Cortland public meetings in 2023

Police Commission

The Police Commission will review previous meeting minutes, bills, and reports. The agenda includes discussions on various grants, candidate interviews, and updates regarding personnel issues.

• COPS Grant discussion
• LE Tech Grant discussion
• Body Worn Camera-Axon Schedule review
• Candidate Interviews
• Personnel Issue Update

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission will hold public hearings and consider three site plan review applications: a handicap ramp at 34 Tompkins St., a parking area extension at 16 Stevenson St., and exterior signage for Ollie's Bargain Outlet at 160 Clinton Ave. The meeting is open to the public, with comments accepted in advance via email.

• Site plan review for 4' x 24' wooden handicap ramp at 34 Tompkins St. (Thoma Development)
• Site plan review for parking area extension at 16 Stevenson St. (Eric Cook)
• Site plan review for exterior signage at 160 Clinton Ave. (Ollie's Bargain Outlet)

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve routine reports and discuss fire department business. The main items are old business on the union contract and new business on a volunteer contract.

• Approval of November 2023 meeting minutes
• Approval of paid staff sick report for November 2023
• Approval of credit card statement for November 2023
• Fire and code budget status reports
• Discussion of union contract and volunteer contract

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Cortland Department of Public Works Board is meeting to approve minutes from the November 14th meeting and to decide on water grievances. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no specific details on the grievances or department update provided.

• Approval of minutes from Nov 14, 2023 DPW Board meeting
• Water grievances motions to accept or deny
• General department update

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on six area variance applications covering properties on Owego, Elm, Stevenson, Clinton, Chestnut, and Prospect Terrace. The board will also establish its 2024 meeting schedule and approve minutes.

• 16 Owego St.: variance for lot coverage, front/side yard setbacks, vegetative strip
• 72 Elm St.: variance to delay pervious surface, lot coverage, side yard setback
• 16 Stevenson St.: variance for maximum and side yard parking, second driveway
• 160 Clinton Ave.: variance for wall sign exceeding square footage
• 30-32 Chestnut St.: variance for side yard setback and 4 ft. vegetative strip

Environmental Advisory Committee

The City of Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee meets to review ongoing projects and discuss potential recommendations. Members will hear status reports on vermicomposting and the Water Works Forest Stewardship Plan, and consider endorsing the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act. New business includes exploring the '15-Minute City' concept and whether to recommend weighing trash at pickup.

• Vermicomposting status report by Bruce Adams
• Water Works Forest Stewardship Plan status by Donald Chu
• Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act recommendation memo
• Glass Recycling recommendation memo
• South Franklin Yard Waste Collection Center redesign

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission will hold public hearings and consider three action items: site plan reviews for facade repairs at 5 Main St. and upgrades at 77-79 Main St., and a special use permit and site plan review for a parking area increase at 160 Main St. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Site plan review for facade repair at 5 Main St. (applicant: Richard DeChick)
• Site plan review for facade, lighting, and two condenser units at 77-79 Main St. (applicant: Keith Fox)
• Special use permit and site plan review for parking area increase at 160 Main St. (applicant: EJD Rentals)

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will meet to discuss routine matters and several operational items. They will review bills and reports, and discuss old business including candidate and sergeant interviews, a digital parking update, vehicle auction/sale, LE Tech Grant, Veteran's Breakfast, K-9 donation, and the 2024 budget. New business includes body-worn cameras from Axon, a COPS Grant, a new police vehicle, Cortaca, and a personnel issue update.

• Body Worn Cameras - Axon schedule
• COPS Grant
• New Police Vehicle
• Budget 2024
• Vehicle Auction/Sale

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

This is a procedural-only agenda for the Cortland Public Works & Public Safety Commission meeting on November 14, 2023. The only listed items are grievances and approval of the board minutes from September 12, 2023. No decisions, proposals, or discussions of substance are scheduled.

• Grievances
• Approval of board minutes from 2023-09-12

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on nine variance applications, including a use variance to sell cannabis-related items contrary to Local Law No. 1 of 2022. Most are area variances for setbacks, lot coverage, and parking. The board may table items if County Planning Board recommendations are not received.

• Use variance for 155-157 Tompkins St. to sell cannabis-related items (contrary to Local Law No. 1 of 2022)
• Area variance for 34 Tompkins St. (rear and side yard setbacks)
• Area variance for 23-27 Maple Ave. (side/front yard setbacks, lot coverage, max parking)
• Area variance for 72 Elm St. (pervious surface, lot coverage, side yard setback)
• Area variance for 143 Port Watson St. (6ft privacy fence in front yard/corner lot)

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of October meeting minutes, paid staff sick report, credit card statement, and fire and code budget status reports, along with reports from the chief, deputy chief, battalion chief, volunteer deputy chief, Crown City Company, and volunteer membership coordinator. No old or new business items are listed.

• Approval of October 2023 meeting minutes
• Approval of paid staff sick report for October 2023
• Approval of credit card statement for October 2023
• Fire and Code budget status reports
• Chief's report and deputy chief PR update

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and plan the Spring 2024 tree planting program, including a Main St. planting plan. They will also review the status of a NYS-DEC inventory and management plan application and discuss a NYS-DEC ash tree management grant opportunity.

• Approve October 11, 2023 minutes
• Spring 2024 tree planting program planning
• Main St. tree planting plan
• NYS-DEC inventory and management plan application status
• NYS-DEC ash tree management grant opportunity

Environmental Advisory Committee

The City of Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss environmental initiatives, including rain gardens on Clinton Avenue, water runoff from solar panels, storm sewers for Hickory Park, and whether to recommend weighing trash at pickup. The committee will also review reports on vermicomposting and the Water Works Forest Stewardship Plan, and consider endorsing the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act.

• Clinton Avenue Rain Gardens discussion
• Water runoff from solar panel installations (resident question)
• Storm sewers for Hickory Park (resident question)
• Weighing trash at pickup — possible recommendation
• Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act endorsement discussion

Common Council

The Common Council is reviewing modifications to the tentative 2024 City budget, specifically regarding the Police Department, Department of Public Works, and Retirement and Health Insurance budgets. The body is deciding to file the proposed budget and schedule a public hearing for December 5, 2023.

• Proposed 2024 City budget filing and public hearing scheduled for December 5, 2023
• Authorization to apply for a Law Enforcement Technology Grant (LETECH) of up to $750,000
• Review of Police Department and Department of Public Works budget changes
• Review of Retirement and Health Insurance budgets

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes, review bills and reports, and discuss old and new business. Old business includes a body camera grant, digital parking update, lockers, vehicle auction/sale, and the 2024 budget. New business includes candidate and sergeant interviews, a LE Tech grant, and a personnel issue update.

• Body Cam Grant
• Digital Parking Update
• Vehicle Auction/Sale
• Budget 2024
• Sergeant Interviews-5th Sgt.

Wastewater Treatment Board

This is a procedural agenda with no decision items. The board will hear the Superintendent's Report, the Chief Operator's Report, and Financial Reports, but no specific actions, contracts, or public hearings are listed.

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission will hold public hearings and vote on five action items, including a special use permit for a home occupation, site plan reviews for a convenience store and a senior housing extension, and two minor subdivision/lot consolidations. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Special use permit for home occupation at 12 Venette St. (applicant Lou Rathbun)
• Site plan review for change of use from office to convenience store at 120 Groton Ave. (Jeff and Pimjai Constantino)
• Site plan review and minor subdivision/lot consolidation at 10 Pearl St. and adjacent property (Katrina Medeiros)
• Site plan review and minor subdivision/lot consolidation at 23-25 Maple Ave. and 27 Maple Ave., including parking lot change (Marc Pace)
• Extension of site plan review for 51-unit senior housing at 30 River St. (Cortland Housing Assistance Council)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission will discuss planning for the Spring 2024 Tree Planting Program and the status of the NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan application. The meeting also includes a review of the Main St. Tree Planting Plan and recent tree concerns.

• Spring 2024 Tree Planting Program planning
• NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan application status
• Main St. Tree Planting Plan review
• Approval of September 13, 2023 minutes

Common Council

This Common Council meeting agenda contains only a financial report and supporting documents, with no listed action items, proposals, or discussions. The agenda is procedural and provides no specific details about the financial report's contents.

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to hear reports on vermicomposting and the Water Works Forest Stewardship Plan, and to discuss new business including the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, NYSERDA's Clean Energy Communities program, and Clinton Avenue rain gardens. They will also review action items from previous meetings.

• Vermicomposting status update by Bruce Adams
• Water Works Forest Stewardship Plan status by Donald Chu
• Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act presentation by Larry Klotz and Citizens' Climate Lobby
• NYSERDA CNY Clean Energy Communities presentation by Amanda Mazzoni
• Clinton Avenue Rain Gardens discussion by Jeremy Jimenez

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, reviewing bills and reports, and discussing old and new business items. Key topics include a body camera grant, the 2024 budget, and updates on personnel and vehicle matters.

• Body Cam Grant
• Budget 2024
• Civil Service Exams
• Digital Parking Update
• Vehicle Auction/Sale

Youth Bureau Commission

The Youth Bureau Commission is meeting to review activity reports and financials, discuss a maintenance management plan and software, and plan for the 2024 city budget. They will also consider a cooperative agreement with Cortlandville for 2024 and review the child protection policy. The agenda includes updates on current and upcoming programs and projects.

• Maintenance Management Plan and Software - City Reporter
• Cortlandville Cooperative Agreement for 2024
• City Budget planning for 2024
• Child Protection Policy
• Tulip planting at Dexter, Suggett, Beaudry, CYB Office, Court House Park

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve routine reports, discuss hiring two new firefighters, and begin budget preparation. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of August 2023 meeting minutes
• Approval of paid staff sick report for August 2023
• Approval of credit card statement for August 2023
• Discussion of hiring two new firefighters
• Budget preparation for upcoming fiscal year

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and plan the spring 2024 tree planting program. They will also discuss the status of a NYS-DEC inventory and management plan application, a Main St. tree planting plan, and recent tree concerns.

• Spring 2024 Tree Planting Program Planning
• NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan Application Status
• Main St. Tree Planting Plan
• Recent Tree Concerns/Notes

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Public Works & Public Safety Commission approved the minutes from the July 11, 2023 DPW meeting unanimously. The commission also denied the water grievance filed for 43 Park Street, with a unanimous vote. No other formal actions were taken; the rest of the meeting covered project updates and discussions.

• Approved July 11, 2023 DPW minutes (unanimous)
• Denied 43 Park Street water grievance (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on five property-specific variance requests at 155 Tompkins, 5 Main, 156 Central, 122 Pendleton, and 226 Central. The board will also consider certification of adoption of Local Law No. 2 of 2022. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing: 155 Tompkins
• Public hearing: 5 Main
• Public hearing: 156 Central
• Public hearing: 122 Pendleton
• Public hearing: 226 Central

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two area variances for a privacy fence and a new residence. The board also upheld two separate zoning interpretations regarding whether specific businesses met the city's definition of a 'head shop.'

• Approved area variance for 6’ privacy fence at 156 Central Ave (4-0)
• Approved area variance for lot size and side yard setback at 122 Pendleton St (4-0)
• Upheld decision that business at 155-157 Tompkins St is a prohibited 'head shop'
• Upheld decision that business at 5 Main St is an allowed use (not a 'head shop') with stipulation for a no-smoking/vaping sign
• Approved minutes of the August 14, 2023 ZBA meeting

Common Council

The Common Council approved several resolutions including an emergency repair for a wastewater pump and the hiring of two firefighters. The Council also amended the 2023 budget to include grants and donations and authorized a cannabis growers showcase event. A request for a sound device permit in public spaces was denied.

• Amended 2023 budget by $29,420 for donations and grants (5-0)
• Authorized Fire Department to hire two firefighters (5-0)
• Approved $55,462 emergency purchase order for Wastewater Morris pump repair (5-0)
• Authorized Mayor to submit approval letter for Cannabis Growers Showcase event (5-0)
• Denied sound device permit application for Scott Heath (0-5)
• Approved August 15, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission is meeting on August 31, 2023, to handle routine approvals and discuss several operational items. Old business includes civil service exams, a digital parking update, and an undercover vehicle. New business covers outfitting a TRU van, a vehicle auction/sale, an incident at 64 Owego, a taser purchase, a drone policy, and a personnel issue update.

• Taser purchase
• Drone policy
• Vehicle auction/sale
• Up-fitting TRU Van
• 64 Owego incident

The Police Commission approved the July meeting minutes and July bills totaling $43,265.76. The board reviewed departmental reports and discussed upcoming civil service exams and the potential purchase of Tasers from Homer PD.

• Approved July meeting minutes
• Approved July bills totaling $43,265.76
• Approved July reports

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to review reports and unfinished business, including the status of vermicomposting and a No Mow May memo. They will also discuss next steps for vermicomposting, a management plan for Water Works Woods, and new business on glass recycling and a new committee member request. The agenda includes a review of previous action items, some of which are marked as completed.

• Vermicomposting status and next steps (Bruce Adams)
• No Mow May memo status (Diane Chu)
• Water Works Woods Management Plan memo (Donald Chu)
• Glass recycling discussion (Steve Broyles and Donald Chu)
• New committee member request

The Environmental Advisory Committee approved a memo for submission to the Common Council regarding the Water Works Forest Stewardship Plan. The committee also discussed glass recycling economics and potential new membership.

• Approved August 7th meeting minutes
• Approved memo for Water Works Forest Stewardship Plan for submission
• Agreed to invite Larry Klotz and a Citizens Climate Lobby representative to the next meeting

Planning Commission

The Commission approved two site plan reviews and designated the city as the lead agency for a solar energy project. One approval included a three-year condition to bring parking into compliance.

• Approved site plan for 18 Tompkins St. to convert office space to a 3-bedroom apartment (5-0)
• Approved site plan for 187 Homer Ave. with condition that parking be brought into compliance within three years (5-0)
• Declared City of Cortland lead agency on SEQR process for solar energy site at 136 S. Pendleton St. (5-0)
• Approved July 24, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Common Council

The Common Council authorized an agreement with C&S Engineers for storm water evaluation and data collection. The Council also amended the 2023 budget to include $11,852 in new revenues and approved five special event permits.

• Authorized $19,450 agreement with C&S Engineers for Storm Water Mitigation Study (7-1)
• Amended 2023 budget by $11,852 for grants, donations, and insurance recovery (8-0)
• Approved special event and sound permits for St. Mary’s School 95th Anniversary (8-0)
• Approved special event and sound permits for HOPE Foundation 5K Run (8-0)
• Approved special event permit for YMCA 5K Run (8-0)
• Approved special event and sound permits for Cortland Community Matters Fair (8-0)
• Approved special event and sound permits for 9/11 Memorial Ceremony (8-0)
• Approved August 1, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved eight area variance requests for residential and commercial properties. Decisions included approvals for fences, driveway expansions, and a concrete patio, some with specific height or drainage conditions.

• Approved fence variance at 57 Wheeler Ave with height conditions (4-0)
• Approved second driveway variance at 32 Wheeler Ave (4-0)
• Approved driveway enlargement variance at 65 Pomeroy St (4-0)
• Approved fence variance at 146 Groton Ave with sidewalk setback conditions (4-0)
• Approved concrete patio variance at 71 Homer Ave with runoff and parking conditions (4-0)
• Approved additional driveway variance at 98 Owego St (4-0)
• Approved privacy fence and sign variance at 156 Clinton Ave (4-0)
• Approved area variance at 187 Homer Ave (4-0)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss planning for the spring 2024 tree planting program. They will also review the status of a NYS DEC inventory and management plan application and address recent tree concerns.

• Approve June 14, 2023 minutes
• Spring 2024 tree planting program planning
• NYS DEC inventory and management plan application status
• Recent tree concerns/notes

The Commission approved the July 12, 2023 minutes and reviewed the Spring 2024 Tree Planting Program, noting five current applications. The committee will order at least 30 trees by September 15 and requested a meeting to discuss alternate tree species for Main Street.

• Approved July 12, 2023 minutes
• Set minimum order of 30 trees for Spring 2024 program by September 15
• Requested meeting to discuss alternate tree species for Main St.

Common Council

This is a procedural meeting agenda with no substantive items listed. The agenda includes only a finance report and supporting documents, with no specific decisions or discussions detailed.

The Common Council approved several resolutions including a budget amendment and the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds. The council also authorized a grant application for housing rehabilitation and the sale of surplus police vehicles. A public hearing was held regarding the former Parker School building, but no final sale was decided.

• Approved $985,560 budget amendment (7-0)
• Adopted American Rescue Plan Act allocation of funds (7-0)
• Abolished Clerk and Account Clerk positions; established Keyboard Specialist and Senior Account Clerk roles (7-0)
• Authorized CDBG application up to $500,000 for Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation (7-0)
• Approved $35,000 award to Ramos and Pellot, LLC, DBA LaBamba Cuisine (7-0)
• Authorized sale of 13 abandoned impound vehicles (7-0)
• Declared 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe as surplus for auction (7-0)
• Approved July 18, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)

Police Commission

The Police Commission approved the minutes from the June meeting and authorized June bills totaling $19,108.05. Members reviewed departmental reports and discussed budget overages for school guard uniforms and vehicle outfitting.

• Approved June meeting minutes
• Approved June bills totaling $19,108.05
• Approved June reports

Planning Commission

The Commission approved a site plan for an existing three-unit building at 6 Locust Ave. subject to code compliance and landscaping changes, but denied a proposal for new construction and a special use permit at the same address. A site plan extension for 213 Tompkins St. was also approved.

• Approved site plan for existing 3-unit building at 6 Locust Ave. conditioned on code compliance and driveway removal (5-0)
• Denied site plan for proposed new construction at 6 Locust Ave. (5-0)
• Denied Special Use Permit for 6 Locust Ave. (5-0)
• Approved site plan extension for 213 Tompkins St. until January 31, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved June 26, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Common Council

This Common Council meeting agenda contains only procedural items: the agenda itself, supporting documents, and a financial report. No specific decisions, proposals, or public hearings are listed for discussion.

• Financial report presented for review

The Common Council amended the 2023 budget by $29,263 and authorized several grant applications and contracts, including a solar energy site lease. A public hearing was held regarding the proposed sale of the former Parker School Building to Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, with several residents speaking in opposition.

• Amended 2023 Adopted Budget by $29,263 (Resolution 122)
• Authorized contract with BCA Architects and Engineers for water meter project study (Resolution 123)
• Authorized water meter upgrade and Homer Avenue infrastructure grant applications (Resolutions 124, 125, 126)
• Authorized lease with Davis Hill Development, LLC for solar energy production site (Resolution 127)
• Authorized contract with Hummel’s Office Plus for office supplies (Resolution 128)
• Awarded Microenterprise Assistance Program Funds under CDBG #285ME506-22 (Resolution 129)
• Approved special event permits for Empire State Classic 4-Mile Run and Treating Disorders 5K (Resolutions 130, 131)
• Amended all city parking citation fines and fees (Resolution 134)

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Cortland Department of Public Works Board will meet to approve minutes from April, swear in new members, and discuss new business. Key items include a request for Children at Play signage on Groton Avenue near Broadway and a presentation on the city's proposed parking revisions. The board will also receive a general update on DPW/Water projects.

• Approval of minutes from April 11, 2023 DPW Board meeting
• Swearing in of DPW/Water Commission members A. Ricottilli and M. Urtz
• Request for Children at Play signage near Groton Avenue @ Broadway
• Discussion of City of Cortland parking restructuring, with presentation by Eric Mulvahill from Cortland County IDA BDC
• General DPW/Water project update

The Commission unanimously recommended the implementation of a three-tiered electronic parking permit system for city lots. The board also approved the April 11, 2023, meeting minutes and swore in member Alan Ricottilli. No action was taken regarding a request for 'Children at Play' signage near Groton and Townley Avenues.

• Approved April 11, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Swore in DPW/Water Commission member Alan Ricottilli
• Recommended implementation of three-tiered electronic parking permit system (unanimous)
• No action taken on 'Children at Play' signage request

Zoning Board of Appeals

This is a procedural agenda item only. The Zoning Board of Appeals is meeting to approve the minutes from its June 12, 2023 session; no substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

• Approval of June 12, 2023 meeting minutes

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved an area variance for Paul Gallow to construct a multi-unit building. The approval includes specific conditions regarding parking stops, fence height, and architectural consistency with the neighborhood.

• Approved area variance for 37-39 Port Watson St. with conditions (4-0)
• Approved June 12, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The City of Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss several environmental initiatives, including vermicomposting, weaknesses in the FOG (fats, oils, and grease) code, glass recycling options, and a No Mow May memo. The agenda includes reports, unfinished and new business, and a review of action items. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Vermicomposting report by Larson Engineers
• Discussion of FOG code weaknesses
• Glass recycling update and research on economics
• No Mow May memo from Code Enforcement Office
• Review of action items including DEC Water Works management plan

The committee heard a presentation on using a $150,000 DEC grant to establish food waste vermicomposting trenches at the county landfill. The project aims to utilize existing grant funds this year and seek additional funding for expansion.

• Approved June meeting minutes
• Action item created for Bruce Adams to place vermicomposting RFP on July 18 Common Council agenda

Planning Commission

This is a procedural-only agenda for the Cortland Planning Commission meeting on June 26, 2023. The agenda lists four numbered items but provides no titles, descriptions, or attachments, so there is nothing concrete to report on decisions or discussions.

The Planning Commission approved three site plan reviews and one sidewalk café table permit. Two of the site plan approvals were contingent on compliance with Historic Commission requirements.

• Approved Site Plan Review for 3 Groton Ave. contingent on Historic Commission requirements (5-0)
• Approved Minor Site Plan Review for 29 Central Ave. contingent on Historic Commission requirements (5-0)
• Approved Minor Site Plan Review for 150 Tompkins St. (5-0)
• Approved Sidewalk Café Table Permit for 4 Main St. (5-0)
• Approved amended minutes from May 22, 2023 meeting (5-0)

Police Commission

The Police Commission approved the May meeting minutes and $65,075.63 in bills. The board reviewed departmental reports covering budget lines, officer injuries, and vehicle maintenance. Members also discussed the implementation of a new parking permit system and the acquisition of drones.

• Approved May meeting minutes
• Approved May bills totaling $65,075.63
• Approved May reports

Common Council

This Common Council meeting agenda contains only standard procedural headings (Agenda, Supporting Documents, Financial Documents) with no specific items, decisions, or discussions listed. The meeting appears to be a routine administrative session with no actionable business detailed in the provided text.

The Common Council approved a budget amendment of $722,112 to fund fire equipment, personnel bonuses, and public works. The council also adopted a local law regarding city parking regulations and approved several special event permits.

• Approved Resolution No. 107 to amend the 2023 budget by $722,112
• Adopted Local Law No. 13 of 2023 amending parking regulations (Resolution No. 112)
• Authorized purchase of drone equipment for Police and Fire Departments (Resolution No. 119)
• Approved construction agreement with G. DeVincentis & Sons for Groton Avenue project (Resolution No. 116)
• Authorized contract with Adhan Piping for curb and sidewalk ramp replacement (Resolution No. 117)
• Approved special event permits for July 2023 Main St. Music Series, Race Against Hunger 5K, and Disabled American Veterans’ Family Fun Day
• Authorized RFP for wastewater treatment facility boiler purchase and installation (Resolution No. 121)
• Approved May 16, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on eight area variance applications, each seeking relief from minimum lot size or bulk requirements for projects like deck expansions, a mobility ramp, a carport, a multi-unit building, driveway enlargement, and fences. The board will also approve minutes from a prior meeting.

• 14 Fox Hollow: deck expansion variance (James Lindley)
• 21 Park St.: temporary mobility ramp variance (Robin Ptak)
• 37-39 Port Watson St.: bulk variance for multi-unit building (Paul Gallow)
• 72 W. Main St.: deck extension variance (Danielle Schlenker)
• 98 Evergreen St.: privacy fence variance on corner lot (Patrick Fitzgerald)

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved five area variance requests for residential decks, a mobility ramp, a driveway enlargement, and a fence. One request for a carport was denied, and two other applications were tabled for further review.

• Approved area variance for deck expansion at 14 Fox Hollow (3-0)
• Approved area variance for temporary mobility ramp at 21 Park St. (4-0)
• Denied area variance for carport at 66 Huntington St. (4-0)
• Tabled multi-unit building variance at 37-39 Port Watson St. (4-0)
• Approved area variance for deck extension at 72 W. Main St. (4-0)
• Approved area variance for driveway enlargement at 178 Tompkins St. (4-0)
• Approved area variance for privacy fence at 98 Evergreen St. with condition that fence not extend beyond front of house (4-0)
• Tabled fence variance at 146 Groton Ave. (4-0)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss waste reduction initiatives, including food scrap composting, glass recycling, and a facility redesign. They will also consider reporting on the No Mow May program and potentially helping the city apply for state grants for transportation and climate resiliency.

• Status update on food scrap composting
• Status update on South Franklin Street facility redesign
• Discussion on whether to report No Mow May results to mayor and Common Council
• Potential to help city apply for NYSERDA and DEC grants for public transportation and climate resiliency
• Community outreach content for city website on waste reduction and energy savings

The committee agreed to draft a memo for the mayor and Common Council regarding the effectiveness of the No Mow May initiative. Members also decided to study the economic benefits of glass recycling before committing to further action. No formal votes were recorded for new policy changes.

• Approved March meeting minutes
• Decided to draft memo to mayor and Common Council on No Mow May participation and lessons learned
• Decided to study economic benefits of glass recycling before committing to the practice
• Agreed to request dedicated space on the city website for waste reduction and energy content

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission is meeting to approve minutes and bills, review reports, and discuss old and new business. Items include a new K9 spot, new vehicles for the TRU unit, a bicycle sale, academy updates, undercover vehicle for CCDTF, sergeant and K9 officer interviews, and a personnel issue update. The meeting is largely routine administrative oversight with no public hearings or major policy decisions on the agenda.

• New K9-June spot reserved
• New Vehicles-TRU
• Bicycle Sale
• CCDTF Vehicle-Undercover
• Sergeant and K9 Officer Interviews

The Police Commission approved the April meeting minutes and $87,721.76 in bills. The board reviewed updates regarding a new K-9 officer, the purchase of a 2019 TRU van, and the promotion of a new sergeant.

• Approved April meeting minutes
• Approved April bills totaling $87,721.76
• Approved April reports
• Promoted Ptl. Officer Taylor to Sgt. effective May 16

Planning Commission

This meeting agenda contains only the approval of the April 24, 2023 minutes and no other business items. It is purely procedural with no decisions or discussions on substantive matters.

• Approval of April 24, 2023 minutes

The Planning Commission approved a site plan renewal for Guthrie Medical Center and a minor plan for a facade at 150 Tompkins St. Two special use permits were approved for residential projects at 37-39 Port Watson St. and 87 Tompkins St., with specific conditions applied to both.

• Approved Site Plan Renewal for Guthrie Medical Center at 134 Homer Ave. until Nov. 27, 2023 (6-0)
• Approved Site Plan and Special Use Permit for 37-39 Port Watson St. subject to ZBA Area Variance (6-0)
• Approved Site Plan and Special Use Permit for 87 Tompkins St. for a recognized sorority (6-0)
• Approved Minor Plan for permanent façade at 150 Tompkins St. (6-0)
• Approved April 24, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

Common Council

This Common Council meeting agenda contains only the agenda itself and a placeholder for supporting documents, with no listed resolutions, ordinances, or discussion items. The meeting appears to be procedural or the agenda is incomplete.

The Common Council appropriated additional funding for sidewalk repairs and approved several special event permits for upcoming community festivals. The council also authorized a contract amendment for engineering services on Clinton Ave and declared various DPW equipment as surplus for sale.

• Appropriated up to $20,000 from ARP funding for the 2023 Sidewalk Program (8-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for June 20, 2023, regarding parking regulation amendments (8-0)
• Approved permits for St. Anthony’s Day Festival, June 10-11, 2022 (8-0)
• Approved permits for Juneteenth Celebration on June 17, 2023 (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved permits for Cortland Pride Community Festival on July 15, 2023 (8-0)
• Authorized $98,000 contract amendment for Bernier, Carr & Associates for Clinton Ave, Phase III (8-0)
• Declared 11 DPW vehicles and equipment items as surplus and authorized their sale (8-0)
• Authorized Memorandum of Agreement with Cortland County for leachate and sludge disposal

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals voted 4-0 to approve all nine area variance applications on the agenda. Variances were granted for properties at 130 Clinton Ave., 2 Parker Ave., 32 N. Greenbush St., 150 Tompkins St., 12 Homer Ave., 88 Evergreen St., 60-62 N. Main St., 11 Pomeroy St., and 134 Main St. Two approvals included conditions requiring impervious driveway paving and curb cuts.

• Approved area variance for 130 Clinton Ave. (front yard setback) — 4-0
• Approved area variance for 2 Parker Ave. (minimum lot size for home addition) — 4-0
• Approved area variance for 32 N. Greenbush St. (front yard parking, lot/side yard) with condition to pave driveway and add curb cut — 4-0
• Approved area variance for 150 Tompkins St. (lot width, side yard, awning) — 4-0
• Approved area variance for 12 Homer Ave. (side yard, lot size, front yard parking) with condition to pave driveway and add curb cut — 4-0
• Approved area variance for 88 Evergreen St. (home addition, lot size compliance) — 4-0
• Approved blanket area variance for 60-62 N. Main St. (wall sign in R-4 district) — 4-0
• Approved area variance for 11 Pomeroy St. (minimum lot and front yard size) — 4-0

Common Council

This Common Council meeting agenda contains only procedural items: the agenda itself, supporting documents, and financial reports. No substantive decisions, proposals, or discussions are listed for this meeting.

• Financial reports are listed for review

The Common Council adopted a updated city-wide procurement policy and approved $30,000 in microenterprise assistance funds. The council also authorized sidewalk improvements and the sale of surplus fire equipment.

• Adopted Uniform City of Cortland Procurement Policy (7-0)
• Approved special event and sound permits for Reunion for the Ages Benefit Concert (7-0)
• Awarded $30,000 in CDBG funds to Bernard Custom Logo and The Vault Grand Venue (7-0)
• Designated Corporation Counsel Arthur J. Meldrim as Fair Housing Officer (7-0)
• Authorized RFP for curbing and ADA-compliant sidewalk improvements (7-0)
• Authorized sale of surplus 1998 Am-LA Fire Engine (7-0)
• Accepted fire department donations of $50.00 and $300.00 (7-0)
• Approved conveyance of vacant land on Glenn St. to Edward G. Gyukeri, Jr. (7-0)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss reports on school food scrap composting, No Mow May, and glass recycling progress. They will also review unfinished business including FOG and vermicomposting recommendation memos, action items from the April meeting, and Water Works usage.

• School Food Scrap Composting report
• No Mow May update
• Glass recycling progress
• FOG recommendations memo
• Vermicomposting recommendations memo

The Environmental Advisory Committee approved recommendation memos regarding FOG, Vermicomposting, and Water Works Back Woods for submission to the Common Council. The committee also reviewed participation numbers for No Mow May and discussed the lack of progress on glass recycling.

• Approved March meeting minutes
• Approved FOG recommendation memo for submission to Common Council
• Approved Vermicomposting recommendation memo for submission to Common Council
• Approved Water Works Back Woods recommendation memo for submission to Common Council

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will meet on April 25, 2023, to approve minutes from February and March, review bills and reports, and discuss old business including a new K9 spot, new vehicles for TRU and Detective Bureau, and an academy update. New business includes selling scrap and bicycles, upcoming training, a new sergeant test, and a personnel issue update. The meeting is at the Chamber of Commerce, 83 Main St, at 9:00 AM.

• Approval of minutes from 2/24/2023 and 3/23/2023 meetings
• New K9 spot reserved for June
• New vehicles for TRU and Detective Bureau
• Sale of scrap at impound lot and bicycle sale
• New Sergeant spot and test

The Police Commission approved the February and March meeting minutes and authorized March bills. The commission reviewed department reports and discussed upcoming K-9 and Sergeant staffing updates.

• Approved February meeting minutes
• Approved March meeting minutes
• Approved March bills totaling $121,255.62
• Approved March reports

Planning Commission

The agenda contains only placeholder items and a review of the March 27, 2023 minutes. No specific decisions, proposals, or discussions are identified in the provided text.

• Review of March 27, 2023 minutes

The Planning Commission approved a minor subdivision at Huntington St. and a sidewalk café permit for Los Lagos. Site plans for properties at 28 Main St. and 19 Church St. were approved, and a signage change at 136 Main St. was approved with conditions.

• Approved minor subdivision of 3.11 acre parcel at 49-67 Huntington St. (6-0)
• Approved sidewalk café permit for Los Lagos at 13 Groton Ave. (6-0)
• Approved site plan for 28 Main St. with conditions regarding signage and Historic Commission approval (6-0)
• Approved site plan for 19 Church St. (6-0)
• Approved façade signage change for 136 Main St. subject to electrical inspection and ZBA Area Variance (6-0)
• Approved March 27, 2023 meeting minutes with amendments (6-0)

Common Council

This meeting agenda contains only the agenda, supporting documents, and council minutes from the previous meeting. No substantive items are listed for decision or discussion.

The Common Council approved several supplemental agreements for the Downtown Revitalization Project and authorized the police department to add one Uniform Sergeant position. The council also approved permits for the Great Cortland Pumpkinfest and a proposal to renovate Randall Park tennis courts to include pickleball.

• Approved $135,000, $39,800, and $38,500 supplemental agreements with Fisher Associates for Downtown Revitalization Project (7-0)
• Authorized creation of one additional Uniform Sergeant and one Police Officer position to backfill the vacancy (7-0)
• Approved Special Event and related permits for The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest on Oct 7-8, 2023 (7-0)
• Authorized RFP for renovating Randall Park tennis courts to include pickleball and tennis courts (7-0)
• Authorized sale of 11 abandoned impound vehicles for scrap with proceeds to the Police Department (7-0)
• Approved RFP and agreement for financial auditing services (7-0)
• Affirmed mobile ice cream vendor license for Schwan’s (7-0)
• Accepted $15,000 from Yaman Foundation and $5,000 from CNY Community Foundation for Youth Bureau (7-0)

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the 2022 LOSAP Census. The board also accepted the March 2023 meeting minutes, sick leave report, and financial report.

• Approved LOSAP 2022 Census
• Accepted March 2023 meeting minutes
• Accepted March 2023 sick leave report
• Accepted March credit card purchase report

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Cortland Public Works & Public Safety Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving prior minutes and swearing in members. The main discussion items are proposed city parking revisions, presented by Eric Mulvahill from the Cortland County IDA BDC, and the board's responsibilities and membership. Water grievances and a general project update are also on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from January 31, 2023 meeting
• Swearing in of DPW/Water Commission members
• Discussion of proposed city parking revisions with presentation by Eric Mulvahill
• Discussion of DPW Board responsibilities and membership
• Water grievances and general project update

The Board unanimously approved the January 31, 2023 meeting minutes and swore in five commission members. Members discussed a proposed parking management platform presented by the Cortland County IDA BDC. No formal decisions were made regarding the parking revisions.

• Approved January 31, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Swore in members P. O’Mara, M. Doughty, K. VanGorder, M. L. Bordwell, and B. Stark

Common Council

The Common Council confirmed the appointment of Lisa M. Henty to a leadership role with a 2023 salary of $140,000. The council also adopted Local Law No. 12 of 2023 to align the city's code enforcement program with state requirements. Several special event permits and grant authorizations were approved.

• Confirmed appointment of Lisa M. Henty as Director of Administration & Finance (5-0)
• Adopted Local Law No. 12 of 2023 regarding municipal code enforcement updates (5-0)
• Approved Porch Fest Special Event and Sound Device Permit (5-0)
• Approved Arts Off Main Special Event and Sound Device Permit (5-0)
• Designated City of Cortland Law Department as Fair Housing Office (5-0)
• Authorized Mayor to accept up to $407,586 from NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for Wickwire Pool House project (5-0)
• Approved $200 donation from Christine Gregory to Cortland Youth Bureau (5-0)
• Concurred that Andrew Jewett's tree planting application does not violate law (5-0)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The committee reviewed a proposed agreement with SUNY Cortland to open the 53-acre Water Works grounds for environmental studies and public use. Members discussed security concerns regarding wellheads and the need for a long-term management plan. No formal votes were taken on the proposal.

• Approved March meeting minutes
• Tabled Electrical Infrastructure Overview
• Deferred decision on FOG recommendation memo to May meeting
• Deferred decision on Vermicomposting memo to May meeting

Planning Commission

This is a procedural agenda with only placeholder items and approval of the January 30, 2023 minutes. No specific decisions, proposals, or discussions are listed.

• Approval of minutes from January 30, 2023

The Planning Commission approved special use permits for a fireworks tent, a home baking business, and community gardens. The board also approved a site plan for facade restoration at 37-39 Main St. and referred a proposed local law regarding property repurposing to the Cortland County Planning Board.

• Approved Special Use Permit for seasonal fireworks sales tent at 160 Clinton Ave. (5-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for home baking business at 27 Yong St. (6-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for community gardens at 3 South Ave. (6-0)
• Approved Site Plan for facade restoration and accessibility at 37-39 Main St. (6-0)
• Approved one-year extension to March 27, 2024, for site plan work at 37-39 North Main St. (6-0)
• Referred proposed local law on property repurpose for public benefit to Cortland County Planning Board (6-0)
• Approved January 30, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

Police Commission

The Police Commission approved February bills and reports. The board discussed vehicle maintenance issues and the arrival of new patrol cars, while the February meeting minutes were put on hold for future approval.

• Approved February bills totaling $35,949.06
• Approved February reports
• Put approval of February minutes on hold
• Nominated Jim Sponaugle to fill the position of Chairman
• Rescheduled April meeting to April 25th at 9 a.m.

Common Council

This Common Council meeting agenda contains only the agenda itself, supporting documents, and approval of the minutes from the March 7, 2023 meeting. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

• Approval of minutes from March 7, 2023

The Common Council approved several funding requests for city infrastructure and public safety. They also created a new maintenance supervisor position for the Youth Bureau and scheduled two public hearings regarding Community Development Block Grants.

• Approved $97,202 sole source contract with Air Cleaning Systems, Inc. for Armory Exhaust System (8-0)
• Appropriated $40,000 for a new Tactical Response Unit (TRU) vehicle for Police Department (8-0)
• Created Recreation Maintenance Supervisor position for Youth Bureau with salary range $51,022.40 to $58,947.20 (8-0)
• Confirmed Mike Swartwout to Planning Commission (8-0)
• Confirmed Alan Ricottelli to Board of Public Works (8-0)
• Scheduled public hearings for April 4, 2023, regarding CDBG #285ED948-20 and FY2023 CDBG Program (8-0)
• Tabled Local Law No. 12 of 2023 regarding municipal code enforcement updates
• Accepted donations of $100 and $25 for Cathy Stage Softball League (8-0)

Youth Bureau Commission

The Cortland Youth Bureau Commission is meeting to review 2023 budget reports, the Cortlandville Collaborative Agreement, and 2023 projects. They will also discuss the Maintenance Management Plan, Yaman Park and Playground updates, the Bob SanJule Pavilion dedication, and Chimera fire/security alarm monitoring and access control systems. The agenda includes reports from directors and supervisors, and upcoming events like the Easter Egg Hunt.

• 2023 budget review: Recreation Administration $211,800, Parks $176,300, Playground & Rec Center $267,425, Beach & Pool $167,900, Youth Programs $23,790
• Chimera fire and security alarm monitoring system, access control system, internet and surveillance quotes
• Yaman Park and Playground update: timeline, surfacing, equipment, water aeration system
• Bob SanJule Pavilion dedication: available dates, plaque, site recommendations
• Easter Egg Hunt on April 1 at Suggett Park, with CAPCO and YWCA

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the lists of volunteers qualifying for the Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) and established a twice-yearly payout schedule. The commission also accepted the resignation of volunteer Brandon Fairbanks.

• Approved LOSAP membership qualification lists
• Approved LOSAP payout schedule for January and July
• Accepted resignation of Brandon Fairbanks
• Approved February 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved February 2023 sick leave report
• Approved February credit card purchase report
• Accepted current year-to-date Fire and Code budget reports

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission is meeting to discuss the Cortland Water Works Project, plan spring 2023 tree planting and pruning, and consider a NYS DEC grant application for an inventory and management plan. The agenda also includes recent tree concerns and approval of prior minutes.

• Cortland Water Works Project
• Spring 2023 Tree Planting Planning
• Tree Pruning Planning
• NYS DEC Inventory and Management Plan Grant Application
• Recent Tree Concerns/Notes

Common Council

This is a procedural meeting with no substantive decisions on the agenda. The Common Council will review budget reports, capital and grant updates, and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Budget reports review
• Capital and grant updates
• Approval of February 21, 2023 minutes

The Common Council tabled a proposed local law regarding building repurposing to allow for further Planning Commission review. The council approved several grants for the fire department and a research agreement with Clarkson University.

• Tabled Local Law No. 12 of 2023 regarding building or property repurpose (8-0)
• Approved Special Event, Sound Device permits and Court St. closure for Stone Soup Community Gathering (8-0)
• Authorized agreement with Thoma Development Consultants for community development services (8-0)
• Authorized application for FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety Grant of $21,682.00 (8-0)
• Authorized application for FEMA SAFER Hiring Grant of $641,005.28 for two career firefighters (8-0)
• Authorized consulting agreement with Clarkson University for nitrogen and phosphorous research (8-0)
• Approved February 21, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss several environmental topics, including a recommendation about Water Works use, a tour of the Tompkins County Recycling Center, glass sorting requirements, and an overview of Cortland's electrical infrastructure. They will also review recommendations on municipal trees, FOG (fats, oils, and grease), and vermicomposting, and discuss new initiatives like getting Cortland to Zero Waste and green purchasing.

• Soil and Water Conservation recommendation about Water Works use
• Tompkins County Recycling Center tour date
• Glass sorting requirements and prices
• Cortland electrical infrastructure overview
• Municipal Trees recommendations

The committee approved the January meeting minutes and discussed various environmental projects, including a potential tour of the Tompkins County Recycling Center. No formal policy decisions were made, though members identified several action items regarding composting and recycling.

• Approved January meeting minutes

Planning Commission

This agenda contains only procedural boilerplate: an agenda approval and two placeholder items with no details. No decisions, discussions, or public hearings are specified.

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission is meeting on February 24, 2023, to approve minutes, review bills and reports, and discuss old and new business. Old business includes SPCA, 2023 goals, sale of vehicles, Country Acres, and academy update. New business covers 2022 goal update, retirement of Officer Bush, new background, and personnel issue update.

• Approval of minutes from 1/26/2023 meeting
• Review of bills
• Sale of vehicles
• Retirement of Officer Bush
• Personnel issue update

The Police Commission approved the January meeting minutes and bills totaling $5,127.95. The board reviewed monthly reports covering budget, vehicle maintenance, and police activities. Members also discussed the status of the SPCA contract and 2022 goal achievements.

• Approved January meeting minutes
• Approved January bills totaling $5,127.95
• Approved January reports

Common Council

The Common Council scheduled public hearings for March 7, 2023, regarding building repurposing for public benefit and updated code enforcement requirements. The council also approved several service contracts, established new property compliance fees, and reorganized a payroll position.

• Set March 7 public hearing for Local Law No. 12 (building/property repurpose) (7-0)
• Set March 7 public hearing for Local Law No. 13 (code enforcement updates) (7-0)
• Abolished Payroll Clerk position and created Payroll/Benefits Manager position (7-0)
• Established property compliance certificate fees: $25 residential, $50 commercial (7-0)
• Approved special event and sound permits for Overdose Awareness Candle Vigil (7-0)
• Authorized custodial agreements with Absolutely Clean for Youth Bureau and Wickwire Pool House (7-0)
• Authorized fire/intrusion and access control contracts with Chimera for Beaudry Park and Youth Bureau (7-0)
• Affirmed annual service and maintenance agreements for DPW and Police Department (7-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals is meeting to consider an application for 55 Front Street, along with its supporting documents. The agenda contains no other substantive items, so the meeting is focused solely on this property matter.

• 55 Front Street application review
• 55 Front Street supporting documents

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission is holding a special meeting to administer oaths of office and then enter executive session to discuss the employment history and disciplinary action of a city police department employee. The closed session is authorized under Executive Order 203 of 2020 and City of Cortland Local Law No. 2 of 2023. No other business is listed.

• Administer oaths of office
• Executive session on employment history and disciplinary action of a police department employee

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve routine reports including staff sick leave, credit card statements, and budget status reports for 2022 and 2023. They will also hear from the Chief and other officers, discuss old business, and introduce new firefighters. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of Paid Staff Sick Report: January 2023
• Approval of Credit Card Statement: January 2023
• Fire and Code Budget Status Reports (2022 & 2023)
• Chief's Report on 2022 and 2023 Budgets
• Introduction of new firefighters

The Board of Fire Commissioners appointed Bonnie Heath as Chairperson and Paul Quinlan as Vice-Chair. The board approved the January 2023 meeting minutes, sick leave report, credit card purchases, and budget status reports. No other substantive policy decisions were made.

• Appointed Bonnie Heath as Chairperson (All in favor)
• Appointed Paul Quinlan as Vice-Chair (All in favor)
• Approved January 2023 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Approved January 2023 sick leave report (All in favor)
• Approved January credit card purchases (All in favor)
• Approved Fire and Code budget status reports (All in favor)

Common Council

The Common Council is meeting to review the year-to-date city budget, receive updates on capital and grant projects, and approve the minutes from the January 17, 2023 meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items or public hearings listed.

• City Budget YTD review
• Capital and Grant Project Updates
• Approval of January 17, 2023 minutes

The Common Council adopted multiple local laws to stagger and reestablish terms for various city commissions and boards. The council also approved service agreements for animal sheltering, promotional services, and a storm water study, and authorized an RFP for the former Parker School building.

• Adopted Local Laws 4-11 to stagger/reestablish terms for Environmental, Fire, Historic, Landscape, Public Works, Wastewater, and Youth boards (8-0)
• Approved appointment of members to Environmental, Fire, Historic, Landscape, Public Works, Wastewater, and Youth boards (8-0)
• Adopted Local Law 11 changing 'Acting City Judge' title to 'Part-time City Court Judge' (8-0)
• Approved Special Event and Sound Device permits for Corn Ducky Derby (8-0)
• Authorized agreement with Country Acres Pet Services & Animal Shelter for $200 per dog and $500 monthly fee (7-1)
• Authorized promotional services agreement with Cortland County Convention & Visitor's Bureau (8-0)
• Approved $9,950 agreement with C&S Companies for a storm water study (8-0)
• Authorized Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development of the former Parker School building (8-0)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The committee approved the January meeting minutes and discussed the implementation of No Mow May. Members also reviewed county recycling operations and the transition to Blue Moose Sanitation Services.

• Approved January meeting minutes (unanimous)

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Cortland Public Works & Public Safety Commission will discuss a recent parking proposal, lowering the speed limit on Jefferson Road, and current DPW and water department projects. The agenda includes old business (approving minutes) and several discussion items, but no votes are recorded.

• Discussion on recent parking proposal by City of Cortland
• Discussion on lowering speed limit on Jefferson Road
• Update on Clinton Avenue Gateway Project (Phases III, IV, V)
• Update on Tompkins Street Project and Bridge NY Applications
• Water Department: LSLRP, meter installations, water quality, facility upgrades

The Board approved the installation of non-regulatory suggested speed limit signage on Jefferson Road. Proposed revisions to city parking were tabled pending additional information. The commission also received progress reports on water department and DPW infrastructure projects.

• Approved installation of non-regulatory suggested speed limit signage on Jefferson Road (unanimous)
• Tabled proposed revisions to City parking and paid parking program
• Approved August 9, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

This meeting agenda contains only procedural items: the agenda itself and four supporting documents with no descriptions. No specific decisions, proposals, or discussions are listed, so the meeting appears to be routine or administrative in nature.

• Agenda
• Supporting Document #1
• Supporting Document #2
• Supporting Document #3
• Supporting Document #4

The Planning Commission denied a request to rezone four properties on Front St. to General Industrial. However, it approved rezoning eight properties on Squires St. and Delaware Ave. back to General Industrial. A site plan review extension for 37-39 N. Main St. was tabled.

• Rejected rezoning of four properties on Front St. from R-1 to GI (4-0)
• Approved rezoning of eight properties on Squires St. and Delaware Ave. from R-1 to GI (4-0)
• Designated County of Cortland as SEQR lead agency for Squires St. and Delaware Ave. properties (4-0)
• Tabled time extension for site plan review at 37-39 N. Main St. (4-0)
• Elected Joe McMahon as Chairman (4-0)
• Elected Chris Ryan as Vice Chairman (4-0)
• Approved November 28, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, reviewing bills and reports, and discussing old and new business items. Key topics include the 2023 budget, new hires, locker room improvements, new marked units, and the sale of vehicles. The commission will also consider a revised local law regarding commission appointments and swearing-in terms, and receive updates on personnel issues and accreditation.

• Review of bills and reports
• 2023 budget discussion
• New hires update
• Sale of vehicles
• Revised local law re: Police Commission appointments and swearing-in terms

The Police Commission approved December bills totaling $40,750.83 and the December meeting minutes. The commission noted that the SPCA contract was not renewed for 2023 due to cost increases, replacing it with agreements with Country Acres Pet Services and Midstate Veterinary Services.

• Approved December bills totaling $40,750.83
• Approved December meeting minutes
• Approved December reports
• Non-renewal of SPCA contract for 2023

Wastewater Treatment Board

This meeting agenda contains only the agenda item itself and a placeholder for supporting documents. No decisions, discussions, or specific business items are listed, so the meeting appears to be purely procedural or administrative in nature.

The Board approved three customer grievance credits totaling $432.70 and tabled three other grievances until April. The Board also elected John Troy as Chairperson and William Starr as Vice Chairperson. Reports from the Superintendent and Chief Operator regarding plant pilots and repairs were approved.

• Elected John Troy as Chairperson (Unanimous)
• Elected William Starr as Vice Chairperson (Unanimous)
• Approved Jeffrey Fitts' credit for $322.00 (Unanimous)
• Approved Neb Hage's credit for $45.70 (Unanimous)
• Approved Anthony Steiner's credit for $160.00 (Unanimous)
• Tabled Stan Gurka's grievance for $5,533.50 until April (Unanimous)
• Tabled Joseph Ludwig's grievance for $228.48 until April (Unanimous)
• Tabled Joe Hage's grievance for $999.60 until April (Unanimous)

Common Council

The Common Council adopted three local laws updating the membership and duties of the Planning Commission, Police Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals. The council also confirmed several board appointments and authorized multiple FEMA grant applications for firefighting equipment.

• Adopted Local Law No. 1 regarding Planning Commission membership (6-0)
• Adopted Local Law No. 2 regarding Police Commission membership and duties (6-0)
• Adopted Local Law No. 3 regarding Zoning Board of Appeals membership (6-0)
• Confirmed appointments for Planning Commission, Police Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Ethics Committee (6-0)
• Appointed Lawrence J. Knickerbocker as Part-time City Court Judge (6-0)
• Authorized $35,000 agreement with Crown City Ladder & Hose Company for volunteer services (6-0)
• Approved FEMA grant applications for a reserve ladder truck ($950,000), ALS equipment ($155,025), SCBA ($581,000), and portable radios ($617,065) (6-0)
• Authorized Restore NY grant application for former Parker Elementary School redevelopment (6-0)

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approving December 2022 reports (staff sick leave, credit card statement), receiving the Fire and Code Budget Status Report, and hearing reports from the Chief, Deputy Chief, Battalion Chief, and Volunteer Deputy Chief. Under old business, the board will discuss the fire department merger and commissioner term reappointments.

• Approval of Paid Staff Sick Report: December 2022
• Approval of Credit Card Statement: December 2022
• Fire and Code Budget Status Report
• Discussion of merger under Old Business
• Commissioner Term Reappointments

The Board of Fire Commissioners accepted the December 2022 meeting minutes, sick leave report, and credit card purchase report. The board also approved moving Commissioner Saddlemire to active status pending a physical. The meeting included reports on new fire department hires and the completion of truck inspections.

• Accepted December 2022 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Accepted December 2022 sick leave report (All in favor)
• Accepted December credit card purchase report (All in favor)
• Accepted Fire and Code budget reports (All in favor)
• Approved moving Commissioner Saddlemire to active status pending physical (All in favor)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Cortland Landscape and Design Commission is meeting to discuss tree-related business, including the status of an ash tree loss grant, spring 2023 tree planting and funding, a NYS DEC inventory and management plan grant application, and tree pruning planning. The agenda also includes approving prior minutes, addressing recent tree concerns, and reviewing commission membership.

• Ash Tree Loss Grant Status
• Spring 2023 Tree Planting and Funding
• NYS DEC Inventory and Management Plan Grant Application
• Tree Pruning Planning
• Commission Membership

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss several environmental initiatives, including a presentation on No Mow May, the status of a vermicomposting project, and recommendations on street trees and water use. They will also address challenges with food waste, recycling costs, and green energy grid capacity.

• No Mow May Common Council presentation and vote
• Vermicomposting project status update
• Soil and Water Conservation recommendation on Water Works use
• Street tree selection and recommendation memo
• Discussion on recycling collection costs and food waste composting

The committee unanimously approved the December meeting minutes. Members discussed the implementation of 'No Mow May,' progress on vermicomposting trenches at the landfill, and current recycling limitations regarding glass and specific plastics.

• Approved December meeting minutes (unanimous)

Common Council

The Common Council is meeting to review year-to-date budget figures for 2022, compare them with the 2021-2022 budget, and receive updates on grant projects. The agenda also includes approval of the minutes from the December 20, 2022 meeting. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• 2022 YTD Budget review
• 2021-2022 Budget Comparison
• Grant Project Updates
• Approval of minutes from 2022-12-20

The Common Council authorized a contract for CDBG program delivery services and a snow/garbage removal agreement. The council also scheduled three public hearings for January 17 regarding the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Police Commission.

• Approved $88,000 agreement with Thoma Development Consultants for CDBG program delivery (8-0)
• Approved contract with Matthew Taylor for snow and garbage removal at $65/hour and $0.80/linear foot (8-0)
• Scheduled Jan 17 public hearing for proposed local law on Planning Commission membership (8-0)
• Scheduled Jan 17 public hearing for proposed local law on Zoning Board of Appeals membership (8-0)
• Scheduled Jan 17 public hearing for proposed local law on Police Commission membership and duties (8-0)
• Approved proclamation honoring Dan McNeil, Jr. (8-0)
• Approved 2023 meeting schedule, cancelling June 6 and July 4 meetings (8-0)
• Approved December 20, 2022 meeting minutes (8-0)