Agenda Housing and Economic Development Committee

Agenda

Housing and Economic Development Committee Thursday, August 22, 2019 9:30 AM

Legislature Chambers

MEMBERS: Anna Kelles, Chair; Deborah Dawson, Vice Chair; Michael Sigler; Anne Koreman; Henry Granison

Inclusion through Diversity

1. Call to Order (9:30)

2. Public Comment (9:30)

3. Changes to Agenda (9:35)

4. Minutes Approval (9:40)

a. July 25, 2019

b. August 6, 2019

c. August 12, 2019

5. Chair's Report (9:50)

6. Committee Members' Reports (9:55)

7. County Administrator's Report (10:00)

8. Assessment Department (10:05)

a. Report/Discussion: Exemption - Capital Improvements to Residential Properties RPTL

421-f (ID #8837)

9. Planning and Sustainability Department (10:15)

a. Commissioner of Planning and Sustainability's Report

10. Tourism (10:20)

a. Presentation: Visitor Profile Study (ID #8809)

b. Resolution: Designation of Tourism Promotion Agency for State (ID #8812)

c. Report/Discussion: 2020 Tourism Program Budget (ID #8824)

d. Report/Discussion: Tourism Program - Monthly Update (ID #8825)

11. Tompkins County Area Development (11:00)

a. Report/Discussion: August 2019 Tompkins County Area Development (TCAD) Report

(ID #8840)

12. Transportation (11:10)

a. Resolution: Budget Adjustment – Transportation Planning (ID #8851)

13. Advisory Board Appointments (11:15)

a. Appointment: Advisory Board Appointment (ID #8821)

14. Liaison Assignments (11:20)

15. Adjournment (11:30)

Housing and Economic Development CommitteeRegular Meeting Minutes – Draft 7-31-19

Thursday, July 25, 2019 9:30 AMLegislature Chambers

Attendance

Attendee Name Title Status ArrivedAnna Kelles Chair PresentDeborah Dawson Vice Chair PresentMichael Sigler Member Late 10:03 AMAnne Koreman Member PresentHenry Granison Member PresentKatie Borgella Planning & Sustainability Commissioner PresentMegan McDonald Deputy Planning and Sustainability Commissioner PresentJason Molino County Administrator PresentAmie Hendrix Deputy County Administrator PresentNick Helmholdt Tourism Director PresentNick Murphy Management Fellow, County Administration PresentJulia Mattick Director, Workforce Development PresentTheresa Carlson Director, Workforce NY Career Center PresentDwight Mengel Chief Transportation Planner Present

Guests: Ducson Nguyen, City of Ithaca Common Council Member; Martha Armstrong, Vice President, Tompkins County Area Development; Jennifer Tavares, President, Chamber of Commerce; Peggy Coleman, Vice President of Tourism and Community Relations; and Thomas Knipe, Deputy Director, Economic Development, City of Ithaca

Call to Order

Ms. Kelles, Chair, called the meeting to order at 9:33 a.m.

Public Comment

There were no members of the public present to speak.

Changes to Agenda

Ms. Kelles stated The Early Intervention Homelessness Prevention Program (E. I. H. P.) - Quarter One presentation will not be presented at this meeting.

Minutes Approval

June 27, 2019

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MinutesHousing and Economic Development CommitteeThursday, July 25, 2019

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RESULT: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS]MOVER: Anne Koreman, MemberSECONDER: Deborah Dawson, Vice ChairAYES: Kelles, Dawson, Koreman, GranisonEXCUSED: Sigler

Chair's Report

Ms. Kelles announced a Special Meeting of the Housing and Economic Development Committee is scheduled for Monday, August 12, 2019, at 5:30 p.m. at which time two presentations will be provided by representatives from LawNY that will include an Update on New York State Housing Laws and a review of the first quarter of the Early Intervention Homelessness Prevention Program (E. I. H. P.).

Ms. Kelles stated the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Board is meeting at this time and plans to recommend an alternative concerning the Green Street Parking Garage Redevelopment project. One project alternative includes light-gauge steel with 173 units and the other alternative includes a heavier-gauge steel with 273 units. Numerous community members, including herself, have submitted letters of support for the alternative that includes heavier-gauge steel with 273 units. She spoke of some concerns that have come up related to the extended length of time the project may take and parking.

Ms. Kelles has volunteered along with Leslie Schill of Cornell University and Ducson Nguyen of the City of Ithaca to assist in the reevaluation of the Community Housing Development Fund memorandum-of-understanding (MOU) moving forward. She said this reevaluation of the MOU will determine the next six years and better define the relationship between the three parties involved. She also stated there are other organizations interested in becoming a partner and negotiations are currently taking place regarding that.

Committee Members' Reports and Liaison Assignments

Ms. Koreman stated she has submitted a letter of support for funding for the Trumansburg Community Nursery School Development that is part of the Trumansburg Housing project through Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS).

County Administrator's Report

Ms. Hendrix, Deputy, had no report.

Housing

Resolution No. - Negative Declaration for Authorizing Disbursement from the Community Housing Development Fund for 1932 Slaterville Road - Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties (ID #8777)

Mr. West explained this is a Habitat for Humanity project in which the property was subdivided for two new houses to be constructed and the existing homes were rehabilitated. The Program Oversight Committee suggested in a previous funding round an award for the first new home and this round is for funding awards to the second home and renovation of the existing house. There has been a delay in obtaining the necessary approvals so this and the next resolution encompass all three awards. The Town

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of Dryden is the lead agency on this project.

Ms. Kelles inquired about the program in general and asked if there has been an increase in interest for small projects similar to this over the past few years. Mr. West stated there has been an increase in applicants. There have been discussions with the Program Oversight Committee regarding a deficit in funds for the next two award rounds. He spoke of multiple bigger projects coming down the pipeline and the fact that they will be looking for funding in these future rounds; they expect to have more requests than there are funds to fulfill those requests in the next two rounds.

Ms. Kelles explained that this is the one avenue that the County has to directly affect the housing stock in the community. Mr. West explained that the State likes the manner in which this program is administered and is run here in Tompkins County.

RESULT: RECOMMENDED [UNANIMOUS]MOVER: Deborah Dawson, Vice ChairSECONDER: Anne Koreman, MemberAYES: Kelles, Dawson, Koreman, GranisonEXCUSED: Sigler

WHEREAS, Resolution No. ___ of 2019 would authorize the disbursement of County funds in support of the 1932 Slaterville Road project in the Town of Dryden, and

WHEREAS, Tompkins County has received and reviewed the Town of Dryden BZA Short Environmental Assessment Form (Parts 1 and 2) documents for the project listed as the 1932 Slaterville Road, and

WHEREAS, as Lead Agency, the Town of Dryden Board of Zoning Appeals has determined the 1932 Slaterville Road project to be an Unlisted Action with a Negative Declaration of Significant Adverse Environmental Impact, and

WHEREAS, the project must comply with Department of Health requirements and development may not extend farther than 160 feet from the roadway, as conditions of the variance granted by the Town of Dryden Zoning Board of Appeals, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development Committee, That the Tompkins County Legislature concurs with the Town of Dryden Board of Zoning Appeals SEQR Negative Determination for the 1932 Slaterville Road project, and

RESOLVED, further, That the authorization of the Community Housing Development Fund disbursement and the subsequent construction of the project listed above adequately protects and preserves the environment and will not have any potentially significant adverse effects on the environment. SEQR ACTION: UnlistedTown of Dryden Board of Zoning Appeals Short Environmental Assessment Form on File with the Legislature Clerk

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Resolution No. - Authorization to Disburse County Funds to the Community Housing Development Fund for 1932 Slaterville Road - Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties (ID #8778)


WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Legislature through Resolution No. 2015-154 authorized funding for the Community Housing Development Fund, and

WHEREAS, the Community Housing Development Fund (CHDF) assists with the development costs associated with residential and mixed-use real estate development projects primarily benefiting low- and moderate-income households, and requires that newly constructed or rehabilitated homes supported by the program are not only made available to low- to moderate-income households, but also remain affordable to future generations of renters and buyers, and

WHEREAS, Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties applied for funding through rounds 18 and 19 of the Community Housing Development fund for homes at 1932 Slaterville Road in the Town of Dryden, and

WHEREAS, the Program Oversight Committee accepted and recommended that the proposal receive funding as indicated in the table, and

Applicant Project Location Number of Affordable Units

Dollar Amount Recommended

Sponsors

Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties

1932 Slaterville Rd.

Town of Dryden

One renovated home and two new homes

$120,000 ($40,000 in Rnd. 18 County & $80,000 in Rnd. 19 County)

Tompkins County

, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development Committee, That Tompkins County authorizes the expenditure of $120,000 of its funds to support the 1932 Slaterville Road project as recommended by the CHDF Program Oversight Committee,

RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized to make the following 2019 budget adjustment:

Revenue CD8695.42411 Program Income $120,000Appropriation CD8695.54400 Program Expense $120,000

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee is authorized to execute agreements in order to effect this grant program consistent with this resolution.SEQR ACTION: Unlisted

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Resolution No. - Acceptance of New York State Homes and Community Renewal Community Development Block Grant - Healthy Homes Rehabilitation Program III (ID #8780)

Mr. West stated this grant was a surprise as it was awarded in the Spring 2019 and these are typically awarded in the Fall. The Department is planning to work with Community Housing as the sub-recipient of the grant totaling $727,600 and the funds can be used for renovations for low-income homeowners for up to 26 units to make those homes healthier or to fix any unhealthy conditions.

RESULT: RECOMMENDED [UNANIMOUS]MOVER: Deborah Dawson, Vice ChairSECONDER: Henry Granison, MemberAYES: Kelles, Dawson, Koreman, GranisonEXCUSED: Sigler

WHEREAS, Tompkins County has been awarded a New York State (NYS) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) as part of the 2019 NYS CDBG Competitive Housing Round for the purpose of continuing its successful housing rehabilitation program for low- to moderate-income homeowners, and

WHEREAS, these funds will assist twenty-six households in Tompkins County to make health, safety, and energy-efficiency improvements to their homes and repair or replace wells, septic systems, and roofs, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development Committee, That the County hereby accepts New York State Homes and Community Renewal’s Office of Community Renewal CDBG funds in the amount of $727,600,

RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized and directed to make the following budget adjustment for 2019:

RevenuesCD8688.44959 Federal Aid $727,600.00=========TOTAL REVENUES $727,600.00

ExpendituresCD8688.54400 Program Expenses $727,600.00=========TOTAL EXPENDITURES $727,600.00

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee be authorized to execute any contracts related to this project.SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-2, II-11

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Planning and Sustainability Department

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Commissioner of Planning and Sustainability's ReportMs. Borgella reported the following:

Business Energy Advisor (BEA) Program - The Department applied for a Park Foundation grant for the BEA Program to continue the impressive clip of work that has been done so far with business and to provide additional energy consultant expert services. The Program has exceeded expectations during its first 11 months and has had 36 program inquiries and provided 21 energy option reports; the program was built with the projections of providing 10 business reports. There were multiple unsolicited letters of support submitted to the Park Foundation supporting the Department’s application.

Launching of BEA Lansing Program - The Department is working with HeatSmart Tompkins regarding a resolution that was approved by the Planning, Energy, and Environmental Quality Committee for a $80,000 grant that will be used to launch the BEA Lansing Program. This will assist businesses to take advantage of NYSERDA opportunities and incentives around the moratorium area. The program will also need to go through Tompkins County Area Development (TCAD) and will support a pilot program to evaluate how the program can work with existing buildings versus new construction and major renovations.

Incremental Development Alliance (IncDev) Small Developer Mentorship - A total of 14 applications were received for the 10 available slots. Eight for-profit developers were selected and two non-profit organizations (Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS) and Habitat for Humanity) were selected. This was a very competitive application process and the Department will continue to work with those developers not selected. IncDev will be returning in late September and their focus at that time will be to meet with municipal officials and planning board members.

Tourism

Resolution No. - Award of 2019 Strategic Tourism Implementation Grant to Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention and Visitors Bureau for Professional Services for Tourism Improvement District Formation (ID #8776)

Mr. Helmholdt explained that the Ithaca - Tompkins County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) brought to the attention of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board (STPB) the work they have been doing regarding exploring the formation of a Tourism Improvement District (TID) within the County. This resolution will award Strategic Tourism Implementation funds, in compliance with the STPB established guidelines, to the CVB to contract with a consultant regarding exploring the possibility of forming a TID in Tompkins County. County Administration and the County Attorney will be kept in the loop regarding this as it moves forward to ensure the legal and administrative pieces are in place.

Ms. Coleman stated the TID fee imposed would be in addition to the current occupancy tax structure. She explained that there is an ever expanding lodging inventory, but there is no new demand generator and there is a need to attract visitors to the area. She stated a considerable amount of business is turned down on a regular basis in Tompkins County because we do not have a space large enough to accommodate the needs for those events (a large enough conference center); during the first six months of 2019 approximately $1 million in meeting and conference business has been lost.

Ms. Coleman stated there has been discussion regarding developing a conference center in downtown Ithaca as a potential demand generator. She explained that the people who use it the most

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would voluntarily assess themselves to contribute in to the district. She has discussed this informally with the four larger hotel owners in the City of Ithaca (Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons, the Hilton Garden Inn, The Hotel Ithaca, and the Hilton Canopy) and they are supportive of exploring this concept further. They have expressed their desire for this and what they believe is a need for a conference center.

Ms. Coleman said the CVB plans to contract with Civitas, the premier consultant in tourism district formation; they have assisted in the formation of over 85 tourism districts throughout the United States. They are currently under contract with two other destinations in New York State for TID formation. This is taking place at an important time with the proposed conference center to be included in the Green Street Garage redevelopment. Ms. Coleman explained that discussions have included focusing on properties with 50 or more rooms and the use of a two-tiered rate structure.

Mr. Molino stated he has participated in conversations with the CVB regarding this and is supportive. He suggested removing the word "operating" in the fifth Whereas statement so that the County remains transparent in this process and research.

Ms. Coleman said if this grant is awarded, funds will be disbursed as the consultant reaches milestones in the formation process. If at any point the formation of a TID is deemed infeasible by County Administration, the contract will be terminated.

Mr. Sigler arrived at this time.

It was MOVED by Mr. Granison, seconded by Ms. Dawson, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to amend the fifth Whereas statement in the resolution as follows:

"WHEREAS, the Strategic Tourism Planning Board (STPB) Conference Center Advisory Committee has identified a “Tourism Improvement District” as a potential way to support operating costs for a future conference center, and".

RESULT: RECOMMENDED [UNANIMOUS]MOVER: Anne Koreman, MemberSECONDER: Deborah Dawson, Vice ChairAYES: Kelles, Dawson, Sigler, Koreman, Granison

WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Legislature accepted the 2020 Strategic Tourism Plan on September 18, 2012, and

WHEREAS, this plan identifies the expansion of meetings, conferences, and group tours; and the enhancement of downtown Ithaca as a hub of visitor activity as two of its goals, and

WHEREAS, Tompkins County has established a dedicated funding source for implementing the 2020 Strategic Tourism Plan, known as the Strategic Tourism Implementation fund, and

WHEREAS, the Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention and Visitors Bureau has expressed a desire to explore the formation of a new “Tourism Improvement District” to augment its sales and marketing efforts, and

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WHEREAS, the Strategic Tourism Planning Board (STPB) Conference Center Advisory Committee has identified a “Tourism Improvement District” as a potential way to support costs for a future conference center, and

WHEREAS, the STPB has voted to recommend funding in full for the project under consideration, and

WHEREAS, Strategic Tourism Implementation funding exists within the hotel room occupancy tax-funded Tourism Program budget for 2019, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development Committee, That the following project is awarded 2019 Strategic Tourism Implementation funding:

Applicant / Project Award Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce – Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau / Professional Services for Tompkins County Tourism Improvement District Formation.

$33,896

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee is authorized to sign any agreements pertaining to the aforementioned project.SEQR ACTIONS: TYPE II-27

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Blueway Trail Report (ID #8779)

Mr. Helmholt provided a PowerPoint presentation entitled Cayuga Lake Blueway Trail that included a review of the Trail Plan completed in 2013. He explained what a water trail is and the concept behind it. The Lake Tahoe Water Trail provided the inspiration for the Cayuga Lake Blueway Trial. There are 14 public access points on the Lake in the three counties, Tompkins, Cayuga, and Seneca, bordering it. The work and upgrades included in the Plan are to be funded by the State through a grant received in 2017 and Mr. Helmholt has been working on those items to be completed. He is hopeful that the website will be available by winter/spring 2020 and the announcement that the Cayuga Lake Blueway Trail is "open for business" can be made.

RESULT: COMPLETED

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Tourism Program - Monthly Update (ID #8758)

RESULT: COMPLETED

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Transportation

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Resolution No. - Authorizing 2019-1 Federal Transit Administration Section 5307 Grant Application for Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) and Tompkins County (ID #8774)

RESULT: RECOMMENDED [UNANIMOUS]MOVER: Anne Koreman, MemberSECONDER: Deborah Dawson, Vice ChairAYES: Kelles, Dawson, Sigler, Koreman, Granison

WHEREAS, the Secretary of the United States Department of Transportation is authorized to make grants for mass transportation projects pursuant to Section 5307 of Chapter 53, Title 49, of the United States Code, and

WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins is the Direct Recipient designated by the Governor of New York State for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5307 Urban Formula program, with responsibilities to propose FTA-funded projects to the Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council (I-TCTC) (after coordinating with public transportation providers) and to select projects from the I-TCTC Transportation Improvement Program for inclusion in FTA grants, and

WHEREAS, the FTA fund sources for the 2019-1 Section 5307 Grant are as follows:

2017 Sec 5307 Urban Formula Funding (balance) $ 997,5272018 Sec 5307 Urban Formula Funding $ 1,899,2232019 Sec 5307 Urban Formula Funding (partial) $ 565,850 2018 Sec 5311 Rural Formula Funding Transfer (partial) $ 484,886Total Federal Transit Funds $ 3,947,486

WHEREAS, the County and Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit, Inc. (TCAT, Inc.), agreed to

the projects selected for inclusion in the 2019-1 grant from the I-TCTC’s 2017-2021 Transportation Improvement Program, as amended, as follows:

Projects Federal State TCAT Other Local

Total

Replacement Shop Truck

$63,000 $7,875 $7,875 $78,750

35 ft Transit Bus for Expansion

$141,000 $17,625 $17,625 $176,250

ADP Hardware $101,000 $12,625 $12,625 $126,250 ADP Software $12,000 $1,500 $1,500 $15,000 Operating Assistance $1,084,000 $1,084,000 $2,168,000 Preventive Maintenance $1,908,000 $238,500 $238,500 $2,385,000 Short Term Transit Planning

$128,000 $16,000 $16,000 $160,000

Regional Mobility Management

$69,886 $8,736 $8,736 $87,358

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Mobility Management - County

$105,600 $13,200 $13,200 $132,000

Mobility Management - SCMP

$15,000 $1,875 $1,875 $18,750

Operating Assistance -SCMP

$75,000 $25,000 $50,000 $150,000

Project Administration $85,000 $10,625 $10,625 $106,250 Mobility Management - Way2Go

$160,000 $20,000 $20,000 $200,000

Total $3,947,486 $1,457,561 $294,125 $104,436 $5,803,608


RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development Committee, That the Tompkins County Legislature authorizes the County Administrator or his designee to execute and file applications on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the Federal Transit Administration for the 2019-1 Section 5307 Grant with a total budget of $5,803,608 including Federal, New York State, TCAT, and other local sources,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee be and hereby is authorized to sign:

1. Any and all agreements between Tompkins County and the Federal Transit Administration for the Project.

2. Any and all agreements between Tompkins County and the State of New York for the Project.

3. Any and all agreements between Tompkins County, TCAT, Inc., and any third-party subcontractors necessary to complete the project, if applicable.

SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20* * * * * * * * *

Resolution No. - Authorizing 2019 Federal Transit Administration Section 5339(C) Low and No-emission Program Grant Application for Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) (ID #8775)

RESULT: RECOMMENDED [UNANIMOUS]MOVER: Deborah Dawson, Vice ChairSECONDER: Michael Sigler, MemberAYES: Kelles, Dawson, Sigler, Koreman, Granison

WHEREAS, the Secretary of the United States Department of Transportation is authorized to make grants for mass transportation projects pursuant to Section 5309c of Chapter 53, Title 49, of the United States Code, and

WHEREAS, Tompkins County, applied on behalf of Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit Inc.,

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for the nationally competitive Sec. 5339c Low and No-emission Program funding, and was awarded $2,290,000 to purchase three electric buses and related equipment in October 2018, and

WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins is the Direct Recipient designated by the Governor of New York State for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5339c Low and No-emission Program, and

WHEREAS, the FTA fund source is as follows:

Sec 5339c Low & No Emission Program Award $ 2,290,000

WHEREAS, the County and Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit, Inc. (TCAT, Inc.) worked with the Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council to include the electric bus and related projects in the 2017-2021 Transportation Improvement Program, as amended, and

WHEREAS, the County will receive and use said FTA funds as follows:

TCAT Project Federal TCAT TotalPurchase (3) 40 FT Electric Transit Buses

$2,009,200 $ 354,564 $2,363,764

Purchase Electric Power Equipment $280,800 $31,200 $312,000TOTAL $2,290,000 $385,764 $2,675,764


RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development Committee, That the Tompkins County Legislature authorizes the County Administrator or his designee to execute and file applications on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the Federal Transit Administration for the 2019-2 Section 5339c Grant with a total budget of $2,675,764 including Federal and TCAT sources,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee is authorized to sign:

1. Any and all agreements between Tompkins County and the Federal Transit Administration for the Project.

2. Any and all agreements between Tompkins County and TCAT, Inc., and any third-party subcontractors necessary to complete the project, if applicable.

SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-26* * * * * * * * *

Workforce Development

Skillup Tompkins Initiative (ID #8602)

Ms. Mattick and Ms. Carlson provided a brief review and demonstration of the Skillup Tompkins Program including a PowerPoint presentation entitled Skillup Tompkins Initiative. The program is intended to provide "skillup" opportunities with robust online access to over 8,000 courses with an online license for a six-month period.

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RESULT: COMPLETED

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Labor Market Update (ID #8781)

Ms. Armstrong and Ms. Mattick reviewed in detail the presentation entitled Labor Market Update that provided an overview of the labor market conditions in Tompkins County including statistics over the past ten years and challenges faced.

RESULT: COMPLETED

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Tompkins County Area Development

July 2019 Tompkins County Area Development (TCAD) Report (ID #8773)

RESULT: COMPLETED

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Presentation

Early Intervention Homelessness Prevention Program (E. I. H. P.) - Quarter One (ID #8772)

RESULT: TABLED Next: 8/12/2019 5:30 PM

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Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 11:47 a.m.

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Housing and Economic Development CommitteeSpecial Meeting Minutes – Draft 8-12-19

Tuesday, August 6, 2019 5:15 PMLegislature Chambers

Attendance

Attendee Name Title StatusAnna Kelles Chair PresentDeborah Dawson Vice Chair PresentMichael Sigler Member ExcusedAnne Koreman Member PresentHenry Granison Member PresentKatrina McCloy Deputy Clerk, Legislature PresentAmie Hendrix Deputy County Administrator PresentDwight Mengel Chief Transportation Planner Present

Call to Order

Ms. Kelles, Chair, called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m.

Transportation

Resolution No. - Authorization of New York State Department of Transportation Mass Transportation Capital Project Agreement – Tompkins County and Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit Inc. (TCAT) (K007262, Supplemental Agreement 2) (ID #8805)

Mr. Mengel explained this resolution involves a standard allocation of New York State funds to match capital funding. The project funding breakdown is 80% Federal funds, 10% State funds, and 10% local funds.


WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) awarded a Mass Transportation Capital Project Agreement (K007262) (Tompkins County Resolution No. 2017-203) to authorize payments to Tompkins County for mass transportation capital aid over a five-year period from 2017 to 2021, and

WHEREAS, the State Mass Transportation Capital Project Agreement provides reimbursements of 10% for capital projects eligible for Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant funding and up to 100% for New York State funded capital projects, and

WHEREAS, NYSDOT awarded $386,228 to Tompkins County to reimburse the 10% State’s share of eleven projects in three Federal awards (NY-2018-054, NY-2018-062 and NY-2018-066) to Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit, Inc. (TCAT), and the County, now therefore be it

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MinutesHousing and Economic Development CommitteeTuesday, August 6, 2019

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RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development Committee, That the Tompkins County Legislature authorizes the County Administrator or designee to execute the Mass Transportation Capital Project Agreement Supplemental Agreement #2 (K007262) for $386,228 by the County with the New York State Department of Transportation,

RESOLVED, further, That a certified copy of this resolution be filed with the New York State Commissioner of Transportation by attaching it to any necessary Agreement. SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-26

* * * * * * * * *

Resolution No. - Authorizing Proposal for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Integrated Mobility Innovation Demonstration Program (ID #8804)

Mr. Mengel stated this proposal is for a nationally competitive grant that the County is likely to receive an award in the amount of $820,000. The County has already received a New York State Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) grant that is being used as the 20% local match to the 80% Federal funding. The NYSERDA grant is in the Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) process of being accepted (paperwork is being completed).

Following an inquiry by Ms. Kelles, Mr. Mengel stated this program is not based on smart phone technology.


WHEREAS, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is seeking proposals for its Integrated Mobility Innovation Demonstration Program, support innovations in public transportation service models, payment systems, and automation applications to improve mobility for all Americans, and

WHEREAS, in 2018 FTA selected Tompkins County to be one of six participants in its Mobility-On-Demand On-Ramp Program to receive technical assistance to develop an integrated community mobility business model for Mobility-as-a-Service and to prepare to apply for future Federal funding, and

WHEREAS, the County has worked with the Shared Use Mobility Center (Chicago, IL) to refine the concept of Mobility-as-a-Service from an idea, to a business model, to a proposal for a pilot project, and

WHEREAS, the County has worked with Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit, Inc. (TCAT), Human Services Coalition, Inc. (2-1-1 Information & Referral), Center for Community Transportation, Inc. (Ithaca Carshare), Gadabout Transportation Services, Inc., Ithaca Dispatch Inc., and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County to plan the pilot project, and

WHEREAS, the proposal requests $820,000 in Federal funds for a two-year period, to be matched by $205,000 in State funds to develop a multi-modal trip planning and information call center and smartphone app, to assist funding TCAT’s First-Last Mile service pilot, and to provide customer

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support for people traveling to or who are residents of the County for employment, to access healthcare, or to access services, now therefore be it

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development, That the Tompkins County Legislature authorizes the County Administrator, or designee, to submit a proposal of $820,000 in Federal funds to FTA’s, with the $205,000 non-Federal match to be furnished by TCAT,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator, or designee, is authorized to sign any and all agreements between Tompkins County and the Shared-Use Mobility Center, Inc., or Federal Transit Administration for the Project,

RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator, or designee, is authorized to sign any and all agreements between Tompkins County, sub-recipients, and third parties to use grant funds to develop and implement the pilot project.SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-26

* * * * * * * * *

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 5:19 p.m.

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Housing and Economic Development CommitteeSpecial Meeting Minutes – Draft 8-15-19

Monday, August 12, 2019 5:30 PMLegislature Chambers

Attendance

Attendee Name Title StatusAnna Kelles Chair PresentDeborah Dawson Vice Chair PresentMichael Sigler Member ExcusedAnne Koreman Member PresentHenry Granison Member PresentKatrina McCloy Deputy Clerk, Legislature PresentJason Molino County Administrator PresentAmie Hendrix Deputy County Administrator PresentKatie Borgella Planning & Sustainability Commissioner PresentMegan McDonald Deputy Planning and Sustainability Commissioner PresentMarcia Lynch Public Info. Officer, County Administration Present

Guests: Barbara Kasian, Paralegal, and Thomas Luckini, Esq., Supervising Attorney, Law NY; Kathy Schlather, Executive Director, Human Services Coalition; Ducson Nguyen, City of Ithaca Common Council member; members of the public, and media

Call to Order

Ms. Kelles, Chair, called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m.

Housing Presentations

Early Intervention Homelessness Prevention Program (E. I. H. P.) - Quarter One Barbara Kasian, LawNY (ID #8772)

Ms. Kelles explained that beginning in 2019 the County budgeted one-time funding for three years for a Housing and Benefits Advocate through Law NY to provide assistance at an earlier point to those who are at risk of losing their housing to prevent loss of housing.

Ms. Kasian provided a PowerPoint presentation entitled E.I.H.P.: Quarter One - March 1 through July 1, 2019. She explained some of the case management services and assistance provided through the Early Intervention Homelessness Prevention (EIHP) program to clients. In addition she reviewed case samples, outcomes, and barriers she has faced. There are multiple service providers throughout Tompkins County but she believes there is still a need for a landlord liaison that would be beneficial to help educate landlords and be available for landlords to contact if a problem arises. Even with the large number of programs available, they can be intimidating and complex for individuals to navigate, but Ms. Kasian said she attempts to work with individuals to build relationships and trust to be able to assist them in the navigation of these services.

Ms. Kasian stressed the desperate need for affordable housing as there is not enough in the County specifically within City limits where the services clients are engaged in and in need of are located. She stated she is unable to help people keep their housing and prevent homelessness if the rent is not affordable.

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Ms. Dawson inquired as to the number of people in need of these services in Tompkins County and what the size of the homeless population in Tompkins County. Ms. Kasian stated she does not have exact numbers but said the homeless shelter and multiple hotels including some out of County hotels are occupied by the homeless population. Ms. Schlather explained that approximately 80 people a night are housed in the shelter and the list of people in need of housing is about 350 to 450 but may not include all the homeless population.

Mr. Granison inquired about where referrals to this program come from and about case management for the clients she sees. Ms. Kasian stated that the majority of her clients are referred from other agencies because those agencies have an understanding of Law NY's eligibility requirements. In addition, she stated she provides case management services for about 80 percent of the clients she sees.

RESULT: COMPLETED

Update on NYS Laws related to Housing Thomas Luckini, LawNY (ID #8820)

Mr. Luckini provided a PowerPoint presentation entitled Statewide Housing Security and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 that included a review of the recent changes in New York State laws concerning eviction. He briefly explained the history of the laws and the differences moving forward with the significant 2019 changes.

RESULT: COMPLETED

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

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Housing and Economic Development Committee Meeting: 08/22/19 09:30 AM 121 E. Court Street Department: Assessment

Ithaca, NY 14850 Category: Real Property

DOC ID: 8837

REPORT OR DISCUSSION ITEM NO.

(ID # 8837)

Page 1

Exemption - Capital Improvements to Residential Properties RPTL 421-f

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Department of Assessment

128 East Buffalo Street Jay Franklin Inclusion through Diversity Irene Kehoe Director Assistant Director

Mail Address: Tel: 607-274-5517 128 East Buffalo Street Fax: 607-274-5507 Ithaca, New York 14850 [email protected] http://www.tompkins-co.org/assessment/

To: Tompkins County Legislature From: Jay Franklin Date: August 14, 2019 Re: RPTL 421-f

1. Action Requested

To discuss whether to adopt RPTL 421-f for County Tax Purposes. The Department of Assessment does not advocate for or against any exemptions but we will provide details about the exemption, possible financial impacts, and of course any administrative challenges a new exemption might create.

2. Background

This section of law was adopted in 1993 by the NY State Legislature. In 2003, the City of Ithaca adopted this exemption and in 2018 the Town of Dryden also adopted this exemption. The County has reviewed this legislation in the past and has declined to move it out of GO. This section of law provides for an 8-year exemption starting at a 100% exemption of the increased assessment in year 1, 87.5% exemption of the increased assessment in year 2…etc down to 12.5% of the increased assessment in year 8. This is for capital improvements made to the existing 1-2 family house. There is no owner occupancy requirement. The exemption is capped at $80,000 or the actual increase in assessment unless the taxing jurisdiction changes this amount. While the City of Ithaca and Town of Dryden have adopted this exemption, it has not been frequently used. We have 12 total properties that have received the exemption since the enactment – and we are currently administering only 5 exemptions. Statewide, based on the 2018 Assessment Roll data, there are 5,314 current exemptions administered under this section of law with a total exemption amount of $188,192,000 ($35,400/exemption). Per the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance, only 7 counties have adopted this exemption, 49 towns/cities/villages, and 6 school districts. More municipalities might have passed this exemption but have failed to notify NYSDTF which according to recent court cases would mean that they are not legally in this exemption. Additionally, some of these counties that have not reported their intention to NYSDTF to be in the exemption, have only opted into the exemption for certain municipalities – again this is not something that is legal. A county is either in or out of this exemption for all its municipalities.

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Department of Assessment August 14, 2019

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The following chart shows the counties that have adopted this section of law and how many exemptions are on the 2018 Assessment Roll. Chautauqua - 114 Niagara - 322 Onieda - 28 Orange - 36 Schenectady - 1 Suffolk - 1,568 Sullivan - 116

*Genesee County adopted this but only for the City of Batavia, Village of Bergen, Village of Leroy. They have 22 exemptions on the 2018 Assessment Roll.

It is obvious from this chart that not all properties that would be otherwise eligible for this exemption apply for this exemption. In these counties, the assessment function is mostly done at the local town/village level who might not even be aware that the county has authorized this exemption. There are a few local options that could be considered by the Legislature for adoption.

1. Reduction of exemption percentage. The standard 100%, 87.5%, 75%...8-year reduction could be reduced. The City and Town of Dryden have stayed with the standard exemption scale.

2. Maximum Value of Improvement. The State has capped this exemption at $80,000. The county could adopt a maximum value less than $80,000 but not less than $5,000. The City and Town of Dryden have stayed with the $80,000 maximum exemption.

3. Type of Improvement. A taxing jurisdiction may limit the forms of reconstruction, alteration, or improvement eligible.

3. Financial Implication

Based upon what other communities have experienced when they have passed this exemption, it does not appear that all properties that would otherwise be eligible, will apply for this exemption. The number of properties that could apply is estimated between 500-1,000 parcels. However, far fewer would actually apply. My office will mail out an application to all potential improvement projects which does not occur in other assessing units and should result in a higher number of applicants. This has the potential to increase our workload significantly so we will monitor this and we will be back in front of you if we need assistance.

4. Moving Forward

If this Committee would like to proceed with this exemption, the following guidance is needed: 1. Should we stick with the standard exemption percentage or reduce it? If you reduce the

percentage, the same property in the City of Ithaca or the Town of Dryden would have different exemption amounts for this exemption. This can be managed by my office without much more difficulty.

2. Should we reduce the maximum amount of the exemption at a value less than $80,000? Again, if we reduce this amount, there might be different exemption amounts.

3. Should we specify the type of improvement that this exemption would apply to? We could specify that this exemption is for exterior upgrades, or additions for accessory dwelling units, or _____. But if we limit the exemption, the property might be eligible for a City/Town exemption but not for County tax purposes.

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Housing and Economic Development Committee Meeting: 08/22/19 09:30 AM 121 E. Court Street Department: Planning and Sustainability Department

Ithaca, NY 14850 Category: Tourism

DOC ID: 8809

PRESENTATION NO.

(ID # 8809)

Page 1

Visitor Profile Study

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Tompkins County Legislature Meeting: 08/22/19 09:30 AM Governor Daniel D. Tompkins Building Department: Planning and Sustainability Department


Functional Category:

SCHEDULED

RESOLUTION NO. DOC ID: 8812

Page 1

Designation of Tourism Promotion Agency for State 1

WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability in its 2

administrative function for tourism matters is qualified to recommend the appropriate agency for 3

official Tourism Promotion Agency (TPA) designation, and 4

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WHEREAS, the Strategic Tourism Planning Board has reviewed the matter with appropriate 6

agency representatives, and 7

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WHEREAS, Tompkins County has historically been a major attractor of visitors to the Finger 9

Lakes region of New York State and experiences significant economic benefit from tourism as a 10

result, and 11

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WHEREAS, to obtain certain New York State funding, counties must designate a TPA, and 13

14

WHEREAS, Tompkins County has a contract with the Tompkins County Chamber of 15

Commerce for the period of January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2023, to provide destination 16

marketing services for Tompkins County through the Ithaca Tompkins County Convention and 17

Visitors Bureau (ITCCVB), now therefore be it 18

19

RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Economic Development Committee, 20

That the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and its Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention and 21

Visitor’s Bureau (ITCCVB) be granted the official TPA designation for Tompkins County for State 22

Fiscal Year 2020, and 23

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RESOLVED, further, That the President & CEO or the Vice President, Tourism & 25

Community Relations of the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce report to the appropriate 26

Legislative Committee if change occurs in State tourism funding requirements. 27

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DOC ID: 8824


(ID # 8824)

Page 1

2020 Tourism Program Budget

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Katherine Borgella, AICP Telephone (607) 274-5560 Commissioner of Planning and Sustainability www.tompkinscountyny.gov/planning

TO: Strategic Tourism Planning Board (STPB) CC: Housing & Economic Development (HED) Committee FROM: Nick Helmholdt, AICP, Principal Planner / Tourism Program Director DATE: July 10, 2019 RE: 2020 Tourism Program Budget Recommendation

ACTION REQUESTED

The STPB is asked to vote to recommend the 2020 Tourism Program Budget at its July 17 meeting. The recommended budget will be transmitted to County Administration for inclusion in the overall 2020 County Budget. The full County Legislature reviews the budget in the fall.

BACKGROUND

2020 TOURISM PROGRAM BUDGET SUMMARY

Product Development Expenses ACOD Grants $280,000 Beautification Program $150,000 Tourism Capital Grants $260,000 CAP General Operating Support $43,295 Community Celebration Grants $36,590 Tourism Project Grants $27,159 Festivals Program $28,710 Hospitality Workforce Development $32,000 County Historian $7,850 Public Art Grants $10,000 Wayfinding $100,000 Subtotal $975,445

Marketing Expenses Convention & Visitors Bureau $1,433,000 Tourism Marketing & Advertising Grants $20,000 Market the Arts $10,650 Subtotal $1,463,650

Tompkins County

DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND SUSTAINABILITY

121 East Court Street Ithaca, New York 14850

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ROOM TAX REVENUE PROJECTION The bylaws of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board define the responsibility and composition of

the Budget Committee. In 2019 the committee was comprised of Scott Wiggins (committee chair), Kelli Cartmill (STPB chair), Susan Stafford, Michael Mellor, and Josh Friedman. The committee has held four meetings to date.

Between April and July, the STPB Budget Committee developed projections of 2019 and 2020 room tax revenues and associated changes in room tax reserves, with input from Tourism Program administrators and lodging industry experts.

Room tax revenues through the first two quarters of 2019 are tracking close to the original 2019 budget projection. The committee anticipates no change to the current 2019 room tax forecast. The Budget Committee projects $3,050,760 in room tax revenue for 2020. A summary of room tax figures is provided below for reference:

• 2018 Room Tax Projection: $2,754,484 • 2018 Room Tax Collection: $2,924,581 • 2019 Room Tax Projection: $2,935,000 • 2020 Room Tax Projection: $3,050,760

These room tax revenue projections are based on analysis of several sources including historic

Tompkins County room tax revenues, local hotel industry data from Smith Travel Research, projected increases in local room supply, and other local conditions (such as impacts from the construction delay for the Maplewood housing project, which inflated 2018 hotel demand).

2020 Quarterly Room Tax Targets

The quarterly targets below are intended to help the STPB understand how actual room tax collections compare to projections throughout the year. The targets were developed by the STPB Budget Committee using historical data on hotel occupancy and rates.

• Q1: $345,800 • Q2: $773,192 • Q3: $1,126,168 • Q4: $805,600

RESERVES The STPB policy on budget reserves and surpluses sets a target reserve balance of 5% of the

annual projected room tax collection. For 2020, based on the room tax projection of $3,050,760, the target reserve balance is set to $152,538. The 2018 year-end unallocated room tax reserve balance was $134,931. Per the policy, $17,607 will be allocated to reserves.

SUMMARY OF FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR 2020 TOURISM PROGRAMS + Projected Room Tax Revenue $3,050,760 - Use of Reserves (to meet target reserve balance) $17,607 = Total Revenues + Reserves $3,033,153 - County 10% Tax Administration Fee $305,076 - Tompkins County Area Development (TCAD) $127,709 - Strategic Planning & Staffing $111,284 - Strategic Tourism Implementation Grants $48,830 = Tourism Program Funds Available for Product

Development and Marketing $2,439,095

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(Details about the County’s 10% Tax Administration Fee, TCAD, and Strategic Planning & Staffing are provided below under “Other Expenses.”)

2020 BUDGET REQUESTS The Tompkins County Tourism Program solicited budget requests from program administrators

and heard presentations at its May 29 meeting at Ithaca College’s Peggy Ryan Williams Center. Program administrators and committee chairs were asked to describe the actual funding needed to implement program goals and provide specific detail on the prioritization of funds. (Prior to 2018, budget requests were capped at a set percentage and only designated entities were permitted to present “over target requests” exceeding these budget caps.) A total of $2,554,081 was requested from the Tourism Program.

Program administrators responded to the new guidance and provided clear annual goals, measures of achievement, and information on how the requested budget will support implementation of the 2020 Strategic Tourism Plan. (Full documentation of budget requests is available upon request.)

Following budget presentations, the STPB Budget Committee explored possible approaches, weighed opportunities presented by each program, and developed the recommended budget.

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT EXPENSES The following section provides detail regarding Product Development budget items with

substantial changes. The proposed Product Development expenses equal 40% of the combined Marketing & Product Development budgets. This is in line with the Tourism Program’s established 60/40 split policy.

Arts & Cultural Organization Development Grants

The committee recommends increasing funding to the Arts & Cultural Organization Development (ACOD) grant program. This increase will allow the grant program administrator, Community Arts Partnership (CAP), to consider funding requests from eligible, established organizations. CAP’s budget request sought additional funding to implement ACOD program changes approved by the STPB in April.

Beautification Program

The committee recommends decreasing funding to the Beautification program. Prior years of funding had been provided to help the program establish a greenhouse — a project which is no longer going forward. The committee was concerned about the proposed use of the reserve balance, which had been intended for the greenhouse. The committee was also concerned about the apparent growth in the number of locations where the Beautification program maintained plantings and the lack of financial support from other municipalities.

Tourism Capital Grants

The committee recommends increasing funding for Tourism Capital Grants as requested by the program administrator. The program has experienced high demand and increasing quality of applications. The committee recognized that this program is becoming an important funding mechanism for outdoor recreation initiatives in the County.

Tourism Project Grants

The committee recommends decreasing funding for Tourism Project Grants in 2020. This funding will be applied to implement the Wayfinding Signage program (see below). Tourism Project Grants support one-time efforts to attract visitors to Tompkins County.

Wayfinding

The committee recommends allocating an additional $100,000 to implement the Wayfinding Signage program. In 2014 the STPB completed the Tompkins County Wayfinding & Interpretive Signage Plan, which defined a signage system to enable visitors and residents to navigate safely, easily, and efficiently throughout the County. Following the completion of the plan, the STPB decided to hold $150,000 in reserve to implement the program. Several grant applications have been submitted to

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leverage this funding over recent years; none of them have been successful. The intent of this additional funding is to begin the implementation of the program using local resources.

MARKETING EXPENSES The following section provides detail regarding Product Development budget items with

substantial changes. The proposed Marketing expenses equal 60% of the combined Marketing & Product Development budgets. This is in line with the Tourism Program’s established 60/40 split policy.

Convention & Visitors Bureau

The committee recommends increasing funding of the Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB). The committee was impressed with the CVB’s detailed budget request and recent accomplishments. A variety of factors influenced the CVB’s request including:

- The addition of a retail store operated by CVB inside the TCHC - The addition of a permanent position to support agriculinary tourism promotion - Increasing overall payroll and benefits to attract and retain staff in a variety of positions - The costs associated with marketing workshops that support Tourism Program grantees - Increasing advertising & group sales efforts to match the increase in local hotel room supply

Tourism Marketing & Advertising Grants

The committee recommends decreasing funding for Tourism Marketing & Advertising grants. The committee had concerns about the effectiveness of this program.

OTHER EXPENSES Strategic Tourism Implementation Grants

The committee recommends budgeting $49,830 for Strategic Tourism Implementation grants on the condition that funds be allocated to projects supporting the development of a Conference Center.

County 10% Tax Administration Fee, Strategic Planning & Staffing

The Principal Planner / Tourism Program Director position will continue to support the program at 37.5 hours per week. All other County support for the program is provided though the “County 10% Administrative Fee” portion of the room tax budget.

Tompkins County Area Development

Tompkins County’s initial five-year funding agreement with TCAD expired at the end of 2018. The County entered into a second five-year funding agreement in 2019 with defined contributions from room taxes. The 2020 room tax funding to TCAD is budgeted at $127,709 (an amount equal to 50% of the County’s contribution to TCAD).

BUDGET IMPLICATIONS

All Tourism Program activities are supported through the Hotel Room Occupancy Tax. The Tourism Program Director and STPB monitor quarterly room tax reports to ensure that funds are available. All Tourism Program contracts issued are contingent upon fund availability. This budget has no direct impact on other County revenue sources.

CONTACT

Nick Helmholdt, Tompkins County DPS, [email protected] Kelli Cartmill, STPB Chair, [email protected] Scott Wiggins, STPB Budget Committee Chair, [email protected]

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mailto:[email protected]




ATTACHMENTS

• Recommended 2020 Tourism Program Budget • STPB Budget Reserve and Surplus Hotel Room Occupancy Tax Policy

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2020 Tourism Program Budget v3

Product Development2019 - Adopted

2019 - Modified 2020 - Proposed (v3) Notes

ACOD Grants 250,000 250,000 280,000 1Beautification 160,000 160,000 150,000 2Capital Grants 255,000 298,480 260,000 3CAP - General Operating Support 42,033 42,033 43,295 Community Celebration Grant 36,590 40,000 36,590 Tourism Project Grants 129,000 137,514 27,159 Festivals 26,895 26,895 28,710 Hospitality Workforce Development 32,504 32,504 32,000 County Historian 7,750 7,750 7,850 Public Art Grants 10,121 10,121 10,000 Wayfinding 100,000 4

subtotal 949,893 1,005,297 975,604

Marketing2019 - Adopted

2019 - Modified 2020 - Proposed (v3)

Convention and Visitors Bureau 1,341,000 1,352,647 1,433,000 Tourism Marketing & Advertising Grant 54,000 54,000 20,000 Discovery Trail 19,000 19,000 Market the Arts 10,800 10,800 10,650

subtotal 1,424,800 1,436,447 1,463,650

Product Development + Marketing Summary2019 - Adopted


Total Combined Product Dev. + Marketing 2,374,693 2,441,744 2,439,254 Product Development % 40.0% 40.0% 40.0%Marketing % 60.0% 60.0% 60.0%

Other Expenses2019 - Adopted


County Tax Administration (10%) 293,500 293,500 305,076 Strategic Planning & Staffing 109,701 109,701 111,284 TCAD 187,808 187,808 127,709 Strategic Plan Update 15,000 15,000 -

Strategic Tourism Implementation Grants- Conference Center Only 33,896 33,896 49,830 5

subtotal 639,905 639,905 593,899

Grand Total Expenses 3,014,598 3,081,649 3,033,153

Revenues + Reserves2019 - Adopted


Projected Room Tax Revenue 2,935,000 2,935,000 3,050,760 Projected Use of Reserves 79,598 146,649 (17,607) 6

Grand Total Revenues + Reserves 3,014,598 3,081,649 3,033,153

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Notes

1 Proposed amount includes administive costs (CAP)

2 Proposed amount includes funding to three organizations (CCE Tompkins, DIA, and Chamber of Commerce)

3 Proposed amount includes administive costs (TCAD)

4 Wayfinding funding to be added to $150,000 in fund balance to support implementation

5 2020 STI grant applications will be expected to address the downtown conference center

6 Target reserve balance of 5% of room tax as established by STPB policy.

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STPB policy – Budget Reserve & Surplus Hotel Room Occupancy Tax – April 18, 2018

Strategic Tourism Planning Board / Tompkins County Tourism Program

Budget Reserve and Surplus Hotel Room Occupancy Tax Policy

BACKGROUND: On April 2, 2018 members of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board’s (STPB) Budget Committee and Planning & Evaluation Committee met to discuss approaches to budget reserves and surplus room tax collections. The following document is the result of discussion among the committees.

The STPB serves as an advisory board to the Tompkins County Legislature on matters relating to tourism. In this capacity it makes recommendations on the most appropriate and effective use of Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax revenues. These recommendations are presented to the County Legislature which has final authority to accept, modify, or reject any proposal. The policy described in this document outlines the process STPB will use to formulate its budget recommendations to the county.

I. Reserve Funds a. Purpose of Reserve Funds: External factors can have adverse effects on local

room tax revenues. A wide variety of circumstances could lead to reduced visitation to Tompkins County. Some organizations integral to the local tourism sector rely on room tax funding as a primary source of funding. If room tax revenue declines, the reserve fund is intended to assist organizations of vital importance to sustain the county’s tourism sector.

b. Target Reserves: Five percent of the projected annual Tompkins County hotel room occupancy tax collections should be held in reserve. (For example, if $3,000,000 in hotel room occupancy tax is projected for a given year then $150,000 should be held in reserve.)

c. Use of Reserves: If room taxes decline year over year, the STPB may authorize reserves to be used to sustain essential operations necessary to our local tourism sector.

II. Surplus Funds a. Source: Each year the STPB prepares a projection of Tompkins County’s hotel

room occupancy tax collections. This forecast is based on detailed market data and professional knowledge about the region and industry. From time to time, room tax collections exceed this projection, leading to surplus funds.

b. Fully Fund Reserves: To maintain an adequate reserve balance, surplus funds should first be applied to achieve the reserve target.

c. Allocate Remaining Surplus to Existing Programs: To ensure a transparent, equitable process for accessing county room tax funds, any surplus more than the amount needed for reserve should be applied within the existing framework of the Tompkins County Tourism Program.

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STPB policy – Budget Reserve & Surplus Hotel Room Occupancy Tax – April 18, 2018

i. Preferred Application / Strategic Tourism Implementation: The STPB is charged with the implementation of the Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Plan. To date there are several “critical actions” in the plan which are not yet complete. To accomplish these actions, the STPB prefers to allocate all remaining surplus funds to the Strategic Tourism Implementation (STI) grant program. This program funds projects which advance tourism projects in Tompkins County that enhance quality of life and promote economic development. This program uses a rolling grant application which would allow funds to be applied in the same year as the surplus.

ii. Alternative Application / Marketing & Product Development: The 2020 Strategic Tourism Plan established a policy of splitting funds 60/40 for marketing and product development. When all “critical actions” defined in the current Strategic Tourism Plan are complete or deemed unnecessary or at the discretion of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board, surplus funds may be made available for one-time projects in accord with the 60/40 policy. (For example, if $100,000 of surplus funds are available, $60,000 should be allocated to marketing and $40,000 to product development.) Due to the timing of room tax collections and grant decisions, funds will be available in the following year.

APPROVED by the Strategic Tourism Planning Board on April 18, 2018.

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DOC ID: 8825


(ID # 8825)

Page 1

Tourism Program - Monthly Update

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Katherine Borgella, AICP Telephone (607) 274-5560 Commissioner of Planning and Sustainability www.tompkinscountyny.gov/planning

TO: Housing & Economic Development Committee (HED) FROM: Nick Helmholdt, Principal Planner / Tourism Program Director DATE: August 22, 2019 RE: August Tourism Program Update UPDATE On August 21 the results of the visitor profile study were presented to the STPB. This was the first comprehensive visitor profile study completed since 2009. The consultant collected data from nearly 2,100 visitors using a combination of online surveys (1,400) and in-person intercepts (670). A full presentation of the findings of this study is planned for later in this meeting. The Tourism Program announced the funding availability for the fall 2019 round of Community Celebration grants in early July. $11,662 is available to fund events that are free and open to all and reflect the unique history and culture of our County. Individuals representing five local organizations attended a grant workshop held on July 31. Applications are due Thursday, August 29. The Ithaca / Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau presented its mid-year report to STPB at its July 17 meeting. The report is attached for your review. YEAR TO DATE FUNDING BY ORGANIZATION Room Tax Recipient (top 30, sorted by 3-year total) 2017 2018 2019 YTD

1 Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce $1,035,826 $1,088,818 $1,360,647 2 Tompkins County $368,338 $483,101 $403,201 3 Tompkins County Area Development $212,839 $218,260 $201,962 4 Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County $104,388 $103,904 $117,282 5 Downtown Ithaca Alliance $78,165 $119,358 $76,613 6 The History Center $111,500 $85,000 $57,000 7 Community Arts Partnership $72,280 $83,600 $85,554 8 Sciencenter $82,115 $55,000 $40,000 9 Friends of Stewart Park $25,000 $40,000 $74,000 10 Paleontological Research Institution $41,050 $37,100 $49,030 11 Kitchen Theatre Company $40,000 $35,000 $47,000 12 Hangar Theatre $49,500 $20,000 $43,500 13 TC Workforce Investment Board $31,363 $43,008 $32,504 14 State Theatre of Ithaca $25,000 $53,500 $27,500 15 Discovery Trail $37,694 $38,259 $19,000 16 Town of Dryden $1,700 $27,600 $51,500 17 Ithaca Children's Garden $23,200 $47,311 $4,500

Tompkins County

DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND SUSTAINABILITY

121 East Court Street Ithaca, New York 14850

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18 Cayuga Chamber Orchestra $20,000 $23,000 $26,000 19 Historic Ithaca $1,000 $56,150 $11,765 20 Discover Cayuga Lake $0 $59,850 $3,500 21 Ithaca Youth Bureau $50,000 $10,475 $0 22 Cinemapolis $13,500 $18,370 $18,370 23 Ithaca Shakespeare Company $24,627 $13,000 $8,500 24 Community School of Music and Arts $23,500 $10,000 $10,000 25 Wharton Studio Museum $15,100 $23,600 $0 26 Wizarding Weekend $15,000 $19,100 $4,500 27 Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport $30,000 $0 $0 28 Running to Places $0 $15,000 $15,000 29 Ithaca Underground $12,800 $9,600 $4,500 30 Ithaca Festival $4,000 $13,100 $8,000

*PRI merged with Cayuga Nature Center in 2013. FUNDING COMMITMENTS None currently. EVENT CALENDAR These upcoming events have been funded through the Tompkins County Tourism Program.

Organization Event Start Date End Date

Groton Olde Home Days Groton Olde Home Days 8/23 8/25 Town of Groton 11th Annual Verne Morton Memorial

Photography Show & Contest 8/23 8/24

Lansing Events Committee Inc.

Lansing Community Celebration 9/6 9/7

Greater Ithaca Activities Center

Festival of Nations & Gus Macker Tournament

9/7 9/8

Friends of Stewart Park, Inc. Paddle, Pedal & Play Festival (P3Fest) *new dates >>

9/14 9/14

Opera Ithaca Incorporated Opera Ithaca Collaboration: La Boheme with Cayuga Chamber Orchestra

9/28 9/29

Danby Volunteer Fire Company, Inc.

Danby Community Day 9/21 9/21

Multicultural Resource Center

First Peoples Festival 9/28 9/28

Center for Community Transportation

Streets Alive! Ithaca (Fall) 10/1 10/1

Dryden Town Historical Society

Homestead Heritage Fair 10/5 10/5

Ithaca College Office of Sponsored Research

Qinfolk Festival | QTPOC Film, Arts & Mental Health

10/5 10/5

Downtown Ithaca Alliance Wizarding Weekend 2019 10/26 10/27

Southworth Library Association

Dryden Holiday Celebration 12/7 12/7

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ROOM TAX REPORT Total Room Tax Hotels (> 10 Rooms) B&Bs (< 11 Rooms) 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 Q1 $311,725 $324,584 $266,971 $268,503 $44,754 $56,081 Q2 $732,497 $782,432 $642,589 $666,741 $89,909 $115,691 Q3 $1,039,520 $926,213 $113,307 Q4 $796,894 $731,975 $64,920 Add'l Rev.* $43,945 $31,457 Total $2,924,581 $1,138,473 $2,567,747 $935,244 $312,890 $171,772

*Additional Revenue = Tax collected outside of current quarter.

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Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau

2019 Mid-Year Report6 months ending June 2019/Q2

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It is my honor to share all that the CVB team has accomplished in

the last six months.

The year-long visitor intercept interviews finished on June 30th

and the updated Profile of Visitors to Tompkins County report

will be presented to the Strategic Tourism Planning Board at the

August meeting. This report is instrumental to formulating the

next Strategic Tourism Plan for 2021 and beyond, to grow the

tourism economy in Tompkins County.

As the visitor profile study work winds down, advocacy for a

proposed conference center in downtown Ithaca is ramping up

at a quicker pace. The proposed conference center is part of the

Green Street Garage redevelopment project. Phase Two of the

feasibility study indicates that the proposed center will position

Tompkins County with the seventh largest meeting facility in

upstate New York, opening the opportunity to grow the economy

exponentially.

The beautifully designed Downtown Visitor Center opened

mid-April in our new home at the Tompkins Center for History & Peggy Coleman

VP, Tourism & Community Relations/CVB Director

A Message from Peggy ColemanVP, TOURISM/CVB DIRECTOR

1

Heather HughesDIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING [email protected]

Jodi LaPierreDIRECTOR OF VISITOR EXPERIENCE [email protected]

VISITOR EXPERIENCE SPECIALISTS:

Josh Brooks | Cameron Coughlin | Beth Duff | Danielle Hemly | Steen Kittredge | Matthew Janson | PeiPei Liu |

Jessica Plue | Justin Scheidweiler | Leah Vaccaro

INTERNS: Gina Landry | Valentine Jean Jacques

Peggy ColemanVP, TOURISM & COMMUNITY RELATIONS/CVB DIRECTOR

[email protected]

Erin RafalowskiDIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER [email protected]

Kendall BlizzardAGRICULINARY TOURISM MARKETING [email protected]

Rachael Atkins-WalpoleSITE SUPERVISOR, TAUGHANNOCK OVERLOOK [email protected]

Diane HemlySITE SUPERVISOR, DOWNTOWN [email protected]

Sarah ImesTOUR & TRAVEL [email protected]

David WaltonMEETING & CONFERENCE SALES MANAGER [email protected]

Ryan ShehuSITE SUPERVISOR, EAST SHORE DR. [email protected]

Maia CookeSENIOR VISITOR EXPERIENCE SPECIALIST [email protected]

SALES & MARKETING VISITOR EXPERIENCE

Culture. Please stop in to see our new

space and to visit the other partners in this building of

collaborative not-for-profits.

The Market NY grant implementation to promote craft cider and

agritourism has produced some exciting successes: from a live

presentation at the New York Times Travel Show in January to

the Ithaca Craft Beverage Festival at Fulton Stall Market in NYC in

June, we are raising awareness of our high quality cider producers

and agriculinary tourism partners, while influencing visitors to

explore the unique vacation experiences Tompkins County offers.

Thank you for investing in our work to share this gorges place

with the world.

Safe travels,

Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau Staff Contacts

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VISITOR EXPERIENCE

2019 By the Numbers

2

Visitor Touchpoints

Phone

ESD Traffic

DVC Traffic*

TFSP Traffic

Chats

TG Requests

Off-Site Events**

Total

2019 2018 YOY% Change

1,1171,2981,198

10,0211,0243,020

10,49528,474

5731,1861,8729,7621,6592,2415,020

22,313

+95%+9%

-36%+3%

-38%+35%

+109%+28%

* Due to the Downtown Visitor Center being closed temporarily for relocation** Increase in off-site events as we explore more opportunities in monthly

meetings with local colleges

VISITOR EXPERIENCE Through the end of June, our three visitor centers have seen traffic from 49 states and 48 countries. The Visitor Experience Department has reached over 9,400 college visitors at nine off-site events through June.

The Taughannock Visitor Center is still the busiest of our three visitor centers, welcoming over 8,700 people since opening in May.

The Visitor Experience

team recently conducted a

“FAM”iliarization tour for 23

local and regional tourism

industry representatives. This

program helps people serving

visitors gain more knowledge

about popular attractions

throughout the county and

helps them provide better

customer service. The group

is pictured here at the

Taughannock Falls Overlook

Visitor Center.

5 Top International Feeder Markets by Travel Party after USA

Canada, Israel, Germany, United Kingdom, Netherlands

5 Top Domestic Feeder Markets by Travel Party after NYS

Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio,Florida, California

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VisitIthaca.com

In overall website usage users and sessions are increasing. While pageviews are down slightly year-over-year, our digital marketing company confirms that this is a positive outcome because it is evidence that users are accessing the information that they are seeking more quickly.

Efforts to keep the Visit Ithaca website content fresh to meet visitors’ needs are always ongoing. Some popular landing pages and blog postings this year have included:

• The Top 5 Experiences to Warm up Winter 627 pageviews up 46% from last year

• New in 2019! Unplug and Connect in Nature 457 pageviews

• New in 2019! Craft Cider 415 pageviews

• New in 2019! Pride Month in Ithaca 855 pageviews

• 4th of July Fireworks Roundup 4,177 pageviews up 62% year-over-year

Ithaca Trails

Earlier this year Visit Ithaca incorporated the popular IthacaTrails.org website under the VisitIthaca.com umbrella to aide with website maintenance. We are happy to say the site is performing well!

Social

MARKETING

3

Pageviews

New Users

2019 201887,393 up 36%24,990 up 1,370%

64,2861,699

Instagram VisitIthaca

Facebook VisitIthaca

Facebook Farm2Fork

Facebook Winter Recess

2019 20189,67640,6063,1951,729

6,69439,4973,0271,627

MARKETING Visit Ithaca kicked off the summer season with a successful marketing workshop and brochure exchange with over 50 area tourism partners in attendance.

Travel guide requests via the website are up 45% with 1,724 travel guide requests through mid-June.

Lodging availability online has been utilized 13,031 times from Jan. – June.

Outdoor recreation Google ads are outperforming prior year’s pay per click ads. Impressions are up over 76,000 and clicks are up 80.3%

214,

394

198,

154

594,

494

– 1

4%

693,

421

162,

365

+ 7.

49%

151,

057

+ 8.

2%

20192019 201920182018 2018

Users Sessions Pageviews

Ithaca.com Website Usage

IthacaTrails.org

Social Media Audiences Grow

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http://IthacaTrails.org

http://VisitIthaca.com

Ithaca Craft Beverage Festival

Among the many efforts to promote opportunities to experience craft cider throughout the region through the Market NY grant, one of the most successful so far was the Ithaca Craft Beverage Festival, held at Pier 17 in the South Street Seaport District in NYC on June 9th. Visit Ithaca tabled in collaboration with EscapeMaker.com, along with seventeen of our craft beverage and tourism partners, offering tastings, visitor information, food pairings, and a glimpse of the experiences awaiting visitors to Ithaca and Tompkins County. It was estimated that there were around 8,000-10,000 people in attendance at the craft beverage festival.

MARKETING

4

Agriculinary Tourism Keeps Growing!

Visit Ithaca was instrumental in the planning and success of an Agriculinary Tourism Conference held in March with 130 people in attendance. The conference offered a full day of informational break-out sessions including panels focusing on seed-to-table initiatives, special event hosting, and marketing. A highlight was the keynote presentation by the incredibly successful agri-tourism business Becker Farms.

In January, Visit Ithaca pitched the idea that partner Sarah Barden, owner of Ithaca is Foodies, do a live demonstration at the New York Times Travel Show to represent Ithaca/Tompkins County and the Finger Lakes Region. Sarah created a presentation and food tasting to showcase the amazing options throughout the region to put together a charcuterie board, or picnic made up of local foods when visiting the area. The presentation was extremely well received.

What were people saying:

“Best presentation of the day!”

“We do a lot of traveling and always try to eat local along

the way. Ithaca is on our ‘must-go’ list now.”

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MARKETING

North American Travel Journalist Association media tour hiking Buttermilk Falls gorge trail

5

PUBLIC RELATIONS Hosted two influencers featuring LGBTQ+ friendly sites leading up to the World Pride Day celebrations in NYC. Both influencers had a combined social media following of over 2.1M on Instagram, 1.19M on Twitter, and 3.7M on YouTube.

A total of eight media/influencers have been hosted in the first six months of 2019 including a group from the North American Travel Journalist Association.

Over 50 notable articles and posts have included Ithaca & Tompkins County as a result of media pitching efforts in the last six months.

Some Notable Mentions

• TripAdvisor features Ithaca in a list of “North America’s 18 Best Lake Towns. ”

• Forbes features, “10 Inspiring Trips to Celebrate International Women’s Day.” The article includes Finger Lakes foodies: Sarah Barden of Ithaca is Foodies, Autumn Stoscheck of Eve’s Cidery, and Melissa Madden of Finger Lakes Cider House among others.

• Lonely Planet rolled out an article, “Under the Radar USA: Why Ithaca is More than Gorges.”

• As a result of last summer’s media tour, Destination I Do Magazine featured a full article on weddings in the Finger Lakes in its Spring 2019 issue, including a full-page image of New Park Retreat.

• Forbes unveiled the article “10 American Cities for Family Friendly Travel” by Sandra MacGregor. It features Ithaca in the list and mentions sites such as The Museum of the Earth, Ithaca Children’s Garden, The Cayuga Nature Center, and Experience! The Finger Lakes.

Ithaca Gets Love on Instagram

Matt Benfield (@mr.benfield) and Omar Ahmed (@omartakespix) continue to promote and discuss their love for the Finger Lakes region to their combined 93.7K Instagram followers, with Matt posting a photo from his trip to Ithaca, NY encouraging his followers to stop by the region after NYC Pride.

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SALES

Sarah Imes, Tour & Travel Manager meets with Receptive Tour Operators at the RTO Summit earlier this year to further grow international tourism.

6

Leads Sent

Leads Booked

Potential Economic Impact

20193115

$1,266,815

Leads Sent

Leads Booked

Potential Economic Impact

20192520

$427,836

SALES Over 113 appointments with group and international tour and travel planners were conducted at shows so far in 2019.

Visit Ithaca exhibited at the annual ESSAE tradeshow and co-hosted a client event for more than 120 meeting planners in conjunction with Ithaca Marriott Downtown, the Statler Hotel, and Hotel Ithaca.

Visit Ithaca’s combined sales efforts have resulted in an estimated economic impact of over $1,654,650 for Ithaca and Tompkins County.

Meetings/Conferences/Athletic events

Despite being down a meeting and conference sales team member for a portion of the first half of 2019, efforts were still being made to market Ithaca and Tompkins County as a top meeting destination. Spring sales calls were made in partnership with the Ithaca Marriott Downtown and The Hotel Ithaca to several association meeting planners in the capital district. Visit Ithaca sponsored a table at the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Annual Gala where our guests included key planners from Capitol Hill Management Company, Helms Briscoe, and the NY Farm Bureau.

Group Tour/Leisure:

In addition to our first-time attendance at the Receptive Tour Operator Summit this spring in NYC where Sarah had an opportunity to meet with 17 tour operators specializing in international business, we hosted our first receptive tour operator workshop for local tourism partners. Visit Ithaca also attended four group tour conferences resulting in the following:

American Bus Association: 36 appointments

Heartland Travel Showcase: 23 appointments

Travel Alliance Partners: 26 appointments

Pennsylvania Bus Association: 11 appointments

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Visit Ithaca is a division of the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce

Photo credit: Josh Brooks, Ryah Giles, Allison Usavage, CVB staff and friends of Visit Ithaca

BIG WINS!

Downtown Visitor Center Renovation is Complete After an extensive investment of time and resources, the brand-new Downtown Visitor Center at the Tompkins Center for History & Culture officially opened in mid-April. The recently renovated East Shore Drive Visitor Center, our new site on the Downtown Ithaca Commons and our seasonal visitor center at the Taughannock Falls overlook, are all open and welcoming visitors.

Winter Recess / Ithaca Loves Teachers

The annual Winter Recess / Ithaca Loves Teachers festival continues to successfully draw teachers and “teacher’s pets” to Ithaca and Tompkins county in mid-February. This year’s week-long festival provided an estimated $175K in economic impact to our area economy. 4,328 teachers, school district employees, and their family members and friends participated in this year’s events and took advantage of the many promotional offers and deals. Participants came from twelve states, with 85% residing in the Finger Lakes region. 41% of attendees reported that this was their first time attending the event.

Visitor Journey Arrival to Departure Training Program

The Visitor Journey Arrival to Departure (A2D) Tourism Training program has trained over 70 participants from twenty organizations since full roll-out in December 2018. The program is well on its way of reaching the goal of training 100 A2D Cham-pions by the end of 2019.

Atlas Obscura Collaboration

Visit Ithaca worked with Atlas Obscura on a campaign that ran from March through May. The campaign included the addition of two new permanent places added to the Atlas Obscura directory: Namgyal Monastery and Cornell’s Hip Hop Collection. The campaign resulted in 588K social and newsletter impressions and true engagement of followers.

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Housing and Economic Development Committee Meeting: 08/22/19 09:30 AM 121 E. Court Street Department: Tompkins County Area Development

Ithaca, NY 14850 Category: Routine Departmental Activities or Statistics

DOC ID: 8840


(ID # 8840)

Page 1

August 2019 Tompkins County Area Development (TCAD) Report

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TCAD•401E.StateStreet/E.MLKJr.St.,Suite402B•Ithaca,NewYork14850•(607)273-0005•www.tcad.org

TOMPKINSCOUNTYAREADEVELOPMENT

DirectServicesRevolvingLoanFund

• TCADclosedonan$85,000loantoDutchHarvestFarmfortheconstructionandinitialoperationofa280-seatweddingvenueinLansing.

EconomicDevelopmentLeadership

SouthernTierRegionalEconomicDevelopmentCouncil–StaffworkedwithanumberofapplicantstosubmitStatefundingrequestsinround9oftheConsolidatedFundingApplicationprocess.Therewere37applicationsin11fundingcategoriesfromTompkinsCounty.HeatherwillparticipateinrankingandscoringapplicationsfortheSouthernTierinAugustandSeptember.AwardannouncementsareexpectedinDecember.

ExpansionofBusinessEnergyAdvisors(BEA)Program–WorkinginpartnershipwithHeatSmartTompkins,TCADhassecured$80,000inNYSERDAfundingtoexpandtheBEAprogramtoserveexistingfacilitiesintheLansinggasmoratoriumarea.Thereare78eligiblecommercialandindustrialpropertiesover10,000squarefeetinsize.Weexpecttobeabletoworkwithabout15ofthesepropertiesoverthenext12months.Thisisintendedasapilotprogramandwewilltargetdiversebusinesstypesandfacilitiesinordertoexperiencediversechallengestoimproveenergyperformanceofexistingfacilities.Contractsareinplaceandwehavestartedplanningfortheprogramlaunch.WeexpecttorollouttheprograminlateSeptember.

TSTBOCESPTECHSchoolSecondYear–TheTSTBOCESPTECHschoolhasrecruitedtheirsecondcohort—22students.TheyhavealsorecruitedacoupleofstudentswhowilljoinPTECHas10thgradersthisfall.Asofmid-Julytheywerestillopentoaddingafewmorestudents.NationalScienceFoundationMentorship–ChuckSchwerincontinuestoserveasateammentorforanIthacaCollege-basedemergingsmallbusinessthathasbeenacceptedtoparticipateinaNationalScienceFoundation(NSF)Innovation-Corps(I-Corps)cohortthissummer.TheICteamiscurrentlyinvolvedinanintensiveprogramtodeterminethecommercialviabilityofaroboticsinnovationforyoungchildrenwithmobilityissues.Thisprogramawards$50,000toparticipatingteamstoundergocustomerdiscoveryfortheirrespectiveinnovations,typicallyasapre-cursorforfurtherNSFSmallBusinessInnovationResearch(SBIR)funding.USDAAwardsGranttoExpandFoodBIPProgram–TheUSDAhasapprovedan$86,500RuralBusinessDevelopmentGranttotheFingerLakesRegionalProsperityNetwork(FLRPnet).ThegrantwillfundtheFoodProcessingBusinessIncubationProgram(FoodBIP)for12months,through2020.FoodBIPwillbeabletoexpanditsindustry-specifictechnicalassistancetosmallandemergingfoodandbeverageprocessingbusinessestoanine-countyFingerLakesregion.ThisprojectbuildsonFoodBIP’sfour-countypilotduring2019.

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Tompkins County Legislature Meeting: 08/22/19 09:30 AM Governor Daniel D. Tompkins Building Department: Tompkins County Legislature

Ithaca, NY 14850 Category: Transportation

Functional Category: Transfers and Adjustments

SCHEDULED

RESOLUTION NO. DOC ID: 8851

Page 1

Budget Adjustment – Transportation Planning 1

WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Legislature created the position of Project Assistant for Transportation 2

Planning by Resolution No. 226 of October 16, 2018, and 3

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WHEREAS, funding for this position in 2019 requires funding to be transferred from A5631.54425 Contract 5

Services to A5631.51200 Project Assistant in the amount of $11,051 for 2019, now therefore be it 6

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RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Housing and Development Committee, That the Director of Finance 8

is authorized to make the following budget adjustment for fiscal year 2019: 9

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FROM: A5631.54425 Contract Services $11,051 11

TO: A5631.51200 Project Assistant $11,051 12

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SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-26 14

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Agenda Housing and Economic Development Committee

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