Cortland County public meetings in 2022

Legislature

The Cortland County Legislature is deciding on several contractor awards for courthouse renovations and various board appointments. The body is also conducting a public hearing on a local law regarding the sale and use of dangerous substances.

• Public hearing on Local Law 'M' of 2022 prohibiting the sale and use of certain mislabeled or unlabeled dangerous substances
• Courthouse entryway contracts: Raymond E. Kelley, Inc. ($1,125,470), Upstate Companies I, LLC ($367,000), and AN Curtiss Company, Inc. ($144,979)
• Grant of $2,396,000 from the Dormitory Authority of New York State for courthouse improvements
• Two-year waste collection agreement with PaintCare New York, LLC for the Recycling Center
• Two-year engineering services contract extension with Barton & Loguidice, D.P.C.

Building & Grounds Committee

The Buildings & Grounds Committee is reviewing the award of bids for general, electrical, and HVAC contracting to renovate the courthouse entryway and replace its steps. The project is supported by a $2,396,000 grant from the Dormitory Authority of New York State.

• General Contractor bid for Raymond E. Kelley, Inc. in the amount of $1,125,470
• Electrical Contractor bid for Upstate Companies I, LLC in the amount of $367,000
• HVAC Contractor bid for AN Curtiss Company, Inc. (d/b/a Wilkins Mechanical) in the amount of $144,979
• Grant of $2,396,000 from the Dormitory Authority of New York State for courthouse improvements

The Buildings & Grounds Committee unanimously approved bids for general, electrical, and HVAC contracting to renovate the Cortland County Courthouse entryway. The project will be funded by a $2,396,000 grant from the Dormitory Authority of New York State.

• Approved $1,125,470 contract for Raymond E. Kelley, Inc. as General Contractor (Unanimous)
• Approved $367,000 contract for Upstate Companies I, LLC for electrical services (Unanimous)
• Approved $144,979 contract for AN Curtiss Company, Inc. d/b/a Wilkins Mechanical for HVAC services (Unanimous)
• Approved amendment to 2023 Capital Project Fund budget to include $2,396,000 in state aid (Unanimous)

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee is reviewing a five-year lease for 911 telephone system upgrades and an agreement for medication-assisted treatment at the county jail. The body will also discuss a resolution regarding Second Amendment rights.

• Proposed five-year lease with Motorola Solutions for Vesta 911 system refresh/upgrade at $130,925 annually
• Proposed agreement with Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services (CARS) for jail MAT program at $75 per week per individual
• Discussion of Resolution in Opposition of Restrictions on Second Amendment Rights
• Review of monthly reports from Public Defender, Probation, District Attorney, and DOERC

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee is discussing a request for state legislation to allow the county to impose a tax on real property transfers. The body is also reviewing several agreements and the levying of unpaid water and sewer charges across multiple towns.

• Proposed real property transfer tax of $1.00 for every $500 of consideration exceeding $500
• $5,000 agreement with SDG, Inc. for Image Mate Online software support
• Levying of unpaid water charges for Towns of Virgil, Scott, Cortlandville, Cincinnatus, and Harford
• Levying of unpaid sewer charges for Towns of Virgil, Cortlandville, and Cuyler
• Fixing the date for annexing tax warrants to town rolls as December 31, 2022

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The Agriculture, Economic Development, Planning & Environment Committee is meeting to appoint a new Director of Planning and several board members. The body is also proposing to cancel a previous resolution to purchase four transit buses due to mechanical issues.

• Rescind Resolution No. 234-22 regarding the purchase of four transit buses from Oneida County
• Appointment of a new Director of Planning
• Appointment of Linda Jones, Beau Harbin, and James Murphy to the Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Directors
• Approval of amended bylaws for the Cortland County Transportation Advisory Committee
• Appointment of 11 representatives and 4 ex-officio members to the Transportation Advisory Committee

The committee voted to cancel the purchase of four transit buses from Oneida County due to mechanical issues. Members also approved updated bylaws and new appointments for the Transportation Advisory Committee and the Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Directors.

• Rescinded Resolution No. 234-22 to purchase four transit buses from Oneida County (Unanimous)
• Approved amended bylaws for the Cortland County Transportation Advisory Committee (Unanimous)
• Appointed members to the Transportation Advisory Committee for terms beginning Jan 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Appointed Linda Jones, Beau Harbin, and James Murphy to the Soil and Water Conservation District Board (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of a new Director of Planning (Unanimous)
• Appointed the County Planning Director to the Southern Tier East Regional Planning Development Board (Unanimous)
• Appointed Peter Knapp and the Director of Planning to the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board (Unanimous)
• Appointed the County Planning Department Director to the Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board (Unanimous)

Highway Committee

The Highway Committee is considering a two-year extension for professional engineering services and a budget amendment for the McGraw Marathon Road Bridge replacement. The body is also proposing an increase to the airport fuel budget to account for rising prices.

• Proposed two-year extension of engineering services agreement with Barton & Loguidice, D.P.C. through December 31, 2024
• Proposed $22,000 budget shift from construction to professional services for the McGraw Marathon Road Bridge (BIN 3312050) replacement
• Proposed $40,000 increase to the 2022 Airport fuel budget and corresponding fuel sales revenues
• Discussion of Cortland County Landfill and Recycling Center policies

The committee approved a two-year contract extension for professional engineering services and authorized a budget amendment for the McGraw Marathon Road Bridge replacement. Additionally, the committee increased the airport fuel budget and approved a waste collection agreement with PaintCare New York, LLC.

• Extended engineering services agreement with Barton & Loguidice through Dec 31, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved $22,000 budget shift from construction to professional services for McGraw Marathon Road Bridge (Unanimous)
• Increased 2022 Airport fuel budget and fuel sales revenues by $40,000 (Unanimous)
• Authorized two-year waste collection agreement with PaintCare New York, LLC starting Jan 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Landfill Permit with Policies (Unanimous)
• Approved Nov 1, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Legislature

The County Legislature is reviewing several local laws, including a new payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreement for commercial solar energy systems. The body is also deciding on a contract for courthouse HVAC analysis and changes to mental health department staffing.

• Agreement with Taitem Engineering, PC for Courthouse HVAC analysis and design not to exceed $20,000
• Local Law 'I' of 2022 establishing a PILOT agreement for Commercial Solar Energy Systems
• Abolishing five Mental Health Program Aide/Day Treatment positions to create five Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist positions
• Negative declaration for the Cortland County Landfill Gas Collection and Control System (GCCS) environmental impact
• Public hearings on laws regarding the Department of Planning, officer salaries, and prohibited dangerous substances

The Legislature adopted the 2023 County Budget and approved several local laws regarding officer salaries and department planning. They also authorized various grants for tourism and public health services.

• Adopted 2023 County Budget with $38.5M real property tax levy (15-1)
• Approved $20,000 agreement with Taitem Engineering for Courthouse HVAC design (Unanimous)
• Adopted Local Law 9 of 2022 amending Planning Director residency requirements (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Tourism Marketing Grants for 16 agencies (Unanimous)
• Adopted Local Law K to increase salaries for elected and appointed officers (Unanimous)
• Adopted Local Law L increasing Election Commissioners' salary to $34,552.37 (15-1)
• Authorized $100,000 for youth behavioral health treatment in schools (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of four transit buses from Oneida County for $5,700 (Unanimous)

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee will review monthly reports from the District Attorney, Probation, DOERC, and Coroner. Members will discuss a local law regarding synthetic drugs, bail reform, and an update on the Cortland City Court - Hope Court.

• Synthetic Drugs Local Law discussion
• Bail Reform discussion
• Cortland City Court - Hope Court update from Judge Burns
• District Attorney Monthly Statistics
• Coroner Death Report

The committee approved Local Law No. 'M' of 2022, which bans the sale, possession, and use of mislabeled dangerous substances and synthetic drugs. The committee also appointed members to the Assigned Counsel Plan Committee and authorized a resolution opposing Second Amendment restrictions.

• Approved Local Law No. 'M' of 2022 prohibiting synthetic drugs (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of members to Assigned Counsel Plan Committee (Unanimous)
• Approved authorization to draft resolution opposing Second Amendment restrictions (4-3)
• Approved minutes from October 18, 2022 meeting (Unanimous)

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee is meeting to adopt the 2023 County Budget and review several local laws regarding officer salaries. The body is also considering the distribution of tourism grants and mortgage tax disbursements to local municipalities.

• Proposed 2023 County Budget with a Real Property Tax Levy of $38,500,000.00
• Tourism Marketing Grants including $119,000 for Cortland Regional Sports Council and $33,000 for Center for the Arts of Homer
• Mortgage Tax disbursements totaling $512,976.88 to various towns and villages
• Agreement with Taitem Engineering, PC not to exceed $20,000 for Courthouse HVAC analysis
• Local Law 'L' to increase Election Commissioner annual salary from $33,792.05 to $34,552.37

The Finance and Administration Committee approved the 2023 County Budget and authorized several grants and contracts. Key actions included funding for tourism marketing and the appropriation of $183,920 for Tompkins Cortland Community College. The committee also approved new health insurance rates and salary increases for specific county officers.

• Adopted 2023 County Budget with $38.5M real property tax levy (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Tourism Marketing Grants for 16 agencies (Unanimous)
• Approved $183,920 for Tompkins Cortland Community College (Unanimous)
• Approved $512,976.88 mortgage tax disbursement to tax districts (Unanimous)
• Authorized $20,000 agreement with Taitem Engineering for Courthouse HVAC design (Unanimous)
• Adopted Local Law 'K' to increase salaries for specific elected and appointed officers (Unanimous)
• Adopted Local Law 'L' increasing Election Commissioners' salary to $34,552.37 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 health insurance premium increases of 3.5% for Traditional and PPO plans (Unanimous)

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The Committee on Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment is reviewing a federal grant application for public transportation services and equipment. The body is also considering the appointment of a new Transportation Title VI Officer and an amendment to the local law creating the Department of Planning.

• Federal Section 5311 Consolidated Grant Application FY 2021-2023 for public mass transportation
• Appointment of Melissa Potter as Transportation Title VI Officer
• Local Law 'H' of 2022 to amend the law creating the Department of Planning
• Budget reviews for Cornell Cooperative Extension, Soil & Water Conservation District, and Planning Department
• Lime Hollow ARP Project update

The committee approved a grant application for public mass transportation and appointed a new Transportation Title VI Officer. They also approved a local law regarding the Department of Planning and recommended full funding for the Soil & Water Conservation District in the 2023 budget.

• Approved Federal Section 5311 Consolidated Grant Application FY 2021-2023 (Unanimous)
• Appointed Melissa Potter as Transportation Title VI Officer (Unanimous)
• Approved Local Law 'H' of 2022 to amend the Department of Planning (Unanimous)
• Recommended full funding for Soil & Water Conservation District in tentative 2023 budget (Unanimous)
• Approved Oct 13, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on Deputy Director of Planning

Government Operations Committee

The Government Operations Committee is reviewing local laws to adjust officer salaries and remove residency requirements for the Director of Planning. The body is also setting 2023 health insurance premium rates and authorizing mortgage tax disbursements to local municipalities.

• Local Law 'H': Removes residency requirement for the Director of Planning position
• Local Law 'K': Increases salaries for elected and appointed officers for fiscal year 2023
• Local Law 'L': Increases Election Commissioner annual salary from $33,792.05 to $34,552.37
• Health Insurance: 3.5% increase for Traditional and PPO plans effective January 1, 2023
• Mortgage Tax: Disbursement of $512,976.88 to various towns and villages

The committee approved salary increases for legislators and management employees effective January 1, 2024. It also adopted updated Rules of Order for the County Legislature and approved the appointment of Michelle S. Brown as Republican Election Commissioner.

• Approved increase in annual legislative salary to $12,000 per legislator, $21,000 for the Chair, and $12,500 for Leaders (4-3)
• Approved amendments to the Employment Policy Manual for Department Heads and Management effective January 1, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Michelle S. Brown as Republican Election Commissioner for term Jan 1, 2024 to Dec 31, 2027 (unanimous)
• Adopted updated Rules of Order for the Cortland County Legislature effective January 1, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved semi-annual mortgage tax distribution of $321,060.92 to tax districts (unanimous)
• Approved Local Law 8 of 2023 creating residency requirement exceptions for Public Defender and related roles (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 health insurance premium equivalent rates, including a 10.4% increase for Traditional and PPO plans (6-1)

Health & Human Services Committee

The committee will meet to discuss budget recommendations and amendments. Members will also review monthly reports from the Health Department and Social Services.

• Budget recommendations and amendments discussion
• Cortland County Health Department monthly report
• Department of Social Services 2022 third quarter case load statistics

The committee approved the abolition of several mental health aide and specialist positions to create five Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist roles. It also authorized $100,000 from the unappropriated fund balance for youth behavioral health treatment in schools. Other actions included approving various 2023 service agreements and a lease renewal for the Cortland Works Career Center.

• Approved abolishing 4 Mental Health Program Aide and 1 Continuing Day Treatment Specialist positions to create 5 Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist positions (Unanimous)
• Approved $100,000 allocation for youth behavioral health treatment support in schools (Unanimous)
• Approved 24-month lease renewal for 91-101 Main Street LLC at $122,844 for the first year (Unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Pre-K budget amendment to increase revenue and expenditures by $500,000 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 agreements for Day Care Services, Foster Care and Detention, and various agency services (Unanimous)
• Approved agreement with Josie's Journey, Inc. for canine comfort services at $50 per hour (Unanimous)
• Approved billboard advertising agreement with Park Outdoor Advertising of New York not to exceed $5,000 (Unanimous)
• Denied motion to return Deputy Directors for the Area Agency on Aging to Grade 10 (3-4)

Highway Committee

The committee is meeting to review a resolution regarding the Cortland County Landfill GCCS project. The proposed resolution determines that the project will not have a significant adverse impact on the environment.

• Resolution for negative declaration on environmental impact for Cortland County Landfill GCCS in the Towns of Cortlandville, Homer, and Solon
• Highway Department Activities Report-November
• Solid Waste Activities Report-November
• Landfill Discussion

The committee approved a negative declaration stating the Cortland County Landfill Gas Collection and Control System will not have a significant adverse impact on the environment. The board also approved the minutes from the October 11, 2022, meeting.

• Approved determination that Landfill GCCS will not have significant adverse environmental impact (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes from October 11, 2022 meeting (Unanimous)

Building & Grounds Committee

The Buildings & Grounds Committee is meeting to authorize an engineering agreement for the Cortland County Courthouse HVAC system. The body will also receive updates on several county property projects and monthly reports.

• Proposed agreement with Taitem Engineering, PC for Courthouse HVAC analysis and design not to exceed $20,000
• Application for NYSERDA rebates for Courthouse clean heat systems
• Update on 111 Port Watson Street
• Update on 22 West Court Street - DOERC
• Updates on County Office Building elevator and third floor renovations/HVAC

The Buildings & Grounds Committee approved a contract with Taitem Engineering, PC to analyze and design an environmentally friendly HVAC system for the Cortland County Courthouse. The committee also approved the minutes from the October 11, 2022, meeting.

• Approved agreement with Taitem Engineering, PC for Courthouse HVAC analysis and design not to exceed $20,000 (Unanimous)
• Authorized County Administrator to apply for NYSERDA rebates for Courthouse HVAC (Unanimous)
• Approved October 11, 2022, committee meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Legislature

The Legislature will hold public hearings on a PILOT agreement and a tax levy limit override. The body is also deciding on several Highway Department equipment purchases and various social service contracts for 2023.

• Proposed absolution of $381,706.10 in tipping fees for the APEX project
• Budget amendment for $170,000 to purchase a Morbark wood chipper ($59,922.58) and Kubota skid-steer ($110,000.00)
• Contract award to MXI Environmental Services LLC for $11,000.00 for hazardous waste disposal
• Budget increase of $200,000 for Highway Department fuel
• Public hearings for Local Law 'I' (PILOT Agreement) and Local Law 'J' (Tax Levy Limit Override)

The County Legislature approved a local law allowing the 2023 budget to exceed the real property tax levy limit if necessary. Other key actions included approving various social service contracts, highway equipment purchases, and a sales tax distribution of $9,867,650.37.

• Approved Local Law 8 of 2022 to override the 2023 tax levy limit (unanimous)
• Absolved Industrial Development Agency of $381,706.10 in tipping fees for APEX Project (11-6)
• Approved $170,000 for a wood chipper and Kubota skid-steer (unanimous)
• Authorized $100,000 for expanded youth behavioral health treatment in schools (unanimous)
• Approved $5,700 purchase of four transit buses from Oneida County (unanimous)
• Authorized $150,522 grant from NYS Office of Indigent Legal Services for paralegal services (unanimous)
• Approved $15,600 monthly rate for RN services at the County Jail (unanimous)
• Distributed $9,867,650.37 in third quarter 2022 sales tax (15-2)

Legislature

The Cortland County Legislature is holding a public hearing to discuss the 2023 Tentative Cortland County Budget.

• Public hearing for the 2023 Tentative Cortland County Budget

The Cortland County Legislature held a public hearing on the 2023 tentative budget and received public comments. The hearing was closed unanimously, and no decisions were made on the budget itself.

• Closed public hearing on 2023 tentative budget (unanimous)

Health & Human Services Committee

The committee is reviewing the abolition of five mental health positions to create five Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist roles. The body is also authorizing various 2023 service agreements for daycare, foster care, and senior services, alongside a budget amendment for Pre-K programs.

• Abolish 4 Mental Health Program Aide and 1 Continuing Day Treatment Specialist positions to create 5 Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist positions
• Renew lease for Cortland Works Career Center at 91-101 Main Street for $122,844
• Amend 2022 Pre-K budget with $500,000 increase in revenue and expenditures for tuition and transportation
• Authorize $100,000 from unappropriated fund balance for youth behavioral health treatment support in schools
• Contract with Josie's Journey, Inc. for canine comfort services at $50 per hour

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee is reviewing resolutions to adjust medical staffing costs for the county jail and accept state funding for the Public Defender's Office. The body is also considering a formal resolution opposing New York State's Concealed Carry Improvement Act.

• Proposed amendment to increase monthly RN rate at Cortland County Jail from $11,109 to $15,600
• Acceptance of $150,522 grant from NYS Office of Indigent Legal Services for paralegal services (2023-2025)
• Resolution opposing the Concealed Carry Improvement Act (S.51001/A.41001)
• Discussion of Bath Salts Local Law
• Discussion of Bail Reform

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee is reviewing a local law to allow the county to exceed the property tax cap for the 2023 fiscal year. The body is also processing third-quarter sales tax distributions and various department budget amendments.

• Local Law 'J' of 2022 to override the fiscal year 2023 tax levy limit
• Distribution of $9,867,650.37 in third quarter 2022 sales tax
• Purchase of four transit buses from Oneida County for $5,700
• Highway Department equipment purchases: Morbark wood chipper ($59,922.58) and Kubota Skid-Steer ($110,000)
• Hazardous waste disposal contract awarded to MXI Environmental Services LLC for $11,000

Government Operations Committee

The Government Operations Committee is considering Local Law "H" of 2022. This law proposes to remove the residency requirement for the Director of Planning position to expand the pool of qualified applicants.

• Local Law "H" of 2022 to amend Local Law 3 of 1975 regarding the Department of Planning
• October 2022 Vacancy Report
• Weights and Measures Monthly Report
• September 2022 County Clerk Report
• Departmental Budget Reviews

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The Agriculture, Planning and Environmental Committee is reviewing a new local law to establish payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreements for commercial solar energy. The body is also considering the purchase of transit buses and amendments to the Department of Planning's local law.

• Local Law 'I' of 2022: Establishing a PILOT Agreement for Commercial Solar Energy Systems
• Purchase of four transit buses from Oneida County for $5,700
• Local Law 'H' of 2022: Amending the local law creating the Department of Planning
• Resolution declaring conveyance of 416 West Hill Road (Route 90) consistent with conservation easement
• Discussion of Planning Department proposed 2023 organizational chart and budget

Highway Committee

The Highway Committee is reviewing several budget amendments and contracts, including a fuel cost increase and the purchase of new machinery. The body is also considering lease agreements for winter equipment storage and a hazardous waste disposal contract.

• Proposed $200,000 increase to the 2022 Road Machinery fuel budget
• Purchase of a Morbark Eager Beaver 1415 Wood Chipper for $59,922.58 and a Kubota Skid-Steer for $110,000.00
• Lease agreement with Cortland County Agricultural Corporation for $2,650.00 for winter storage
• Sublease of fairgrounds building space to Suit-Kote Corporation for $1,325.00
• Contract award to MXI Environmental Services LLC for $11,000.00 for household hazardous waste disposal

Health & Human Services Committee

The committee is deciding on several personnel changes in the Mental Health Department and renewing a lease for the Cortland Works Career Center. Members will also discuss 2023 departmental budget reviews and a funding request for Family Counseling Services.

• Lease renewal for 91-101 Main Street LLC for $122,844 from Dec 1, 2022, to Nov 30, 2024
• 2022 Pre-K Budget amendment increasing revenue and expenditures by $500,000
• Abolishment of 4 Mental Health Program Aide and 1 Day Treatment Specialist positions to create 5 Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist positions
• Contract with Josie's Journey, Inc. for canine comfort services at $50 per hour
• Billboard advertising contract with Park Outdoor Advertising of New York not to exceed $5,000

Building & Grounds Committee

The committee will review monthly IT and project reports. Members are scheduled to discuss updates regarding 22 West Court Street and Grant Street.

• Project update for 22 West Court Street
• Grant Street update
• IT Monthly Report

Legislature

The Cortland County Legislature is meeting to receive the 2023 Tentative Budget. The body is deciding on a date for a required public hearing regarding the budget.

• Receive and File 2023 Tentative Budget
• Resolution to set 2023 Tentative Budget public hearing for October 27, 2022, at 6:00 p.m.
• Charter County Presentation by NYSAC

Legislature

The Cortland County Legislature is meeting to vote on several infrastructure projects, including airport and park improvements. The body is also reviewing health plan consulting bids and personnel changes within the Area Agency on Aging.

• Contract with McFarland Johnson for 100LL Avgas Fuel Farm Relocation at Cortland County Airport totaling $1,239,905.00
• Agreement with KONE, Inc. for Cortland County Courthouse elevator replacement to be budgeted in 2023
• Award of health plan benefit consulting services to Assured Partners
• Authorization for a new dock at Dwyer Memorial Park not to exceed $100,000
• Budget increase of $80,000 for Solid Waste Department fuel costs

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee is reviewing agreements for inmate medical services and a radio tower rental. The body is also considering a state grant for emergency management and discussing bail reform and local laws.

• Agreement with K&A Radiologic Technology Services for jail X-rays ($130 first exam), Ultrasounds ($170), and Holter monitoring ($150)
• Five-year renewal of Cortlandville Tower rental agreement with New York State Police
• Acceptance of $23,603 Emergency Management Performance Grant from NYS DHSES
• Discussion on a Resolution to Oppose Bail Reform
• Discussion on Bath Salts Local Law

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee is reviewing several budget amendments, grant acceptances, and contracts. Key items include funding for airport infrastructure, courthouse maintenance, and various social service positions.

• Contract with McFarland Johnson for 100LL AvGas Fuel Farm Relocation at Cortland County Airport totaling $1,239,905
• Agreement with KONE, Inc. for the replacement of the Cortland County Courthouse elevator
• Grant of $133,813.26 from NYS Office of Victim Services for the Child Advocacy Center
• Budget increase of $80,000 for Solid Waste Department fuel costs
• Creation of a temporary GIS Specialist Trainee position in the Planning Department

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The Agricultural, Planning & Environmental Committee is meeting to consider budget amendments for the Planning Department. Proposed actions include creating a temporary staff position and increasing funding for education and training.

• Creation of one full-time temporary GIS Specialist Trainee position ($24.9165-31.3811/hr) with a total budget increase of $16,399.87
• Budget increase of $1,600.00 for Planning Department Education and Training
• Discussion of Chace Conservation Easement
• Discussion of future contributions to the Cortland County Junior Fair
• Review of Post Census Group Quarters

Government Operations Committee

The Government Operations Committee is meeting to award a contract for health benefit plan consulting services. The body will also review monthly reports and discuss a smoking and cannabis use policy.

• Award of health benefit plan consulting bid to Assured Partners for the period of January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2027
• Discussion of Smoking & Cannabis Use Policy
• Review of August County Clerk, County Attorney, and Weights and Measures reports
• Review of September 2022 Vacancy Report and Clerk of the Legislature FOIL Report

Highway Committee

The committee is reviewing resolutions for airport infrastructure and landfill gas systems. Proposed actions include approving engineering contracts and transferring funds to cover rising fuel costs.

• Proposed $262,071 contract with McFarland Johnson for 100LL Avgas Fuel Farm Relocation (total project cost $1,239,905)
• Proposed selection of McFarland Johnson, Inc. as Airport Engineering Consultant for a five-year term (2022-2027)
• Proposed $80,000 transfer from Solid Waste Fund Balance to Fuel account due to increasing prices
• Resolution to establish Cortland County Legislature as Lead Agency for Landfill Gas Collection and Control System
• Discussion items regarding APEX Tipping Fees and the dock at Dwyer Memorial Park

Health & Human Services Committee

The committee is reviewing several resolutions to abolish and create positions within the Area Agency on Aging, Department of Social Services, and Mental Health Department. The body is also considering the acceptance of state grant funds for youth sports and the Child Advocacy Center.

• Abolish Nutrition Program Manager and Assistant Director of Area Agency on Aging to create two Deputy Director positions
• Accept $7,159 in Sports Opportunity Funding from the NYS Office of Children and Family Services for the Youth Bureau
• Authorize contracts for Qualified Individual Assessment Services for children in foster care
• Accept $133,813.26 in grant funds from the NYS Office of Victim Services for the Child Advocacy Center
• Abolish five Mental Health Program Aide/Day Treatment positions to create five Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist positions

Building & Grounds Committee

The Buildings & Grounds Committee is reviewing a resolution to replace the elevator at the Cortland County Courthouse. The body will also discuss updates regarding the Senior Center Hub, Grant Street, and asbestos/lead at 111 Port Watson.

• Proposed agreement with KONE, Inc. for courthouse elevator replacement not to exceed $250,000
• Discussion on Senior Center Hub update
• Discussion on Grant Street
• Asbestos/Lead update for 111 Port Watson
• DOERC discussion for 22 West Court Street

Legislature

The Cortland County Legislature is meeting to decide on several personnel appointments, budget amendments for social and health services, and infrastructure contracts. Key items include the creation of new roles in the Public Defender and Sheriff's offices and a memorandum to move the City Court into the County Courthouse.

• Contract with Eastcom Utility Contractors, Inc. for fiber optic installation at 111 Port Watson Street not to exceed $34,811.00
• Creation of a full-time Assistant Public Defender position with a salary range of $72,247 - $96,160/yr
• Agreement for Jail Physician services with Marshall M. Trabout, M.D. not to exceed $7,238 per month
• Acceptance of $368,241 in State Medicaid Rural Transit Assistance funding for First Transit, Inc.
• Budget amendment to increase Department of Social Services 'Other Compensation & Raises' by $100,000

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee is deciding on medical service agreements for the Cortland County Jail and the creation of two new staff positions. The body will also review monthly reports from probation, the coroner, and the District Attorney.

• Agreement with K&A Radiologic Technology Services for jail x-rays, ultrasounds, and EKGs ($130-$170 per exam)
• Appointment of Marshall M. Trabout, M.D. as Jail Physician (up to $7,238/month) and Registered Nurse services (up to $11,109/month)
• Creation of one full-time Keyboard Specialist position for the Sheriff's Office ($16.0670 - $21.3545/hr)
• Creation of one full-time Assistant Public Defender position funded by grant ($72,247 - $96,160/yr)
• Discussion on Jail Bail Reform

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee is deciding on tourism agency designations, the distribution of second quarter 2022 sales tax, and several budget amendments. The body is also reviewing a new contract with the New York State Nurse's Association.

• Contract with Cortland County Convention and Visitors Bureau for $551,934.57
• Distribution of $9,371,598.58 in second quarter 2022 sales tax to municipalities
• Payment of $368,241 to First Transit, Inc. for Rural Transit Assistance
• Creation of one full-time Keyboard Specialist position for the Sheriff's Office
• Acceptance of $141,026 in NYS Rental Supplement Program funds for the Department of Social Services

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The committee is reviewing a resolution to amend the 2022 budget to accept and distribute state funding for rural transit assistance. This funding is intended to address revenue losses resulting from the transition to a private Medicaid brokerage system.

• Proposed budget amendment to accept $368,241 from NYS Department of Health for Rural Transit Assistance
• Proposed payment of $368,241 to public transportation provider First Transit, Inc.
• Discussion of Holiday Hunt Opt Out
• Discussion of Post Census Group Quarters Review

Government Operations Committee

The Government Operations Committee is reviewing the reappointment of Laurie Leonard as Personnel Officer. The body is also considering amendments to county policies regarding tobacco use, vehicle use, and service animals, as well as a new contract with the New York State Nurse's Association.

• Reappointment of Laurie Leonard as Personnel Officer for a term ending November 17, 2028
• Amendments to Smoking and Tobacco Use Policy effective October 1, 2022
• Amendments to Driver and Vehicle Use Policy effective August 26, 2022
• Amendments to Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals Policy effective August 26, 2022
• Contract with New York State Nurse's Association effective July 1, 2022 to December 31, 2026

Health & Human Services Committee

The committee is deciding on budget amendments for the Department of Social Services and the Health Department. They are also reviewing contracts for tuberculosis control and emergency medical planning.

• Budget shift of $100,000 from Health Insurance to Other Compensation and Raises for the Department of Social Services
• Acceptance of $141,026 in NYS Rental Supplement Program funds for homelessness and housing loss
• Contract with Douglas D. MacQueen, MD for tuberculosis control at $550 per month
• Grant amendment with Health Research, Inc. increasing COVID-19 ELC funding by $100,000
• Approval of a new contract with the New York State Nurse's Association effective July 1, 2022 to December 31, 2026

Building & Grounds Committee

The Buildings & Grounds Committee is reviewing a contract for fiber optic infrastructure and a memorandum of understanding to move the Cortland City Court into the County Courthouse. The body will also discuss courthouse step rehabilitation and the use of a dining area for employee breaks.

• Proposed contract with Eastcom Utility Contractors, Inc. for fiber optic installation at 111 Port Watson Street not to exceed $34,811.00
• Proposed Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Cortland to move City Court into the Cortland County Courthouse
• Approval for use of County Office Building dining area as a new employee break area
• Update from Bell & Spina regarding Courthouse Steps Rehabilitation

Legislature

The Legislature is holding public hearings on abolishing the elected County Treasurer office and the 2022-2023 Tompkins Cortland Community College operating budget. Members are also discussing a local law to expand the use of videoconferencing for open meetings and extending the timeline for the Redistricting Commission.

• Public hearing on Local Law 'F' to abolish the elected office of County Treasurer
• Proposed agreement with KONE, Inc. for elevator repairs at the County Office Building not to exceed $100,000
• Creation of a Road Machinery Capital Reserve Fund with an initial deposit of $839,676
• Agreement with Opus Inspection for vehicle inspection services estimated not to exceed $1,695
• Reappointment of Charles Sudbrink as Superintendent of Highways for a term ending September 30, 2026

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee is considering a local law to eliminate the elected Office of County Treasurer and transfer duties to the Director of Finance. The body is also reviewing funding for economic development and the community college operating budget.

• Proposed Local Law 'F' of 2022 to abolish the elected Office of County Treasurer via referendum
• Funding for Cortland County Business Development Corporation from 2023-2026 totaling $2,121,811
• Adoption of 2022-2023 Tompkins Cortland Community College Operating Budget of $33,665,979
• Contract with KONE, Inc. for elevator repairs at Cortland County Office Building not to exceed $100,000
• Creation of a Road Machinery Capital Reserve Fund with an initial deposit of $839,676

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee is reviewing budget amendments for the Sheriff's Office and staffing changes for the District Attorney's Office. The body is also considering the acceptance of two grants from the NYS Office of Indigent Legal Services for the Public Defender.

• Proposed $67,000 budget increase for Sheriff's Office jail inmate medical supplies
• Proposal to abolish one Assistant District Attorney position and create one Associate Attorney/Assistant District Attorney position
• $300,000 grant from NYS Office of Indigent Legal Services for Assistant Public Defender and Client Liaison Specialist positions
• $150,522 grant from NYS Office of Indigent Legal Services for Secretary II services in the Public Defender's office
• Review of monthly reports from Probation, DOERC, Coroner, Jail, District Attorney, and Public Defender

Government Operations Committee

The Government Operations Committee is meeting to consider amendments to county policies regarding service animals, drug-free workplaces, tobacco use, and vehicle use. The committee will also review monthly reports and discuss legislative mileage.

• Amend Service Animals and/or Emotional Support Animals Policy effective June 23, 2022
• Amend Drug Free Workplace Policy effective June 23, 2022
• Amend Smoking and Tobacco Use Policy effective September 1, 2022
• Amend Driver and Vehicle Use Policy effective June 23, 2022
• Discussion on Legislative Mileage

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment Committee is meeting to review monthly reports and discuss funding for a harvester at Little York Lake.

• Discussion of harvester funding options for Little York Lake
• Review of SPCA monthly report
• Review of Cooperative Extension monthly report
• Review of Soil and Water Conservation Department monthly update

Highway Committee

The Highway Committee is considering the creation of a Road Machinery Capital Reserve Fund and the reappointment of the Superintendent of Highways. The body is also reviewing a proposal to restructure four equipment operator positions and a contract for vehicle inspection services.

• Establishment of Road Machinery Capital Reserve Fund with $839,676 for equipment costing $100,000 or more
• Abolishing four Motor Equipment Operator positions to create four Motor Equipment Operator Trainee/Operator positions
• Agreement with Opus Inspection for vehicle inspection services not to exceed $1,695.00
• Reappointment of Charles Sudbrink as Superintendent of Highways for a term ending September 30, 2026
• Discussion of paid boat launch and dock at Dwyer Memorial Park

Health & Human Services Committee

The committee is reviewing budget amendments to accept state and federal grants for the Area Agency on Aging. Proposed actions include purchasing a wheelchair-accessible transit vehicle and reallocating a salary grade for a Department of Social Services coordinator.

• Proposed purchase of one 2020 Ford E-350 Transit Vehicle for the Area Agency on Aging not to exceed $100,000
• Budget amendment to accept $39,776 in American Rescue Plan funds for Nutrition Services
• Budget amendment to accept $85,000 in one-time Unmet Need supplement funds
• Proposed reallocation of Staff Development Coordinator salary from Grade 18 to Grade 20
• Discussion of Clear Path for Veterans Peer to Peer Counseling update

Building & Grounds Committee

The Buildings & Grounds Committee will meet to approve the use of Courthouse Park for the 2022 Pumpkinfest. The body will also receive updates on the 111 Port Watson Street property and a presentation regarding the County Office Building elevator.

• Approval of Courthouse Park use for 2022 Pumpkinfest
• 111 Port Watson Street property update
• KONE/Omnia presentation on County Office Building elevator

Legislature

The legislature is considering Local Law “D” of 2022 to redraw 17 legislative districts based on 2020 federal census data. The body will also hold public hearings regarding videoconferencing laws and Community Development Block Grant applications.

• Local Law “D” of 2022: Redistricting the County of Cortland into 17 legislative districts
• Public Hearing: Local Law “E” of 2022 regarding expanded use of videoconferencing
• Public Hearing: 2022 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications