City Council Committees

SCHENECTADY CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE AGENDA for Monday, December 21, 2020 5:30 p.m. Teleconference The Council President reserves the right to add or delete any agenda item prior to Committee Meeting. View on Live on: Spectrum CHANNEL 1303 or on Verizon FiOS CHANNEL 38 You can also view the meeting LIVE at: http://www.openstagemedia.org/ (On the home page, select Government from the play window.) Or on YouTube.com (under Open Stage Media) Webex link: https://schenectadyny.webex.com/schenectadyny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e09fd66a066212f4ea6fd5f41bd03b0cc Webex Meeting Phone #: 1-415-655-0001; Meeting #: 178 428 4653; Meeting Password: Committee Government Operations 1 Requesting Authorization for the City of Schenectady to Enter into an Intermunicipal Erin Gallagher Agreement with the Albany-Schoharie-Schenectady-Saratoga Board of Cooperative Educational Services Cooperative Bid for Copy Paper Public Safety 1 Intent to Act as Lead Agency for the City’s Pedestrian Safety Action Plan Project Chris Wallin 2 Discussion – Revised Schenectady Police Department / Civilian Police Review Board Marion Porterfield Personnel Complaint Form 3 Review of the Guidelines / Bylaws for the Civilian Police Review Board (CPRB) with the Marion Porterfield repeal of 50-A 4 Discussion – Snow Plowing & Snow Removal Karen Zalewski-Wildzunas 5 Discussion – Parking During the Winter Months John Polimeni Finance 1 Discussion – Senior Exemption s Ed Kosiur 2 CDBG-CV-2 Budget Allocation Approval Derek Gugumuck 3 Board of Assessment Review (BAR) Reappointment John Mootooveren 4 Discussion – Waiving the Interest and Penalties on the 1st Quarter Property Taxes in 2021 John Mootooveren City Development & Planning 1 Sale of Vacant Lot on Lathrop Avenue (S/B/L: 60.40-2-36.11) Maurice Brown, III 2 Sale of 719 McClellan Street Maurice Brown, III 3 Sale of 1038 Congress Street Maurice Brown, III 4 Sale of 1101 Parkwood Boulevard Maurice Brown, III 5 Sale of 1692 Lake Boulevard Maurice Brown, III Monday, December 21, 2020  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: DATE: 12/16/2020 Finance TO: COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: Erin Gallagher Purchasing Supervisor SUBJECT: Requesting a Resolution authorizing the City of Schenectady to enter into an inter-municipal agreement with Albany-Schoharie-Schenectady-Saratoga Board of Cooperative Educational Services Cooperative Bid for Copy Paper Background Information: The City of Schenectady has participated in a cooperative bidding process with Albany- Schoharie-Schenectady-Saratoga Board of Cooperative Educational Services (Capital Region BOCES) to obtain copy paper at a reduced cost pursuant to General Municipal Law §§ 119-n and 119-o which allow for individual political subdivisions to expand purchasing power by combining their bids. General Municipal Law requires that participation in inter-municipal bids be approved by a majority vote of the City of Schenectady’s governing body. Evaluation/Analysis: Participation in this cooperative purchasing agreement has saved taxpayer dollars not only due to lower commodity prices achieved through the economies of large scale purchasing but also through the reduced administrative costs. The proposed cooperative bidding agreement with the Capital Region BOCES provides for collaborative procurement of goods at no cost to the City of Schenectady and the Award would be based on the purchasing policy of the City of Schenectady. It is in the best interests of the City of Schenectady’s taxpayers to continue to obtain quality goods at the most economical prices. Recommendation: It is respectfully requested that the Council pass a resolution authorizing the City of Schenectady to continue participation in the cooperative purchasing agreement with Albany-Schoharie-Schenectady-Saratoga Board of Cooperative Educational Services Cooperative Bid for copy paper. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY___ _Law_________  SCHENECTADY CITY COUNCIL Legislative Request Form Committee: Public Safety Committee Date: Monday, December 21, 2020 From: Marion Porterfield Subject Discussion - Revised Schenectady Police Department / Civilian Police Review Board Personnel Complaint Form Background Info: Evaluation/Analysis Recommendation Friday, December 18, 2020  Schenectady Police Department 531 Liberty Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 Phone: (518) 382-5201 Fax: (518) 382-5299 www.schenectadypd.com Michael C. Eidens, Public Safety Commissioner Eric S. Clifford, Chief of Police Michael J. Seber Daryl R. Mallard Patrick Leguire Assistant Chief of Police Assistant Chief of Police Assistant Chief of Police Administrative Services Bureau Field Services Bureau Investigative Services Bureau The employees of the Schenectady Police Department are committed to providing law enforcement services that are fair, effective, and impartially applied. In the best interest of everyone, your complaint about the performance of an individual officer is resolved fairly and promptly. The Schenectady Police Department thoroughly investigates all complaints in a fair and unbiased manner, with the truth of the matter being the sole objective. Thank you for taking the time to request this complaint packet. I encourage you to complete it and submit it to the Office of Professional Standards. If you feel that the police have not treated you fairly, have not given you a voice or shown you respect, remained neutral in the decision-making process, or did not convey trustworthy motives, I want to hear from you. Officer discourtesy and misconduct are not tolerated at the Schenectady Police Department. As the Chief of Police, you have my word that your complaint will be investigated and forwarded to my office for review. The City of Schenectady Civilian Police Review Board (CPRB) is an independent body established to improve communication, increase police accountability and credibility with the public, and create a complaint review process free from bias and informed of actual police practice. The CPRB will review this complaint and have the opportunity to comment on the investigation, make recommendations for training and policy changes, and question the commander of the Office of Professional Standards regarding the investigation. Rest assured. Your voice will be heard. You can expect to be contacted by the Office of Professional Standards in the near future. I encourage you to assist in the investigation and know that your confidentiality is a priority. However, your name and information may have to be revealed as a part of the investigation or in conjunction with any administrative or judicial proceedings. This process does take time, so please be patient. At the conclusion of the process, you will receive written notice of the findings. Filing a complaint does not bar the filing of a lawsuit for damages or injury, nor does it bar prosecution for perjury or filing a false instrument. As the Chief of Police, I want to thank you in advance for your cooperation and patience during the process. Sincerely, Eric S. Clifford Chief of Police  Schenectady Police Department Citizen Complaint Information Sheet The Schenectady Police Department has formal procedures for investigating your complaint. These procedures are designed to ensure fairness and protect the rights of both citizens and law enforcement officers. • Your complaint will be sent to the Office of Professional Standards, who will oversee a thorough and objective investigation. • You will be notified by phone or mail of an initiation of the investigation and will be provided contact information for the investigating officer. • You might be asked to help in the investigation by giving a detailed statement about what happened or providing other important information. • If the investigation shows that a crime might have been committed, the County District Attorney will be notified, and a subsequent criminal investigation will be handled by an outside agency. You may be asked to testify in court. • It is unlawful to provide false information in this matter. If the information provided is determined to be false, you may be held liable under New York State Criminal Procedure Law. • All complaints against law enforcement officers are thoroughly investigated. You will be advised in writing of the outcome of the investigation. Submitting a police complaint can be an intimidating and stressful process. The local organizations below have offered assistance to citizens to complete and file the complaint. Writing and translation are available if needed- however, the statements provided must be in your own words.  All Schenectady County Public Libraries  Schenectady County Community College EOP Office  The Center for Community Justice, Barrett Street  City Mission, Union Street  Community Fathers, Inc., Steinmetz Homes  Schenectady Community Action Program (SCAP), Albany Street  SEAT Center, State Street  Union College Kenny Community Center, Nott Street  Online at www.cityofschenectady.com/334/Police-Department Submission of the completed forms:  MAIL: Attention: Office of Professional Standards, 531 Liberty Street, Schenectady NY 12305  DROP OFF: Front Desk of Police Department 531 Liberty Street, Schenectady NY 12305  FAX: 518-382-5299 Attention: Office of Professional Standards  EMAIL: Complaint@Schenectadyny.gov PHONE: 518-382-5200 ext 5645 or 5644 – may be used to initiate the complaint process Your complaint matters! Citizen feedback and complaints help keep the Police Department accountable to better serve you; they alert management to issues with procedures and training. Thank you for your cooperation.  SCHENECTADY POLICE DEPARTMENT / CIVILIAN POLICE REVIEW BOARD PERSONNEL COMPLAINT FORM NOTE: Please review Page 2 for information regarding community programs available for assistance. Today’s Date & Time: Optional Section: The following information is being collected for statistical purposes and is entirely optional. The completion or not of this information will not in any way affect the outcome of the investigation. Gender: Race/Ethnicity: Occupation: Name: Date of Birth: Address: Phone: Email: Date & Time Incident Occurred: Location of Incident: Summary of Complaint, please provide more details on the reverse side of this form, if needed: Identification of Schenectady Police Department Employee(s) involved in the incident, if known: Name (1): Badge #: Gender: Race/Ethnicity: Uniformed (Y/N)? Name (2): Badge #: Gender: Race/Ethnicity: Uniformed (Y/N)? If witness(es) were present, please provide the following information: name, age, address, phone #, email. If witness(es) were not present, please 'write' NONE or N/A. Name of the person assisting complainant: Address: Agency/Affliation: Phone: SPD Form #110 Batch numbering (Adobe) Last revised: November 2020  SCHENECTADY POLICE DEPARTMENT / CIVILIAN POLICE REVIEW BOARD PERSONNEL COMPLAINT FORM Details of Complaint, if section is not needed please 'write' NO ADDITIONAL DETAILS or N/A: (Personal) Recommendations for police investigation procedures (Select all that apply): □ Procedural review □ Request follow-up updates □ No further action needed (documentation only) Complainant, please initial the following statements: I can read and write in the English language. I have personally completed this complaint packet. P I understand that additional information may be requested, and I may have to make myself available if required. P I hereby affirm that the above information is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. Signature: Date: SPD Form #110 Batch numbering (Adobe) Last revised: December 2020  SCHENECTADY CITY COUNCIL Legislative Request Form Committee: Public Safety Committee Date: Monday, December 21, 2020 From: Marion Porterfield Subject Review of the Guidelines / Bylaws for the Civilian Police Review Board (CPRB) with the Repeal of 50- A Background Info: Evaluation/Analysis Recommendation Friday, December 18, 2020  SCHENECTADY CITY COUNCIL Legislative Request Form Committee: Public Safety Committee Date: Monday, December 21, 2020 From: Karen Zalewski-Wildzunas Subject Discussion - Snow Plowing & Snow Removal Background Info: Evaluation/Analysis Recommendation Friday, December 18, 2020  SCHENECTADY CITY COUNCIL Legislative Request Form Committee: Public Safety Committee Date: Monday, December 21, 2020 From: John Polimeni Subject Discussion - Parking During Winter Months Background Info: Evaluation/Analysis Recommendation Friday, December 18, 2020  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATIVE REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: FINANCE DATE: December 17, 2020 TO: City Council FROM: Derek Gugumuck, Interim Director of Development SUBJECT: A request for approval of the CDBG-CV-3 budget allocation Background Information: In response to the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has allocated $619,061 in stimulus funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-CV-3) to the City of Schenectady. This allocation is authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), Public Law 116-136. Evaluation/Analysis: The 5 sections of the CDBG-CV-3 budget include: Public Services: Youth Engagement ($174,510), Economic Recovery ($51,000), Housing Neighborhood Stabilization ($169,738), City PPE Covid-19 Supplies/Equipment ($100,000) and City Administrative expenses ($123,813). The City of Schenectady continues to work with our partners, service providers and community to identify the most immediate needs and projected long-term needs as a result of COVID-19 in order to align these resources in a timely manner to the highest priorities identified. Recommendation: We recommend the City Council approve the CDBG-CV-3 budget allocation. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY _______Law Department________  2020 CARES ACT HUD FUNDING | CDBG-CV-3 RECOMMENDATIONS | CITY OF SCHENECTADY Project Description Funding Source Funding Request Funds will be used to provide programming, youth employment and enrichment Public Services: Youth Engagement CDBG-CV-3 $ 174,510 programs to offset the educational and social impacts experienced as a result of COVID‐19. Funds will be used to provide grants up to $10,000 for small businesses located in the City of Economic Recovery CDBG-CV-3 $ 51,000 Schenectady impacted by COVID‐19. Funds will be used to offset the impacts of COVID‐19 by to assisting low and moderate Housing: Neighborhood Stablization income households with up to three months of rental assistance, up to three months of mortgage CDBG-CV-3 $ 169,738 assistance and/or with housing rehabilitation needs. City PPE COVID-19 Supplies/Equipment Funds will be used to offset the costs of PPE supplies as a result of COVID‐19. CDBG-CV-3 $ 100,000 Adminstrative (City) Funds will be used for oversight, management, monitoring and coordination of the CDBG‐CV‐3 relief funds. CDBG-CV-3 $ 123,813 Total $ 619,061.00  CDBG-CV-3|PUBLIC SERVICES: YOUTH ENGAGEMENT Agency Name Funding Source Funding Request The BDO Leadership Network CDBG-CV-3 $ 12,000 Be A Leader Youth Group's Catering CDBG-CV-3 $ 20,000 with Kindness Program CREATE CDBG-CV-3 $ 12,800 Hamilton Hill Arts Center CDBG-CV-3 $ 10,300 Safe Inc. of Schenectady CDBG-CV-3 $ 30,000 Schenectady Ring of Hope CDBG-CV-3 $ 31,420 Schenectady Urban Farms/CREATE CDBG-CV-3 $ 13,240 Working Group on Girls of CDBG-CV-3 $ 19,750 Schenectady Young Parents United Inc. CDBG-CV-3 $ 10,000 Bright Hope Center CDBG-CV-3 $ 5,000 Community Fathers CDBG-CV-3 $ 10,000 Total $ 174,510 CDBG-CV-3|ECONOMIC RECOVERY Agency Name Funding Source Funding Request Community Loan Fund CDBG-CV-3 $ 51,000 Total $ 51,000  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #1 SUMMARY This proposal represents a coalition between 11 of the small, dedicated non-profits currently providing services and support to youth within the City of Schenectady. Overlooked due to their lack of resources and ability to pursue funding promptly, now, many (if not most) of these organizations are in dire financial straits but do their best to fulfill their missions and serve at-risk youth within their areas of expertise. With CDBG-CV3 funding from the City of Schenectady, each of the nine applicants will respond to issues related to COVID 19 and maximize their impact on youth that so desperately need the support. The coalition approaches these critical issues by relying heavily on strong inter- agency communication, collaboration, and administration of essential activities identified in the proposal. This will be achieved through individual agency responsibility for implementing proposed activities, compliance, and administrative support provided to the coalition through three lead organizations: Working Group on Girls of Schenectady, Schenectady Urban Farms, and Schenectady Ring of Hope. Administrative activities include timely submission of reports and requests for reimbursement from all agencies included in this proposal, alleviating the administrative burden of smaller non- profits, and allowing them to focus on programmatic activities, increased efficiency for the City of Schenectady by providing experienced administrators for all agencies. The coalition of 11 agencies is fully engaged with youth and ready to play a leading role in assisting the most vulnerable people in our community, providing essential resources to RESPOND to their basic needs and address the challenges associated with the COVID-19 crisis. City of Schenectady CDBG CV3 Funding Recommendation: Youth Engagement CDBG CV3 Activity (RESPONSE) Amount % Total Admin Allocation $ 7,500.00 5% Community Outreach/Youth Engagement $ 27,250.00 17% Emergency Shelter/Street Outreach $ 30,000.00 19% Health/Wellness $28,920.00 18% Food Security $30,740.00 19% Education $16,000.00 8% Arts/Culture $24,100.00 15% Work Readiness $10,000.00 5% City of Schenectady CDBG CV3 Award $174,510.00 100%  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #2 Funded Agencies & Total Number of Persons Served: The following is a list of proposed recipients for CDBG-CV3: Youth Engagement funds, their corresponding budgets, and projected number of persons to be served per eligible activity. AGENCY NAME: The BDO Leadership Network (1 of 11) AGENCY PROJECT DESCRIPTION: To prevent the spread of COVI-19, The disproportionately underfunded Schenectady City School District has implemented a virtual school model of education for all students above 5th grade. Unfortunately, low-income families are disproportionately underserved by this model. In response, Boys Day Out; Youth Enrichment Services intends to provide supplemental academic, social, and community engagement. Participating High schoolers, who benefit from no cost 1-on-1 tutoring, professional development, and up to $500 in scholarship, are recruited to lead study groups and even volunteer crews that engage participating middle schoolers. This initiative intends to serve up to 50 students (10 High School, 40 Middle School) who will provide support services to 100 vulnerable residents in the City of Schenectady. Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Operations Utilities, cleaning supplies, and snacks 2500 Staffing (including hazard pay Tutors 4500 and training) $25x3x3 (20 weeks) 4500 Study group mentor Scholarships (20 weeks 15x5) 500 per student Nine students Essential Services/Youth hygiene, nutrition, stress management, 500 Engagement volunteering, parenting, cooking, making masks, etc. Total Budget Requested: $12,000  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #3 AGENCY NAME: Be A Leader Youth Group’s Catering with Kindness Program (2 of 11) PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project was created in response to food insecurity in the community due to the COVID pandemic and is a lunch alternative program that offers home-delivered meals to Schenectady City School District students and families. We are currently serving 75 students daily, making a total of 450 meals served weekly. The program has experienced an increase in operating expenses due to the rise in the number of families who needed assistance in obtaining alternative lunches and meals. These families have identified the inability to access meals as they cannot get to pick-up locations offered by the school district. Due increase in demand, we have started a waiting list for families who have identified this project as needed. TOTAL YOUTH SERVED: 75 (450 MEALS WEEKLY) Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Operations Utilities, cleaning supplies, 5000 cooking supplies, food, food packaging, PPE (masks, gloves, etc.) Staffing 2- FTE ($6,000/ea) 6- 12000 volunteers ($10/ day stipends) Essential Services/Food Nutrition, education, cooking, 3000 Security meal distribution Total Budget Requested: $20,000 AGENCY NAME: CREATE (3 of 11) PROJECT DESCRIPTION #1: CREATE Together (Families with children of all ages): As an organization focused on using the arts to reach underserved communities, particularly those who deal with mental health concerns (including trauma, poverty, depression, and anxiety), the effects of the COVID pandemic on Schenectady’s youth is particularly concerning. Due to the impact of COVID, many community events have been canceled. We plan a once/month "CREATE Together" series at outdoor locations focused on family-friendly art activities while also providing mental health resources and information about how families can use wellness and self-care. These events will occur at local community public parks, beginning at Steinmetz Park in Schenectady, and will potentially expand to additional locations depending on the level of funding. This program draws on the success of our annual "Art in the Park" summer program, which provides free expressive art workshops to youth, teens, and young adults. These events will provide a much-needed sense of normalcy for community members of all ages during uncertain times, and many annual community events are canceled.  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION #2: All Write Together (Teen/Young Adult-Targeted programming): This program draws on the success of building relationships with teens in our “All Write Together & Everything Is Lit” program, bi-monthly expressive arts and writing program that makes a community and gives socio-emotional support to regular participants. With SCSD schools going all remote for grades 7-12, middle & high school students have lost their traditional social outlets and support positive mentors. SCSD teachers have reported that students express signs of depression, anxiety, and Eligible Activity (Project #1) Description Budget Request Youth Engagement/Essential A bimonthly expressive arts $800 (art supplies) Services program for teens for 12 months $500 (snacks) Transportation $500 Staffing 2 Art instructors (.25FTE) $6000 Total Budget Requested: $,7800 lack of motivation (“I cannot get out of bed most of the time,” said one student.) This program provides a “safe space” (whether virtual or in-person) for youth to express difficult emotions like frustrations, stress and channel them into positive action through writing & expressive visual arts. Total Number Youth Served: 450 Eligible Activity (Project #2) Description Budget Request Youth Engagement/Essential Eight monthly free art workshops 1000 Services at local parks (outdoors) Staffing 2 Art Instructors (.25FTE) 4000 (Instructors to run programming + carry over administrative costs) Total Budget Requested: $5,000  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #5 AGENCY NAME: Hamilton Hill Arts Center (HHAC) (4 of 11) PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The public-school system has neglected to provide 1500 students with laptops or tablets. These children are being graded without being provided the means to attend school. This project responds to this educational deficit by providing tablets, educational, and homeschooling assistance to a minimum of 20 and a maximum of 60 low-income students. The funds requested will be matched by the Hamilton hill arts center to provide 20 tablets to children in need and up to 4 hours of educational assistance and enhancement a day. Total Youth Served: 20-60 Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Educational support to This project responds to 7800 protect youth from needs by providing tablets, educational gaps due to Covid educational, and -19 homeschooling assistance to a minimum of 20 and a 2500 maximum of 60 low-income students. The funds requested will be matched by the Hamilton hill arts center to provide 20 tablets to children in need and up to 4 hours of educational assistance and enhancement a day. Funding requested will pay for: 156 educational support and enrichment hours at $50. An hour, totaling $7800. Ten tablets at $250. A piece totaling $2500. Total Budget Requested: $10,300  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #6 AGENCY NAME: Safe Inc. of Schenectady (5 of 11) Project Description: Safe Inc. of Schenectady will identify and contact RHY (Runaway Homeless Youth) and help get them off the streets into a shelter/safe place (Safe House). Safe House is a 30-day emergency youth shelter where RHY can stay and receive three meals a day plus snacks and counseling, case management, life skills, and recreation. Safe Inc. will educate the community by doing daily/nightly outreach in Schenectady County and build partnerships with community agencies to provide additional support to help the RHY to move on beyond our program safely. Total Youth Served: 50 Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Operations Safe Inc. has experienced an $6,454 increase in operating expenses due to the rise in the number of hours RHY remains in Safe House. Safe House operates 24/7/365. Funding is requested to support utility expenses (electric/gas/water/phone) Staffing (including hazard pay *Street Outreach Worker $22,546 and training) (.35 FTE) $13,300 *Shelter Manager (.10 FTE) $3,800 Director (.08PTE) $2,746 Executive Assistant/Operations Manager (.05 FTE) $2,700 Essential services (i.e., Copy paper, client needs, bus $1,000 childcare, legal services, tokens, toiletries, staff mileage, education) etc. Total Budget Requested: $30,000 AGENCY NAME: Schenectady Ring of Hope (6 of 11) PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Schenectady Ring of Hope's Peaceful Warriors Program provides an outlet for inner-city youth ages 8-19 and seeks to utilize boxing and physical exercise as an alternative to drug use and gang involvement. The program's goal is to create a positive support system that will improve the quality of life experiences of inner-city youth through mentoring, outreach, physical well-being, and social support to youth participants. Funding will be used to increase outreach and efforts to approximately 75 City of Schenectady Youth and their families. Funding will ensure their referral to appropriate services, provide mentoring opportunities in a safe environment, and ensure all COVID-related health protocols and standards are maintained. Total Youth Served: 75  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #7 Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Operations Utilities, cleaning supplies, 4,000 additional program equipment, and repairs to allow for thorough cleaning between usage; implementation of contact- free sign-in/database to track participants and use of the facility Staffing (including hazard pay *Receptionist/Admin 15,080 and training) Coordinator (.50 FTE), *Project Coordinator (.15 6,240 FTE), * Executive Director (.10 PTE) COVID related 3,600 increases to staffing costs due to COVID restrictions on the number of youth served per session, requiring 1:1 sessions rather than groups; COVID restrictions have also resulted in additional staffing requirements for sign in- check in to ensure the safety of participants; increase in case management activities/ outreach to families and referrals for services Agency O/H 1/3 of 10% allowable costs 2,500 Total Budget Requested: $31,420 AGENCY NAME: SCHENECTADY URBAN FARMS/CREATE (7 of 11) PROJECT SUMMARY #1: “Self-Care from the Garden”: Schenectady Urban Farms runs community-supported urban farms and teaches classes on growing vegetables, fruits and herbs and raising livestock in Schenectady. Three small, diversified farms located within the city, offer individuals and families an opportunity to work together and share in the harvest of fruits, veggies, eggs, herbs, and flowers. Responding to heightened needs of food insecurity and the many emotional and physical benefits of access to green space, this new program would provide youth experiential opportunities on our urban farms for self-care practices and experiences, being with access to fresh food. Three 6-week programs will provide fresh, seasonal, healthy food, plant therapy, and other youth opportunities to experience self-care, beginning with plants  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #8 grown in our gardens. Classes will take place at Fehr Ave Farm and in the community kitchen, and community room at SiCM on Albany St. CREATE will provide some administrative support, help advertise the program, and address the socio-emotional needs of participants. Total Number Youth Served: 45-60 (Three 6-week programs, 15-20 per session) Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Essential Services/Food Three 6-week programs 800 Security offering youth self-care 240 opportunities with farm- grown food, herbs, and flowers; program supplies garden and art Staffing SUF Program Staff 3500 CREATE Art Instructor 1000 Total Budget Requested: $5,540 Project Description #2: “Gay Garden” program will be a combination between SiCM/Schenectady Urban Farms and CREATE’s youth programs. A new program, it will focus on decreasing feelings of isolation and additional mental health concerns of Schenectady’s LGBTQIA+ Youth. With grades 7-12 begin completely virtual with the SCSD, many LGBTQIA+ youth have lost access to key mentors and safe space to be themselves. A SUF staff and CREATE staff would co-facilitate this therapeutic group designed to give youth a safe place to be themselves and focus on creative expression while also creating community and mindfulness. This group is based on a successful group CREATE has piloted in Saratoga at Pitney Meadows Farms. This group will meet weekly. Total Number Served: Number served: 15-20 Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Youth Engagement/Outreach Year-round weekly plant-art 800 therapy group; $800 art  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #9 supplies/$400 garden 400 supplies Staffing SUF staff Program Staff 2000 CREATE Program Staff 2000 Administrative O/H 1/3 of 10% allowable administrative costs 2500 Total Budget Requested: $7,700 AGENCY NAME: Working Group on Girls of Schenectady (8 of 11) PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Due to the efforts to control the spread of COVI-19, The disproportionately underfunded Schenectady City School District has implemented a virtual school model of education for all students above 5th grade. As a result, our low- and moderate- income families are vastly underserved by this model during this time of the Corona pandemic. Working Group on Girls will provide Girls/ Youth Circles to provide small in-person and hybrid virtual circles and connections to outreach to enhance social and community engagement. #We plan to utilize a peer leadership group of students, current Girls Circle participants, and community and school partners to provide outreach to those youth most in need of connections and a place to talk to trusted adults on various social-emotional and community issues. We plan to offer Circles (small groups of less than 10) in person at the Boys and Girls Club via the 21st Century program, small onsite groups for 5th graders, Virtual Circles for the high school students, and other Youth Circles in the evening. We will also aid in food distribution to families and snacks at in-person programs. This initiative intends to serve up to 120 students (40 HS, 40 MS, 20 ES) who will then serve up to 150 vulnerable residents in the City of Schenectady. A .75 Program Coordinator will be employed through this project. Total Youth Served: 120 Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Operations Utilities, cleaning supplies, 2500 and snacks  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #10 Staffing (including hazard *Program Manager x$25 $9,750 pay and training) x15hrs,(52 weeks) Peer Leaders/Outreach Ambassadors 4500 Five @100/mo for nine months @ 500 per student: ~9 students: 4500 Essential Services/Youth hygiene, nutrition, stress 500 Engagement management, volunteering, parenting, cooking, making masks, etc. Agency O/H 1/3 of 10% allowable costs 2500 Total Budget Requested: $19,750 Young Parents United Inc. (9 of 11) PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Young Parents United Inc. recognizes that access to technology in school gives students more significant opportunities to learn, engage, communicate, and develop skills to prepare them for work, life, and citizenship. We are committed to helping students develop 21st-century technology and communication skills. Due to current health risks related to COVID- 19 and changes in the educational systems and delivery, many schools have transitioned to online education. Many young and teen parents with little to no income do not have internet access or a necessary electronic device to participate in online learning. Many Alternative Education (TASC / GED) Programs do not currently provide tablets or other electronic devices to students. YPU is  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #11 committed to helping the families we work with complete their high school and college education and will be loaning tablets to the families we serve for educational use only. We would like to request funds reimbursement of tablets already purchased and additional funds to purchase enough tablets to loan to at our parents that are currently working on completing their high school equivalency diploma. Grant funds will be used to purchase 40 Tablets @ $250.00 each to provide equitable access to education for the teen parents we work with to give tablets to loan out to parents attending online high school equivalency classes. Currently, many school districts do provide electronic devices for distance learning. Still, most alternative education programs (for high school equivalency / TASC / GED) do not offer devices' support to participate in school online. This project will increase Young Parents United's capacity by increasing Young Parent United’s ability to improve equitable access to education for the teen parents we serve by providing loaner tablets and Wi-Fi hot spots to those who are enrolled in Alternative Education programs (TASC/GED) to complete high school or attend college. Funding request for tablets rather than desktop computers is recommended for the following reasons: • Tablets are more intuitive and easier to use than a desktop or laptop. This is particularly resonating from a primary school perspective. When you take into consideration, most young students have access to or use a tablet device at home (think iPad, Android etc.) – the fact that they can go access community resources and use the same platform makes it easier for them and gives them the scope to pick things up quicker. • Control over content. This is huge for educational environments – particularly from a security and safeguarding perspective. There are many different security platforms out there that allow agencies to control and restrict exactly what students can access or see online. Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Essential 40 Tablets @ $250.00 each $10,000 Services/Educational provides equitable access to education for the teen parents loan out while attending online high school equivalency classes. Total Budget Requested: $10,000 AGENCY NAME: Bright Hope Center (10 of 11) Project Description: Bright Hope Center will work provide tutoring, starting 2020 Summer or throughout the 2020- 2021 school year. Students will be tutored on one-on-one basis as a group of 6 students per teacher, to serve their learning and academic needs. The program will provide students with basics of NY Common Core Curriculum, in addition to activities to accelerate their learning, and advising them about CLEP and additional helpful services. Applying pretest/posttest for them and students will also be tested in language skills, science, social studies, math critical  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #12 thinking, and art. Arabic Language can also be a possible option for students who are interested to learn it. Bright Hope Center will assist in programs and curriculum development for your organization based on your needs, goals, and objectives. BHC staff are holders of 1) Ph.D. in education, 2) Ph.D. in Science, 3) MS in Psychology with 2 bachelor’s degrees in mathematics & psychology and years of experience in the field of teaching at all levels, and 4) Bachelor degree in Art or Science in other majors. A total of $5,000 is requested. The teacher/learner ratio will be 1 teacher to 6 students in each subject, where the regular hourly fee ($30 x 6 = $180), yet a special rate will be applied for $150 per hour for a 2 hour/daily twice a week at least as a tutoring package for each student. Teaching sessions will be held according to students’ needs. Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Essential $150/2 hour session 5,000 Services/Educational (Teacher/Learner ratio 1 teacher:6 students each subject, regular hourly fee $25 ($25x6=150); twice weekly Total Budget Requested: $5,000 AGENCY NAME: Community Fathers (11 of 11) Occupations Instead of Incarceration (Employment urgent need) Aim of OIOI is to provide youth with an opportunity to learn and gain experience in design, creation and the business of Silk Screening. This opportunity provides 25 youth ages 14 – 18 an alternative path to incarceration by increasing the youth’s skills and providing monetary resources while in the program. Eligible Activity Description Budget Request Operations Community Fathers has 1000 experienced an increase in operation expenses due to the increasing number of youth in need of assistance/training and job opportunities during the COVID 19 Pandemic Funding is requested to support utilities expense and PPE protective equipment Staffing (including hazard pay 6692 and training) • Executive Director (.10 FTE) $3,800 Program Coordinator (.08PTE) $2,000  CITY OF SCHENECTADY CDBG-CV3 Youth Engagement Coalition Proposal Page #13 Youth trainee stipends- $25/per session Essential services (i.e., Silk screen kits job 2308 childcare, legal services, training/education, carrying education) bags, snacks and food for participants as all are food insecure Total Budget Requested: $10,000 City of Schenectady CDBG CV3 Funding Recommendation: Youth Engagement CDBG CV3 Activity (RESPONSE) Amount % Total Admin Allocation $ 7,500.00 5% Community Outreach/Youth Engagement $ 27,250.00 17% Emergency Shelter/Street Outreach $ 30,000.00 19% Health/Wellness $28,920.00 18% Food Security $30,740.00 19% Education $16,000.00 8% Arts/Culture $24,100.00 15% Work Readiness $10,000.00 5% City of Schenectady CDBG CV3 Award $174,510.00 100% Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region, Inc. COVID-19 Small Business Continuity Grant Program Program Description: The Community Loan Fund COVID-19 Small Business Continuity Grant Program is intended to help businesses keep their employees and stay afloat during a time of economic hardship due to the impacts of COVID-19. Businesses are encouraged to apply for this funding to help make payroll, to pay bills and to keep their operations going. This Program will be administered by the Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region and allocated in accordance with program guidelines and a scoring matrix approved by the donors to the Program, including bank foundations, Chambers of Commerce, Industrial Development Agencies, philanthropists. This Program is meant to bridge the gap for a brief financial hardship period. Eligible Applicants: Small businesses with a physical commercial storefront located in the service area or independent contractor/gig worker based in the service area, the City of Schenectady, that have experienced at least a 10-25% revenue loss due to the impacts of COVID-19. Under this program, small businesses are defined as retail, service provider, restaurant, independent contractor/gig and wholesale businesses with 50 full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) or less. Additional eligibility factors include the following:  Eligible small businesses must have been in stable operation since January 1, 2020.  Eligible applicants cannot have any outstanding tax liabilities, tax liens, or legal judgments.  All applicants must show proof of seeking available Federal resources and provide evidence of all private and public assistance received.  National chains or independent contractors working for national chains are not eligible under this program. Ineligible Applicants:  Businesses larger than 50 FTEs.  Businesses that are part of a national chain. Assistance Terms:  Micro-grants will be awarded in an amount up to $10,000, but no greater than 3 months of eligible operating expenses.  Businesses must attest to use the funds for eligible operating expenses and confirmed a plan is in place to cover the remaining balance of expenses.  No application or other fees.  Applicants must commit to reporting success of business operations for a period of up to six months after receiving grant award.  Only one grant per applicant. Eligible Uses of Program Funds: Grants may only be used for the day-to-day salaries, general and administrative operating expenses of the awarded business Certified Uses of Program Funds: Awarded businesses must certify funds will be used as intended, for eligible operating expenses, to sustain the long-term operations of the awarded business. Required Application Documentation: In order to be scored, application packets must include the following documentation:  Completed application  Copy of the front of your drivers’ license or other government-issued photo identification  2019 Balance Sheet  2019 Profit and Loss Statement  Most recent Federal Tax Returns (2018 accepted) Funding Sources: Funding for this program has been provided by a variety of public and private sources. Individual sources may come with geographic or programmatic restrictions and will be held for businesses meeting those specific criteria. Review Criteria: Only completed applications will be evaluated. Applications will be reviewed using a scoring matrix approved by all funding sources based on the criteria below. Applications meeting the criteria below will be funded on a first-come/first-served basis until all eligible funds have been depleted. Grants made from restricted funding sources within the pool may be subject to final approval from the funding source. The scoring matrix will take into account:  Eligibility  Business Viability  Strategic cluster/industry  Geographic Priority (distressed census tract, jurisdiction of restricted funding sources, ensuring geographic diversity, Opportunity Zone)  Business Ownership (MWBE) Affidavit: Awardees attest to use the grant funds as intended for operational expenses and to report the status of business operations up to six months after grant awards are received. The Community Loan Fund shall provide quarterly reports, as well as a final report to all funding sources on the number of applications, approvals, three- and six-month awardee status update, and grant pool close-out. Administrative fee for grant program shall be set at 5.00%. 2  SCHENECTADY CITY COUNCIL Legislative Request Form Committee: Finance Committee Date: Monday, December 21, 2020 From: John Mootooveren Subject Board of Assessment Review (BAR) Reappointment Background Info: Evaluation/Analysis Recommendation Friday, December 18, 2020  SCHENECTADY CITY COUNCIL Legislative Request Form Committee: Finance Committee Date: Monday, December 21, 2020 From: John Mootooveren Subject Discussion - Waiving the Interest and Penalties on the 1st Quarter Property Taxes in 2021 Background Info: Evaluation/Analysis Recommendation Friday, December 18, 2020  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 12/21/20 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of Vacant Lot, Lathrop Ave (60.40-2-36.11) Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 12/21/20 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of 719 McClellan Street Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 12/21/20 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of 1038 Congress Street Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 12/21/20 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of 1101 Parkwood Blvd Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 12/21/20 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of 1692 Lake Blvd Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development