HomeMy WebLinkAbout96-0206
No. 3
Common Council
Proceedings
of the
City of Buffalo
Regular Meeting Februrary 6, 1996
Special Meeting January 31, 1996
MAYOR
Hon. Anthony M. Masiello
COMPTROLLER
Joel A. Giambra
COMMON COUNCIL
PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL
James W. Pitts
PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE
David A. Franczyk
MAJORITY LEADER
Rosemarie LoTempio
COUNCILMEMBERS-AT-LARGE
Beverly Gray
Barbra Kavanaugh
Rosemarie LoTempio
DISTRICT COUNCIL MEMBERS
Alfred T. Coppola Delaware
Barbara Miller-Williams - Ellicott
David A. Franczyk Fillmore
David J. Czajka Lovejoy
Byron Brown Masten
Robert Quintana Niagara
Dale Zuchlewski North
Bonnie K. Lockwood South
Kevin J. Helfer University
REGULAR COMMITTEES
CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE
: David J. Czajka, Chairman, Alfred T. Coppola, Kevin J.
Helfer,David Franczyk, Barbara Miller-Williams, Members
CLAIMS COMMITTEE
: Bonnie K. Lockwood, Chairman, Kevin J. Helfer, Alfred T.
Coppola, David Franczyk, Barbara Miller-Williams, Members
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
Dale L. Zuchlewski Chairman, Barbara
Miller-Williams, Byron Brown, Kevin J. Helfer, Robert Quintana, Rosemarie
LoTempio Members.
FINANCE COMMITTEE:
David A. Franczyk, Chairman, Byron Brown, Beverly Gray,
Kevin J. Helfer, Bonnie K. Lockwood, Dale Zuchlewski Members.
LEGISLATION COMMITTEE:
Alfred Coppola, Chairman, David J. Czajka, Kevin J.
Helfer, Rosemarie LoTempio, Robert Quintana Barbra Kavanaugh Members
RULES COMMITTEE:
James W. Pitts, Chairman, Kevin J. Helfer, Rosemarie LoTempio,
Members
EDUCATION COMMITTEE:
Barbra A. Kavanaugh Chairman, Dale Zuchlewski, Kevin J.
Helfer, Beverly Gray, Bonnie K. Lockwood, Barbara Miller-Williams Members
SPECIAL COMMITTEES
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE:
James W. Pitts, Chairman, Beverly
Gray, Robert Quintana, Alfred Coppola, Kevin J. Helfer.
BUDGET COMMITTEE:
Rosemarie LoTempio, Chairman, Alfred T. Coppola, David
Franczyk, Kevin J. Helfer, Byron Brown
ERIE BASIN MARNA LEASE COMMITTEE:
James W. Pitts, Chairman, Kevin J. Helfer,
Bonnie K. Lockwood, Carl A. Perla, Jr.
POLICE REORGANIZATION COMMITTEE:
David J. Czajka Chairman; Kevin J. Helfer,
Rosemarie LoTempio.
TASK FORCES
AUDITORIUM AND STADIUM TASK FORCE:
James W. Pitts, Chairman, Kevin
J. Helfer, Bonnie 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.
ERIE BASIN MARINA TASK FORCE:
James W. Pitts, Chairman, Kevin L. Helfer, Bonnie
K. Lockwood, Comptroller/Designee, Commissioner of Public Works/Designee,
President of Slip Renter's Assoc./Designee, Buffalo Sabres/Aud Club.
PARKS CONSERVANCY 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.
GREENWAY TASK FORCE:
Bonnie Kane-Lockwood, Chairman, James August, Frederick
Holman, Barry Boyer, Allan Jamieson, Lucy Cook, Jesse Kregal, Mark Mistretta,
Thomas Pallas, Philip Snyder, Lorraine Pierro, Cynthia Schwartz, Ann Poole,
Suzanne Toomey-Spinks, Dr. Rae Rosen, Margaret Wooster, Jerry Malloy, David P.
Comerford, Tammy Barnes, Terry Wherry
CARBON MONOXIDE TASK FORCE:
David Czajka Chairman, Fred Larson, Matthew Baudo,
Paul Mielcarek, David Pierowicz, Phil Haberstro, Mike Rabb, Donna DeCarolisle,
Jay Burney, Mark Kubiniec, Yerby Dixon.
CORPORATION PROCEEDINGS
COMMON COUNCIL
CITY HALL- BUFFALO
Tuesday, February 6, 1996
at 2:00 P.M.
PRESENT- James W. Pitts President of the Council, and Council
Members Brown, Coppola, Czajka, Franczyk, Gray, Helfer, Kavanaugh, Lockwood,
LoTempio, Pitts, Quintana, Williams and Zuchlewski- 13.
ABSENT- None.
On a motion by Mrs. LoTempio, seconded by Mr. Czajka, the minutes of the stated
meeting held on January 23, 1996 were approved.
FROM THE MAYOR
No. 1
Appointment of Member to the Elevator Safety Review Board
Pursuant to the powers vested in me by Chapter 167.3 of the Buffalo
Code, I hereby appoint Mr. John Lydon, residing at 58 Chatham Avenue, Buffalo,
New York 14216 to the Elevator Review Board as a representative of the
architectural design profession for a term expiring April 30, 1998. Mr. Lydon
is replacing Robert O'Hara, who has resigned and his term expired 4/30/95.
Mr. Lydon has a Bachelors degree in Industrial Arts, and a Masters degree
in Architect from the University of Buffalo. He is a licensed New York State
Registered Architect. John Lydon is the former Director of Buildings for the
City of Buffalo and a former Lieutenant in the Fire Prevention Bureau. He is
also a New York State Code Enforcement Officer.
I hereby certify that John Lydon is fully qualified to serve as a member
of the Elevator Safety Review Board,
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 2
Appointment & Reappointment of Members to the
Committee for Youth (Buffalo Youth Board)
Pursuant to the powers vested in me by Section 285.27 (285.15)
Article 14-A of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, as amended, I hereby
appoint and reappoint the below listed persons as members of the Committee for
Youth (Buffalo Youth Board) effective February 1, 1996 for terms expiring
February 1, 2000:
Reappointment:
Michael Cercone 186 Admiral Road Buffalo, New York 14216
Rev. William Cobb 136 Bennett Village Terr., Buffalo, NY 14214
Margaret Lombardi 86 Culver Road Buffalo, NY 14220
James Gomes 24 Stanton Street Buffalo, NY 14206
Albert R. Howard 215 Peach Street Buffalo, NY 14204
APPOINTMENT:
Hon. Patrick Carney 93 Larchmont Buffalo, NY 14214
Hon. Shirley Trautman 50 Delaware Avenue Buffalo, NY 14202
Rev. James A. Lewis II 106 Rohr Avenue Buffalo, NY 14211
Rev. Michael Chapman 107 Marigold Avenue Buffalo, NY 14214
Herb Bellamy, Jr. 395 E. Ferry Street Buffalo, NY 14208
Nick Donifacio Butler Mitchell Club
307 Massachusetts Buffalo, NY 14213
Sylvia Nadler Compass House
370 Linwood Avenue Buffalo, NY 14209
Greg Hill Community School #53
329 Roehrer Avenue Buffalo, NY 14208
Jessie Carmichael BMHA/Substance Abuse
Buffalo, New York 14202 2101 City Hall
Elayne Blyden 157 Hempstead Buffalo, New York 14215
Marie Goodloe Downtown YWCA
190 Franklin Street Buffalo, New York 14202
Forrest Benson 427 City Hall Buffalo, New York 14202
P. 0. Patrick Cray Police Community Services
635 Elk Street, Buffalo, New York 14210
YOUTH
Jua Tutein 148 Eaton Street Buffalo, New York 14208
Lenny Valvo 459 Niagara Street Buffalo, New York 14201
Dennis McKnight 11 E. Utica Street Buffalo, New York 14209
Adambu Ejimadu 254 Olympic Ave., Buffalo, New York 14215
Kareem McCulley 132 Rodney Buffalo, New York 14214
I hereby certify that the above narned individuals are fully qualified to
serve as members of the Committee for Youth (BuffaloYouth Board).
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION AND THE COMMISSIONER OF HUMAN
SERVICES, PARKS AND RECREATION.
No. 3
1996-97 Recommended Budget North AmeriCare Park
I hereby transmit to your Honorable Body my 1996-97 recommended
budget for the North AmeriCare Park Enterprise Fund pursuant to Local Law and
Section 295.9(c) of the City Charter. This budget covers operating costs and
debt service requirements for North AmeriCare Park's 1996-97 fiscal year which
runs from April 1 through March 31.
At the outset I must point out that the Enterprise Fund is suffering from
the same problem that plagues the City's General fund, namely, insufficient
revenues. Total revenues and resources have been decreased 14.8 percent from
the 1995-96 budget or approximately 1 percent from 1994-95 actual receipts.
Rental income has been decreased as have revenues from concessions and
souvenirs. Revenue estimates in these areas have been revised in light of a
persistent decline in attendance at the Park. Naming rights revenue has been
increased to reflect the new naming rights agreement. other areas showing
increases are club rental and club utilities. Both of these revenue streams
have escalator provisions under the lease agreement.
On the expense side of the ledger, practically every line item has been
decreased with the exception of personal service costs and utilities.
Personnel costs have been increased in recognition of the fact that the Aud
will go off line with the opening of the new arena. Consequently, the
Director's salary has been calculated at 75 percent of total as oppossed to 50
percent of total as in past years. The cost of security services has been
eliminated as these services will now be provided utilizing seasonal staff.
I respectfully request that your Honorable Body approve the budget I am
submitting for I believe it provides sufficient resources to allow North
AmeriCare Park to operate without a subsidy from the General Fund for the
1996-97 Fiscal Year and ensures that 1996-97 will be another successful season
for the Bisons and the City.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
FROM THE MAYOR - EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT
FROM THE CITY PLANNING BOARD
No. 4
Word of Faith Ministries - Request to Convert a Multiple Dwelling to a Shelter
for the Homeless at 142 Doat Street
Item No. 57, C.C.P., 1/9/96
The City Planning Board at its regular meeting held Tuesday, January
30. 1996. considered the matter captioned above pursuant to Section 511-136 of
the Buffalo Code. Review of Human Service Providers.
The applicant seeks to convert an existing multiple dwelling into a
homeless shelter. The shelter will house a maximum of nine homeless
individuals with one resident supervisor and five staff members. It is
anticipated that the longest stay for any single resident will be one year.
Under the Buffalo Code, human service providers of this type may be
permitted in any R or C zone in the city, provided that they are approved
individually by your Honorable Body and that they are not located in an area in
which there is a concentration of such facilities.
In this instance. the area within a one-half mile radius of the subject
property is not saturated with human service providers. Specifically, only
four human service providers are located within the subject area. Under SEQR
the proposed shelter conversion is considered an unlisted action which may be
studied via uncoordinated review.
The Planning Board voted to approve the proposed homeless shelter.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 5
Rite Aid on N.Y. Inc. Request to Erect a
Pole Sign at 1220 Lovejoy
Item No. 72. C.C.P., 1/23/96
The City Planning Board at its regular meeting held Tuesday, January
30, 1996. considered the matter captioned above pursuant to Section 387-19 of
the Buffalo Code. Review of Pole Signs.
The applicant seeks to replace an existing pole sign with an illuminated
pole sign. The new sign will be 18 feet in overall height and will have a sign
face area of 49 square feet (7 feet by 7 feet) with a 5 foot by 7 feet reader
board (35 square feet). The site is located within a C2 zone which permits
such signage. Under SEQR the proposed sign replacement is considered a Type II
action which does not require further environmental review.
The Planning Board voted to approve the proposed sign replacement with
the condition that it be set in an appropriate landscaped base.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
MAYORS ADVOCACY OFFICE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
No. 6
Snow Shoveling
C.C.P. Item 187 January 23, 1996
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on Item 187
C.C.P. from January 23, 1996 regarding "Sidewalk Shoveling."
While the current City Ordinance addresses the issue of removing snow and
ice in a timely manner, enforcement is not a priority. Even when area
businesses and residents do shovel, they often neglect shoveling the curb cuts
at the corner of city blocks. These curb cuts allow all residents to safely
cross the street and remove some of the many barriers that have been
encountered by citizens using assistive devices (wheelchairs, canes, crutches
etc.) or persons with visual impairments. Special emphasis should be made to
address this issue throughout the city.
Property surrounding many of the bus stops or subway stations have also
been very difficult to traverse this winter. Attention needs to be directed to
those areas where access is especially important for pedestrian travel.
The issue of plowing hard packed snow onto residential property also
should be reviewed. many times, older residents and people with disabilities
are unable to move these large lumps of snow that the snow plow leaves behind.
Finally, the issue of absentee landlords and city owned properties
deserve further inspections. Residential properties owned by absentee
landlords are not shoveled despite people living in the residence. Increasing
the fines and the enforcement of existing laws will help the city gain
financially and return the responsibility back to the property owner.
Once again, thank you for allowing me to comment on this proposed piece
of legislation. If further discussions or committees are formed surrounding
this matter, I would consider it a privilege to become a member. Persons with
disabilities are a large segment of our population and deserve the same
opportunities to enjoy the many positive aspects of our City.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
FROM THE COMPTROLLER
No. 7
Certificate of Necessity
Capital Budget Amendment
Authorization for Additional Capital Indebtedness
We, Anthony M. Masiello, Mayor and Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller,
do hereby certify, pursuant to Section 359 of the Charter, that it is necessary
to authorize an increase in indebtedness for Capital Projects Program, provided
by the Common Council prior to July 1, 1995 for the ensuing fiscal year, by
adding the following item:
200 Capital Projects
402 Division of Buildings
Hertel Avenue Police Station $500,000
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 8
Certificate of Necessity
Capital Budget Amendment
Authorization for Additional Capital Indebtedness
We, Anthony M. Masiello, Mayor and Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller,
do hereby certify, pursuant to Section 359 of the Charter, that it is necessary
to authorize an increase in indebtedness for Capital Projects Program, provided
by the Common Council prior to July 1, 1995 for the ensuing fiscal year, by
adding the following item:
200 Capital Projects
401 Division of Engineering
Local Match for Marchiselli Funds $3,439,785
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 9
Certificate of Necessity
Increased Appropriation
Appropriation Allotments - Board of Education
We, Anthony M. Masiello, Mayor and Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller,
do hereby certify pursuant to Section 41 of the Charter, that an increase in
the sum of $5,000,000 in the estimates for the fiscal year beginning July 1,
1995 is necessary in Appropriation Allotments - Board of Education, to meet a
contingency which could not have been reasonably foreseen when the budget was
adopted. The amount of increased appropriation will be met from an increase of
$5,000,000 in the General Fund City Revenue account 100-810 402000 98960 Bond
Issue Proceeds not otherwise appropriated for any other purpose. The detail of
the requirements are set forth below
To:
100 General Fund
97-0 - Board of Education
Operation Maintenance $5,000,000
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 10
Certificate of Necessity
Transfer of Funds
Division of Budget and Management
Division of Engineering
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 $83,000 be transferred and reappropriated from the Division of
Budget and Management, as set forth below:
From:
200 Capital Project Fund
061 - Division of Budget and Management
001 - Planning for Capital Projects $83,000
To
200 Capital Project Fund
401 - Division of Engineering
556 - Marine Midland Arena Street Reconstruction,
Group 364 Phase I $83,000
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 11
Capital Debt Service Fund Deposits - 1995/1996 Fiscal Year
Certificate Number 2-95-96) of the Comptroller of the City of
Buffalo, New York, relative to the Capital Debt Service of Fund of said city,
stating the amounts to be deposited therein and paid therefrom for the period
Commencing July 1, 1995 and ending June 30, 1996
I, Joel A. Giambra, Comptroller of the City of Buffalo, New York, in
accordance with the provisions of Section 202 of the resolution entitled:
"Enabling Resolution of the City of' Buffalo, New York, Establishing a Capital
Debt Service Fund, Determining the Terms and Conditions of Such Fund and Other
Matter in Connection Therewith, and Providing for the Rights of Holders of
Capital Debt Obligations of the City."
duly adopted by the Common Council on March 8, 1977, and pursuant to the duties
of the chief fiscal officer set forth therein, Do Herby Certify as follows:
1. The Capital Debt Service Fund Requirements for the fiscal year
commencing July 1, 1995 and ending June 30, 1996 is $38,505,425.53.
2. The portion of said Capital Debt Service Requirement allocated to the
First Collection Period (July 1, 1995 through and including November 30, 1995)
is $12,147,448.64.
3. The portion of said Capital Debt Service Requirement allocated to the
Second Collection Period (December 1, 1995 through and including June 30, 1996)
is $26,357,976.89.
4. The First Collection Period portion of the Capital Debt Service
Requirement is due and payable during the period commencing July 1, 1995 and
ending December 31, 1995 on the obligations, in the amounts, on the dates, and
at the place or places as set forth below:
Obligation -Amount Due Date Due
Place Due
Serial Bonds $ 1,374,860.00 Jul. 31, 1995
M & Trust Company, Buffalo, NY
Serial Bonds 436,282.50 Jul 31, 1995
Key Trust Company, Albany, NY
Serial Bond 259,932.50 Aug. 1, 1995
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York,NY
Serial Bonds 635,816.25 Aug. 14, 1995
Key Trust Company, Albany, NY
Serial Bonds 1,338,266.25 Aug. 14, 1995
Marine Midland Bank, New York, NY
Serial Bonds 1,600.000.00 Aug. 15,1996
Marine Midland Bank, New York, NY
Serial Bonds 753,433.76 Aug. 31, 1995
Marine Midland Bank, New York, NY
Serial Bonds 15,480.00 Sept. 1, 1995
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York, NY
Serial Bonds 446,232.50 Sept. 29, 1995
Chemical Bank, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 511,725.13 Sept. 29,1995
Marine Midland Bank, New York, NY
Serial Bonds 770,343.75 Sept. 29, 1995
Fleet Trust Company, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 2O3,000.00 Oct. 1, 1995
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 1,484,000.00 Oct. 1, 1995
Marine Midland Bank, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 184,885.00 Nov. 1, 1995
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 12,780.00 Nov. 30, 1996
Chase Manhattan Bank, New York, NY
Serial Bonds 49,195.00 Nov. 30, 1995
M&T Trust Company, Buffalo, NY
Serial Bonds 739,091.00 Nov. 30, 1995
Marine Midland Bank, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 130,000 Dec. 1, 1995
M&T Trust Company, Buffalo, NY
Serial Bonds 191,125.00 Dec. 1, 1995
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York,NY
Serial Bonds 1,011,000.00 Dec. 1, 1995
Marine Midland, New York, New York
$12,147,448.64
5. The aggregate amount to be deposited by the Director of the Treasury
with the Fleet Bank, Buffalo, New York, commencing on July 1, 1995 is
$12,147,448.64.
6. The Second Collection Period portion of the Capital Debt Service
Requirement is due and payable during the period commencing January 1, 1996,
and ending June 30, 1996, on the obligations, in the amounts, on the dates, and
at the place or places as set forth below:
Obligation Amount Due Date Due
Place Due
Serial Bonds $I,374,86O.00 Jan. 31, 1996
M &T Trust Company, Buffalo, NY
Serial Bonds 436,282.50 Jan. 31, 1996
Key trust Company, Albany, NY
Serial Bonds 451,361.25 Jan. 31, 1996
Marine Midland , New York, NY
Serial Bonds 6,265,000.00 Feb. 1, 1996
M&T Trust Company, Buffalo, NY
Serial Bonds 19,130.00 Feb. 1, 1996
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 1,340,000.00 Feb. 1, 1996
Key Trust Company, Albany, NY
Serial Bonds 75,000.00 Feb., 1, 1996
Marine Midland, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 635,816.25 Feb. 14, 1996
Key Trust Company, Albany, NY
Serial Bonds 699,651.25 Feb. 14, 1996
Marine Midland Bank, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 2,090,000.00 Feb. 15, 1996
Key Trust Company, Albany, NY
Serial Bonds 753,433.70 Feb. 29, 1996
Marine Midland Bank, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 2,255,000.00 Mar. 1, 1996
Marine Midland Bank, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 240.00 Mar. 1996
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA,New York, New York
Serial Bonds 446,232.50 Mar. 29, 1996
Fleet, Bank, Buffalo, New York
Serial Bonds 770,343.75 Mar. 29, 1996
Fleet Trust Company, New York. New York
Serial Bonds 481,303.13 Mar. 29, 1996
Marine Midland Bank, New York, NY
Serial Bonds 1,240,000.00 Apr. 1, 1996
Fleet Bank, Buffalo, NY
Serial Bonds 2,700,000.00 Apr. 1, 1996
Fleet Trust Company, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 516,250.00 Apr. 1, 1996
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York, New York Serial
Serial Bonds 131,375.00 May 1, 1996
Chase Manhattan Bank, NY, New York, NY
Serial Bonds 12,780.00 May 31, 1996
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York , NY
Serial Bonds 45,100.00 May 31, l996
M&T Trust Company, Buffalo, New York
Serial Bonds 715,332.50 May 31, 1996
Marine Midland Bank, New York, New York
Serial Bonds 477360.00 May 31, 1996
Key Trust Company, Albany, NY
Serial Bonds 2,426,125.OO Jun.1, 1996
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, New York, New York
$26,357,976.89
7. The aggregate amount to be deposited by the Director of the Treasury
with the Fleet Bank, Buffalo, New York commencing on December 1, 1995 is
$26,357,976.89.
8. Pursuant to Section 202 (b) of said Enabling Resolution, the
Director of the Treasury shall deposit the amounts shown in Section 5 and 7
hereof in the Capital Debt Service Fund held by the Trustee, Fleet Bank,
Buffalo, New York, immediately upon receipt of any payment of or on account of
any City ad valorem property taxes, until the amount deposited during each
Collection Period is equal to the amount shown in Section 5 and 7,
respectively.
9. I have this day delivered a copy of Certificate Number 2-95/96 to the
Director of Treasury and to the Fleet Bank, Buffalo, New York.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
24TH Day of January, 1996.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
No. 12
Performance Audit Report
Department of Neighborhoods, Housing
and Inspections
Division of Housing and Insp. - Permits
In response to the directive requiring the Comptroller to file
audit reports with the Common Council, I hereby submit copies of the Division
of Housing and Inspections - Permits, Audit Report for the period July 1, 1989
to June 30, 1995.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND THE COMMISSIONER OF NEIGHBORHOODS,
HOUSING AND INSPECTIONS.
No. 13
Bond Closeout
The City of Buffalo issues bonds to provide funds to finance the
costs of various capital projects which are described in the bond resolutions
submitted to the Common Council. When we raise capital funds by selling bonds,
it is reasonably anticipated that all of the projects will proceed timely and
binding commitments for the completion of the projects will be entered into in
a timely manner. Proceeds of bonds not expended for the object or purpose for
which the bonds were sold must be applied to the payment of principal and
interest on such bond (Local Finance Law - Section 165.00).
The Division of Accounting has been advised by the Department of Public Works
that the project has been completed and the bond fund account should be closed
out.
Acct # 200 Purpose
700-00 1 Acquisition of Animal Shelter
Unencmbered Restricted Unrestricted Balance
for Future for
1/31/96 Debt Svc Debt Service
$95,702.44 $95,1702.44 -0-
Upon favorable action by Your Honorable Body, I will close the bond account and
the amount restricted for future debt service will be transferred to the debt
service reserve.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
No. 14
Result of Negotiations
158 Chester, W 5251 N Ferry
Vacant Lot: 251 x 104.50'
Assessed Valuation: $1,300
Item No. 16, C.C.P. 9/5/95
In the above referenced Item, Your Honorable Body authorized the
Comptroller's office, Division of Real Estate, to negotiate a private sale with
Mr. Edward M. Williams of 162 Chester Street, to purchase the above captioned
City-owned property. Mr. Williams would like to purchase this property for
extra yard space.
An independent appraisal of the property was conducted by Mr. Dennis
Walker, Appraiser, Able Appraisal Associates, 43 St. Paul Street, Buffalo, New
York 14209. He has estimated the fair market value of the property to be Nine
Hundred Dollars ($900.00). The estimate represents approximately ThirtyFour
Cents (.34) a square foot for the subject property. The Division of Real
Estate has concurs with the appraiser's estimate of value.
The results of our negotiations are that Mr. Edward Williams has agreed
and is prepared to pay Nine Hundred Dollars ($900.00) for the subject property.
He 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 approve the sale of 158
Chester Street to Mr. Edward Williams in the amount of Nine Hundred Dollars
($900.00). I am further recommending that the Corporation Counsel prepare the
necessary documents for the transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized
to execute the same.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
No. 15
Alter Time - Bd. Of Education Elections
Item #189, C.C.P. 1-23-96
I am in full agreement with any resolution and/or measure which
alter the Board of Education elections to coincide with those of the General
Elections in November.
In my resolution filed with the Common Council (1-25-95) I outlined my
specific reasons why such an alteration is necessary. At this time, I still
hold firm to that report and my opinion.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION.
No. 16
Certificate of Appointment
Appointment effective January 29, 1996, in the Department of Audit
and Control, Division of Accounting, to the position of Assistant Accountant,
Temporary, at the intermediate starting salary of $27,239.
Kathleen E. Seeger, 364 Bryant Street, Apt. 1, Buffalo, NY 14222
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE
FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL
No. 17
Appoint Members
Special Committee On Police Reorganization
I am appointing Council Members Kevin Helfer, Robert Quintana,
Beverly Gray and Rose LoTempio to the Special Committee on Police
Reorganization.
Council Member David Czajka will continue as Chairman.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 18
Appoint Members
Taylor Law Impasse Committee
I am appointing Council Members Rose LoTempio, Alfred Coppola,
Kevin Helfer and Robert Quintana to the Taylor Law Impasse Committee.
I will serve as Chairman.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 19
Appointment Member
Stadium/Aud Task Force
I am appointing Council Member Barbara Miller-Williams to replace
former Council Member Clifford Bell on the Stadium and Aud Task Force.
The other Appointees and positions remain as it was previously.
Your cooperation is appreciated.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF ASSESSMENT
No. 20
Liquor License Request
Item #66, C.C.P. 12/12/95
We reviewed our files to determine if the individuals and/or corporations
applying for a liquor license owe real property tax, newer rent, local
assessment and occupancy tax. Please be advised of the following:
1) Our Assessment roll does not reflect 682 Main Street as a parcel in
the City of Buffalo.
The parcels closest to this are assessed as: 678 Main, assessed to Paul
G. Green, 179 Admiral Road, Buffalo, N.Y. who also owns the property at 179
Admiral Road; and 686 Main, assessed to Sidney and Gerald Birzon, 686 Main
Street, Buffalo, N.Y.
The city taxes and sewer rent are paid on the parcels listed above.
There are no local assessments and the occupancy taxes are paid.
We do not show ownership in the City of Buffalo under the applicants name
of William J. Gangloff or the corporation name of WOF, Inc.
2) 372 William is assessed to Leinster F. West III, 372 William St.,
Buffalo, N.Y.
Assessment records also show the following parcels assessed to the above:
9 Iroquois, mailing address 372 William Street, Buffalo, N.Y. 17 Woeppel,
assessed to Leinster F. & Jacqueline West, 866 Humboldt Pkwy., Buffalo, N.Y.
and
866 Humboldt, assessed to Leinster F. West & W., mailing address same.
On the above parcels, the 1995-96 first installment city tax and sewer
rent in paid. The 2nd half installment of the city tax, which was due by
1/2/96 is still owing as follows:
372 William $453.83
9 Iroquois 11.70
17 Woeppel 44.08
866 Humboldt 216.62
The above figures include interest to 1/31/96.
There are no local assessments.
The occupancy tax for 372 William remains unpaid in the amount of $52.64.
All other parcels show occupancy tax as paid.
The applicant's listed mailing address of 638 Humboldt Pkwy. is assessed
to Bessie Mae Carlisle, 866 Humboldt Pkwy., Buffalo, N.Y. The city taxes and
sewer rent are paid. There is no local assessment and the occupancy tax is
paid.
RECEIVED AND FILED
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS
No. 21
Notification Serial #8575
Repeal alternate Parking - Type II
Eagle Street between Monroe Street/Grosvenor Street
and Fillmore Avenue
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 Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances
of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by repealing therefrom the following: NO
PARKING
PROHIBITED PORTION HWY PROHIBITED PERIOD
Eagle Street, south side between 9:00 A.M.-4:00 P.M.
Grosvenor Street and Fillmore Thursday, Friday
Avenue excluding viaduct area
Eagle Street, north side between 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Monroe Street and Fillmore Avenue Monday, Tuesday,
excluding viaduct area Wednesday
Notification Serial #8576
Install Alternate Parking - Type II
Eagle Street between Jefferson Avenue
and Fillmore Avenue
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 Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances
of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: NO
PARKING
PROHIBITED PORTION HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PERIOD
Eagle Street, south side 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
between Jefferson Avenue Thursday, Friday
and Fillmore Avenue
excluding viaduct area
Eagle Street, north side 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
between Jefferson Avenue Monday, Tuesday
and Fillmore Avenue Wednesday
excluding viaduct area
This action is being taken to update our records and provide consistency
with existing field conditions (see previous serial).
Notification Serial #8577
Install No Parking
Except Official Police Vehicles
Sycamore Street, north side
between Elm Street
and Oak Street
NO PARKING - 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 23 Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances
of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: NO
PARKING - EXCEPT OFFICIAL POLICE VEHICLES
PROHIBITED PORTION HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PERIOD
Sycamore Street, north side At all times
between Elm Street
and Oak Street
excluding No Parking and
No Standing zones
This action is being taken as per a request from the County of Erie,
Department of Central police Services.
Notification Serial #8578
Repeal No Parking
on Washington Street, east side
from East Chippewa Street
to a point 218' north therefrom
NO 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 23 Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances
of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by repealing therefrom the following:
NO PARKING
PROHIBITED PORTION HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PERIOD
Washington Street, east side At all times
from East Chippewa Street
to a point 218' north therefrom
This action is being taken to provide an on-street area for "bus parking"
as needed by downtown hotels in this region. (see next serial)
Notification Serial #8579
Install No Parking except buses on
Washington Street, east side from
East Chippewa Street to a point 218' north therefrom
NO PARKING - 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 23 Section 15 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances
of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: NO
PARKING EXCEPT BUSES
PROHIBITED PORTION HIGHWAY PROHIBITED PERIOD
Washington Street, east side At all times
from East Chippewa Street
to a point 218' north therefrom
This action is being taken to provide an on-street area for "bus parking'
as needed by downtown hotels in this region. (see previous serial)
Notification Serial #8580
Repeal One-Way Street Direction
Cottage Street - southeastbound
from Maryland Street to Virginia Street
ONE-WAY STREET DIRECTION - 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 Section 22 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of
Buffalo be supplemented by repealing therefrom the following: ONE WAY STREET
DIRECTION
NAME OF STREET DIRECTION TRAFFIC MOVEMENT
Cottage Street southeastbound
from Maryland Street
to Virginia Street
This action is being taken to allow access to College Street from
Virginia Street and to provide consistency with current field conditions.
Notification Serial #8581
Install One-Way Street Direction Cottage Street - southeastbound from Maryland
Street to College Street
ONE-WAY STREET DIRECTION - 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 Section 22 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances of the City of
Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following:
ONE WAY STREET DIRECTION
NAME OF STREET DIRECTION TRAFFIC MOVEMENT
Cottage Street southeastbound
from Maryland Street
to College Street
This action is being taken to allow access to College Street from
Virginia Street and to provide consistency with current field conditions.
Notification Serial #8582
Install Stop Sign
in Cottage Street at Virginia Street
STOP SIGNS - 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 9 Section 11 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances
of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: STOP
SIGN
VEHICLES ON SHALL STOP BEFORE ENTERING
Cottage Street Virginia Street
These two streets form a "T" intersection with unique geometries which is
presently uncontrolled. This action will provide the necessary traffic control
for this intersection.
Notification Serial #8583
Install Stop Sign
in Tyler Street at West Winspear Avenue
STOP SIGNS - 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 9 Section 11 of Chapter 479 of Ordinances
of the City of Buffalo be supplemented by adding thereto the following: STOP
SIGN
VEHICLES ON SHALL STOP BEFORE ENTERING
Tyler Street West Winspear Avenue
These two streets form a "T" intersection with unique geometries which
presently contain conflicting traffic movements. This action will provide the
necessary traffic control for this intersection.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
No. 22
Change in Contract
North Stairwell Extension
Buffalo City Hall
I hereby submit to Your Honorable Body the following changes for
the North Stairwell Extension, Buffalo City Hall - Claude Mayo General
Carpentry - Order #11427310.
1. Alter layout at request of City Engineer. Add $ 1,656.05
The foregoing changes result in a net increase in the contract of One
Thousand Six Hundred Fifty Six and 05/100 Dollars ($1,656.05).
Summary: Original Amount of Contract $28,774.00
Amount of This Change (No. 1) Add 1,656.05
Revised Amount of Contract $ 30,430.05
These changes could not be 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 Division of Buildings 0 & M.
I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public
Works to issue a change order to the contractor as set forth above.
Mrs. LoTempio moved
That the communication from the Department of Public Works, dated January
22, 1996, be received and filed- and
That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized to
issue change order No. I to Claude Mayo General Carpentry, changes resulting in
a net increase in the amount of $1,656.05, as more fully described in the above
communication, for work relating to the North Stairwell Extension, City Hall,
Order #11427310. Funds to be charged to the Division of Buildings 0 & M.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
No. 23
Change in Contract
Reconstruction of School 29
Senior Center
I hereby submit to Your Honorable Body the following changes for
the Reconstruction of School 29 Senior Center, C & A Painting - C #91786500.
1. Delete panelboard feeder circuit. Deduct $ 415.00
The foregoing changes result in a net decrease in the contract of Four
Hundred Fifteen and 00/100 Dollars ($415.00).
Summary: Original Amount of Contract $ 49,600.00
Change Order No. 1 (5/16/95; item #42) Add 850.00
Amount of This Change (No. 2) Deduct 415.00
Revised Amount of Contract $ 50,035.00
These changes could not be foreseen at the time contract was let. Costs
have been reviewed by the Department of Public Works and found to be fair and
equitable.
I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public
Works to issue a change order to the contractor as set forth above.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the communication from the Department of Public Works, dated January
29, 1996, be received and filed,- and
That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized to
issue change order No. 2 to C & A Painting, changes resulting in a net decrease
in the amount of $415.00, as more fully described in the above communication,
for work relating to the Reconstruction School 29 Senior Center, C #91786500.
PASSED.
AYES- 13 NOES- 0.
No. 24
Report of Bids
Interior Stair Reconstruction
Buffalo Police Headquarters
74 Franklin Street
I advertised for on January 16, 1996 and received the following
sealed proposals which were publicly opened and read on January 30, 1996:
Gerald T. Stay Co. $23,000.00
Nichter Associates $23,823.00
Vara Science $32,467.00
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct statement of
all bids received and that Gerald T. Stay Co. in the amount of $23,000.00 is
the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with the plans and specifications.
I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public
Works to order the work on the basis of the low bid. Funds for this Work are
in B/F 200-402-513.
Estimate for this work was $25,000.00.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the communication from the Department of Public Works. dated January
30, 1996, be received and filed; and
That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized to
award a contract for Interior Stair Reconstruction, Police Headquarter's,. to
Gerald T. Stay Co., the lowest responsible bidder in the amount of $23,000.00;
with said cost to be charged against the B/F 200-402-513.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
No. 25
Report of Bids
Reconstruction 118 East Utica St.
Buffalo, NY
I advertised for on January 2, 1996 and received the following
sealed proposals which were publicly opened and read on January 23, 1996:
General Construction Work
Less Less
Base Bid Alt Bid G-1 Alt Bid G-2
Claude Mayo Construction
$293,400 $23,073 $ 9,971
G. T. Stay
334,600 21,000 10,000
C & A Painting Contractor
337,000 22,000 9,000
BSC Construction
337,000 15,558 7,482
Nichter Associates
337,400 22,000 9,000
Wilsandra Construction
347,000 17,000 9,900
Kirst Construction
349,900 23,600 10,700
C. Nichter Inc.
351,300 27,000 11,100
Williams General Contractor
353,667 23,000 10,830
C. H. Byron
360,000 12,000 4,000
BRD Inc.
368,800 20,000 9,975
Patrick Development
378,000 21,000 10,000
Kostas General Construction
382,968 23,785 10,000
Clarence Associates
388,883 21,000 10,500
All State Development
394,493 22,500 12,000
Hadala Corporation
415,000 31,500 10,100
New Era Construction
472,250 23,800 10,100
Alternate G-1 is to omit the new stair in the existing stairwell and to
sandblast and paint the original stair.
Alternate G-2 is to omit all interior painting.
Plumbing Work
MKS Plumbing $ 58,845
Elmwood Plumbing 58,900
Ackerman & Huebsch 64,122
Numarco 74,800
W. C. Roberson 77,353
Electrical Work
Goodwin Electric $ 78,700
Grand Island Electric 83,879
Weydman Electric 112,300
HVAC Work
B. H. Refrigeration $ 95,900
J. W. Danforth 104,990
Buffalo Sheet Metals 111,111
Allied Mechanical 119,537
Vastola Heating & Air Cond. 120,685
W. C. Roberson 131,500
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct statement of
all bids received and the following are the lowest responsible bidders in
accordance with the plans and specifications.
General Construction Work -
Claude Mayo Construction base bid $293,400
less Alt. #1 ($23,073) and less Alt. #2 ($9,971
in the total amount of $260,356.
Plumbing Work - MKS Plumbing in the amount of $58,845.
Electrical Work - Goodwin Electric in the amount of $78,700.
HVAC Work - B. H. Refrigeration in the amount of $95,900.
I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the Commissioner of Public
Works to order the work on the basis of the low bid. Funds for this work are
to be in CPF 200-402-533.
Estimate for this work was $450,000.00.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
No. 26
57 Tonawanda Street;
Encroachment within Right-of-Way
Mr. Michael Plotner, Engineering Maintenance Supervisor for Fedco
Automotive Products, located at 57 Tonawanda Street, has requested permission
to install benches and planters within City right-of-way at said address.
The proposed planters would be constructed of brick, measure 1.61 in
height and be located primarily adjacent to the building face on West Avenue
with a maximum projection of 6'.
The planters, benches and landscaping are part of an ongoing renovation
of the existing building.
The Department of Public Works has reviewed Mr. Plotner's application
pursuant to Chapter 413-67 (Encroachment Regulations) of the City Ordinances
and has no objection to Your Honorable Body authorizing the Commissioner of
Public Works to issue a "Mere License" for said installation provided the
following conditions are met:
1. That the applicant obtain any and all other City of Buffalo permits
necessary for said installation.
2. That the planters and benches he installed exactly as shown on plans
submitted to and approved by the Department of Public Works, Division of
Buildings.
3. That the applicant be responsible for maintenance of the benches and
planters as long as they remain within City right-of-way.
4. That the applicant be responsible for the relocation of any existing
underground utilities affected by said installation.
5. That the applicant provide the Department of Public Works with a five
thousand dollar construction in street bond or Certificate of Insurance which
will indemnify and save harmless the City of Buffalo against any and all loss
and damage arising out of the construction, maintenance, use and removal of
said planters and benches.
Mrs. LoTempio moved
That the communication from the Department of Public Works, dated
January 31, 1996, be received and filed, and
That the Commissioner of Public Works be and he hereby is, authorized to
issue a "mere license" to Mr. Michael Plotner, Engineering Maintenance
Supervisor for Fedco Automotives Products, located at 57 Tonawanda Street, to
install benches and planters which would encroach city right-of-way at said
address, subject to the conditions as more fully described in the above
communication.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0.
No. 27
Certificate of Appointment
Appointment Effective: February 5, 1996, in the Department of
Public Works, Division of Water, to the Position of Sr. Data Processing
Equipment Operator, Permanent Promotion, at the lntermediate starting salary of
$26 441.
Karen E. Giancarlo, 218 Carmel Road, Buffalo, 14216
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE
No. 28
Fully Executed Aid To Law Enforcement
1995-1996 Renewal Grant Contract
For your information, please be advised that the Aid To Law Enforcement
Grant Program renewal between the New York State Division of criminal Justice
Services and the City of Buffalo for the project period of April 1, 1995
through March 31, 1996 has been fully executed. The City's share of State
funding is $652,998.00.
As is our standard practice, a copy of this contract is on file in the
Department of Administration/Finance (Budget), the Division of
Audit/Accounting, and in the Division of Administration/Communications (Buffalo
Police Department). We have also notified the Central Grants Office for their
information only.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 29
Drug Interdiction Grant Program
Status Report
We are responding to a request from a member of your Honorable
Body concerning the status of the Department's Drug Interdiction/Points of
Entry Grant Program, per our request for permission for the Mayor to enter into
the renewal contract on behalf of the NFTA.
Please be advised that the commanding Lieutenant from our Narcotics
Section who oversees the day-to-day operation of this program and a member from
our Grants Section have scheduled a meeting with Councilmember Brown for
Friday, February 2, 1996 at 2:00 p.m. At this meeting, details of this program
will be explained at length and the Department will provide program progress
reports available to date. Since this grant program has been running since 1992
and it is a two-fold grant program, the information is too voluminous to file.
Therefore, it is our recommendation that we have this meeting to answer
directly any specific questions and/or information that Councilmember Brown or
any member of your Honorable Body may have concerning the Department's
participation in this grant program.
Upon the conclusion of this meeting, if further information is requested
for filing, we will accommodate such a request at that time.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
No. 30
Req. Ord. Amend.-Towing
Item No. 161, C.C.P., January 23, 1996
The Police Department renders no opinion concerning the waiving
of the towing fee for recovered stolen vehicles, provided that additional
reports, investigation or procedures are not required which would impact our
personnel.
There are, however, several points that the Council may wish to take
under consideration.
1. The Police Department requests and receives waivers of towing fees for
vehicles operated or occupied by someone who is the victim of a violent crime,
such as; assault, robbery, etc.
2. The Police Department attempts to contact the owner or operator of a
recovered stolen vehicle at the time of recovery so that they may pick it up at
the scene. Sometimes the officer will drive the vehicle to the precinct or
district station for safekeeping. In both circumstances no fee is charged.
When notification is not made and there is concern that the vehicle will be
re-stolen or be subjected to further damage or theft of parts, a request is
made for towing.
3. The Police Department requests and receives waivers of towing fees for
recovered stolen vehicles wherein timely notification to the owner or lien
holder of the recovery was not made.
4. Insurance often covers the cost of towing.
5. Vehicle theft occurs for a variety of reasons other than what is
generally perceived by the public; "that someone leaves work or
comes out of their home and finds the vehicle missing.,, Some examples
include;
Individuals who report their vehicle stolen when, in fact, the incident
is nothing more than a disagreement between husband, wife,
boyfriend-girlfriend, relatives, etc.
Individuals who willingly allow a drug dealer to use the vehicle to
obtain drugs and when he does not return they report the vehicle as stolen.
Individuals who are robbed of their vehicle while attempting to purchase
drugs or the services of a prostitute.
Individuals who leave the vehicle running or the key in the ignition.
6. Most cities charge a towing and storage fee, often considerably higher
than ours, with few if any exceptions.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
FROM THE CORPORATION COUNSEL
No. 31
Convention Center - Agreernent/Amendments
Amendment to the May 28, 1975 Agreement for the Financing, Construction,
Leasing and operation of a Convention Center Between the County of Erie and the
City of Buffalo which was originally filed with the Council with the Crossroads
documents,
Letter from Richard J. Schechter, Assistant County Attorney dated
December 28, 1995, with Draft Amendment to the 5/28/75 Agreement for the
Financing, Construction, Leasing and Operation of a Convention Center between
the County of Erie and the City of Buffalo. This draft is marked to show
changes from the previous Amendment.
Letter from Richard J. Schechter, Assistant County Attorney dated January
12, 1996, with Draft Amendment to the 5/28/75 Agreement for the Financing,
Construction, Leasing and Operation of a convention Center between the County
of Erie and City of Buffalo. This draft is marked to show changes from the
December 28th draft.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
No. 32
Crossroads Arena Project
Attached is Requisition No. 14 relating to the Crossroads Arena
Project.
REFERRED TO THE AUDITORIUM AND STADIUM TASK FORCE
No. 33
Lafayette Park Ice Rink - Name Change
Item No. 162, C.C.P., 1/23/96
You have requested a response from the Law Department regarding
the proposal of the North Buffalo Community Development Corporation to change
the name of the Lafayette Park Ice Rink.
In order to change the name of a City property, the procedure provided
for in Section 286-3 of the Code of the City of Buffalo must be followed.
Either a petition from City residents, a written communication from the Mayor,
or resolution from a Councilmember requesting the name change must filed to
initiate the process. That request must contain the proposed name, the
existing name and a brief justification for the name change. Then the Council
may vote to approve or deny the request.
If the Common Council approves the request for the name change, a public
hearing must be held. The City Clerk must publish the notice of intention to
change the name, which shall include the proposed name, the existing name and
the time and place of the public hearing. The notice shall be published once a
week for two (2) consecutive weeks. The public hearing shall be held within
ten (10) days after the last publication date.
Within thirty (30) days after the public hearing, the Council must act on
the name change. To change the name of the ice rink, a majority vote is
required to approve the change. If the Council fails to act within the thirty
(30) days, the request shall be deemed refused.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 34
1% Additional Sales Tax
Special Session., C,C.P. 1/31/96
You have asked the Law Department to report on certain issues
raised by the above-cited resolution concerning the additional one percent
sales tax. The sales tax now in effect in Erie County is 8%, with revenue from
the first 4% going to New York State, the next 3% divided among the County and
municipal governments within the County, and this additional 1%. The revenue
from this last 1% is retained exclusively by the County.
It is our understanding that, prior to the enactment of authorization by
the State Legislature, then-County Executive Rutkowski and then-Mayor Griffin
entered into an agreement whereby the County was authorized to seek New York
State approval for an additional one percent sales tax, the entire revenue from
which was to go to the County to retire certain County bonds. This Department
does not have a copy of that agreement and our research has not located such a
text. It is our further understanding that the City and County entered into a
subsequent agreement (also not within this Department's files nor located by
this Department) to allow the County to apply to continue the one percent tax
and apply its revenue exclusively to the County's then-existing budgetary
shortfall. Each year from 1988, the State Legislature has authorized
continuation of this one percent additional tax with all of its revenue going
to the County.
The City may terminate the agreement with the County to authorize the
additional one percent sales tax with exclusive revenue to the County and could
do so at any time. There is no time period within which the termination
becomes effective. Upon termination, the agreement does not furnish any basis
for relief to the County. As with the County's request for continuation of the
additional one percent sales tax, reduction of the sales tax rate within the
City would require state legislative action, which may not be effective until
the next fiscal year and not immediately change the sales tax rate charged
within the City. Assuming that the County will renew its request for the one
percent additional sales tax for the next fiscal year, the proposed resolution
in effect would become the City's humeral measure in opposition to the County's
home-rule measure requesting continuation of the full 8% tax with 1% being
retained by the County. Until there is State legislative action, taxpayers
within the City may be at risk for the full 8% sales tax charged in the County.
The Law Department cannot make any estimates as to the revenue the City
may derive if the City eventually imposes its own sales tax, in part because
the state taxing authorities cannot provide reliable statistics for sales tax
revenues earned within the City under the present tax. Since the County's
budget is based upon the current tax rate and that rate cannot be changed
absent state legislative action, enactment of the proposed resolution alone
would have no impact on the County's budget.
REFERRED TO THE GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE
No. 35
2091 Seneca Street
Item No. 230, C.C.P., 9/19/95
You have requested a response from the Law Department regarding
any methods of regulating a facility such as the martial arts supply and knife
store located at 2091 Seneca Street. Concern has been raised due to the
dangerous nature of the items sold in the store and their appeal to mirrors.
The Common Council would like some manner of reviewing or restricting such a
business.
The Code of the City of Buffalo does provide for some regulation of
certain types of businesses in particular areas of the City in its zoning
ordinances. Chapter 51 1, Article XVI, of the Code allows for the creation of
special zoning districts. Within these districts, any person or entity seeking
to establish or extend a use restricted within the district must obtain Common
Council approval prior to the establishment or extension of such use. Due to
the unique character and nature of particular areas, certain uses may or may
not be desirable.
The Seneca Street District, for example, found the overdevelopment of
bars, restaurants and miscellaneous places of entertainment to be a threat to
the residential aspects of the area. As a result, those uses are restricted.
The knife store at 2091 Seneca Street, which is in the Seneca Street District,
is not presently restricted by the Code. It exists as a matter of right and a
store like it may only be regulated if the Code is amended to include uses like
those permitted for the store. However, the store at 2091 Seneca Street would
not be affected by the amendment unless and until it chose to either expand its
business or move to a different location within the district.
Until the operators of 2091 Seneca Street violate the law, they have a
right to conduct their business within the City of Buffalo.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION.
No. 36
Special Events Ordinances
Items No. 8 I & 82, C.C.P. 1/9/96
Please find atttached for filing and for the Council's information
a stricken/redline draft of the Special Events ordinance and the ordinance
amending Chapter 175, Fees, for special events showing changes made by the
administration to reflect its further review of these proposals as well as the
expressed concerns of members of this Council. Added text is indicated in gray
shading, and deletions are indicated by strikeout through the affected text.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION.
No. 37
Wegman's Supermarket
Amherst Street
SEQRA Lead Agency Designation
Item No. 40, C.C.P., 1/23/96
The Department of Neighborhoods, Housing and Inspections proposes
to assume lead agency status for his project.
The Department of Law was requested to submit comments and/or
recommendations regarding this proposal.
Pursuant to SEQR 6 NYCRR Part 617 a lead agency is an involved agency
principally responsible for undertaking, funding or approving an action.
Because the Department of Neighborhoods, Housing and inspections is an involved
agency, among others, and will be responsible for issuing building permits for
this project, it has jurisdiction over this action, and therefore, is eligible
to assume lead agency status.
The Department of Law, therefore, has no objection to the Department of
Neighborhoods, Housing and Inspections' designation as lead agency.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 38
Convention Center Agreement
(Amendment to the May 28, 1995 Agreement)
Attached is the version of the Amendment to the May 28, 1975 Agreement
for the Financing, Construction, Leasing and Operation of a Convention Center
between the County of Erie and the City of Buffalo, as was passed by the Erie
County Legislature today. It is marked to show the changes made to the 1/11/96
version.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
No. 39
Locate Citicorp HDQ in Buffalo
Item No. 70, C.C.P., Jan. 9, 1996
I hereby submit to your Honorable Body - the preliminary information
on the Resolution to relocate Citicorp HDQ to Buffalo.
- Councilman Franczyk's resolution stems from an article in the New York
Times concerning a rumored move by Citicorp out the NY City.
- Jon Morris of Citicorp Public Relations Dept. informed me that this
idea has been under consideration by Citicop Chairman John S. Reed for at least
ten years.
- It would involve transferring 50 senior executives to a University/high
tech/ think tank environment outside NYC, such as Palo Alto, California.
- No study group has been set up to study the issues involving a move,
because of the inherent cost of moving senior executives who live in million
dollar homes.
- Buffalo would not be considered because of the lack of international
air traffic.
- Finally he offered that this story often pops up during very slow new
periods.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
No. 40
Change Parking Regulations on Elmwood Avenue
Item No. 190, C.C.P., 1/23/96
Regarding the matter captioned above. the Department of Community
Development supports the proposed change in parking regulations on Elmwood
Avenue as necessary to the economic vitality of the area.
Unless the Department of Public Works raises any concerns or objections,
the Commissioner of Community Development recommends the removal of the parking
restrictions on Elmwood Avenue as requested by Forever Elmwood and the Elmwood
Task Force.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF STREETS
No. 41
Certificate of Appointment
Appointment effective October 2, 1995, Department of Street Sanitation,
to the position of Truck Driver, Permanent Promotion , at the Maximum Starting
Salary of $24,914 William J Deschenes, 98 Laurentian Dr., Cheek., NY 14225
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE.
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF NEIGHBORHOODS, HOUSING AND INSPECTION
No. 42
Restaurant/Dancing Class IV
561 Forest
Pursuant to Chapter 150 of the City of Buffalo Ordinances, please
be advised that I have examined the attached application for Restaurant/Dancing
Class IV located at 561 Forest and find that as to form it is correct. I have
caused an investigation into the premises for which said application for
Restaurant/ Dancing Class IV is being sought and according to the attached
reports from the Fire Department and the Building Inspector, I find it complies
with all regulations and other applicable laws. I have caused an investigation
by the Police Department into the moral character of Paul Kankolenski. The
report from the Police Department recommending approval is attached hereto for
Paul Kankolenski at 561 Forest. This request is submitted for your
consideration and whatever action you deem Appropriate.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
No. 43
Monthly Report of Licenses Issued
In December 1995
I am respectfully submitting the enclosed report of licenses issued
in the month of December 1995 by the Division of Housing &
Inspections/Licenses.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 44
Transfer of Title, Urban Homestead Program
47 Ada Street (Lot Size-20. 50' x 30')
The Department of Neighborhoods, Housing & Inspections has surveyed
the city-owned lot at 47 Ada Street; the lot is 20. 50' x 30' in dimension; and
it has been determined that the parcel of land is inappropriate for either
construction of new housing or the construction of public recreation
facilities.
Mr. and Mrs. O'Neal, residing at 49 Ada Street indicated that they will
clean, improve and maintain the lot in the event that they obtains title to the
property under the Urban Homestead Program.
Letters were sent to all other adjacent property owners, offering the
property and giving them ample time to express interest in obtaining 47 Ada
Street under the Urban Homestead Program. We have since received no responses.
We, therefore, recommend that the city-owned vacant lot be designated as
a Homestead Property and be transferred to Mr. and Mrs. O'Neal on the condition
that the property is cleared and improved within six (6) months and is
maintained in a sanitary manner.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the communication from the Department of Neighborhoods, Housing and
Inspections, dated January 26, 1996, be received and filed-, and
That the City-owned property commonly known as 47 Ada Street, be
designated as Homestead Property, and that the Mayor be authorized to transfer
said property to Mr. and Mrs. O'Neal, residing at 49 Ada Street, for the amount
of $ 1, 00 (One Dollar) and all costs of transfer, on the condition the
property is cleared and improved within six (6) months and the property is
maintained in a sanitary manner for at least thirty-six (36) months and that
the Corporation Counsel prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of
title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
No. 45
Transfer of Title, Urban Homestead Program
507 Dodge Street (Lot Size-33' x 111)
The Department of Neighborhoods, Housing & Inspections has surveyed
the city-owned lot at 507 Dodge Street; the lot is 33' x 111' in dimension; and
it has been determined that the parcel of land is inappropriate for either
construction of new housing or the construction of public recreation
facilities.
Mr. Sam Harris, residing at 509 Dodge Street and Mr. James J. Stevens,
residing at 43 Roehrer Avenue indicated that they will clean, improve and
maintain the lot in the event that they obtain title to the property under the
Urban Homestead Program.
Letters were sent to all other adjacent property owners, offering the
property and giving them ample time to express interest in obtaining 507 Dodge
Street under the Urban Homestead Program. We have since received no responses.
We, therefore, recommend that the city-owned vacant lot be designated as
a Homestead Property and be transferred in equal parts to Mr. Sam Harris and
Mr. James J. Stevens on the condition that the property is cleared and improved
within six (6) months and is maintained in a sanitary manner.
Mrs. LoTempio moved
That the communication from the Department of Neighborhoods, Housing and
Inspections, dated January 26, 1996, be received and filed, and
That the City-owned property commonly known as 507 Dodge Street, be
designated as Homestead Property, and that the Mayor be authorized to transfer
said property to Mr. Sam Harris, residing at 509 Dodge Street, for the amount
of $1.00 (One Dollar) and all costs of transfer, on the condition the property
is cleared and improved within six (6) months and the property is maintained in
a sanitary manner for at least thirty-six (36) months and that the Corporation
Counsel prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of title and that the
Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0.
No. 46
Transfer of Title, Urban Homestead Program
34 Eighteenth Street (Lot Size-30' x 50')
The Department of Neighborhoods, Housing & Inspections has surveyed
the city-owned lot at 34 Eighteenth Street; the lot is 30' x 50' in dimension;
and it has been determined that the parcel of land is inappropriate for either
construction of new housing or the construction of public recreation
facilities.
Ms. Mary Ann Cassidy, residing at 30 Eighteenth Street indicated that she
Will clean, improve and maintain the lot in the event that she obtains title to
the property under the Urban Homestead Program.
Letters were sent to all other adjacent property owners, offering the
property and giving, them ample time to express interest in obtaining 34
Eighteenth Street under the Urban Homestead Program. We have since received no
responses.
We, therefore, recommend that the city-owned vacant lot be designated as
a Homestead Property and be transferred to Ms. Mary Ann Cassidy on the
condition that the property is cleared and improved within six (6) months and
is maintained in a sanitary manner.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the communication from the Department of Neighborhoods, Housing and
Inspections, dated January 26, 1996, be received and filed; and
That the City-owned property commonly known as 34 Eighteenth Street, be
designated as Homestead Property, and that the Mayor be authorized to transfer
said property to Ms. Mary Ann Cassidy, residing at 30 Eighteenth Street, for
the amount of $1.00 (One Dollar) and all costs of transfer, on the condition
the property is cleared and improved within six (6) months and the property is
maintained in a sanitary manner for at least thirty-six (36) months and that
the Corporation Counsel prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of
title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0.
No. 47
Transfer of Title, Urban Homestead Program
15 Eureka Place (Lot Size-30'x 130')
The Department of Neighborhoods, Housing & Inspections has surveyed
the city-owned lot at 15 Eureka Place; the lot is 30' x 130' in dimension; and
it has been determined that the parcel of land is inappropriate for either
construction of new housing or the construction of public recreation
facilities.
Mr. William Pitts, residing at 19 Eureka Place indicated that he will
clean, improve and maintain the lot in the event that he obtains title to the
property under the Urban Homestead Program
Letters were sent to all other adjacent property owners, offering the
property and giving them ample time to express interest in obtaining 15 Eureka
Place under the Urban Homestead Program. We have since received no responses.
We, therefore, recommend that the city-owned vacant lot be designated as
a Homestead Property and be transferred to Mr. William Pitts on the condition
that the property is cleared and improved within six (6) months and is
maintained in a sanitary manner.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the communication from the Department of Neighborhoods, Housing and
Inspections., dated January 26, 1996, be received and filed, and
That the City-owned property commonly known as 15 Eureka Place-, be
designated as Homestead Property, and that the Mayor be authorized to transfer
said property to Mr. William Pitts, residing at 19 Eureka Place, for the amount
of $ 1, 00 (One Dollar) and all costs of transfer, on the condition the
property is cleared and improved within six (6) months and the property is
maintained in a sanitary manner for at least thirty-eights (36) months and that
the Corporation Counsel prepare the necessary documents for the transfer of
title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0.
No. 48
Transfer of Title, Urban Homestead Program
56 Thomas Street (Lot Size-25' x 115')
The Department of Neighborhoods, Housing & Inspections has surveyed
the city-owned lot at 56 Thomas Street; the lot is 25' x 1 15' in dimension;
and it has been determined that the parcel of land is inappropriate for either
construction of new housing or the construction of public recreation
facilities.
Mr. Michael F. Lasek, Sr., residing at 54 Thomas Street indicated that he
will clean, improve and maintain the lot in the event that he obtains title to
the property under the Urban Homestead Program.
Letters were sent to all other adjacent property owners, offering the
property and giving them ample time to express interest in obtaining 56 Thomas
Street under the Urban Homestead Program. We have since received no responses.
We, therefore, recommend that the city-owned vacant lot be designated as
a Homestead Property and be transferred to Mr. Michael F. Lasek, Sr. on the
condition that the property is cleared and improved within six (6) months and
is maintained in a sanitary manner.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the communication from the Department of Neighborhoods, Housing and
Inspection's. dated January 26. 1996. be received and filed- and
That the Citv-owned property commonly known as 56 Thomas Street- be
designated as Homestead Property, and that the Mayor be authorized to transfer
said property to Mr, Michael F. Lasek, Sr., residing at 54 Thomas Street, for
tile amount of $ 1.00 (One Dollar) and all costs of transfer, on the condition
the property is cleared and improved within six (6) months and the
property is maintained in a sanitary manner for at least thirty-six (36) months
and that the Corporation Counsel prepare the necessary documents for the
transfer of title and that the Mayor be authorized to execute the same.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0.
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF ADMINISTRATION
AND FINANCE
No.49
Memorandum of Agreement between the City of
Buffalo and Local 2651, AFSCME, AFL-CIO
July 1, 1995 through June 30, 1998
Attached please find a Memorandum of Agreement between the City
and Local 2651, AFSCME, AFL-CIO, for the contract period July 1, 1995 through
June 30, 1998.
This Agreement is applicable to approximately 63 employees, and provides
a 0% salary increase for fiscal year 95-96, a 3% salary increase for fiscal
year 96-97 and a 3% salary increase for fiscal year 97-98. In addition, this
Agreement provides wage adjustments to be added to the base salary for all
Local 2651 titles as follows: $1,000 on June 30, 1996 and $500 on June 30,1997.
The parties have also agreed to modify the following contractual
provisions: auto allowance, tool allowance, parking, health insurance coverage
(medical, dental and life), sick leave, bereavement leave, leaves of absence
without pay, review of personal history folder and pledge against
discrimination and reprisal. New provisions will be added to address the
calculation of leave time entitlements, direct deposit of paychecks and the
Family and Medical Leave Act.
Your approval of this Memorandum of Agreement is respectfully requested,
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE
No. 50
Firefighter Winter Training
Item No. 173 C.C.P. 1/23/96
As was reported in Legislation Committee this week, the administration
believes that it has identified an attractive alternative to the County's
proposal for winter use of its training facility. The alternative is to make
use of the training facility at Montour Falls, NY for a 2 week period at a cost
of approximately $14,000. This alternative would complete training more
quickly than the County proposal, avoiding approximately $95,000 in overtime
costs, and would avoid any costs associated with repairing, as requested, any
structural damage done to the County facility as a result of the winter
training. We believe the Montour Falls training can be completed by about
March 8th, resulting in one week of overtime costs that would result from re-
opened fire companies. This cost could be avoided if your Honorable Body saw
fit to extend the closings for a one week period.
I trust this answers your inquiry.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 51
Report of Audit- Parks Golf Courses
Item No. 10 C.C.P. 1/23/96
I am generally in concurrence with the recommendations contained
in the audit, but would caution that some of them may require increases in
staffing for which there are no resources at this time. I would defer to the
Commissioner of Parks, Human Services and Recreation as to specific responses
and will be happy to work with both to implement anything that is deemed
appropriate and feasible.
I trust this answers your inquiry.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
No. 52
Consultant /Eng. Contracts
Item No. 13 C.C.P. 1/23/26)
The use of outside consultants for engineering or other work,
versus the use of inhouse staff, should be evaluated on a project by project
basis. The administration has been and is willing to create and fill in-house
positions where needed to process work and save money. We will continue to
work with the Public Works Department in order to do so.
I trust this answers your inquiry.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
No. 53
Procedures to transfer Bennett Beach
Item No.31 C.C.P. 10/31/95
The administration remains supportive of the transfer of the ownership
and operation of Bennett Beach to Erie County. Serious discussions on that
matter were held with the County both last spring--including attempts to open
the beach on an interim basis for the summer, which failed--and last fall.
There have been no further talks on the subject. We remain open to such talks
should there be a renewed desire on the part of the County to have them.
I trust this answers your inquiry.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
No. 54
Req. Ord. Amend--Towing
(Item No. 161 C.C.P. 1/23/96)
I am opposed to Councilmember Coppola's proposed ordinance amendment
waiving towing charges for stolen vehicles. Waiving towing charges would add
to the financial problems that the City already has; we have budgeted for
$230,000 in towing and storage charge revenue this year, an increase from last
year's $200,000. We just cannot afford to lose that revenue.
In addition to the pure financial concern, there are other considerations
that need to be looked at: first, towing charges related to a stolen vehicle
are often recoverable through the owner's auto insurance; second, towing a
stolen vehicle to the City impound often keeps the vehicle safer (eg it will
not be stolen again, stripped/stripped further or damaged further). There is
value to this protection. Third, towing charges are waived in cases where the
vehicles are stolen and the owners are not contacted in a timely manner--effort
is made to contact the owner before the vehicle is towed and, if successful and
the vehicle picked up, no fee is charged.
Last and I understand the police commissioner will expand on this issue
is his response--vehicles are often stolen for other reasons than
straightforward ones. In these cases it is not logical to waive the charges.
I would defer to the police commissioner for more discussion on this issue.
I trust this answers your inquiry.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
No. 55
Expand Police Protection
Item No. 172 C.C.P. 1/23/96
My understanding of the County's proposal to pay for the use of
four Sheriff's deputies in the city is no different than has been reported in
the press or previously to your Honorable Body. The implications of the
proposal from a labor relations perspective are not necessarily impossible, but
are more or less difficult depending on the manner in which the deputies are
used; the most difficult situation would be using the deputies on citywide
patrol.
The easiest alternative, and one that would provide assistance most
quickly, would be for the County to appropriate the $180,000 in cash to the
City for use in hiring additional officers (by the way, this is obviously a
recurring cost and would require recurring funding in order to be continued).
It is my understanding that discussions among all of the parties
continue--about all of the options--and that all are hopeful that a successful
conclusion can be reached.
I trust this answers your inquiry.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
No. 56
Sidewalk Shoveling
ltem#187 C.C.P. 1/23/96
The Common Council has asked the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication
to report on the feasibility of enforcing the sidewalk shoveling ordinance. As
a newly created entity, the ability of this Bureau to actively enforce the
ordinance is restricted by manpower limitations. However, once a complaint is
received by this office, someone is sent to the problematic property. The
Department of Street Sanitation, while also dealing with limited manpower, may
be better equipped to actively pursue violations of the ordinance. The Bureau
of Administrative Adjudication will enforce and adjudicate any violations
occurring under its jurisdiction.
On the subject of a program for assisting with shoveling responsibility,
I believe that the city is not in a position to devote resources to such a
program at this time. We do, however, attempt to exercise reasonable
discretion in enforcing ordinances where physical hardship is an issue.
I trust this answers your inquiry.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
No. 57
Memorialize Leg.-Bd of Ed. Elections
Item No. 189- C.C.P. 1/23/96
This administration has consistently been in support of changing
the time of Board of Education elections, both from the point of view of
reducing expenses and that of increasing voter turnout. We are still of that
opinion.
I trust this answers your inquiry.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION.
No. 58
Report of Audit -- Treasury
Item No. 4 C.C.P. 1/9/96
The Treasury agrees with the recommendation of uninterrupted flow
of parking meter collection. The Police Officer assigned to collect meters
continues to fulfill this requirement. Historically, the City of Buffalo has
privatized the collection of meters and the function of depositing all the
cities revenue on a daily basis. However, there was an anonymous tip to the
Buffalo Police Department that the company involved in the collection was
involved in questionable practices. The City Auditor and the Buffalo Police
investigated the collectors and determined that there was sufficient evidence
of fraudulent activities.
After serious review of the procedures followed by that company, it was
determined by the Department of Audit and Control and the Administration that
it was more cost effective for the city to have Two Police Officers assigned to
collect all parking revenues. Equally, these officers were required to make
all deposits of city revenues eliminating the costly contract we encumbered
having private sector pickups.
In 1992, in an attempt to cut costs, one officer was reassigned to the
precinct. When I was appointed to my position as Director of the Treasury I
was asked to reconstruct a system that had lacked accountability. We have
implemented a system in which increased the efficiency and accountability of
the parking meter revenue. We require a signature of the Officer collecting
each and every day of the keys necessary for that days collection. We document
on a daily basis the streets collected, which meters require repair and the
reason meters are uncollectible .
Additionally, we have automated the collection zones and have identified
the time frame necessary for the collection of those zones. Also, collection
zones are monitored for various revenue fluctuations.
There is only one officer who is presently required to collect the
revenue from all the parking meters and make deposits for all the city revenue
at two banking institutions. Since June of 1994 the frequency of daily
deposits have doubled to increase the availability of city funds. The amount
of Parking Meter revenue collected is noted below:
Budgeted Amount Collected Amount % Difference
Fiscal Year 1993-94
800,000.00 845,433.99 + 5.68%
Fiscal Year 1994-95
850,000.00 1,026,052.31 +20.72%
I continue to dialog and visit with other cities regarding the most
efficient method of collecting meters. However, in manpower utilized Buffalo's
cost are far less than private contracting or multiple numbers of people who
would be required to do the same job Treasury has successful accomplished with
one Officer.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
FROM THE COMMISSIONER OF HUMAN SERVICES, PARKS AND RECREATION
No. 59
Mulroy Playground Improvements
I hereby request permission to take bids for the above project;
and have asked for and received the following bids for Mulroy Playground
Improvements on January 30, 1996:
COMPANY BASE BID
Gleason's Nursery $ 39,876
Thomann & Loewer 40,750
Birch Grove Landscaping 42,186
American Paving 46,287
Regent Blacktop 46,923
Buffalo Creek Landscaping 58,943
G B H Paving 59,426
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct statement of
the bids received. We are accepting the low base bid of $39,876 and therefore
Gleason's Nursery, 4780 Sheridan Dr., Williamsville, New York 14221 is the
lowest responsible bidder in accordance with the plans and specifications.
I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the City to order the work
on the basis of the low bid. Funds for this work are available in Bond Fund
Account 200-601-039.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the communication from the Department of Human Services, Parks &
Recreation, dated January 31, 1996, be received and filed; and
That the Commissioner of Human Services, Parks & Recreation be, and he
hereby is, authorized to award a contract for Mulroy Playground Improvement, to
Gleason's Nursery in the amount of $39,876, the lowest responsible bidder.
Funds for this project are available in Bond Fund Account 200-601-039.
PASSED
Ayes-13. Noes-0.
No. 60
Bids-Delevan Moselle Basketball
Court Improvements
I hereby request permission to take bids for the above project;
and have asked for and received the following bids for Delevan Moselle
Basketball Court Improvements on January 30, 1996.
COMPANY BASE BID
Thomann & Loewer $11,254
American Paving 12,025
Regent Blacktop 14,245
Amherst Paving 14,654
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct statement of
the bids received. We are accepting the low base bid of $11,254 and therefore
Thomann & Loewer, 56 Gunnville Rd., Lancaster, New York 14086 is the lowest
responsible bidder in accordance with the plans and specifications.
I recommend that Your Honorable Body authorize the City to order the work
on the basis of the low bid. Funds for this work are available in Bond Fund
Account 200-60l-030.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
No. 61
Report of Audit - Parks Golf Courses
Item #10, C.C.P. January 23, 1996
In response to the Department of Audit and Control's Golf Course
Audit, the Department of Human Services, Parks and Recreation would make the
following observations:
1. The audit took a proactive stance in making suggestions for
improvement in golf course operating procedures. All suggestions are being
reviewed and valid improvements will be implemented.
2. We will be working very closely with Data Processing to de-bug the
Pinpoint system. We are convinced that when working properly, the Pinpoint
system will be cost effective and provide necessary golf statistic information.
3. We have a concern that many of the course improvements recommended
will increase 0 & M costs and negatively impact the Department budget. While
we understand that you must spend money to make money, at what point does the
law of diminishing return take hold? For example, we implemented a very costly
Pinpoint cash register system to ensure better controls, yet total revenue from
the three courses decreased by $27,000.00. (1994 Revenue- $411,378.00; 1995
Revenue- 384,259.00 = 27,119.00 revenue down.)
4. Two of the three golf courses, Delaware and South Park are used by a
large number of non-golfers. User conflicts are a constant problem. Nonpaying
golfers have many opportunities to sneak onto the course. The addition of
"rangers" is the normal solution. The confrontational nature of the position
may require a uniformed police like presence with the ability to issue
violation tickets for trespassing. This, of course, would require additional
trained personnel and a further impact on the over-stretched Park's budget.
5. The use of concessionaires to collect golf fees is a valid suggestion
that we will examine on a Pilot basis. What financial incentive is there for a
concessionaire to perform this function? What incentive is there for the
concessionaire to enforce resident/nonresident rate differences for cash
customers?
6. Season golf passes were issued from 2 sites prior to the golf season.
A picture ID card with magnetic tape was issued when payment was made. This
required special equipment beyond the Pinpoint system.
All other season permits, after the initial two week period, were issued
from the Delaware Park Labor Center. A golfer would show proof of residence,
bring in a picture, and make payment. The application including picture were
then forwarded to a company in Grand Island to produce the permanent card (2
week lag). A temporary card was issued to the golfer at the Labor Center. When
completed, season passes were returned from Grand Island. Each golfer had to
be notified that their card was ready, return to the Labor Center to pick up a
new season pass, and return the temporary card.
In the past, a laminated season pass without the magnetic strip was
produced and issued while the golfer waited. This double handling with the new
system needs to be resolved with Data Processing.
7. The Comptroller's office with the cooperation of our Department is
exploring the possibilities of third-party operation of the three golf courses.
This was successfully done in Chicago and should be explored locally.
Conclusion:
The use of the Pinpoint system when fully operational should provide us
with the statistics suggested by the Comptroller. These statistics were always
available in the past using our more cumbersome manual system.
The Comptroller's office should pursue the RFP process in regards to golf
course operations to examine any future cost benefit to the City.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
No. 62
LaSalle Park Concession
Attached, please find copies of two (2) letters. One from Ms.
Brenda P. Kij regarding the fact that she will not be renewing her option to
lease the LaSalle Park Concession Stand.
Two, a letter to City Collections advising them of the outstanding rent
that Ms. Kij owes the City for 1995.
At this time, we are requesting approval of your Honorable Body to
proceed with the process of re-bidding the LaSalle Park Concession Stand.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the communication from the Department of Human Services, Parks and
Recreation, dated January 30, 1996, be received and filed and
That the Commissioners of Human Services, Parks and Recreation and
General Services be, and they hereby are authorized to begin the bidding
process for the LaSalle Park Concession Stand.
PASSED
Ayes-13. Noes-0.
No. 63
Certificate of Appointment
Appointment effective January 25, 1996 in the Department of Human
Services, Parks and Recreation, Substance Abuse Services, Ida Berzon, 92 Rand
Ave., Buffalo 14216 to the position of Substance Abuse Specialist, Temporary,
at the Intermediate starting salary of $25,689.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE
No. 64
Certificate of Appointment
Appointment effective January 30, 1996 in the Department of Human
Services, Parks and Recreation, Substance Abuse Services, Charlene E. Scherer,
44 Kimberly Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14220 to the position of Account Clerk-Typist,
Permanent, at the Maximum starting salary of $23,588.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE
FROM THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
No. 65
Financial Plan Commission - Report on Board of Education
Item 77, C.C.P. April 4, 1995
The June 23, 1995 papers filed with the Honorable John T. Curtin
are attached.
The School District apologizes for any misunderstanding on this issue.
The District did not realize that the papers the Corporation Counsel and the
Department of Administration and Finance had on this item were not presented to
the Common Council.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
No. 66
Board of Education Elections
Item #189 C.C.P. January 23, 1996
The School Board Election process has been discussed at length
by the Board of Education's Executive Committee, at a Public Hearing, and at
the Board table itself.
The Executive Committee debated many of the pros and cons of the issue,
(including cost, politics of May verses November election etc. ) and held a
Public Hearing on April 6, 1995 to hear the community's input. The attendance
was low at the hearing, however the message was clear - keep the May Elections.
The Board of Education decided at the regularly scheduled Board Meeting,
June 28, 1995, to send a Home Rule message to Albany in opposition to Assembly
Bill #5522 which proposed moving the elections to November. The Board of
Education voted 8 to 1 on this issue and the message has been consistent
throughout - politics should be left out of the process and the November
elections would signal an end to the current non-political process.
Governor Pataki's current proposal has a Tuesday in May set aside for all
School Board Elections (over 700) except for Buffalo which is proposed for
November. The Buffalo Board of Education would support a statewide Tuesday in
May election process especially if it resulted in increased participation,
however having Buffalo move to November is not warranted at this time.
Time and time again we have heard the Western New York Delegation say
that the Erie County Legislators would not send a Home Rule message to change
the sales tax extension issue so the Delegation could not support the change.
The Board of Education is clearly on record and has sent a Home Rule
message to Albany not to change the May election process. The Board hopes the
Legislators would give the Board of Education Members the same courtesy it
gives the Erie County Legislators - No Home Rule Message to change - No Change.
The Board of Education also requests that the Common Council honor the
request of the Board Members and leave the election process in May.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
FROM THE BUFFALO SEWER AUTHORITY
No. 67
East Delavan Avenue Remediation Site
The Buffalo Sewer Authority (B.S.A.) had determined that the proposed
remediation of this site would minimize the possibility of contamination from
the groundwater entering the Winchester sanitary sewer. The conservative
assumptions of the possible contaminant loadings prior to remediation and the
available historical B.S.A. monitoring data indicated very little concern to
the B.S.A. sewer and treatment system. This information also indicated the
potential fume toxicity for B.S.A. workers was not a factor.
Once the remediation of the site is considered by all three parties to be
completed, the B.S.A. is going to require sampling and analysis of the presumed
affected Winchester sewer. The information provided by the monitoring should
allow a all affected parties data to finalize this project.
The B.S.A.'s continuing goal is to minimize contamination from all
sources throughout its collection system.
If anyone on the Council or staff member needs additional information or
has a question, you may contact James Caruso at 883-1820, extension 250.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
FROM THE BUFFALO URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY
No. 68
Request Information
Erect Industrial Park Signage
Item #59 - CCP 1/23/96
This is in response to the request for information by the Community
Development Committee in regard to the subject item.
Please be advised that the installation of the (3) signs requested was
approved as part of an Industrial Park Development Spending Plan approved by
BURA item 3d of 4/27/95. The fabrication and installation of the signs was
subsequently informally bid and Santoro Signs of 3180 Genesee Street was the
low bidder in the amount of $10,015.00. These funds are available in CDBG
account #94-40205.
Pending your Honorable Body's approval we anticipate installation in
several weeks.
RECEIVED AND FILED
FROM THE CITY CLERK
No. 69
Parking Policy - Status Report
Attached is a status report filed by the Central Business District
Parking Policy Committee.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
No. 70
Notice of Appointment
Appointment effective January 29, 1996 in the Department of City
Clerk, Susan M. Brennan, 273 East St., Buffalo, NY 14207, to the position of
Data Entry Operator, Permanent, at the Intermediate starting salary of
$22,968.00.
Mrs. LoTempio moved that the above item be approved.
Seconded by Mr. Czajka
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
No. 71
Mayor Reported Out of State
I transmit herewith a communication received by me from the Mayor,
reporting his absence from the state from Tuesday, January 23, 1996 from 5:30
P.M. until Thursday, January 25, 1996 at 9:00 p.m.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 72
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
1412 KENSINGTON C. B. MAX'S FRED & DIANE BARRON
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 73
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:
Assessment-David Adamski
Police- Lissa Kogut
Neighborhoods, Housing and Inspections- Cynthia Johnson
Human Services, Parks and Recreation- Doris Luchey
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 74
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:
City Planning Board
RECEIVED AND FILED.
No. 75
Notices of Appointments - Council Interns
I transmit herewith appointments to the position of Council Intern.
Mrs. LoTempio moved the approval of the appointments to the position of
Council Intern.
ADOPTED.
Appointment effective January 22, 1996 in the Department of Common
Council, Melissa Maccagnano, 229 Summit Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214 to the
position of Intern III, Seasonal, at the flat salary of $5.00.
ADOPTED
No. 76
Appointments - Mayor's Youth Opportunity & Employment
I transmit herewith appointments made in the Mayor's Youth Opportunities
and Employments Programs.
RECEIVED AND FILED.
Appointment effective January 26, 1996 in the Department of Mayor's
Office, Youth Opportunity and Internship programs, Mark Anthony Swaggard, 32
Shoreham Pkwy., Buffalo, NY 14216 to the position of Intern II, Seasonal, at
the Flat starting salary of $ 4.25.
Appointment effective January 29, 1996 in the Department of Mayor's
Office, Youth 0pportunity and Internship programs, Steve Myrtil, 61 Kirk
Patrick Street, Buffalo, NY 14215 to the position of Intern II, Seasonal, at
the flat starting salary of $4.25
Appointment effective January 29, 1996 in the Department of Mayor's
Office, Youth Opportunities and Internship programs, Chantal Michaux, 259
Norwood, Buffalo, NY 14222 to the position of Intern VI, Seasonal, at the flat
starting salary of $8.00.
No. 77
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 ASSESSMENT
Appointment effective January 29, 1996 in the Department of Assessment,
Florence A. Alessi, 791 Busti Ave, Buffalo, NY 14213 to the position of Clerk,
Seasonal, at the flat starting salary of $5.20.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Appointment effective February 1, 1996 in the Department of Public
Works, Division of Water, Maureen Colern, 154 Cushing Place, Buffalo, NY 14220
to the position of Clerk, Seasonal, at the flat starting salary of $5.20/hr.
Appointment effective February 1, 1996 in the Department of Public Works,
Division of Water, Kathleen Wachowicz, 81 Barnard Street, Buffalo NY 14206 to
the position of Account Clerk, Seasonal, at the flat starting salary of
$5.46/hr.
Appointment effective February 1, 1996 in the Department of Public Works,
Division of Buildings, Daniel J. Schamann, 49 Hammerschmidt, Buffalo NY 14210
to the position of Senior First Class Stationary Engineer, Temporary, at the
flat starting salary of $7.33.
DEPARTMENT OF STREET SANITATION
Appointment effective January 22, 1996 in the Department of Street
Sanitation, John C. Taylor, 214 Linden Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14216 to the
position of Seasonal Laborer II at the flat starting salary of $6.92.hr.
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES, PARKS & RECREATION
Appointment effective January 18, 1996 in the Department of Human
Services, Parks & Recreation, Division of Youth, Michael Metz, 179 Fenton,
Buffalo NY 14206 to the position of Lifeguard, Seasonal, at the flat starting
salary of $5.20 hr.
Appointment effective January 18, 1996 in the Department of Human
Services, Parks & Recreation, Division of Youth, Melvin Bernard Potter, 50
Hamlin, Buffalo NY 14208 to the position of Attendant, Temporary, at the flat
starting salary of $4.42 hr.
Appointment effective January 22, 1996, in the Department of Human
Services, Division of Senior Citizens, to the position of Laborer I, seasonal
non-competitive at the minimum starting salary of $6.22 per hr.
STANLEY GAJAK, 981 NIAGARA ST., BUFFALO, N Y 14213
Appointment effective January 22, 1996, in the Departament Human
Services, Parks & Recreation, Division of Youth, to the position of Attendant,
Temporary, at the starting salary of 4.42 p/h
Samuel N. Turner Jr., 21 Gesl, Buffalo 14214
Renfred L. Arnold, 314 Cornwall, Buffalo 14215
John Mack, 454 Bird, Buffalo 14213
Darryl Gaiter, 153 Roebling, Buffalo 14215
Una Banks, 200 Dewey, Buffalo 14214
Maurice McNab, 207 Jewett, Buffalo 14214
Monica Payton, , 41 St. Louis, Buffalo 14211
Gloria Wiley, 199 LeRoy, Buffalo 14211
Gwendolyn Mack, 25 Hill, Buffalo 14215
Sheila Preston, 314 Cornwall, Buffalo 14215
Appointment effective January 22, 1996, in the Department of Human
Services, Parks & Recreation, Division of Youth, to the position of Supervisor,
Temporary, at the flat starting salary of $4.42 p/h
Edwin Johnson, 494 Moselle, Buffalo 14215
Appointment effective January 24, 1996, in the Department of Human
Services, Parks & Recreation, Division of Youth, to the position of Supervisor,
temporary, at the flat starting salary of $5.20 p/h.
Rosalyn Porter, 353 Northumberland, Buffalo 14215
Appointment effective January 30 , 1996, in the Department of Human
Services, Parks & Recreation, Division of Youth, to the position of Supervisor,
at the flat starting salary of $5.20 p/h.
Melissa Nicpon, 27 Newton, Buffalo 14212
Appointment effective January 30 , 1996, in the Department of Human
Services, Parks and Recreation, Division of Youth, to the positon of Attendant,
Temporary, at the flat starting salary of $4.42 p/h
Melanie Parker, 754 Smith, Buffalo 14206
Jacob Parker, 759 Smith, Buffalo 14206
Christopher Grant-Davis, 36 Fennimore, Buffalo 14215
Yolanda Perry, 155 Timon, Buffalo 14208
Pearl Brown, 516 Dodge, Buffalo 14208
Ronald Puigh, 100 Blaine, Buffalo 14208
Bernard Pryor, 50 Jaktram Ct, Buffalo 14209
Brian Rice, 664 Riley, Buffalo 14211
Juan Carlos Valentin, 181 Fargo, Buffalo 14201
Joyce Dunphy, 35 Ladner, Buffalo 14220
Leequisha Jacobs, 236 Clinton, Buffalo 14204
Nicole McKelley, 70 Swinburne, Buffalo 14212
James Davey, 75 Roesch, Buffalo 14207
Gwendolyn Taylor, 314 Northumberland, Buffalo 14215
Appointment effective January 30, 1996, in the Department of Human
Servicces, Parks & Recreation, Division of Youth, to the psotion of Supervisor,
Temporary, at the flat starting salary of $5.20 p/h
Alfred Williams, 295 Carlton, Buffalo 14204
DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES
Appointment effective . January 20, 1996, in the Department of
General Services, Division of Inventory and Stores,
to the positon of Laborer II, seasonal, at the flat starting salary of $6.92.
Tracy Dandridge, 44 Laforce Place, Buffalo, NY 14207
No. 78
Appointments - Temporary, Provisional or Permanent
I transmit herewith Appointments in the various departments made
at the Minimim (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 February 12, 1996, in the Department of
Audit and Control, Division of Data Processing, Kenneth Sacilowski, 588
McKinley Parkway, Buffalo 14220, to the position Junior Programmer Analyst,
Provisional, at the starting salary of $26,847.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Appointment effective January 22, 1996, in the Department of Public
Works, Division of Water, Perry Sullivan, 416 Ashland Avenue, Buffalo, 14222,
to the position of Caulker, Temporary, at the minimum starting salary of
$22,853.
Appointment effective January 29, 1996 in the Department of Public Works,
Division of Water, to the position of Truck Driver, permanent, at the minimum
starting salary of $22,266
David C. Monteleone, 31 Crestwood Avenue, Buffalo 14216
DEPARTMENT OF POLICE
Appointment January 15, 1996 in the Department of Police, Ann
M. Danowski, 43 Edgewocd Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14220, to the position of
Public Safety Dispatcher (Civilian), Provisional, at the Minimum Starting
Salary of $23,703.
Appointment effective January 24, 1996, in the Department of Police,
Cheryl Seager, 92 Tennessee Street, Buffalo, N.Y. 14204, to the position of
Cellblock Attendant, Permanent, at the Minimum starting salary of $22,266.
NON-OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS, PETITIONS AND REMONSTRANCES
NON-OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS
No. 79
ERIE COUNTY
Location of New Court House
Erie County is in receipt of your resolution of January 9, 1996
concerning the location of the proposed new court facilities.
Last year, Erie County engaged the services of a professional consultant team,
Hamilton, Houston and Lownie (HH&L) to study potential sites for the location
of new court facilities. HH&L studied several locations including the old
AM&A's building on Main Street and the Fernbach site. Many schemes were
analyzed: new construction, renovation of county and privately owned buildings,
and several combinations that included new construction and renovation of
existing space.
Taking all relevant factors into consideration including facility
function, economic impact upon downtown Buffalo and price, HH&L has recommended
the Church Street site.
First and foremost, the Church Street site enables the county to create a
criminal justice complex by linking the new facility, with its 20 criminal
courts, to the existing facilities at 25 Delaware and Old County Hall via an
enclosed, overhead walkway. Court related functions such as the District
Attorney, and Probation which are located in those buildings, would be directly
linked to the new building.
Also, a prisoner transfer tunnel under Church Street will enable inmates
to be easily transferred from the Holding Center on Delaware Avenue to the new
court building for trial. A similar tunnel already exists under Delaware
Avenue linking the Holding Center to the existing court buildings at 25
Delaware and Old County Hall.
No other site enables us to create such a criminal justice complex.
Further, each of the other sites are considerably more expensive. In fact, the
Fernbach site would cost $24 million more than the Church Street site and
AM&A's would cost $27 million more.
As you may know, the Diocese of Buffalo had previously been willing to
make the Church Street site available for this project. Perhaps this site
could once again be made available if the county can satisfy the concerns and
needs of both the Diocese and St. Joseph's Cathedral.
In December, 1995, the County Legislature designated the Church Street
site for construction of this project. That Honorable Body would have to
designate a new site, failing successful negotiations with the Diocese.
I trust this information helps clarify Erie County's position regarding
this project. Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to
contact me. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to
contact me
REFERRED TO THE GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE
No. 80
ERIE COUNTY
Assistance in Snow Plowing
Erie County is in receipt of your January 9, 1996 resolution concerning
county assistance for snow plowing operations to the City of Buffalo.
As you may know, the various municipalities throughout Erie County have
signed a mutual aid agreement for these purposes. During the recent snowstorm
that dumped over 30 inches of snow across the Western New York region, the Erie
County Division of Highways contacted the City of Buffalo Streets Department to
offer its assistance. As a result, Erie County provided the City with several
pieces of snow fighting equipment.
Since 1994, Erie County has appropriated $150,000 per year in its annual
budget as a cash grant that is transferred to the City of Buffalo for snow
fighting purposes.
Recently, the Erie County Legislature and the County Executive authorized
this year's grant. The City of Buffalo will be receiving this check in the
very near future.
Erie County stands ready to assist the City of Buffalo during future
snowstorms under the terms of the county-wide mutual aid agreement, upon the
request of the Mayor or the Commissioner of Streets Sanitation.
I trust this information is helpful to you.
REFERRED TO THE GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE
No. 81
ERIE CO. HEALTH DEPT.
Concerns-R. Clemente Clinic
Regarding your letter of January 19, 1996 concerning the intentions
of the County with respect to the clinic at the Roberto Clemente Center, the
Erie County Department of Health has no plans to close the Roberto Clemente
Maternal and Child Health Center.
If you have any more concerns regarding this matter please feel free to
contact me.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 82
FLEET BANK
Landmark Designation Proposal
2221 Seneca Street
As stated at the Common Council's Committee on Legislation meeting
on January 30, Fleet Bank remains committed to the City of Buffalo and will
make every attempt to keep the city informed of any future alterations to the
building, both interior and exterior, at 2221 Seneca Street. We hope that this
letter and our participation in previous meetings assures you of our
willingness to meet our responsibility as a corporate citizen in South Buffalo.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 83
R. KERN
Complaints - Human Relations Commission
Attached is ALT: Alternative Press complaints regarding the City
Commissioner on Human Relations.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 84
LOCAL 282
Info-Emergency Medical Service Response
Whereas the Common Council should be made aware of protocol changes
for emergency medical service responses in the Buffalo Fire Department,
Be it resolved that the Common Council schedule a meeting with members of
the Buffalo Professional Firefighters, Local 282, to discuss these changes.
REFERRED TO THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON BUDGET
No. 85
NYSDEC
Republic Steel (LTV) Marilla Street Landfill
Site #915047
Vibratech, Inc. Site #915165
In response to your inquiry dated January 18, 1996 regarding the
two sites noted above, I have attached information that I hope will assist the
Council.
Specifically, with respect to the Republic Steel site:
This 100 acre parcel had a landfill cover system completed in 1993.
Currently, the landfill is being monitored on a routine basis and reported to
NYSDEC. The site was reclassified to Class 2 in November 1995 after further
environmental assessments documented the presence of hazardous waste at the
site and its impact to the environment. I have attached an excerpt of the
latest technical document entitled Supplemental Solid Waste Management Facility
Investigation Program dated August 1995 by Malcolm Pirnie, Inc. I have also
enclosed minutes from a meeting in October 1995 [letter dated November 29,
1995, Malcolm Pirnie to NYSDEC] which indicates the progress being made to
address the environmental issues at this site.
Regarding the Vibratech site I offer the following:
It appears that the Council has concerns regarding the contamination of
groundwater from this site. I have enclosed excerpts of a report entitled
Supplemental Groundwater Investigation dated December 1994 by Conestoga-Rovers
& Associates. This report has information which shows the groundwater being
collected by a sanitary sewer which is adjacent to the site. The location of
the sewer acts as a barrier which prevents movement towards homes along
Winchester Avenue. As part of the remedial work being conducted at this site
by the facility owner, a permit was required to be secured from the Buffalo
Sewer Authority for the "indirect" discharge of this groundwater to the sewer
system. For your information I have enclosed a copy of the NYSDEC's report
entitled Interim Remedial Measure Decision Document dated October 1995. The
remedial work discussed in that document has been completed and additional work
is anticipated to remove contaminated soil. The soil vacuum extraction process
is being operated and details of the performance are available if you wish.
I trust the above information is helpful in resolving any concern you
have for these two sites, I encourage the Council to contact me to discuss the
details of these or any of the hazardous waste projects located in the City.
You may contact me at 851-7220.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
No. 86
NYSDOT
Signal Coordination Study
This is in response to your letter dated January 10, 1996 requesting
an update on our study to coordinate traffic signals in Downtown Buffalo. We
have recently signed a contract with The Sear-Brown Group to analyze existing
traffic patterns to develop signal coordination plans for the Buffalo Central
Business District (CBD) and several New York State highways in Erie and Niagara
Counties.
The consultant will begin data collection in the city early this spring,
to supplement the data supplied by the Niagara Frontier Transportation
Committee (NFTC). Subsequent to data collection, the consultant will begin
developing signal coordination timing plans for the CBD. We will be meeting
with the City of Buffalo Department of Public Works, NFTC, and the consultant
in the near future to discuss this study.
Should you require further information, please contact me at
716-847-3268.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
No. 87
NFTA
Report-Drug Interdiction Program
Please find enclosed the reports that were requested of the Drug
Interdiction Unit, from the City Council.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
No. 88
M. WESOLOWSKI
Info-Salary Increases Bd. of Education
As an elected member of the Buffalo School Board I know that every
time I vote on an issue, whether it be yes or no, it is I, and only I, who
bears the responsibility for that vote. This I accept, and do so willingly.
Recently, I and others have been criticized for voting ourselves an
increase in stipend. I accept this criticism but while accepting the criticism
I would also like to clear up some misinformation about the process forwarded
by the media. When I vote I did so in public during the public session of the
board meeting - contrary to reports in the media. Results were broadcast the
next day on a local radio station. The entire meeting was also broadcast
throughout the city on TCI Cable three days later. The agenda is developed by
the Superintendent and his staff, Board Members do not place items on the
established agenda. The agenda is designed by staff to facilitate the
day-to-day operations of the school district. Our Board bylaws prescribe the
format of the board meeting. They clearly state that member items are
introduced at the end of the meeting after all other business placed before the
board is completed. This was a Board Member item.
Even more important however, is the rationale for an increased stipend.
I have always prided myself on the fact that my commitment to the Buffalo Board
is a full-time commitment. I was recently credited by the Buffalo News for my
"hard work and for the improvement of long neglected schools in my district, in
which I am intensely involved." None of this would have been possible if I had
held another full-time job. My colleagues and I are responsible for a 400
million dollar budget (which is the lion's share of the city's budget), more
than 47,000 school children, 7,000 plus employees, etc...
Our country was founded on the belief that a democratic society should
be, "OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE." That means persons from
all walks of life and from all socioeconomic backgrounds should have the
opportunity to participate. It is my belief that the number of hours one must
commit to the Board and the low stipend paid currently by the Board often
preclude this from happening. The now higher stipend makes participation a
possibility for a much broader segment of our community.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
PETITIONS
No. 89
Ripen With Us Child Care Center, Inc., petitioner, petition to
rezone 488-502 Kenmore Avenue from C-2 and R-2 to C-2 for a child care center.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD AND THE
COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
No. 90
Socony Vacuum Oil owner, petition to use 577 Elmwood for a pole
sign.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD AND THE
COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
No. 91
Socony Vacuum Oil owner, petition to use 265 Germania St. to erect
a metal addition for warehouse space.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD AND
COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
No. 92
John Price, owner, petition to use 265 Germania St. to erect a
metal addition for warehouse space.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD AND
COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
No. 93
Gelinmac Storage, owner, petition to use 20 Buffalo River for
the manufacture of animal feed.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD AND THE
COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
No. 94
New Zion Institution, owner, petition to use 300-318 High St.
for a Pole Sign.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD AND THE
COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
No. 95
Benderson Development, owner, petition to use 2626 Delaware for
a Pole Sign.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE CITY PLANNING BOARD AND THE
COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
No. 96
Airport Taxi Service - Petition for Increased Taxi Service Rates.
RECEIVED AND FILED
REGULAR COMMITTEES
CIVIL SERVICE
HON. DAVID CZAJKA
CHAIRMAN
No. 97
Salary Ordinance Amendment
50 - Department of Human Services, Parks & Recreation
1 - Division of Parks
032 - Servicing Automotive Equipment
(Item No. 172, C.C.P., Dec. 12, 1995)
That the Salary Ordinance Amendment as contained in Item No. 172,
C.C.P., December 12, 1995, be and the same hereby is approved.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 98
Appointment
Senior Account Clerk Stenographer
That Communication No. 15 January 23, 1996 be received and filed
and the provisional appointment of Linda Hardy stated above at the maximum
salary $25,135.00 effective on January 10, 1996 is hereby approved.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 99
Appointment
Water Service Inspector
That Communication No. 30 January 23, 1996 be received and filed
and the permanent appointment of Joseph Ferraro stated above at the maximum
salary $24,914.00 effective on January 10, 1996 is hereby approved.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 100
Appointment
Chief Teller
That Communication No. 56 January 23, 1996 be received and filed
and the provisional appointment of Suzanne Moores stated above at the maximum
salary $29,273.00 effective on January 1.7, 1996 is hereby approved.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 101
Notices of Appointment. - Temp/Prov/Perm
(Item No. 68 CCP January 23, 1996)
That the above mentioned item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
FINANCE
HON. DAVID FRANCZYK
CHAIRMAN
No. 102
Info - Bennett Beach
Item #47 CCP November 28, 1995
That the above mentioned item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
REFERRED TO THE GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE
No. 103
Carbon Copies-Req. Open Gift shop in City Hall
(Item # 70 CCP October 31, 1995)
That the above mentioned item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 104
Carbon Copies-Gift shop in City Hall
(Item #72 CCP November 14, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 105
Interfund Loan
(Item No. 6, C.C.P., Jan. 9, 1996)
(Item No. 112, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the Comptroller be, and he hereby is, authorized to make
an interfund cash loan from the City General Fund to the City's Capital
Projects Fund in the amount of $500,000 for Neighborhood Redevelopment Site
Prep. The loan will be repaid when Bond Anticipation Notes or Bonds are
issued.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 106
Transfer of Title - Urban Homestead Program
105 French Street
(Item No. 62, C.C.P, Nov. 28, 1995)
That the City-owned property commonly known as 105 French Street,
is hereby designated as Homestead Property, and that the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized to execute a deed transferring said property to Mr.
Paralee Hubbard, in the amount of $1.00 (One Dollar), and all costs of
transfer, on the condition the property is cleared and improved within six (6)
months and the property is maintained in a sanitary manner for at least
thirty-six (36) months.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 107
Info. - Homestead 101 French
(Item # 12 CCP December l2, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 108
Petition for Increased Taxi Service Rates
(Item No. 68, C.C.P., Nov. 28, 1995)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is. returned to the
Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Franczyk moved that the above item be recommitted to the Committee on
Finance.
ADOPTED.
No. 109
Taxi Service Rates
(Comm. No. 23 C.C.P. 1/9/96)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the
Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Franczyk moved that the above item be recommitted to the Committee on
Finance.
ADOPTED
No. 110
Establish Specialized Gang Unit in Police Department
(Item No. 176, CCP No. 12/12/95)
That the Common Council request that the Commissioner of Police
create a specialized "Gang Unit" within the Department, charged with the
responsibility of dealing with this serious problem;
That the Commissioner file a response with this Council detailing his
position on the concept of a "Gang Unit" and presenting a detailed description
of the structure, composition, and responsibilities of this unit.
Adopted
No. 111
Gang units in Police dept.
(Item # 20, CCP January 9, 1996)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 112
Report of Emergency Demolition-
88 Madison and 140 Krettner
(Item No. 43, C.C.P. Dec. 26, 1995)
That the award by the Commissioner of Neighborhoods, Housing and
Inspections of emergency demolition contracts to Cedar Wrecking & Salvage at a
cost of $4,800.00, relating to 88 Madison; to J. Martin at a cost of $4,490.00,
relating to 140 Krettner; are hereby confirmed, ratified and approved, with
said cost to be charged against Capital Outlay Account #100-241-085-00-900.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 113
Bflo. Place - Extend Agreement
(Item No. 69 CCP December 26, l995)
That the above mentioned item be and the same hereby is received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 114
Rev. Hemphill - Req. repair leak - 147 Woodlawn
(Item # 71 CCP December 26, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 115
Rev. Hemphill - Req. repair leak - 147 Woodlawn
(Item # 25 CCP January 23, 1996)
That the above mentioned item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
AD0PTED
No. 116
Results of Negotiations - 135 Bennett Street
& 242 Cedar Street
(Item No. 11, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the offer of Rev. Joe L. Fisher of Pleasant Grove Baptist
Church, 226 Cedar Street, in the sum of $1,400.00 (One Thousand and Four
Hundred Dollars) to purchase the properties described as 135 Bennett Street and
242 Cedar Street, be and hereby are 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 will
be paid by the purchaser.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 117
Approve Compromise of Invoice - J. B. Hunt Transport
(Item No. 12, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the Comptroller and the Corporation Counsel be and they hereby
are authorized to settle the matter of J. B. Hunt Transportation Inc. in the
amount of $3,736.76 payable to the City of Buffalo, Invoice
#100-401-ARKS0034-94.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 118
Report of Bids - Interior Reconstruction - Precinct 11
(Item No. 18, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized
to award a contract for the Interior Reconstruction at Precinct 11, to RW
Painting, the lowest responsible bidder, in an amount of $18,250.00. Funds for
this work are available in the B/F 200-402-513 Division of Buildings.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 119
Change in Contract - Venturi House and Valve Rehabilitation
(Item No. 20, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized
to issue change order #2 to C & A Painting Contractors, Inc., changes resulting
in a net increase in the amount of $37,190.00, as more fully described in the
above communication, for work relating to Venturi House and Valve House
Rehabilitation, Contract No. 31G, City Contract No. 91835800. Funds to be
charged to Division of Water's 416-983-014-00-000 account.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 120
Change in Contract - Massachusetts
Pumping Station Upgrades
(Item No. 21, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the Commissioner of Public Works be, and he hereby is, authorized
to issue change order #3 to John W. Danforth Company, changes resulting in a
net increase in the amount of $11,102.00, as more fully described in the above
communication, for work relating to Massachusetts Avenue Pumping Station
Upgrades, Contract No. IG - General Construction, City Contract No. 91795400.
Funds to be charged to Division of Water's 416-982-012-00-000 Capital Projects
Account.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 121
Info - Building Effective Strategies
Community Policing Grant
(Item No. 31, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the Commissioner of Police be, and he hereby is, authorized
to enter into a subagreement with the Research Foundation of the State
University of New York and the University of Buffalo Foundation Services on
behalf of the State University of New York at Buffalo to provide $54,248 worth
in matching in kind services and $10,000 from Trust and Agency Asset Forfeiture
Funding.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 122
Lafayette Park lce Rink Name Change
Hearing
(Item No. 162, C.C.P. 1/23/96)
That the above item be and the same is returned to the Common
Council without recommendation.
A Public hearing has been set, before the Common Council, at this
regularly scheduled meeting, on the above item, and a Notice of same has been
published in the Buffalo News, a copy of which is attached hereto.
On a motion by Mrs. LoTempio, seconded by Mr. Zuchlewski, the item is
properly before the Common Council, and the hearing be opened.
CARRIED.
Appearances -Joseph Giambra, Commissioner of Public Works
and President-North Buffalo Community Center
Mrs. LoTempio now moved that the hearing be closed. Seconded by Mrs.
Gray.
CARRIED.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That this Common Council, after holding the required public hearing,
hereby renames Lafayette Ice Rink to "North Buffalo Ice Rink", and the City
Clerk be and hereby is directed to notify the Erie County Division of Planning,
Erie County Commissioner of Finance, Buffalo City Planning Board, Department of
Assessment, Division of Planning, Division of Engineering, the City Police and
Fire Departments and the Main Branch of the U.S.P.S. in Buffalo, be certified
copy, as required by Section 286-5 of the Code of the City of Buffalo.
Seconded by Mr. Coppola.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
LEGISLATION
HON. ALFRED T. COPPOLA
CHAIRMAN
No. 123
Rite-Aid - Petition to use 1220 Lovejoy - Pole Sign
(Item No. 72, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That after a public hearing before the Committee on Legislation
on January 30, 1996, the petition of Rite-Aid, owner, for permission to use
1220 Lovejoy for a pole sign be, and hereby is approved.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 124
Vincent Caruana - Petition to use
1094 Hertel Avenue - Sit-in Restaurant
(Item No. 73, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That after a public hearing before
the Committee on Legislation
on
January 30, 4996, the petition of Vincent Caruana, for permission
to use 1094 Hertel Avenue for a sit-in restaurant be, and hereby is approved
with the following conditions:
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 no portion of the sidewalk cafe be permanent in nature or
permanently affixed to the main building or public sidewalk.
4. That the sidewalk cafe be completely removed from City right-of-way
from November 15 to April I each year.
5. The use of signage must be as conditioned by the Department of
Public Works.
6. That the use of any temporary sign be in accordance with the Code
of the City of Buffalo.
7. That the applicant be assessed an annual fee of two dollars ($2.00)
per square foot of City right-of-way occupied by the encroachment as prescribed
in Chapter 413, Article IX, Section 59 (Sidewalk Cafes) of the City Ordinances.
8. That the applicant supply the City of Buffalo with a $5,000.00
(five thousand dollar) construction in street bond or certificate of insurance
which will indemnify and save harmless the City of Buffalo against any and all
loss and damage arising out of the construction, maintenance, use and removal
of said sidewalk cafe.
Passed
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 125
Proposed Landmark Designation
Fleet Bank, 2221 Seneca Street
(Item No. 12, C.C.P., Dec. 26, 1995)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the
Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Coppola moved:
That after a public hearing held by the Committee on Legislation
on
January 30, 1996, Fleet Bank at 2221 Seneca Street be designated
as a local historic landmark, pursuant to Section 8 of Chapter 337 of the
Preservation Standards of the Buffalo Code; and
That this designation is made upon due consideration of the reports of
the Buffalo Preservation Board and its Landmark Designation Committee which
reports are hereby approved and adopted; and
That this designation is made in accordance with the criteria set forth
in the Preservation Code (Chapter 337 of the Buffalo Code) and for the reasons
set forth in the reports of the Buffalo Preservation Board and its Landmark
Designation Committee; and
That the Secretary of the Preservation Board be and hereby is directed to
file the property description with the City Clerk, the Director of the Planning
Board and with the Department of Public Works; and
That the Petitioner is directed to file a description or map of the
property with the Erie County Clerk's Office.
Mrs. Lockwood made a motion to deny said item. Seconded by Mr. Helfer.
Mr. Quintana moved to amend the original motion to approve said item.
Seconded by Mr. Franczyk.
LOST
AYES-6. NOES-7.
Mrs. Lockwood now moved her original motion that the above item be, and
hereby is, denied..
Seconded by Mr. Helfer.
ADOPTED.
AYES-8. NOES-5.
No. 126
Word of Faith Ministries - Petition to use
142 Doat Avenue - Half-way House
(Item No. 57, C.C.P., Jan. 9, 1996)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the
Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Coppola moved that the above item be recommitted to the Committee on
Legislation.
ADOPTED.
No. 127
A. Singletary & 0-opp. Rezone 570 Kensington Ave.
(Item # 90 CCP December 12, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 128
EAP 570 Kensington
Item # 140 CCP December 12, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 129
Fargo Blk. Club - Opp. Comm. enter. 252 Conn.
(Item # 162 CCP September 5, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 130
Fargo Blk. Cl. - Opp. Comm. Entr. 252 Conn.
(Item # 47 CCP October 17, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 131
Kay Block Club - Complaints speed vehicles
(Item # 163 CCP September 5, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 132
S. Manion-Absentee landlord/'West Ave., etc.
(Item # 76 CCP October 17, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 133
Absentee landlords - West Ave.
(Item # 54 CCP December 12, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 134
E. Hurley - absentee Landlords, etc.- West Ave.
(Item # 72 CCP October 31, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 135
Calls made to Peace Bridge Auth.
(Item # 141 CCP November 28, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 136
C. Boczynski - Opp. discont. bus- Walden/Bailey- S. Pk.
(Item # 89 CCP December 12, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 137
NFTA - Discont. bus service-Walden, etc.
(Item # 53 CCP January 9, 1996)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 138
Appt. Mbrs. - EMC
(Item # 2 CCP December 26, 1995)
That the above 'mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 139
Examining Board of Plumbers
(Item No. 4. C.C.P., Dec. 26, 1995)
That the reappointment of Harold K. Fawcett, 197 Vermont Street,
as a member to the Examining Board of Plumbers for a term effective January 1,
1996 and expiring December 31, 1998, be and hereby is accepted.
Adopted.
No. 140
Ord. Amendment Ch. 399 smoking
(Item # 77 CCP January 9, 1996)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 141
Ord. Amend. Ch. 399 - smoking
(Item # 139 CCP January 23, 1,996)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 142
Ordinance Amendment
Chapter 399-Smoking
(Item No. 177, C.C.P. Jan. 23, 1996)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the
Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Coppola moved:
That the Ordinance Amendment as contained in Item No. 177, C.C.P. January
23, 1996, be and the same hereby is received and filed.
That the Law Department is instructed to allow PERB to decide the issue
of smoking within City Buildings without an amendment to the City's smoking
ordinance, and;
That the Law Department is instructed to report back and file with the
Common Council the results of PERB's decision.
ADOPTED
No. 143
Notif. serials 8571-8573
(Item # 16 CCP January 23, 1996)
That the above mentioned item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
Mr. Coppola moved to receive and file Notification Serials 8571 and 8572
and to recommit Notification Serial 8573 to the Committee on Legislation.
ADOPTED
No. 144
Firefighter winter training
Item # 173 CCP January 23, 1996)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 145
Ordinance Amendment
Chapter 35 - Personnel Policies
(Item No. 184, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the Ordinance Amendment as contained in Item No. 184, C.
C. P., January 23, 1996, be and the same hereby is approved.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Hon. DALE ZUCHLEWSKI
CHAIRMAN
No. 146
Market Arcade UDAG
(Item No. 50, C.C.P., Dec. 12, 1995)
That the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency and the Common Council be,
and they hereby are, authorized to do the following:
I . Submit the revision to the Grant Agreement naming BEDC as the
dedicated developer for the three (3) facades.
2. Execute and deliver any and all documents by the appropriate
party(ies) as may be necessary to secure UDAG.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
No. 147
Narrow section of S. Park - Crossroads
(Item # 49 CCP December 27, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby referred
to the Stadium/Auditorium Task Force.
ADOPTED
No. 148
Encroachment - trees - S. Park - Crossroads
(Item # 50 CCP December 27, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby referred
'to the Stadium/Auditorium Task Force.
ADOPTED
No. 149
Amend South Ellicott Urban Renewal Plan to Allow
Residential Development
(Item No. 79, C.C.P., Jan. 9, 1996)
That the Common Council approve the amendment of the South Ellicott
Urban Renewal Plan to allow for residential development in the area of South
Cedar, Myrtle, Spring and Seneca Streets.
Adopted
No. 150
Designation SEQR Lead Agency - Wegmans
(Item No. 40, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the
Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Zuchlewski moved:
That the Department of Neighborhoods, Housing and Inspections is
authorized to act as Lead Agency for the above-referenced project in accordance
with Section 617.6 of the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
No. 151
Report of Bids - J.F.K. Tennis Court Renovations
Item No. 41, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the Commissioner of Community Development be, and he hereby
Is, authorized to award a contract for Shoshone Park Improvements, to Thomann &
Loewer, the lowest responsible bidder, low base bid of $41,850 plus add
alternate I of $5,880 for a total bid of $47,738. Funds for this work are
available in Bond Fund Account 200-717-081.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
No. 152
Request Permission to Erect
Industrial Park Signage
(Item No. 59, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
That the above item be, and the same hereby is, returned to the
Common Council without recommendation.
Mr. Zuchlewski moved:
That the Vice-Chairman of the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency be, and he
hereby is, authorized to proceed with the fabrication and installation of the
three ground mounted aluminum signs at the three designated locations as
described in the above mentioned communication.
PASSED
AYES - 13 NOES - 0
No. 153
Present. by Clarkson - WARM Prog.
Item # 188 CCP January 23, 1996)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
EDUCATION COMMITTEE
HON. BARBRA KAVANAUGH
CHAIRMAN
No. 154
Estab. Cap. reserve fund - Bd. Ed. Bldg. Projs.
(Item # 158 CCP April 18, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 155
Fin. Plan. Comm. - report on Bd. of Ed.
(Item # 77 CCP April 4, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 156
Reply to Fin. Plan Comm. Rprt. - Bd. Ed.
(Item# 64 CCP April 18, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 157
Election process - School Bd. Elections
(Item # 22 CCP February 7, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 158
Olmstead Planning/Development Committee
(Item # 186 CCP February 21, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 159
Uniforms in schools
(Item # 76 CCP October 3, 1995)
That the above mentioned item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 160
Site based budgeting - Bd. of Ed.
(Item # 231 CCP October 17, 1995)
That the above mentioned item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 161
Site based budgeting
(Item # 59 CCP October 31, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 162
Site based budget - Bd. of Ed.
(Item # 42 CCP December 12, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 163
Decision-ARthur et al vs Nyquist, et al
(Item # 30 CCP October 31, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 164
Supplemental Budget Req.
(Item # 77 CCP November 14, 1995)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
No. 165
Mbrs. Salary increase
(Item # 58 CCP January 23, 1996)
That the above mentioned Item be and the same is hereby received
and filed.
ADOPTED
RESOLUTIONS
No. 166
By: Mr. Brown
Dialogue on Sales Tax
Whereas: The extra eighth percent sales tax, instituted during
Erie County's fiscal crisis of the mid- I 980s, was given entirely to the
county rather than shared by municipalities and school districts according to
formula; and
Whereas: Although the bonds that allowed the county to emerge from its
financial dilemma are now paid off, the county still receives all the money
generated by the eighth percentage point to pay the costs of mandated services,
particularly Medicaid, which the county maintains have risen dramatically since
that time; and
Whereas: In recent years, this Common Council has introduced numerous
resolutions and made numerous initiatives aimed at acquiring a portion of the
extra sales tax, an effort that has increased as the City's fiscal situation
has declined; and
Whereas: Previous discussions that have taken place regarding this issue have
been largely unfruitful, due to a variety of factors; and
Whereas: With the infusion of new Councilmembers, veteran Councilmembers have
expressed the hope that there might be an opportunity to create a climate that
can lead to a better, more cooperative relationship between the City and County
that will benefit both governments and, ultimately, the taxpayers of Buffalo
and Erie County; and
Whereas: The establishment of a special committee at this time might allow City
and County governments to develop joint initiatives that will allow for maximum
operating efficiencies; and
Whereas: Some of the ideas that the conunittee could consider include the
possibly of the county assuming responsibility of operating the Convention
Center, a county takeover of police booking, the county assuming responsibility
for delinquent taxes, a consolidation of certain services, and not precluding
the possibility of a sharing of the eighth percent of the sales tax; and
Whereas: The committee would also explore, refine and build consensus around
such creative proposals as County Legislator Michael Fitzpatrick's idea to
create a "retail enterprise zone," a concept similar to one that was advanced
by Delaware District Councilmember Alfred T. Coppola; and
Whereas: This group may also help local governments obtain more funding from
state and federal sources, as well as from private sources; and
Whereas: This committee would need to realize that, in order for this effort to
succeed where others have failed, there needs to be a recognition that any
recommendations that emerge need to be mutually benefical and must produce
tangible benefits for the community; and
Whereas: This committee must recognize that city residents are also county
residents, and jurisdictional issues should not blind us to the fact that we
need to work toward solutions that will improve life for our constitutents; and
Whereas: There also has to be an understanding by the committee and the Council
that we must create a atmosphere that is conducive to such an undertaking by
conducting these discussions in a professional manner and refraining from
rhetoric that might only serve to inflame emotions and create further
divisions; and
Whereas: This committee should be a small and manageable working group, but
should draw on resources in the public and private sectors and work in such a
way that the general public can view the process and understand what is being
discussed; and
Whereas: The appproval of any measures which would consolidate city and county
functions would require the approval of the Erie County Legislature, and the
participation of legislators is essential if this effort is to be ultimately
successful; and
Whereas: Some of the new Councilmembers have indicated that they are willing to
take on a leadership role in dealing with what is obviously a very difficult
issue, but one that could produce some significant benefits for this community;
and
Whereas: Council President Pitts has already requested that Councilmembers
Brown, Kavanaugh and Lockwood serve on this committee;
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved:
That this Common Council establishes a special government relations committee,
and charge it with initiating dialogue that will lead to improved relations
between City and County governments, and to enhance the available resources and
improve the quality of services to City and County residents.
Be It Further Resolved:
That this Council agrees to formally request the participation of a
representative delegation of Erie County legislators on this committee.
ADOPTED
No. 167
By: Mr. Brown
Prequalify Watts Engineers
Whereas: During recent discussions regarding a contract for a
consultant for bridge repairs, the Commissioner of Public Works indicated that
he had conducted an informal bidding process using contractors that he had
"prequalified" as having proven capability of performing that type of work; and
Whereas: Although no minority-owned firms were on the prequalified list, the
Commissioner pointed out that he would be interested in adding any minority
companies who might possess the requisite qualifications and experience; and
Whereas: Watts Engineers, a corporation formed by an African American, Edward
0. Watts, P.E., P.C., has a reputation for professionalism and high quality
service; and
Whereas: In 1995 Edward 0. Watts received the Minority Business Person of the
Year award from the Buffalo office of the U.S. Small Business Administration in
recognition of his efforts to make Watts Engineers one of the area's most
respected civil and environmental engineering consultants; and
Whereas: Specialized in the areas of civil and environmental engineering, Watts
has a fulltime staff of 33 engineers, technicians, special consultants,
scientists, and administrative personnel and is fully capable of providing
engineering services for bridge and highway projects;
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved:
That the Commissioner of Public Works hereby be requested take all steps
necessary to prequalify Watts Engineers to perform engineering services for
bridge and highway projects for the City of Buffalo.
REFERRED TO THE CCMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, COMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS, AND
CORPORATION COUNSEL.
No. 168
By: Mr. Coppola
Increase Minimum Cost of Work Requiring Permits
Whereas: The city presently requires that a property owner secure
a permit when performing repairs or alterations costing $500 or more- and
Whereas: Even though the rate of inflation has increased, the $500 limit has
been in effect for several years, and the fees increase as the dollar amount of
repairs or alterations increase; and
Whereas: Property owners performing simple maintenance are now finding that the
cost of materials have increased considerably and are forced to obtain a permit
adding to the cost and red tape for what originally might have been a routine
repair; and
Whereas: Because of the cost of materials and the ever-present rate of
inflation in today's world, it would be more equitable to increase the $500
limit to $1,500 before requiring a permit; and
Whereas: This increase should be allowed for simple repairs only, and
specifically would not include technical repairs and alterations such as
plumbing, electrical, and furnace, which directly affect health and well being
and should have follow-up inspection.
Now therefore be it resolved that:
Because the rate of inflation has increased, this Common Council requests that
the $500 limit required for securing a permit be increased to $1,500.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, THE COMMISSIONER OF ADMINISTRATION AND
FINANCE, AND THE COMMISSIONER OF NEIGHBORHOODS, HOUSING AND INSPECTIONS
No. 169
By: Mr. Coppola
Request City-Wide Referendum -Additional 1% Sales Tax
Whereas: In 1986, through mutual agreement with Eric County government,
the City of Buffalo agreed to an additional I % sales tax, proceeds from which
would be used by Erie County government to retire a $75 million debt, which has
been accomplished; and
Whereas: On January 23, 1996, this Common Council adopted a resolution
memorializing the State Legislature to authorize the extension of the
additional 1 % provided that Erie County share that extra 1% with the other
municipalities and school districts within the County; and
Whereas: According to preliminary information, the City must notify the County
of its desire to withdraw from their hand-shake agreement of 1986; and
Whereas: It appears that there is enough time for a referendum, and that
referendum should ask City voters if we should continue to pay the extra 1%
sales tax in the City of Buffalo.
Now therefore be it resolved that:
This Common Council requests that a referendum be prepared for the upcoming
election, November 5, 1996, that would ask City voters if we should continue to
pay the extra 1% sales tax in the City of Buffalo,
REFERRED TO THE GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE,, COMMISSIONER OF
ADMINISTRATION
AND FINANCE, AND CORPORATION COUNSEL
No. 170
By: Mr. Czajka
Salary Ordinance Amendment
40 - Department of Public Works
2 - Division of Buildings
021 - Administrative Services
Whereas: The Common Council of the City of Buffalo does ordain as follows:
That part of Section I of Chapter 3 5 of the Ordinances of the City of Buffalo,
relating to 402-021 Department of Public Works - Division of Buildings -
Administrative Services which reads:
1 Typist $20,215 - $22,420
is hereby amended to read:
1 Account Clerk $21,126 - $23,588
We, Joseph Giambra, Commissioner of Public Works and James B. Milroy, Director
of the Budget, hereby certify that the above change is necessary for the proper
conduct, administration and performance of essential services of that
department. We recommend that the compensation for said position be fixed at
the amount set forth in the foregoing ordinance.
That a personnel requisition incident to the addition 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 Peace
Corporation Counsel
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL SERVICE
No. 171
By: Mr. Franczyk
Bond Resolution
$3,000,000 Bonds
Marine Midland Arena-Phase I
dAccount 200-401-556
Bond Resolution of the City of Buffalo, New York, authorizing
the issuance of $3,000,000 General Improvement Bonds of said City to finance
the cost of partial reconstruction of various streets located in the City, in
connection with construction of the Marine Midland Arena, at the estimated
total cost of $3,000,000.
The Common Council of the City of Buffalo, in the County of Erie, New York,
hereby resolves (by the favorable vote of not less than two-thirds of all the
members of said Common Council) as follows:
Section 1. The Comptroller of the City of Buffalo, in the County of Erie, New
York, is hereby authorized and directed to issue General Improvement Bonds of
said City in the principal amount of Three Million Dollars ($3,000,000),
pursuant to the provisions of the Charter of said City and the Local Finance
Law, constituting Chapter 33-a of the Consolidated Laws of the State of New
York (the "Law"), to finance the cost of partial reconstruction of various
streets located in the City, in connection with construction of the Marine
Midland Arena. The estimated total cost of said class of objects or purposes
for which the bonds authorized by this resolution are to be issued, including
preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and the financing thereof, is
$3,000,000 as set forth in the duly adopted Capital Improvements Budget of said
City for fiscal year 1995-96, as amended.
Section 2. The proceeds of the sale of the bonds authorized by this resolution,
or any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of the sale of said bonds
shall be deposited in the Capital Projects Fund to the credit of the Department
of Public Works, Division of Engineering, "Marine Midland Arena - Phase I, Bond
Authorization Account No. 200-401-556, and shall be used for the class of
objects or purposes specified in Section I of this resolution.
Section 3. The City intends to finance, on an interim basis, the costs or a
portion of the costs of said improvements for which bonds are herein
authorized, which costs are reasonably expected to be incurred by the City,
pursuant to this Bond Resolution, in the maximum amount of $3,000,000. This
Resolution is a declaration of Official Intent adopted pursuant to the
requirements of Treasury Regulation Section 1.150-2.
Section 4. The following additional matters are hereby determined and stated:
(a) The period of probable usefulness applicable to the class of objects
or purposes for which the bonds authorized by this resolution are to be issued
within the limitations of Section 11.00 a 20. of the Law, is fifteen (15)
years.
(b) Current funds are not required by the Law to be provided as a down
payment prior to the issuance of the bonds authorized by this resolution or any
bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation thereof in accordance with
Section 107.00 d. 9. of the Law.
Section 5. Each of the bonds authorized by this resolution and any bond
anticipation notes issued in anticipation of the sale of said bonds and the
renewals of said notes shall contain the recital of validity prescribed by
Section 52.00 of the Local Finance Law. Said bonds and said notes shall be
general obligations of the City of Buffalo payable as to both principal and
interest by a general tax upon all the taxable real property within said City
without limitation as to rate or amount. The faith and credit of said City are
hereby irrevocably pledged for the punctual payment of the principal of and
interest on said bonds and said notes. Provision shall be made annually by
appropriation by said City for the payment of interest on and for the amounts
required for the amortization and redemption of said bonds and said notes.
Section 6. The validity of the bonds authorized by this resolution or any bond
anticipation notes issued in anticipation of the sale of said bonds may be
contested only if:
(a) Such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose for which
the City of Buffalo is not authorized to expend money, or
(b) The provisions of law which should be complied with at the date of
the publication of this resolution are not substantially complied with, and an
action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity, is commenced within twenty
days after the date of such publication,
or
(c) Such obligations are authorized in violation of the provisions of the
constitution.
Introduced: February 6, 1996
LAID ON THE TABLE
No. 172
By: Mr. Franczyk
Capital Budget Amendment
Addition to Capital Program 1995-96
That pursuant to section 359 of the Charter and the certificate
of the Mayor and the Comptroller submitted to the Common Council, the Capital
Program for the fiscal year 1995-96 be and the same is hereby amended by adding
the following item under the heading:
200 Capital Projects
402 Division of Buildings
Hertel Avenue Police Station $500,000
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
No. 173
By: Mr. Franczyk
Addition to Capital Program 1995-96
That pursuant to section 359 of the Charter and the Certificate
of the Mayor and the Comptroller submitted to the Common Council, the Capital
Program for the fiscal year 1995-96 be and the same is hereby amended by adding
the following item under the heading:
200 Capital Projects
401 Division of Engineering
Local Match for Marchiselli Funds $3,439,785
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 174
By: Mr. Franczyk
Appropriation Allotments - Board of Education
That, Pursuant to Section 41 of the Charter and the Certificate
of the Mayor and the Comptroller submitted to the Common Council, the
appropriation in the budget for the current fiscal year for Appropriation
Allotments - Board of Education be and the same hereby is increased in the sum
of $5,000,000.
That, the comptroller be and hereby is authorized and directed to increase the
revenue estimate of account:
Revenue City
100 General Fund
810 - General City
402000 -City
98960 - Bond Issue Proceeds $5,000,000
To meet the increased appropriation as set forth below:
100 General Fund
97-0-Board of Education
Operation and Maintenance $5,000,000
This will Increase the Board of Education Appropriation from $404,065,439.45 to
$409,066,439.45 (both appropriations Include debt service of $9,104,411).
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 175
By: Mr. Franczyk
Transfer of Funds
Division of Budget and Management
Division of Engineering
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 $83,000 be and the
same is hereby transferred from the Division of Budget and Management -
Planning for Capital Improvements account and said sum is hereby reappropriated
as set forth below:
From:
200 Capital Project Fund
061 - Division of Budget and Management
001 -Planning for Capital Projects $83,000
To:
200 Capital Project Fund
401 - Division of Engineering
556-Marine Midland Arena Street Reconstruction, Group 364 Phase l
$83,000
No. 176
By Mr. Franczyk
Discharge Committee on Finance
Increased Appropriation - Div. of Collections
Item No. 163, CCP, Jan. 23, 1996
Whereas, the above item is currently tabled in the Finance Committee
Committee and
Whereas, it is no longer necessary for this item to be considered by that
Committee,
Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that this Common Council does hereby discharge
the Committee from further consideration of this item, and the item is now
before the Common Council for its consideration.
CARRIED.
Mr. Franczyk now moved approval of the above item. Seconded by Mr. Czajka
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 177
By: Mrs. Beverly Gray
Determining Homesteading and New Housing Lot Sizes
Whereas: Recently a number of requests have been made to this
Council to homestead properties ; and
Whereas: Homesteading consideration is given only when land lot size is
inappropriate for new housing development; and
Whereas: There seems to be a discrepancy in regard to the land lot size deemed
suitable for homesteading; and
Whereas: Lots sizes for new housing development should be uniform and the
requirements for homesteading should be consistent;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That:
This Common Council requests the Division of Real Estate to file with this
Council a report indicating the minimum land lot size required for new housing
development, the land lot size eligible for homesteading, and an outline of the
homesteading process.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, THE COMPTROLLER, AND THE
COMMISSIONER OF NEIGHBORHOODS, HOUSING AND INSPECTIONS
No. 178
By: Mrs. Beverly Gray and Mr. Robert Quintana
Establishing a Committee to investigate Taxi Cab Reform
Whereas: At the Finance Committee meeting held on Tuesday, January
30, 1996, a public hearing was held on the request made by the ITA/ Airport
Taxi Service, Inc. on behalf of all City of Buffalo licensed taxi cabs to
petition for an increase in taxi service rates; and
Whereas: During the hearing it was disclosed that a major reason for the rate
increase request was the impact of the New York State Insurance Liability
mandate; and
Whereas: When considering any increase it is appropriate to review all related
issues such as safety, cleanliness, reliability, insurance, etc; and
Whereas: A committee to review taxi cab reforms would be the most effective way
to thoroughly review the above concerns; and
Whereas: The following people are willing to serve on a committee:
Councilmember Robert Quintana; Councilmember Beverly Gray- Councilmember Byron
Brown; Councilmember David Franczyk; Patrick Sole, Director of Licenses; Curtis
Drake, Broadway Cabs; William G. Yuhnke, Liberty Cabs; and John Ceimer, Airport
Taxi Service.
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That:
This Common Council requests that the Council President review this resolution
and appoint the above listed people to serve on a committee to review Taxi Cab
Reform.
REFERRED TO THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT
No. 179
By: Ms. Kavanaugh
Memorialize The New York State Legislature To Alter The Term Of
The Contract Of The Superintendent Of The Buffalo Public Schools
Whereas: Since 1910, Article 52, Section 2565, subdivision I of
the New York Education Law has mandated that the Superintendent of the Buffalo
Public Schools be appointed for a period of six years; and
Whereas: The New York State Legislature has before it "An Act to amend the
education law, in relation to the appointment of a superintendent or associate
superintendent of schools" (A. 7801 -Eve/S 5209-Volker), which would provide
that in the future the Superintendent shall be appointed for a period of four
years; and
Whereas: The School Districts of Syracuse, Yonkers and New York City currently
have the power to offer their Superintendents contracts lasting for a term not
to exceed five years (four years in Rochester); and
Whereas: The Buffalo Board of Education is in the process of searching for a
new Superintendent, and would like the ability to be more flexible in
negotiating the length of the contract with the candidates it interviews;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved:
That the New York State Senate and Assembly are hereby requested by this Common
Council to amend the Education Law so that the Buffalo Board of Education can
have more flexibility when entering into a contract with the new
Superintendent; and
Be It Further Resolved:
That the City Clerk forward certified copies of this Memorialization to the
Secretary of the State Senate, the Clerk of the State Assembly, and to the
members of the Western New York Delegation of the New York State Legislature.
ADOPTED
No. 180
By: Ms. Kavanaugh, Mr. Brown, Ms. Gray, Mr. Helfer, Ms. Miller-Williams,
Mr. Quintana and Mr. Zuchlewski
Evaluation and Professional Development of Central Council Staff
Whereas: Central Council Staff consists of individuals who are
critical to the operations of the City Council as a whole; and
Whereas: Council Staff perform a variety of duties including research, drafting
of legislation, providing support to the day-to-day operation of both standing
and special committees of the Council, fielding constituent inquiries and
supplementing the Councilmembers' office staff, and
Whereas: The Council as a whole depends and relies upon the skills and
professionalism of Council Staff-, and
Whereas: A system of evaluation and assessment not only assures the City
Council and the public of the high caliber of its Council Staff, which performs
so many crucial functions, but also provides a mechanism for the provision of
training and other professional development to Council Staff, and
Whereas: An "evaluation instrument" or form which provides opportunities for
selfevaluation and peer evaluation, as well as objective and subjective
evaluations is most likely to provide the best mechanism for fairly evaluating
the varied abilities of the Central Council Staff,
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved:
That this Common Council appoint a Special Committee for the Evaluation of
Central Council Staff-, and
Be It Further Resolved:
That the Special Committee for Evaluation of Central Council Staff be charged
with the design, with appropriate input from Council Staff and Councilmembers,
of an "evaluation instrument" which will provide opportunity for
self-evaluation and peer evaluation, and objective and subjective evaluations;
and
Be It Further Resolved:
That the Special Committee for Evaluation of Central Council Staff complete the
design of the evaluation instrument no later than March 15, 1996 so that all
Central Council Staff can be evaluated by May 15, 1996.
Mrs. LoTempio moved:
That the 1st Resolve be referred to the Council President, and
That the 2nd and 3rd Resolves be approved.
ADOPTED
No. 181
By: Ms. Lockwood
Payment of Certain Small Claims
Whereas, the Common Council, by Item No. 184, C.C.P., June 26,
1979, established a specific procedure for payment of claims of $400.00 or less
and Claims under Section 207 (a) and (c) of the General Municipal Law, which
pertain to medical bills of Policemen and Firemen in any amount; and
Whereas, the Subject claims are eligible for consideration under the said
procedure; and
Whereas, the Department of Law has verified the validity of the claims and
recommend payment thereof;
Now Therefore, Be It Resolved:
That the Comptroller be, and hereby is authorized to make payment of the
following claims, and that said payment be charged against the "Judgment and
Claims Account" in the Department of Law:
1. Jane W. Blecharski
Claim for loss of garbage can at 159 Fruend Street.
$ 10.00
2. Mary Carson
Claim for loss of garbage cans at 22 Reiman Street.
$ 13.99
3. Joseph Chilicki
Claim for loss of garbage cans at 234 North Ogden.
$ 20.00
4. CPF/Metpath Labs
Claim for payment of prior fiscal year Invoice #4BB9031065 for services
rendered to Firefighter Brian West who was injured in the line of duty and
required medical treatment.
$ 6.90
5. Mary Ferrara
Claim for loss of garbage cans at 51 Brinton Street.
$ 16.50
6.Vivian B. Johnson
Claim for loss of garbage cans at 93 Mapleridge Avenue.
$ 13.00
7. Marge King
Claim for loss of garbage cans at 213 West Utica Street.
$ 12.00
8. Lynn Marie Staff
Claim for loss of garbage can at 430 Dearborn Street.
$ 10.00
9. Phillip M. Stegemann, M.D.
Claim for payment of prior fiscal year Invoice #7881 for services
rendered to Firefighter James Thomas who injured his shoulder in the line of
duty and required medical treatment.
$ 28.35
10. Guido F. Quatrani
Claim for refund of a five day golf pass. He was told that a golf permit
would be necessary to guarantee access at any time. He had a New York State
pass which guaranteed him access at restricted times. He paid the fee and
found out that the Common Coumcil passed legislation allowing all holders of
New York State passes access at any time rather than the restricted times.
$ 65.00
Investigation by the Department of Law reveals that the above claims are valid
and payment is hereby recommended.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 182
By: Mrs. LoTempio
Request Investigation of Potential Beach Locations in the City
of Buffalo
Whereas: The city of Buffalo owes its existence to its location at the junction
of Lake Erie and the Niagara and Buffalo Rivers and it is a reflection of
horrendous planning that there is not one beach within our city despite its
miles of waterfront; and
Whereas: Life in Buffalo during the summer months would be far more pleasant if
Buffalo had a beach that is accessible to all its citizens; and
Whereas: There are several locations within the city that suggest themselves as
beaches;and
Whereas: Gallagher Beach, south of the Small Boat Harbor, is currently used as
a beach by windsurfers and others and was recommended as a beach in the city's
draft Local Waterfront Revitalization Program of 1991; and
Whereas: The Bell Slip and the Outer Harbor south of the Pier Restaurant have
also been looked at as beach locations by the Horizons Commission and in the
Council's "From Rust Belt to Green Belt" report; and
Whereas: The inlet at the southern end of LaSalle Park is used as a swimming
area despite dangerous currents which could possibly be abated by a breakwall;
and
Whereas: The pond at the north end of Squaw Island is another attractive
location with potential to become a public beach; and
Whereas: Although most sites along Buffalo's waterfront have been contaminated
by disposal activity, this should not be a prohibitive factor because the DEC
and the EPA are funded to clean up waste sites so that they may be returned to
public use rather than nixing plans for public use because the use isn't
compatible with hazardous wastes;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That:
This Council requests the Division of Planning to examine the sites mentioned
above, along with any others they may identify and, by Thursday, February 29,
at 2:00 PM, file a report with this Council ranking the feasibility of
developing each of these sites as a public beach.
ADOPTED
No. 183
By: Mrs. LoTempio
a
Ordinance Amendment
Chapter 399-Smoking
The Common Council of the City of Buffalo does hereby ordain as follows:
That Chapter 399 of the Code of the City of Buffalo be amended to read as
follows:
Section 399-18 Effective Date
This Article shall become effective April 1, 1995. The provisions of this
Article shall become effective [January 1, 1996] September 30, 1996 for the
following City Buildings: [the Buffalo Convention Center,] the Buffalo Memorial
Auditorium, [the Delaware Park Marcy Casino, Kleinhans Music Hall, the
Lafayette Ice Rink, the downtown baseball stadium formerly known as Pilot Field
and Shea's Buffalo Center for the Performing Arts] and North Americare Park.
It is hereby certified, pursuant to Section 34 of the Charter, that the
immediate passage of the foregoing ordinance is necessary.
APPROVED AS TO FORM
Edward Peace
Corporation Counsel
NOTE: Matter in brackets [ ] to be deleted; matter underlined is new.
Mrs. LoTempio moved to approve said item, Seconded by Mr. Helfer.
Lost
Ayes-6. Noes-7.
No. 184
By: Mr. Pitts
Dialogue on 1% Sales Tax-County Government
That Councilmembers Brown, Kavanaugh and Lockwood represent this Common Council
to the County government in establishing a dialogue to determine the City's
disposition and the County's disposition regarding the 1% Sales Tax.
RECEIVED AND FILED
No. 185
By: Mr. Pitts and Mrs. Williams
Designation of Showcase School
Whereas: The new franchise agreement with TCI of New York requires that the
cable company install a "Showcase School" in a Buffalo school; and
Whereas: Within 9 months of the designation of a Showcase School, TCI will
provide a multimedia teaching and learning environment that uses advanced cable
television and computer technology along with commercial-free television and
data services; and
Whereas: This video and data system would serve the entire school, and would be
developed in cooperation with school officials and teachers; and
Whereas: Over the term of the agreement, nine additional satellite sites will
be designated, and they will be linked to the Showcase School and equipped with
portable video production and editing equipment; and
Whereas: The most suitable site for the Showcase School appears to the the
Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts, located at 333 Clinton St.;
and
Whereas: The reasons for the designation of BAVPA include: its curriculum,
which includes Radio/TV, Theater, Vocal and Instrumental Music, Dance, and
Visual Arts; its proximity to other schools, community centers, and the
downtown area; and, its talented, progressive and enthusiastic school
administration and staff; and
Now, therefore be it resolved:
That the Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Perfoming Arts, located at 333
Clinton St., be designated the Showcase School for the City of Buffalo
according to the terms of the franchise agreement between the City and TCI of
New York- and
Be it further resolved:
That TCI of New York hereby be directed to immediately initiate discussions
with all affected Board of Education and BAVPA officials to expedite the
installation of the Showcase School;
Be it further resolved:
That the Common Council's Telecommunications Committee be charged with working
with TCI to coordinate the implementation of the Showcase School program.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 186
By: Mr. Pitts
HOMESTEAD OF 43 JOHNSON STREET
WHEREAS: 43 Johnson Street is in dilapidated condition. The property is
abandoned and was struck to the City of Buffalo through Foreclosure In Rem 151
Sale June 5, 1995; and
WHEREAS: Ms. Emma Callahan, owner of 42 Johnson Street, would like to renovate
and landscape the property. Ms. Callahan was recently recognized by the
Buffalo News for the beautification of her property; and
WHEREAS: Ms. Callahan has owned property on Johnson Street for over four
decades. She is a business person and very community minded; and
WHEREAS: Ms. Callahan would like to beautify and renovate 43 Johnson Street in
order to remove the blight and negative affect of this eyesore.
Now, therefore be it resolved:
That this Common Council approve the homesteading of 43 Johnson Street to Emma
Callahan residing at 42 Johnson Street; and
Be it further resolved:
That the Common Council request the Comptroller to negotiate a conditional deed
transfer.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 187
By: Mr. Pitts
Appt. Council/Committee Reporter
Be it resolved that Gretchen Pound, 254 Villa, Buffalo, New York 14216 is
hereby appointed to the position of Council and Committee Reporter at the
salary of $33,600, effective February 6, 1996.
ADOPTED
No. 188
By: Mr. Pitts
Telecommunications Regulatory Ordinance
Whereas: The Congress and the President have apparently agreed on a sweeping
new Telecommunications Bill, which will produce dramatic changes in the field
of communications; and
Whereas: This legislation is expected to allow video service to be provided by
telephone companies. which are not required to receive franchises; and
Whereas: A Telecommunications Regulatory Ordinance would allow the Citv to
require more stringent requirements similar to those that were made part of the
current franchise agreement with TCI of New York; and
Whereas: These requirements could deal with such issues as customer service
standards, educational access, and permit requirements;
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved:
That the Corporation be directed to draft a Telecommunications Regulatory
Ordinance that would regulate providers of telecommunications services in the
City of Buffalo.
REFERRED TO THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND THE CORPORATION
COUNSEL
No. 189
By: Mr. Pitts
Audit Franchise Fees From TCI
Whereas: TCI of New York has to pay the City of Buffalo a franchise fee that is
equal to five percent of the company's gross revenues; and
Whereas: This franchise fee provides the City with more than $1.5 million in
annual revenue;and
Whereas: It is important that the City obtain an accurate accounting of the
franchise fees, so that it can make an informed decision about whether it has
been receiving the proper amount of franchise fee revenue;
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved:
That this Common Council requests that the City Comptroller audit the franchise
fees paid to the City of Buffalo by TCI of New York.
ADOPTED
No. 190
By: Mr. Pitts
Ordinance Amendment
Chapter 414 - Special Events
The Common Council of the City of Buffalo does hereby ordain as follows:
That the Code of the City of Buffalo be amended to add a new Chapter 414 to
read as follows:
Chapter 414
SPECIAL EVENTS
Sec. 414-1. Legislative Intent
The Mayor and the Common Council of the City finds that streets and other
public places in the City are from time to time temporarily closed and used as
sites for ethnic festivals, art shows, neighborhood celebrations and other
public events which are privately sponsored but open to the public. Events of
this kind serve to improve the quality of life of the residents of the City and
often result in large numbers of people congregating within the confines of the
temporarily closed streets or public places, and the resulting crowd conditions
create concerns for police and fire access and control and other concerns
relating to the health, safety and welfare of the public and of persons and
property in the closed area. It is therefore essential that a policy be
established for governing these events which will facilitate control over them
by the sponsor and by City officials from departments involved with the event
to safeguard persons and property.
Sec. 414-2. Definitions
The following words, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings herein
stated, unless a different meaning clearly appears from the context:
SPECIAL EVENT - A special event is a preplanned single event or series of
events that, because of its nature, interest, location, promotion, or any
combination of similar influences, is expected, or later found, to draw a large
number of people, sponsored by an individual or entity other than the City,
proposed to be held on public property or on private property but affecting
public property or requiring City support services, for the purpose(s) of
entertainment, celebration, amusement, cultural recognition, arts and crafts
displays and/or sales, amateur sports demonstration or competition, block
parties or similar activities generically considered recreational in nature.
Examples include, but are not limited to, ethnic festivals, street fairs,
street art shows, public celebrations, outdoor concerts, parades, road races.
LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE - Large number of people is any combination of
spectators or participants expected, or later found, to equal or exceed three
thousand (3,000).
PUBLIC PROPERTY - Public property is property which is owned, operated,
maintained, and/or controlled by the City which is not rental in nature.
Examples of public property include, but are not limited to, parking lots,
plazas, streets, sidewalks, and parks.
SUPPORT SERVICES - Support services are those which can or must be provided by
the City to ensure that a special event is conducted in such a manner as to
protect the safety, health, property, and general welfare of its citizens.
Examples include fire protection, crowd management and control, and traffic
management and control.
ADMISSION FEE - An admission fee is the charge to spectators to witness and
persons to participate in the special event.
CITY EVENT - An event sponsored by the City as recognized by the Special Events
Advisory Committee.
SPONSOR - The individual, group of individuals, corporation or other entity
responsible for organizing the event.
Sec. 414-3. Special Events Advisory Committee
A. Purpose and Need
The purpose of the Special Events Advisory Committee ("SEAC") is to provide a
mechanism which will allow the City to plan for and coordinate special events;
which will allow for the establishment of terms and conditions under which the
event may be conducted; and will allow a sponsor to plan and manage a special
event within the context of the established terms and conditions.
The need for such a mechanism has been demonstrated over a period of years,
wherein City departments and sponsors alike have been uncertain of their
responsibilities. There is need for the City to be able to project and
coordinate personnel and financial resources and the public spaces under its
control. There is need for the City to be reimbursed for all or part of the
services provided when it is deemed appropriate and/or possible. There is need
for sponsors to receive a timely and understandable response to their requests
or proposals and to have a clear understanding of their obligations.
There is an overriding need to ensure that the mechanism will allow for, and in
fact encourage, the reasonable proliferation of the activities and events which
contribute to the economic viability of the City and the quality of life of its
citizens.
These needs can best be met by a thorough evaluation of each special event
proposal on an individual basis by a committee designed to recognize these
interests.
B. Composition of the SEAC
The SEAC shall be comprised of the following officials or their designated
representatives:
1. The Special Events Coordinator, serving as Chair of the Committee.
2. The Commissioner of Community Development.
3. The Commissioner of Police.
4. The Commissioner of Public Works.
5. The Commissioner of Street Sanitation.
6. The Commissioner of Fire.
7. The Director of Licenses and Permits.
8. The Commissioner of Human Services, Parks and Recreation.
9. The Director of Budget and Management.
10. The Director of Parking Enforcement.
11. The Director of Recreation.
12. The Corporation Counsel.
13. The Common Council's Chief of Staff.
C. Special Events Coordinator
1. Position and Appointment
The Special Events Coordinator appointed by the Mayor shall act as the
coordinator for the SEAC. The Special Events Coordinator shall operate out of
the Mayor's Office.
2. Duties
Coordination responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
a. Distributing Special Event Applications, Policies and Procedures,
Evaluation forms, and related information to sponsors and City departments.
b. Receiving and compiling completed applications from sponsors.
c. Distributing completed applications and costing forms to City support
departments.
d. Receiving applications and cost forms from City departments.
e. Convening and chairing the SEAC meetings.
f. Notifying event sponsors of the approval/disapproval of the request
and of conditions of approval, if any.
g. Preparing and updating an annual special events calendar.
h. Distributing the annual special events calendar to affected City
departments.
3. Vacancy
In the event of the temporary absence, vacation or disability of the Special
Events Coordinator, the Mayor shall appoint an interim Special Events
Coordinator until the absence, vacation or disability ceases.
D. Responsibilities of the SEAC
The SEAC is charged with the responsibility of reviewing, evaluating, approving
or disapproving all special event applications as well as identifying
City-sponsored special events. The decision making process may include, but
not be limited to, the Following
1. Application of the general policy, criteria, and evaluation factors which
are a part of these policies and procedures.
2. Consideration of the City's ability to provide support in terms of personnel
resources.
3. Consideration of the City's ability to support the event financially.
4. Consideration of the sponsor's ability to provide financial assistance.
E. Authority of the SEAC
The SEAC may:
1. Approve or disapprove of an application as submitted. If the SEAC
disapproves, the SEAC must state in writing the reason(s) for the disapproval.
2. Establish the terms and conditions for the special event. Terms and
conditions may include, but are not limited to, areas such as location, timing,
scope, and/or financial arrangements.
3. Negotiate with a sponsor for the purpose of establishing terms and
conditions including, but not limited to, those identified in Section
414-10(D), and state in writing the final terms and conditions the City will
agree to.
F. Meetings and Timing of Meetings
Meetings shall be convened by the Special Events Coordinator periodically, for
informational purposes and/or for the purposes of evaluating and approving
applications.
G. Voting
1. Five (5) members of the SEAC shall constitute a quorum.
2. Decisions shall be made by majofity vote of those members present.
Sec. 414-4. City Responsibility
The City is responsible for determining whether to issue permits and licenses
for special events and establishing guidelines for the safe and proper conduct
of such special events. To fulfill these responsibilities the City must
determine if a special event should be conducted and the terms and conditions
under which an approved event may be conducted.
Sec. 414-5. Sponsor Responsibility
It is the sponsor's responsibility to make application to conduct a special
event as provided in this article and to fumish any additional information that
may be requested. It is the sponsor's responsibility to abide by all of the
terms and conditions established as part of the approval process. It shall be
the sponsor's responsibility to provide for the protection of the safety,
health, property, and general welfare of those attending and participating in
the special event.
Sec. 414-6. Application and Cost Estimation
A.The sponsor must submit an application to the SEAC at least ninety (90) days
prior to the event. The application must include a proposed budget and a
previous year's budget if such event took place in the previous year. The SEAC
may meet with the sponsor and review the obligations of various City
departments and the sponsor. The sponsor must supplement the application as
new information is learned or obtained, including the addition of sponsors.
The SEAC shall render its decision on a completed application within twenty-one
(21) days of receipt of a completed application. All permit applications and
applicable fees must be submitted thirty (30) days prior to the start of the
event, including those related to fireworks, concession stands and amusement
rides. Application forms are to be obtained from and returned to the Mayor's
Office in City Hall. Exceptions may be made forjustifiable reasons upon
petition to the Special Events Coordinator.
B. City Costing Process
The completed forms will be distributed to the appropriate City departments and
agencies who will estimate the additional costs that would be incurred as a
result of the event. This information may be used in establishing terms and
conditions under which an event may be conducted when the use of police or
other City personnel is appropriate, possible, and not in conflict with any
other administrative policies and procedures and/or labor agreements.
Sec. 414-7. Approval Process
A. Review--General
The SEAC will review, approve or disapprove each proposed special event on its
own merits. In reviewing a proposed special event, the SEAC will also review,
evaluate, and determine the costs of City support services required for the
special event that will be charged to all sponsors, unless the SEAC waives all
or any portion of these costs if such a waiver is in the best interest of the
City. The SEAC will consider various criteria and factors, including, but not
limited to:
1. Is the proposed event considered desirable for the City?
2. Does the City have the ability to provide the required support services
regardless of who bears the cost?
3. Does the proposed special event conflict with any other proposed special
event or activity?
B. Decision
The SEAC may either approve a proposed event as submitted, make unilateral
modifications or make modifications in cooperation with the sponsor. In
deciding on approving or disapproving a proposed special event, the SEAC will
set forth any terms and conditions applicable to an approved event. The SEAC
shall render any decision to waive costs or fees provided herein in writing
with reasons for its decision to waive.
C. Appeals
An applicant for a special event may appeal the decision of the SEAC and the
decisions of the Special Events Coordinator regarding petitions under Section
414-6(A) to the Finance Committee of the Common Council, which may recommend to
the Common Council that it overturn the decision of the SEAC after a hearing.
Sec. 414-8. Notification
The sponsor will be notified of the approval or disapproval of the proposed
event and will be advised of any terms and conditions applicable to an approved
event by return of one copy of the SEAC Approval form within twenty-one (21)
days of receipt of the completed application.
Sec. 414-9. Requirements
A. Permits and Licenses
Approval to conduct a special event by this process does not relieve the
sponsor or any participant, including but not limited to foodstands, vendors,
peddlers or exhibitors, from the responsibility of applying for any other
permits or licenses or meeting any other requirements which may be applicable.
1. Fireworks
All permit, licensing and safety requirements established by the Department of
Neighborhoods, Housing and Inspections and the Department of Fire shall be
observed. The discharge of personal fireworks is not allowed.
2. Parades and Street Closings
Sponsors must apply for any and all necessary permits to have a parade or to
temporarily close a street.
B. Insurance
All events must obtain a liability insurance policy in the wnount of one
million dollars ($1,000,000) with the City named as an additional insured, or a
larger amount in the discretion of the City. This insurance shall satisfy all
insurance requirements for the City for holding the special event. Additional
insurance requirements of City Departments shall be considered by the SEAC in
formulating the amount of coverage required. The insurance policy shall be
subject to the review and approval of the Corporation Counsel of the City.
C. Due Date
All required permits, licenses, security deposits and insurance policies must
be obtained no later than ten (10) days prior to the date of the event, with a
copy of each forwarded to Room 201 City Hall.
Sec. 414-10. Event Guidelines
A. Daily Time Restriction
The hours of operation for any special event taking place within a park shall
be between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 10:00 P.M. on weekdays and Saturdays and
between 1:00 P.M. and 1O:00 P.M. on Sundays. The hours of operation for any
special event taking place on the streets of the City shall be between 9:00
A.M. and 11:00 P.M. on any day of the week.
B. Inspections
Pre-event and post-event inspections will be performed by representatives of
the sponsor and the SEAC.
C. Site Maintenance
All areas used must be left in a clean condition. The Department of Street
Sanitation or the Department of Human Services, Parks and Recreation will
provide trash cans and dumpsters for the event. The number required will be
determined by review of each event by the SEAC. The sponsor must provide
plastic bags for trash cans. The Department of Street Sanitation may provide
additional sanitation services, subject to conditions set by the Commissioner
of Street Sanitation before or after events. The sponsor must secure right of
way access for all services provided by the City.
1. Clean-up Time
Clean-up must be completed by 12:00 Noon on the day following the event.
Events which utilize amusement rides are allowed until 4:00 P.M. on the day
following the event.
D. Services Available from the City
The City will provide certain equipment and materials to facilitate comfort and
control over the event, subject to availability and the CiWs prior need for
such equipment and materials. Exceptions for these services may be made for
justifiable reasons upon petition to the SEAC.
1. Temporary Parking Signs
All temporary paper signs for restricting parking must be posted twenty-four
(24) hours in advance and maintained by the sponsor. Requests for the
necessary materials should be directed to the Division of Parking Enforcement.
Any usage of temporary signs without the authorization of the Division of
Parking Enforcement will be neither recognized nor enforced. Upon the event's
completion, all paper signs must be taken down by the sponsor.
2. Barricades
All barricades should be requested from the Department of Public Works, When
the equipment is provided, the sponsor must sign for the barricades. The
sponsor shall also be responsible for picking up, setting up, breaking down and
delivering the equipment both to and from the Department of Public Works
storage site. The cost of replacing lost or damaged barricades lies with the
sponsor.
3. Snowfencing
If necessary, all snowfencing should be requested from the Division of Parks.
The sponsor shall be responsible for setting up and breaking down the
equipment. The Division of Parks will deliver and pick up the equipment. A
security deposit paid to the City may be required in the form of a check
payable to "The City of Buffalo Special Events" in an amount determined by the
Division of Parks. A copy of the receipt and check must be mailed to the
Mayor's Office, Room 201 City Hall. The cost of replacing lost or damaged
snowfencing lies with the sponsor.
4. Bandshell Rental
A rental fee per day as provided in Chapter 175, Fees, shall be charged for the
use of the bandshell. A rental fee paid to the City in the form of a check
payable to "The City of Buffalo - Special Events". The check shall be
delivered to the Division of Parks. A copy of the receipt and check must be
mailed to the Mayor's Office, Room 201 City Hall. The Department of Human
Services, Parks and Recreation will set up, maintain and take down the
bandshell. The sponsor must provide security.
5. FEES
A fee for furnishing security services at special events may be charged for
each 3,000 persons in the aggregate in attendance at the event up to a maximum
of 90,000 persons so that the fee not exceed $3,000.00, as provided in Chapter
175, Fees. The sponsor would pay this fee, as well as other costs not finally
determined prior to the SEAC's authorization for the special event, within ten
(IO) days after the conclusion of the event.
E. Additional Services
The sponsor may be responsible for providing some additional services during
the event, including but not limited to the following:
1. Security
1. Security
The amount and type of security necessary will be determined by the SEAC, upon
review of the event application and the Department of Police's recommendation.
Private security must be obtained pursuant to the reconunendations of the
SEAC.
2. Emergency Medical Services
The sponsor must provide a designated emergency medical service area or areas
as needed. The sponsor shall meet all guidelines imposed by the New York State
Department of Health. If an event expects an estimated crowd of five thousand
(5,000) people or more, the sponsor must submit proof of contracted medical
services to the SEAC before the issuance of any City permit or license. The
Department of Fire will not station personnel on the event site for the purpose
of providing first aid.
3. Utilities
The sponsor is responsible for payment for any utility use, with payment made
directly to the affected department or utility provider. Where available,
meters will be checked before and after the event by a City representative and
the sponsor. The affected department shall send a copy of the bill or invoice
rendered to the sponsor to the SEAC as that bill or invoice is rendered.
4. Restroom Facilities
The SEAC will determine reasonable guidelines for portable bathrooms.
Financial responsibility for obtaining Facilities rests with the sponsor. The
sponsor must provide supervision for any park restroom open after 4-.00 P.M.
F. Banners and Signage
Any banner to be hung over the streets of the City in relation to a special
event must obtain the approval of the SEAC and the Department of Public Works
before it can be erected. All signage placed for the event should follow any
and all requirements for signs allowable under applicable law. The sponsor
shall be responsible for erecting and dismantling any signage or banners it is
permitted to hang.
G. Other Restrictions
The following are prohibited within the confines of any special event:
1. Overnight camping in City parks, except for authorized uses related to the
nature of the event with the permission of the Commissioner of Human Service,
Parks and Recreation.
2. Unlicensed gambling or illegal games of chance.
3. Littering and the use of glass containers.
4. Open fires that are not under the guidelines established by the Fire
Prevention Bureau.
Sec. 414-1 1. Evaluations
A. Internal Evaluations
Departments that participated in an approved special event shall submit to the
Special Events Coordinator internal evaluation forms within seven (7) days
after the conclusion of the event. Departments shall submit amendments to
their evaluations as the departments receive additional facts.
B. Sponsor Post-Event Accounting
Sponsors shall submit to the SEAC an accounting of expenses, revenues, and use
of funds. Sponsors shall submit such an accounting to the SEAC within thirty
(30) days of the conclusion of the special event. Failure to submit such an
accounting, or failure to use funds raised at the special event as represented
to the SEAC or the City, may be a factor in evaluating whether to grant to that
sponsor authorization to hold special events in the future.
Sec. 414-12. Penalties
A. Fine
Special events shall not be held without the authorization of the SEAC nor held
in contravention of the terms and conditions set forth by the SEAC (excluding
reversions by the Common Council on appeal pursuant to Section 414-7(E)).
Violation of this ordinance may subject the sponsor to a fine of five hundred
dollars ($500.00) in addition to any other penalty provided in the ordinances
or in any other law on account of commencement of said special events without
required permits, licenses or authorization.
B. Closing of Unauthorized Special Events
The Commissioner of Police may close any special event conducted without
authorization of the SEAC and the sponsors and participants may be subject to
arrest.
Sec. 414-13. Exclusion From Policy
A. City Events
Events initiated by and/or sponsored or cosponsored by the City are excluded
from the provisions of this policy.
Notwithstanding the exclusion of City events, any City event requiring
significant support service assistance from any department or agency other than
the sponsoring department shall be subject to application and costing
procedures. The purpose of this provision is to assist all departments and
agencies in overall resource and financial planning and processes.
B. Events Solely Within Parks
Events that are held entirely within the jurisdiction of the Division of Parks
that involve less than a large number of people or do not require the
intervention of any other City department shall be deemed an event sponsored or
co-sponsored by the City for purposes of this ordinance and shall be regulated
by the Division of Parks and governed by Section 414-13(A), Applications for
such events shall be collected by the Division of Parks, which shall refer
matters outside of this exemption to the SEAC.
Sec. 414-14. Effective Date
Pursuant to Section 35 of the Charter, this ordinance is effective immediately
upon its adoption. The SEAC shafl give a waiver of the application deadline of
Section 414-6(A) to sponsors of events proposed to begin within ninety (90)
days from this effective date.
APPROVED AS TO FORM
Edward D. Peace
Corporation Counsel
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
No. 191
By: Mr. Pitts
Ordinance Amendment
Chapter 175-Fees
The Common Council of the City of Buffalo does hereby ordain as follows:
That Chapter 175, Fees, of the Code of the City of Buffalo be amended to read
as follows:
CHAPTER 414, SPECIAL EVENTS FEE
414-1O(D)(5), services
Security services per 3000 $100.00
persons in the aggregate in
attendance during the
special event, up to a
maximum fee of $3,000
for more than 90,000
persons in attendance
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. 192
By: Mr. Pitts and Mrs. Williams
Buffalo Place Inc. Contract
Whereas: The previous contract between the City of Buffalo and Buffalo Place
Inc. has expired as of June 30, 1995 which provided funding to Buffalo Place
Inc. at the annual rate of $80,000 for contracted services; and
Whereas: The Common Council has approved funding for Buffalo Place Inc. for the
City fiscal year beginning July 1, 1995 at the same $80,000 rate; and
Whereas: Both the City of Buffalo and Buffalo Place Inc. have agreed that the
contract relationship is mutually beneficial and should be continued; and
Whereas: Buffalo Place Inc. and the City of Buffalo wish to further explore
additional mutually beneficial and cost-effective opportunities in the forging
of a new three-year agreement.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved That: The Board of Directors of Buffalo Place Inc.
and Buffalo Place Foundation authorizes the Administration Committee with the
assistance of Counsel to extend the existing agreement with the City of Buffalo
for one year (July 1, 1995 - June 30, 1996) with the intention of negotiating a
new three-year agreement prior to its June 30, 1996 expiration date.
Finally Be It Resolved That: The Common Council approve the extension of
Buffalo Place's contract in accordance with the directive of the Board of
Directors of Buffalo Place Inc.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 193
Messrs. Pitts and Zuchlewski
Audit BEDC
Whereas: The Buffalo Enterprise Development Corporation (BEDC) was created by
the City of Buffalo in 1978 to help facilitate economic development and growth;
and
Whereas: BEDC acts as an agent for the City in utilizing federal funding for
various programs and projects designed to foster economic growth; and
Whereas: Although the Council has little direct role in the operation of the
BEDC, millions of dollars pass through the agency on an annual basis and its
activities have an enormous impact upon the City of Buffalo; and
Whereas: Because of this lack of oversight by the Council, there are concerns
that BEDC does not alwavs function in the best interests of the taxpayers of
the City of Buffalo; and
Whereas: Independent audits of the BEDC have been conducted, but they have
focused on the accuracy of financial statements and the adequacy of the
financial system, and did not examine such operational aspects as management
practices, the internal control structure, compliance with federal regulations,
and loan repayment rates; and
Whereas: It would be very beneficial to contract with a certified public
accountant to conduct a financial audit of the BEDC, and to also ask the CPA to
study and evaluate its internal controls and practices as they relate to how
the agency performs its mission and adheres to all relevant laws and
regulations;
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved:
That this Common Council request that the Comptroller contract for an
independent audit of the financial statements of the Buffalo Enterprise
Development Corporation be conducted, and that the audit include an analysis of
internal BEDC controls and practices.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT,THE COMPTROLLER AND THE
CORPORATION COUNSEL
No. 194
By: Mr. Quintana
Renaming 7th Street -between Connecticut and Rhode Island Streets
Whereas: By resolution 213 C.C.P. April 4, 1996 "Trailblazing Signage for 7th
Street" this Council requested that a hearing be held on the renaming of 7th
Street between Connecticut and Rhode Island Streets to Columbus Parkway; and
Whereas:This hearing was never held; and
Whereas:Residents and homeowners of Seventh Street between Connecticut and
Rhode Island Streets have expressed support for the name change in earlier
public hearings;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That:
This Common Council directs the City Clerk make arrangements for an appropriate
public hearing to commence the formal street name change process for 7th Street
between Connecticut and Rhode Island Streets; and
Be It Further Resolved That;
This Council adopt the formal renaming of Seventh Street on the two blocks
between Connecticut Street and Rhode Island Street numbered 676 to 801, to
"Columbus Parkway".
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
No. 195
By: Mr. Quintana
Emergency Service Concerns on Seventh Street/Columbus Parkway
Whereas:Since the November 1994 renaming of the block of Seventh Street between
Porter Avenue and Connecticut Street, confusion has reportedly arisen among
emergency service providers because Seventh Street is now cut in two by
Columbus Parkway; and
Whereas:This Council needs to examine any public safety issues that have arisen
as a result of the splitting of Seventh Street;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That:
The Departments of Fire, Police and Public Works, along with the Buffalo
Emergency Services Coordinator, be requested to file reports with this Council
on any problems they may be experiencing or anticipating as a result of the
splitting of Seventh Street between Porter and Busti Avenues; and
Be It Further Resolved That;
Once responses have been filed, this Council will invite residents of Seventh
Street and Columbus Parkway from Porter Avenue to Busti Avenue to attend a
Legislation Committee meeting to discuss this issue.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, THE
COMMISSIONER OF FIRE, THE COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS AND THE ERIE COUNTY
DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY SERVICES
No. 196
By Mr. Quintana
Request Legislature to require quick settlements of fire insurance
claims
Whereas: A burned out property is a major problem for a neighborhood because it
can be an eyesore, an invitation to vandalism, a shelter for criminal activity,
a negative influence on property values, and a harborage for rodents ; and
Whereas: It is in the interest of the citizens of Buffalo that insurance claims
regarding bumed out properties are settled quickly so that rehabilitation of
the properties can proceed in kind; and
Whereas: Insurance companies have an incentive to drag out settlement
proceeding because the process can wear down the insured and open the way to a
lower settlement; and
Whereas: Within the city of Buffalo, the settlement of insurance claims has
been slow in many cases, leaving neighborhoods to deal with the problems
mentioned above;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That:
This Common Council memorialize the New York State Legislature to develop and
pass legislation that would speed up the process of settling fire insurance
claims and limit the amount of time allowed to settle a fire insurance claim in
the absence of extenuating circumstances; and
Be it Further Resolved That;
The City Clerk be directed to forward certified copies of this memorialization
to the Clerk of the Assembly, the Secretary of the Senate and to the members of
the Western New York Le islative dele ation.
ADOPTED
No. 197
By: Mrs. Williams
Appointment of Legislative Assistant to Councilmember Williams'
Office
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved:
That the Common Council does hereby appoint Roscoe Henderson III, 338 Watson
Street, Buffalo, NY 14212, to the position of Legislative Assistant to
Councilmember Barbara Miller-Williams' office, effective January 29, 1996.
ADOPTED
No. 198
By: Mrs. Williams
[Information on the Buffalo Police Department's Policy Regarding
the Use of Chemical and Pepper Sprays]
Whereas: The use of chemical and pepper sprays have been proclaimed by law
enforcement officials as a progressive alternative to subdue a suspect, versus
the use of deadly force by using a police baton or drawing a service revolver;
and
Whereas: The safety of chemical and pepper sprays used to subdue suspects has
become a controversial issue nationally as well as locally; and
Whereas: The Buffalo Police Department has cquipped its officers with chemical
and pepper sprays for several years ; and
Whereas: Several individuals have filed notice with the city of their intent to
sue the city over the use of chemical and pepper sprays; and
Whereas: One of the individuals filing a claim against the city was
hospitalized with severe respiratory problems for two weeks after having been
allegedly exposed to chemical and pepper sprays used by a Buffalo Police
Officer; and
Whereas: What has become very alarming is the possible indiscriminate use of
chemical and pepper sprays;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved:
That the Buffalo Common Council requests that R. Gil Kerlikowske, Commissioner
of the Buffalo Police Department, file with the Council a report describing the
department's policy on the use of pepper and/or chemical sprays by its
officers; and
Be It Finally Resolved:
That the Common Council further requests Commissioner Kerlikowske include in
the report information on the possible adverse effects of chemical and pepper
sprays on human beings.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION, THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, THE
CORPORATION COUNSEL, THE BOARD OF BLOCK CLUBS AND THE AMERICAN CIVIL LIBERTY
UNION
No. 199
By: Mrs. Williams
Waive Fees For YouthBuild Housing Rehabilitation Program
Whereas: Erie County YouthBuild, Inc., is a not-for-profit program that
involves unemployed, young adults in building affordable housing in their
communities; and
Whereas: YouthBuild, through its comprehensive program, provides youth, ages 16
to 24 with skills in the construction trades and academic training, counseling,
cultural and recreational activities, and job placement; and
Whereas: In addition, YouthBuild provides leadership training, decision-making
opportunities, and involvement in community issues for its participants; and
Whereas: YouthBuild and the Buffalo Neighborhood Revitalization Corporation
(BNRC) are working together to achieve the mutually beneficial goal of
renovating abandoned, city owned housing stock; and
Whereas: YouthBuild and BURA will be working under contract to renovate a
two-family house at 286 Cedar Street, with BNRC providing the funding for
materials and associated costs; and
Whereas: There are various City permit fees associated with the rehabilitation
of this site; and
Whereas: Waiver of these fees would reduce the cost of rehabilitation, thereby
making the completed project more affordable for potential buyers.
Now, therefore be it resolved:
That the Common Council waive all permit fees related to the Erie County
YouthBuild's rehabilitation of 286 Cedar Street.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, THE COMMISSIONER OF NEIGHBORHOODS,
HOUSING AND INSPECTIONS, THE COMMISSIONER OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE AND THE
CORPORATION COUNSEL
No. 200
By: Mrs. Williams
Waive Board-Up Recovery Fee at 27 Kingsley Street
WHEREAS: On December 6 and 7, 1995, the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency (BURA),
under its "Clean and Seal" board-up program, enclosed a property at 27 Kingsley
Street-, and
WHEREAS: The board-up took place while a tenant was in the process of moving
and without notice to the property owner, Mr. Herbert Daniels; and
WHEREAS: The condition of the property and subsequent vacancy poses no threat
to the neighborhood; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Daniels has attempted to maintain the subject property and to
address housing code violations, as cited by the City of Buffalo Inspections
Division, in good faith and to the best of his ability, under very trying
circumstances, including adverse weather; and
WHEREAS: Imposition of the board-up and subsequent fine has necessitated
removing the property from the rental market, thus causing financial hardship
and further delay in addressing code violations; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Daniels has paid $50.00 of the total fine of $255.00 in good faith
while the matter is pending; and
Now, therefore be it resolved:
That the Common Council request waiver of the board-up recovery fee assessed by
BURA on the property located at 27 Kingsley Street.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, THE COMMISSIONER OF NEIGHBORHOODS,
HOUSING AND INSPECTIONS AND THE CORPORATION COUNSEL
No. 201
By: Ms. Williams and Mr. Pitts
Recision of Lease - 384 Broadway
Whereas: The Common Council approved the leasing of 384 Broadway
to Frank Josker, C.C.P. I 10, December 12, 1995; and
Whereas: Since that time Mr. Josker has withdrawn his interest in leasing
the property; and
Whereas: The H.E.L.P. organization, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to
provide transitional housing, headquartered in New York City is proposing to
renovate 384 Broadway for housing use; and
Whereas: The City of Buffalo Department of Housing and Neighborhood Inspections
has been working with H.E.L.P. to finalize an application to the New York State
and Federal government for funding; and
Whereas: 384 Broadway will provide an ideal and controllable site for such a
program.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved That:
The Common Council hereby rescinds its approval to lease 384 Broadway to Frank
Josker.
Further Be It Resolved That:
The Common Council approve the sale of 384 Broadway to the H.E.L.P.
organization.
Finally Be It Resolved That:
The Common Council request the City Comptroller to negotiate the final sale
arrangements and report to the Common Council.
PASSED
AYES-13. NOES-0.
No. 202
By: Mr. Zuchlewski
Stamping sidewalk projects with business logo
Whereas: In the past, it was a custom of some concrete firms to
stamp a logo type stamp in cement sidewalk blocks which indicated the name of
the company that installed the concrete block, and
Whereas: This is no longer allowed by the City of Buffalo and annually,
thousands of dollars are being spent to replace old, cracked, worn out sidewalk
blocks, and
Whereas: This year, the City of Buffalo will be undertaking a major renovation
project on Elmwood Avenue and new sidewalks and curbs will be installed from
Forest to Delavan, and
Whereas: This extensive project will certainly help to improve the aesthetics
of this area and should be of high quality and good workmanship, and
Whereas: One who takes pride in the quality of their work would certainly be
more than happy to identify their work through the stamping of their company
logo on their projects, and
Now, therefore, be it resolved:
That this Common Council requests that a review be done by Corporation Counsel
to change city codes to mandate the stamping of sidewalk blocks by contractors
who are awarded major sidewalk projects in the City of Buffalo, and be it
further
Resolved:
That the Department of Public Works review the feasibility of having the
contractor selected for the Elmwood Avenue project, stamp their company logo in
their concrete work along this business strip.
ADOPTED
No. 203
By:Mr. Zuchlewski
Subject:Maintenance of Jubilee Center - 1936 Niagara Street
Whereas: The Jubilee Center, located at 1936 Niagara Street, is
a city owned facility which is used as a recreation center for City of Buffalo
residents, and
Whereas: This facility is open Monday - Friday, from approximately 10:00
a.m.-9:00 p.m., and
Whereas: The daily activities include: hot lunches for 20-30 senior citizens,
cards and bingo programs, afler school recreational programs for younger
children and in the early evening hours, older youth use this facility for
basketball, pool and other table top activities, and
Whereas: At the present time, there is no maintenance or cleaning schedule for
this building, and
Now, therefore, be it resolved,
That this Common Council requests the Department of Public Works and the
Department of Human Services, Parks and Recreation to work together in
formalizing a maintenance and cleaning program, and be it further
Resolved,
That because this public facility receives very little annual attention and
because of the amount of traffic and daily use ft receives, a maintenance and
cleaning program is imperative to insure the health and welfare of our
constituents.
ADOPTED
No. 204
By: Mr. Zuchlewski and Mr. Pitts
Require Filing of Disclosure Statements by Employees of Buffalo
Development Companies
Whereas: Chapter 12 - Ethics, Code Of - of the Code of the City
of Buffalo states, in part, that "Every provision of this code, except as
expressly limited herein, shall apply to every officer and employee of the
city, whether paid or unpaid. It shall also apply to members, directors,
officers and employees of any not-for-profit corporation if a majority of such
corporation's members or directors serve by reason of their city positions or
if a majority of such corporation's officers or directors are appointed by one
(1) or more city officers or bodies. Any such not-for-profit corporation shall
be deemed to be a city agency for the purposes of this code. The members,
directors, officers and employees of any such corporation shall be deemed to be
city officers or employees for the purposes of this code"-, and
Whereas: Exempted from this code are officers or employees of City Court of
Buffalo, the Buffalo Sewer Authority, the City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency
and the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority, unless the code is adopted by
their respective governing bodies; and
Whereas: An additional provision of this code is the required filing of an
annual disclosure statement, as detailed in the code, by all affected persons;
and
Whereas: At present, not all individuals affiliated with the various
not-for-profit corporations serving as development agencies for the city file
disclosure statements. Auxiliary agencies such as those under the Buffalo
Development Companies' umbrella (Buffalo Neighborhood Revitalization
Corporation, Development Downtown, Inc., Buffalo Enterprise Development
Corporation) are, in actuality, quasi-govermnental bodies whose officials and
employees are acting on behalf of the interests of the City of Buffalo. In
fact, officials and employees are often considered 'city workers', are often
interactive with various city departments, in some cases are affiliated as a
direct result of their duties with the city, and in reality, are appointed to
their position by one or another of the City of Buffalo's official governing
powers; and
Whereas: To avoid any inference of impropriety, it is in the best interests
of the city and the agencies that all individuals, whether officials,
employees, or those serving as a result of a personal services or consultant
contract, abide by the code of ethics and its disclosure requirements:
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved:
That this Common Council officially request that the governing bodies of those
entities, above listed, who are exempted from the code, formally adopt the
provisions of Chapter 12 - Code of Ethics; and
Be it Further Resolved:
That the Corporation Counsel submit an opinion on the inclusion of the
officers, employees, and personal service / consultant contractors of the
Buffalo Development Companies in the requirements of Chapter 12 of the Code;
and
Be it Finally Resolved:
That if, in fact, those associated with the Buffalo Development Companies are
not obligated to adhere to the Code of Ethics according to the applicability
standards for notfor-profit corporations described in Section 12-2, the
Corporation Counsel be directed to prepare an amendment to Chapter 12 that
requires participation of the Buffalo Development Companies.
REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, THE CORPORATION COUNSEL,
THE DEVELOPMENT COMPANIES AND THE BOARD OF ETHICS
No. 205
By: Messrs. Zuchlewski and Pitts
Felicitations/In Memoriam
Attached hereto are Felicitation and In Memoriam Resolutions sponsored
by Members of the Comon Council as indicated:
Felicitation for Dr. Ora Lee and Mr. Anthony Delgado
By Councilmember Pitts
Felicitation for Catholic School Week
By Councilmember Pitts
Felicitation for Gay and Lesbian Youth Service of Western NY
By Councilmember Kavanaugh
Felicitation for Johnny B. Wiley
By Councilmember Gray
ADOPTED.
No. 206
By; Mr. Zuchlewski:
Appointments Commissioner of Deeds
That the following persons are hereby appointed as Commissioner
of Deeds for the term ending December 31, 1996, conditional upon the person so
appointed certifying under oath to their qualifications and filing sme with the
City Clerk
Christine A. Gould
Lisa B. Stefanski
Mark L. Winkelsas
B. John Huber
ADOPTED.
No. 207
By:Mr. Zuchlewski
Appointments Commissioners of Deeds
Required-Performance of Public Duties
That the following persons are hereby appointed as Commissioner
of Deeds for the term ending December 31, 1996, conditional upon the person so
appointed certifying, under oath, to their qualifications and filing same with
the City Clerk:
Roscoe C. Henderson III
David Adamski
Shawn M. Bailey
Angela Blue
Theresa Calvin
Charles DiSalvo
Robert J. Felachow, Jr.
Vincent P. Ferraraccio, Jr.
Gene Fronczak
Kevin J. Gould
Dwain Laws
William J. Mara
William D. McGuire
Mohamed A. Mohamed
Michael O'Neill
Steven L. Pieri
Sandra B. Roessler
Michael A. Scott
Juan E. Sharp
Mario A. Sirianni
Judy A. Vona
ADOPTED
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
No. 208
Bond Res. - $54,000 - King Urban Life Ctr.
(Item 166, C.C.P., Jan. 23, 1996)
Mrs. LoTempio moved that the above item be taken from the table.
Seconded by Mr. Franczyk
CARRIED.
Mrs. LoTempio now moved that the above item be approved.
Seconded by Mr. Franczyk
PASSED
AYES -13 NOES - 0.
No. 208
Announcement of Committee Meetings
The following meetings are scheduled. All meetings are held in
the Council Chambers, 13th floor, City HaR, Buffalo, New York, unless otherwise
noted.
Regular Committees
Claims Tuesday, February 13, 1996 9:00 A.M.
Civil Service Tuesday, February 13, 1996 9:30 A.M.
Finance Tuesday, February 13, 1996 - following C.S.
Legislation Tuesday, February 13, 1996 2:00 P.M.
Community Dev Wednesday, February 14, 1996, 10:00 A.M.
Education Wed., February 14, 1996 - following C.D.
Ancillary Meetings
Hearing- Bd. Ed. Pay Raise Wed, Feb 7, 1996 6 PM-Chambers
Buffalo River Hearing Sat, Feb 10, 1996 10 AM Chambers
No. 210
Adjournment
On a motion by Mrs. LoTempio, Seconded by Mr. Czajka the Council
adjourned at 4:14 P.M.
Charles L. Michaux III
City Clerk
COMMON COUNCIL
CITY HALL
BUFFALO, NEW YORK
SPECIAL SESSION
JANUARY 31,1996
AT 2:00 PM
Present - James W. Pitts President of the Council, and Councilmembers: Brown,
Coppola, Czajka, Franczyk, Gray, Helfer, Kavanaugh, Lockwood, LoTempio,
Quintana, Zuchlewski-12
Absent: Councilmember Williams-1
No. 1
CALL FOR SPECIAL SESSION
Mr. Charles L. Michaux, III
City Clerk
1308 City Hall
Buffalo, New York
Dear Mr. Michaux:
Pursuant to Section 30 of the Charter of the City of Buffalo, upon the written
request of five Councilmembers, dated January 31, 1996, presented to you
herewith, I hereby call a Special Meeting of the Common Council, and hereby
waive 24 hours' notice, this meeting is to be held in the Council Chambers,
City Hall, Buffalo, New York, on January 31, 1996 at 2:00 p.m. for the
following purpose:
To receive and take appropriate action on a resolution terminating the City's
participation in the County of Erie's one percent (1 %) sales tax and
introducing the City's one percent (1 %) sales tax.
Yours very truly,
James W. Pitts
President of the Common Council
James W. Pitts
President of the Common Council
1315 City Hall
Buffalo, New York
Dear Sir:
We, the undersigned, members of the Common Council, hereby request that you
call a Special Meeting of the Common Council, pursuant to Section 30 of the
Charter of the City of Buffalo, for the following purpose:
To receive and take appropriate action 2 on a resolution terminating the City's
participation in the County of Erie's one percent (1 %) sales tax and
introducing the City's one percent (1 %) sales tax.
We request that this Special Meeting be held on January 31, 1996 at 2:00 p.m.
Dale Zuchlewski Rosemarie LoTempio
Beverly Gray David J. Czajka
Bonnie K Lockwood
TO EACH MEMBER OF THE COMMON COUNCIL:
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that, pursuant to Section 30 of the Charter of the City
of Buffalo, upon the written request of five Council Members, dated January 31,
1996 the Common Council President James W. Pitts, has called a Special Meeting
of the Common Council, to be held in the Council Chambers, City Hall, Buffalo,
New York, on January 31, 1996 at 2:00 p.m. for the following purpose:
To receive and take appropriate action on a resolution terminating the City's
participation in the County of Erie's one percent (1 %) sales tax and
introducing the City's one percent (1 %) sales tax.
Yours very truly,
Charles L. Michaux III
City Clerk
Pursuant to Rule 2 of the Rules of Order of the Common Council of the City of
Buffalo, each of the following named members of the Common Council, to wit-
KEVIN HELFER DAVID A. FRANCZYK
DAVID CZAJKA BONNIE KANE LOCKWOOD
ALFRED T. COPPOLA BARBARA A. MILLER-WILLIAMS
BARBRA KAVANAUGH ROSE MARIE LOTEMPIO
BYRON BROWN BEVERLY GRAY
ROBERT QUINTANA DALE ZUCHLEWSKI
herebv states that he/she received notice of the time and purpose of the
Special Meeting of the Common Council duly called to be held on January 31,
1996 2:00 p.m. and hereby waives 24 hours'notice.
DALE ZUCHLEWSKI ROSEMARIE LOTEMPIO
DAVID J. CZAJKA BARBARA MILLER-WILLIAMS
BEVERLY GRAY ALFRED T. COPPOLA
BARBRA KAVANAUGH KEVIN J. HELFER
ROBERT QUINTANA DAVID FRANCZYK
BYRON W. BROWN BONNIE KANE LOCKWOOD
STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF ERIE
CITY OF BUFFALO
On this 31st day of January 1996, before me, the subscribers, personally
appeared Dale Zuchlewski, Barbara Miller-Williams, Beverly Gray, Barbra A.
Kavanaugh, Robert Quintana, Bonnie Kane Lockwood, Rosemarie LoTempio, David
Czajka, Alfred T. Coppola, Kevin J. Helfer, David Franczyk and Byron W. Brown
to me known to be the same persons described in and who executed the foregoing
instrument, and they duly and severally acknowledged to me that they executed
the same.
Gerald A. Chwalinski
Commissioner of Deeds, in and
for the City of Buffalo, N.Y,
Commission expires 12/31/96
No. 2
By: Mrs. LoTempio, and Messrs. Pitts, Helfer, and Coppola
Additional 1% Sales Tax
Whereas: Erie County Executive Dennis Gorski included in his 1996 budget
projected revenue from the extension of the additional one percent (1%) sales
tax; and
Whereas: The Erie County Legislature adopted the county budget with the extra
one percent (1%) sales tax included, and, in addition, has formally requested
the New York State Legislature to again authorize the additional one percent
(1%) sales tax for Erie County; and
Whereas: In 1986, the County approached the City for its support for the County
receiving authorization from the State of New York to impose a temporary
additional one percent (I%) sales tax, with the understanding that revenues
from that tax would be used to retire certain of the County's bonds and that
such authorization would terminate when such bonds were retired; and
Whereas: In 1986, the County and the City reached an agreement that, in order
to meet the County's budgetary shortfall, the County would seek authorization
from the State of New York to impose a temporary additional one percent (1%)
sales tax, with the understanding that revenues from that tax would be used to
retire such bonds -and that the City would not receive a share of such one
percent (1%)- and
Whereas: After such bonds were retired the County and the City reached another
agreement pursuant to which the County, in order to meet the County's budgetary
shortfall, the County would seek authorization from the State of New York to
impose a temporary additional one percent (1%) sales tax, with the
understanding that the City would not share in such one percent (1%) for one
year but that if the County were to receive any additional such authorizations
the City would share in the additional one percent (1%);
Whereas: Since the county has made final payments on the $75 million debt for
which the additional one percent (1%) sales tax was originally authorized, it
is patently unfair for Erie County to keep all revenues generated from the
eighth percent in light of the economic hardships that the City of Buffalo and
other Erie County cities, towns, villages, and school districts are
experiencing; and
Whereas: The Common Council recognizes the dire fiscal problems that the City
of Buffalo faces and realizes that additional revenue is the only avenue for
solving some of our financial deficiencies; and
Whereas: The Buffalo School System, despite additional funds from the City, is
facing tremendous deficits in the upcoming fiscal year which could be lessened
by the influx of additional revenue from sales tax; and
Whereas: The Common Council adopted resolution 183, C.C.P. 1/23/96 to
memorialize to the New York State Legislature to authorize the extension of the
additional one percent (1%) New York State Sales Tax for the County of Erie for
fiscal year 1996 provided that the distribution of the additional one percent
(1%) be shared with all Erie County cities, villages, towns, and school
districts in the same manner as described in the sales tax agreement, further
resolving that certified copies of that resolution be sent to the Secretary of
the New York State Senate, the Clerk of the New York State Assembly, the local
delegation of the New York State Legislature, the Erie County Executive, the
Erie County Legislature, school districts, and all Town Boards in Erie County;
and
Whereas: The county, however, has not agreed to share any of the revenue from
the one percent (1%) additional sales tax with the City of Buffalo or any of
the other cities, towns, villages or school districts in Erie County; and
Whereas: The County Legislature is considering a proposal to create a sales tax
free zone in the central business district of Buffalo,
Now Therefore Be It Resolved That:
The City of Buffalo shall terminate any agreements it has with the County of
Erie authorizing the County of Erie to retain all revenue from the additional
one percent (1%) sales tax without sharing any of that revenue with the cities,
villages, towns, and school districts in Erie County; and
Be It Further Resolved:
The City enter into discussions with the County concerning the creation of such
a sales tax free zone in the central business district of Buffalo, and
Be It Finally Resolved:
This Common Council direct the City Clerk to forward certified copies of this
resolution, by registered mail, to the State Tax Commission, the Secretary of
the New York State Senate, the Clerk of the New York State Assembly, the local
delegation of the New York State Legislature, the Erie County Executive, the
Erie County Legislature, school districts, and all Town Boards in Erie County,
with this resolution serving as written notice of termination.
Mrs. LoTempio moved to approve the above item.
Seconded by Mr. Coppola
Mr. Zuchlewski now moved to amend to refer the item to the Committee on
Finance.
Seconded by Mr. Brown
ADOPTED
No. 3
Adjournment
At 3:30 P.M., Mr. Pitts moved to Adjourn. Seconded by Mr. Coppola.