Present: Ray Gillen, Sharon Jordan, Bob Mantello, Janet Hutchison, Bob Wall, Bill Chapman, John Mallozzi and Karen Zalewski-Wildzunas
Absent: Brad Lewis and Neil Golub
Others: Jayme Lahut and Jim Callander
Call to Order: Mr. Gillen called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
1. Approval of Minutes: Mr. Mantello moved adoption of the September 14, 2011 meeting minutes; seconded by Mrs. Hutchison and approved.
2. Treasurer’s Report: Mr. Wall reviewed the Treasurer’s Report ending October 31, 2011 which was distributed prior to the meeting. He noted that the sales tax receipts continue to rise and expenses are within budget. Cash on hand totaled $2.4 million. Mr. Capovani moved approval of the Treasurer’s Report; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas and approved.
3. FY-2012 Budget: Resolution 728-11 — Adopt Fiscal Year 2012 Budget
The Fiscal Audit Committee recommended adoption of the 2012 budget, which reflected growth in sales tax revenue and slightly higher operating expenses due to increased employee pension health insurance costs. The predevelopment budget remained the same as 2011. Ms. Jordan moved Resolution 728-11; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas. Following discussion, Resolution 728-11 was unanimously approved.
4. Transfinder Corporation Relocation Project: Resolution 729-11 — Amend SEQRA Findings Statement
As SEQRA lead agency, Metroplex needed to reconfirm an earlier SEQRA Findings Statement with respect to the recent State Historic Preservation Office’s determination that the existing 440 State Street façade cannot be maintained or preserved thereby allowing full replacement. Mr. Mantello moved Resolution 729-11; seconded by Mr. Wall. After discussion about new building design, Resolution 729-11 was unanimously approved.
5. Transfinder Corporation Relocation Project: Resolution 730-11 — Amend the General Project Plan
Resolution 730-11 reaffirmed Metroplex’s participation in the project including $210,000 in grants and a short-term Pilot and acknowledged the physical alterations contemplated with the project. Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas moved Resolution 730-11; seconded by Mr. Wall and unanimously approved.
6. 162-166 Jay Street Renovation Project: Resolution 731-11 — Adopt the General Project Plan
The project involved improving ground-floor retail spaces contained in the two-story building owned by Synthesis at 162 Jay Street. The owners will invest about $49,000 into the former Graubart’s Jewelry and Earthly Delights spaces to make vacant them tenant-ready. The work involved exterior painting, floor refinishing, window replacement and replacement of the HVAC system. Metroplex’s participation involved a $20,000 grant. Mr. Capovani moved Resolution 731-11; seconded by Mrs. Hutchison. Following discussion, Resolution 731-11 was approved.
7. Operating Policies and Procedures: Resolution 732-11 — Re-Adopt Master Goal Plan for Minority / Women-owned Business Enterprises
Resolution 732-11 re-adopted Metroplex’s MWBE policy in accordance with Executive Order 15-A setting goals for workforce participation and dollar value of contracts to minority and women-owned businesses certified by New York State. Ms. Jordan moved Resolution 732-11; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas. Discussion followed about the complexities of securing designation as State-certified MWBE. Resolution 732-11 was unanimously approved.
8. Presentations: Ray Gillen provided a project update throughout the City and Towns and a look ahead on pipeline projects throughout the County.
9. Public Comment: None
10. Board Comment: Mr. Capovani spoke about a community forum on November 15 at Scotia-Glenville High School regarding the impact of Global Foundries on the area job market, businesses and economy.
11. Adjournment: Mr. Mantello moved to adjourn; seconded by Mr. Capovani. The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jayme B. Lahut
Executive Director