City Council

OFFICE OF CITY CLERK SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK AGENDA FOR THE COUNCIL CAUCUS AND THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, December 09, 2024 Room 209 7:00 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING 001 Amending Section 228-19 of the Schenectady City Code Regarding Notices Requiring Sidewalk Repairs or Corrections PUBLIC HEARING 002 Abandonment of Roger Hull Place Pursuant to Section 101 of the Second Class Cities Law and Section 20(7) of the General City Law FINAL CONSIDERATION 01 Council Member AN ORDINANCE to Amend Certain Provisions of Chapter 161 of the Schenectady City Code Entitled "Garbage, Rubbish, and Refuse" Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 02 Council Member A RESOLUTION Calling for a Public Hearing for the 2025 Downtown Special Assessment District (DSAD) Budget Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 03 Council Member A RESOLUTION Calling for a Public Hearing for the 2025 Upper Union Street Business Improvement District (BID) Votes Required 4 1 Friday, December 06, 2024 Page 1 of 4  Monday, December 09, 2024 Room 209 7:00 p.m. ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 04 Council Member A RESOLUTION Re-Affirming Resolution 2024- 150 and Endorsing the Adoption of Section 384-e of the New York State Retirement and Social Security Law to Eligible Employees Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 05 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Reimbursement of Expenses by the Rose Garden Restoration Committee Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 06 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Mayor to Enter into a Lease Agreement with Schoharie River Center, Inc. to Lease the Central Park Casino for the Use and Operation of the Schenectady Environmental Education Center Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 07 Council Member A RESOLUTION Endorsing the Schoharie River Center, Inc. Grant Application to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for the Schenectady Environmental Education Center Project at the Central Park Casino Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 08 Council Member A RESOLUTION Requesting the Introduction of State Legislation Allowing the City of Schenectady to Establish a Speed Camera Enforcement Demonstration Program in School Zones Votes Required 4 2 Friday, December 06, 2024 Page 2 of 4  Monday, December 09, 2024 Room 209 7:00 p.m. ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 09 Council Member A RESOLUTION Requesting State Legislation for Local Enforcement and Adjudication of Traffic Control Violations Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 10 Council Member A RESOLUTION Supporting Continued and Increased State Aid for Local Governments Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 11 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Mayor to Enter into a License Agreement with the Niagara Power Corporation Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 12 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Mayor to Enter into an Amended Agreement with the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 13 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Sale of a Vacant Lot at 80 Wyllie Street for $2,500.00 Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 14 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Sale of 436 Anthony Street for $85,000.00 Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 15 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Sale of a Vacant Lot at 933 Visher Avenue for $1,600.00 Votes Required 4 3 Friday, December 06, 2024 Page 3 of 4  Monday, December 09, 2024 Room 209 7:00 p.m. ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 16 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Sale of 1027 Second Avenue for $70,000.00 Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 17 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Sale of 2425 Consaul Road for $110,000.00 Votes Required 4 ORIGINAL CONSIDERATION 18 Council Member A RESOLUTION Authorizing the Issuance of Revocable Permit No. 687 to Wedgeway, LLC for a Sign that Will Overhang the City's Right- of-Way on the Erie Boulevard face of the building at 277 State Votes Required 4 4 Friday, December 06, 2024 Page 4 of 4  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: DATE: November 14, 2024 TO: COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: Law Department/Engineering SUBJECT: Amend Section 228-19 of the Schenectady City Code Background Information: Current code language reflects older position titles and limits sidewalk inspections to only the City Engineer. Evaluation/Analysis: Legislation is needed to reflect current position titles and to expand sidewalk inspection authority to the Bureau of Code Enforcement. Recommendation: Update current code language to reflect current titles and expand the scope of inspection authority to formally the allow the Bureau of Codes Enforcement to inspect sidewalks. Review of draft legislation with a call for a public hearing. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY:_ Corporation Counsel 5 Interoffice Memo DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING GARY R. MCCARTHY, MAYOR CHRISTOPHER R. WALLIN, P.E., CITY ENGINEER Date: December 2, 2024 To: Samanta R. Mykoo, City Clerk Cc: M. Barasch From: C. Wallin, City Engineer RE: Land Swap for Jay Street Connector The Jay Street Connector is an active Downtown Recovery Initiative (DRI) project being led by the Department of Engineering. The project will connect the current dead end of Jay Street near South Avenue to Nott Street creating a new link between downtown and Mohawk Harbor. To create the new public corridor right of way will need to be acquired from the adjacent property owners, primarily the Trustees of Union College (Union College). In exchange for Union College allowing the City to acquire the necessary lands for the new connector the City has tentatively offered Roger Hull Place between Park Place and Seward Place. All lands on Roger Hull Place are owned by Union College. Attached with this memo is an excerpt from the DRI, a figure depicting the affected parcels and a survey of Roger Hull Place. JFO: cd 1 6 7 Proposed limits of new City right-of-way for Jay Street Connector (Approximate) 5 4 3 2 1 Affected Parcels: 1. Union College, SBL 39.57-1-2 2. Union College, SBL 39.57-1-3.121 3. Union College, SBL 39-57-1-3.2 4. Union College, SBL 39.57-1-3.112 5. Car Wash, SBL 39.57-1-3.3 8  Connectivity Extend North Jay Street and Improve Maxon Road DRI Funding Request Jay Street connector DRI Funding Re quest: $2,000,000 Total Project Cost: $4,147,000 Project Description Connectivity between downtown and Mohawk Harbor is currently limited primarily to Erie Boulevard, a major vehicular thoroughfare providing the most direct connection. This project will complete a second north-south connection that is more pedestrian and bicyclist friendly to better link these major destinations. North Jay Street extends from the Jay Street Mall and City Source: Project sponsor Hall downtown through Little Italy to a dead-end north of South CONNECTION Avenue, adjacent to Union FROM College’s Turf JAY Park. The at College JAY STREET SECTION The proposed Jay Street connector includes an 8’ multi-use trail for first component of this project will construct a new two-lane street pedestrians and bicyclists that will run along one side of the roadway. STREET TO ERIE BOULEVARD segment to connect Jay Street to Nott Street, a major east-west THROUGH thoroughfare with access to TUNNEL Mohawk Harbor, Union College campus, and Ellis Hospital. The design includes an 8’ sidewalk/ multi-use path for pedestrians and bicyclists. The second component will make improvements to Maxon Road, extending from the new Nott/Jay intersection to Erie Boulevard opposite Mohawk Harbor Way. Improvements include an 8’ sidewalk/multi-use path which will complete a pedestrian and bicycle link from Mohawk Harbor along Maxon and Jay Streets through Little Italy to downtown. Project Location North Jay Street, from its current terminus north of South Avenue northeast to the intersection of Nott Street and Maxon Road, and Maxon Road, from Nott Street northeast to Erie Boulevard. Location map: The project will connect Mohawk Harbor to downtown. 5-36 Schenectady Downtown Revitalization Initiative 9  Connectivity Property Owner/Sponsor Jobs Created City of Schenectady is the project sponsor and owns the public No permanent jobs will directly result from this project. right-of-way. Trustees of Union College owns the land through which the extension will be located and an agreement is in place Project Budget and Funding Sources with the City for use of this land. Cost Estimate Capacity Engineering $317,000 The City has the demonstrated capacity to complete this initiative. Earthwork $250,000 It has completed numerous roadway projects throughout the city in Street/sidewalk construction $1,516,000 the past. Street lighting $394,000 Project Partners Traffic signal $125,000 Union College Landscaping $224,000 Signage and striping $57,000 Strategies Construction inspection $395,000 This project aligns with the following DRI strategies: • Improve multi-modal connectivity with emphasis on biking and Misc. (traffic control, admin, etc) $342,000 walkability enhancements Contingency (20%) $527,000 • Take advantage of existing opportunities to increase TOTAL: $4,147,000 connectivity (Jay Connector, Alco Tunnel) The project also aligns with other goals and strategies: Sources Amount Uses • Quality city services efficiently delivered (Schenectady 2020 City of Schenectady $2,147,000 Engineering, Comprehensive Plan) contingency, misc. DRI Request $2,000,000 Construction Anticipated Revitalization Benefits TOTAL $4,147,000 • Increased connectivity between downtown and Mohawk Harbor • Close proximity to the Alco tunnel trail makes it an appealing Feasibility and Cost Justification mobility amenity for pedestrians and cyclists Costs were estimated by the City and based on the design concept and previous street projects. Based on estimates from similar street Public Support projects in Upstate New York, the cost per linear feet typically range This project received among the highest levels of public support from $2,900 to $3,400. The estimated cost for this project falls at the second public meeting and was one of the top-rated within that range. In tandem with the Jay Street two-way conversion connectivity projects. LPC members emphasized the importance project, this initiative will provide a new direct connection between of creating this connection to better link Mohawk Harbor with Little downtown and Mohawk Harbor for pedestrians, bicyclists, and Italy and downtown. Support for this project has been consistent drivers. It will also increase accessibility to the adjacent Alco tunnel. since the City’s initial application process. Schenectady Downtown Revitalization Initiative 5-37 10  Connectivity Regulatory Requirements Proposed Design Work zone traffic control will be required. All proposed signs should Maxon Road Improvements be compliant with the MUTCD. Timeframe for Implementation and Project Readiness The project sponsor is prepared to begin work upon award. Design UNION development is complete and an agreement with Union College is in place. Design: COLLEGE • Final design/documentation: 6-9 months • Permit review and approval: 3-6 months Construction: • Construction: 8-12 months Source: Project sponsor Maxon Road improvements will add an 8’ multi-use trail for walking and Total: 18 - 24 months biking connections between Mohawk Harbor, Little Italy, and Downtown. Project Reporting MAXON ROAD SECTION The project sponsor will report on key milestones during RIVERS SCHENECTA implementation. Metrics include: CASINO • Pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular counts RO AD MA XO N NOTT STREE T MEDIAN ON ERIE BOULE- VARD FOR TRAFFIC CALMING MOHAWK HARBOR BLVD IE ER UNION LEGEND MOHAWK-HUDSON BIKE-HIKE COLLEGE PATH (ON STREET) ET MOHAWK-HUDSON BIKE-HIKE PATH (OFF STREET) JAY MAXON ROAD SECTION STR ALCO HERITAGE TRAIL E DESTINATION SCHENECTADY DOWNTOWN CONNECTIVITY PLAN Proposed route of the connector linking Jay Street to Nott Street. Proposed design for Maxon Road improvements between Mohawk Harbor and Nott Street. 5-38 Schenectady Downtown Revitalization Initiative 11  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK ORDINANCE NO. Councilmember offered the following: An Ordinance to Amend Certain Provisions of Chapter 161 of the Schenectady City Code Entitled “Garbage, Rubbish and Refuse.” FT The Schenectady City Council in regular meeting convened, ordains as follows: Section 1. Purpose: the Schenectady City Council has reviewed Chapter 161 of the Schenectady City Code to update certain provisions of the Chapter to reflect new means and methods of waste collection for the City and to set fee schedules to reflect to the costs to the City for waste collection. The following provisions of Chapter 161 are amended as indicated: RA [Material in brackets is deleted.] Underlined material is added. Section 2. Section 161-4 H. Garbage and nonrecyclable rubbish. 1. [Each person shall purchase and use clear or translucent refuse bags for the disposal of garbage and nonrecyclable rubbish.] D 2. [Garbage and nonrecyclable refuse shall not be placed at the curb for pickup unless it is in a clear or translucent refuse bag. Refuse placed in a dumpster or trash can must be first placed in a translucent or clear refuse bag. There is one exception to this requirement:] [ a. There are items of garbage and nonrecyclable rubbish which are not appropriate to place in or which do not fit into a refuse bag. These items should be taken to the waste transfer station for disposal or the Department of Solid Waste should be called for instruction.] 1. All residential solid waste shall be placed in plastic refuse bags tied at the top for collection whether placed in containers or placed separately at the curb. Containers shall be no less than ten gallons and no more than 45 gallons in size. 2. (Reserved). 3. It shall be a violation of this chapter for any person to place for collection any garbage or nonrecyclable rubbish which contains any recyclable. 12  4. Persons who utilize the transfer facility for disposal of nonrecyclable rubbish shall be required to obtain an annual permit from the City of Schenectady. The Director of Solid Waste shall have the authority to refuse to accept any garbage or nonrecyclable rubbish from a person who brings it to the transfer facility in a nonpermitted vehicle. 5. The Director of Solid Waste shall have the authority to refuse to accept any garbage or nonrecyclable rubbish hauled to the transfer facility if the garbage or nonrecyclable rubbish contains mandated recyclables. Section 161-4 N. Penalties for offenses by private property owners and occupants. (1) There shall be a grace period [of 90 days] following the [implementation] effective date [of this] to the amendments of this chapter, [November 15, 1992,] when there shall only be verbal and written warnings issued to violators of this chapter. During the time period time period from the effective date of the amendments to this Chapter, January 1, 2025, to the enforcement date of April 1, 2025, there shall be an intensive program of notification and education on the amended procedures and associated fees. FT The Commissioner of General Services shall report to the Schenectady City Council on the effectiveness of the education and notification effort no later than May 15, 2025. Section 3. Article III Solid Waste Transfer Station; Disposal Facility Section 161-8 Fees City residents, noncommercial use. RA [Added 2-14-1994 by Ord. No. 94-02] B. 1.City residents may use the transfer station [free of charge] per the fee schedule set by the Operator for disposal of household refuse, provided that it is of an acceptable type and properly processed. For example, tree limbs must be less than four inches in diameter and not over four feet in length. (See Section 161-6, Prohibited materials.) Questions regarding type of material acceptable can be answered by calling the transfer station. 2. [City residents' vehicles will not be weighed and will be required to use the car dump area.] Transfer personnel will be available to assist as to where and how to deposit refuse. D 3. City residents will be required to obey all of the rules and regulations and conditions as outlined in Article II of this Chapter 161. 4. City residents will not be required to obtain a license but must show proof of residence within the City limits by a driver's license and one other form of identification. All refuse disposed of must be generated from within the incorporated limits of the City of Schenectady. Section 4. Article V. Fee-Based System for Collection of Solid Waste and Recyclables. Section 161-21. Public collection and disposal of solid waste. A. The Department shall collect and dispose of all residential solid waste (including institutional, mixed residential and multiple residential users electing to receive and which qualify for City solid waste collection service) originating in the City, and as further limited by this article, all solid waste from such 13 commercial uses as may elect and qualify to receive City solid waste collection services. Such solid waste shall be stored and prepared for collection by property owners and occupants in accordance with the provisions of this article. The depositing for City collection of solid waste not originating in the City is prohibited, except as authorized by ARTICLES III and IV of this Chapter. Persons depositing solid waste in the City in violation of Section shall be subject to prosecution and the penalties set forth in Sections 161-26 A and D of this Section. B. At the discretion of the Commissioner of General Services, the Department may collect and dispose of commercial, institutional, multiple residence and mixed residential use solid waste originating in the City if the Commissioner determines that collection from such users can be accomplished using existing staff and equipment and without compromising the services provided by the City to residential uses. The Department shall not collect industrial, infectious or hazardous waste. (1) All residential solid waste shall be placed in plastic refuse bags tied at the top for collection whether placed in containers or placed separately at the curb. Containers shall be no less than ten gallons and no more than 45 gallons in size. (2) (Reserved.) FT C. The Commissioner may promulgate regulations covering the items of collection of solid waste and the fees charged therefor, and such other matters pertaining to the public collection and disposal of solid waste as he/she may deem necessary, provided that such regulations are not contrary to the provisions hereof. At least forty-five (45) days before the implementation of fees the Commissioner shall provide the City Council with the solid waste collection fee schedule for the Council’s review and approval. The initial solid waste fee schedule is attached hereto. D. [Except as provided within this chapter, the City shall collect residential solid waste originating in RA the City as defined by this chapter once each week. The City shall collect white goods originating in the City as defined by this chapter once each month, on the third solid waste pickup day for each garbage district. All other collections will be made at a frequency determined by the Commissioner to be necessary consistent with public health. [Amended 3-13-2023 by Ord. No. 2023-04]] D. Excess Residential Solid Waste or Bulky Items: 1. Excess Solid Waste or bulky items collected at each property shall be subject to the following fees: White Goods, including, but not limited to stoves, dishwashers, dryers, and washers shall be collected by affixing a solid waste sticker(s) to the item(s) and collected per the schedule and fees set by D the Commissioner of General Services. 2. A. Household items, including but not limited to: Furniture, couches, chairs, tables, carpets, bookcases, mattresses, beds, outdoor furniture shall be collected by affixing a solid waste(s) to the item(s) and collected per the regular collection schedule set by the Department of General Services and the following fee schedule: Mattresses, beds, couches: $15.00 per item. Tables, chairs, outdoor furniture, miscellaneous furniture; $10.00 per item. Carpet rolls (3 feet in length) $ 5.00 per roll. Window Air Conditioner: $15.00. Grill: $10.00. B. Such other listed items of Excess Residential Solid Waste per the published fee schedule set by the Commissioner of General Services. 3. A. Property owners or occupants may purchase Excess Residential Solid Waste Stickers to affix to individual items of Excess Residential Solid Waste or Bulky items in denominations of five dollars 14 ($5.00) per sticker Stickers will be available for purchase at the Bureau of Receipts at City Hall and such other locations outside of City Hall as designated by the Mayor. B. Each property owner will be issued three Excess Residential Solid Waste Stickers each calendar year and the stickers will be mailed to the occupant of each residential collection point. E. All residential users (excepting institutional residential users which do not elect to receive City waste collection services) will be provided with waste collection services by the City and shall pay for such services at the rates herein prescribed. F. Commercial, institutional, multiple residential and mixed residential users, excepting those which elect to receive and are approved to receive City solid waste collection services, must provide for the lawful collection and disposal of solid waste and recyclables and must establish to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that a licensed commercial solid waste and/or recyclable collector is providing collection and disposal services for the user and that solid waste collection is being made at a frequency determined by the Commissioner to be consistent with public health requirements. Failure to provide for adequate collection and disposal services or to provide satisfactory proof to the Commissioner shall constitute a violation and shall be subject to the penalties provided by Chapter 1, Article I, Section 1- 14.1. FT G. The Commissioner is authorized, after a time/volume study has been conducted of a mixed- residential, multiple residential, commercial and/or institutional use parcel, to enter into service agreements with such entities for the collection of solid waste and to assess a fee for collection services for that parcel based upon the amount of solid waste generated, consistent with the user fees prescribed by this chapter and adopted annually by resolution of the City. H. RA Section 161-22. Unpaid Waste Collection Fees. Unpaid waste collection fees shall be the personal liability of the owner and shall be a lien upon the real property in connection with which solid waste collection is offered as and from the 30th day of the month following the billing date for each quarterly installment and such indebtedness shall be subject to sale or assignment by the City to the extent permitted by law. Section 161-23 Discontinuing service following non-payment of waste collection fees. The Commissioner may order the discontinuance of a multiple residence, mixed-use residence, D institutional and/or commercial user's public collection service when, after due notice, the user has not paid user fees upon direct billing by the City or after such delinquent fees have become a lien upon the real property. Upon discontinuance of public collection service for nonpayment of user fees, the user must establish to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that a licensed commercial solid waste and/or recyclable collector will service the user. The Director of Finance shall establish and maintain a separate solid waste collection fund to record and control the financial activity related to the provisions of solid waste collection by the City. This fund shall be maintained on the same fiscal year as that of the City. Each year the Mayor, at the time of the submission of the annual budget estimate to the City Council, shall submit a statement of estimated revenues, expenditures and changes in the fund as well as the fund balance for the current fiscal year, together with an estimate of expenditures for the next fiscal year. The Mayor shall also, at the same time, recommend a basic rate sufficient to meet the estimated expenditures for the next fiscal year, taking into consideration the estimated surplus or deficit accruing from the fund operations in the current year and other sources of revenue. Section 161-25 Solid waste collection fees. 15 Section 161-24. Annual determination of fees. 1. The Mayor as a part of the budget process shall propose the fees charged by the City for solid waste collection and disposal services annually. A schedule of the annual collection fees shall be approved by the City Council by resolution and maintained on file in the Commissioner's office and in the office of the City Clerk. 2. Fees assessed for solid waste collection services provided by the City shall not exceed the full cost of providing said service. Any surplus of funds in any year shall be carried over to the following year and shall be used solely to fund solid waste collection services provided by the City. Section 161-25. Exemptions. 1. Any person who because of age or disability shall qualify for exemption from City real property taxes pursuant to Chapter 234, Article I, Section 234-1, and is an owner and occupant of any premises receiving waste collection services provided pursuant to this article, shall be charged a reduced fee for solid waste collection and disposal services in the total sum of $ [100]137. FT 2. Any residential user eligible for STAR tax exemption from City real property taxes, upon demonstrating that only one unit of a two- or three-unit residential parcel is occupied as their residence, all other units being permanently vacant, after certification to the Commissioner and inspection, pursuant to regulations promulgated by the Commissioner and approved by resolution of the City Council, shall pay only the annual base unit fee. C. For-profit mixed residential, Multi residential and commercial users: The annual fee shall be based upon Council. The Commissioner, consistent with the formula adopted by the City Council, is authorized to negotiate fees pursuant to Section 161-21G of this article, based on volume and time RA requirements for collection, provided that such fees shall in all instances cover at a minimum the costs of providing the service. Section 5. Section 161-26 Penalties for Offenses. A. Failure to comply with the terms of this chapter shall be a violation as defined by the Penal Law of the State of New York and shall be punishable by a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 15 days for each day of violation, or by both such fine and imprisonment, or by a penalty of not less than $350 nor more than $1,000 for each day of violation to be recovered by the City in a civil action. D B. A separate offense shall be deemed committed on each day during or on which noncompliance with the terms of this chapter occurs or continues unabated after the time limit set for abatement of the violation. C. Any person issued a notice of violation pursuant to any provision of this chapter shall be subject to an administrative fee of $50, and such administrative fee shall be charged against the land upon which the notice of violation was issued as a municipal lien or such administrative fee shall be added to the tax rolls as an assessment or levied as a special tax against said property or recovered in a civil suit against the person to which the notice of violation was issued. D. The depositing for public collection of solid waste not originating in the City shall be considered an unclassified misdemeanor with a fine up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment up to 180 days per occurrence. 16 Section 6. This Ordinance shall take effect January 1, 2025. Approved as to Form: ____December 2024 ___________________ Maxine Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel FT RA D 17  D 18 RA FT  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: RESOLVED, that the City Council will conduct a public hearing in relation to: The Downtown Schenectady Assessment District 2025 Budget Said Public hearing shall be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 5:00 FT p.m. in Room 110, Schenectady City Hall, 105 Jay Street, Schenectady, New York – for the purpose of discussing the Downtown Schenectady Assessment District 2025 Budget; and be it further RESOLVED, that the City Clerk shall have the following notice published in the appropriate manner: NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RA Downtown Schenectady Assessment District 2025 Budget On Friday, December 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m., the Schenectady City Council shall conduct a public hearing in relation to the above-referenced matter. Said public hearing shall be held in Room 110, Schenectady City Hall, 105 Jay Street, Schenectady, New York – for the purpose of receiving public comment relative to the above-referenced matter; and be it further RESOLVED, that copies of the proposed Downtown Schenectady Assessment District 2025 budget be made available at the City Clerk’s Office and the City of Schenectady website at www.cityofschenectady.com for public inspection beginning no later than December 10, 2024; and be it D further RESOLVED, that all interested parties may also be heard by submitting written comments to the City Clerk via www.cityofschenectady.com/158/City-Council, by email at smykoo@schenectadyny.gov, or mail at City Clerk, 105 Jay St., Schenectady, NY 12305, by 12:00 p.m. on December 13, 2024. Approved as to form this ___day of December 2024. __________________________ Maxine Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 19  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: RESOLVED, that the City Council will conduct a public hearing in relation to: The 2025 Upper Union Street Business Improvement District Budget Said Public hearing shall be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. in Room 110, Schenectady City Hall, 105 Jay Street, Schenectady, FT New York – for the purpose of discussing the 2025 Upper Union Street Business Improvement District budget; and be it further RESOLVED, that the City Clerk shall have the following notice published in the appropriate manner: NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RA The 2025 Upper Union Street Business Improvement District Budget On Friday, December 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m., the Schenectady City Council shall conduct a public hearing in relation to the above-referenced matter. Said public hearing shall be held in Room 110 Schenectady City Hall, 105 Jay Street, Schenectady, New York – for the purpose of receiving public comment relative to the above-referenced matter; and be it further RESOLVED, that copies of the proposed 2025 Upper Union Street Business Improvement District budget be made available at the City Clerk’s Office and the City of Schenectady website at www.cityofschenectady.com for public inspection beginning no later than December 10, 2024; and be it further D RESOLVED, that all interested parties may also be heard by submitting written comments to the City Clerk via www.cityofschenectady.com/158/City-Council, by email at smykoo@schenectadyny.gov, or mail at City Clerk, 105 Jay St., Schenectady, NY 12305, by 12:00 p.m. on December 13, 2024. Approved as to form this ___day of December 2024. __________________________ Maxine Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 20  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Re-Affirming Resolution 2024-150 and Endorsing the Adoption of Section 384-e of the New York State Retirement and Social Security Law to Eligible Employees. WHEREAS, on June 24, 2024, the Schenectady City Council passed Resolution 2024-150 which authorized the Mayor Schenectady to sign the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the City FT of Schenectady and the Schenectady Police Benevolent Association, a copy of said Resolution is attached hereto and incorporated by reference into this Resolution; and WHEREAS, Resolution 2024-150 was approved by the Mayor of Schenectady on June 28, 2024, and the Schenectady City Council hereby re-affirms Resolution 2024-150 and the conditions and terms contained therein; and WHEREAS, a term of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) approved by Resolution 2024-150 required the City of Schenectady to provide the benefits of New York State Retirement and RA Social Security Law Section 384-e (Section 384-e) to Schenectady Police Benevolent Association bargaining unit members, without limitation, effective January 1, 2025, which the Schenectady City Council re-affirms and approves; and WHEREAS, the City of Schenectady Finance Department by letter dated November 26, 2024, received the cost information from the New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS) associated with the adoption of the Section 384-e which requires the City of Schenectady’s re- affirmation of the approval of Section 384-e benefits for Schenectady Police Benevolent Association bargaining unit members, without limitation, effective January 1, 2025, per Resolution 2024-150; and D NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, that the Schenectady City Council re-affirms and endorses Resolution 2024-150 authorizing Section 384-e benefits to Schenectady Police Benevolent Association bargaining unit members, without limitation, per the terms of the CBA and further authorizes the Mayor and the Commissioner of Finance to execute all documents required by the NYSLRS to implement Section 384- e benefits to the eligible employees. Approved as to form this ________day of December 2024 ____________________________ Maxine Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 21  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION No. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Authorizing the Reimbursement of Expenses by the Rose Garden Restoration Committee WHEREAS, the award-winning Rose Garden in Schenectady’s Central Park is a treasured attraction enjoyed by residents and visitors alike; and FT WHEREAS, the Restoration Committee submitted a reimbursement request, based on certain proof of expenses incurred by the Committee to maintain the Rose Garden in 2024, in the amount of $5,279.00; and WHEREAS, in 2024, the City received $4,505.00 in revenue from permits and event fees charged to the public for use of the Rose Garden: NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RA RESOLVED, that the Mayor, Gary R. McCarthy, and City Council do hereby authorize the Commissioner of Finance to reimburse the Rose Garden Restoration Committee in an amount not to exceed $4,505.00. Approved as to form this ___ day of December 2024. ____________________________ Maxine Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel D 22  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: FT A Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Enter into a Lease Agreement with Schoharie River Center Inc. to Lease the Central Park Casino for the Use and Operation of the Schenectady Environmental Education Center. WHEREAS, the City wishes to enter into a Lease Agreement with the Schoharie River Center Inc, to lease the Schenectady Central Park Casino for the use and operation of the Schenectady Environmental Education Center (SEEC); and RA WHEREAS, the Schoharie River Center Inc., has applied for a grant from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to be used as a funding source for the SEEC project and the City of Schenectady endorses and approves of the Schoharie River Center Inc.’s grant application for the SEEC project; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby authorizes the Mayor or his designee to enter into a Lease Agreement with the Schoharie River Center Inc, for the use and operation of the Central Park Casino as the Schenectady Environmental Education Center, upon such terms and conditions as set forth in the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s D Community Environmental Education Centers Grant Program. Approved as to form this ___ day of December 2024. __________________________ Maxine Barash, Esq. Corporation Counsel 23  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: FT A Resolution Endorsing the Schoharie River Center, Inc. Grant Application to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for the Schenectady Environmental Education Center Project at the Central Park Casino. WHEREAS, the Schoharie River Center, Inc. is applying to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for a project grant, under the Community Environmental Education Centers program, to be located at the Central Park Casino, a site located within the territorial jurisdiction of the Schenectady City Council; and RA WHEREAS, as a requirement of the program, said Schoharie River Center, Inc., must obtain the “approval/endorsement of the governing body of the municipality in which the project will be located”; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Schenectady hereby does approve and endorse the application of the Schoharie River Center, Inc., for a grant under the Round 12 Hudson River Estuary Program for a project known as the Schenectady Environmental Education Center (SEEC). D Approved as to form this ___ day of December 2024. __________________________ Maxine Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 24  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Requesting the Introduction of State Legislation Allowing the City of Schenectady to Establish a Speed Camera Enforcement Demonstration Program in School Zones. WHEREAS, speeding has been and continues to be a serious issue in the City of Schenectady, placing drivers and pedestrians at risk; and FT WHEREAS, in order to better hold drivers accountable for exceeding the speed limits in the City of Schenectady, the City seeks to incorporate speed camera enforcement technology; and WHEREAS, the use of speed camera enforcement technology requires the New York State Legislature to pass legislation authorizing its use; and WHEREAS, the City of Schenectady wishes to establish a demonstration program for the deployment of speed zone camera technology in school zones due to the high concentration of RA pedestrians near school properties and for the protection of school children, parents and guardians and school staff; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, that the Schenectady City Council and Schenectady Mayor Gary R. McCarthy formally request the members of the New York State Legislature, who represent the City of Schenectady, introduce legislation authorizing the City of Schenectady to establish a school zone speed camera enforcement demonstration program. D Approved as to form this ___day of December 2024 ____________________________ Maxine Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 25  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Requesting State Legislation for Local Enforcement and Adjudication of Traffic Control Violations. FT WHEREAS, an area of significant concern to the City of Schenectady (City) and its inhabitants is public safety, especially that safety related to travel on our City streets – be it by vehicle, by bicycle, by foot, or other legal means; and WHEREAS, the City is seeking to stop drivers who tear down our City streets at speeds far in excess of the posted limits and who fail to stop at red lights; and and RAWHEREAS, an effective solution is for the City to use red light cameras and speed cameras; WHEREAS, a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that cameras reduced the fatal red light running crash rate of large cities by 21% and the rate of all types of fatal crashes at signalized intersections by 14%; and D WHEREAS, studies by the Insurance Institution for Highway Safety indicate that six to eight months after cameras were introduced on roadways in Maryland, Arizona, and the District of Columbia, the proportion of drivers exceeding speed limits by more than 10 mph declined by 70%, 88%, and 92%, respectively; and WHEREAS, for the City to implement these devices under the current state legislative scheme, the State legislature must pass legislation to explicitly allow the City of Schenectady to use these devices 26 for these purposes. In the past, State legislation has been structured as “demonstration programs” for specific cities. However, the legislation has a sunset provision unless extended by the State; and WHEREAS, alternatively, and as a longer-term solution, the State can expand the general powers of local governments, as identified in Section 10 of New York State Municipal Home Rule Law to permit cities, towns, and villages to implement enforcement tools, including but not limited to speed cameras and red-light cameras, for more effective enforcement of local and state laws and to better protect our citizenry: NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, FT RESOLVED, the Schenectady City Council and the Mayor, Gary R. McCarthy, formally request that the members of the New York State Legislature, who represent the City of Schenectady, introduce legislation to expand the general powers of local governments, as identified in Section 10 of New York State Municipal Home Rule Law to permit cities, towns, and villages to implement enforcement tools, including but not limited to speed cameras and red light cameras, or, in the RA alternative, introduce legislation granting the City of Schenectady the ability to implement a “demonstration program” for speed cameras and red light cameras. Approved as to form this ___ day of December 2024 ____________________________ Maxine Barash, Esq. D Corporation Counsel 27  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Supporting Continued and Increased State Aid for Local Governments. WHEREAS, until 2024, cities, villages and towns had not received an increase in unrestricted state aid (AIM Funding) in 15 years, significantly impacting their ability to provide essential services to their residents; and FT WHEREAS, after a prolonged period without financial support, local governments finally received an increase of $50 million in unrestricted state aid; and WHEREAS, local officials express their gratitude for the $50 million increase in unrestricted state aid, recognizing it as a positive step towards addressing long-standing funding challenges; and WHEREAS, the State has referred to this new aid as Temporary Municipal Assistance, suggesting that such increase may not continue, jeopardizing the sustainability of crucial municipal RA programs and services; and WHEREAS, the property tax cap further limits the ability of local governments to properly fund the programs and services their residents need; and WHEREAS, increased and ongoing state aid for local governments is vital for maintaining infrastructure, public safety, housing and other municipal services and the City of Schenectady historically has not received its fair share of state aid based upon the City’s population and the incomes of its citizens; and D WHEREAS, the challenges of inflation, the increasing costs of labor and supplies, and the end of extraordinary federal aid only accentuate the need for consistent and predictable funding to effectively plan for the future and meet the growing needs of their residents; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, that the City of Schenectady calls upon the Governor and the State Legislature, and particularly those Members of the New York State Legislature who represent the City of Schenectady, to specifically commit to at least continuing the additional $50 million in unrestricted state aid in the 2025-26 State Budget and to increasing those amounts in the upcoming fiscal year and beyond; and 28 IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED, the City of Schenectady urges state officials to recognize the need for a long-term plan that ensures consistent and predictable increases in financial support for local governments that keep pace with inflation and that copies of this Resolution shall be transmitted to the Governor, Legislative Leaders and members of the State Legislature representing the City of Schenectady. Approved as to form this ________day of December 2024 ____________________________ Maxine Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel FT RA D 29  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: FT A Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Enter into a License Agreement with the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation. WHEREAS, in 2017 the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation (Licensor) and the City of Schenectady (Licensee) negotiated a License Agreement for the use a portion of the Licensor’s property by the Licensee for the purpose of the construction and maintenance of a pedestrian walkway and the related parking for three (3) vehicles; and RA WHEREAS, the work outlined in the 2017 License Agreement was completed, however the 2017 License Agreement (attached hereto and made part of this Resolution) was not executed by the parties; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council has reviewed the 2017 License Agreement and hereby authorizes the Mayor to execute said License Agreement. Approved as to form this ____ day of December 2024. D __________________________ Maxine L. Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 30  D 31 RA FT  D 32 RA FT  D 33 RA FT  D 34 RA FT  D 35 RA FT  D 36 RA FT  D 37 RA FT  D 38 RA FT  D 39 RA FT  D 40 RA FT  D 41 RA FT  D 42 RA FT  D 43 RA FT  D 44 RA FT  D 45 RA FT  D 46 RA FT  D 47 RA FT  D 48 RA FT  D 49 RA FT  D 50 RA FT  D 51 RA FT  D 52 RA FT  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: FT A Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Enter into an Amended Agreement with the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation. WHEREAS, in 2017 the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation (Licensor) and the City of Schenectady (Licensee) negotiated a License Agreement for the use of a portion of the Licensor’s property by the Licensee for the purpose of the construction and maintenance of a pedestrian walkway and the related parking for three (3) vehicles; and RA WHEREAS, the Schenectady City Council by separate Resolution authorized the Mayor to execute the 2017 License Agreement; and WHEREAS, there is a need to amend and update the 2017 License Agreement to conform with the applicable site plans for the “2025 Alco Heritage Trail Extension DRI Project” a copy of the “New Trail Extension 2025” survey is attached hereto and made part of this Resolution; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council has reviewed the updated trail survey and plans and hereby authorizes the Mayor to execute the updated License Agreement to conform to the D requirements and needs of the trail extension, the final terms of which to be determined by the Corporation Counsel. Approved as to form this ___ day of December 2024. __________________________ Maxine L. Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 53 New Trail Extension (2025): FT RA D 54  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Authorizing the Sale of a Vacant Lot on 80 Wyllie Street for $2,500.00. FT WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City of Schenectady to sell parcel numbered SBL # 49.49-6-25; and WHEREAS, there is no municipal use for the property: NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, the City Council authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract to transfer RA the title of parcel numbered SBL # 49.49-6-25 to Nathalie Ramkaran and/or assign, contingent on merger with 78 Wyllie Street for the sum of Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($2,500.00). Approved as to form this ____ day of December, 2024. ____________________________ D Maxine L. Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 55  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Authorizing the Sale of 436 Anthony Street for $85,000.00 FT WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City of Schenectady to sell parcel numbered SBL # 30.68-1-18; and WHEREAS, there is no municipal use for the property: NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, the City Council authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract to transfer RA the title of parcel numbered SBL # 30.68-1-18 to MNR Enterprises LLC and/or assign for the sum of Eighty Five Thousand Dollars ($85,000.00); and be it further RESOLVED, the terms of the contract for sale to an Investor Buyer shall contain a clause requiring that purchaser pay $500 at closing for building, electrical, plumbing and other applicable permits, that construction of a home on the property begin within thirty days of the purchase, and that total rehabilitation of the property, requiring compliance with the State Building Code and securing appropriate building permits with necessary inspections be completed within six months of purchase, as well as any other terms deemed necessary by the Corporation Counsel. D Approved as to form this ____ day of December, 2024. ____________________________ Maxine L. Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 56  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Authorizing the Sale of a Vacant Lot on 933 Vischer Avenue for $1,600.00. FT WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City of Schenectady to sell parcel numbered SBL # 48.75-1-25; and WHEREAS, there is no municipal use for the property: NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, the City Council authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract to transfer RA the title of parcel numbered SBL # 48.75-1-25 to KG19 Properties LLC and/or assign for the sum of One Thousand Six Hundred Dollars ($1,600.00). Approved as to form this ____ day of December, 2024. ____________________________ D Maxine L. Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 57  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Authorizing the Sale of 1027 Second Avenue for $70,000.00. FT WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City of Schenectady to sell parcel numbered SBL # 49.38-3-2; and WHEREAS, there is no municipal use for the property: NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, the City Council authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract to transfer RA the title of parcel numbered SBL # 49.38-3-2 to Rakesh Budhu and/or assign for the sum of Seventy Thousand Dollars ($70,000.00); and be it further RESOLVED, the terms of the contract for sale to an Investor Buyer shall contain a clause requiring that purchaser pay $500 at closing for building, electrical, plumbing and other applicable permits, that construction of a home on the property begin within thirty days of the purchase, and that total rehabilitation of the property, requiring compliance with the State Building Code and securing appropriate building permits with necessary inspections be completed within one year of purchase, as well as any other terms deemed necessary by the Corporation Counsel. D Approved as to form this ____ day of December, 2024. ____________________________ Maxine L. Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 58  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Authorizing the Sale of 2425 Consaul Road for $110,000.00. FT WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City of Schenectady to sell parcel numbered SBL # 50.78-3-42; and WHEREAS, there is no municipal use for the property: NOW, THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, the City Council authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract to transfer RA the title of parcel numbered SBL # 50.78-3-42 to Stephanie Hankins and/or assign for the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Dollars ($110,000.00); and be it further RESOLVED, that the terms of the contract for sale to an Owner-Occupant Buyer shall contain a clause requiring that purchaser pay $500 at closing for building, electrical, plumbing and other applicable permits, that rehabilitation of the property begin within thirty days of the purchase, and that total rehabilitation of the property, requiring compliance with the State Building Code and securing appropriate building permits with necessary inspections be completed within one year of purchase, as well as any other terms deemed necessary by the Corporation Counsel. D Approved as to form this ____ day of December, 2024. ____________________________ Maxine L. Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 59  CITY COUNCIL SCHENECTADY, NEW YORK RESOLUTION NO. Councilmember offered the following: A Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of Revocable Permit No. 687 to Wedgeway LLC for a Sign that will Overhang the City’s Right-of-Way on the Erie Boulevard face of the Building at 277 FT State Street, Schenectady, N.Y. WHEREAS, Wedgeway LLC would like to install a sign that will overhang the City’s right-of-way on the Erie Boulevard face of the building at 277 State Street, Schenectady, New York; and WHEREAS, the City Engineer recommends the issuance of a permit for the sign; and WHEREAS, said revocable permit shall be subject to standard conditions that include, RA but are not limited to, the required indemnification of the City for any and all lawsuits stemming from the installation of these items, securing and maintaining liability and casualty insurance, and the maintenance of the encumbrance on City property; and WHEREAS, said permit shall be subject to revocation at the discretion of the City Engineer: NOW THEREFORE BE IT, RESOLVED, that the City Engineer is hereby authorized to issue Revocable Permit No. 687 to Wedgeway LLC for a sign that will overhang the City’s right-of-way on the Erie D Boulevard face of the building at 277 State Street, Schenectady, New York. Subject to such terms, conditions and restrictions as may be justified in his expert professional opinion to safeguard the interests of the City. Approved as to form this ___ day of December 2024 __________________________ Maxine L. Barasch, Esq. Corporation Counsel 60  Office Uee Only City of Schenectady Application No.: Department of Engineering Permit No.: Date Issued: Room 205, City H211, 10S Jay Street Schenectady,NewYodc 12305-1938 Liabilin Insutance Attached: I I On File: I Office (518) 382-5082 Fax (518) 382-1050 REVOCABLE PERMIT Iostructioo; This application shall be completed in full, either typed or printed clearly in ink, and filed with the City of Schcnect1dy Department of Eogineea:ing. at the above address. Description; FT This application shall be� when a property owner or their representative instd or pla� an object in City right-of-way. such as signs, p1anws, etc .All zcquired information for the object placed in City tight-of-way an be found herein and/or within the City of Schenectady's Municipal Code Section �?6 l 6': ZonilJi' Slc:P,, �228-l 0: F.nn-CY.1duo.:: '.'- � � ·I . 1bis Permit sh.n be tllowed for as long as the iosur.i..oce is still in place and i:eqwxe a fee of 11.QQ.OO to be paid in Room 100, City Hall 105 Jay Street, Schenectady, NY 12305. Any work ot ob6txuc.tions within the City Right-of-way shall icquitc submission of current liability iosuwia: naming the City as additionally insured. Before any excavation always call Dig Safely New • Call 811 RA Patt I: Gcnelallnfoqnadop 1. Item Information a. Permit Addzess b. Name Permit to be issued to:(Owner/Business/etc.) c. Object t)-pe QL11 vi� tC.... t'")-1 \,-J �.l.- \ _ I �O �-e \Nf\.� LLC- --p;-,t.--:£...-l�-S-,c----'- -- =- ,� ""'------ 2. Applicant's Information :%'-'thll c.. D a. Applicant's Name: b. Street Addiess: C. C. City. State, ZIP: Tdcphonc No.: Fax No.: f. Emcxgency Name 24/7: g. EmCJgCDCy Phone#: v-l:�..,en-\u , 0:i�w co 5 l2c�11 5 I&'-+ iS AJi l)..,UO a�•o t,,"' 521 5s M tt1 111·1-JtB 5'[ot1.n,,,'( �"I/ ,:,fs: - ':ttea -(oxJY Date: Revocable Permit Page 1 ofS 61  D 62 RA FT  D 63 RA FT  D 64 RA FT  D 65 RA FT