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HomeMy WebLinkAbout94-0222 No. 4 Common Council Proceedings of the City of Buffalo Regular Meeting, February 22, 1994 MAYOR Hon. Anthony M. Masiello COMPTROLLER Joel A. Giambra COMMON COUNCIL PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL George K. Arthur PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE David A. Franczyk MAJORITY LEADER James W. Pitts COUNCILMEMBERS-AT-LARGE Clifford Bell Eugene M. Fahey Rosemarie LoTempio DISTRICT COUNCIL MEMBERS Alfred T. Coppola Delaware James W. Pitts - Ellicott David A. Franczyk Fillmore David J. Czajka Lovejoy David A. Collins Masten Carl A. PerIa Jr. Niagara Dale Zuchlewski North Bonnie K.Lockwood South Kevin J. Helfer University REGULAR COMMITTEES CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE : Rosemarie LoTempio, Chairman, Alfred T. Coppola, Eugene M. Fahey, Kevin J. Helfer, James W. Pitts, Members CLAIMS COMMITTEE : David A. Franczyk, Chairman, David J. Czajka, Kevin J. Helfer, Bonnie K. Lockwood, Dale Zuchlewski, Members ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: Carl A. Perla, Jr. Chairman, Clifford Bell, David Collins, David A. Franczyk, Kevin J. Helfer, James W. Pitts, Members. FINANCE COMMITTEE: David A. Collins, Chairman, Clifford Bell, Eugene M. Fahey, David A. Franczyk, Kevin J. Helfer, James W. Pitts, Members. LEGISLATION COMMITTEE: Alfred Coppola, Chairman, David J. Czajka, Kevn J. Helfer, Rosemarie LoTempio, Carl A. Perla, Jr., Dale Zuchlewski Members RULES COMMITTEE: George K. Arthur, Chairman, Kevn J. Helfer, James W. Pitts, Members URBAN RENEWAL: Clifford Bell, Chairman, Alfred T. Coppola, David J. Czajka, David A. Franczyk, Kevin J. Helfer, Members SPECIAL COMMITTEES SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON CATV: James W. Pills, Chairman, George K. Arthur, Kevin J. Helfer, Rosemarie LoTempio, Dale Zuchlewski. SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION: Dale Zuchewski, Chariman, David J. Czajka, Kevn J. Helfer, Rosemarie LoTempio, Carl A. Perla, Jr. ERIE BASIN MARNA LEASE COMMITTEE: James W. Pitts, Chairman, Kevin J. Helfer, Bonnie K. Lockwood, Carl A. Perla, Jr. TASK FORCES AUDITORIUM AND STADIUM TASK FORCE: James W. Pitts, Chairman, Clifford Bell, Eugene M. Fahey, Kevin J. Helfer, Bonne K. Lockwood, Rosemarie LoTempio, Corporation Counsel/Designee, Commissioner of Public Works/Designee, Commissioner of Community Development/Designee, Commissioner of Administration and Finance/Designee, President of Development Downtown. PARKS CONSERVACY TASK FORCE: David A. Franczyk, Chairman, Kevin J. Helfer, Dale L. Zuchlewski, John Scardino, Robert Kresse, Pamela DiPalma, Mark Mistretta, Albert Howard, Marge Miller, Patty Farrell, Jack McGowan, Thomas J. Barnes, Wes Olmsted, Robert Meldrum, Paula Mulligan, Louise Snyder, Rev. Benny Sheppard, Friends of Olmsted designee, Commissioner of Parks/Designee, Commissioner of Public Works/Designee, Commissioner of Community Development/Designee. POLICE REORGANIZATION TASK FORCE: Eugene M. Fahey, Chairman; George K. Arthur, Clifford Bell, Kevin J. Helfer, Rosemarie LoTempio. Michael Trimboli, Edward C. Hempling, Kenneth R. Kirby, George J. Panepinto, Martha Dippel. James J. McMahon, Craig Speers, William Dunford, Levirn Hill, John V. Elmore. CORPORATION PROCEEDINGS COMMON COUNCIL CITY HALL- BUFFALO Tuesday, February 22, 1994 at 2:00 P.M. PRESENT- George K. Arthur, President of the Council, and Council Members Bell, Collins, Coppola, Czajka, Fahey, Franczyk, Helfer, Lockwood, LoTempio, Perla, Pitts, and Zuchlewski- 12. ABSENT- Councilmember Coppola - 1. On a motion by Mr. Pitts, seconded by Mr. Collins, the minutes of the stated meeting held on February 8, 1994, and the Special Session held on February 15, 1994 were approved. FROM THE MAYOR No. 1 Appointment of Judges Pursuant to the power invested in me as Mayor of the City of Buffalo, through the laws of the State of New York, on January 7, 1994, I appointed the Hon. Thomas P. Amodeo, City Court Judge, to the position of Chief City Court Judge for the City of Buffalo. This appointment was to fill the vacancy created by the recent election of Chief Judge Frank A. Sedita, Jr., to the Supreme Court of the State of New York. This appointment was effective January 7, 1994 for a term to expire December 31, 1994. I also appointed Shirley Troutman as City Court Judge for the City of Buffalo, effective January 7, 1994 for a term to expire December 31, 1994. This appointment was to fill the vacancy created by the recent election of Rose H. Sconiers to the Supreme Court of the State of New York. I also appointed Patrick M. Carney as City Court Judge for the City of Buffalo, effective January 7, 1994 for a term to expire December 31, 1994. This appointment is to fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Hon. Thomas P. Amodeo to Chief Judge of Buffalo City Court. I also certify that based upon each appointee's education and experience, they are each fully qualified to fill the vacancies so stated. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 2 Appointment of Receptionist/Mayor I, Anthony M. Masiello, appoint to the position of Receptionist/Mayor effective February 9, 1994 in the Executive Department Ms. Bernadette Ricks, 195 Anderson Place, Buffalo, New York 14222 at a starting salary of $23,938. Ms. Ricks has four years of experience in the Receptionist Field and maintains many excellent qualities which makes her most qualified for this position. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 3 Appointment of Confidential Aide to Mayor Pursuant to the provisions of Section 441 of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, I transmit herewith for filing the following certificate of appointment. Pursuant to the power vested in me under the provisions of Section 71 of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, I hereby certify that I have appointed James W. Burns, 175 Admiral Rd., Buffalo, New York 14216 as Confidential Aide to the Mayor on a temporary hourly basis in the Executive Department of the City of Buffalo effective February 9, 1994. By virtue of Mr. Burns' extensive experience as Budget Director and Commissioner of Administration and Finance and his proven dedication to the provision of service of the highest quality, I hereby certify the Mr. Burns is well qualified to discharge the duties of Confidential Aide to the Mayor in the office of the Mayor. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 4 Appointment of Member of Buffalo Municipal Water Finance Authority Under the authority granted me by Section 1048-C of title two-B of Article five of the Public Authorities Law, I hereby appoint, subject to confirmation by Your Honorable Body, Joseph Makowski, residing at 194 Huntington Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214 to the position of member effective January 1, 1994 for a term expiring December 31, 1995. Mr. Makowski will replace Marie F. Currie whose term has expired. I hereby certify that Joseph Makowski is fully qualified to serve as a member of the Board of Directors of the Buffalo Municipal Water Finance Authority. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. FROM THE MAYOR - EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT FROM THE CITY PLANNING BOARD No. 5 M. Mohsin, 471 E. Ferry St. Item No. 77, C.C.P., 2/8/94 The City Planning Board at its regular meeting held Tuesday, February 15, 1994 considered the above petition pursuant to section 511-68.1 of the Buffalo Code (Hamlin Park Overlay Review District). The applicant seeks to erect a (26 foot by 60 foot) metal canopy over existing gas pumps. Under S.E.Q.R. the proposed canopy is considered a Type II action. The City Planning Board voted to approve the requested metal canopy. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 6 K. China, 478-484 Elmwood Ave. Item No. 79, C.C.P., 2/8/94 The City Planning Board at its regular meeting held Tuesday, February 15, 1994, considered the above petition pursuant to sections 413-59 (Sidewalk Cafes) and 511-56 (Elmwood Ave. Business District) of the Buffalo Code. The applicant seeks to expand his restaurant business with the placement of a (6 foot by 15 foot) sidewalk cafe in the right-of-way. Under S.E.Q.R. the proposed expansion is considered a Type II action. The Planning Board voted to approve the requested sidewalk cafe with the following conditions: 1. that the Department of Public Works review and approve the encroachment of city right-of-way 2. the sidewalk cafe must close by 11:00 p.m. 3. no outside music 4. no outside trash receptacles. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. No. 7 Rich Marina - 23 Austin St. Item No. 80, C.C.P., 2/8/94 The City Planning Board at its regular meeting held Tuesday, February 15, 1994 considered the above petition pursuant to section 511-68 (Niagara River Coastal Special Review District) of the Buffalo Code. The applicant seeks to construct a (36 foot by 25 foot) building for use by boaters of Rich Marina. The building will house restroom and shower facilities. After much discussion about the lack of access to the foot of Austin Street and Hertel Avenue, the City Planning Board voted to approve the requested restroom and shower facilities. Under S.E.Q.R., the proposed building is considered an unlisted action requiring uncoordinated review. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. No. 8 Nardin Academy, 135 Cleveland Ave. Item No. 91, C.C.P., December 28, 1993 The City Planning Board at its regular meeting held Tuesday, February 15, 1994, considered the above petition pursuant to section 387-19 (Application for billboard, ground sign, or pole sign permit). The applicant seeks to place an illuminated (4 foot by 8 foot) ground "ID" sign entirely on private property. The property is located in a "R1" zone which prohibits such signs. The applicant has requested a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals. The City Planning Board voted no objection to the proposed sign. Under S.E.Q.R. the proposed sign is a Type II action. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. FROM THE BOARD OF PARKING No. 9 Report of Bids - Skyway Lot No. 3 The current three year lease for the above stated surface parking lot is about to expire (former annual rental $60,606). The Board of Parking advertised for a new three year lease on February 4, 1994. The bids were received on February 16, 1994 in the office of the Board of Parking, 1801 City Hall at 11:00 a.m. and publicly read aloud. The results are as follows: OPERATOR ANNUAL BID Allright Parking Buffalo, Inc. $52,052.52 460 Statler Towers Buffalo, NY 14202 At this time, the Board of Parking would recommend a new three year lease be awarded to Allright Parking Buffalo Inc. with an annual rental payment of $52,052.52 be awarded. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND THE CORPORATION COUNSEL. FROM THE COMPTROLLER No. 10 Certificate of Necessity Transfer of Funds Common Council - Council members Common Council - Legislative We, Anthony M. Masiello, Mayor and Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller, do hereby certify, pursuant to Section 42 of the Charter, that it is necessary that the sums of $1,535, $1,535 and $9,210.60 be transferred and reappropriated from the Common Council -Legislative - Salary accounts for Councilmen Perla, Helfer and Collins respectively, as set forth below: The amounts to be transferred represent unexpended balances of items contained in the budget for the current fiscal year and will not be needed at this time for the purpose for which they were appropriated. Dated: Buffalo, NY, February 16, 1994 RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 11 Certificate of Necessity Transfer of Funds Parking Enforcement Parking Violations Bureau (salaries) Parking Enforcement Parking Meters/ Enforcement (salaries) Parking Enforcement Towing/ Storage 0perations (overtime) We, Anthony M. Masiello, Mayor and Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller, do hereby certify, pursuant to Section 42 of the Charter, that it is necessary that the sum of $17,000 be transferred and reappropriated from the Division of Parking Enforcement -- Parking Violations Bureau, as set forth below: Dated: Buffalo, NY, February 9, 1994 RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 12 Certificate of Necessity Transfer of Funds Division of Engineering -- Lighting of Streets Div. of Engineering-- Repair/Constr of Other Public Imps. We, Anthony M. Masiello, Mayor and Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller, do hereby certify, pursuant to Section 42 of the Charter, that it is necessary that the sum of $20,000 be transferred and reappropriated from the Division of Engineering -- Lighting of Streets, as set forth below: Dated: Buffalo, NY, February 10, 1994 RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 13 Certificate of Necessity Department of Police -- Management Services Bureau Department of Police -- Building and Fleet Maintenance We, Anthony M. Masiello, Mayor and Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller, do hereby certify, pursuant to Section 42 of the Charter, that it is necessary that the sum of $23,000 be transferred and reappropriated from the Department of Police -Management Services Bureau, as set forth below: Dated: Buffalo, NY, February 8, 1994 RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 14 Certificate of Determination $10,000,000 Bond Anticipation Note Sale CERTIFICATE OF DETERMINATION BY THE COMPTROLLER RELATIVE TO AUTHORIZATION SALE, ISSUANCE, FORM AND CONTENTS OF A $10,000,000 BOND ANTICIPATION NOTE-1994 (FEDERALLY TAXABLE) OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO, NEW YORK. The Bond Anticipation Note was sold at public sale to Chemical Securities Inc.. The Bond Anticipation Note will be dated February 15), 1994 and will bear interest at the rate of (4.00%) per annum, payable on August 16, 1994. The Bond Anticipation Note will be delivered and shall be paid for on or about February 15, 1994 in New York, New York. A Supplemental Official Statement may be obtained from the offices of the independent financial advisor to the City, Government Finance Associates, Inc. of New York, in New York City, at (212) 809-5700, or the office of the Comptroller, Room 1225 City Hall, Buffalo, New York, at (716) 851-5255. REFERRED TO THE AUDITORIUM AND STADIUM TASK FORCE. No. 15 Interfund Loan Over the last six years, the City has provided interfund loans from the City General Fund to The City, Board and Enterprise Capital Projects Funds to implement financing of the Capital Improvements Budget. The interfund loans are repaid when the Bond Anticipation Notes or Bonds are issued to finance these projects. As of today, we have two requests for money to finance projects and we will not reenter the bond market at this time. We just completed a bond sale on February 8, 1994. We are requesting that you approve interfund cash loans from the General Fund to the City Capital Projects Fund in the amount of $47,700 for the Reconstruction of the front steps of City Hall and the amount of 525,000 for the Reconstruction of 735 Humboldt. The loans will be repaid when Bond Anticipation Notes or Bonds are issued. From To Account Repayment Date Total 100 Gen 200 Cap Proj 200-402-012 BAN/Bond Sale $47,700 100 Gen 200 Cap Proj 200-402-091 BAN/Bond Sale $25,000 Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Comptroller, dated February 15, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Comptroller be, and he hereby is, authorized to make interfund cash loans from the General Fund to the Capital Projects Fund in the amount of $47,700 for the reconstruction of the front steps of City Hall and in the amount of $25,000 for the reconstruction of 735 Humboldt. The loans will be repaid when Bond Anticipation Notes or Bonds are issued. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 16 Monthly Overtime Usage Report Attached is the update of the Monthly Overtime Usage Report which reflects expenditures of overtime for all City departments. This report also projects overtime expenditures for the entire fiscal year (1993-94) based on current spending patterns. This report provides overtime expenditures as of 1/31/94. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 17 2nd Quarter Financial Report This is to advise that the following information for the City of Buffalo General Fund, has been filed with the City Clerk, the Office of the Common Council Chief of Staff, and the Budget Division: For the 2nd Quarter of the current Fiscal Year representing the months of October, November and December, 1993: 1. Balance Sheet 2. Summary of Revenues 3. Summary of Appropriation and Accounting Activity The Revenue report lists revenue by Department and Division within each Revenue source area. The Summary of appropriation and Accounting Activity lists appropriation, expenditure and encumbrance activity by department, division and function. This information is also available to all users of the on- line Accounting systems. This information is furnished in response to your request for quarterly financial data. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 18 Renewal Option - Lease Agreement Between The City of Buffalo And Council of Senior Citizen Clubs of Buffalo and Erie Item No. 17, C.C.P. 2/27/90 Your Honorable Body authorized the leasing of Room 221 Buffalo City Hall. This lease agreement was for a one (1) year period commencing April 1, 1993 and ending March 30, 1994. This office has received a request from the Council of Senior Citizen Clubs of Buffalo and Erie County, Inc., Mr. Anthony F. Montoro, Council President, to exercise their option to renew said lease for an additional one year period as stated in their lease agreement. The lessee has fully satisfied this requirement and has complied with all other provisions and terms of the lease. This office recommends Your Honorable Body approve the Council of Senior Citizen Clubs of Buffalo and Erie County's request to renew their lease for an additional one year term, commencing on April 1, 1994 and ending March 30, 1995. I am further recommending that Your Honorable Body authorized the Corporation Counsel to prepare the necessary lease renewal and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Comptroller, dated February 7, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Comptroller be, and he hereby is, authorized to renew the lease with between the City of Buffalo and Council of Senior Citizen Clubs of Buffalo and Erie for a one-year period, to commence on April 1, 1993 and ending on March 30, 1994, with the lessee to save the City harmless from any liability and to provide insurance therefore as set forth per Item No. 17, C.C.P., February 27, 1990. That the Corporation Counsel shall prepare the necessary lease renewal and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 19 Permission to Negotiate 640 Michigan (7' x 186') 251' N Michigan Assessed Value: $50 The Office of the Comptroller, Division of Real Estate, has received a request from Twins Partnership, 327 Elm Street, Thomas C. and Gerald A. Kyser, owners, Buffalo, New York, to purchase the above captioned property to square off their property. The Tax and Demolition Lien offices have been contacted and there are no taxes and/or no demolition liens owing. The Department of Community Development and Community Revitalization were also contacted and have no objections to a sale. Therefore, we are requesting permission to negotiate a private sale with Richard Lerczak and will report the results of our negotiation back to Your Honorable Body for final approval. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 20 Permission to Negotiate 95 Northampton (25' x 146') Assessed Valuation: $1,500 The Office of the Comptroller, Division of Real Estate, has received a request from Mrs. Louise T. Jackson, 97 Northampton to purchase the above property. She intends to fence in the parcel and provide a play area for her grandchildren. The Tax and Demolition Lien offices have been contacted and there are no taxes and/or no demolition liens owed by the purchaser. The Department of Community Development and Community Revitalization were also contacted and have no objections to a sale. Therefore, we are requesting permission to negotiate a private sale with Louise T. Jackson and will report the results of those negotiations back to Your Honorable Body for final approval. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Comptroller dated February 16, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Comptroller be, and he hereby is, authorized to negotiate with Mrs. Louise T. Jackson, 97 Northampton, for the private sale of 95 Northampton and report to this Honorable Body the results of such negotiations. ADOPTED. No. 21 Permission to Negotiate 174 Parade North (36' x 94') Assessed Valuation: $2,500 567 Fillmore (30' x 125') Assessed Valuation: $1,880 The Office of the Comptroller, Division of Real Estate, has received a request from National Fuel Gas to purchase the above properties. They intend to acquire for the purposes of constructing a regulator station to improve service to customers in the area. Therefore, we are requesting permission to negotiate a private sale with National Fuel Gas Corporation and report results of those negotiations back to Your Honorable Body for final approval. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Comptroller dated February 4, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Comptroller be, and he hereby is, authorized to negotiate with National Fuel Gas, for the private sale of 174 Parade North and 567 Fillmore and report to this Honorable Body the results of such negotiations. ADOPTED. No. 22 Permission to Negotiate 427 Wholers 35' x 105' (N cor Goulding) Assessed Value Land: $2,600 Assessed Value Total: $38,000 The Office of the Comptroller, Division of Real Estate, has received a request to acquire the vacant two (2) family home located at 427 Wholers. Community Action is requesting to purchase this property "as is". The property consists of a frame two and one half (2 1/2) story, two (2) family dwelling. Community Action Organization intends to purchase, rehabilitate and market this home to a low income family. This office is requesting permission to negotiate a private sale with Community Action Organization for sale of the above mentioned property and will report the results of our negotiation back to Your Honorable Body for final approval. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Comptroller dated February 9, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Comptroller be, and he hereby is, authorized to negotiate with Community Action, for the private sale of 427 Wohlers and report to this Honorable Body the results of such negotiations. ADOPTED. No. 23 Permission To Negotiate 2175 Fillmore 30' N Leroy Lot Size: 50'x1l5' Assessed Valuation: $2,900 149 Jewett 120' E Fillmore Vacant Single Home Lot 31' Assessed Valuation $28,200 The Office of the Comptroller, Division of Real Estate, has received a request from Ellicott Development Company, to purchase the above two (2) parcels. 2175 Fillmore consists of a vacant lot acquired by the City of Buffalo through tax foreclosure. 149 Jewett consists of a vacant one and a half (1 1/2) story single family home in poor condition. Ellicott Development Company intends to purchase these City parcels in conjunction with the former Leroy Pharmacy located at 2185 North Fillmore to construct a new Rite Aid Pharmacy. The Departments of Community Development and Community Revitalization have been contacted and they have no objections to the sale of the two (2) parcels. The Tax, Demolition and Collections Departments have been contacted and there are no outstanding liens owed by the purchaser. I am recommending that Your Honorable Body authorize the office of the Comptroller to negotiate a private sale and report the results of our negotiations back to Your Honorable Body for final approval. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 24 Results of Negotiations 383 High St S 100' W Jefferson Vacant Lot: 25' x 100' Assess Valuation: $11,000 Land Item # 10, C.C.P. 5/11/93 In the above referenced item Your Honorable Body authorized the Office of the Comptroller, Division of Real Estate, to negotiate a private sale with Sylvia Renee Williams, 135 Rose street, Buffalo, NY 14212 to purchase the above captioned property Ms. Williams owns the home at 133 Rose street and adjoins 383 High Street at the rear. She intends to use this additional lot for extra yard area. An independent appraisal of the property was conducted by Mr. James White, Appraiser, 537 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo, New York 14208. He has estimated the fair market value of the property to be Seven Hundred and Fifty Dollars. This represents approximately $.30 a square foot. The Division of Real Estate has investigated the sales of similar properties in the area. Sale prices range from $.36 a square foot to $.50 a square foot, indicating a value of $900 to $1,200 for the subject property. The results of our negotiations are that Sylvia Williams has agreed and is prepared to pay Nine Hundred ($900) for the subject property. She has also agreed to pay for the cost of the appraisal, transfer tax, recording fees and cost of the legal description. I am recommending that Your Honorable Body authorize the sale of 383 High Street to Ms. Sylvia Williams in the amount of Nine Hundred Dollars ($900). I am further recommending that Your Honorable Body authorize the Corporation Counsel to prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Comptroller, dated December 29, 1993, be received and filed; and That the offer of Ms. Sylvia Renee Williams, 135 Rose Street, in the sum of $900.00 (Nine Hundred Dollars) to purchase the property described as 383 High Street, be and hereby is accepted; and That the Corporation Counsel shall prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same, in accordance with the terms of sale upon which the bid was submitted, provided, however, That the appraisal requested by the City of Buffalo shall be paid by the purchaser; and That the transfer tax, recording fees and cost of legal description shall be paid by the purchaser. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 25 Results of Negotiations 46 Metcalfe, 445' N Clinton Lot Size: 106' x 300' Assessed Valuation: Land:$ 26,300 Total: $182,300 This Office through the Division of Real Estate has received a Twenty-Three Thousand Dollars ($23,000) offer from Mr. Jeffrey W. Joy and Margaret h/w, residing at 4179 Harlem Road, Snyder, New York 14226. The above property consists of a 3 story, brick warehouse structure consisting of 42,000 sq. ft. of space. The property was acquired by the City of Buffalo through Tax Foreclosure in October of 1993. The property is approximately 60 years old and is in fair condition. An independent appraisal of the property was commissioned by the Division of Real Estate. Mr. George Ladori, Pirritano Appraisal, Inc., 745 Center Road, West Seneca, New York 14224 has submitted an appraisal estimating the fair market value of the property to be Thirty-One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($31,500). This represents a value of Seventy-Five Cents (.75) a sq. ft., gross building area. The Division of Real Estate has reviewed the sales of similar properties in the area, gross building area sales prices range from Fifty-Eight Cents (.58) a sq. ft. to a Dollar Ninety-Three ($1.93) a sq. ft. The results of our negotiations are that Mr. & Mrs. Joy have agreed and are prepared to pay Twenty-Three Thousand Dollars ($23,000) for the subject property. This represents approximately Fifty-Five Cents (.55) per sq. ft. of gross building area. They have also agreed to pay for their own search and survey, title report, recording fees, transfer tax, and cost of the legal description. Although, the Twenty-Three Thousand Dollars ($23,000) offered by the Joy's is less than the Thirty-One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($31,500) estimated by the appraiser, I am recommending that Your Honorable Body approve the sale for the following reasons: 1. Because the property contains a water sprinkling system for fire protection and a tenant, utilities had to be maintained. Utility costs are averaging approximately Twelve Hundred Dollars ($1,200) per month. 2. The Division of Real Estate has had no other substantial offers for the property. Therefore, I am recommending that Your Honorable Body approve the sale of 46 Metcalfe to Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey W. Joy in the amount of Twenty-Three Thousand Dollars ($23,000). I am further recommending that Your Honorable Body authorize the Corporation Counsel to prepare the necessary documents for transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 26 Results of Negotiations 57 Parkridge, 546.64' N Kensington Lot Size: 30' x 112' Assessed Valuation: Land:$ 4,100 Total:$ 6,900 The Office of the Comptroller, Division of Real Estate, has received a request from Ms. Patsy Jacob, 29-B Ridge Trail, Glenwood, New York 14069, to acquire the above property. The above property consists of a vacant lot 30' x 112' which is improved with a 2 car garage. Ms. Jacob acquired the property at 61 Parkridge at the In-Rem Tax Foreclosure Auction held in October of 1993. The property located at 57 Parkridge is the garage for 61 Parkridge and was auctioned as a separate parcel and struck to the City, since there were no bidders. The amount of taxes owed against 57 Parkridge were in the amount of Twelve Hundred and Sixty-Six Dollars and Seventy-Six Cents ($1,266.76). Ms. Patsy Jacob has offered Eighteen Hundred Dollars ($1,800) for the parcel. She has also agreed to pay for the cost of the recording fees, transfer tax and cost of the legal description. Since the 30' lot with garage has a minimal market value, as a separate parcel, I am recommending that Your Honorable Body approve the offer of Ms. Patsy Jacob in the amount of Fifteen Hundred Dollars ($1,500). I am further recommending that Your Honorable Body authorize the Corporation Counsel to prepare the necessary documents for transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Comptroller, dated February 17, 1994, be received and filed; and That the offer of Ms. Patsy Jacob, 29-B Ridge Trial, Glenwood, New York 14069, in the sum of $1,500.00 (One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars) to purchase the property described as 57 Parkridge, be and hereby is accepted; and That the Corporation Counsel shall 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 bid was submitted, provided, however, That the appraisal requested by the City of Buffalo shall he paid by the purchaser; and That the transfer tax, recording fees and cost of legal description shall be paid by the purchaser. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 27 Convey 717 Sherman Item No. 66 C.C.P. 1/11/94 The above item was referred to the Committee on Finance, Corporation Counsel and this office for a response. The item is a resolution that, if passed, by the Common Council, would "direct the Corporation Counsel and the Division of Real Estate to take whatever steps necessary" for the former owner to reclaim the property. The subject property is a vacant lot 30' with an irregular depth and was acquired by the City of Buffalo through In-Rem Tax Foreclosure No. 26, 10/25/93. The former owner of the property was Cornelius Harris and wife, living at 719 Sherman Street. The amount of taxes owed at the time of the tax foreclosure were $76.66. This amount represented 3 years City tax. There were also, one year County tax in the amount of $6.00 and $300 in-rem fees. The property was not bid for at the auction and subsequently struck to the City of Buffalo for disposition. The property had been in tax arrears since the 1989-90 tax year. On 1/31/92 a payment was made in the amount of $33 to avoid foreclosure for in-rem 25. No other payments had been made, since that time. It is the policy of this office not to negotiate with or sell property back to former owners of property acquired through tax foreclosure. The most compelling reason for this policy is that the result of the tax foreclosure, in most instances, would discharge secured liens against the property where the property was used as security, i.e. the property is used to secure a mortgage. However, in certain circumstances, Your Honorable Body has approved the sale of tax foreclosed property to the former owner or the tax sale reversed, when the full payment of taxes, penalties and interest have been agreed to by the former owners. Based on the information provide so far, this office does not recommend the sale or transfer of the property back to the former owner. However, if there was some confusion over the payment of the taxes, the item should be referred to the tax office for clarification. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 28 Subsidy Grant - 774 Northampton Item No. 74, C.C.P. 1/25/94 The above item was referred to the Committee on Finance and this office for a response. The item is a letter from Renee' Jackson inquiring about the lots located at 724 - 726 Northampton, owned by the City of Buffalo and the City's home subsidy and Block Grant Program. The lots at 724 - 726 Northampton are owned by the City of Buffalo and are available for sale. The subsidize housing and use of C.D.B.G. funds are administered by the Department of Inspection and Community Revitalization. Therefore, I am recommending that the item be forwarded to the Department of Inspection and Community Revitalization for review and/or recommendation. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 29 Tifft Street Bridge Land Acquisitions, Parcels 14 & 21 Item No. 35, C.C.P. 4/28/92 In the above referenced item Your Honorable Body authorized the Office of the Comptroller, Division of Real Estate, to negotiate for various parcels of land along Tifft Street for the new Tifft Street Bridge. The parcels have been deemed necessary to be acquire in fee, by the Commissioner of Transportation, New York State, for purposes connected with the road system of the City of Buffalo, County of Erie, State of New York, pursuant to the Emanate Domain Procedure Law. Funds for the acquisition of the Tifft Street parcels are to be provided from Bond Fund Account #200-401-012. Through negotiations an agreement to purchase has been reached with the owner, LTV Steel Company, 25 West Prospect Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, for Parcel #14, Map 9 and Parcel #21, Map 15-D. Parcel #14 consists of approximately 14,470 square feet or 0.332 acre, more or less. Parcel #21 consists of approximately 25,124 square feet or 0.577 acre, more or less. LTV Corporation has agreed to sell both parcels to the City of Buffalo for Two Thousand One Hundred and Seventy-One Dollars ($2,171). The City conducted two independent appraisals of the properties. Mr. Howard W. Hamilton, Jr., Appraiser, has submitted an appraisal in the amount of Nineteen Hundred Dollars ($1,900) for the subject properties. A second appraisal was submitted by Walter R. Allen, Appraiser, in the amount of Thirty-Four Hundred and Twenty Dollars ($3,420). The results of our negotiations are that LTV Corporation has agreed to sell the aforementioned parcels to the City of Buffalo in the amount of Twenty-One Hundred Seventy-One Dollars ($2,171). The City has agreed, at its sole cost and expense, to pay for the Title Report, recording fees, transfer taxes, settlement fees and revenue stamp fees. I am recommending that Your Honorable Body authorize this office to acquire Parcel #14, Map 9 and Parcel #21, Map 15-D from LTV Corporation in the amount of Twenty-One Hundred and Seventy-One Dollars ($2,171). I am further recommending that the Corporation Counsel be authorized to prepare the necessary documents to obtain title to the aforementioned parcels and that the Comptroller be authorized to execute the same. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Comptroller, dated February 15, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Comptroller he, and he hereby is authorized to acquire Parcel #14, Map 9 and Parcel #21, Map 15-D from LTV Corporation, in the amount of $2,171.00 (Two Thousand One Hundred and Seventy One Dollars); and That funds for the acquisition of the Tifft Street parcels as more fully described above, are to be provided from Bond Fund Account #200-401-012; and That the Corporation Counsel shall prepare the necessary documents to obtain title to the aforementioned parcels and that the Comptroller he authorized to execute the same. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 30 Certificate of Appointment Appointment effective January 27, 1994 in the Department of Audit and Control, Division of Data Processing, Janet Reyes, 242 Gorton St., Buffalo 14207 to the position of Data Processing Equipment Operator, Provisional at the intermediate starting salary of $22,788. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL No. 31 Appointment Member CATV Committee I am adding Mr. David A. Czajka to the CATV Committee, effective immediately. Mr. Czajka is a former member of the Citizen's Board and I am certain that he will bring valuable expertise to this very important Committee. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 32 Appt. Citizen Salary Review Committee This is to officially notify you that I have appointed Mr. William O'Grady as a member of the Citizen Salary Review Committee. Mr. O'Grady presently works for Smith, Barney and Shearson at One Fountain Plaza. His term will expire December 31, 1996. For the record, the other two members representing the Council on the Citizen Salary Review Committee are, Mr. Angelo Sedita and Warren Galloway. This appointment is to take affect immediately. I am notifying the Mayor and the Comptroller, so that they may also make their new appointment and that the Committee will be able to convene and report its findings to us by the first of the month. RECEIVED AND FILED. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF ASSESSMENT No. 33 Certiorari Proceedings Fiscal Years 1992-93 and 1993-94 Benchmark 325 Delaware Associates 325 Delaware Avenue This is to advise that the owner, Benchmark 325 Delaware Associates, has instituted certiorari proceedings on 325 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, New York regarding the assessments for the fiscal year 1992-93 (taxable status date December l, 1991) the fiscal year 1993-94 (taxable status date December 1, 1992). The assessments were reviewed by the Department and the owner expressed a willingness to settle the proceedings. The final assessments for the two fiscal years were as follows: Fiscal Year Land Total 1992-93 $858,500 $5,500,000 1993-94 698,600 2,900,000 The city taxes on 325 Delaware Avenue are currently unpaid. As of March 31, 1994, the property owner will owe $303,679.88 in taxes and interest for 1992-93 and $117,256.64 for 1993-94. The owner is agreeable to a settlement which would result in a reduction in assessment to $1,500,000 for each year. The taxes owing by March 31, 1994 including interest, would be $82,821.67 for 1992-93 and $60,649.94 for 1993-94. Based on a review of the current market value of the property, I feel this settlement would be in the best interests of the City. I therefore recommend this settlement, in which the Department of Law concurs. The proposed settlement is subject to the approval of Your Honorable Body. I hereby request that the Corporation Counsel be authorized and directed to settle the 1992-93 certiorari proceeding on 325 Delaware Avenue by reducing the assessment from $5,500,000 to $1,500,000 and to settle the 1993-94 certiorari proceeding by reducing the assessment from $2,900,000 to $1,500,000. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS No. 34 Monthly Report of Licenses Issued in January 1994 I am respectfully submitting the enclosed report of licenses issued in the month of January 1994 by the Division of Licenses. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 35 Extension of Contract No. 91742300 Construction of New 8" Watermain Gibson Street Visone Construction, Inc. In accordance with the terms of the contract between the City of Buffalo and Visone Construction, Inc. City Contract No. 91742300 the work called for in this contract was scheduled to be completed by March 12, 1994. The contractor has requested an extension in this contract due to the unexpected days of negative digit cold temperatures which resulted in his being unable to work. Accordingly, I have granted an extension of time in the contract with Visone Construction, Inc. The new completion date for this contract is April 12, 1994. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 36 Extension of City Contract 91719600 Waterline Replacement - Various Streets Kandey Company, Inc. In accordance with the terms of the contract between the City of Buffalo and Kandey Company, Inc. City Contract No. 91719600, Waterline Replacement Various Streets, the work called for in this contract was scheduled to be completed by January 18, 1994. The contractor has requested an extension in this contract due to the late season weather and asphalt plant closings making it impossible to permanently restore the remaining work on Rugby Road. Accordingly, I have granted an extension of time in the contract with Kandey Company, Inc. The new completion date for this contract is May 15, 1994. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 37 Great Lakes United Requirements to hang banner across Elmwood Avenue near Buffalo State College Item No. 188, C.C.P., 02-16-94 This is in response to C.C.P. #188 of February 8, 1994. The Department of Public Works Engineering Division has no objection to Great Lakes United hanging a banner over Elmwood Avenue in the vicinity Buffalo State College provided the following conditions are met: -The banner must be made of fabric that allows air to flow through it. -The bottom of the banner must be at least 14 feet 6 inches above every portion of the street below it. -The banner cannot be hung from a traffic signal pole and must not interfere with the visibility of any traffic signal. -If the banner is to be secured to street light standards, the exact location and number of street light standards to be utilized must be supplied to the Street Lighting Office, Room 501 City Hall. This information must be supplied at least two (2) weeks prior to the erection of the banner. -The banner must be tied down in a secure manner so that it will not "come loose" at any time during the period for which it will be hung. -A bond, and insurance naming the City of Buffalo as additional insured, in the amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) must be filed with the City before the banner can be hung. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 38 Notification Serial #8335 Install No Standing North Side of W. Utica Street (Near Linwood Avenue) NO STANDING - INSTALL In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 20 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by installing therefrom the following: NO STANDING PUBLIC HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PORTION OF HIGHWAY W. Utica Street, north side from a point 15' west of the east edge of building (#333 Linwood Ave.) to a point 30' east therefrom. This ordinance is being implemented to provide a safe area for loading and unloading of elderly wheelchair-bound persons to the Linwood Elderly Housing Building. Notification Serial #8336 Install Alternate Parking-Type I Seward Street between South Ogden St. and Fenton St. No Parking (Alternate Parking - Type I) - Install In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 24 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: No Parking PROHIBITED PRTN HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PD DAILY Seward Street, north side 4 p.m. Wednesday to between S. Ogden St. and Fenton St. 4 p.m. Sunday Seward Street, south side 4 p.m. Sunday to between S. Ogden St. and Fenton St. 4 p.m. Wednesday Currently there are no parking restrictions on Seward. This thoroughfare is 24' wide and allows parking on both sides of the street at all times. Emergency vehicles are nearly prevented from entering this street due to the parking situation. This ordinance will alleviate this problem and still allow adequate on-street parking for residents of the area. Notification Serial #8337 Install No Standing Forest Avenue NO STANDING - INSTALL In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 20 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: NO STANDING PUBLIC HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PRTN OF HIGHWAY Forest Avenue from west curb line of Richmond north side Ave to a point 125' west therefrom. Notification Serial #8338 Install No Standing Forest Avenue NO STANDING - INSTALL In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 20 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: NO STANDING PUBLIC HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PRTN OF HIGHWAY Forest Avenue from east curb line of Elmwood Ave north side to a point 170' east therefrom. Notification Serial #8339 Install No Standing Forest Avenue NO STANDING - INSTALL In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 20 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: NO STANDING PUBLIC HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PRTN OF HIGHWAY Forest Avenue from east curb line of Richmond Ave south side to a point 145' east therefrom. Notification Serial #8340 Repeal of Permissive Parking on Forest Avenue - North Side Various Locations PERMISSIVE PARKING- REPEAL In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 25 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by repealing therefrom the following: Permissive Parking PERMISSIVE PKG LOCATION PD PERMISSIVE PKG DAILY Forest Avenue, North side 2 hour parking 7a.m. - 7 p.m. between a point 160' east Except Sunday of Niagara Street and a point 75' west of the center line of Fire Engine Company No. 19 entrance extended. Forest Avenue, north side 2 hour parking 7a.m. - 7p.m. between Grant Street and a Except Sunday point 50' east of the center line of Fire Engine Company No. 19 entrance extended. This action is being taken to update our records with current restrictions. Notification Serial #8341 Repeal of Permissive Parking on Forest Avenue - South Side Various Locations PERMISSIVE PARKING - REPEAL In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 25 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by repealing therefrom the following: Permissive Parking PERMISSIVE PKG LOCATION PD PERMISSIVE PKG DAILY Forest Avenue, south side 2 hour parking 7a.m. - 7 p.m. between a point 150' east Except Sunday of Niagara Street and a point 125' west of the east curb line of Dart Street extended Forest Avenue, south side 2 hour parking 7a.m. - 7p.m. between east curb line of Dart Except Sunday St extended and a point 31' west of the center line of Fire Engine Company No. 19 entrance Forest Avenue, south side 2 hour parking 7a.m. - 7p.m. between Grant St and a point Except Sunday 64' east of the center line of Fire Engine Company No. 19 entrance Notification Serial #8342 Repeal of No Standing Zone on Forest Avenue NO STANDING - REPEAL In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 22 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by repealing therefrom the following: NO STANDING PROHIBITED PRTN OF HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PD DAILY Forest Avenue, south side 4p.m. - 6p.m. between Elmwood Avenue Except Sat & Sunday and Ashland Avenue The current prohibited standing period is being repealed to update our records. Notification Serial #8343 Repeal of No Standing Zones on Forest Avenue Various Locations NO STANDING - REPEAL In conformity with Section 49 of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the City Engineer hereby notifies your Honorable Body of this action supplementing, amending, or repealing existing provisions of Chapter 479 of the Ordinances, as stated below, to be effective forty five days after the first Council meeting at which they appear on the agenda as an item business. That that part of Subdivision 20 of Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by repealing therefrom the following: NO STANDING PUBLIC HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PRTN OF HIGHWAY Forest Ave, south side from the east curb line of Dart St. extended and a point 85' west therefrom. Forest Avenue, north side from a point 40' west of the west curb line of Parkdale Ave extended and a point 100' east therefrom. Forest Avenue, north side between points 45' west and 105' east of the east curb line of Baynes Street extended. Forest Avenue, north side from the west curb line of Clarendon Place extended to a point 125' east therefrom. The current no standing restriction is being repealed to update our records. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 39 Job Specs. - Change - Water Dispatcher Item No. 46, C.C.P. 11/03/93 Item No. 73, C.C.P. 11/03/93 Please be advised it is the Division of Water's contention that it is not imperative for Dispatchers to have the ability to type at a rate of 20 words per minute as originally determined by the Civil Service Commission. However, they should be able to type the daily work reports, billing working, maintaining records and any other miscellaneous clerical duties that are required on their particular eight hour shift. The Dispatcher should also have the ability to operate a computer terminal to input and retrieve information. The Division of Water requested the Civil Service Commission to delete the timed typing requirement of 20 words per minute. We have also requested the Civil Service Commission to add the statement "May be required to operate a typewriter for typing reports" to the Typical Work Activities requirements for Dispatcher. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. No. 40 1237 Genesee - Le'Club Etcetera Res. #164, C.C.P. 2/8/94 On August 12, 1993, Pasquale LoPatriello, License Inspector, initiated court action against William J. Murray for violation of City Ordinances, under Chapters 75, 370, 387 and 363.23. On October 22, 1993, Mr. Murray came into compliance with all the charges except Chapter 387, "Electric Sign (Unlicensed)". The charge was dismissed when Mr. Murray decided not to keep the electric sign. On Count II, Chapter 370, Mr. Murray applied for a restaurant license on August 30, 1993, predisposing the following: Aug. 31, 1993 - referral slips were sent to the Fire, Buildings, Plumbing, Electrical and Health Departments Oct. 22, 1993 - No entry slip returned by Plumbing Oct. 25, 1993 - No entry letter sent to Mr. Murray Nov. 22, 1993 - Duplicate slip sent to Plumbing Nov. 29, 1993 - Disapproved by Plumbing for violations Dec. 3, 1993 - Disapproval letter sent to Mr. Murray for Plumbing Dec. 13, 1993 - No entry-slip returned by Fire Dec. 14, 1993 - No entry letter sent to Mr. Murray Jan. 12, 1994 - Duplicate slip sent to Fire Jan. 24, 1994 - Duplicate slip sent to Plumbing Jan. 26, 1994 - No entry letter sent again per Plumbing Jan. 27, 1994 - Mr. Murray was given a stop order to cease and desist all operation by the Director of Licenses, Donald O. Allen Jan. 31, 1994 - No entry letter sent to Mr. Murray Feb. 3, 1994 - Location approved by Fire As of February 10, 1994 we are currently waiting the inspection reports from Buildings, Health, Plumbing and Electrical. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 41 484 Elmwood Avenue Requests Permission to Install Sidewalk cafe Mr. Kala China, of the Taste of India restaurant, located at 484 Elmwood Avenue, has requested permission to install a sidewalk cafe which would encroach city right of way at said address. The proposed cafe would measure 15 feet in length and project 6 feet from the building face into city right of way. The Department of Public Works has reviewed Mr. China's application pursuant to chapter 413 Section 59 (Sidewalk cafes) of the city Ordinances and has no objection to Your Honorable Body authorizing the Commissioner of Public Works to issue a "Mere License" for installation of said sidewalk cafe 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 sidewalk cafe be installed exactly as shown on plans submitted to and approved by the Department of Public Works, Division of Buildings. 3. That the sidewalk cafe does not exceed 15 feet in length or extend more than 6 feet from the building face. 4. That no portion of the sidewalk cafe be permanent in nature or permanently affixed to the main building or public sidewalk. 5. That the sidewalk cafe be completely removed from city right of way from November 15 to April l each year. 6. That the applicant be assessed the annual fee of two dollars per square foot of city right of way occupied by said sidewalk cafe as described in Chapter 413 Article IX Section 59 (Sidewalk Cafes) of the City Ordinances. 7. That the applicant supply the City of Buffalo with a Five Thousand Dollar ($5,000.00) 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 sidewalk cafe. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. No. 42 Pedestrian and Bicycle Comprehensive Safety Program The city of Buffalo has applied for and been offered, for the second consecutive year, a grant from the New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. This year's grant is in the amount of $93,368. With this grant the City would enter into contract agreement with a project director who would coordinate a pedestrian and bicycle comprehensive safety program. The grant will reimburse the City for the director's cost, along with partial reimbursement for the services of Police officers and an in-house engineer. I respectfully request Your Honorable Body's authorization to accept this grant from the State, and to enter into agreement with Ms. Francina Cartonia, 243 Siegfried Dr., Williamsville, to provide the services of the project director at a base cost of $44,000 per year plus 33% fringe benefits. The directors salary will be reimbursed by the State under the terms of the grant. Ms. Cartonia was chosen as the director because of her prior experience working on similar projects for the City of Buffalo and the County of Erie. Ms. Cartonia was also the developer of the grant proposal and shepherd of its approval by the State. In addition to the directors salary this grant will also reimburse the City for services of various police and engineering personnel, as well as administrative costs. The City could realize as much as $34,848 in revenue. We also respectfully request that Your Honorable Body authorize the Comptroller to provide an inter fund cash loan in the amount of the grant. The loan would be repaid as reimbursements are received from the State of New York. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Department of Public Works dated February 14, 1994 be received and filed; and That the Commissioner of Public Works be and he hereby is authorized to accept a grant from the New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee in the amount of $93,368 for a pedestrian and bicycle comprehensive safety program; and That the Commissioner of Public Works be authorized to enter into an agreement with Ms. Francina Cartonia, 243 Siegfried Drive, Williamsville, to provide the services of project director at a base cost of $44,000 per year plus 33% fringe benefits; and That the Comptroller be and hereby is authorized to provide an interfund cash loan in the amount of the grant, to be repaid as reimbursements are received from the State of New York. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 43 Permission to Engage Consultant Engineering Services 118 East Utica Street Facade Collapse I respectfully request Your Honorable Body's permission to engage a Structural Engineer to perform engineering services relative to the roof steel support and masonry facade restoration at the Carnevale Center, 118 East Utica Street. Funds for this consultant are available in Capital Project Fund 200-402-085 and are not to exceed $3,200.00. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Department of Public Works dated February 1, 1994 be received and filed; and That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is authorized to engage a Structural Engineer to perform engineering services relative to the roof steel support and masonry facade restoration at Carnevale Center, 118 East Utica Street with said costs to be charged to Capital Project Fund 200-402-085 and are not to exceed $3,200.00. ADOPTED. No. 44 Permission to Engage Consultant Front Park Master Plan I respectfully request Your Honorable Body's permission to engage a Consultant to prepare a Master Plan for Front Park. Funds for this project will be available with a $50, 000 donation from the Peace Bridge Authority. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 45 Report of Emergency Repairs 36 Inch Transmission Main Seventh Street The Division of Water accepted informal bids for the emergency repair of a section of an existing 36 inch transmission main along with a section of sewer line in Seventh Street between Virginia Street and Maryland Street. The informal bids were opened February 7, 1994 at 11:00 a.m. in Room 107 City Hall. Kandey Company, Inc., 19 Ransier Drive, West Seneca, New York was the lowest responsible bidder with their quote of $44,436.60. They were authorized to proceed with the work under Division of Water's Service Order No. 11138700. The repairs had to be made as quickly as possible to this transmission main as there were many consumers in the area without any water or sewer lines. Some of the residents in that area had to be put up in hotels until a new section of sewer line is replaced as well as the transmission main repaired and new service laterals installed. This watermain break also destroyed the street and it will have to be restored in the spring. At this time we do not know the amount of money required to complete the street reconstruction work in this area. I therefore request your Honorable Body's immediate approval of the action I have taken. Funds for this work are available in the Division of Water's Capital Projects Reserve account. We will ask the Division of Budget to transfer the necessary money into Division of Water's 015-00-561 account to pay the contractor. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Department of Public Works, dated February 9, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized to award a contract for repair of a section of 36 inch transmission main in Seventh Street between Virginia and Maryland Street to Kandey Company, Inc., 19 Ransier Drive, West Seneca, New York, the lowest responsible bidder in the amount of $44,436.60, with said cost to be charged against the Division of Water's 015-00-561 Capital Project Reserve Account. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 46 Report of Bids Cleaning and Cement Lining Watermains - Porter and Jersey Avenue As authorized by your Honorable Body in Item No. 33 of April 27, 1993 plans and specifications were prepared and sealed proposals accepted for Cleaning and Cement Lining of 60" x 48" Watermains on Porter Avenue and Jersey Street, Contract No. 22. I submit the following report of all bids received which were opened in my office at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 2, 1994: TOTAL AMOUNT OF BID Firstrhyme Construction Corp., Inc. 3517 Genesee Street Buffalo, New York 14225 $1,059,236.00 Spiniello Construction, Inc. Airport Park 35 Airport Road Morristown, New Jersey 07962 $1,297,700.00 Nichter Construction Company, Inc. 344 Vulcan Street Buffalo, New York 14207 $1,372,915.00 Kandey Company 19 Ransier Drive West Seneca, New York 14224 $1,488,701.00 Paul J. Gallo Contracting, Inc. PO Box 453 East Amherst, New York 14051 $1,521,370.00 I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct statement of all bids received and that Firstrhyme Construction Corp., Inc., 3517 Genesee Street, Buffalo, New York is the lowest responsible bidder for the Cleaning and Cement Lining 60" and 48" Watermains on Porter Avenue and Jersey Street, Contract No. 22, with their combined total bid of $1,059,236.00. I respectfully request that your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public Works to enter into a contract with Firstrhyme Construction Corp., Inc. for the above work in the amount of $1,059,236.00 and same be charged to the Division of Water's 416-982-008-00-000 account. The Engineer's estimate for this work was $1,813,000. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 47 Report of Bids Cleaning and Lining Watermains Combined Contract 21A and 21B As authorized by your Honorable Body in Item No. 31 of April 27, 1993 plans and specifications were prepared and sealed proposals accepted for Cleaning and Cement Lining approximately 13,250 l.f. of existing cast iron watermains from Delaware Avenue to Elmwood Avenue in Cleveland Ave., Auburn Ave., Lancaster St., Lafayette Avenue, St. James Place, Delavan Ave., Cleveland Pl., and Melbourne Pl., Combined Contract No. 21A and 21B. I submit the following report of all bids received which were opened in my office at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 2, 1994: TOTAL AMOUNT OF BID Creamer Brothers, Inc. 101 East Broadway Hackensack, New Jersey 07601-6846 $1,178,570.00 Nichter Construction Company, Inc. 344 Vulcan Street Buffalo, New York 14207 $1,356,306.00 Spiniello Construction, Inc. Airport Park 35 Airport Road Morristown, New Jersey 07962 $1,413,740.00 Paul J. Gallo Contracting, Inc. PO Box 453 East Amherst, New York $1,542,765.00 Kandey Company, Inc. 19 Ransier Drive West Seneca, New York 14224 $1,816,759.75 I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct statement of all bids received and that Creamer Brothers, Inc., 101 East Broadway, Hackensack, New Jersey is the lowest responsible bidder for the Cleaning and Cement Lining of Watermains, Combined Contract No. 21A and 21B with their combined total bid of $1,178,570.00. I respectfully request that your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public Works to enter into a contract with Creamer Brothers, Inc. for the above work in the amount of $1,178,570.00 and same be charged to the Division of Water's 416-982-013-00-000 account. The Engineer's estimate for this work was $ 1,280,000. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 48 Reduction in Retention New Windows and Doors Carnevale Center Installation of the New Doors and Windows at the Carnevale Center, 118 East Utica Street have been complete for over Six (6) months. We are awaiting a repair to one of the windows damaged by the facade collapse. It is respectfully requested that retention be reduced from the current 10% to 1% for this particular contract: Marcon Erectors, Inc. C-91697800. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 49 Change in Contract New Windows and Doors Carnevale Center 118 East Utica Street I herewith submit to Your Honorable Body the following change in contract for the New Windows and Doors, Carnevale Center, 118 East Utica Street, Marcon Erectors, Inc. C-91697800: 1. Replace damaged trim over windows at second floor on E. Utica St. elevation. Add $1,740.00 The foregoing change results in a net increase in the contract of One Thousand Seven Hundred Forty and 00/100 Dollars ($1,740.00). Summary Original Amount of Contract $84,758.00 Amount of this contract (No. 1) Add 1,740.00 Revised Amount of Contract $86,498.00 The damaged trim was a result of the facade collapse that occurred after this contract was complete. This change could not have been foreseen at the time contract was let. Costs have been reviewed by the Department of Public Works and found to be fair and equitable. Funds for this work are in B/F 200-402-085 - Division of Buildings. I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public Works to issue a change order to the contractor as set forth above. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 50 Change in Contract University Heights Community Center Concept Construction Co. I hereby submit to Your Honorable Body the following change in contract for the University Heights Community Center, Concept Construction Co. C-91592600: 1. Modify stud framing above window 204 to support section of roof. Add $125.00 2. Laminate drywall over masonry block at door #7. Add $ 66.00 3. Erect stud portion over roof line at passage #209. Add $212.00 4. Remove and replace sill plate to core drill for heating pipe by mechanical contractor. Add $106.00 5. Additional painting required on gymnasium duct enclosure and ceiling of corridor/karate rooms. Add $170.00 6. Provide access door in Stair D for HVAC Filters. Add $300.00 7. Additional fireproofing required after holes were field cut in beams for duct penetrations. Add $130.00 8. Additional carpeting requested by the center. Add $2,900.00 9. Changes made at rear entrance vestibule per the request of the center. Add $2,617.00 The foregoing change results in a net increase in the contract of Six Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-six and 00/100 Dollars ($6,626.00). Summary Original Amount of Contract $2,525,000.00 Change Order No.1 Item# 31 10-15-91 Add 14,472.00 Change Order No. 2 Item #28 3-3-92 Add 5,502.00 Change Order No. 3 Item #28 6-9-92 Add 9,871.50 Change Order No. 4 Item #34 7-7-92 Add 4,121.00 Change Order No. 5 Item #62 9-1-92 Add 10,003.00 Change Order No. 6 Item #27 3-2-93 Add 2,426.25 Amount of this change (No. 7) Add 6,626.00 Revised Amount of Contract $2,578,021.75 This change could not be foreseen at the time contract was let. Costs have been reviewed by the Department of Public Works and the Consulting Architect, Donald E. Brundage and found to be fair and equitable. Funds for this work are in B/F 200-402-518 -Division of Buildings. I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public Works to issue a change order to the contractor as set forth above. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 51 Change in Contract Mechanical Reconstruction Kleinhans Music Hall I herewith submit to Your Honorable Body the following change in contract for the Mechanical Reconstruction of Kleinhan's Music Hall, Frank C. Kellner Co. Inc. 91691200: 1. Omit cleaning and painting of three (3) vestibule grilles. Deduct 200.00 2. Reroute 4" welded condensate return line in lieu of a 2" threaded line. Add 767.00 3. Install backdraft damper in 36x12 duct in sub-basement in lieu of replacing louver at window #54 (existing to be reused. Deduct 50.00 4. Patch existing ductwork below vestibule floors. Add 219.00 5. Reinstall radiator at first floor nr elevator (removed by GC as required) Add 526.00 6. Reinstall radiator at sub-basement nr elevator (removed by GC as required). Add 304.00 7. Refurbish existing ductwork at window #81 (existing found during window replacement. Add 372.00 8. Disconnect and reinstall three (3) radiators at elevator first floor for GC flooring. Add 352.00 9. Relocate 1 1/4" steam and 3/4" condensate in hall B-207 (found during wall demo). Add 1,748.00 10. Repair piping leak at kitchen area. Add 136.00 11. Control wiring at damper actuator. Add 613.00 The foregoing change results in a net increase in the contract of Four Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-seven and 11/100 Dollars ($4,787.00). Summary Original Amount of Contract $40,890.00 Change Order No. 1 CCP #25 3-2-93 Add 1,732.50 Amount of this change (No. 2) Add 4,787.00 Revised Amount of Contract $47,409.50 This change could not be foreseen at the time contract was let. Costs have been reviewed by the Consulting Architects, Hamilton, Houston, Lownie and the Department of Public Works and found to be fair and equitable. Funds for this work are in B/F 200-402-068 - Division of Buildings. I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public Works to issue a change order to the contractor as set forth above. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 52 Traffic Impact Study - Buffalo Arena and Entertainment Complex 1993 In regards to the latest Traffic Impact Study, please be advised that the Department of Public Works has numerous questions and concerns, and we suggest that your consultant address each item prior to finalization of this report. These items are highlighted as follows: 1. The consultants scope of work spelled out a complete analysis for the possibility of changing Seneca and Swan from one way to two way. The consultant only discussed this item and did not supply enough information nor a specific recommendation concerning this issue. 2. The consultant did not include any cost estimates for his recommendations. 3. The consultant did not address the study of changing Chippewa and Buron from one way to two way. 4. The proposed new signal at Perry and Michigan (sketch page) - The consultant recommends a span wire installation which is not acceptable due to present City policy. This intersection was completely reconstructed and underground conduit was placed for a future mast-arm signal pole installation. The consultant has been given "as built" drawings for this intersection and he should use same in his recommendation. 5. The signal at Michigan and Perry should be interconnected to the signal at Louisiana and Perry to maximize traffic flow. 6. Exchange Street (page 7) - Exchange Street from Chicago to + or - 200 feet east of Louisiana was reconstructed to a four lane section in 1990. 7. Projection of Site Generated Traffic (page 15) -The consultant assumed that there will be no simultaneous activity at the Arena, Aud and Pilot Field. This statement is not correct. In fact, the City is striving for additional use of all these facilities and is encouraging simultaneous activities. Therefore, the consultant should layer anticipated traffic from said simultaneous events. 8. Figure # 2 Proposed Site Plan is noted by the consultant to be updated. In conclusion the consultant should address the above noted before this study can be completed. If you feel that a staff meeting is appropriate please contact David F. Jaros, P.E., City Engineer at 851-5631 to arrange. REFERRED TO THE AUDITORIUM AND STADIUM TASK FORCE. No. 53 Certificate of Appointment Appointment to become effective 12/29/93 in the Department of Public Works Division of Engineering Mark Gannon 299 Cumberland Ave. Buffalo, NY 14220, to the position of Laborer II Temporary, at the Maximum starting salary of $10.67 REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF PARKS No. 54 Certificate of Appointment Appointment effective February 7, 1994 in the Department of Parks Division of Recreation, Michael Daniels 81 Dorris Buffalo 14215 to the position of Program Coordinator Non-Competitive, at the Intermediate starting salary of $25,182 REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVlCE. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE No. 55 "V & T Regs. For Tinted Windows" Item 51, C.C.P. November 3, 1993 In relation to the item subject as above, the Council requested information pertaining to V&T enforcement of illegally tinted windows on motor vehicles. The Police Department has four tint meters and are currently assigned to the Traffic Bureau. The approximate cost of a meter is $195.00. Each meter must be calibrated annually at an additional cost of $25.00 per meter. I am requesting a breakdown on the number of citations issued for illegal tinted window violations. Unless we have a number of these types of violations or there is a greater need or the meters are provided and maintained at no cost to the city through a grant, etc., I do not see a need for additional equipment. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. No. 56 Motor Vehicle Accidents Seneca and Chicago Streets As per our conversation on February 15, 1994 the following is the information you requested concerning Motor Vehicle Accidents occurring at Seneca and Chicago Streets in the City of Buffalo, New York: 5-3-91 1700hrs Property Damage Accident 9-24-91 1600hrs Property Damage Accident 11-2-91 2000hrs Property Damage Accident 3-30-92 1000hrs Property Damage Accident 8-24-92 1400hrs Injury Accident 9-22-92 1700hrs Property Damage Accident 10-16-92 1700hrs Injury Accident 11-24-92 1700hrs Injury Accident Statistics for the year of 1993 have not been forwarded from Central Police Services as of this date. Hoping that this information is useful and if you require any additional statistics please call me at 4555. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF FIRE No. 57 Certificate of Appointment Appointment effective February 9, 1994 in the Department of Fire Division of Administration Sandra L. Karn 487 Colvin Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14216 to the position of Senior Typist Permanent at the Maximum starting salary of $22,780 REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. FROM THE CORPORATION COUNSEL No. 58 Settlement of Claim of Frank Militello On August 18, 1988, Frank N. Militello was injured while in the course of his employment as Deputy Commissioner of Streets for the City of Buffalo. While at the Colter Bay Restaurant on Delaware and Allen, he was injured while lifting an overweight garbage disposal container. He sustained a tear to the biceps tendon and an injury to the lacertus fibrosa of the right arm. He missed approximately nine (9) weeks of work. He filed for and received worker's compensation benefits including an award for ten percent (10%) loss of use of his right arm. Mr. Militello commenced a lawsuit against Colter Bay alleging negligence in overloading the garbage containers in excess of the limits set out in the City ordinances. A settlement offer of $20,000.00 was made to Mr. Militello by the insurance carrier for Colter Bay Restaurant. The City of Buffalo has a worker's compensation lien against any. recovery by the plaintiff in the amount of $10,409.48. After some negotiations, plaintiff's counsel has proposed the following compromise. The proposal is that the City's lien be compromised for the sum of $7,500.00. Of this amount, the plaintiff's attorney would be entitled to one third (i.e. $2,500.00) of the City's lien due to his efforts in recovering money on behalf of the City. This is required by the worker's compensation law. The net recovery to the City of Buffalo would be the sum of $5,000.00. In addition, the City of Buffalo would take a credit for the net recovery by the plaintiff against any future compensation payments that will be made to Mr. Militello. Supreme Court Justice Robert E. Whelan has recommended that the City compromise its lien. If a settlement is not agreed upon, the case would go to trial. It is possible that a jury could award no money. In that event, the City of Buffalo would receive no reimbursement on its worker's compensation lien and no credit against any future recovery of worker's compensation benefits by Mr. Militello. In light of the above, the Law Department requests that your Honorable Body authorize the compromise of the City's Worker's Compensation lien in accordance with the proposal set forth above. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Corporation Counsel, dated February 1, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Corporation Counsel be, and he hereby is authorized to compromise the City's Worker's Compensation lien for the sum of $7,500.00 with regard to the claim of Frank N. Militello. PASSED. AYES- BELL, COLLINS, CZAJKA, FAHEY, FRANCZYK, HELFER, LOCKWOOD, LOTEMPIO, PERLA, PITTS, ZUCHLEWSKI- 11. NOES- ARTHUR- 1. No. 59 Delist Hertel Avenue Site, ID No. 915121 CCP January 25, 1994, Item No. 76 The above item has been referred to the Department of Law for an opinion and/or recommendation. The item is a letter from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (the "DEC") notifying the City that real property designated as Tax Map Number 077.83 and 077.82 was recently deleted from the Hazardous Waste Registry. The notice states that the property was delisted because hazardous wastes have been removed and no further remedial action is necessary. It also states, however, that residual polyaromatic hydrocarbons ("PAH's") from a fuel oil spill remain in surface and subsurface soils. PAH's are not classified as a "hazardous waste" under the regulations of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law. Thus, no further remediation at the site is required under the Environmental Conservation Law. Accordingly, we have inquired with both the DEC and the New York State Department for information regarding the amount of PAH's remaining on the site and the impact such amount of PAH's may have on human health and safety. In the meantime, we are investigating the current ownership and use of the site. We will provide an update as soon as possible. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 60 Waiver of Probationary Period - Fire Department Opinion No. 94-10 (Item No. 52, C.C.P., December 28,1993) Your Committee on Civil Service has asked for an opinion concerning the legal status of the probationary period for the most recent class of new firefighters. On November 30, 1993, Commissioner of Fire Paul Shanks sent a letter to the Buffalo Civil Service Commission (the "Commission") stating that fourteen named probationary firefighters, including Bart Sumbrum, had met the minimum probationary term in an exemplary manner and that he had waived the remaining term of probation. The Commissioner sent a similar letter to the Commission concerning all the remaining members of the probationary class on December 30, 1993. After January 1, 1994, Cornelius Keane became Commissioner of Fire. As a result of a review of the matter, Commissioner Keane rescinded the waivers of the probationary term for all affected probationary firefighters, including Mr. Sumbrum, in a general communication to his Department on January 7, 1994 which stated additionally that all such firefighters would serve out their entire probationary term before obtaining permanent status in the Department. Your Committee on Civil Service has specifically asked whether Commissioner Keane has the power to rescind the waivers of the probationary period. The Committee has also asked for my opinion about the effect of Mr. Sumbrum's commitment to the Common Council not to request a waiver of the firefighters probationary term. Section 63 of the Civil Service Law grants to local municipal service commissions the right by rule and regulation to require probationary periods for positions in the competitive class of the civil service. The Commission adopted Rule 17 which provides that competitive appointments to the position of firefighter shall be for a probationary term of not less than three nor more than twelve months. The rule also provides that an appointment becomes permanent upon the completion of the maximum period of probation or upon the earlier written notice following completion of the minimum period that a firefighters probationary term is successfully completed. The rule does not specify who should render the determination of satisfactory completion and issue the notice thereof. The past practice has been that the appointing authority makes the determination and issues the notice, which would be consistent with the inherent and customary authority of the appointing authority in this case, the Commissioner of Fire. The rule finally requires that a copy of the notice be sent to the Commission. In Block v. Franklin Square Union Free School District, 72 A.D.2d 602, 421 N.Y.S.2d 107 (2nd Dept., 1979), the Court found that a county civil service commission could promulgate a rule to delegate to "appointing authorities" the power to fix probationary terms of newly appointed civil servants, and that such rule had the force and affect of law and was not repugnant to any other law. Commission Rule 17 is substantially similar to the rule in Block. and I conclude therefore that Rule 17 is similarly lawful. I understand that Commissioner Keane, after reviewing the matter of the waivers, determined that the waivers may create a morale problem for the Department of Fire because the probationary period has been a long established standard in the Department and failure to meet that standard may stigmatize the careers of the affected firefighters and undermine the integrity of the probationary process. Commissioner Keane concluded also that the record does not contain a stated and objective reasonable basis to justify the waiver of the probationary period. I also understand that the collective bargaining unit representing the firefighters objected to the original waiver and does not object to the rescission of the waiver. The general standard for judicial review of discretionary administrative action taken by a government official is whether the action was taken in violation of lawful procedure, was affected by an error of law, or was arbitrary, capricious, or an abuse of discretion. Applying this standard to Commissioner Keane's administrative action, there is substantial argument to support the conclusion that his determinations and conduct were proper and should not be overturned upon judicial review, if it were to occur. There can be no assurance, however, about the outcome of litigation in any particular case. Subject to the above qualifications, I conclude that the Commissioner of Fire has the power to rescind the waiver of the probationary period under the described circumstances. With respect to Mr. Sumbrum, during the hearings for reconfirmation to the position of Commissioner of Streets Sanitation, he stated orally and in writing to the Common Council that he would serve out his probationary period and the he would refrain from requesting a waiver of the remaining probationary term. Former Commissioner Shanks has stated to the Commission that Mr. Sumbrum never requested a waiver nor did Mr. Sumbrum confer with Commissioner Shanks about it. I am informed that Mr. Sumbrum also denies requesting the waiver and has stated that he is willing to serve the complete probationary term. Under these facts it does not appear that Mr. Sumbrum has breached his commitment to the Common Council and it would be speculative to entertain the possible ramifications if he had. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. No. 61 Annual Report, P.I.L.O.T. Agreement Item No. 17, C.C.P., 2/8/94 The annual report of the Department of Assessment concerning delinquent P.I.L.O.T. agreements has been referred to the Law Department for comment. These agreements to make payments in lieu of taxes are part of the contracts between businesses and the Erie County Industrial Development Agency (ECIDA). The City of Buffalo is not a party to the agreements and the delinquent businesses are not in violation of any agreement with the City, nor are they subject to the same kinds of penalties and In Rem proceedings as ordinary delinquent taxpayers. The ECIDA, as a party to the agreements, is in a position to enforce them, and has cooperated with the City in the past in this regard. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. No. 62 Complaint of Teacher Abuse "Ronnie Redfern, Sr. - Ronnie Redfern, Jr." The above item has been referred to the Department of Law for an opinion. Please be advised that we have requested a copy of the Board of Education's report following their investigation as referred to in Mr. Redfern's letter. Please note that if Mr. Redfern is asserting a claim against the Board of Education, he must file a notice of claim. REFERRED TO THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT No. 63 Certificate of Appointment Deputy Commissioner Pursuant to the powers vested in me, I hereby appoint Ms. Ruth Luchey-Toliver, residing at 238 Merrimac Street, Buffalo, New York 14214, to the position of Deputy Commissioner of Community Development, effective February 16, 1994. Ms. Ruth Luchey-Toliver's experience as a successful entrepreneur, financial sales consultant, corporate trainer and personnel efficiency professional qualify her for appointment to the position of Deputy Commissioner. I hereby certify that Ms. Luchey-Toliver has the qualifications and education acceptable to me to fill this position and her starting salary will be $54,511. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 64 Certificate of Appointment Director of Development Pursuant to the powers vested in me, I hereby appoint Joseph R. Costantini, residing at 109 Lexington Avenue, Buffalo, New York, 14222, to the position of Director of Development, effective February 8, 1994. Mr. Costantini successfully directed both domestic and international sales/marketing teams in the penetration of diversified industries. Concentration in the manufacturing, telecommunications, government, and financial services markets. I hereby certify that Mr. Costantini has qualifications acceptable to me to fill the position of Director of Development. Mr. Costantini starting salary will be $52,829. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 65 E.A.F. Rich Marina Corp., 23 Austin St. - Request to Install (36'x25') Restroom and Shower Facilities Item No. 80, C.C.P., 2/8/94 Attached for your information is the Short Environmental Assessment Form for the matter captioned above. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. No. 66 REVISED REPORT OF BIDS DELAWARE PARK MEADOW PATHWAY As authorized by Your Honorable Body Item No. 72 of July 21, 1992, I advertised for and received the following sealed proposals for Delaware Park Meadow Pathway, which were opened and publicly read July 14, 1993: BIDDER BASE BID ALT 1 ALT 2A ALT 2B ALT 2C DEDUCT ADD ADD ADD ALT.3 ALT.4 ALT.5A ALT.5B ADD ADD MPJ Contracting Inc. 68 Churchill Street Buffalo, N.Y. 14207 $132,000 4,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 1,000 4,500 +3,000 +3,500 G.B.H. Paving, Inc. 24 Willow Green Dr. Amherst, N.Y. 14228 $152,631 0 8,582 2,594 4,171 4,838 7,400 +3,564 +786 N.E. Diversification Inc. 77 West Drullard Lancaster, N.Y. 14086 $174,620 300 15,500 3,500 12,250 5,000 9,600 +2,200 +800 B.D.R. Inc. 3480 Benzing Rd. Orchard Park, N.Y. 14127 $187,444 500 11,000 3,800 13,000 3,300 17,000 -2,500 -3,500 LCP Const. Corp. 589 Northland Avenue Buffalo, N.Y. 14211 $189,724 6,500 21,000 5,800 16,000 1,900 4,800 +14,760 +4,900 Thomann & Loewer Asphalt Paving Corp. 340 Harris Hill Rd. Williamsville, N.Y. 14221 $189,950 800 11,495 3,000 10,225 1,800 10,430 +2,000 +575 Buffalo Creek Landsc. 11800 Route 20A Wales Ctr, NY 14169 $197,444 5,000 10,560 2,880 16,492 1,500 2,000 0 0 Nichter Utility Const Co. Inc. 344 Vulcan St Buffalo, NY 14207 $239,000 17,596 17,760 3,463 11,151 2,500 7,990 +1,650 +2,100 LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT'S ESTIMATE $210,000 BASE BID The preceding is a true and correct abstract of all bids received and M.J.P. Contracting, Inc. is the lowest responsible bidder. Funds for this work will be available in Capital Project Account No. 200-717-050. This item was previously reported to your Honorable Body but was kept in Finance Committee due to the alternate bids recommended. The new report changes the previous report in that it recommends the community preferred route alternative. I therefore recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Community Development to order the work by M.J.P. Contracting, Inc. in the base bid amount of $132,000 plus Deduct Alternate No. 1 in the amount of -$4,000, plus Add Alternate Nos. 2A, 2C, 3 and 4 in the amounts of $12,000, $12,000, $1,000 and $4,500 for a total contract award $157,500. Alternate No. 2A and 2C add additional sections of path on the south edge of the project. Alternate No. 3 removes an old tower base and Alternate No. 4 removes and grasses the horseshoe pit area. Deduct Alternate No. 1 allows for the construction of the path away from the Ring Road, in the northwestern quadrant. Mr. Pitts moved: That the Communication from the Department of Community Development, dated February 3, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Commissioner of Community Development be, and he hereby is, authorized to award a contract for Delaware Park Meadow Pathway to MJP Contracting, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, in the base bid amount of $132,000, plus Deduct Alternate No. 1 in the amount of $4,000, plus Add Alternate Nos. 2A, 2C, 3 and 4 in the amounts of $12,000, $12,000, $1,000 and $4,500 for a total contract award of $157,500. Funds are available in Capital Project Acct. No. 200-717-050. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 67 Change Order No. 2 (Final) Patterson-Stevens, Inc. Broadway Market Parking Ramp Contract #91700500 On June 3, 1993 the City of Buffalo entered into contract with Patterson-Stevens, Inc. of 400 Sawyer Avenue, Tonawanda, New York, for concrete and deck repairs to the third parking level at the Broadway Market Parking Ramp. This contract in the amount of $135,260.00 is complete and the work has been accepted. Upon a final review of work completed we have concluded that the City is due a Credit of $864.10 determined as follows: DESCRIPTION CONT. VALUE COMPLETED DIFFERENCE Repair Membrane System $12,000.00 $10,742.40 $1,257.60 CREDIT SpaIl Repair, Deck, Walls 44,250.00 40,002.00 4,248.00 CREDIT Flashing 4,680.00 4,446.00 234.00 CREDIT Floor Drains 4,000.00 -0- 4,000.00 CREDIT Roof Drains 7,500.00 6,000.00 1,500.00 CREDIT Full Deck Repair -0- 5,395.50 5,395.50 ADD Repairs to Skylight -0- 4,980.00 4,980.00 ADD TOTAL CREDITS 11,239.60 TOTAL ADDS 10,375.50 TOTAL 864.10 CREDIT Accordingly, I request permission to issue Change Order #2 which will decrease the contract in the amount of $864.10 and close the contract at $134,395.90. These funds will be returned to our Bond Account #200-717-015. In addition I have granted the contractor a time extension to March 15, 1994. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Department of Public Works, dated January 25, 1994, be received and filed; and That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized to issue a change order #2 to Patterson-Stevens, Inc., with changes resulting in a decrease in the amount of $864.10, as more fully described in the above communication, for work relating to concrete and deck repairs to the third parking level at Broadway Market Parking Ramp, Contract 91700500. Funds to be returned to B/F 200-717-015. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF STREETS No. 68 "Policy for Streets Dept. Used Tires" (Item #170 C.C.P. Feb. 8, 1994) In reference to Item #170 C.C.P. February 8, 1994, I wish to inform the Common Council of our policy for used tires in 1994. There are two scheduled tire drop-off days; April 23, 1994 and October 8, 1994. These are both Saturday dates and only City of Buffalo residents can drop off a limit of four (4) tires. The drop-off sites are the Broadway Garage - 197 Broadway, and the City Auto Pound, 189 Tonawanda Street. These sites will be opened from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. only on drop-off dates. Tires must be clean, unmounted and with no rims. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF INSPECTIONS AND COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION No. 69 Report of Emergency Bids for Demolition for Various Properties Within the City Due to the very serious and hazardous condition of the buildings listed below, inspections were conducted by this department and it was determined that immediate demolition was necessary due to (1) the structural condition of the buildings and/or (2) the resulting dangerous and hazardous condition which exists at these locations, i.e. in accordance with guidelines outlined in Chapter 113 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo. Please be advised, therefore, that offers to demolish were solicited on February 3, 1994 and that the contract will be awarded to the following responsible bidder: ADDRESS/OWNER CONTRACTOR/AMOUNT OF BID 359 Walnut Lebis Enterprises City of Buffalo $5,275.00 499 Winslow Integrated Waste Special Services City of Buffalo $6,050.00 472 Sycamore Lebis Enterprises City of Buffalo $12,555.00 Please be further advised that the sewer and water services will be terminated by the demolition contractor and this cost is included in the cost of the project. We, therefore, respectfully report to your Honorable Body that the cost of the projects is to be charged to the Capital Projects Fund #200-241-002-00000. Mr. Pitts moved: That the communication from the Department of Inspections and Community Revitalization, dated February 8, 1994, be received and filed; and That the award by the Commissioner of Inspections and Community Revitalization of an emergency demolition contract to Lebis Enterprises at a cost of $5,275.00, relating to 359 Walnut and $12,555.00 relating to 472 Sycamore and to Integrated Waste Special Services at a cost of $6,050.00 relating to 499 Winslow, is hereby confirmed, ratified and approved, with said cost to be charged against Capital Projects Fund #200-241-002-00000. PASSED. AYES- 12 NOES- 0. No. 70 Connecticut Street New Housing Project Approval of Land Disposition Agreement Gal/Van Developers, Inc. The City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency duly designated Gal/Van Developers, Inc., and/or a joint venture, partnership, corporation or other legal entity to be formed as the qualified and eligible Redeveloper for the subject Project. Please be advised that in accordance with the provision of Article 15A of the General Municipal Law, it is now necessary for Your Honorable Body to set a date for a public hearing, and to direct the publication of a notice of said hearing. In the interest of time and anticipating that Your Honorable Body is willing to expedite this matter, I have taken the liberty to prepare a Resolution together with a Notice of Public Hearing for your action. Forwarded herewith are the following documents: 1. Resolution setting Public Hearing 2. Notice of Public Hearing 3. Resolution approving proposed Land Disposition Agreement 4. Proposed Land Disposition Agreement After the Public Hearing is held, your Honorable Body may adopt a resolution authorizing the disposition of the land to the Redeveloper, which the Agency has designated as being qualified and eligible. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. No. 71 Ellicott-Masten New Housing Project Approval of Land Disposition Agreement M. J. Peterson/Forbes Housing, Co. The City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency duly designated M. J. Peterson/Forbes Housing, Co. and/or a joint venture, partnership, corporation or other legal entity to be formed as the qualified and eligible Redeveloper for the subject project. Please be advised that in accordance with the provision of Article 15A of the General Municipal Law, it is now necessary for Your Honorable Body to set a date for a public hearing, and to direct the publication of a notice of said hearing. In the interest of time and anticipating that Your Honorable Body is willing to expedite this matter, I have taken the liberty to prepare a Resolution together with a Notice of Public Hearing for your action. Forwarded herewith are the following documents: 1. Resolution setting Public Hearing 2. Notice of Public Hearing 3. Resolution approving proposed Land Disposition Agreement 4. Proposed Land Disposition Agreement After the Public Hearing is held, your Honorable Body may adopt a resolution authorizing the disposition of the land to the Redeveloper, which the Agency has designated as being qualified and eligible. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE No. 72 Fuel Mgmt. For City Vehicles No.169 C.C.P. February 8, 1994. This is in response to your referral of the item referenced above. The Department of Administration and Finance agrees with the sentiments expressed in the above referenced resolution; the self-service fuel dispensing system that is currently in operation in a majority of city garages is not the best system for conserving gasoline and saving money and there do exist better fuel management systems. A better system is suggested in Council member Coppola's resolution; namely, an electronic or computerized fuel monitoring system. Such a system is currently in use at the Police garage and it should be installed at a centralized garage as part of an overall vehicle maintenance consolidation program. In fact, the installation of an automated fuel dispensing system is a recommendation that was put forth by Council member Lotempio's Vehicle Maintenance Task Force. Further, the Vehicle Maintenance Task Force recommended the acquisition of an integrated vehicle information system that will facilitate the tracking and control of city-owned vehicles, improvements in scheduling equipment replacement, standardization of preventative maintenance procedures and more accurate recording of materials and labor costs. The Data Processing division of the Comptroller's Office has developed such a system and has initiated discussions with Streets Commissioner LoVallo concerning its implementation. The Department of Administration and Finance believes the efforts of the Vehicle Maintenance Task Force, the test of the automated fuel dispensing system at the Police garage and the development of an integrated vehicle information system by Data Processing are positive steps in the right direction and it is eager to work with the Council and the various departments to make consolidated vehicle maintenance a reality. Public Works Commissioner Giambra is scheduling a meeting of the affected department heads for the week of February 21 in order to resurrect this issue. It is our recommendation that an evaluation of the automated fuel dispensing system at the Police garage be undertaken, as well as evaluation of the integrated vehicle information system that has been developed by Data Processing. Such evaluations will help inform decisions on the adoption of these systems or the need for further investigations of alternative systems. The Department of Administration and Finance is available to help conducted these evaluations if necessary. We trust this response addresses your referral satisfactorily. If further information is required please advise. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 73 One Time Only Pkg. Tickets Amnesty No.171 C.C.P. February 8, 1994. This is in response to your referral of the item referenced above. The Department of Administration and Finance believes the idea of a One Time Parking Ticket Amnesty merits further investigation. As the Council is aware, the City faces a $31.3 million budget gap in the 1994-95 fiscal year and consequently, we must consider a number of options, including those that heretofore have been less palatable, in order to close a gap of this magnitude. There are at least two caveats to this Department's endorsement of a One Time Parking Ticket Amnesty however. First, we must investigate further the experiences of New York City and other cities where amnesty has been tried. We must obtain more information on the extent of the response to amnesty and on the effects of amnesty on future parking ticket receipts. Second, we highly recommend that any amnesty program be accompanied by an extensive public relations campaign wherein the public is strongly advised that this is a ONE TIME ONLY amnesty and that it will be followed by an aggressive collections effort to recover any remaining outstanding tickets and fines. I hope this response addresses your concerns. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF HUMAN RESOURCES No. 74 Appointment of Director for Youth I, Michael V. Smith, Commissioner of Human Resources, appoint to the position of Director for Youth, Mr. Michael J. Norwood, effective Thursday, February 17, 1994. Mr. Norwood's responsibilities as Director of Constituent Services in the office of Senator Anthony M. Masiello gives him wide ranging experience in dealing with and helping to develop, implement and fund youth programs throughout the City of Buffalo. Mr. Norwood resides at 2 East Woodlawn Street, Buffalo, New York 14211. His salary is $48,413. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 75 Certificate of Appointment Appointment effective February 7, 1994 in the Department of Human Resources, Division of Substance Abuse Services, Mary T. Hoefler, 70 Herkimer Street, Buffalo 14213, to the position of Fiscal Manager, Permanent, at the Maximum starting salary of $36,488. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF GENERAL SERVICES No. 76 Appointment of Secretary to the Commissioner of General Services I, Alberto J. del Valle, appoint to the position of Secretary to the Commissioner of General Services Ms. Gina M. Granville, effective February 9, 1994. Ms. Granville resides at 300 Sterling Ave., Apt. A, Buffalo, N.Y. 14216. Her starting salary is $20,826. Ms. Granville replaces Ms. Bernadette S. Ricks. Ms. Granville's long experience and computer literacy makes her uniquely qualified for this position. RECEIVED AND FILED. FROM THE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION No. 77 Opinion - Residency Requirement You have requested that the Civil Service Commission provide an opinion as to whether the appointment of Messrs. Stephen Banko, III, and Alan DeLisle require that they reside in the City of Buffalo and if any conditions will be attached to said appointments. It is the opinion of this office that Messrs. Banko and DeLisle are required to reside in the City of Buffalo during the duration of their employment as Confidential Aide to the Mayor. At the Civil Service Commission meeting of January 19, 1994, the Commission granted a residence waiver for these gentlemen through August 1, 1994. I trust this satisfies your inquiry. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. No. 78 Residency requirement - Waivers #35, C.C.P. 1/11/94 #22, C.C.P. 1/3/94 #23, C.C.P. 1/3/94 #40, C.C.P. 12/14/93 You have asked this office to reply to your inquiry as to whether residence waivers are provided before or after an appointment. In addition, you would like to know if Messrs. Banko and DeLisle, Confidential Aides to the Mayor, requested a residence waiver. Lastly, you would like to know if a residence waiver was granted to Mr. Daniel Sealander, Superintendent of Traffic Signal Systems, and, if so, why. It is the opinion of this office that requests for residence waivers should be filed with the Civil Service Commission prior to appointment. At the Civil Service Commission meeting of January 19, 1994, the Commission approved Mayor Masiello's request for a six-month residence waiver for Messrs. Banko and DeLisle. These individuals are required to establish residence in the City of Buffalo by August 1, 1994. The Commission granted a waiver of residence for Mr. Daniel Sealander, Superintendent of Traffic Signal Systems. This waiver was granted due to special circumstances involving Mr. Sealander's child. I trust this satisfies your inquiry. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. FROM THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS No. 79 Check Zoning/Use 235 Esser Item #190 C.C.P. 02/08/94 With respect to the aforementioned property, please be advised of the following: Petitioners representing this property have appeared twice before the Zoning Board of Appeals to request the following variances: 5/25/88 - Request to convert the premises to a dance studio, two apartments and two roomers. Appeal granted by the Board, permit was not obtained by petitioner. (Decision is voided) 10/13/93 - Request to convert premises for an office and 2 family dwelling. (No mention of partial use of premises for a store in the application.) Appeal denied by the Board. It would appear that in accordance with Section 511-110 of the Zoning Ordinance (Discontinuance) that both the conversion to a dance studio and subsequent re-conversion to a store were illegally performed, without the benefit of a zoning variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals, since the property is zoned R2. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. FROM THE BOARD OF EDUCATION No. 80 Board Members assigned to the Education Committee The Board of Education Members assigned to the Common Council's Education Committee are: John C. Doyle and Donald A. Van Every. Please refer any questions to James M. Kane at 851-3598. RECEIVED AND FILED. FROM THE BUFFALO MUNICIPAL HOUSING AUTHORITY No. 81 Ordinance- Responsibilities of Owners/Tenants Item No. 236, C.C.P., 10/05/93 Please be advised that the Authority's Dwelling Lease, which is attached for reference, already incorporates provisions covering the concerns and requirements listed in items (a) through (d) of the provisions in the Ordinance Amendment for Section 242-11. The Authority has been attempting to resolve various problems with the Erie County Department of Social Services for several years now. A major problem for us is that the Erie County Department of Social Services insists that they cannot or do not have the staff to inform us when a case is closed for their clients who also are our tenants. Public Assistance cases are often times closed during tenancy. While informing the Authority of a change in income is a lease requirement, often times tenants do not comply with this. At the time the tenant moves, skips out or is evicted and we seek reimbursement from the ECDSS for a Security Agreement, payment is denied because the case was previously closed. If we were advised when a case is closed, we certainly could contact the tenant regarding change of income information and pursue lease compliance issues. In the event that further consideration is given regarding what information landlords need from the Erie County Department of Social Services, the Authority recommends that in addition to the already included provision that the landlord acknowledge a tenant's request to be taken off rental payment vouchers or a two party check arrangement, the Department is required to notify the landlord any time a case is closed. The Authority is willing to assist and participate in any way it can to ensure that a notification system is developed and implemented. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. FROM THE CITY CLERK No. 82 Appointment to Records Advisory Board Pursuant to Article IX, Chapter 6, Section 6-51, be advised that Mrs. Patricia Blackett has been appointed to the Records Advisory Board, as the designee of the Director of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library. Mrs. Blackett replaces Ruth Willett who died in April 1993. This communication is for information purposes only. RECEIVED AND FILED No. 83 Appointment of Marriage Officers I hereby request that Councilmember David J. Czajka be appointed as Marriage Officer for the City of Buffalo for a term effective February 17, 1994 and ending December 31, 1997. This request is made pursuant to Chapter 49 of the Laws of New York State 1988, which allow a governing body the right to appoint Marriage Officers, who then will have the authority to solemnize marriages for a period of time not to exceed four (4) years. Mr. Pitts moved that the communication from the City Clerk, dated February 17, 1994, be received and filed; and Effective February 17, 1994, David J. Czajka is hereby appointed as a marriage officer pursuant to Chapter 49 of the Laws of New York State (1988) and expiring December 31, 1997, or on the leaving of the elected office they now hold; and That the Council President is authorized to cancel the solemnization authority of any Marriage Officer, upon the serving of ten (10 days written notice of such cancellation. ADOPTED. No. 84 Disposition of City Records The following departments have requested to dispose of City Records as indicated on the attached forms. Based on the information provided I have authorized the disposition of these records in my capacity as City Records Management Officer City Clerk Public Works Street Sanitation RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 85 Auto Allowance The following departments have filed the required certificate relative to the granting of automobile transportation allowances for employees in their respective departments: Public Works RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 86 Liquor License Applications Attached hereto are communications from persons applying for liquor licenses from the Erie County Alcohol Beverage Control Board. Address Business Name Owner's Name 41 Virginia PI. 41 Virginia Pl. Ltd. David C. Shutte, President RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 87 Leaves of Absence without pay I transmit herewith notifications received by me, reporting the granting of the leaves of absence without pay, in the various departments as listed: Comptroller Public Works Parks Fire RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 88 Reports of Attendance I transmit herewith communications received by me, from the various boards, commissions, agencies and authorities reporting the membership attendance at their respective meetings: Board of Stadium and Auditorium Buffalo Sewer Authority City Planning Board Emergency Medical Services Board Municipal Housing Authority Youth Board Zoning Board of Appeals RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 89 Notices of Appointments - Council Interns I transmit herewith appointments to the position of Council Intern. Mr. Pitts moved the approval of the appointments to the position of Council Intern. ADOPTED. Appointment effective February 17, 1994, in the Department of Common Council, Nicole L. Notaro, 411 Lafayette, Buffalo, New York 14213 to the position of Intern III, Seasonal Non-Competitive, at the: Flat starting salary of $5.00/hr. Appointment effective February 9, 1994, in the Department of Common Council, Mandy Hawkins, 43 Proctor St., Buffalo, NY 14215 to the position of Intern IV, Seasonal, Non-Competitive at the Flat starting salary of $6.00/hr. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. No. 90 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. DEPARTMENT OF STADIUM AND AUDITORIUM Appointment effective February 14, 1994, in the Department of Stadium & Auditorium Division of Memorial Auditorium, Kellie Safford, 284 Grape St., Buffalo, 14204, to the position of Laborer II, seasonal non-competitive, at the flat starting salary of $6.92/hr. DEPARTMENT OF PARKS Appointment effective February 10, 1994 in the Department of Parks, Division of Recreation, Michael Metz, 179 Fenton, Buffalo 14206 to the position of Lifeguard Seasonal Non-Competitive at the Flat starting salary of $5.20/hr. Appointment effective February 16,1994 in the Department of Parks, Division of Recreation, Roger Harrington, 79 Normal Buffalo 14210 to the position of Supervising Lifeguard Temporary, Non-Competitive at the Flat starting salary of $5.98 DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT Appointment effective February 15, 1994 in the Department of Assessment, Bridget Baratto, 1022 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo NY 14209 to the position of Clerk, Seasonal Non-Competitive, at the Flat starting salary of $5.20 hourly DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES Appointment effective February 9, 1994 in the Department of Human Resources, Division of Youth to the position of Attendant Temporary, at the Flat starting salary of $4.42/hr. Michael Krzemien, 159 Cantwell, Buffalo 14220 Arlene Harris, 252 Parkdale, Buffalo 14213 Millicent Thomas, 712 Northumberland, Buffalo 14213 Matthew Walker, 533 Masten, Buffalo 14209 Latanya Washington, 503 Humboldt, Buffalo 14208 Bonnie Brown, 718 Eggert, Buffalo 14215 Appointment effective February 10, 1994 in the Department of Human Resources, Division of Youth to the position of Attendant, Temporary, at the Flat starting salary of $4.42/hr. Bernard Pryor, 849 Busti, Buffalo 14213 Evelyn Jones, 213 Miller, Buffalo 14211 Linda Kelly, 199 Royal, Buffalo 14207 Appointment effective February 14, 1994, in the Department of Human Resources, Division of Youth, Thomas Pace, 328 Grant, Buffalo 14213, to the position of Attendant, Temporary at the Flat starting salary of $4.42/hr. Appointment effective February 15, 1994 in the Department of Human Resources, Division of Youth, to the position of Attendant, Temporary, at the Flat starting salary of $4.42 hr. Ronald Pugh, 100 Blaine, Buffalo 14208 Jane Maraschello, 246 Rhode Island, Buffalo 14213 Johnnie Davis, 1256 Fillmore, Buffalo 14211 Nicole McKelley, 10 Seventh #102, Buffalo, 14201 DEPARTMENT OF POLICE Appointment effective February 7, 1994 in the Department of Police, Deborah A Alessandra, 616 Tacoma Avenue, Buffalo 14216 to the position of Civilian School Crossing Guard TSAR, Seasonal Non-Competitive, at the Minimum starting salary of $5.71 No. 91 Appointments - Temporary, Provisional or Permanent I transmit herewith Appointments in the various departments made at the Minimum (Temporary, Provisional or Permanent) and for Appointments at the Maximum (as per contract requirements) REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. DEPARTMENT OF AUDIT AND CONTROL Appointment effective 2-8-94, in the Department of Comptroller Division of Accounting, Stella Canty-Fennel, 124 Elmhurst Place - Apt D, Buffalo, New York 14216, to the position of Assistant Accountant, Temporary, at the Minimum starting salary of $24,981.00. Appointment effective 2/8/94, in the Department of Audit and Control, Division of Audit, Joseph Murphy, 100 Eden Street, Buffalo, New York 14220, to the position of Assistant Auditor, Provisional, at the Minimum starting salary of $24,981. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Appointment effective 12/29/93, in the Department of Public Works, Division of Engineering, Mark Gannon, 299 Cumberland Ave., Buffalo, NY 14220, to the position of Laborer Il, Temporary Non-Competitve, at the Maximum starting salary of $10.67/hr. Appointment effective February 14, 1994, in the Department of Public Works, Division of Water, Izydor Karbowski, 384 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, 14207, to the position of Caulker, Permanent, at the Minimum starting salary of $21,765. Appointment effective January 17, 1994, in the Department of Fire, Division of Administration, to the position of Chief Fire Administrator, Patrick J. Garlock, 136 Arlington Place, Depew, New York 14043, Provisional Promotion, at the Maximum starting salary of $45,027. DEPARTMENT OF POLICE Appointment effective February 4, 1994, in the Department of Police, to the position of Police Officer, Permanent at the Minimum starting salary of $28,814 Sharon M. Acker, 36 Portland Street, Buffalo 14220 Shellie L. Frank, 10 Hertel Avenue Apt. 1104, Buffalo 14207 Mary E. Lorich, 555 Seventh Street, Buffalo 14201 Mary C. Evans, 1710 Seneca Street, Buffalo 14210 Julie A. Kilmer, 105 Baynes Street, Buffalo 14213 Lynn M. Fitzgerald, 165 Choate Avenue, Buffalo 14220 Chauncey White III, 222 Monroe Street, Buffalo 14206 Michael D. Bass, 21 Bedford Court, Buffalo 14204 Tara W. Regan 65 Marbeth Court, Buffalo 14220 Daniel T. Iafallo, 125 Arbour Lane Apt 2, Buffalo 14220 John C Garcia, 363 Parkside Avenue, Buffalo 14214 Ramon L Camacho, 449 Connecticut Street, Buffalo 14213 George P McLean, 11 Courtland Avenue, Buffalo 14215 Leona E Flowers, 87 Mendola, Buffalo 14215 Armondo P Cordone, 114 Stratford Road Apt 1, Buffalo 14216 Jeffrey P Varecka, 176 McKinley Parkway, Buffalo 14220 Christopher S Kochersberger, 905 Delaware Apt 2, Bflo. 14209 Mark K Tripp, 132 Sidway Street, Buffalo 14210 Thomas J Moran, 280 Choate Avenue, Buffalo 14220 James M Duffy, 1242 E Lovejoy Street Apt 4, Buffalo 14206 Anthony M Marshall, 73 Redmond Avenue, Buffalo 14216 John M Myers, 78 Portland, Buffalo 14220 Robert J Delaney, 108 Bushnell Street, Buffalo 14206 David M Cieply, 115 Fleming Street, Buffalo 14206 James C Hummel, 45 W Northrup Place, Buffalo 14214 Thomas E Wiesmore, 351 Breckenridge, Buffalo 14213 Peter L Kocol, 205 Weimar Street, Buffalo 14206 Sheryl L McCormick, 1121 Lovejoy Street, Buffalo 14206 Leo McGrath, 32 Como Avenue, Buffalo 14220 William J Rieman, 143 Ramona Apt 2, Buffalo 14220 Paul J Flanagan, 43 Hammerschmidt Avenue, Buffalo 14210 Scott R Malec, 107 Crescent Avenue, Buffalo 14214 Douglas H Kopp, 234 Doat Street, Buffalo 14211 James W Panus, 562 LaSalle Avenue, Buffalo 14215 Kenneth A Szyszkowski, 277 Woodside Avenue, Buffalo 14220 Robert J McLellan, 157 Mariemont Avenue, Buffalo 14220 Earl E Perrin Jr, 675 Delaware Avenue Apt 905, Buffalo 14209 Edmund L Malcolm Jr, 2294 Main Street, Buffalo 14214 Michael A Bennett, 535 Minnesota Avenue, Buffalo 14215 Steven M Turner, 319 Villa Avenue, Buffalo 14216 Frank A Guevara, 316 W Utica, Buffalo 14222 Daniel Quintana, 396 Vermont, Buffalo 14213 Appointment effective February 8, 1994 in the Department of Police, Larry J Pierce, 82 Bernice, West Seneca 14224 to the position of Police Photographer, Provisional, at the Flat starting salary of $41,765. Appointment effective February 9, 1994 in the Department of Police, Mark E Blankenberg, 758 Robin Road, Amherst 14228, to the position of Police Captain, Temporary, Promotion, at the Flat starting salary of $51,680. DEPARTMENT OF FIRE Appointment effective January 3, 1994, in the Department of Fire Division of Administration, to the position of Assistant Fire Alarm Dispatcher, Joseph Romano, 293 North Park Avenue, Buffalo, N.Y. 14216, Permanent Promotion, at the Maximum starting salary of $40,531. DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONS & COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION Appointment effective 2/7/94, in the Department of Inspections & Community Revitalization, Division of Community Revitalization Albert R. Howard, 160 Brunswick Blvd., Buffalo, New York 14208 to the position of Coordinator of Community Services, Non-Competitive, at the Flat starting salary of $39,677. DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE Appointment effective 2/14/94, in the Department of Administration & Finance, Division of Budget & Management, Diane Boyce, 61 Mt. Vernon, Buffalo 14210, to the position of Stenographic Secretary, Permanent, at the minimum starting salary of $23,971. NON-OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS, PETITIONS AND REMONSTRANCES NON-OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS No. 92 Church of the Ascension Festival Accounting Per our telecon, attached is the financial analysis of our Festival Weekend during the second week of June, 1993. My apology for the delay. If you have questions, feel free to call me at 854-7502. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 93 Erie County Industrial Development Agency Unpaid P.I.L.O.T.'s Pursuant to your request of February 9, 1994, I am happy to provide the following information with regard to unpaid P.I.L.O.T.'s. OWNER YEAR AMOUNT ACTION TAKEN 2661 Main St. 1993/94 14,603.68 Several telephone calls made. Company checking their records. Will advise. AC Hamilton 1992/93 2,973.00 Company in receivership. Bank 1993/94 2,973.00 agreed to allow company to sell property, if possible. BOC Group 1993/94 4,457.00 Payment has been made. Buffalo Waterfront 1992/93 61,232.67 Company filed for Restaurant 55,289.01 Chapter 11 bankruptcy, August, '93. Co. indicated they would make payment effective Aug. '93. Dun Bldg. Ptnshp.1993/94 4,819.00 Partial payment is expected by month-end. 876 Associates 1992/93 11,737.67 Telephone calls not 1993/94 9,839.60 being returned Harry Hoffman 1992/93 9,032.57 Business sold through 1993/94 16,896.32 foreclosure 1992/93 15,263.74 Bond paid off. PILOT 1993/94 7,631.87 payment made when title transferred. Marlette Holding 1993/94 8,400.00 Payment expected this month. Pro Bakers, Ltd. 1993/94 8,136.70 Payment has been made. Prudential Bldg. 1991/92 96,000.00 Company attempting to Associates 1992/93 90,000.00 refinance. 1993/94 120,000.00 Pyramid Steel 1993/94 4,955.42 Payment has been made. Reppenhagen Roller 91/92 2,653.75 Company restructuring debt. 1992/93 3,279.12 Payment expected by month end. 1993/94 5,335.39 As can be demonstrated by the above, upon notification by the City of the PILOT delinquencies, the ECIDA immediately took action. We would recommend that the ECIDA continue working with the delinquent companies through March 15, 1994 at which time a report will be provided to the appropriate City officials as to payment status. At that point in time, the City can provide direction as to how they would like the ECIDA to proceed. In addition to the above, please be advised that the ECIDA has in the past, and will continue to do so in the future, work with City Officials to promptly and aggressively pursue any and all delinquent PILOT's within its rights. An agreement currently exists between the ECIDA, the City Comptroller and the Commissioner of Assessment regarding notification and collection efforts on delinquencies. Furthermore, we will be meeting on February 23 with the Commissioner of Administration and Finance, the City Comptroller and the Commissioner of Assessment to review the current agreement and explore further opportunities for greater cooperation and coordination. I trust the above information satisfactorily responds to your communication of February 9, 1994. The ECIDA stands ready to assist the City in any manner. We would welcome the opportunity to attend any Common Council meetings to further discuss these issues. An update will be provided after March 15, 1994. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. No. 94 H. MELLAN Oppose Crossroads Bonding The City of Buffalo government has taken action which is specifically prohibited by the New cork State Constitution, Article VII, Section 8. I quote herewith, the first sentence of that section: " The money of the state shall not be given or loaned to or in aid of any private corporation or association or private undertaking; nor shall the credit of the state be given or loaned to or in aid of any individual, or public or private corporation or association or private undertaking, but the foregoing provisions shall not apply to any fund or property now held or which may hereafter be held by the state for educational, mental health or mental retardation purposes." Truly, the City of Buffalo, being a creature of the state, is constrained by the Constitution, even as is the state government. The bond authorization for the Crossroads Arena project, made by the city is in violation of law. Attached is a photocopy of Section 8 of my copy of the New York State Constitution, which copy was given to me by the Secretary of State. In 1970, the city embarked on actions in violation of the state Constitution which eventually came to be known "The Hurd Matter". The costs applied against taxpayers in the past, the present and the future, as penalties for those actions, are severe and continuing. The costs applied against taxpayers in pursuit of support of the proposed Crossroads Arena by city government, may be nebulous in number of dollars, but it is as certain to happen as the government decrees it to be. The responsibility to take corrective action now rests solely upon the Common Council of Buffalo, for indeed the private citizen-taxpayer could not presently have standing in court to challenge government's actions, but must await the moment when the taxpayer has been harmed. That time would come after the city has made interest payment on the bond using monies obtained in tax levies. It should be recognized that the city government supported by taxpayers, has been generous to the Sabers organization, having increased the seating capacity of Memorial Auditorium in 1971 at a cost of more than $12 million, and installed air-conditioning in 1990 at a cost of more than $6 million in 1991. All users of the " Aud " share in those benefits. Any agreement to close out the use of the Aud for functions driving business to the proposed Arena is disservice to all. The hockey players compete with other players, and there is no true reason for the owners of the club to avoid competition from the Aud. The Aud should continue to be available for use as it has been for all these years. News reports claim that consideration is being given to transferring ownership of the Aud to Horizons Waterfront Commission for whatever. Such a heinous action would be the ultimate offensive action which might be taken against the people of Buffalo. Much of the Buffalo waterfront was expropriated to Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) and now a state sponsored commission seeks to redesign and manage what was once city property at a cost beyond measure. The Buffalo Common Council is empowered to serve the common good by continuing the Aud in service to all. RECEIVED AND FILED. No. 95 STATE OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION In response to your January 27, 1994 letter, the Department of Transportation (DOT) does not have any comments regarding your proposed resolution for the removal of the Michigan Avenue Bridge over Exchange Street. A search of our files found a petition filed by the City of Buffalo dated July 18, 1990, case 31245. We are attaching a copy of this petition which the City may want to revise and/or update. It is our understanding that the DOT is waiting for correspondence from the City requesting a hearing date. If you have any questions please contact William J. Dwyer, Office of Legal Affairs at 518/457-2411 or Walter Wolanske of my staff at 847-3248 REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 96 Partners - Silver Vending Change in City Charter We would like to direct your attention to the Charter for the City of Buffalo (Amusements, page 7507 Chapter 75-18, Gambling Devises, Paragraph #2). In this paragraph the City Charter deems pinballs as a gambling device. Quoting the law, "A machine, apparatus, paraphernalia or device of the type, design class or construction commonly known as a "pinball or bagatelle machine," upon which a game or contest is played upon the insertion of a piece of money or coin or other object for which a fee, charge or other consideration is imposed directly or indirectly." This law was written in the 1950's for the sole purpose of making a game called "oneball" illegal. oneball was an illegal gambling game in which you could build up odds in the game by adding more money to the game, before you received your one chance to put a ball into a certain pocket or hole. If you hit the money hole you won, if you didn't you lost. Those games were made illegal by the City, and rightly so. Those games were called "pinballs", but were actually "oneballs". The state-of-the-art of electronic pinball of the 1990's is absolutely nothing like the oneball game of 40 years ago. You cannot gamble or build up odds with the pinballs of the 1990's. Electronic pinball is becoming a great entertainment/amusement device. There are varied themes, from golf to Startrek and even the Addams Family! This is good clean family entertainment which the people of the City of Buffalo are being denied. We think it's time that the City of Buffalo change its law against the operation of pinballs. Buffalo is the only city in the nation where pinballs are illegal. We are nearing the year 2000 - it's about time we look to the future instead of the past. Thanks for your time in this matter. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION AND THE CORPORATION COUNSEL. No. 97 David H. Schank Forgive Delinquent Tax/Interest 105 Wallace I am writing to request your assistance. On April 28, 1993, my wife and I purchased our home at 105 Wallace after moving from Tonawanda. We have been very pleased with city services thus far, finding them comparable to Tonawanda's. I was quite surprised, however, to receive a delinquent tax notice dated February 1, 1994, including $178.47 interest. Having owned property in Tonawanda, I always received my tax bills, and paid them, in a timely manner. Moving into the city, I did not know when tax bills were mailed, nor did it occur to me to ask, assuming I would receive a bill when the time came. I did pay a pro-rated tax bill as part of my closing costs last April. I am frankly stunned that the city did not send me a bill for the 1993-94 tax year. And not only did the city not send me a bill, it also penalized me for doing so. I realize I am responsible for paying taxes; I don't dispute that. What I am disputing is the interest charge of $178.47. I was not billed in a timely manner by the city assessor; therefore, I request that your honorable body forgive the interest charge. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, COMMISSIONER OF ASSESSMENT AND THE CORPORATION COUNSEL. No. 98 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY BUFFALO DISTRICT. CORPS OF ENGINEERS Buffalo Flooding and Water Quality Study This letter is to inform the Council that the Buffalo District is currently initiating work on the Buffalo Flooding and Water Quality Study. The Common Council has requested information regarding this study in the past, and, therefore, want to give the Council some background and insight on the approach we plan to take for this study. The authority for this study was contained in the Water Resources Development Act of 1990 and funds were provided as a Congressional add-on in fiscal year 1993. Because this is a non-traditional study we have had to do an extraordinary amount of coordination with our higher headquarters and are now in the position to move ahead on this study. This study was requested by former Congressman Henry Nowak to investigate and find a solution to the flooding and associated water quality problems caused by sewer backup/overflow in the North Buffalo-Hertel Avenue Planning Area. A map of the area impacted is attached for reference. The specific instructions we received were to review the City's tunnel-quarry plan (developed by the Buffalo Sewer Authority) and develop other cost-effective alternatives to remedy the flooding/water quality problem. In addition, we need to determine if there is a Federal interest (i.e., Are there sufficient flood control benefits to economically justify a project?) by precisely defining the problem area and determining the magnitude of damages caused by the flooding and associated water quality problems. We have elected to perform the study in two phases. The first phase will include: review of the tunnel-quarry plan; review of previous reports prepared by the Buffalo Sewer Authority and its consultants; and a problem identification/ damages investigation. We plan to use an Architect-Engineer contract to perform the reviews of the tunnel-quarry plan and other existing reports. The damages investigation will include a mail survey and on-site survey of a sample of the residents, businesses, etc. in the North Buffalo-Hertel Avenue study area. This survey may result in questions from City residents and, therefore, l feel it important that the Common Council and its members be informed of the study process. The second phase of this study will focus on the development of preliminary designs and cost estimates for one or more alternatives to be selected at the conclusion of the first phase. I expect to send out the mail survey this spring and will provide the Common Council advance copies for its information. My staff and I are also closely coordinating this study and survey with the Mayor's office, the Buffalo Sewer Authority, and Congressmen LaFalce and Quinn. The study authority given to the Corps only permits us to study the problem and prepare recommendations, perform preliminary design, and prepare cost estimates. There is no authority or funding to perform final design, prepare plans and specifications, or construct a solution. Those actions would require additional authorization and appropriation of funds for an infrastructure-type project that is not typically undertaken by the Corps. In early on discussions with the Buffalo Sewer Authority my staff learned that their intent was to have this study performed to assess the flooding and water quality problems and find a solution. If a cost-effective solution was identified the City could seek authorization of a project similar to the Chicago Underflow Plan. The Chicago Underflow Plan is a series of underground tunnels and reservoirs to relieve flooding problems in the city of Chicago that is being built by the Corps at the direction of Congress. I look forward to a close working relationship with the City's Common Council on this important study. Any questions the Council may have can be addressed by contacting me at 879-4200 or my Project Manager, Mr. James Karsten, at 879-4245. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. No. 99 M. Wimberly Claim for Vehicle Sold by Auto Pound On 08/04/93 a hearing was held for me to answer to Summons that was issued on my vehicle plate number 3ET-340. I was given 30 days to pay a reduced amount of $150.00. On 09/01/93 I mailed a check number 187 in the amount of $150.00 to the Department of Parking violation. However when the check didn't clear my account for several weeks, I attempted to contact the Department of Parking Violations by phone. I was unable to reach anyone, so I took a day off from work to go see what was going on. I was told that the check didn't reach the department until after the due date, and that I would have to pay and additional penalty before they would clear my registration. I tried to talk to someone about what had happen, and was told he didn't want to hear anything about it, I would just have to pay the additional amount. I asked if I could speak with an appeal officer, and was told no, just pay the penalty. Then I came to your office and ask if there was anything that your office could do, you informed me to write this letter & you would look into this matter. In the meanwhile my vehicle was impounded for investigation of the VIN CKD189F166713, and my husband was arrested. We were told the vehicle was being held until the investigation was complete and we were unable to get the vehicle back until the court matter was resolved. However now I have been informed that my vehicle has been sold at public auctions by the City of Buffalo. I would like to know how this could have taken place since the court investigation is still going on, and I was informed that the vehicle was being held until the court matter is complete. Also now I have tried to cancel the insurance on the vehicle and was told that I wouldn't be able to cancel it until the parking violation has cleared my registration or I would be penalized on a day to day basis. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, THE COMMISSIONER OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE AND THE CORPORATION COUNSEL. No. 100 Mr. Coppola took his seat in the Common Council Chamber at 2:15 P.M. PETITIONS No. 101 Aviva Convenient Store, petition to use 330 Mineral Springs for a pole sign. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD, AND THE COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT. No. 102 Alaska Premium Seafoods, petition to use 423 EImwood for a sit-in restaurant/outdoor patio/illum. awning. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD, AND THE COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT. REGULAR COMMITTEES CIVIL SERVICE HON. ROSEMARIE LOTEMPIO CHAIRMAN No. 103 G. Ritz Complaints on C. S. System (#79 11/30) (Item # 84 CCP Jan 25,1994) CCP That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 104 Appointment Human Resources/Counselor III That Communication No 73 Dec 14, 1993 be received and filed and the Permanent Appointment of Dollores Barrett stated above at the Intermediate salary $23,710.00 effective on Dec. 6, 1993 is hereby approved. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 105 Appointment Audit & Control/Stenographer That Communication No 16 Feb. 8, 1994 be received and filed and the Temporary appointment of Joanne F. Mytnik stated above at the Intermediate salary $20,205.00 effective on Jan. 25, 1994 is hereby approved. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 106 Appointment Public Works/Chemist That Communication No 28 Feb 8, 1994 be received and filed and the Permanent appointment of JanRobin J. Ford stated above at the Intermediate salary $30,670.00 effective on Jan. 25, 1994 is hereby approved. PASSED. AES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 107 Notices of Appointments (C. Clerk) (Item # 62 Feb. 8, 1994) CCP That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. FINANCE HON. DAVID A. COLLINS CHAIRMAN No. 108 Junior League - LaSalle Pavilion Lease (Item No. 75, C.C.P., Jan. 25, 1994) That the Corporation Counsel be, and hereby is authorized to renew the lease agreement between the City of Buffalo and the Junior League for LaSalle Pavilion, such renewal to include the changes needed to meet the concerns expressed in Item No. 75, C.C.P., January 25, 1994. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 109 1994-95 Recommended Budget- Pilot Field (Item No. 1, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) That this Common Council approve the 1994-95 recommended budget for the Pilot Field Enterprise Fund as contained in Item No. 1, C.C.P., February 8, 1994. ADOPTED. No. 110 Debt Statement (Compt) (Item # 12 Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 111 Replacement of Bonds (Compt) (Item # 13 Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 112 Monthly Overtime Report - 12/1993 (Compt) (Item # 6 Jan. 11, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 113 Monthly Overtime Report (A&F) Item # 59 CCP Jan 25, 1994 That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 114 Bond Resolution $350,000 Reconstruction of Animal Shelter Building (Item No. 113, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the Common Council without recommendation. Mr. Collins moved: That the Bond Resolution for $350,000 Serial Bonds Reconstruction of the Animal Shelter Building Account 200-402-099 as contained in Item No. 189, C.C.P., July 20, 1993, be and the same hereby is approved. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 115 Animal Shelter Proposal Status (STS) (Item # 48 Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 116 Result Priv. Sale 27 Spring (Compt) (Item # Com 22 Apr. 27, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 117 Results of Negotiations 382 William Street (Item No. 9, CCP., Jan. 11, 1994) That the offer of Mr. Mohamed J. Safraj, 129 97th Avenue, Richmond Hill, Queens, New York 11419, in the sum of $4,000.00 (Four Thousand Dollars) to purchase the property described as 382 William Street, be and hereby is accepted; and That the Corporation Counsel shall 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 bid was submitted, provided, however, That the appraisal requested by the City of Buffalo shall be paid by the purchaser; and That the transfer tax, recording fees and cost of legal description shall be paid by the purchaser; and PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 118 Permission to Negotiate Portion of 26-34 Bush (Item No. 9, C.C.P., Nov. 30, 1993) That the Comptroller be, and he hereby is, authorized to negotiate with Frank J. & Patricia Kiebzak, residing at 36 Bush Street, for the private sale of 26-34 Bush Street and report to this Honorable Body the results of such negotiations. Mr. Collins now moved to recommit to the Committee on Finance. ADOPTED. No. 119 Abandonment and Sale 42-44 Auchinvole (Item No. 122, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the Common Council without recommendation. Mr. Collins moved: That the Comptroller be, and he hereby is to proceed in accordance with Section 513 and 514 of the City Charter and report results back to your Honorable Body for final approval. Mr. Collins now moved to recommit to the Committee on Finance. ADOPTED. No. 120 Offer Purch. 42 Auchinvole (CPBd) (#15 1/25) (Item # 123 Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 121 Ordinance Amendment Chapter 141 - Collection of Arrears (Item No. 197, C.C.P., Jan. 25, 1994) That the Ordinance Amendment as contained in Item No. 197, C.C.P., January 25, 1994, be, and the same hereby is approved. PASSED. AYES- BELL, COLLINS, COPPOLA, CZAJKA, FAHEY, FRANCZYK, HELFER, LOCKWOOD, LOTEMPIO, PERLA, PITTS, ZUCHLEWSKI- 12. NOES- ARTHUR- 1. No. 122 Ordinance Amendment Chapter 175 - Fees (Item No. 181, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) That the Ordinance Amendment as contained in Item No. 181, C.C.P., February 8, 1994, be, and the same hereby is approved. PASSED. AYES- BELL, COLLINS, COPPOLA, CZAJKA, FAHEY, FRANCZYK, HELFER, LOCKWOOD, LOTEMPIO, PERLA, PITTS, ZUCHLEWSKI- 12. NOES- ARTHUR- 1. No. 123 Ord. Amend. Ch. 175 (141) - Fees (Item # 198 Jan. 25, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 124 Report of Emergency Bid 1489 Fillmore Avenue (Item No. 49, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) That the Commissioner of Inspections and Community Revitalization be, and he hereby is, authorized to award the contract for Asbestos Removal Services, to Jack Eisenbach Engineering, P.C., the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $53,340.00. Funds for this work are available in Capital Project Fund #200-241-002-00000. PASSED. AYES- ARTHUR, COLLINS, COPPOLA, CZAJKA, HELFER, LOCKWOOD, LOTEMPIO, PERLA, PITTS, ZUCHLEWSKI- 10. NOES- BELL, FAHEY, FRANCZYK- 3. No. 125 Report of Emergency Demolition Bid 231 Loepere (Item No. 50, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) That the award by the Commissioner of Inspections and Community Revitalization of an emergency demolition contract to Mainline Contracting at a cost of $6,000.00, relating to 231 Loepere, is hereby confirmed, ratified and approved, with said cost to be charged against the Special Capital Projects Fund #200-241-002-00000. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 126 Bids Del. Meadow Pathway (CD) (# 59 7/20) (Item # 128 Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 127 K.B. Plan. Comm. Quest. On Center Funding (Item # 84 Dec. 28, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 128 K/B NHS Favor Ctr. 889 Kensington (#96 12/14) (Item # 118 Dec. 28, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 129 Report of Emergency Bid - 135 Krupp (Item No. 51, Jan. 25, 1994) That the above item be, and hereby is returned to the Common Council without recommendation. Mr. Collins moved: That the award by the Commissioner of Inspections and Community Revitalization of an emergency demolition contract to Lebis Enterprises at a cost of $25,948.00, relating to 135 Krupp, is hereby confirmed, ratified and approved, with said cost to be charged against Special Assessment Fund 500-000-002-00000, and that said cost shall be collected against the owner or person in possession of the premises and/or shall be assessed against the property benefitted, in accordance with Chapter 113, of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo. Mr. Collins now moved to recommit to the Committee on Finance. ADOPTED. No. 130 Z. Bernstein ,MD - Forgive Water Bill 175 10th (Item # 54 Jan. 11, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 131 Forgive Water Bill 175 10th (CC) (Item # 44 Jan. 25, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 132 Forgive Water Bill 175 10th (PW) (Item # 27 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 133 M. Rivera - Water Bill 268 Crescent (#80 11/30) (Item # 136 CCP Jan. 25 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 134 Protest Water Bill 268 Crescent (PW) (Item # 137 Jan. 25, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 135 Imposition of Sports Tax (Bd. Ed.) (Item # 55 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 136 Buffalo Place Events Accounting (Item # 65 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. LEGISLATION HON. ALFRED T. COPPOLA CHAIRMAN No. 137 Mohsin M. Musaid, Petition to use 471 East Ferry (Item No. 77, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) That after a public hearing before the Committee on Legislation on February 15, 1994, the petition of Mohsin M. Musaid, owner, for permission to erect a metal canopy over existing gasoline pumps be, and hereby is approved. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 138 R. Turqeon- Use 3155 Main-Cafe/Volley Ct. (HRG) (Item # 78 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 139 Encroachment NFTA Bus Shelters (Item No. 30, CCP., Nov. 30, 1993) That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized to issue a "mere license" to Mr. Gordon W. Foster, Manager of Service Planning for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority, to install four shelters which would encroach city right-of-way at the proposed locations at the East side of Delaware Avenue opposite Cleveland Avenue, Southeast corner Delaware and Hertel Avenues, Northwest corner Niagara and Jersey Streets, and Northeast corner Fillmore Avenue and French Street; subject to following conditions: 1. That the applicant obtain any and all other City of Buffalo permits necessary for said installation. 2. That applicant be responsible for restoring all affected city right of way to its original condition in accordance with City specifications. 3. That no shelter obtain electrical power from any traffic signal pole or traffic signal pullbox. 4. That the shelter be installed exactly as shown on plans submitted to and approved by the City Engineer. 5. That the applicant indemnifies and holds harmless the City of Buffalo against any and all loss and damage arising out of the construction, maintenance, use and removal of said shelters. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 140 Easements NFTA Bus Shelters (C.P. Bd.) (Item # 4 CCP Dec. 28, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 141 Ordinance Amendment/Ch. 180/Firearms (Item # 140 CCP Nov 16, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 142 Request Ordinance/Carrying Firearms (POL) (Item # 43 CCP Dec 14, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 143 Waive Inspection Fee/Private Wheelchair Lifts (CC) (Item # 46 CCP Jan 25, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 144 Waive Fees/Private Wheelchair Lifts (A&F) (Item # 60 CCP Jan 25, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 145 Inspections/Private Wheelchair Lifts (A&F) (Item # 61 CCP Jan 25, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 146 Request LL/Economic Development Zones (Item # 183 CCP Feb 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 147 C. Griffasi - Support Levy v. Relief Clients (Item No. 151, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) That this Common Council hereby endorses the State Senate bill 1920, sponsored by Joseph H. Holland, State Senator. ADOPTED. No. 148 NYSDEC -Delete Hertel Parcel From Haz. Registry (Item # 76 CCP Jan. 25, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 149 Delete Hertel Parcel From Registry (EMC) (Item # 6 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 150 Delete Hertel Parcel From Registry (CC) (Item # 43 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 151 NYSDEC Delete 315 Babcock From Haz. Registry (Item # 72 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 152 Elm Leaf Beetle Management (Pks) (Item # 31 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HON. CARL A. PERLA JR. CHAIRMAN No. 153 CDBG Rehab Loan Guarantee Prog. (HRG HELD) (Item # 198 CCP Sep. 7, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 154 Emerg. Shelter Grant Program - 1994 (ICR) (Item # 52 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 155 Emerg. Shelter Grant Program - 1994 (ICR) (Item # 52 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 156 Convention Ramp Prepayment Agencies (CC) (Item # 55 CCP Oct. 19, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 157 BEDC - Amend Float Loan-Conv. Ctr. Ramp (Item # 80 CCP Oct. 19, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 158 Policy clarify- Economic Dev. Zones (CD) (Item # 46 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 159 Info On Developers (ICR) (Item # 51 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 160 C. Griffasi - Reopen Main St. To Vehicles (Item # 103 CCP Oct. 5, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 161 Feasibility Study Reopening Main Street to Vehicular Traffic (Item No. 159, C.C.P., Dec. 28, 1993) That the Common Council request that the Masiello Administration to establish a Task Force comprised of representatives from the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority, Buffalo Place, Inc., the Downtown Merchants Association, the Department of Community Development, the Division of Planning, and members of the Common Council to study the feasibility of reopening Main Street to vehicular traffic. ADOPTED. No. 162 NFTA - Restore Vehicle Traffic to Main (Item # 89 CCP Nov. 3, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 163 Reopen Main St. To Vehicle Traffic (PW) (Item # 38 CCP Nov. 16, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 164 Reopen Main St. To Vehicle Traffic (PW) (Item # 23 CCP Jan. 11, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 165 Reopen Main St. To Vehicle Traffic (A&F) (Item # 62 CCP Jan. 25, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 166 Bflo. Pl. - Reopening Main To Vehicles (Item # 66 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 167 Theater Dist. Assn.- Reopen Main To Vehicles (Item # 75 CCP Feb. 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION HON. DALE L. ZUCHLEWSKI CHAIRMAN No. 168 School Security Issue Parking Tickets (A&F) (Item # 58 CCP Nov 16, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 169 Request Board Cooperate With Finance Plan Commission (Item # 168 CCP Nov 30, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 170 NYS Comptroller/Audit/Board of Education (Item # 85 CCP Dec 28, 1993) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. No. 171 Review Of Board Budget (Board Of Education) (Item # 54 CCP Feb 8, 1994) That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed. ADOPTED. STADIUM/AUD TASK FORCE HON JAMES W. PITTS CHAIRMAN No. 172 Sabres - Financing Crossroad Arena - M.O.U. (Item No. 68, CCP, Nov. 10, 1993) That Item No. 5 of the Stadium and Auditorium Task Force Committee be amended to include the Memorandum of Understanding dated February 22, 1994, between the City, the County, the Sabres, the Crossroads Arena Corporation, the NYS Urban Development Corporation and the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. RESOLUTIONS No. 173 By: Mr. Arthur Use of "H" building for the Erie County Sheriff's Office Headquarters. Whereas: The Sheriff of Erie County, in a letter of January 27, 1994 to the County Executive, requesting the possible use of "H" building of the Erie County Medical Center for the Sheriff's office headquarters; and Whereas: The Sheriff is alleging that this would increase the safety level at the Medical Center and would have a positive impact on the surrounding neighborhoods; and Whereas: This is only in the planning stage and no contact has been made with the surrounding community. Now, therefore, be it resolved: That this Common Council request the Erie County Executive and the Sheriff of Erie County to hold public hearing in the affected community prior to any decision being made to use this building; and Be it further resolved that: A certified copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Sheriff of Erie County, County Executive, the Legislator of the district and the Clerk of the Legislature. ADOPTED. No. 174 By: Mr. Arthur Use of War Memorial Stadium for Gospelfest '92 Whereas: "Gospelfest '92", is Buffalo's largest annual religious community experience; and Whereas: "Gospelfest '92", is requesting the use of War Memorial Stadium for the seven hour event, to be held on Saturday, July 23, 1994: and Now, therefore, be it resolved that: This Honorable Body directs the Corporation Counsel and the Department of Parks, to take whatever steps necessary for "Gospelfest '92" to secure War Memorial Stadium for Saturday, July 23, 1994. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 175 By: Mr. Arthur Masten Park Residential Care Facility Closing. Whereas: It has been announced that the Residential Care Facility at 485 Best Street would be phased out sometime in the near future; and Whereas: The impact of the closing on the immediate community will be devastating; and Whereas: Many of the employees of the Care Facility will be out of work because of the fact that they are not on a statewide civil service list; and whereas: Many are being told that they cannot be transferred, nor do they have bumping rights at these other facility; and Whereas: As of this date, these employees have not been counseled as to what benefits they are entitled to. Now, therefore, be it resolved that: This Common Council hold a public hearing to gauge the impact of the said closing and to hear from State officials, what steps they are taking to place these employees in other jobs?; and Be if further resolved that: The area State representatives be invited to testify at this hearing. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. No. 176 By: Mr. Collins Transfer of Funds Common Council - Council members Common Council - Legislative That pursuant to section 42 of the Charter and the Certificate of the Mayor and the Comptroller submitted to the Common Council, the sums of $1,535, $1,535 and $9,210.60 be and the same is hereby transferred from the Common Council - Legislative -Salary accounts for Councilmen PerIa, Helfer and Collins respectively, and said sums are hereby reappropriated as set forth below: From: 100 General Fund 01-0 - Common Council - Legislative 010-110 Councilmember PerIa (Salary account) $1,535.00 008-110 Councilmember Helfer (Salary account) $1,535.00 003-110 Councilmember Collins (Salary account) $9,210.60 To: 100 General Fund 01-0 - Common Council 001 - Legislative 112 - Temporary Services Salary Account $12,280.60 REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 177 By: Mr. Collins Transfer of Funds Parking Enforcement -- Parking Violations Bureau (salaries) Parking Enforcement -- Pkg Meters/Enforcement (salaries) Parking Enforcement -- Towing/Storage Oper. (overtime) That pursuant to section 42 of the Charter and the Certificate of the Mayor and the Comptroller submitted to the Common Council, the sum of $17,000 be and the same is hereby transferred from the Division of Parking Enforcement -- Parking Violations Bureau - salary account and said sum is hereby reappropriated as set forth below: From: 100 General Fund 064 - Division of Parking Enforcement 022 - Parking Violations Bureau 110 - Salaries $17,000 To: 100 General Fund 064 - Division of Parking Enforcement 013 - Parking Meters and Enforcement 110 - Salaries $7,000 031 - Towing and Storage Operations 114 - Overtime $10,000 REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 178 By: Mr. Collins Transfer of Funds Division of Engineering -- Lighting of Streets Division of Engineering -- Repair & Constr of Other Public Imps. That pursuant to section 42 of the Charter and the Certificate of the Mayor and the Comptroller submitted to the Common Council, the sum of $20,000 be and the same is hereby transferred from the Division of Engineering, Lighting of Streets, Electric, Light and Power account and said sum is hereby reappropriated as set forth below: From: 100 General Fund 401 - Division of Engineering 012 - Lighting of Streets 221 - Electric, Light and Power $20,000 To: 100 General Fund 401 - Division of Engineering 015 - Repair & Construction of Other Public Improvements 434 - Small Tools $ 1,000 452 - Gasoline & Lubricants $13,000 463 - Machine & Equip Repair Materials $ 2,000 523 - Repairs to Equipment & Machinery $ 4,000 PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 179 By: Mr. Collins Transfer of Funds Department of Police -- Management Services Bureau Department of Police -- Building and Fleet Maintenance That pursuant to section 42 of the Charter and the Certificate of the Mayor and the Comptroller submitted to the Common Council, the sum of $23,000 be and the same is hereby transferred from the Department of Police -- Management Services Bureau - and said sum is hereby reappropriated as set forth below: From: 100 General Fund 20 - 4 Department of Police Bureau of Administrative Services 002 - Management Services 520 - Maintenance Contracts - Office Equipment $23,000 To: 100 General Fund 20 - 4 Department of Police - Bureau of Administrative Services 003 - Building and Fleet Maintenance 501 - Automotive - Body Repairs $13,000 503 - Automotive - Transmission Service $10,000 PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 180 By: Mr. Collins RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE IN INTEREST RATE FOR LEASE PURCHASE AGREEMENT FOR ENERGY CONSERVATION EQUIPMENT Whereas, the Common Council of the City of Buffalo, New York ("City") has determined that a true and very real need exists for the implementation of an energy conservation plan, including related equipment (the "Equipment") described in the proposed Equipment Lease/Purchase Agreement (the "Agreement") with Koch Financial Corporation presented to this meeting; Whereas, the City selected CES/Way for implementing a energy conservation plan (the "Master Agreement") pursuant to Energy Law 9-103 because of CES/Way's selection by Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation under the Power Partners Program; Whereas, the City has entered into the Agreement with Koch Financial Corporation substantially in the form presented at an annual interest rate not to exceed 5.35% for a term not to exceed six (6) years; Whereas, the City has found and determined that the terms of the Master Agreement and the Agreement in the form presented are in the best interests of the City for the implementation of an energy conservation plan; Whereas, the Master Agreement and the Agreement has been approved by the Common Council at Item 187 of its meeting of October 19, 1993 wherein, among other things, the Comptroller of the City was authorized to execute, acknowledge and deliver the Agreement with any changes, insertions and omissions therein as may be approved by the Comptroller, such approval to be conclusively evidenced by such execution and delivery of the Agreement; Whereas, at Item 29 of its meeting of November 30, 1993, the Common Council authorized the inclusion of the Buffalo River Improvement Corporation ("BRIC") into the energy conservation program described above; Whereas, because of changes financial market conditions, the interest rate now offered by Koch Financial Corporation relating to the lease/purchase of equipment in the amount of $611 , 139 in connection with improvements for BRIC is 5.70% provided that the transaction is closed before February 28, 1994, and if it is not so closed the interest rate may, but not necessarily will, increase. Now therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the Master Agreement, the Agreement, and any ancillary or similar agreements relating to the participation of BRIC, are hereby further approved and ratified , and be it further RESOLVED, that the Comptroller be, and he hereby is, authorized to enter lease/purchase financing arrangements with Koch Financial Corporation for the lease/purchase of equipment in the amount of $611, 139, as contemplated for the participation of BRIC and otherwise, to be acquired after the date of this Resolution at the annual interest rate of 5.70% or at such greater or lesser rate as shall be determined by the Comptroller, provided, however, in no event shall such rate exceed 6.20%. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 181 By: Mr. Collins Memorialize Congress - HR 2229 End Trade Embargo on Cuba Whereas: Rep. Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) has introduced H.R. 2229, a bill that would lift the trade embargo on Cuba; and Whereas: The bill would remove all restrictions on trade and investments, travel, telephone and mail communications, including the embargo on trade by foreign subsidiaries of U.S.-owned firms, and clear the way for the unrestricted sale and donation of foods and pharmaceuticals; and Whereas: H.R. 2229 would give the President the authority to reimpose restrictions, and would urge the President to negotiate with Cuba to ensure the protection of human rights and settle claims by U.S. companies whose property was nationalized when Fidel Castro took over in 1959; and Whereas: With the collapse of the former Soviet Union, Cuba poses no real threat to the U.S. or its allies in the Western Hemisphere and has ended its efforts to support subversive activities; and Whereas: Cuba is now attempting to liberalize its economy and open its markets to foreign investments, and companies in other countries have taken advantage of that situation by investing in joint ventures that will benefit both nations; and Whereas: Many prominent Cuban dissidents such as Rolando Prats support the lifting of the embargo, arguing that it would help foster the liberalization of human rights policies in Cuba; and Whereas: The U.S. recently lifted its 19-year trade embargo on Vietnam, and it is now clearly time to end the cold war that we have been waging in our own hemisphere for the past 34 years; Now, Therefore Be It Resolved: That this Honorable Body memorialize the United States Congress to approve H.R. 2229, "To lift the trade embargo on Cuba, and for other "purposes;" and Be It Further Resolved: That the City Clerk certify the passage of this resolution and forward copies to the Clerk of the U.S. Senate, the Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Charles B. Rangel, the Western New York delegation to the House, and the United States senators representing New York State. ADOPTED. AYES- ARTHUR, BELL, COLLINS, COPPOLA, CZAJKA, FRANCZYK, HELFER, LOCKWOOD, LOTEMPIO, PERLA, PITTS, ZUCHLEWSKI- 12. NOES- FAHEY- 1. No. 182 By: Mr. Collins Memorialize the State of New York to Amend the Social Services Law in relation to Levy of Home Relief Payments Whereas: There has been introduced in the New York State Legislature Senate Bill # 1920, "An act to amend the Social Services Law in relation to levy of home relief payments"; and Whereas: The purpose of Bill # 1920 is to provide landlords who rent to recipients of Social Services home relief benefits the recourse to collecting monies owed attributed to failure to meet obligations such as delinquent rents, property damages and utility bills; and Whereas: The current Social Services Law exempts all monies or orders granted to public assistance recipients from levy or execution and also exempts earnings of recipients from assignment, income execution and installment payment orders; and Whereas: Amending the Social Services law would provide landlords and utility companies recourse to collect obligations and make home relief recipients responsible for their actions; and Now, Therefore Be It Resolved That: This Common Council memorializes the State of New York Legislature to enact into law Senate Bill # 1920 "An act to amend the Social Services Law in relation to levy of home relief payments"; and Be It Further Resolved That: The City Clerk forward certified copies of this resolution to the Secretary of the Senate, Clerk of the Assembly and Members of the Western New York Delegation to the New York State Legislature. ADOPTED. AYES- ARTHUR, BELL, COLLINS, COPPOLA, CZAJKA, FRANCZYK, HELFER, LOCKWOOD, LOTEMPIO, PERLA, PITTS, ZUCHLEWSKI- 12. NOES- FAHEY- 1. No. 183 By. Mr. Collins Appointment of Legislative Assistant Be it Resolved that Deborah Boles residing at 35 Castle Place, Buffalo, New York 14214, is hereby appointed as Legislative Assistant to Councilmember, effective February 14, 1994. ADOPTED. No. 184 By: Mr. Collins Explore Program To Train Vocational School Students Whereas: In October, 1993, this Common Council Received and Filed a resolution (# 194, CCP July 20, 1993) asking that the Board of Education include language in its bid specs that call for a set aside for the training of Buffalo Public School children; and Whereas: The Board of Education did not file a written response with this Council expressing its opinion on the resolution, instead providing information verbally to the Council's Special Committee on Education. Based on this verbal response, the proposal for the set aside was deemed impractical; and Whereas: While the establishment of a specific set aside in contracts may not be the precise method to establish a training program for vocational school students, the concept of the establishment of some sort of on the job skills enhancement program is an idea worth exploring; and Whereas: Additional information is needed to make an informed decision; Now, therefore, be it resolved: That this Common Council request that the Board of Education respond to the following questions: Why is a contractual set aside an impractical approach to establishing a training program? Can an internship program be established with private contractors and vocational school students? Is there an established skills enhancement program in existence? If so, please describe; and Be it further resolved: That the Board of Education respond to this resolution in time for the next stated meeting of this Council. ADOPTED. No. 185 By: Mr. Coppola Uniform Control of Firearms Whereas: A recent incident in the Parkside neighborhood, where two teenagers neither of whom were residents, hijacked a vehicle after threatening the owner with an AK47, once again brings to light the need for uniform firearms control in this country; and Whereas: With the increased concern over the rising crime rates, and the use of firearms and assault rifles used in these crimes; and Whereas: Because the fact that neighboring states of New York do not have strict firearm laws allowing for the transport of firearms into this state compounds the black market, which allows those unable to attain a firearm legally to acquire weapons; and Whereas: The AK47 used in the hijacking incident was purchased in Pennsylvania and illegally brought into New York; and Whereas: Although the Brady Bill addresses handguns, there is still a pressing need for uniform firearm control pertaining to such military assault weapons such as the AK47 across the country; and Whereas: It would be of great service if our federal representatives advocated legislation calling for uniform firearm control for the entire country. Now Therefore be it resolved that The City Clerk forward certified copies of this resolution to the Western New York Congressional and Senate representatives and the President of the United States, requesting them to promote uniform firearms control for the entire country. ADOPTED. No. 186 By: Mr. Coppola Request State Audit and Investigation of BSA Whereas: The Buffalo Sewer Authority was created by New York State Law in 1935; and because it is an authority, is not accountable to city government; and Whereas: Recent disclosures exposed a great disparity between last year's surplus of $9.5 million and this year's surplus of $33,000; and Whereas: The most recent water bill dated February l, 1994, outraged many city residents, who noted that the sewer tax is now greater than the cost of water usage; and Whereas: While the Buffalo Sewer Authority may not be accountable to city government, it is certainly accountable to state government, the creating body. Now therefore be it resolved that This Common Council recognizes that the cost of business has increased over the past few years; however, because of the great disparity between last year's surplus and this year's, and the dramatic increase in the sewer tax, respectfully requests that State Comptroller H. Carl McCall authorize a full audit and the State Attorney General G. Oliver Koppell authorize a full investigation of the Buffalo Sewer Authority; and Be it further resolved that The City Clerk forward certified copies of this resolution to State Comptroller H. Carl McCall and the State Attorney General G. Oliver Koppell, and to the five members of the New York State Assembly who represent the City of Buffalo. ADOPTED. No. 187 By: Mr. Coppola Ordinance Amendment Chapter 78-28 The Common Council of the City of Buffalo does hereby ordain as follows: That Section 78-28 of Chapter 78 of the Code of the City of Buffalo be amended to read as follows: 78-28 Penalties for offenses. Penalties for as follows: Offense Class A Unlicensed Dog Initial Additional Maximum Fine Penalty Penalty Total [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$31.50] $32.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Dog off premises without tag [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$31.50] $32.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Knowingly affixing improper tag or furnishing false info on: License application [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$31.50] $32.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Change and transfer report [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$31.50] $32.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Noncompliance with dangerous dog order [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Night quarantine (optional) [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Dogs running at large [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$31.50] $32.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Present dog upon lawful request [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$31.50] $32.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Restrain dog on premises [$10.50] $11.00 [$10.50] $11.00 [$31.50] $32.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Class B Failure to file notice of: Transfer of dog [$5.25] $6.00 [$5.25] $6.00 [$42.00] $43.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Loss or theft of dog [$5.25] $6.00 [$5.25] $6.00 [$42.00] $43.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Death of dog [$5.25] $6.00 [$5.25] $6.00 [$42.00] $43.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Address change [$5.25] $6.00 [$5.25] $6.00 [$42.00] $43.00 [$52.50] $53.00 Class C Creating nuisance of long-continued or frequent noise of dog [$15.75] $16.00 [$15.75] $16.00 [$36.75] $37.00 [$68.25] $69.00 Caused nuisance by improper keeping of dog (unwholesome condition) [$15.75] $16.00 [$15.75] $16.00 [$36.75] $37.00 [$68.25] $69.00 Dog in park or on parkway [$15.75] $16.00 [$15.75] $16.00 [$36.75] $37.00 [$68.25] $69.00 APPROVED AS TO FORM Edward D. Peace Corporation Counsel NOTE: Matter in brackets [ ] to be deleted; matter underlined is new. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. No. 188 By. Mr. Fahey Appointment To The Arts & Cultural Funding Advisory Committee NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That pursuant to section 6-30 of Article V of Chapter VI of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, the Common Council does hereby appoint the following individual to the Arts and Cultural Funding Advisory Committee of the Buffalo Arts Commission, due to a vacancy created by the resignation of Craig Speers: Emanuel Fried 1064 Amherst Street Buffalo, NY 14216 ADOPTED. No. 189 By: Mr. Fahey Lead Task Force Members Whereas: At the February 15, 1994 meeting of the Joint City-County Lead Action Task Force a resolution was passed requesting the Council to replace three members who have bowed out of Task Force participation with three individuals who have shown a great deal of interest in the Task Force and its work; Now therefore be it resolved, that: This Common Council revokes the Lead Action Task Force membership of the following individuals who have bowed out of participation on the Task Force: Marion Hyman, Diane M. Ciurczak, Andres Garcia and Mr. Garcia's alternate Jose Pizarro; and Be it further resolved that: This Common Council appoints the following individuals to the joint City/County Lead Action Task Force: Julie Gilbert Vivian Turner NYPIRG St. Augustine's Center 1300 Elmwood Ave. 1600 Fillmore Avenue Buffalo, NY 14222 Buffalo, NY 14211 Susana Gonzalez Buffalo Prenatal & Perinatal Task Force 625 Delaware Ave. Buffalo, NY 14202 Iris Tardi is appointed as a voting alternate for Ms. Gonzalez when she is unable to attend meetings. ADOPTED. No. 190 By: Mr. Franczyk Discovery of Deadly Cyanide at Several Sites on Deshler Street Whereas: An east side youth, while collecting money for his paper route on Saturday morning, February 12, 1994, around 11:00 am spotted a one ounce container of deadly cyanide on Deshler Street: and, Whereas: When 911 responded to the call they discovered several additional one ounce containers of cyanide: and, Whereas: Following a complaint call to the Broadway Police Station earlier that morning, it was discovered that several other like containers were found on Deshler Street with the total number of bottles be around eight: and, Whereas: Cyanide is used for electroplating and would have no obvious street use: and, Whereas: Cyanide is a very deadly and dangerous substance and is hazardous if ingested, if it should come in contact with a persons eyes, or if it was mixed with an acid to form a gas: and Whereas: Appropriate precautions be undertaken on behalf of the families and children in the surrounding neighborhood who are at risk of harm and contamination, until it is concluded what is the source of this deadly substance: and, Whereas: The manufacturer of the labeled bottles of cyanide are produced by Technic Inc. of Cranston, RI; Now therefore be it resolved: That this common council request that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Francine GaIIego an engineer of said department complete this investigation as soon as possible. That they contact Technic Inc. to find out what is the probable source of the cyanide and assure that the involved parties are dealt with in an appropriate manner in regards to the seriousness of the incident. Also, that the investigation confirm that there is no additional danger to the neighborhood and that all of the containers are accounted for. As well, they are to keep in contact with the common council and members of the community and update them of all aspects of the investigation. ADOPTED. No. 191 By: Mr. Franczyk Support the Continuation of the DARE Program Whereas: The City of Buffalo, through grants, has run a drug prevention program specifically designed for youth named the Drug Abuse Resistance Through Education Program, which if funded by the Edward Byrne Memorial Grant and administered by the Department of Justice; and Whereas: The local DARE program places police officers in fifth-grade classrooms at thirty-two different schools to educate at least two thousand, eight hundred youngsters about the evils of drugs; and Whereas: The DARE program has been an effective tool in preventing drug abuse among school age children locally, and will be funded for eighteen more months with a $150,000 budget; and WHEREAS: Presently, the DARE program is in danger of being eliminated because the proposed 1995 Federal Budget contemplates adding 100,000 community police officers by cutting funding to a successful drug abuse prevention program; and Whereas: The trade-off of a drug prevention program for the potential of an increase in enforcement is a questionable tactic; and Whereas: Removing an anti-drug program would be detrimental considering that drug abuse is the prime factor in the escalation of violent crime in this country; and Whereas: Only proven drug abuse programs such as the DARE program will aid in reducing crime; and Now Therefore Be It Resolved That: This Common Council supports the continuation of the Drug Abuse Resistance through Education Program; and Be It Further Resolved That: That the Buffalo Common Council requests the Western New York Congressional and Senatorial Delegation to address our concerns to President Clinton and United States Attorney General Janet Reno; and Be It Finally Resolved That: The City Clerk be directed to send certified copies of this resolution to the United States President William J. Clinton, the United States Attorney General Janet Reno, Senators Daniel P. Moynihan and Alfonse D'Amato, and the United States Congressmen L. William Paxon, John J. LaFalce, and Jack Quinn. ADOPTED. No. 192 By: Mrs. Lockwood and Messrs. Fahey and Helfer Additional Greenway Task Force Appointments Whereas: This Council recently appointed a Greenway Task Force (Item 180, C.C.P. February 8, 1994) empowered to undertake the following tasks: To intervene in the planning, environmental review and approval process of waterfront projects within the City of Buffalo to assure that the Greenway Trail is well integrated with each project; To develop design standards for the Greenway Trail and to coordinate the efforts of the organizations working to design and build various stretches of the Trail; To educate officials and the public concerning the Greenway Trail; To aid in securing finding for the design and building of the Greenway Trail; and; Whereas: Individuals with valuable talents and perspectives have been proposed for membership by Councilmembers since the original appointments to the Task Force; Now therefore be it resolved, that: This Common Council hereby appoints the following individuals to the Greenway Task Force: David P. Comerford Tammy Barnes 114 Whitehall Street 25 Weaver Street Buffalo, NY 14220 Buffalo, NY 14206 Terry Wherry 77 Linwood Avenue Buffalo, NY 14209 ADOPTED. No. 193 By: Mrs. Lotempio Salary Ordinance Amendment 01-0 Common Council 001 - Legislative The Common Council of the City of Buffalo do ordain as follows: That part of Section 1 of Chapter 35 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, relating to 01-0 Common Council under the subheading "001 Legislative" which reads: 1 Chief of Staff, Common Council $42,425 is hereby amended to read: 1 Chief of Staff, Common Council $40,500 It is hereby certified, pursuant to Section 34 of the Charter, that the immediate passage of the foregoing ordinance is necessary. We, George K. Arthur, President of the Common Council and James B. Milroy, Director of the Budget, hereby certify that the decrease in salary of the position of Chief of Staff, Common Council 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. APPROVED AS TO FORM Edward D. Peace Corporation Counsel PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 194 By: Mrs. Lotempio ORDINANCE AMENDMENT CHAPTER 75 - AMUSEMENTS The Common Council of the City Buffalo does hereby ordain as follows: That Section 75-18(A) of Chapter 75 of the Code of the City of Buffalo be amended by deleting A(2) in its entirety and renumbering A(3) to read A(2) as follows: Chapter 75-18. Coin-controlled amusement devices. [(2) A machine, apparatus, paraphernalia or device of the type, design, class or construction commonly known as "pinball or bagatelle machine" upon which a game or contest is played upon the insert ion of a piece of money or coin or other object for which a fee, charge or other consideration is imposed directly or indirectly.] [(3)] (2) A machine, apparatus, paraphernalia or device that is adapted or may be converted into one that is adapted for use in such a way that, as the result of the insertion of a piece of money or coin or other object, such machine or device is caused to operate or may be operated and, by reason of an element of chance or other outcome of such operation, unpredictable by him the user may receive or become entitled to receive a piece of money, credit, allowance or thing of value or any check, slug, token or memorandum, whether of value or otherwise, which may be exchanged for any money, credit, allowance or thing of value or which may be given in trade or the user may secure additional chances or rights to use such machine, apparatus or device, irrespective of whether it may, apart from the element of chance or unpredictable outcome of such operation, also sell, deliver or present some merchandise, indication of weight or other thing of value. APPROVED AS TO FORM Edward D. Peace Corporation Counsel NOTE: Matter in brackets [ ] to be deleted; matter underlined is new. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION. No. 195 By: Mrs. LoTempio Salary Ordinance Amendment 06 - Department of Administration & Finance 3-001 - Labor Relations The Common Council of the City of Buffalo do ordain as follows: That part of Section 1 of Chapter 35 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, relating to 06-3-001 Department of Administration and Finance, Division of Labor Relations which reads: 1 Director of Labor Relations $1 is hereby amended to read: 1 Director of Labor Relations $50,131 We, Eva M. Hassett, Commissioner of Administration and Finance and James B. Milroy, Director of the Budget, hereby certify that the foregoing 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. APPROVED AS TO FORM Edward D. Peace Corporation Counsel REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. No. 196 By: Mrs. LoTempio Salary Ordinance Amendment 08-0 Department of Law The Common Council of the City of Buffalo do ordain as follows: That part of Section 1 of Chapter 35 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, relating to 08-0 Department of Law is hereby amended by adding thereto: 11 Assistant Corporation Counsel II $43,176 - $53,811 2 Assistant Corporation Counsel I/ Municipal Attorney $35,357 - $41,976 is hereby amended to read: 12 Assistant Corporation Counsel II $43,176 - $53,811 3 Assistant Corporation Counsel/I Municipal Attorney $35,357 - $41,976 We, Edward D. Peace, Corporation Counsel and James B. Milroy, Director of the Budget, hereby certify that the foregoing creation of one (1) Assistant Corporation Counsel ll and one (1) Assistant Corporation Counsel I/Municipal Attorney positions are necessary for the proper conduct, administration and performance of essential services of that department. We recommend that the compensation for said positions be fixed at the respective amount set forth in the foregoing ordinance. That personnel requisitions incident to the addition of the above positions, containing a statement of the duties of said positions, have 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 positions. APPROVED AS TO FORM Edward D. Peace Corporation Counsel REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. No. 197 By: Mrs. LoTempio Salary Ordinance Amendment 410-Department of Parking 021 - Parking Administration The Common Council of the City of Buffalo do ordain as follows: That part of Section 1 of Chapter 35 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo, relating to 410 - 021 Department of Parking - Parking Administration, is hereby amended by adding thereto as follows: 1 Typist (Seasonal) $5.20 per hour We, Thomas Gallagher, Director of Parking and James B. Milroy, Director of the Budget hereby certify that the creation of one (1) Typist (Seasonal) 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 amount set forth in the foregoing ordinance. That a personnel requisition incident to the creation of the above position, containing a statement of the duties of 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. APPROVED AS TO FORM Edward D. Peace REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE. No. 198 By Mr. Perla SET PUBLIC HEARING: Connecticut Street New Housing Project Approval of Land Disposition Agreement Gal/Van Developers, Inc. WHEREAS, Gal/Van Developers, Inc. and/or other legal entity to be formed (herein referred to as the "Redeveloper") has been duly designated as qualified and eligible Redeveloper in accordance with the rules and procedures prescribed by the City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency (herein referred to as the "Agency"); and WHEREAS, The Agency and the Redeveloper have negotiated a Land Disposition Agreement for the construction of Twenty-two (22) residential townhouses known as the Connecticut Street New Housing Project in the Connecticut Street Revitalization Area; and WHEREAS, said Land Disposition Agreement has been forwarded by the Agency to this Common Council for action, pursuant to Section 507, subdivision 2 (d) of the General Municipal Law; and WHEREAS, Article 15A of the "General Municipal Law" requires that the disposition of land in an Urban Renewal Project may be approved only after a public hearing on due notice. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 1. That the City Clerk is hereby directed to publish the notice attached hereto and marked "Notice of Hearing" in the Buffalo News, no later than the 25th day of February 1994. 2. That this Common Council will conduct a Public Hearing on the matters stated in said "Notice of Hearing" at 2:00 o'clock p.m. in the Council Chambers on the 8th day of March 1994. ADOPTED. No. 199 By: Messrs. Perla and Coppola Authorize Application for Emergency Shelter Grant Whereas: The City of Buffalo has annually received funds from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Emergency Shelter Grant Program; and Whereas: In order to apply for the 1994 Emergency Shelter Grant, the Common Council must authorize the Mayor to make formal application for these funds; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved: That the Mayor be and hereby is authorized to formally apply for United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Emergency Shelter Grant Funds for 1994 and to execute any necessary documents in conjunction with this program. ADOPTED. No. 200 By: Mr. Pitts Issue RFP For New Cable Operator Whereas: The Buffalo Common council has authorized its Special CATV committee to prepare a Request For Proposals seeking new cable television operators for the city of Buffalo; and Whereas: The attached RFP has been prepared in accordance with all relevant federal and state laws and regulations; Now, therefore be it resolved: That the Special CATV committee be authorized to issue the attached Request For Proposals for cable television operators; and Be it further resolved: That the Special CATV committee be designated to oversee the process and to prepare and submit a written recommendation and report; and Be it finally resolved: That the city Clerk be directed to publicly advertise notice of the RFP as required by Part 594.4 of Subtitle R, Rules and Regulations of the New York State commission on Cable Television. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CATV AND THE CORPORATION COUNSEL. No. 201 By: Mr. Pitts Spice Channel Whereas: On November 18, 1993 the Common Council's Special CATV Committee held a public hearing on "Spice," the adult pay-per-view service added by TCI of New York; and Whereas: The residents who filled Council Chambers overwhelmingly expressed their opposition to the service, and urged TCI to discontinue its carriage of "Spice;" and Whereas: TCI was exhorted to not contribute to the moral, ethical and spiritual decline of the community by programming such objectionable material on the cable TV system that Whereas: Although relatively few subscribers actually pay to receive this sexually explicit programming, all homes wired with cable receive the scrambled picture and the unadulterated audio; and Whereas: TCI should be a good corporate neighbor and provide cable programming that is uplifting and enlightening, rather than services like "Spice" that serve no positive purpose and actually contribute to moral decay; Now, therefore be it resolved: That this Common Council request that TCI of New York voluntarily consent to discontinue offering the "Spice" Channel; and Be it further resolved: That, should TCI decline to stop providing "Spice," it agree to completely block out all "Spice" video and audio signals from all homes that do not specifically order that service. ADOPTED. No. 202 By: Mr. Pitts Protest New Charges by TCI Whereas: Last October Congress enacted S. 12, the "Cable Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act of 1992;" and Whereas: The Cable Act of 1992 was intended to provide consumers with much-needed relief from high cable TV rates; and Whereas: Even before it became law, it was apparent that cable operators intended to do whatever possible to replace any revenue lost due to rate regulation; and Whereas: In August 1993 TCI national official Barry Marshall urged system managers to attempt to recover revenue lost due to cable regulation through higher transaction charges, adding that "the best news of all is, we can blame it on reregulation and the government now;" and Whereas: Consumers are certainly not receiving the kind of rate reductions that were promised when the Cable Act of 1992 was enacted; and Whereas: Cable subscribers in Buffalo are now paying $23.22 for expanded basic, the most common level of service, which had cost $22.00 prior to federal rate regulation; and Whereas: Although cable operators have had to reduce some installation and service charges, they have instituted new charges for services that were previously provided for free or at a nominal charge; and Whereas: By commencing new charges for various transactions such as downgrading service, TCI appears to be evading the intent of the Cable Act of 1992; Now, therefore be it resolved: That this Common Council formally protest the transaction charges instituted by TCI of New York after September 1, 1993; and Be it further resolved: That the Federal Communications Commission and the New York State Commission on Cable Television be requested to examine whether TCI of New York has violated any current law or regulation by instituting new charges for services previously provided for free or at a nominal charge; and Be it finally resolved: That the City Clerk forward certified copies of this resolution to the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, the chairman of the New York State Commission on Cable Television, and the New York State Attorney General. ADOPTED. No. 203 By: Mr. Pitts Direct Council Fire Study Steering Committee To Provide Technical Assistance To Commissioner of Fire Whereas: The Administration of the City of Buffalo has identified a projected budget gap of $31.3 million for the 1994-95 fiscal year; and Whereas: The City of Buffalo has been advised by Standard and Poor's that it must make structural changes in its budget and methods of operation to close this gap or face a downgrading of its bond rating to below investment grade; and Whereas: Mayor Masiello has developed a plan for closing half of this gap that calls, in part, for savings of approximately $4.0 million in the Fire Department with said savings to result from fire house reorganization; and Whereas: A technical sub-committee has been established from the Fire Department Study Steering Committee with representatives from the administration, union and Council staff; and Whereas: The technical sub-committee is working diligently with the professional input needed and an unusual level of cooperation from all parties using a state-of-the-art computer program to produce the best and most accurate reorganization of the Buffalo Fire Department station locations; and Whereas: This Common Council recognizes the seriousness of the fiscal problem facing our City while, at the save time, having a genuine concern for the safety and well-being of our citizens. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: This Common Council directs its Fire Department Study Steering Committee to provide technical assistance to the Commissioner of Fire as he plans for fire house reorganization so that the Citizens of Buffalo receive the fire protection they have come to expect at the lowest possible cost; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: This Common Council requests that the Technical Subcommittee of the Council Fire Department Administrative Cost and Manpower Utilization Study to submit its final report to the Common Council by March 31, 1994. ADOPTED. No. 204 By: Mr. Pitts Crossroads Arena Memorandum of Understanding Whereas: For the past three years the City of Buffalo (the "City") has undertaken a cooperative effort with the Buffalo Sabres, the State of New York (the "State") and the County of Erie (the "County") to plan a new downtown sports arena; and Whereas: These efforts have resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding (the "MOU") proposed to be entered into by and among the City, the County, the New York State Urban Development Corporation (the "UDC"), the Buffalo Sabres, the Crossroads Arena Corporation, the Erie County Industrial Development Agency and the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency; and Whereas: This MOU includes among other things, a 30-year commitment by the Sabres to remain in the City, a $10 million financial contribution by the City, a $25 million financial contribution by the UDC, a $20 million financial contribution by the County and $65 million in bank financing, all for the purpose of constructing a state-of-the-art sports complex; and Whereas: Notwithstanding the benefits provided by the Sabres' commitment, the City is currently facing a $31.3 million projected budget deficit and threat of a downgrade by bond rating agencies; and Whereas: The City's general fund exposure associated with the existing Memorial Auditorium, the new Crossroads Arena and the operating deficit of the Buffalo Convention Center is approximately $1.6 million per year; and Whereas: The Council's Stadium and Auditorium Task Force has devoted substantial time and attention to develop an MOU which achieves a fair and equitable public-private partnership for this project; and Whereas: The proposed MOU leaves it to the good faith of all the parties involved to resolve certain issues in the immediate future so as to permit the construction of the Arena to begin as soon as practicable; and Whereas: Despite all efforts of the City to resolve them, several issues in the MOU have yet to be finalized or require more definitive resolution, notably, the transmissions fee, the resolution of the City-County bed tax litigation, Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity requirements, and the final form of the exhibits which have been appended to the MOU; and Whereas: Efforts to resolve the bed tax lawsuit are continuing by the Mayor, Comptroller and Common Council; Whereas: The Mayor has requested the Common Council to approve the MOU subject to these continuing discussions, efforts and negotiations; Now, Therefore Be It Resolved: That no City funds should be disbursed to CAC or the Sabres or funds encumbered for their activities or binding commitment made to acquire real property for the project until the MOU is executed by the County of Erie and UDC and the draft CAC-Sabres Lease is conformed to the approved MOU; and Be It Further Resolved: That the Mayor be and hereby is authorized to execute an MOU subject to such modifications as the Corporation Counsel may deem necessary and appropriate to approve such document; and Be It Further Resolved: That the Corporation Counsel provide to the Common Council periodic information on the status of the continuing negotiation of the unresolved or open items; and Be It Finally Resolved: That the Corporation Counsel file with the City Clerk a copy of the fully executed MOU. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 205 By: Messrs. Pitts and Bell Refinance Arcade Cinema Building Loan Whereas: The Buffalo Enterprise Development Corporation has informed the Council that the owners of the Arcade Cinema Building have been unable to privately refinance the HUD 108 first mortgage on the building which comes due in August of this year; and Whereas: The Commissioner of Community Development, appearing before the Committee on Economic Development on February 16th, expressed concern about the loan but also maintained that options are still open for applying for a new longer term HUD 108 loan; and Whereas: Homer Platt, representing HUD, stated at the meeting that refinancing has always been an option but that the City should take steps now to begin the process for refinancing the HUD 108 loan; and Whereas: It is absolutely essential that the Common Council authorize the application for refinancing the Arcade Cinema Building mortgage to trigger negotiations by the Department of Community Development, HUD, and the Arcade Cinema Group to resolve this matter well before the August deadline; and Whereas: The Council also must have a better understanding of the Arcade Cinema Group's relationship with the General Cinema Corporation and terms of their lease agreement, specifically those tied to attendance figures, i.e. the "Walk Clause," and how refinancing would impact on the lease. In addition, strategies for increasing attendance should be proposed; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved: That the Common Council authorize the Commissioner of Community Development to work with the President of the Arcade Cinema Group to begin the process for application for a new longer term HUD 108 loan for the Arcade Cinema building; and Be It Further Resolved: That the Commissioner of Community Development and the President of the Arcade Cinema Group keep this Honorable Body apprised of the status of negotiations by providing comparisons of a proposed refinancing agreement and the original financing arrangement; and Be It Finally Resolved: That the Arcade Cinema Group furnish a copy of its lease agreement with the General Cinema Corporation, a report of meetings with General Cinema on the operation of the theatre complex, and a summary of plans for increasing the viability of the theatre complex and the Arcade Cinema Building. PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 206 By: Messrs. Pitts and Collins SET PUBLIC HEARING: Ellicott-Masten New Housing Project Approval of Land Disposition Agreement M. J. Peterson/Forbes Housing, Co. WHEREAS, M. J. Peterson/Forbes Housing, Co. and/or other legal entity to be formed (herein referred to as the "Redeveloper") has been duly designated as qualified and eligible Redeveloper in accordance with the rules and procedures prescribed by the City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency (herein referred to as the "Agency"); and WHEREAS, The Agency and the Redeveloper have negotiated a Land Disposition Agreement for the disposition of a forty (40) new residential housing project known as Ellicott-Masten New Housing Project in the Community Wide Urban Renewal Demonstration Program Area; and WHEREAS, said Land Disposition Agreement has been forwarded by the Agency to this Common Council for action, pursuant to Section 507, subdivision 2 (d) of the General Municipal Law; and WHEREAS, Article 15A of the "General Municipal Law" requires that the disposition of land in an Urban Renewal Project may be approved only after a public hearing on due notice. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 1. That the City Clerk is hereby directed to publish the notice attached hereto and marked "Notice of Hearing" in the Buffalo News, no later than the 25th day of February 1994. 2. That this Common Council will conduct a Public Hearing on the matters stated in said "Notice of Hearing" at 2:00 o'clock p.m. in the Council Chambers on the 8th day of March 1994. ADOPTED. No. 207 By: Mr. Pitts Memorialize New York State Maintain Commission on Cable Television Whereas: The 37-member New York Telecommunications Exchange was appointed by Governor Mario Cuomo to make recommendations regarding greater access, services and competition in telecommunications; and Whereas: One of the recommendations made by the Exchange was that the Public Service Commission's jurisdiction be expanded to include existing state-level regulation of cable television; and Whereas: Under this proposal the PSC would assume the regulatory functions of the Commission on Cable Television, and the Commission staff would be transferred to the PSC; and Whereas: However, cable television and telephone services remain distinct industries, and are subject to entirely different regulatory frameworks; and Whereas: While the Cable Commission has done an exemplary job in regulating cable TV on the state level, it is uncertain how effective and vigilant the PSC would be in dealing with cable-related issues; Now, therefore be it resolved: That this Common Council memorialize New York State to maintain the New York State Commission on Cable Television in its present structure with its current regulatory functions; and Be it further resolved: That the City Clerk be directed to certify the passage of this resolution and forward copies to Governor Cuomo, the Secretary of the Senate, the Clerk of the Assembly, and the Western New York delegation to the New York State Legislature. ADOPTED. No. 208 By: Mr. Zuchlewski Audit Division of Youth Purchases Whereas: With the City of Buffalo anticipating a budget deficit of approximately $32 Million, it is the obligation of all city officials to investigate every pathway possible to try to decrease spending, and Whereas: In the course of setting up Lighted Schoolhouse Programs for different Councilmanic Districts it has come to our attention that equipment bought for each program is not reused every year, instead everything is replaced and the old equipment given away, and whereas: By storing equipment that is still in good shape for use the following year, the City of Buffalo may economize on the cost of running the Lighted Schoolhouse Program, and Now, Therefore, Be it Resolved: That the Common Council requests that the Comptroller's office run an audit of the Department of Human Resources, to see where the department might economize in it's purchases for the Division of Youth and other areas under it's jurisdiction, and be it further Resolved: That the Common Council requests, from the Comptroller's office a written response on the outcome of this audit and any recommendations they might have as soon as possible. ADOPTED. No. 209 By: Mr. Zuchlewski Prepare ordinance Amendment - Raise cap on Performance Bonds for purchase of goods and services Whereas: On October 19, 1993, this Common Council adopted Resolution #206, "Eliminate Performance Bond Requirements For Purchasing". This resolution called for the Department of General Services and the Corporation Counsel to report on the feasibility of eliminating mandatory performance bonds for the purchase of goods and services, exclusive of construction projects; and Whereas: The General Services response (#70, Nov. 3, 1993; # 112 Nov. 16, 1993) stated that performance bonds are unnecessary for the vast majority of purchase contracts for goods and services, and that the elimination of the bond requirement would ultimately result in cost savings to the city; and Whereas: The Corporation Counsel response (#53, Nov. 3, 1993; # 111 Nov. 16, 1993) stated that, "As a general rule, the awarding body has the right to waive security when it is beneficial to do so", and that as a result of local ordinance, the Common Council and Commissioner of General Services have the discretion to waive performance bond requirements for purchases which do not exceed $25,000; and Whereas: Any additional alteration in the performance bond requirements requires an ordinance amendment; Now, therefore, be it resolved: That this Common Council direct the Corporation Counsel to prepare an ordinance amendment raising the cap on performance bond requirements from the existing $25,000 level to $100,000. REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, THE COMMISSIONER OF GENERAL SERVICES AND THE CORPORATION COUNSEL. No. 210 By Mr. Zuchlewski Felicitations/In Memoriam Attached hereto are Felicitation and In Memoriam Resolutions sponsored by Members of the Common Council as indicated: Felicitation for Fifth Grade Classes at School #68 By Councilmember Helfer Felicitation for Fifth Grade Classes at Campus North By Councilmember Helfer ADOPTED. No. 211 BY: Mr. Zuchlewski Appointments Commissioners of Deeds That the following persons are hereby appointed as Commissioner of Deeds for the term ending December 31, 1994, conditional upon the persons so appointed certifying under oath to their qualifications and filing sane with the City Clerk: Barbara Pelczynski Richard D. Meadows, Jr. Total: 2 ADOPTED. No. 212 By: Mr. Zuchlewski Appointments Commissioners of Deeds Required for the Proper Performance of Public Duties That the following persons are hereby appointed as Commissioner of Deeds for the term ending December 31, 1994, conditional upon the persons so appointed certifying under oath to their qualifications and filing same with the City Clerk: Nicole L. Notato Tammy M. Barnes R. Gil Kerlikowske Total: 3 ADOPTED. UNFINISHED BUSINESS No. 213 L.L. Intro. # 11, Economic Dev. Zones (Item No. 187, C.C.P., Feb. 8, 1994) Mr. Pitts moved that the above item be taken from the table. Seconded by ,Mr. Fahey CARRIED. Mr. Pitts now moved that the above item be approved. Seconded by Mrs. Lotempio PASSED. AYES- 13 NOES- 0. No. 214 Announcement Of Committee Meetings The following meetings are scheduled. All meetings are held in the Council Chambers, 13th floor, City Hall, Buffalo, New York, unless otherwise noted. Regular Committees Civil Service Tuesday, Mar 1, 1994 9:30 AM Finance Tuesday, Mar 1, 1994 Immediately Following Civil Service Legislation Tuesday, Mar 1, 1994 2:00 PM Economic Dev. Wednesday, Mar 2, 1994, 10:00 AM No. 215 Adjournment On a motion by Mr. Pitts, Seconded by Mr. Helfer the Council adjourned at 2:45 P.M. CHARLES L. MICHAUX, III CITY CLERK Board of Police and Fire Pension Proceedings Mayor's Office-201 City Hall February 24, 1994-11:00 a.m. Present: George K. Arthur, Council President; Anthony M. Masiello, Mayor-2 Absent: Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller-1 The Journal of the last Meeting was approved. No. 1 I transmit herewith the Pension Payroll for the Fire Pension Fund for the month of February 1994 amounting to $31,007.13, and respectfully request that checks be drawn to the order of the persons named herein for the amounts stated. Adopted. Ayes-2. Noes-0. No. 2 The following annuitants have been cancel led from the Fire Pension Payroll: Florence M. Flattery Died 1/4/94 Fred A. Deahna Died 1/28/94 Received and Filed. No. 3 Mr. Arthur made a motion to approve the pension application of Mrs. Caroline E. Deahna, effective January 29, 1994, because of the death of her husband, Fred A. Deahna, who passed away on January 28, 1994. Adopted. Ayes-2. Noes-0. No. 4 I transmit herewith the Pension Payroll for the Police Pension Fund for the month of February 1994 amounting to $32,944.53, and respectfully request that checks be drawn to the order of the persons named herein for the amounts stated. Adopted. Ayes-2. Noes-0. No. 5 The following annuitants have been cancel led from the Police Pension Payroll: Florence C. Shanahan Died 1/8/94 Edwin E. L. Stein Died 1/18/94 Received and Filed. No. 6 Mr. Arthur made a motion to take off the Treasury Statement of Disbursements from the table. Carol Nowak will meet with Marilyn Smith, Treasurer, to update her on this matter and report back at the next Pension Board meeting. Ayes-2. Noes-0. No. 7 On motion by Mr. Masiello, the City of Buffalo Police and Fire Pension Board Meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m.