Albany public meetings in 2022

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Albany Common Council's Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee is considering a series of ordinances authorizing the city to borrow a total of approximately $38 million through serial bonds or lease financing for various capital projects. These include maintenance equipment, a greenhouse, truck lifts, fencing, vehicles, fire apparatus, ADA compliance, road and sidewalk reconstruction, park improvements, traffic safety, and public safety upgrades. The committee will also discuss amendments to several ordinances, as noted in the agenda.

• $15,000,000 for design & construction of various city buildings
• $5,000,000 for street reconstruction
• $5,000,000 for Lincoln Park pool improvements
• $2,000,000 for rehabilitation of Central & Frisbie Avenues
• $1,900,000 for fire-fighting vehicles and equipment

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee reviewed a series of bond and amended ordinances. Following discussions regarding city debt, ARPA funds, and specific projects like the Lincoln Park Pool, the committee voted to move all listed ordinances forward with a positive recommendation.

• Approved positive recommendation for Ordinances 26.111.22 through 47.112.22 (unanimous)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 3-0 to approve a $150,000 budget transfer to cover final 2022 expenses, including Parking Authority reimbursements, worker's comp claims, insurance fees, street lighting utilities, and HR invoices. The meeting also included several other budget transfer requests from various departments.

• $150,000 transfer to cover Parking Authority reimbursement, worker's comp, insurance, street lighting, and HR invoices
• $1,000 transfer for Office of Cultural Affairs holiday activities
• $171,500 transfer for Department of General Services gasoline and fuel oil
• $143,000 transfer for Recreation Department spray pad down payments (Rosemont and Ridgefield)
• $8,100 transfer for Recreation facilities contracted services

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to consider several budget transfers for the 2022 fiscal year, including a $150,000 transfer to cover Parking Authority reimbursements, worker's comp claims, insurance fees, street lighting utilities, and HR invoices. Other transfers cover holiday activities, gasoline and fuel oil, and police building maintenance. The agenda is primarily administrative, with no public hearings or major policy decisions.

• $150,000 transfer to cover Parking Authority reimbursement, worker's comp, insurance, street lighting, and HR invoices
• $1,000 transfer for Holiday Activities in the Office of Cultural Affairs
• $19,500 transfer for utilities and parks contracted services in General Services
• $171,500 transfer for gasoline and fuel oil invoices in General Services
• $73,088 transfer for police building maintenance related to Albany Crime Analysis Center

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The provided document contains the agenda structure for a Caucus and Regular Meeting. The specific details of the items to be discussed or decided are not listed in the text provided.

• Local Law R of 2022 regarding Municipal Internet Service Commission Deadline

Water Board

The Albany Water Board will consider adopting the 2023 water and sewer rate schedule and the 2023-2027 Five Year Capital Plan, along with several project contracts and change orders. The board will also hear a presentation on the 2023-2028 capital plan and receive financial and investment reports. Public comment is scheduled.

• Resolution 22-106: Adopting the 2023 Water and Sewer Rate Schedule
• Resolution 22-107: Adopting the Five Year Capital Plan (2023-2027)
• Resolution 22-108: Extending the Backwater Valve Grant Program
• Resolution 22-113: Change Order 2 to Beaver Creek Clean River Project electrical contract with Kasselman Electric Co.
• Resolution 22-119: Authorizing offer to purchase three parcels in Westerlo, NY

The Board approved the 2023 Water and Sewer Rate Schedule and the 2023-2027 Five Year Capital Plan. Members also authorized the purchase of three land parcels in Westerlo, NY, and approved multiple project change orders.

• Adopted 2023 Water and Sewer Rate Schedule (unanimous)
• Adopted 2023-2027 Five Year Capital Plan (unanimous)
• Extended Backwater Valve Grant Program (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of three parcels in Westerlo, NY (unanimous)
• Authorized design services for Reflection & Learning Garden in Lincoln Park (unanimous)
• Designated Board as Lead Agency for sewer main replacement project (unanimous)
• Approved quarterly payment to Graypoint LLC for investment services (unanimous)
• Approved six change orders for Beaver Creek and Erie Boulevard projects (unanimous)

Council Operations and Ethics Committee

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee is discussing Local Law P of 2022, which would amend Chapter 167 (Elections) of the Albany City Code to update ward boundaries based on 2020 Census data. The law includes detailed boundary descriptions for all 15 wards. This is a discussion/consideration item, not a final vote.

• Local Law P of 2022 amending Chapter 167 (Elections) to update ward boundaries
• Detailed boundary descriptions for all 15 wards, including streets like Southern Boulevard, Delaware Avenue, and Hudson River
• Public comment period is scheduled

Commission on Human Rights

The Albany Commission on Human Rights is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of September minutes, updates, community education, new business, and public comment. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• Approval of September minutes
• Community education discussion
• New business
• Public comment (5 minutes per person)

Historic Resources Commission

The Historic Resources Commission is holding a public hearing to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 66 State Street in the Downtown Albany Historic District. The applicant, 66 State Street, LLC (Redburn Development), proposes to replace a curved glass block storefront with a glazed aluminum storefront matching the curve footprint. The meeting includes a public hearing and new business items.

• Certificate of Appropriateness application COA 0982 for 66 State Street
• Proposal to replace curved glass block storefront with glazed aluminum storefront
• Property located in Downtown Albany Historic District
• Owner: 66 State Street, LLC (Redburn Development)

The Historic Resources Commission approved a request to replace a curved, glass block storefront with a glazed, aluminum storefront at 66 State Street. The property is located in the Downtown Albany Historic District.

• Approved storefront replacement at 66 State Street (6-0)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on December 19, 2022, with a full agenda of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. Most items are held from previous meetings and will be discussed or voted on, including a series of bond ordinances totaling over $40 million for city purchases and improvements. The agenda also includes several public hearings and a public comment period.

• Bond ordinances for DGS maintenance equipment ($1,146,875), greenhouse ($115,000), portable truck lifts ($180,000), fencing ($633,000), maintenance vehicles ($3,483,553), waste management planning ($410,805)
• Bond ordinances for fire-fighting vehicles ($1,900,000), ADA compliance ($1,000,000), Central & Frisbie Avenues rehabilitation ($2,000,000), Lincoln Park project ($1,300,000), various city buildings ($15,000,000), sidewalk reconstruction ($600,000), street reconstruction ($5,000,000), roadway safety ($1,000,000), lighting upgrades ($250,000), Tricentennial Park planning ($100,000), traffic speed reduction planning ($300,000), roadway striping ($250,000), traffic signals ($1,200,000), APD computer aided dispatch ($1,000,000), APD facilities ($2,000,000), Lincoln Park pool ($5,000,000)
• Local laws to prohibit police use of kinetic energy munitions and chemical weapons, and to create a community commission on cannabis reparations
• Local law to reduce city speed limit from 30 to 25 mph
• Ordinance to sell city-owned property at 507 First Street to Shawn Ford

The meeting consisted of a caucus to discuss the agenda for the December 19, 2022, Regular Meeting. No substantive decisions were made during this session.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee is meeting to interview candidates for the Civilian Police Review Board (CPRB). This is the only substantive item on the agenda; the rest is procedural.

• Interviewing candidates for the CPRB

The committee interviewed Kereama Gorousingh and Antoinette Santos for positions on the CPRB. Following an executive session, the committee voted to move forward with a candidate with a positive recommendation.

• Approved positive recommendation for a CPRB candidate voted on in executive session

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is approving several budget transfers for the 2022 fiscal year, including a $200,000 transfer to cover the city's required pension contribution, a $984 transfer for employee training, and multiple transfers within the Department of General Services for snow services, landscaping, golf course supplies, and security door installation. The meeting also includes a transfer request for vendor payments and sewer maintenance overtime.

• $200,000 transfer to NYS Employee Retirement for pension contribution
• $8,000 transfer for snow contracted services (Zone E retainer for HURB Landscaping)
• $111,000 transfer for golf course supplies, motor vehicle expenses, and equipment
• $15,000 transfer for security door installation at 200 Henry Johnson
• $984 transfer for employee training opportunities

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to review and likely approve several budget transfer requests for the 2022 budget year. These include a $200,000 transfer for a required pension contribution, a $111,000 transfer for General Services covering fertilizer, vehicle expenses, and a golf course heater, and other smaller transfers for training, snow services, and security projects. The agenda consists solely of these budget transfer items.

• $200,000 transfer to NYS Employee Retirement for pension contribution due Dec 15
• $111,000 transfer for General Services: $60K motor vehicle, $12K heater, $39K golf course supplies
• $8,000 transfer for Zone E snow retainer for HURB Landscaping
• $15,000 transfer for door installation at 200 Henry Johnson
• $984 transfer from Contracted Services to Training Fund

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is holding its caucus and regular meeting on December 5, 2022. The agenda includes an amended resolution to make Capital City funding permanent, along with supporting legislation and minutes from previous meetings. Most items are procedural, but the funding resolution is a substantive item for discussion or decision.

• Resolution 102.111.22 (Anane) to make Capital City funding permanent (amended 11.23.22)

Historic Resources Commission

The Historic Resources Commission is holding a public workshop to discuss new business, including a certificate of appropriateness application for 66 State Street. The applicant, 66 State Street, LLC (Redburn Development), seeks approval to replace a curved glass block storefront with a glazed aluminum storefront matching the curve footprint. The workshop is open to the public via YouTube live stream.

• Certificate of Appropriateness COA 0982 for 66 State Street
• Replace curved glass block storefront with glazed aluminum storefront
• Property located in Downtown Albany Historic District
• Applicant: 66 State Street, LLC (Redburn Development)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public workshop and hearing on November 30, 2022, to consider 13 area variance requests for signage at six properties. The requests seek to allow signs that exceed size, height, or number limits in various zoning districts. The board will also accept public comments, with advance registration required.

• 75 Park Avenue: two variances for a 10-ft freestanding sign and electronic message center (MU-CI district)
• 1006 Central Avenue: variance for five wall signs at McDonald's (MU-CH district)
• 80 State Street: variance for a fourth wall sign (MU-DT, historic overlay)
• 1 Sandidge Way: four variances for freestanding signs at an apartment building (R-V district)
• 943 Central Avenue: five variances for Lia Hyundai signage (MU-CH district)

The Board approved signage variances for properties at 80 State Street, 1 Sandidge Way, and 1383 Washington Avenue. A request for signage at 943 Central Avenue was tabled, and no action was taken on requests for 75 Park Avenue and 1006 Central Avenue.

• Approved Area Variance #0111 for a fourth wall sign at 80 State Street (4-0-0)
• Approved Area Variances #0112, #0113, #0114, and #0115 for freestanding signs at 1 Sandidge Way (all 4-0-0)
• Tabled Project #00489 regarding signage for Lia Hyundai at 943 Central Avenue (4-0-0)
• Approved Area Variance #0121 for two wall signs at 1383 Washington Avenue (3-1-0)
• Approved Area Variance #0122 for a 72 SF wall sign at 1383 Washington Avenue (3-1-0)
• No action taken on AV #0123, #0124, and #0125 for 75 Park Avenue
• No action taken on AV #0126 for 1006 Central Avenue

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on December 5, 2022, with a full agenda of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. Key items include introducing laws on ward boundaries, police oversight, and a citywide speed limit reduction, as well as holding numerous ordinances authorizing bond-funded purchases and construction projects. The meeting also includes public comment periods and standard procedural items.

• Local law to update ward boundaries using 2020 Census data
• Local law codifying relationship between Public Safety Commissioner and Community Police Review Board
• Local law reducing city speed limit from 30 to 25 mph
• Ordinance authorizing sale of city-owned parcel at 507 First Street to Shawn Ford
• Ordinances authorizing over $50 million in serial bonds for equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure projects

The meeting consisted of a caucus and discussion with City School District of Albany officials. No substantive decisions, votes, or approvals were recorded in the minutes.

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a workshop, meeting, and hearing on November 29, 2022, to discuss and decide on several development applications. Items include a zoning map amendment, a conditional use permit for a health center expansion, and multiple development plan reviews. Public comment will be taken for meeting and hearing items, but not for workshop items.

• Demolition of 1,790 sq ft building at 32 North Street for a 7-space parking lot (workshop)
• 3,890 sq ft addition at 10 Dewitt Street for Whitney M. Young Health Center (workshop)
• 44-space parking lot and demolition at 69-85 Sherman Street for Legal Aid Society (meeting)
• 67-unit, 6-story building with retail at 67 Livingston Avenue (meeting)
• Zoning map change at 60 Fourth Avenue from MU-FS to L-1 (hearing)

The Planning Board approved a 67-unit residential building with retail space at 67 Livingston Avenue and a parking lot project for the Legal Aid Society of Northeast NY. A zoning map amendment for 60 Fourth Avenue was deferred, and a development plan extension was granted for 60 Colvin Avenue.

• Approved Development Plan Review for 69-85 Sherman Street parking lot (5-0-0)
• Approved Parking Location waiver for 69-85 Sherman Street (5-0-0)
• Approved Street Amenities waiver for 69-85 Sherman Street (5-0-0)
• Approved Demolition Review for 67 Livingston Avenue (4-0-1)
• Approved Development Plan Review for 67 Livingston Avenue 6-story building (4-0-1)
• Deferred Zoning Map amendment for 60 Fourth Avenue (5-0-0)
• Approved two-year extension of Development Plan Review for 60 Colvin Avenue (5-0-0)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve several budget transfers for the 2022 fiscal year, moving funds between accounts to cover expenses such as team merchandise, utilities, office setup, and advertising. The meeting also set the next regular meeting for December 6, 2022.

• $4,500 transfer for Admin Services team swag and contracted services
• $2,570 transfer to cover negative balances in Admin Services supplies and contracted services
• $15,000 transfer for street lighting utilities
• $15,000 transfer to design and furnish the new Cultural Affairs office
• $3,000 transfer for advertising of 2022 Cultural Affairs events

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider several budget transfer requests for the 2022 fiscal year, moving funds between accounts to cover expenses such as team swag, office furniture, marketing, and vehicle repairs. The transfers involve departments including Admin Services, Cultural Affairs, Water, and Recreation.

• $4,500 transfer from Admin Services Training Fund to Contracted Services for team swag
• $2,570 transfer from Admin Services Miscellaneous to Supplies and Materials and Contracted Services
• $15,000 transfer from Purchasing to Cultural Affairs for office furniture and configuration
• $3,000 transfer from Festivals to Marketing for Spectrum Reach advertising
• $20,000 transfer from Water Maintenance Vehicle Repair to another account

Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee

The Law, Buildings, and Code Enforcement Committee will discuss two items: a local law to create a public online database of code violations, building permits, and complaints for rental properties, and an ordinance setting consumer protection standards for surface parking lots with more than five vehicles. The meeting includes a public comment period.

• Local Law H of 2022: creates public code violation database for rental properties, effective 180 days after passage
• Ordinance 20.91.22: sets accessibility, design, and maintenance standards for surface parking lots with more than five vehicles
• Existing parking lots must comply by December 31, 2023
• Database to include violation history, permits, and complaints by property address and owner name

The Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee voted to move two items forward with favorable recommendations. These include a law creating a public code violation database and an ordinance regarding parking lot consumer protection standards.

• Recommended Ordinance 20.91.22 (parking lot consumer protection standards) out of committee
• Recommended Local Law H of 2022 (public code violation database) out of committee

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Common Council is reviewing the budget for the 2023 fiscal year. The agenda also includes a local law to amend the city's housing code and several resolutions.

• Ordinance 23.102.22: Adopting the budget for the city for the 2023 fiscal year
• Local Law H of 2022: Amending Chapter 231 Housing of the Code of the City of Albany
• Resolution 107.112.22R: Transgender Day of Remembrance
• Resolution 106.112.22R: Honoring Ed Verhoff

Commission on Human Rights

The Albany Commission on Human Rights is meeting to approve October minutes, receive updates, discuss community education, and consider new business, including the Jordan Young case. Public comment is limited to five minutes per person.

• Approval of October minutes
• Updates from commission members
• Community education discussion
• New business: Jordan Young case
• Public comment (5 minutes per person)

Water Board

The Albany Water Board will hear a presentation on the 2023-2028 Five Year Capital Plan and receive financial and rate consultant reports, including a proposal to establish a public hearing date for a rate schedule update. The board will also vote on several resolutions, including contract change orders, a lead service replacement project award, and a license agreement with Bank of America. The meeting includes public comment and committee reports.

• Presentation on 2023-2028 Five Year Capital Plan by Kevin Hogan, Arcadis
• Resolution 22-103: Awarding Lead Service Replacement Project- ARPA to New Castle
• Resolution 22-102: Authorizing license agreement with Bank of America on Delaware Avenue in Delmar
• Resolution 22-99: Change Order 4 to Alcove Reservoir Sodium Permanganate System contract with AMZ Construction Services, Inc.
• Resolution 22-100: Change Order 3 to Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant Electrical Upgrades contract with VMJR Companies LLC

The Board adopted the 2023 Budget Summary and Transfer Documents and approved several construction change orders and project awards. A public hearing for a proposed 5% rate increase and new tier billing thresholds is scheduled for December 12, 2022.

• Adopted 2023 Budget Summary and Transfer Documents (Unanimous)
• Awarded Lead Service Replacement Project- ARPA to New Castle (Unanimous)
• Approved amended Mission Statement Policy (Unanimous)
• Approved license agreement with Bank of America on Delaware Avenue in Delmar (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 4 for Alcove Reservoir Sodium Permanganate System with AMZ Construction Services, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 3 for Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant Electrical Upgrades with VMJR Companies LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 2 for Marlborough Court and Northern Boulevard Improvements with WM. J. Keller & Sons Constructions Corp. (Unanimous)
• Approved task order with Underwater Solutions for EPA Audit work (Unanimous)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on November 21, 2022, to consider a range of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. Key items include introducing several ordinances authorizing bond financing for capital projects, such as $15 million for design and construction of various city buildings, and holding previously introduced local laws on topics like police equipment restrictions and speed limit reductions. The agenda also includes public comment periods and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Ordinance 36.112.22: $15,000,000 bond for design & construction of various city buildings
• Ordinance 34.112.22: $2,000,000 bond for rehabilitation of Central & Frisbie Avenues
• Local Law M of 2022: Reduce city speed limit from 30 to 25 mph
• Local Law J of 2022: Prohibit police purchase/use of kinetic energy munitions
• Ordinance 24.111.22: Adopt FY2023 city budget as presented by mayor

The Common Council convened for a caucus to discuss the agenda for the November 21, 2022, Regular Meeting. Members discussed specific ordinances and a resolution. No substantive decisions were made during this session.

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency Board will meet via Zoom to approve minutes from the September 6 meeting, a HOME funding application for 60 Colvin Ave, a conditional transfer of 284 Livingston Ave, and a CDBG-CV funding application. These actions involve federal housing and community development funds.

• Approval of HOME funding application for 60 Colvin Ave
• Approval of conditional transfer of 284 Livingston Ave
• Approval of CDBG-CV funding application
• Approval of minutes from 9/6/22 meeting

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 4-0 to approve multiple budget transfers for the 2022 fiscal year. The transfers include $50,000 for City Hall renovation projects, $19,000 for cultural affairs events, and other departmental adjustments. The meeting also set the next regular meeting for November 22, 2022.

• $50,000 transfer to DGS for City Hall renovation projects
• $19,000 transfer for cultural affairs (marketing, Alive at Five, Tulip Festival)
• $192,387 transfer for DGS equipment and supplies, including new clock at City Hall
• $8,000 transfer for housing utilities to cover light invoice
• $4,000 transfer for Albany Soccer Club purchase

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider several budget transfer requests from city departments, including the Office of Cultural Affairs, Housing and Community Development, Police, Recreation, and Water. It will also vote on a proposed $141.75 settlement to Jennifer Colvin for unlawful towing of her vehicle.

• Office of Cultural Affairs: $19,000 transfer to cover marketing, hotels, ice, and technical sound services
• Housing and Community Development: $8,000 transfer to cover utilities payment
• Police: transfer for investigation training and IA Pro Conference costs
• Recreation: $2,000 transfer for winter uniforms and $5 transfer to clear negative balance
• Water: $48,500 transfer to cover utilities spending through end of 2022

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider several items, including a local law affecting the Department of Public Safety, mid-year raises for the Treasurer's Office, and making Capital City funding permanent. The agenda also includes resolutions recognizing November as Epilepsy Awareness Month and Native American Heritage Month, and honoring Michael Corso. Most items are under Majority Consent, suggesting they may be approved as a block.

• Local Law F of 2022 (AA 10.17.22) - Department of Public Safety
• Resolution 97.102.22R (MC) - Treasurer's Office Mid Year Raises
• Resolution 102.111.22 (Anane) (MC) - Make Capital City Funding Permanent
• Resolution 105.111.22R (Flynn) (MC) - Recognizing November 2022 as Epilepsy Awareness Month
• Resolution 104.111.22R (Keegan) (MC) - Native American Heritage Resolution

Water Board

The Albany Water Board is holding a special meeting to consider several resolutions, including awarding a master service agreement for specialty tank services and approving multiple change orders for the 35 Erie Blvd construction project. The board will also hear reports from the Commissioner and Counsel, and may enter executive session if needed.

• Resolution 22-91: Awarding Master Service Agreement Contract for Specialty Tank Services to Underwater Solutions, Inc.
• Resolution 22-92: Approving Change Order 2 to the 35 Erie Blvd Buildings contract with O'Connell Electric Company, Inc.
• Resolution 22-93: Approving Change Order 4 to the 35 Erie Blvd Improvements General Contract with Murnane Building Contractors, Inc.
• Resolution 22-94: Approving Change Order 2 to the Erie Blvd HVAC contract with RMB Heating & Cooling, LLC.
• Resolution 22-96: Approving Change Order 1 to the UV Disinfection system for Loudonville contract with Trojan Technologies, ULC.

The Board awarded a Master Service Agreement for specialty tank services to Underwater Solutions, Inc. to address EPA Audit concerns. Additionally, the Board approved six change orders for various infrastructure and building projects.

• Awarded Master Service Agreement for Specialty Tank Services to Underwater Solutions, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 2 to 35 Erie Blvd Buildings contract with O’Connell Electric Company, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 4 to 35 Erie Blvd Improvements General Contract with Murnane Building Contractors, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 2 to Eric Blvd HVAC contract with RMB Heating & Cooling, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 2 to 35 Erie Blvd Plumbing contract with RMB Heating & Cooling, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 1 to UV Disinfection system for Loudonville contract with Trojan Technologies, ULC (Unanimous)
• Approved October 21, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Advisory Committee will consider approving a memo outlining climate plan recommendations, including new building codes, fossil fuel bans, and electric vehicle infrastructure. The committee will also review its annual report and discuss Clean Energy Community campaigns approved by NYSERDA.

• Vote on memo recommending a new Climate Action Plan with funding from NY DEC program
• Proposal to set a deadline for all new buildings to be built without fossil fuels for heat or cooking
• Update on three Clean Energy Community campaigns (heat pumps, community solar, electric vehicles) approved by NYSERDA on Oct 18
• Review and approval of the committee's annual report

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public workshop and hearing on Nov. 2, 2022, to consider four sign variance requests and one substitution request. The sign requests seek to exceed size, height, and number limits for signs at 80 State Street, 1 Sandidge Way, 943 Central Avenue, and 1383 Washington Avenue. The hearing will consider converting a building at 64 Colvin Avenue into a self-storage facility, replacing four nonconforming uses.

• 80 State Street: fourth wall sign (24.21 sq ft) where one per frontage is max
• 1 Sandidge Way: two freestanding signs, sizes 20 and 15.5 sq ft, heights 8.8 and 6 ft, exceeding 6 sq ft and 5 ft limits
• 943 Central Avenue (Lia Hyundai): five variances for signs up to 193.75 sq ft, 25 ft tall, and multiple signs
• 1383 Washington Avenue (Fairfield by Marriott): two wall signs, one 72 sq ft, exceeding 32 sq ft and one-sign limits
• 64 Colvin Avenue: substitution of nonconforming uses to self-storage

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a substitution of nonconforming uses at 64 Colvin Avenue. Several other area variance requests regarding signage were presented during the public workshop, but no action was taken on them.

• Approved substitution of 4 legal nonconforming uses for a self-storage facility at 64 Colvin Avenue (4-0-0)
• No action taken on Area Variance #0111 for 80 State Street
• No action taken on Area Variances #0112, #0113, #0114, and #0115 for 1 Sandidge Way
• No action taken on Area Variances #0116, #0117, #0118, #0119, and #0120 for 943 Central Avenue
• No action taken on Area Variances #0121 and #0122 for 1383 Washington Avenue

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a public hearing on the City of Albany 2023 Proposed Budget, then consider local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. The agenda includes introducing local laws to raise income limits for senior and disabled person tax exemptions, and ordinances authorizing bond-funded purchases totaling over $7.8 million for equipment, vehicles, and facilities. Several previously introduced items are held for committee review, including proposals to ban police use of kinetic energy munitions and chemical weapons, and to reduce the city speed limit to 25 mph.

• Public hearing on City of Albany 2023 Proposed Budget
• Local laws to increase income eligibility for senior citizen and disabled persons tax exemptions
• Ordinance authorizing $3,483,553 in bonds for maintenance vehicles
• Ordinance authorizing $1,900,000 in bonds for fire-fighting vehicles and equipment
• Ordinance authorizing sale of 142 Livingston Avenue, 35 and 37 Ten Broeck Place to Albany County Historical Association

The meeting consisted of a caucus where members discussed the upcoming November 7 agenda, a legal assistance partnership letter, and redistricting. No substantive decisions were made during this session.

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public workshop to discuss two development projects: a 75,000-square-foot warehouse at 42 Corporate Circle and a 6-story, 67-unit residential building with retail space at 67 Livingston Avenue. No public comment will be taken for these workshop items, and no final decisions are scheduled.

• 75,000 sq ft warehouse with 7 loading docks and 75 parking spaces at 42 Corporate Circle (I-1, Pine Bush Overlay)
• 6-story, 67-unit residential building with 2,105 sq ft retail at 67 Livingston Avenue (MU-CU)
• SEQRA lead agency declarations for both projects
• Demolition review for 67 Livingston Avenue
• Development plan reviews for both projects

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a caucus/work session and special meeting to consider a single resolution confirming the Mayor's appointment of retired City Court Judge Gary F. Stiglmeier as Public Safety Commissioner. Public comment will be allowed, and no other items will be considered.

• Resolution 99.103.22R confirming appointment of Gary F. Stiglmeier as Public Safety Commissioner
• Public comment period
• No fiscal impact

The Common Council convened a special caucus to consider a Mayoral appointee for the Public Safety Commissioner post. The candidate provided an introduction regarding professional experience and background and answered questions from members Keegan, Anane, and Hoey. No vote or final decision was recorded in the minutes.

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a caucus/work session and special meeting to consider a single resolution confirming the Mayor's appointment of retired City Court Judge Gary F. Stiglmeier as Public Safety Commissioner. Public comment will be allowed. No other items will be considered.

• Resolution 99.103.22R confirming appointment of Hon. Gary F. Stiglmeier (Ret.) as Public Safety Commissioner

The Common Council met to confirm the mayoral appointment of Hon. Gary F. Stiglmeier (Ret.) to the position of Public Safety Commissioner. The resolution was adopted unanimously.

• Confirmed appointment of Hon. Gary F. Stiglmeier (Ret.) as Public Safety Commissioner (10-0)

Water Board

The Albany Water Board will hold its regular monthly meeting, where it will consider resolutions on legal services, water and sewer rate changes, and multiple construction contracts. The board will also receive updates on capital projects and discuss the 2023 budget and rate schedule.

• Resolution 22-81: Awarding legal services contract to Monaco, Cooper, Lamme & Carr
• Resolution 22-82: Scheduling public hearing on proposed water and sewer rate changes
• Resolution 22-83: Change order for UV disinfection system at Loudonville Reservoir with Trojan Technologies
• Resolution 22-84: Change order 3 for 2022 Lead Service Replacement with Peter Luizzi & Bros Contracting Inc.
• Resolution 22-88: Transferring funds from Reserve to Capital Account for Basic Creek Dam repairs

The Albany Water Board approved a contract for legal services and authorized a public hearing on proposed water and sewer rate changes. Several change orders and task orders for construction and engineering projects were also approved. Two resolutions were not voted on.

• Approved Resolution 22-81 awarding legal services contract to Monaco, Cooper, Lamme & Carr (unanimous)
• Authorized Resolution 22-82 scheduling a public hearing on proposed water and sewer rate changes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-84 change order for lead service replacement contract with Peter Luizzi & Bros (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-85 change order for Beaver Creek Clean River Project with WM J Keller & Sons (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-86 change order for MEP design services with C.T. Male Associates (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-87 task order for Basic Creek Dam improvement with Schnabel Engineering (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-88 fund transfer from Reserve to Capital Account for Basic Creek Dam repairs (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-89 SEQRA determination for water service replacement (unanimous)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 4-0 to approve a $20,000 budget transfer from the Department of General Services' Supplies and Materials account to cover an invoice from SM Gallivan for processing waste. The meeting also included several other budget transfer requests from the Recreation Department, totaling over $90,000, to cover invoices for equipment, supplies, wages, and a floor replacement at Swinburne Skating Rink.

• $20,000 transfer to cover SM Gallivan processing waste invoice
• $60,000 transfer for skating rink employee wages
• $15,000 transfer for Swinburne Skating Rink floor replacement
• $5,000 transfer to cover Grainger invoices
• $5,000 transfer for summer program employee wages

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to consider several budget transfer requests, mostly for the Recreation Department, to cover open invoices, equipment, and pool winterization. The agenda also includes a transfer for the Law Department to pay vendors for services. The meeting is a regular session with no public hearings listed.

• $12,000 transfer for Law Department to pay vendors for services
• $1,996 transfer for Recreation to cover open invoices for equipment
• $5,000 transfer for Recreation to cover Grainger invoices
• $3,000 transfer for Recreation to cover Grainger invoices
• $12,300 transfer for Recreation for winterization of Mater Christi Pool

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public meeting and hearing on October 18, 2022, to consider five development proposals. These include painting a historic water tank, constructing two parking lots, adding to a building for group living, and converting two residential buildings. Public comments can be submitted in advance or requested to speak.

• 21 Erie Boulevard: paint historic water tank with new building and tenant logos
• 48 Delaware Avenue & 234 Myrtle Avenue: 16-space surface parking lot
• 69-85 Sherman Street: 44-space parking lot, demolition of 2,355 sq ft building
• 271 Central Avenue: 21,324 sq ft addition for group living, demolition of 834 sq ft building
• 303 Hudson Avenue: convert townhouse from 2 to 3 units; 86 Hackett Boulevard: convert single-unit to 2 units

The Albany Planning Board approved five projects, including painting a historic water tank logo at 21 Erie Boulevard, a parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue, a parking lot at 69-85 Sherman Street, a group living addition at 271 Central Avenue, and two dwelling conversions. All votes were unanimous (4-0 or 5-0). The board also deferred a development plan review for the Sherman Street project.

• Approved painting logo on historic water tank at 21 Erie Boulevard (4-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue (5-0)
• Approved parking lot at 69-85 Sherman Street, deferred development plan review (5-0)
• Approved group living addition at 271 Central Avenue with conditions (5-0)
• Approved conversion of townhouse at 303 Hudson Avenue to three units (5-0)
• Approved conversion of single-unit dwelling at 86 Hackett Boulevard to two units (5-0)

General Services, Health and Environment Committee

The General Service, Health and Environment Committee will consider Resolution 88.92.22R, which would rename a portion of Quail Street from Western Avenue to Elberon Place as "Phillip Sabatino Way" in honor of the late World War II veteran and longtime Albany business owner. The resolution has no fiscal impact.

• Resolution 88.92.22R: Renaming portion of Quail Street to "Phillip Sabatino Way"
• Honoring the life of Phillip Sabatino, WWII veteran and owner of Sabatino's Liquor Store
• Two signs reading "Phillip Sabatino Way" to be placed in consultation with Division of Traffic Engineering
• No fiscal impact

The General Service, Health and Environment Committee voted unanimously to recommend a resolution honoring the life of Phillip Sabatino and renaming a portion of Quail Street in his honor. The resolution was moved by Council Member Clarke, seconded by Council Member Zamer, and passed with a favorable recommendation. No public comment was received, and the meeting adjourned after the vote.

• Recommended Resolution 88.92.22R honoring Phillip Sabatino and renaming a portion of Quail Street (unanimous)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is holding its caucus and regular meeting on October 17, 2022. The agenda includes several resolutions under Majority Consent, including mid-year raises for the Treasurer's Office, an honorary street renaming for Phillip Sabatino, and a proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The agenda also includes minutes from previous meetings and supporting legislation.

• Resolution 97.102.22R (MC) - Treasurer's Office mid-year raises
• Resolution 88.92.22R (Anane) - Honorary street renaming for Phillip Sabatino
• Resolution 98.102.22R (MC) - Domestic Violence Awareness Month (Keegan)

Historic Resources Commission

The Historic Resources Commission will hold a public hearing on October 13, 2022, to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 175 Jay Street in the Center Square/Hudson Park Historic District. The applicant seeks approval to restore the main opening, replace non-original doors, and install new aluminum entry doors while retaining historic trim. Public comments can be submitted by email or in person.

• Certificate of Appropriateness (COA 0940) for 175 Jay Street
• Restore main opening to original size, retain historic trim and side lites
• Replace non-original door with new single lite double door system
• Replace historic double doors on Jay and Dove Street elevations with aluminum entry doors
• Public hearing with options for written and in-person comments

The Historic Resources Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for 175 Jay Street, including restoration of the main entry and new secondary entrances with conditions. The main entrance proposal was approved as presented, while the secondary entrances were approved subject to updated drawings retaining existing trim and matching door configuration. The commission also recommended preserving any historic wood doors on site or making them available for reuse.

• Approved main entrance restoration at 175 Jay Street including removal of non-original door, restoration of original trim and side-lites, and installation of dark bronze anodized aluminum double doors (7-0)
• Approved Jay Street and Dove Street secondary entrances with conditions requiring updated drawings retaining existing trim and transom, and new doors matching existing size, shape, and configuration (7-0)
• Recommended that any historic wood door be retained on site, reused by owner, or made available to an alternate purchaser or salvaged

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public workshop to discuss a proposal by The Burke Companies to convert an existing building at 64 Colvin Avenue into a self-storage facility. The project requires substituting five prior legal nonconforming uses (car sales, car repair, car wash, convenience store, gas station) with a new nonconforming use (self-storage). No public comments are taken at this workshop; the next public hearing is scheduled for November 2, 2022.

• Application #00484, Subdivision #0001 for 64 Colvin Avenue
• Applicant: The Burke Companies
• Proposal: Convert existing building to self-storage facility
• Request: Substitution of nonconforming uses under § 375-506(4)(d)
• Zoning districts: MU-CU and MU-CH

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2023 city budget, as presented by the mayor on September 30, 2022. The agenda also includes several local laws and ordinances that have been introduced or held, covering topics such as police munitions, speed limits, affordable housing, and a public code violation database. Most items are in committee or up for discussion, with no final votes listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing on City of Albany 2023 Proposed Budget
• Local Law C-2022: Creating a Public Safety Commission
• Local Law M of 2022: Reducing city speed limit from 30 to 25 mph
• Local Law J and K of 2022: Prohibiting police use of kinetic energy munitions and chemical weapons
• Ordinance 23.102.22: Adopting the 2023 budget

The Common Council held a caucus meeting with Police Chief Eric Hawkins and other officials to discuss the September 28th tear gas incident and recent shootings. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only, with council members asking questions about protocols, public safety, and infrastructure. The Municipal Internet Commission presented a preliminary report, and Kyle Hatch presented the ADA Transition Plan.

Sustainability Commission

The committee is meeting to discuss a draft Climate Agenda for 2022-2023 and review its annual report. The session includes updates on NYSERDA-approved Clean Energy Community Campaigns focusing on heat pumps, community solar, and electric vehicles.

• Discussion of 2022-2023 Climate Agenda
• Update on NYSERDA-approved campaigns for Energy Efficiency/Heat Pumps, Community Solar, and Electric Vehicles
• Review and approval of the Annual Report
• Proposed recommendation to ban new natural gas connections by 2024 or 2026
• Proposed adoption of NYStretch Code to increase new construction energy-efficiency by up to 20%

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

This is a procedural meeting of the Albany Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee. The agenda consists of public comment, approval of meeting minutes from October 6 to November 16, 2022, and a supporting document for a detailed budget notice. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

• Approval of multiple meeting minutes from October and November 2022
• Supporting document: Finance, Assessment and Taxation Notice Budget Detailed Notice

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee is reviewing the City of Albany's 2023 fiscal budget, with a series of department presentations scheduled through November. The committee will also consider a resolution consenting to salary adjustments for certain Treasurer's office positions for the remainder of 2022, and an ordinance to adopt the 2023 budget as proposed by the Mayor on September 30, 2022.

• Resolution 97.102.22R: Consents to salary increases for Treasurer's office positions, effective July 1 to December 31, 2022, including Account Clerk from $38,246 to $48,000, Deputy Treasurer from $98,345 to $125,000, and Chief Accountant from $60,000 to $110,000
• Ordinance 23.102.22: Adopts the 2023 city budget as presented by the Mayor on September 30, 2022, and levies real property taxes
• Public hearing for the 2023 proposed budget scheduled for November 7 at 7:00 PM
• Budget presentations scheduled for Police, Fire, Neighborhood Services, General Services, Recreation, Water, and other departments
• Possible committee vote on budget recommendations on November 2

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment passed (3-0) a series of budget transfers, including $28,000 for the Office of Cultural Affairs to cover marketing and Alive at Five beverage costs, $2,000 for police training, and multiple Water Department transfers totaling over $700,000 for energy, overtime, supplies, and contract reallocations. The meeting also included several other transfer requests for various departments.

• $28,000 transfer for Office of Cultural Affairs (marketing and Alive at Five)
• $2,000 transfer for police training (crisis intervention, vehicle instructor, force science)
• $500,000 transfer from Sewer to Water funds for William Keller standby/emergency contract
• $110,000 transfer for Water Department overtime (Trans & Distr and Filtration Plant)
• $80,000 transfer for Water Department supplies (purification and distribution)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider several budget transfer requests and an appropriation increase for the City of Albany. The agenda includes transfers for police training, water utility operations, and a $500,000 appropriation for the Lead Line Replacement Project using ARPA funds. The board will also review a $500,060 reallocation of a standby/emergency contract from sewer to water funds.

• $2,000 transfer for police training (crisis intervention, vehicle instructor, force science certification)
• $15,000 transfer to cover increased energy costs for water utilities
• $500,060 reallocation of William Keller standby/emergency contract from sewer to water funds
• $110,000 transfer for overtime in water transmission/distribution and filtration plant
• $500,000 appropriation increase for Lead Line Replacement Project using ARPA funds

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider several items, including a local law to create a public code violation database, two ordinances granting easements to 1053 Brewing, LLC and National Grid, and resolutions recognizing Italian-American Heritage Month and Digital Inclusion Week. The agenda also includes approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Local Law H of 2022: creating a public code violation database
• Ordinance 17.81.22: granting an easement to 1053 Brewing, LLC
• Ordinance 18.82.22: directing grant to National Grid
• Resolution 91.101.22: Italian-American Heritage Month
• Resolution 92.101.22: Digital Inclusion Week 2022

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a public hearing on a resolution endorsing the city's application for a Restore NY Communities Initiative grant to rehabilitate the abandoned Central Warehouse at 143 Montgomery Street. The meeting also includes consideration of several local laws and ordinances, including proposals to reduce the citywide speed limit, create a public code violation database, and prohibit police use of certain weapons. Most items are listed as introduced or held in committee, with no final votes scheduled on the substantive proposals.

• Public hearing on Restore NY grant application for Central Warehouse (143 Montgomery St, ~495,000 sq ft)
• Local Law M: reduce citywide speed limit from 30 to 25 mph
• Local Law H: create public code violation database
• Local Laws J, K, L: prohibit police purchase/use of kinetic energy munitions and chemical weapons
• Ordinance 22.101.22: define motorized scooters to include devices without handlebars

The Common Council met in caucus to hear presentations from Capitalize Albany on the Restore Albany Grant and from the Reapportionment Commission on new ward maps. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• No formal decisions or votes taken at caucus
• Discussed Restore Albany Grant with Capitalize Albany
• Reviewed Reapportionment Commission ward maps and population data

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public workshop and hearing on September 28, 2022, to discuss and decide on several development applications. Workshop items include two residential conversions, while the hearing will consider a parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue, a parking lot and demolition at 69-85 Sherman Street, and a building addition at 271 Central Avenue. Public comment is accepted for hearing items only.

• Conditional use permit for 303 Hudson Avenue: convert townhouse from 2 to 3 dwelling units
• Conditional use permit for 86 Hackett Boulevard: convert single-unit detached to 2 dwelling units
• 48 Delaware Avenue & 234 Myrtle Avenue: 16-space surface parking lot, SEQRA review
• 69-85 Sherman Street: 44-space parking lot, demolition of 2,355 sq ft building, waivers
• 271 Central Avenue: 21,324 sq ft addition for group living, demolition of 834 sq ft building

Public Safety Committee

The Albany Public Safety Committee will discuss four local laws on September 28, 2022. Three laws (K, L, J) address police use of chemical weapons and kinetic energy munitions, with K and J proposing outright bans and L proposing restrictions. Law F would re-establish the Department of Public Safety and a Commissioner position. The committee will consider these proposals but no final votes are listed on this agenda.

• Local Law K of 2022: Prohibits Albany police from purchasing, stockpiling, or using chemical weapons (tear gas), with an exception for pepper spray up to 0.75 ounces.
• Local Law F of 2022: Re-establishes the Department of Public Safety and creates a Commissioner of Public Safety appointed by the Mayor.
• Local Law L of 2022: Restricts police use of chemical weapons and kinetic energy munitions (e.g., rubber bullets) on civilians, with exceptions and reporting requirements.
• Local Law J of 2022: Prohibits police from purchasing, stockpiling, or using kinetic energy munitions.
• Public comment period is available at the meeting.

The Public Safety Committee voted unanimously to approve an amended version of Local Law F of 2022, which restructures the Department of Public Safety and the role of the Public Safety Commissioner. The committee also discussed but did not vote on several other local laws related to police use of chemical weapons and kinetic energy munitions. No final decisions were made on those proposals.

• Approved amended Local Law F of 2022 (unanimous) — restructures Public Safety Department and Commissioner role

Water Board

The Albany Water Board will consider several resolutions, including authorizing bids for the Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant upgrades and approving change orders for ongoing projects. The board will also receive financial and project updates from staff and hear public comments.

• Resolution 22-74: Authorize advertisement for bids for Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant Upgrades
• Resolution 22-75: Quarterly payment of $2,500 to Graypoint LLC for 7/1/2022-9/30/2022
• Resolution 22-76: Change Order 6 for Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase IV with Rifenburg Contracting Corp.
• Resolution 22-77: Change Order 2 for 2022 Lead Service Replacement Project with Peter Luizzi & Bros Contracting Inc.
• Resolution 22-79: Change Order 3 for Alcove Reservoir Sodium Permanganate System with AMZ Constructions Services, Inc.

The Albany Water Board approved moving $750k from reserves to pay for 2021 vehicle purchases, authorized bids for the Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant upgrades, and approved multiple change orders for ongoing construction projects. All resolutions passed unanimously.

• Approved $750k transfer from Reserve for 2021 vehicle purchases
• Authorized advertisement for bids for Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant Upgrades (Resolution 22-74)
• Approved $2,500 quarterly payment to Graypoint LLC (Resolution 22-75)
• Approved Change Order 6 for Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase IV (Resolution 22-76)
• Approved Change Order 2 for 2022 Lead Service Replacement Project (Resolution 22-77)
• Authorized Town of Bethlehem representations in NY Forward Grant application (Resolution 22-78)
• Approved Change Order 3 for Alcove Reservoir Sodium Permanganate System (Resolution 22-79)
• Approved Change Order 1 for Alcove Facilities Upgrades (Resolution 22-80)

Historic Resources Commission

The Historic Resources Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 153 South Pearl Street. The request includes constructing an exit stair tower on the south elevation, replacing storefront entry doors, and repairing cornice, trim, and limestone. The meeting will be held via Zoom and YouTube live stream, with public comment opportunities.

• Certificate of Appropriateness (COA 0961) for 153 South Pearl Street
• Construct exit stair tower on south elevation
• Replace existing storefront entry doors
• Repair cornice, trim, and limestone
• Owner: Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region; Applicant: Laura Ryder, TAP, PLLC

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee will consider two ordinances granting permanent easements over city property. One allows 1053 Brewing, LLC to build an ADA-compliant ramp and deck at Druthers Brewing Company on Bridge Street. The other grants National Grid an easement at the Beaver Creek Satellite Facility in Lincoln Park for a transformer and electrical line.

• Ordinance 17.81.22: Grant easement to 1053 Brewing, LLC for ADA ramp and deck at Druthers Brewing, 1053 Broadway, Bridge Street right-of-way, for $3,500
• Ordinance 18.82.22: Grant easement to National Grid at Beaver Creek Satellite Facility, 6 MLK Blvd, Lincoln Park, for transformer and electrical line
• Public comment period is included

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee voted unanimously to move two ordinances out of committee. Ordinance 17.81.22 and Ordinance 18.82.22 were both approved without public comment. The meeting lasted seven minutes.

• Voted out Ordinance 17.81.22 unanimously
• Voted out Ordinance 18.82.22 unanimously

Joint Meetings of Common Council

Council Members Romero and Anane introduced Local Law I of 2022. This law would establish the Albany Community Commission on Cannabis Reparations to study policies related to the criminalization of cannabis and recommend potential remedies.

• Local Law I of 2022: creation of a community commission to study reparations remedies related to cannabis sales

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve a series of budget transfers and appropriations. The largest item is a $1,247,383 increase in appropriations funded by federal ARPA dollars, allocated to the Water Board, Discovery Albany, Grand St. Community Arts, and Habitat for Humanity. The board also approved several smaller internal budget transfers, including $365,000 to replenish the DGS Public Works gasoline account, and a settlement agreement was presented for approval.

• $1,247,383 ARPA appropriation: Water Board $500,000, Discovery Albany $29,383, Grand St. Community Arts $75,000, Habitat for Humanity $643,000
• $365,000 transfer to DGS Public Works Gasoline account from Police and Fire accounts to cover negative balance
• $30,000 transfer from Post Closure Care Services to Contracted Services for Landfill vehicle repairs
• $2,171 transfer to Police Training/Conferences for Public Information Officer annual conference
• Settlement agreement presented by Corporation Counsel for board approval

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment passed a resolution (3-0) approving several budget transfers and an increase appropriation. The largest item is a $1,247,383 increase appropriation funded by federal ARPA revenue, allocated to Water Board, Discovery Albany, Grand St. Community Arts, and Habitat for Humanity. The board also approved multiple budget transfers, including $365,000 to replenish the DGS Public Works gasoline account and $60,500 for a new crime scene scanner for police.

• $1,247,383 ARPA appropriation: Water Board $500,000, Discovery Albany $29,383, Grand St. Community Arts $75,000, Habitat for Humanity $643,000
• $365,000 transfer to DGS Public Works gasoline account from Police and Fire accounts
• $60,500 transfer for police crime scene scanner (from Contracted Services and Supplies)
• $30,000 transfer for Landfill vehicle repairs (from Post Closure Care to Contracted Services)
• $2,474 transfer for Public Information Officer conference expenses

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is meeting to review a metes and bounds report on ward boundaries and to consider public testimonies submitted for the September 20 meeting. The agenda includes no other items, indicating this is a working session focused on redistricting.

• Review of Ward Boundaries Report (metes and bounds)
• Consideration of September 20 public testimonies

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is holding its caucus and regular meeting on September 19, 2022. The agenda includes an amended active calendar, supporting legislation, and minutes from prior meetings. No specific items are detailed in the provided text, which consists primarily of procedural references to attached PDF documents.

• Amended Active Calendar for September 19, 2022
• Supporting Legislation for September 19, 2022
• Caucus and Regular Meeting Minutes for September 19, 2022

Commission on Human Rights

The Albany Commission on Human Rights is holding a routine meeting to approve prior minutes, receive updates, and discuss community education and new business. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of June minutes
• Community education discussion
• Public comment limited to 5 minutes per person

The Albany Commission on Human Rights met briefly on September 15, 2022. The Commission voted to request an extension for submitting the 2022 Equity Agenda Report and elected Commissioner Thomas Mueller as Vice Chair, replacing Rosie Love who remains a commissioner. No public comments were received.

• Voted to request Common Council extend the 2022 Equity Agenda Report submission deadline beyond September 21, 2022
• Elected Commissioner Thomas Mueller as Vice Chair after Rosie Love stepped down

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on September 19, 2022, with public hearings and comment periods. The agenda includes several local laws held in committee, notably proposals to prohibit police from purchasing or using kinetic energy munitions and chemical weapons, and to create a public safety commission. Also held are ordinances on affordable housing requirements, skateboarding regulations, and easements for businesses. Resolutions include consenting to salary adjustments for unrepresented positions and honoring local individuals.

• Local Law J: Prohibit police purchase/use of kinetic energy munitions
• Local Law K: Prohibit police purchase/use of chemical weapons
• Local Law M: Reduce city speed limit from 30 to 25 mph
• Ordinance 17.81.22: Grant easement to 1053 Brewing for ADA ramp at Druthers Brewing
• Resolution 86.92.22R: Consent to salary adjustments for unrepresented positions

The Common Council held a caucus meeting with no formal votes or decisions. Mayor Sheehan discussed the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and the new police commissioner. Council members asked questions and also discussed staffing issues and potential interns from UAlbany and Albany Law.

Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee

The Law, Buildings, and Code Enforcement Committee will discuss Local Law H of 2022, which would require the Department of Building and Regulatory Compliance to create a publicly accessible online database of code violations and complaints for each property in Albany. The database would include violation details, owner information, and eviction judgments. Public comment is invited.

• Local Law H of 2022: Amends Chapter 231 (Housing) to create an 'Online Portfolio of Registered Property Owners'
• Database to include code violations, complaints, owner names, and eviction judgments
• Proposed by Council Members Romero, Kimbrough, Farrell, and Anane
• Effective 120 days after passage, public hearing, and filing with Secretary of State
• Public comment via phone, email, or web form

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment passed a resolution (5-0) approving multiple budget transfers for 2022, including a $375,000 transfer to cover PFM ARPA consulting fees. Other transfers cover street lighting energy costs, department supplies, and vehicle repairs.

• $375,000 transfer from Admin Contracted Services to Stabilizations and Demolitions for PFM ARPA consulting fees
• $150,000 transfer to Street Lighting Utilities for energy costs
• $54,000 transfer within General Services for supplies and contracted services
• $30,000 transfer from Sewer Contracted Services to Sewer Vehicle Repairs
• $20,000 transfer from Water SSP Supplies to T&D Supplies

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to consider multiple budget transfer requests for the 2022 fiscal year. The largest is a $375,000 transfer from Stabilizations and Demolitions to Admin Contracted Services to cover PFM ARPA consulting fees. Other transfers include funds for street lighting, fire department supplies, police booking supplies, water and sewer repairs, and a small audit department adjustment.

• $375,000 transfer from Stabilizations and Demolitions to Admin Contracted Services for PFM ARPA consulting fees
• $150,000 transfer to Street Lighting Utilities from Contingency and Planning Contracted Services
• $20,000 transfer from Fire Department equipment/supplies to uniforms/supplies
• $30,000 transfer to Sewer Vehicle Repairs for Sewer Jet truck repair
• $20,000 transfer from Water SSP Supplies to T&D Supplies

General Services, Health and Environment Committee

The General Service, Health and Environment Committee is considering a resolution to honor Phillip Moore, owner of the Silver Slipper. The proposal seeks to place an honorary street sign reading “Phillip Moore Way” on Orange Street near Henry Johnson Boulevard.

• Resolution 72.72.22R: Honorary renaming of a portion of Orange Street to Phillip Moore Way

The General Services, Health and Environment Committee voted unanimously to move Resolution 72.72.22R out of committee with a positive recommendation. The resolution would rename a portion of Orange Street in honor of Phillip Moore, owner/operator of the Silver Slipper. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Voted unanimously to move Resolution 72.72.22R (honoring Phillip Moore and renaming Orange Street) out of committee with a positive recommendation

Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board

The Public, Education and Government Access Oversight Board is meeting to review and take action on changes to its bylaws. The meeting also includes reports from the chair, studio coordinator, and treasurer.

• Review and action on change of PEGAOB bylaws

The board voted to amend its bylaws to replace a vacant stakeholder position with a current or former local radio or TV broadcast community member appointed by the mayor. The change follows a city code update after the New School of Radio and TV left Albany. The motion passed 6-0 with one abstention.

• Approved June meeting minutes unanimously
• Amended bylaws to add a broadcast community member seat (6-0, McGrath abstained)
• Discussed reducing meeting frequency from monthly to bi-monthly or quarterly; decision deferred to October meeting

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is holding its caucus and regular meeting on September 8, 2022. The agenda includes a resolution to honor Phillip Moore and rename a portion of Orange Street, along with other supporting legislation and minutes from previous meetings.

• Resolution 72.72.22R honoring Phillip Moore and renaming a portion of Orange Street
• Supporting legislation for the September 8, 2022 meeting
• Caucus and regular meeting minutes for September 8, 2022

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is holding a public hearing to gather testimony on proposed ward boundaries. The agenda includes hearing notices and testimonies from the public, indicating the commission is considering community input as part of the redistricting process.

• Public hearing on reapportionment
• Testimonies from September 7 hearing
• Additional testimonies from September 7 hearing

Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee

The Law, Buildings, and Code Enforcement Committee will discuss Local Law H of 2022, which would create a publicly accessible online database of code violations and complaints for each property in Albany. The database would include violation details, owner information, and eviction judgments. The meeting is virtual and includes a public comment period.

• Local Law H of 2022: Amends Chapter 231 (Housing) to create an 'Online Portfolio of Registered Property Owners' database
• Database to include code violations, complaints, owner names, and eviction judgments
• Public comment accepted via phone, email, or online form

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency Board will meet via Zoom to approve the minutes from the July 5, 2022 meeting and to consider approving a HOME funding application for 500 Northern Blvd. The agenda contains only these two items, with no other substantive business listed.

• Approval of minutes from 7/5/22 meeting
• Approval of HOME funding application for 500 Northern Blvd

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Advisory Committee is meeting to plan a climate agenda for 2022-2023 and review proposed by-law changes. The body will discuss city climate goals, potential code changes, and gas connection restrictions.

• Planning a Climate Agenda for 2022-2023 including potential code changes and gas connection restrictions
• Proposed by-law changes to reduce quorum and allow information-only meetings
• Update on three NYSERDA-approved Clean Energy Community Campaigns regarding heat pumps, community solar, and electric vehicles
• Review and approval of the Annual Report
• Volunteer recruitment for Zero Waste efforts at Jazz Fest, Sheridan Hollow Block Party, and Upper Madison Ave Street Fair

The Sustainability Advisory Committee voted not to submit a draft letter to the Common Council and Mayor as proposed. A smaller group will redraft the letter and bring it back for review and a vote at the October meeting. The committee also discussed bylaw changes to reduce quorum and allow information-only meetings without a quorum, with further review by staff.

• Voted not to submit draft climate letter to Common Council/Mayor; smaller group to redraft for October vote
• Discussed proposed bylaw changes to reduce quorum and allow information-only meetings without a quorum; staff to review
• Approved $70,000 in NYSERDA grants for Clean Energy Community campaigns, including two Chevy Volt EVs for City Hall
• Noted 385+ community solar sign-ons, highest among participating communities

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is meeting to consider and approve the minutes from its September 1 meeting. The agenda contains only this single procedural item, with no substantive decisions or discussions listed.

• Review and approval of September 1 meeting minutes

Historic Resources Commission

The Historic Resources Commission is holding a public workshop to review a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 153 South Pearl Street. The request includes constructing an exit stair tower, replacing storefront entry doors, and repairing cornice, trim, and limestone. Public comment is accepted via email or phone before the hearing.

• Certificate of Appropriateness COA 0961 for 153 South Pearl Street
• Construct exit stair tower on south elevation
• Replace existing storefront entry doors
• Repair cornice, trim, and limestone
• Property in Center Square / Hudson Park Historic District

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on a single application. The applicant seeks an area variance to build a 16-space surface parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue and 234 Myrtle Avenue, located 390 feet from the property it would serve, exceeding the 300-foot maximum. The board will also make a State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) determination.

• Area variance request for surface parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue & 234 Myrtle Avenue
• 16 parking spaces on a +/- 9,758 square foot site
• Variance to allow parking lot 390 feet from served use (max allowed: 300 feet)
• SEQR determination of significance
• Public hearing via Zoom and YouTube livestream

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a single application for an area variance to allow a surface parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue and 234 Myrtle Avenue, located 390 feet from the property it serves, exceeding the 300-foot maximum. The vote was 5-0. The board also adopted a negative declaration under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) for this project.

• Approved area variance AV #0110 for surface parking lot at 48 Delaware Ave & 234 Myrtle Ave (5-0)
• Adopted Negative Declaration under SEQRA for the parking lot project (5-0)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on September 8, 2022, with a full agenda of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. The most consequential items are two introduced local laws: one to restrict the use of chemical weapons and kinetic energy munitions on civilians, and another to reduce the citywide speed limit from 30 to 25 mph. The council will also consider several held items, including a public safety commission, a public code violation database, and a study commission on cannabis reparations.

• Local Law L of 2022: Amends police interaction rules to restrict chemical weapons and kinetic energy munitions on civilians
• Local Law M of 2022: Reduces city speed limit from 30 to 25 mph
• Local Law H of 2022: Creates a public code violation database
• Local Law I of 2022: Creates a community commission to study reparations related to cannabis sales
• Resolution 85.91.22: Calls for a traffic study to lower speed limit to 25 mph

The Common Council met in caucus to discuss a city pay study, including retro pay and vacancy management, and several ordinances and resolutions ahead of the September 8 regular meeting. No votes were taken; all items were discussion only.

• No votes taken; caucus was discussion-only

Water Board

The Albany Water Board will meet to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive committee and commissioner reports, including updates on the 35 Erie Blvd. site improvements and the Beaver Creek Clean River Project. The board will vote on 16 resolutions, mostly approving change orders for construction contracts and authorizing legal counsel and storm water coalition agreements.

• Resolution 22-61: Change Order 1 to Erie Blvd. HVAC contract with RMB Heating & Cooling, LLC
• Resolution 22-65: Change Order 3 to 35 Erie Blvd. General Construction contract with Murnane Building Contractors, Inc.
• Resolution 22-67: Change Order 5 to Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase IV Third Ave Tunnel contract with Rifenburg Construction
• Resolution 22-66: SEQR for Thurlow Terrace
• Resolution 22-59: Retain Laura M. Gulfo, Esq. as general legal counsel

The board unanimously approved 13 resolutions, including change orders for the Erie Blvd. Improvement Project, Beaver Creek Clean River Project, and other contracts. They also authorized representatives to the Albany County Storm Water Coalition, retained legal counsel, and approved grant applications. No public comment was received.

• Approved Resolution 22-58 authorizing representatives to Albany County Storm Water Coalition (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-59 retaining Laura M. Gulfo as general legal counsel (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-60 executing Intermunicipal Agreement with Albany County Storm Water Coalition (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 1 for Erie Blvd. HVAC contract with RMB Heating & Cooling (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 1 for Erie Blvd. Electrical contract with O'Connell Electric (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 1 for Erie Blvd. Plumbing contract with RMB Heating & Cooling (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 1 for Marlborough Ct. and Northern Blvd. contract with WM J. Keller & Sons (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 3 for 35 Erie Blvd. General Construction contract with Murnane Building Contractors (unanimous)

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is holding a public hearing to gather testimony on proposed ward boundaries. The agenda includes presentations with maps, testimonies from community groups, and minutes from the hearing. This is a procedural step in the redistricting process.

• Public hearing on reapportionment with maps
• Testimony from League of Women Voters
• Testimony from Upper Washington Neighborhood Association
• Meeting minutes from August 24 hearing

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public meeting to consider an amendment to a previously approved development plan for 1211 Western Avenue. The amendment involves modifications to a waterline connection and related utility installations. Public comment will be taken, with written comments due 48 hours in advance and speaking requests due 24 hours in advance.

• Amendment of Development Plan Approval for 1211 Western Avenue
• Applicant: DMG Investments, representing agent VHB
• Zoning district: MU-CU (Mixed-Use, Community Urban)
• Modifications to waterline connection and utility installations

The Planning Board approved an amendment to a previously approved development plan for 1211 Western Avenue, involving modifications to a waterline connection and utility installations. The vote was 5-0 in favor, with conditions requiring decorative screening above a transformer to be approved by staff.

• Approved amendment of development plan for 1211 Western Avenue (5-0)

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is holding a virtual meeting on August 18, 2022, at 5:30 P.M. The agenda lists only procedural details about the meeting format and schedule, with no specific items for discussion or decision. The meeting will be streamed on Facebook, and future meetings are tentatively scheduled.

• Meeting held virtually via Zoom and streamed on Facebook
• Meeting date: August 18, 2022 at 5:30 P.M.
• Tentative meeting on August 25, 2022 at 5:30 P.M.

The Commission approved the first draft map of ward boundaries, which will be published for public comment before the August 24th public hearing. The 7th Ward was noted as a weak minority-majority ward that could be strengthened. The meeting also covered survey distribution logistics and planning for the upcoming public hearing.

• Approved first draft ward map for public comment (unanimous)
• Dale Getto to coordinate list of organizations for survey distribution
• Emily Loughlin to create QR code for survey link
• Dylan Carey to create map files for printing

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is approving the sale of the city-owned 2-acre parcel at 56 North Lark Street to the City School District of Albany, along with several budget transfers and settlements. The board also approved a $78,000 water department budget transfer and a $30,000 police grant increase for communications equipment.

• Sale of 56 North Lark Street (tax map 65.65-4-1) to Albany City School District for no remuneration
• $78,000 transfer from Sewer - Contracted Services to Admin - Utilities in Water Department
• $30,000 increase for NYS SHSP LETPP FY20 grant for police communications equipment
• Settlement of Motta v. City of Albany for $114,985.90 in Medicare Part B reimbursements to retired firefighters
• Settlement of Lwonje v. City of Albany for $513 for improper tow claim

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to consider several financial items, including a $114,985.90 settlement for retired firefighters' Medicare Part B reimbursements, a $513 settlement for an improper tow claim, and multiple budget transfers and appropriation increases. The agenda also includes a $30,000 increase for police equipment funded by a state grant.

• Settlement of Motta v. City of Albany: $114,985.90 for retired firefighters' Medicare Part B reimbursements
• Settlement of Lwonje v. City of Albany: $513 for improper tow claim
• Budget transfer of $49,000 for Department of General Services (Central Maintenance, Golf Course, Landfill Utilities)
• Budget transfer of $78,000 for Water Department utilities
• Increase appropriation of $30,000 for Police Department equipment from NYS SHSP LETPP grant

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is holding its caucus and regular meeting on August 15, 2022. The agenda includes an ordinance to sell 56 North Lark Street to the City School District of Albany, as well as an electric easement agreement. Most other agenda items are procedural, such as approving minutes and supporting legislation.

• Ordinance 13.52.22: Sale of 56 North Lark Street to the City School District of Albany
• UG Electric Easement for the City of Albany (with Exhibit A)

Sustainability Commission

The committee will discuss planning a climate agenda for 2022-2023. Members will also receive updates on three NYSERDA-approved clean energy community campaigns and review the annual report.

• Planning a Climate Agenda for 2022-2023
• Update on Clean Energy Community Campaigns (Energy Efficiency/Heat Pumps, Community Solar, and Electric Vehicles)
• Review of Annual Report

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Reapportionment Commission is holding a virtual meeting on August 11, 2022, at 5:30 P.M. The agenda lists only meeting logistics and member names, with no specific items for discussion or decision. The meeting is part of a series of remote sessions scheduled through late August.

• Virtual meeting via Zoom, streamed on the Reapportionment Commission Facebook page
• Meeting scheduled for August 11, 2022 at 5:30 P.M.
• Part of a series of meetings on July 28, August 4, 11, 18, and tentative August 25

The City of Albany Reapportionment Commission approved a $480 expense to translate its community survey into Spanish, Arabic, and Karen, and confirmed public hearing dates of August 24 and September 7 at 6:30 PM in hybrid format. The Commission discussed mapping principles, including majority-minority district definitions and the use of adjusted population figures, but made no other formal decisions.

• Approved $480 survey translation expense (unanimous)
• Confirmed public hearing dates: August 24 and September 7 at 6:30 PM

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing and workshop on August 10, 2022, via Zoom. The hearing covers three sign variance requests for 1009 Central Avenue and three for 47 New Scotland Avenue (Albany Medical Center Hospital). The workshop will discuss a parking lot variance for 48 Delaware Avenue and 234 Myrtle Avenue.

• 1009 Central Avenue: three wall signs (max one), two at 48 sq ft (max 32 sq ft) - Ray Sign
• 47 New Scotland Avenue: four wall signs (max one), one at 92.6 sq ft (max 32 sq ft), monument sign 10.1 ft tall (max 8 ft) - Albany Medical Center Hospital
• 48 Delaware Avenue & 234 Myrtle Avenue: surface parking lot with 16 spaces, 390 ft from served use (max 300 ft) - Ron Stein
• SEQR determination of significance for 47 New Scotland Avenue
• Lead agency declaration under State Environmental Quality Review Act

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved all six area variances for signage at 1009 Central Avenue and 47 New Scotland Avenue, each by a 3-0 vote. A proposed surface parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue and 234 Myrtle Avenue was discussed in the workshop but no action was taken.

• Approved AV #0101, #0103, #0104 for three wall signs at 1009 Central Avenue (3-0)
• Approved AV #0107, #0108, #0109 for four wall signs and a taller monument sign at 47 New Scotland Avenue (3-0)
• No action taken on AV #0110 for a surface parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue & 234 Myrtle Avenue

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on August 15, 2022, with a full agenda of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. Key items include several local laws held in committee, such as creating a public safety commission, a public code violation database, and prohibiting police use of kinetic energy munitions and chemical weapons. The council will also consider ordinances on affordable housing requirements, a land sale to the school district, and easements for utility and brewery projects, plus resolutions on water fluoridation and a bike trail.

• Local Law J: Prohibits Albany Police from purchasing, stockpiling, or using kinetic energy munitions
• Local Law K: Prohibits Albany Police from purchasing, stockpiling, or using chemical weapons
• Ordinance 4.21.22: Increases affordable housing requirement in new developments
• Ordinance 13.52.22: Authorizes sale of 56 North Lark Street to the City School District
• Resolution 13.21.22R: Requests Albany Water Board to fluoridate city water

The Common Council held a caucus to discuss the agenda for the upcoming regular meeting, including a presentation from the Community Police Review Board (CPRB). No formal decisions or votes were taken during this caucus session.

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a workshop and public hearing on two development proposals. The workshop will discuss a proposed 75,000-square-foot warehouse at 42 (38) Corporate Circle, and the hearing will consider an expansion of the Capital City Rescue Mission at 257 South Pearl Street, including environmental review. Public comment is invited for the hearing item.

• Warehouse: 75,000 sq ft, 7 loading docks, 75 parking spaces at 42 (38) Corporate Circle (I-1 Light Industrial)
• Rescue mission expansion: 31,460 sq ft addition at 257 South Pearl Street (MU-FS Mixed-Use)
• SEQRA review for rescue mission: affirmation of lead agency and determination of significance
• Development Plan Review for warehouse under §375-505(3)

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is holding a virtual meeting on August 4, 2022, at 5:30 P.M. The agenda lists only procedural details about the meeting format and schedule, with no specific items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting held virtually via Zoom and streamed on Facebook
• Meeting date: August 4, 2022 at 5:30 P.M.
• Commission members listed: Brenda Robinson, Carol June-Washington, Dale Getto, Dylan Carey, Emily Loughlin, Judith Mazza, Scott Allardice, Shawn Morris

The Albany Reapportionment Commission held a virtual meeting with a quorum, discussing updates on legal services, the $24,000 budget, mapping software, and a community survey. The commission proposed moving the next public hearing to August 24 and the September hearing to September 13, with plans to announce the dates soon. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 6:36 PM.

• Proposed rescheduling public hearing to August 24 (previously August 25)
• Proposed moving September hearing to September 13 (previously September 15)
• Directed Danielle Gillespie to price survey service options and print paper versions for City offices and library
• Formed mapping subcommittee (Dylan Carey, Emily Loughlin, Judith Mazza, Dr. Brenda Robinson, Carol June-Washington)
• Formed public outreach subcommittee (Paul Webster, Dale Getto, Dr. Brenda Robinson, Charles Williams, Shawn Morris, Scott Allardice)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider multiple 2022 budget transfer requests totaling over $200,000. Transfers include $10,000 for Alive @ 5 event costs, $41,825 for composters, $18,000 for a landfill fence, $42,000 for fences and a garage door, $3,599 for an HR printer, and $90,000 for water department overtime and supplies. The meeting is held via Zoom.

• $10,000 transfer to Office of Cultural Affairs for Alive @ 5 event cost increases
• $41,825 transfer to Department of General Services for 500 composters
• $18,000 transfer for replacement fence at the landfill
• $42,000 transfer for fences and a new garage door at Department of General Services
• $90,000 in transfers to Water department for overtime and Q3 supplies

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee will consider an ordinance authorizing the sale of the city-owned 2-acre parcel at 56 North Lark Street to the Albany City School District. The sale, at no cost, would unite the land with the building the district already owns, formerly the New Covenant Charter School. The committee is also taking public comment.

• Ordinance 13.52.22 authorizes private sale of 56 North Lark St. (tax map 65.65-4-1) to the City School District of Albany
• Property is a 2.0± acre parcel with a building formerly occupied by New Covenant Charter School
• Sale is for no remuneration; city will deed its interest via quitclaim deed
• Requires three-fourths Council vote per Local Law 4 of 1984
• Public comment accepted via phone, email, or web form

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee unanimously approved Ordinance 13.51.22, authorizing the sale of 56 North Lark Street (Tax Map Parcel 65.65-4-1) to the City School District of Albany. The vote was 4-0. Council members' concerns were addressed, and no public comment was made.

• Approved Ordinance 13.51.22 authorizing sale of 56 North Lark St to City School District (4-0)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve multiple budget transfers for the 2022 fiscal year. The transfers move funds between accounts to cover costs for the Alive @ 5 concert series, a landfill fence replacement, garage door installation, HR office equipment, water pump purchase, overtime, and supplies. The meeting was held via Zoom.

• $10,000 transfer to Office of Cultural Affairs for Alive @ 5 events
• $18,000 transfer to Department of General Services for landfill fence replacement
• $42,000 transfer to Department of General Services for fences and garage door
• $40,000 transfer to Water for Homa Submersible Pump purchase (contract #9233)
• $30,000 transfer to Water for overtime from vacant positions

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider several items, including reappointments to the Public, Education and Government (PEG) Access Oversight Board and a proposed ordinance to change the board's composition. The agenda also includes site plan and appraisal documents for a property, likely related to a land use matter. Most of the agenda consists of routine procedural items such as minutes and the active calendar.

• Resolution 63.62.22R to reappoint Zachary Simpson to the PEG Access Oversight Board
• Resolution 64.61.22R to reappoint Donald Hyman to the PEG Access Oversight Board
• Ordinance 15.62.22 to change the composition of the PEG Access Board
• Site plan and appraisal documents for item 17.81.22

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is holding a series of virtual meetings beginning July 28, 2022, to continue its reapportionment work. The agenda lists meeting dates through August 25 and notes that meetings may shift to in-person if the remote meeting legislation is revoked.

• Remote meetings via Zoom and Facebook live stream
• Meeting dates: July 28, Aug 4, Aug 11, Aug 18, and tentative Aug 25, all at 5:30 PM
• Potential switch to in-person if executive order not extended

The Albany Reapportionment Commission decided not to purchase customized Caliper training at this time, opting instead to post open-source mapping tools and tutorials on its website. Members reviewed a community input survey draft, with edits to Q5 to be compiled for the next meeting, and tentatively scheduled public hearings for August 25 and September 15, pending new member availability.

• Decision to not purchase customized Caliper training at this time
• Decision to post open-source mapping tools and tutorials on Commission website
• Tentatively scheduled public hearings for 8/25 and 9/15
• Commission members to email edits to Q5 of survey draft to Emily Loughlin

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on August 1, 2022, with a full agenda including public hearings, public comment, and consideration of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. Key items include proposed local laws to ban police use of kinetic energy munitions and chemical weapons, create a public code violation database, and study reparations for cannabis sales. The council will also consider ordinances on affordable housing requirements, a property sale to the school district, and several street renamings.

• Local law to prohibit Albany Police from purchasing, stockpiling, and using kinetic energy munitions
• Local law to prohibit Albany Police from purchasing, stockpiling, and using chemical weapons
• Ordinance to increase affordable housing requirement in new developments (Chapter 375)
• Ordinance authorizing sale of 56 North Lark Street to the City School District of Albany
• Resolution to rename corner of Delaware Avenue and Myrtle Avenue in honor of Christine Young

The Common Council held a caucus to discuss the agenda for the August 1, 2022 Regular Meeting and considered Resolution 80.81.20R for majority consent. Two candidates—Charles Williams for the Reapportionment Commission and Jake Eisland for full-time Research Counsel—appeared for questions. No formal votes or decisions were taken during the caucus.

• Discussed agenda for August 1, 2022 Regular Meeting
• Discussed Resolution 80.81.20R for majority consent
• Interviewed Charles Williams for Reapportionment Commission
• Interviewed Jake Eisland for Research Counsel

Council Operations and Ethics Committee

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee will hold a virtual meeting to interview a candidate for the Reapportionment Commission. Public comment is available via phone, email, or web form, and residents may register to speak during the meeting.

• Candidate interview for the Reapportionment Commission

Water Board

The Albany Water Board is meeting to consider several resolutions, including awarding a UV disinfection system contract for the Loudonville Reservoir and approving change orders for various construction and maintenance projects. The board will also receive reports on finances, capital projects, and a dam improvement project, and will hold a public comment period.

• Resolution 22-54: Award UV disinfection system contract for Loudonville Reservoir to Trojan Technologies, Inc.
• Resolution 22-51: Approve Change Order 1 to 2022 Cured in Place Pipe Lining Contract with Green Mountain Pipeline Services LLC
• Resolution 22-52: Approve Change Order 1 to 2022 AWB Water Sewer Improvements contract with Wm J. Keller & Sons Constructions Corp.
• Resolution 22-53: Approve Change Order EU-3B to WFP Electric Upgrades with Spring Electric, Inc.
• Resolution 22-55: Approve Change Order 2 to 35 Erie Blvd Buildings contract with Murnane Building Contractors, Inc.

The Albany Water Board approved several resolutions, including change orders for pipeline and sewer contracts, a UV disinfection system for Loudonville Reservoir, and an amendment to a finance agreement. It also authorized Schnabel Engineering to proceed with the detailed design for the Auxiliary Spillway option for the Rensselaer Lake Dam improvement. Resolution 22-53, a change order for electric upgrades, was not passed due to lack of a motion.

• Approved Change Order 1 to 2022 Cured in Place Pipe Lining Contract with Green Mountain Pipeline Services LLC (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 1 to 2022 AWB Water Sewer Improvements contract with Wm J. Keller & Sons Constructions Corp. (unanimous)
• Resolution 22-53 (Change Order EU-3B to WFP Electric Upgrades with Spring Electric, Inc.) not passed—no motion
• Awarded UV Disinfection System for Loudonville Reservoir contract to Trojan Technologies, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 2 to 35 Erie Blvd Buildings contract with Murnane Building Contractors, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved Amendment to Finance Agreement for Capital Projects (unanimous)
• Authorized Schnabel Engineering to proceed to detailed design for Auxiliary Spillway Rehabilitation for Rensselaer Lake Dam (unanimous)

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is meeting to consider and likely approve the minutes from its July 21 meeting. The agenda contains only this single procedural item, with no substantive decisions or discussions listed.

• Approval of July 21 meeting minutes

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve several budget transfers for the City of Albany. These include $15,000 to fund a study of the Urban Heat Island Effect, $23,155 for police forensics equipment, and $530,000 for water department contracts and vehicle repairs. The meeting was held via Zoom.

• $15,000 transfer to fund a study of the Urban Heat Island Effect in certain city neighborhoods
• $23,155 transfer for police forensics equipment (hard drives, cameras)
• $530,000 transfer for William Keller Maintenance contract and vehicle repairs
• $96,290 transfer for security system installation at 35 Erie Blvd
• $10,000 transfer to cover deficit in water department longevity account

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board is reviewing multiple departmental requests to move funds between city accounts. These transfers cover various needs including urban heat studies, landfill fencing, and police equipment.

• $15,000 transfer from Cultural Affairs to Administrative Services for an Urban Heat Island Effect study
• $27,870 transfer from Post Landfill Closure to General Services Contracted Services for a landfill fence
• $23,155 transfer from Police Supplies and Materials to Other Equipment for forensics equipment
• $250 transfer from Police Supplies and Materials to Other Equipment to pay a pending purchase order
• $600 transfer from Treasury Miscellaneous to Office Equipment for cashier printers

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public meeting to review four development proposals. These include a solar panel installation, a warehouse/distribution building, a site plan amendment, and a parking lot. The board will consider waivers of development standards and a SEQRA lead agency declaration.

• Solar panels at 344 West Church Street (Global Companies/PowerFlex) with sidewalk waiver
• 9,000 sq ft storage/wholesale building at 15 South (Champlain) Street with multiple waivers
• Site plan amendment at 1211 Western Avenue for disposal plan and waterline changes
• 19-space parking lot at 48 Delaware Avenue & 234 Myrtle Avenue
• SEQRA lead agency declaration for the parking lot project

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

This is the agenda for the Albany Common Council Caucus and Regular Meeting on July 18, 2022. The agenda includes an active calendar, supporting legislation, minutes, and majority consent items. Specific items are not detailed in the provided text, so the meeting appears to be primarily procedural.

• Active Calendar for July 18, 2022
• Supporting legislation (amended)
• Caucus and regular meeting minutes
• Majority consent items
• Amended legislation

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is holding a remote meeting on July 14, 2022, at 5:30 P.M., in accordance with state legislation allowing remote meetings. The agenda lists the meeting logistics and members but does not specify any particular items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting held via Zoom and streamed on Facebook
• Hybrid option available at City Hall Council Chambers
• Meeting date: July 14, 2022 at 5:30 P.M.

The City of Albany Reapportionment Commission held a virtual public hearing on July 14, 2022, to discuss the redistricting process. Presentations covered legal requirements, public engagement, and 2020 Census data, followed by public comment. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational only.

• No decisions made; meeting was informational and procedural

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will consider two local laws that would prohibit the police department from purchasing, stockpiling, and using kinetic energy munitions (like rubber bullets) and chemical weapons (like tear gas). The agenda also includes several other local laws, ordinances, and resolutions that were previously introduced and are being held or referred to committees.

• Local Law J of 2022: Prohibits APD from purchasing, stockpiling, and using kinetic energy munitions
• Local Law K of 2022: Prohibits APD from purchasing, stockpiling, and using chemical weapons
• Ordinance 16.72.22: Regulates skateboarding on sidewalks
• Resolution 72.72.22R: Honors Phillip Moore and renames a portion of Orange Street
• Resolution 71.72.22R: Supports application for state funding for Albany City Hall roof restoration

The Common Council held a caucus to review the agenda for the July 18th Regular Meeting. Members discussed Ordinance 16.72.22 and the Mayor's veto, with questions and responses among members. No formal votes or decisions were made during the caucus.

• Discussed agenda for July 18th Regular Meeting
• Discussed Ordinance 16.72.22 and Mayor's veto

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve multiple budget transfers for the 2022 fiscal year. The transfers cover cost increases for the Tulip Fest, new police equipment and furniture, the Summer Youth Employment Program recognition event, and park supplies. The meeting was held via Zoom.

• $10,000 transfer to Tulip Fest for cost increases
• $6,630 for police desk chairs; $3,620 for police electronic equipment
• $102,170 transfer for SYEP recognition event costs
• $15,000 transfer for parks department supplies

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to review several budget transfer requests for the 2022 fiscal year. These include a $10,000 transfer to cover cost increases for the Tulip Fest, a $6,630 transfer for police desk chairs, a $3,620 transfer for police electronic equipment, a $102,170 transfer for the Summer Youth Employment Program recognition event, and two transfers from the Department of General Services totaling $210,000 for gasoline, supplies, and other expenses.

• $10,000 transfer to Tulip Fest from Festivals & Other Activities and Contracted Services
• $6,630 transfer for police desk chairs for Community Response Unit
• $3,620 transfer for police electronic equipment for investigations
• $102,170 transfer for Summer Youth Employment Program recognition event
• $195,000 transfer for gasoline, fertilizer, and supplies for General Services

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Advisory Committee will hold planning conversations regarding Albany’s Equity Agenda. The body will also review the Annual Report and receive updates on three NYSERDA-approved Clean Energy Community Campaigns.

• Planning conversations on Albany’s Equity Agenda
• Update on NYSERDA-approved campaigns for Energy Efficiency/Heat Pumps, Community Solar, and Electric Vehicles
• Review and approval of the Annual Report

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is holding its caucus and regular meeting, where it will consider an ordinance amending the city's skateboard regulations and a local law regarding a Human Rights Commission report deadline. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and other routine items.

• Ordinance 9.41.22 (Romero) amending Article II (Skateboards) of Chapter 255 (Peace and Good Order)
• Local Law D of 2022 (MC) (Balarin) regarding HRC report deadline
• Caucus and regular meeting minutes for July 7, 2022

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The Albany Reapportionment Commission met and made several procedural decisions. They agreed that the whole commission will attend personalized mapping software training, and that the July 14 public hearing will be virtual-only, with future meetings in person or hybrid. They also agreed to meet on Thursdays, virtually when possible. No substantive redistricting maps or plans were approved.

• Commission to attend personalized mapping software training (consensus)
• July 14 public hearing to be virtual-only (consensus)
• Future meetings to be in-person or hybrid (consensus)
• Commission to meet on Thursdays, virtually when possible (consensus)

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency Board will meet via Zoom to approve the minutes from its June 10 meeting and to approve CDBG CV (Coronavirus) funding. The agenda contains only these two action items, with no other substantive business listed.

• Approval of minutes from 6/10/22 meeting
• Approval of CDBG CV funding

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission's June 30, 2022, 5:30 p.m. meeting has been canceled. The agenda contains only procedural notices about remote meeting logistics and live-streaming via Facebook, with no substantive items for discussion or decision.

• June 30, 2022, 5:30 p.m. meeting canceled

Historic Resources Commission

The Albany Historic Resources Commission will hold a public hearing on two applications: replacing 344 windows at 175 Jay Street and a SEQRA lead agency declaration for a four-story addition at 257 South Pearl Street. The meeting is a public hearing and workshop via Zoom.

• COA 0940: Replace 344 historic and non-original windows with aluminum at 175 Jay Street (NGC Jay, LLC)
• COA 0914: SEQRA lead agency declaration for four-story addition to two-story structure at 257 South Pearl Street (Capital City Rescue Mission)
• Public comment must be submitted via email or phone 48 hours in advance

The Historic Resources Commission partially approved a request to replace 344 windows at 175 Jay Street, allowing replacement on floors two through five but deferring first-floor work. The commission also consented to the Planning Board serving as SEQRA lead agency for a project at 257 South Pearl Street.

• Approved window replacement on floors 2-5 at 175 Jay Street (5-0)
• Deferred first-floor window replacement at 175 Jay Street pending verification
• Required applicant to meet with commission at property for first-floor treatment
• Required new application for first-floor entry door replacement
• Consented to Planning Board as SEQRA lead agency for 257 South Pearl Street (5-0)

Municipal Civil Service Commission

The Commission is reviewing various permanent, provisional, non-competitive, and labor class appointments across city departments. The agenda also includes the establishment of eligible lists and the creation or amendment of several job specifications.

• Permanent appointment: Jelani McGriff as Account Clerk for City Clerk
• Provisional promotion: David Lussier to Senior Building Inspector for Buildings
• Establishment of Telecommunications Specialist #68-090 list
• Establishment of Telecommunications Senior Dispatcher #71-741 list
• Creation of Associate Counsel and Deputy Director of Enforcement specifications for Albany Parking Authority

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission unanimously approved the May 24, 2022 meeting minutes, accepted the establishment of eligible lists for Telecommunications Specialist and Senior Dispatcher, and approved new and amended job specifications. The commission also reported on numerous permanent, provisional, and non-competitive appointments across city departments, and noted a list of police officer candidates who did not respond to a canvass.

• Approved May 24, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted establishment of eligible lists for Telecommunications Specialist #68-090 and Senior Dispatcher #71-741 (unanimous)
• Approved new job specifications for Associate Counsel, Deputy Director of Enforcement (Albany Parking Authority), and Receptionist (Albany School District) (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Director of Fiscal Operations job specification (unanimous)
• Reported permanent appointments including Jelani McGriff (Account Clerk) and Jah'Male Dickson (Police Officer reinstatement)
• Reported provisional appointments including Torian Lewis, Jennifer Cruz, and Timothy Miller
• Reported non-competitive appointments including Rumone Womack, Trayvon Johnson, and Linwood Maye
• Reported labor class appointment of Ajhamel Hart (Custodial Worker)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a public hearing and consider an ordinance to close Anthony Street and dedicate it to Westland Hills Park for park purposes. The agenda also includes several local laws and ordinances held in committee, such as creating a public safety commission, a public code violation database, and increasing affordable housing requirements. No final votes are scheduled on these held items; they remain in committee.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 12.52.22 to close Anthony Street and dedicate to Westland Hills Park
• Local Law C-2022: creating a Public Safety Commission
• Local Law H of 2022: creating a public code violation database
• Ordinance 4.21.22: increasing affordable housing requirement in new developments
• Resolution 13.21.22R: requesting Albany Water Board to fluoridate city water

The Common Council held a caucus meeting to discuss the agenda for the July 7th Regular Meeting, including Local Law G of 2022 and Ordinance 16.71.22. No formal votes or decisions were made during the caucus; it was a discussion-only session.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during caucus

Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee

The Law, Buildings, and Code Enforcement Committee is discussing Ordinance 9.41.22, which would amend the city code to remove most skateboarding restrictions, allowing skateboards to move freely except on public monuments, sculptures, and statuary. The ordinance is sponsored by Council Member Romero and has no fiscal impact.

• Ordinance 9.41.22 amends Chapter 255 to lift skateboard bans in most areas, including sidewalks and roadways in a downtown district bounded by Lark, Clinton, Broadway, and Myrtle.
• Skateboarding would remain prohibited on publicly owned monuments, sculptures, and statuary.
• Skateboarders must still comply with NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law.
• Public comment is accepted via phone, email, or web form.

The Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee voted unanimously (4-0) to recommend Ordinance 9.41.22, which amends the city code regulating skateboarding, to the full Common Council. The ordinance was discussed at length, with members addressing enforcement, data, and potential changes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended Ordinance 9.41.22 (skateboarding regulation) to full council (4-0)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment passed a 5-0 vote to approve multiple budget transfers for the 2022 fiscal year. These include funding for redistricting software, seasonal worker uniforms, fire apparatus repairs, a police drone, water department longevity and gasoline costs, and lead service line replacement grants.

• $12,000 transfer to fund redistricting software
• $48,000 for seasonal worker uniforms, supplies, and plow edges
• $30,000 for fire apparatus parts and repairs
• $1,718 for a police drone for crash reconstruction
• $50,000 for lead service line replacement grants

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider several budget transfer requests, moving funds between accounts to cover expenses such as redistricting software, seasonal worker uniforms, fire apparatus repairs, a police drone, water department longevity pay, gasoline, lead service line replacement grants, and legal advertising. The agenda also includes a request to increase appropriations for police overtime reimbursable from state funds.

• $12,000 transfer for redistricting software (City Clerk's Office)
• $48,000 transfer for seasonal worker uniforms, supplies, and plow edges (General Services)
• $30,000 transfer for fire apparatus parts and repairs
• $1,718 transfer for a police drone for crash reconstruction unit
• $50,000 transfer for Lead Service Line Replacement Grants (Water)

Water Board

The Albany Water Board is meeting to discuss updates on the Orion transmitter metering project, an EPA audit report, and a report from its rate consultant. The board will also consider several resolutions, including payments and change orders for ongoing construction projects, and may enter executive session if needed.

• Resolution 22-44: Approve $2,500 quarterly payment to Graypoint LLC for 4/1/2022-6/30/2022
• Resolution 22-45: Approve Change Order #1 to 35 Erie contract with Murnane Building Contractors
• Resolution 22-46: Approve Change Order #2 to Upper Service Tank Rehabilitation contract with Underwater Solutions
• Resolution 22-47: Approve Change Order 5G-05 to Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase 3/5 with Wm. J. Keller & Sons
• Resolution 22-49: Authorize public hearing for proposed amendment to Finance Agreement

The Albany Water Board approved Resolution 22-50 authorizing Schnabel Engineering to proceed to the detailed design phase for the Piano Key Weir upgrade at Basic Creek Dam, a design with higher initial cost but lower lifecycle cost. The board also approved several resolutions including payments, change orders, and a public hearing for a finance agreement amendment. No public comment was received, and the EPA audit found no significant deficiencies.

• Approved Resolution 22-50: Authorized Schnabel Engineering to proceed to detailed design for Basic Creek Dam Piano Key Weir (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-44: Paid $2,500 quarterly invoice to Graypoint LLC (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-45: Change Order #1 to 35 Erie contract with Murnane Building Contractors (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-46: Change Order #2 to Upper Service Tank Rehabilitation with Underwater Solutions (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-47: Change Order 5G-05 to Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase 3/5 with Wm. J. Keller & Sons (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-48: Amended Resolution 22-32 for line item adjustments with Albany Pool Joint Venture Team (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-49: Authorized public hearing for proposed Finance Agreement amendment (unanimous)
• Approved May 27, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

General Services, Health and Environment Committee

The Common Council is considering a resolution to honor entrepreneurs and activists Adam Blake, Jr. and Catherine Blake. The proposal would rename Steuben Street in their honor and direct the production of two new street signs.

• Resolution 51.52.22R: Renaming Steuben Street to 'Adam & Catherine Blake Way'
• Honorary renaming of a street near the Kenmore Building

The General Services, Health and Environment Committee voted to move Resolution 51.52.22R out of committee with a positive recommendation. The resolution honors Adam Blake Jr. and Catherine Blake and renames Steuben Street in their honor. No public comment was received, and the meeting adjourned after the motion passed.

• Moved Resolution 51.52.22R out of committee with positive recommendation (motion by Anane, seconded by Zamer)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider two honorary street renaming resolutions and other legislation. The agenda includes items under Majority Consent and supporting documents, but specific details of other actions are not listed in the provided text.

• Resolution 51.52.22R to rename Steuben Street in honor of Adam Blake, Jr. and Catherine Blake
• Resolution 55.52.22R to rename a portion of Fountain Avenue in honor of Santa Coppolino Pasquini

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Redistricting Commission is meeting virtually on June 22, 2022, at 5:30 P.M. The agenda is largely procedural, covering meeting logistics and remote participation details. No specific decisions or substantive items are listed.

• Remote meeting via Zoom, streamed on Facebook
• Meeting dates: June 14, June 22, and June 30, 2022

The Albany Reapportionment Commission met virtually on June 22, 2022, and reached consensus to schedule Maptitude training once the budget is finalized. They discussed using Census data for redistricting, proposed guiding principles, and tentatively selected July 14 for a public hearing. No formal votes were taken.

• Consensus to schedule Maptitude training after budget finalized
• Tentatively selected July 14 for first public hearing
• Next meeting set for June 30; additional virtual meeting in July

Council Operations and Ethics Committee

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee is meeting virtually to select candidates for the Reapportionment Commission and to discuss the Council's Rules of Procedure. The agenda includes the full text of the rules, but no specific proposals or votes are listed. Public comment is available via phone, email, or web form.

• Candidate selection for the Reapportionment Commission
• Discussion of the Rules of Procedure
• Public comment line: 518-694-3987
• Email for public comment: commoncouncil@albanyny.gov

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee met to discuss the Rules of Procedure and candidate selection for the Reapportionment Commission, but no formal votes or decisions were made. The meeting was largely a discussion of procedural issues, including public comment limits, committee appointments, and council conduct. The meeting adjourned without any substantive action.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the meeting
• Discussed candidate selection for the Reapportionment Commission (no action)
• Discussed potential changes to Rules of Procedure (no action)

Commission on Human Rights

The Albany Commission on Human Rights is meeting to discuss routine business including approval of minutes, updates on budget and thank-you notes, and planning for the annual recognition reception. The most notable item is a presentation by LaBella PC on the ADA Transition Plan, along with the creation of a communications subcommittee and adopting a meeting schedule for 2022-2023.

• ADA Transition Plan presentation by LaBella PC
• Creation of Communications Subcommittee
• 2022-2023 planning and adopting meeting schedule
• Annual Human Rights Recognition Reception subcommittee update
• Budget overview

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Common Council met in caucus and received a detailed presentation from Albany Police Department officials and attorneys on the General Order Revision process, covering use of force, tear gas, body cameras, and bias training. No formal decisions or votes were taken during this caucus session; it was a discussion-only meeting. Members also discussed upcoming agenda items, including Local Law H of 2022, resolutions, and the reappointment commission.

• No formal votes or decisions taken during caucus

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Reapportionment Commission is meeting virtually on June 14, 2022, at 5:30 P.M. The agenda is procedural, covering meeting logistics and remote participation details, with no specific decisions or discussion items listed. Future meetings are scheduled for June 22 and June 30, with locations to be determined.

• Virtual meeting via Zoom and Facebook live stream
• Meeting dates: June 14, 22, and 30, 2022 at 5:30 P.M.
• Remote meeting held under Governor Hochul's signed legislation

The Albany Reapportionment Commission met virtually and discussed selecting Caliper's Maptitude software, creating committees, and filling two vacancies. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was procedural, with plans for interviews and a future meeting.

• Discussed selecting Caliper Maptitude software ($9,000 license, $5,000 hosting)
• Commission members to email data layer preferences to Danielle Gillespie
• Commission members to send guiding principles to Shawn Morris
• Interviews for two vacancies scheduled for June 16, 2022
• Next meeting proposed for June 22, 2022
• Adjourned at 6:26 PM

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee will consider two ordinances authorizing the sale of city-owned land. One would sell a parcel bordering 24 and 26 Swartson Court to Shwana Adkison for $11,000. The other would transfer 56 North Lark Street to the Albany City School District at no cost. Public comment is accepted.

• Sale of city-owned land bordering 24 and 26 Swartson Court to Shwana Adkison for $11,000
• Sale of 56 North Lark Street (tax map parcel 65.65-4-1) to the City School District of Albany at no cost
• Both sales require three-fourths majority vote per Local Law 4 of 1984
• Public comment via phone, email, or online form

The Finance, Taxation and Assessment Committee voted to recommend Ordinance 11.51.22, authorizing the sale of city-owned land bordering 24 and 26 Swartson Court to Shwana Adkison. The committee discussed the ordinance, including an easement request from the Water Department and potential barriers. No vote was taken on Ordinance 13.51.22, which would authorize the sale of 56 North Lark Street to the City School District of Albany; it was only discussed. The meeting adjourned without public comment.

• Motion to recommend Ordinance 11.51.22 out of committee (Keegan, seconded by Adams) — passed

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss two local laws: Local Law C of 2022, which creates a Public Safety Commission with oversight of the Albany Police Department, and Local Law F of 2022, which establishes a Department of Public Safety to handle certain non-violent calls. The commission would have nine members, with five appointed by the Common Council and four by the Mayor, and would have authority over police policies and personnel practices. The meeting is virtual and includes a public comment period.

• Local Law C of 2022: Creates a Public Safety Commission with nine members (5 Council-appointed, 4 Mayor-appointed) to oversee police policies and practices.
• Local Law F of 2022: Establishes a Department of Public Safety to handle 911 dispatch and respond to calls involving homelessness, mental health, and substance abuse.
• Commission would have authority to modify Albany Police Department procedures, superseding the Chief of Police.
• Police officers would be required to file reports on any physical contact with the public, including de-escalation techniques used.
• Commission members would receive a stipend set in the budget and be subject to public hearings before appointment.

The Albany Common Council's Public Safety Committee met on June 9, 2022, to discuss two proposed local laws: Local Law C of 2022, which would create a Public Safety Commission, and Local Law F of 2022, which would establish a Department of Public Safety. The committee heard testimony from speakers Ava Ayers, Robert Worden, and Stephen Holt, and engaged in discussion but took no formal votes or decisions. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• No formal decisions made; discussion only on Local Law C and F of 2022
• Adjourned meeting by unanimous voice vote

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on June 8, 2022, to consider three variance requests. These include allowing extra and larger wall signs at 1009 Central Avenue, altering a non-conforming sign at 253 New Scotland Avenue, and reducing required parking for Roy's Caribbean Restaurant at 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard. The board will also declare a lead agency for environmental review.

• Three wall sign variances at 1009 Central Avenue (Ray Sign): allow 3 signs instead of 1, and two signs at 48 sq ft instead of 32 sq ft max
• Sign alteration variance at 253 New Scotland Avenue (Cheyanne Lubahn) for a legally non-conforming sign
• Parking variance at 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard (Roy's Caribbean Restaurant): 19 additional spaces required, only 7 provided
• Lead agency declaration under State Environmental Quality Review Act

The Board of Zoning Appeals granted a parking variance to Roy's Caribbean Restaurant at 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard, allowing fewer off-street parking spaces than required. The board also deferred action on three sign variances for 1009 Central Avenue pending review by the Albany County Planning Board, and took no action on a sign alteration request at 253 New Scotland Avenue after the applicant withdrew it.

• Granted area variance #0096 for reduced parking at 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard (4-0)
• Passed lead agency declaration under SEQRA for 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard (4-0)
• Passed negative declaration under SEQRA for 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard (4-0)
• Deferred action on area variances #0101, #0103, #0104 for signs at 1009 Central Avenue
• No action taken on area variance #0105 for sign alteration at 253 New Scotland Avenue (withdrawn)

Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board

The Public, Education and Government Access Oversight Board is meeting to review reports from the chair, studio coordinator, and treasurer. The board is scheduled to decide on the approval of a Reinstatement of Privileges Policy.

• Approval of Reinstatement of Privileges Policy

The board approved adding a new paragraph G to section 7.1 of the Dispute Resolutions and Appeals Process, allowing individuals who have complied with reinstatement requirements but have not been reinstated to file a grievance. The motion passed unanimously. The board also approved the May minutes and the treasurer's report, and discussed equipment requests and studio operations.

• Approved addition of paragraph G to 7.1 of Dispute Resolutions and Appeals Process (unanimous)
• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous, McGrath abstained)
• Approved treasurer's report (unanimous)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment met on June 7, 2022, and passed a resolution (5-0) approving multiple budget transfers for various city departments. The transfers cover expenses such as overtime, temporary help, equipment, and event costs. The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 24, 2022.

• Transfer $7,500 to cover overtime costs in Administrative Services
• Transfer $40,000 from Contingency to Temporary Help in Administrative Services
• Transfer $62,379 from Contingency to Fire Department contracted services for SCBA grant match
• Transfer $5,000 to Tulip Fest for cost increases
• Transfer $5,000 to Office Equipment in Administrative Services

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to consider multiple budget transfer requests for the 2022 fiscal year. The transfers move funds between accounts to cover expenses such as fire department grant matching, Tulip Fest costs, and departmental operational needs. The board will vote on these transfers at the meeting.

• $62,379 transfer to cover Albany Fire Department's SCBA grant match
• $5,000 transfer for 2022 Tulip Fest cost increases
• $40,000 transfer to cover temporary help costs in Administrative Services
• $7,500 transfer to cover overtime costs in Administrative Services
• $140,000 transfer for gasoline and supplies in General Services

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency Board approved the minutes from the May 10 meeting, accepted a request from ACES to pay only the principal on a 1993 loan, and approved the Year 48 HUD budget. The board also discussed the LUCID Albany project, an update from the Planning Department.

• Approved ACES request to pay principal only on $250,000 CDBG loan for 255 Orange St and 236 Clinton Ave, forgiving interest
• Approved Year 48 HUD budget
• Discussed LUCID Albany project in the Alley Way on First and Quail St

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a workshop to discuss three development items: a proposed expansion of the Capital City Rescue Mission at 257 South Pearl Street, and two requests to rezone properties to Light Industrial. Public comment will not be taken for these workshop items, but written comments may be submitted in advance.

• Expansion of Capital City Rescue Mission at 257 South Pearl Street with a ~31,460 sq ft addition
• Zoning map amendment for 60 Fourth Avenue from MU-FS to L-1
• Zoning map amendment for 1349 & 1355 Broadway from MU-CU to L-1

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

This is the agenda for the Albany Common Council's Caucus and Regular Meeting on June 6, 2022. The agenda includes an amended active calendar, supporting legislation, minutes from previous meetings, and items for majority consent. No specific substantive items are detailed in the provided text.

• Amended active calendar for June 6, 2022
• Supporting legislation for the June 6, 2022 meeting
• Caucus and regular meeting minutes for June 6, 2022
• Written comment and amended legislation items

Sustainability Commission

The committee will receive an update on the Albany Geothermal Loop progress and clean energy community campaigns. Members will also review potential legislative endorsements including tenant rights and bottle bill changes.

• Update on Albany Geothermal Loop progress
• Update on NYSERDA-approved Clean Energy Community Campaigns
• Legislative update on Tenant Dignity and Safe Housing Act
• Legislative update on Right to Counsel for tenants
• Legislative update on Better Bottle Bill

The Albany Sustainability Advisory Committee approved the May 5, 2022 minutes and received updates on the Albany Geothermal Loop project, Clean Energy Community campaigns, and legislative endorsements. No formal votes were taken on new business items; the committee discussed forming a working group for geothermal and drafting a letter on the Better Bottle Bill if it fails to pass.

• Approved May 5, 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussed forming a working committee for geothermal project
• Proposed drafting letter to Mayor on Better Bottle Bill if not passed
• Scheduled next meeting for July 7, 2022

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Reapportionment Commission will hold a virtual meeting on June 2, 2022 at 5:30 PM, streamed on Facebook. The agenda contains only procedural details about the meeting format and how to participate; no specific redistricting decisions or discussions are listed.

• Virtual meeting via Zoom and Facebook live stream
• Meeting held under Governor Hochul's remote meeting legislation
• Members listed: Brenda Robinson, Carol June-Washington, Dale Getto, Dylan Carey, Emily Loughlin, Judith Mazza, Scott Allardice, Shawn Morris

The Albany Reapportionment Commission voted unanimously to select Caliper as the vendor for GIS mapping software used to draw district maps. The commission also elected Shawn Morris as chair and Emily Loughlin as secretary, and scheduled future meetings for June 14, 22, and 30, 2022.

• Selected Caliper for GIS mapping software (unanimous)
• Elected Shawn Morris as Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Emily Loughlin as Secretary (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meetings for June 14, 22, 30, 2022 at 5:30pm

General Services, Health and Environment Committee

The General Services, Health and Environment Committee is meeting to discuss Ordinance 2.21.22. This item concerns Chapter 345 Trees and Vegetation.

• Ordinance 2.21.22 regarding Chapter 345 Trees and Vegetation

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council met in caucus on June 1, 2022, to discuss recent shootings with APD Deputy Chief Foley, ARPA fund distribution, and the NYS consolidation funds presented by Capitalize Albany. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during caucus
• Discussed recent shooting with APD Deputy Chief Foley
• Discussed ARPA fund distribution and recipient groups
• Capitalize Albany presented NYS consolidation funds
• Reviewed agenda for June 6th Regular Meeting

Water Board

The Albany Water Board is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive committee and commissioner reports. The board will vote on a series of resolutions, including several change orders for construction projects and task orders for engineering services. The agenda also includes updates on capital projects and old business regarding dam improvements.

• Resolution 22-33: Change Order #1 to Upper Service Tank Rehabilitation with Underwater Solutions for $15,095
• Resolution 22-34: Change Order #6 to 35 Erie Blvd. Site Improvements with Wm. J. Keller & Sons for $20,395.95
• Resolution 22-36: Change Order 2G-01 for Beaver Creek Cleaner River Project Phase 2 with Jett Industries for $31,285.87
• Resolution 22-40: Change Order 5 for Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase 5 with WM J. Keller & Sons for $263,477.67
• Resolution 22-30: Declaring pump station repairs as Type II action under SEQRA

The Albany Water Board unanimously approved 14 resolutions, including change orders for construction projects and the 2021 audit report. The board also discussed dam improvements and grant funding, and received reports on finances and operations. No public comment was made.

• Approved Resolution 22-30 declaring pump station repairs a Type II action under SEQRA (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-31 confirming Chairman's signature on National Grid easement at 35 Erie Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-32 authorizing line item adjustments to Albany Pool Joint Venture agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 to Upper Service Tank Rehabilitation with Underwater Solutions for $15,095 (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #6 to 35 Erie Boulevard contract with Wm. J. Keller & Sons for $20,395.95 (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 1B to Feura Bush Filtration Plant renovations with Spring Electric for $5,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 2G-01 for Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase 2 with Jett Industries for $31,285.87 (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 5 for Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase 5 with Wm. J. Keller & Sons for $263,477.67 (unanimous)

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Reapportionment Commission will hold a virtual meeting on May 25, 2022 at 5:30 PM, streamed on Facebook. The agenda contains only procedural details about the meeting format and location, with no listed agenda items or decisions to be discussed.

• Meeting held virtually via Zoom and streamed on Facebook
• Meeting date and time: May 25, 2022 at 5:30 PM
• Commission members listed: Brenda Robinson, Carol June-Washington, Dale Getto, Dylan Carey, Emily Loughlin, Judith Mazza, Scott Allardice, Shawn Morris

The Albany Reapportionment Commission met and heard presentations from two vendors, Caliper Corporation and Timmons Group, regarding mapping software for redistricting. No decisions were made; the commission discussed next steps and scheduled its next meeting for June 2, 2022.

• Heard presentation from Caliper Corporation on mapping software
• Heard presentation from Timmons Group on mapping software
• Scheduled next meeting for June 2, 2022 at 5:30pm

Municipal Civil Service Commission

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review a series of permanent, provisional, and other class appointments and promotions across city departments, and consider creating a new job specification for Budget Director at the Albany Parking Authority and amending the Engineer specification. The meeting is held virtually under New York's Open Meetings Law.

• Permanent appointments include Starquaya McNeal (Police Data Entry Operator) and Florida Baker (Library Assistant)
• Promotions include Patrick Hines to Fire Battalion Chief and Adam Lajara to Police Sergeant
• Provisional appointments include Allison Crerand as Director of Fiscal Operations and Avi Epsteing as Principal Planner
• New job specification: Budget Director (Albany Parking Authority)
• Amendment of job specification: Engineer

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission unanimously approved the April 28, 2022 meeting minutes, a new job specification for Budget Director (Albany Parking Authority), and an amendment to the Engineer job specification. The commission also addressed compliance issues with appointing authorities, including untimely personnel change reports and improper provisional appointments, offering training to correct these issues. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved April 28, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted new job specification for Budget Director (Albany Parking Authority) (unanimous)
• Accepted amendment to Engineer job specification (unanimous)
• Discussed appointing authority compliance issues; offered training (no formal action)

Commission on Human Rights

The Commission will review the April minutes and receive updates regarding the Annual Human Rights Recognition Reception Subcommittee. The agenda also includes discussions on the Equity Agenda Annual Report and community education.

• Approval of April Minutes
• Annual Human Rights Recognition Reception Subcommittee updates
• Equity Agenda Annual Report & Ad Hoc Subcommittee discussion
• Community Education

The Albany Commission on Human Rights met via Zoom on May 19, 2022, and approved the prior meeting's minutes. The commission scheduled its Annual Awards Ceremony for June 10, 2022, at 5 p.m. at City Hall, with Commissioner Shelly coordinating event details. Commissioner Mueller was appointed chair of the new Communications Committee. No public comments were received.

• Approved prior meeting minutes
• Scheduled Annual Awards Ceremony for June 10, 2022, at 5 p.m. at City Hall
• Commissioner Shelly to coordinate event details with Executive Director Elumade
• Commissioner Mueller appointed chair of new Communications Committee

Historic Resources Commission

The Albany Historic Resources Commission will hold a public hearing and workshop on May 19, 2022, via Zoom. They will consider nominating the Boardman and Gray Piano Company at 883 Broadway to the State and National Register of Historic Places, and review a request to replace 344 windows at 175 Jay Street in the Center Square/Hudson Park Historic District.

• Nomination of Boardman and Gray Piano Company (883 Broadway) to State and National Register of Historic Places
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 175 Jay Street: replace 344 historic and non-original windows with new aluminum windows
• Public comment accepted via email or phone 48 hours in advance

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals is reviewing several variance requests for properties in Albany. These include requests for additional wall signs at 1009 Central Avenue, a sign alteration at 253 New Scotland Avenue, and off-street parking requirements at 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard.

• Sign variances for three wall signs at 1009 Central Avenue
• Sign alteration variance for 253 New Scotland Avenue
• Off-street parking variance for 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard

Public Safety Committee

The Albany Common Council's Public Safety Committee is meeting virtually to discuss two local laws that would create a Public Safety Commission and a Department of Public Safety, aiming to shift some public safety responses away from police. They will also consider reappointing two members to the Community Police Review Board. The meeting includes a public comment period.

• Local Law C of 2022: Creates a Public Safety Commission with oversight of Albany Police Department and administration of a new Department of Public Safety.
• Local Law F of 2022: Establishes the Department of Public Safety to handle non-violent calls like homelessness, mental health, and substance abuse.
• Resolution 52.52.22R: Reappoints Matthew Ingram to the Community Police Review Board.
• Resolution 53.52.22R: Reappoints Dr. Veneilya Harden to the Community Police Review Board.

The Public Safety Committee voted unanimously to recommend the reappointment of Dr. Veneilya Harden and Matthew Ingram to the Community Police Review Board. The committee also discussed but did not vote on Local Laws C and F of 2022, which would create a Public Safety Commission and establish a Department of Public Safety.

• Recommended reappointment of Dr. Veneilya Harden to CPRB (unanimous)
• Recommended reappointment of Matthew Ingram to CPRB (unanimous)
• Discussed Local Law C of 2022 (Public Safety Commission) — no vote
• Discussed Local Law F of 2022 (Department of Public Safety) — no vote

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve a series of budget transfers and appropriation increases for fiscal year 2022. The largest transfer moves $946,007 from the water fund's unassigned balance to cover open purchase orders for William Keller & Sons Construction and Woodard and Curran. Other transfers fund lead service replacement grants, reservoir improvements, and various departmental expenses.

• $946,007 transfer to fund open 2021 purchase orders for William Keller & Sons Construction and Woodard and Curran
• $700,000 transfer from reserves for Alcove Facilities Improvements Projects
• $50,000 transfer for lead service replacement grant payments (2nd quarter 2022)
• $50,000 increase in IT contracted services funded by other general government revenue
• $11,200 transfer to create clothing allowance/stipend line for Buildings & Regulatory Compliance

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board is reviewing several budget transfer requests across various city departments. These requests include moving funds for golf course services, water department projects, and payroll adjustments.

• $26,000 transfer from Post Closure Landfill to Golf Course Contracted Services
• $14,725 transfer from Treasury Special Items to cover Bond and Note expenses
• $10,000 transfer from Water Admin Salaries to Water Longevity account
• $46,007 transfer from Water Unassigned Fund Balance to Sewer and T&D Contracted Services
• $700,000 transfer from Water Unassigned Fund Balance to Capital - Supply Reservoirs

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public hearing and meeting to consider three conditional use permit applications: converting a building at 97 Central Avenue into a self-storage facility, occupying space at 250 Washington Avenue Extension for a controlled substance dispensary, and converting a townhouse at 159 First Street from two to three dwelling units. Public comments can be submitted by email or by requesting to speak at the meeting.

• Conditional use permit for self-storage facility at 97 Central Avenue (30,550 sq ft)
• Conditional use permit for controlled substance dispensary at 250 Washington Avenue Extension (5,448 sq ft)
• Conditional use permit for three dwelling units at 159 First Street
• Public hearing via Zoom and YouTube live stream

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider several items, including an ordinance on tree replanting, a resolution condemning the potential overturning of Roe v. Wade, and a local law authorizing videoconferencing for city public bodies. The agenda also includes a resolution celebrating the Green Tech Boys Basketball Team and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Ordinance 2.21.22 (Anane) - replanting of trees, amended version for Chapter 345 Trees and Vegetation
• Resolution 54.52.22R (Zamer) - condemning potential overturning of Roe v. Wade by the U.S. Supreme Court
• Local Law E of 2022 (Keegan) - authorizing videoconferencing for City of Albany public bodies
• Resolution 41.42.22R (Kimbrough) - celebrating the Green Tech Boys Basketball Team
• Approval of caucus and regular meeting minutes from May 16, 2022

Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board

The Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board will review previous minutes and receive reports from the Chair, Studio Coordinator, and Treasurer. The board is also scheduled to discuss suspending meetings during July and August.

• Discussion regarding suspending meetings for July and August

The board unanimously approved a motion to have counsel draft a policy for reinstating individuals suspended from the studio, including a probationary period and potential permanent suspension for violations. It also approved suspending meetings for July and August, and approved the treasurer's report despite missing invoices. The board entered executive session to discuss proposed litigation.

• Approved April minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion for counsel to draft reinstatement policy (unanimous)
• Approved suspending meetings for July and August (unanimous)
• Approved treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss proposed litigation (unanimous)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on May 16, 2022, with public hearings and comment periods. The agenda includes introducing local laws on videoconferencing for public boards and public safety, as well as ordinances authorizing the sale of city-owned properties to the school district. Several items are held in committee, including a resolution supporting good cause eviction and a resolution condemning the potential overturning of Roe v. Wade.

• Sale of 56 North Lark Street to City School District of Albany
• Sale of Rear North Pearl Street and 596 North Pearl Street to City School District
• Local law to authorize videoconferencing for public boards
• Local law to create a Public Safety Commission (held)
• Resolution supporting good cause eviction at state level

The Common Council met in caucus to discuss the agenda for the May 16 regular meeting, including a discussion on tree removal notification letters. No formal decisions or votes were made during this caucus session.

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency Board approved the previous meeting's minutes and gave preliminary approval to an RFP award for redevelopment of properties on Henry Johnson Blvd, Clinton Ave, and First St. The project, in partnership with the Albany Land Bank, will create 65 affordable housing units, with no purchase agreement yet and negotiations to follow.

• Preliminary RFP award to Home Leasing, Conifer, or MDGTRC Group for redevelopment
• Agreement with Albany Land Bank for 22 properties
• Total of 65 affordable housing units planned
• Resolution for negotiations approved
• Minutes of 4/12/22 meeting approved unanimously

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Advisory Committee is meeting to review updates on NYSERDA-approved clean energy campaigns and a waterfront proposal from CaD. The body will also elect a Treasurer and review recent Earth Day and tree planting activities.

• Update on NYSERDA-approved Clean Energy Community Campaigns regarding heat pumps, community solar, and electric vehicles
• CaD proposal for waterfront
• Election of Treasurer
• Review of Earth Day activities (DEED and SEED)
• Review of May 1 tree planting

The Albany Sustainability Advisory Committee approved the March and April minutes and appointed a treasurer in abstentia. No public comments were received. The meeting included updates on various sustainability initiatives, but no major policy decisions were made.

• Approved March 3, 2022 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved April 7, 2022 minutes (motion passed)
• Appointed David as Treasurer of SAC in abstentia (motion passed)

City of Albany Redistricting Commission

The City of Albany Reapportionment Commission is holding a virtual meeting on May 5, 2022, at 5:30 PM, live-streamed on Facebook. The agenda contains only procedural details for the meeting, with no specific items listed for discussion or decision.

• Virtual meeting via Zoom and Facebook live stream
• Meeting ID: 856 9487 0222
• Passcode: 735269
• Dial-in number: +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

The City of Albany Reapportionment Commission held its initial organizational meeting, introducing members and discussing the legislation that formed the commission, communication methods, and available mapping software. No formal decisions were made; the group discussed selecting a chair, co-chair, and secretary, and scheduled its next meeting for May 18, 2022.

• Scheduled next meeting for May 18, 2022 at 5:30pm

General Services, Health and Environment Committee

The General Services, Health and Environment Committee is discussing an ordinance to require the city to replant trees that have been removed. The body is also considering two resolutions to honor local residents by renaming portions of city streets.

• Ordinance 2.21.22: Amends Chapter 345 to require the city to bear full cost of replanting trees removed under section 345-4
• Resolution 35.41.22R: Rename a portion of First Street as 'Jewel and Grace Love Way'
• Resolution 48.51.22R: Rename a portion of Clinton Avenue between South Swan and Dove Streets as 'Charles and Edna Howard Way'

The General Services, Health and Environment Committee voted to move Ordinance 2.21.22, as amended, out of committee with a positive recommendation. It also advanced two resolutions honoring individuals by renaming portions of streets. All three items were approved by the committee.

• Moved Ordinance 2.21.22 (tree planting amendment) out of committee with positive recommendation
• Moved Resolution 35.41.22R (renaming portion of First Street for Jewel and Grace Love) out of committee
• Moved Resolution 48.51.22R (renaming portion of Clinton Avenue as Charles and Edna Howard Way) out of committee

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve several budget transfers, including reallocations for recreation uniforms, cultural affairs equipment, and water department supplies and electric vehicle charging stations. The meeting was held via Zoom on May 3, 2022.

• Recreation: $359.90 transfer for uniform expenses (Invoice 167341)
• Recreation: $614.00 transfer for uniform expenses (Invoice 163396)
• Office of Cultural Affairs: $500 transfer for new stage equipment
• Recreation: $5,000 transfer to properly allocate funds for office equipment
• Water: $25,000 transfer for purification supplies; $34,500 transfer for 3 EV charging stations

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider four budget transfer requests at its May 3, 2022 meeting. The transfers reallocate funds within city departments for expenses such as uniform costs, equipment for a new stage, and water purification supplies and electric vehicle charging stations. The meeting is a regular session held via Zoom.

• Recreation: $359.90 transfer for uniform expenses (Invoice 167341)
• Cultural Affairs: $500 transfer for equipment for a new stage
• Water: $25,000 transfer for purification supplies
• Water: $34,500 transfer for 3 electric vehicle charging stations

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a local law amending the city charter regarding department head reappointments and an ordinance on affordable housing requirements. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from previous meetings and other routine matters.

• Local Law A of 2022: Charter amendment on department head reappointments
• Ordinance 4.21.22: Affordable housing requirement
• Approval of caucus and regular meeting minutes
• Active calendar and supporting legislation review

Historic Resources Commission

The Historic Resources Commission is holding a public hearing on one application: a Certificate of Appropriateness request for a full exterior renovation and rear one-story addition at 199 Lark Street in the Center Square / Hudson Park Historic District. The meeting is conducted via Zoom and YouTube, with public comment accepted by email or phone in advance.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for full exterior renovation of vacant structure at 199 Lark Street
• Construction of rear one-story addition at 199 Lark Street
• Property owner: 199 Lark, LLC; applicant: Ron Xiong
• Located in Center Square / Hudson Park Historic District

The Historic Resources Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a full exterior renovation and rear one-story addition at 199 Lark Street, subject to conditions. The conditions require adjusting transom heights, revising the bulkhead panel design, and providing a clarifying sketch. The vote was 5-1.

• Approved COA 0713 for 199 Lark St. renovation and addition (5-1)
• Required transoms above entry doors to align with storefront glazing
• Required bulkhead panel revision to replicate true paneled design
• Commissioner Pinckney to provide sketch of conditions to applicant

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public workshop and hearing on April 27, 2022, via Zoom and YouTube. The board will consider four area variance requests related to signage at 618 Delaware Avenue, 1009 Central Avenue, and 253 New Scotland Avenue. These are the only substantive items on the agenda.

• 618 Delaware Avenue: request to allow an 11-foot-tall freestanding sign where 8 feet is maximum (AV #0106)
• 1009 Central Avenue: request to allow three wall signs where one is maximum (AV #0101)
• 1009 Central Avenue: three requests to allow 48 sq ft wall signs where 32 sq ft is maximum (AV #0102, #0103, #0104)
• 253 New Scotland Avenue: request to alter a legally non-conforming sign (AV #0105)

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals held a public workshop and hearing on April 27, 2022, but took no action on any of the three projects on the agenda. All five variance requests were left without a decision.

• No action taken on AV #0106 for a freestanding sign at 618 Delaware Avenue
• No action taken on AV #0101 for a wall sign at 1009 Central Avenue
• No action taken on AV #0102 for a wall sign at 1009 Central Avenue
• No action taken on AV #0103 for a wall sign at 1009 Central Avenue
• No action taken on AV #0104 for a wall sign at 1009 Central Avenue
• No action taken on AV #0105 for a sign alteration at 253 New Scotland Avenue

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on May 2, 2022, with a full agenda of public hearings, local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. Key items include introducing local laws on department head appointments, creating a Public Safety Commission, and adjusting the Historic Resources Commission's reporting deadline. The Council will also consider ordinances authorizing the sale of city-owned land near Swartson Court and closing Anthony Street for park purposes, along with several resolutions.

• Local Law A-2022: Amends Charter Section 301 on department head appointments at start of new term
• Local Law C-2022: Creates a Public Safety Commission
• Ordinance 11.51.22: Authorizes sale of city-owned land bordering 24 and 26 Swartson Court to Shwana Adkison
• Ordinance 12.51.22: Closes Anthony Street and dedicates it to Westland Hills Park
• Resolution 48.51.22R: Renames a portion of Clinton Avenue as Charles and Edna Howard Way

The Common Council held a caucus meeting to discuss the agenda for the May 2nd regular meeting and to hear from three candidates for the Historic Resources Commission (HRC). No formal decisions or votes were made during this caucus session.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during caucus

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public hearing and meeting to discuss and vote on several development applications, including expansions, a parking lot, and residential conversions. The agenda includes workshop items, a consent agenda, and public meeting items, with public comment taken only for the public meeting portion.

• 257 South Pearl Street: 31,460 sq ft addition for Capital City Rescue Mission (CUP #0049)
• 69-85 Sherman Street: 44-space parking lot and demolition of 2,355 sq ft building for Legal Aid Society (CUP #0050)
• 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard: 6,720 sq ft restaurant expansion plus 4 dwelling units (DPR #0130)
• 242 Spruce Street: 37 dwelling units and 8,097 sq ft retail, with waivers (DPR #0126)
• 700 Smith Boulevard: 19,000 sq ft industrial building for Albany Port District Commission (DPR #0142)

The Albany Planning Board unanimously approved three projects on the consent agenda: a building addition at 875 Broadway, a rehabilitation and addition at 242 Spruce Street creating 37 dwelling units and retail space, and a new building at 700 Smith Boulevard. All votes were 5-0. No public comment was received, and no substantive decisions were made on workshop items.

• Approved DPR #0150 for 875 Broadway building addition (5-0)
• Approved DPR #0126 for 242 Spruce Street rehabilitation with conditions (5-0)
• Approved waiver of street amenities standard for 242 Spruce Street (5-0)
• Approved waiver of upper floor transparency standard for 242 Spruce Street (5-0)
• Approved DPR #0142 for 700 Smith Boulevard building with conditions (5-0)
• Approved waiver of sidewalk requirement for 700 Smith Boulevard (5-0)

Water Board

The Albany Water Board is meeting to consider several resolutions, including a change order for the 35 Erie Blvd. site improvements, negative declarations for sewer rehabilitation and culvert installation, a lease agreement with Huck Finn's Playland, and a policy for annual review of board policies. They will also receive financial and project updates.

• Resolution 22-25: Approve Change Order #5 to Contract 01 for 35 Erie Blvd. Site Improvements with Wm. J. Keller & Sons in amount of $12,702.24
• Resolution 22-26: Adopt Negative Declaration under SEQRA for sewer rehabilitation on Osborne Street
• Resolution 22-27: Adopt Negative Declaration under SEQRA to install Culvert Pipes at Alcove Reservoir
• Resolution 22-28: Authorize Chairman to execute lease agreement with Huck Finn's Playland LLC for 35 Erie Boulevard as parking lot
• Resolution 22-29: Adopt policy to review Albany Water Board Policies annually

The Albany Water Board approved five resolutions, including a lease agreement with Huck Finn's Playland LLC for 35 Erie Boulevard to use as a parking lot, and a change order for site improvements. The board also adopted negative declarations under SEQRA for sewer rehabilitation on Osborne Street and culvert pipes at Alcove Reservoir, and a policy for annual review of board policies. No public comment was received, and no action was taken during executive session.

• Approved lease agreement with Huck Finn's Playland LLC for 35 Erie Blvd parking lot (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #5 to Contract 01 with Wm. J. Keller & Sons for $12,702.24 (unanimous)
• Adopted negative declaration under SEQRA for sewer rehabilitation on Osborne Street (unanimous)
• Adopted negative declaration under SEQRA for culvert pipes at Alcove Reservoir (unanimous)
• Adopted policy to review Albany Water Board policies annually (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 25, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Commission on Human Rights

The Albany Commission on Human Rights is meeting to approve prior minutes, discuss the Annual Human Rights Recognition Reception, review the Equity Agenda Annual Report, and address community education and new business. The meeting is open to the public with limited comment time.

• Approval of December and March minutes
• Updates on Annual Human Rights Recognition Reception subcommittee
• Review of Equity Agenda Annual Report and ad hoc subcommittee
• Community education discussion
• Public comment limited to 5 minutes per person

Human Resources and Human Rights Committee

The Human Resources and Human Rights Committee is meeting to receive a presentation on a pay study. The agenda lists only this presentation and a public comment period, with no other substantive items.

• Pay study presentation to Common Council

Public Safety Committee

The Albany Public Safety Committee is discussing Local Law C of 2022, which would create a Public Safety Commission to oversee the police department and administer a new Department of Public Safety. The commission would have authority over police policies, personnel practices, and dispatch, and would aim to shift some emergency responses to unarmed responders. The meeting is held virtually via Zoom, with public comment available.

• Local Law C of 2022 creating a Public Safety Commission with oversight of Albany Police Department
• Commission to have 9 members: 5 appointed by Common Council, 4 by Mayor
• Commission to appoint a Commissioner of Public Safety to head new Department of Public Safety
• Department of Public Safety to handle 911 dispatch and respond to mental health, homelessness, and substance abuse calls
• Police required to use least possible force and file reports on physical contact with public

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve several budget transfers, including a $1.16 million reallocation of bonded capital funds for water projects and smaller operational transfers for street lighting, police supplies, and water fuel. The meeting also included a $1.23 million transfer from unassigned fund balance to various water capital accounts.

• $1,165,588 transfer for water capital projects (Loudonville Reservoir, Distribution System, Erie Blvd., Sewer Rehabilitation)
• $1,230,793 transfer from unassigned fund balance to water supply reservoirs, filtration plant, and other accounts
• $46,506 transfer for street lighting utilities to contracted services
• $30,000 transfer for water heating fuel purchases
• $4,400 police transfer for supplies to contracted services

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to consider several budget transfers, a police grant increase, and a settlement. The transfers cover street lighting, water operations, and capital projects. The board will also approve a $100,000 grant for the Albany Police Department and a settlement for damages to a resident's trash can.

• $46,506 transfer for street lighting contracted services
• $10,000 transfer for general services supplies
• $30,000 transfer for water heating fuel
• $1,165,588 in water capital account adjustments
• $100,000 increase for Smart Policing Initiative grant

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

This is the agenda for the Albany Common Council Caucus and Regular Meeting on April 18, 2022. The agenda lists active calendar items, supporting legislation, minutes, and majority consent items, but the specific details are contained in attached PDF documents. The meeting appears to be a standard procedural session with multiple agenda items, though the substance is not visible in the text provided.

• Active Calendar April 18 2022
• Supporting Legislation April 18 2022
• Caucus and Regular Meeting Minutes
• Majority Consent items
• Amended Legislation

Human Resources and Human Rights Committee

The Human Resource and Human Rights Committee is considering Ordinance 3.21.22, which would amend the city's Equal Opportunity Protections to increase the minority and women labor utilization plan for contractors from 25% to 30%. The meeting includes a public comment period. If approved, the ordinance would take effect immediately.

• Ordinance 3.21.22: raises contractor minority/women labor utilization plan from 25% to 30%
• Amends Section 48-17 of Chapter 48 of Albany City Code
• Public comment period is scheduled

The Human Resources and Human Rights Committee voted to recommend Ordinance 3.21.22, which would increase the minority and women labor utilization plan for contractors from 25% to 30%. The motion was made by Council Member Farrell and seconded by Council Member Love. No public comment was received. The recommendation will go to the full Common Council for consideration.

• Recommended Ordinance 3.21.22 to increase contractor labor utilization from 25% to 30% (motion by Farrell, seconded by Love)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on April 18, 2022, with public hearings and comment periods. The agenda includes introduced local laws to amend the city charter regarding department head appointments and to create a Public Safety Commission, as well as several ordinances and resolutions. Many items are held in committee, including ordinances on affordable housing, tree planting, and contractor diversity, and resolutions on water fluoridation and street renamings.

• Local Law A-2022: amends charter Section 301 on department head appointments at start of new term
• Local Law C-2022: creates a Public Safety Commission
• Ordinance 10.42.22: changes deadline for Historic Resources Commission annual report on emergency demolitions
• Ordinance 3.21.22: increases minority and women labor utilization plan for contractors from 25% to 30%
• Resolution 45.42.22R: renames Essex Street in honor of Chyna Forney

General Services, Health and Environment Committee

The General Service, Health and Environment Committee will meet to discuss city operations. The agenda includes reviews of the most recent winter's snow removal and updates on city landfills and the golf course.

• Discussion on snow removal from the past winter
• Update on City of Albany Landfills
• Updates on the Golf Course

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Advisory Committee will host a guest speaker from Ithaca, NY to discuss the Ithaca Green New Deal. The body will also elect a Treasurer and review reports from the Common Council Planning Committee.

• Presentation by Luis Aguirre-Torres on the Ithaca Green New Deal
• Election of Treasurer
• Discussion of SAC Annual Report due June 30th
• Volunteer coordination for Drive Electric Earth Day and South End Earth Day on April 23, 2022
• Volunteer coordination for Tulip Festival on May 7 and May 8

The Albany Sustainability Advisory Committee met on April 7, 2022, but took no formal votes or decisions because public access was unavailable due to technical issues. The meeting featured a presentation by Ithaca's Sustainability Manager on the Ithaca Green New Deal, and updates from members on various projects. Approval of previous minutes and election of a treasurer were postponed to the next meeting.

• No formal votes or decisions made due to lack of public access
• Approval of March 3, 2022 minutes held for next meeting
• Election of Treasurer postponed due to technical difficulties

Historic Resources Commission

The Historic Resources Commission is holding a public workshop to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness request for a full exterior renovation and a rear one-story addition at 199 Lark Street, located in the Center Square / Hudson Park Historic District. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom or YouTube, with public comment accepted by email or phone in advance.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for 199 Lark Street: full exterior renovation of vacant structure and rear one-story addition
• Applicant: Ron Xiong; Owner: 199 Lark, LLC
• Public comment must be submitted 48 hours in advance via email or phone

The Historic Resources Commission discussed a full exterior renovation and rear addition at 199 Lark Street in the Center Square/Hudson Park Historic District. The Commission made recommendations for design changes, including enlarging window trim, adding projected sills, providing siding details, and using traditional materials. No final decision was made; the application remains under review.

• Recommended enlarging window trim to indicate a lintel, similar to 197 Lark Street
• Recommended providing window sills projecting at least one inch
• Recommended providing siding details and specifications for the proposed reveal
• Recommended adding corner boards at southeast and northeast corners
• Expressed concerns about lack of traditional materials and details, possibly not meeting Historic Resources-Overlay standards
• Recommended applicant study surrounding wood-framed buildings for traditional features
• Recommended considering pre-primed cedar siding to replace non-original aluminum siding
• Recommended replacing damaged historic cornice material in-kind and verifying elevation drawing scale

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public workshop and hearing on April 6, 2022, via Zoom. The workshop will discuss four sign-related area variances for a property at 1009 Central Avenue and one for a non-conforming sign at 253 New Scotland Avenue. The public hearing will consider a sign variance at 40 Hopewell Street and an interpretation request regarding a retaining wall at 82 Euclid Avenue.

• Area variances for three wall signs at 1009 Central Avenue (Ray Sign) exceeding size and number limits
• Area variance to alter a legally non-conforming sign at 253 New Scotland Avenue (Dave Peck)
• Area variance for a 9 sq ft freestanding sign at 40 Hopewell Street (Saxton Sign Corp) where 6 sq ft is max
• Interpretation of 'grade' for a retaining wall over 4 feet at 82 Euclid Avenue (Jeffrey L. Zimring)

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance for a 9-square-foot freestanding sign at 40 Hopewell Street (4-0) and upheld the Chief Planning Official's interpretation of 'grade' regarding a retaining wall at 82 Euclid Avenue (4-0). Several other applications were listed as 'No Action Taken.' The board entered executive session to discuss pending litigation but took no action.

• Approved Area Variance #0100 for a 9 sq ft freestanding sign at 40 Hopewell Street (4-0)
• Upheld Chief Planning Official's decision on retaining wall interpretation at 82 Euclid Avenue (4-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss pending litigation (4-0); no action taken

Public Safety Committee

The Albany Public Safety Committee is discussing Local Law C of 2022, which would create a Public Safety Commission to oversee the Albany Police Department and administer the Department of Public Safety. The law would also mandate de-escalation training, require reports on police physical contact, and shift some emergency responses to unarmed responders. This is a discussion item, not a final vote.

• Local Law C of 2022 creating a Public Safety Commission with 9 members (5 appointed by Common Council, 4 by Mayor)
• Commission would have authority to modify Albany Police Department policies, superseding the Chief of Police
• Mandatory de-escalation training and requirement to use least possible force
• Reports required for any police physical contact with the public
• Department of Public Safety to handle 911 dispatch and respond to mental health, homelessness, and substance abuse calls

The Albany Common Council Public Safety Committee met on April 6, 2022, and discussed Local Law C of 2022, which would amend Chapter 42 of the City Code to create a Public Safety Commission. No vote was taken on the law; the only formal action was adjournment, passed unanimously.

• Discussed Local Law C of 2022 (creating a Public Safety Commission) — no action taken
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board

The Public, Education and Government Access Oversight Board meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. The agenda includes reports from the Chair, Studio Coordinator, and Treasurer.

The board approved the March meeting minutes with edits and discussed a producer's complaint about a cancelled recording session due to new studio hours. No substantive policy decisions were made; the board moved into executive session for potential litigation and adjourned.

• Approved March meeting minutes with edits (unanimous)
• Moved into executive session for potential litigation (unanimous)
• Returned to public session and adjourned (unanimous)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider several budget transfers, a grant-funded appropriation, and a legal settlement. Transfers include $100,000 for the Marlborough Court Pump Station Project, $260,000 for the Upper Service Tank Rehabilitation Project, and smaller amounts for police arbitration costs, water services, and recreation fees. The board will also vote on a $10,000 CDBG grant for the Do the Right Thing program and a $3,000 settlement to plaintiff Brenda Williams.

• $100,000 transfer to award Marlborough Court Pump Station Project
• $260,000 transfer for Upper Service Tank Rehabilitation Project
• $10,000 CDBG grant for Do the Right Thing program prizes
• $3,000 settlement to Brenda Williams in lawsuit against police detectives
• $1,000 transfer for police arbitration costs

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public hearing and meeting to review several development proposals, including a hotel conversion, a dispensary, solar panels, and mixed-use buildings. The board will also consider waivers and amendments to prior approvals.

• 1379 Washington Avenue: hotel conversion to 100-unit multi-family dwelling
• 19-21 Erie Boulevard: amendment to increase dwelling units from 261 to 273
• 250 Washington Avenue Extension: controlled substance dispensary (CUP)
• 344 West Church Street: ground-mounted solar panels (waiver for sidewalks)
• 237 Western Avenue: two mixed-use buildings, 83 units, demolition of 9 structures

The Albany Planning Board approved the Lofts at Pine Hills project at 237 Western Avenue, which includes two mixed-use buildings with 83 dwelling units and retail space, along with demolition of nine existing structures. The board also approved a hotel-to-apartment conversion at 1379 Washington Avenue and an amendment to increase dwelling units at 19-21 Erie Boulevard. Several other items were deferred or received no action.

• Approved CUP #0052, DPR #0144, and demolition review for 237 Western Avenue (4-0)
• Approved DPR #0139 hotel-to-100-unit apartment conversion at 1379 Washington Avenue (3-0)
• Approved DPR #0118 amendment increasing units from 261 to 273 at 19-21 Erie Boulevard (3-0)
• Approved four waivers for DPR #0142 at 700 Smith Boulevard (4-0)
• Deferred action on DPR #0134 solar panel waiver at 344 West Church Street
• Deferred action on DPR #0142 sidewalk waiver at 700 Smith Boulevard
• No action taken on DPR #0150 at 875 Broadway
• No action taken on CUP #0056 controlled substance dispensary at 250 Washington Avenue Extension

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee is meeting to interview applicants for a vacancy on the Board of Assessment and Review. The board hears property assessment grievances and ensures taxpayer rights. No public comment period is scheduled.

• Interviews for Board of Assessment and Review vacancy
• Board hears real property assessment complaints
• No public comment period

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider an ordinance amending the Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance to regulate sidewalk and outdoor cafes, along with several appointments and a salary adjustment. The agenda includes consent items for Board of Zoning Appeals appointments and a budget adjustment for the Deputy Registrar position.

• Ordinance 5.22.22 amending Chapter 375 (Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance) for sidewalk and outdoor cafe regulation
• Resolution 7.12.22R consenting to salary adjustment for Deputy Registrar in Office of Vital Statistics for 2022 budget
• Resolution 28.32.22R appointing Serena Joyce White-Lake to Board of Zoning Appeals
• Resolution 29.32.22R appointing Jeffrey M. Quain to Board of Zoning Appeals
• Resolution 30.32.22R (amended) appointing Adriana Le Blan-Jeffrey to Board of Zoning Appeals

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency Board met on April 12, 2022, and approved minutes from the March 1 meeting. The board also approved three CDBG-CV grant applications for Grateful Villages, Catholic Charities Housing Office, and In Our Own Voices. No other business was discussed.

• Approved minutes from March 1, 2022 meeting
• Approved CDBG-CV grant for Grateful Villages farmers market
• Approved CDBG-CV grant for Catholic Charities Housing Office Family Apartment Program (23 families)
• Approved CDBG-CV grant for In Our Own Voices community health outreach and vaccine incentives

Municipal Civil Service Commission

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve February meeting minutes, review the annual report submitted to New York State Civil Service, and hear reports on dozens of permanent, provisional, non-competitive, and labor class appointments across city departments. The commission will also consider creating a new Senior Laborer job specification, amending two existing specifications, and acting on multiple police officer candidate non-selections and disqualifications.

• Approval of February 23, 2022 meeting minutes
• Annual report submitted to NY State Civil Service on 3/1/2022
• Creation of new job specification: Senior Laborer (Albany Parking Authority)
• Amendments to job specifications for Assessment Aide and Data Analyst
• Police officer list #63-027: 1 failed physical agility, 2 deferring, 12 disqualifications

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a public hearing on Ordinance 5.22.22, which amends the Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance regarding sidewalk and outdoor cafes. The meeting also includes introductions of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions, as well as consideration of items held in committee.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 5.22.22 (sidewalk and outdoor cafes)
• Local Law A-2022: amending charter on department head appointments
• Local Law C-2022: creating a Public Safety Commission
• Ordinance 8.41.22: granting National Grid an easement at 900 New Scotland Road for an underground gas line
• Resolution 35.41.22R: renaming a portion of First Street in honor of Jewel and Grace Love

The Common Council held a caucus meeting with no formal votes or decisions. Members discussed the April 4th regular meeting agenda, heard presentations from the City Auditor's office, and reviewed two appointees to the Human Rights Commission. Discussions also covered a recreational marijuana task force, reparations for marijuana-related crimes, and the reintroduction of Local Law A of 2022.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during caucus

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee is considering a resolution to approve a salary increase for the Deputy Registrar in the Office of Vital Statistics from $53,575 to $56,575 for the 2022 budget. The raise is offset by a reduction in contracted services, making the change budget neutral. The committee will discuss and possibly vote on this resolution.

• Resolution 7.12.22R: Salary increase for Deputy Registrar from $53,575 to $56,575
• Social security spending increase of $230
• Contracted services line reduced from $10,000 to $6,770
• Budget neutral transfer of funds

The Finance, Taxation and Assessment Committee met and discussed Resolution 7.12.22R, which relates to the Deputy Registrar position. Council Member Keegan moved to recommend the resolution positively out of committee, seconded by Balarin. The motion passed, and the meeting adjourned.

• Recommended Resolution 7.12.22R out of committee (motion by Keegan, seconded by Balarin)

Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee

The Law, Buildings, and Code Enforcement Committee will discuss two items: a local law to amend the city charter regarding department head appointments at the start of a new term, and an ordinance to restrict non-permitted vehicles from parking in residential permit zones for more than two consecutive hours. A public comment period is included.

• Local Law A of 2022: Amends Charter Section 301 on department head appointments upon commencement of a new term
• Ordinance 6.22.22: Amends Section 359-75 to prohibit non-permitted vehicles from parking in residential permit zones for more than two consecutive hours

Water Board

The Albany Water Board is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive financial and commissioner reports. They will vote on a change order for the 35 Erie Blvd. site improvements and discuss updates on capital projects and dam improvements.

• Resolution 22-25: Approving Change Order #5 to Contract 01 for 35 Erie Blvd. Site Improvements with Wm. J. Keller & Sons in amount of $12,702.24
• Financial Report for February 2022
• Commissioner's Report including 2022 Critical Numbers and Key Performance Indicators
• Update on Beaver Creek Clean River Project
• Old Business: Rensselaer Lake Dam & Basic Creek Dam Improvements

Commission on Human Rights

The Albany Commission on Human Rights is meeting to approve December minutes, receive updates on the Annual Human Rights Recognition Reception and the Equity Agenda Annual Report, and discuss community education. The meeting is procedural and includes public comment.

• Approval of December minutes
• Annual Human Rights Recognition Reception subcommittee updates
• Equity Agenda Annual Report and Ad Hoc Subcommittee updates
• Community education discussion
• Public comment limited to 5 minutes per person

Public Safety Committee

The Albany Common Council's Public Safety Committee is meeting virtually to discuss Local Law C of 2022, which would amend Chapter 42 of the City Code to create a Public Safety Commission. The meeting includes a public comment period, with comments accepted via phone, email, or the city website.

• Local Law C of 2022: Amends Chapter 42 to create a Public Safety Commission
• Public comment line: 518-694-3987
• Email for comments: commoncouncil@albanyny.gov
• Meeting held via Zoom and streamed on Facebook

Human Resources and Human Rights Committee

The Albany Common Council's Human Resources and Human Rights Committee is holding a meeting on March 23, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The sole topic is a meeting with the Human Resources Department, Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE), and Equal Employment Opportunity. Public comment is permitted via phone, email, or web form.

• Meeting with Human Resources Department, MWBE, and Equal Employment Opportunity
• Public comment period available
• Remote meeting option per state legislation

The Human Resources and Human Rights Committee met to discuss city hiring practices, workforce diversity, and MWBE programs. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational, with department staff answering council members' questions.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; meeting was informational only

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider several budget transfer requests, including funds for police arbitration costs, the Alive @ Five concert series, a golf pro salary increase, and recreation overtime. The meeting is a regular session held via Zoom.

• Transfer $7,719 within Police Department for 2021 arbitration costs
• Transfer $20,000 to Alive @ Five for performer and service cost increases
• Transfer $1,849 for Golf Pro salary increase (2% contract increase)
• Transfer $2,333 to Recreation overtime account
• Increase Police appropriation by $4,607.68 from NYS SHSP LETPP grant

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve several budget transfers and appropriation increases, including a $918,587 increase for fire turnout gear and sanitization equipment funded by federal aid, and a $4,607.68 grant for police counterterrorism efforts. The board also approved transfers for police arbitration costs, golf pro salary, recreation overtime, and utility payments.

• $918,587 appropriation increase for fire turnout gear and sanitization equipment (ARPA funds)
• $4,607.68 police grant for NYS SHSP LETPP FY20 counterterrorism
• $7,719 transfer for police arbitration costs
• $1,849 transfer for golf pro salary increase (2% contract)
• $2,333 transfer for recreation overtime

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider two main items: a resolution supporting 'Fix Tier 6' pension reform in New York State, and an amended resolution to reauthorize the Albany Capital Resource Corporation to continue issuing obligations for project financing. The agenda also includes standard items like minutes and supporting legislation.

• Resolution 34.32.22R (MC) supporting 'Fix Tier 6' pension reform
• Resolution 4.12.22R (as amended 3/21/2022) reauthorizing the Albany Capital Resource Corporation to issue obligations
• Permanent reauthorization request for the CRC
• Approval of caucus and regular meeting minutes

Human Resources and Human Rights Committee

The Human Resources and Human Rights Committee is meeting virtually to interview candidates for the Commission on Human Rights and may recommend appointees to the full Common Council. The meeting includes a public comment period.

• Interview of candidates for the Commission on Human Rights
• Potential recommendation of appointees to the full Common Council
• Public comment via phone, email, or web form

The committee interviewed four candidates for the Human Rights Commission and voted to recommend Thomas Mueller and Alister Rubenstein for appointment to the full Common Council. The recommendation was made after a motion to discuss candidates in executive session, which was seconded and passed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended Thomas Mueller for Human Rights Commission appointment
• Recommended Alister Rubenstein for Human Rights Commission appointment
• Moved to discuss candidates in executive session (motion by Keegan, seconded by Farrell)

Historic Resources Commission

The Albany Historic Resources Commission will hold a public hearing and workshop on March 17, 2022, via Zoom. The hearing will consider a request to revise a previously approved Certificate of Appropriateness for a three-story mixed-use building at 236 Clinton Avenue. The workshop will include concept reviews for converting a vacant church at 142 Green Street into residential units and demolishing a structure at 21 Lark Street for a new four-story building.

• Public hearing: COA 0934 for 236 Clinton Avenue — revise approved certificate for three-story mixed-use structure
• Workshop: 142 Green Street — concept review for converting vacant church to multi-unit residential
• Workshop: 21 Lark Street — concept review for demolition of two-story brick structure and new four-story structure
• Public comment must be submitted via email or phone 48 hours in advance

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved three area variances for Druthers Brewing Company to build a 13-foot-wide, 110-foot-long deck at 1053 Broadway, subject to six conditions including maintaining Bridge Street's 24-foot width and obtaining city consent. The board also approved three variances for North American Islamic Trust at 276 Central Avenue for building alterations. A sign variance request at 40 Hopewell Street was tabled with no action taken.

• Approved modified area variance AV #0079 for Druthers deck (5-0)
• Approved area variance AV #0092 for Druthers deck with conditions (5-0)
• Approved area variance AV #0093 for Druthers deck with conditions (5-0)
• Approved area variance AV #0097 for 276 Central Avenue building changes (5-0)
• Approved area variance AV #0098 for 276 Central Avenue window/door changes (5-0)
• Approved area variance AV #0099 for 276 Central Avenue roof changes (5-0)
• No action taken on sign variance at 40 Hopewell Street

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on March 21, 2022, with public hearings and comment periods. The agenda includes introduction of local laws to amend the city charter regarding department head appointments and to create a Public Safety Commission. Several ordinances and resolutions are also scheduled for introduction or held for committee review, covering topics like tree planting, contractor diversity, affordable housing, sidewalk cafes, parking limits, and board appointments.

• Local Law A-2022: Amends charter to change department head appointments at start of new term
• Local Law C-2022: Creates a Public Safety Commission
• Ordinance 3.21.22: Increases minority and women labor utilization plan for contractors from 25% to 30%
• Ordinance 4.21.22: Increases affordable housing requirement in new developments
• Resolution 33.32.22R: Requests energy benchmarking for city-owned buildings over 1,000 sq ft

The Common Council met in caucus and discussed the Community Redevelopment Commission (CRC) ordinance amendments, with Senior Assistant Corporation Counsel Brett Williams preparing amendments to the resolution. Several individuals introduced themselves as interested in the Reapportionment Commission. No formal votes or decisions were taken during this caucus session.

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public hearing and meeting on March 15, 2022, to consider several development proposals, including converting hotels to apartments, adding dwelling units, and constructing new mixed-use buildings. The board will also review requests for waivers of development standards for industrial and residential projects. Public comments can be submitted by email or via Zoom/YouTube.

• 1379 Washington Avenue: convert 54,995 sq ft hotel to 100-unit multi-family dwelling
• 19-21 Erie Boulevard: amend approval to increase dwelling units from 261 to 273
• 97 Central Avenue: convert 30,550 sq ft building to self-storage facility
• 237 Western Avenue: build two mixed-use buildings (83 units total) and demolish nine structures
• 15 Champlain Street: 9,000 sq ft storage/wholesale building with 8 waiver requests

Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee

The Albany Common Council's Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee will discuss two items: a local law requiring the Mayor to re-appoint and seek Common Council confirmation of all department heads at the start of each new term, and an ordinance limiting non-permitted vehicles to two consecutive hours of parking in residential permit zones. Public comment is invited.

• Local Law A of 2022: Amends Charter Section 301 to require re-appointment and Council confirmation of department heads every four years
• Ordinance 6.22.22: Amends Section 359-75 to prohibit non-permitted vehicles from parking more than two consecutive hours in residential permit zones
• Both items have no stated fiscal impact
• Meeting held virtually due to state remote meeting legislation

The Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee voted to table Ordinance 6.22.22, which would limit non-permitted parking in residential permit zones to two consecutive hours, after concerns about fines and signage. The committee also voted on Local Law A of 2022, which would require department head reappointments at the start of a new term, but the motion to recommend it out of committee failed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Tabled Ordinance 6.22.22 (parking time limits) by voice vote
• Motion to recommend Local Law A of 2022 out of committee failed

Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board

The Public, Education and Government Access Oversight Board will meet to review reports from the chair, treasurer, and studio coordinator. The board has scheduled an executive session to discuss Studio Coordinator personnel.

• Executive session regarding Studio Coordinator personnel

Parks, Recreation and Family Services Committee

The Parks, Recreation and Family Services Committee will hold a meeting with the Commissioner and staff from the Department of Recreation, Youth & Workforce Services. The meeting is scheduled to take place virtually via live stream.

• Meeting with the Commissioner and team of the Department of Recreation, Youth & Workforce Services

The Parks, Recreation and Family Services Committee met with Commissioner Jonathan Jones and staff to discuss the 2022 Summer Youth Program and worksite recruitment strategy. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational, with council members asking questions about program sign-ups, nontraditional worksites, soccer fields, and pickleball. The meeting adjourned without substantive action.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded; meeting was informational

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is reviewing several budget adjustments, including salary increases for Blue Collar Union positions. The agenda also includes a settlement for a property damage claim and the use of American Rescue Plan Act funds for essential operations.

• Salary adjustments for Blue Collar Union positions totaling $1,319,693
• Transfer of $1,200,000 from the City's fund balance to cover union retroactive pay
• Use of $1,847,509 in American Rescue Plan Act funds as 2020 revenue replacement
• $205 settlement for Anne Bueford regarding a destroyed fence
• $75,000 appropriation increase for Law Department judgments and claims

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The agenda includes a resolution regarding the Crash Victim Rights and Safety Act in the New York State Legislature. The remaining agenda items are not specified in the provided text.

• Resolution 17.22.22R urging passage of eight bills within the Crash Victim Rights and Safety Act

Violence Prevention Task Force

This is a procedural meeting of the Albany Violence Prevention Task Force. The agenda contains only approval of minutes and a public comment period, with no substantive discussion items listed.

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on March 7, 2022, remotely. The agenda includes introduction of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions, with several items referred to committees. Notable items include a local law to create a Public Safety Commission, an ordinance to increase affordable housing requirements, and a resolution to request fluoridation of the city's water. The meeting also includes public comment periods.

• Local Law A-2022: Amends charter regarding appointments of department heads upon new term
• Local Law C-2022: Creates a Public Safety Commission
• Ordinance 4.21.22: Increases affordable housing requirement in new developments
• Resolution 13.21.22R: Requests Albany Water Board to fluoridate city water
• Resolution 19.31.22R: Consents to new water treatment plant operator position

The Common Council held a caucus meeting to discuss items for the March 7th regular meeting, including presentations from the Planning Department and discussions on ARPA funds. No formal decisions were made during this caucus.

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency board met and approved the acquisition of the building at 200 Henry Johnson Boulevard, where the agency currently leases space. The lease agreements from 1993 and 2002 had matured, prompting the purchase. The board also approved the minutes from the February 1, 2022 meeting. No other business was discussed.

• Approved acquisition of 200 Henry Johnson Blvd
• Approved minutes from 2/1/22 meeting

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve a $25,000 settlement for plaintiffs Addison and Shuman in a federal lawsuit over a June 1, 2020 arrest, with no admission of liability. The board also approved several budget transfers, including $52,300 for the Department of General Services and $444,500 for year-end invoices, plus a $46,402 grant increase for the Police Department.

• $25,000 settlement for Addison and Shuman over June 1, 2020 arrest
• $52,300 transfer for Department of General Services year-end invoices
• $444,500 transfer for Department of General Services final 2021 invoices
• $2,500 transfer for Police Department transcription service vendor
• $46,402 increase for NYS Homeland Security SLETPP grant for Police

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to consider several financial actions, including settling lawsuits against police officers, approving budget transfers for various departments, and accepting grant funds for police operations. The agenda includes both routine budget adjustments and a notable settlement payment.

• Settlement for plaintiffs Addison and Shuman in a US District Court action, with no admission of liability
• Budget transfer of $52,300 for Department of General Services to cover end-of-year invoices
• Budget transfer of $2,500 from Alive @ 5 to Jazz Fest for unexpected cost increases
• Police budget transfer of $6,100 for range and breaching program materials
• Increase appropriation of $42,858 from US DOJ JAG 2020 grant for overtime

Water Board

The Albany Water Board will hold its regular monthly meeting, starting with roll call, minutes approval, and public comment. The board will hear reports on dams, engineering plans, finances, and the Commissioner's update, then vote on resolutions to adopt revised policies and approve change orders for several construction projects. The meeting concludes with a possible executive session and scheduling the next meeting.

• Resolution 22-13: Adopting revisions to 13 policies including Indemnification, Procurement, and Whistleblower
• Resolution 22-14: Change Order #1 for Pressure Reducing and Relief Vaults with Ross Valve Manufacturing
• Resolution 22-15: Change Order #1 for Washington Park Trunk Sewer Rehabilitation with National Water Main Cleaning Co.
• Resolution 22-16: Change Order #3 for 2021 CIPP Liners with Kenyon Pipeline Inspection
• Resolution 22-17: Change Order 7A for Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant sedimentation building renovation with VMJR Companies

The Albany Water Board unanimously approved revisions to 13 policies, including indemnification, procurement, and whistleblower procedures. It also approved change orders for several infrastructure projects and a CHA Engineering proposal for the 2023-2027 Long Term Control Plan. No public comment was received, and no executive session was held.

• Adopted revisions to 13 policies (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Pressure Reducing and Pressure Relief Vaults with Ross Valve Manufacturing (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Washington Park Trunk Sewer Rehabilitation with National Water Main Cleaning Co. (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #3 for 2021 Installation of CIPP Liners with Kenyon Pipeline Inspection, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 7A for Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant renovation with VMJR Companies, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 3 for Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase 3/5 with WM. J. Keller & Sons Construction (unanimous)
• Approved CHA Engineering proposal for 2023-2027 Long Term Control Plan (unanimous)

Water Board

The Albany Water Board will meet to consider a series of resolutions, including adopting revisions to 13 policies (e.g., procurement, conflict of interest, water bill forgiveness) and approving change orders for various infrastructure projects. The agenda also includes presentations on dam action plans, long-term control plan projects, and financial reports, plus a public comment period.

• Resolution 22-13: Adopting revisions to 13 policies including Indemnification, Procurement, and Water Bill Forgiveness
• Resolution 22-14: Change Order #1 for Pressure Reducing and Pressure Relief Vaults with Ross Valve Manufacturing Company, Inc.
• Resolution 22-15: Change Order #1 for Washington Park Trunk Sewer Rehabilitation with National Water Main Cleaning Co.
• Resolution 22-16: Change Order #3 for 2021 Installation of CIPP Liners with Kenyon Pipeline Inspection, LLC.
• Resolution 22-17: Change Order 7A for Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant sedimentation building renovation with VMJR Companies, LLC.

The Albany Water Board unanimously approved a package of revised policies covering ethics, procurement, billing, and other areas. It also approved change orders for several infrastructure projects and a proposal from CHA Engineering for the 2023-2027 Long Term Control Plan. No public comment was received, and no executive session was held.

• Adopted revisions to 13 policies including ethics, procurement, and billing (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Pressure Reducing and Pressure Relief Vaults with Ross Valve Manufacturing (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Washington Park Trunk Sewer Rehabilitation with National Water Main Cleaning (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #3 for 2021 Installation of CIPP Liners with Kenyon Pipeline Inspection (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 7A for Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant renovation with VMJR Companies (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order 3 for Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase 3/5 with WM. J. Keller & Sons (unanimous)
• Approved CHA Engineering proposal for 2023-2027 Long Term Control Plan (unanimous)

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is holding its caucus and regular meeting to discuss and potentially act on items from the active calendar, including supporting state legislation and local agenda items. The agenda includes several state bills (e.g., CVRSA A7782, S524, S1078A, S2021, S3897, S8152, S4529, Universal Child Care Act S7595) and an executive order (HOCHUL EO 11.1), but specific local actions are not detailed in the provided text.

• Review of state legislation including CVRSA A7782, S524, S1078A, S2021, S3897, S8152, S4529
• Universal Child Care Act S7595
• Executive Order 11.1 from Governor Hochul
• Amended supporting legislation for February 24, 2022
• Meeting minutes from caucus and regular meeting

Historic Resources Commission

The Albany Historic Resources Commission will hold a public hearing and workshop on February 24, 2022, to consider a retroactive Certificate of Appropriateness for window replacements at 367 State Street, and to discuss nominations for the Steamboat Square Historic District and a Downtown Albany Historic District boundary expansion. The workshop will also review a revised Certificate of Appropriateness for a mixed-use building at 236 Clinton Avenue.

• Retroactive Certificate of Appropriateness for vinyl window replacement at 367 State Street (COA 0932)
• Nomination of Steamboat Square Historic District to State and National Register (HD 0001)
• Downtown Albany Historic District boundary expansion nomination (HD 0002)
• Revised Certificate of Appropriateness for three-story mixed-use structure at 236 Clinton Avenue (COA 0934)

The Historic Resources Commission denied a retroactive Certificate of Appropriateness for vinyl sash windows at 367 State Street (5-0), then approved a separate request to replace them with wood sash windows under specific conditions (5-0). The Commission also voted 5-0 to support nominations for the Steamboat Square Historic District and the Downtown Albany Historic District Boundary Expansion, and made recommendations on a revised certificate for a mixed-use building at 236 Clinton Avenue.

• Denied retroactive COA for vinyl windows at 367 State Street (5-0)
• Approved with conditions wood window replacement at 367 State Street (5-0)
• Supported Steamboat Square Historic District nomination (5-0)
• Supported Downtown Albany Historic District boundary expansion nomination (5-0)
• Made recommendations on revised COA for 236 Clinton Avenue mixed-use building

Municipal Civil Service Commission

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review a large list of permanent, provisional, non-competitive, and labor class appointments across city departments, establish eligible lists for several positions, and consider creating new job specifications. The agenda is largely administrative, with no major policy decisions or public hearings.

• Permanent appointments include 17 firefighters, 2 police officers, and multiple water department staff
• Provisional appointments include positions at Albany Housing Authority, School District, and city departments
• Establish eligible lists for Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator, Licensed Wastewater System Operator, Police Lieutenant, and Water Treatment Plant Operator
• Creation of new job specifications for Administrative Analyst and Director of Payroll Administration
• Old business: Albany Public Library Residency Exemption for Library Clerk

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission approved minutes from the February 2, 2022 special meeting and reported numerous appointments across competitive, non-competitive, and labor classes. The commission established four eligible lists, accepted two new job specifications, and denied the Albany Public Library's residency exemption request for Library Clerk list #10-418. The meeting adjourned at 5:15 pm.

• Approved February 2, 2022 special meeting minutes
• Established eligible lists for Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator, Licensed Wastewater System Operator, Police Lieutenant, and Water Treatment Plant Operator
• Accepted new job specifications for Administrative Analyst and Director of Payroll Administration
• Denied Albany Public Library residency exemption for Library Clerk list #10-418

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on February 23, 2022, via Zoom and YouTube livestream. The sole item is an application from Druthers Brewing Company II, Inc. for variances to construct a 13-foot wide, 110-foot long deck in the public right-of-way and a front porch at 1053 Broadway. The board will consider a rehearing of an area variance for the deck and two area variances related to the porch under Mixed-Use Form-Based zoning standards.

• Rehearing of area variance for a 13x110-foot deck extending into the public right-of-way at 1053 Broadway
• Area variance to allow a front porch not permitted under Mixed-Use Core frontage standards
• Area variance to allow the porch to extend past the front build-to zone
• Applicant: Druthers Brewing Company II, Inc.
• Zoning district: Mixed-Use, Form-Based Warehouse (MU-FW)

Council Operations and Ethics Committee

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee is meeting to discuss and consider candidate selection for the Reapportionment Commission. The meeting is held virtually and includes a public comment period. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Candidate selection for the Reapportionment Commission

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee interviewed six candidates for the Reapportionment Commission: Dr. Brenda Robinson, John-Raphael Pichardo, Esq, Emily Loughlin, Allison Crerand, Carol June-Washington, and Judith Mazza. No vote was taken to select members; the meeting was procedural, consisting only of candidate presentations and questions. The meeting adjourned without public comment.

• Interviewed Dr. Brenda Robinson for Reapportionment Commission; no action taken
• Interviewed John-Raphael Pichardo, Esq for Reapportionment Commission; no action taken
• Interviewed Emily Loughlin for Reapportionment Commission; no action taken
• Interviewed Allison Crerand for Reapportionment Commission; no action taken
• Interviewed Carol June-Washington for Reapportionment Commission; no action taken
• Interviewed Judith Mazza for Reapportionment Commission; no action taken
• Adjourned meeting at 7:10 PM

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public hearing and meeting on February 22, 2022, to consider four projects. These include a conditional use permit and major development plan review for a surface parking lot, a change of use to a restaurant, a demolition review, and a major development plan review for converting an office building into housing. Public comments can be submitted in advance or requested to speak.

• 329 North Pearl Street: 44-space surface parking lot (Capital Repertory Theatre)
• 1048 Central Avenue: change of use from indoor recreation to restaurant
• 276 Central Avenue: demolition of front façade (North Islamic Trust)
• 244 State Street: conversion of 44,916 sq ft office to 61 dwelling units and café

Council Operations and Ethics Committee

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee is meeting to discuss and select candidates for the Reapportionment Commission. The meeting will be held virtually, with public comment available via phone, email, or web form.

• Candidate selection for the Reapportionment Commission

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee interviewed four candidates for the Reapportionment Commission: Scott Allardice, Shawn Morris, Dylan Carey, and Dale Getto. No appointments were made during the meeting; the committee moved into executive session to discuss appointments and adjourned without a public vote.

• Interviewed Scott Allardice for Reapportionment Commission
• Interviewed Shawn Morris for Reapportionment Commission
• Interviewed Dylan Carey for Reapportionment Commission
• Interviewed Dale Getto for Reapportionment Commission
• Moved into executive session to discuss committee appointments
• Adjourned meeting at 7:07 PM

Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board

The board met via Zoom to review previous minutes and discuss potential partnerships with Siena College and WVCR. The board held an executive session to discuss the Studio Coordinator RFP and subsequently voted to allow the chair to negotiate and make a job offer to Aprecia Cabey.

• Approval of January meeting minutes
• Authorization for the chair to negotiate and make a studio coordinator job offer to Aprecia C.
• Discussion of potential internship or curriculum integration with Siena College and WVCR

The Albany Public Library's Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board approved a new Grants Subcommittee to research funding opportunities. The board also unanimously approved the December minutes and the treasurer's 2022 year-end and January 2023 reports. A CDBG grant application requesting $40,000 for two studio fellowships was submitted by the Jan. 31 deadline.

• Approved December 2022 meeting minutes unanimously
• Approved 2022 year-end and January 2023 treasurer's reports unanimously
• Established a Grants Subcommittee with members Kibbey, Getto, McLaughlin and Rozak
• Submitted CDBG application requesting $40,000 for two fellowships at Channel Albany
• Discussed but did not decide on walking in St. Patrick's Day Parade or creating promotional materials

Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee

The Law, Buildings, and Code Enforcement Committee is meeting to introduce its members to the Buildings & Regulatory Compliance Department and other departments they will work with. This is an introductory session with a public comment period, and no specific decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Introduction of committee to Buildings & Regulatory Compliance Department
• Public comment period

The Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee held an informational meeting. Rick Lajoy introduced his department's work via a slide show, and members asked questions about vacant building classifications, street-digging permits, and the department's relationship with the landbank. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was adjourned after a motion.

• Adjourned the meeting after a motion was made, seconded, and passed.

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a remote meeting to introduce and consider local laws, ordinances, and resolutions. Key items include creating a Public Safety Commission, extending the Municipal Internet Services Commission's report deadline, and introducing ordinances on sidewalk cafes and residential parking limits. Several items are held in committee, including affordable housing requirements and salary adjustments.

• Local Law C of 2022: creating a Public Safety Commission
• Local Law B of 2022: extending Municipal Internet Services Commission report deadline
• Ordinance 5.22.22: regulating sidewalk and outdoor cafes
• Ordinance 6.22.22: limiting non-permitted vehicles to 2 consecutive hours in residential parking permit zones
• Resolution 16.22.22R: granting property tax exemptions to seniors without annual renewal

The Common Council met in caucus to discuss items on the agenda for the February 24th Regular Meeting, with Senior Assistant Corporation Counsel Brett Williams also reviewing agenda items. Council Member Kimbrough reported on the Leadership Meeting, and members discussed adding more staff for the Council. No formal decisions or votes were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 6:10 p.m.

• Discussed agenda items for the February 24th Regular Meeting
• Discussed having more staff members for the Common Council
• Adjourned the caucus at 6:10 p.m.

Public Safety Committee

The Albany Common Council's Public Safety Committee is meeting virtually to introduce the committee and provide a general overview of the issues it will address. The agenda contains no specific items for decision or discussion beyond this introductory overview. Public comment is available via phone, email, or web form.

• Committee introduction and overview of issues
• Public comment period available

The Albany Common Council's Public Safety Committee met on February 10, 2022, for an informational session. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting consisted of presentations and Q&A with police, fire, and PBA representatives. Topics included police recruitment and retention, community liaison programs, fire department equipment and training, and PBA staffing.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; meeting was informational only

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment voted 5-0 to approve several budget transfers, including $50,000 for police overtime and smaller transfers for utilities, supplies, and services. The meeting was held via Zoom and included only routine financial adjustments.

• $50,000 transfer to police overtime
• $12,500 transfer from overtime to utilities for General Services
• $23,000 transfer for Civil Service costs
• $1,667 transfer for DigSafe expenses
• $560 transfer for iPad cases in Buildings & Regulatory Compliance

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will consider several budget transfer requests for the 2021 budget year, moving funds between accounts to cover expenses such as DigSafe, Civil Service costs, iPad cases, utilities, and other departmental needs. The meeting is a regular session held via Zoom.

• $1,667 transfer to cover DigSafe expenses
• $23,000 transfer for Civil Service costs
• $560 transfer for iPad cases in Buildings & Regulatory Compliance
• $12,500 transfer for utilities in Department of General Services
• $2,718 transfer for Information Services fees

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider resolutions approving salary adjustments for the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and blue-collar employees, based on memoranda of agreement. The agenda also includes supporting documents on union increases, police officer comparables, and fund balance data. The meeting appears to be primarily focused on these labor-related items.

• Resolution 5.12.22R: Salary adjustments for blue-collar employees
• Resolution 6.12.22R: Salary adjustments for PBA (Albany Police Benevolent Association)
• Supporting documents: Union increases chart, police officer comparables, PBA/APSA/APFFA step increases 2016-2022
• Blue Collar MOA and Albany PBA MOA with appendices
• Master Federal Aid Local Project Agreement (1761.64)

Sustainability Commission

The committee will review priority projects for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. Members will also receive updates on Clean Energy Community Campaigns approved by NYSERDA and legislative ideas for the Common Council.

• Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan project priorities
• Clean Energy Community Campaigns: Energy Efficiency/Heat Pumps, Community Solar, and Electric Vehicles
• Legislative action ideas for the Common Council

The Albany Sustainability Advisory Committee heard a presentation on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, including potential projects like wayfinding and bicycle boulevards. The committee approved a $350 expenditure for a videographer, its first use of a $2000 budget. No other formal decisions were made; most time was spent on updates and discussion.

• Approved January 6, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved $350 for videographer and producer (first expenditure from $2000 budget)

Historic Resources Commission

The Albany Historic Resources Commission is holding a public hearing and workshop to discuss two items: a retroactive Certificate of Appropriateness for unauthorized vinyl window replacements at 367 State Street, and a nomination of the Albany Perforated Wrapping Paper Company at 19 Erie Street to the State and National Register of Historic Places. Public comment is accepted via email or phone.

• Retroactive Certificate of Appropriateness (COA 0932) for vinyl window replacement at 367 State Street
• Nomination of Albany Perforated Wrapping Paper Company (LM 0005) to State and National Register of Historic Places
• Property owner for window replacement: Steenburg & Godlewski
• Property owner for landmark nomination: Redburn Development, LLC
• Historic district: Center Square / Hudson Park

The Historic Resources Commission voted 5-0 to support the nomination of the Albany Perforated Wrapping Paper Company at 13 Erie Boulevard to the State and National Register of Historic Places. For the property at 367 State Street, the Commission did not make a final decision but requested additional information and recommended that non-compliant vinyl windows be replaced with wood, while encouraging repair of historic wood windows.

• Supported nomination of Albany Perforated Wrapping Paper Co. to State/National Register (5-0)
• Requested more info on window replacement at 367 State Street; no final action

Municipal Civil Service Commission

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve minutes from January 19, 2022, and to review non-selections for Police Officer list #63-027, including candidates deferred after canvassing, those who failed or did not show for the physical agility test. They will also hear an appeal from one firefighter candidate not recommended for hire after psychological testing. The meeting is held virtually under New York's Open Meetings Law.

• Approval of January 19, 2022 meeting minutes
• Police Officer list #63-027: 26 candidates deferred after canvassing
• Police Officer list #63-027: 45 candidates failed physical agility test
• Police Officer list #63-027: 13 candidates no-show for physical agility test
• Firefighter list #63-185: 1 appeal from candidate not recommended after psychological testing

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission unanimously accepted non-selections for Police Officer list #63-027, including candidates deferred after canvassing, failed physical agility tests, and no-shows. The Commission also upheld a non-selection for a firefighter candidate who failed to appear for an appeal. In new business, the Commission voted to rescind a 3-month residency exemption previously granted to the Albany Public Library for Library Clerk list #10-418, and requested a library representative attend the next meeting to justify the need.

• Accepted non-selections for Police Officer list #63-027 (unanimous)
• Upheld firefighter non-selection after candidate failed to appear for appeal (unanimous)
• Rescinded 3-month residency exemption for Albany Public Library for list #10-418 (motion by McNaughton, seconded by Cassidy and Jackson-Chalmers)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on two variance applications. The first seeks variances for demolition and reconstruction at 276 Central Avenue, including changes to building materials, windows/doors, and roof form. The second is a rehearing for a proposed deck at 1053 Broadway by Druthers Brewing Company, along with related variances and an environmental review declaration.

• 276 Central Avenue: variances for material, window/door, and roof changes (AV #0097, #0098, #0099)
• 1053 Broadway: rehearing for 13x110 ft deck in public right-of-way (AV #0079, #0092, #0093)
• Druthers Brewing: variances for front porch and build-to zone extension
• SEQRA declaration of environmental significance for 1053 Broadway

The Board of Zoning Appeals held a public hearing on February 2, 2022, but took no action on any of the variance requests for two projects: a demolition and expansion at 276 Central Avenue and a proposed deck at 1053 Broadway. The only decision made was approving a Negative Declaration under the State Environmental Quality Review Act for the Druthers Brewing Company project, which passed 5-0.

• No action taken on area variance for building materials change at 276 Central Avenue
• No action taken on area variance for window and door changes at 276 Central Avenue
• No action taken on area variance for roof form change at 276 Central Avenue
• No action taken on rehearing of area variance for front deck at 1053 Broadway
• No action taken on area variance for front porch construction at 1053 Broadway
• No action taken on area variance for porch extension past build-to zone at 1053 Broadway
• Approved Negative Declaration (SEQRA) for 1053 Broadway project (5-0)

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency Board voted to set aside non-federal funding for the LUCID Albany Project, a community-based redesign of an alley in West Hill. The board will approve the contract once the site plan is completed. The meeting also approved the minutes from the January 4, 2022 meeting.

• Approval of minutes from 1/4/22 meeting
• Set aside non-federal funding for LUCID Albany Project alley redesign in West Hill
• Project collaboration with Van Alen Institute and City Planning Department
• Contract approval deferred until site plan completion

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold its regular meeting on February 7, 2022, remotely. The agenda includes introductions of local laws, ordinances, and resolutions, with notable items including a proposed increase in the affordable housing requirement for new developments, a change to the minority and women labor utilization plan for contractors, and a resolution requesting the Albany Water Board to fluoridate the city's water. Public comment periods are scheduled, and the meeting will be live-streamed.

• Ordinance 4.21.22: Increase affordable housing requirement in new developments (Chapter 375)
• Ordinance 3.21.22: Increase minority and women labor utilization plan for contractors from 25% to 30%
• Resolution 13.21.22R: Request Albany Water Board to fluoridate city water
• Resolution 14.21.22R: Create bike/walking trail along NYS Thruway
• Resolution 10.21.22R: Honor Black History Month and raise Pan-African flag on City Hall

The Common Council met in caucus to discuss agenda items for the February 7th regular meeting, including a police shooting from January 14th. Chief Hawkins answered questions about the incident, footage, mental health, and racial profiling. No formal decisions or votes were made during this caucus.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during caucus

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on salary adjustments for police (APBA) and blue-collar workers, as indicated by amended resolutions. The agenda includes supporting documents on union step increases, memoranda of agreement, and fund balance data. No final decisions are recorded in the agenda itself.

• Amended Resolution 6.12.22R: salary adjustments for APBA
• Amended Resolution 5.12.22R: salary adjustments for Blue Collar
• PBA, APSA, APFFA step increases 2016-2022
• Albany PBA MOA with appendices
• Fund balance 2014-2019

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a public workshop and meeting on February 1, 2022, via Zoom and YouTube. The workshop covers a proposal to convert an office building at 244 State Street into 61 dwelling units and a café. The meeting includes reviews of a 40-unit multifamily building on Morris Street with a parking waiver request, and a change of use to a restaurant at 1048 Central Avenue.

• 244 State Street: conversion of 44,916 sq ft office to 61 dwelling units and 490 sq ft café
• 16-20 Morris Street / 353 Lark Street: four-story, 40-unit multifamily building; waiver to not provide 32 required on-site parking spaces
• 1048 Central Avenue: change of use from indoor recreation to restaurant

The Albany Planning Board approved a major development plan review for a four-story, 40-unit multifamily building at 16-20 Morris Street and 353 Lark Street, including a waiver to reduce required on-site parking from 32 to 8 spaces, contingent on the applicant securing off-site parking leases or an approved parking demand study. The board also issued a negative declaration under SEQRA. Two other projects—a 61-unit conversion at 244 State Street and a restaurant change of use at 1048 Central Avenue—were discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved SEQRA negative declaration for 16-20 Morris Street project (5-0)
• Approved parking waiver for 16-20 Morris Street project with condition (5-0)
• Approved major development plan review for 16-20 Morris Street project (5-0)
• No action taken on 244 State Street conversion project
• No action taken on 1048 Central Avenue restaurant change of use

Water Board

The Albany Water Board will vote on the 2022 water and sewer rate schedule, award construction contracts for the 35 Erie Blvd. project, and consider several change orders. They will also hear updates on the lead service replacement program, financials, and capital projects. The meeting includes public comment and routine approvals.

• Resolution 22-03: Adopting 2022 Water & Sewer Rate Schedule
• Resolution 22-09: Award 35 Erie Blvd. New Building Construction contracts (Murnane, RMB, O'Connell Electric)
• Resolution 22-05/06/07: Change orders for 35 Erie Blvd. with Wm. J. Keller & Sons
• Resolution 22-02: Extension of Backwater Valve Grant Program
• Resolution 22-08: Sewer easement with 760 Broadway LLC

The Albany Water Board unanimously adopted the 2022 Water & Sewer Rate Schedule, which includes a 2.5% rate increase effective February 1, 2022, as recommended by the rate consultant. The board also approved 12 resolutions, including awarding construction contracts for the 35 Erie Blvd. project and extending the Backwater Valve Grant Program. Additionally, the board adopted a revised mission statement and received reports on lead service replacement and financial status.

• Adopted 2022 Water & Sewer Rate Schedule (unanimous)
• Awarded 35 Erie Blvd. new building construction contracts to Murnane, RMB, and K'Connell Electric (unanimous)
• Approved change orders #2-#4 for 35 Erie Blvd. general construction with Wm. J. Keller & Sons (unanimous)
• Extended Backwater Valve Grant Program (unanimous)
• Awarded master service agreements with consulting engineering firms (unanimous)
• Authorized sewer easement with 760 Broadway LLC (unanimous)
• Approved change order #2 for Feura Bush Water Filtration Plant upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved change order #3 for Beaver Creek Clean River Project Phase IV (unanimous)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment passed a resolution (5-0) approving multiple budget transfers for the Police and Water departments, including an $8,000 transfer to cover police telephone bills. The meeting was held via Zoom on January 21, 2022.

• $8,000 transfer from Police clothing allowance to telephone communications
• $10,503 transfer for criminal investigation expenses
• $7,500 transfer for police gym equipment
• $9,500 transfer for Emergency Services Team equipment
• $10,000 transfer for water purification plant equipment

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment will review and likely approve several budget transfer requests from city departments to cover 2021 invoices and 2022 equipment needs. The largest is a $278,300 transfer for the Department of General Services to cover snow removal, contracted services, supplies, and other final 2021 costs. Other transfers include police equipment purchases and a water department printing cost.

• $278,300 transfer for General Services (snow removal, contracted services, supplies, motor vehicle, gasoline)
• $70,250 transfer for General Services (contracted snow removal, services, supplies, misc)
• $8,000 police transfer for telephone communications bills
• $28,600 police transfer for Emergency Services Team equipment (belts, holsters, pouches)
• $4,000 water department transfer for Mailworks COVID notices

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Common Council is considering a resolution to consent to salary adjustments for Blue Collar Union positions for the 2022 budget, as required by a new Memorandum of Agreement. The resolution authorizes transferring $1,329,693 from various budget lines for salary increases and $1,200,000 from the fund balance for retroactive pay. This is a consent item requiring Council approval per the City Charter.

• Transfer of $1,329,693.00 for Blue Collar Union salary increases
• Transfer of $1,200,000.00 from fund balance for retroactive pay
• Based on Memorandum of Agreement with AFSCME Blue Collar Union dated December 10, 2021

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is meeting to consider two resolutions consenting to salary adjustments for certain blue collar union positions and Albany Police Benevolent Association positions for the 2022 budget. The agenda also includes the active calendar, supporting legislation, and minutes from previous meetings.

• Resolution 5.12.22R: consent to salary adjustment for certain blue collar union positions for 2022 budget
• Resolution 6.12.22R: consent to salary adjustment for certain Albany Police Benevolent Association positions for 2022 budget

Council Operations and Ethics Committee

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee is meeting to discuss the Council's Rules of Procedures. This meeting is being held virtually in accordance with state legislation.

• Discussion of the Council’s Rules of Procedures

The Council Operations and Ethics Committee met to discuss potential changes to the Council's Rules of Procedure, covering topics such as public comment limits, committee appointments, and meeting decorum. No formal decisions or votes were made; the meeting was informational only.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the meeting

Municipal Civil Service Commission

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review a large list of appointments and promotions across city departments, establish eligible lists for Engineer and Recycling Specialist, create new job specs for Albany Public Library director roles, and discuss firefighter hiring non-selections and appeals. The agenda is mostly routine personnel administration, with no major policy decisions.

• Permanent appointments: Owen Fingar (Library Clerk), Daniel Barker (Librarian II), Vincent Thompson (Director of School Security)
• Provisional appointments: 10 Telecommunications Specialists for Police Dept., William Lavigne (City Arborist), Trent Shaver (Water Treatment Plant Maintenance Supervisor)
• Establish eligible lists for Engineer and Recycling Specialist
• Create job specs for Director of Human Resources and Director of Finance (Albany Public Library)
• Firefighter list #63-185: 2 not recommended after psych eval, 1 failed to appear, 1 ineligible due to residency, 7 no EMT certification, 2 withdrew

The Albany Municipal Civil Service Commission approved the December 29, 2021 minutes, established eligible lists for Engineer and Recycling Specialist, accepted new job specifications for Albany Public Library Director of Human Resources and Director of Finance, approved firefighter non-selections and upheld one appeal, and approved residency exemptions for firefighter and library clerk exams. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved December 29, 2021 meeting minutes
• Established eligible lists for Engineer and Recycling Specialist
• Accepted job specifications for Albany Public Library Director of HR and Director of Finance
• Approved firefighter non-selections (13 candidates) and upheld one appeal
• Approved residency exemptions for firefighter exam #63-185 and library clerk exam #10-418

Public, Education & Government Access Oversight Board

The Board discussed updating the city code to allow for a more general description of stakeholder seats to fill a vacancy. Members also reviewed the Studio Coordinator's report on new programming and equipment and entered executive session to discuss the Studio Coordinator RFP.

• Approval of 2021 treasurer's report showing a remaining balance of $3,863.91
• Discussion on changing city code to broaden stakeholder descriptions for board vacancies
• Studio Coordinator report on recording new shows including Capital Cannabis and Praise Time
• Executive session held to discuss employment matters regarding the Studio Coordinator RFP

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public workshop and hearing on January 12, 2022, via Zoom and YouTube. The board will consider several variance requests, including a demolition and expansion of a building at 276 Central Avenue, a retaining wall at 82 Euclid Avenue, parking variances for 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard, a deck at 1053 Broadway, and a modification of a use variance for Stewart's Shops at 875 New Scotland Avenue. The agenda includes both public hearings and a workshop.

• 276 Central Avenue: Demolition and reconstruction, prayer hall extension, elevator, and stair additions; three area variances for materials, windows/doors, and roof form.
• 82 Euclid Avenue: Interpretation of 'grade' and variance for a retaining wall over 4 feet high in front yard.
• 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard: Area variance for off-street parking; 19 additional spaces required beyond proposed 7.
• 1053 Broadway: Rehearing of area variance for a 13-foot wide, 110-foot long deck in public right-of-way; also porch variances and SEQRA declaration.
• 875 New Scotland Avenue: Modification of use variance to extend Stewart's Shops hours from 6am-10pm to 5am-11pm.

The Board of Zoning Appeals held a public workshop and hearing on January 12, 2022. It approved a consent to lead agency declaration for a demolition review of 276 Central Avenue, and approved a SEQRA lead agency resolution for the board. Several variance requests were deferred, including those for 82 Euclid Avenue, 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard, and 1053 Broadway. The board approved a modification to a use variance for Stewart's Shops at 875 New Scotland Avenue to extend operating hours.

• Approved consent to lead agency declaration for 276 Central Avenue demolition review (5-0)
• Approved SEQRA resolution declaring BZA as lead agency (5-0)
• Approved modification of use variance for Stewart's Shops at 875 New Scotland Avenue to extend hours to 11pm (5-0)
• Deferred interpretation request for retaining wall at 82 Euclid Avenue
• Deferred area variance for parking at 185 Henry Johnson Boulevard (Roy's Caribbean Restaurant)
• Deferred rehearing for front deck at 1053 Broadway (Druthers Brewing Company)
• Deferred area variances for front porch at 1053 Broadway
• Deferred SEQRA declaration of environmental significance

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council will hold a remote meeting on January 20, 2022, with a standard agenda including public hearings, public comment, and consideration of local laws. Key items include a held ordinance authorizing up to $500,000 in purchases or bonds for traffic signal and radio communications upgrades, and resolutions on the Capital Resource Corporation's borrowing authority and salary adjustments for certain union positions.

• Ordinance authorizing $500,000 for traffic signal improvements and radio communications upgrades, via lease financing or serial bonds
• Resolution to amend Capital Resource Corporation's certificate of incorporation to continue issuing obligations for projects
• Resolution consenting to salary adjustments for certain blue collar union positions in the 2022 budget
• Two held resolutions consenting to salary adjustments for certain positions in the 2022 budget

The Common Council held a caucus to discuss agenda items for the January 20th regular meeting, including negotiations with blue collar workers, Resolution 1.11.22R, and ARPA fund applications. No formal decisions or votes were made during the caucus.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during caucus

Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee

The Albany Common Council's Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee is meeting virtually to consider an ordinance authorizing up to $500,000 in bonds or lease financing for traffic signal improvements and radio communications upgrades, and two resolutions consenting to salary adjustments for certain positions in the 2022 budget. The meeting includes a public comment period.

• Ordinance 1.11.22: Authorizes $500,000 in serial bonds or lease financing for traffic signal improvements and radio communications upgrades, with a 20-year term
• Resolution 1.11.22R: Consents to salary adjustments for certain positions in the 2022 budget
• Resolution 2.11.22R: Consents to additional salary adjustments for certain positions in the 2022 budget
• Public comment accepted via phone (518-694-3987), email, or website form

The Finance, Taxation and Assessment Committee voted to recommend Ordinance 1.11.22 and Resolutions 1.11.22R and 2.11.22R (also referred to as 1.22.22) to the full council. The ordinance relates to traffic engineering, and the resolutions cover salary adjustments for the police department and corporation counsel, as well as a grant-funded fellowship program. All three items passed by voice vote with positive recommendations.

• Passed Ordinance 1.11.22 out of committee with positive recommendation (voice vote)
• Passed Resolution 1.11.22 out of committee with positive recommendation (voice vote)
• Passed Resolution 1.22.22 out of committee with positive recommendation (voice vote)

Planning Board

The Albany Planning Board will hold a workshop, meeting, and hearing on January 11, 2022, via Zoom. They will review several development proposals, including a 40-unit multifamily building on Morris Street, a demolition on Central Avenue, a large mixed-use project on Quail Street, and a material receiving facility on Raft Street. A public hearing will consider a conditional use permit for a restaurant on Judson Street.

• Major development plan review for 40-unit multifamily building at 16-20 Morris Street and 353 Lark Street
• Demolition review for front façade at 276 Central Avenue
• Concept review for 83-unit mixed-use project at Quail Street and Western Avenue with 69 parking spaces
• Concept review for 19,600 sq ft material receiving facility at 201 Raft Street and 106 & 700 Smith Boulevard
• Public hearing for conditional use permit for restaurant at 16 Judson Street

The Albany Planning Board approved a conditional use permit for a restaurant at 16 Judson Street, with a condition that it not open before 6:00 AM. The board also declared itself lead agency for SEQRA review of a demolition at 276 Central Avenue. Two concept reviews were presented but no action was taken.

• Approved conditional use permit for restaurant at 16 Judson Street (5-0)
• Declared Planning Board as lead agency for SEQRA review of demolition at 276 Central Avenue (5-0)
• No action taken on concept review for 177-187 Quail Street and adjacent properties
• No action taken on concept review for 201 Raft Street and 106 & 700 Smith Boulevard

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Advisory Committee is meeting to select priority projects from the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The body will also hold elections for officers and discuss new sustainability-related city positions.

• Selection of priority projects from the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan
• Elections for Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Resolution to create a Treasurer position
• Discussion of Director of Sustainability, Energy Manager, and Climate Justice Fellow positions
• Update on three NYSERDA-approved Clean Energy Community Campaigns regarding heat pumps, community solar, and electric vehicles

The Albany Sustainability Advisory Committee elected new officers, created a treasurer position, and approved spending $150 on a Zoom account. It also voted to support a Clean Energy Hub and heard a presentation on public power legislation.

• Elected Gabriella Cebada Mora as Secretary (unanimous)
• Elected Tina Lieberman as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Dan Kirk-Davidoff as Chair (unanimous)
• Created Treasurer position (unanimous)
• Approved $150 for Zoom account (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Clean Energy Hub (unanimous)

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment met on January 4, 2022, and passed (5-0) a series of budget transfers for the 2021 budget year. The transfers cover shortfalls in temporary help, utilities, workers' compensation, and vehicle repairs across several departments. The meeting was held via Zoom.

• $3,000 transfer to City Clerk's Office temporary help
• $10,000 transfer to General Services utilities
• $46,000 transfer to Water workers' compensation
• $12,000 transfer to Water vehicle repairs and contracted services

Board of Estimate & Apportionment

The Board of Estimate & Apportionment is meeting to consider several budget transfers and a list of 2022 salary and title changes. The transfers include $3,000 for laptops, $45,000 for workers' compensation, and other adjustments in the Water Department. The salary changes affect positions across multiple departments, including raises and title reclassifications.

• $3,000 transfer for laptops for Vital Statistics and City Clerk's Office
• $45,000 transfer to correct Workers' Compensation deficit in Water Department
• $14,230 transfer to cover payroll deficits in Water Department
• $12,000 transfer for final 2021 invoices in Water Department
• 2022 salary increases for Senior Clerk, Information Clerks, and others

Albany Community Development Agency Board

The Albany Community Development Agency Board met on January 4, 2022, and approved the minutes from the December 7, 2021 meeting. The board also approved a CDBG-CV funding application from Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region to convert a part-time gun violence support and outreach coordinator position into a full-time role.

• Approved minutes from 12/7/21 meeting
• Approved CDBG-CV funding application from Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region
• Funding will make a part-time gun violence coordinator position full-time

Common Council Caucus & Regular Meeting

The Albany Common Council is holding its caucus and regular meeting, which includes an organizational meeting agenda and supporting legislation. The agenda lists items such as minutes, majority consent, and supporting documents, but the specific decisions or discussions are not detailed in the provided text.

• Organizational meeting agenda for January 3, 2022
• Supporting legislation document for January 3, 2022
• Caucus and regular meeting minutes for January 3, 2022
• Majority consent items
• Amended legislation