City Council

June 20, 2023 CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS City Council Meeting 474 Broadway Saratoga Springs, New York 6:00 PM 7:00 P.M. – P.H. – Local Law #3 of 2023 to Amend UDO – 1,000 Foot Buffer for Homeless Shelter P.H. – Ordinance to Prohibit Possession of Firearm in Public Place P.H. – Open Space Plan 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL SALUTE TO FLAG CONSENT AGENDA 1. Approval of 6/9/2023 Special City Council Meeting Minutes 2. Approval of 6/2/2023 Pre-Agenda Meeting Minutes 3. Approval of 6/6/2023 City Council Meeting Minutes 4. DSAD: Approved May 2023 Minutes 5. Approve Mid-Warrant 2023, 23MWJUN1 $5,501,774.94 6. Approve Warrant 2023, 23JUN2 $495,769.83 7. Approve Payroll 06/09/2023 $470,762.79 8. Approve Payroll 06/16/2023 $460,295.91 9. Approve Budget Transfers - Regular 10. Approve Budget Amendments - Regular PRESENTATION 1. Recreation Department: Veterans’ Memorial Park Playground, Skate Park, & Waterfront Park 2. City Attorney’s Office: FOIL SUPERVISORS Matthew Veitch 1. Appointment to Restorative Justice Panel 2. New Saratoga County Hazmat Vehicle 3. Champlain Hudson Power Express County Funding Estimates for the City Tara Gaston 1. Supervisors’ Discretionary Award 2. Primary Voting City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 MAYOR’S RECOGNITIONS/PROCLAMATIONS 1. Proclamation: Saratoga Rugby Club 2. Proclamation: Alphonse Lambert PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. Local Law #3 of 2023 to Amend UDO – 1,000 Foot Buffer for Homeless Shelter 2. Ordinance to Prohibit Possession of Firearm in Public Places 3. Open Space Plan PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD / 15 MINUTES MAYOR’S DEPARTMENT 1. Announcement: Woodlawn Garage: Before/After 2. Announcement: Meetings of Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness: June 26 and July 13 3. Announcement: Appointments to the Restorative Justice Panel 4. Set Public Hearing: Capital Budget Amendment for Change Order Six, Downtown Connector, Using State Touring Route Funds 5. Discussion and Vote: Resolution re: Forfeiture 6. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Apply for County Trails Grant, Funding Round 2023 7. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Change Order 7 with GPI for Downtown Connector 8. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Agreement RE: Sidewalk at 743 North Broadway 9. Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Pay Delta Development Invoices in the Amount of $20,000 10. Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Reimburse Employee #2808 in the Amount of $606 11. Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Reimburse Employee #3065 in the Amount of $303 ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT 1. Announcement: Appointment of Jamil Khan to the Climate Smart Task Force 2. Award of Bid: Hydrofluosilicic Acid to Amrex Chemical Co., Inc. 3. Award of Bid: Sodium Hypochlorite to Slack Chemical Co., Inc. 4. Announcement: Business Milestones 5. Announcement: Special Events FINANCE DEPARTMENT 1. Announcement: Update on City Finances 2. Announcement: Participatory Budgeting Accepting Project Proposals Through July 1, 2023 3. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Debt Book for GASB 87 Lease Accounting Software 4. Discussion and Vote: Budget Transfers – Payroll & Benefits 5. Discussion and Vote: Budget Amendments – Fund Balance PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 1. Announcement: Big Truck Day 2. Discussion and Vote: Authorization To Accept Donation of Plant Identification Markers for Congress Park 3. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract for Granite Curb Installation at 25 Joseph Street 4. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign Contract with Slack Chemical Company for Sodium Hypochlorite Page 2 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 5. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Amrex Chemical Co. for Hydrofluosilicic Acid 6. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Palette Stone Crop. For Transit Mix Concrete PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT 1. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign an Agreement with NYRA for the 2023 Racing Season 2. Discussion and Vote: Proposed Ordinance Being Intoxicated While Armed 3. Announcement: 50 Points 4. Announcement: Saratoga Spring Police Department Awards Ceremony will be held Tuesday, June 27 at 5:30 p.m. in the Music Hall ADJOURN Page 3 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 June 20, 2023 CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS City Council Meeting 474 Broadway Saratoga Springs, New York 6:00 PM PRESENT: Ron Kim, Mayor Minita Sanghvi, Commissioner of Finance Dillon Moran, Commissioner of Accounts Jason Golub, Commissioner of Department of Public Works Jim Montagnino, Commissioner of Department of Public Safety STAFF PRESENT: Angela Rella, Deputy Mayor Heather Crocker, Deputy Commissioner of Finance Stacy Connors, Deputy Commissioner, Accounts Joe O’Neill, Deputy Commissioner of Public Works Matthew Veitch, Supervisor Tara Gaston, Supervisor EXCUSED: Jason Tetu, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Public Safety RECORDING OF PROCEEDING The proceedings of this meeting were taped for the benefit of the secretary. Because the minutes are not a verbatim record of the proceedings, the minutes are not a word-for-word transcript. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Kim called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. CONSENT AGENDA Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to approve the consent agenda as attached. 1. Approval of 6/9/2023 Special City Council Meeting Minutes 2. Approval of 6/2/2023 Pre-Agenda Meeting Minutes 3. Approval of 6/6/2023 City Council Meeting Minutes 4. DSAD: Approved May 2023 Minutes 5. Approve Mid-Warrant 2023, 23MWJUN1 $5,501,774.94 6. Approve Warrant 2023, 23JUN2 $495,769.83 7. Approve Payroll 06/09/2023 $470,762.79 Page 4 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 8. Approve Payroll 06/16/2023 $460,295.91 9. Approve Budget Transfers - Regular 10. Approve Budget Amendments - Regular Commissioner Moran asked for item #4 to be removed from the Consent Agenda, as the City Council is not required to approve the minutes of the Special Assessment District. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 PRESENTATIONS City Attorney’s Office: F.O.I.L. Michael Phillips, assistant city attorney, presented. Mayor Kim advised state law requires the City to respond to freedom of information requests (FOIL). There are exceptions to the law that prevent the City from responding to requests made. The City is at an unprecedented number of requests. Michael Phillips advised the presentation is based on three years worth of data – 2021, 2022, and 2023 year to date. In 2021, 333 FOIL requests were filed and four appeals. In 2022, 557 FOIL requests were filed and 21 appeals, an increase of 67% from 2021. In 2023, there have been 315 FOIL requests to date with 21 appeals. There is one person in the City Attorney’s Office who exclusively does FOIL requests. Commissioner Sanghvi asked how many people at the County are dedicated to working on FOIL requests. Michael Phillips stated there are two people at the County with one being a full time attorney. Mayor Kim stated the City is not able to charge for the information requested. Most information is provided electronically so there is no way to recoup the City’s costs. If the requests continue at this rate, the Mayor’s Office will have to request assistance to complete these requests. Recreation Department: Veterans’ Memorial Park Playground, Skate Park, & Waterfront Park John Hirliman, director of recreation, presented. The skate park renovations began on May 15, 2023. In 2022, volunteers with the assistance of the Department of Public Works cleaned up the area, removed graffiti, and modernized the area until renovations could start. The total cost for the renovations is $445,905.08. The ramps, banks, and bowls will be smoother for the riders. The park is scheduled to open late July 2023. Veterans’ Memorial Park playground plans started approximately 11 years ago. Total project cost is $867,906. Renovations are scheduled to begin in August and should take approximately 60 days to complete. The new playground will wrap around the existing tree. The existing splash pad will remain and buildings will be renovated. The playground will include a wheelchair carousel, dolphin spring toy, swing set, bench for seating, spinner, and poured in place rubber. The Department of Public Works is demolishing the existing play structures and removing the debris. Waterfront Park playground cost is $153,434. The Department of Public Works is working on the bathroom at the lower level. Construction for the playground area will take approximately one month. The park will include swings and climbing apparatus. Page 5 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 SUPERVISORS Matthew Veitch Appointment to Restorative Justice Panel Supervisor Veitch reported he is appointing Kendall Hicks. Kendall has a 30-year career in the Army National Guard. He earned a bronze star for leadership. New Saratoga County Hazmat Vehicle Supervisor Veitch reported the County approved the funding for the new hazmat response vehicle. This vehicle will be housed at station 3. The County will pay the City annually to cover the cost of the construction of the bay that will house the vehicle. Champlain Hudson Power Express County Funding Estimates for the City Supervisor Veitch reported the County approved the revenue sharing for the Hudson Power Express. The County will receive money each year for 30 years and will be distributing the money to the communities where the Champlain Express passes through. The express will pass through the City of Saratoga Springs and the City will receive in total approximately $7 million dollars over the 30 years. Tara Gaston Supervisors’ Discretionary Award Supervisor Gaston reported money will be given to the Saratoga Springs elementary schools to purchase bicycles so each student through the 5th grade will learn how to ride a bike. The funds will go to the Saratoga Shredders organization for them to purchase a fleet of bikes. She reminded the Council they were asked for specific items where they would like to see money spent. Primary Voting Supervisor Gaston reported it is early voting for primaries. Early voting is held at the City’s Recreation Center. MAYOR’S DEPARTMENT (part 1) Proclamation: Saratoga Rugby Club Mayor Kim read the following proclamation: A PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS, NEW YORK WHEREAS, throughout our city’s history, athletic organizations have played a large part in our community. They have given residents the opportunity to play, watch and support local teams and clubs such as the Saratoga Rugby Club. WHEREAS, the Saratoga Rugby Club was founded in 2005 with the team name Saratoga Stampede which was renamed in 2021 to the Saratoga Cavalry; and; WHEREAS, the Saratoga Rugby Club allows those interested in rugby a chance to learn and play while promoting the sport in Saratoga and around the Capital Region; and; WHEREASE, the Saratoga Rugby Club claimed victory at the 50th Mayor’s Cup match this past May; and; NOW THEREFORE, I, Ron Kim, Mayor of the City of Saratoga Springs, am pleased to join with my fellow Saratogians in recognizing and congratulating the Saratoga Rugby Club and to extend its coaches, players, and members our very best wishes for success in the years to come. I hereby proclaim today, May 20, 2023 as SARATOGA RUGBY CLUB DAY Page 6 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Proclamation: Alfonse Lambert Mayor Kim read the following proclamation: A PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS, NEW YORK WHEREAS, individuals who step up as Coaches contribute time and effective energy to bettering their athletes. Coach Alphonse Lambert has led an exemplary career as Saratoga Central Catholic’s Varsity Baseball Coach; and; WHEREAS, Coach Lambert was hired in 1988 as the youngest high school head baseball coach in New York State at 22 years old. He guided the Saints to a 10 – 11 record in his first season and two years later proceeded to win three consecutive league championships. The highlight of Coach Lambert’s career to date was the 2000 season in which the Saints went 27–2 and lost the NYS Class C State Championship game in 9 innings to Falconer H.S. of Buffalo. That season, Tim Stauffer and the Saints won 26 consecutive games and outscored their opponents 332–98; and; WHEREAS, Coach Lambert’s teams have won more than 20 games eleven times, including the 2007 team that went 25–3 and won the NYS Section 2 Class B Championship. In 2010 and 2011 the Saints once again won the NYS Section 2 Class B Championship. The Saints won the Capital Region Championship advancing to the State Final Four. The 2010 Saints finished with a 23-3 record and the 2011 team finished with a 21-3 record; and; WHEREAS, during Coach Lambert’s tenure at Saratoga Catholic two of his former players Tim Stauffer and Christian Garcia were drafted in the major leagues. Coach Lambert has been selected as Coach of the year by the Saratogian 1990, 2000, 2009, Glens Falls Post Start 2000, 2011 as well as the Amsterdam Recorder 2000, and the Albany Times Union 2000 and 2009; and; WHEREAS, Coach Lambert’s career record as head baseball coach at Saratoga Central Catholic (35 Seasons) is 601-214. 737 winning % including (15) League Championships: 1991, 1992, 1997, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 (5) Section 2 Championships: 2000, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011 (3) NYS Regional Championships: 2000, 2010, 2011 and (1) NYSPHSAA Finalist in 2000. In the Sectionals, Coach Lambert has a record of 45-29 608 winning %; and; NOW THEREFORE, I, Ron Kim, Mayor of the City of Saratoga Springs, am pleased to join with my fellow Saratogians in honoring Coach “Phonsey” Lambert and extending to him our very best wishes for success in years to come. I hereby proclaim today, June 20, 2023 as COACH LAMBERT DAY PUBLIC HEARINGS Local Law #3 of 2023 to Amend UDO – 1,000 Foot Buffer for Homeless Shelter Mayor Kim opened the public hearing at 7:03 p.m. Mayor Kim advised this is to amend the UDO to create a 1,000-foot buffer between any school and homeless shelters. Sherry Grinter stated she is in favor of the buffer. She doesn’t feel the homeless are harmful but their behavior is not appropriate around any child. They do fight among themselves and misbehave. Gail Riley stated she supports the buffer. Diogenes stated she respects Sherry and the work she does but disagrees with her on this topic. Children congregate anywhere. Her concern is the City may do what other cities are doing, which is push people to camps. She would not encourage this to be a primary consideration. John Dooley of Saratoga Springs thanked the Council and the Homeless Task Force for their careful consideration and time on this. Mayor Kim concluded the public hearing at 7:08 p.m. and kept it open. Ordinance to Prohibit Possession of Firearm in Public Place Mayor Kim opened the public hearing at 7:08 p.m. Gordon Boyd of Saratoga Springs stated he is in favor of the ordinance. It is good for business locally and business coming into the City. Brining the definitions from state law into conformance into City Code is a good idea. He hopes this is a message to Saratoga County that they can pass a similar ordinance and Page 7 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 have a higher penalty. Mr. Boyd suggested putting up signage downtown to inform people of this ordinance. Jeff Grasavage of Saratoga Springs stated he is in favor of this. It is a violation that could complicate someone’s situation. Mayor Kim closed the public hearing at 7:12 p.m. Open Space Plan Mayor Kim opened the public hearing at 7:12 p.m. Kelsey Trudell of Sustainable Saratoga read a statement on behalf of the organization (attached). The open space plan update supports climate change, improves quality of life, and aims to protect the City in the country identity. It is necessary to expand accessibility to outdoor recreation, parks, trails, and waterways for future generations. Sustainable Saratoga supports the plan and made the following recommendations: other financing and regulatory options in the protection of open space; develop a tool box to determine the most cost effective/appropriate method of protection of each open space opportunity proposed; and plan to preserve the remaining large contiguous areas of open space within the City’s greenbelt. Mayor Kim concluded the public hearing at 7:16 p.m. and kept it open. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Kim advised there are new rules to public comment. People have 4 minutes to speak. At that time, the speaker will be asked to stop. He asked all to be kind; not interrupt; and exercise free speech. He also asked the speakers to be factual. The Council members may respond if they choose. He will also hold a public comment period at the end of the City Council meeting. Mayor Kim opened the public comment period at 7:16 p.m. Rose Tait of Saratoga Springs stated she is here to remind the Council that her parking lot has been rendered useless for the past nine years due to Lincoln Avenue being made a one-way from Frank Sullivan to Nelson Avenue. The street was made one-way to accommodate taxis. Tim Coll of Saratoga Springs stated the resolution on seized assets is confusing and serves no purpose. State seizure money can only be used for law enforcement purposes and up to $25,000 of federal seizure money can be used can be used for community based non-profits whose mission is consistent with law enforcement efforts. The City Council cannot make the determination of how the money is used, so the resolution serves no purpose. Commissioner Sanghvi stated the police can decide if they wish to spend the money on a community effort. Mr. Coll stated the point he is making is the Police Department or the public safety commissioner. Diogenes of stolen land stated she wants to recognize the passing of Daniel Ellsberg this past Friday. If you are ‘white’, you leak documents and expose corruption and lies on part of the federal government. If you are ‘black’, you speak and hurt a ‘white’ man’s feelings. As much as Commissioner Montagnino claims to be about law and order, she is sure he wasn’t losing sleep in the 70’s about the pentagon papers being leaked. Redistribution of wealth is used by police departments to pad their budgets. She encouraged the Council not to support anything that empowers the police to seize assets and cash in on the arrests they make. Page 8 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Bill of Saratoga Springs made a post to social media on August 2, 2020. (Bill’s statement attached). Three years later, he asks what progress has been made. Has the divide been closed? Is the City being viewed as a leader in advancing forward or of being an example of how we can all exist together? It is election season and he asked the City Council what is the record they will run on? Have their last campaign promises been filled? What will you say to convince the public to vote for you again, given how you’ve been portrayed in the media? Bill said he admires the activists’ tenacity and conviction, but he asks them what they have done to help close the divide. Jeff Grasavage of Saratoga Springs stated the EV charger is broken at the top of the garage. He suggested consideration of the homeless also being so close to the theatre where young children attend. MaryBeth Delarm (statement attached) of Saratoga Springs stated she became a volunteer disaster responder at Ground Zero after 911. She also helps the homeless, pet rescue, and is a veteran and patient advocate. She agreed to speak for many citizens of Saratoga Spring who are frightened by the outbursts in City Hall. City leaders are enabling people to monopolize government. Residents who were once proud to call Saratoga home are now ashamed seeing the City leaders exhibit insolence among their own colleagues and allowing appalling behavior during public comment. Entertaining a bully is not the way to run a meeting. She suggested the installation of a metal detector when entering City Hall to make citizens feel safer and only hold one public comment period. The lack of control is seemingly biased. Allowing the First Amendment to be abused is harming the residents and liberties are impeded. It is offensive and causes residents to be uncomfortably distressed and harassed by such unwanted behavior. Immoral speech and insubordination must stop now. Lack of control invites division, safety risks, and fiscal harm deliberately injuring those represented. Paul Nolan of Saratoga Springs stated he agrees with almost everything Ms. Delarm said. He has other concerns to discuss; the general condition of a lot of the roads are in bad shape for bikers and pedestrians. He would support instituting a 25 M.P.H. driving in the City. Mayor Kim closed the public comment period at 7:40 p.m. City Council recessed at 7:42 p.m. City Council returned at 7:51 p.m. MAYOR’S DEPARTMENT (part 2) Announcement: Woodlawn Garage: Before/After Mayor Kim announced RISE has been awarded the homeless shelter bid. Prior to this, the Woodlawn garage was covered in graffiti and garbage. The homeless have been relocated to the temporary location on Adelphi Street. Mayor Kim urged community members to volunteer at the shelter. Mayor Kim stated the County of Saratoga now needs to step up and help with the homeless. Community residents need to ask the County to step up as well. Commissioner Sanghvi stated the County has a larger budget. Homelessness is not seen to the same extent as in Wilton and Galway. Commissioner Golub stated the Department of Public Works will continue to take care the garages. He also thanked Sonny and Julie Bonacio for stepping up with their contribution towards the shelter. Announcement: Meetings of Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness: June 26 and July 13 Page 9 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Mayor Kim announced the Homelessness Task Force will be meeting on June 26, 2023 and July 13, 2023. The Task Force is in the middle of discussions regarding a permanent location for the homeless shelter. There are approximately eight sites being considered. Announcement: Appointments to the Restorative Justice Panel Mayor Kim announced the appointment of Professor Jorgensen to the Restorative Justice Panel. He is a professor at Skidmore College and chair of the Philosophy Department. Commissioner Moran appointed Holly Hammond to the Restorative Justice Panel. Commissioner Sanghvi stated she reached out to Daesha Harris but she declined and asked for her statement be read (attached) with her reasons for declining. Commissioner Sanghvi has appointed Heather Reynolds of Empire State University. Commissioner Montagnino appointed Will Borsher of Saratoga Springs. Mayor Kim reminded everyone that Restorative Justice Panel has been charged with identifying what restorative justice is. Set Public Hearing: Capital Budget Amendment for Change Order Six, Downtown Connector, Using State Touring Route Funds Mayor Kim set a public hearing for July 6, 2023. Discussion and Vote: Resolution re: Forfeiture Mayor Kim pulled this item. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Apply for County Trails Grant, Funding Round 2023 (23- 347) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to authorize the mayor to apply for county trails grant funding round 2023. Mayor Kim advised this is for the installation of solar lighting along Railroad Run behind the YMCA to Route 50. The City will match up to $10,000 in in-kind or cash. Additional funding may be required. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Change Order 7 with GPI for Downtown Connector (23-348) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign change order 7 with GPI for the downtown connector. Mayor Kim advised this change order is for time extension only and there is no cost. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Agreement Re: Sidewalk at 743 North Broadway (23-349) Page 10 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to authorize the mayor to sign the agreement regarding sidewalks at 743 North Broadway. Tony Izzo stated the owner wants to restore an existing sidewalk in the City’s right-of-way, which will require excavation and rebuilding. The owner understands the City maintains the right to enforce modern standards. This is at the owner’s cost. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Pay Delta Development Invoices in the Amount of $20,000 (23-350) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to pay Delta Development $20,000 for service rendered in connection with the Infrastructure Committee. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Reimburse Employee #2808 in the Amount of $606 (23-351) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to reimburse employee #2808 $606 for travel expenses. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Reimburse Employee #3065 in the Amount of $303 (23-352) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize to reimburse employee #3065 in the amount of $303 for travel expenses. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT Announcement: Appointment of Jamil Khan to the Climate Smart Task Force Commissioner Moran appointed Jamil Khan to the Climate Smart Task Force. Mr. Khan lives in Wilton and is a Director of Development at Rise Light & Power, where he manages the development of the company’s renewable energy transmission projects in New York. Mr. Khan brings over a decade of experience in New York’s renewable energy industry. Previously, he served as a Project Development Director at the offshore wind developers Ørsted and Deepwater Wind, where he led development of several offshore wind projects in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Prior to joining the offshore wind energy industry, Khan worked in Policy and Business Development at Tesla and SolarCity, where he was tasked with energy storage, solar, and electric vehicle charging project development and policy activities in New York. In parallel, Jamil served as the board president of the New York Solar Energy Industry Association. Mr. Khan also served as the lead renewable energy policy advisor at the Mayor’s Office of Long Term Planning and Sustainability for the city of New York, where he managed the City’s response to power outages and fuel shortages caused by Hurricane Sandy, developed renewable energy incentive programs and managed the City’s Inventory of Greenhouse Gasses. Page 11 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Mr. Khan earned a MSE in environmental management and economics and a BS in chemical and biomolecular engineering from the Johns Hopkins University. Award of Bid: Hydrofluosilicic Acid to Amrex Chemical Co., Inc. (23-353) Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Montagnino seconded to award the bid for Hydrofluosilicic Acid to Amrex Chemical Co., Inc. according to unit bid pricing and not to exceed appropriations. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Award of Bid: Sodium Hypochlorite to Slack Chemical Co., Inc. (23-354) Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to award the bid for Sodium Hypochlorite to Slack Chemical Co., Inc. according to unit bid pricing and not to exceed appropriations. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Announcement: Business Milestones  Dark Horse Mercantile - in 2014, Impressions of Saratoga launched a brand called “The Dark Horse” and in 2018, the Dark Horse Mercantile opened on Broadway. Congratulations on their 5-year anniversary.  Savory Pantry – opened its first location in 1998 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. In 2014, the Savory Pantry opened on Broadway in Saratoga Springs. They have become a nationally known destination for food, drinks, and entertaining gifts for culinary enthusiasts. Congratulations to the Savory Pantry on 25 years in business and 9 years in Saratoga Springs.  Crafters Gallery – opened in 1993 by Roger Goldsmith, Crafters Gallery has been a staple in the downtown shopping district. In 2017, Christina Lowes purchased the store from Roger. She continues to offer unique art and gifts created by local artists and jewelry designers. Congratulations to Crafters Gallery on 30 years of business in Saratoga Springs. Announcement: Special Events  Saturday, June 17, 2023 – 2nd Annual Cars on Union car show was postponed due weather. We will announce the new date as soon as it has been set.  Sunday, June 25, 2023 – Saratoga Pride Festival celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride at High Rock Park.  Tuesday, July 4, 2023 – Firecracker 4 road race – an annual 4-mile race. Saratoga’s All American Celebration with music by Big Sky Country on Ellsworth Jones Place at 6 p.m. and fireworks at the City Center Garage at 9 p.m.  July 13 – 16 & July 19-22 – Shakespeare in the Park performing Twelfth Night.  Thursday, July 13, 2023 – Opening day of Saratoga Race Course with music on Broadway at Spa City Motor Lodge  Saturday, July 15, 2023 – Silks & Satins 5k race celebrating the opening of the track.  Tuesday, July 25, 2023 – and every Tuesday after until end of race season – Congress Park Craft Fair 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. FINANCE DEPARTMENT Announcement: Update on City Finances Page 12 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Commissioner Sanghvi announced sales tax is at $4.8 million dollars year to date. This is a small increase from April of last year. Sales tax is slowing down a bit and hoping for a robust track season. Announcement: Participatory Budgeting Accepting Project Proposals Through July 1, 2023 Commissioner Sanghvi announced they are accepting participatory budgeting proposals through July 1, 2023. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Debt Book for GASB 87 Lease Accounting Software (23-355) Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Moran seconded the City’s requirement to implement GASB 87 for lease accounting. The City’s auditors, BST & Co. recommended purchasing software as the standard requires calculating present value and preparing amortization schedule. This is a piggyback of a national purchasing contract. The cost is $8,000. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Budget Transfers – Payroll & Benefits (23-356) Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Moran seconded lines 1- 4 for the Department of Public Works for CHIPS; lines 5 – 8 are for the Department of Public Works for transportation improvements; lines 9 – 12 are for special assessment district. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Discussion and Vote: Budget Amendments – Fund Balance (23-357) Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Montagnino seconded lines 1- 2 refund of prior year taxes related to an Article 7 settlement. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Announcement: Big Truck Day Commissioner Golub announced Big Truck Day will be held July 26, 2023 at the Weibel Avenue Ice Rink from noon to 4 p.m. Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Accept Donation of Plant Identification Markers for Congress Park (23-358) Commissioner Golub advised Leslie Mention, a local Congress Park volunteer, is donating 61 engraved plant ID stakes. Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to approve acceptance of the donation from Leslie Mention – 61 plant engraved identification signs with an estimate worth of $600. Page 13 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract for Granite Curb Installation at 25 Joseph Street (23-359) Commissioner Golub advised this is for 85 linear feet of granite curb in the amount of $5,100. Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract for granite curb installation at 25 Joseph Street in the amount of $5,100. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign Contract with Slack Chemical Company for Sodium Hypochlorite (23-360) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Slack Chemical Company for sodium hypochlorite valid until 7/5/24 not to exceed unit bid prices. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Amrex Chemical Co. for Hydrofluosilicic Acid (23-361) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Amrex Chemical Company for hydrofluosilicic acid valid until 7/5/24 not to exceed unit bid price. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Palette Stone Corp. For Transit Mix Concrete (23-362) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Palette Stone Corp. for transit mix concrete valid until 5/20/24 not to exceed unit bid prices. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to add an item to his agenda regarding the purchase of a cargo van. (23-363) Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Page 14 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Discussion and Vote: Authorize the Mayor to Sign a Contract with Bailey Ford (23-364) Commissioner Golub stated the dealer will not be able to hold the used van for the duration of the bid process; therefore, the Department of Public Works is asking for approval tonight to purchase. Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign the contract with Bailey Ford for the cargo van purchase in the amount of $36,146. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to add an item to the agenda regarding approval to pay invoice to CHA Consulting in the amount of $248.75. (23-365) Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Pay Invoice to CHA Consulting (23-366) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize payment of invoice #58389-14 to CHA Consulting in the amount of $248.75 Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign an Agreement with NYRA for the 2023 Racing Season (23-367) Commissioner Montagnino stated this if for the Fire Department services as the racetrack for the season. Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to authorize the mayor to sign an agreement with NYRA. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Discussion and Vote: Proposed Ordinance Being Intoxicated While Armed (23-368) Commissioner Montagnino advised the ordinance is intended to be a deterrent. This will create a new section of Chapter 115. Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to approve the creation of a new section to Chapter 115. Tony Izzo, city attorney, stated he drafted a revision of the entire Chapter 115. The Council is voting tonight on the creation of a new section of carrying a firearm while intoxicated to that chapter. His proposal of the revision of the entire chapter does include a different version of carrying a firearm while intoxicated than Commissioner Montagnino’s. Page 15 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 Commissioner Moran asked what the City is looking for to put an officer in a position to determine someone is intoxicated to then do a search. Tony Izzo stated to his knowledge there is no code or ordinance that establishes a standard regarding the necessary proof of violation of the ordinance in a proceeding. He thinks it will be a ‘behind the wheel’ situation. Commissioner Moran confirmed there is no mechanism for an officer to ascertain the state of intoxication of a pedestrian. Tony Izzo stated he does not know of a procedure to stop a pedestrian. Commissioner Montagnino stated he agrees a vehicle stop being predicate for discovering a violation of the ordinance. He added many of the local bars wand patrons prior to admission to their establishment. Mayor Kim stated he supports the idea. There is a definition of firearms that varies with state law. He would also like to see penalties be for each shot fired. He can’t support the current resolution. Commissioner Golub agrees there is merit for this. He can’t think of a reason to search for a gun unless it is a result of a DWI or a bar fight. Commissioner Montagnino withdrew this item and stated he will set a public hearing at the next council meeting. Announcement: 50 Points Commissioner Montagnino advised the written report was submitted to IT this afternoon for posting on the City’s website. The report identifies the points that are completed, underway, and in effect. Announcement: Saratoga Spring Police Department Awards Ceremony will be held Tuesday, June 27 at 5:30 p.m. in the Music Hall Will also be to honor Chief Crooks and bringing in our new Chief McIntosh. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Kim opened the public comment period at 9:09 p.m. Chris Mathiesen of Saratoga Springs stated he can’t image the police will be seeking out people who have weapons. It would be more of an issue of fights that would bring attention to the weapon. It is another tool for the police officers. Mr. Mathiesen states this makes sense. Tom Chandler stated this is his third night here. He has attended back the blue rallies at the state capital the past two years and met a lot of the Black Lives Matters activists. His generation was taught to respect the police and there was a lot less crime and violence in the black community. While at the capital, they had an open mic where BLM spoke and were rough but they did smooth out. Some people left BLM on their own volition and others were thrown out for being too soft. These kids mean well but have been conditioned to believe the way they are acting is appropriate. He remembers when the Klu Klux Klan acted like that. People of his generation are willing to start standing up and speaking against this. He hopes more people will start attending the meetings and feel the responsibility to stand up to tell the truth that these kids aren’t getting anywhere else. Mayor Kim closed the public comment period at 9:15 p.m. Page 16 of 17 City Council Meeting 6/20/2023 ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to adjourn the meeting at 9:16 p.m. Ayes – All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays – 0 Respectfully submitted, Lisa Ribis Secretary to the City Council Approved: 7/6/2023 Vote: 5 - 0 Page 17 of 17