City Council Committees

SCHENECTADY CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE AGENDA for Monday, April 4, 2022 5:30 p.m. Room 110 The Council President reserves the right to add or delete any agenda item prior to Committee Meeting. Finance 1 Presentation of the 2022-2023 Proposed HUD Annual Action Plan Kristin Diotte 2 CPH – Proposed Hud Annual Action Plan Kristin Diotte 3 Accept $2,500 Grant Award to Create Historic Design Guidelines Kristin Diotte Government Operations 1 Appointments to the Civilian Police Review Board Gary McCarthy Health & Recreation 1 Central Park Tennis Court Rental Fees Andrew Koldin Administrative Efficiency 1 Discussion – Decorum During Council Meeting Marion Porterfield City Development & Planning Authorize the Issuance of Revocable Permit No. 667 to Crane Properties, LLC for a Sign That Chris Wallin 1 Will Encroach the City’s Right-of-Way at 727 Crane Street 2 ABAC – “Crack Sealing City Streets 2022” to Sealcoat USA, Inc. in the Amount of $98,700.00 Chris Wallin ABAC – Purchase of “City of Schenectady Manhole Frames and Covers and Catchbasin Frames Chris Wallin 3 and Grates” to EJ USA, Inc. 4 Modify Lease Agreement with 140 Erie Boulevard Ron Gardner 5 Hosting Quarterly City Council Meetings Outside of City Hall Follow-up Discussion Carl Williams 6 Update – ARPA Advisory Committee Marion Porterfield 7 Discussion – Council Letter to Scannell Properties Regarding Stadium Golf Course Marion Porterfield 8 Sale of 25 Grove Place, Vacant Lot Maurice Brown, III 9 Sale of 819 Davis Terrace Maurice Brown, III 10 Sale of 821 Strong Street Maurice Brown, III 11 Sale of 1164 Hilderbrant Avenue, Vacant Lot Maurice Brown, III 12 Sale of 1325 Fourth Avenue, Vacant Lot Maurice Brown, III 13 Sale of 2037 Wabash Avenue Maurice Brown, III Friday, April 01, 2022 1  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATIVE REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: CP&D DATE: March 31, 2022 TO: City Council FROM: Kristin Diotte, Director of Planning and Development SUBJECT: Presentation of the 2022-2023 Proposed HUD Annual Action Plan and Call for a Public Hearing Background Information: Funding in the amount of $2,250,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), $196,950 in Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), and $1,055,000 in HOME Investment Partnerships for a total of $3,501,950.00 is expected to be allocated to the City of Schenectady by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the 2022-2023 Federal Fiscal Year. The 2022-2023 Proposed Action Plan details the funded strategies to achieve City goals and objectives which were recommended in the adopted 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan. Please note that this plan is subject to change based on the passing of the 2022-2023 Federal Budget. Evaluation/Analysis: Applications for 2022-2023 Federal Fiscal Year funding were reviewed and the recommendations for funding allocations are being presented as part of the 2022-2023 Proposed Action Plan. The 2022-2023 Proposed Action Plan will also be made available to the public for comment beginning April 4, 2022 and ending May 5, 2022. Recommendation: Presentation of the 2022-2023 Proposed Action Plan and announcement of a thirty-day comment period. In addition, a call for a Public Hearing to be held on Monday, April 25, 2022, at 7pm in the City Council Chambers, Room 209 to coincide with the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting for the purposes of hearing comments on the 2022-2023 Proposed Action Plan. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY_______Law Department________ 2  CITY OF SCHENECTADY 2022 PROPOSED CONSOLIDATED PLAN SUMMARY This allocation plan is subject to change based on the passing of the Federal Budget PROPOSED FUNDING Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) New Fiscal Year $ 2,250,000.00 Program Income $ - TOTAL $ 2,250,000.00 Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) $ 196,950.00 TOTAL $ 196,950.00 HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) New Fiscal Year $ 1,055,000.00 Program Income $ - TOTAL $ 1,055,000.00 TOTAL AVAILABLE FUNDING $ 3,501,950.00 CATEGORY ALLOCATIONS Emergency Solutions Activities…...… $ 182,950.00 $ 182,950.00 from ESG Housing Assistance Activities……………… $ 1,503,000.00 $ 1,003,000.00 from HOME $ 500,000.00 from CDBG Public Service Activities……...………..… $ 403,000.00 from CDBG Public Works Activities……………………. $ 906,000.00 from CDBG Administration…………………………… $ 507,000.00 $ 52,000.00 from HOME $ 441,000.00 from CDBG $ 14,000.00 from ESG TOTAL: …………………………………. $3,501,950.00 3  2022 PROPOSED EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS GRANT RECOMMENDATIONS = $182,950 Organization Project Description Funding Source Requested Funding 2022 Plan 2021 Plan Funds will be used for salaries/fringes and non personnel costs Homeless Housing and providing intake, assessment, referral, follow-up case management, and Bethesda House ESG $ 65,000 $ 47,000.00 $ 47,049.00 Eviction Prevention Program assertive outreach services to secure permanent housing, regain housing, or maintain housing for the homeless population citywide. Funds will be used for salaries/fringes and non personnel costs for the Bethesda House Day Program Drop-In Center Day Program Drop-In Center, providing comprehensive services to the ESG $ 35,000 $ 23,250.00 $ 23,250.00 homeless, disabled and disadvantaged populations citywide. Funds will be used to provide administrative/personnel costs and Homeless Management and CARES, Inc. software licenses for the HUD mandated Homeless Management and ESG $ 30,000.00 $ 20,250.00 $ 20,254.00 Information System (HMIS) Information System (HMIS). Funds will be used for salaries/fringes of the House Manager and Street Outreach Worker and rent and utilities for Safe House, a temporary Safe, Inc. Safe House ESG $ 50,000.00 $ 33,500.00 $ 33,500.00 emergency shelter for runaway and homeless youths 16-20 years old, primarily serving the Hamilton Hill/Central State Street neighborhoods. Funds will be used for personnel program delivery costs of counselors Schenectady Community Action Homeless Prevention and and attorneys providing for court advocacy, legal assistance, rapid re- ESG $ 90,000.00 $ 58,950.00 $ 59,000.00 Program, Inc. (SCAP) Rapid Re-Housing Program housing and tenant/landlord services. Page Total $270,000.00 $182,950.00 $183,053.00 4  2022 PROPOSED HOUSING ASSISTANCE RECOMMENDATIONS = $1,503,000 Organization Project Description Funding Source Requested Funding 2022 Proposal 2021 Funding Funds will be used for salaries/fringes and nonpersonnel costs in support Better Community Administrative/ Operating Costs of BNI's housing programs including housing rehabilitation, in the Hamilton HOME $ 80,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ 25,000.00 Neighborhoods, Inc. (BCNI) Hill neighborhood. Homeowner Occupied Housing Funds will be used to assist ten (10) income eligible homeowners with Better Comunity Neighborhood CDBG $ 400,000.00 $ 200,000.00 $ 200,000.00 Rehabilitation housing rehabilitation services, particulary code violations. Funds will be used to build two single family homes on Schenectady's Habitat of Schenectady Habitat Single Family Homes HOME $ 600,000.00 $ 295,500.00 $ 295,000.00 North Side and one single family home in the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood. Funds will be used to provide closing or down payment assistance to a Better Community Second Mortgage Program maximum of 10% of the purchase price for an owner-occupied house for HOME $ 100,000.00 $ 100,000.00 $ 100,000.00 Neighborhoods, Inc. (BCNI) low and moderate income persons, citywide. Tenant Based Rental Assistance Funds will provide tenant-based rental assistance and security deposits to Bethesda House HOME $ 73,500.00 $ 55,000.00 $ 55,881.75 Program resident families of the City of Schenectady. Funds will be used for demolition, rehabilition or construction of Demolition, rehabilitaion or new Department of Development approximately six (6) blighted and abandoned properties or lots CDBG $ 300,000.00 $ 300,000.00 $ 239,061.40 construction of houses throughout the city. Funds Obligated to the City of Troy as per the HOME Consortium CIty of Troy Constortium Agreement HOME $ 423,006.00 $ 422,000.00 $ 423,006.00 Agreement Funds Obligated to the Town of Colonie as per the HOME Consortium Town of Colonie Constortium Agreement HOME $ 105,751.50 $ 105,500.00 $ 105,751.50 Agreement Page Total $ 2,082,258 $ 1,503,000 $ 1,443,701 5  2022 PROPOSED NRSA PUBLIC SERVICE RECOMENDATIONS- $95,000 Funding Organization Project Description Requested Funding 2022 Proposal 2021 Funding Source Funds will be used for personnel costs for a Homebuyer Education and Foreclosure Prevention Program, providing pre-purchase and default housing counseling, intervention Better Community Homebuyer Education and Foreclosure and assistance to low and moderate income potential homebuyers/homeowners in CDBG $ 50,000.00 $ 40,000.00 $ 40,000.00 Neighborhoods, Inc Prevention Program maintaining decent affordable housing, primarily serving the Hamilton Hill and Central State Street neighborhoods. Funds will be used to pair artisan makers with workforce development programs to train workers in Electric City Barn Workforce Development CDBG $ 60,000.00 $ 20,000.00 $ 20,000.00 creative trades. Funds will be used for personnel and nonpersonnel costs for Project ArtReach, providing Hamilton Hill Arts Center Project ArtReach educational and cultural programming for primarily low and moderate income youth in the CDBG $ 48,400.00 $ 35,000.00 $ 35,000.00 Hamilton Hill neighborhood. Page Total $ 108,400.00 $ 95,000.00 $ 55,000.00 6  2022 PROPOSED PUBLIC SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS = $300,000 Organization Project Description Funding Source Requested Funding 2022 Proposal 2021 Funding Funds will be used for Jerry Burrell Park summer programming including day and night YMCA Jerry Burrell Drop-In Summer Program programs consisting of arts and crafts, fitness, nutrition, swimming lessons, sports and CDBG $ 30,385.00 $ 20,000.00 $ 19,685.00 education. Capital District Center for Funds will be used to support the CDCI effort to support individuals with disabilities with the services Disibilities Support Services CDBG $ 20,405.00 $ 5,000.00 $ 6,000.00 Independence they need to maintain independent and self-sufficient lives. Funds will be used to pay for the Schenectady Senior Center which will provide lunch, Ancient Order of Hibernians Schenectady Senior Center CDBG $ 44,338.00 $ 20,000.00 $ 20,000.00 educational and recreational activities to Seniors within the City of Schenectady. Funds will be used for personnel and nonpersonnel costs for a park program providing Quackenbush Park, Hillhurst and Boys and Girls Club of families and youths with increased opportunities including sports programs, swimming Steinmetz Parks Recreational and CDBG $ 139,774.00 $ 100,000.00 $ 100,000.00 Schenectady lessons, arts and crafts, nutrition education, prevention education, family programs and Educational Enrichment program special events at Quackenbush, Hillhurst and Steinmetz Parks. Funds will be used to provide a full-time presence at the new Mt. Pleasant Library to asisit residence SCAP Mt. Pleasant Outreach CDBG $ 30,000.00 $ 15,000.00 $ 15,000.00 to navigate various social services resources available to low and moderate income residence. Funds will be used to provide an introductory Craft Skills & Employment Training programs that will specifically designed to provide this training to those who are unemployed, dislocated or Affirmative Action Office Empowerment Center CDBG $ 153,600.00 $ 40,000.00 $ 30,000.00 disadvantaged,this program will qualify them for entry-level employment in the construction industry. The funds will be utilized to provide support to a coalition of small, non-profits organizations Schenectady Ring of Hope Schenectady Youth Coalition CDBG $ 198,000.00 $ 100,000.00 $ 100,000.00 currently providing services and support to youth within the City of Schenectady. Funds will be used to assist with the administrative expenses associated with managing the Youth Schenectady Ring of Hope Schenectady Youth Coalition CDBG $ 15,840.00 $ 8,000.00 $ 8,000.00 Coalition. Page Total $ 616,502.00 $ 300,000.00 $ 290,685.00 7  2022 PROPOSED PUBLIC WORKS RECOMMENDATIONS = 906,000 Requested Organization Project Description Funding Source 2021 Proposal 2021 Funding Funding Funds will be used for personnel and nonpersonnel costs for code Code Enforcement Program Delivery CDBG $ 100,000.00 $ 100,000.00 $ 90,000.00 enforcement activities in low and moderate income neighborhoods. Funds will be used for the rehabilitation or reconstruction of approximately Street Rehabilitation and one (1) mile of CDBG eligible streets and include ADA improvements required Engineering Department Facilities Improvement CDBG $ 400,000.00 $ 250,000.00 $ 433,079.00 under Federal Law and where specified by the City in various CDBG target Program areas. Funds will be utilized for upgrades to City Parks including, Jerry Burrell, Engineering Department Park Improvements CDBG $ 300,000.00 $ 300,000.00 $ 250,000.00 Steinmentz and other city parks as needed. Funds will be used for personnel and nonpersonnel costs in support of SNAP Schenectady Neighborhood and property management activities, providing for the stablization of in-rem Office of General Services CDBG $ 330,000.00 $ 100,000.00 $ 100,000.00 Assistance Program (SNAP) properties taken through foreclosure to stop deterioration and retain marketability. Funds will be used for the partial repayment of the Section 108 Loan Property Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program Guarantee Program's principal and interest for property acquisition and CDBG $ 56,000.00 $ 56,000.00 $ 56,000.00 Acquisition/Demolition demolition for the removal of citywide blighting conditions. Youth Streetscape Funds will be used to provide job training to youth through streetscape City of Schenectady CDBG $ 40,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $ 30,000.00 Beautification Program beautification projects in the NRSA and Mt. Pleasant Neighborhoods. Funds will be utilized to assist with capital projects related to combating food SICM Growing Green Schenectady CDBG $ 71,476.00 $ 50,000.00 $ - insecurity experienced by city residents. SAFE Inc. Building improvements Funds will be utilized for exterior uprgrades to 1344 Albany Street. CDBG $ 20,000.00 $ 20,000.00 $ - Page Total $ 1,317,476.00 $ 906,000.00 $ 959,079.00 8  2022 PROPOSED ADMINISTRATION RECOMMENDATIONS = $506500 Organization Project Description Funding Source 2022 Proposal 2021 Funding Funds will be used for oversight, management, monitoring and CDBG $ 376,000.00 $ 375,936.60 Department of coordination of the CDBG, ESG and HOME programs. Administration Costs Development Salaries/Benefits = $370,000 (CDBG) + $52,000 (HOME) + $14,842 HOME $ 52,000.00 $ 52,875.75 (ESG). Nonpersonnel Costs = $5,000 (CDBG). ESG $ 14,000.00 $ 14,842.00 Department of Administration and Funds will be used for administrative and program delivery costs CDBG $ 25,000.00 $ 25,000.00 Finance Program Delivery associated with Consolidated Plan activities. Affirmative Department of Action/Minority Funds will be used for affirmative action, minority recruitment and CDBG $ 40,000.00 $ 40,000.00 Finance Recruitment/ Contract contract compliance activities serving the City of Schenetady. Compliance Page Total $ 507,000.00 $ 508,654.35 9  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: C D & P DATE: April 1, 2022 TO: City Council, Mayor McCarthy FROM: Kristin Diotte SUBJECT: Accept $2,500 Grant Award to create Historic Design Guidelines TO BE PLACED ON COUNCIL AGENDA OF April 4, 2022 Background Information: New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, through the Certified Local Government program, awarded the City a grant of $13,000 to procure services for the creation of Historic Design Guidelines. To conduct a proper study and produce thorough and effective guidelines will require $15,500. The Schenectady Heritage Foundation has committed $2,500 to fill in the funding gap. These guidelines will provide information and guidance for residents in any of the five (5) locally designated historic districts on: general information of the architectural styles present in each district, the types of projects that require review and approval by the Historic District Commission, the process for applying to the Historic District Commission for approval, and the types of physical building treatments considered appropriate or prohibited as they relate to the standards of historic preservation. A resolution is needed from the city that authorizes acceptance of the grant funds in an amount not to exceed $2,500. Recommendation: A resolution from City Council authorizing the acceptance of the grant funds in an amount not to exceed $2,500 and authorization of the Mayor and/or his designee to enter an agreement to effectuate this resolution. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY: Law Dept. 10  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: Public Safety DATE: Monday, April 04, 2022 TO: COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: Gary McCarthy SUBJECT: Appointments to the Civilian Police Review Board Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY_____________________ 11 12 13 14 15 JANICE ROUSE-BROWN Professional Summary Compassionate Case Manager experienced in complex environments. Hardworking and dedicated to achieving desired case outcomes. Possesses excellent problem-solving, conflict resolution and communication abilities. Knowledgeable and experienced in coordinating care for disabled and At-risk individuals. Proactive and resourceful with extensive knowledge of community resources. Strong communicator with passion for helping others. Proficiency with coordinating Medicaid and Medicare LTC services. Worked collaboratively with Home Care agencies, Home and Community services, Hospice and multiple medical facilities to coordinate care for my clients. Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships. Exceeded goals through effective task prioritization and strong work ethic. Skills Electronic Medical Record/ Interviewing skills Electronic Health Records Written and verbal communication Patient Assessments Cross-Functional Collaboration Patient Management Client needs assessments Work History Case Manager 01/1984 to 09/2020 Schenectady County Department of Social Services – Schenectady, NY Worked with medical teams, patients and families to implement effective treatment plans. Coordinated individualized discharge plans to manage safe transition back into community. Coordinated program referrals for community-based resources. Delivered social work services to disabled adults in community settings. Completed psychosocial evaluations and needs assessments to determine appropriate services. Interviewed clients and family members achieve for case planning and management. Developed treatments and casework programs for average of 35 patients per month. Visited individuals in homes and attended group meetings to provide information on agency services, requirements and procedures. Collaborated with numerous community agencies to secured housing, medical care and employment for clients. 16 Office Manager 01/2001 to 05/2010 Jackson And Hewitt Tax Service – Schenectady, NY Prepared and reviewed federal and state income tax returns in accordance with applicable tax laws. Maintained primary relationship accountability for clients, overall servicing responsibility and client satisfaction to maximize profitability of client relationships. Managed 15 employees with continuous coaching and mentoring. Improved customer satisfaction scores through application of superior conflict resolution and problem-solving skills. Oversaw appointment scheduling and itinerary coordination for both clients and personnel. Education Bachelor of Science: Pre-Law And Business Administration Long Island University - Southampton, NY Researcher / Implementation Team for Alternative to Incarceration Pilot program for NY State. Elected to Student Government and President of Student Activities Board for 2 years Founder of the "BSU" Black Student Union and served as President of Student Club for 2 years Inducted into the "who's who in America Colleges and Universities" Honor Society 1981 and 1982 Military Service US Army Reserve- 1985 to 1998 Honorable Discharge -SSG/Staff Sergeant Personnel/Medical Records Administrator Field Medic / Unit Morale NCO Volunteer Experience NAACP - National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Schenectady, NY Branch 2019 -Present; Executive Board Member, Asst. Treasurer; Police Review Committee Chair;2020-2021, Asst. Education Chair, 2019 1999-2007- Executive Board Member and "MCTAP" Minority Contractors Technical Assistance Program Board Assistant Chair 2006-2007; Treasurer 2003-2005; Education Committee Chairperson 1999-2002 Jerry Burrell Summer Basketball Classics, Schenectady, NY - Program Director 1988 - 2005 Program served: 160 plus youth ages 6-16yrs 17 18  SCHENECTADY UNITED NEIGHBORHOODS August 10, 2021 Alex Sutherland Director of Operations City of Schenectady 12309/Upper Union 105 Jay St., Room 111 Neighborhood Association Schenectady, NY 12305 Bellevue Preservation Inc. Dear Mr Sutherland: Boulevard Appreciation Neighborhood Association Inc. Schenectady United Neighborhoods (SUN) has nominated Mary Ann Ruscitto as an Central State Neighborhood alternate representative to the Citizen Police Review Board (CPRB). This action was Association taken at our April, 2021 meeting, following Carl Williams' request to designate an East Front Street alternate. Sheila Rivera will remain as our primary representative. A copy of Ms. Neighborhood Association Ruscitto's resume is attached. Eastern Avenue Neighborhood Association We appreciate the opportunity to participate in this important process. If you have Goose Hill Neighborhood any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. I can be reached by email at Association Hamilton Hill Neighborhood Association Sincerely, Mt. Pleasant Neighborhood Association Thomas O. Carey The Stockade Association /s/ Vale Community Organization Inc. President Woodlawn Neighborhood Association Schenectady United Neighborhoods attachment cc: Laurie Bacheldor Margaret Nowak Sheila Rivera Mary Ann Ruscitto Carl Williams, CPRB 19 Marv...: Ann Ruscitto My Story I haven't created this document like a normal resume. I wanted to tell you about my life in Schenectady. I was born in the house that I live in at 205 Front St. This was my Grandfathers house that was passed down to my father Nicholas G. Ruscitto and his Sister Julia Ruscitto Matricardi. "This house has been in our family over 110 years! My father lived on the first floor with his family and his Sister lived on the second floor with her family. It was a wonderful loving house to grow-up in. With two wonderful Italian cooks my Mom and my Aunt. My friends used to say they loved walking into our house because you always smelled something wonderfully Italian cooking! My Father was very Civic minded he and Mrs. Watrous started our East Front St. Assoc. they felt like we needed representation in City Hall because of the Stockade (which I think is a wonderful place) was getting all the attention because of it's historical value. My Sister Carmella is President and I am Vice President now. My family has deep roots in the East Front St. Neighborhood with my Great Grandfather Nicola Ruscitto and his family living at 210 Front St. where he settled when he came to America from Italy. He and his Sons where very involved in City matters too. I found a copy of a petition that was presented to the City requesting that Front St. be paved that had my Great Grandfathers name on it! If you don't mind would like to tell the story of when my Father was dying (he had cancer) and his wish was to die in his home at 205 Front St. He had asked me on one of his final days to take him outside. At this time, he was very weak, but he wanted to go outside. So, I bundled him up and walked him to the bench that our neighbor had next door to our house. He said "Just leave me I want to sit here for a while" I knew what he was doing he was remembering his life in East Front St. Neighborhood and saying goodbye to a neighborhood that he lived in for 82 years and loved with his whole heart. He passed a week later. So, why do I share this? Because of my Dad I to love our neighborhood and our Great City and want to make it better. Edu cation Well now that I have told you the foundation of my life I will tell you about my experiences. I have attended all City Schools to get my education. I went to Riverside School, Washington Irving Middle School and Linton High School. And a Degree for Hotel Restaurant Management for SCCC. Riverside School. Grade 1 - 6; What a great school to start my education. I made life long friends in this school. Sound base to start my education and the love oflocal history. On the dark side, I learned about discrimination! Yes, some of the Parents of children that went to Riverside would not allow their children to play with me because I was from the wrong side of the tracks. I was a BAD kid!! I learned how discrimination hurt. Washington Irving Jr. High School; Again, I was subject to discrimination. The school system would not allow me to go to Oneida Middle School because I was NOT in that district. Our house was 2 houses outside of district!! Because of this I had to walk from Front St. to Washington Irving Junior High School. This was hard because all my friends from Riverside went to Oneida and I was left behind to start a new school with all new kids! But, surprise I met some wonderful kids at this school. Going to this school taught me about diversity and how just because your skin was a different color, or your Mom and Dad didn't make a lot of money didn't make you a bad person! Linton High School; Here I am again in a new school with no friends because all my friends from Washington Irving went to Mt. Pleasant High School and I am stuck in a new school with no friends and with kids that are hooked on social status! And again, I am the kid from the wrong side of the track and my Father isn't a Doctor or a Lawyer! Well as I think back on these school years I was blessed because I learned about diversity and different cultures and how good people come from all walks oflife. Why do I bring this up because? It's because I believe that 20  going through these experiences will be a plus for being on the Police Advisory Board. I also have been in situations where I have seen cops using bad judgement but did not hesitate to bring it to the powers to be attention. My standards are high. It doesn't matter if you are rich, poor green or blue skinned. A person in authority or a homeless on the street. If you do something wrong or if you do something admirable. I will not hesitate to give my opinion and stick up for the right law-abiding situation. Experience After high school graduation I took a job at GE working as a data ent1y clerk (The new age of computers!) I worked 31 years for GE working my way up the ranks (without a College Degree) until GE decided they didn't need me anymore! I was let go when they had their first downsize of 2,000 people! My life was destroyed!! I went from making $70,000 a year to a job that paid $24,000 a year. Because of this I lost my house and everything else that I had. Not a happy time. So why do I tell you this because again this experience has made me sensitive to what an event good or bad can do to your life. And this could be a plus for the Police Advisory Board. So, the good side of this is that I went to Schenectady County Community College and earned my degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management at the age of 57 years old!! I had the wonderful experience of doing an internship at the Kentucky Derby. Meeting Mario Andretti. And worked at the Sagamore one summer in the Pastry Department. These are things that I would never had done if GE didn't let me go! I also worked for Governor Patacki in the Capital and have FBI clearance up to the Governor's office. So, I don't think having a background check will be a problem. My next job was with Schenectady Municipal Housing - As a Senior Account Clerk. I collected the rents for housing and evicted tenants when they did not pay their rent. Again, I was exposed to diversity. Seeing and hearing very sad stories from young single mothers who couldn't afford to pay their rents and struggled to take care of their babies. And Seniors who were on the verge of losing their apartments because they didn't have the money (I paid the rent for some of the Seniors, so they could stay in their apartments!) then again, I saw how a person can use the system by milking the public assistance system using it as a "family business" having babies so they can get the money! I feel that this experience would be helpful to make an educated decision with the Police Advisory Board. So, in closing I want to say because of all my life experiences I believe that I can be someone who can be sensitive to the stresses that can occur between police and community members from a variety of backgrounds. And I believe that I can be open minded when listening to the case reviews of civilian complaints against Police officers and listen to the Police Officers side and be objective. My involvement with organizations in the City and My Personal life Girls Club - I used to teach sewing to the young girls at the Girls club. Was very rewarding. Girls Scout - Was a scout leader at St. George Church with my Sister. One year we won the reward for selling the most Girl Scout Cookies! Schenectady Police Civilian Police Academy - I am a graduate of this Academy. A very valuable program. Learned about the lives of a Policemen. What they must encounter while doing their jobs on the streets of Schenectady, I went on patrol in a patrol car. Shot a Police revolver. POWERFUL never want to do that again! And the many aspects of being a Police Officer. Member of Neighborhood Watch- Was a member for many years worked on National Night Out and many events that the Watch was involved with. Police Athletic League - Worked with Kevin Green with the PAL group was a rewarding experience to see the cops working/playing along side the kids of our great city. 21 Vice President of East Front St Neighborhood Association - Very dedicated to my neighborhood. Was instrumental in getting the Casino into Schenectady. Worked very close with Dave Buicko which was a tremendous learning experience. In closing I just want to say thank you for this opportunity. I love our great city and I am always striving to make it a better place. And if I you decided to give me the opportunity to be a member of the Police Advisor Board I promise to work hard and keep a clear mind and make a decision that is good for all. Respectfully, Mary Ann Ruscitto 22  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATIVE REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: DATE: April 4, 2022 TO: City Council FROM: Andrew Koldin, Corporation Counsel SUBJECT: Central Park Tennis Fees Background Information: City Code §186-25 provides that the City Council may set the fees for use of the 17 tennis courts at Central Park. The fees have not been updated in several years. Every year, several organizations, schools, and other groups reserve the tennis courts for tournaments, leagues, and other events. These entities include USTA, 15 Love, and Schenectady County TA. The suggested updated rental fees are as follows: Rental Category Per Court Hourly Fee Public Agencies (including school districts) $5.00 Non-Profit Organizations $5.00 Residents $12.00 Non-Residents $15.00 Commercial Entities $18.00 Walk-on use of the tennis courts will still be available. In addition, other tennis courts in City parks, including those at Michigan Avenue, will be available for walk-on use. The purpose of renting a court or courts is to ensure availability of a specified court or courts for a specified period of time. This will only apply to Central Park. Applications for renting courts will be available to those seeking to lock in a court or a number of courts for a period of time. Any valid agreements for the use of the courts between the City and another party will continue to be honored through the term of those agreements. Evaluation/Analysis: The City has not updated its tennis court fees in several years. The fee structure will provide those seeking to reserve courts a clear and concise way to know how much they will pay to reserve courts. Since walk-on use will still be allowed, people may continue to use the courts without paying a fee. 23 Recommendation: Approve the legislative request for full City Council consideration to update the rental fees for use of the tennis courts at Central Park as provided hereinabove. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY_____LAW DEPARTMENT_________ 24 25 26  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: Administrative Efficiency DATE: March 31, 2022 TO: COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: Council President Marion Porterfield SUBJECT: Review and amend rules of decorum for speaking at City Council meetings Background Information: There have recently been numerous incidents of racist and homophobic remarks that have occurred at the City Council during Privilege of the Floor. Evaluation/Analysis: This behavior has been occurring on a consistent basis even though individuals have been reminded by the Council President that those type of disparaging remarks directed toward specific groups will not be permitted. Recommendation: Review and amend as necessary the guidelines for individuals wishing to speak at Privilege of the Floor during City Council meetings. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY: 27 City Business Privilege of the Floor Date Name City Resident (Optional) Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N If you wish to address the City Council during the meeting, please sign in on this log. No one will be added to the list after the meeting has started. • To give all an opportunity to speak, your comments should be limited to three minutes. • All Comments Should be Addressed to the Council President • At the beginning of your comments, please identify yourself. • If you wish to include in the record of the meeting a written statement that summarizes or expands your oral comments, it must be submitted to the City Clerk. Otherwise, the Clerk will prepare the record based on your oral comments only. • During the privilege of the floor for the legislative agenda and public hearings, speakers shall keep their comments focused upon the items under consideration on the agenda. Privilege of the floor is not an opportunity for debate and public comment speakers should not expect a back and forth exchange with Council Members. • Proper decorum must be observed during the public comment period by everyone present, which includes members of City Council, City employees, the speakers themselves, and other members of the public who are present. Speakers shall refrain from slanderous or obscene remarks, disruptive outbursts, threats, and other conduct that disrupts or interferes with the orderly conduct of the business of the meeting. Personal attacks on Council Members, the Administration, City Staff, other speakers, or members of the public, which are unrelated to City business, will not be tolerated. While clapping and other signs of support for a speaker’s remarks are allowed, it should be done in a way that does not interfere with the meeting or prevent others in attendance from observing or hearing the deliberative process. Signs and posters must be small enough so it doesn't impair the view of other members in the audience. • If any violations of these rules occur, the Council President may declare the speaker out of order. A majority of council can also compel such a decision or overrule the Council President’s decision. If the speaker does not immediately stop speaking, the Council President will call a five-minute recess. Inappropriate actions after the recess may constitute removal from the meeting. Green 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: DATE: April 01, 2022 TO: COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: Ronnie H Gardner SUBJECT: Modify Lease agreement with 140 Erie Blvd. Background Information: We currently have a lease with 140 Erie Blvd Evaluation/Analysis: We are requesting authorization to modify the lease agreement and our current programing and meeting space to 26 Broadway, Schenectady Recommendation: Relocating to 26 Broadway is more convenient and efficient use of the space for training, meetings and Community Engagement LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Andrew Koldin 40  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: DATE: March 31, 2022 TO: COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: Councilman Carl Williams SUBJECT: Hosting quarterly City Council meetings outside of City Hall – Follow-up discussion Background Information: City Council meeting attendance is relatively low on a routine basis due. Evaluation/Analysis: Recent COVID social distancing and government mandates may have affected public turnout but alternative approaches should still be reviewed to safely increase community involvement. Recommendation: Further discuss legislative intent (reference City Code, Chapter 28), potential locations/logistical issues, and minimum equipment needs. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY: LAW DEPARTMENT 41  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development and Planning DATE: March 31, 2022 TO: COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: Council President Marion Porterfield SUBJECT: Update ARPA Advisory Committee Background Information: The City Council vote to create an ARPA Advisory Committee to solicit applications from individuals to be part of the team working with the city staff to review the APRA applications. Evaluation/Analysis: An application process was created with a deadline of responses to be received by March 24, 2022. Thirty-seven people requested applications. Eighteen completed applications were received. Recommendation: To schedule a training/overview session by the Department of Development with reviewers in order to begin application review process. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY: 42  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: CD &P DATE: March 31, 2022 TO: COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: Council President Marion Porterfield SUBJECT: Discussion – letter to Scannell Properties, LLC Background Information: Scannell Properties, LLC submitted a request to rezone Stadium Golf Course (302 Jackson Avenue). During the discussion at the Council Committee in February it was agreed that the proposal lacked sufficient information to refer it to the Planning Commission. Evaluation/Analysis: Council President requested Corporation Counsel to draft a letter to Scannell Properties, LLC. outlining at the additional information sought by the Council. The letter would be sent after the Woodlawn Neighborhood Association special meeting in March in order to also include responses to concerns raised by residents. Recommendation: A letter be sent to Scannell Properties, LLC. requesting the additional information asked for by the City and clarification of concerns raised by residents of the Woodlawn. LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY: LAW DEPARTMENT 43  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 04/04/22 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of Vacant lot, 25 Grove Place Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development 44  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 04/04/22 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of 819 Davis Terrace Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development 45  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 04/04/22 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of 821 Strong Street Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development 46  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 04/04/22 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of Vacant lot, 1164 Hilderbrandt Avenue Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development 47  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 04/04/22 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of Vacant lot, 1325 Fourth Avenue Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development 48  CITY OF SCHENECTADY LEGISLATION REQUEST FORM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT: City Development & Planning DATE: 04/04/22 TO: COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: Development SUBJECT: Sale of 2037 Wabash Avenue Background Information: Evaluation/Analysis: Recommendation: LEGISLATION WILL BE PREPARED BY Development 49