Cortland public meetings in 2024

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals approved all five applications on the agenda, including a zoning interpretation for a 3-unit to 4-unit conversion at 43 Union St., an area and flood plain variance for an in-ground pool at 130 N. Main St., and area variances for LED signs at 230 Port Watson St., a shed at 12 Harmony Circle, and a deck at 2 Lauder St. All votes were unanimous (3-0).

• Approved zoning interpretation for 43 Union St. to allow adding a unit to a 3-unit dwelling (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 130 N. Main St. for in-ground pool, conditioned on FEMA guidance (3-0)
• Approved flood plain variance for 130 N. Main St. for in-ground pool, conditioned on FEMA guidance (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 230 Port Watson St. for two LED signs, conditioned on on/off switch (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 12 Harmony Circle for larger shed (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 2 Lauder St. for rear deck (3-0)

Police Commission

The Police Commission approved November bills of $8,079.75 and reviewed reports including increased overtime and parking tickets due to Cortaca. Key discussions covered recruitment for 6 positions (14 interviewed) with an academy start Jan 20, tight finances, LE Tech Grant purchases (in-car cameras, recording system, drug testing hood), and ordering two patrol vehicles and two detective bureau lease vehicles.

• Approved bills totaling $8,079.75 for November
• Reviewed recruitment for 6 vacancies; 14 candidates interviewed; background checks underway; academy begins Jan 20
• Discussed LE Tech Grant: in-car cameras, Detective Bureau recording system, drug testing hood, Faraday box not yet installed
• Ordered two patrol vehicles and two lease vehicles for detective bureau; need to replace one K9 vehicle
• Reports indicated overtime and parking tickets up due to Cortaca; vehicle repairs now handled by new DPW mechanic

The Cortland Police Commission approved the November meeting minutes and bills totaling $8,079.75. They reviewed November reports, noting budget transfers, increased parking tickets and tows due to Cortaca, and no officer injuries. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting included updates on grants, recruiting, vehicles, and training, and ended with an executive session on personnel.

• Approved November meeting minutes
• Approved November bills totaling $8,079.75
• Approved November reports as presented
• Entered executive session for personnel matters

Common Council

The Common Council approved 11 resolutions, including authorizing a Restore NY grant application for up to $1 million to redevelop the former Roundhouse Mill at 41 Elm St. They also set public hearings for a proposed hotel/motel occupancy tax and a CDBG program, released a lien on 42 Main St., and approved several administrative actions. All votes were 7-0.

• Approved Restore NY grant application for Roundhouse Mill, up to $1M (7-0)
• Set public hearing for hotel/motel occupancy tax up to 3% (7-0)
• Set second public hearing for CDBG water/sewer lateral program (7-0)
• Authorized release of $68,000 lien on 40-42 Main St. (7-0)
• Approved $42,500 contract with Thoma Development Consultants for microenterprise assistance (7-0)
• Authorized sale of scrap metal from obsolete water meters (7-0)
• Authorized police hiring up to 2 officers above staffing levels (7-0)
• Created Recreation Maintenance Worker position, $52,748.80 salary (7-0)

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners will meet to review November 2024 reports and year-to-date budget status for Fire and Code. The meeting includes updates from the Chief, Deputy Chief, and Battalion Chief.

• Approval of November 2024 Paid Staff Sick Report
• Approval of November 2024 Credit Card Statement
• Review of Fire and Code Budget Status Reports for Year to Date
• Apparatus and Training update from the Battalion Chief

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners held a routine monthly meeting, approving the November meeting minutes, sick leave reports, and financial report as presented. The Fire Chief reported that the budget will be balanced by year-end, and the department is applying for three grants. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was procedural.

• Accepted November meeting minutes with corrections (all in favor)
• Accepted November sick leave reports as presented (all in favor)
• Accepted November financial report as presented (all in favor)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission will review minutes, discuss the Spring 2025 Planting Program, NYS-DEC inventory and management plan updates, an ash tree management grant, and Main Street planting progress.

• Approval of November 13, 2024 meeting minutes
• Spring 2025 Planting Program planning
• NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant planning
• Main St. planting progress update
• Recent concerns and notes discussion

The Landscape and Design Commission discussed several tree-related projects. The Common Council approved extending the contract with LaBella Associates for the NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan grant, and the commission will proceed with securing contract documents. The commission also planned spring 2025 tree planting, including stump removals, and noted that the NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant paperwork is still pending. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved November 13, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Common Council approved extending LaBella Associates contract for DEC grant; commission to secure documents
• Discussed spring 2025 tree planting, including stump removals on Broadway, Courthouse Park, and Water Works
• Noted DEC has not released paperwork for $65,000 ash tree grant; no executed contract yet
• Reported all Main St. trees, shrubs, and perennials planted; no extra trees available
• Discussed new holiday decorations on Main St.'s 53 poles; hotel occupancy tax to fund future decorations
• Tree City USA application approved at next two levels

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The agenda includes only procedural items: approval of previous minutes, a report of no pending water grievances, and a superintendent's report covering capital projects, operations, work orders, and personnel. No specific decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Accept minutes of previous meeting
• No water grievances pending
• Superintendent's report on capital and construction projects
• Operational and administrative updates
• Work orders and citizen requests

The Board of Public Works accepted the November 12, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. No water grievances were pending. Superintendent Wiese reported that Groton Ave. and Main St. construction concluded for the season, with spring work planned for Main St. brick walkways and paving. The board discussed snow plow scheduling, leaf pickup, staffing, and requested a historical work order report.

• Accepted November 12, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• No water grievances pending
• Requested historical work order report for department progress review

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee will receive reports on environment, energy, and waste initiatives, including a No Mow May request, the Energy Smart Cortland campaign, and vermicomposting. New business includes discussing a Climate Smart Communities task force and a greenhouse gas emissions inventory. The committee will also review its charter and set annual goals.

• No Mow May request to Common Council
• Energy Smart Cortland community campaign
• Vermicomposting and South Franklin Street collection site updates
• Consideration of starting a Climate Smart Communities task force
• Review of the Committee Charter

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a request for an area variance. The board is reviewing a proposal to add a storage shed to a specific property.

• Area variance request for a 10’ x 12’ storage shed on skids at 17 Salisbury St. by CNY SNAP/Homer Hollow LLC.

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will meet to approve minutes from October, review bills and reports, and discuss old business including a Law Enforcement Technology Grant, recruit/field training officer updates, and police vehicle/equipment needs. New business covers training, civil service matters, and a personnel issue update. The meeting includes commissioner comments and commendations.

• Approval of October 24, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of bills and reports
• Discussion of Law Enforcement Technology (LE Tech) Grant
• Update on police vehicles and equipment
• Personnel issue update

Common Council

The Common Council will hold public hearings on a proposed local law to override the state tax levy limit for 2025 and on the proposed 2025 city budget. The budget includes a 7.7% increase in general fund spending to $29,708,911, a tax levy of $10,412,854.43, and a tax rate of $11.9760 per $1,000 after a citywide revaluation. The Council will also vote on confirming the mayor's appointments for police chief and part-time city court judge.

• Confirm Mayor's appointment of David M. Guerrera as Police Chief
• Confirm Mayor's appointment of Ronald T. Walsh as Part-Time City Court Judge through 2030
• Public hearing and resolution to override state tax levy limit for fiscal year 2025
• Proposed 2025 budget: $29,708,911 general fund spending; water rates up 5%, sewer rates up 2.54%
• Accept $2,420 in donations to Police Department for Shop with a Cop and other programs

Fire Commission

The board will consider approval of October meeting minutes, paid staff sick report, credit card statement, and year-to-date budget status. The chief and deputy chief will provide operational updates including a Park Street fire and special event recap.

• Approval of October 2024 minutes
• Approval of paid staff sick report
• Approval of credit card statement
• Fire and code budget status reports
• Deputy chief report on Park Street fire

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

This is a routine Board of Public Works meeting with no major policy decisions or public hearings. The board will approve minutes from the previous meeting, note that no water grievances are pending, and receive the superintendent's report, which covers capital and construction projects, operational updates, work orders, citizen requests, and personnel matters.

• Approval of minutes from October 8, 2024 meeting
• No water grievances pending
• Capital and construction project reports from superintendent
• Operational and administrative updates
• Work orders and citizen requests

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee will review a No Mow May request to the Common Council, an EPA brownfields assessment for the Apex Tool Plant remediation, and updates on the Energy Smart Cortland campaign and South Franklin Street collection site. They will also consider a vermicomposting initiative and Clinton Avenue rain gardens. The meeting includes reports on energy, waste, and environmental tracking recommendations.

• No Mow May proposal memo to Common Council
• Apex Tool Plant Remediation (EPA brownfields assessment)
• Center for EcoTechnology (CET) consultation on South Franklin Street collection site
• Energy Smart Cortland community campaign and district heating/wastewater heat capture
• Vermicomposting slides update and recycling webpage corrections

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on five site plan reviews and one lot line adjustment. These items include requests for EV charger installation, a new sign, a kitchen addition, and a two-family dwelling.

• EV charger installation (5 dual port 48A) at Hampton Inn, 26 River St.
• Installation of a 4’x6’ free-standing sign at Cortland Free Library, 32 Church St.
• Kitchen addition construction at 128 Main St. by ET Cook, LLC
• Lot consolidation for multi-use development at 172, 174, 178 Homer Ave. by Christopher Community, Inc.
• Construction of a new two-family dwelling at 16 Owego St.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to discuss three area variance applications. The board will determine if these requests for signs and a building addition meet city requirements.

• Area variance for an 11 sf sign at 12 Venette St.
• Area variance for a ground sign at 146 Clinton Ave. for Valvoline
• Area variance for a rear kitchen addition at 128 Main St.

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will consider approving minutes and bills, discuss old business items including the LE Tech Grant, recruit/FTO updates, police vehicles, and SWAT training, and take up new business items such as a chief promotion, a donation for a K9 vest, and a personnel issue update.

• Chief Promotion (new business)
• Donation-K9 Vest for K9 Kort
• LE Tech Grant update
• Police Vehicles update
• TRU Update-SWAT Training at Oriskany

Wastewater Treatment Board

This meeting consists of routine reports from the superintendent, chief operator, and financial staff. No votes or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda is procedural.

• Superintendent report for October 21, 2024
• Chief operator report for October 21, 2024
• Invoice report for October 21, 2024
• Third-quarter financial reports for 2024
• Year-to-date financial reports for 2024

Common Council

The Common Council will receive the Mayor's tentative 2025 city budget and set dates for public review meetings, hearings, and adoption. The council will also consider suspending negotiations on the sales tax sharing agreement with the county, authorize contracts for animal shelter services and school snow removal, and accept donations to the police and youth bureau.

• Receive tentative 2025 city budget and schedule budget review meetings October 22, 24, 29, 31 and public hearing November 19, final adoption December 3
• Notice of intent to suspend cancellation of sales tax agreement with Cortland County, keeping current allocation (County 55%, City 17.38%, Towns/Villages 27.62%)
• Authorize agreement with Country Acres Pet Services for impounded dog sheltering at $200 per dog plus $500/month administrative fee, through September 2025
• Authorize agreement with Cortland Enlarged City School District for snow plowing and salting at multiple schools for 2024-2025 at hourly rates plus salt cost
• Accept donations: $3,000 each from Cortland Breakfast Rotary for police canine and drone programs, plus ballistic vest for canine Kort; $600 for youth lacrosse program

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners will meet to review the 2025 budget and September 2024 financial reports. The board will also receive reports on an open house and a fire at 35 S Franklin.

• 2025 Budget report
• Fire at 35 S Franklin
• September 2024 Paid Staff Sick Report
• September 2024 Credit Card Statement
• Year to date Fire and Code Budget Status Reports

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission will review minutes from previous meetings, plan the Spring 2025 planting program, and discuss updates to the NYS-DEC inventory and management plan. They will also plan for the NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant and address recent concerns and other business.

• Approve minutes from August 14, 2024 and September 11, 2024
• Plan Spring 2025 planting program
• Update on NYS-DEC inventory and management plan
• Plan for NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant
• Discuss recent concerns and notes

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Board of Public Works will discuss requested parking signage and rule changes on several city streets. The body will also review recommendations from the Environmental Advisory Committee regarding leaf disposal and a phased plan to increase trash collection revenue.

• Proposed no-parking signage on Pleasant St. and elimination of 15-minute parking on lower Clayton Ave.
• Review of parking rules on Groton Ave. and signage on Tompkins St. near James St.
• Discussion of traffic safety on NYS Rte. 281 and truck traffic on Tompkins St.
• Proposal to promote 'Leave the Leaves' on the city website to reduce curb pick-up.
• Proposal to charge residents up to $360 annually per large trash toter to cover collection costs.

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission will hold public hearings and consider several applications, including a lot line adjustment and consolidation of three parcels at 172-178 Homer Ave for a multi-use development, a special use permit for outdoor meat sales at 1-9 Pomeroy St, and multiple site plan reviews for building modifications and signage. The commission will also consider a lot subdivision at 41 Elm St and a time extension for previously approved site plan work.

• Lot line adjustment/consolidation for multi-use development at 172, 174, 178 Homer Ave
• Special use permit for outdoor sale of meat at 1-9 Pomeroy St
• Site plan review for construction of a loading dock at 34 Kellogg Rd
• Site plan review for installation of 4 EV charging stations at 1-3 River St
• Site plan review for a 25' pole sign at 146 Clinton Ave (Valvoline)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to track recommendations on recycling and composting and discuss the adoption of SMART goals for waste, energy, and public health. Members will also consider capturing heat from wastewater and the state's Climate Smart Communities program.

• Status updates on vermicomposting and glass collection recycling
• Discussion on capturing heat from wastewater
• Review of NYS Climate Smart Communities certification
• Proposed SMART goals for carbon neutrality and zero waste
• Trash funding memo distributed to DPW

Police Commission

The Police Commission will review minutes, bills, and reports from the previous meeting. Old business includes updates on a technology grant, recruit hiring, police vehicles, and new applicants for the TRU unit. New business covers appointment interviews and a personnel issue update regarding injured officers.

• LE Tech Grant update
• Recruit update
• Police vehicles status
• TRU unit new applicants
• Appointment interviews and personnel issue update

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on 13 area variance requests and one zoning interpretation. Items include residential sheds, garages, decks, a flood plain development permit at 30 Sampson St., and commercial work at 146 Clinton Ave. for Valvoline. The board will also consider a lot consolidation at 77-79 Pomeroy St. and installation of four EV charging stations at 1-3 River St.

• Area variance for shed at 6 Joseph St. (David Lowell)
• Area variance & flood plain permit for deck at 30 Sampson St. (Phillip Blair)
• Area variances for Valvoline façade renovation and 25-foot pole sign at 146 Clinton Ave. (Doran Myrie/Rania Kassis)
• Area variance for EV charging stations at 1-3 River St. (Andrew Rohle)
• Zoning interpretation for lot consolidation at 77-79 Pomeroy St. (Greg Long)

Common Council

The Common Council unanimously approved four resolutions, including a $250,000 agreement with Hunt Engineers for design services on the Maple Avenue culvert upgrade, funded by a $2,180,160 state grant. The council also confirmed Jacob Van Gorder to the Zoning Board of Appeals, set a public hearing for October 1 on waste collection clarifications, and disclosed a potential conflict of interest in the Sidewalk Program. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved $250,000 design contract with Hunt Engineers for Maple Ave. culvert project (8-0)
• Confirmed Jacob Van Gorder to Zoning Board of Appeals (8-0)
• Set public hearing for Oct. 1 on waste/recycling local law (8-0)
• Disclosed Sidewalk Program conflict of interest for Mechthild Nagel (8-0)

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners will meet to approve the minutes from the August 2024 meeting, the paid staff sick report for August 2024, and the credit card statement for August 2024. They will also receive budget status reports for the year to date and hear updates from the Chief, Deputy Chief, and other officers. No new business or old business items are listed.

• Approval of August 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of paid staff sick report for August 2024
• Approval of credit card statement for August 2024
• Fire and Code budget status reports year to date

The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the August meeting minutes, sick leave reports, and financial report as presented. The fire chief reported on a planned headquarters renovation, including a $500,000 funding application and an architect evaluation scheduled for October 10. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely routine and informational.

• Accepted August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted August sick leave reports (unanimous)
• Accepted August financial report (unanimous)

Landscape & Design Committee

The commission will discuss the Spring 2025 Planting Program and updates to the NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan. The meeting also includes planning for a NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant.

• Spring 2025 Planting Program Planning
• NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan Updates
• NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant Planning

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Board of Public Works will adjudicate a water bill grievance for a resident on Tompkins St. The commission will also discuss several traffic safety and signage issues across the city.

• Water bill grievance for Brendan McGovern at 179 Tompkins St.
• Traffic safety on NYS Rte. 281
• Truck traffic on Tompkins St.
• Traffic safety signage on Ridgeview Dr.
• Pedestrian crosswalk at Tompkins St. and Folmer Dr.

The Board of Public Works approved the minutes from the August 13 meeting and affirmed the city's water charge for a property at 179 Tompkins St. owned by Brendan McGovern. No other formal decisions were made; the rest of the meeting was informational, covering citizen requests, construction updates, traffic safety responses, and personnel discussions.

• Approved minutes of August 13, 2024 meeting (6-0)
• Affirmed water charge for 179 Tompkins St. (6-0)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee will hold a regular meeting on September 9, 2024. Items include approving the No Mow May memo, discussing a FOG (fats, oils, grease) policy recommendation, and adopting SMART goals for zero waste, carbon neutrality, environmental protection, public health, and infrastructure. The committee will also receive updates on vermicomposting, glass recycling, and the Energy Smart community campaign.

• Approve No Mow May memo
• Discuss FOG policy recommendation memo
• Adopt SMART goals for waste, energy, environmental protection, public health, and infrastructure
• Update on vermicomposting – waiting for parcel transfer paperwork
• Submit trash funding and glass recycling memos to Common Council

The Environmental Advisory Committee met without a quorum, so no official decisions were made and minutes were not approved. Members discussed progress on vermicomposting, glass recycling, and an Energy Smart campaign, and tabled setting SMART goals until a future meeting.

• Minutes not approved due to lack of quorum
• Vermicomposting: county permission still pending; paperwork to be drafted
• Glass recycling: no reply from county superintendent; noted staffing issue
• Energy Smart campaign: awaiting energy audit before deciding
• SMART goals: tabled, no goals adopted

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two site plan reviews. The primary item is a mixed-use development at 172–178 Homer Avenue proposing 61 residential units and 31,000 square feet of commercial space. The second item is a new two-family dwelling at 16 Owego Street. The commission may also consider time extensions for previously approved site plans.

• Site plan review for 61-unit mixed-use development at 172–178 Homer Ave (Christopher Community Inc.)
• Revitalization of 31,000 SF commercial space including Dollar General, Seven Valleys Food Coalition, and Cortland Re-use
• Site plan review for new two-family dwelling at 16 Owego St (John Barden)
• Public hearings on both applications
• Potential time extensions for previously approved site plans

Common Council

The Common Council approved five resolutions, including a $44,262 budget amendment allocating funds to the Fire, Police, and Public Works departments for grant administration, insurance recoveries, and restitution. It also approved permits for the 9/11 Memorial Ceremony and Cortland Beer Company, and accepted donations to the Youth Bureau. The meeting included a discussion on fire apparatus replacement costs.

• Approved $44,262 budget amendment (7-0)
• Approved special event and sound device permit for 9/11 Memorial Ceremony (7-0)
• Approved sound device permit for Cortland Beer Company (6-1)
• Accepted $4,405 in PorchFest donations to Youth Bureau (7-0)
• Accepted $2,500 donation from Royal Nissan Subaru to Youth Bureau (7-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on five area-variance applications. The largest is a proposal by Christopher Community Inc. for a mixed-use development at 172, 174 & 178 Homer Ave., including 61 residential units and 31,000 SF of commercial space. Other items involve variances for a pool, fence, garage overhang, and porch expansion. The board will decide on these requests or may table them as previously done for items 3 and 4.

• Area variance for 61-unit mixed-use development at 172, 174 & 178 Homer Ave. with Dollar General, Seven Valleys Food Coalition, and Cortland Re-use as tenants
• Area variance for an above-ground pool at 17 Bellevue Ave.
• Area variance to replace a 6’ privacy fence at 59 Church St.
• Area variance for garage overhang at 30 East Ave. (tabled from previous meeting)
• Area variance for porch expansion at 21 Sunnyfield Dr. (tabled from previous meeting)

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will meet on August 22, 2024, to approve minutes and review bills and reports. Old business includes updates on a LE Tech Grant, recruit status, police vehicles, and TRU applicants. New business involves appointment interviews and a personnel issue update.

• Approval of minutes from July 8, 2024
• Review of bills and reports
• LE Tech Grant update
• Police vehicles discussion
• Appointment interviews and personnel issue update

Landscape & Design Committee

The commission is meeting to plan the Spring 2025 Planting Program. Members will also review progress on the NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan and the status of an Ash Tree Management Grant application.

• Spring 2025 Planting Program planning
• NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan progress
• NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant application status
• Appointment of new member Mecke Nagel

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve July 2024 minutes, paid staff sick report, and credit card statement, and to receive budget status and chief reports. No new business or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Approval of July 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of paid staff sick report for July 2024
• Approval of credit card statement for July 2024
• Fire and Code budget status reports year to date
• Chief's report and other officer updates

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee will hear reports on vermicomposting, No Mow May, glass collection recycling, and clean energy benchmarking. Unfinished business includes a FOG (fats, oils, grease) policy recommendation, a Leave the Leaves memo, a trash funding memo, and Clinton Avenue rain gardens. New business covers Horizon House, Energy Smart CNY, Apex Tool Plant EPA brownfields assessment, and the South Franklin Street Yard Waste Center redesign. The committee will also update action items on these topics.

• FOG Policy Recommendation — memo to mayor and Common Council
• Apex Tool Plant Remediation (EPA brownfields assessment)
• South Franklin Street Yard Waste Center Redesign
• Glass Collection Recycling update and follow-up with Owens-Illinois
• Clinton Avenue Rain Gardens discussion

Planning Commission

This meeting's agenda consists solely of supporting documents for Agenda Item #5, with no description of what the item concerns. The meeting appears to be procedural or minimally detailed.

• Agenda contains only supporting documents for Item #5 (8 documents listed)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on nine variance applications, all for pre-existing nonconformities. Items include constructing a new two-unit residential structure, installing pools, fences, decks, and porch expansions at various addresses. The board will decide whether to grant the requested bulk or area variances.

• Bulk area variance for new two-unit residential structure at 4 Monroe Heights (Chris Timmons)
• Area variance for pool installation at 14 Glenn St. (Desiree Campbell)
• Bulk variance for 6-foot privacy fence at 30 Miller St. (Raymond Wescott)
• Bulk variance for fence at 8 Bartlett Ave. (Lauri Mauzy)
• Bulk variance for garage overhang at 30-32 East Ave. (Aaron Netti)

Common Council

The Common Council is considering a local law to abolish two elected Constable positions, subject to a voter referendum on November 5, 2024. The body is also holding a public hearing on a proposed hotel and motel occupancy tax of up to 3%. Additionally, the council will review several mayoral appointments and grant applications.

• Proposed Local Law No. 4 to abolish elected Constable positions
• Proposed occupancy tax of up to 3% for hotels and motels
• Special Event Permit for Salvation Army Race Against Hunger on August 3, 2024
• Sound Device Permit for 7 Lebanon Dr. on August 24, 2024
• Grant applications for Randall Park improvements and a CDBG-funded fire truck

Historic or Architectural Review Board

The City of Cortland Historic Commission is meeting to review two property modification requests. The board will consider changes to a commercial facade and the installation of business signage.

• 89 Main St: Proposed new facade and entry door using gold PVC panels and bronze metal frames
• 41 Central Ave (Splat Sumthin): Proposed vinyl decals, A-frame sign, and 12-inch bronze gooseneck lighting

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners will review May and June 2024 staff sick reports and credit card statements. The meeting includes year-to-date budget status reports for Fire and Code. No new or old business is listed on this agenda.

• Approval of May & June 2024 paid staff sick reports
• Approval of May & June 2024 credit card statements
• Fire and Code Budget Status Reports

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission will discuss progress on the NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan. The meeting also includes updates on the NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant application status and planning for the Spring 2025 Planting Program.

• Approval of March 13, 2024 minutes
• Spring 2025 Planting Program planning
• NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan progress update
• NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant application status

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Board of Public Works will review departmental administration, operations, and personnel updates. This meeting agenda consists of routine reports and a review of citizen requests and complaints.

• Reports on capital and construction projects
• Personnel updates and review
• Review of citizen requests/complaints

Police Commission

The meeting includes discussions regarding the Chief of Police's retirement and appointment interviews. The commission will also review updates on recruitment, police vehicles, and a LE Tech Grant.

• Chief of Police retirement
• Appointment interviews
• LE Tech Grant update
• Police vehicle updates
• Recruit and TRU applicant updates

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee will hear a presentation regarding the Cortland Water Works and water system. Members will also review reports on vermicomposting, FOG policy recommendations, and Clean Energy Communities benchmarking. Additionally, the committee will discuss yard waste center redesign and recycling website updates.

• Presentation on Cortland Water Works and Water System
• FOG Policy Recommendation report
• South Franklin Street Yard Waste Center Redesign discussion
• Clean Energy Communities benchmarking update
• Discussion regarding recycling website updates and glass collection

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding various property modifications. Proposed items include basement bedroom additions, fence installations, and parking expansions. One application for Port Watson Street has been withdrawn.

• Special use permit for additional basement bedrooms at 55 Tompkins St.
• Site plan approval for a 6-foot chain link fence at 117 & 127-133 Main St.
• Special use permit for single and two-family dwellings at 15 Owego St.
• Site plan approval for parking area expansion at 21 Pendleton St.
• Withdrawn application for site plan review at 9-11-13 Port Watson St.

Youth Bureau Commission

The Youth Bureau Advisory Board is reviewing May 2024 activity reports and financial budget approvals. The meeting includes updates on upcoming summer events, including the Hershey Park trip and various recreational league registrations. The board is also reviewing recent staffing developments and program successes.

• Review of March meeting minutes and budget/bill approvals
• Update on $1,500 received for Hershey Park trip transportation
• Status of hiring for Recreation Supervisor Mike Guido
• Updates on summer programs including pickleball courts, aquatics, and youth football registration
• Planning for the summer chicken BBQ fundraiser

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will review department reports and minutes from May 23, 2024. The agenda includes updates on accreditation, recruitment, and police vehicles. Members will also discuss an auction for CPD equipment and personnel issues.

• Auction of CPD equipment
• LE Tech Grant update
• Police vehicle update
• Personnel issue update
• Accreditation update

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct public hearings regarding several area and bulk variance applications. These requests involve residential modifications including basement changes, fence heights, and porch extensions.

• 55 Tompkins St.: additional basement bedrooms
• 13 Kent Rd.: picket fence over 6 feet tall
• 53 W. Main St.: deck enlargement
• 15 Owego St.: porch extension towards sidewalk
• 21 Pendleton St.: parking area extension into front yard

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several applications. These include site plan reviews for 14 Clayton Ave, 87 Main St, and 30 Tompkins St. The commission will also consider special use permits for 55 Tompkins St and 160 Clinton Ave.

• Site plan review: steel canopy at 14 Clayton Ave
• Special use permit: additional basement bedrooms at 55 Tompkins St
• Special use permit: outdoor sales at 160 Clinton Ave
• Site plan review: business to mixed-use conversion at 87 Main St
• Site plan review: change of use at 30 Tompkins St

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider several area variances and one appeal regarding historic district standards. Decisions will be made on requests for residential modifications, including garages, sheds, and accessibility ramps.

• Appeal by YWCA to add a steel canopy to a fire escape at 14 Clayton Ave.
• Flood plain variance and permit for a 24’x40’ detached garage at 5 Faywood Ave.
• Area variance for a 12’x24’ shed at 58 River St.
• Area variance for basement bedrooms at 55 Tompkins St.
• Area variance for a temporary wheelchair access ramp at 25 Union St.

Environmental Advisory Committee

The committee will review status reports on vermicomposting, No Mow May, and energy benchmarking. Members will also discuss progress regarding the South Franklin Street Yard Waste Center redesign and glass collection at the Recycling Center.

• Status updates on vermicomposting and No Mow May
• Review of South Franklin Street Yard Waste Center redesign
• Discussion of glass collection area at the Recycling Center
• Clean Energy Communities Benchmarking progress
• FOG Policy Recommendation update

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will review department bills, reports, and minutes from the April 25 meeting. The agenda includes discussions regarding police vehicles, recruitment, and an upcoming accreditation update.

• Auction for the sale of CPD equipment
• LE Tech Grant update
• Police vehicle updates
• Accreditation update scheduled for June 25
• Bike sale

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Cortland Department of Public Works Board is meeting to review old business, including a possible parking restriction on the west side of Pearl Street, and to discuss new business such as project updates, personnel review, water grievances, and proposed water legislation affecting meter upgrade charges and rate structure.

• Possible parking restriction on the west side of Pearl Street
• General project/department update including paving and materials proposal
• Internal personnel review discussion
• Water grievances
• Discussion on new water legislation regarding charges for non-scheduled meter upgrades, replacement costs for damaged radios and meters, and water rate structure

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve routine items including April meeting minutes, paid staff sick report, and credit card statement, and to review year-to-date fire and code budget status. The chief and deputy chief will give reports, including updates on a bunker, a college fire, and a Touch-a-Truck event. The commission will also consider a new volunteer firefighter applicant for approval.

• Approval of April 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of paid staff sick report for April 2024
• Approval of credit card statement for April 2024
• Fire and code budget status reports for year to date
• New volunteer firefighter applicant for commission approval

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several site plan review applications. Items include proposed changes of use, generator installation, and a technical zoning amendment.

• Site plan review for generator installation at 13 Court St.
• Site plan review and flood plain development permit for second floor egress at 95 Homer Ave.
• Site plan review for change of use at 30 Tompkins St.
• Site plan review for change of use to mixed use with one residential unit at 87 Main St.
• Zoning parcel amendment for Plaza Drive and 160 Clinton Ave.

Environmental Advisory Committee

The City of Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss ongoing environmental projects and new initiatives. Items include updates on vermicomposting, No Mow May, glass collection, and energy benchmarking, as well as proposals for a trash funding memo and redesign of the South Franklin Street yard waste center.

• Trash Funding Memo discussion
• South Franklin Street Yard Waste Center Redesign
• FOG Policy Recommendation
• Waterworks Tree Planting
• Municipal Building Energy Benchmarking

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will review department bills, reports, and previous meeting minutes. The agenda includes updates on body cameras, grants, and recruitment alongside discussions regarding police vehicles and safety equipment.

• Axon Body Worn Camera update
• COPS Grant and LE Tech Grant reviews
• Beaudry Park K9 Demo for kids
• Police Vehicles and Safety Equipment
• Personnel updates including an officer leaving

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider several variance applications. These requests involve building height, parking, and setback requirements at various city locations.

• Area variance for front yard requirements at 239 Main St.
• Area variance for building height at 87 Main St.
• Area variance for lot size and front yard parking at 3 Joseph St.
• Area variance for square footage and front yard requirements at 13 Court St.
• Bulk area variances for 95 Homer Ave, 34 Wheeler Ave, and 160 Madison St.

Common Council

This agenda contains only the meeting header and placeholders for supporting documents, with no specific agenda items listed. The meeting appears to be procedural or the agenda has not been populated with substantive business.

Historic or Architectural Review Board

The Cortland Historic Commission reviewed a renovation proposal for 30 Tompkins St, including window replacements, siding repairs, and porch restructuring. The commission also denied a YWCA request for a metal awning over a childcare exit staircase due to lack of representation and unanswered questions.

• 30 Tompkins St: window replacements with Marvin Ultrex, siding repairs, porch restructuring with PVC material
• 30 Tompkins St: repaint with provided colors, fiberglass doors in Westcot Navy, bilco basement access
• YWCA 14 Clayton Ave: metal awning over emergency exit staircase denied
• YWCA project has grant needing use by September 2024
• Minutes from October 17, 2023 approved

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve routine reports including staff sick leave, credit card statements, and budget status, and to hear the Chief's report on a promotion. The agenda is largely procedural with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of Paid Staff Sick Report: March 2024
• Approval of Credit Card Statement: March 2024
• Fire and Code Budget Status Reports for Year to Date
• Chief's Report on promotion
• Deputy Chief's report on PR

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Cortland Department of Public Works Board is meeting to approve January minutes and discuss a possible parking restriction on the west side of Pearl Street. They will also discuss water grievances at 143 Port Watson, 51 Union Street, and 15 Sands Street. The agenda is largely procedural, with no votes recorded in the text.

• Approval of minutes from January 9, 2024 meeting
• Possible parking restriction on west side of Pearl Street
• Water grievance at 143 Port Watson
• Water grievance at 51 Union Street
• Water grievance at 15 Sands Street

Common Council

This is a procedural agenda with no substantive items listed. The only business is a financial report, with supporting documents attached. No decisions or discussions are specified beyond receiving that report.

• Financial report
• Supporting documents

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission is meeting to review three property-related applications: a lot line adjustment at 30 South Ave, a subdivision at 34 South Ave, and a site plan review at 16 Owego St. These are the only items on the agenda, and no other business is listed.

• 30 South Ave lot line adjustment
• 34 South Ave subdivision
• 16 Owego St. site plan review application

Environmental Advisory Committee

The City of Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to hear a presentation on wastewater discharge requirements and to track progress on several environmental initiatives. Members will review status updates on vermicomposting, No Mow May, and recycling website corrections, plus discuss unfinished business like a FOG (fats, oils, grease) policy recommendation and glass collection at the recycling center. The agenda is largely a working session with reports and action-item assignments rather than final votes.

• Presentation on wastewater discharge requirements by Bruce Adams
• Status update on vermicomposting program
• Discussion of No Mow May initiative
• FOG policy recommendation review
• Action item to draft memo on individual trash pick-ups

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission will review February meeting minutes, bills, and reports at its March 28 gathering. Commissioners will discuss updates on the Axon body-worn camera schedule, COPS and LE Tech grants, a TRU van, new applicants, and a personnel matter. The agenda lists topics for discussion and reporting without specifying final votes or decisions.

• Approval of February 22, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of Axon body-worn camera schedule
• Updates on COPS and LE Tech grant applications
• TRU van status and new applicant updates
• Personnel issue update

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve routine reports including minutes, sick leave, credit card statements, and budget status. They will also hear the Chief's report on Captain Price's retirement and new commission responsibilities, along with updates on recent incidents.

• Approval of February 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of paid staff sick report for February 2024
• Approval of credit card statement for February 2024
• Fire and Code Budget Status Reports for year to date
• Chief's report on Captain Price retirement

Youth Bureau Commission

The Cortland Youth Bureau Commission is reviewing the director's report for January and February 2024, which covers hiring, grant submissions, equipment purchases, and program coordination. The report includes decisions made by the director, such as hiring an aquatic director and an intern, awarding bids for equipment and a truck, and submitting a grant for solar lighting.

• Hired FJ Ott as aquatic director for 2024 season
• Hired James Urban as spring intern
• Submitted grant for solar lighting at Yaman Park
• Awarded bid and ordered athletic equipment from BSN Sports, Graph-Tex, Scholastic Sports
• Awarded bid and ordered 2024 Chevy Silverado 2500

Landscape & Design Committee

The commission is meeting to discuss funding and planning for spring 2024 tree planting. The body will also review the status of grants from the NYS DEC and for ash tree management.

• Spring 2024 Tree Planting and Funding
• NYS DEC Inventory and Management Plan Grant status
• Ash Tree Management Grant status
• Commissioner Membership

Common Council

This agenda contains only a finance report and supporting documents, with no listed action items, resolutions, or public hearings. The meeting is procedural in nature, covering routine financial business.

• Finance report and supporting documents

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee meets to review progress on recycling and composting initiatives, including vermicomposting, No Mow May, and a glass collection area. They will discuss a FOG (fats, oils, grease) policy recommendation, city recycling webpage updates, a waterworks tree planting, and a Clean Energy Communities energy audit. The agenda includes reports, unfinished business, and new business items, with action items assigned to members.

• Vermicomposting status update
• No Mow May discussion
• Glass collection area at Recycling Center
• FOG Policy Recommendation
• Water Works Tree Planting

Planning Commission

The Cortland Planning Commission will hold public hearings on four items: a lot consolidation at 57-59 Greenbush St., a site plan extension for 213 Tompkins St., a site plan review for a new two-family dwelling at 16 Owego St., and a proposed zoning amendment to regulate cannabis dispensaries and head shops. The commission will also review and recommend on the zoning amendment before it goes to the Common Council.

• Lot consolidation at 57-59 Greenbush St. (applicant Thomas Scheffler)
• Six-month site plan extension for 213 Tompkins St. (applicant Nick Whitt)
• Site plan review for new two-family dwelling at 16 Owego St. (applicant John Barden)
• Proposed zoning amendment to add cannabis dispensaries and head shops to GB-1 districts

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to review two variance requests. The board will discuss a property line adjustment and a request to convert a single-family home into a two-family dwelling.

• Area variance for a line adjustment between 57 and 59 Greenbush St.
• Use variance to convert a single-family dwelling to a two-family dwelling at 92 Pendleton St.

Police Commission

The Police Commission will meet to review bills and reports. The body will discuss ongoing items including body worn cameras, grants, and new vehicles, as well as 2024 goals and personnel updates.

• Body Worn Camera-Axon Schedule
• COPS Grant and LE Tech Grant
• New Police Vehicles
• 2024 Goals
• UCR Report

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve routine reports including minutes, sick leave, credit card statements, and budget status reports for 2023 and 2024. The agenda includes reports from the Chief, Deputy Chief, and volunteer coordinators, but no specific new or old business items are listed.

• Approval of January 2024 paid staff sick report
• Approval of January 2024 credit card statement
• Fire and Code budget status reports for 2023 and 2024 year-to-date
• Chief's report and deputy chief's PR update

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to review progress on environmental initiatives, including vermicomposting, yard waste redesign, and a No Mow May proposal. Members will also discuss unfinished business like glass recycling and a FOG (fats, oils, grease) policy, and consider the city's clean energy status. The agenda includes tracking previous action items and assigning new tasks.

• Vermicomposting status update
• South Franklin Yard Waste redesign
• No Mow May proposal
• Weighing trash at pick-up
• Glass recycling plan

Police Commission

The Police Commission is holding a special meeting to enter an executive session. The session is for the purpose of discussing a person's employment history. No action will be taken on any matter during this meeting.

• Executive session to discuss a person's employment history

Police Commission

The Police Commission will meet to review department bills and reports. The body will discuss new police vehicles, new hires, and updates on personnel issues.

• New Police Vehicles
• New Hires
• Body Worn Camera-Axon Schedule
• COPS Grant
• LE Tech Grant

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to review two variance requests. The board will determine if the applicants meet the requirements for changes to area and use regulations.

• Area variance request for an access ramp and setback changes at 18 Euclid Ave.
• Use variance request to convert a single-family dwelling to a two-family dwelling at 92 Pendleton St.

Wastewater Treatment Board

The Wastewater Advisory Board will meet to conduct elections and review financial statements from October through December 2024. The board will also address sewer grievances under new business.

• Board elections
• Review of October-December 2024 financial statements
• Discussion of sewer grievances

Common Council

The Common Council will consider adopting a local law requiring tobacco retailers to obtain a city license. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding the CDBG Microenterprise Assistance Program and a resolution for snow and garbage removal services.

• Proposed Local Law No. 1 of 2024 establishing a 'Local Tobacco Retail License'
• Contract authorization for Matthew Taylor to provide snow and garbage removal at $65.00 per hour
• Public hearing regarding the $200,000 CDBG Microenterprise Assistance Program
• Referral of a proposed zoning amendment to the County Planning Board

Fire Commission

The Cortland Board of Fire Commissioners is meeting to approve routine December 2023 reports, including staff sick leave, credit card statements, and budget status. The chief's report notes two new hires, and the board will discuss a volunteer contract under old business. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of Paid Staff Sick Report: December 2023
• Approval of Credit Card Statement: December 2023
• Fire and Code Budget Status Reports
• Chief's Report: two new hires
• Old Business: Volunteer Contract

Landscape & Design Committee

The commission is meeting to plan the Spring 2024 Planting Program and the Main St. Planting Plan. Members will also review the status of NYS-DEC grants and management plans.

• Spring 2024 Planting Program Planning
• Main St. Planting Plan
• NYS-DEC Inventory and Management Plan Award
• NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant Application Status

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Cortland Board of Public Works is meeting to handle old and new business, including approving previous minutes, swearing in members, and discussing water grievances. They will also consider reducing speed limits on Miller Street and Main Street, and receive a general department update.

• Approval of minutes from Dec 12, 2023 meeting
• Swearing in of members
• Discussion on new water grievance form/documents
• Water grievance submitted by owner of 88 Greenbush
• Speed limit reduction on Miller Street and Main Street

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Cortland Environmental Advisory Committee meets to track recommendations and plan next steps on environmental initiatives. Members will discuss unfinished business including Clean Energy Communities, No Mow May, glass recycling, the South Franklin Yard Waste Collection Center redesign, and a recommendation on fats, oils, and grease (FOG). New business includes exploring the '15-Minute City' concept, and action items cover a vermicomposting grant application and a memo on weighing trash at pick-up.

• Vermicomposting status update and new grant application
• Water Works Forest Stewardship Plan status
• No Mow May memo to Common Council
• South Franklin Yard Waste Collection Center redesign
• Draft memo recommending city weigh individual trash pick-ups