Common Council Meeting -- 02.01.2023
Regular MeetingUtica, NY · February 1, 2023
Agenda
LEGISLATION IN COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
City of Utica Common Council
February 1st 2023
Type & Number Title/Description Date Committed
INTRO L.L. Registration and Posting of Owner & 01/05/2022
#1 OF 2022 Manager Info & Designation of Agent
PRO ORD. 2 Ordinance Amending Composition 01/28/2022
Of The Bureau Of Fire
PRO. ORD. 21 Amending Sec. 2-13-53 12/07/2022
PRO. ORD. 4 One Way – Kent Street 12/21/2022
PRO. ORD. 11 Trees and Shrubs Ordinance 01/18/2023
PRO. ORD. 12 Rescind Sec. 2-17-27 01/18/2023
PRO. ORD. 20 Sale of 418 & 420 Mandeville Street 01/18/2023
PRO. ORD. 22 Sale of 123 Harding Place 01/18/2023
PRO. ORD. 24 Sale of 811 Chestnut Street 01/18/2023
PRO. ORD. 26 Sale of 923 Blandina Street 01/18/2023
PRO. ORD. 28 Sale of 1016, 1018 and 1022 Park Ave. 01/18/2023
Submitted to council by: Councilmember Colosimo-Testa Proposed Ordinance No.
Submitted to council on: 01 / 04 / 22 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 01 / 04 / 22 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? Y
Date of Legislation: 01 / 05 / 22 Explanation provided to council on: / /
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember Colosimo-Testa
A LOCAL LAW ENTITLED “REGISTRATION AND POSTING OF OWNER
AND MANAGER INFORMATION AND DESIGNATION OF AGENT”
INTRODUCTORY LOCAL LAW NO. 1 OF 2022
Presented and read __________, 2022.
Laid on the Table ___________, 2022.
Adopted by the Common Council by a vote of YEAS: ___, NAYS: ___, on __________, 2022.
Became a Local Law with the approval of the Mayor on __________, 2022,
after a public hearing on __________, 2022.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF UTICA, NEW YORK
(THE “MUNICIPALITY”):
SECTION 1. Legislative intent.
It is recognized by the City of Utica Common Council that a number of properties in the City are owned by persons
who do not live in the City of Utica or in the County of Oneida. As a result, it has been difficult for the City
Departments, such as the Fire Department, Department of Public Works, Police Department, as well as the Codes
Department and zoning officers, to contact absentee owners when necessary. The City of Utica Common Council
recognizes the need for such departments and officials to be able to contact the owner and/or manager of a property
located within the City, particularly in emergency situations. In order to facilitate such contact with the owners
and/or property managers, these provisions are being enacted to require the registration with the City, and posting in
the building on such properties, of the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of such property and property
managers so as to provide the City and its various departments with accessible and accurate information concerning
the property and the person or persons to contact should there be a problem or emergency at the property.
SECTION 2. Definitions.
For the purpose of this local law, the terms used herein are defined as follows:
Action or Proceeding – any action or proceeding which may be instituted in the City Court of the City of Utica in
connection with an alleged violation of any of the local laws, rules or regulations of the City of Utica
Building – any improved real property located within the City of Utica which, in whole or in part, is non-owner
occupied
Owner – any individual or individuals, partnerships or corporation, whether for profit or otherwise, in whose name
title to the building stands
Process – a summons or any notice, mandate or other paper or process issued under any provision of the Building
Code and/or ordinances of the City of Utica
City Clerk – either the City Clerk or the Deputy City Clerk of the City of Utica
SECTION 3. Registration of owner and designation of agent.
(A) Every owner of a building, as herein defined located with the City of Utica shall file:
(1) A notarized statement of designation signed by the said owner setting forth the name and address,
by street and number also, if applicable a mailing address different, in the County of Oneida, or
otherwise within thirty-five (35) miles of the City of Utica, of an agent upon whom process may
be served in any action or proceeding which may be commenced or instituted against said owner.
A post office box number alone is not sufficient to comply with the provisions.
(2) A notarized statement by the said owner setting forth the name, telephone and address, by street
and number, as well as the mailing address if different of the owner, owners, of the property.
(3) A notarized designation signed by the said owner naming the City Clerk as the agent upon whom
process against the owner may be served, and the post office address within or without the City of
Utica to which the City Clerk may mail a copy of the process against such power served upon the
Clerk.
(B) Whenever the process is served upon the City Clerk, the Clerk shall mail, by certified mail, addressed to the
agent named in said designation at the address therein set forth, a true copy of said process.
SECTION 4. Certificate of ownership.
Attached to such statement and designation shall be a certificate properly certified by the owner that they are the
owner of the promises with respect to which statement or designation is filed.
SECTION 5. Posting notice.
Every owner of a building within the City of Utica shall post, and keep posted in a conspicuous place in a main
public area in said building, a notice, at least six by eight (6x8) inches in size, setting forth:
(A) The name, address, and telephone number of the owner of said building.
(B) The name, address, apartment number, and telephone number of the resident superintendent of the building,
if any.
(1) Exception. In the event that a building is:
(a) A one family house, such notice need not be posted. The owner shall furnish tenant with
the information required in SECTION 3 (A) (1) and SECTION 3 (A) (2) listed above.
(b) A two or three family house and the owner of the building resides in the building, such
notice need not be posted, but the owner shall furnish each tenant with the information
required in SECTION 3 (A) (2) listed above.
(2) In the event of a change of ownership, a change of the designated agent, or a change of the
resident superintendent of such building, the owner of the property shall file with the City Clerk a
new designation of agent and also naming the City Clerk to receive process and shall post a
revision of the required notice in the building and file a copy of the same with the City Clerk
within thirty (30) days of any such change.
SECTION 6. Penalties for offense.
Any person, firm or corporation who violates, disobeys, neglects or refuses to comply with any of the terms of this
chapter shall be guilty of a violation and be subject to a fine or not less than one hundred ($100.00) dollars and not
more than five hundred ($500.00) dollars. Each week a violation continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
SECTION 7. Severability.
The invalidity of any clause, sentence, paragraph, or provision of this Local Law shall not invalidate any other
clause sentence, paragraph, or part thereof.
SECTION 8. Repealed.
All Local Laws or ordinances, or part of Local Laws, or ordinances, in conflict with any part of this Local law shall
be hereby repealed.
SECTION 9. Effective date.
This local law shall take effect upon filing in the office of the New York State Secretary of State or as otherwise
provided by law.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2022
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: Corp. Counsel Proposed Ordinance No. 2
Submitted to council on: 01 / 26 / 22 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 01 / 26 / 22 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 01 / 28 / 22 Explanation provided to council on: / /
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember
ORDINANCE AMENDING COMPOSITION
OF THE BUREAU OF FIRE
WHEREAS, the administration has applied for a SAFER grant from the federal government to provide
funds for an additional eight (8) positions of firefighter-firefighter-EMT in the Bureau of Fire, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council wishes to amend the composition of the Bureau of Fire to create the
number of firefighter-firefighter-EMT positions for which funds are provided for under the grant to be effective only
if and when the 2021 SAFER grant application is approved.
ORDAINED, §2-2-168 of the Utica City Code regarding the Fire Department composition is hereby
amended to read as follows:
(a) The sworn personnel strength and composition of the Bureau of Fire of the Department of Public
Safety shall consist of the following numbers and ranks:
Job Title Number Authorized
Fire Chief 1
Assistant Fire Chief 1
Chief Fire Marshal 1
Assistant Maintenance Superintendent 1
Deputy Fire Chiefs 4
Fire Captains 8
Fire Marshal 1
Fire Lieutenants 22
Firefighters and firefighters/EMT 93
------------------------
Total 124
(b) The Commissioner of Public Safety shall continue to assign personnel in the numbers and the
ranks deemed necessary to the divisions and assignments within the Bureau of Fire as may be
created, all in accordance with law.
(c) Except as otherwise provided by law, whenever a vacancy occurs in the position of “firefighter”
any appointment to fill such vacancy shall be made from the “firefighters/EMT” eligible list.
FURTHER ORDAINED, this increase in complement is expressly conditioned upon the approval of the
2021 SAFER grant application sufficient to fund such positions and shall not become effective unless and until said
grant is approved.
FURTHER ORDAINED, if the 2021 SAFER grant provides funds for a different number of positions
than provided for herein, then the complement shall be amended to provide for the number of positions provided for
in the grant.
FURTHER ORDAINED, this ordinance shall apply only to the 2021 SAFER grant application and will
become null and void if said grant is not approved.
FURTHER ORDAINED, this ordinance shall not be certified for publication until after the City Clerk
receives certification that the 2021 SAFER grant has been approved and the number of positions funded
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2022
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: Councilmember Friend Proposed Ordinance No. 21
Submitted to council on: 12 / 1 / 22 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 12 / 1 / 22 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 12 / 7 / 22 Explanation provided to council on: / /
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmembers Friend, DiBrango
ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 2-13-53 “CONDITIONS FOR AWARD OF MUNICIPAL
CONTRACTS” OF THE UTICA CODE OF ORDINANCES
BE IT ORDAINED, that Sec. 2-13-53 (i) of ARTICLE III, Chapter 2-13 “Human Rights” of the
Utica Code of Ordinances be amended to read as follows:
(i) Apprentice training agreements
(1) Pursuant to § 816-b, Subdivision 2, of the New York State Labor Law, the City of Utica may shall
require, prior to entering into any construction contract, that such contract contain apprenticeship
agreements appropriate for the type and scope of work to be performed that have been registered
and approved by the Commissioner of Labor as provided for in § 814 of the New York State Labor
Law for contracts in an amount in excess of $250,000.
(2) The Board of Contract and Supply, when considering whether or not to include a requirement for an
apprenticeship agreement, is encouraged to consider such factors as the number of bids received for
previous, similar projects; cost; project time lines; and the principles of fairness and fiduciary
responsibility that govern public bidding in New York State.
(3) Contractors may shall refer to and adopt apprenticeship agreements as set forth in § 815 of the New
York State Labor Laws.
(4) "Construction contract" shall mean any contract to which the City of Utica and its affiliated agencies
shall be a principal party which involves the construction, reconstruction, improvement,
rehabilitation, installation, alteration, renovation, demolition, or otherwise providing for any
building, facility or physical structure of any kind, if the labor components, final assessed value,
gross capital costs and/or component of such contract or project is in excess of $250,000.
(5) The Board of Contract and Supply, with the assistance of the City Engineer, shall promulgate rules
and regulations for the implementation and enforcement of the provisions of this subsection.
(6) If any clause, sentence, paragraph, subdivision, section or part of this subsection or application
thereof to any person, individual, corporation, firm, partnership, entity or circumstances shall be
adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unconstitutional, such order or
judgment shall not affect, impair or invalidate the remainder thereof but shall be confined in its
operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, subdivision, section or part of this subsection or its
application to the person, individual, corporation, firm, partnership, entity or circumstance directly
involved in the controversy in which such judgment or order shall be rendered.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2022
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: Councilmember DiBrango Proposed Ordinance No. 4
Submitted to council on: 12 / 14 / 22 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 12 / 14 / 22 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 12 / 21 / 22 Explanation provided to council on: / /
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmembers Aiello, DiBrango
One-Way Streets
BE IT ORDAINED, that Sec. 2-16-356 Schedule A: One-way streets of the Utica City Code be amended to include the
following:
Kent Street, Northbound from Elizabeth Street to Bleecker Street.
(Added 12/21/2022)
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the proper signage be erected where necessary, on each corner.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2022
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: Councilmember Friend Proposed Ordinance No. 11
Submitted to council on: 1 / 12 / 23 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 1 / 12 / 23 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 01 / 18 / 23 Explanation provided to council on: / /
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember Friend
Amending the City of Utica Code of Ordinances to Include the City of Utica Trees and Shrubs Ordinance
BE IT ORDAINED, that the City of Utica Code of Ordinances be amended to include the following:
City of Utica Trees and Shrubs Ordinance
§ 201-1. Title, purpose, and intent 2
§ 201-2. Word usage and definitions. 2
ARBORICULTURE or TREE PRESERVATION 2
PUBLIC PLACE 2
RIGHT-OF-WAY 2
STREET TREE or TREE or SHRUB 2
§ 201-3. Designation of City Arborist. 2
§ 201-4. Authority and jurisdiction of City Arborist. 2
§ 201-5. Tree Advisory Board. 3
§ 201-6. Permits and permitting 4
§ 201-7. Certain trees prohibited. 4
§ 201-8. Applicability of park regulations. 4
§ 201-9. Support of newly planted trees. 4
§ 201-10. Placing impervious material adjacent to tree trunk. 4
§ 201-11. Authority to trim and remove trees and shrubs on public property. 5
§ 201-12. Injury to trees and shrubs. 5
§ 201-13. Interference with City Arborist. 5
§ 201-14. Penalties for offenses. 5
§ 201-15. Severability. 5
§ 201-1. Title, purpose, and intent
A. This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Tree Ordinance of the City of Utica.”
B. The purpose and intent of this chapter are to promote the growth and health of the City’s urban canopy ensuring biodiversity,
sustainability, equity, an aesthetically pleasing environment, and carbon sequestration to combat climate change; combat the
urban “heat island” effect; designate a City Arborist; create a system of permitting for work on trees within the City;
consolidate much of existing City code on trees; create a volunteer Tree Advisory Board; provide for lists of acceptable trees
for planting within the City; sets acceptable standards for the planting, removal, trimming, and replacement of trees; and
define penalties for violations of this chapter.
§ 201-2. Word usage and definitions.
A. When not inconsistent with the context, words used in the present tense include the future, words in the plural number
include the singular number, and words in the singular number include the plural number. The word "shall" is always
mandatory and not merely directory.
B. For the purposes of this chapter the following terms, phrases, words and their derivations shall have the meaning given
herein:
ARBORICULTURE or TREE PRESERVATION
Includes the treating, spraying, pruning, maintaining and any other care or work intended for the strengthening of trees and the
removal and prevention of tree pests, blights and diseases of any and all kinds.
PUBLIC PLACE
Any public street, public highway, public easement, public park, lands owned by City park districts, or any property owned or held by
the City within the boundaries of said City.
RIGHT-OF-WAY
Per City zoning law, lines which separate private property from existing or dedicated public property containing or proposed to
contain publicly owned street surfaces, gutters, curbs, planted strips or sidewalks.
STREET TREE or TREE or SHRUB
A tree or shrub in a public place or right-of-way, except where otherwise indicated. Street trees shall be considered by the City as
serving a public benefit to promote beauty, air quality, temperature control, carbon sequestration, and more.
§ 201-3. Designation of City Arborist.
The Director of Public Works shall, by virtue of their office, be the City Arborist or have the capacity to hire a certified arborist for the
role if allotted funds by the City to do so.
§ 201-4. Authority and jurisdiction of City Arborist.
A. Generally. The City Arborist is hereby given full jurisdiction, authority, control, supervision, and direction of all trees which
now or which may hereafter exist upon any public place or right-of-way in the city.
B. Issuance of permits. Said City Arborist is also given full jurisdiction, authority, and control in connection with the issuing of
permits hereinafter provided for.
C. Order to preserve or remove. The City Arborist shall have the authority to order the trimming, preservation, or removal of
trees or plants upon public and right-of-way property when they find such action necessary to public safety or to prevent the
spread of disease or insects to public trees and places. The City Arborist shall make publicly available a mechanism to be
notified of potentially dangerous trees by concerned parties.
D. Delegation of duties and authority. In the exercise of any or all of the powers herein granted, the City Arborist shall have the
authority to delegate all or such part of their power and duties with respect to supervision and control of trees to their
subordinates and assistants in the employ of the City as they may from time to time determine.
§ 201-5. Tree Advisory Board.
The City hereby creates a Tree Advisory Board of six members, which shall advise and consult with the City and the Arborist on all
matters relating to the planting of trees and shrubs in public places and rights-of-way, to the varieties and species of trees to be used,
and generally with respect to the carrying out of the purposes of their chapter.
A. Composition:
a. All members of the Board shall be residents of the City, except in the case where the City Arborist deems an
exemption useful to obtaining more expertise on the Board. Members shall serve on a volunteer basis.
b. The City Arborist or their designee shall serve as Chair of the Board and be responsible for setting regular meeting
times, keeping the Board apprised of relevant matters to their chapter, and maintaining records of their meetings and
decisions.
c. Appointment of members:
i. Two members by appointment of the Common Council.
ii. Two members by appointment of the Mayor.
iii. Two members by nomination of the Mayor and confirmation of the Common Council.
iv. The Mayor and Common Council shall make an effort to identify suitable candidates with training and
experience in forestry, as an arborist, and/or general knowledge about maintenance and planning of an
urban forest.
d. Members of the Board shall serve a term of five years and shall not have a term limit but must be reappointed
following the requirements herein in order to continue serving. Should a seat become vacant prior to the expiration
of a term, the respective seat will be refilled according to the same processes listed here for the remainder of the
term.
B. Duties and authorities:
a. The Board shall meet a minimum of four times each year. All meetings shall be open to the public and provide
opportunity for public comment. The Board chair may schedule additional meetings as needed.
b. The Board shall coordinate and promote Arbor Day activities.
c. The Board shall create, review, and update a five-year plan to plant and maintain trees on city property. The report
shall include, but not be limited to:
i. Planned and recommended planting and removal projects, including an assessment of the impact of said
projects on carbon sequestration, biodiversity, environmental hazards, and financial cost.
ii. Identification of areas of the City which have disproportionately fewer trees, both public and private,
compared to the rest of the City and trends to that effect. New proposed planting projects by the City
should prioritize these under-treed areas.
iii. Any recommendations for amendments to this chapter or other chapters of City code as they pertain to
trees.
d. The Board shall support public awareness and education programs relating to trees.
e. The Board shall review City department concerns relating to tree care at their or the City Arborist’s request.
f. The Board shall be available for consultation by the City Planning Board and Scenic and Historic Commission on
matters related to trees.
g. The Board shall submit an annual report of its activities to the Common Council and Mayor.
h. The Board shall assist with the annual application to renew the Tree City USA designation.
i. The Board shall seek out and apply for grants it deems useful to promote tree planting and growth in the City and to
generally carry out the goals and enforcement of this ordinance.
j. The Board shall have the authority to create a list of preferred trees for planting within the City on both public and
private property, not in conflict with prohibited trees pursuant to § 201-7, and make such list publicly available and
distribute such list to all City Boards and Departments.
k. The Board shall have the authority to create a list of trees to be prohibited for planting upon public property and
right-of-ways in addition to those prohibited herein.
l. The Board shall maintain a list of best practices for tree care and planting in the City, and the City Arborist shall
make such a document available to all those permitted to do tree work in the City.
§ 201-6. Permits and permitting
A. Scope of permit requirements: It shall be unlawful for any person to plant, remove, treat, spray, break, injure, or destroy any
tree existing on any public place or right-of-way in the City, or to authorize or procure any person to do so, or to remove or
tamper with any device placed for the protection of said tree, or to authorize or cause the same to be done, except having first
obtained written permission from the City Arborist to do so.
B. Application for permit: Applicants shall retrieve and submit the permit request to the City Clerk. The City Arborist shall be
responsible for designing the permit in accordance with this chapter and with consultation of the Tree Advisory Board.
C. Standards for issuance of permit: The City Clerk shall issue a permit provided for herein when the City Aborist reviews and
finds that the desired action or treatment is necessary and in conformity with their chapter and that the proposed method and
workmanship are satisfactory. The application for permit herein required shall state the number and kind of tree to be
removed, sprayed, or planted, the kind of treatment to be administered, and such other information as the City Arborist shall
find reasonably necessary to a fair determination of whether a permit should issue hereunder.
D. Supervision of work under permit: The City Arborist shall have the authority to supervise all·work done under a permit
issued in accordance with the terms of their chapter.
§ 201-7. Certain trees prohibited.
Norway maple, Silver maple, Poplar, Evergreen, Hackberry, Mulberry, Red Oak, Ash, and Weeping Willow trees may not be planted
in any public place or right-of-way in the City and continued planting of said trees is hereby considered a threat to biodiversity and a
healthy urban forest in the City. The City shall otherwise abide by the provided lists of prohibited and regulated invasive species from
the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation.
§ 201-8. Applicability of park regulations.
The park regulations covering the planting of trees in lands owned by City Parks & Recreation shall be and continue in force and
effect.
§ 201-9. Support of newly planted trees.
A. All newly planted trees, whether installed by the abutting property owner or contractor, shall be supported by a suitable post
or posts.
B. It shall be unlawful to guy any tree less than four inches in diameter at a point four feet above ground level with wires or rope
unless the trunk is protected.
§ 201-10. Placing impervious material adjacent to tree trunk.
It shall be unlawful for any person to place or maintain upon the ground in any public place or right-of-way any stone, concrete, brick
or other impervious material or substance in such a manner as may obstruct the free access of air and water to the roots of any tree
upon any public place or right-of-way in the City without first having obtained written permission. Unless otherwise provided for,
there shall be maintained about the base of the trunk of each such tree at least nine square feet of open ground for a tree three inches in
diameter, and for every two inches of increase of such diameter, there shall be an increase of at least one square foot of open ground.
§ 201-11. Authority to trim and remove trees and shrubs on public property.
The City Arborist shall have the right to trim any tree or shrub existing on any public place or right-of-way in the City in order to
ensure the public safety or to preserve the function or beauty of such public place or right-of-way, and they shall further have the right
to remove any such tree or shrub, or any part thereof, which is in an unsafe condition or which, by reason of its location or nature, is
injurious or detrimental to other public improvements in the City or is infected with any injury, fungus, insect or other pest or disease
which cannot otherwise be controlled.
§ 201-12. Injury to trees and shrubs.
No persons shall, without the consent of the owner in the case of a private tree or shrub or without a written permit from the City
Arborist in the case of a public tree or shrub, do, or cause to be done by others, any of the following acts.
A. Secure, fasten or run any rope, wire, sign or other device or material to, around or through a tree or shrub.
B. Break, injure, mutilate, deface, kill or destroy a tree or shrub or permit any fire to burn where it will injure any tree or shrub.
C. Permit any toxic chemical, gas, smoke, salt, brine, oil or other injurious substance to seep, drain or be emptied upon or about
any tree or shrub.
D. Erect, alter, repair or raze any building or structure without placing suitable guards around all nearby public trees or shrubs
which may be injured or defaced by, or where said injury or defacement may arise out of, in connection with or by reason of,
such operation. The quality of said guard shall be determined by the City Arborist.
E. Knowingly permit any unprotected electric service wires to come in prolonged contact with any public tree or shrub.
F. Remove any guard, stake or other device or material intended for the protection of a public tree or shrub or close or obstruct
any open space about the base of a public tree or shrub designed to permit access of air, water and fertilizer.
§ 201-13. Interference with City Arborist.
No person shall prevent, delay or interfere with the City Arborist or their agents, employees or servants while they are engaged in
carrying out any work or activities authorized by this chapter.
§ 201-14. Penalties for offenses.
Any person violating any of the provisions of their chapter shall be deemed and held to be guilty of an offense and, upon conviction,
shall be fined a sum not to exceed $100. Each week during which the violation shall continue shall be held and deemed to be a
separate offense.
§ 201-15. Severability.
Should any part or provision of this ordinance be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the same shall not affect
the validity of the ordinance as a whole or any part thereof other than the part held to be invalid.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2023
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: Councilmember Friend Proposed Ordinance No. 12
Submitted to council on: 01 / 12 / 23 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 01 / 12 / 23 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 01 / 18 / 23 Explanation provided to council on: / /
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember Friend
AN ORDINANCE RECINDING SECTION 2-17-27 OF THE UTICA CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES
BE IT ORDAINED, that Section 2-17-27 be hereby RESCINDED and ANNULLED.
Sec. 2-17-27 Removal of unsafe, injurious or diseased trees
(a) The City may remove or cause to be removed any tree or part of a tree located on City property which is in
an unsafe condition or which by reason of its nature is injurious to the public safety or to sewers, electric
power lines, gas lines, water lines, sidewalks or other public improvements or which is affected by any
injurious fungus, insect or other pest. These shall constitute the only conditions by which a tree may be
removed.
(b) No person shall remove, or cause to be removed, any tree located on City-owned property without the prior
written consent of the Deputy Commissioner of Public Works for parks. This prohibition shall not apply to
the trimming or removal of branches where necessary to prevent interference with vehicle or pedestrian traffic
or with utility lines or to prevent damage to property, so long as said trimming and removal is the minimum
amount necessary to prevent such interference or damage.
(c) The entire cost of tree removal shall be made a charge against the City, payable by the issuance of public
improvement bonds for elm tree rehabilitation except that the expense for the removal of trees on private
property shall be recovered from the affected property owners via an addition to real estate taxes to be
collected with bond interest added over the period of bond life or sooner if the property owner chooses.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2023
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: URA Proposed Ordinance No. 20
Submitted to council on: 01 / 11 / 23 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 01 / 11 / 23 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 01 / 18 / 23 Explanation provided to council on: / /
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember Aiello
Ordinance approving the designation of Diana Torres as an eligible and qualified project sponsor
pursuant to Article 15 of the General Municipal Law for the purpose of the sale of 418 & 420
Mandeville Street
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency has acquired 418 & 420 Mandeville Street; and
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency is authorized to sell development parcels in said area to
prospective developers, pursuant to the requirements set forth in Article 15, Section 507, of the General Municipal
Laws of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, a purchase offer for this property has been received by the Utica Urban Renewal Agency from
Diana Torres; and the developer proposes to purchase 418 & 420 Mandeville Street to renovate for primary
residence; and the purchase will require the payment of $13,000.00; and
WHEREAS, The Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency has been authorized to execute a contract
for sale with the aforementioned developer subject to the buyer meeting all applicable terms and conditions relative
to the sale of subject development including the approval of the Utica Common Council; and
WHEREAS, the Utica Urban Renewal Agency published a public hearing notice which described all
relevant terms and conditions of the proposed sale of said disposition parcel, and further provided for a public hearing
before the Utica Common Council, all in accordance with Article 15, of the General Municipal Law of the State of
New York; and
WHEREAS, On Wednesday, February 1, 2023 a public hearing was held before the Utica Common
Council, and the public was given the opportunity to ask questions, and offer comments relative to the proposed sale,
and subsequent development of the aforesaid property; and the proposed project purchase offer is consistent with the
terms and conditions set forth in the Utica Urban Renewal Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED: That the Utica Common Council authorizes the Mayor, as
Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency, to enter into a land contract pursuant to the terms and conditions
outlined in the land contract, in order to sell which are located in the Utica Urban Renewal area;
AND FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the purchase price for the above said property is $13,000.00;
and
FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency is hereby
authorized to take any and all steps necessary to complete the disposition of this property for the aforesaid purpose.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2023
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: URA Proposed Ordinance No. 22
Submitted to council on: 01 / 11 / 23 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 01 / 11 / 23 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 01 / 18 / 23 Explanation provided to council on: / /
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember Ervin
Ordinance approving the designation of Eh Ka Paw as an eligible and qualified project sponsor pursuant to Article
15 of the General Municipal Law for the purpose of the sale of 123 Harding Place
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency has acquired 123 Harding Place; and
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency is authorized to sell development parcels in said area to prospective
developers, pursuant to the requirements set forth in Article 15, Section 507, of the General Municipal Laws of the State of
New York; and
WHEREAS, a purchase offer for this property has been received by the Utica Urban Renewal Agency from Eh
Ka Paw; and the developer proposes to purchase 123 Harding Place to renovate for primary/income property and the
purchase will require the payment of $18,000.00; and
WHEREAS, The Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency has been authorized to execute a contract for sale
with the aforementioned developer subject to the buyer meeting all applicable terms and conditions relative to the sale of
subject development including the approval of the Utica Common Council; and
WHEREAS, the Utica Urban Renewal Agency published a public hearing notice which described all relevant terms
and conditions of the proposed sale of said disposition parcel, and further provided for a public hearing before the Utica
Common Council, all in accordance with Article 15, of the General Municipal Law of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, On Wednesday, February 1, 2023 a public hearing was held before the Utica Common Council, and
the public was given the opportunity to ask questions, and offer comments relative to the proposed sale, and subsequent
development of the aforesaid property; and the proposed project purchase offer is consistent with the terms and conditions
set forth in the Utica Urban Renewal Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED: That the Utica Common Council authorizes the Mayor, as Chairman
of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency, to enter into a land contract pursuant to the terms and conditions outlined in the land
contract, in order to sell which are located in the Utica Urban Renewal area;
AND FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the purchase price for the above said property is $18,000.00; and
FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency is hereby authorized to
take any and all steps necessary to complete the disposition of this property for the aforesaid purpose.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2023
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: URA Proposed Ordinance No. 24
Submitted to council on: 01 / 11 / 23 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 01 / 11 / 23 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 01 / 18 / 23 Explanation provided to council on: / /
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember Burmaster
Ordinance approving the designation of Nicholas Kiley as an eligible and qualified project sponsor pursuant
to Article 15 of the General Municipal Law for the purpose of the sale of 811 Chestnut Street
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency has acquired 811 Chestnut Street; and
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency is authorized to sell development parcels in said area to
prospective developers, pursuant to the requirements set forth in Article 15, Section 507, of the General Municipal
Laws of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, a purchase offer for this property has been received by the Utica Urban Renewal Agency from
Nicholas Kiley; and the developer proposes to purchase 811 Chestnut Street to renovate for primary residence
for his mother; and the purchase will require the payment of $8,600.00; and
WHEREAS, The Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency has been authorized to execute a contract
for sale with the aforementioned developer subject to the buyer meeting all applicable terms and conditions relative
to the sale of subject development including the approval of the Utica Common Council; and
WHEREAS, the Utica Urban Renewal Agency published a public hearing notice which described all
relevant terms and conditions of the proposed sale of said disposition parcel, and further provided for a public hearing
before the Utica Common Council, all in accordance with Article 15, of the General Municipal Law of the State of
New York; and
WHEREAS, On Wednesday, February 1, 2023 a public hearing was held before the Utica Common
Council, and the public was given the opportunity to ask questions, and offer comments relative to the proposed sale,
and subsequent development of the aforesaid property; and the proposed project purchase offer is consistent with the
terms and conditions set forth in the Utica Urban Renewal Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED: That the Utica Common Council authorizes the Mayor, as
Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency, to enter into a land contract pursuant to the terms and conditions
outlined in the land contract, in order to sell which are located in the Utica Urban Renewal area;
AND FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the purchase price for the above said property is $8,600.00;
and
FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency is hereby
authorized to take any and all steps necessary to complete the disposition of this property for the aforesaid purpose.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2023
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: URA Proposed Ordinance No. 26
Submitted to council on: 01 / 11 / 23 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 01 / 11 / 23 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 01 / 18 / 23 Explanation provided to council on: / /
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember Meola
Ordinance approving the designation of Nezir Buco as an eligible and qualified project sponsor pursuant to
Article 15 of the General Municipal Law for the purpose of the sale of 923 Blandina Street
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency has acquired 923 Blandina Street; and
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency is authorized to sell development parcels in said area to
prospective developers, pursuant to the requirements set forth in Article 15, Section 507, of the General Municipal
Laws of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, a purchase offer for this property has been received by the Utica Urban Renewal Agency from
Nezir Buco; and the developer proposes to purchase 923 Blandina Street to fence and landscape for his adjacent
property; and the purchase will require the payment of $250.00; and
WHEREAS, The Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency has been authorized to execute a contract
for sale with the aforementioned developer subject to the buyer meeting all applicable terms and conditions relative
to the sale of subject development including the approval of the Utica Common Council; and
WHEREAS, the Utica Urban Renewal Agency published a public hearing notice which described all
relevant terms and conditions of the proposed sale of said disposition parcel, and further provided for a public hearing
before the Utica Common Council, all in accordance with Article 15, of the General Municipal Law of the State of
New York; and
WHEREAS, On Wednesday, February 1, 2023 a public hearing was held before the Utica Common
Council, and the public was given the opportunity to ask questions, and offer comments relative to the proposed sale,
and subsequent development of the aforesaid property; and the proposed project purchase offer is consistent with the
terms and conditions set forth in the Utica Urban Renewal Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED: That the Utica Common Council authorizes the Mayor, as
Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency, to enter into a land contract pursuant to the terms and conditions
outlined in the land contract, in order to sell which are located in the Utica Urban Renewal area;
AND FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the purchase price for the above said property is $250.00; and
FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency is hereby
authorized to take any and all steps necessary to complete the disposition of this property for the aforesaid purpose.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2023
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
Submitted to council by: URA Proposed Ordinance No. 28
Submitted to council on: 01 / 11 / 23 Proposed Resolution No.
Sent to Council Attorney on: 01 / 11 / 23 Thursday Rule Waiver Required? N
Date of Legislation: 01 / 18 / 23 Explanation provided to council on: / /
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF UTICA
Department of Legislation
Common Council
Sponsored by: Councilmember Aiello
Ordinance approving the designation of Artspace Projects, Inc. as an eligible and qualified project sponsor
pursuant to Article 15 of the General Municipal Law for the purpose of the sale of 1016, 1018, portion of 1022
Park Avenue & 318.58-2-75
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency has acquired 1016, 1018, portion of 1022 Park Avenue &
318.58-2-75; and
WHEREAS, The Utica Urban Renewal Agency is authorized to sell development parcels in said area to
prospective developers, pursuant to the requirements set forth in Article 15, Section 507, of the General Municipal
Laws of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, a purchase offer for this property has been received by the Utica Urban Renewal Agency from
Artspace Projects, Inc.; and the developer proposes to purchase 1016, 1018, portion of 1022 Park Avenue &
318.58-2-75 to develop an affordable live/work project; and the purchase will require the payment of $12,500.00;
and
WHEREAS, The Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency has been authorized to execute a contract
for sale with the aforementioned developer subject to the buyer meeting all applicable terms and conditions relative
to the sale of subject development including the approval of the Utica Common Council; and
WHEREAS, the Utica Urban Renewal Agency published a public hearing notice which described all
relevant terms and conditions of the proposed sale of said disposition parcel, and further provided for a public hearing
before the Utica Common Council, all in accordance with Article 15, of the General Municipal Law of the State of
New York; and
WHEREAS, On Wednesday, February 1, 2023 a public hearing was held before the Utica Common
Council, and the public was given the opportunity to ask questions, and offer comments relative to the proposed sale,
and subsequent development of the aforesaid property; and the proposed project purchase offer is consistent with the
terms and conditions set forth in the Utica Urban Renewal Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED: That the Utica Common Council authorizes the Mayor, as
Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency, to enter into a land contract pursuant to the terms and conditions
outlined in the land contract, in order to sell which are located in the Utica Urban Renewal area;
AND FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the purchase price for the above said property is $12,500.00;
and
FURTHER BE IT ORDAINED: That the Chairman of the Utica Urban Renewal Agency is hereby
authorized to take any and all steps necessary to complete the disposition of this property for the aforesaid purpose.
MEMBERS AYES NAYS MEMBERS AYES NAYS ADOPTED OR DISAPPROVED BY
1 K. Aiello 6 J. Betrus THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
2 R. Burmaster 7 M. Williamson AYES _______ NAYS _______
3 C. Friend 8 S. Colosimo-Testa DATE ADOPTED _____/_____/ 2023
4 F. Meola 9 F. DiBrango
5 V. Ervin 10 M. Galime
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