PRESENT:

­­­DAVE D’AMORE, CHAIRMAN
JOSEPH SEMIONE, VICE CHAIRMAN
TODD RULISON, TREASURER
JANE KELLEY, SECRETARY
JOE GILLIS, MEMBER
MIKE FITZGERALD, MEMBER
JAMES MRAZ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
KARA LAIS, FITZGERALD, MORRIS, BAKER, FIRTH PC
SCOTT HENZE, PLANNING DIRECTOR
TERRI EASTERLY, FULTON COUNTY CENTER FOR REGIONAL GROWTH
JOHN BLACKMON, LIAISON, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE

Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

MOTION        :           Accept as presented
MADE BY      :           Joseph Semione
SECONDED   :           Jane Kelley
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

NOTE:  A transcript of the December 8, 2020 meeting has been prepared and posted on the IDA’s website in compliance with Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order suspending the Open Meetings Law.

MOTION        :           To accept the revised Budget Report.
MADE BY      :           Jane Kelley
SECONDED   :           Todd Rulison
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

A. Nominating Committee

1. Report of Nominating Committee: 2021 Officers

Chairman                                :           Joe Semione
Vice-Chairman                       :           Jane Kelley
Treasurer                                :           Mike Fitzgerald
Secretary                                 :           Joe Gillis

IDA ACTION:

MOTION        :           To accept the report of the Nominating Committee for 2021 IDA Officers

MADE BY      :           Dave D’Amore
SECONDED   :           Joseph Semione
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

B. Audit Committee:

• Monthly Bank Reconciliation Report: Mike Fitzgerald

IDA DISCUSSION:  Mike Fitzgerald approved the Monthly Bank Reconciliation Reports.

C. Governance Committee:

• No report.

D. Finance Committee:

•  No report.

1. Fulton County Report: John Blackmon, Liaison
2. FCCRG Report: (See attached.)  Terri Easterly

IDA DISCUSSION:  John Blackmon stated the Board of Supervisors had its first meeting of 2021 yesterday.  He stated all IDA Board members were all reappointed.  He stated the majority of the meeting was talking about COVID.

Terri Easterly reviewed the CRG report which was attached to the IDA Agenda.  Joe Semione asked Terri Easterly how the CRG determines when to inform the IDA when it offers IDA-owned properties to a perspective company?  Terrie Easterly recommended Joe Semione discuss this with Ron Peters.  Joe Semione asked Terri Easterly to ask Ron Peters to contact him.

• At December 8, 2020 meeting, IDA Board authorized Adirondack Septic to powerjet and vacuum sewer main.
• Adirondack Septic scheduled work to start on December 17^th.
• On December 17^th, we had a major snowstorm that dumped 24” of snow.
• As a result, Adirondack Septic had to reschedule this work.
• Adirondack Septic started work during the week of January 4, 2021 and should have it completed on January 12, 2021.

• IDA has received the $5,500 reimbursement check from NYMIR.

• Status Report: Kara Lais

IDA DISCUSSION:  Jim Mraz stated that the closing on this property sale occurred on Monday, January 11^th.  Kara Lais stated that she would be sending a letter to all taxing jurisdictions advising them that this parcel can now go back onto the tax rolls.

Jim Mraz stated that Richelle VanValkenburgh from the Personnel Department has been notarizing many IDA documents.  She has always made herself available as needed.  Jim Mraz further stated that she has never charged the IDA for her services.  He recommended that as a sign of good faith and appreciation that the IDA issue a payment to her in thanks for her services.  He recommended a check be issued in the amount of $100.  Dave D’Amore stated that he has, over the last two (2) years, had her notarize many documents that he had to sign.  He stated he supports such a gesture.  Joe Semione stated the same.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:               To authorize a payment in the amount of $100 to Richelle VanValkenburgh for her serviced in notarizing IDA documents.

MADE BY:            Dave D’Amore
SECONDED:          Joseph Semione
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

IDA DISCUSSION:  Jim Mraz referenced the information that he included in his January 7^th e-mail to IDA members transmitting the IDA Agenda to them.  He stated problems developed with a float in the wastewater pump station at Tryon.  The malfunctioning float was causing alarms to constantly going off.  The float had to be replaced.  The work has been completed by Adirondack Septic since they were already out there performing powerjetting and vacuuming of the sewer line.  The total should not exceed $1,000.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:               To authorize the payment to Adirondack Septic of up to $1,000 for the emergency replacement of floats in the Tryon wastewater pump station.

MADE BY:            Joseph Semione
SECONDED:          Dave D’Amore
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

• Per the IDA’s Bylaws, the Chairman shall annually appoint members to the IDA’s Committees.
• The following is the Chairman’s Committee appointments for 2021.

2020 Committee Appointees

1. Joseph Semione
2. Joseph Gillis
3. David D’Amore
4. Tim Munn

2021 Committee Appointees

1. Joseph Semione
2. Joseph Gillis
3. David D’Amore
4. Jane Kelley

2020 Committee Appointees

1. Jane Kelley
2. Joseph Gillis
3. Tim Munn
4. Todd Rulison

2021 Committee Appointees

1. Jane Kelley
2. Joseph Gillis
3. Todd Rulison

2020 Committee Appointees

1. Todd Rulison
2. Jane Kelley
3. Tim Munn

2021 Committee Appointees

1. Todd Rulison
2. Jane Kelley
3. Mike Fitzgerald

2020 Committee Appointees

1. Todd Rulison
2. Joseph Semione
3. David D’Amore
4.  Mike Fitzgerald

2021 Committee Appointees

1. Todd Rulison
2. Joseph Semione
3. David D’Amore
4. Mike Fitzgerald

1. The IDA’s Bylaws require that the IDA Board annually appoint:

• Executive Director
• Chief Financial
• Auditor

2. Appointment of Executive Director:

MOTION:   To appoint Jim Mraz to serve as the IDA’s Executive Director for 2021 at a salary of $22,088/year.

MADE BY:           Jane Kelley
SECONDED:        Mike Fitzgerald
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

3. Appointment of Chief Financial Officer

MOTION: To appoint Carol Ellis as the Chief Financial Officer for 2021 at a salary of $4,000.

MADE BY:                             Dave D’Amore
SECONDED:        Todd Rulison
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

4. Appointment of Auditor:

• It is recommended that the IDA retain West & Company as the IDA’s Auditor.
• Total Fee: $9,250
• These funds are included in the 2021 Budget.

MOTION:             To appoint West & Company to serve as the IDA’s Auditor for 2021 and to authorize the Chairman to execute an Agreement with West & Company to audit the IDA’s 2020 financial statements at a fee of $8,750 and to provide 2021 payroll services for $500.

MADE BY:           Mike Fitzgerald
SECONDED:        Dave D’Amore
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

• It is recommended that the IDA retain Fitzgerald, Morris, Baker, Firth, PC to serve as IDA Counsel in 2021.
• Budgeted: $8,000

MOTION:       To authorize the Chairman to execute an Agreement with Fitzgerald, Morris, Baker and Firth, PC to provide legal services in 2021.

MADE BY:     Joseph Semione
SECONDED:  Dave D’Amore
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

• Per the IDA’s Investment Policy, it is recommended that NBT Bank, Citizens Banks, Berkshire Bank and Key Bank be designated as eligible depositories of IDA funds.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:       To designate NBT Bank, Citizens Bank, Berkshire Bank and Key Bank as eligible depositaries of IDA funds for 2021.

MADE BY:     Jane Kelley
SECONDED:  Mike Fitzgerald
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

• Chief Financial Officer has completed the IDA’s 2020 Financial Report.
• This Report will be sent to West & Company to audit.

IDA DISCUSSION:    Jim Mraz stated that Carol Ellis, CFO, has completed the IDA’s 2020 Financial Report.  He stated this report will be sent to West & Company who will audit the Financial Report.  He stated he would expect West & Company to present its Audit to the IDA Board at its March meeting.

1. Background:

• The 2009 Public Authorities Reform Act requires board members of public authorities to conduct an annual evaluation of its performance.
• Evaluation forms were e-mailed to all IDA Board members on November 4, 2020.
• Executive Director has collected the forms and tallied the results.

2. Review Summary of 2020 IDA Board Performance Questionnaire

• See attached.

IDA DISCUSSION:    Jim Mraz reviewed the information on the Agenda.   He stated that two (2) items identified on the Questionnaire regarding setting goals and IDA Board’s knowledge of the statutory obligations of the IDA will be addressed at this meeting.  He asked if there were any questions.  There were none.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:                   To authorize the Executive Director to post the 2020 Summary of IDA Board Performance Questionnaire on the IDA’s website.

MADE BY:                 Dave D’Amore
SECONDED:              Jane Kelley
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

1. Background:

• The 2009 Public Authorities Reform Act requires public authorities to develop performance measures to help determine how well they are carrying out their mission.
• Performance measures assist the IDA Board and management to evaluate and monitor whether the IDA’s authority’s policies and operating practices are in accordance with its mission.

2. Review 2020 Performance and Measurement Report:

• See attached.

IDA DISCUSSION:    Jim Mraz reviewed the information on the Agenda and the Measurement Report that was attached to it.  He asked if there were any questions.  There were none.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:                   To authorize the Chairman to sign the 2020 Performance and Measurement Report and to authorize the Executive Director to post this report on the IDA’s website.

MADE BY:                 Joseph Semione
SECONDED:              Todd Rulison
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

1. Background:

• The IDA’s Policy 11 requires the IDA Board and management to complete an annual assessment of the effectiveness of the IDA’s internal financial control system.

2. Management’s Assessment of Internal Financial Control System:

• No changes are recommended.

3. Internal Financial Control System Certification Statement:

• IDA’s Policy 11 Annual Assessment of the Effectiveness of Internal Controls requires the IDA Board to adopt a certification statement upon completion of its annual review of the IDA’s Internal Financial Control System.
• Proposed Certification Statement reads as follows:

“The IDA Board has documented and assessed the internal control structure and procedures of the Fulton County Industrial Development Agency for the year ending December 31, 2020.    The internal controls were determined to be adequate and no deficiencies were identified.  No corrective actions were deemed required.” 

IDA DISCUSSION:  Jim Mraz reviewed the information on the Agenda.  He asked if there were any questions.  There were none.

MOTION:                   To adopt the Certification Statement presented above, to authorize the Executive Director to acknowledge in PARIS that said Certification Statement was approved by the IDA Board and to authorize the Executive Director to post this certification on the IDA’s website.

MADE BY:                 Dave D’Amore
SECONDED:              Mike Fitzgerald
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

• Fulton County appropriated $5,000 in the Planning Department’s 2021 budget to help the IDA cover costs associated with operating the Tryon Technology Park.
• Typical costs the IDA seeks reimbursement from Fulton County are insurance and mowing.

IDA DISCUSSION:    Jim Mraz reviewed the information on the Agenda.  He asked if there were any questions.  There were none.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:             To authorize the Chairman to execute an Agreement with Fulton County regarding IDA costs at Tryon.

MADE BY:           Jane Kelley
SECONDED:        Dave D’Amore
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

• In 2016, the IDA became a Gold Member of the FCCRG.
• IDA has received a renewal invoice from the FCCRG to continue the membership for another year.
• Invoice Amount: $1,000
• $1,000 is included in the 2021 Budget for this membership.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:                   To authorize a payment to the FCCRG to renew the IDA’s Gold Membership.

MADE BY:                 Dave D’Amore
SECONDED:              Jane Kelley
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

1. Background:

• Each year, the IDA monitors all PILOT Agreements it has on projects to verify that PILOT payments are being made per the PILOT Agreements.
• Each year, the IDA sends a letter to every company it has a PILOT with asking that they fill out a PILOT Report.
• The IDA also sends a similar letter to all local taxing jurisdictions impacted by an IDA PILOT. The information from local taxing jurisdictions is used to compare against the information received from companies.
• Initial letters were sent out on November 4, 2020.
• Follow-up letters were sent on December 9, 2020.

2. Status Report:

• The IDA received responses from:

Companies:

Johnstown Renewables
Century Linen

Municipalities/School Districts:

Fulton County
Town of Johnstown
Fonda-Fultonville Central School District
City of Johnstown
Greater Johnstown School District

3. Summary of 2020 PILOT Payments:

• All required PILOT payments were made in 2020 to local taxing jurisdictions.
• See attached PILOT Report.

4. As of January 1, 2021, the IDA has the following active projects:

5. As of January 1, 2021, the IDA has the following active PILOT Agreements:

IDA DISCUSSION:    Jim Mraz reviewed the information on the Agenda.  He stated all required PILOT payments that were required to be made in 2020 to local taxing jurisdictions have been made.  He asked if there were any questions.  There were none.

IDA DISCUSSION:    Jim Mraz stated that one of the items on the Annul Questionnaire was establishing goals.  He asked IDA Board members what, if any, goals they would like to establish for 2021.  The following goals were offered:

1. Identify potential sites for redevelopment and conduct desktop assessments on them.
2. Contact National Grid to see if there’s ways to expedite any hurdles for potential projects.
3. Conduct a Summit with the IDA’s economic development partners.
4. Develop new revenue streams for the IDA.
5. Conduct Board Training.

• National Grid has requested the IDA execute an easement along Old Sweet Road in the Town of Johnstown on CG Roxane’s Water Bottling Plant.
• Easement would allow National Grid to remove one (1) tree along Old Sweet Road.
• National Grid is extending electric service down Old Sweet Road to additional properties.

IDA DISCUSSION:    Jim Mraz reviewed the information on the Agenda.  He asked if there were any questions.  There were none.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:

MADE BY:                 Mike Fitzgerald
SECONDED:              Jane Kelley
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

1. Authority Budget Office’s Best Practices: Public Meetings and Open Meetings Law (OML):

a. Background:

• A meeting is the official convening of a public body for the purpose of conducting public business.
• According to Open Meetings Law (OML), meetings of public bodies must be open to the public.

b. Public Notices:

1. What information should be included in a public notice?

• A public notice must include the date, time, and location of the meeting. It is recommended that the notice include the name of the public authority holding the meeting, the type of meeting being held (regular, committee, or special) as well as a contact person or office where interested parties can obtain more information.
• Although an agenda is not required, it is strongly recommended that authorities post on their website an agenda that includes the activities planned for the meeting at least one week in advance of a board meeting.
• The Fulton County IDA typically posts its Agenda on its website on the Friday before its monthly meeting.

2. When should the public be notified of the board meeting?

• For meetings scheduled more than one week in advance, notice should be given no less than 72 hours (3 days) in advance.
• The Fulton County IDA typically sends its meeting notice out one (1) week in advance of meetings.
• For meetings scheduled less than a week in advance, notice should be given within a reasonable timeframe.

3. Where should the public notice be posted?

• Public notice should be given to the news media and conspicuously posted in one or more designated locations. Designated locations should be easily accessible and visible to the public.
• In addition, notice of the meeting’s time and place should be conspicuously posted on the public authority’s website.
• The board should designate by resolution, or through the adoption of a policy or directive, the location(s) where it will routinely post notice of meetings.
• Authorities are not required to publish the notice as a legal notice. Public authorities comply with the law by giving notice to the news media. Public authorities can meet this requirement by emailing the information of the meeting to the major television, radio and newspaper outlets as well as local community papers in their area.  The newspapers, television, or radio stations that receive the notice can choose not to publicize the public meeting, and the public authority would still be in compliance with the law.

4. Should a notice be posted if a scheduled board meeting is cancelled?

• While OML does not require publication of a cancellation notice, best practice recommends that notice of a cancellation or postponement be given to board members, as well as posted on the location(s) where the authority posts its meeting notices.
• If the meeting is rescheduled, the public notice for the rescheduled meeting has to comply with the same posting requirements as the meeting that was originally scheduled.

5. What are the public notice requirements if videoconferencing is used to conduct the meeting?

• If videoconferencing is available at the meeting, the public notice must:
• Inform the public this option will be used.
• Identify the locations for the meeting.
• State that the public has the right to attend the meeting at any of the identified locations.

c. Meeting Agenda and Board Materials:

1. Who should prepare the meeting agenda?

• It is recommended that both the chief executive and the Chair of the board collaboratively prepare the agenda. By taking an active part in the agenda preparation, the Chair can ensure that appropriate topics are discussed during board meetings and help create a setting for board members to exercise their fiduciary duties.
• The FCIDA Chairman and Executive Director review and discuss the Agenda prior to every meeting.

2. What actions should the board take every year to be compliant with Public Authorities Law?

• Public Authorities Law requires board approval for all the records submitted by authorities as part of their annual reports.
• To be compliant with Public Authorities Law, authorities must annually submit their annual report, mission statement and measurement report, budget report, audit report, procurement report, and the board of directors’ evaluation.
• The FCIDA Board approves these Annual Reports at its Annual Meeting each year.
• These documents are then included in the Fulton County IDA’s Annual Report.
• It is recommended that board of directors and staff collectively develop a calendar that indicates the time of the year when the content of those reports will be discussed and voted on so that the authority meets reporting deadlines and is compliant with Public Authorities Law.
• In addition, the board should annually review, and update as necessary, their policies. These reviews do not all have to occur in one meeting, but can be spread throughout the year.

3. What materials should board members receive for a board meeting?

• It is recommended to distribute the meeting materials to board members at least one week in advance so that they have enough time to prepare for the meeting.
• The FCIDA Executive Director typically emails Agendas to IDA Board members on the Thursday before IDA monthly meetings.
• OML states that any proposed resolution, law, rule, regulation, policy or any amendment thereto, that is scheduled to be the subject of discussion by a public body during an open meeting shall be made available upon request and to the extent practicable, prior to or at the meeting during which the records will be discussed. Copies of these records shall be made available to the public for a reasonable fee.
• If the public authority maintains a regularly and routinely updated website, records should be posted on the website prior to the meeting.

d. Conducting Board Meetings:

1. Are there any requirements for the meeting place of board meetings?

• Boards of directors are required to ensure that:

1. All reasonable efforts are made to hold meetings in an appropriate facility which can adequately accommodate members of the public who wish to attend.
2. All reasonable efforts to ensure that meetings are held in facilities that permit barrier-free access to physically handicapped persons.

• There is no requirement for an authority to construct a new facility or to renovate an existing facility to permit barrier-free access to physically handicapped persons.
• However, if an authority has the capacity to hold its meetings in a first floor that is accessible to handicapped persons rather than a second floor, the meeting should be held in the room that accommodates the needs of the physically handicapped.
• If a board member attends a meeting by videoconference, the authority is required by law to allow the public to attend, listen and observe the meeting at the sites at which the members participate.

2. Are there any requirements for the meeting time of board meetings?

• While there is nothing in OML that refers to the time a meeting may be held, it is important that the board hold its meetings at a time that would reasonably allow interested parties to attend since the law requires that every meeting of a public body be open to the general public.

3. Can the public speak during a board meeting?

• The board may permit the public to speak at a board meeting, but is not required to do so by law. If the board allows public participation during the meeting, it is recommended that rules and procedures be developed so that the members of the public are treated equally and the meeting is conducted in an orderly manner.

4. Can meetings be photographed, broadcast, webcast or otherwise recorded?

• Any meeting of a public body that is open to the public must be open to being photographed, broadcast, webcast, or otherwise recorded and/or transmitted by audio or video means. The board should adopt rules, consistent with recommendations from the committee on open government that reasonably govern the location of equipment and personnel used to photograph, broadcast, webcast, or otherwise record a board meeting so that the meeting is not disrupted and is held in an orderly manner.

5. Can a meeting be conducted through teleconferencing?

• OML requires board members to be either physically present at meetings or attend the meeting through videoconference.
• Attendance at a meeting through teleconference is not permitted because voting members and their surroundings have to be visible to those in attendance.
• This doesn’t preclude board members from taking part in the meeting deliberations through teleconferencing, mail or email. However, these members do not count toward a quorum and cannot vote.
• Governor Cuomo has issued Executive Orders temporarily allowing public bodies like the FCIDA to conduct teleconferencing meetings.

e. Executive Session:

1. Background:

• Public authorities are authorized to enter executive session only for the purposes enumerated in OML provided that no action by formal vote is taken during executive session to appropriate public moneys. All board member and any other persons authorized by the board may attend an executive session.
• A board meeting may only go into executive session after a motion identifying the subject to be considered during executive session is passed by the majority of the total members of the board.

2. For what purposes can an authority conduct an executive session?

• Boards of directors should only approve going into executive sessions during meetings for the following eight purposes enumerated in the law.

1. Matters which will imperil the public safety if disclosed.
2. Any matter which may disclose the identity of a law enforcement agent or informer.
3. Information relating to current or future investigation/prosecution of a criminal offense which would imperil effective law enforcement if disclosed.
4. Discussions regarding proposed, pending or current litigation.
5. Collective negotiations pursuant to article fourteen of the civil service law.
6. The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation.
7. The preparation, grading or administration of examinations.
8. The proposed acquisition, sale or lease of real property or the proposed acquisition of securities, or sale or exchange of securities held by such public body, but only when publicity would substantially affect the value thereof.

• These eight (8) reasons for going into an Executive Session are included in the Fulton County IDA Agendas when an Executive Session is requested.

f. Board Meeting Attendance:

• Board members are expected to attend and participate in regular meetings of the board, as well as meetings of the committees on which they serve.
• Board members are required by law to sign an acknowledgement of fiduciary duties and responsibilities, including participating in training sessions, attending board and committee meetings, and engaging fully in the boards and committee’s decision making process.
• All current FCIDA members have signed this acknowledgement form.
• As a best practice, the ABO recommends public authorities also conduct an internal orientation session for new board members upon their appointment to provide an overview of the authority’s operations.
• All new FCIDA members are provided an orientation session by the Executive Director.

g. Board Meetings Quorum:

• A minimum number of board members of the public body must be in attendance before a meeting can begin. For a 7-member board, a quorum is 4 members.
• Roll call should be taken at the meeting to confirm a quorum is present. Only members physically present at the meeting can be counted towards the quorum.
• If no quorum is present, those members in attendance may not convene an official meeting.
• However, members may engage in informal discussions.

h. Board Meetings Action:

1. Background:

• Board members are expected to cast a vote only after carefully assessing the action brought to the board for approval, voicing any concerns, asking for clarification if necessary, and being confident that their vote serves the best interest of the public authority.
• Some actions taken by the board should be documented by the adoption of board resolutions.
• It is in the best interest of the Board to draft a resolution for matters that they consider important so that there is clarity about their decision and their wishes are carried out.
• As a best practice, the bylaws of the authority should identify the types of actions that require a board resolution.
• The FCIDA’s Bylaws currently do not identify the t types of actions that should require a resolution.

2. How many votes are needed for the board to take action?

• Public Authorities Law states that no less than a majority of the whole of the board may perform and exercise the powers authorized and provided in Public Authorities Law.
• The FCIDA has seven members. Therefore, four affirmative votes are needed to approve an action, even if only four or five members are present at the meeting.

3. Can abstentions from voting be counted as an affirmative vote?

• No.

4. Can board members vote by proxy?

• Members can only vote in a meeting when they are physically present or attending through videoconferencing during this temporary time period when video conferencing is allowed.

• IDA owns vacant land on the east side of NYS Route 30A and in the Tryon Technology Park in the Town of Johnstown.
• Even though the IDA is tax exempt, it is not exempt from Fire Taxes.

• 2021 Fire Tax Bill:

174.-2-65               :           $   37.52

174.-2-66               :           $   37.01

• 2021 Fire Tax Bills are:

164.-2-54               :           $     1.29

164.-2-16.5            :           $ 514.00

IDA DISCUSSION:    Jim Mraz reviewed the information on the Agenda.  He asked if there were any questions.  There were none.

IDA ACTION:

MOTION:                   To authorize the payment of these four (4) Town of Johnstown Fire Tax bills.

MADE BY:                 Joseph Semione
SECONDED:              Jane Kelley
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

1. Upon a majority vote of its total membership, taken in an open meeting pursuant to a motion identifying the general area or areas of the subject or subjects to be considered, a public body may conduct an executive session for the below enumerated purposes only, provided, however, that no action by formal vote shall be taken to appropriate public moneys:

i. matters which will imperil the public safety if disclosed;
ii. any matter which may disclose the identity of a law enforcement agent or informer;
iii. information relating to current or future investigation or prosecution of a criminal offense which would imperil effective law enforcement if disclosed;
iv. discussions regarding proposed, pending or current litigation;
v. collective negotiations pursuant to article fourteen of the civil service law;
vi. the medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation;
vii. the preparation, grading or administration of examinations;
viii. the proposed acquisition, sale or lease of real property or the proposed acquisition of securities, or sale or exchange of securities held by such public body, but only when publicity would substantially affect the value thereof.

MOTION:                   To go into Executive Session to discuss the proposed acquisition, sale or lease of real property or the proposed acquisition of securities, or sale or exchange of securities held by such public body, but only when publicity would substantially affect the value thereof.

MADE BY      :           Dave D’Amore
SECOND        :           Jane Kelley
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

TIME              :           9:06 a.m.

MOTION        :           To go out of Executive Session.

MADE BY      :           Dave D’Amore
SECOND        :           Todd Rulison
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                   X           ___         ___               ___
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

TIME              :           10:00 a.m.

(Joe Semione left the meeting at 10:00 a.m.)

MOTION        :           To authorize a payment of 6% of the lot sale payment less the cost of the real estate commission and for repairing the sewer line from the sale of the property on the south side of CR107 to Fulton County.

MADE BY      :           Dave D’Amore
SECOND        :           Mike Fitzgerald
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                                           ___               X
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

Tuesday
February 9, 2021
8:00 a.m.

MOTION        :           To close the meeting.

MADE BY      :           Jane Kelley
SECONDED   :           Joseph Gillis
ROLL CALL VOTE               :
Aye         Nay         Abstain           Absent

Dave D’Amore                        X           ___         ___               ___
Joe Semione                                           ___               X
Todd Rulison                        X           ___         ___               ___
Jane Kelley                   X           ___         ___               ___
Mike Fitzgerald               X           ___         ___               ___
Joseph Gillis                 X           ___         ___               ___

TIME              :