Cortland County public meetings in 2024
52 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Legislature
The Cortland County Legislature will hold a public hearing on revisions to the Consolidated Agricultural District and consider several appointments and policy adoptions. It will appoint a legislative liaison to the Fire Advisory Board and approve a rules sign for Dwyer Memorial County Park. The body will adopt a Freedom of Information Policy and set new fee structures for Counsel at First Appearance and Section 1027 Family Court proceedings. Additional items include appointing members to the Records Management Advisory Board, the Fire Advisory Board, and amending the Criminal Justice Advisory Board composition.
- Public Hearing on revisions to the Cortland County Consolidated Agricultural District
- Appointment of Mitchel Eccleston as legislative liaison to the Cortland County Fire Advisory Board (term ends Dec 31, 2025)
- Approval of Dwyer Memorial County Park rules sign, including a $50 maximum fine for violations
- Adoption of the Cortland County Freedom of Information Policy (effective immediately)
- Adoption of a fee schedule for Counsel at First Appearance under the Centralized Arraignment Part, ranging from $400 to $475 per session and funded by the Hurrell‑Harring Grant
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance & Administration Committee will adopt a resolution opposing S.967‑A/A.1489‑A, which would lower penalty interest rates on tax delinquency. The resolution calls on Governor Kathy Hochul to veto the bills and urges other New York counties to do the same. The committee will also levy unpaid grass‑and‑weed, water, and sewer charges for the Town of Cortlandville as detailed in the agenda.
- Resolution urging NYS Governor Kathy Hochul to veto S.967‑A/A.1489‑A (tax delinquency penalty interest legislation)
- Levy of grass and weed control charge $406.30 to Richard & Marjory O'Dell (Town of Cortlandville)
- Levy of water charges totaling $17,593.48 to multiple property owners (Town of Cortlandville)
- Re‑levying of unpaid sewer charges to listed property owners (Town of Cortlandville)
Judiciary & Public Safety Committee
The Cortland County Judiciary & Public Safety Committee will appoint members to the Traffic Safety Board, Fire Advisory Board, and Criminal Justice Advisory Board. It will also adopt fee structures for attorneys under the Centralized Arraignment Part (CAP) and for Section 1027 Family Court proceedings. The adopted rates include $400 for regular CAP sessions, $475 for holiday CAP sessions, and a $250 fee for each Section 1027 hearing.
- Appointment of four members to the Cortland County Traffic Safety Board (terms ending 12/31/27)
- Appointment of 24 members to the Cortland County Fire Advisory Board (terms Jan 1 2025–Dec 31 2025)
- Appointment of 22 members to the Cortland County Criminal Justice Advisory Board
- Adoption of CAP attorney fee rates: $400 regular session, $475 holiday session, $200 on‑call with no arraignments, plus mileage reimbursement funded by the Hurrell‑Harring Grant
- Authorization of a $250 fee for each Section 1027 Family Court hearing, paid from Account Line A11755.54055 – Professional Services
Health & Human Services Committee
The Health & Human Services Committee will vote on a contract with GA Brooks Consulting to provide Multi‑Disciplinary Team and forensic interviewer services for the Cortland County Child Advocacy Center. It will also appoint members to the Older Americans Act Advisory Council, amend the 2024 Pre‑K budget, reappoint a medical member to the County Board of Health, and appoint a new Youth Board member. A discussion of an opioid settlement funds collaboration proposal is scheduled.
- Authorize $66,666 contract with GA Brooks Consulting, 25 Richland St, Rochester, for services Jan 1 – Aug 31 2025
- Appoint six members to the Older Americans Act Advisory Council (terms ending 12/31/2027)
- Amend 2024 Pre‑K budget: increase tuition $115,000 and transportation $65,000; decrease various personnel costs
- Reappoint Dr. Erica Skipton, M.D., as medical provider representative on the County Board of Health (2025‑2030)
- Appoint Alex Aloi to the Cortland County Youth Board (term ending 12/31/2027)
Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment
The Agriculture, Planning & Environmental Committee is meeting to discuss the adoption of the Elevate Cortland County Strategic Development Plan and the transfer of conservation easements to the New York Agricultural Land Trust. The body will also consider budget amendments for public transportation and updates to the Consolidated Agricultural District.
- Adoption of the Cortland County Strategic Development Plan
- Transfer of 5 conservation easements to NYALT for a fee not to exceed $186,342.00
- Budget increase of $1,043,053.54 for contracted services with First Transit, Inc. dba TransDev
- Revisions to the Cortland County Consolidated Agricultural District including land additions in Preble and Cincinnatus
- Approval of amended bylaws for the Cortland County Planning Board
Building & Grounds Committee
The Buildings & Grounds Committee will hold a discussion on the Linear Park and Lime Hollow project. It will provide an update on the mental health building at 111 Port Watson Street. The meeting will also include the IT monthly report and the Buildings & Grounds monthly report.
- Linear Park/Lime Hollow discussion
- 111 Port Watson Street mental health building update
- IT monthly report
- Buildings & Grounds monthly report
Highway Committee
The Highway Committee will discuss the proposed Dwyer Memorial Park rules sign. The meeting will also include the Highway Monthly Report and the Solid Waste Monthly Report. Minutes from the November 5, 2024 Highway Committee meeting will be reviewed.
- Dwyer Memorial Park Rules Sign – discussion item
- Highway Monthly Report – presentation
- Solid Waste Monthly Report – presentation
- Review of November 5, 2024 Highway Committee minutes
Government Operations Committee
The Government Operations Committee will confirm appointments to the Records Management Advisory Board for the 2025 term. It will also adopt the Cortian County Freedom of Information Policy required by the 2024 amendment to Chapter 302 of the New York Laws. Monthly reports from several county offices will be presented.
- Appointment of 15 members to the Records Management Advisory Board for 2025
- Adoption of the Cortland County Freedom of Information Policy
- Weights and Measures monthly report
- County Clerk monthly report
- Board of Elections monthly report
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance and Administration Committee is meeting to discuss a resolution regarding the CNYNET Broadband Network project. This project aims to build a 325-mile open access network for rural communities in Cortland and Cayuga Counties.
- Resolution to execute a commitment letter for $3 million in interim construction financing for the CNYNET Broadband Network project
Legislature
The Cortland County Legislature will consider a public hearing on the Draft Strategic Development Plan and vote on several financial and operational items. It will authorize a five‑year NYSDOT snow and ice control agreement, a $308,902.77 mortgage tax disbursement, and a $3 million commitment to the CNYNET Broadband Network project, among other grants and appointments. Additional actions include a Capital Region BOCES contract for pharmacy savings, emergency management and homeland security grants, and the appointment of members to the Transportation Advisory Committee.
- Authorize $3 million commitment to the CNYNET Broadband Network project (CNYRPDB grant request $26.1 million)
- Approve $308,902.77 mortgage tax disbursement to towns and villages
- Extend NYSDOT snow & ice control agreement for five years, expiring June 30 2029
- Approve $21,478 Emergency Management Performance Grant and $51,215 Homeland Security Grant
- Appoint four members (Jackie Leaf, Brian Moore, Jennifer Hillman, Christopher Maroney) to the Transportation Advisory Committee
Legislature
The Cortland County Legislature is meeting to vote on several service contracts, including a website redesign and a five-year agreement for landfill cover material. The body is also reviewing appointments for county services and the Mental Health Subcommittee.
- Contract with CivicPlus for website design and hosting not to exceed $26,994
- Five-year contract with Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency to use ash as landfill cover at $14 per ton
- Agreement with Elmcrest Children’s Center for parent aide and visitation services not to exceed $550,000
- Acceptance of $11,500 from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee for the Child Passenger Safety Program
- One-year extension of the State Snow & Ice Control Agreement for the Highway Department
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance and Administration Committee will amend the tentative 2025 budget to move allocations away from the Jail Reserve Fund and use alternative sources. It will then adopt the 2025 Cortland County budget as amended, setting a Real Property Tax Levy of $40,546,275 and total spending of $130,513,453.59. A public hearing on the budget was held on October 24, 2024.
- Amend the tentative 2025 budget to reallocate funds previously drawn from the Jail Reserve Fund
- Adopt the 2025 Cortland County budget as amended
- Set the Real Property Tax Levy at $40,546,275
- Authorize total spending of $130,513,453.59 for 2025
- Public hearing on the budget held Oct. 24, 2024
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance & Administration Committee will award a $189,180 contract to EFPR Group, CPAs, PLLC for single audits covering 2024‑2026 and optional years. It will also approve 2025 tourism marketing grants to multiple local agencies, authorize the distribution of third‑quarter 2024 sales‑tax revenues to municipalities, and consider budget amendments including in‑kind services for Tompkins‑Cortland Community College and staffing changes. The committee will vote on these items during the November 12 meeting.
- Award EFPR Group, CPAs, PLLC a $189,180 contract for 2024‑2026 single audits (options for 2027‑2028)
- Allocate 2025 tourism marketing grants to agencies such as Center for the Arts of Homer ($79,800) and Cortland Regional Sports Council ($140,800)
- Distribute third‑quarter 2024 sales‑tax net amount of $4,584,137.90 to listed municipalities, with $5,602,835.22 allocated to the County
- Authorize in‑kind services valued at $142,500 from the County Highway Department for Tompkins‑Cortland Community College Capital Improvement Plan
- Amend the 2025 Tentative Budget to transfer the Grant Administrator to County Administration and replace the Mobility Manager position with a Planning & Strategic Programs Manager
Judiciary & Public Safety Committee
The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee will review two grant awards from the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. The body will also discuss funding for the Sheriff's Department and opioid funding for the Cortland County Jail.
- Proposed $51,215 NYS Homeland Security Grant for Emergency Response & Communications
- Proposed $21,478 Emergency Management Performance Grant with a matching county cost of $21,478
- Discussion of Sheriff's Department Grant Award
- Discussion of Opioid Funding Allocation to Cortland County Jail
Health & Human Services Committee
The Health & Human Services Committee is reviewing budget amendments for the Department of Social Services and the use of opioid reserve funds. The body is also considering several mental health contracts and staffing changes for the Office for Aging.
- Proposed $150,000 from Special Reserve Account A386300.OPD for medical treatment of inmates with opioid addiction at Cortland County Jail
- Proposed 2024 budget amendments for Department of Social Services, including a $610,000 increase for Safety Net and $240,000 for Daycare
- Authorization of 2025 contracts for the Mental Health Department with providers including Cigna, Humana, and various universities
- Proposal to abolish one Nutrition Program Manager/RD position and create one Nutrition Program Manager position for the Office for Aging
- Agreement with SUNY Cortland for a High School Job Opportunity Fair in March 2025
Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment
The Cortland County Agriculture, Planning & Environmental Committee will consider authorizing a $3 million commitment to the Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board for the CNYNET Broadband Network project. The committee will also discuss renewing a joint municipal agreement for public transportation with Tompkins County and appoint members to the Transportation Advisory Committee.
- Authorize $3 million commitment for CNYNET Broadband Network
- Renew joint municipal agreement for public transportation with Tompkins County
- Appoint members to Transportation Advisory Committee
- Review CNYRPDB presentation on CNYNET Broadband Network
- Discussion on Agricultural District Inclusion Period
Building & Grounds Committee
The Buildings & Grounds Committee will review three discussion items: the east and west entrances of the courthouse, the restoration of the courthouse dome, and an update on the 111 Port Watson Street mental health building. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda. The meeting also includes routine monthly reports from IT and Buildings & Grounds.
- Courthouse East & West Entrances
- Courthouse Dome Restoration
- 111 Port Watson Street/Mental Health Building Update
- IT Monthly Report
- Buildings & Grounds Monthly Report
Finance and Administration Committee
The Cortland County Finance and Administration Committee will meet on November 5, 2024. The meeting will focus on discussing possible changes to the county’s tentative budget for 2025. No other agenda items are listed.
- Discuss possible changes to the 2025 Cortland County tentative budget
Highway Committee
The Highway Committee will vote on a resolution to authorize the County Legislature to approve a five-year extension of the snow and ice control agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation, expiring on June 30, 2029. The agenda also includes discussion of a Dwyer Memorial Park rules sign. The meeting will receive monthly reports from the Solid Waste and Highway Departments.
- Authorize five-year NYSDOT Snow & Ice Control Agreement (expires June 30 2029)
- Discussion of Dwyer Memorial Park rules sign
- Solid Waste Monthly Report
- Highway Department Monthly Report
Government Operations Committee
The committee approved a resolution to disburse $308,902.77 in semi‑annual mortgage tax payments to the county’s towns and villages for April‑September 2024. It also authorized the County Administrator, after County Attorney review, to execute an inter‑municipal agreement with Capital Region BOCES for participation in the NYS Pharmacy Purchasing Coalition, projected to save $573,171 for the county. The agenda includes monthly reports from the Board of Elections, County Attorney, Weights & Measures, Clerk of the Legislature, County Clerk, and Personnel departments. The meeting was held on November 5, 2024 at 11:00 AM in Room 302 and was conducted via WebEx.
- Disburse $308,902.77 in mortgage tax payments to 19 towns/villages for Apr‑Sep 2024
- Approve inter‑municipal agreement with Capital Region BOCES for NYS Pharmacy Purchasing Coalition, projected $573,171 county savings
- Monthly report from Board of Elections
- Monthly report from County Attorney
- Monthly report from Personnel department
Legislature
The Cortland County Legislature will adopt two local laws adjusting salaries for elected and appointed officers and for county election commissioners. It will approve a natural‑gas supply agreement with NRG Energy at a fixed rate for 36 months and endorse an FAA‑funded airport taxiway design project with a $463,592 engineering contract. The body will also authorize a shared‑services mobile stage agreement and amend employment policy manuals.
- Adopt Local Law “E” of 2024 to increase salaries of elected and appointed county officers
- Adopt Local Law “F” of 2024 to set salaries of Cortland County Election Commissioners
- Authorize a natural‑gas agreement with NRG Energy, Inc. at a fixed rate of $-.-- per decatherm for 36 months (Nov 1 2024 – Oct 31 2027)
- Approve FAA AIP grant design for taxiway work at Cortland County Airport‑Chase Field and an engineering agreement with McFarland Johnson, Inc. for $463,592
- Authorize a memorandum of agreement for a shared‑services mobile stage among Cortland County, the City of Cortland, and the Town of Cortlandville
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance and Administration Committee will vote on Local Law "G" of 2024, which would let the County Legislature exceed the state‑mandated property tax levy limit for fiscal year 2025. The Committee will also allocate $10,801.88 to Tompkins Cortland Community College for a facilities master‑plan assessment. An agreement with NRG Energy, Inc. for county‑wide natural‑gas supply at a fixed rate for 36 months will be authorized. Settlement authority for opioid‑related lawsuits and a review of the tentative 2025 budget are also on the agenda.
- Adopt Local Law "G" of 2024 to override FY2025 tax levy limit
- Allocate $10,801.88 to Tompkins Cortland Community College facilities master‑plan assessment
- Authorize agreement with NRG Energy, Inc. for natural gas at a fixed rate for 36 months
- Authorize acceptance of opioid settlement agreements and placement of funds in a special reserve
- Review tentative 2025 Cortland County budget
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance and Administration Committee will review the tentative 2025 Cortland County budget. No other agenda items are listed. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 1:00 PM in Room 302.
- Review tentative 2025 Cortland County budget
Judiciary & Public Safety Committee
The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee will vote on a resolution allowing the County Administrator, after legal review and funding approval, to enter three‑year contracts for the Cortland County Coroner with several providers. The meeting also includes a budget overview and presentations from the Coroner, Probation, and TLC committees, along with monthly reports.
- Resolution to authorize three‑year contracts for the Cortland County Coroner with Darshan Patel, MD; James A. Terzian MD; NMS Labs; Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital, Inc.; Robert Stoppacher, MD; TLC; and Zirbel Funeral Home
- Budget Overview discussion
- Coroner Committee presentation
- Probation Department Committee presentation
- TLC Committee presentation
Health & Human Services Committee
The Health & Human Services Committee will vote to extend the existing lease with 91‑101 Main Street, LLC through February 28, 2025. It will also authorize the County Administrator to execute a series of contracts for administrative, program, foster care, day‑care, work‑experience, and qualified independent assessment services for 2025, subject to attorney review and legislative appropriation. The meeting includes monthly reports from the Mental Health and Health Departments.
- Extend lease for 91‑101 Main Street, LLC from Nov 30 2024 to Feb 28 2025
- Authorize agreements for administrative and program services for the Office for Aging with multiple providers
- Authorize contracts for Qualified Independent Assessments for the Department of Social Services
- Authorize foster care, detention and adoption service agreements for 2025
- Authorize day‑care service agreements for low‑income and temporary assistance programs
Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment
The committee is considering resolutions regarding the Cortland County Strategic Development Plan and public transportation compliance. The body will discuss the county's role as the lead agency for environmental review and the adoption of a federal anti-discrimination plan for transit.
- Declaration of intent to be lead agency for Cortland County Strategic Development Plan SEQR review
- Public hearing for draft Cortland County Strategic Development Plan scheduled for November 21, 2024, at 6:00 PM
- Adoption of the Cortland County Public Transportation System Title VI Plan
- Review of Soil & Water and Planning Department October 2024 activity reports
Building & Grounds Committee
The Buildings & Grounds Committee will vote on a resolution authorizing the County Administrator to enter a natural‑gas agreement with NRG Energy, Inc. at a fixed rate of $ -.-- per decatherm for 36 months beginning November 1, 2024. The committee will also discuss Courthouse reimbursements, review quotes for the design of the East and West entrances of the Courthouse, and consider the CRT contract. Monthly reports from Buildings & Grounds and IT will be noted.
- Authorize natural‑gas agreement with NRG Energy, Inc. for all County properties (fixed rate $ -.-- per decatherm, 36 months, Nov 1 2024‑Oct 31 2027)
- Discussion of Courthouse reimbursements
- Review of design quotes for East & West entrances of the Courthouse
- Discussion of CRT contract
Highway Committee
The Highway Committee will vote to endorse the FAA Airport Improvement Program grant application for shifting Taxiway A, reconstructing Taxiway B stub, and shifting Taxiway B north stub at Cortland County Airport‑Chase Field. The Committee will also authorize an engineering agreement with McFarland Johnson, Inc. for design and bidding services, and amend the 2024 capital budget to reflect the project costs. Additional discussion items include a CRT contract and routine reports.
- Approve FAA AIP grant application for taxiway shifts at Cortland County Airport‑Chase Field (total project cost $466,092.00)
- Enter engineering agreement with McFarland Johnson, Inc. for design and bidding services ($463,592.00)
- Allocate local share $23,305.00 in the 2024 Capital Budget (HH561043.43597.TWAB STATE REVENUE)
- Discuss CRT contract
- Review Solid Waste Monthly Report and Highway Activities Report
Government Operations Committee
The Government Operations Committee will amend the Pre‑Employment Background Investigation Policy to include provisions required by the Clean Slate Act, effective November 16, 2024. It will approve language changes to the Employment Policy Manual for department heads, management and confidential employees, effective January 1, 2025. The committee will adopt Local Law “E” 2024 to extend the annual salary increase to officers elected or appointed for a fixed term, subject to a permissive referendum. It will also adopt Local Law “F” 2024 setting the salary for County Election Commissioners at $59,254 for fiscal year 2025, also subject to referendum.
- Amend Pre‑Employment Background Investigation Policy per Clean Slate Act, effective Nov 16 2024
- Approve language amendments to the Employment Policy Manual for department heads, management and confidential employees, effective Jan 1 2025
- Adopt Local Law “E” 2024 to increase salaries of elected/appointed officers (e.g., County Clerk, Sheriff, etc.) for FY 2025, pending permissive referendum
- Adopt Local Law “F” 2024 raising Election Commissioner salary from $57,528 to $59,254 for FY 2025, pending referendum
- Present monthly reports: Vacancy Report, County Attorney Office, Weights & Measures, County Clerk, Clerk of the Legislature, FOIL, Board of Elections
Health & Human Services Committee
The Cortland County Legislature will consider a resolution to fill the vacant Director of Community Mental Health Services position effective October 10, 2024. Legislators and staff conducted interviews and the Community Services Board submitted a recommendation for the appointment. The resolution would appoint the recommended individual at an annual salary, which is not specified in the agenda.
- Resolution to appoint Director of Community Mental Health Services (salary not listed)
- Vacancy effective October 10, 2024
Legislature
The Cortland County Legislature is meeting to decide on several Highway Department staffing and infrastructure projects. The body will also consider appointments for the Planning Board and Director of Weights and Measures, as well as intermunicipal health emergency agreements.
- Award of $61,750 bid to Complete Construction Concepts for a new metal roof on the Salt Storage Barn
- Proposed $8,745 stipend for Superintendent of Highways and $6,399 for Deputy Superintendent for capital project oversight
- Creation of a temporary Director of Weights and Measures position with a total expense of $24,146.25
- Appointment of Daniel Haynes to the Cortland County Planning Board through 6/30/2028
- Public hearing for comments on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Project No. 286ME528-23
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance and Administration Committee is considering several resolutions regarding grant applications, personnel stipends, and budget increases. The body will also discuss 2025 budget preparations and local housing.
- Application for New York State Microenterprise Grant funding for small businesses
- Stipends of $8,745 for Charles Sudbrink and $6,399 for Alan Ricottilli for capital project oversight
- Creation of a temporary Director of Weights and Measures position with a total expense of $24,146.25
- Agreement with Cayuga Addictions Recovery Services not to exceed $60,000
- Budget amendment to increase Daycare Expenditures and Revenues by $250,000
Government Operations Committee
The Government Operations Committee will vote on amendments to the Management Attorney salary schedule, preventing a 2025 increase for listed grades. It will also approve a five‑year agreement with the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets that reimburses up to $3,009 annually for the Petroleum Product Quality Program. The committee proposes a full‑time temporary Director of Weights and Measures position, funded with $24,146.25 from the 2024 budget, and will consider appointing a permanent director later in the year.
- Amend Management Attorney salary table (Grades 0‑3) with specific salary figures; no 2025 increase
- Authorize reimbursement agreement up to $3,009 per year for five years (2024‑2029) with NY State Dept. of Agriculture & Markets
- Create temporary Director of Weights and Measures (Grade 10, salary $57,528‑$76,569) effective Sep 26, 2024
- Allocate $24,146.25 from the 2024 County Budget for the temporary director position
- Consider appointment of a permanent Director of Weights and Measures
Judiciary & Public Safety Committee
The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss amendments to attorney salaries. The agenda also includes presentations and monthly reports from the Public Defender, Assigned Counsel, District Attorney, and the Department of Emergency Response and Communications.
- Discussion of Attorney Salary Amendments
- Assigned Counsel Committee Presentation
- Public Defender Committee Presentation
- Department of Emergency Response and Communications (DOERC) Monthly Report
- District Attorney Monthly Report
Health & Human Services Committee
The committee appointed new members to the Cayuga/Cortland Workforce Development Board. It authorized a public‑health emergency mutual‑aid agreement for the Central New York Public Health Alliance. It accepted $108,730 from the State Office of Children and Family Services for youth programs and amended the 2024 budget accordingly. It increased daycare expenditures by $250,000 and approved a $60,000 agreement with Cayuga Addictions Recovery Services.
- Appoint two members to the Cayuga/Cortland Workforce Development Board
- Authorize intermunicipal public‑health emergency agreement for CNY Public Health Alliance
- Accept $108,730 State funding for Youth Bureau and adjust related budget accounts
- Increase daycare budget by $250,000 for 2024 fiscal year
- Authorize $60,000 agreement with Cayuga Addictions Recovery Services
Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment
The Agriculture, Planning & Environmental Committee is appointing Daniel Haynes to fill a vacancy on the Cortland County Planning Board, with a term ending June 30, 2028. The committee also receives monthly reports from the SPCA, the Planning Department, and the Soil & Water Conservation District. The meeting is then adjourned.
- Appointment of Daniel Haynes to the Cortland County Planning Board (term until 6/30/2028)
- Review of SPCA monthly report
- Review of Planning Department monthly report
- Review of Soil & Water Conservation District monthly report
Building & Grounds Committee
The Buildings & Grounds Committee will receive updates on the 111 Port Watson Street project and the Courthouse Dome Project. The meeting will also include the Buildings and Grounds Monthly Timeline Report, the Buildings and Grounds Monthly Activity Report, and the IT Monthly Report.
- 111 Port Watson Street Update
- Courthouse Dome Project Update
- Buildings and Grounds Monthly Timeline Report
- Buildings and Grounds Monthly Activity Report
- IT Monthly Report
Highway Committee
The Highway Committee is reviewing resolutions to award a construction contract, adjust personnel positions, and authorize stipends for leadership. The body will also discuss a memorandum of understanding with the City of Cortland regarding leachate and sludge.
- Award bid for Salt Storage Barn metal roof to Complete Construction Concepts for $61,750.00
- Abolish one Heavy Equipment Maintenance Mechanic position and create one Heavy Equipment Maintenance Mechanic/Trainee position
- Authorize 2024 capital project oversight stipends of $8,745 for Charles Sudbrink and $6,399 for Alan Ricottilli
- Amend Dwyer Park Memorial Repair Reserve to allow annual additions of unspent budgets from A71105.52320 and A71105.54076
- Discussion of Leachate/Sludge MOU with City of Cortland
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance and Administration Committee is considering the imposition of an additional mortgage tax to fund joining the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority. The committee is also reviewing the creation of several temporary transit positions to maintain services during a transition to a new transportation vendor.
- Proposed additional mortgage tax of 25 cents per $100 of principal debt (excluding first $10,000), effective January 1, 2025
- Creation of 17 full-time and 3 part-time Bus Drivers ($18.4165 - 23.3107/hr)
- Creation of 8 part-time Bus Aides ($15.6579 - 19.8190/hr)
- Creation of various transit management roles, including a General Manager ($66,481 - 88,486/yr)
- Proposed 2024 Budget increase of $573,195.45 from Appropriated Fund Balance for transit personnel
Health & Human Services Committee
The Cortland County Health & Human Services Committee will vote on a resolution to reject the sole bid received for providing transportation to children with disabilities ages birth through five. The bid was submitted by Transdev North America, Inc. dba First Transit, Inc. after an RFP issued on June 12, 2024. The resolution states the rejection is in the County’s best interest for the 2024‑2026 contract years.
- Resolution to formally reject the bid from Transdev North America (First Transit) for child transportation services
- RFP for transportation of children with disabilities was issued on June 12, 2024
Government Operations Committee
The Cortland County Legislature will adopt a resolution directing the County Clerk to impose an additional mortgage tax of $0.25 per $100 of principal debt, exempting the first $10,000, effective January 1, 2025. The resolution also requires the Clerk to send certified copies to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance at least 60 days before the effective date and to the New York State Comptroller within five days of adoption.
- Resolution to impose a $0.25 per $100 mortgage tax on recorded mortgages, exempting the first $10,000, effective Jan 1 2025
- County Clerk must forward a certified copy of the resolution to the NY State Department of Taxation and Finance at least 60 days before Jan 1 2025
- County Clerk must forward a certified copy of the resolution to the NY State Comptroller’s Office within five days of adoption
Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment
The Cortland County Legislature is deciding to terminate its contract with First Transit, Inc. dba TransDev effective September 30, 2024, and to become a member of the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (CNYRTA) to continue transit services.
- Termination of contract with First Transit, Inc. dba TransDev effective September 30, 2024
- Authorization to become a participating member of the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (CNYRTA)
- Creation of 17 full-time and 3 part-time bus driver positions during the transition
- Authorization to enter into agreements with First Transit, Inc. dba TransDev to maintain services during the transition
- Authorization to enter into an agreement with JM Murray Center, Inc. for transportation services
Legislature
The Legislature approved the creation of a Highway Fuel Farm Reserve (E.386300.HFF) and increased the surcharge on fuel purchased at the Highway Department fuel farm to $0.25 above cost per gallon. It also awarded Excellus BlueCross BlueShield contracts for dental, vision, and medical insurance for county employees and retirees, effective January 1 2025 through December 31 2027, and raised the County Clerk’s mortgage tax expense to $107,155.44 per year starting January 1 2025. Additional actions included appointing two legislators to the Tourism Marketing Grant Committee and updating the Records Management Advisory Board membership.
- Create Highway Fuel Farm Reserve (E.386300.HFF) and increase fuel surcharge to $0.25/gal
- Award Excellus BlueCross BlueShield contracts for dental, vision, and medical insurance (Jan 1 2025‑Dec 31 2027)
- Increase County Clerk mortgage tax expense to $107,155.44 per year effective Jan 1 2025
- Appoint Legislator Eugene Waldbauer (R) and Legislator Douglas Bentley (D) to Tourism Marketing Grant Committee (term ends Dec 31 2025)
- Amend Records Management Advisory Board composition and appoint new members for 2024 term
Finance and Administration Committee
The Finance and Administration Committee is meeting to authorize the distribution of 2024 second quarter sales tax and approve several administrative contracts and fee changes. The body is also considering salary amendments for management attorneys and funding for vehicle repairs.
- Distribution of $9,799,918.32 in second quarter 2024 sales tax to the county and municipalities
- Contract with Cortland County Convention and Visitors Bureau for $764,234.95 for 2025 tourism promotion
- Increase in fuel charges at the Highway Department fuel farm to $0.25 above cost per gallon
- Increase of County Clerk Mortgage Tax Expense to $107,155.44 per year effective January 1, 2025
- Salary schedule amendments for Management Attorneys effective September 1, 2024
Judiciary & Public Safety Committee
The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee is reviewing several resolutions related to the Sheriff's Department and Public Defender's Office. The body is deciding on personnel payments, service contracts, and the restructuring of a legal position.
- One-time $1,500 hazard pay for Corrections Division employees who worked March 17, 2020, to December 31, 2021
- Agreement with Monroe Piping and Sheet Metal for $1,980.00 for CRAC unit maintenance at 22 West Court Street
- Authorization to enter contracts with school districts for School Resource Officers
- Use of $17,311.58 from the Vehicle Repair/Replacement Reserve to repair a 2021 Dodge Charger
- Abolition of one Assistant Public Defender position and creation of one Associate Assistant Public Defender/Assistant Public Defender position
Health & Human Services Committee
The Health & Human Services Committee is reviewing appointments to county boards and changes to mental health and social services staffing. The body is also discussing funding for emergency homeless shelters and the use of opioid settlement funds for housing services.
- Agreement with Salvation Army for Code Blue Warming Center services (Nov 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025) not to exceed $300,000
- Allocation of up to $25,000 from Opioid Settlement Reserve Fund to the Salvation Army
- Creation of one Caseworker position in the Department of Social Services using $165,385 in TANF funds
- Creation of one Senior Mental Health Clinician and one Community Mental Health Manager position; abolition of one SPOA Coordinator position
- Appointments to the Youth Board, Board of Health, and Older Americans Act Advisory Council
Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment
The Agriculture, Planning & Environmental Committee will meet on August 8, 2024 to review several monthly reports. Items include the SPCA Monthly Report, the Soil & Water August Report, and the Planning Department Monthly Report. The committee will also consider the minutes from its June 13, 2024 meeting. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.
- Review of June 13, 2024 meeting minutes
- SPCA Monthly Report
- Soil & Water August Report
- Planning Department Monthly Report
Legislature
The Cortland County Legislature will vote on a resolution to reject the sole bid received for operating and managing the county’s public transportation system. The bid was submitted by Transdev North America, Inc. dba First Transit, Inc. The resolution states that rejecting the bid is in the county’s best interest.
- Reject bid for operation and management of Cortland County Public Transportation System (bid from Transdev North America, Inc. dba First Transit, Inc.)
Building & Grounds Committee
The Buildings & Grounds Committee will discuss an update on the 111 Port Watson Street project. It will also review a summary of the IT CrowdStrike event. The meeting includes review of the IT monthly reports for June and July 2024 and the Buildings & Grounds monthly reports. No formal resolutions are listed for this meeting.
- Update on 111 Port Watson Street Project
- IT - CrowdStrike Event Summary
- IT - June 2024 Monthly Report
- IT - July 2024 Monthly Report
- Buildings & Grounds Monthly Reports
Highway Committee
The Highway Committee will meet on August 6, 2024 at 10:00 AM in Room 302. The committee will receive the Highway Department Monthly Report and the Solid Waste Monthly Report. It will discuss the Highway Department Fuel Farm and consider future options for the county landfill. No decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Highway Department Fuel Farm – discussion item
- Landfill – Future Options – discussion item
- Highway Department Monthly Report – report
- Solid Waste Monthly Report – report
Government Operations Committee
The Government Operations Committee is meeting to award insurance administration contracts and update county administrative rules. The body is also proposing salary adjustments for management attorneys and increasing the County Clerk's mortgage tax expense allowance.
- Award of employee and retiree medical, dental, and vision insurance administration to Excellus BlueCross BlueShield for 2025-2027
- Proposed increase of County Clerk Mortgage Tax Expense from $62,315.58 to $107,155.44 per year effective January 1, 2025
- Amendments to the Management Attorney Table salary schedule effective September 1, 2024
- Amendments to the Cortland County Legislature Rules of Order effective August 23, 2024
- Updating membership of the Records Management Advisory Board to include the Director of Finance and Director of IT
Finance and Administration Committee
The Cortland County Finance & Administration Committee will meet on July 30, 2024. The committee will discuss preparation of the county’s 2025 budget. No other items are on the agenda.
- 2025 budget preparation