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20250907 75 Clinton St Area Variance 12-5-2023 City Council Minutes for 5-0 5 ton ordinance passing
December 5, 2023 CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS City Council Meeting 474 Broadway Saratoga Springs, New York 6:00 PM 7:00 P.M. — P.H. — Amend Chapter 136 of City Code Articles IV, IVA, V, VI and VII — (Accounts Item #12) P.H. — Amend Chapter 225, Article IX, Section 225-79 (DPS Item #14) P.H. — Weibel Avenue PUD (Accounts Item #6) 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL SALUTE TO FLAG PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD / 15 MINUTES PRESENTATIONS 1. Participatory Budget Projects & Voting (Finance Department) 2. Skidmore Students: Food Security in Saratoga Springs CONSENT AGENDA 1. Approval of 10/23/2023 Evening Budget Workshop Meeting Minutes 2. Approval of 11/17/2023 Pre -Agenda Meeting Minutes 3. Approve Mid -Warrant 2023, 23MWNOV3 $52,329.84 4. Approve Warrant 2023, 23DEC1 $812,359.85 5. Approve Payroll 11/22/2023 $492,919.11 6. Approve Payroll 12/01/2023 $824,686.13 7. Approve Budget Transfers — Regular 8. Approve Budget Transfers — Regular 9. Approve Budget Amendments - Regular MAYOR'S DEPARTMENT 1. Announcement: Appointment of Corinne Catalano to Committee 2. Announcement: Appointment of Hannah Hurley to Committee 3. Discussion: End of Year City County Meeting Date 4. Discussion and Vote: Accept Safe Streets for All Grant Community Development Citizen Advisory Community Development Citizen Advisory City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 5. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign MOA with CRTC Re: Safe Streets for All Grant Award 6. Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Apply for TAP/CMAQ Funding for Gateway & Complete Streets Improvements 7. Discussion and Vote: Resolution: Affirmation of Grant Match for TAP/CMAQ Funding for Gateway and Complete Streets Improvements 8. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign 2024 Guardian Dental Rate Renewals 9. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Addendum One to Contract for Homeless Shelter Services ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT 1. Announcement: Business Milestones 2. Announcement: Special Events 3. Award of Bid: Hazardous Waste to Ambient Environmental, Inc. 4. Award of Bid: Hi -Low Lift VFD Replacement 5. Award of Bid: Compliance Audit Services to Beacon Risk Group, LLC 6. Discussion and Vote: Adopt Weibel Avenue PUD Extension 7. Discussion and Vote: SEQRA Evaluation for Weibel Avenue PUD Extension 8. Discussion and Vote: Rescind Resolution of August 2, 2022 Regarding Moving the Position of Director of Risk and Safety to Mayor's Office 9. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with FitzGerald, Morris, Baker, Firth for Article 7 Cases 10. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with the Towne Law Firm, P.C. for Article 7 Cases 11. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Beacon Risk Group 12. Discussion and Vote: Amend Chapter 136 of the City Code Articles IV, IVA, V, VI, and VI 13. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the City Clerk to Respond to the NYSLA RE: Liquor Licensing FINANCE DEPARTMENT 1. Announcement: Update on City Finances 2. Announcement: Participatory Budgeting Cycle Two Projects and Voting 3. Discussion and Vote: Approve 2024 Tax Rates 4. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with ePlus Technology, Inc. for Extreme Switches 5. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with SHI Technology Corp. for Barracuda Message Archiver 6. Discussion and Vote: Budget Amendments - Assigned Fund Balance 7. Discussion and Vote: Budget Amendments - City Center 8. Discussion and Vote: Budget Transfers - Payroll & Benefits 9. Discussion and Vote: Budget Transfers - Homeless Shelter, Payroll & Benefits PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 1. Announcement: Reappointment of Matt Hurff to Arts Commission 2. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Barton & Loguidice for Landfill Gas Monitoring and Maintenance 3. Announcement: High Hazard Dam Rehabilitation Grant 4. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Mahoney Notify Plus, Inc. for Alarm Services 5. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Ambient Environmental, Inc. for Hazardous Materials 6. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Milton Cat for Caterpillar Parts and Service 7. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Napa for Auto Parts Page 2 of 2l City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 8. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Addendum #4 with CT Male Associates 9. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Stilsing Electric, Inc. for Hi -Lift and Low -Lift VFD Replacement and Upgrade PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT 1. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Statement of Work with ePlus Technology, Inc. 2. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Contract with Presentation Concepts Corporation 3. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign Amendment #2 to Contract OGS01-X004166, Cost Reimbursement and Escrow Account Agreement 4. Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Accept a Grant in the Amount of $3,298 for Dispatch Equipment 5. Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Pay Invoice to Saratoga Auto Supply 6. Discussion and Vote: Accept $30 Donation for the Mounted Unit in the Police Department 7. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Quote/Contract with ESO Solutions for the Fire Department 8. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Transfer of Ownership of a Retired K-9 9. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a License Agreement with the Saratoga Springs PBA for the Use of the PBA Range & Building for Police Department Training 10. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign an Agreement with T2 Systems for Parking Enforcement & Permit Management Software System 11. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Contract with Flock Safety 12. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Contract with MES (Municipal Emergency Services) 13. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Contract with Delacy Ford 14. Discussion and Vote: Amend Chapter 225, Article IX, Section 225-79 of the Code of the City of Saratoga Springs, NY, Entitled "Vehicle and Traffic — Schedule XIV: Trucks Over Certain Limits Excluded" SUPERVISORS Matthew Veitch 1. Saratoga County 2024 Budget Update Tara Gaston 1. Nothing at this time. ADJOURN Page 3 of 2l City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 ,V0G,j December 5 2023 ' CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS , City Council Meeting If T! 474 Broadway f2 A T k CI Saratoga Springs, New York 6:00 PM PRESENT: Ron Kim, Mayor Minita Sanghvi, Commissioner of Finance Dillon Moran, Commissioner of Accounts Jason Golub, Commissioner of Department of Public Works (via zoom) Jim Montagnino, Commissioner of Department of Public Safety STAFF PRESENT: Angela Rella, Deputy Mayor Heather Crocker, Deputy Commissioner of Finance Stacy Connors, Deputy Commissioner, Accounts Joe O'Neill, Deputy Commissioner of Public Works Jason Tetu, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Public Safety Matthew Veitch, Supervisor Tara Gaston, Supervisor RECORDING OF PROCEEDING The proceedings of this meeting were taped for the benefit of the secretary. Because the minutes are not a verbatim record of the proceedings, the minutes are not a word-for-word transcript. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Kim called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. CONSENT AGENDA Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to approve the consent agenda as attached. 1. Approval of 10/23/2023 Evening Budget Workshop Meeting Minutes 2. Approval of 11/17/2023 Pre -Agenda Meeting Minutes 3. Approve Mid -Warrant 2023, 23MWNOV3 $52,329.84 4. Approve Warrant 2023, 23DEC1 $812,359.85 5. Approve Payroll 11/22/2023 $492,919.11 6. Approve Payroll 12/01/2023 $824,686.13 7. Approve Budget Transfers — Regular 8. Approve Budget Transfers — Regular 9. Approve Budget Amendments - Regular Page 4 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Ayes — All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 SUPERVISORS Matthew Veitch Saratoga County Budget Update Supervisor Veitch reported there has not been any hearing is tomorrow, December 6, 20223 at 4:30 p.m. p.m. to adopt the budget. Tara Gaston movement since the last meeting. The next public The Board will meet on December 13, 2023 at 4:30 Supervisor Gaston recommended people attend the public hearing. PRESENTATIONS Participatory Budget Projects & Voting (Finance Department) (presentation attached) Nora Brennan of the Participatory Budget Committee presented. She advised annual funding is up to .25% of the City budget. The maximum approved for 2023 was $75,000. The public is asked to submit ideas/projects for the Committee to review. The Committee will submit projects to appear on the ballot for the community to cast votes. Projects that are passed will be implemented within the next year and the process will start over. Nora advised last year was the first year of participatory budgeting and included 10 projects. The projects included the following: Bikeatoga free bike repair (active and ongoing); curling pilot program at Weibel Ice Rink (active and ongoing); outdoor ice skating at Congress Park (later this year weather permitting); Jefferson and Vanderbilt Terraces Community Garden (in planning/progress); dog park water fountain (completed); Saratoga Arts/Home Made Theater Broadway/Live Musical Theater in the Park (completed); native flower planting (completed); C.R.E.A.T.E. Community Studios Youth Art Programs (completed); and Sustainable Saratoga Urban Forestry Project (completed). Nora advised the Committee received 15 projects/suggestions and the following five are up for vote: Saratoga Farmer's Market funding for $12,000; bocce ball courts at Veteran's Memorial Park for $13,000; Opera Saratoga accessible arts program for $15,000; Lake Avenue Elementary Centennial Celebration for $10,000; and a solar powered charging bench for $12,500. Voting on projects starts today. Saratoga Springs residents only are able to vote by going to https://Pbstanford.org/2023-saratoga-ny or by QR code. Voting ends on December 12, 2023. Commissioner Sanghvi stated a list of projects will be presented to the City Council for vote and approval. Skidmore Students: Food Security in Saratoga Springs (presentation attached) Skidmore students presented their findings of a semester long project, which took 22 hours to create this report. Urban planning took place in two phases with the first being in 1961 and the second in 1969. There Page 5 of 2l City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 are several grocery stores throughout Saratoga Springs but one needs a car to get to them. Tension was found as tourism contributes toward income and revenue for the City but also forces the increase in cost of housing. There is a lack of affordable distributors of fresh fruits and vegetable that were less than five miles from downtown. They found PDT Market is not as inexpensive as it could be. Aldi's is a better alternative but is too far away. Price Chopper is more affordable by not accessible to Intrada and Allen Drive housing. Surveys of residents were done and found a majority of the people completing the survey were white people and females. A majority of the residents surveyed have an income of less than $25,000 per year; drive to get groceries; and 27% of the people walk to the stores. The second survey was done at the Farmer's Market. They found the people surveyed there had an income of $75,000 or more with 80% of the people surveyed were from Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa, or Milton. People are spending more than 6% but less than 10% of their income on groceries. The City of Saratoga Springs has the highest population of food stamps and the services are complicated and difficult to manage. The Shelters of Saratoga was interviewed and found the main obstacle is transportation to obtain food. The students feel they need more data on this issue. Students felt the need to provide more accessibility, expand affordable housing, and continue conversations with Stewart's for them to include more fresh fruit and vegetable access. They found the best location for a drop-off spot is 81 West Avenue at the corner of West Avenue and Washington Street. The full report goes into detail. MAYOR'S DEPARTMENT (part 1) Announcement: Appointment of Corinne Catalano to Community Development Citizen Advisory Committee Mayor Kim appointed Corinne Catalano to the Community Development Citizen Advisory Committee for the term of 12/5/23 — 6/30/26. Announcement: Appointment of Hannah Hurley to Community Development Citizen Advisory Committee Mayor Kim appointed Hannah Hurley to the Community Development Citizen Advisory Committee for the term of 12/5/23 — 6/30/26. Discussion: End of Year City Council Meeting Date Mayor Kim advised a City Council meeting will be necessary at the end of the month for final budget transfers. The City Council agreed upon a City Council meeting for Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 11 a.m. ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT (part 1) Announcement: Business Milestones Commissioner Moran acknowledged and congratulated Carpetland on 77 years in business. He also acknowledged and congratulated Overland Sheepskin Co. on 50 years in business in the United States and as a new business in downtown Saratoga Springs. Special Events Commissioner Moran stated the Victorian Streetwalk was held last week. A great time was had by all and Santa is at his cottage on Broadway. Commissioner Moran announced the following events: • Sunday, December 31 st — fireworks at 6:30 p.m. as part of the New Year's Eve festivities. Page 6 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 • Monday, January 1, 2024 — 5K run at 10 a.m. at Ellsworth Jones Place. FINANCE DEPARTMENT (part 1) Announcement: Update on City Finances Commissioner Sanghvi announced the City had not put any money into upgrading its system for many years. They will be upgrading the financial software system from version 11.3 to version 21.9 in one step. Announcement: Participatory Budgeting Cycle Two Projects and Voting Commissioner Sanghvi stated the QR code on the larger sheet is the correct code. She thanked the Committee and City staff that helped make this happen. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (part 1) Announcement: Hiah Hazard Dam Rehabilitation Grant Commissioner Golub advised this helps address critical dam safety needs and reduce dam failures. Mayor Kim stated Delta Development was retained when he first took office to help identify grants that were available to the City. The dam rehabilitation project was one that Delta Development focused on. Delta Development was able to bring in $3.8 million dollars to the City in two years. All this was done for a price tag of $80,000 to Delta Development. Joanne Yepsen, member of the Infrastructure Committee, advised most of the work was done last year. Some grants applied for are still pending such as Crescent Avenue Connector of Greenbelt Project; City Canopy Project; and the Loughberry Lake Spillway Project. Mayor Kim recessed the Council at 6:54 p.m. Mayor Kim resumed the City Council meeting at 7:01 p.m. PUBLIC HEARINGS Amend Chapter 136 of the City Code Articles IV, IVA, V, and VII Mayor Kim opened the public hearing at 7:02 p.m. No one spoke. Mayor Kim closed the public hearing at 7:02 p.m. Amend Chapter 225 — Article IX, Section 225-79 Mayor Kim opened the public hearing at 7:02 p.m. Tiffany Britt of Van Dam Street stated her understanding is enforcement will happen if ordinance passed. Police officers will be dedicated to enforce this once fully staffed. Most trucks are not local trucks. Page 7 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Jenny Clifton of Van Dam Street Association stated this is not a complete solution but lives will be saved. Wesley Community has noticed an increase over 5 — 10 years. Most of those residents walk or ride their motorized vehicles to go downtown to get their groceries. All of Van Dam is a nationally registered historic district and the Preservation Foundation is supportive of solutions to help reduce truck traffic. Erin Maciel of Saratoga Springs pleaded to stand against truck traffic in their neighborhood. The residents are forced to deal with a truck passing by every two minutes. Dennis Dozier of Saratoga Springs stated he hates the trucks and agrees with everything previous speakers have said. He finds it hypocritical of the City that he can't upgrade his home but allows the trucks to go down his street. Chris Mathiesen of Saratoga Springs stated he sympathizes with the people who live on Van Dam. The amount of traffic coming into the City has increase over the past five years coming into the City. He doesn't know the answer but the City needs to think through the effects the changes will make. Commissioner Sanghvi asked Chris Mathiesen for clarification regarding the letter to NYSDOT he wrote approving Van Dam as the route for trucks. Chris Mathiesen stated logically Van Dam is the best route for trucks when going from east to west. The intent was to take trucks off Broadway. Resident of Van Dam Street stated trucks are loud and causing damage to the street and homes. It is also a safety issue for those who walk on the street. Kaitlyn Cichello of Saratoga Springs stated she is seeing the grading of the street diminishing and is causing flooding. Susan Stramburg of Van Dam Street stated she has two daughters. The trucks speed by and there are children always in the area. Traffic has increased and they are now seeing Walmart trucks using that route. Liz Isreal of Van Dam Street advocated health and safety from the impact of truck traffic. The diesel exhaust contains carbon dioxide and break dust. He encouraged the City Council to consider the ordinance. Francesca Cichello of Saratoga Springs stated she is invested in her historical home and has a young family. One deterrent of the home value is the traffic. The traffic needs to be addressed. She encouraged the City Council to vote in favor. Brad and David Gadett of Saratoga Springs stated David has a bus stop on Van Dam Street. David stated he goes to the bus stop on Van Dam to go to school. The horns of the trucks scares people and it's bad. He hates the trucks. Nick Fazzioli of Saratoga Springs stated after purchasing his historic homes he realized the hard truth about the street being used as an interstate highway. He has done extensive work to investigate. The state has designated truck routes and was directed to a non -city employee for the answer. There is no record of the discussion and vote to re -direct traffic on Van Dam Street. The City of Saratoga has gone to the NYSDOT in 2015 for transient local truck traffic. None of the downtown streets are viable for use by the trucks. Amy Ryan of Saratoga Springs and member of the Infrastructure Committee stated they discussed traffic on Van Dam during their meetings. People should feel safe. The City and the trucking companies should coordinate to find alternate routes. Lynn Blasso of Saratoga Springs stated she did traffic engineering in Suffolk County. She suggested trucks only be allowed to come through at specified times. Another possibility is a red-light camera, which will slow down the trucks. The income from the camera can be used toward a traffic study. Page 8 of 2l City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Bill of Saratoga Springs stated he grew up on Clinton Street. Truck traffic has been an on -going problem since he was born. This isn't the first Council to address this problem. His question is what is the solution. Is the City going to create a route to avoid Broadway, Church Street, and Van Dam? He is not hearing alternatives. Adam Isreal of Saratoga Springs stated the City should make it as difficult as possible for the trucks that are using the City as a short cut. Fight the trucks and make it a path of most resistance. Jeff Grasavage of Saratoga Springs stated he is a transportation engineer. NYSDOT map shows the amount of traffic. One solution may be not allowing jake-breaks. George Brogan of Saratoga Springs stated a jake-break ordinance could help. He submitted a copy of the ordinance to the Council previously. Kathleen Cleary of Saratoga Springs stated she is looking for a solution of some improvements. She can't' believe how much traffic has increased. Lighting could also be improved and crosswalks should be added. Camille Daniels of Saratoga Springs stated sewage is also a problem under the street on Van Dam Street. She asked where are the trucks going to go. Bill McTygue of Saratoga Springs, former director of public works and member of the City's Planning Board delivered a report to the Council. This is a serious issue; it is a major impact to the City. The report contains an action plan based on history from 1996. The problem has gotten worse and the trucks have gotten bigger. Tractor -trailers don't belong in the inner City. This requires a unified effort of the City to bring to the attention of New York State. Commissioner Golub stated his concern is does it make sense to pass this without an action plan in place. Bill McTygue stated passing this will get the attention of the state. Mayor Kim stated this happened by an illegal act of a former commissioner of public safety. There are solutions. Bill McTygue stated a traffic engineer and a civil engineer can help and provide an alternative. Mayor Kim stated thanked the group for coming forward and they need to keep the pressure. He invited the people against Saratoga BioChar to the next City Council meeting as the trucks for this are coming from the west with uncovered solid waste. Commissioner Golub stated he has no problem supporting this but it needs an action plan. Mayor Kim stated the City should draw from the community and name a task force to look at this. Commissioner Sanghvi asked if a public hearing was held before the letter was sent to the state. Mayor Kim advised he investigated and found no vote was taken to send the letter. The letter is dated 11 /18/2014. Commissioner Sanghvi stated the problem is being pushed to another street if a vote is taken on this today. Mayor Kim stated the Council is bound to correct the illegal action. Commissioner Moran stated he has an a -mails from NYSDOT that say as soon as the state routes hits the City's historic districts, the City has primacy in terms of who gets to decide what. Commissioner Montagnino offered passing the ordinance and see how it goes. Page 9 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Commissioner Sanghvi stated she supports this but wants to be sure that they are not pushing the plan to another road. Commissioner Montagnino stated when the police recruits are out of training, they will have the staff to enforce this. Mayor Kim closed the public hearing at 8:17 p.m. Weibel Avenue PUD Amendment Mayor Kim opened the public hearing at 8:17 p.m Justin Grassi, attorney for the applicant, provided an update to the application. The 16 acres behind Hannaford is vacant and reverted to a zoning designation that no longer existed. The Planning Board decided after review that one piece of their legislation was not consistent with the comprehensive plan. They took this to the Zoning Board of Appeals and found that strategy would not yield the results that would be satisfactory to all parties. The applicant would like to have this Council request a further advisory opinion from the Planning Board in a limited scope to determine if there is a definition of warehouse that can be modified that would render this consistent. The applicant would contact the Zoning Board of Appeals to ask them to table their request to give them time to hash this out with the Planning Board. Patrick Cogan of the Building Department stated the City staff feels this issue needs to be addressed to avoid potential situation where they have undefined zoning of this parcel. The City staff would be in agreement with sending this back to the Planning Board with a more narrow definition of the potential use the applicant is seeking on this parcel. What the applicant is seeking is a more in line with the potential of that area without introducing additional truck traffic to that area. They will work with the applicant to come up with a limited use definition. Commissioner Moran stated he would send a letter to the Planning Board asking them to review for a more narrow definition. Mayor Kim closed the public hearing at 8:25 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Kim advised there are new rules to public comment. People have 4 minutes to speak. At that time, the speaker will be asked to stop. He asked all to be kind; not interrupt; and exercise free speech. He also asked the speakers to be factual. The Council members may respond if they choose. He will also hold a public comment period at the end of the City Council meeting. Mayor Kim opened the public comment period at 8:25 p.m. Rose Tait of Saratoga Springs stated King Tut had 20 years of service to the City and something should be done for him and the mounted police who worked with him. After attending City Council meetings for over a year, there is no resolution to her problem on Lincoln Avenue. The 40-foot containers by her home trap the emissions. Other residents have spoken about their issues and have seen resolution but no resolution for her issue. Chris Mathiesen of Saratoga Springs addressed comments made about him not caring about neighborhoods is an unfair statement. In addition, the statement of him sending an illegal letter to New York State is not true. He is sympathetic to residents of Van Dam. In regards to item #13 on the Accounts agenda, he worked hard to change the closing time to 2 a.m. when he was in office to help save the reputation of downtown. He asked that the decision not be reversed. Page 10 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Mayor Kim read from the Charter, Title III, Section B, which defines the mayor's role in representing the Council with neighboring county, state, or local government. Mayor Kim closed the public comment period at 8:36 p.m. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (part 1) Discussion and Vote: Amend Chapter 225, Article IX, Section 225-79 of the Code of the City of Saratoga Springs, NY, Entitled "Vehicle and Traffic — Schedule XIV: Trucks Over Certain Limits Excluded" (23-627) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Mayor Kim seconded to amend Chapter 225, Article IX, Section 225-79 of the Code of the City of Saratoga Springs, NY, Entitled "Vehicle and Traffic — Schedule XIV: Trucks Over Certain Limits Excluded". Commissioner Golub stated amending this code now is pushing it off on to the new commissioner. He asked when this change will be enforceable and when will officers be trained and available to enforce this. He asked that this to be tabled for two weeks. Mayor Kim stated he was elected to serve until 12/31/23. Commissioner Montagnino stated he met with Commissioner Elect Coll and his intended deputy. Commissioner Elect Coll also met with Chief McIntosh and has full faith in Chief McIntosh's ability and staffing plan for next year, which includes the Traffic Division. Travis Carter is trained in this area and can step in. This doesn't preclude the New York State Police or Sheriff's Department from doing the same enforcement. Commissioner Golub suggested to the residents that they attend the first meeting of the year to continue to push this. Commissioner Moran stated the City Council has a responsibility to act as something was done wrong. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 MAYOR'S DEPARTMENT (part 2) Discussion and Vote: Accept Safe Streets for All Grant (23-628) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Montagnino seconded to accept the Safe Streets for All Grant. Mayor Kim advised $500,000 has been awarded with a match from the City of $100,000. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign MCA with CRTC Re: Safe Streets for All Grant Award (23-629) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to authorize the mayor to sign MOA with CRTC regarding Safe Streets for All Grant award. Page 11 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Apply for TAP/CMAQ Funding for Gateway & Complete Streets Improvements (23-630) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to authorize the mayor to apply for TAP/CMAQ funding for Gateway & Complete Streets Improvements. Mayor Kim advised this is a New York State funding opportunity. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Resolution: Affirmation of Grant Match for TAP/CMAQ Funding for Gateway and Complete Streets Improvements (23-631) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to approve resolution affirming grant match for TAP/CMAQ funding for Gateway and Complete Streets improvements. The resolution is as follows: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY A Resolution confirming the City of Saratoga Springs will pay in first instance, should funding be awarded, 100% of the federal -aid and State "Marchiselli" Program -aid eligible costs of a transportation project, before seeking 80% reimbursement of eligible project costs. BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Saratoga Springs, NY, as follows: WHEREAS, an application for a Project, Congress Park Gateway Connector, City of Saratoga Springs, (the Project') will be submitted to NYSDOT for TAP/CMAQ funding on or before January 9, 2024; and WHEREAS the application requires the City of Saratoga Springs to demonstrate that, should funding be awarded, 100% of the Project costs can be first instanced before requesting reimbursement for 80% of the eligible project costs; and WHEREAS the application also requires the City of Saratoga Springs to affirm that a 20% match will be available to support the Project should funds be awarded; and WHEREAS, the City of Saratoga Springs desires to advance the Project by making a commitment of 100% of the non-federal share of the costs of Design and Construction, NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council duly convened does hereby RESOLVE, that the City Council hereby authorizes the City of Saratoga Springs to apply to NYSDOT for TAP/CMAP funding for the Project, and it is hereby further RESOLVED, that the City Council, City of Saratoga Springs, City Council, hereby commits, should funding be awarded, to pay in the first instance funding of project costs and permanent funding of the local share of federal -aid and state -aid eligible Project costs and all Project costs within appropriations therefore that are not so eligible. Mayor Kim explained if awarded the grant, the City would pay for 100% of the project and be reimbursed 80% reimbursement with a $640,000 local match. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign 2024 Guardian Dental Rate Renewals (23-632) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign 2024 Guardian Dental rate renewals. Mayor Kim advised no rate increase for 2024. Page 12 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Addendum One to Contract for Homeless Shelter Services (23-633) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign addendum one to contract for homeless shelter services. Mayor Kim advised there is no cost associated with the addendum. The addendum extends the contract to year-end. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to add an item to his agenda as discussion and vote for authorization for mayor to sign 2024 hospitalization rate renewals. (23-634) Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays - 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign 2024 Hospitalization Rate Renewals (23-635) Mayor Kim moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign 2024 hospitalization rate renewals. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT (part 2) Award of Bid: Hazardous Waste to Ambient Environmental, Inc. (23-636) Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to award the bid for hazardous waste to Ambient Environmental, Inc. for an additional year under the same terms, conditions, and pricing as included in bid #: 2022-03. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Award of Bid: Hi -Low Lift VFD Replacement (23-637) Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to award the bid for Hi -Lift and Low -Lift Variable Frequency Drives Replacement to Stilsing Electric, Inc. in the amount not to exceed $54,000. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Page 13 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Award of Bid: Compliance Audit Services to Beacon Risk Group, LLC Commissioner Moran pulled this item from the agenda. Discussion and Vote: Adopt Weibel Avenue PUD Extension Commissioner Moran pulled this item from the agenda. Discussion and Vote: SEQRA Evaluation for Weibel Avenue PUD Extension Commissioner Moran pulled this item from the agenda. Discussion and Vote: Rescind Resolution of August 2, 2022 Regarding Moving the Position of Director of Risk and Safety to Mayor's Office (23-638) Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to rescind the resolutions of August 2, 2022 and September 6, 2022 and approve the resolutions attached to the agenda regarding the move of the position of director of risk and safety from the Accounts Department to the Mayor's Office. The rescinding of the August 2, 2022 resolution results in the position of director of risk and safety returning under the purview of the Accounts Department, while the rescinding of the September 6, 2022 resolution results in nullifying a requirement of written statements regarding risk, safety, and insurance to the Mayor's Office. Commissioner Montagnino advised he opposes this he questions where risk and safety appropriately lived and the Charter requires the attorney is in the Mayor's Office. Risk and safety and contracts go hand -in - hand and should remain with the City Attorney's Office. Commissioner Golub stated it doesn't matter where the person sits. The person needs to be a strong person and they need a strong attorney. Those two positions have to work closely with each other and have a good process. Commissioner Sanghvi stated the mayor elect has concerns about this issue and wants to have discussions. The person needs to work closely with the attorney. The City's insurance is up almost $1 million dollars from 2023 to 2024 with not having risk and safety. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 1 (Commissioner Montagnino) Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with FitzGerald, Morris, Baker, Firth for ArtirlP 7 C;asPs Commissioner Moran pulled this item from the agenda. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with the Towne Law Firm, P.C. for Article 7 Cases (23-639) Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with the Towne Law Firm for Article 7 cases as included with the agenda. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Beacon Risk Group Commissioner Moran pulled this item from the agenda. Page 14 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Discussion and Vote: Amend Chapter 136 of the City Code Articles IV, IVA, V, VI, and VI Commissioner Moran read a section provided by the Building Department as proposed changes to the chapter. Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to amend Chapter 136 of the City Code —Articles IV, IVA, V, VI, and VII as included with the agenda. Commissioner Sanghvi asked for the City fees for outdoor dining. Commissioner Moran stated he is waiting for the cost to implement. The revenues will be the same if not more. Mayor Kim stated the Planning Board fees do not reflect income for outdoor dining. Commissioner Moran stated his takeaway is all pieces were covered. He pulled the item from the agenda. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the City Clerk to Respond to the NYSLA RE: Liquor Licensing (23- 640) Tony Izzo, city attorney, advised the federal government stated the way approvals were being handled was inappropriate. A different procedure is needed. Commissioner Moran stated they are looking to comply with the Open Meetings Law and put the City back in good standing. To his knowledge, not a single letter written had the impact or intended outcome that was stated. He read the following resolution into the record: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY WHEREAS, on December 20, 2022 this Council adopted a resolution #22-588, resolving that upon the City's learning that an establishment, individual entity of any kind seeks a liquor license, seeks renewal of a liquor license, or seeks modification of amendment of a liquor license, that the City Attorney, under the Mayor's supervision shall promptly write to the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) to petition them to prohibit the alcohol by that establishment, individual or entity beyond 2:00 AM as a condition of granting any such application for a liquor license of renewal, modification or amendment of a liquor license, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, upon due consideration, that the said resolution of December 20, 2022 shall be, and the same hereby is, in all respects repealed, rescinded, and revoked in its entirety; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, upon due consideration, that the City Clerk shall have authority, in his/her discretion, to promptly respond to the SLA in writing regarding an establishment's liquor license, renewal of a liquor license, or modification or amendment of a liquor license and waivers of statutory 30-day advance notices. Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to rescind the resolution of December 20, 2022, which petitioned the NYSLA to roll back the closing time of businesses seeking renewals, waivers, or modifications of NYSLA liquor licenses to 2 a.m. in order to receive City approval is being rescinded and approve the resolution as distributed. Mayor Kim stated he could support this resolution if the last paragraph is removed. Commissioner Moran agreed to remove the last paragraph and end the resolution after "....30-day advance notices." In the second paragraph. Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded the friendly amendment as discussed and agreed. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 1 (Commissioner Montagnino) Page 15 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Sanghvi seconded to add an item to his agenda regarding the setting of a public hearing. (23-649) Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Set Public Hearina: Remove Fees from Various Chapters of the Citv Code Commissioner Moran set a public hearing for Tuesday, January 2, 2024 FINANCE DEPARTMENT Discussion and Vote: Approve 2024 Tax Rates (23-641) Commissioner Sanghvi advised the tax rates are $5.2685 for the general and capital it is $1.5475 for a total of $6.8160. The inside district rate is $5.2020 and the inside capital is $1.5475 for a total of $6.7495, and the downtown special assessment district is $0.8321. Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to approve the 2024 tax rates. Commissioner Montagnino asked if the City is exceeding the 2% cap rate with this. Commissioner Sanghvi stated the City is allowed certain leeway if the City has not taxed to the full extent in the previous year. The City is in no way going beyond the tax cap. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with ePlus Technology, Inc. for Extreme Switches (23-642) Commissioner Sanghvi stated this is a one-time purchase of $156,331.15. Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with ePlus Technology for extreme switches. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with SHI Technology Corp. for Barracuda Message Archiver Commissioner Sanghvi pulled this item from her agenda. Discussion and Vote: Budget Amendments — Assigned Fund Balance (23-643) Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to approve the budget amendments — assigned fund balance. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Page 16 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Discussion and Vote: Budget Amendments — City Center (23-644) Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to approve lines 1 — 10 use of restricted fund balance to add additional funds to payroll lines; lines 11 —13 use of restricted fund balance to cover utilities and security for the garage through the end of the year. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Budget Transfers — Payroll & Benefits (23-645) Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to approve the budget amendments payroll and benefits. Ayes — 5 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Budget Transfers — Homeless Shelter, Payroll & Benefits (23-646) Commissioner Sanghvi pulled lines 1 — 3. Commissioner Sanghvi moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to approve budget transfers payroll and benefits lines 4 — 15 only. Mayor Kim stated he understood lines 1 — 3 was agreed upon by staff. Commissioner Sanghvi stated she wants to be sure the issue is resolved. Shelters submitted an invoice that she is trying to be resolve. Mayor Kim stated Shelters refuses to sign the contract. Commissioner Sanghvi stated she wants to be sure that the issue is resolved. A contract is not signed so how can the invoice be paid. There needs to be more clarity on the issue. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Sanghvi, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino) Nays — 1 (Mayor Kim) Commissioner Sanghvi left the meeting at 9:42 p.m. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Announcement: Reappointment of Matt Hurff to Arts Commission Commissioner Golub pulled this item from his agenda. Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Barton & Loguidice for Landfill Gas Monitoring and Maintenance (23-647) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Barton & Loguidice for landfill gas monitoring and maintenance valid until 12/31/24 in the amount of $24,100. Page 17 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Mahoney Notify Plus, Inc. for Alarm Services (23-648) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Mahoney Notify Plus, Inc. for alarm services valid until 12/31/24 in the amount of unit bid prices not to exceed $50,000. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Ambient Environmental, Inc. for Hazardous Materials (23-650) Commissioner Golub advised Ambient Environmental will provide testing for hazardous materials. Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Ambient Environmental, Inc. for hazardous materials valid until 12/31/24 in the amount of unit bid prices not to exceed $50,000. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Milton Cat for Caterpillar Parts and Service (23-651) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Milton Cat for Caterpillar parts and service valid until 12/31/24 in the amount of unit bid prices not to exceed $50,000. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Napa for Auto Parts (23-652) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Napa for auto parts valid until 12/31/24 in the amount of unit bid prices not to exceed $50,000. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Addendum #4 with CT Male Associates (23-653) Commissioner Golub advised this addendum extends the contract completion date to 12/31/24 with no change in price. Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign addendum #4 with CT Male Associates for an extension of the completion date valid until 12/31/24. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Page 18 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Contract with Stilsing Electric, Inc. for Hi -Lift and Low -Lift VFD Replacement and Upgrade (23-654) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign contract with Stilsing Electric for hi -lift and low -lift variable frequency drives replacement and upgrades valid through 12/31/24 in the amount of $54,000. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Commissioner Golub move and Commissioner Montagnino seconded to add an item for approval to pay invoice 2023-101 to BriteBiz.com. (23-655) Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Pay Invoice 2023-101 to BriteBiz.com (23-656) Commissioner Golub moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize payment of invoice 2023-101 to BriteBiz.com by credit card in the amount of $4,098. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Statement of Work with ePlus Technology, Inc. (23-657) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a state of work with ePlus Technology, Inc. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Contract with Presentation Concepts Corporation (23-658) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Presentation Concepts Corporation. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign Amendment #2 to Contract OGS01-X004166, Cost Reimbursement and Escrow Account Agreement (23-659) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to authorize the mayor to sign amendments #2 to Contract OGS01-X004166 cost reimbursement and escrow account agreement. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Page 19 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Accept a Grant in the Amount of $3,298 for Dispatch Equipment (23- 660) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Mayor Kim seconded to authorize the acceptance of a grant in the amount of $3,298 for dispatch equipment. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization to Pay Invoice to Saratoga Auto Supply (23-661) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize payment of invoice to Saratoga Auto Supply. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Accept $30 Donation for the Mounted Unit in the Police Department (23-662) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to accept $30 donation for the mounted unit in the Police Department. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Quote/Contract with ESO Solutions for the Fire Department (23-663) Commissioner Montagnino advised the first year cost is $20,381.50 from December 2023 to December 2024; year two cost is $22,692 from December 2024 to December 2025; and the third year cost is $28,365 for December 2025 to December 2026. Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a quote/contract with ESO Solutions for the Fire Department. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Transfer of Ownership of a Retired K-9 (23-664) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a transfer of ownership of a retired K-9. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a License Agreement with the Saratoga Springs PBA for the Use of the PBA Range & Building for Police Department Training (23-665) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a license agreement with the Saratoga Springs PBA. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Page 20 of 21 City Council Meeting 12/05/2023 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign an Agreement with T2 Systems for Parking Enforcement & Permit Management Software System (23-666) Commissioner Montagnino advised this agreement is for three years with year one costing $24,177; year two is $11,484; and year three is $11,484. Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to authorize the mayor to sign an agreement with T2 Systems for a parking enforcement and permit management software. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Contract with Flock Safety (23-667) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Flock Safety. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Contract with MES (Municipal Emergency Services) (23-668) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with MES. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Discussion and Vote: Authorization for the Mayor to Sign a Contract with Delacy Ford (23-669) Commissioner Montagnino moved and Commissioner Moran seconded to authorize the mayor to sign a contract with Delacy Ford. Ayes — 4 (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Moran moved and Commissioner Golub seconded to adjourn the meeting at 10:02 p.m. Ayes — All (Commissioner Moran, Commissioner Golub, Commissioner Montagnino, and Mayor Kim) Nays — 0 Respectfully submitted, Lisa Ribis Secretary to the City Council Approved: Vote: Page 21 of 21 12/5/2a23 G%' l0„,/avia� �/i�/'f,�/�i/�,/,�„r�r/:, 0,(i i, !„S//r/i✓�r/l�i /,„ /O/,,/„/ri o� �// 0 //%I%/%//��III i/III/IIIII /O/% OG�0% Ili the r � c pjq begins : 12/5/2023 PROJECT Bikeatoqu Community free 181ke Repair Curling! Pilot Program at Weibel:: Ice Rink Outdoor Ice Skating at Congress Park Jefferson 9 Vanderbilt Terrace-, Community Garden Saratoga Dog Park Water fountain Soratogn Arts & Home Made %eater Broadway LiveMusital Tkeater in Ike Park Niative Flower Plarding CA, E.AJ.E. Community Studios "Youth Art Progrants Sustaina6le Saraloga Urban Forestry Project 15 Project Submissions STATUS ACTIVE,,ONGOING ACTIVE, ONGOING COMING LATER THIS YEAR (WEA ?HER DflyENDENV l,44 NLA114NING1N PIROGRESS COMPLETED COMPLETED COMPLETED COMPLETED COMPLETED 5 Projects Approved for Voting ............ Saratoga Farmer's Market • Project SubcommitteeFunding Evaluations -r-- . . .... • Review with City Bocce Ball Courts for Veteran's Departments Memorial Park v Legal Opera Saratoga Accessible Arts V DPW Programming v Accounts -- . ............ v Recreation Lake Ave Elementary Centennial • Referrals to Capital Celebration Budget ---- . . .................. . Solar Powered Charging Bench • Project Withdrawats for SSPL N 12/5/2023 Support nutrition education with an 8-week Saturday8-weeprogram called the Fresh Tent'; oa ring local resh food m lira�g, nutritional information, educational and nt ractive food -related activities for families and more. Total Cost: $12,000 Construction bocce l court in Veteran's Total Cost: $15,000 12/ /2023 Produce outreach opera Saratolga Springs and thei State Park for chillidren and r Totaleducation and enjoyment. Cost: 5 i1 I 0 Provide a convenient and clean energy charging source for electronic devices to Saratogarungs residents and visitors. Locate t i e of SS . 4 12/ /2023 Celebrate Lal,ke Ave;Schools'upcoming ing nnnial and produce a exhibition for display; intended to promote intergenerational conversation s Lake Ave once served as the senior and junior high school. % ,,,kJn 7 J „ 21, Starting TODAY, Tuesday December 5, go to To receive a code to acCA', phone number to receive a text code, or request a codie via email (info available on voting webpage), P,limited t, Saratoga Springs residents ITyears of age and olaer. Each voter will select their top five projects in order of reference. The system will tally all inputs anxide,ntify the most popular projects. Voting will run o' bi 5 12/5/2023 2023 Commiftee Members Norah Brennan, Chair Jeff Altamari, Vice -Chair Grady Aronstamm Colleen Burke Devin Dal Pos Dede Hill Tim Holmes Danielle Lepper Eric Morser Douglas Gerhardt Working in partnership with/Thanks to: Heather Crocker, Deputy Commissioner of Finance Samantha Clemmey, Executive Assistant to Commissioner of Finance John Hirliman, Recreation, Dept Tony Izzo, City Attorney Andrew Krupski, DIPS Mike Veitch, DPW Business Manager Joe O'Neill, Deputy Commissioner of DPW 0 12/5/2023 0 To Vote: go to Submit an access code, avaflable with ht://pbstanford.,org/2023- your cell phone or by contacting the city saratoga-ny to obtain, a code. Contact: Samantha. Clemmey@saratogo-springs.org �11*111'/"""-� ' y z I e ZIN t To all those at the City who helped us through this process and to Commissiio;ner Sanghvi for spearheading this effort, supporting our work and making Participatory Budgeting for Saratoga Springs possible! ' 12/5/2023 ES 224 Political Ecology Fall 2024 Food Retail Access in Saratoga Springs Questions: natalanh kidrrore.edu ........... . .... . ..... —1—L.- -.- . . ........ Florm Safatogo Spdnp Urban Rumewal Agency 1965 Saratoga Springs History IMMMIN A ; 1110#41 fffAMINOWS/ mmmr�M, im Phase 1 1961 : Urban Renewal Project (Congress and Circular Street) 1966: First property in project demolished 1967-68: Forty-eight properties were destroyed. Construction of Convention center, Goslit Square, and Parking lots began, m m ml! M- 1 12/5/2023 0=0 0 M.O Minority and low-income communities have to travel further for grocery stores and supercenters • Farmers Markets (Downtown, South Broadway)- summer • Pitney Meadows Form form stand • Stewarts Grocery store: Sells canned and frozen foods; fresh fruits and vegetables; and prepared meats, fish, and poultry. Supercenters: large discount department stores that also sell a complete line of grocery items (13J's & Walmart) • Tensions/ split identities: Expectations of tourists and residents differ • Tourism provides revenues for the City and downtown business • High housing values/ high rent for business and residents • Lack of adequate affordable and workforce housing • Lack of affordable store to sell fresh fruits and vegetables less than 5 miles of downtown • Some community plots to grow food, none available close to public housing units Pitney Meadows Community Form Greenhouse, October 2023 2 12/5/2023 Intrada Allen Drive Stonequist PDT Market Distance: I I mfles Distance: 1,6 wiles Distance: 0.7 mdcs Walking: ),I rnins Walking: 35 mms Walking: 1.2 jnuns Driving: I rinins Driving: r.) mhn, Driving: 3 rnns Public Transport: 14 mkis Public Transport: 22 miwu Public Transport: norw Ad Distance: 4.5 rdid es Distance: 4.5 rnHe�, Distance: 7.9 m�k�s Walking: 1. hi ')` rrflwNrol�r;9 Walkjng: 2 homs Walking: I hi 45 w6n Driving: 13 minutes Drivi ng: 12 � i � o in u tes Drivin&12 Public Transport: 43 mjnulx,r,, Public Transport: d, I rijinute,, Public Transport: 213 ininute,, Price Chopper Distance: 1.4 mil:r,,:s Distance: 2 2 rindes Distance: 01,4 miles Walking: 30 mirn,ALs Walking:,16 minutw, Walking: Driving: 5 rninutes Driving: 7 Driving: 2 tnkiV� es Public Transport: 30 1 nld Public Transport:.",8 flnk mLr-,s Public Transport: t eiune Q 12/5/2023 Two types of surveys 1) Public/ low income housing (n=14) 2) Farmers market and medium to high income residents (n=10) (visitors out of towfi*) Both surveys: Majority white, majority female {Food access- High income gap (those who can afford and who cannot afford)} Recruitment: Posters, individual surveys on the street Findings from Surveys in Low income/ Public Housing - Respondents: look for lowest price at best quality - 73% live alone (single person household) income < $25,000 - Main p,lace to get fresh fruits and vegetables in the last 12 months: Grocery store respondents shop once a week - At a shop < 5 miles away from their house Ell 12/5/2023 Findings from Surveys in Low income/ Public Housing Majority of respondents (55%) drive to get their groceries - Also get a ride from a friend they know (36%) or take Uber/lyft (18%) Only 27% walk to the store Monthly rent of majority of residents was under $1,250/month 33% of respondents are on SNAP benefits and 33% use food pantries - 9% of respondents said "cannot afford fresh fruits and vegetables" The impacts of COVID-19 and recent food inflation - inconclusive 36% stayed the same, 36% reduced slightly, 27% increased tremendously (Small sample size; More studies needed) Findings-2nd survey (Who can afford flood) 33% have income $75K+, only 22% have income $25K-$35K 80% Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa, Milton residents Others: Tourists/ from out of town 50% own their house 33% live in households of 4-5 people Markers for food choice Lowest price What their family will eat Organic/healthy 9 12/5/2023 Findings- 2nd survey - All use a grocery store, but 40% also use farmers markets or a specialty store (Four Seasons) - All drive their own car to grocery store - 44% of respondents reported growing their own food Grocery store < S miles 50% their weekly food spending has increased slightly (last 12 months) • 44% spend less than 10% of income on food/ weekly Overall findings - Public transportation was underutilized - Either driving themselves or getting a ride from someone they know - Respondents shopped for food at grocery stores most often - Spent over 6% but less than 10% of their income on groceries - Majority shopped at a grocery store < 5 miles distance - One resident raised concerns about affordability about housing, and affordability of food at existing grocery stores - Veteran housing L 12J5J2023 Main Findings- Decision maker perspectives • At Council level, food security is not a priority or an agenda item • Significant difference between what tourists want and what residents want • Highest # of food stamps population in Saratoga county • Some processes for services is extremely complicated and difficult • No permanent homeless shelter, currently have 36 bed shelter • David Leggieri- Discover Saratoga (tourism) + James Montagnino- Public Safety Stakeholder Perspectives + Jason Golub- Public Works + Matthew Veitch- Saratoga Supervisor + Dillon Moran -Accounts • easier toget things done within one department to avoid council oversight • Significant change overtime in access and distribution of grocery stores • Saratoga Springs has limited "levers to pull" to influence county distribution of resources (ex: CDTA bus route, funding forfood pantries) FA 12/5/2023 Issues: Code Blue location, increased from 30-64 people Street outreach Transportation and motel outreach CDTA/ Flex rides (rt.50/9 needed) Pantries want to be able to deliver People in encampments can't access resources (pushed outside city limits) Shelters of Saratoga - RISE and Bonnacio partnership - 7 year contract for homeless shelter building, $7,000/month (housing + support) - Constraints: 1) Not enough funding from city council 2) Community IPushback - YMCA & Franklin Square Market food donation, - New Code Blue Building .10 12/5/2©23 • Data: • Expand data collection to capture the perspectives of residents, particularly in low-income housing units (N City of Saratoga Springs Citizen Participation Plan) • Reach out to business constituents (PDT and Stewarts for future planning and concerns) • Accessibility: • Sidewalk expansion — Check accessibility and use (N Charlie Bettigole's class in Spring'24) • Work with CDTA for public transportation • Provide vouchers for uber/lyft or regular shuttle services from public housing units to grocery stores (Market 32 as partner/financier?) Recommendations • Expand affordable housing particularly for veterans and low-income residents (current: waitlists) 4 location of new affordable housing plans and connection with public transportation considered in public meetings • More conversations with Stewarts to partner in their distribution chains for fresh fruit and vegetable access • More active role and partnership with Pitney Meadows Community Farm as drop off location, Veggie Mobile distribution partner • Promote community gardens near public housing units* (*limited food production) 12/5/2023 Locations: for food cooperative or other creat�ive solutions lYi What are other cities/places doing"? * 1) Food cooperatives working with local organizations and procuring and distributing local food: Niskayuna Co-op * 2) The city sulbsidizes CSAs for low-income residents: Ithaca * 3) Double -up SNAP at farmers markets * 4) Veggie Mobile, Troy, NY * 5) Food policy council, Madison, WI * 6) Pallet village to adldlress the issues of homelessness and food insecurity: Washington DC [E 12/5/2023 Niskayuna Co-op Market City: Niskayuna Population: 22,339 Problem with food retail access: limited grocery stores in the area. (only Market 32, 3 miles away from the Co-op) & Hannaford (2.5 miles). —16,000 people in Schenectady county lacing food insecurity 11 Zimbra lisa.ribis@saratoga-springs.org Trucks on Van Dam Street From : Maddy Zanetti <mzanetti@impressionssaratoga.com> Tue, Dec 05, 2023 08:54 AM Subject : Trucks on Van Dam Street To : public comment <public.comment@saratoga- springs.org> External images are not displayed. Display images below CAUTION: This email originated outside of the City network. Please contact IT Support if you need assistance determining if it's a threat before opening attachments or clicking any links. Hello, I am not sure I will get to tonight's 6:oo meeting so I wanted to send a public comment in. I am a resident of Waterbury Street, one block over from Van Dam, and owned a house on Van Dorn Street for many years. I also walk or bike daily and have to cross Van Dam Street. The traffic is constant as people try to speed from one light to the next, usually over the 30 mph speed limit. Because there is nothing to stop drivers from the Clinton Street intersection to the Church Street intersection pedestrians are unable to cross safely at any of the other corners. I have waited through 3 rounds of lights at Lawrence Street waiting to be able to cross. The trucks are loud and messy, but it also makes it hard to turn into our neighborhood if you do not drive to a traffic light. Bikes cannot be safely ridden on Van Dam Street because there is no shoulder. I have almost been hit by trucks when I am on that road trying to get downtown. I do not want trucks redirected to Broadway... that is another can of worms! I don't want to take up too much time but I wanted to show my support for my neighbors who are there tonight. As Saratoga continues to grow we need to be pedestrian and bike friendly. Walking and biking is better for our environment, our city, and ourselves. We should be encouraging, not making it less safe. Thank you, Maddy Zanetti Zimbra lisa.ribis@saratoga-springs.org 12/5/23 Public Comment From : Sara Nucera <sara331@gmail.com> Tue, Dec 05, 2023 05:31 PM Subject : 12/5/23 Public Comment To : public comment <public.comment@saratoga- springs.org> CAUTION: This email originated outside of the City network. Please contact IT Support if you need assistance determining if it's a threat before opening attachments or clicking any links. My name is Sara Nucera and I am a resident of Saratoga Springs. My comment this evening centers around ensuring the decisions made by this Council are aligned with local laws, transparent to our community and guarantee the safety and wellbeing of our residents both housed and unhoused are of the utmost importance. Item 9 on the Mayor's agenda the "Discussion and Vote: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Addendum One to Contract for Homeless Shelter Services" Item 9 on the Finance agenda "Discussion and Vote: Budget Transfers- Homeless Shelter, Payroll & Benefits" My question is, does the budget transfer of $87,160 to RISE to "fund homeless shelter" coincide with the addendum to extend the contract of homeless shelter services from RISE until 12/31/23? If yes, the addendum to extend the shelter services clearly states "at no cost to the city': Please explain how this budget transfer relates to the "at no cost to the city': If no, what is $87,160 going to RISE for? Has RISE requested this amount and if so where are the documents for this request. In addition to my question, I am also requesting that while considering extending the contract for homeless shelter services until 12/31, that the Council addresses the insurance requirements and the NYS licensing for this shelter. It is my understanding that per the local UDO this shelter is required to be licensed by the state and it is not. It is also my understanding that the insurance documents that were submitted when the contract was signed back in June have since expired. Thank you for your commitment and service to our community. Sent from Mail for Windows Zimbra lisa.ribis@saratoga-springs.org Dina Henke Public Comment City Council Meeting 12/5/2023 From : Dina Henke <dinahenke555@gmail.com> Tue, Dec 05, 2023 06:18 PM Subject : Dina Henke Public Comment City Council Meeting 12/5/2023 To : public comment <public.comment@saratoga- springs.org> CAUTION: This email originated outside of the City network. Please contact IT Support if you need assistance determining if it's a threat before opening attachments or clicking any links. City Council Public Comment 12/5/2023 I have followed the movement of the office of Risk and Safety and understand the tremendous responsibility involved in ensuring the duties of a Risk and Safety Director are fulfilled. Protocols set forth that specific are documents required in order to do business with or in the City of Saratoga Springs. There is a current proposal on the agenda tonight to enter into a contract with Beacon Risk LLC. Based on the documents included in the agenda, Beacon does not have all the required insurances or the required amount of coverage. It is possible that the Certificates of Insurance have several irregularities which might lead one to believe they were not completed by an insurance professional. Beacon may be a great company, however the City of Saratoga Springs has continued to overlook the fact that the required documents are not there. Why is this contract for services under the Department of Accounts and not the Department of Public Safety as it is funded by the Police Reform Task Force money? Setting a precedent that it is okay to sign contracts without meeting the requirements is not one, I would imagine, the City's Insurance companies would condone. Allowing this type of oversight to happen tonight and in the future, impacts the safety of the city residents, visitors and to those with whom the city contracts. While this Beacon contract may be very important, it is more important not to just push it through when it isn't correct. That leads me to tonight's resolution repealing the resolution from 9/6/2022 9/6/2022 specifies the commitment to and requirement of the Director of Risk and Safety to provide all the necessary documents. The only change was a form created on 9/6/22 that also must be completed. Tonight's resolution just says documents. It is nonspecific and plural. It does not clarify that all the Risk and Safety documents must still be provided as a function of Risk and Safety. Is it just the form that is no longer going to be required or is Risk and Safety no longer required to handle the Risk and Safety documents. I think it might be best to take the time needed to make sure the wording matches the purpose and is in the best interests of the city. Please think about my comments as you discuss and cast your vote. The city's safety is in your hands. Respectfully, Dlna Henke