HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-0622-0617ppNO. 13
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
CITY OF BUFFALO
JUNE 22, 2010
PENSION PROCEEDING
JUNE 17, 2010
MAYOR
Hon. Byron W. Brown
COMPTROLLER
Andrew Sanfilippo
COMMON COUNCIL
PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL
FILLMORE DISTRICT
DAVID A. FRANCZYK
PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE
NIAGARA DISTRICT
DAVID A. RIVERA
MAJORITY LEADER
LOVEJOY DISTRICT
RICHARD A. FONTANA
DISTRICT COUNCIL MEMBERS
CURTIS HAYES JR - ELLICOTT
DEMONE A. SMITH — MASTEN
MICHAEL J. LO CURTO — DELAWARE
JOSEPH GOLOMBEK JR. — NORTH
DAVID A. RIVERA- NIAGARA
BONNIE C. RUSSELL - UNIVERSITY
N *Cluj Ir e V Z K S] k� i h� i 111 i 9 4 *1
CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE: Bonnie E. Russell Chairman, Michael P. Kearns, Richard A. Fontana, Curtis Haynes Jr.,
David A. Rivera - Members
CLAIMS COMMITTEE: David A. Rivera Chairman, Richard A. Fontana, Michael P. Kearns, Bonnie E. Russell - Members
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: Michael LoCurto, Chairman, Richard A. Fontana, Joseph Golombek Jr.,
David A. Rivera, Demone Smith - Members
FINANCE COMMITTEE: Michael P. Kearns, Chairman, Curtis Haynes Jr., Michael J. LoCurto, David A. Rivera, Bonnie E.
Russell - Members.
LEGISLATION COMMITTEE: Joseph Golombek Jr., Chairman, Richard A. Fontana, Curtis Haynes Jr., Michael LoCurto,
David Rivera - Members.
RULES COMMITTEE: David A. Franczyk, Chairman, Richard A. Fontana, David A. Rivera - Members
SPECIAL COMMITTEES
Members
BUDGET COMMITTEE: Richard A. Fontana, Chairman, Michael P. Kearns, Michael J. LoCurto, Bonnie E. Russell -
EDUCATION COMMITTEE: Demone Smith, Chairman, Richard A. Fontana, Curtis Haynes Jr.- Members
MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE COMMITTEE: Demone Smith Chairman, Richard A. Fontana,
Joseph Golombek Jr., Curtis Haynes Jr. — Members
PARKS OVERSIGHT: Demone A. Smith, Chairman, Richard A. Fontana, Curtis Haynes Jr., Michael P. Kearns, Michael J.
LoCurto - Members
POLICE OVERSIGHT: Richard A. Fontana, Chairman, Curtis Haynes Jr., Michael P. Kearns, David A. Rivera, Bonnie E.
Russell. Demone Smith — Members
Members
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Michael P. Kearns, Chairman, Richard A. Fontana, Michael J. LoCurto, David A. Rivera -
WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: Michael P. Kearns, Chairman, Joseph Golombek, Jr, Michael J.
LoCurto, David A. Rivera, members
CORPORATION PROCEEDINGS
COMMON COUNCIL
CITY HALL - BUFFALO
TUESDAY, JUNE 22 2010
AT 2:00 P.M.
Present - David A. Franczyk, President of the Council, and Councilmembers: Fontana, Golombek Jr, Haynes Jr, Kearns, LoCurto, Rivera,
Russell, Smith -9
Absent - 0
On a motion by Mr. Fontana, Seconded by Mr. Rivera, the minutes of the stated meeting held on June 8, 2010 were approved.
INVOCATION PLEDGE TO FLAG DATE June 22, 2010_
**FINAL**
MAYOR
1. Appoint Commissioner of EDPI(Comerford)
APP
MAYOR - EXECUTIVE
2. Plan Bd -SEQR -1031 Michigan, SNF- Kaleida Health(Ell)
R &F
3. Plan Bd- SEQR -Bflo Nia Med Campus- Height Variance
ADOPT
4. Plan Bd- SEQR -Bflo Nia Med Campus- Projects Whose Cost
Exceed $100,000.00
ADOPT
5. Strat Plan -Amend Lease Agmt Btwn COB and Grassroots Garden
APP
6. Strat Plan - Approve Lease Agmt Btwn COB and NBCC
FIN
7. Strat Plan -Perm to Contract With and Fund Up to $300,000 to
Colored Musicians Club, Inc
APP
8. Strat Plan - Report of Sale -148 Loepere(Fill)
APP
9. Strat Plan - Report of Sale -114 Shumway(Fill)
APP
10. Strat Plan - Report of Sale -27 South (Fill)
APP
11. Strat Plan - Report of Sale -126 Vandalia(Fill)
APP
12. Strat Plan -St. John Baptist Church -Req to Use Vacant Lot -1412 Jefferson(Mas)-APP
COMPTROLLER
13. Interfund Cash Loan
R &F
14. Response- Policy for Selling City Owned Assets
FIN
15. Appt Senior Accountant(Prov)(2" Step)(Wachowski)
CS
ASSESSMENT
16. Response Assessment Reform in COB
FIN
17. Request Approval of Certificate of Current Base Proportions(2010 Roll)
APP
18- 17A. Request Approval of Certificate of Adjusted Base Proportions 2010 Roll
APP
PUBLIC WORKS
19- 18. Ferry St Lift Bridge- Emergency Repair Project
APP
20- 19. Lowering City Energy Costs - Fluorescent Lighting
FIN
21- 20. Perm to Engage Services- Consulting Eng.- Groundwater Monitoring(North)
FIN
22- 21. Perm to Increase Contract - Wendel Duchacherer (Mas)
APP
23- 22. Req for Proposals- Design & Constr Admin Sery for South Bflo
Legacy Complex
FIN
24- 23. Report of Bids - Historical Society -Air Conditioning (North)
APP
25- 24. Report of Bids -MEK Jr Park - Splash Pad (Mas)
APP
26- 25. Report of Bids -Park Shelter Restoration Project- MEK(Mas)
APP
27- 26. Report of Bids -Water Dist System Improvements - Various
APP
28- 27. Washington St Bus Shelter Within ROW
APP
29- 28. Appt Assistant Wtr Distribution Superintendent (Perm)(Inter)(Wolasz Jr.)
CS
POLICE
30- 29. Drug Asset Forfeiture Wire Transfers
R &F
CORPORATION COUNSEL
31- 30. Claims Committee Agenda
FIN
PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS
32- 31. Restaurant Dance License Renewal -1104 Elmwood(North)
APP
33- 32. Sidewalk Cafe -727 Elmwood(Del)
LEG
34- 33. Sidewalk Cafe -45 W. Chippewa(Ell)
LEG
35-
34.
Used Car Dealer -549 Tonawanda(North)
APP
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
36-
34A Interfand Cash Loan
FIN
HUMAN RESOURCES
LL Intro #8- Amending Charter In Relation to The Creation of
37-
35.
Response to MIS Selling Obsolete Equipment
FIN
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
38-
36.
Approved SNF -1031 Michigan(Ell)
R &F
CITY
CLERK
101- 66. Russell
39-
37.
Response- Policy for Selling Obsolete City Assets
FIN
40-
38.
Liquor License Applications
R &F
41-
39.
Notices of Appointment- Seasonal
R &F
42-
40.
Notices of Appointments- Temp/Prov/Perm
CS
MISCELLANEOUS
43-
41.
D. B aker-NYDOT-B each Lead Tracks of CSX over Fuhrmann Blvd TRANS,PW
44-
42.
K. Connor - Report- Fishing for Taxpayer Cash -Bass Pro
CD
45-
43.
Bflo Olmsted Parks Consery -Anne Harding Joyce Named Chair of Olmsted
Parks Conservancy
R &F
46-
44.
Bflo Olmsted Parks Conserv- Upcoming Public Input Meeting -Jesse Kregal
Pathway Improv Proj
R &F
47-
45.
Bflo Water Bd- Monthly Water Board Report May 2010
R &F
48-
46.
LP Ciminelli -Board Packet Documents June 2010
R &F
49-
47.
D. Elfner -NYS Dept of Pub. Serv. - "Energy Efficiency: Use Less Energy. Save
More Green" Public Awareness Campaign
CD
50-
48.
D. Franczyk -S. Knight FEMA- Response for Light Detection and Ranging
LEG
51-
49.
R. Henderson - Request All Plans Pertaining to 669 Hertel Ave
R &F
52-
50.
M. Kearns - Article- Grants & Financial Incentives Available to Upgrade Solid
Waste Fleet
FIN,PW
53-
51.
M. Kearns -J. Logan- Concerns Verizon FiOS
LEG
54-
52.
M. Kearns -Non Partisan Elections Approved in California
LEG
55-
53.
M. Kearns - Subsidies for Bass Pro
CD
56-
54.
J. Makowski -Req Independent Audit - Marine Dr Apartments LEG,COMPT
57-
55.
J. Makowski - Resident Council Interest in Resuming a Co -op Form for MngtLEG
58-
56.
PUSH -Info Green Development Zone -Mass Ave Park
CD
59-
57.
PUSH - Update- Community Plan for the Mass Ave Neighborhood Park
CD
60-
58.
D. Smith -Bflo School Parents Recommend Changes for Suspension Policy
CD
PETITIONS
61-
59.
P. Tsoufliois, Owner, Use 708 Elmwood -To Alter Facade of Building and
Rebuilding Existing Outdoor Cafe(Del)(pub hrg 6/29)
LEG,CBPD
62-
60.
T. Flynn, Agent, Use 1175 William for a Ground Sign(Fill)(no pub hrg)
LEG,CPBD
RESOLUTIONS
94-
60A. Franczyk Close Club Chit Chat ADOPT RES, REM LEG
95- 61. Golombek LL Intro #6- Amending Charter in Relation to Dept of Public
Works, Parks and Streets
APP
96- 62. Golombek
LL Intro #7- Amending Charter in Relation to Dept of
Community Services and Recreational Programming
APP
97- 62A. Golombek
LL Intro #8- Amending Charter In Relation to The Creation of
Department of Parking
APP
98- 63. Haynes
Grant Permission to Hang Banner -Bflo Infringement Festival
99- 64. LoCurto
Permission to Hang "Heartlight" Banner
ADOPT
100- 65. Russell
Budget & Personnel Amendment -Dept of Law
FIN
101- 66. Russell
Budget & Personnel Amendment - Strat Plan
FIN
102- 67. Smith
Develop an Urban Renewal Plan In Conjunction With
Strat Plan for the Central Park Neighborhood
CD
103-
67A. Smith
HRM Reg NYS Leg to Amend V &T Law in Relation to Directing
COB to Adjudicate Traffic Infractions
ADOPT
104-
68.
Smith
National Night Out
ADOPT
105-
69.
Smith
Req Permission to Erect 12 Vertical "Street Pole Banners'
Grider St APP W /COND
106-
69A Smith
Ord Amendment Ch 197 -Resp Tobacco Product Retailing
LEG
107-
70.
Smith
Comm of Deeds Public Duties
ADOPT
108-
71.
Smith
Comm of Deeds
ADOPT
109-
72.
Smith
Felicitation in Memorium
ADOPT
SUBMISSION LIST OF COMMITTEE ITEMS FOR THE COUNCIL MEETINGS
CIVIL SERVICE
63-
1.
Com 24
June 8
Appt Associate Auditor (Perm)(2 d Step)(Somani)(Compt)
APP
64-
2.
Com 25
June 8
Appt Junior Data Control Clerk(Prov)(Inter)(Gartz)(Compt)
R &F
65-
3.
Com 44
June 8
Appt Deputy Commissioner (Exempt)(Gugliuzza)(Fire)
R &F
66-
4.
Com 58
June 8
Notices of Appointments- Temp /Prow /Perm(Cty Clk)
R &F
FINANCE
67-
5.
Com 32
June 8
Perm to Accept Funds LaSalle Park Phase I(EII)(PW)
APP
68-
6.
Com 33
June 8
Perm to Accept Funds LaSalle Park, Phase II(EII)(PW)
APP
69-
7.
Com 36
June 8
Perm to Hire Consultant -City Buildings(Various Districts)(PW)APP
70-
8.
Com 39
June 8
Report of Bids - Bicycle Rack Installation -Phase II(PW)
APP
71-
9.
Com 40
June 8
Report of Bids - Sycamore Village Entry Walls &
Fence Installation(EII)(PW)
APP
72-
10.
Com 45
June 8
Approval of Contract With BMHA(CC) RECOMMITT
73-
11.
No 90
June 8
Change Order for 2009 Citywide Tree Removal(PW)( #28, 5/25)_R
&F
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
74-
12.
Com 52
June 8
Approval to Transfer One (1) Home in Sycamore Vill. Sub -
381 Sycamore(Ell)(BURA)
APP
75-
13.
Res 150
June 8
Approval to Transfer One (1) Home in Sycamore Vill-
381 Sycamore (Ell)(Hrg 6/22)
R &F
LEGISLATION
76- 14. Com 46 June 8
77- 15. No 62 June 8
78- 16. No 73 June 8
79- 17. No 74 June 8
80- 18. No 75 June 8
81- 19. Com 10 May 25
82- 20. No 58 May 25
83- 21. No 56 April 27
84- 22. No 34 April 13
85- 23. No 57 May 25
86- 24. No 51 Mar 16
87- 25. No 41 Feb 2
88- 26. Com 37 May 25
89- 27. Com 38 Mav 25
90- 28. Com 39 Mav 11
91- 29. Res 85 Oct 13
92- 30. No 120 July 21
93- 31. Res 128 Mar 17
Food Store License (New) -163 West Ferry (Nia)(EDPI) APP
R. Fontana -F. Fogarty -Time Warner Response to COB Renewal_R &F
S. Gedra, Owner, Use 478 Elmwood To Erect a Seasonal Enclosure on an
Existing Outdoor Cafe(Nia)(no pub hrg) APP
D. Muscoreil, Owner, Use 88 W Chippewa - Sidewalk Cafe in
Front of an Existing Sit -In Rest(Ell)(no pub hrg) APP
B. Baumker, Agent, Use 2000 Elmwood to Erect an Illuminated Pole
Sign (north)(no pub hrg) APP
Support Amendment to Fruit Belt Renewal Area(Strat Plan)R &F
J. Fogarty -Time Warner Cable -City of Buffalo Renewal R &F
M. Kearns - Concerns Required Time Warner Digital Set Box R &F
S. Zylka- Protecting America Against Continental Shutdown R &F
R. Fontana -C. McNierney- Concerns Ambulance Response in COB = R &F
J. Smith - Response Concerns Rural /Metro Medical Services R &F
C. McNiernev- Concerns Rural /Metro Medical Services in Buffalo_R &F
Food Store License (New) -2483 Bailey(Lov)(EDPI) APP
Food Store License (New) 2534 Bailey(Lov)(EDPI) APP /COND
Food Store License (New) -1027 Smith(Fill)(EDPI) APP
Eliminate Foreclosure on Properties due to Nonpayment of Water and
Sewer Bills ADOPT
Change of Time for Alternate Parking ADOPT
Allow Btle Wtr as a Food Item Under WIC to Combat Lead
Poisoning ADOPT 2 ND RES, REM IN LEG
FROM THE MAYOR
NO. 1
APPOINTMENT - COMMISSIONER OF
PERMIT AND INSPECTION SERVICES
Pursuant to §17 -1 of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, I hereby appoint James W. Comerford, 435 Eden Street, Buffalo, New York,
14220 to the position of Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services effective July 1, 2010.
Mr. Comerford has been serving as Deputy Commissioner of Economic Development, Permit and Inspection Services since August 20,
2007.
Mr. Comerford has served with distinction and is well qualified to discharge the duties of Commissioner of Permit and Inspection
Services.
I respectfully request Your Honorable Body to confirm Mr. Comerford as the Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services at your
earliest opportunity.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Mayor dated June 16, 2010, be received and filed; and
That the appointment of James W. Comerford as Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services effective July 1, 2010, be and hereby
is approved.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
FROM THE MAYOR - EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT
FROM THE CITY PLANNING BOARD
NO. 2
1031 MICHIGAN AVENUE, SKILLED NURSING FACILITY, KALEIDA HEALTH
Dear Mr. Romanowski:
The City of Buffalo Planning Board, at a meeting held on Tuesday, June 1, 2010, considered the matter captioned above pursuant to
Section 511 -137 of the Buffalo Code -City Wide Site Plan Review. The Planning Board has determined that the design and site plan
meets the criteria for site plan approval contained in section 511 -145 and 511 -146 of the Buffalo Code. A New York State Environmental
Quality Review Finding Statement has been prepared and approved by the City of Buffalo Planning Board.
The City of Buffalo Planning Board voted to approve as presented the site plan, design and elevations dated July 20, 2009 for the
construction of a Skilled Nursing facility on the property located at 1031 Michigan Avenue, Buffalo New York. This approval is valid until
June 1, 2011.
This letter is not a building permit. It is the responsibility of the owner to see that all required permits are issued prior to the
commencement of the actual work.
If you should have any further questions regarding the above, please feel free to contact me anytime at (716) 851 -5086.
RECEIVED AND FILED
NO. 3
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW ACT INVOLVED AGENCY FINDINGS STATEMENT FINDINGS TO APPROVE
Pursuant to Article 8 (State Environmental Quality Review Act - SEQRA) of the Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 617,
the City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals, as an Involved Agency, makes the following findings.
Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus - North End Development
Skilled Nursing Beds at Buffalo General Hospital
Applicant: Kaleida Health
SEQRA Status: Type 1, Positive Declaration
Description of Action: Kaleida Health is proposing to construct the Skilled Nursing Beds at Buffalo General Hospital ( "SNF ") on the block
stretching from East North Street to High Street between Michigan Avenue and Maple Street, Buffalo, New York.
Location: 1031 Michigan Avenue, Buffalo, New York
Lead Agency: City of Buffalo Planning Board
Agency Jurisdiction: Pursuant to §511 -146 of the Charter and Code of the City of Buffalo ( "Code ") and New York General City Law
§81 -b, the City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals ( "ZBA ") has jurisdiction to consider applications for variances from the requirements
of the Code. Here, the Applicant is seeking a Height Variance from the limitations found in §511 -29(a) of the Code.
Date Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement Accepted: January 14, 2009
Date of Lead Agency's Findings Statement: January 27, 2009
William P. Grillo
City of Buffalo Office of Strategic Planning
901 City Hall
Buffalo, New York 14202
Phone: (716) 851 -5086
Facts and Conclusions Relied on to Support the Decision:
Kaleida Health, Ciminelli Development and the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus submitted various applications to the City of Buffalo
(City) associated with the BNMC -North End Projects. SEQRA requires state or local governments to assess the potential environmental
impacts of their actions during the planning, review, and decision - making processes for those actions. The public (City, County and
State) approvals and permits required for the individual BNMC - North End Projects constitute the "Action" subject to SEQRA. The intent
of SEQRA is to ensure that governmental decision - making is a balance of social, economic, and environmental factors be considered and
weighed in reaching decisions on proposed activities or actions. Therefore, Agencies must determine whether a proposed action may
have a significant effect on the environment, and if so, prepare or request that an environmental impact statement be prepared.
Pursuant to SEQRA, the City of Buffalo Planning Board determined that the Action was a Type I Action and sought and received
concurrence from other Involved and Interested Agencies to be the Lead Agency. Then, on September 23, 2008, the Planning Board
determined that cumulatively, the Projects may have a significant impact upon the environment and issued a Positive Declaration,
requiring the Project Sponsors to prepare a DGEIS in accordance with the Planning Board - approved Scope.
The Project Sponsors prepared and submitted the DGEIS to the Planning Board for review. On October 7, 2008, the Planning Board
found the DGEIS to be in compliance with 6 NYCRR Part 617.9(b), and made a determination that it was adequate to begin public and
agency review. The DGEIS was provided to all involved and Interested Agencies and to the public at various repositories and on the City
of Buffalo's website. The subsequent public comment period began on October 7, 2008 and concluded on November 18, 2008. A public
hearing on the DGEIS was held at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library on November 6, 2008.
Input from the public review process was received in the form of written comments to the Planning Board throughout the public comment
period and as oral /written comments received during the public hearing. The Planning Board determined that all the comments should be
addressed in the form of a FGEIS. After reviewing the comments, the Planning Board requested that the Project Sponsors prepare the
FGEIS. Pursuant to 6 NYCRR Part 617.9(b)(8), the Planning Board reviewed the FGEIS prepared by the Applicants and determined that
the FGEIS was complete on January 13, 2009. On January 15, the FGEIS was provided to all Involved and Interested Agencies and to
the public at various repositories and on the City of Buffalo's website. The FGEIS addresses specific substantive comments raised during
the public comment period and discusses mitigation measures which should be used to minimize potential
negative impacts from the Projects to the maximum extent practicable.
The Zoning Board of Appeals ( "ZBA "), as an Involved Agency in this process, received and reviewed all of the documentation cited above.
On April 30, 2010, Kaleida Health ( "Kaleida ") submitted a Site Plan and Area Variance Application ( "Application ") to the City of Buffalo
Planning Board and ZBA. The Application included a Letter of Intent ( "LOI "), a Full Environmental Assessment Form ( "FEAF ") and other
relevant exhibits to the ZBA. Kaleida is seeking an Area Variance to accommodate the height of the proposed SNF. The proposed height
of the SNF will be a total of four (4) stories and approximately 67' above grade. Section 511 -29(a) limits the height of structures in the C -1
District to three (3) stories and 40'.
Pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act, Article 8 of New York Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 617
( "SEQRA "), a governmental agency is required, prior to taking action on an application, to review the potential environmental impacts of a
project to assess whether the action has the potential to have significant adverse environmental impacts. The Project Sponsors prepared
a Draft Genetic Environmental Impact Statement ( "DGEIS ") and Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement ( "FGEIS ") for the entire
North End Development on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. Pursuant to the process set forth in the DGEIS, FGEIS and the
Planning Board's Findings Statement, the Applicant has prepared and submitted to the ZBA the aforementioned FEAF specifically for the
construction of the SNF to assist the ZBA in reviewing potential impacts of the requested variance. The DGEIS and FGEIS also
specifically analyzed the potential impacts of a skilled nursing facility of this size and location and found that the impacts were minimal.
As such, the proposed construction of the SNF was fully analyzed as part of the Planning Board's SEQRA review and the ZBA has
determined and concurred that the requested Area Variance is consistent with the analysis and findings of the City of Buffalo Planning
Board as evidenced by its Findings Statement dated January 27, 2009.
Therefore, the ZBA joins in the determination of the Planning Board that the potential environmental impacts of the requested variance are
minimal. Additionally, Kaleida will be required to comply with all mitigation measures identified in the Planning Board's Findings
Statement.
Pursuant to §511 -146 of the Code and New York General City Law §81 -b(4), the ZBA has considered the potential impacts of the
requested height variance, the benefits to the Applicants and weighed them against the health, safety and welfare of the neighborhood
and the community and has determined that the benefit to the Applicant outweighs any detriment associated with the requested variance.
CONCLUSION
After evaluating the cumulative environmental, economic, and social impacts of the proposed SNF, and more specifically, the requested
height variance, the City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals is adopting a feasible, prudent and practicable alternative which best
balances environmental impacts with social, economic, and other essential considerations, and that allows for mitigation of all
environmental impacts to the greatest extent reasonable and practicable.
Certification to Approve:
Having considered the DGEIS, FGEIS, FEAF and the Findings Statement of the City of Buffalo Planning Board, as Lead Agency, and
having considered the proceedings, facts, and conclusions relied on to meet the requirements of 6 NYCRR Part 617 (State
Environmental Quality Review Act [SEQRA]) the Statement of Findings certifies that:
1. The City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals has considered the relevant environmental impacts, facts, and conclusions disclosed in
the DGEIS and the FGEIS and their supporting materials;
2. The City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals has weighed and balanced the relevant environmental impacts with social, economic, and
other considerations;
3. The City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals, as and Involved Agency, has provided a
4. The requirements of Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law and the implementing regulations, 6 NYCRR Part 617 (State
Environmental Quality Review Act [SEQRA]) have been met;
5. Consistent with social, economic, and other essential considerations from among the reasonable alternatives available, the actions to
be carried out are those which avoid or minimize, to the maximum extent practicable, adverse environmental impacts disclosed in the
DGEIS, FGEIS and FEAF; and
6. That adverse environmental impacts will be minimized or avoided to the maximum extent practicable by incorporating, as conditions to
this decision, those mitigating measures which were identified as practicable in the Planning Board's Findings Statement dated January
27, 2009.
Filing:
The City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals' designees are hereby directed to file and distribute this Findings Statement as required by
Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law and the implementing regulations, 6 NYCRR Part 617 (State Environmental Quality
Review Act [SEQRA]).
Certification:
These findings were adopted by majority vote of the City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals at a duly called meeting held on May 26,
2010. City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals Name of
City of Buffalo Zoning Board of Appeals, 901 City Hall, 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, New York 14202
Address of Lead Agency
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Office of Strategic Planning, be received and filed; and
That the Common Council does hereby adopt the Negative Declaration, Notice of Determination of Non - significance for Kaleida Health to
construct Skilled Nursing Beds at Buffalo General Hospital in accordance with Article 8 of the New York State Environmental Quality
Review Act of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law (SEQRA) and
6 N.Y.C.R.R. Part 617, seeking a Height Variance from the limitations found in §511 -29(a) of the Code from the City of Buffalo Zoning
Board of Appeals.
ADOPTED
NO.4
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW ACT
FINDINGS STATEMENT
FINDINGS TO APPROVE
Pursuant to Article 8 (State Environmental Quality Review Act - SEQRA) of the Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 617,
the City of Buffalo Planning Board makes the following findings.
Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus - North End Development
Skilled Nursing Beds at Buffalo General Hospital
Applicant: Kaleida Health
Seqr Status Type I Positive Declaration
Description of Action: Kaleida Health is proposing to construct the 200,000 sq. ft. + / -, 300 bed,
Skilled Nursing Beds at Buffalo General Hospital ( "SNF ") on the block stretching from East North Street to High Street between Michigan
Avenue and Maple Street, Buffalo, New York.
Location: 103 1 Michigan Avenue, Buffalo, New York
Lead Agency: City of Buffalo Planning Board
Agency Jurisdiction: Pursuant to §511 -137 of the Charter and Code of the City of Buffalo
( "Code "), the City of Buffalo Planning Board ( "Planning Board ") has jurisdiction to consider site plan applications for projects whose costs
exceed $100,000.00.
Date Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement Accepted: January 14, 2009
Date of Lead Agency's Findings Statement: January 27, 2009
William P. Grillo
City of Buffalo Office of Strategic Planning
901 City Hall
Buffalo, New York 14202
Phone: (716) 851 -5086
Facts and Conclusions Relied on to Support the Decision:
Kaleida Health, Ciminelli Development and the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus submitted various applications to the City of Buffalo
(City) associated with the BNMC -North End Projects. SEQRA requires state or local governments to assess the potential environmental
impacts of their actions during the planning, review, and decision - making processes for those actions. The public (City, County and
State) approvals and permits required for the individual BNMC - North End Projects constitute the "Action" subject to SEQRA. The intent
of SEQRA is to ensure that governmental decision - making is a balance of social, economic, and environmental factors be considered and
weighed in reaching decisions on proposed activities or actions. Therefore, Agencies; must determine whether a proposed action may
have a significant effect on the environment, and if so, prepare Or request that an environmental impact statement be prepared.
Pursuant to SEQRA, the Planning Board determined that the Action was a Type I Action and sought and received concurrence from
other Involved and Interested Agencies to be the Lead Agency. Then, on September 23, 2008, the Planning Board determined that
cumulatively, the Projects may have a significant impact upon the environment and issued a Positive Declaration, requiring the Project
Sponsors to. prepare a DGEIS in accordance with the Planning Board - approved Scope.
The Project Sponsors prepared and submitted the DGEIS to the Planning Board for review. On October 7, 2008, the Planning Board
found the DGEIS to be in compliance with 6 NYCRR Part 617.9(b), and made a determination that it was adequate to begin public and
agency review. The DGEIS was provided to all Involved and Interested Agencies and to the public at various repositories and on the City
of Buffalo's website. The subsequent public comment period began on October 7, 2008 and concluded on November 18, 2008. A public
hearing on the DGEIS was held at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library on November 6, 2008.
Input from the public review process was received in the form of written comments to the Planning Board throughout the public comment
period and as oral /written comments received during the public hearing. The Planning Board determined that all the comments should be
addressed in the form of a FGEIS. After reviewing the comments, the Planning Board requested that the Project Sponsors prepare the
FGEIS. Pursuant to 6 NYCRR Part 617.9(b)(8), the Planning Board reviewed the FGEIS prepared by the Applicants and determined that
the FGEIS was complete on January 13, 2009. On January 15, the FGEIS was provided to all Involved and Interested Agencies and to
the public at various repositories and on the City of Buffalo's website. The FGEIS addresses specific substantive comments raised during
the public comment period and discusses mitigation measures which should be used to minimize potential negative impacts from the
projects to the maximum extent practicable.
The Planning Board, as Lead Agency in this process, received and reviewed all of the documentation cited above. On April 30, 2010,
Kaleida Health ( "Kaleida ") submitted a Site Plan and Area Variance Application ( "Application ") to the City of Buffalo Planning Board and
Zoning Board of Appeals, The Application included a Letter of Intent ( "LOI "), a Full Environmental Assessment Form ( "FEAF') and other
relevant exhibits to the Planning Board. Kaleida is seeking Site Plan approval for the approximately 200,000 sf., 300 -bed skilled nursing
facility.
Pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act, Article 8 of New York Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 617
( "SEQRA "), a governmental agency is required, prior to taking action on an application, to review the potential environmental impacts of a
project to assess whether the action has the potential to have significant adverse environmental impacts. The Project Sponsors prepared
a -Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement ( "DGEIS') and Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement ( "FGEIS ") for the entire
North End Development on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. Pursuant to the process set forth in the DGEIS, FGEIS and the
Planning Board's Findings Statement, the Applicant has prepared and submitted to the Planning Board the aforementioned FEAF
specifically for the construction of the SNF to assist the Planning Board in reviewing potential impacts of the Project. The DGEIS and
FGEIS also specifically analyzed the potential impacts of a skilled nursing facility of this size and at this location and found that the
impacts were minimal.
As such, the proposed construction of the SNF was fully analyzed as part of the Planning Board's SEQRA review and the Planning Board
has determined that the Project submitted as part of this Application is consistent with the analysis and findings of the Planning Board in
its original Findings Statement dated January 27, 2009.
As set forth in the original Findings Statement, Kaleida will be required to comply with all mitigation measures identified in the original
Findings Statement.
CONCLUSION
After evaluating the cumulative environmental, economic, and social impacts of the proposed SNF, and more specifically, the requested
site plan approval, the City of Buffalo Planning Board is approving the proposed Site Plan as the feasible, prudent and practicable
alternative which best balances environmental impacts with social, economic, and other essential considerations, and that allows for
mitigation of all environmental impacts to the greatest extent reasonable and practicable.
Certification to Approve:
Having considered the DOEIS, FOEIS, FEAF and the original Findings Statement, and having considered the proceedings, facts, and
conclusions relied on to meet the requirements of 6 NYCRR Part 617 (State Environmental Quality Review Act [SEQRA]) the Statement
of Findings certifies that:
1. The City of Buffalo Planning Board has considered the relevant environmental impacts, facts, and conclusions disclosed in the DGEIS,
FGEIS and FEAF and their supporting materials;
2. The City of Buffalo Planning Board has weighed and balanced the relevant environmental impacts with social, economic, and other
considerations;
3. The City of Buffalo Planning Board, has provided a rationale for its decision;
4. The requirements of Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law and the implementing regulations, 6 NYCRR Part 617 (State
Environmental Quality Review Act [SEQRA]) have been met;
5. Consistent with social, economic, and other essential considerations from among the reasonable alternatives available, the actions to
be carried out are those which avoid or minimize, to the maximum extent practicable, adverse environmental impacts disclosed in the
DGEIS, FGEIS and FEAF; and
6. That adverse environmental impacts will be minimized or avoided to the maximum extent practicable by incorporating, as conditions to
this decision, those mitigating measures which were identified as practicable in the Planning Board's Findings Statement dated January
27,
2009.
Filing:
The City of Buffalo Planning Board's designees are hereby directed to file and distribute this Findings Statement as required by Article 8
of the Environmental Conservation Law and the implementing regulations:., 6 NYCRR Part 617 (State Environmental Quality Review Act
[SEQRA]).
Certification:
These findings were adopted by majority vote of the City of Buffalo Planning Board at a duly called meeting held on June 1, 2010.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Office of Strategic Planning, be received and filed; and
That the Common Council does hereby adopt the Negative Declaration, Notice of Determination of Non - significance for Kaleida Health to
construct Skilled Nursing Beds at Buffalo General Hospital in accordance with Article 8 of the New York State Environmental Quality
Review Act of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law (SEQRA) and
6 N.Y.C.R.R. Part 617 for the approval of the site plan for the construction of a 200,000 square toot, 300 bed facility at a cost of more
than $100,000.
ADOPTED
NO. 5
AMEND LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY OF BUFFALO
AND GRASSROOTS GARDENS OF BUFFALO TO INCLUDE 754 - 756 -760 AND 828 GLENWOOD
ITEM NO. 12, C.C.P. 10/3/2006
In the above referenced item your Honorable Body approved a lease agreement between the City of Buffalo and Grassroots Gardens of
Buffalo, Inc. The agreement allows Grassroots Gardens of Buffalo, Inc. to add additional garden locations during the term of the lease.
The Office of Strategic Planning, Division of Real Estate, received a request from Grassroots Gardens of Buffalo, Inc. to amend the lease
between the City of Buffalo and Grassroots Gardens of Buffalo, Inc. to include 754, 756, 760 and 828 Glenwood Ave., all sponsored by
the Glenwood - Fillmore - Kehr Block Club, c/o Larry Williams and Irene Melson, 724 Glenwood Ave., Buffalo NY 14211,465 -3153.
The request was reviewed by the Land Use Planning Committee at their meeting on May 19, 2010. The Committee had no objections to
releasing the vacant city owned parcels for use as community gardens. All other terms and conditions of the lease approved by the
Common Council on October 3, 2006 for the period of September 1, 2006 through October 31,2010, shall remain the same.
I am recommending that your Honorable Body approve amending the lease agreement between the City of Buffalo and Grassroots
Gardens of Buffalo, Inc. to include the listed properties. I am further recommending that the Corporation Counsel be authorized to prepare
the necessary documents to amend the lease and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
John P. Hannon, Jr.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Office of Strategic Planning dated
June 11, 2010, he received and filed; and
That the Director of Real Estate be, and he hereby is authorized to amend the lease between the City and Grassroots Gardens of Buffalo,
Inc., to include 754, 756 and
828 Glenwood. That the Acting Corporation Counsel be authorized to prepare the necessary documents to amend the lease and that the
Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
FROM THE OFFICE OF STRATEGIC PLANNING
NO. 6
APPROVE LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF BUFFALO AND THE NORTH BUFFALO COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION FOR OPERATION OF THE LAFAYETTE ICE RINK
LOCATED AT 124 TACOMA A.K.A. 160 TACOMA
(DELAWARE DISTRICT)
ITEM# 4 CCP #10/13/2009
Pursuant to Item No. 4, C.C.P. 10/13/09, Your Honorable Body authorized a one (1) year lease agreement between the City of Buffalo
and the North Buffalo Community Development Corporation for the operation of the Lafayette Ice Rink located at 124 Tacoma (a.k.a. 160
Tacoma). This lease is for the period of May 21,2009 through May 20, 2010.
The Office of Strategic Planning, Division of Real Estate, has received a request from Donald Morris, Board President, requesting to
renew their lease for an additional one (1) year period. The lease would commence on May 21, 2010 and expire on May 20, 2011. The
North Buffalo Community Development Corporation has applied for a $200,000.00 grant through Senator Thompson's Office for capital
improvements. The Grant is still in the process of being approved. The North Buffalo Community Development Corporation needs to have
a written lease renewal in place in order to obtain this grant.
Their request to renew this lease was forwarded to the Law Department, Dept. of Public Works, Parks and Streets, Community Services
and Audit and Control and there were no objections. All other terms and conditions of said lease agreement shall remain the same
including but not limited to the following:
1. The Operator annual rent shall be One Dollar ($1.00).
2. The Operator shall be allowed to provide the activities that it determines
appropriate providing that all major tenants currently occupying the rink will be guaranteed the same days and hours of operation. Any
changes in the scheduling will be mutually agreed to by the Operator and existing tenants. Any expansion of existing hours of operation
will be the responsibility of the Operator including but not limited to employee scheduling.
3. Rental Fees - The hourly rental fees and public skating fees should be
the same as those prescribed in the City's annual budget. Any change and /or increase in fees exceeding ten percent (10 %) shall require
approval of the City of Buffalo's Common Council.
4. Utilities - The City will be responsible for all utility costs for the existing
term of this lease.
5. Maintenance - The Operator shall be responsible for all routine
maintenance to the facility. All capital improvements including the ice
surface shall be the responsibility of the City.
6. Advertising - The Operator may sell advertising rights to that portion of the rink which it determines appropriate in order to raise
revenues and to assist in offsetting the cost of its programs. All advertising revenues shall be the property of the Operator.
7. Insurance - The Operator shall provide insurance as deemed necessary
by the City's Corporation Counsel Office.
This office recommends that Your Honorable Body renew their lease agreement for a one (1) year period commencing on May 21, 2010
and expiring on May 20, 2011. 1 am further recommending that Your Honorable Body authorize the Corporation Counsel to prepare the
necessary documents to renew said lease and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE,
NO. 7
PERMISSION TO CONTRACT WITH AND FUND UP TO $300,000 TO COLORED MUSICIANS CLUB, INC.
The City of Buffalo Office of Strategic Planning respectfully requests that Your Honorable Body approve the attached proposed
Agreement with the Colored Musicians Club, Inc. (CMC) for the City to fund the amount of up to $300,000 to be applied towards the
costs associated with CMC's capital improvements for CMC's building located at 145 Broadway Avenue and the installation of state of the
art museum exhibits celebrating the CMC's eighty -one year history.
CMC will continue to improve CMC's 3,840 square foot building on CMC's property at 145 Broadway to provide handicapped
accessibility, much needed capital improvements; and to develop a museum space celebrating the rich jazz history of the Club. CMC
intends to complete all work in time for the 2011 National Preservation Conference being held by the National Trust for Historic
Preservation in Buffalo.
I am recommending that Your Honorable Body authorize the City's provision of up to $300,000 in funding from the City of Buffalo to the
Colored Musicians Club, Inc. in order facilitate the Colored Musicians Club's capital improvements and museum implementation project
and that Your Honorable Body further authorize the Mayor on behalf of the City to enter into an Agreement (in substantially the form
attached hereto) with the Colored Musicians Club for up to $300,000 in funding for the Colored Musicians Club's capital improvements
and museum implementation project and that Your Honorable Body further authorize the Mayor and all other pertinent City personnel to
take all such actions and to execute such documents as are appropriate to carry out the intention of the foregoing.
AGREEMENT FOR MANAGEMENT. IMPLEMENTATION AND DELIVERY OF
SERVICES WITH THE CITY OF BUFFALO
This Agreement is made this day of 2010 by and between THE CITY OF BUFFALO (hereinafter referred to as "City ") a
municipal body under the laws of the State of New York, having its offices at 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, New York 14202, and
The Colored Musicians Club, a not - for - profit- corporation, organized and existing pursuant to the laws of the State of New York, having its
principal office at 145 Broadway Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14203, (hereinafter the "Grantee ").
WHEREAS, the Grantee has proposed a program entitled: the Colored Musicians Club Capital Improvements and Museum
Implementation Project (hereinafter referred to as the "Project ") under which the Grantee's National Register listed, historic structure at
145 Broadway Avenue will undergo capital improvements and the installation of museum exhibits.
Whereas, the City has available the sum of up to $300,000.00 in funds which the City has determined to use as grant funds (the
"$300,000.00 Grant ") as a development incentive for the further renovation and rehabilitation of 145 Broadway and for development of
state of the art multi media museum exhibits at the Grantee's historic Club at 145 Broadway in the City of Buffalo.
Now, therefore, in consideration of the foregoing and the $300,000 Grant, the parties hereto agree as follows:
City and Grantee agree that the foregoing recitals are true and hereby incorporate all of said recitals into this Agreement.
Grantee agrees that the construction of improvements and operation of the Project will be done in accordance with the New York State
Building Code, applicable zoning limitations and other local requirements, and agrees to obtain necessary zoning variances and all
governmental permits necessary to develop, construct and occupy the Project at the Premises.
The Grantee hereby agrees to defend and indemnify the City to the fullest extent permitted by law and in furtherance of this
indemnification the Grantee shall provide proof of the following insurance through production of a Binder or insurance certificates
in a form approved by City's Corporation Counsel as to the following.
A. Insurance Type /Description
a. Workers' Compensation and Employer's Liability Insurance - covering the Grantee as named Insured for his liability under the law. The
Grantee shall provide proof of Workers' Compensation Insurance coverage for all of its employees involved in the performance of this
Agreement. Such proof shall be on the New York Form.
b. New York State Disability Benefits Insurance -as required by law.
Comprehensive Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability insurance, covering and naming the City of Buffalo as additional insured with
the following limits
a. General Aggregate
$1,000,000.
b. Products - Completed Operations Aggregate
Limit $1,000,000.
C .Personal Injury Limit
$1,000,000
d. Each Occurrence Limit
$1,000,000
Comprehensive Automobile Liability Insurance - Combined Single limit of $1,000,000 covering bodily injury and property damage.
Each insurance policy and certificate of insurance shall contain a provision providing that it shall not be canceled by the Grantee or
insurance company without thirty (30) days written notice to the City of its intention to cancel.
C. Insurance policies shall only be written by insurance companies authorized to do such business in the State of New York, covering
operations under this Agreement.
D. The Grantee shall supply a certificate of insurance which names the City of Buffalo as additional insured. The "Description of
Operations Locations Vehicles Exclusions added by Endorsement /Special Provisions" section shall state: "The City of Buffalo is listed as
Additional Insured under the General
Liability policy in connection with the Capital Improvement and Museum Implementation Project at 145 Broadway in Buffalo, NY."
City does not assume and shall not be held liable for any costs, debts, or liabilities incurred by the Grantee or any officer, agent or
employee of the Grantee, incurred beyond the scope of this Agreement, and the Grantee agrees to the fullest extent permitted by law to
hold the City harmless from any such cost, debt or liability arising out of the Grantee's activities related to this Agreement.
In case of any ambiguity in the terms of this Agreement, the preparation and maintenance of any and all reports, documents, and records,
the administrative or fiscal procedures to be followed, and the interpretation of any and all federal, state, local, or departmental statutes,
rules, regulation, laws or ordinances, the matter must be immediately submitted to the City which shall resolve the same and its decision
in relation thereto shall be final and conclusive upon the Grantee to the extent provided by the law.
Execution of the terms of this Agreement shall be in strict compliance with all applicable Federal, State and local laws and regulations
concerning the avoidance of any conflict of interest. The Grantee represents that none of its employees, officers, compensated members,
or consultants benefiting from this Agreement are or for the duration of the term of this Agreement will be employees of the City of Buffalo
nor are their immediate family members employees of the City of Buffalo nor will their employees, officers, compensated members, or
consultants obtain a financial interest under the terms of this Agreement, either for themselves or those whom they have immediate family
or business ties, during their tenure or for one year thereafter, unless such potential conflict is identified and waived by City. Violation of
the terms of this agreement shall be cause for termination of this Agreement, and a voidance of any benefit to the Grantee otherwise
created for the Grantee concurrent with the Conflict of Interest.
The parties agree that the Grantee and its officers, agents, and employees shall neither claim nor represent by use of any work, symbol,
seal or logo that any individual engaged in Project activity or the Project itself or the Grantee is any City division, department, officer,
agent, employee, or part of the government or administration of the City of Buffalo. Provided, however, that in all public statements or
communications regarding the Project, the Grantee shall indicate in some manner that the City furnishes funds for the Program.
The Grantee agrees not to assign, transfer, convey, or otherwise dispose of this Agreement or any right, title, obligation, or interest it may
have therein, without prior written consent from the City. Any such assignment, transfer, conveyance, or disposition of this Agreement, or
any right, title, or interest therein without prior written consent of the City will relieve the City of any and all liabilities and obligations
growing out of this Agreement to the Grantee or to the person or corporation to which this Agreement shall have been assigned,
transferred, conveyed, or otherwise disposed of and the Grantee and its assignees or transferees shall forfeit and lose all moneys
theretofore earned under this Agreement.
The Grantee agrees that neither the funds provided for the Project, nor the personnel employed in the administration of the Project, shall
be in any way or to any extent engaged in the conduct of political activities in contravention of the Hatch Act (Chapter 15 of Title 5, United
States Code).
The Grantee, to the fullest extent permitted by law, shall defend, indemnify and save harmless the City and their officers and employees
from all claims, suits, actions, damages, losses, and costs of every name and description to which the City may be subjected or put by
reason of any injury to the person or property of another, or the property of the City, resulting from the negligence or carelessness, active
or passive, of the Grantee, its employees, agents or subcontractors, in the performance of any work under this Agreement or related to
the Project.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the City has caused this Agreement to be duly executed and the Grantee has caused this Agreement to be
duly executed in its name by its duly authorized representative on or as of the first day above written.
Colored Musicians Club, Inc.
Mr. Fontana moved
That the Common Council hereby authorizes the City's provision of up to $300,000 in funding from the City of Buffalo to the Colored
Musician's Club, Inc in order to facilitate the Colored Musician's club for up to $300,000 in funding for the Colored Musicians club's
capital improvements and museum implementation project and that your honorable Body further authorize the Mayor and all other
pertinent City Personnel to take all such actions and to execute such documents as are appropriate to carry out the invitation of the
attached item
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 8
REPORT OF SALE
148 LOEPERE, 315.11'S SYCAMORE LOT SIZE: 30'X 108'
ASSESSED VALUATION: $1,600.00 (FILLMORE DISTRICT)
The Office of Strategic Planning, Division of Real Estate has received a request from Mr. Mohammed M. Islam, 135 Loepere Street,
Buffalo, New York 14212 to purchase 148 Loepere Street. Mr. Islam owns a two family house at 150 Loepere, which is adjacent to 148
Loepere. He intends to use the vacant lot for additional green space for his tenants.
The Office of Strategic Planning Land Use Planning Committee, Division of Permit and Inspection Services and the Division of
Collections have no objections to the sale. There are no building code violations, taxes or other liens owed to the City of Buffalo by the
purchaser.
The Division of Real Estate has investigated the sale of similar lots in the subject area. Sales range from Forty Two Cents ($.42) to Fifty
Cents ($.50), per square foot. Mr. Islam has agreed and is prepared to pay One Thousand Three Hundred Dollars ($1,300.00), Forty One
Cents ($.41) per square foot for the subject property. He has also agreed to pay for the cost of the transfer tax and recording fees.
I am recommending that Your Honorable Body approve the sale of 148 Loepere to Mr. Mohammed Islam in the amount of One Thousand
Three Hundred Dollars ($1,300.00). 1 am further recommending that the Office of Strategic Planning prepare the necessary documents
for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Office of Strategic Planning dated June 15, 2010, be received and filed; and
That the offer from Mr. Mohammed M. Islam, residing at 135 Loepere Street, in the sum of One Thousand and Three Hundred Dollars
($1,300.00) for the purchase of 148 Loepere, be and hereby is accepted; and
That the transfer tax, recording fees and cost of legal description shall be paid by the purchaser; and
That the Office of Strategic Planning be authorized to prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be
authorized to execute the same, in accordance with the terms of sale upon which the offer was submitted.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 9
REPORT OF SALE
114 SHUMWAY, 450' S PECKHAM
LOT SIZE: 30'X 105'
ASSESSED VALUATION: $1,700.00 (FILLMORE DISTRICT)
The Office of Strategic Planning, Division of Real Estate has received a request from Mr. Aaron Bailey, Jr., 118 Shumway Street, Buffalo,
New York 14201 to purchase 114 Shumway Street. Mr. Bailey owns and resides at 118 Shumway, which is adjacent to 114 Shumway.
He intends to use the vacant lot for additional green space.
The Office of Strategic Planning Land Use Planning Committee, Division of Permit and Inspection Services and the Division of
Collections have no objections to the sale. There are no building code violations, taxes or other liens owed to the City of Buffalo by the
purchaser.
The Division of Real Estate has investigated the sale of similar lots in the subject area. Sales range from Forty Cents ($.40) to Fifty Two
Cents ($.52), per square foot. Mr. Bailey has agreed and is prepared to pay One Thousand Three Hundred Dollars ($1,300.00), Forty
One Cents ($.41) per square foot for the subject property. He has also agreed to pay for the cost of the transfer tax and recording fees.
I am recommending that Your Honorable Body approve the sale of 114 Shumway to Mr. Aaron Bailey in the amount of One Thousand
Three Hundred Dollars ($1,300.00). 1 am further recommending that the Office of Strategic Planning prepare the necessary documents
for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Office of Strategic Planning dated June 15, 2010, be received and filed; and
That the offer from Mr. Aaron Bailey, Jr. residing at 118 Shumway Street, in the sum of One Thousand and Three Hundred Dollars
($1,300.00) for the purchase of
114 Shumway, be and hereby is accepted; and
That the transfer tax, recording fees and Cost of legal description shall be paid by the purchaser; and
That the Office of Strategic Planning be authorized to .prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be
authorized to execute the same, in accordance with the terms of sale upon which the offer was submitted.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 10
STRAT PLAN - REPORT OF SALE 27 SOUTH (FILL)
E Corner of Kentucky Lot Size: 25'x 11 6' Assessed Valuation: $1,700.00 (Fillmore District)
The Office of Strategic Planning, Division of Real Estate has received a request from Mr. Dominic Trigilio and Mrs. Diane Trigilio, 9312
Sitka Spruce Court, Clarence Center, New York 14032 to purchase 27 South Street. Mr. and Mrs. Trigilio own a one family house at 35
Kentucky, which is adjacent to 27 South. They intend to erect a handicap ramp on the vacant lot with additional green space for their
tenant.
The Office of Strategic Planning Land Use Planning Committee, Division of Permit and Inspection Services and the Division of
Collections have no objections to the sale. There are no building code violations, taxes or other liens owed to the City of Buffalo by the
purchasers.
The Division of Real Estate has investigated the sale of similar lots in the subject area. Sales range from Sixty -Five Cents ($.65) to Ninety
Cents ($.90), per square foot. Mr. and Mrs. Trigilio have agreed and are prepared to pay One Thousand Seven Hundred Dollars
($1,700.00), Fifty -Eight Cents ($.58) per square foot for the subject property. They have also agreed to pay for the cost of the transfer tax
and recording fees.
I am recommending that Your Honorable Body approve the sale of 27 South to Mr. and Mrs. Trigilio in the amount of One Thousand
Seven Hundred Dollars ($1,700.00). 1 am further recommending that the Office of Strategic Planning prepare the necessary documents
for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
JOHN P. HANNON, JR.
DIRECTOR OF REAL ESTATE
OFFICE OF STRATEGIC PLANNING
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Office of Strategic Planning dated June 15, 2010, be received and filed; and
That the offer from Mr. Dominic Trigilio and Mrs. Diane Trigilio, 9312 Sitka Spruce Court, Clarence Center, in the sum of One Thousand
and Seven Hundred Dollars ($1,700.00) for the purchase of 27 South, be and hereby is accepted; and
That the transfer tax, recording fees and cost of legal description shall be paid by the purchaser; and
That the Office of Strategic Planning be authorized to prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be
authorized to execute the same, in accordance with the terms of sale upon which the offer was submitted.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 11
STRAT PLAN - REPORT OF SALE 126 VANDALIA(FILL)
99.33' N O'Connell Lot Size: 26'x 102' Assessed Valuation: $1,600.00 (Fillmore District)
The Office of Strategic Planning, Division of Real Estate has received a request from Mr. Paul C. Budzyn, 132 O'Connell Street, Buffalo,
New York 14204 to purchase 126 Vandalia Street. Mr. Budzyn own and resides at 132 O'Connell, which is adjacent to 126 Vandalia. He
intends to use the vacant lot for additional green space.
The Office of Strategic Planning Land Use Planning Committee, Division of Permit and Inspection Services and the Division of
Collections have no objections to the sale. There are no building code violations, taxes or other liens owed to the City of Buffalo by the
purchaser.
The Division of Real Estate has investigated the sale of similar lots in the subject area. Sales range from Fifty -Eight Cents ($.58) to
Ninety Cents ($.90), per square foot. Mr. Budzyn has agreed and is prepared to pay One Thousand Six Hundred Dollars ($1,600.00),
Sixty Cents ($.60) per square foot for the subject property. He has also agreed to pay for the cost of the transfer tax and recording fees.
I am recommending that Your Honorable Body approve the sale of 126 Vandalia to Mr. Paul Budzyn in the amount of One Thousand Six
Hundred Dollars ($1,600.00). 1 am further recommending that the Office of Strategic Planning prepare the necessary documents for the
transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
John P. Hannon, Jr.
Director of Real Estate
Office of Strategic Planning
Mr. Fontana moved
That the above communication from the Office of Strategic Planning dated June 15, 2010, be received and filed; and
That the offer from Mr. Paul C. Budzyn, residing at 132 O'Connell Street, in the sum of One Thousand and Six Hundred Dollars
($1,600.00) for the purchase of 126 Vandalia, be and hereby is accepted; and
That the transfer tax, recording fees and cost of legal description shall be paid by the purchaser; and
That the Office of Strategic Planning be authorized to prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be
authorized to execute the same, in accordance with the terms of sale upon which the offer was submitted.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 12
STRAT PLAN -ST. JOHN BAPTIST CHURCH REQUEST TO USE CITY -OWNED
VACANT LOT LOCATED AT 1412 JEFFERSON, SOUTH CORNER WOODLAWN
LOT SIZE: 96 X 100 (MASTEN)
The Office of Strategic Planning, Division of Real Estate, has received a request from St. John Baptist Church to use 1412 Jefferson for
their annual tent revival.
St John Baptist Church intends to have a tent revival from July 13th, 2010 through July 15, 2010. They will also need to use the City
owned property on July 12 and July 16 -h for set up and clean -up. They have agreed to obtain and provide proof of insurance in the
amount of $1,000,000.00 naming the City of Buffalo as additional insured. They have also agreed to apply for a Special Use Permit and /or
any other permits that are deemed necessary. The Land Use Planning Committee was contacted and they have no objections.
I am recommending that Your Honorable Body approve the request of St. John Baptist Church to use 1412 Jefferson Avenue upon the
above terms and conditions. I am further recommending that the Office of Strategic Planning prepare and execute the necessary use
agreement.
JOHN P. HANNON, JR.
DIRECTOR OF REAL ESTATE
OFFICE OF STRATEGIC PLANNING
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Office of Strategic Planning dated June 7, 2010, be received and filed; and
That the Director of Real Estate be, and he hereby is authorized to grant permission to St. John Baptist Church to use 1412 Jefferson
Avenue from July 12 -16, 2010, upon the above terms and conditions. That the Office of Strategic Planning prepare and execute the
necessary use agreement.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
FROM THE COMPTROLLER
NO 13
INTERFUND CASH LOAN
Certain Federal and State aided programs require a cash advance until the program is operating and reimbursement is received.
I have reviewed the program listed below and determined the cash needs to be warranted. I have approved an interfund cash loan to be
made in the maximum amount of $550,000 as needed subject to your approval. Loan is payable at date of reimbursement.
FROM:
1000 - General Fund
TO:
3189 - Safe Routes to School
GRANT TITLE:
Safe Routes to School Project
GRANT AGENCY:
New York State Department of Transportation
GRANT AMOUNT:
$550,000.00
LOAN AMOUNT:
Maximum of $550,000.00
Estimated Date of Repayment: June 30, 2011
RECEIVED AND FILED
NO 14
RESPONSE - POLICY FOR SELLING CITY -OWNED ASSETS
Item No. 158, C.C.P., 6/8/10
The Common Council has requested a response from the Department of Audit and Control regarding the development of a policy for
selling City -owned assets that have become surplus, obsolete, or worn out.
The Comptroller's Office has no objection to developing such a policy as prescribed in the Council Communication, with the provisions
that the policy requires the following stipulations: that copies of such sales transactions are filed with the Accounting Division to insure
proper accounting treatment of disposed assets, and any information stored on electronic assets such as computers, cell phones, or
other data storage devices be thoroughly erased before transferring ownership from the City.
If you have any further questions on this matter, please feel free to contact the Department of Audit and Control.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
NO 16
APPT SENIOR ACCOUNTANT(PROV)(2 STEP)(WACHOWSKI)
CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT
Appointment effective June 7, 2010 in the Department of Audit and Control Division of Audit to the Position of Senior Accountant
Provisional Appointment Second Step Starting Salary of $44,834.00
Ronald L. Wachowski, 134 Weimar Street Buffalo 14206
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF ASSESSMENT AND TAXATION
NO 16
RESPONSE ASSESSMENT REFORM IN COB
Item #153, June 8, 2010
It has been, is now and always will be the intent and main focus of The Department of Assessment and Taxation to put forth an
assessment roll that is both fair and equitable to all property owners in The City of Buffalo, ensuring that property owners pay only their
fair share of the tax burden.
We remain open to all suggestions for a more effective means to continue to maintain a fair and equitable assessment roll. We are willing
to implement any procedural changes on behalf of the real property owners of City of Buffalo to help in our quest to accomplish our
annual mandated goal of providing a fair and equitable assessment roll for all property owners.
We welcome and look forward to a hearing that will include local and regional experts on assessment practices in an open and frank
discussion of.., addressing real assessment reform..." in the City of Buffalo.
Together with appropriate staff representatives from the Department of Assessment and Taxation, I will be pleased to attend and look
forward to this discussion.
In regard to local and regional experts the appropriate Common Council Committee may wish to invite, I respectfully submit the following
correction for "...New York's Bureau of Assessment..." as cited in Mr. LoCurto's June 11, 2010 Resolution. The correct organizational title
is: New York State Office of Real Property Services (ORPS).
NYS Office of Real Property Services (ORPS)
Genesee County Building 2
3837 West Main Road
Batavia, NY 14020
(585) 343 -4363
Fax: (585) 343 -9740
E -mail address: Internet .Western @corps. state. ny.us .
Joseph Muscarella, Director - Western Region
Patricia Valve, Western Regional Manager
Upon request of the committee, we will be pleased to suggest additional attendees with expertise in the field of mass appraisal and
assessments.
Martin F. Kennedy
Commissioner of Assessment and Taxation
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
NO 17
REQUEST APPROVAL OF CERTIFICATE OF CURRENT BASE PROPORTIONS 2010 ROLL
Attached find Certificate of Base Percentages, Current Percentages and Current Base Proportions. I am respectfully requesting that Your
Honorable Body approve the aforementioned Certificate pursuant to Article 19 of the Real Property Tax Law.
Article 19 was added to the Real Property Tax Law in 1981 for the purpose of mitigating the shift of taxes to residential property as a
result of reassessment in municipalities with a homestead and a non - homestead taxing system. A proportional ratio is established
between the two classes in the base year, the roll used for certification as an approved assessing unit. For the City of Buffalo our base
year is 1991. Thereafter each successive roll is adjusted for changes in the number and values of parcels in the two classes and the ratio
is applied to determine the amount of the levy to be collected from each class of properties.
This Certificate was prepared by the Department of Assessment and Taxation with the assistance of the New York State Office of Real
Property Service, pursuant to the Real Property Tax Law and the Rules and Regulations of the Office of Real Property Service.
Upon approval of this Certificate, kindly direct the City Clerk to sign, date and forward said Certificate to the New York State Office of
Real Property Service, Equalization Rate Bureau, 16 Sheridan Avenue, Albany, New York 12210 -2714. Also, kindly direct the City Clerk
to furnish this department with a copy of the approved Certificate.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Commissioner of Assessment and Taxation dated June 14, 2010, be received and flied; and
That the Common Council approve the attached Certificate of Base Percentages, Current Percentages and Current Base Proportions
pursuant to Article 19 of the Real Property Tax Law. That the City Clerk be, and he hereby is authorized to sign, date and forward said
Certificate to the New York State Office of Real Property Service, Equalization Rate Bureau, 16 Sheridan Avenue, Albany, New York
12210 -2714 and to forward a copy to the Department of Assessment and Taxation.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 18
REQUEST APPROVAL OF CERTIFICATE OF ADJUSTED BASE PROPORTIONS 2010 ROLL
Attached find Certificate of Adjusted Base Proportions. I am respectfully requesting that your Honorable Body approve the
aforementioned Certificate pursuant to Article 19 of the Real Property Tax Law.
Article 19 was added to the Real Property Tax Law in 1981 for the purpose of mitigating the shift of taxes to residential property as a
result of reassessment in municipalities with a homestead and a non - homestead taxing system: A proportional ratio is established
between the two classes in the base year, the roll used for certification as an approved assessing unit. For the City of Buffalo our base
year is 1991. Thereafter each successive roll is adjusted for changes in the number and values of parcels in the two classes and the ratio
is applied to determine the amount of the levy to be collected from each class of properties.
This Certificate was prepared by the Department of Assessment and Taxation with the assistance of the New York State Office of Real
Property Service, pursuant to the Real Property Tax Law and the Rules and Regulations of the Office of Real Property Service.
Upon approval of this Certificate, kindly direct the City Clerk to sign; date and forward said Certificate to the New York State Office of
Real Property Service, Equalization Rate Bureau, 16 Sheridan Avenue, Albany, New York 12210 -2714. Also, kindly direct the City Clerk
to furnish this department with a copy of the approved Certificate.
Martin F. Kennedy
Commissioner, Assessment & Taxation
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the Common Council approves the attached Certificates of Adjusted Base Proportions pursuant to Article 19 of the Real Property
Tax Law. That the City Clerk be, and he herby is authorized to sign, date and forward said Certificate to the New York State Office of Real
Property Services, Equalization Rate Bureau, 16 Sheridan Avenue, Albany, NY 12210 -2714 and to forward a copy to the Department of
Assessment and Taxation.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS, PARKS AND STREETS
NO 19
FERRY ST. LIFT BRIDGE - EMERGENCY REPAIR PROJECT
Item #20, C.C.P. 02/02/10
1 have received bids on June 7, 2010 for the Ferry Street Lift Bridge Emergency Bridge Repair Contract.
In obtaining bids for the above project, I have asked for bids on a unit price basis covering the various items of work and material which
will be performed. The final cost of the work will be based on the actual measured quantities of material entering into the work and may be
more or less than the total bid.
The following bids were received:
Contractor Total Bid
Hohl Industrial Services, Inc. $229,596.57 (Low)
770 Riverview Blvd.
Tonawanda, New York 14150
STC Construction, Inc. $235,700.00
PO Box 459
Springville, New York 14141
BVR Construction Company, Inc. $263,175.00
244 Lake Avenue
Rochester, New York 14608
1 hereby certify that the lowest responsible bidder for the above project is Hohl Industrial Services, Inc. and respectfully recommend that
your Honorable Body order the work and the cost thereof to be charged to Bond Fund 32310106 - 445100 in an amount not to exceed
$229,596.57, plus a 10% unit price increase for an additional amount of $22,960.00 for a total award of $252,556.57.
The Engineer's Estimate for this work is $240,435.00. The above is certified to be a true and accurate statement of the bids received.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets dated June 14, 2010, be received and filed;
and
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets, be, and he hereby is authorized to award a contract for the Ferry Street Lift
Bridge, to Hohl Industrial Services, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in an amount not to exceed $229,596.57 plus a 10% unit price
increase for an additional amount of $22,960.00 for a total award of $252,556.57. Funds for the project are available in Bond Fund
32310106 - 445100.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 20
LOWERING CITY ENERGY COSTS BY SWITCHING OVER TO
COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHTING
Finance Item No. 21, Res 93, CCP 01/19/10
This item is in response to Councilmember LoCurto's Resolution No. 93, January 19, 2010 "Lowering City Energy Costs by Switching
Over to Compact Fluorescent Lighting."
The Department of Public Works has been actively involved in using energy conservation measures since 1995, including compact
fluorescent lighting. We have retrofitted over 20,000 fixtures in 65 buildings, and reduced demand for the City of Buffalo by a total of
1340.4 KW and saved a total of 4,228,520 KWH As a result, the cost avoidance to the City of Buffalo is $7,456,881.00.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
NO 21
PERMISSION TO ENGAGE SERVICES OF CONSULTING ENGINEER
FOR CONTINUING GROUNDWATER MONITORING & WETLANDS MITIGATION
NORTH
I respectfully request that Your Honorable Body authorize the Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets to grant permission to hire
Malcolm Pirnie as consultant to provide engineering services for post closure monitoring including required routine groundwater sampling
and analysis, required reporting to the NYSDEC & USACE including the coordination of all required meetings, and the required wetlands
mitigation and re- location, enhancement, and monitoring.
They have been the Consultant for the landfill closure from the beginning and have been intimately involved in all aspects and have been
the point of contact for the City with respect to NYSDEC and Army Corp of Engineers. The original project included study, detailed
design, and construction management for the purpose of implementing the closure including all required remediation and mitigation of the
northern area landfill located on Squaw Island. As part of the closure and permit for this location, groundwater monitoring and wetland
mitigation is required.
The costs for consulting services are estimated not to exceed $150,000.00. The funds are available in Capital account(s) 31310906
445100, an account to be named at a later date.
Peter J. Merlo, P.E., City Engineer FOR
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
NO 22
PERMISSION TO INCREASE CONTRACT WENDEL DUCHSCHERER
CONTRACT #93000369 MASTEN DISTRICT
I hereby submit to Your Honorable Body the following change for this contract. Wendel Duchscherer is the engineering consultant for the
Reconstruction of the MLK Park Humbolt Basin - Splash Pad Project for the City of Buffalo.
This increase is necessary for additional services in order to provide uninterrupted services through completion of construction. This
includes design, bid, construction phase services for the Reconstruction of the MLK Park Humbolt Basin - Splash Pad Project.
DPW has moved forward with the approved project to undertake the analysis, design and construction of enhanced water features as part
of the Phase 2 Improvements to the Humboldt Basin in Martin Luther King Jr. Park. Wendel Duchscherer Architects & Engineers was
commissioned as lead consultant to facilitate the successful completion of this important community and city -wide project. The following
narrative chronicles the project strategy:
1. In Wendel's Phase 1 base contract, Wendel has completed a Technical Memorandum necessary to define the exact project scope,
issues, concerns, potential solutions and related costs. Most notable was defining the circulation system to be used for the Basin (re-
circulation vs. once through system), which had major implications for all other decisions to follow. The approved Technical Memorandum
No. 1 resulted in a defined project, with a defined scope and budget, providing the consultant team the necessary information to move
forward.
2. Wendel has completed the demolition bid package to hire a contractor for demolition of the Basin floor with the goal being to take
advantage of the favorable bidding climate. Wendel will provide full time inspection services for the Basin demolition work as well as
construction administration.
3. Wendel has completed design development plans (60% drawings) to keep the project moving and on schedule
Change Order No. 1: This change order, Wendel will perform the necessary services to project completion including: preparation of 100%
plans and specifications, bidding, construction completion, construction inspection and project close out services.
I respectfully certify that this increase is fair and equitable for the work involved, and respectfully request that Your Honorable Body
approve the subject change order and authorize the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks & Streets to issue said increase for
$214,674.00. The funds are available in Capital Projects account 324000406 445100.
Original Contract Amount Phase 1: $ 235,000.00
Previous Change Order: $ 000.00
This Change Order Phase 2: $ 214.674.00
Total $ 449,674.00
Peter J. Merlo, P.E. City Engineer
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets dated June 6, 2010, be received and filed;
and
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets be, and he hereby is authorized to issue a change order to Wendel
Duchscherer, Contract #93000369 for the Reconstruction of the MLK Park Humboldt Basin - Splash Pad Project, an increase in the
amount of $214,674.00, as more fully described in the above communication. Funds for this project are available in Capital Projects
account 324000406 445100.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 23
REG FOR PROPOSALS - DESIGN & CONSTR ADMIN SERV FOR
SOUTH BUFFALO LEGACY COMPLEX
Request for Proposals Design & Construction Administration Services for South Buffalo Legacy Park & Center; Phase I
Gentlemen;
The Common Council of the City of Buffalo has established a comprehensive plan to develop a vacant parcel of land into combination
Park, Athletic Field and Sports Center in South Buffalo.
As part of that plan, the Department of Public Works, Parks & Streets is requesting proposals for Professional Services to prepare
bidding documents and provide construction oversight for the Phase 1 portion of the work.
Sealed proposals will be received until 3:00 PM, local time, on Jane 3, 2010 in the Office of the Commissioner, Room 502, City Hall, 63
Niagara Sq. Buffalo, New York 14202 -3305. Proposals received after this time will not be accepted.
A Pre - submittal Meeting Will be held on May 20, 2010 at 10 AM, local time, at the Buffalo City Hall, Room 616 located at 65 Niagara Sq.
At this time the requirements of the Request for Proposals will be reviewed and any questions regarding the proposals and work to be
done will be answered. A site visit may follow or be scheduled after the meeting.
In general, the selected Consultant shall provide professional environmental, architectural and engineering analysis and design.
Consulting services shall be phased as described below. Professional services are expected to be sequential; therefore, work on each
phase shall not start until the City provides the Consultant written direction to do so. The selected consultant shall provide all design,
bidding assistance and construction management for the initial, Phase I, of the Buffalo Legacy Complex.
Background: The City currently holds the ownership of a parcel of land bounded by Marilla St., rear of the property line of the structures
on Zollars St., RR Right -of -Way and a salvage yard. The site is to be developed into a recreational area. The Phase 1 portion of the
project calls for:
• Site investigation and update of existing Phase 1 Environmental investigation; if required perform Phase II investigations as needed.
• Site design, including but not limited to clearing and landscaping. Space is to be designed so that follow on phases
can be completed without disruption of already completed work; this would consist of a sports /community building and additional
parking /landscaping.
• Installation of site utilities; including but not limited to water (including site sprinkler system), sewer, gas, communications and electric
utilities
• Design and construction of the Phase 1 Field House(s) providing: Locker rooms, rest rooms, storage and food preparation /sales, as
well as mechanical spaces for electrical load centers and sprinkler controls, etc.
• Road Design /Construction
• Field and site lighting
The Consultant shall be responsible to inspect the site with respect to space limitations, utilities available including but not limited to
power, water service and sewer. Consult with the City Engineer or his designee as to usage and desirable features. The Consultant shall
then prepare all plans and specifications as needed including, if required, separate bid packages to comply with the NYS Wick's Law fur
the construction of the Phase 1 facilities; including but not limited to original documents, pry-bid meetings and preparation of addendums
as required.
The Consultant shall assist the City of Buffalo DPW /P &S with bid evaluation. Additionally shall act as the Construction Manager for the
project. At the conclusion of the warranty period the Consultant shall provide services for warranty close out.
Prospective Firms should read the details of the various phase requirements here in attached below.
Copy Available for review in the City Clerk's Office
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
NO 24
REPORT OF BIDS HISTORICAL SOCIETY AIR CONDITIONING - PHASE 1
JOB #1023 NORTH DISTRICT
I advertised for on May 14, 2010, and received the following formal sealed bids for the Historical Society, Air Conditioning, Phase I, which
were publicly opened and read on June 15, 2010.
Base Bid + Alt #1 + Alt #2
Hoot Mechanical & Electrical $54,500 $ 7,200 $ 9,000
Niagara 54 Bridlewood, Lockport, NY
Greater Mechanical $74,300 $10,600 $13,400
7311 Ward, N Tonawanda, NY
John W. Danforth Co. $79,295 $10,200 $11,965
300 Colvin Woods, Tonawanda, NY
Alternate #1: Provide & install (1) one ton terminal unit and (1) % ton terminal unit as shown on plans, including all wiring and piping.
Alternate #2: Provide & install (2) two ton terminal units as shown on plans, including all wiring and piping.
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct statement of all bids received and that Hoot Mechanical & Electrical with a Base
Bid of $54,500.00, add Alt. #1 for $7,200.00, add Alt. #2 for $9,000.00, for a total bid price of Seventy Thousand Seven Hundred and
00/100 Dollars ($70,700.00) is the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with the plans and specifications.
I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public Parks, Parks & Streets to order on the basis of the lowest
responsible bid. Funding for this project is available in 39320206 445100 - Buildings.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets dated June 16, 2010, be received and filed;
and
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets, be, and he hereby is authorized to award a contract for the Historical
Society, Air Conditioning, Phase 1, Job #1023 to Hoot Mechanical & Electrical, the lowest responsible bidder, in the Base Bid of
$54,500.00, add Alt. #1 for $7,200.00, add Alt. #2 for $9,000.00 for a total bid of $70,700.00. Funds for the project are available in
39320206 445100 - Buildings.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 26
REPORT OF BIDS MLK, JR. PARK HUMBOLDT BASIN SPLASH PAD EQUIPMENT
JOB #1026 MASTEN DISTRICT
I advertised for on May 19, 2010 and received the following formal sealed bids for MLK, Jr. Park, Humboldt Basin, Splash Pad
Equipment, which were publicly opened and read on June 11, 2010.
Bill Simione & Associated, Inc. $249,999.00
5 Krey Blvd., Rensselaer, NY
Titan Development $339,950.00
8534 Seaman, Gasport, NY
Vortex $497,340.00
238 Avro Pree, Pointe - Claire, QC
Aquatic Recreation $634,000.00
6500 Carlson Dr. Eden Prairie, MN
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct statement of all bids received and the low bidder is Bill Simione & Associates, Inc.,
in accordance with the plans and specifications. The contract award is anticipated to be in the amount of $274,998.90 ($249,999.00 base
bid + 10% increase $24,999.90 = $274,998.90).
1 recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks & Streets to order the work on the basis of
the low bid. Funds for this project are available in 32400406 445100.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets dated June 16, 2010, be received and filed;
and
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets, be, and he hereby is authorized to award a contract for MLK, Jr. Park,
Humboldt Basin, Splash Pad Equipment, Job #1025 to Bill Simione & Associates, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of
$274,998.90 ($249,999.00 base bid + 10% increase $24,999.90 = $274,998.90. Funds for the project are available in 32400406 445100.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 26
REPORT OF BIDS PARK SHELTER RESTORATION PROJECT
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. PARK ( MASTEN)
This is to advise your Honorable Body that I have advertised for and received bids on June 16, 2010 for Park Shelter Restoration at MLK
Park.
The following bids were received for the Project:
1- R.W. Painting, Inc. $573,500.00
2- Miller Enterprises, Inc. $640,000.00
3- Hadala Construction, Inc. $658,000.00
1 herby certify that the lowest responsible bidders is R.W. Painting, Inc. Also, I respectfully recommend that your Honorable Body
authorize a contract award in the amount of $630,850.00 (Base Bid $573,500 + a $57,350 — 10% Unit Bid increase = $630,850.00). This
Project is Funded by Grant from New York State Dormitory Authority and the City of Buffalo. City of Buffalo's share of construction cost is
about 20 %. Funds for this project are available in capital projects fund.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets dated June 16, 2010, be received and filed;
and
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets, be, and he hereby is authorized to award a contract for Park Shelter
Restoration at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Park to R. W. Painting, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $630,850.00 (Base
Bid $573,500 + a $57,350 - 10% Unit bid increase = $630,850.00.) This Project is funded by a Grant from New York State Dormitory
Authority and the City's share of construction cost is about 20 %. Funds for the project are available in capital projects fund.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 27
REPORT OF BIDS
FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS
VARIOUS LOCATIONS #3
This is to advise your Honorable Body that I have advertised for and received bids on April 23, 2010 for Water Distribution System
Improvements - Various Locations #3. Total base bid is 1,410,698.70
The following bids received:
1. Visone Construction Inc. $1,410,698.70
79 Sheldon Ave.
Depew, N.Y. 14043
2 -C. Destro Development Company, Inc $1,443,000.00
1128 Jamison Road
Elma, N.Y. 14059
1 hereby certify that the lowest responsible bidder is Visone Construction, Inc. Also, I respectfully request that your Honorable Body
authorize a contract award in the amount $ 1,410,698.70 plus 10% contingency of $141,069.87 for a Total Contract Amount of
$ 1,551,768.57 The funds are available in a Division of Water account to be named at a later date.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets dated June 16, 2010, be received and filed;
and
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets, be, and he hereby is authorized to award a contract for Water Distribution
System Improvements Various Locations #3 to Visone Construction, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $1,410,698.70
plus 10% contingency of $141,069.87 for a total contract amount of $1,551,768.57. Funds for the project are available in a Division of
Water account to be named at a later date.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 28
WASHINGTON ST. BUS SHELTER
WITHIN CITY RIGHT -OF -WAY
Mr. Chris Cronin, Traffic Data Administrator for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA), has requested permission to install
a bus shelter within City right -of -way.
The proposed location is:
Washington Street between Carlton and High Streets
This shelter would be located on the Washington Street side of the Allen /Hospital Rapid Transit station and abut property owned by
N FTA.
The Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets has reviewed the NFTA's request pursuant to Chapter 413 -67 (Encroachment
Regulations) of the City Charter and has no objection to Your Honorable Body authorizing the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and
Streets to issue a "Mere License" for said installation provided the following conditions are met:
1. That the applicant obtain any and all other City of Buffalo permits necessary for said installation.
2. That the bus shelter be installed exactly as shown on plans submitted to and approved by the Department of Public Works, Parks and
Streets.
That the applicant be responsible for maintaining the bus shelter as long as it remains within City right -of -way.
That the applicant supply the City of Buffalo with a five thousand dollar construction in street bond or certificate of insurance which will
indemnify and save harmless the City of Buffalo against any and all loss and damage arising out of the construction, maintenance, use
and removal of said bus shelter.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets dated June 16, 2010 be received and filed; and
That the Commissioner OfPublic Works, Parks and Street be, and he hereby is authorized to issue a "Mere License" to Mr. Chris Cronin,
Traffic Data Administrator, acting as agent for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority, applicant, to install a bus shelter which
would encroach city right -of -way at Washington Street between Carlton and High Streets, subject to the conditions as listed above.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 29
APPOINT ASSISTANT WATER DISTRIBUTION SUPERINTENDENT (PERM)(INTER)(WOLASZ JR)
Appointment effective June 7, 2010 in the Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets to the position of Assistant Water Distribution
Superintendent, Permanent appointment at the intermediate salary of $50,717.00
Michael J. Wolasz, Jr., 22 Woodley Road, Buffalo, NY 14215
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE
NO. 30
DRUG ASSET FORFEITURE WIRE TRANSFERS
ITEM NO. 104, C.C,P. 2/2/88
ICE - 2009090100006001 BUO2TSBU0900006 65,096.54
09 -DEA- 519284 C2 -09 -0096 56,948.55
09 -DEA- 519284 C2 -09 -0096 10,049.75 (15% SAFF)
TOTAL $132,094.84
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Customs and or the FBI has administratively forfeited the above referenced property.
The funds were received by this Department through wire transfers and duly deposited in the Trust & Agency Account, #20010000-
389001. 15% of the DEA funds have been deposited into SAFF account 10405 for fulfilling year 4 expenditures under SAFF legislation.
The remaining funds will be placed into one or more of the following accounts as deemed necessary by the Commissioner of Police:
Educational Training /Seminar, Confidential Funds, Materials and Supplies, Firearms and Weapons, Communications and Computers,
Electrical Surveillance, Purchase of Services, Improvements, Vehicles, Operating Equipment
If you have any questions regarding the above mentioned, please contact Inspector Joseph Strano at 851 -4624.
RECEIVED AND FILED
FROM THE CORPORATION COUNSEL
NO. 31
CLAIMS COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA
Claims Committee Meeting Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Hen. David A. Rivera, Chairperson
AGENDA
Personal Injury
A -1 Ysolina Rossi
$3,000.00
A -2 Rosetta Swain
$15,000.00
Property, Damage
B -1 Antoinette Moore
$20.00
B -2 Mark Robinson
$1,500.00
B -3 Travelers Insurance Co a /s /o Michael Wydra
$680.12
B -4 Edwin Valentin
$90.00
Miscellaneous Invoices
C -1 Allstate Insurance Company a /s /o Dorien Facen
$300.40
C -2 Dr. Daniel A. Castellani, M.D.
$2435.00
C -3 Verizon Wireless
$129.73
Miscellaneous Reimbursement
D -1 Kimberly A. Bobo
$130.00
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND PERMIT &
INSPECTION SERVICES
NO. 32
RESTAURANT DANCE LICENSE (RENEWAL)
1104 ELMWOOD AVENUE
Pursuant to Chapter 150 of the City of Buffalo Ordinances, please be advised that I have caused an investigation into the premises
located at 1104 Elmwood Avenue for which said renewal application for a Restaurant Dance Class IV license is being sought by Dave
Schatzel and according to the attached reports from the Fire Department, Police Department and Building Inspections, I find it complies
with all regulations and other applicable laws. This request is submitted for your approval or whatever action you deem appropriate.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Department of Economic Development, Permit and Inspections Services, dated June 10, 2010,
be received and filed; and
That pursuant to Chapter 150 of the City Code, the Commissioner of Economic Development, Permit and Inspections Services be, and
he hereby is authorized to grant a
Restaurant Dancing Class IV License to Dave Schatzel d /b /a Cole s Restaurant located at 1104 Elmwood Avenue.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 33
SIDEWALK CAFE
727 ELMWOOD AVENUE
NEW OWNER
Pursuant to Chapter 150 of the City of Buffalo Ordinance please be advised that I have examined the attached application for a Sidewalk
Card License located at 727 Elmwood Avenue and find that as to form is corre, This Sidewalk Car6 had been previously approved by
the Common Council. I find it complies with regulations and other applicable laws. The attached application is thereto for Blue Monk. This
request is submitted for your approval or whatever action you deem appropriate.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
NO. 34
SIDEWALK CAFE
45 WEST CHIPPEWA AVENUE
NEW OWNER
Pursuant to Chapter 150 of the City of Buffalo Ordinance please be advised that I have examined the attached application for a Sidewalk
Caf4 License located at 45 West Chippewa Avenue and find that as to form is correct. This Sidewalk Caf4 had been previously
approved by the Common Council. I find it complies with a'. regulations and other applicable laws. The attached application is thereto for
4 Play Nightclub. This request. !. submitted for your approval or whatever action you deem appropriate.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION..
NO. 35
USED CAR DEALER
549 TONAWANDA (NORTH)
Pursuant to Chapter 254 of the City of Buffalo Ordinances, please be advised that I have examined the attached application for a Used
Car Dealer License located at 549 Tonawanda and find that as to form is correct. I have caused an investigation into the premises for
which said application for a used car dealer license is being sought and according to the attached reports from the Zoning Office, Fire
Department and Building Inspections; I find it complies with all regulations and other applicable laws. I have caused an investigation by
the Police Department into the moral character of Ruben Ocasio. The attached thereto for Ruben Ocasio dba /Payless Car Sales, Inc.
This request is submitted for your approval or whatever action you deem appropriate.
Mr. Fontana moved:
That the above communication from the Department of Economic Development, Permit and Inspections Services dated May 9, 2010, be
received and filed; and
That pursuant to Chapter 254 of the City Code, the Commissioner of Economic Development, Permit and Inspections Services be, and
he hereby is authorized to grant a Used Car Dealer license to Ruben Ocasio d /b /a Payless Car Sales, Inc. located at
549 Tonawanda.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF ADMINISTRATION, FINANCE, POLICY &
URBAN AFFAIRS
NO. 36
INTERFUND CASH LOAN
Certain Federal and State aided programs require a cash advance until the program is operating and reimbursement is received.
I have reviewed the program listed below and determined the cash needs to be warranted. I have approved an interfund cash loan to be
made in the maximum amount of $1,000,000 as needed subject to your approval. Loan is payable at date of reimbursement.
FROM:1000- General Fund
TO:2449 - Efficiency Grant
GRANT TITLE: New York State Efficiency Grant
GRANT AGENCY:New York State
GRANT AMOUNT:$5,500,000.00
LOAN AMOUNT:Maximum of $1,000,000.00
Estimated Date of Repayment: June 30, 2011
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF HUMAN RESOURCES
NO. 37
MIS RESPONSE SELLING OBSOLETE EQUIPMENT
Mr. William B. Licata Sr. Legislative Assistant Buffalo Common Council Room 1413 City Hall Buffalo, New York 14202
Dear Mr. Licata:
I join the Common Council in applauding the leadership of our MIS Department for their efforts in selling obsolete equipment which will
help generate revenues to purchase updated equipment.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
FROM THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
NO. 38
1031 MICHIGAN APPLICATION: #163716
Dear Mr. Romanowski:
The Zoning Board of Appeals at its meeting of 5/26/10 approved your petition for a variance to erect and use a four -story Skilled Nursing
Facility where the Zoning Ordinance limits the height to three (3) stories and 40' at premises 1031 MICHIGAN
The proposed height of the Skilled Nursing Beds at Buffalo General Hospital is four (4) stories and a maximum of 67' above grade.
Section 511 -29(a) of the Zoning Ordinance limits the height to three (3) stories and 40'. Pursuant to the State Environmental Quality
Review Act, Article 8 of New York Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 617 ( "SEQRA "), a governmental agency is
required, prior to taking action on an application, to undertake an environmental review of a project to assess whether the action has the
potential to have significant adverse environmental impacts; the Project Sponsors have prepared a Draft Generic Environmental Impact
Statement ( "DGEIS,) for the entire North End Development on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus; the City of Buffalo Planning Board
( "Planning Board ") as Lead Agency has reviewed the DGEIS and deemed it complete; pursuant to the process set forth in the DGEIS.
The Zoning Board of Appeals determined that the requested Area Variance is insubstantial in light of the scale of the adjacent Buffalo
Niagara Medical Campus and is only slightly higher than what is permitted under the Code; and that the requested Variance will not have
an adverse effect or impact on the physical or environmental conditions in the neighborhood since the facility will now act as an effective
buffer and transitional element between the institutional uses on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus and the residential uses within the
Fruit Belt neighborhood.
AS A RESULT OF THIS FAVORABLE ACTION BY THE BOARD, YOU MUST NOW OBTAIN A PERMIT IN ROOM 301 OF CITY
HALL, 851 -4925 AND PAY ANY FEES THAT ARE REQUIRED.
Section 511 - 117(8) of the Zoning Ordinance states that "no decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals authorizing any permit shall be in
force and effect after a period of six (6) months from the date of said decision unless before the expiration of said permit the applicant
files the revised or final plans with the Commissioner of Inspections and Licenses in accordance with said decision."
Therefore, unless you file any required plans and pay the balance owed on the permit application prior to 11 /27/10, the Board's approval
will expire and a new application will have to be made.
Very truly yours,
RECEIVED AND FILED
FROM THE CITY CLERK
NO. 39
ITEM # 158, CCP JUNE 8, 2010
The Honorable Common Council:
In response to Mr. Licata's letter dated June 14, 2010, regarding Council Member Bonnie Russell's Resolution entitled, "Policy for Selling
Surplus, Worn -out and Obsolete City -Owned Assets ", we provide the following response:
The City Clerk's office turns in all old or broken computer equipment to the MIS Department and in turn the Department of MIS takes the
item(s) off our office inventory list according to the identification numbers for that piece of equipment.
Should you require additional information from our office, please feel free to contact me.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
NO. 40
LIQUOR LICENSE APPLICATIONS
Attached hereto are communications from persons applying for liquor licenses from the
Erie County Alcohol Beverage Control Board.
Address Business Name Owners Name
454 Pearl St Blue Buffalo Blue Buffalo of WNY, Inc
RECEIVED AND FILED
NO. 41
NOTICES OF APPOINTMENTS - SEASONAL /FLAT
I transmit herewith certificates received by me, reporting seasonal and flat salary appointments made in various departments.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT
Appointment effective June 7, 2010 in the Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets to the position of Bridge Operating Engineer,
Seasonal at the flat rate of $11.87/hr
Lewis King, 159 Chester St, Buffalo, NY 14208
Robert Kreutinger, 50 Homer Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216
CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT
Appointment effective June 7, 2010 in the Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets to the position of Laborer II, Seasonal at the
flat rate of $11.87/hr
Jerry Campbell, 201 Comstock Ave, Buffalo, NY 14215
James Francis, 137 Vandalia, Buffalo, NY 14204
Morgan Travis, 287 Choate Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14220
CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT
Appointment effective June 9, 2010 in the Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets to the position of Laborer II, Seasonal at the
flat rate of $11.87/hr
Gerald Brinkworth, 47 Marine Drive, Apt 11 F, Buffalo, NY 14202
Chester Nicometi, 89 Hoyt St, Buffalo, NY 14213
NO. 42
APPOINTMENTS - TEMPORARY, PROVISIONAL OR PERMANENT
I transmit herewith Appointments in the various departments made at the Minimum (Temporary, Provisional or Permanent) (as per
contract requirements).
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE.
CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT
Appointment effective, 6/04/2010 in the Department of Public Works, Parks & Streets, Division of Parks to the Position of Administrative
Assistant, Provisional Promotion at the Minimum Salary of $39,940.00
Jacqueline Barnett, 89 Crystal Ave, Buffalo, NY 14220
CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT
Appointment effective, 6/04/2010 in the Department of Public Works, Parks & Streets, Division of Buildings to the Position of Senior First
Class Stationary Engineer, Temporary Appointment at the Flat Salary of $15.00 /hr
Edward F. Anken, 73 Houston Street, Buffalo, NY 14220
CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT
Appointment effective, 6/16/2010 in the Department of Public Works, Parks & Streets, Division of Buildings to the Position of Senior First
Class Stationary Engineer, Temporary Appointment at the Flat Salary of $15.00 /hr
Charles A. Kulp, 1015 Abbott Road, Buffalo, NY 14220
NON - OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS, PETITIONS AND REMONSTRANCES
NON - OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS
NO. 43
D. BAKER -NYDOT -BEACH LEAD TRACKS OF CSX OVER FUHRMANN BLVD
PRESENT:
DONALD A. BAKER, Director
Office of Modal Safety and Security
CASE 37950 - Proceeding on Motion of the Commissioner of Transportation for a determination, pursuant to Section 95 of the Railroad
Law, as to whether the public crossing at -grade of the Beach Lead Tracks of CSX Transportation, Inc. over Fuhrmann Boulevard in the
City of Buffalo, Erie County (USDOT #519 600R) in the vicinity of Mile Post QD2.07, should be altered.
A proceeding having been instituted herein by order dated February 3, 2010, pursuant to Section 95 of the Railroad Law, seeking
determinations as to whether the public crossing at -grade of the Beach Lead Tracks of CSX Transportation, Inc. over Fuhrmann
Boulevard in the City of Buffalo, Erie County, in the vicinity of Mile Post QD2.07 should be altered; and a hearing after due notice having
been held March 17, 2010; and it having been determined that the said Beach Lead Tracks of CSX Transportation, Inc. should cross over
Fuhrmann Boulevard and the multi -use path located west of Fuhrmann Boulevard, at- grade, and that the said crossings should be
equipped with passive crossbuck signs, appropriate pavement markings and advance warning discs, all in accordance with the
requirements of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices; and it having been determined that the order should also require that the
New York State Department of Transportation, the City of Buffalo and CSX Transportation, Inc. work cooperatively to accomplish these
alterations; and it having further been determined that upon resumption of rail activity, any trains operated by CSX Transportation, Inc.
through the crossings should be required to stop in advance thereof, and not pass over until flagged through by a member of the train
crew, it is:
ORDERED:
1. That the Beach Lead Tracks of CSX Transportation, Inc. cross over Fuhrmann Boulevard and the multi -use path located west of
Fuhrmann Boulevard, at- grade, and that the said crossings be equipped with passive crossbuck signs, appropriate pavement markings
and advance warning discs, all in accordance with the requirements of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
CASE 37950
2. That the New York State Department of Transportation, the City of Buffalo and CSX Transportation, Inc. work cooperatively to
accomplish these alterations
3. That upon resumption of rail activity, any trains operated by CSX Transportation, Inc. through the crossings stop in advance thereof,
and not pass over until flagged through by a member of the train crew.
Office of Modal Safety and
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND THE COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS, PARKS AND
STREETS
NO 44
K. CONNOR- REPORT - FISHING FOR TAXPAYER CASH -BASS PRO
Dear Councilmember Rivera:
I'm writing to inform you of a new report from the Public Accountability Initiative (PAI), which I co- direct, and to request a meeting with
you or a member of your staff to discuss its findings.
Enclosed please find a copy of "Fishing for Taxpayer Cash: Bass Pro's Record of Big- League Subsidies, Failed Promises, and the
Consequences for Cities Across America," en- authored by myself and Andrew Stecker, an analyst at PAI. The report examines sporting
goods retailer Bass Pro's record as a subsidized development anchor. Though the retailer frequently succeeds in winning major
taxpayer subsidies, it often fails to deliver on promises of stimulating economic growth -- promises that were used to justify these public
outlays. Two recent Buffalo News articles on the report are also enclosed.
The report was prompted by the proposed Bass Pro store in Buffalo, which will be receiving $35 million in taxpayer subsidies for a new
store and tens of millions more for nearby parking and infrastructure. Even in the best and most prosperous of times, this kind of
subsidy for an out -of -state retail company deserves careful scrutiny, but during a time of fiscal crisis and severe budget cutbacks, a
close examination of this kind of public spending is imperative.
PAI conducted research for the report by investigating a number of Bass Pro - anchored projects across the country. Projects anchored
by the company's stores have won over $500 million in taxpayer subsidies, according to our estimates, but many are struggling to attract
tenants and spur growth. A Bass Pro - anchored project in Mesa, AZ helped prompt a statewide ban on retail subsidies.
The Public Accountability Initiative is a non - profit, non - partisan research and educational organization focused on corporate and
government accountability. PAI has received major national media coverage for groundbreaking research on Wall Street fraud,
Washington lobbying operations, and conflicts of interest at the highest levels of the US government. Over the past several months, our
reports and activities have received coverage in major outlets such as the Washington Post, the New York Times and the Philadelphia
Inquirer. We saw Buffalo's Bass Pro project as a significant opportunity, in our own community, for a major accountability investigation.
This report is intended to inform the choices of public officials who are considering subsidies for a Bass Pro - anchored project. For this
reason, I am writing to request a meeting with you or a member of your staff, to discuss the report's findings and make sure that -you are
aware or Bass Pro's record in other cities as the project moves forward, with taxpayer support, m Buffalo.
I look forward to hearing from you. I can be reached at 718- 916 -0925.
Sincerely,
Kevin Connor
Co- director
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NO 46
ANNE HARDING JOYCE NAMED CHAIR OF OLMSTED PARKS CONSERVANCY
The Membership of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy recently held their Annual Meeting at the Marcy Casino in Delaware Park.
Anne Harding Joyce will serve as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees for a two -year term. Ms. Joyce joined the Conservancy board
in 2005 and currently sits on the Governance, Institutional Advancement and Gala Planning Committees. Anne Harding Joyce is the
former Chair of Buffalo Prep and is a board member of Goodwill Industries, Amherst Central Alumni Association, Inc. and the Niagara
River Greenway, Buffalo and Erie County Standing Committee.
Florence D. Johnson and Gary L. Mucci were elected Vice - Chairs. Ms. Johnson joined the Olmsted board in 2007, and is a member of
the Buffalo Board of Education, Gary Mucci, who joined the Olmsted board in 2006, was most recently secretary, He serves as counsel
at Hiscock & Barclay, LLP.
J. Joseph (Jerry) Castiglia was elected Treasurer. Castiglia is the former Olmsted board chairman and he is retired Vice Chairman,
President and CEO of Pratt & Lambet United. Kevin Kelly was elected Secretary. Kelly joined the Olmsted board in 2006 and is
President of Delaware North Companies Parks and Resorts.
New trustees elected to serve 3 -year terms were:
Richard Cummings, Clarke E. Eaton, Jr., Philip C. Kadet and Edward F. Walsh, Jr.
Cummings, active with the Conservancy since 2002, is Chief Financial Officer of American Rated Cable and Communications, Inc.;
Eaton is the owner of Eaton Associated, Inc.; Kadet is retired managing partner of Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, and Walsh is Chief
Operating Officer of Walsh Duffield Companies, Inc.
Trustees elected to serve an additional 3 -year term were:
Florence Johnson, J. Joseph Castiglia, Victor Rice and herb Siegel
Those also serving on the Olmsted Board of Trustees:
Karen Arrison, Jayne Attardo, Jeffrey Barbeau, David J. Colligan, Susan J. Elkin, Dorothy Ferguson, S. Jay Ferrari, Robert J. Kresse,
Alan Pawlowski, Mary Lawley Ross, William R. Rupp, Andrea Schillaci, Mary Simpson, Heidi Welsby and Deborah Lynn Williams.
Emeritus trustees are:
Joan Bozer, Mark V. Mistretta, Corinee Rice, Gretchen Toles.
Other highlights of the Annual Meeting included the Year in Review presented by the Conservancy's President and CEO, Thomas
Herrera - Mishler. Trustees recognized for their service and dedication to the historic parks were: David J. Colligan, Chairman for the past
two years and trustees leaving the board: Richard F. Griffin, Ann Louise Ciminelli, James Iglewski, James W. Derrick.
RECEIVED AND FILED
NO 46
UPCOMING PUBLIC INPUT MEETING ON THE JESSE KREGAL PATHWAY IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT IN DELAWARE PARK (FORMERLY CALLED THE SCAJAQUADA TRAIL PROJECT)
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
5:30 — 7:30 p.m.
Marcy Casino
199 Lincoln Parkway Buffalo NY 14222
The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy will unveil upcoming work and design plans for the Jesse Kregal Pathway improvement project
in Delaware Park. The $1.2 million pathway, lighting and signage project is located behind the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society
Museum and funded through NYPA for the Niagara River Greenways. The meeting is free and open to the public.
Community input and feedback is welcome and encouraged. For more information : Greg Robinson, Olmsted Park Conservancy's
Landscape Architect, greg @bfloparks. Org.
The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy is a not - for - profit, independent, community organization that promotes, preserves, restores,
enhances, and ensures maintenance of Frederick Law Olmsted- designed parks and parkways in the Greater Buffalo area now and for
future generations. In 2008, the Conservancy released its plan for the 21 sc Century, a blueprint for the management and restoration of
the entire park system. Listed on the National and State Register of Historic Places. The Olmsted system in Buffalo is the first of its kind
in the nation designed by America's greatest landscape architect. The major Olmsted Parks in Buffalo are Cazenovia, Delaware, Front,
Martin Luther King, Jr., Riverside and South Parks. Visit www.BFLOParks.ora for more details.
RECEIVED AND FILED
NO 47
BUFFALO WATER BOARD - MONTHLY WATER BOARD REPORT MAY 2010
Copy available for review in the City Clerk's Office
RECEIVED AND FILED
NO 48
LP CIMINELLI -BOARD PACKET DOCUMENTS JUNE 2010
Attached are the following documents from the Joint Schools Construction Board meeting scheduled on June 7, 2010:
1. Draft Agenda
2. Meeting Minutes from JSCB Meeting dated May 3, 2010
3. Fully Executed Phase III Application and Certificate for Payment No. 37 - April 2010
4. Fully Executed Phase IV Application and Certificate for Payment No. 22 - April 2010
5. Phase III Application and Certificate for payment No. 38 - May 2010
6. Phase IV Application and Certificate for payment No. 23 - May 2010
7. Phase V Application and Certificate for payment No. 6 - May 2010
8. Program Packaging and Development Services (PPDS) Provider Update
9. Bevlar & Associates Inc. Construction Contract Monitoring and Compliance Services Monthly Report for Addendum 1 Phase III
Project - April 2010
10. Bevlar & Associates Inc. Construction Contract Monitoring and Compliance Services Monthy Report for Addendum 1 Phase IV
Project - April 2010
11. Inclusion Development Associates, Inc. Construction Contract Compliance Monitoring Monthly Report for Phase III- April 2010
12. Inclusion Development Associates, Inc. Construction Contract Compliance Monitoring Monthly Report for Phase IV- April 2010
Copy Available for review in the City Clerk's Office
RECEIVED AND FILED
NO 49
D. ELFNER -NYS DEPT OF PUB. SERV.
"ENERGY EFFICIENCY: USE LESS ENERGY. SAVE MORE GREEN"
PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGN
Dear Community Leader:
I am writing to ask for your help with our "Energy Efficiency: Use less energy. Save more green." summer public awareness campaign.
We want to inform the people in your community about steps they can take to use less electricity but still keep cool this summer, and
also update them on this summer's electricity outlook. Energy efficiency measures will help residential and business customers control
their summer energy costs, protect the environment, and assist the state in meeting peak electricity demand.
A key feature of our public awareness campaign is a comprehensive energy efficiency Web site that provides one -stop shopping for
consumers interested in information on energy efficiency programs and services, how to get the most out of their energy dollar, and
energy - related financial assistance and tax credits. The site is accessible through a prominent, attention - getting banner found on the
www.AskPSC.com Web site.
You can play a major role in spreading the word about the importance of energy efficiency as an effective way to lower energy bills. We
have enclosed copies of our "New York's Electricity Outlook - Summer 2010" fact sheet and "Energy Efficiency: Use less energy. Save
more green." tip strip and poster with information on how your community can reduce energy use, save money and help the environment
this summer. The www.AskPSC.com Web site and our toll -free information line (1- 888- ASkPSC1) are featured on all of our outreach
materials. Please place these materials in high- traffic areas and join us in a statewide effort to encourage everyone to be energy efficient
this summer and throughout the year.
We have also enclosed a self- addressed, postage -paid card if you would like to order additional copies of the enclosed free materials.
Please contact Jeff Wagner of my Consumer Policy staff by phone at (315) 428 -5183 or by e-mail at jdw @dps.state.ny.us if you have
any questions, would like to discuss ways we can work together to inform consumers about utility issues, or want to schedule a
presentation from our staff on electric, gas or telecommunication issues.
Thank you for your assistance with this important effort.
Sincerely,
Douglas Elfner
Director
Office of Consumer Policy
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NO 50
D. FRANCZYK -S. KNIGHT FEMA- RESPONSE FOR LIGHT DETECTION AND RANGING
Dear Mr. Franczyk:
Thank you for the letter dated March 4, 2010, from James N. Jackson, Legislative Assistant, Buffalo Common Council, to W. Craig
Fugate, Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security. Mr. Jackson's letter
enclosed the Council's resolution, dated March 2, 2010, regarding the preliminary Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM) for Erie
County, New York (All Jurisdictions), dated December 31, 2009. You requested that FEMA review the resolutio and provide comments.
The resolution questioned the accuracy of the Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology used to produce the ground elevations
for the preliminary DFIRM. Because of the nature of this request, it was forwarded to my office for a response.
LIDAR technology produces the most accurate topography currently available to FEMA, while also being cost effective. On- the - ground
surveys would be more accurate on a parcel -by- parcel basis in areas that are relatively flat; however, the cost of doing such surveys on a
countywide basis is extremely high, and FEMA's mapping budget precludes this expense. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the
new DFIRM depicts more accurate flood hazard information than the currently effective flood maps, and as you may know, the new
countywide LIDAR data was incorporated as part of this restudy in part to address concerns about previous mapping in the City of
Buffalo.
Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) are areas subject to inundation by the base (1- percent - annual- chance) flood, and there is no
Federal flood insurance requirement for structures that are outside the SFHA. However, each lender retains the prerogative to require
flood insurance as a condition of a loan. The Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, as amended, imposes the Federal flood insurance
requirement and requires lenders to make the determination whether to require flood insurance. FEMA underwrites the flood insurance
and determines policy coverage and premium rates. FEMA also provides flood insurance policy information to help stakeholders make
prudent decisions about coverage and to assist them with other flood insurance questions or issues. In addition, FEMA assists property
owners by responding to Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) or Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR -F) requests based on
elevation data and other property- specific information. Parcel -by- parcel survey data might result in the removal of the SFHA designation
for some houses through the LOMA or LOMR -F process.
As you know, a portion of the Old First Ward flooded in January 2008 as a result of a Lake Erie storm event. This flooding confirms
FEMA's evaluation that the area has a significant risk of flooding.
FEMA welcomes appeals, protests, and comments on its flood hazard maps. By statute, FEMA provides every community a 90 -day
appeal period whenever Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) are proposed or revised. For scheduling purposes, and to give interested parties
time to review the information, notices of the proposed BFEs are published in a local newspaper on two different dates, usually within 1
week of each other, and on the FEMA website. Notice of proposed BFEs is also published in the Federal Register. The 90 -day appeal
period starts on the date of the second publication in the local newspaper. We anticipate that the appeal period for the preliminary Erie
County DFIRM will begin in late July 2010.
During the appeal period, the community, affected property owners, and other citizens in the community have the opportunity to submit
technical and /or scientific data to support an appeal of the proposed BFEs. However, the community has the opportunity, at any time, to
submit scientific or technical data to improve the flood hazard information shown on the DFIRM.
The Erie County DFIRM will not become final and effective until six months after all appeals are resolved, which gives property owners
the opportunity to plan ahead. Property owners whose property will be shown within the SFHA on the final DFIRM and who have a
mortgage should be prepared to purchase flood insurance before the effective date of the DFIRM. Early purchase will result in
significant savings on the cost of flood insurance premiums, both immediately and in the future.
It is important to clarify some possible misunderstanding within your community about what constitutes a flood and what is covered by
flood insurance. Standing water (of no specified depth or duration) on at least two properties that are normally dry constitutes a flood.
Standing water can enter a structure even if it does not reach window height, and items in basements that are necessary to operate the
building, such as a furnace or hot water heater, are covered by flood insurance. However, no insurance coverage is available for
personal contents in basements.
I hope this information is helpful to you in addressing the concern of Common Council Members and Buffalo residents. If you need
additional information or assistance, please have a member of your staff contact the FEMA Intergovemmental Affairs Division by
telephone at (202) 646 -4600.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
NO 61
R. HENDERSON- REQUEST ALL PLANS PERTAINING TO 669 HERTEL AVE
Dear Commissioner;
On 04/26/20101 requested any and all plans pertaining to 669 Hertel Avenue, a city owned property in Buffalo. On 06/20/2010, following
up on my request, no action had been taken and the form was sitting in an office tray.
I was told to make a request in Planning & Design, Rm. 616 because it is a City owned property. I was informed due to a previous policy,
plans pertaining to police structures are not released to the public. Due to the fact that I am a City Of Buffalo worker and have worked in
669 Hertel Avenue for approximately ten years, this should not be a concern.
Therefore, I, Roscoe Henderson, request all information under the Freedom of Information Act, all plans that pertain to 669 Hertel
Avenue.
I thank you in advance for your assistance and look forward to your response. You can respond to my email at, r3 @roadrunner.com.
Sincerely,
Roscoe Henderson
City of Buffalo Resident
RECEIVED AND FILED
NO 62
M. KEARNS- ARTICLE - GRANTS & FINANCIAL INCENTIVES AVAILABLE
TO UPGRADE SOLID WASTE FLEET
Dear Mr. Chwalinski:
Please file the attached item and have it filed for discussion at the next meeting of the Common Council to be held on June 22, 2010.
Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Michael P. Kearns
South District Councilmember
Throwaway Money
Take advantage of grants and financial incentives to upgrade your solid waste fleet.
Have you heard about the government incentives available to help you replace your fleet of older model trucks? There are millions of
dollars available across the country for purchasing new clean - fueled refuse collection and recycling trucks. These incentives are
commonly referred to as "other people's money" (OPM) and are a proven source of assistance for buying natural gas refuse and
recycling trucks. OPM works; don't be left out of getting your fair share! Here's how OPM worked for several companies and a few tips
on how it can start working for you.
East Coast
One of the largest paper recycling companies in the country was able to secure $1.2 million from the New York State Energy &
Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) to offset the costs of purchasing 12 new compressed natural gas (CNG) refuse trucks
and constructing a new CNG fueling station. These CNG trucks are running in Brooklyn, NY. You'll recognize one of trucks because of
the special graphic it displays in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. The Breast Cancer CNG truck picks up all the paper from the
New York City Stock Exchange and most companies on Wall Street. Meanwhile, a major New Jersey refuse company received $2.4
million to deploy 42 CNG trucks and offset costs for a CNG station as part of the Department of Energy's Clean Cities grant program.
West Coast
Hundreds of natural gas refuse trucks are operating throughout California thanks to government incentives ranging from $15,000 per
truck to $91,000 per truck. A privately owned refuse company operating in southern California secured $900,000 from the Mobile
Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee (MSRC) to offset the costs of 30 new CNG refuse trucks. This funding opportunity
provided incentives of $35,000 /truck in addition to a federal tax credit of $28,000 /truck. A northern California refuse company recently
secured $426,000 from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to purchase 23 CNG refuse trucks. Sustainability is a
goal that every municipality is trying to meet. You can help by deploying clean - fueled natural gas refuse and recycling trucks. Here are a
few tips to help you find and secure OPM:
-Seek out "green" consultants and resources to help you locate OPM incentives. Engage a partner that is knowledgeable about where to
find money and with a proven portfolio of grants awarded.
-Once grant opportunities are identified, act quickly. Grants are time sensitive, and if you do not start early, you may not have time to run
all the analysis necessary to produce a competitive and complete application.
—Be a champion. Taking a leadership role will set you apart from your competitors and earn you money for doing so.
-Tell your story. Explain the unique aspects of your company and facts that you are proud of.
- Remember to sign all of the forms!
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND THE COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS
NO 63
M. KEARSN- J.LOGAN- CONCERNS VERIZON FIOS
Please file the attached with the Common Council.
To Whom It May Concern:
Hi. I was wondering why despite most of the suburbs of Buffalo with ROS service, they stop service directly at the city line. I was told by
Verizon directly that it was the city of Buffalo hindering competition, and being supportive of Time Warner's complete monopoly. Time
Warner has among the worst service in the nation, not even offering (regardless of price) internet service above 15mbps download and
2mbps upload. They keep raising rates, yet continue to lower the bar in service. What other industry is able to get away with this? There
are a number of TV channels which TWC refuses to offer, simply because they don't have to. They have a monopoly, and do not have to
compete with anyone. The city of Buffalo should be trying to encourage competition in the marketplace, not oppose it. I intend to vote out
every city official running for reelection for the foreseeable future. The city of Buffalo is among the poorest in the nation, but continues to
tout petty achievements as marvelous accomplishments. Upon graduating from college, I have every intention of moving out of this city,
and out of this state.
I will be calling the FTC to voice my concerns about this issue as well.
Keep setting the bar low Buffalo,
Jon Logan
716- 207 -5318.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
NO 54
M. KEARNS -NON PARTISAN ELECTIONS APPROVED IN CALIFORNIA
I would like to file the attached articles for the next Common Council meeting to be held on June 22, 2010.
New York Now Lagging California In Race for Non - Partisan Elections
By HENRY STERN. Special to the Sun / June 11, 2010
httD: / /www.nvsun.com /new - vork/new -vork -now lagging- california -in- race - for- non/86995/
While paralysis prevails in the highly partisan scene in Albany, we cross the continent to California to report good news for independent and
moderate voters.
By a convincing margin of 54% to 46 per cent, Californians approved Proposition 14, which mandates non - partisan elections in the
nation's most populous state, starting in 2011. Under the Golden State's new plan -- sometimes called the "Top Two" system -- all
voters would receive the same primary election ballot for nearly every elective office except for President. Candidates would be given the
option to self- identify with a political party on the ballot or to leave that space blank. The two candidates receiving the greatest number of
votes in the primary would then appear on the general election ballot regardless of party.
Prop. 14 was supported by Governor Schwarzenegger and Lieutenant Governor Maldonado. It was opposed by most elected officials in
the state. Out of 58 counties in California, the proposition carried 56. It lost only two counties, Orange, considered right -wing, and San
Francisco, considered left -wing.
For those New Yorkers for whom the adoption of nonpartisan elections appears impossible, take note that 21 of the 25 largest cities in
the United States currently have some system of nonpartisan voting in local elections, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago,
Boston, and Seattle.
Mayor Bloomberg has advocated nonpartisan elections since he was elected in 2001. In a referendum in 2003, New York City voters
defeated a proposal for nonpartisan elections, 70% to 30 %. The issue has not been submitted to the voters since, nor has the City
Council taken it onto itself to overrule the vote of the people.
Francis Barry describes the history of nonpartisan elections in "The Scandal of Reform" (2009). New York's 2003 referendum proposed
"hybrid" nonpartisan elections, allowing candidates, if they wished, to identify themselves by party, similar to the system just passed by
California, and those already in use at Jacksonville, Florida, and the states of Louisiana and Washington. The current Charter Revision
Commission, chaired by CUNY Chancellor Matthew Goldstein, will consider placing some form of nonpartisan elections once again on
the ballot. If they do so, 2010 would be a better year than 2011 because there will be a larger turnout when state -wide offices, the Senate
and Congress are on the ballot; 2011 is the off -year in the quadrennial election cycle.
Nonpartisan elections would erode but not eliminate the influence of political parties, which are basically hierarchical, self - serving
aggregations Of mostly decent, honorable people, led by others whose motivations may not be so pure. Political parties are often
controlled by powerful leaders, called bosses.
As in military, religious, or criminal organizations, the person at the top can exert enormous influence over the decisions of the group,
which the members must respect if they want to remain in good standing in the organization and eventually rise to power themselves.
Faithful members of political clubs are often rewarded for their service by nomination to public office, including the judiciary. When that
happens, judges can show their appreciation for their positions by responsiveness to the political leaders who selected them for the
bench.
There are benefits to parties. They can unite people in support of a common program. They can defend and protect their communities
from dangers, real or imagined. Parties are protected by freedom of assembly and association; voters have a right to join any legitimate
group they support.
The main problem with political parties, however, lies in the power of their leaders to select candidates for public office. In one -party
areas, which constitute the majority of legislative districts in New York City, the candidate selected by the dominant party is almost
automatically elected. In turn, the elected candidates tend to bear unwavering allegiance to the party officials who put them in office. The
interests of these officials are often not the interests of the general public, but the interests of lobbyists and contributors to the party, or
to the individual who was so helpful.
Historically, the party system has led to corrupt political machines under leaders like Bosses Tweed, Kelly, Sullivan, Croker, Murphy and
most recently Carmine De Sapio, who was overthrown in 1961, by which time, through a reform DeSapio, to his credit, sponsored,
district leaders were subject to direct election. Previously, district leaders were elected by county committee members, who were
generally political apparatchiks at the lowest rung of the ladder. Insurgencies were much more difficult to mount.
Political machines were also powerful in the suburbs, where the Nassau County Republican organization once ruled, and in New Jersey,
where Boss Frank Hague ruled Jersey City as mayor from 1917 to 1947. His enduring contribution to political thought was the phrase, "I
am the law," which at the time was not inaccurate. In some rural and urban areas, political parties are strong enough to control local
governments, a practice similar to the warlords who control portions of some foreign countries.
Party primaries, closed to independents and non - members of the party holding the primary, encourage racism and extremism by the
candidates and polarization of the electorate. Candidates hew to the right or the left to win primary voters, who are often more intense in
their ideological views than less active members of the party.
To appeal to this base, one risks alienating the midstream. This requires a change of message between the primary and the general
election. It is hard to discern, after all this, what the candidate really believes in, if anything, apart from his /her own election. Moderate or
centrist candidates are particularly disadvantaged by closed primaries, since a disproportionate number of their supporters are ineligible
to vote.
Opponents of Proposition 14, which include the heads of both major parties in California and many third -party devotees, have vowed to
sue in order to prevent the referendum from taking effect, but their efforts are unlikely to succeed if precedent is to be followed by the
Supreme Court of the United States.
In 2008, in a 7 -2 decision, with Justices Scalia and Kennedy dissenting, the Supreme Court upheld a similar nonpartisan electoral
system passed by the voters of Washington state. Writing for the majority, Justice Thomas said that overturning Washington's system
would have been an "extraordinary and precipitous nullification of the will of the people."
The Constitution of the State of California allows Initiative and Recall elections. That is how Mr. Schwarzenegger was elected. New York
State gives the voters no such opportunity. Even when vacancies occur, they are filled by the legislature and not by the electorate. We
have a long way to go.
Mr. Stern, a former Parks Commissioner and a frequent contributor to The New York Sun, is president of New York Civic
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
NO 55
M. KEARNS- SUBSIDIES FOR BASS PRO
I would like to file the attached information for the next Common Council meeting to be held on June 22, 2010.
Dear Councilmembers:
Over the past several months I have assembled a group of local business owners who are very concerned about the high -level of
subsidies that are being considered for Bass Pro. The notion of subsidies, almost any kind of subsidy, to big -box retail has rarely, if ever
proven successful. Armed with a set of coherent arguments we were given the opportunity yesterday to meet with the publisher and the
editorial board of the Buffalo News. Among us were local whoselsalers and retailers, restaurant owners, as well as the owner of the Hart
Hotels. During the course of an hour conversation we pointed out economic considerations and concerns to them that they had not
heard before. We would very much like the opportunity to meet with you to discuss this most important project. We believe that we can
make a compelling argument against this case that transcends issues of living wages and historic preservation. The thing just makes
business sense at all. We hope that you will find the time to meet with us. Thank you for your consideration,
Mark GOLDMAN
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NO 56
J. MAKOWSKI -REQ INDEPENDENT AUDIT - MARINE DR APARTMENTS
Dear President Franczyk:
I am writing as attorney for the Marine Drive Apartments Resident Council and Association.
As you are aware, several weeks ago, Henry Littles resigned his position with Erie Regional Housing Development Corp. as manager of
the Marine Drive Apartments. As reported in The Buffalo News, the resignation of Mr. Littles was marked by considerable controversy.
On behalf of the Resident Council, I am writing to request that the Buffalo Common Council formally request the City Comptroller to
conduct a financial and management audit of the operation of Marine Drive under the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority and Erie
Regional Housing Development Corp. from September 1, 2007 through the present time.
In light of the circumstances surrounding Mr. Littles' resignation, we think an independent audit of the finances and management of
Marine Drive by the City Comptroller is warranted.
Thank you for your attention in this matter.
Very truly yours,
Law Offices of Joseph G. Makowski, LLC
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION AND THE COMPTROLLER
NO 57
J. MAKOWSKI- RESIDENT COUCNIL INTEREST IN RESUMING A CO -OP FORM FOR MNGT
Dear President Franczyk:
I am writing as counsel to the Marine Drive Apartments Resident Council and Resident Association.
As you may be aware from a recent press report by The Buffalo News, Henry Littles resigned his position with Erie Regional Planning
Development Corp. as manager of the Marine Drive Apartments with considerable controversy. It has come to our attention that the
September 1, 2007 agreement between Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority and Erie Regional Housing Development Corp. is
scheduled to terminate on August 31, 2010. A copy of the agreement is enclosed for your review.
Historically, Marine Drive was managed as a cooperative by the tenants under a forty (40) year lease. Following the expiration of the
lease, former Mayor Anthony Maisello, in coordination with BMHA, appointed the Kissling Group as manager of the Marine Drive
Apartments. When the Kissling agreement terminated, BMHA entered into the current agreement with Erie Regional Housing
Development Corp.
The Resident Council has asked me to convey to you their strong interest in resuming a "co -op" form of arrangement for management of
the Marine Drive Apartments under their supervision.
We would like to meet with you to discuss this matter further.
Thank you for your continuing leadership on behalf of the residents of the Marine Drive Apartments.
Very truly yours,
Law Offices of Joseph G. Makowski, LLC
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
NO 58
PUSH -INFO GREEN DEVELOPMENT ZONE -MASS AVE PARK
People United for Sustainable Housing Inc. (PUSH Buffalo) has concentrated its efforts in a Green Development Zone on Buffalo's West
Side. The zone is approximately twenty -five square blocks. On the east, the Green Development Zone borders
Elmwood Village, cited last year by the American Planning Association as one of the ten greatest urban neighborhoods in the country.
On the west, the Green Zone borders the Niagara River.
The objective of the Green Development Zone is to create a national model of urban revitalization by concentrating strategic investments
in green- design housing rehabilitation, environmental sustainability projects on vacant land, community gardens, and other urban
agriculture projects.
Since the mid- 1970s, Buffalo's West Side has experienced declining population, increased rates of housing vacancy and small -
business decline. Through the efforts of PUSH and a variety of other community -based organizations, new investment and community
engagement has begun to reverse these trends. The West Side's attributes, which underlie the recent resurgence, include the following:
A pedestrian - friendly street plan with mixed -use buildings and historic Victorian -era homes.
Designation as one of the leading sites of refugee resettlement in all of New York State, with about 7,500 refugees resettled in the last
four years.
Adjacency to Elmwood Village, the fastest appreciating neighborhood in all of Western New York and home to hundreds of small
businesses of all types.
A commercial district along Grant Street anchored by food wholesalers, retailers and restaurants.
Five miles of accessible riverfront, with bike paths and several promenades.
A network of strong nonprofit institutions, including the rapidly- expanding D'Youville College.
To date, PUSH and its partners have achieved the following in early efforts to advance the Green Development Zone:
Constructed environmental sustainability projects on seven vacant lots in the Zone, including a tree farm, community gardens and rain
gardens, which absorb rainwater that would otherwise contribute to sewer overflow contamination.
Completed six units of green design rehabilitation of vacant housing or low and moderate income occupancy.
Through a community organizing campaign, helped to create a new Block by Block funding program which enabled Homefront to begin
renovation on six vacant homes on 19th Street. These homes will be sold by Homefront to first -time home buyers.
Through a partnership with WNY AmeriCorps, secured Federal YouthBuild funding for employing and training 60 out -of- school young
people.
Secured funds for the green- design rehabilitation of 11 vacant units on Massachusetts Avenue for low and moderate income
occupancy. Work to begin in December 2009. These properties will include extensive solar electricity and highly- efficient heating
systems.
Secured funds through the NSP program to purchase 20 vacant properties in the Zone for the purposes of creating a development
pipeline and piloting a vacant property landbank.
Broke ground on a "Net Zero" energy house at 10 Winter Street. Once completed this will be the most energy- efficient home in the
region, with a geothermal heating system and extensive solar energy.
The Massachusetts Avenue Project, a nonprofit focused on youth development and food justice, has constructed a large urban farm
with an aquaculture facility at its heart.
To fully realize the Green Development Zone concept, which would place the West Side among the leading models for progressive
urban revitalization in the country, resources for the following priorities will need to be identified:
Green - design rehabilitation of approximately 100 additional units by PUSH and Homefront.
Infrastructure improvements such as bike racks, solar - powered street lights (where feasible), and benches.
Coordination with WIBs and training agencies to maximize local hiring in employment.
Investment in neglected parkland along Massachusetts Avenue.
Expansion of the MAP urban farm and establishment of additional community gardens.
Expanded refugee services, especially programs such as Homefront's effort to foster homebuyers in the Burmese community.
Marketing materials to publicize the accomplishments in the Zone and to turn it into a teachable model.
The realization of the Green Development Zone would advance PUSH's effort to identify replicable strategies for combating blight in
upstate cities.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NO 69
PUSH - UPDATE - COMMUNITY PLAN FOR THE MASS AVE NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
Dear Council Member Rivera,
We at PUSH Buffalo are writing to update you and the Common Council about our community plan for the Mass Avenue Neighborhood
Park, at 378 Massachusetts adjacent to the Butler- Mitchell Boys & Girls Club.
As you know, this park has a long history as a great neighborhood asset. It once housed a beloved community resource center and pool
and is currently the largest green space between Front Park to the south and Riverside Park to the north, offering recreational
opportunities such as basketball, handball, and a playground within walking distance to central West Side residents.
Yet the park has suffered some abuse and much neglect in recent years. Despite some inherently strong qualities, the park today is
marked more by its problems -- greater vacant space than play space, absence of families and children encouraging criminal use, poor
maintenance - -than its opportunities. Residents' frustrations concerning their park fueled PUSH to begin a community planning process
in October 2009. More than 100 residents gathered to brainstorm ideas for making the park a more comfortable and functional space.
The positive energy of the meeting produced hundreds of ideas in small breakout groups, which were prioritized by the entire group and
assembled by architect Kevin Connors of ecoLOGIC Studio into a draft concept plan. The draft plan was put through a review period,
during which another 100 residents submitted their comments, and a few changes were made based on the review.
In February 2010, a leadership group of residents brought our plan to the Department of Public Works to meet with Commissioner Steve
Stepniak. The enclosed letters from these leaders express their personal motivation to help move our park plan forward.
The Commissioner, former Deputy Commissioner of Parks Sue Gonzalez and Engineer Francisco Guzman gave us their feedback,
informed us that $96,000 had been bonded for our park and asked PUSH to help determine how that money could be spent towards
beginning to implement our community plan this year.
We are excited to see our community plan become a reality and even more excited to take part in making that reality happen. Thank you
for your continued support of our efforts on the Mass Ave Neighborhood Park! We look forward to sharing our progress with the entire
Council.
Sincerely,
PUSH Buffalo
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NO 60
D. SMITH - BUFFALO SCHOOL PARENTS RECOMMEND CHANGES FOR SUSPENSION POLICY
Buffalo School Parents Outline Recommended Changes for Suspension Policy
"A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH"
The unfortunate death of Lafayette H.S. Freshman Jawaan Daniels after being suspended for being caught in a hall sweep requires an
immediate since of urgency on part of all members of the Buffalo Public School Community to solve the longstanding problem of
Suspension in the Buffalo Public School District. Suspending Jawaan was not a Solution to the problem of him being in the hallway.
Sending him home in this case made the situation worse not better. This is true in many other cases of Suspension. The Philosophy of
Suspension must be rethought and lead to solutions. Parents are very encouraged that the district is moving in the right direction as it
relates to student achievement and want a suspension policy that build on the Academic gains that district has made over the past five
years.
The current suspension system is Archaic and Punitive. Students get suspended for things like talking during fire drills, being in the
hallway, being late for school, not being in uniform, or not going to detention. Parents are not interested in justifying misconduct by
students but it's clear that Suspension is not a solution nor has it served as a deterrent to any of the listed problems.
This is an Educational System and problems should be an opportunity to teach children not punish them. When a student does
something wrong in a school that should present everyone involved with a teachable moment. Teach better problem solving skills, teach
coping techniques - most importantly in all cases teach (not punish) and measure the effectiveness of what we are teaching.
Representatives of the District Parent Coordinating Council have met on this issue with School Board Members and District
Administrators since November. In the course of those meetings we have come to the following conclusions and want them factored into
a new suspension policy.
1. Suspension should not be the sole discretionary power of the Principal.
a. The Principal is not necessarily the most qualified person to determine whether a suspension effectively addresses the underlying
issue in a way that will benefit the student. This is some cases may require a competent professional social worker. The
recommendation on how to best address the issue should be decided by those best able to determine a course of action that leads to a
resolution.
2. Grounds for Suspension
a. All suspensions should be proportional to an infraction. These should be predetermined in some cases and minor infractions
should not be grounds for suspension at all.
3. Progressive Discipline
a. There should be a progressive discipline policy that leads to suspension as last resort and not a first option. For example discipline should
progress from 1. Verbal warning 2. Documented Warning 3. Parental Invention 4. Professional intervention.
4. Eliminate Out of School Suspension for Nonviolent infractions
a. Develop in school suspension at all Buffalo Public Schools
b. In school problems should have in school solutions. If something requires out of school solution that should be determined by
parents and competent professionals.
C. Necessary resources should be brought into the school and should be practiced in schools if this is the problem is being
played out.
5. Eliminate Home Instruction as currently practiced
a. Develop a clearly defined educational plan for students not in classroom, that is monitored, reported on and evaluated
b. Instruction should always be in an educational setting and the student should always be in a situation where they are not
falling behind on what there fellow students are learning.
There are many other recommendations that have been made, but let this be a basis for addressing some of immediate concerns of
parents.
Most importantly parents want us to commit to a path of successfully solving this problem. Failure is no an option: this is now a Matter of
Life and Death.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
PETITIONS
NO 61
P. TSOUFLIOIS, OWNER, USE 708 ELMWOOD -TO ALTER FACADE OF BUILDING AND
REBUILDING EXISTING OUTDOOR CAFE (DEL)(PUB HRG 6/29)
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION AND THE CITY PLANNING BOARD
NO 62
T. FLYNN, AGENT, USE 1175 WILLIAM FOR AN OUTDOOR SIGN (FILL)(NO PUB HRG)
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION AND THE CITY PLANNING BOARD
CIVIL SERVICE
(BONNIE E. RUSSELL, CHAIRPERSON)
NO. 63
APPT ASSOCIATE AUDITOR(PERM)(2 STEP)(SOMANI)(COMPT)
(CCP# 24, 6/8)
Mrs Russell moved
That Communication of 24 of June 8, 2010, be received and Filed and that the Permanent appointment of Seema Somani, 12 Condon
Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14207atthe Second Step of$45,206.00 is hereby approved.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 64
APPT JUNIOR DATA CONTROL CLERK (PROV)(INTER)(GARTZ)(COMPT)
COP# 25, 6/8
Mrs Russell moved
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed
ADOPT
NO. 65
APPT DEPUTY COMMISSIONER (EXEMPT)(GUGLIUZZA)(FIRE)
CCP# 44, 6/8
Mrs Russell moved
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed
ADOPT
NO. 66
NOTICES OF APPOINTMENTS - TEMP /PROV /PERM
CCP# 58, 6/8
Mrs Russell moved
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed
ADOPT
FINANCE
(MICHAEL P. KEARNS, CHAIRPERSON)
NO. 67
PERMISSION TO ACCEPT FUNDS - LASALLE PARK, PHASE 1, MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
(ITEM NO. 32, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is returned to the Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Kearns moved:
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets be, and he hereby is authorized on behalf of the City to accept $654,830.00
from the Buffalo and Erie County Greenway Fund for the Development of the LaSalle Park, Phase 1, Master Plan
Implementation, First Impression Project-
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 68
PERMISSION TO ACCEPT FUNDS - LASALLE PARK, PHASE U, MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
(ITEM NO. 33, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is returned to the Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Kearns moved:
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets be, and he hereby is authorized on behalf of the City to accept $993,506.00
from the Buffalo and Erie County Greenway Fund for the Development of the LaSalle Park, Phase U, Master Plan Implementation.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 69
PERMISSION TO HIRE CONSULTANT - CITY BUILDINGS - COMPREHENSIVE FACILITY ASSESSMENTS
(ITEM NO. 36, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks & Streets be, and he hereby is authorized to retain a consultant for Comprehensive
Facility Assessments on City Buildings. Funds for this project are available in 32320706 445100 - Buildings.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 70
BICYCLE RACK INSTALLATION PROJECT PHASE II - 2010
(ITEM NO. 39, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is returned to the Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Kearns moved:
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets be, and he hereby is authorized to award a contract for Bicycle Rack
Installation Project Phase 1/, to EB Ironart, LLC, the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $62,212.50 (Base Bid of $59,250.00 +
[5% unit price increases] $2,962.50 equals [Total Award] $62,212.50. Funds for the project are available in accounts #31306706 - 445100
and #30032106 - 445100.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 71
REPORT OF BIDS - SYCAMORE VILLAGE ENTRY WALLS & FENCE INSTALLATION
(ITEM NO. 40, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is returned to the Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Kearns moved:
That the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets be, and he hereby is authorized to award a contract for Sycamore Village,
Entry Walls & Fence Installation, Job #1014, to Gardenville Landscaping, the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $201,198.80.
($178,288.00 base bid + $4,620 alternate #1 + 10% increase $18,290.80 = $201,198.80. Funds for the project are available in 30311306
445100.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 72
CONTRACT WITH BUFFALO MUNICIPAL HOUSING AUTHORITY FOR THE PROVISION OF SUPPLEMENTAL
BUFFALO POLICE SERVICES AT AUTHORITY PROPERTIES
(ITEM NO. 46, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is returned to the Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Kearns moved that the above item be recommitted to the Committee on Finance
ADOPTED
AYES — FONTANA, FRANCZYK, HAYNES, KEARNS, LOCURTO, RIVERA - 6 NOES — GOLOMBEK, RUSSELL, SMITH - 3
NO. 73
CHANGE ORDER FOR 2009 CITYWIDE TREE REMOVAL (PW) (#28,6/26
( #90, 6/8)
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
(MICHAEL J. LOCURTO, CHAIRPERSON'
NO. 74
BUFFALO URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY- TRANSFER 381 SYCAMORE (ITEM NO. 52, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is returned to the Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. LoCurto moved:
That the Mayor, the chairman, Vice Chairman, or any duly authorized offices of the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency is hereby authorized
to execute any and all deeds or necessary documents to convey land commonly known as Lot 2, 301 Sycamore, in the amount of
$150,000 to Lay Thanette Shine, which is subject to the approval of Agency Legal Counsel.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 75
APPROVAL TO TRANSFER ONE(L) HOME IN SYCAMORE VILLAGE -381 SYCAMORE(ELL)
(ITEM NO. 150, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is returned to the Common Council without
recommendation. Mr. Fontana Moved that the Hearing be Opened
2" By Mr. Golombek
Appearances
None
Councilmember Fontana moved that the Hearing be closed 2 nd by Mr. Kearns
Mr. LoCurto moved that the above item is hereby received and filed.
ADOPTED
LEGISLATION
(JOSEPH GOLOMBEK JR., CHAIRPERSON)
NO. 76
FOOD STORE LICENSE- 163 WEST FERRY
(ITEM NO. 46, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That pursuant to Chapter 194 of the City Code, the Commissioner of Economic Development, Permit and Inspections Services be, and
he hereby is authorized to grant a Food Store License to Hafedh H. Al Shahri located at 163 West Ferry d /b /a Sam's Grocery.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 77
R. FONTANA -F. FOGARTY -TIME WARNER RESPONSE TO COB RENEWAL
( #62, 6/8)
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
NO. 78
S. GEDRA, PETITION TO USE 478 ELMWOOD - ERECT A SEASONAL ENCLOSURE ON AN EXISTING
OUTDOOR CARE
(ITEM NO. 73, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Golombek moved:
That after the public heating before the Committee on Legislation on
June 15, 2010, the petition of S. Gedra, owner, for permission to use 478 Elmwood Avenue to erect a seasonal enclosure (vestibule)
November 15 to April 1 and awning April 1 to November 15 in the front of Bistro Eurpoa on an existing outdoor cafe on the right -of -way in
the Elmwood Avenue Special Zoning District, a /k/a 484 Elmwood be, and hereby is approved.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 79
D. MUSCOREIL, PETITION TO USE 88 WEST CHIPPEWA SIDEWALK CAFE IN THE FRONT OF AN EXISTING SIT -IN
RESTAURANT
(ITEM NO. 74, C.C.P„ JUNE 8, 2010)
That the petition of D. Muscoreil, owner, for permission to use 88 West Chippewa to place a 6'x 29' outdoor sidewalk caf— in the front of
an existing sit -in restaurant on the fight -of -way as per scanned sketch and survey, a /k/a 92 West Chippewa, be and hereby is approved.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 80
B. BAUMKER, PETITION TO USE 2000 ELMWOOD - ERECT AN ILLUMINATED POLE SIGN
(ITEM NO. 75, C.C.P., JUNE 8, 2010)
That the petition of B. Baumker, agent, for permission to use 2000 Elmwood Avenue for a 8'x4' high accessory pole sign be, and hereby
is approved.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 81
SUPPORT AMENDMENT TO FRUIT BELT RENEWAL AREA (STRAT PLAN)
( #10, 5/25)
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
NO. 82
J. FOGARTY -TIME WARNER CABLE -CITY OF BUFFALO RENEWAL
( #58, 5/25)
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
NO. 83
M. KEARNS- CONCERNS REQUIRED TIME WARNER DIGITAL SET BOX
( #56, 4/27)
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
NO. 84
X. ZYLKA- PROTECTING AMERICA AGAINST CONTINENTAL SHUTDOW
( #34, 4/13)
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
NO. 85
R. FONTANA -C. MCNIERNEY- CONCERNS AMBULANCE RESPONSE IN COB
( #57, 5/25)
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
NO. 86
J. SMITH - RESPONSE CONCERNS RURAL /METRO MEDICAL SERVICES
( #51, 3/16)
That the above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
NO 87
C. MCNIEMEY - CONCEMS RURAL /METRO MEDICAL SERVICES IN BUFFALO
(#41, 2/2)
That he above item be the same and hereby is Received and Filed.
ADOPTED
NO 88
FOOD STORE LICENSE - 2483 BAILEY
(ITEM NO. 37, C.C.P., MAY 25, 2010)
That pursuant to Chapter 194 of the City Code, the Commissioner of Economic Development, Permit and Inspections Services be, and
he hereby is authorized to grant a Food Store License to Mohamed Abdulla located at 2483 Bailey d /b /a NYC Market.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 89
FOOD STORE LICENSE - 2534 BAILEY
(ITEM NO. 38, C.C.P., MAY 25, 2010)
That pursuant to Chapter 194 of the City Code, the Commissioner of Economic Development, Permit and Inspections Services be, and
he hereby is authorized to grant a Food Store License to Mohamed Moosa located at 2534 Bailey d /b /a Bailey & Kermit Market with the
following conditions:
1. No sales of blunts, tobacco or any tobacco items are to be sold at the store.
2. No sales of beer, wine or alcohol are to be sold at the store.
3. All city codes with regards to outdoor signage MUST be adhered to.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 90
FOOD STORE LICENSE- 1027 SMITH
(ITEM NO. 39, C.C.P., MAY 11, 2010)
That pursuant to Chapter 194 of the City Code, the Commissioner of Economic Development, Permit and Inspections Services be, and
he hereby is authorized to grant a Food Store License to Shaun White located at 1027 Smith d /b /a Smith & Paddy Community Mart.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 91
ELIMINATE FORECLOSURE ON PROPERTIES DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF WATER AND SEWER BILLS
(ITEM NO. 85, C.C.P., OCT. 13, 2009)
That the Common Council requests the elimination of properties from the foreclosure auction due to delinquencies in water bill payments
until a better method is put in place to deal with nonpayment of water bills; and
That the Common Council requests that the past due interest rate of 21 % that is applied to a metered home after 120 days and an
unmetered home after 240 days is reduced to a feasible rate in addition to the establishment era leak abatement program in the City of
Buffalo; and
The Water Board and Buffalo Sewer Authority evaluate monthly billing rather than the current quarterly billing cycle.
ADOPTED
NO 92
CHANGE OF TIME FOR ALTERNATE PARKING
(ITEM NO. 120, C.C.P., JULY 21, 2009)
That alternate parking times are changed in the City of Buffalo to 6:00 p.m. unless circumstance or request provides to be otherwise, with
the understanding that any final determination as to parking times is within the sole discretion of the Commissioner of Public Works,
Parks and Streets pursuant to Chapter 497 of the City Code.
ADOPTED
NO 93
ALLOW BOTTLED WATER AS A FOOD ITEM UNDER WIC TO COMBAT LEAD POISONING
(ITEM NO. 128, C.C.P., MAR. 17, 2009)
That the City Clerk forward a certified copy of this resolution to Congress Members Brian Higgins, Louise Slaughter, and Senators
Charles Schumer and Kristen Gillibrand.
ADOPTED
RESOLUTIONS
NO 94
BY: MR. FRANCZYK
CLOSE CLUB CHIT CHAT
WHEREAS: The Strip Club and bar at 1048 Clinton Street, known as Club Chit -Chat, has become a magnet for violent crime, including
homicide, assault and robbery; and,
WHEREAS: On June 13, 2010, a man was shot and killed outside Club Chit Chat and two others shot and wounded; and,
WHEREAS: On February 1, 2010, a man was shot in front of the adult club, and another arrested inside the club for causing mayhem;
and,
WHEREAS: Since June 2007 police reports show nearly one - hundred calls for crimes such as shots fired, robbery, larceny, theft, fights,
assault, harassment, narcotics, juvenile trouble and other crimes and disturbances; and,
WHEREAS: It appears that Club Chit Chat is a "gang hang- out," where all forms of crime and mayhem run rampant; and,
WHEREAS: Club Chit Chat has become a menace to the community, and the wild -west style gang shootings puts innocent members of
the public in danger; and,
WHEREAS: The community around Club Chit Chat is organizing a petition drive to the State Liquor Authority to revoke Club Chit Chat's
liquor license;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That the Common Council requests that the Police Department report on strategies for dealing with the criminal problems at Club Chit
Chat; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That the Department of Permits and Licenses review Club Chit Chat's Go -Go License, Certificate of Inspection, Music and Vending
License and conduct a public hearing as to whether these licenses should be revoked;
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:
That the State Liquor Authority respond to requests regarding the revocation of Club Chit Chat's liquor license.
ADOPT RESOLVES, REFER REMAINDER TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
NO 96
BY: MR. GOLOMBEK
LL INTRO #6 AMENDING THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO
IN RELATION TO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS, PARKS AND STREETS
BE IT ENACTED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1: That Article 15 of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, adopted pursuant to law, is hereby amended to include §§ 15- 4.1- 15 -4.2
as follows:
§ 15 -1 Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Streets.
The commissioner of public works, parks and streets shall be the head of the department of public works, parks and streets.
§ 15 -2 Appointment; Removal.
The mayor shall appoint, subject to confirmation by the council, and may at pleasure remove the commissioner of public works, parks and
streets.
§ 15 -3 Qualifications.
The commissioner shall either (a) be a civil engineer who has been engaged in the actual practice of his or her profession for at least five
years; or (b) have had at least five years of full -time experience in a supervisory position in public service administration or business
administration; or (c) an equivalent combination of training, education and experience sufficient to indicate ability to perform the duties of
the office.
§ 15 -4 Duties and Powers.
The commissioner shall:
(a) Have all the powers and shall exercise all the duties hereinafter conferred upon the several divisions of the department except that if
the commissioner does not hold a professional engineer's license, his or her duties shall exclude those duties which require a
professional engineer's license and with regard to such duties the commissioner shall relinquish licensing jurisdiction to the city engineer;
(b) Act as liaison between the department and other city departments and agencies having an interest in the affairs of the department;
(c) Supervise the execution and management of all personnel, programs, activities and expenditures of the department;
(d) Have such other powers and duties as may be provided by ordinance or law.
&15 -4.1 Deputy Commissioner of Public Works. Parks and Streets
There shall be a Deputy Commissioner of Public Works. Parks and Streets who shall act for and aenerallv in place of the Commissioner
of Public Works. Parks and Streets and shall possess the same aualifications as those reauired for said Commissioner. The Deputy
Commissioner shall be appointed by the Commissioner of Public Works. Parks and Streets and shall be removable at the pleasure of the
Commissioner.
15 -4.2 Powers and Duties
The Deputy Commissioner of Public Works. Parks and Streets shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as may be assianed
to him by the Commissioner of Public Works. Parks and Streets.
Section 2: Insofar as the provisions of this local law are inconsistent with the provisions of any other local law or act, the provisions of
this local law shall be controlling.
Section 3: This local law shall take effect immediately.
Section 4: This local law is not subject to mandatory referendum because the subject matter is not enumerated in the Municipal Home
Rule Law as a category requiring a referendum.
Section 5: IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED, pursuant to Section 3 -17 of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, that the immediate passage of
This Local Law is necessary.
Byron W. Brown
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM ONLY:
DAVID RODRIGUEZ
ACTING CORPORATION COUNSEL
By: Timothy A. Ball
Assistant Corporation Counsel
NOTE: Matter underlined is new, matter in brackets is to be deleted.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
10 1 [61:I1
BY: MR. GOLOMBEK
LL INTRO #7- AMENDING THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO IN RELATION
TO THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES AND RECREATIONAL PROGRAMMING
BE IT ENACTED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1: That Article 16 of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, adopted pursuant to law, is hereby amended to include § §16- 4.1- 16 -4.2
as follows:
§ 16 -1 Commissioner of Community Services and Recreational Programming.
The commissioner of community services and recreational programming shall be the head of the department of community services and
recreational programming.
§ 16 -2 Appointment; Removal.
The mayor shall appoint, subject to confirmation by the common council, and may at pleasure, remove the commissioner of community
services and recreational programming.
§ 16 -3 Qualifications.
The commissioner of community services and recreational programming shall be a person who has either:
(a) A college degree and demonstrated executive, supervisory and administrative ability with at least five years experience in government
or human or community services; or
(b) An equivalent combination of training, education and experience sufficient to indicate ability to perform the duties of the office.
§ 16 -4 Duties and Powers of the Commissioner.
The commissioner shall have all the powers and shall exercise all the duties hereinafter conferred upon the divisions of the department;
shall administer, correlate and coordinate all the functions of said divisions; shall provide facilities for the research, referral, planning and
evaluating of any of the projects within the purposes of the department; and shall prepare or have prepared by the appropriate divisions
applications for county, state and federal grants.
&16 -4.1 Deputy_ Commissioner of Communitv Services and Recreational Proarammina
There shall be a Deputy Commissioner of Communitv Services and Recreational Proarammina who shall act for and aenerallv in place of
the Commissioner of Communitv Services and Recreational Proarammina and shall possess the same aualifications as those reauired
for said Commissioner. The Deputy Commissioner shall be appointed by the Commissioner of Communitv Services and Recreational
Proarammina and shall be removable at the pleasure of the Commissioner.
16 -4.2 Powers and Duties
The Deputy Commissioner of Communitv Services and Recreational Proarammina shall exercise such powers and perform such duties
as may be assianed to him by the Commissioner of Communitv Services and Recreational Proarammina.
Section 2: Insofar as the provisions of this local law are inconsistent with the provisions of any other local law or act, the
provisions of this local law shall be controlling.
Section 3: This local law shall take effect immediately.
Section 4: This local law is not subject to mandatory referendum because the subject matter is not enumerated in the Municipal
Home Rule Law as a category requiring a referendum.
Section 5: IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED, pursuant to Section 3 -17 of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, that the immediate
passage of this Local Law is necessary.
Byron W. Brown
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM ONLY:
DAVID RODRIGUEZ
ACTING CORPORATION COUNSEL
By: Timothy A. Ball
Assistant Corporation Counsel
NOTE: Matter underlined is new, matter in brackets is to be deleted.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 97
BY: MR. GOLOMBEK
LL INTRO #8- AMENDING THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO IN RELATION
TO THE CREATION OF DEPARTMENT OF PARKING
BE IT ENACTED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1: That Article 17 -A of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, adopted pursuant to law, is hereby added as follows:
Article 17 -A Department of Parkina 0§ 17 -9- 17 -151
&17 -9 Commissioner of Parkina
The Commissioner of Parkina shall be the head of the Department of Parkina and shall possess the authoritv of the Commissioner of
Traffic pursuant to &236 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law of the State of New York and Article I. Chapter 307. & &307.1- 307 -15.2 of the Citv
Code and shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Board of Parkina.
&17 -10 Appointment: Removal
The Commissioner shall be appointed by the Mavor. subiect to confirmation by the Council. and shall be removable at the pleasure of the
Mayor.
&17 -11 Qualifications of the Commissioner
The Commissioner shall be a araduate from an accredited Colleae or Universitv and have at least three vears of experience in the
manaaement. supervision or administration of Darkina. traffic or transportation operations.
&17 -12 Duties and Powers
The Commissioner shall have all of the powers and shall be responsible for all the duties hereinafter conferred upon the Department and
the Parkina Violations Bureau. such other duties and powers. as may be conferred upon the Commissioner or the Parkina Violations
Bureau by law or ordinance and shall act as the Commissioner of Traffic for purposes of New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law &236.
The Commissioner shall have supervision and manaaement of the Department of Parkina. and of its emr)lovees. and shall appoint such
other persons as shall be necessary to perform the work of the Department of Parkina and of its Parkina Violations Bureau. within the
amounts available therefore by appropriation of the Common Council.
The Commissioner shall be responsible for the manaaement of on- street Darkina operations. includina: (1) determinina where and when
to focus enforcement: (2) creatina budaets for the Department and the Parkina Violations Bureau: (3) determinina when and where meter
or Dav site collections will take place: (4) determinina levels and schedules of enforcement: (5) determinina the adeauacv of reaulatory
sianaae: (6) overseeina Darkina meter and Dav station repairs: (7) coordinatina on- street and off - street Darkina initiatives relative to City-
owned Darkina ramps to maximize Darkina efficiencv and revenue aeneration: (8) coordinatina public outreach and Darkina education
initiatives to encouraae compliance.
The Commissioner shall also be the Chief Executive Officer of the Board of Parkina and shall exercise all off - street Darkina duties
conferred upon him or her by § 18 -36 of the Citv Charter.
Section 2: Insofar as the provisions of this local law are inconsistent with the provisions of any other local law or act, the
provisions of this local law shall be controlling.
Section 3: This local law shall take effect immediately.
Section 4: This local law is not subject to mandatory referendum because the subject matter is not enumerated in the Municipal
Home Rule Law as a category requiring a referendum.
Byron W. Brown
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM ONLY:
DAVID RODRIGUEZ
ACTING CORPORATION COUNSEL
By: Timothy A. Bali
Assistant Corporation Counsel
NOTE: Matter underlined is new, matter in brackets is to be deleted.
PASSED
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO 98
BY: MR. HAYNES
GRANT PERMISSION FOR BUFFALO INFRINGEMENT FESTIVAL TO HANG A BANNER
Whereas: Buffalo Infringement Festival will be holding their 2 nd annual festival this year from July 22, 2010 through August 1, 2010; and
Whereas: Centered in the heart of Allentown, the Buffalo Infringement Festival is an opportunity for artists to share their music, art,
poetry, dance, drama, performance and media with a public audience; and
Whereas: Outdoor events and demonstrations will engage people with art and entertainment through various non - conventional forms of
street performances, displays and exhibits; and
Whereas: To encourage residents to participate in the event and to promote the festival, the organizers would like to hang a banner
across Allen Street at the comer of Wadsworth; and
Whereas: Buffalo Infringement Festival would like to hang the banner from July 10, 2010 until August 3, 2010;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved:
That the City of Buffalo Common Council hereby grants permission to the Buffalo Infringement Festival to hang a banner on Allen Street at
Wadsworth on Poles 6 and 7, from July 10, 2010 until August 3, 2010; and
Now, Therefore, Be It Further Resolved:
That the banner be hung in accordance with all conditions, restrictions, and requirements as set forth by the City of Buffalo and the
Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets.
ADOPTED
NO 99
SPONSOR: MIKE LOCURTO
PERMISSION TO HANG "HEARTLIGHT" BANNER
Whereas: Child and Family Services is holding their 12 annual Heartlight fundraiser to benefit their organization; and
Whereas: Representatives from Child and Family Services have requested permission to utilize two trees to hang the banner across
Delaware Avenue at West Utica from Friday, September 3rd, 2010 through Monday October 4th, 2010 in celebration of this event; and
Whereas: Child and Family Services representatives are familiar with the banner requirements and will purchase the necessary bond
before the banner is installed;
Now Therefore Be It Resolved:
That the Common Council does hereby grant permission to Child and Family Services to hang a banner celebrating their Annual
Heartlight event across Delaware Avenue at West Utica from Friday, September 3rd, 2010 through Monday October 4th, 2010, providing
the banner meets the requirements of all pertinent City Departments and ensures that no existing laws or ordinances are violated.
ADOPTED
BY: MS. RUSSELL
NO 100
BUDGET AND PERSONNEL AMENDMENT
O6 - DEPARTMENT OF LAW
1062 -ADMINISTRATIVE ADJUDICATION
The Common Council of the City Of Buffalo does ordain as follows:
That part of Section 1 of Chapter 35 of the Code of the City of Buffalo, relating to 05 - Department of Law, 1052 - Administrative
Adjudication which currently reads:
1 Ordinance Compliance Officer $31,315 - $34,842
Is hereby amended to read:
1 Legal Secretary $34,006 - $39,162
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED, that a personnel requisition incident to the creation of the above - mentioned position, containing a statement
of the duties for such position, has been filed with the Municipal Civil Service Commission, and said Commission has approved and
certified the position title set forth in the foregoing ordinance as being the appropriate Civil Service title for the proposed position
DAVID RODRIGUEZ, ACTING CORPORATION COUNSEL AND DONNA J. ESTRICH, DIRECTOR OF BUDGET,
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE, hereby certify that the above change is necessary for the proper conduct, administration and
performance of essential services of that department. We recommend that the compensation for said position be fixed at the respective
amount set forth in the foregoing ordinance.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
BY: MS. RUSSELL
NO 101
BUDGET AND PERSONNEL AMENDMENT
03 - EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT
1609 - STRATEGIC PLANNING
The Common Council of the City Of Buffalo does ordain as follows:
That part of Section 1 of Chapter 35 of the Code of the City of Buffalo, relating to 03 - Executive Department, 1509 - Strategic Planning
which currently reads:
1 Executive Assistant to the Executive Director of Strategic Planning $ 42,297
Is hereby amended to read:
1 Confidential Secretary to the Executive Director of Strategic Planning $ 42,297
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED, that a personnel requisition incident to the creation of the above - mentioned position, containing a statement
of the duties for such position, has been filed with the Municipal Civil Service Commission, and said Commission has approved and
certified the position title set forth in the foregoing ordinance as being the appropriate Civil Service title for the proposed position
BRENDAN MEHAFFY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PLANNING AND DONNA J. ESTRICH, DIRECTOR OF BUDGET,
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE, hereby certify that the above change is necessary for the proper conduct, administration and
performance of essential services of that department. We recommend that the compensation for said position be fixed at the respective
amount set forth in the foregoing ordinance.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
NO 102
BY: MR. SMITH
TO DEVELOP AN URBAN RENEWAL PLAN IN CONJUNCTION WITH
STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR THE CENTRAL PARK NEIGHBORHOOD
Whereas: The Central Park Neighborhood has been in a steady decline for the past 20 years; and
Whereas; The residents of the Central Park neighborhood request the restoration of the neighborhood; and
Whereas: Of the 49 storefronts in the Central Park Plaza only 3 are currently actively rented while other properties are dilapidated; and
Whereas: The plaza has been subject to the dumping of wastes, criminal activity, dog fighting rings and loitering that has affected the
entire area.
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That:
The Office of Strategic Planning, Bura and any other affiliated agencies develop an urban renewal plan for the Central Park Neighborhood
from Fillmore Avenue to Olympic Avenue (west to east) and Main Street to the 33 Expressway (North to South).
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NO 103
BY: MR. SMITH
HOME RULE MESSAGE REQUESTING THE NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE TO PASS
BILL S. 1166B (A. 2062B) TO AMEND THE VEHICLE AND TRAFFIC LAW IN RELATION
TO DIRECTING THE CITY OF BUFFALO TO ADJUDICATE TRAFFIC INFRACTIONS
WHEREAS, Bill S. 1156B (A. 2062B) has been introduced in the New York State Senate; and
WHEREAS, such bill would direct the City of Buffalo to adjudicate traffic infractions, which are presently adjudicated by the New York
State Department of Motor Vehicles; and
WHEREAS, such authorization would have a positive benefit to the people of the City of Buffalo by permitting all traffic related violations
to be adjudicated in a single convenient location; and
WHEREAS, such authorization would be of benefit to the City of Buffalo by allowing the City to participate in and receive traffic infraction
revenue; and
WHEREAS, such authorization would place the City of Buffalo in a position equal to other cities and towns in the State of New York with
respect to the adjudication of traffic infractions; and
WHEREAS, the City of Buffalo does not have the power to enact such legislation by local law;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, pursuant to Article IX of the New York State Constitution, the City of Buffalo requests the
enactment of Senate Bill 1156B (Assembly Bill A. 2062B), entitled "AN ACT to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to directing
the City of Buffalo to adjudicate traffic infractions "; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that it is hereby declared that that a necessity exists for the enactment of such legislation, and that the
facts establishing such necessity are that the city does not have the power to enact such legislation by local law; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Clerk is hereby directed to forward four (4) copies of this Home Rule Request to the New
York State Legislature as follows: Two (2) copies of this Resolution and two (2) copies of the completed Home Rule Request to the
Senate Home Rule Counsel at Senate Post Office, The Capitol, Albany, New York 12247; and two (2) copies of this Resolution and two
(2) copies of the completed Home Rule Request to the Assembly Home Rule Counsel at Assembly Post Office, The Capitol, Albany,
New York 12248.
ADOPTED
NO 104
BY: DEMONE A. SMITH
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
WHEREAS, On Wednesday, August 3, 2010 a unique crime /drug prevention event sponsored by The Crime Prevention Association of
W. N.Y will hold its 3 rd annual night out at E.C.M.C. and
WHEREAS, National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
• generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;
• strengthen neighborhood spirit and police- community partnerships;
• send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are
organized and fighting back; and
WHEREAS, National Night Out has proven to be an effective and inexpensive way to promote neighborhood spirit and police- community
partnerships in our fight for safer communities; and
WHEREAS, in 2009, National Night Out had a participation rate of 36 million people from over 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.
S territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide; and
WHEREAS: The Common Council encourages participation by the public in this year's National Night Out celebration on Wednesday,
August 3, 2010;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That this Common Council hereby waives the permit fees associated with National Night Out
on August 3,2010; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That this Common Council hereby waives the press conference and kick -off celebration stage and permit
fees for The Crime Prevention Association of W.N.Y celebration at E.C.M.0 on August 2, 2010; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: That a copy of this resolution be sent the Department of Public Works and Streets and the Buffalo of Block
Clubs.
ADOPTED
NO 106
BY: MR. SMITH
REQUESTING PERMISSION TO ERECT 12 VERTICAL "STREET POLE BANNERS" ALONG SIDE
OF GRIDER STREET BETWEEN KENSINGTON AND DELAVAN AVE
Whereas: The signage would advertise the Farmers' Market at Grider which has been an initiative taken up by ECMC and the Delavan
Grider Community Center; and
Whereas: The Grider Street and Durham Street Block Clubs have been involved in this project as well as Ephesus Ministries, St. Phillips
Episcopal and Mt. Olive Baptist Churches.
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That:
12 vertical banners with the house /building numbers that are located behind or near poles at 591,573,525, near 501, 493, between 451-
445, between 435 and 425,397, 349, 335, 323,299 and one "over street mesh banner" across Grider Street (pole #384) at Litchfield be
hung June 28, 2010 through November 5, 2010.
PASSED W /COND
AYES -9 NOES -0
NO. 106
BY MR. DEMONE A. SMITH:
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT
CHAPTER 197— RESPONSIBLE TOBACCO PRODUCT RETAILING
The Common Council of the City of Buffalo does hereby ordain as follows:
WHEREAS: More than 2,100 high school age youth in the City of Buffalo and 33,600 adults currently smoke and approximately 390
adults in Buffalo die prematurely from smoking each
year;
WHEREAS: Each year, approximately 1,200 new kids under the age of 18 in the City of Buffalo try smoking for the first time and, unless
current trends change, more than 17,100 of the children alive today in Buffalo will grow up to be addicted adult smokers;
WHEREAS: Smoking- caused healthcare costs in the City total at least $108 million per year, with smoking- caused worker productivity
losses in the City annually totaling more than $80 million.
WHEREAS: Tobacco products - unlike any other consumable product sold at retail - are inherently and inescapably harmful and addictive
when used exactly as intended, and there is no safe or risk -free way to consume Tobacco Products;
WHEREAS: Tobacco use and the advertising, marketing and sale of Tobacco Products in the City of Buffalo create substantial public
health harms and other harms and costs in the City;
WHEREAS: Tobacco use and the advertising, marketing and sale of Tobacco Products in the City of Buffalo create significant law
enforcement problems relating to such matters as sales to youth and the sale and purchase of illicit Tobacco Products;
WHEREAS: Existing federal, state and local efforts to prevent and reduce tobacco use are not reducing tobacco use and its many harms
and costs rapidly enough in the City of Buffalo;
WHEREAS: The advertising, marketing and sale of Tobacco Products at retail outlets increases and sustains tobacco use and its many
harms and costs by increasing tobacco use experimentation and initiation, especially among youth, reducing tobacco use cessation
among existing users, and prompting unplanned impulse purchases of Tobacco Products by both ongoing users and those trying to quit;
WHEREAS: The advertising, marketing and sale of Tobacco Products with candy, fruit or other kid - attracting or harshness - reducing
flavors in locations accessible by youth increases youth experimentation, initiation and addicted use;
WHEREAS: The advertising marketing and sale of Tobacco Products is inherently deceptive and misleading to consumers because it
presents Tobacco Products as acceptable, even beneficial and attractive, items for consumer purchase and use; and just the fact that
Tobacco Products are permitted to be sold and advertised misleads many consumers to believe that Tobacco Products are significantly
less harmful and addictive than they actually are;
WHEREAS: The typically disproportionate amount of advertising for Tobacco Products at retail outlets blocks and impedes the display of
advertising for other products that, unlike Tobacco Products, can be used safely and often produce consumer and social benefits -
thereby impeding efforts to advertise these other products and blocking the availability of consumer information about these other
products;
WHEREAS: The advertising and marketing of Tobacco Products at retail outlets and near schools and playgrounds reaches and
influences many youths, thereby encouraging initiation and tobacco use by minors, and related purchases by and sales to minors, in
violation of applicable laws;
WHEREAS: The more youth are exposed to tobacco product advertising, marketing and sales the more likely they are to experiment with
and initiate tobacco use and the more likely they are to become addicted users;
WHEREAS: Minimizing youth exposure to tobacco product advertising and sales is an effective way to prevent and reduce youth tobacco
use;
WHEREAS: Minimizing the amount of tobacco product advertising, especially in locations where it is most likely to be viewed by youth, is
the most effective way to reduce youth exposure to tobacco product advertising;
WHEREAS: Tobacco product manufacturers, importers, distributors and other sellers have numerous ways to communicate product
information and provide other advertising to their legal adult customers other than through display advertisements and signs inside or
outside of retail outlets or in other outdoor areas;
WHEREAS: The First Amendment does not allow the City of Buffalo to eliminate all tobacco product advertising or all tobacco product
advertising that reaches youth;
WHEREAS: Upcoming new federal restrictions and requirements on cigarette and smokeless tobacco product advertising and marketing
will still allow for substantial youth and adult exposure to tobacco product advertising, marketing and sales and will still allow tobacco
product advertising and marketing to mislead consumers, increase youth experimentation and initiation, and increase overall tobacco use,
harms and costs;
WHEREAS: Existing warning labels on Tobacco Products and related advertising, while helpful, do not adequately educate consumers
about the harmfulness and addictiveness of tobacco products and do not adequately counter the power of Tobacco Product advertising,
marketing and sales to mislead consumers, increase initiation, reduce cessation, and otherwise maintain or increase overall tobacco
use;
WHEREAS: Additional measures are needed to educate consumers about how harmful and addictive tobacco products are and to inform
current users how they can get help to quit or cutback their tobacco use, and to remind consumers of these facts at the point of purchase
so that they can avoid unplanned impulse buys of tobacco products and make more thoughtful purchase decisions;
WHEREAS: The City of Buffalo is preempted by federal law from requiring warning labels on cigarette or smokeless tobacco packages or
advertising;
WHEREAS: Reducing the number of retail outlets that sell tobacco products in the City of Buffalo will make tobacco product sales and
marketing less pervasive and appear less acceptable and common and will otherwise help to prevent and reduce tobacco use;
WHEREAS: Sales of tobacco products in locations directly associated with healthcare and medicines makes tobacco products appear
less harmful and more acceptable than they actually
are;
WHEREAS: Sales of tobacco products in locations frequented by youth directly increases youth experimentation, initiation and use;
WHEREAS: Sales of tobacco products in locations where food or alcoholic beverages are served or at recreational facilities increases
unplanned impulse purchases and otherwise increases tobacco use;
WHEREAS: Banning the sale of Tobacco Products in the City of Buffalo would cause substantial economic harm to the City and to many
retailers located in the City - while Tobacco Products would still be available for purchase by Buffalo consumers in other nearby locations
-and could promote a substantial increase in contraband Tobacco Product trafficking and other illicit trade;
WHEREAS: The manufacturers and importers of Tobacco Products sold in the City of Buffalo enjoy substantial revenues and profits
from the marketing and sale of their Tobacco Products in the City;
WHEREAS: Manufacturers and importers of tobacco products often support retailer -based advertising, marketing and discounting of
tobacco products in the City of Buffalo through monetary payments and other means;
WHEREAS: The manufacturers and importers of Tobacco Products sold in the City of Buffalo do not currently provide the City with any
resources to enable the city to regulate the marketing and sale of those Tobacco Products effectively to reduce and otherwise address the
many harms, costs and other problems caused to the City from the marketing, sale and use of those Tobacco Products;
WHEREAS: The advertising, marketing and sale of large numbers of different Tobacco Products and different Tobacco Product brands
and sub - brands in the City of Buffalo - including many with special flavorings attractive to youth and many that are inaccurately perceived
by consumers as less risky or less harmful than other brands or sub - brands - works to increase and sustain tobacco use and its many
harms and costs;
WHEREAS: The advertising, marketing and sale of large numbers of different Tobacco Products and different Tobacco Product brands
and sub - brands in the City of Buffalo reduces the variety, availability, and prominence at retail of other, more beneficial consumer
products, and their advertising, in the City;
WHEREAS: The City of Buffalo has a direct interest in reducing tobacco use and its many harms and costs in the City to the lowest
possible levels as quickly as possible;
WHEREAS: The City of Buffalo has a direct interest in minimizing youth exposure to any tobacco product advertising, marketing and
sales in the City;
WHEREAS: The City of Buffalo has a direct interest in minimizing adult exposure to tobacco product advertising, marketing and sales in
the City, especially all such tobacco product advertising that is misleading, increases unintended and undesired impulse purchases and
use, impedes cessation efforts, or otherwise manipulates or influences adults to initiate, sustain or increase their tobacco use;
WHEREAS: The City of Buffalo has a direct interest in stopping disproportionate amounts of tobacco product advertising from blocking
the advertising of other products that, unlike tobacco products, are not unavoidably harmful when used as intended and, in many cases,
produce substantial consumer and social benefits;
WHEREAS: The following new efforts to license retail sellers of Tobacco Products, regulate and restrict the marketing and sale of
Tobacco Products to Buffalo consumers, reduce the number of retail outlets that sell Tobacco Products, and otherwise reduce the
availability and number of Tobacco Product brands and sub - brands offered for sale to Buffalo consumers will each and all work directly to
help reduce tobacco use and the many harms and costs in the City caused by tobacco use and by the marketing and sale of Tobacco
Products in the City as quickly and sharply as possible and otherwise promote the City of Buffalo's interests described above;
WHEREAS: The following provisions are each and all necessary to help prevent and reduce tobacco use and its harms in the City of
Buffalo as quickly and effectively as possible;
WHEREAS: Any delay in preventing and reducing tobacco use and its harms in the City of Buffalo will have horrible consequences in
terms of increased addiction, disease, disability and premature death;
WHEREAS- Any delay in preventing and reducing tobacco use and its harms in the City of Buffalo will translate directly into higher
government, private sector and household expenditures and costs; and
WHEREAS: The following provisions will leave tobacco product manufacturers, importers and sellers with reasonable and adequate ways
to communicate non - misleading commercial information to their legal customers about the tobacco products they manufacture, import or
sell:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO, as follows:
Section 1. New Chapter 195. The Common Council of the City of Buffalo hereby establishes the following new Chapter 195, Responsible
Tobacco Product Retailing, be added, effective 90 days after passage, including Sections 195 -1 through 195 -12, to read as follows:
Chapter 195, Responsible Tobacco Product Retailing
§ 195 -1. Definitions. As used in this Chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
"Brand" of Tobacco Product means all styles of Tobacco Products sold under the same trademark and differentiated from one another by
means of additional modifiers or descriptors - including but not limited to, terms such as "menthol," "kings," "100s," "cherry- flavored,"
"lights," "smooths," "blues," "rough cut," and the like - or by packaging that uses a different color or style - and includes any brand name,
alone or in conjunction with any other word, trademark, logo, symbol, motto, selling message, recognizable pattern of colors, or any other
indicia of product identification identical to or similar to, or identifiable with, a previously known brand of Tobacco Product.
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of the Department.
"Department" means the Department of Economic Development, Permit and Inspection
Services, or any person authorized by the Commissioner to act on the Department's behalf.
"Person" means any natural person, company, corporation, firm, partnership, business, organization, or other legal entity.
"Sub- Brand" of Tobacco Product means any Tobacco Product differentiated from other Tobacco Products within the same Brand by
means of an additional modifier or descriptor - including but not limited to terms such as "menthol," "kings," "100s," "cherry- flavored,"
"lights," "smooths," "blues," "rough cut," and the like - or by packaging that uses a different color or style.
"Tobacco Product" means any product or substance that contains tobacco, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, snuff,
smoking tobacco and smokeless Tobacco Products, that is intended or expected for human consumption, except for any such product
that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, pursuant to its authority over drugs and
devices, for sale as a tobacco use cessation product or for other medical purposes and is being marketed and sold solely for that
approved purpose.
§ 195 -2. Required Licenses.
A. Starting April 1, 2011, no person shall engage in the business of selling Tobacco Products to consumers in the City of Buffalo without
first having been issued a license by the Department pursuant to a verified written application upon a form provided by the Department.
B. Except in cases of a license holder's death and the transfer of the business and related license to his or her heirs, any change in
business ownership or business location requires a new application and new license, and all licenses issued pursuant to this Section are
nontransferable and are valid for only the specific owner /operator and the specific business location indicated on the license. The
application for a replacement license, pursuant to this Section, for the same location by the heirs of a holder of an expiring license who
died during the term of the expiring license shall be considered an application for a renewal of a license and not an application for a new
license.
C. Licenses shall be issued for a period of no more than one year, terminating on the next March 31 following the effective date of the
license, unless prior to that date the license is revoked by the Commissioner or the Common Council for cause or abandoned or
otherwise terminated by the person holding the license.
D. Upon receipt of a complete license application or a complete application for a renewal of a license, the Commissioner shall, to the
extent the Commissioner deems necessary or appropriate for determining if a license should be issued, refer such application to the
Police Department, Fire Prevention Bureau of the Fire Department, City Treasurer and any other relevant department or agency of City,
State or Federal Government.
E. No license for the sale of Tobacco Products shall be issued if the applicant is not registered with the state as a retail dealer in
cigarettes or other Tobacco Products.
F. No license for the sale of Tobacco Products shall be issued, and any existing license shall be revoked, if:
(1) the applicant has been found by a court of law to have violated any federal, state or local law prohibiting trafficking in contraband
Tobacco Products or illegal drugs or has been convicted of violating any criminal law pertaining to tobacco products or fraud;
(2) the applicant has been found by a court of law or formal administrative heating to have violated this Act or any local, state or federal
law pertaining to the marketing or sale of Tobacco Products more than three times in the preceding two years;
(3) the applicant has been found by a court of law or formal administrative hearing to have knowingly and willfully violated this Act or any
other local, state or federal law pertaining to the marketing or sale of Tobacco Products;
(4) the applicant knowingly provides false and misleading material information or knowingly fails to disclose material information in an
application for a license under this Chapter;
(5) the structure that is the subject of the application is determined to have code violations that threaten the health and safety of patrons or
does not have a valid certificate of
occupancy;
(6) if the applicant has not paid to the City all fees, fines, penalties or other charges pertaining to any licenses pursuant to this Chapter
held by the applicant or held for the subject location or pertaining to any prior violations of this Chapter pertaining to that location, unless
the Department has determined that the applicant has no direct connection with those licenses or violations or to any related fees, fines,
penalties or other charges; or
(7) the Commissioner determines that the applicant is otherwise not fit to hold a license because of past criminal convictions or civil law
violations.
G. No license shall be issued pursuant to this Section to any seller of Tobacco Products that is not in a fixed, permanent location.
H. Unless the applicant has owned a business that has been selling Tobacco Products fit that same location for at least 180 consecutive
days immediately prior to the enactment of this Chapter, or has inherited such a business from the prior owner during those 180 days, no
new license shall be issued pursuant to this Section to any seller of Tobacco Products:
(1). located at or on the property of any hospital or any other facility where health care services are provided;
(2) that also sells prescription drugs at the same location;
(3) that also sells or serves alcoholic beverages for on- premises consumption at the same location;
(4) that operates a bowling alley, movie theater, game room or amusement arcade at the same location, or that obtains more than 50
percent of its revenues from providing any services or products used or consumed on site by children at the same location;
(5) located at or on the property of any elementary or secondary school, college, university, or other educational institution;
(6) located at any facility or property used primarily to provide on -site services to persons under the age of 18, such as child day care
centers, children's institutions and youth centers;
or
(7) located within 1,000 feet of the perimeter of the property of any location identified in Paragraphs (5) or (6), above.
I. Starting April 1, 2012, the total number of new and renewed licenses issued in the City of Buffalo pursuant to this Section for the sale of
Tobacco Products to consumers for any year shall not exceed the total number of all such licenses in effect during the prior year.
J. Starting April 1, 2013, the total number of new (as opposed to renewed) licenses issued in the City of Buffalo pursuant to this Section
for the sale of Tobacco Products to consumers in any year shall amount to no more than one new license for every two such licenses that
were revoked in the prior year and one new license for every two such licenses issued in the prior year for which no renewal application
was submitted or granted, until such time as the total number of either type of license issued pursuant to this Section in any given year is
no more than 100 at which point the maximum number of available licenses for that and any future year shall be maintained at 100.
K. After the license year ending March 31, 2014, no license to sell Tobacco Products shall be issued pursuant to this Section to any
seller of Tobacco Products at any location that has any of the characteristics identified in Paragraphs (1) through (6) of Subsection H,
above, of this Section.
L. Whenever the number of valid submitted applications for new licenses to sell Tobacco Products exceeds the maximum number of
such new licenses that may be issued pursuant to this Section, the Commissioner shall grant such licenses using the following priorities:
(1) Licenses shall be granted, first, to any person that held a valid license in the prior year, which is not being renewed, at a location that
will in the future no longer qualify for such a license because of Subsection K, above, and is voluntarily moving his business ahead of time
to a location where Tobacco Products may be sold even after Subsection K goes into effect. If there are more valid applications from such
sellers for new licenses than the number of available new licenses, the licenses shall be granted to those applicants by lottery;
(2) Licenses shall be granted, second, to any person that held a valid license in the prior year at a location that no longer qualifies for such
a license because of Subsections L, above, and is seeking a license at a new location where Tobacco Products may be sold. If there are
more valid applications from such sellers for new licenses than the number of available new licenses, the licenses shall be granted to
those applicants by lottery;
(3) Licenses shall be granted, third, to applicants who will sell the Tobacco Products only from a facility that does not permit persons
under the age of 18 at any time. If there are more valid applications from such adult -only sellers for new licenses than the number of
available new licenses, the licenses shall be granted to those applicants by lottery;
(4) Any remaining available new licenses shall be allocated among applicants from the different Common Council Districts in order to
bring the total number of renewed and new licenses of each type in each District to approximately the same number. If there are more
valid applications from applicants located in a specific Common Council District than the
number of new licenses allocated to be issued for that District, the licenses for that Common Counsel District shall be granted to those
applicants by lottery.
M. The Commissioner shall state in writing why a license is not issued or renewed, shall advise the applicant in writing of such reason,
and shall offer the applicant an opportunity for a hearing. The Commissioner may appoint a hearing officer to conduct such a hearing.
N. The Commissioner may suspend or revoke a license issued pursuant to this Chapter for violations of its terms after notice to the
license holder of the reasons for such suspension and revocation. The Commissioner shall provide any license holder an opportunity for a
hearing regarding such suspension or revocation. Such hearing shall be held in a timely manner, shall provide the license holder with a
statement of the alleged violations, shall offer the license holder an opportunity to cross examine witnesses against him or her, to offer
evidence and argument on his or her behalf and to be represented by counsel. A record shall be made of the hearing. The Commissioner
may appoint a hearing officer to conduct the hearing and to present the Commissioner with the record and the hearing officer's findings,
conclusions and recommendations. The Commissioner shall have the sole authority to make a final determination regarding the
suspension or revocation of a license.
O. Any license issued pursuant to this Chapter shall be displayed prominently at the location where the Tobacco Products are sold so
that it is readily visible to customers.
P. Any seller of Tobacco Products operating without the license required by this Chapter shall be subject to a fine. Every day offering for
sale or selling Tobacco Products without a license shall constitute a separate violation.
Q. Any seller of Tobacco Products that continues offering for sale or selling Tobacco Products without the license required by this
Chapter after receiving notice from the Department or the Buffalo Police Department that the seller is operating without a license required
by this Chapter shall be immediately closed by order of the Department or the Buffalo Police Department until such time as the seller
removes all the Tobacco Products from the location or obtains the required license.
§ 195 -3. Required Permits.
A. Starting January 1,2011, no person shall sell, offer for sale, or otherwise provide to consumers in the City of Buffalo any Brand or Sub -
Brand of any Tobacco Product unless the name of that Brand or Sub -Brand has been put on the Department's list of Tobacco Product
Brands and Sub - Brands that may be sold to consumers in the City pursuant to this Section.
B. No Brand or Sub -Brand of Tobacco Product may be placed on the list of Tobacco Product Brands and Sub - Brands that may be sold to
consumers in the City pursuant to this Section unless the manufacturer or an importer into the United States of that Brand or Sub -Brand
has obtained a permit for that Brand or Sub -Brand from the Department pursuant to submitting the permit fee payment and a verified
written application upon a form provided by the Department. Only one
permit shall be required for each Brand and for each Sub -Brand of a Tobacco Product to allow its sale in the City.
C. All permits issued pursuant to this Section are nontransferable, and are valid for only the Brand or Sub -Brand indicated on the license.
Any change in the Brand or Sub -Brand requires a new application.
D. Permits shall be issued for a period of no more than one year, terminating at the end of the calendar year of the effective date of the
license, unless prior to that date the permit is revoked by the Commissioner or the Common Council for cause or abandoned or otherwise
terminated by the person holding the permit.
E. The annual fee for each permit issued pursuant to this Section shall be $1,000 for each Brand or Sub - Brand, and all permit fees paid
to the Department shall be used solely for the administration and enforcement of this Chapter and other City laws relating to Tobacco
Products. The Commissioner shall annually review the actual and expected payments received by the City for the permits issued
pursuant to this Section compared to the City's actual and expected expenditures to administer and enforce this Chapter and other City
laws relating to the retail sale of Tobacco Products in the City, and the Commissioner shall adjust the permit fee amount for the next
permit year whenever a significant shortfall or excess of permit fee revenues occurs or is projected for the coming fiscal year, except that
the permit fee shall not be increased or reduced by more than $500 for any year without the Common Council's formal consent.
F. Upon receipt of a complete permit application or a complete application for a renewal of a permit, the Commissioner shall refer such
application to the relevant departments or agencies of City, State or Federal Government which the Commissioner deems appropriate for
determining if a permit should be issued.
G. No permit shall be issued for the Brand or Sub -Brand of any manufacturer or importer if the applicant:
(i) does not have a valid permit to engage in the business of manufacturing or importing Tobacco Products from the federal government
pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code (26 USC 5712 et seq.);
(2) sells cigarettes to consumers in New York State, as defined by New York State Public Health Law Section 1399 -p, and is not
compliant with that State law; or
(3) knowingly provides false and misleading material information or knowingly fails to disclose material information in an application for the
permit.
H. No permit shall be issued for any Brand or Sub -Brand of cigarettes that is not certified as compliant with New York State fire - safety
standards for cigarettes pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 156 -c, as identified on the list of certified brands and sub -
brands maintained by the Office of Fire Prevention Control of the New York Secretary of State.
I. No permit shall be issued for any Brand or Sub -Brand of Tobacco Product that is not allowed to be sold in the City of Buffalo pursuant
to Section 195 -7, below.
J. No permit shall be issued, and any existing permits shall be revoked, for the Brands or Sub - Brands of any Tobacco Product
manufacturer or importer that has, within the past two years, been convicted of violating any federal, state or other criminal laws
prohibiting trafficking in contraband Tobacco Products.
K. Any Brands or Sub -Brand of Tobacco Products without a permit under this Chapter that are offered for sale to consumers in this City
shall immediately be confiscated by the Buffalo Police Department or the Department. Any such confiscated Tobacco Product Brands or
Sub -Brand that do not have a permit under this Chapter shall be destroyed unless used for enforcement or research purposes.
L. The Department shall regularly update the list of Tobacco Product Brands and Sub - Brands that have a valid permit pursuant to this
Section and may be legally sold to consumers in the City of Buffalo, and shall make that list available to those licensed to sell Tobacco
Products in the City and to the public by posting the list on the City's website and through other means.
M. Upon request from the Department, any person selling Tobacco Products in the City of Buffalo shall provide the Department with a list
of al! Brands and Sub - Brands of Tobacco Products the seller sells or offers for sale in the City and shall identify the person or other
source from which the seller obtains each of those Brands and Sub - Brands. Any information provided to the Department pursuant to this
Subsection shall be used only to administer and enforce this Chapter and any other laws relating to the sale of Tobacco Products in the
City of Buffalo.
§ 195 -4. Administration and Enforcement of Permits and Licenses.
A. The Department may issue any regulations or guidelines necessary to implement, administer or enforce this Chapter.
B. Any license or permit granted under this Chapter may be suspended or revoked for cause by the Common Council, after notice and
hearing.
C. The procedure for governing license and permit renewals pursuant to this Chapter shall follow the same procedures used for food
store licenses under Chapter 194, Subsection 194 -7.1, including its references to Section 194 -7.
D. The Department shall establish a process for receiving and investigating reports from the public and others relating to the suitability of
applicants for licenses or permits and to suspected or observed violations of this Chapter.
E. The City of Buffalo reserves the right to make unannounced, periodic on -site inspections during business hours by the Department or
other enforcement officials to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and ordinances. The Department, or a person authorized by the
Commissioner to act on the Department's behalf, shall make at least one unannounced inspection
each year of each location subject to a license issued pursuant to this Chapter to ensure compliance with this Chapter and identify any
violations.
F. To avoid duplicated efforts, conserve funding, and enhance the administration and enforcement of this Chapter, the Department may
coordinate its efforts to implement and enforce this Section and this Chapter with other New York state or local governments or
governmental agencies with similar laws and make use of any information or other resources available from those other governments or
agencies.
G. The issuing of any license or permit pursuant to this Section or Chapter shall not confer any property rights on any holder of any such
license or permit.
H. The Department shall maintain regularly updated lists of the persons holding a license or permit pursuant to this Chapter and make
those lists publicly available by posting the lists on the City's website and through other means.
§ 195 -5. Restrictions on the distribution or sale of free or discounted Tobacco Products.
A. No person shall for commercial purposes:
(1) offer or distribute to consumers in the City of Buffalo any Tobacco Product for free, or offer for sale or sell any Tobacco Product to
consumers in the City at a nominal price or at Less than Basic Cost;
(2) distribute or cause to be distributed to consumers in the City any coupon or other item redeemable by consumers to obtain a Tobacco
Product for less than its Listed or Non - Discounted Retail Price;
(3) shall accept or redeem, offer to accept or redeem, or cause or hire any person to accept or redeem or offer to accept or redeem any
Coupon for providing consumers in the City any Tobacco Product for less than its Listed or Non - Discounted Retail Price;
(4) sell to consumers in the City any Tobacco Products through any multi -pack discounts (e.g., "buy- two -get- one - free ") or otherwise
provide any Tobacco Products to consumers for free or at a discounted price in exchange for the purchase of any other Tobacco Product;
(5) sell to consumers in the City any Tobacco Product at less than its Listed or Non - Discounted Retail Price;
B. For the purpose of this Section:
(1) "Coupon" shall mean any card, paper, note, form, statement, ticket or other issue distributed for commercial or promotional purposes
to be later surrendered by the bearer so as to receive an article, service or accommodation without charge or at a discount price; and
(2) "Listed or Non - Discounted Retail Price" shall mean the higher of the price listed for a Tobacco Product on its package or the price
listed on any related shelving, posting, advertising or display at the place where the Tobacco Product is sold or offered for sale plus all
applicable taxes if such taxes are not included in the stated price, and before the application of any discounts or coupons; and
(3) "Less Than Basic Cost" shall mean less than the price actually paid by the seller to obtain the Tobacco Product, not including any
rebates or other payments or credits obtained after the initial purchase, or, if higher, the following amounts plus all applicable state and
local taxes:
(i) for cigarettes, $3.00 per 20;
(ii) for conventional moist snuff smokeless tobacco, other loose smokeless tobacco, and loose tobacco for smoking, $3.00 per 1.2
ounces;
(iii) for cigars weighing more than four and a half pounds per thousand, 50 cents per cigar;
(iv) for cigars weighing less than four and a half pounds per thousand, $3.00 per 20;
(v) for any other Tobacco Products sold in discrete single -use units or packages of such single -use units (such as smokeless lozenges,
tablets or snus), $3.00 per 20; and
(vi) for any other Tobacco Products, $3.00 per package or $3.00 per ounce, whichever is higher.
Starting in 2012, the Commissioner shall adjust these monetary amounts and the monetary amount in Section 195 -6 upward every two
years, rounding up to the nearest ten cents, effective April 1, to account for inflation and Tobacco Product price increases, based on any
percentage increase to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic's Consumer Price Index for Tobacco and Smoking Products over the prior two
complete calendar years.
§ 195 -6. Tobacco Product packages.
A. No person shall sell or offer for sale or distribute to consumers in the City of Buffalo any Tobacco Product, other than premium cigars
wrapped in whole tobacco leaf, except in a sealed package provided by the manufacturer or importer that complies with all applicable
laws.
B. No person for commercial purposes shall sell or offer for sale or distribute to consumers in the City any Tobacco Products except in
the following minimum package sizes:
(1) for cigarettes, twenty cigarettes;
(2) for conventional moist snuff, other loose smokeless tobacco, or loose tobacco for smoking, one ounce;
(3) for cigars with a retail price, before any sales taxes, of less than $2.00 per cigar, five cigars;
(4) for all other cigars, one cigar; and
(5) for any other Tobacco Products sold in discrete single -use units (such as smokeless lozenges, tablets or snus), 10 such single -use
units.
§ 195 -7. Restrictions on Flavored Tobacco Product Sales.
A. No person for commercial purposes shall sell, distribute or offer for sale to consumers any Tobacco Product or any component part
thereof that:
(1) has or produces a distinguishable flavor, taste or aroma (other than tobacco, menthol, wintergreen or mint) that can be readily
perceived by a consumer or other person either prior to or during consumption; or
(2) does not have or produce such a distinguishable flavor taste or aroma but is nevertheless labeled or advertised or otherwise marketed
in the City of Buffalo as having or producing such a distinguishable flavor, taste or aroma.
B. A Tobacco Product shall be deemed to be subject to this Section 195 -7 if its labeling or advertising or a publicly disseminated official
statement or formal claim by the manufacturer or importer, or by any person authorized or permitted by the manufacturer or importer to
make such statements or claims concerning the Tobacco Product on its behalf, states that the Tobacco Product has or produces a flavor,
taste, or aroma (other than tobacco, menthol, wintergreen or mint) either prior to or during consumption.
C. A Tobacco Product shall not be subject to this Section 195 -7 solely because it contains certain additives or flavorings or because it
has certain additives or flavorings included in any ingredient list.
D. For the purpose of this Section 195 -7 "Tobacco Product" includes any product containing tobacco or nicotine that is expected or
intended for consumption except for:
(1) any cigarettes subject to the Special Rule for Cigarettes relating to characterizing flavors of the federal Family Smoking and Tobacco
Prevention Act;
(2) any product that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, pursuant to its authority over drugs and devices, for
sale as a tobacco use cessation product or for other medical purposes and is being marketed and sold solely for that approved purpose.
E. The prohibitions in Subsections A and B, above, shall not apply to any Tobacco Product sold in a permanent retail sales outlet that
does not admit any person under the age of 18 and obtains no less than 75% of its revenues from the sale of Tobacco Products and
cigarettes and other tobacco - related items.
§ 195 -8. Non - Approved Nicotine Products.
No product containing or delivering nicotine intended or expected for human consumption, or any part of such a product, that is not a
tobacco product as defined by state laws taxing tobacco products and prohibiting their sale to youth, shall be distributed or sold to
consumers in the City of Buffalo unless it has been approved or otherwise certified for legal sale by the United States Food and Drug
Administration as a tobacco use cessation product, or for other medical purposes, and is being marketed and sold solely for that
approved purpose. For the purposes of this Section 195 -8, no product containing or delivering nicotine intended or expected for human
consumption shall be considered a tobacco product, even if the nicotine in the product is derived from tobacco, unless the product
actually contains tobacco.
§ 195 -9. Required signage at locations selling Tobacco Products.
A. Starting January 1, 2011, any person located in the City of Buffalo in the business of selling Tobacco Products to consumers in this
City shall prominently display educational warning signs made available by the Department regarding tobacco products and their use,
harms and addictiveness.
B. The signs referred to in Subsection A may use text, graphics, colors, images or pictures and shall provide information from the
Department and the City about the addictiveness and harmfulness of tobacco use or the benefits from quitting or reducing such tobacco
use and may also provide the following information and messages from the Department and the City:
(1) the telephone number "800- QUIT -NOW (800- 784 - 8669)" or other phone numbers or email or website addresses people can use to
get assistance for quitting their tobacco use;
(2) additional information and guidance regarding quitting or reducing tobacco use;
(3) statements encouraging Tobacco Product users to quit and to use the provided information to get help quitting; and
(4) toll -free telephone numbers, email addresses, or website addresses for reporting any suspected violations of this Chapter or other
laws pertaining to Tobacco Products and related information and guidance.
C. Except as provided in Subsection E, the signs made available by the Department pursuant to this Section shall be no smaller than 144
square inches and no larger than 256 square inches.
D. Except as provided in Subsection E, any business subject to this Section shall, within 90 days of when they are made available,
display the signs made available by the Department pursuant to Subsection C, unobstructed, at all of the following locations with the
bottom edges placed no lower than 36 inches from the floor and the top edges placed no higher than 84 inches from the floor:
(1) at each cash register or place of payment so that they can easily be seen and read by each consumer making a purchase;
(2) if different from the locations described in paragraph (1), at each location where tobacco products are displayed so they can be seen
and read easily by each person considering a tobacco product purchase; and
(3) at each entrance to the business so that they can be seen and read easily by each person entering the business.
E. The Department shall also make available signs that satisfy the requirements of this Section that are no smaller than 324 square
inches and no larger than 576 square inches; and businesses subject to this Section that have a wall behind a sales counter or cash
register to post one such sign on that wall, unobstructed, instead of the signs required at the sales counters or cash registers in front of
that wall by Subsection D, with the bottom edge placed no lower than 48 inches from the floor and the top edge placed no higher than 90
inches from the floor.
F. For good cause, based upon a written application submitted by a business subject to this Section, the Department may, at its
discretion, alter the requirements of Subsections D and E to accommodate the physical arrangement or size of the business while still
ensuring that the resulting required signs will be clearly visible to all store patrons at the point of entrance and purchase and at any other
location where tobacco products are displayed.
G. To promote the purpose of this Section 195 -9 and this Chapter, the Department shall have the authority, in consultation with the City of
Buffalo Wellness Program and other public health experts, to:
(1) issue regulations, rules or other notices to establish more precise requirements relating the placement or location of the signs that
must be displayed pursuant to this Section or to otherwise facilitate the administration and enforcement of this Section;
(2) determine the actual size and content of the signs within the parameters and requirements of this Section;
(3) produce the signs that comply with this Section or obtain them from other sources;
(4) offer or distribute the signs to businesses subject to this Section for free or at a reasonable price that is not significantly more than
necessary to cover any expenditures by the Department related to obtaining, producing and distributing the signs which are in excess of
the revenues obtained by the Department pursuant to Section 195 -3.E and allocated by the Department to support the administration of
this Section 195 -9;
(5) periodically modify the text, images or other content of the signs made available by the Department pursuant to this Section based on
the Department's determination that such modifications may help to education consumers about tobacco use and its harms, otherwise
help to prevent and reduce tobacco use and its harms, correct misinformation among consumers about tobacco products or their use and
harms, assist the enforcement of this Section 195 -9 and this Act; or otherwise promote the purposes of this Section and this Act;
(6) require no more than three times per year that businesses subject to this Section 195 -9 replace some or all of the signs posted at their
business pursuant to this Section with any new, modified or different versions made available by the Department.
§ 195 -10. Sales Restrictions.
A. Sale or distribution of Tobacco Products to consumers through a vending machine is prohibited. For the purposes of this Section 195-
10 "vending machine" shall mean any mechanical, electronic or other device that automatically dispenses Tobacco Products, usually
upon the insertion of a coin, bill, token, credit or debit card or other payment item without the active participation of any human seller or
distributor. The owner and operator of the location where an active tobacco vending machine is placed and the owner and operator of
such tobacco vending machine shall each, in addition to any other applicable penalties, be subject to the fines contained in Chapter 175
of this Code. Any tobacco vending machine found by the Department to be in operation in violation of this Section 195 -10 for a second or
subsequent time, shall be sealed, removed, impounded, or otherwise secured by a member of the police department or any other
authorized enforcement agency so as to prevent such vending machine's continued illegal operation.
B. No sale of Tobacco Products to consumers shall be made unless the person making the sale to the consumer is at least eighteen
years of age, except that the minimum age for a retail outlet's sales staff who are members of the family of the person that both owns and
operates the retail outlet shall be sixteen years of age.
C. No person shall sell or provide for commercial purposes any Tobacco Products to any person who is less than 18 years of age.
D. No person shall sell, offer for sale, or otherwise provide for commercial purposes any blunt wraps to any consumer. For the purposes
of this Subsection, "Blunt Wrap" means any product that is made or sold for encasing, wrapping or rolling tobacco or any other material
for the purpose of smoking, if such product is designed to be filled by the consumer and is: (a) made wholly or in part of tobacco; or (b)
made of paper or any other material that does not contain tobacco and is: (i) intended, when filled by the consumer, to produce a finished
wrap that measures 120 millimeters or more on its longest side, or (ii) sold as a pre - rolled hollow cone, the circumference of which is not
equal at both ends.
§ 195 -11. Tobacco Product Advertising Restrictions.
A. At any facility that sells Tobacco Products to consumers:
(1) the total square footage of all Tobacco Product sign or display -type advertisements inside the facility (as opposed to pamphlets, flyers
and other handouts) shall not exceed the total square footage of all sign or display type advertisements inside the facility for all other
products and services sold or offered for sale at that facility; and
(2) the total square footage of all Tobacco Product sign or display -type advertisements outside the facility on its property shall not exceed
the total square footage of all sign or display type advertisements outside the facility on its property for all other products and services sold
or offered for sale at that facility; and
(3) all indoor or outdoor Tobacco Product sign or display -type advertisements shall:
(i) not contain any human images;
(ii) not contain any cartoons;
(iii) not use any colors other than black and white; and
(iv) be restricted to black text on a white background.
B. The restrictions in Paragraphs A(1) and A(2) shall not apply at any facility that obtains more than 45 percent of its total revenues from
the sale of Tobacco Products:
C. The restrictions in Paragraph A(3) shall not apply to any depictions of Tobacco Product packages or trademarks that, in total,
constitute no more than the smaller of 20 percent or 100 square inches of the advertisement.
D. All outdoor Tobacco Product sign or display type advertisements are prohibited on the property of any elementary or secondary school
and, except for individual advertisements of no more than 100 square inches that are not coordinated with any other advertisements, are
prohibited within 1,000 feet of the perimeter of any such property, except that any facility that sells Tobacco Products to consumers
located within 1,000 feet of any such property may display no more than two non - coordinated outdoor signs of no more than nine square
feet each consisting solely of black text on a white background to notify passersby that Tobacco Products or specific types or brands of
Tobacco Products are available for purchase at that location, and such signs may provide the names of the types, brands or sub - brands
of any specific tobacco products available for purchase at that location and their prices.
E. Upon written application by a seller of Tobacco Products with a valid license pursuant to this Chapter or a manufacturer or importer of
Tobacco Products with a valid permit pursuant to this Chapter, the Commissioner shall allow tobacco product ads in excess of the square
footage restrictions in Paragraphs A(1) or A(2) or the number or square footage restrictions in Subsection D, or allow the use of color or
graphics in a Tobacco Product advertisement subject to Paragraph A(3) or in a sign permitted by Subsection D if the Commissioner
determines that the exceptions:
(1) are necessary to enable the applicant to convey product information to legal adult consumers that cannot be provided to them through
other reasonable means; and
(2) will not create any significant risk of sustaining or increasing Tobacco Product use levels, youth initiation, unplanned impulse
purchases, or related harms.
§ 195 -12. Penalties.
A. Any person found to have violated this Chapter shall, for a first offense, be liable for a civil penalty of not less than $100 or more than
$500 for each violation and, for any second or subsequent offense, not less than $250 or more than $2,000 for each violation.
B. Any person found to have violated this Chapter shall, for a third or subsequent offense in any two year period, have any licenses issued
pursuant to this Chapter revoked and no new license or permit under this Chapter shall be issued to that person or for any business or
property owned wholly or in part by that person for a period of not less than one year and not more than five
years.
C. Any person in the business of selling Tobacco Products found to have knowingly and willfully violated this Chapter may, for a first
offense, have any related licenses issued pursuant to this Chapter revoked and no new license or permit under this Chapter issued to that
person or for any business or property owned wholly or in part by that person for a period not to exceed five years, and any person found
to have knowingly and willfully violated this Chapter shall, for a second offense, have any related licenses issued pursuant to this Chapter
revoked and no new license or permit under this Chapter shall be issued to that person or for any business or property owned wholly or in
part by that person for a period of not less than one year and not more than ten years.
D. In any action brought to enforce this Chapter, the party bringing the action, if the prevailing party, shall be entitled to recover the costs
of investigation, costs of the action, and reasonable attorney's fees, plus interest; and any City agency or office incurring any such costs
or fees shall be directly reimbursed in full, with interest, and shall retain those funds for its own purposes.
E. Any penalties, damages, reimbursements or fees authorized by this Section or Chapter are cumulative to each other and shall be in
addition to any other penalties, fines, damages, or restitution authorized by law.
F. If a court determines that a person has knowingly violated the provisions of this Section or Chapter, the court shall order any profits,
gains or other monetary benefits from the violation to be disgorged and paid to the City.
G. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an amount equal to or greater than fifty percent of all civil penalties and fines recovered by
the City under this Chapter shall be provided to the City departments, offices or agencies responsible for enforcing this Chapter or
making related investigations, in rough proportion to their participation in the enforcement and related investigations, solely to increase
and supplement, but not to replace, existing resources supporting City efforts to enforce this Chapter and to enforce other City laws
relating to Tobacco Products.
H. A proceeding to recover any civil penalties or reimbursements or other remedies provided for in this Section may be commenced by the
service of a notice of violation, which shall be returnable to the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication. The Bureau of Administrative
Adjudication shall have the power to impose the civil penalties and other remedies prescribed by this Section or Chapter or in Chapter 175
for violations of this Chapter.
I. Whenever any person has engaged in any acts or practices which constitute a violation of any provision of this Chapter or any rule
promulgated there under, the City may make application to a court of competent jurisdiction for an order enjoining such acts or practices
and for an order granting a temporary or permanent injunction, restraining order or other order enjoining such acts or practices or
obtaining any other relief, penalties or damages.
J. Any person acting for the interests of itself, its members, or the general public (hereinafter "the Private Enforcer ") may bring a civil
action in a court of competent jurisdiction to enforce
this Chapter, including related injunctive relief. Nothing in this Chapter shall prohibit the Private Enforcer from bringing a civil action in
small claims court to enforce any part of this Chapter; and nothing in this Chapter shall prevent the City of Buffalo from joining in any
proceeding initiated by a Private Enforcer. Upon proof of a violation in any such proceeding, whether or not the City is a party:
(1) all related civil fines, or penalties or payments pursuant to Subsection D, above, shall be paid to the City as called for in this Section
195 -12; and
(2) the higher of any other established damages, including any exemplary or punitive damages, or an amount not to exceed $1,000 for
each new violation established by the Private Enforcer's civil action shall be paid to the Private Enforcer, along with all reimbursements
pursuant to Subsection D, above.
K. Starting in 2012 and every two years thereafter, effective April 1, the Commissioner shall increase the monetary amounts of all fines
and penalties in this Section, rounding up to the nearest ten dollars, to account for inflation and Tobacco Product price increases, based
on the percentage increase, if any, to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic's Consumer Price Index for Tobacco and Smoking Products over
the prior two complete calendar years.
Section 2. Amendments to Chapter 175. The Common Council of the City of Buffalo hereby amends Chapter 175, Fees, of the Code of
the City of Buffalo, by adding the following fees:
Chapter 195, Retail Marketing & Sale of Tobacco Products
Section 195 -2A, license for the retail sale of Tobacco Products
Section 195 -10, prohibited operation of Tobacco Products Vending Machine
Section 3. Conforming Amendment. Chapter 483, Vending Machines, of the Code of the City of Buffalo is hereby deleted.
Section 4. Severability.
(a) If any section, subsection, paragraph, sub - paragraph or other provision of this Act is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other
sections, subsections, paragraph, sub - paragraph or provisions of this Act which can be given force and effect without the invalidated
section, subsection, paragraph, sub - paragraph or provision.
(b) If it is determined by a court of law that any requirements or restrictions established by this Act are, to the extent they apply to
businesses engaged in the sale of cigarettes, preempted by the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act or any other law, those
requirements or restrictions shall remain in full force and effect only in regard to businesses engaged in the sale of Tobacco Products
other than cigarettes.
(c) If it is determined by a court of law that any requirements or restrictions established by this Act are, to the extent they apply to cigarette
advertising, preempted by the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act or any other law, those requirements or restrictions shall
remain in full force and effect only in regard to advertising for Tobacco Products other than cigarettes.
(d) If it is determined by a court of law that any requirements or restrictions established by this Act are, to the extent they apply to
cigarettes and /or smokeless tobacco products, preempted by the federal Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act or any
other law, those requirements or restrictions shall remain in full force and effect only in regard to Tobacco Products other than cigarettes
and /or smokeless tobacco products.
Section 5. Effective date. This Act shall take effect 90 days after its enactment into law.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
NO. 107
BY: DEMONE A SMITH
APPOINTMENTS COMMISSIONERS OF DEEDS REQUIRED FOR THE PROPER PERFORMANCE OF PUBLIC DUTIES
That the following person(s) are hereby appointed as Commissioner of Deeds for the term ending December 31, 2010, conditional upon
the persons so appointed certifying under oath to their qualifications and filing same with the City of Buffalo
Erik D. Svensson
Paul C. Simonian
Kevin J. Lozano
George K. Arthur, Jr.
Joseph J. Tomizzi
William T. Buyers
TOTAL6
ADOPTED
NO. 108
BY: DEMONE A SMITH
APPOINTMENTS COMMISSIONER OF DEEDS
That the following persons are hereby appointed as Commissioner of Deeds for the term ending December 31,2010, conditional, upon
the person so appointed certifying under oath to their qualifications and filing same with the City Clerk:
Roland Georges
Steven Specyal
Julienne Sands
Donna M. Bigouette
Marilyn Rodgers
Evelyn Viera
Ryan G. Snyder
Dennis Mavek
Edward Betz
Michael L. Mallia
Heather M. Machin
Whitney Blair Kemp
Krista Steward
Kelly Friedman
Augustine Olivencia
Carrie Ostrander
Rodney Carmichael
TOTAL 17
ADOPTED
NO. 109
BY MR. SMITH
a 4 4Id 11 1FA I1*] 0 l0 =ILVA IC N /eUVi
Attached hereto are Felicitation and In Memoriam Resolutions sponsored by Members of the Common Council as indicated:
Felicitation for Mr. Charles P. Blakely St- & Mrs. Larusha Blakely
By Councilmember Demone A. Smith
ADOPTED
NO. 110
ANNOUNCEMENT OF COMMITTEE MEETINGS
The following meetings are scheduled. All meetings are held in the Common Council Chambers, 13 floor City Hall, Buffalo, New York,
unless otherwise noted.
Regular Committees
Committee on Civil Service Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 9:45 o'clock A.M.
Committee on Finance Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 10:00 o'clock A.M.
following Civil Service
Committee on Comm. Dev. Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 1:00 o'clock P.M.
Committee on Legislation Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 2:00 o'clock P.M.
(Public Disclaimer): All meetinas are subiect to chanae and cancellation by the respective Chairmen of Council Committees. In the event
that there is sufficient time aiven for notification. it will be provided. In addition. there may be meetinas set uD wherebv the Citv Clerk's
Office is not made aware: therefore. unless we receive notice from the respective Chairmen. we can only make notification of what we are
made aware.
NO. 111
ADJOURNMENT
On a motion by Mr. Fontana Seconded by Mrs. Russell, the Council adjourned at 3:20 PM
GERALD CHWALINSKI
CITY CLERK
BOARD OF POLICE AND FIRE PENSION PROCEEDINGS #6
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR -201 CITY HALL
JUNE 17, 2010
Present
Timothy Ball, Assistant Corporation Counsel
Gerald Chwalinski, City Clerk
Darryl McPherson, City Auditor
The Journal of the last meeting was approved.
NO. 1
1 transmit herewith the Pension Payroll for the Fire Pension Fund for the month of June17, 2010 amounting
to $3,740.00 and request that checks be drawn to the order of the persons named herein for the amounts
stated.
Adopted
Ayes -3. Noes -0.
No. 2
1 transmit herewith the Pension Payroll for the Police Pension Fund for the months of June 17, 2010
amounting to $2,815.00 and request that checks be drawn to the order of the persons named herein for the
amounts stated.
Adopted.
Ayes -3 Noes -0.
No. 3
On motion by Mr. Ball the City of Buffalo Police and Fire Pension Board Meeting adjourned at 11 :05 a.m.