Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (607) 274-6550 AGENDA ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Council Chambers, 3 rd Floor, City Hall 108 E. Green Street, Ithaca, NY 8:30 AM, Thursday, August 25, 2016 I. Call to order II. III. Additions to or deletions from the agenda Public comment (3 minute maximum per person) IV. Review of draft meeting minutes: May 26, 2016 V. Neighborhood Investment Committee A. 2016 Appointment of committee chairperson resolution B. Committee Chairperson report VI. VII. VIII. Governance Committee A. Amendment to legal services contract, Ruswick resolution B. Response to CD Planner staff vacancy resolution C. IURA strategic planning report D. IURA financials, July 2016 review E. Committee Chairperson report Economic Development Committee A. Restore NY4 grant report B. Committee Vice Chairperson report Other New/Old Business A. IURA Chairperson report B. Common Council liaison report C. Staff report IX. Motion to Adjourn (next meeting: September 22, 2016 If you have a disability and require accommodations in order to fully participate, please contact the IURA at 274 6550 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Approved: XX/XX/XX 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (607) 274-6559 (607) 274-6558 (fax) DRAFT MINUTES ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Common Council Chambers, City Hall 8:30 A.M., Thursday, May 26, 2016 Members: Excused: Staff: Guests: Svante Myrick, Eric Rosario, Karl Graham Chris Proulx, Tracy Farrell, Stephen Smith (Common Council Liaison) Nels Bohn, Lynn Truame None I. Call to Order Chair Myrick called the meeting to order at 8:45 A.M. II. Agenda Additions/Deletions No changes were made to the agenda. III. Public Comment None. IV. Review of Draft Meeting Minutes: April 14, 2016 Rosario moved, seconded by Graham, to approve the April 14, 2016 meeting minutes, with one minor modification. V. Audit Committee A. 2016 Appointment of Audit Committee Chairperson Moved by Myrick, seconded by Graham: 2016 Appointment of IURA Audit Committee Chairperson Carried Unanimously 3 0 WHEREAS, the IURA By laws provide that the committee membership shall elect its own committee Vice Chairperson and nominate a member to serve as Chairperson, and
IURA Minutes May 26, 2016 Page 2 of 9 WHEREAS, officers of each committee serve a one year term, but continue to hold office until their successor is selected or appointed, and WHEREAS, the current committee officers are: Chairperson: Eric Rosario Vice Chairperson: Karl Graham, and WHEREAS, at their May 26, 2016 meeting, the IURA Audit Committee elected Karl Graham as Vice Chairperson and nominated Eric Rosario as Chairperson for consideration by the Agency; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby appoints Eric Rosario as Chairperson of the IURA Audit Committee. Carried Unanimously 3 0 B. FY2015 IURA Financial Audit Moved by Myrick, seconded by Rosario: Approval of Audited 2015 IURA Financial Report WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) derives the majority of its finances from grants awarded to the City of Ithaca, and WHEREAS, for financial reporting purposes the IURA is a blended component unit of the City of Ithaca whose financial activity is reported in the Special Grant Fund, a governmental fund of the City of Ithaca financial statements, and WHEREAS, the IURA contracts separate from the City to have its finances audited within 90 days of the end of its fiscal year to comply with the Public Authorities Accountability Act, and WHEREAS, the IURA received an audited 2015 IURA financial report on March 24, 2016, and WHEREAS, at their May meetings, both the IURA Governance Committee and the IURA Audit Committee reviewed the report and attached correspondence and recommends the following; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the Financial Report of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency for the period January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2015, prepared by the accounting firm of Insero & Company, formerly Ciaschi, Dietershagen, Little, Mickelson & Company, LLP, be approved. Carried Unanimously 3 0
IURA Minutes May 26, 2016 Page 3 of 9 VI. Governance Committee (GC) A. 2016 Election of IURA Officers Moved by Myrick, seconded by Graham: 2016 Annual Election of IURA Officers WHEREAS, officers of the IURA consist of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson and Secretary, and WHEREAS, Section 2 of Article III of the IURA By Laws call for election of the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the IURA at each annual May meeting of the Agency, and WHEREAS, Section 2 of Article III of the IURA By Laws further states that the Agency shall appoint an Executive Director who shall serve as secretary to the Agency, and WHEREAS, by resolution dated May 22, 2008, the IURA appointed the Director of Planning & Development for the City of Ithaca as the IURA Executive Director, who serves as IURA Secretary, ex officio, and WHEREAS, per Article IX of the IURA By Laws, the Executive Director shall act as Secretary of the Agency and act as an ex officio member thereof, and WHEREAS, per New York State enabling legislation creating the IURA, an IURA members serve at the pleasure of the mayor and shall continue to hold office until their successor is appointed, and WHEREAS, current IURA officers are: Svante Myrick, Chairperson Tracy Farrell, Vice Chairperson JoAnn Cornish, Secretary ex officio, and WHEREAS, the IURA Governance Committee discussed this matter at their May 20, 2016 meeting and forwarded this matter for IURA action; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby elects: Svante Myrick as Chairperson, and Tracy Farrell as Vice Chairperson of the IURA. Carried Unanimously 3 0
IURA Minutes May 26, 2016 Page 4 of 9 B. 2016 Appointment of Governance Committee Chairperson Moved by Myrick, seconded by Graham: 2016 Appointment of IURA Governance Committee Chairperson WHEREAS, IURA By laws provide that the committee membership shall elect its own committee Vice Chairperson and nominate a candidate for committee Chairperson for consideration by the Agency, and WHEREAS, per the Bylaws, an Agency member shall fill either the committee Chairperson or committee Vice Chairperson position, and WHEREAS, officers of each committee serve a one year term, but continue to hold office until their successor is selected or appointed, and WHEREAS, the current Committee Chairperson and Vice Chairpersons are Eric Rosario and Kathy Schlather, and WHEREAS, at their meeting of May 20, 2016, the Governance Committee elected Kathy Schlather as Vice Chairperson and nominated Eric Rosario as Chairperson for consideration by the Agency, now, therefore be it RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby appoints Eric Rosario as Chairperson of the IURA Governance Committee. C. Amendment to IURA City Professional Services Agreement Moved by Rosario, seconded by Graham: First Amendment to City IURA Professional Services Agreement Carried Unanimously 3 0 WHEREAS, in 2012 the IURA and City of Ithaca executed an agreement clarifying roles and responsibilities of each party regarding administration of HUD Entitlement funds awarded to the City of Ithaca, and WHEREAS, from time to time the IURA staff may be available to assist the City complete other activities that are related to, or support the mission of the IURA, and WHEREAS, such assistance shall be offered at the sole discretion of the IURA, and
IURA Minutes May 26, 2016 Page 5 of 9 WHEREAS, Plan Ithaca, the City s Comprehensive Plan, recommends preparation of a housing strategy to identify specific ways to increase the housing supply and decreasing housing costs, and WHEREAS, the IURA s mission is to improve the social, physical and economic characteristics of the City of Ithaca by expanding access to quality affordable housing, strengthening neighborhoods and the local economy, and supporting other community development activities, and WHEREAS, since 1975 the IURA has secured and successfully administered over $60 million in funding on behalf of the City of Ithaca to complete projects to expand affordable housing and revitalize urban neighborhoods, and WHEREAS, at their meeting of May 20, 2016 the IURA Governance Committee reviewed this matter and recommended the following; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, that the IURA Chairperson is hereby authorized, subject to review by IURA legal counsel, to execute an amendment to the IURA City agreement to authorize IURA staff to assist the City complete IURA authorized activities that are related to, or support the mission of the IURA, and be it further RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby offers to assist the City in development of a housing strategy to implement Plan Ithaca. D. Approval of Annual Reports Submitted to NYS Authorities Budget Office Moved by Rosario, seconded by Graham: Approval of Reports Submitted to NYS Authorities Budget Office Carried Unanimously 3 0 WHEREAS, pursuant to the Public Authorities Accountability Act, as amended, the IURA is required on an annual basis to submit reports to the New York State Authorities Budget Office (ABO), and WHEREAS, the IURA Director of Community Development is designated to certify accuracy of the reporting, and WHEREAS, the reporting is due to be submitted within 90 days of the end of the fiscal year, and WHEREAS, it is appropriate that IURA members exercise oversight over the staff reporting to the ABO, and
IURA Minutes May 26, 2016 Page 6 of 9 WHEREAS, at their May 20 th meeting, the IURA Governance Committee reviewed the reporting and recommends the following action; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby approves FY 2015 IURA reports submitted to the New York State Authorities Budget Office, including the following: Budget report Annual report Procurement report Investment report Certified financial audit report Carried Unanimously 3 0 E. IURA Financials Report: April 2016 Bohn explained the 2016 IURA Action Plan has not yet been incorporated into the report, since that still needs to be approved by Common Council. In every other respect, the report is complete and well advanced. 2013 CDBG Activities continues to list the Ithaca Falls Overlook Site Cleanup project, which should not be closed out until NYSDEC formally agrees the IURA has completed the work. All other projects are moving forward. Bohn noted the Community Housing Trust Program (402 S. Cayuga Street) has now been canceled and the funds rolled into the 2016 program year. Bohn reported all loan repayments are current, except the State Theatre, which was one month late, although it should now be current. Diane s Downtown Auto also fell one month behind. In addition, the owner of Mia Noodle has paid off that loan, as well as the Plantation Building loan. F. Committee Chairperson Report None. VII. Economic Development Committee (EDC) A. Eligibility of Proposed Downtown Beverage & Food Establishment for Priority Business Loan Fund (PB LF) Moved by Graham, seconded by Myrick: Determination of Eligibility for Watershed Union Business for Priority Business Loan Fund (PB LF) WHEREAS, GDAM Industries, Inc., a women owned business, seeks loan assistance to open Watershed Union, a beverage and food establishment with conversational atmosphere in a vacant downtown storefront at the 100 block of West State/MLK Jr. Street, and WHEREAS, the business is projected to generate approximately 75% of its revenues from the sale of alcoholic beverages, which exceeds the 35% limit to be eligible for the Community Development Revolving Loan Fund (CD RLF), and
IURA Minutes May 26, 2016 Page 7 of 9 WHEREAS, Ithaca Density District Priority Business Loan Fund (PB LF) was established in 2007 at the request of the Downtown Ithaca Alliance to induce specific types of business enterprises that are highly desirable downtown but did not meet all the requirements of the CD RLF, and WHEREAS, the PBLF establishes 11 categories of eligible businesses and additionally allows eligibility for any other business that directly supports a Common Council endorsed strategic plan that is targeted for, or includes, the density district, and enhances the urban core, as determined by the IURA, and WHEREAS, Watershed Union does not fit into any of the pre identified eligible types of businesses by right, and WHEREAS, Watershed Union has submitted a confidential business plan describing their business enterprise, and WHEREAS, the business plan indicates that the business will fill an unmet need for a conversational and inclusive social space downtown that is open to 1 AM as other downtown spaces either feature loud music or close at 10 or 11 PM, and WHEREAS, the Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA) submitted email and correspondence dated May 18, 2016, supporting Watershed Union s eligibility for the IURA loan assistance, and WHEREAS, should the business be eligible to apply for loan assistance then the loan application would undergo loan underwriting analysis, and WHEREAS, at their meeting of May 10, 2016, three members of the IURA Economic Development Committee (a non quorum) discussed this matter and noted the following factors supporting eligibility of the business for the PB LF: The proposed business location is within the downtown density district; The proposed business is a women owned business, an under represented type of business ownership; The proposed business will fill a vacant storefront; The DIA indicates the business is consistent and complementary to the Downtown 2020 Strategic Plan, endorsed by the Common Council in 2011; The business is supported by several neighboring businesses and property owners; The business supports the downtown entertainment district focused on the 100 block of W. State/MLK Jr. by offering an alternative type of beverage focused social space without amplified music; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby determines that the Watershed Union project as described in the April 28, 2016 business plan, is eligible to submit a loan application to the Priority Business Loan Fund. Carried Unanimously 3 0
IURA Minutes May 26, 2016 Page 8 of 9 B. Committee Vice Chairperson Report None. VIII. Neighborhood Investment Committee (NIC) (did not meet in May) IX. Other/New/Old Business A. Request from Lighthouse Hotels, LLC to Assign Purchaser s Rights in Sale Agreement to Acquire Property Located at 320 324 E. State Street to Ithaca Downtown Associates, LLC Moved by Rosario, seconded by Graham: Assignment of Purchase & Sale Agreement for 320 324 E. M.L.K., Jr./State Street from Lighthouse Hotels, LLC to Ithaca Downtown Associates, LLC WHEREAS, on May 6, 2015, the City of Ithaca Common Council endorsed an IURA proposed property disposition at the 300 block of East State/East MLK Jr. Street to facilitate an urban renewal project to construct an in fill urban hotel project, and WHEREAS, on July 2, 2015, the IURA executed a purchase and sale agreement (Agreement) to sell property located at 320 324 E. State Street to Lighthouse Hotels, LLC, the IURA designated qualified and eligible sponsor, at a sales price of $1,800,000, and WHEREAS, Lighthouse Hotels, LLC requests to assign its interest in the Agreement to Ithaca Downtown Associates LLC, (IDA, LLC) a recently established LLC with similar ownership to Lighthouse Hotels, LLC, and WHEREAS, the Agreement authorizes the purchaser to assign its rights to another entity upon notice to the IURA, provided that such entity has the same members, and WHEREAS, any other assignment is subject to consent of the IURA and designation of the assignee as a Qualified and Eligible sponsor for the urban renewal project, and WHEREAS, the members of Lighthouse Hotels, LLC are: (1) Neil H. Patel, (2) Hitesh Patel, (3) Vinodbhai Patel, (4) Amit Patel, and (5) Jayesh Patel, and WHEREAS, the members of IDA, LLC are: (1) Neil H. Patel, (2) Vinodbhai Patel, (3) Amit Patel, and (4) Jayesh Patel, and WHEREAS, a proposed Sponsor is evaluated in accordance with adopted IURA land disposition procedures that seek to determine if the proposed Sponsor is qualified and capable of fulfilling the objectives of the project for property disposition, and WHEREAS, IURA evaluation criteria for Sponsors include: Financial status and stability
IURA Minutes May 26, 2016 Page 9 of 9 Legal qualification to operate in the State of New York and to enter into contracts with regard to the disposition, use, and development of land in questions Previous experience in the financing, use, development and operation of projects of a similar nature Reputation and proof of fair, reputable and ethical business practices and a record devoid of convictions WHEREAS, the only change in membership is that Ithaca Downtown Associates, LLC does not include Hitesh Patel, and WHEREAS, IDA, LLC has secured bank financing commitment to complete the project, and WHEREAS, prior review of personal financial statements show that the members of IDA, LLC possess significant financial resources and previous experience developing and operating hotels to complete the project and secure an IURA loan, and WHEREAS, IDA, LLC is an authorized domestic limited liability corporation authorized to operate in New York State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that Ithaca Downtown Associates, LLC is hereby designated as a qualified and eligible sponsor to undertake an urban renewal project at the 300 block of E. State/M.L.K., Jr. Street, and be it further RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby consents to the request from Lighthouse Hotels, LLC to assign the July 2, 2015 Purchase and Sale Agreement, 320 324 East State Street, to Ithaca Downtown Associates, LLC, including assumption of all of the purchaser s obligations under the agreement. B. IURA Chairperson Report None. Carried Unanimously 3 0 C. Common Council Liaison Report None. D. Staff Report None. V. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 9:30 A.M. Minutes prepared by C. Pyott, edited by N. Bohn. END j:\community development\admin files\minutes\iura\2016\05 26 16 iura minutes draft nb.doc
Proposed Resolution IURA August 25, 2016 2016 Appointment of IURA Neighborhood Investment Committee Chairperson WHEREAS, IURA By-laws provide that the committee membership shall elect its own committee Vice-Chairperson and nominate a candidate for committee Chairperson for consideration by the Agency, and WHEREAS, per the Bylaws, an Agency member shall fill either the committee Chairperson or committee Vice-Chairperson position, and WHEREAS, officers of each committee serve a one-year term, but continue to hold office until their successor is selected or appointed, and WHEREAS, the current Committee Chairperson and Vice-Chairpersons are Tracy Farrell and Karl Graham, and WHEREAS, the committee elected Tracy Farrell as Vice-Chairperson and nominated Karl Graham as Chairperson of the NI Committee, now, therefore be it RESOLVED, that Karl Graham be appointed as Chairperson of the IURA Neighborhood Investment Committee. j:\community development\admin files\iura members\reso iura 2016 apoint ni chair - 8-25-16.docx
Proposed Resolution Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency August 25 2016 Procurement of Independent Legal Services, Ruswick Increase Contract Amount to Cover Expenses Incurred on the 210 Hancock Street Project WHEREAS, the IURA contracted for legal services with Richard P. Ruswick at Levene Gouldin & Thompson, LLP in both 2015 and 2016 for a total amount not to exceed $5,000, and WHEREAS, Ruswick was assigned to conduct legal review on IURA funding agreements for the 210 Hancock project, a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit project (LIHTC), and WHEREAS, IURA legal costs incurred on IURA funding agreements to assist LIHTC (LIHTC) projects are paid by the project sponsor, and WHEREAS, LIHTC projects involve multiple funding sources, multiple attorneys, syndication and a complicated ownership pattern that collectively generate extensive and complicated documents for legal review to ensure compliance with applicable CDBG and HOME regulations, and WHEREAS, Ruswick incurred a total of $18,744 in legal expenses to complete review of the 210 Hancock project, and WHEREAS, the project owner paid out IURA legal costs at the project closing, but the IURA independent contract with Ruswick requires an amendment to accommodate actual legal costs incurred beyond the maximum authorized amounts contained in the legal services contracts, and WHEREAS, the IURA Governance Committee considered this matter at their August 19, 2016 meeting and recommended the following action; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA Chairperson is hereby authorized, upon review of legal counsel, to execute contract amendments for independent contractor legal services with Richard P. Ruswick at Levene Gouldin & Thompson, LLP not to exceed an additional $18,744 to account for legal services incurred on the 210 Hancock project, and be it further RESOLVED, that the source of such funds for legal services shall be derived from revenues received from the 210 Hancock project sponsor. j:\community development\admin files\independent contractor services\ruswick\2015\addendum\reso iura amend #1 ruswick 8-19- 16.doc
Proposed Resolution Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency August 25, 2016 Authorize Job Search to Hire Community Development Planner Whereas, the Community Development Planner (CD Planner) resigned effective August 12, 2016 to take another job, and Whereas, the CD Planner performs critical work functions for the IURA to achieve its mission and meet its obligations to administer the HUD Entitlement Grant program, and Whereas, IURA management recommends hiring a full-time staff person to respond to the staff vacancy and meet the work load, and Whereas, the IURA desires to retain internal personnel capacity to perform critical work functions, and Whereas, at their August 19, 2016 meeting, the IURA Governance Committee concluded that seeking a candidate with strong housing credentials will best advance the IURA mission, and Whereas, IURA Governance Committee member Kathy Schlather has agreed to serve on a search committee; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA adopts the attached job description for the Community Development Planner position dated 8/19/16, and be it further RESOLVED, the IURA hereby authorizes the Executive Director, or her designee, to advertise, form a search committee, conduct interviews, and recommend a preferred candidate to fill a full-time, permanent Community Development Planner position with the salary to be determined depending on qualifications, and be it further RESOLVED, that IURA member, shall serve on the search committee, and be it further, RESOLVED, any employment offer shall be subject to approval of the IURA. j:\community development\hiring\job position search\cd planner\2016\reso iura job search community planner 8-25-16.doc
Job Description Community Development Planner Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency 12/16/138/19/16 The Community Development Planner is a professional position responsible for developing and implementing specific aspects of the City s community development program, which has historically focused on housing and neighborhood stabilization. The position manages the City of Ithaca s HUD Entitlement Grant program, including development of the annual Action Plan to award funds to specific projects and preparation of the Consolidated Plan, a 5 year strategic plan. General work activities include community needs assessment, evaluation of funding proposals, grant administration, project oversight, and development of new programs to address community development needs. The Community Development Planner supervises the IURA Contracts Monitor. Duties and Responsibilities Coordinate all aspects of the development and administration of the 5 year Consolidated Plan; Coordinate annual Action Plan preparation and implementation, including citizen participation, environmental review, project set up on HUD s on line Integrated Disbursement & Information System (IDIS), and performance monitoring; Conduct community outreach activities especially with groups that represent, or serve, lowincome persons and diverse elements of the community to identify and jointly develop programs to address unmet priority community development needs; Supervise the IURA Contracts Monitor position, including approval of leaves and preparation of annual performance reviews; Manage the drafting of funding agreements to implement projects, in collaboration with the Contracts Monitor and legal counsel; Manage the monitoring of grant funded projects for effectiveness, timeliness and compliance with contract requirements, in collaboration with the Contracts Monitor; Administer implementation of certain housing, neighborhood stabilization and community facility projects undertaken directly by the IURA; Pursue and expand fiscal resources for community development; Prepare and administer grants to address community development needs as funding opportunities arise; Provide staff support to IURA committees; and Other related duties as assigned by the Director of Community Development. Supervision and Guidance The Community Development Planner is under the supervision of the Director of Community Development. S/he will work closely with IURA legal counsel and other independent consultants. S/he is expected to handle matters covered by policy or procedure independently, but consult with the Director on any matters not covered by policy or procedure. Job Requirements Skill in clear verbal and written communication to diverse audiences Ability to successfully work with diverse communities 1
Skill in building partnerships throughout the community to effectively address community development needs Ability to manage complex projects and initiatives independently Ability to learn and apply complex regulations governing federal grant funding Ability to initiate and implement innovative programs to address unmet community development needs Ability to represent the IURA in public forums Willingness to conduct community outreach activities, especially with groups that represent, or serve, low income persons and diverse elements of the community Skill in computer literacy, including but not limited to word processing, spreadsheet, presentation and communication software Commitment to work in a professional manner that embraces diversity and inclusiveness in all facets of the job Preferred Qualifications A Master s Degree in City Planning, Public Administration, Architecture, Real Estate or related fields; At least two (2) years of full time relevant experience in the public sector or real estate industry; and Working experience with one or more of the following activities: Developing and implementing affordable housing programs; Developing and implementing programs addressing neighborhood revitalization and community development needs; Housing finance or development; and Administering public grant programs, especially CDBG, HOME, Continuum of Care and Low Income Housing Tax Credits. j:\community development\hiring\job position search\cd planner\job description cd planner 12 16 13 revised.doc j:\community development\hiring\job position search\cd planner\2016\job description cd planner 8 19 16 proposed.doc 2
To: IURA Governance Committee From: Nels Bohn, Director of Community Development RE: Response to Upcoming Employment Position Vacancy Date: December 12, 2013 At staff s suggestion, the Governance Committee agreed to approach the employment vacancy by working through the following sequential issues: 1. Review Incumbent s current job duties 2. Determine desired topical skill set of candidate 3. Determine desired skill level/experience 4. Consider reallocation of certain job duties among staff 5. Determine compensation level for candidate 6. Develop job description including minimum qualifications 7. Develop outreach plan to attract qualified candidates Following is an analysis of each issue: 1. Incumbent s major job duties 25% Develop HUD Entitlement 5-year Consolidated Plan and annual Action Plans 20% Manage & implement grant funded projects 5% HUD electronic interface & program administration 35% Community engagement & developing innovative programs to address community development needs 10% Manage line staff 5% Committee staffing 100% The Committee endorsed retention of the existing major job duties. 2. Determine topical area(s) skill set of the candidate to best advance IURA goals (choose 1 to optimize) The Committee endorsed a candidate with skills in the Housing & Neighborhood Stabilization topical area as the top priority for the employment position. A review of skills by topical area for the position resulted in the following ranking: 1. Housing & neighborhood stabilization 2. Public facilities & infrastructure (including construction management) 3. Public services including anti-poverty & job training/placement 4. Economic development 1
The Committee also stressed they would like to continue strong community outreach and collaboration efforts to develop partnerships with community-based, non-profit organizations leading to fundable, anti-poverty programming. The Committee also noted that aptitude, temperance and intelligence of a candidate may trump experience and specific skill sets, as many skills may be teachable through post-employment training. 3. Skill Level/Experience & Education Management recommends that the position be assigned primary responsibility for development, implementation and administration of the $1.5 million annual City of Ithaca HUD Entitlement grant program, including development of annual Action Plans and the 5-year strategic Consolidated Plan. Such responsibility requires a high skill level and extensive exercise of independent judgment. Management recommends filling the position at an upper mid-level, rather than refilling the existing senior-level Deputy Director position. A comparable position in the City would be a Senior Planner position. The incumbent was hired as a Community Development Planner and promoted up to management. A similar opportunity for future advancement is recommended going forward. Management recommends hiring a Community Development Planner position to best meet IURA needs. The position is recommended as a staff position rather than a management position and therefore eligible for compensation time for hours worked beyond 35 hours/week. Following are staff recommended preferences and job requirements: Recommended Education/Experience Preferences: (a) Masters degree in city planning, real estate, public administration, architecture, landscape architecture or a related field; (b) At least two (2) years of full-time relevant experience in the public sector; (c) Experience administering public grant programs, especially CDBG, HOME, Continuum of Care and Low Income Housing Tax Credits; (d) Experience developing and implementing affordable housing programs; and (e) Experience developing and implementing programs addressing complex community development and neighborhood revitalization needs; and 4. Reallocation of Duties/Organizational Chart The Deputy Director position had primary responsibility for supervision of line staff. The Contracts Monitor, Bookkeeper and Administrative Assistant (vacant) all reported to the Deputy Director. The primary work of the Contracts Monitor involves developing and monitoring contracts for projects funded in the HUD Entitlement Action Plan and then reporting outcomes to HUD. Successfully administering the HUD Entitlement program requires close coordination between the CD Planner and the Contracts Monitor. Therefore, it is recommended that the Community 2
Development Planner supervise the Contracts Monitor. The work of the Bookkeeper/Accountant is more general to the financial management of the entire organization and it is recommended that the Bookkeeper report directly to the Director (Please see the attached proposed organizational chart.) If the new employee lacks experience in construction management, the IURA should be prepared to hire out consulting construction management services on a case-by-case basis. Funding for such independent consulting contracts to implement public facility projects is an eligible use of CDBG funds. 5. Compensation Level Please find attached a comparison of compensation levels by various job titles at Tompkins County, the City of Ithaca and the IURA. Based on this data, management recommends a salary range of $45,000 - $52,000 for the Community Development Planner, with final salary level depending on qualifications. 6. Job Description with Minimum Requirements Recommended Job Requirements: (b) Skill in verbal and written communication using tact and diplomacy. (c) Ability to successfully work with and serve a diverse local community. (d) Skill in building partnerships with community-based organizations working to address community development needs. (e) Ability to manage complex projects and initiatives independently. (f) Ability to learn and apply complex regulations governing federal grant funding. (g) Ability to represent the IURA in public forums. (h) Willingness to conduct community outreach, especially with groups that represent, or serve, low-income persons and diverse elements of the community. (i) Skill in computer literacy, including but not limited to word processing, spreadsheet, presentation and communication software. (j) Commitment to work in professional manner that embraces diversity and inclusiveness in all facets of the job. 7. Outreach Plan Goal: Build a diverse and skilled candidate pool. Post job opportunity as follows: Tompkins County Human Services Coalition listserve Ithaca Times display add City Human Resources outreach distribution list Cornell University and traveling spouses (Dept. of Inclusiveness & Workforce Diversity)/IC Talking Circles Alumni listserve www.planetizen.org ($99) NeighborWorks Upstate NY Planners Network 3
Other targeted efforts to expand diversity outreach ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IURA Mission Statement The Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency secures and manages resources to improve the social, physical and economic characteristics of the City of Ithaca by expanding access to quality affordable housing, strengthening neighborhoods and the local economy, and supporting other community development activities. CDBG objective: Develop viable communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment & expand economic opportunities principally for low and moderate income persons. HOME objective: Provide decent, safe and affordable housing and alleviate the problems of excessive rent burden, homelessness and deteriorated housing stock. 4
IURA Community Planner Salary Comparison (in $) Tompkins County 2015 35 Hrs/Week Hire Rate Work Rate Planner 40,786 44,317 Senior Planner 43,844 47,629 City of Ithaca 2016 35 Hrs/Week Entry Step 4 Planner 42,000 49,900 Historic Preservation Planner 44,750 53,100 Senior Planner 46,200 54,800 IURA 2016 35 Hrs/Week CD Planner 56,600 (Hire rate in 2014: $53,000) Contracts Monitor 48,100 RECOMMENDATION FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLANNER (2016): Hire Rate Hire Rate Salary Range Salary Target If Advanced Qualifications: 50,000 53,000 52,000 If Entry Qualifications: 42,000 45,000 44,000 Notes: 1. City steps increase upon each yearly anniversary until maximum reached on 4th year anniversary 2. City retirement, health and vacation benefits are perceived as somewhat superior to IURA benefits 3. City civil service process is perceived as cumbersome, slow and rigid, especially regarding merit promotions Prepared by N. Bohn
IURA Staff Task Analysis Task Staff Frequency Time Commitment Timing Expertise Required Consolidated Plan Lynn 5 yrs very significant winter/spring analysis, planning, regulations, outreach, writing, demographics, IDIS Fair Housing Action Plan Lynn 5 yrs significant fall B4 ConPlan analysis, planning, regulations, outreach, writing, IDIS Implement Fair Housing Recommendations Lynn ongoing medium flexible planning, outreach, writing HUD Action Plan Lynn annual significant spring planning, regulations, outreach, writing, IDIS Environmental review Lynn annual significant summer analysis, regulations, writing, HEROS CAPER Lynn annual significant late summer analysis, writing, IDIS HOME Risk analysis Lynn annual medium summer analysis HOME Underwriting/ subsidy layering Lynn annual medium summer/fall analysis (financial) New Project Develop. Lynn sporadic medium yr round regulations, outreach, project development (eg. Housing for school) Community Outreach Lynn annual medium yr round communication Policy creation/update Lynn sporadic potentially significant varies regulations, planning, writing Staff NI committee Lynn monthly medium yr round planning, writing Special projects Lynn sporadic medium(?) yr round planning, analysis, regulations, writing (eg, incentive zoning, anti-gentrification, anti-poverty) Attend IURA Lynn monthly minor yr round varies IDIS Lynn sporadic minor yr round regulations, IDIS Attend Funders roundtable Lynn ongoing minor quarterly communication Loan/funding contracts Rene annual significant summer regulations, writing CAPER(performance report) Rene annual significant late summer IDIS reporting, writing Set-up/fund/track in IDIS Rene ongoing medium varies/yr round regulations, IDIS Monitor grantees Rene quarterly medium yr round regulations Voucher review Rene ongoing medium yr round regulations Indep. Contractor procurem. Rene annual medium winter regulations, writing Site Inspections Rene 3 yrs medium flexible regulations HUD audit Rene 2 yrs medium summer general admin Sec 3/DB/FFATA compliance Rene unpredictable medium yr round regulations
IURA Staff Task Analysis Task Staff Frequency Time Commitment Timing Expertise Required Action Plan Rene annual minor winter administration Web page Rene ongoing minor varies/yr round general admin Human Resource records Rene sporadic minor varies general admin File maintenance Rene ongoing minor yr round general admin Special projects Rene sporadic minor varies event planning, procurement Urban Renewal Projects Nels sporadic significant varies planning, analysis, regulations, writing Grant development Nels sporadic significant varies analysis, outreach, writing (eg. TIGER, CFA, URI, Restore, brownfields, NYSDOT relocation, etc ) Special projects Nels sporadic medium varies analysis, planning (Comp. Plan implementation, City Facilities, Housing Mkt. study review, parking, CIITAP (econ. dev.) Nels ongoing medium varies analysis, writing CHDF (afford. housing) Nels sporadic medium varies analysis, writing Cayuga Garage Nels ongoing medium fall budgeting, asset management Staff IURA Nels ongoing medium yr round planning, writing Other Property Disposition Nels sporadic medium varies regulations, planning, implementation Public Authority reporting Nels annual medium spring reporting Financial Audit Nels annual medium winter financial management HUD monitoring Nels bi-annual medium varies reporting ED Loan underwriting Nels sporadic medium varies analysis, structuring Budget Prep Nels annual medium fall analysis, financial projection Strategic Planning Nels ongoing medium yr round analysis Loan Portfolio Nels ongoing medium yr round collection Originate Housing Loans Nels sporadic medium varies underwriting, analysis Continuum of Care Nels ongoing minor-medium yr round planning HR Nels ongoing minor yr round management Financial Management Nels ongoing minor yr round management Staff ED committee Nels ongoing minor yr round planning, writing Staff Governance committee Nels ongoing minor yr round planning, writing NHI bond Nels ongoing minor spring bond anticipation note renewal Property Lease Portfolio Nels ongoing minor yr round financial management Parking Agreements Nels sporadic minor varies analysis, writing, tax-exempt financing law
Tax Delinquent properties Nels annual minor spring analysis Fed./State Advocacy Nels sporadic minor varies writing, outreach FINDINGS CD Planner: surplus staff time available for Additional Work: June-August after 2 nd year of employment Contracts Monitor: 25% Surplus Staff Time Available for Additional Work Director of Community Development: No surplus staff time available Candidate additional tasks for CD Planner: ED package ED loan underwriting from Nels ED loan portfolio management from Nels or Property disposition package All Urban renewal project/property disposition from Nels Tax delinquent properties from Nels or Housing package CDHF from Nels Urban renewal projects involving housing from Nels NHI bond from Nels or Other Increase Community outreach/collaboration, esp. with other funders Cross-train on IDIS Grant development from Nels Candidate additional tasks for Contracts Monitor: Primary responsibility for Action Plan programs (vs. projects) in public service and housing categories from Lynn Environmental review of selected projects from Lynn Public Authority Reporting from Nels Manage property lease portfolio from Nels Monitor affordability requirements for other funders or per incentive zoning Increase Community Outreach/collaboration Prepared by N. Bohn, 8/16/16
IURA Grants Summary July 2016 ON TOTAL # SCHEDULE UNEXPENDED HUD ENTITLEMENT ACTIVITIES SPONSER BUDGET EXPENDED UNEXPENDED % SPENT 2013 CDBG Activities 2467 ok 23.0 Ithaca Falls Overlook Site Cleanup IURA 25,000.00 0.00 25,000.00 0% Total 25,000.00 0.00 25,000.00 0% 2014 CDBG Activities 2491 ok 2.0 Homeowner Rehab INHS 123,260.00 39,661.00 83,599.00 32% 2497 ok 11.0 Lake Street Bridge City of Ithaca 30,000.00 0.00 30,000.00 0% 2911 ok Unallocated 2014 CDBG 13 IURA 21,749.57 0.00 21,749.57 0% 2014 CDBG Activities (continued) ok 18.0 Business Boost Ithaca Downtown Alliance 7,500.00 2,400.00 5,100.00 32% 2502 ok 7.0 ED Loan Fund IURA 150,000.00 54,831.61 95,168.39 37% Total 332,509.57 96,892.61 235,616.96 29% 2014 HOME Activities 2482 ok 5.0 Housing Scholarship Program Learning Web 58,958.90 21,488.25 37,470.65 36% 2805 ok 2014 HOME unallocated 15 N/A 273,869.00 0.00 273,869.00 0% Total 332,827.90 21,488.25 311,339.65 6% 2015 CDBG Activities 2521 complete 1.0 Hancock Street INHS 250,403.50 250,403.50 0.00 100% 2522 ok 2.0 Mini repair INHS 35,000.00 17,087.40 17,912.60 49% 2531 ok 6.0 Temporary Ramp Loan Program 10 Finger Lakes Ind. Center 20,000.00 13,285.20 6,714.80 66% 2532 ok 7.0 Hospitality Employment Training Program 11 GIAC 109,417.00 63,282.57 46,134.43 58% 2523 ok 8.0 Work Preserve Job Training Program Historic Ithaca 87,500.00 25,444.91 62,055.09 29% 2524 ok 9.0 Spencer Road Sidewalks City of Ithaca 100,000.00 0.00 100,000.00 0% 2525 complete 10.0 2 1 1/I&R Service Human Services Coalition 20,000.00 20,000.00 0.00 100% 2526 ok 11.0 Building for the Future Southside Community Center 23,577.00 18,677.76 4,899.24 79% 2527 ok 12.0 Immigrant Services Catholic Charities 16,000.00 8,666.67 7,333.33 54% 2528 complete 13.0 A+ Tuition Assistance BJM Enrichment Program 17,410.00 17,410.00 0.00 100% 2529 ok 14.0 ReSET Job Training Expansion Finger Lakes ReUse 23,759.00 14,093.38 9,665.62 59% 2530 ok 15.0 CDBG Grant Administration IURA 134,329.20 95,021.22 39,307.98 71% Total 837,395.70 543,372.61 294,023.09 65% 2015 HOME Activities 2511 ok 1.0 210 Hancock Street INHS 206,922.50 192,922.50 14,000.00 93% 2512 ok 3.0 Security Deposit Assistance Program (including Inspections) 12 Catholic Charities 74,000.00 58,670.00 15,330.00 65% 2517 ok 4.0 Housing Scholarship Program Learning Web 24,600.00 0.00 24,600.00 0% 2514 ok 5.0 Housing First 14 TCAction 30,000.00 25,624.00 4,376.00 71% 2516 ok 16.0 HOME Grant Administration IURA 36,866.10 29,864.90 7,001.20 81% 2806 ok Unallocated 2015 HOME 12, 14 N/A 71,115.40 0.00 71,115.40 0% Total 443,504.00 307,081.40 136,422.60 69% ok CDBG Spend Down Ratio (must be less than 1.5 by 7/16): 0.622 CDBG Spend Down Ratio = total unexpended CDBG funds/most recent annual CDBG award Total Unexpended HUD Entitlement Funds CDBG Activities 417,903.44 CDBG Program Income Activities 136,736.61 HOME Activities 644,516.11 HOME Program Income Activites 6,330.00 Total Unexpended HUD Entitlement Funds 1,205,486.16 Notes: 1. Funded activities not shown have been completed. 12. 30K of Recaptured PI funds from HOME 2010/5 project #205 213 Cleveland Ave. were returned by INHS and has been used to fund the 2015 HOME Security Deposits Assistance Program instead of the HOME entitlement funds originally assigned to project. The expended amount for the Security Deposit Asst includes the 30K of the entitlement fund that were transferred to HOME Unallocated and will be assigned to a project at a later date. 13. 2014 Hospitality Employment Training Program is complete. Total allocated to project $118,865.00, total spent $97,115.43, leaving, $21,749.57 that wa reallocated to 2014 CDBG Unallocated. Remaining funds will be assigned to a 2016 project. 14. The expended amount for the #5/2015 Housing First #303 activity includes $14,843.00 that was deobligated from project and reallocated (transferred in) to 2015 HOME unalloca These funds have been allocated to the 2016 Morris Ave Homes activity per the adopted 2016 action plan and will be reflected on Committee Report when 2016 funding is available 15. The 2014 HOME Community Housing Trust #1/2015 activity has been cancelled. The expended amount for the project includes the transfer of $273,869.00 to
LEASE PAYMENTS DUE TO IURA July 2016 Project Monthly Fee Quarterly Fee Yearly Fee Status Date Last Payt. Rec'd Cherry Street Industrial Park Moro Design Quarterly Lease - Jan., April, July, Oct. $ 465.00 Current 07/26/16 Yearly Maintenance Fee - July $ 300.00 Current 07/26/16 Evaporated Metal Films Yearly Maintenance Fee - July $ 236.80 Past Due 08/07/15 Precision Filters Yearly Maintenance Fee - July $ 375.00 Current 07/13/16 Cayuga Green Allpro Parking - air rights lease Monthly Lease $ 2,775.30 (rate change 1/1/2016) Past Due - July's Pmt rec'd 8/1/2016. Will be reflected on August's report. 06/28/16 Cayuga Green-Parcel A ground floor Monthly Lease-rate change on 2/1/2016 $ 6,350.97 Current 07/05/16 Cinemapolis Monthly Lease-rate change on 5/1/16 $ 3,107.96 Current 07/05/16 Qrtly Maint Fee- Jan., April, July, Oct. $ 275.08 Current 07/05/16 (Maint Fee rate change on 7/1/16) Other Leases Southside Community Center-RIBS Monthly Lease -New rate 7/1/15 $ 436.00 Current - Modification to lease agreement approved - 6 months of deferred lease payments beginning February 2016. 02/01/16 Farmer's Market/Steamboat Landing Quarterly Lease - June, Aug., Oct., Dec. $ 8,185.00 Current 06/14/16
LOAN REPAYMENTS DUE TO IURA July 2016 GOSC Orginal Loan Year Final Due Date % Monthy Pymt Cascade Plaza $ 665,000 2004 2025 2 $ 3,364.13 $ 3,364.13 $ 335,055.06 Current 07/01/16 Paid Loan Balance Status Date Pymt Rec'd Entitlement Loans Diane's Downtown Auto-revised 5/3/12 $ 80,000 2006 2026 4 $ 449.85 $ 449.85 $ 43,827.81 Current 07/15/16 Cedar Creek(90K HOME/10K HODAG)** $ 100,000 2008 2038 5 N/A N/A $ 142,076.88 Int. Only Pmts. subject to cash flow N/A Breckenridge Place $ 400,000 2012 2053 1 N/A N/A $ 440,025.76 Int. only pmts. due subject to cash flow N/A TOTAL ENTITLEMENT LOANS $ 580,000 $ 449.85 $ 449.85 $ 625,930.45 CD-RLF Wildfire Restaurant #26 $ 95,000 2009 2016 3 $ 1,271.01 $ 1,271.01 $ 2,532.21 Current 07/01/16 e2e Materials $ 100,000 2010 2017 9 $ 3,179.97 $ 3,200.11 $ 57,835.43 Current-Paid to 9/1/2016 07/08/16 Cinemapolis/7th Art $ 50,000 2013 2017 1 $ 41.67 $ 41.67 $ 50,000.00 Int Only - Current 07/05/16 Ithaca Coffee Roasting Facility $ 100,000 2013 2033 2.5 $ 537.42 $ 537.73 $ 90,192.09 Current 07/12/16 LAG Restaurant (The Rook) $ 40,000 2016 2022 3.5 $ 616.74 $ 1,233.48 $ 38,998.39 Current 07/01/16 210 Hancock******* $ 120,000 2016 2048 3.5 N/A N/A $ 120,000.00 No pmts due during construction period N/A Sunny Days $ 50,000 2014 2019 2.5 $ 72.42 $ 72.42 $ 34,761.69 TOTAL CD-RLF LOANS $ 555,000 $ 5,719.23 $ 6,356.42 $ 394,319.81 CD-RLF Priority Business Current - Interest Only payments due for 10 months from 4/1/2016 through 1/1/2017 07/01/16 State Theatre $ 458,500 2009 2019* 3 $ 1,741.96 $ 1,916.14 $ 381,762.79 Past Due - owes July 2016 07/26/16 JG McGuire/Lot 10 $ 64,500 2012 2017 4 $ 1,169.95 $ 1,169.95 $ 21,504.99 Current 07/14/16 Delante****** $ 150,000 2015 2023 3.5 $ 131.97 $ 131.97 $ 54,831.61 Int Only - Current 07/15/16 Finger Lakes Massage Group***** $ 150,000 2015 2023 3.5 $ 437.50 $ - $ 150,000.00 Int Only - Past Due owes July 2016 06/19/16 TOTAL CD-RLF PRIORITY BUSINESS $ 823,000 $ 3,481.38 $ 3,218.06 $ 608,099.39 CDBG 210 Hancock******* $ 130,404 2016 2048 2 N/A N/A $ 130,403.50 No pmts due during construction period/payments in permanent phase are subject to cash flow N/A Non-CDBG Cayuga Green $ 847,083 2007 2038 5.5 $ 4,881.04 $ 4,881.04 $ 747,961.87 Current 07/05/16 Italthai (Restore NY grant) $ 900,000 2014 2044 0 $ - $ - $ 900,000.00 N/A N/A The Lofts on Six Mile Creek***** $ 260,000 2014 2029 4 $ 2,023.70 $ 2,023.70 $ 242,233.65 Current 07/05/16 TOTAL NON-CDBG $ 2,007,083 $ 6,904.74 $ 6,904.74 $ 1,890,195.52 HODAG Breckenridge Place $ 600,000 2012 2043 2 $ 2,217.72 $ 2,217.72 $ 561,291.56 Current 07/05/16 TOTAL HODAG LOANS $ 600,000 $ 2,217.72 $ 2,217.72 $ 561,291.56 HOME Stone Quarry Apartments, LLC**** $ 358,000 2014 2046 3 N/A N/A $ 383,100.55 210 Hancock******* $ 206,923 2016 2048 2 N/A N/A $ 192,922.50 TOTAL HOME $ 564,923 $ 576,023.05 Permanent Loan phase commenced 11/1/2015. 2% Interest compounds annually. Interest payments subject to cash flow. No pmts due during construction period/payments in permanent phase are subject to cash flow N/A N/A TOTAL IURA LOAN PORTFOLIO $ 5,925,409 $ 22,137.05 $ 22,510.92 $ 5,121,318.34 $ 2,023.70 Less The Lofts pmt paid directly to IURA $ 131.97 Less Delante pmt paid directly to IURA $ 20,355.25 Agrees to M&T Statement Notes * State Theatre's loan has a balloon payment due in 2019 ** Cedar Creek's first Interest Only payt. due 1/1/11 - yearly payt. subject to available cash flow **** Stone Quarry's loan has a 24 month const period at 3%/Permanent Loan will start at the end of the const. period at 2%. No payments are due during the const. period. Interest compounds annually. Interest payments in permanent phase are subject to cash flow. Balloon payment of principal and all interest owed due in 2046. *****Finger Lakes Massage Loan was disbursed 1/8/2016. First 6 months Interest Only payments due beginning 2/1/2016. Interest Rate 3.5%. ******Delante Loan was disbursed 2/3/2016. First 6 months Interest Only payments due beginning 3/1/2016. Interest Rate 3.5%. *******210 Hancock loans have a maximum 24 month const period where interest at 2% and 3.5% will compound annually. No principal or interest payments are due during the construction period. Interst rates will remain constant in Permanent phases.
Tompkins County Property Viewer Legend Address Stroutes Hydrology Intermittent Streams Perennial Streams Muni Citations 1: 3,000 500.0 WGS_1984_Web_Mercator_Auxiliary_Sphere Tompkins County GIS 0 250.00 500.0 Feet Map is user generated and is to be used as a reference only. Data layers are not guranteed to be accurate or up-to-date. DO NOT USE FOR CONVEYANCE OR NAVIGATION Notes This map was automatically generated using Geocortex Essentials. Your tax dollars at work!
Tompkins County Property Viewer Legend Address Stroutes Hydrology Intermittent Streams Perennial Streams Muni Citations 1: 3,000 500.0 WGS_1984_Web_Mercator_Auxiliary_Sphere Tompkins County GIS 0 250.00 500.0 Feet Map is user generated and is to be used as a reference only. Data layers are not guranteed to be accurate or up-to-date. DO NOT USE FOR CONVEYANCE OR NAVIGATION Notes This map was automatically generated using Geocortex Essentials. Your tax dollars at work!