09-09-2026 Special Meeting of Common Council

The City of Ithaca Common Council held a special meeting on September 9, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key items included the approval of an amendment to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency's Disposition and Development Agreement for the 205 West State Street parcel to support the INHS Lucy project, with unanimous council approval. The council also discussed and moved forward a new fee structure for noise permits, establishing a $50 fee for temporary noise permit applications and petitions for noise variance, allowing future fee adjustments by resolution to better align with cost recovery. Additionally, the council approved the 2027 Sidewalk Improvement District budget assessments and work plan. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing a Planned Unit Development (PUD) application for the West Court Street project involving the Gak building, which will become a city-owned asset. Presenters detailed the project scope, funding status with $2.6 million in awarded grants, and operational plans, including staffing and maintenance. Council members expressed support but requested further financial and business plan details to assess long-term liabilities and revenue projections. The meeting concluded with a resolution approving a memorandum of understanding related to the promotion and benefits of Assistant Chief Robert Shepard in the Fire Department.