Ayes all. Award of Bid B Lake Avenue Fire House Upon the recommendation of the Department of Public Safety, Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to award the bid for the Lake Avenue Fire Station Floor Reinforcing to Carpenter Roslund for the base bid of $49,600 plus alternate #1 at $7,000, alternate #3 at $650 and alternate #4 at $1,000. This bid has been reviewed by the Purchasing Department and meets Purchasing Guidelines. Ayes all. Award of Bid B Grave Marking Flags Upon the recommendation of the Mayor’s Office, Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded to award the bid for grave marking flags to East Coast Flag and Banner, Inc. for $1,838. This bid has been reviewed by the Purchasing Department and meets Purchasing Guidelines. Ayes all. Update on Voting District Plan Previously discussed. Rescind Contract B Architex Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to rescind the previous approval by the Council with Architex for the West Side Firehouse Project. That approval was contingent upon the acceptance of the contractor’s insurance by the City Risk and Safety Page 10 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 Manager. It was determined that the contractor did not have the appropriate insurance for the project. Ayes all. Alonzo Fireworks Contract Commissioner Stephen Towne said it is again that time of year to begin making preparations for the July 4th celebration. He said he had made arrangements with Alonzo Fireworks for a fireworks display to be held in Congress Park on July 4th. The contract is the same as in previous years and was distributed to Council members. As in the past, DPS, DPW, Engineering and the Risk Manager will work together on mapping out the specified area for this display. Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to authorize the Mayor to sign the agreement between the City and Alonzo Fireworks in the amount of $6,000. The agreement was reviewed by the Risk Manager and the City Attorney’s office. Ayes all. Hotel & Food Establishment Ordinance Commissioner Stephen Towne said this ordinance would be reviewed and brought back to the next meeting. DeMeo Zoning Amendment Petition (04-068) Commissioner Stephen Towne said that at the February 17, City Council meeting, the Council requested that the Planning Board review the proposed zoning map amendments submitted by Mark & Stacy DeMeo to change the classification of about three acres of land on the north side of Newark Street from Rural Residential-1 (single family homes on two acres lots) to Urban Residential-1 (single family homes on 12,500 square foot lots). Commissioner Stephen Towne said the Planning Board discussed the request at their March 3 meeting and worked on a revised proposal. The Planning Board proposed that instead of changing the area to UR-1, that the area be changed to Suburban Residential-2 (single family lots on 20,000 square foot lots). The Board feels the SR-2 classification is more appropriate due to the current lack of utilities in the area. The Planning Board also believes that the SR-2 classification would provide a better buffer for the adjacent Pitney Farm. At the March 3 meeting, the Planning Board voted 6-0 to issue a “favorable” advisory opinion on the revised proposed zoning map amendment for the following reasons: 1. That the revisions are not contrary to the general purpose and intent of the zoning ordinance. The SR-2 district already exists 2. That the revisions are in accord with the Comprehensive Plan. The boundary lines between land use areas in the Comprehensive Plan are not precise and this site is between areas designated CDD and MDR-2. The DeMeos are in agreement with this recommendation. Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded for a negative SEQR determination and for the adoption of the recommendation to rezone from RR-1 to SR-2. Ayes all. Knights of Columbus Contract Commissioner Stephen Towne said that as he had previously reported, there is an attempt to make the reval process as transparent as possible. He said that assessment disclosure notices will go out within the next week to ten days and there will be opportunity for all property owners to schedule times to talk to CLT representatives to discuss the preliminary value placed on their property. He said it was his plan to use the Knights of Columbus as the location for these meetings with CLT representatives. He said that times will be convenient for citizens by offering after hours weekends if necessary. He also noted that there is plenty of parking available at this location. He said he would continue to keep the Council and the public aware of the Page 11 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 steps as they occur. Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to authorize the Mayor to sign the contract with the Knights of Columbus in the amount of $100 for each day of use. The contract has been reviewed by both the City’s Risk Manager and the City Attorney. Ayes all. Records Advisory Board Resolution (04-069) Commissioner Stephen Towne said the Records Advisory Board was originally proposed in 1994 and adopted by the Council on February 5, 1996, however, it was never implemented. He said the objectives of this board are to provide advice to the Records Manager Officer on the development of the records management program; review the performance of the program on an ongoing basis and propose changes and improvements; review retention periods proposed by the Records Management Officer for records not covered by the state archives’ schedule MU-1; and provide advice on the appraisals of records for archival value and the final sign-off entity as to what is or is not archival. In addition to those duties, the Board will assist the Records Manager Officer in developing solutions to record management issues. He said that since that time, the Board consisting of the following members: Christine Gillmett-Brown,Finance; Jim Ruhle, DPS; Matt Dorsey, City Attorney; Joy Karam, DPW and Nancy Wagner, Accounts have met and have recommended that the resolution, distributed with the agenda be endorsed. It mirrors a similar resolution in 1999 in support of the continuation of the records management agency which has provided almost $200,000 worth of funding for various record management and archival projects. He noted that the resolution had been reviewed by the City Attorney’s Office. Commissioner Stephen Towne moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded to adopt the following resolution: Resolution of Support for the Elimination of the Sunset Provisions of the Local Government Records Management Improvement Fund (LGRMIF) and the Cultural Education Fund (CEF) Whereas, the Local Government Records Management Improvement Fund (LGRMIF) was created in 1989 to provide technical assistance and grants to establish, improve or enhance records management programs in New York’s more than 4,300 local governments, and Whereas, a sunset date for the LGRMIF was established in the original legislation to permit its operation as a five-year experiment, and Whereas, the New York State Legislature has extended the sunset date twice, in 1995 and again in 1999, most recently to December 31, 2005, and Whereas, the LGRMIF has effectively supported essential advisory services, workshops and 6,300 grants totaling over $113 million to improve the management of records for over half of all NYS local governments, and Whereas, the LGRMIF and the programs it supports continue to operate at a high standard of excellence and provide direct and significant benefit to local governments at no cost to the taxpayers, and Whereas, the City of Saratoga Springs has benefitted from technical assistance, training, publications and 13 grants totaling $ 179,454 supported by the LGRMIF, and Whereas, the State Legislature created the closely-related Cultural Education Fund (CEF) to support the New York State Archives, New York State Library and New York State Museum on behalf of all New Yorkers, and the Office for Public Broadcasting, and provided the CEF with an identical sunset date, and Whereas, the LGRMIF and the CEF continue to be critically important in the fulfillment of the many records and information related responsibilities of the City of Page 12 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 Saratoga Springs and to the cultural and scientific needs of the people of New York State, Therefore, be it resolved that the City of Saratoga Springs supports the elimination of said sunset provisions in order to make the LGRMIF and the CEF permanent and viable programs for the benefit of Local Governments throughout New York State. Ayes all. Risk Management Marilyn Rivers reported that NYMIR recently completed the following loss prevention surveys: Weibel and Vernon Avenue rinks, skate park, Senior Citizen’s Center, Water Treatment Plant, Fire House and City Hall. She said as of March 8, the majority of the items listed in the surveys have been completed. She said the ice rink in particular has new signage for spectators. She noted that the contractual agreements for the casino, carousel and Congress Park have all been updated and generic language for all outgoing bids as to minimum required insurance limits has been established. She said the Fleet Safety Program continues with daily updates from the LENS program. She also noted that DPW had added additional language to its job requirements in support of Fleet Safety program to included continuous possession of valid NYS driver’s license. She said she continues to work with DPW on ways to identify safety issues. Insurance Renewal Process B Update Commissioner Stephen Towne reminded Council members that the City’s insurance year runs from May to April. He said they have been working on the renewal since February. He said he anticipated having material within the next day or two that would go to Council members on the renewal. He said the Council must act at the next Council meeting and he hoped that if there were any questions they would be relayed to him before the next meeting. FINANCE OFFICE Payroll Commissioner Matthew McCabe moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to approve the following payrolls: March 19, 2004 B $340,861.93; March 26, 2004 B $348,635.13 and April 2, 2004, - $345,261.72. Ayes all. Warrants Commissioner Matthew McCabe moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to approve the warrants as follows: 2004 Regular Warrant 4/6/04 1APR04 $ 393,148.21 2004 Mini Warrants 3/24/04 MC040324 $2,212,849.88 2004 Mini Warrant 3/15/04 MC031504 $ 204.49 2004 Mini Warrant 3/31/04 MC040331 $2,325,211.20 Commissioner Stephen Towne noted that the amounts were higher than normal on the mini warrants due to the repayment of a note and to pay county taxes. Ayes all. 2004 Budget Transfers Commissioner Matthew McCabe moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to approve the Page 13 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 2004 budget transfers as presented. Lines 1 and 2 are for the purchase of blueprints for skate park ramps (Attachment A). Ayes all. 2004 Budget Transfers B Salary Lines Commissioner Matthew McCabe moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to approve the 2004 Budget Transfer B Salary Lines as presented. Lines 1 and 2 are to properly budget for the $500.00 raise for the Mayor per the 2004 Charter. Lines 3 through 10 are to properly budget for City Center raises effective February 1, 2004 (Attachment B). Ayes all. Budget Amendments Commissioner Matthew McCabe moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to approve the 2004 Budget Amendments as presented. Lines 1 and 2 are to record donations for the summer concert series. Lines 3 and 4 are to record sales commission on the Discover Saratoga Video. Lines 5 and 6 are to record a reimbursement for educational supplies to be reused for next educational program. Lines 7 through 10 are to record a reimbursement from CDTA for site inspections at Station Lane by City Engineers. Lines 11 and 12 are to rebudget for a 2002 capital project appropriated from surplus for DPS repairs not encumbered at December 31, 2002 (Attachment C). Ayes all. Employee Parking Resolution (04-070) Commissioner Matthew McCabe said he was proposing that the small parking lot to the rear of City Hall which is currently used for employee and reserved parking be reassigned as two hour parking. He said that by doing so, it sets an example for the business owners that the City is determined to find ways to solve the parking concerns. He said he would work with DPS on their concerns and signage. Commissioner Matthew McCabe moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded that the following resolution be adopted: WHEREAS, in recent years the availability of convenient parking spaces for customers of business establishments in the downtown area has become a serious issue. The problem has become particularly severe for customers who wish to shop or dine downtown during morning and afternoon hours. Often, the walking distance from car to shop has proved discouraging to even the most dedicated Broadway shoppers; and WHEREAS, the City of Saratoga Springs owns property behind City Hall that is currently used as a large business parking area. However, a significant number of parking spaces on the Lake Avenue said of the lot, spaces most attractive to downtown consumers, are now dedicated to the use of vehicles owned by City Departments, officials and employees. The City Council recognizes its responsibility to take a leading role in addressing the availability of public parking spaces. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED as followed: 1. The Council hereby directs that spaces currently designated for use by City personnel shall be relocated from their present location on the Lake Avenue side of the City lot to the locations indicated on the map accompanying this resolution and made a part hereof. 2. Spaces in the small parking lot on the Lake Avenue side shall be dedicated during business hours for use by the general public and shall be assigned a two hour parking limit. 3. The City shall cause appropriate signage to be constructed or relocated in accordance with the foregoing. 4. Each Council member shall issue and distribute within their own department a written directive to department staff to refrain from using parking spaces Page 14 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 dedicated for use by the general public during normal business hours and to encourage them to use spaces in other parts of the City lot. Ayes all. Mayor Michael Lenz agreed that this would send a message that the City is working on the parking issue. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Parking Workshop Commissioner Thomas McTygue said there is still a much larger issue on parking in the downtown area because of infill. He said the City needs to create hundreds of spaces. He asked that the Mayor set a special meeting with all involved committees and organizations to discuss this matter. He said he has been working on this problem for years and has created hundreds of spaces in temporary parking lots (Pfeil building and Brause property). He said this needs to be fast tracked and even with fast tracking it will take three of four years. He said all of these groups need to be brought together to discuss this issue. Mayor Michael Lenz said he would do so. He said the Council has made this a priority and has made progress. He said the City has added hundreds of parking spaces and found many short term solutions. He said there has been a lot of progress and it is a priority. Mayor Michael Lenz said he would set up a workshop on this matter. FINANCE DEPARTMENT Standard Workday Resolution (04-071) Commissioner Matthew McCabe moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded for the approval of the standard workday resolution as follows: BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Saratoga Springs be and hereby establishes the following as a standard workday for elected and appointed officials for the purpose of determining days worked reportable to the New York State and Local Employees’ Retirement System: Elected Officials Mayor B Michael A. Lenz Commissioner of Finance B Matthew McCabe five day work week, 6.6 hour day Appointed Officials City Attorney B Matthew J. Dorsey five day work week, 6 hour day Deputy Commissioner B Patrick Design Deputy Mayor B Alicia Wardell five day work week, 8 hour day Commissioner Matthew McCabe said this resolution is required by the New York State Retirement System for elected and appointed officials who do not have standard work schedules. The resolution is used to establish retirement payments. Ayes all. 2004 Bond Issue Page 15 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 Commissioner Matthew McCabe said on March 25, 2004, the City sold $3,948,279 in bonds through a competitive bid process. He said the Adirondack Trust Company offered the lowest bid of 4 percent. Deputy Commissioner Christine Gillmett-Brown then distributed a copy of the official statement, which was provided to each bidder along with a notice of sale. He said the official statement provides a tremendous amount of information about the City from financial, to largest employers, to tax rates. He said as part of the process, the City is given a bond rating by Moody’s Investors Service. The rating, as well as the Official Statement, assists the bidder in determining the interest rate bid. Moody’s retained the City’s previous rating of A1 but did so with caution. Debt Limit and Capital Items Deputy Commissioner Christine Gillmett-Brown distributed draft debt limit calculations to Council members. She reviewed with Council members noting that the City has the approximately $5.9 million available to bond. She said that sounds like a lot of money but with large projects such as the West Side Infrastructure Phase 3 & 4 which costs more than $2 million it really is not a lot. She said the $5 million for the Open Space is not counted under this limit. Deputy Commissioner Christine Gillmett-Brown said there a number of projects on the books that have not yet been completed, or may not yet have been started. She said she had, however, included the original amount to be bonded, what had been spent, remaining funds and the year the project was started. She said these projects are funded under a wide variety of sources including reserves, bonds, federal government and state government. She said when bonds are issued for projects the City has up to two years to expend those funds. She said she needs to know a specific time frame when bonding projects. Deputy Commissioner Christine Gillmett-Brown then reviewed the capital reserves. She said the City Center capital reserve has approximately $4,200 remaining, Spring Run Trail has approximately $91,000 remaining, Landfill Retainage has approximately $8,900 and the Niagara Mohawk refund has approximately $28,000. Commissioner Stephen Towne asked about the previous payment to Salerni & Boyd under the Niagara Mohawk refund for their review of street lights as listed on the last page of the handout. Deputy Commissioner Christine Gillmett-Brown said that Salerni & Boyd did a survey of the City’s streets and that was their payment for that service. Commissioner Matthew McCabe asked about the bond payment for the retirement payment. Deputy Commissioner Christine Gillmett-Brown said she recently attended a conference at which the State Comptroller’s Office said that municipalities should continue to estimate payments similar to this one for the next several years. She said they estimate it to be about 12 percent. Mayor Michael Lenz asked about one percent of the five year average. Deputy Commissioner Christine Gillmett-Brown said she did not have that information this evening but would get it. Mayor Michael Lenz said it appears that the City has more available funds than before to bond for capital projects. Deputy Commissioner Christine Gillmett-Brown said that the City used some of the County surplus money for capital projects, therefore, there was a little bit more room at this point for the City to bond. She said this year though the City will have about $5 million in new debt. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Lead Agency B South Broadway Previously done. Casino Reader’s Choice Award Page 16 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 Commissioner Thomas McTygue said recently The Saratogian newspaper conducted a survey of the best places in the City. He said he was pleased to announce that the Canfield Casino had been voted the best place to have a wedding reception in the City. He thanked Marge Farone for coordinating these events and making it such a special place. Compost Screen Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to approve the rental of the compost screen, the same as last year, from Lyons Equipment Company of Little Valley, NY for $16,500 for three months. Ayes all. Generators Commissioner Thomas McTygue said that upon the recommendation of the Engineering Department and the City Electrician, he moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to standardize on the Cumming/Onan generators because of past experience with parts and the quality of electrical apparatus workmanship. Ayes all. Carousel Candy Tins Commissioner Thomas McTygue said DPW would be selling candy tins in the shape of a carousel. He said the candy is imported English Toffee. He said they will be sold for $12.95 or $13.00 which includes sales tax. He said the funds would go into the carousel account. Executive Session B Salary Survey Commissioner Thomas McTygue requested an executive session to discuss the salary survey. School Contract B Recreation Fields Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to authorize the Mayor to sign the contract with the school district for the maintenance of the east and west side recreation fields. He said the contract is the same as last year with the school paying the City $50,000 for maintenance and $25,000 for capital improvements. Ayes all. Equipment Rental Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded to approve the paving equipment rental from Pallette Stone as follows: Pavement Profiler with operator $3,700/day Trim Machine with operator $1,500/day 10' Paver with operator $1,800/day 10' Paver with operator $7,400/week Roller no operator $550/day Roller no operator $2,200/week Mobilization $400/each Ayes all. Parking Workshop Previously discussed. Flushing Water System Page 17 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 Commissioner Thomas McTygue reported that flushing of the City’s water system had begun. He said he anticipated the work to continue through Friday April 16 but they may also work on Saturday. He said this is part of the annual maintenance program for the City’s water system estimated to be more than 175 miles long and includes more than 1,700 fire hydrants. He said flushing will be done between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. He said that residents may notice some discoloration which was normal and not harmful. However, he recommended that residents check their water before using automatic washers. Hub Parking Lot Agreement (04-072) Commissioner Thomas McTygue said there was one question from the bank on the public parking area to be used for eight years. He said once the public parking space is constructed, the bank is looking to use their lot for bank employees and the bank will maintain the parcel. He said the City Attorney and the bank’s attorney should work out the details. Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded to authorize the Mayor to sign the agreement between the City and Adirondack Trust Company in connection with the Hub Parking lot contingent upon the City Attorney and the bank attorney working out the details. Commissioner Stephen Towne asked if the contract had been distributed to Council members. Matthew Dorsey said he was not sure. Commissioner Thomas McTygue pointed out that the City Attorney was still working out the details of the contract. Commissioner Stephen Towne said Council members should be afforded the opportunity to review material that they are being asked to vote on. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said it appears the agenda meetings are of no use, because when Council members have questions they are not asking them at that time. He said it was up to the City Attorney to distribute the material. Commissioner Thomas McTygue suggested that a special meeting be held on this matter. Mayor Michael Lenz said he was well aware that the City Attorney was working on this contract for the last two days and it was not finalized until very late today. Matthew Dorsey said he had spoken to Joanne Carlow, DPW, on this matter. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said on a topic of such importance the questions should be directed to him, the Deputy or to the Director of Utilities. He said it was not Joanne Carlow’s job to be sure that it got distributed. Matthew Dorsey said he spoke to Joanne Carlow because the Commissioner was not available. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said he wanted to be clear that issues of such importance should be directed to Deputy Commissioner Pat Design, Director of Utilities Bill McTygue or to himself. Ayes all. Washington Street Phase 3 Easements -- Carroll & Hayes (04-073) Matthew Dorsey said the agreement between the City and Constance Carroll had been distributed to Council members. He said this easement is for the West Side sewer and drainage project. He said the agreement is for the City to receive the easement and to pay her $7,500. Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to authorize the Mayor to sign the documents for the easement between the City and Constance Carroll in the amount of $7,500. Ayes all. Commissioner Stephen Towne recused himself due to a potential conflict of interest. Matthew Dorsey said this too is an agreement between the City and Helen & John Hayes and it had been distributed to Council members. He said this easement is for the West Side sewer and drainage project. He said the agreement is for the City to receive the easement and to pay them $8,600. Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to authorize the Page 18 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 Mayor to sign the documents for the easement between the City and Helen & John Hayes in the amount of $8,600. Ayes all. Commissioner Stephen Towne resumed his seat on the Council. School District Easement Previously discussed. Water & Sewer Rates (04-074) Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Mayor Michael Lenz seconded to include the Water & Sewer Rates on the agenda. Commissioner Stephen Towne said the water and sewer rates were noted as an area of interest from a number of constituents during the fall elections. He said he saw this item this morning for the first time and he had not had enough time to review it in its entirety. He said an item of such importance deserves more discussion. He said he would prefer to wait so as to allow him more time to review the item. He suggested that if there were changes to the rates that the second quarter bills be adjusted. He said we owe it to the community to discuss this in more detail. Commissioner Thomas McTygue said the rates need to be adopted by adopted by April 15. He suggested that a special meeting be held before that date. Council members agreed to meet on Thursday, April 8 at 2:00 p.m. to discuss this item and to discuss permission to sell the sprayer. Permission to sell the sprayer To be discussed at the April 8 meeting. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY Acceptance of Donation Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to accept the donation of two Serotta Police Bikes contingent upon DPS providing the dollar amount. Ayes all. 911 Range Change Commissioner Thomas Curley moved and Commissioner Stephen Towne seconded to approve the number range changes for the following streets: From To Belmont Street 1-21 1-77 Seward Street 1-69 1-80 Sarazen Street 3-66 1-75 He said that no property owner would have their address effected by this change. Ayes all. Upcoming Enforcement Initiatives Commissioner Thomas Curley said they would begin enforcement for cell phone violators, seatbelt violators and red light violators. He said this would be done with both car and bike patrols. He said they will focus on the Broadway area. SUPERVISORS Phil Klein brought to Council members attention that included in the Governor’s budget was a line that all Page 19 of 20 City of Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 6, 2004 moneys collected by municipalities for ticketing be turned over to the state. He said that would have a serious impact on the City. He noted that the City has approximately $250,000 budgeted in that line as a revenue. Commissioner Thomas Curley noted that number does not include truck fines. Phil Klein said he had a sample resolution from another town. He suggested the Council consider doing the same. Executive Session Mayor Michael Lenz moved and Commissioner Thomas McTygue seconded to adjourn to executive session at 10:00 p.m. Ayes all. Council members returned at 10:20 and reported that no action was taken. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Thomas McTygue moved and Commissioner Thomas Curley seconded to adjourn the meeting at 10:20 p.m. Ayes all. There being no further business, Mayor Michael Lenz adjourned the meeting at 10:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Kathy Moran Clerk Approved: Page 20 of 20