Ithaca, New York
Upcoming
Special Committee for Unhoused Services
The Special Committee for Unhoused Services will hold a policy presentation and discussion with Acting City Manager Dominick Recciko, followed by a 2027 budget discussion. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of previous minutes, and departmental check-ins.
- Discussion with Acting City Manager Dominick Recciko on policy
- 2027 Budget Discussion for unhoused services
- Approval of meeting minutes from 06-01-2026
- Public comment period for residents
- Departmental check-ins and future presenters
Civil Service Commission
The Civil Service Commission will vote on resolutions to adopt job descriptions for Municipal Legal Analyst and Planning Coordinator and to revise job descriptions for Director of Engineering and Capital Projects and Working Supervisor - Sanitation. They will also classify these new positions in the City Attorney's Office and Planning Department. The meeting includes establishment of eligible lists for police and youth program positions and an executive session for personnel matters.
- Adopt job description for Municipal Legal Analyst (competitive class) for City Attorney's Office
- Adopt job description for Planning Coordinator (competitive class) for Planning Department
- Revise job descriptions for Director of Engineering and Capital Projects and Working Supervisor - Sanitation
- Classify new Municipal Legal Analyst and Planning Coordinator positions
- Establish eligible lists: Deputy Police Chief (1), Police Chief (1), Police Officer (19), Senior Youth Program Coordinator (3), Youth Program Coordinator (2)
Common Council
The Common Council will consider approving the purchase of the former U.S. Army Reserve Center at 101 Sunrise Road for $1.7 million, establishing a new community responder program (ROOTS) with job titles and a startup budget of $227,981, and setting a policy for Ithaca Police Department tactical grant applications. The council will also discuss city budget priorities for fiscal year 2027 and vote on several consent agenda items, including revocable license agreements for city properties at 325 College Avenue and 201 Oak Avenue.
- Property acquisition of 101 Sunrise Road for $1.7 million, including environmental review and lead agency designation
- Approval of ROOTS community responder job descriptions and startup budget of $227,981 for new positions (one full-time Working Supervisor, one full-time Community Responder, two part-time Community Responders)
- Resolution establishing policy on Ithaca Police Department tactical grant applications
- Resolution establishing city budget priorities for FY2027
- Approving revocable license agreements for use of city property at 325 College Ave and 201 Oak Ave
Planning & Development Board: Project Review Committee
The Project Review Committee will hear presentations and discuss environmental review (CEQR) for three projects: Southworks Gateway (two 5-story buildings with 100 mixed-income units), Building 21 Renovations (43,400 SF commercial with 150-slot childcare), and Alpha Delta Phi Cornell House improvements. The committee also previews projects for the July 28 board meeting, including Waters Edge (200 units) and Beginnings Credit Union parking lot.
- Southworks Gateway: two 5-story buildings with 100 mixed-income rental units at 620-640 South Aurora St, including 40 parking spaces and courtyard
- Building 21 Renovations: 43,400 SF commercial building with construction incubator, workforce training, and childcare (150 slots) at same Southworks site
- Alpha Delta Phi Cornell House: accessory electrical structure, sidewalks, ADA ramp at 777 Stewart Ave – public hearing and CEQR determination
- Waters Edge (listed for July 28): 200 residential units and ~1,000 SF micro-retail at 683 Third Street, with amended negative declaration discussion
- Beginnings Credit Union Parking Lot (listed for July 28): 10-space parking lot at 409 North Meadow St requiring two variances
Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission
The Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission will receive a 45-minute presentation on participatory budgeting from Claire Burnet and Niki Ray-Israelsohn. The commission will also vote to adopt meeting minutes from April, May, and June 2026. No other decisions are scheduled.
- Presentation on Participatory Budget by Claire Burnet and Niki Ray-Israelsohn (45 min)
- Adoption of meeting minutes from April, May, and June 2026
Recent meetings
Special Committee on Wrongful Discharge and Labor Protections
The special committee will hear presentations from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and Workers Center, receive a legal update from the City Attorney's Office, and discuss a draft policy statement on wrongful discharge and labor protections. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment periods.
- Legal assessment from City Attorney's Office on prospective labor protections legislation (Item 5.a)
- Discussion and development of a policy statement draft on wrongful discharge and labor protections (Item 6.a)
- Guest presentations: Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and Tompkins County Workers Center (Item 4.a, 4.b)
- Approval of minutes from May 26, 2026 special committee meeting (Item 3.a)
- Public hearing: petitions and statements from the public (Item 2.a)
Community Police Board
The board will elect a new chair and vote on minutes from late 2025. Members will also discuss a new proposal for reports, review an old procedure, and address a survey request from the Rochester Police Accountability Board.
- Election of new CPB chair
- Approval of November and December 2025 minutes
- Discussion of new proposal for reports
- Discussion of old procedure for reports
- Completion of survey request from Rochester Police Accountability Board
Planning & Development Board
The Planning and Development Board will hold public hearings and decide on a preliminary and final site plan for a new 8-story mixed-use building at 309 College Avenue, replacing a fire station. The board will also review an extension request for the Ruby project at 228 Dryden Rd and hear presentations on the multi-phase Southworks development, including conceptual plans, gateway buildings, and renovations.
- 309 College Avenue: Preliminary and final site plan for an 8-story, 77-unit mixed-use building with 1,500 SF retail, replacing an existing fire station.
- Southworks Project: Conceptual plan overview for a 95-acre mixed-use district with residential, office, commercial, and open space across City and Town of Ithaca.
- Southworks Gateway: Presentation of two 5-story buildings with 100 mixed-income rental units on 1.64 acres in the Chain Works PUD.
- Building 21 Renovations: Phase 1 rehabilitation of buildings 21 and 24 within the Southworks parcel.
- The Ruby (228 Dryden Rd): Request for extension of site plan approval due to zoning changes and variances.
Common Council
The Common Council will consider a resolution to adopt job descriptions for Community Responder and Working Supervisor positions and a 2026 programmatic budget of $227,981 for the ROOTS program. They will also discuss preliminary budget guidance and a standards of conduct policy. A presentation from the Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council and a Building Division update on code enforcement are also on the agenda.
- Resolution adopting Community Responder and Working Supervisor job descriptions with a $227,981 startup budget for ROOTS program
- Preliminary Budget Guidance Discussion
- Standards of Conduct for Employees Policy discussion
- Building Division presentation on code enforcement
- Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council presentation
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
The Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on two applications: a proposal to demolish a contributing three-bay garage at 214 Wait Avenue and a retroactive approval request for site lighting, entrance modifications, and a second parking space at 105 Westbourne Lane. The commission will also consider an extension of a Certificate of Appropriateness for 222 South Geneva Street and discuss nomination deadlines for Historic Ithaca's Excellence in Historic Preservation Awards.
- Public hearing on demolition of a contributing three-bay garage at 214 Wait Avenue, Cornell Heights Historic District
- Public hearing on retroactive approval for site lighting, entrance modifications, and second parking at 105 Westbourne Lane, Cornell Heights Historic District
- Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness extension for 222 South Geneva Street, Henry St. John Historic District
- Nomination deadline July 17, 2026 for Historic Ithaca’s Excellence in Historic Preservation Awards
Planning & Development Board: Project Review Committee
The Project Review Committee will discuss and potentially grant preliminary and final site plan approval for a proposed 8-story, 77-unit mixed-use apartment building at 309 College Avenue, replacing a fire station. They will also receive a presentation on the Southworks Gateway project, which would add two 5-story buildings with 100 mixed-income rental units at 620-640 South Aurora Street. The agenda also lists projects for the full Planning Board meeting on June 23, including an extension request for The Ruby and a commercial renovation at Building 21.
- 309 College Avenue: demolish fire station, build 8-story 55,000 SF building with 77 apartments and 1,500 SF retail; negative declaration issued May 26, 2026.
- Southworks Gateway: two 5-story buildings, 100 mixed-income units, 40 parking spaces, part of larger Southworks PUD; discussion and CEQR update.
- The Ruby (228 Dryden Rd): request for extension of site plan approval due to zoning changes and variance delays; to be considered June 23.
- Building 21 Renovations (620-640 South Aurora): 3-story 43,400 SF commercial building with construction incubator, workforce training, and childcare for 150+ slots; presentation for June 23.
IURA Neighborhood Investment Committee
The Neighborhood Investment Committee will hear presentations on the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) award from the City Grants Manager and on the Seneca Street Garage from the Community Development Director. The committee will also vote on annual selection of officers. Public comments are accepted in person or via Zoom.
- Discussion of Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) award with Emma Reckkio, City Grants Manager, including Round 9 proposal materials
- Discussion of Seneca Street Garage with Nels Bohn, IURA Community Development Director
- Action item: resolution for annual selection of committee officers
- Review of minutes from April 9, 2026 meeting (which approved 2026 HUD Annual Action Plan with HOME $286,155.57 and CDBG $15,084)
- Public comments accepted in writing by 3:00 p.m. day before meeting or verbally via Zoom or in person
City Charter Revision Commission
The Charter Revision Commission is considering a resolution to compile its findings, testimony, and public comments into a comprehensive report with concrete recommendations for revisions to the Ithaca City Charter. Public comments will be accepted until July 1, 2026, and a draft final report is due for approval by July 23, 2026.
- Resolution to prepare a comprehensive report summarizing the Commission's work, including testimony, public comments, and issues examined by working groups.
- Public comment deadline set for July 1, 2026, with comments to be incorporated into the report.
- Draft final report due for Commission approval on or before July 23, 2026.
- The resolution supersedes all prior resolutions of the Commission.
Special Joint Committee - IAWWTP
The committee will review 2026 monthly financials and discuss the 2025 financials and project balances. They will also consider a modified short-term capital improvement plan for 2026/2027, including a headworks swapout and additional CIP work. An update on NYSDEC permit modification and lake monitoring is also on the agenda.
- Discussion of available project amount and draft 2022 audit
- Prioritized repair list for operations
- NYSDEC permit modification update
- Capital Improvement Project Update with modified short-term plan and schedule
- Legal services regarding PMV letter of engagement
Common Council
At this special meeting, the Common Council will consider and possibly authorize an Intermunicipal Wastewater Agreement with five neighboring municipalities to manage wastewater capacity between the Ithaca Area and Cayuga Heights treatment plants. Also on the agenda: a discussion of the Ithaca Energy Code Supplement (Net Zero Standard) and proposed legislation for a Vacant Building Registry. The council will also hold an executive session on a personnel matter.
- Authorization of Intermunicipal Wastewater Agreement (item 2.2) covering six municipalities through 2036
- Discussion of Ithaca Energy Code Supplement - Net Zero Standard with proposed effective date delay to October 2026
- Proposed Legislation: Vacant Building Registry
- Planned Unit Development Application for 139-157 Chestnut Street
- Capital Planning- 2027 Budget Kickoff
Civil Service Commission
The commission will vote on adopting new job descriptions for Community Responder, Director of Organizational Development, and Working Supervisor-Community Responder, and re-title and revise numerous other job descriptions. They will also recommend classifying these new positions in the City Manager's Office. Additional actions include designating a Section 72 physician and establishing eligible lists for clerical positions.
- Adopt job descriptions for Community Responder, Director of Organizational Development, and Working Supervisor-Community Responder
- Re-title Director of Engineering Services to Director of Engineering and Capital Projects
- Revise job descriptions for 21 positions including Assistant City Attorney, Deputy Police Chief, and Deputy Fire Chief
- Classify three new Community Responder positions and one Director of Organizational Development in City Manager's Office
- Establish eligible lists for Account Clerk Typist, Custodian, Library Clerk, Senior Typist, and Typist
Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission
The Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission will discuss the Ithaca Energy Code Supplement (IECS) update, including the proposed net-zero energy standards for new construction. The net-zero requirement will go before Common Council on June 17, 2026, after a delay due to state litigation. The commission will also discuss a rate case, a NYSEG resolution, and a heat study.
- IECS update: net-zero construction mandatory for all new buildings, fossil fuels banned for heating/cooling
- Rate case discussion
- NYSEG resolution discussion
- Heat study presentation
- Public comment period
Common Council
The Ithaca Common Council will vote on a resolution to restructure the Fire Prevention Bureau, promoting personnel to address a backlog of over 300 inspections. The council will also consider bond resolutions totaling $2,551,152 for park and infrastructure projects, approve annual outdoor dining permits, and discuss a resolution urging state investigation into Avangrid's utility practices. Other items include approving HUD funding allocations and authorizing return of tax-foreclosed properties.
- Restructuring Fire Prevention Bureau: promote Assistant Chief to Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal/Emergency Manager, create Assistant Fire Marshal position
- Bond resolutions: Cass Park $851,152, Meadow Street water main $600,000, Meadow Street sewer main $600,000, fire stations $500,000
- Black Diamond Trail Connector funding: accept $275,000 grant from NYS Parks
- Resolution urging investigation into NYSEG and RG&E (Avangrid) financial practices and utility performance
- Conveyance of title to tax-foreclosed properties to former owners upon payment of delinquent taxes
Cable Access Oversight Committee
The Access Oversight Committee will hear reports on municipal approvals of the 2027 budget and the purchase of PEG ASYS equipment. Members will also discuss Tompkins County's cablecasting problem, publicity for PEG ASYS, and streaming Channel 13. The meeting includes public comments and approval of previous minutes.
- Report on municipal approvals of 2027 Budget
- Report on purchase of PEG ASYS equipment
- Report on Tompkins County's cablecasting problem
- Discussion on publicity of PEG ASYS
- Old business: streaming Channel 13
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold public hearings on two area variance requests. The first is from Visum Development for a previously approved but expired variance at 228 Dryden Road, now requiring a new variance for building height in stories due to a zoning code change, along with a renewed lot coverage variance. The second is a request from Camaron Cohen at 107 Fayette Street for a fence up to eight feet tall in the front and side yard. The board will also approve minutes from April 2026.
- Appeal ZONE-26-10: Visum Development seeks variance for 58.8% lot coverage (50% permitted) and five-story height (four permitted) at 228 Dryden Road for a 35-unit rowhouse apartment building; prior variance expired.
- Appeal ZONE-26-12: Camaron Cohen requests a variance for a six-to-eight-foot fence at 107 Fayette Street (TR zone), exceeding the standard height limit.
- No preliminary presentations are scheduled.
Special Committee for Unhoused Services
The Coordinated Unhoused Services Planning Special Committee will meet to review policy background, discuss the Continuum of Care with the Human Services Coalition, and hold a budget discussion. The meeting includes a Chair's Report with an update from the previous meeting and a discussion with the Tompkins County Department of Social Services. No votes or final decisions are listed on this agenda.
- Chair's report summarizing the May 4, 2026 meeting, which covered encampment policies, outreach, and temporary housing options
- Discussion with Human Services Coalition regarding Continuum of Care
- Policy overview with departmental check-ins and a discussion with Tompkins County Department of Social Services
- Budget discussion for unhoused services
- Review of next steps for the committee
IURA Audit Committee
The IURA Audit Committee will consider a resolution to approve the audited 2025 financial statements prepared by Insero & Co. CPAs LLP. The committee will also elect a vice-chairperson and nominate a chairperson for the coming year. Public comments will be accepted at the meeting.
- Approval of audited 2025 IURA financial statements prepared by Insero & Co. CPAs LLP
- Election of committee vice-chairperson and nomination of chairperson
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
The Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency board will vote on resolutions including the 2025 financial audit, supplemental Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for Shared Kitchen Ithaca Inc., and revisions to the Density District Priority Business Loan Program. They will also select committee officers and receive committee chairperson reports.
- Resolution to approve the 2025 IURA financial audit
- Resolution for supplemental CDBG funding under the HUD Entitlement Grant Program for Shared Kitchen Ithaca Inc. (project #10, 2023)
- Resolution to revise the Density District Priority Business Loan Program
- Annual selection of Audit Committee and Economic Development Committee officers
Special Committee on Wrongful Discharge and Labor Protections
The Special Committee on Wrongful Discharge and Labor Protections hears presentations from City Manager Dominick Recckio and City Attorney Victor Kessler on city capacity for labor protections and municipal just cause. The committee also reviews DCWP online materials on NYC fast-food just cause and progressive discipline templates, then deliberates on a potential policy statement. Public comment is invited.
- City Manager Dominick Recckio presentation on city capacity for labor protections and economic development initiatives
- City Attorney Victor Kessler presentation on current attorney office capacity and needs for municipal just cause
- DCWP online materials including NYC fast-food just cause termination and progressive discipline templates
- Committee deliberation on presenters' content and policy statement (20 min each)
- Public hearing and petitions period (30 min)
Planning & Development Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing and decide on a CEQR determination for a proposal to demolish a fire station and build an 8-story mixed-use building with 77 apartments and ground-floor retail at 309 College Avenue. They will also hear a presentation on the Southworks Gateway phase, which calls for two 5-story buildings with 100 mixed-income units at 620-640 South Aurora St. The board will consider a sign package for the 376-unit building at 445 E State/MLK Jr Street and discuss policy issues including a report from the Zoning Advisory Committee on the ongoing zoning rewrite.
- Site plan review for 309 College Avenue: demolish fire station, construct 8-story 55,000 SF building with 77 units and 1,500 SF retail (CEQR determination pending)
- Presentation on Southworks Gateway Phase 1: two 5-story buildings with 100 mixed-income units and 40 parking spaces at 620-640 South Aurora St
- Sign package approval for 445 E State/MLK Jr Street: 376-unit apartment building (previously approved in 2021)
- Board policy discussion on zoning rewrite, affordable housing, and Planned Unit Development, with report from Zoning Advisory Committee
- DPW comments raised concerns about parking ratio (40 spaces for 100 units) and geotechnical issues at Southworks Gateway
City Charter Revision Commission
The Ithaca City Charter Revision Commission is conducting an online hearing to collect testimony from six speakers, including former Board of Public Works commissioners, a city human resources deputy director, and three alderpersons. The agenda outlines opening statements and question-and-answer periods for each witness, along with process and outreach updates. No votes or final decisions are scheduled for this meeting. Written public comments may be submitted online and will be added to the official record.
- Hearing of testimony from David Warden and John Greene, former Board of Public Works commissioners
- Testimony from Jamie Flynn, Deputy Director of Human Resources, and Alderpersons Kayla Matos, David Shapiro, and Robin Trumble
- Structured question periods for each speaker, including topical questions from commissioners and follow-up questions from the floor
- Process update from the commission chair and public outreach updates
- Online submission link for written public comments to be compiled into the record
Common Council
The Common Council will discuss a resolution to restructure the Fire Prevention Bureau, involving three internal promotions and a $40,035 mid-year budget adjustment. The restructuring aims to reduce a backlog of over 300 commercial inspections, improve plan reviews, and create an emergency manager position within the fire department. The council will also consider a negative declaration for the Raw Water Main Improvements Project and receive a flood mitigation and FEMA LOMR status update.
- Restructuring of Fire Prevention Bureau: promote Assistant Chief to Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal/Emergency Manager, Lieutenant to Assistant Chief, and firefighter to Lieutenant; $40,035 salary increase
- Backlog of more than 300 commercial inspections; restructuring expected to clear approximately 100 backlogged inspections in 12 months and generate $8,000–$10,000 in additional annual inspection revenue
- Negative declaration (State Environmental Quality Review) for the Raw Water Main Improvements Project
- Flood mitigation and FEMA Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) status report from Public Works & Operations
- Public comment period at the start of the meeting; written comments accepted
IURA Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee will consider a resolution to award $25,000 in unallocated CDBG funds to Shared Kitchen Ithaca for low- and moderate-income microenterprise support. The committee also plans to finalize amendments to the Priority Business Loan Program after reviewing comments from Downtown Ithaca Alliance, and will select its officers for the year.
- Resolution to approve $25,000 supplemental CDBG grant for Shared Kitchen Ithaca (project #11, 2023), funded from expired INHS and DICC grants
- Final vote on proposed amendments to the Density District Priority Business Loan Program (PB-LF), including possible expansion to Southworks property
- Annual selection of committee officers
- Review of comments received from Downtown Ithaca Alliance on PB-LF amendments
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
The Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposal to install hardscape features, including a natural stone patio, at 108 Schuyler Place within the East Hill Historic District. The commission also will review old business concerning window replacement at 102 Triphammer Road in the Cornell Heights Historic District and consider approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Public hearing on certificate of appropriateness for 108 Schuyler Place: proposed natural stone patio and site enhancements
- Old business: window replacement proposal at 102 Triphammer Road, Cornell Heights Historic District
- Nomination deadline for Historic Ithaca's Excellence in Historic Preservation Awards is July 17, 2026
City Charter Revision Commission
The Ithaca City Charter Revision Commission will consider over 20 resolutions proposing amendments to the city charter. Key proposals include establishing even-year elections for city offices, removing the fluoridation ban from council powers, and incorporating all city departments into the charter. The commission will also discuss standardizing decennial redistricting and revising mayoral powers.
- Establish even-year city elections (Res. 17)
- Remove fluoridation ban language from Council Powers (Res. 23)
- Incorporate all existing departments into the charter (Res. 15)
- Standardize decennial redistricting (Res. 16)
- Enumerate mayoral powers in streamlined format (Res. 6)
Special Joint Committee - IAWWTP
This special joint committee meeting of the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility owners will review monthly financials for 2026, discuss 2025 financial closeout and cash planning, and receive updates on capital improvement projects including a modified short-term plan and PER amendment. The committee will also hear reports on operations, influent pump repairs, NYSDEC permit modification negotiations, and legal services including a new attorney selection.
- Review 2026 monthly financials and discuss 2025 financial closeout and cash planning
- Capital improvement project update: modified short-term plan for 2026/2027, B&L Amendment 2 status, ASI inspection proposal, and long-term plan PER Amendment #1
- NYSDEC permit modification update: NYS communications and lake monitoring data acquisition
- Influent pump repair update from Operations & Engineering
- Discussion of new attorney selection for legal services and NYSEG Environmental Easement
Common Council
The Common Council holds a public hearing on the 2026 Draft Annual Action Plan for HUD Entitlement funds totaling $1,171,351.13, including CDBG and HOME allocations. Council will also discuss the plan and hear public comment. Additionally, there will be updates on the Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Organization, a modification to employee standards of conduct, and summer street projects. A final vote on the HUD plan is scheduled for June 3.
- Public Hearing #2 on 2026 HUD Entitlement Program Draft Annual Action Plan ($715,084 CDBG, $286,155.57 HOME)
- Council discussion and scheduled June 3 vote on the 2026 Annual Action Plan for allocating $1,171,351.13 in HUD funds
- Public comments opposing subdivision of 3-bedroom units at the Henry St. John Residential Building renovation project
- Public comments supporting Project #9 Floral Avenue Pedestrian & Cyclist Safety raised crosswalks
- Update on Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Organization (CWIO) and Summer Street Projects road repair status
Budget Meetings
The Common Council is holding a meeting to receive a presentation from the Acting City Manager and Controller's Office on planning for the 2027 City Budget. No public comment is scheduled, and no decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.
- 2027 Budget Kickoff presentation by Acting City Manager and Controller's Office
Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission
The Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission will discuss a memorandum recommending a pause on Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) activities due to state-level uncertainty, while the DER program continues independently. The meeting also includes updates on Earth Day, the Climate Action Plan, and discussion of the Justice50 initiative and the commission's role.
- Pause of Community Choice Aggregation (CCA/T-GEN) program recommended due to lack of supplier bids and state uncertainty
- Distributed Energy Resources (DER) program to continue independently of CCA
- Justice50 and Commission role discussion under new business
- Earth Day debrief from member Aaron
- Climate Action Plan (CAP) update from sustainability staff
Planning & Development Board: Project Review Committee
The Project Review Committee will consider a CEQR determination for a proposed 8-story, 77-unit mixed-use building at 309 College Avenue, replacing a fire station. They may also approve a sign package for the 376-unit apartment at 445 E State Street. The committee will review the agenda for the May 26 Planning Board meeting, which includes a general overview of the Southworks Gateway project (620-640 South Aurora Street).
- 309 College Avenue: demolish fire station, build 8-story, 55,000 SF building with 77 units and 1,500 SF retail; CEQR determination pending
- 445 E State/MLK Jr Street: potential approval of sign package for existing 376-unit apartment building
- Southworks Gateway: general overview of two 5-story, 50-unit buildings (G1 and G2) in Chain Works PUD; no decision at this meeting
- Draft Full Environmental Assessment Form Part III for 309 College Avenue: finds no significant impacts with mitigation
- Agenda review for the Planning Board's May 26 meeting
City Charter Revision Commission
The Charter Revision Commission Steering Committee, an advisory body, will meet to receive updates from working groups on elections, legislative powers, and BCD, and to consider new proposed amendments. The meeting is purely procedural and advisory, with no public comment segment, though written comments are accepted.
- Working group updates on Elections, Legislative Powers, and BCD
- Consideration of new Steering Committee amendments proposed
- Public outreach updates and review of proposed calendar ahead
Common Council
The Common Council will vote on a consent agenda including home rule requests for a Red Light Camera Demonstration Program and a School Speed Zone Camera Demonstration Program. They will also vote on a Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinance amending the city code, a code of conduct for council members, and a partnership with Cornell to digitize city records with AI-assisted search. A special presentation will provide an informational update on the Seneca Street Garage redevelopment.
- Home Rule Request – Red Light Camera Demonstration Program (authorizing mayor to submit paperwork)
- Home Rule Request – School Speed Zone Camera Demonstration Program
- Renewal of Joint Ithaca-Tompkins SRT Mutual Aid Assistance
- Drug Task Force Mutual Aid and Intermunicipal Cooperation Agreement
- Planned Unit Development (PUD) Ordinance amending Ithaca City Code Chapter 325-12
Civil Service Commission
The Civil Service Commission will vote to approve minutes from its April 1 meeting, establish a one-year eligible list for Information Systems Desktop Specialist (EL#24398020) with 8 candidates, and approve personnel transactions for city employees. An executive session is scheduled.
- Resolution to establish eligible list for Information Systems Desktop Specialist (EL#24398020, 8 candidates, expires 05/06/2027)
- Resolution to approve personnel transactions (details attached)
- Approval of minutes from April 1, 2026 meeting
- Executive session scheduled for personnel and examination matters
Special Committee on Wrongful Discharge and Labor Protections
The Special Committee on Wrongful Discharge and Labor Protections will hear presentations from experts on New York City's just cause ordinance and enforcement of at-will employment regulations. The committee will then deliberate on the content, discuss drafting a policy statement, and outline next steps. Public comment is also scheduled.
- Guest speaker Matan Diner (NYC Controller's Office) on just cause in NYC
- Professor Kate Bronfenbrenner and Dr. Angela Cornell on at-will employment enforcement
- Committee deliberation on presenters' content (20 minutes)
- Discussion of drafting a policy statement (10 minutes)
- Next steps (10 minutes)
Planning & Development Board
The Planning and Development Board will hold a public hearing and site plan review for a proposed 8-story, 77-unit mixed-use building at 309 College Avenue, replacing an existing fire station. The board will also begin a policy discussion on housing development, affordable housing funding, Planned Unit Development, and the ongoing zoning code rewrite.
- Site plan review for 309 College Avenue: demolish fire station, construct 8-story, 55,000 SF building with 77 residential units and 1,500 SF ground-floor retail
- Board policy discussion on alignment of housing development with community needs, affordable housing funding, Planned Unit Development, green space preservation, and sustainable design practices
- Presentation and report from the Zoning Advisory Committee on ongoing zoning rewrite deliberations
Ethics Advisory Board
This is the first meeting of the Ethics Advisory Board focused on organizational orientation. Members will discuss the board's scope of authority, official charge, and intended goals. The board will also review required disclosure statements submitted by City Council members.
- Review of Board scope, authority, and mandate
- Review of City Council disclosure statements
- Establishment of future meeting schedules
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
The board will vote on adopting the 2026 HUD Entitlement Grant Action Plan, which allocates approximately $1 million in CDBG and HOME funds from a competitive process. They will also consider resolutions on the 2025 financial audit, investment guidelines, annual Public Authorities Law reporting, and an amendment to an accounting services contract. Committee reports and city policy priorities will also be discussed.
- Adopt Proposed 2026 HUD Entitlement Grant Action Plan – Resolution
- 2025 IURA Financial Audit – Resolution
- Review of Investment Guidelines – Resolution
- 2025 Public Authorities Law (PAL) Reporting – Resolution
- Amendment to Independent Contractor Agreement for Accounting Services – Resolution
Common Council
The Common Council will consider adopting a comprehensive Code of Conduct for its members, covering ethical standards, decorum, conflicts of interest, and enforcement procedures. The agenda also includes discussion of home rule requests for school speed zones and red light cameras, renewal of mutual aid agreements, and the city manager's monthly report. Public comment is scheduled.
- Resolution adopting a City Council Code of Conduct (item 4.1)
- Home Rule Request for school speed zones (item 5.1)
- Home Rule Request for red light cameras (item 5.2)
- Renewal of Joint Ithaca-Tompkins SRT Mutual Aid Assistance (item 5.3)
- Drug Task Force Mutual Aid and Intermunicipal Cooperation Agreement (item 5.4)
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
The Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposal to convert a carriage barn at 233 South Albany Street into a housing unit, with changes to windows, siding, and architectural detailing. The commission will also consider applications for window replacements at 102 Triphammer Road, a garage door replacement at 103 Spring Lane, and a concept review at 152 Highland Avenue. Administrative matters include a call for nominations for historic preservation awards.
- Public hearing: 233 South Albany Street — carriage barn conversion to housing unit with fenestration, siding, and detailing changes (Henry St. John Historic District)
- Old business: 102 Triphammer Road — proposal to replace windows (Cornell Heights Historic District)
- Old business: 103 Spring Lane — proposal to replace wood garage door with metal (East Hill Historic District)
- New business: 152 Highland Avenue — development concept review (Cornell Heights District)
- Call for nominations: Historic Ithaca’s Excellence in Historic Preservation Awards
IURA Governance Committee
The IURA Governance Committee will consider resolutions on the 2025 financial audit, investment guidelines, and Public Authorities Law reporting. Members will also vote on an amendment to the independent contractor agreement for accounting services. The committee will receive updates on monthly grants, loans, and leases as well as CDBG expenditure timeliness.
- 2025 IURA Financial Audit — Resolution
- Review of Investment Guidelines — Resolution
- 2025 Public Authorities Law (PAL) Reporting — Resolution
- Amendment to Independent Contractor Agreement for Accounting Services — Resolution
- IURA Monthly Grants, Loans, & Leases Report: February 2026 — Report
City Charter Revision Commission
The Charter Revision Commission will hear testimony from the Democratic Commissioner of Elections and Acting City Manager, then consider over a dozen proposed charter amendments. Major proposals include shifting mayoral and council elections to even years (Resolution 11), establishing a decennial redistricting process (Resolution 12), and comprehensively revising the taxation and assessment article (Resolution 13). The consent calendar includes resolutions on supremacy clause, incorporation clause, judge elections, and sick leave provisions.
- Resolution 11: Move mayoral and Common Council elections to even years to match Tompkins County
- Resolution 12: Establish a standardized decennial redistricting process after each census
- Resolution 13: Comprehensive revision of Article IV on Taxation & Assessment
- Resolution 17: Authorize Common Council to set budget priorities and maximum levy increase
- Resolution 10: Retitle Acting Mayor and Alternate Acting Mayor as First and Second Deputy Mayor
Common Council
The Common Council will hold a public hearing on Economic and Community Development and discuss a proposal to amend zoning to allow Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) throughout the city, replacing the current overlay district. The Council will also receive an update on the city's relaunched website and new CivicSend communications platform.
- Public hearing on Economic and Community Development
- Ordinance to eliminate the Planned Unit Development Overlay District and allow PUDs citywide
- Update on relaunched city website and CivicSend newsletter platform (launched April 8, 2026)
- Plans to develop a citywide emergency communications plan
- New plain-language summary of Common Council legislative actions
IURA Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee will review the FY26 HUD funding allocation ($715,084 CDBG, $286,155 HOME) and may adopt a resolution recommending the 2026 HUD Entitlement Program Action Plan. They will also review a draft revision to the Density District Priority Business Loan Program and Common Council-adopted city policy priorities. The meeting includes a staff report and setting of the next meeting date.
- Review of FY26 HUD funding allocation: $715,084 CDBG and $286,155 HOME
- Possible resolution on 2026 HUD Entitlement Program Action Plan
- Draft revision to Density District Priority Business Loan Program
- Review of Common Council-Adopted City Policy Priorities
- Staff report on loan repayments and CDBG spend-down status
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on a continued appeal regarding short-term rental use rights for two properties. Two new appeals will also be considered: a use variance for a medical office at 920 North Cayuga Street and an area variance for an accessory dwelling unit at 409 Columbia Street. The meeting includes an executive session for legal advice and approval of prior minutes.
- Continued appeal (ZONE-25-9) on established short-term rental rights at 224 Floral Avenue and 410 Hudson Street
- New appeal (ZONE-26-8) for a use variance to operate a chiropractor and massage therapy practice at 920 North Cayuga Street
- New appeal (ZONE-26-9) for an area variance to build an accessory dwelling unit 3 feet from the property line at 409 Columbia Street
- Executive session for advice of counsel
- Approval of minutes from March 2026
Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission
The Ithaca Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission will meet to elect a vice chair and review a CCA update. Members will discuss energy policies that apply to renters and plan community data gathering for Earth Day. The agenda also includes standard public comment and procedural items.
- Vice Chair election (requires a vote)
- CCA update presentation
- Discussion on energy policies for renters
- Planning for community data gathering on Earth Day
Planning & Development Board: Project Review Committee
The committee will review a proposal to demolish an existing 1-story fire station at 309 College Avenue and construct an 8-story, 55,000 SF mixed-use building with 77 apartments and 1,500 SF of retail space. The project requires design review under the Collegetown Design Guidelines and environmental review under CEQR and SEQRA as a Type I action. No variances are needed. The committee will also review the agenda for the next meeting on April 24.
- Demolition of existing 1-story fire station at 309 College Avenue
- Construction of an 8-story, 55,000 SF mixed-use building with 77 residential units and 1,500 SF retail
- Type I environmental action requiring CEQR and SEQRA review
- Project located in the MU2 zone and subject to Collegetown Design Guidelines
IURA Neighborhood Investment Committee
The Neighborhood Investment Committee will review and discuss applications for the 2026 HUD Annual Action Plan, focusing on affordable housing and public facilities. No voting or final decisions are expected; the committee will make recommendations to the full IURA board. Public comment is accepted in writing or verbally at the meeting.
- Review of 2026 HUD Annual Action Plan applications for Affordable Housing
- Review of 2026 HUD Annual Action Plan applications for Public Facilities
- Approval of minutes from March 5 and March 12, 2026 AAP review meetings
- Public comment period for community input
City Charter Revision Commission
The Charter Revision Commission Steering Committee, an advisory body, will discuss working group updates and consider several proposed amendments to the City Charter. Key changes include adding a supremacy clause and local powers clause, revising the incorporation clause, establishing a Deputy and Alternate Deputy Mayor, and a comprehensive update of Article IV. The committee will also plan public outreach. No votes will be taken; recommendations will go to the full commission.
- Proposal to add a Supremacy Clause and Local Powers Clause to Article I
- Establishment of a Deputy Mayor and Alternate Deputy Mayor positions
- Comprehensive update of Article IV of the charter
- Update of the Notice of Defect provision in Article VII
- Move sick leave provisions from the charter to the city code
Special Joint Committee - IAWWTP
The Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility Special Joint Committee will meet on April 8, 2026, to review financials, operations, and engineering reports. Key topics include a NYSDEC permit modification update, a capital improvement project update for 2026–2027, and procurement of legal services. The committee will also consider approval of prior meeting minutes and receive miscellaneous updates on foundational agreements, an interceptor study, and 2027 budget preparation.
- Update on NYSDEC permit modification including state communications and lake monitoring
- Discussion of modified short-term capital plan (2026–2027) with finances and schedule
- Review of 2026 monthly financials and 2025 mostly complete financials with cash planning
- Legal services procurement process for the facility
- Progress update on foundational agreements approval and Town of Ithaca Interceptor study
Common Council
The Common Council will vote on a consent agenda including outdoor dining permits, water meter underpayment caps ($1,500 residential, $10,000 commercial), and multiple capital projects. Separate items include a $75,000 tactical team grant for police equipment, a timeline extension for a legal opinion on wrongful discharge, and a proposal to designate a city cryptid. Public comment will precede all votes.
- Extension of water meter underpayment caps: $1,500 residential, $10,000 commercial
- Hancock Street Bridge over Cascadilla Creek replacement project – approval to establish capital project
- East State Street Rehabilitation Project and Spencer Road Improvement Project – approval to establish capital projects
- Tactical Team Grant: $75,000 for police equipment and training
- Designation of 'Old Greeny' as official cryptid of the City of Ithaca
Cable Access Oversight Committee
The Cable Access Oversight Committee will consider 2027 budget recommendations and a resolution for the equipment budget. They will also review the PEGASYS Policies and Procedures Manual and hear a report on Tompkins County's cablecasting problems.
- 2027 Budget Recommendations from the Access Studio Coordinator
- 2027 Equipment Budget Resolution
- Review of PEGASYS Policies and Procedures Manual and charter comments
- Report on Tompkins County's cablecasting problems
- Discussion of Publicity of PEGASYS