City of Hornell

This document, the 2026 State of the City Address, outlines Hornell's significant progress in revitalization, public services, and economic growth. Key focus areas include maintaining strong fiscal health, advancing infrastructure investments and downtown revitalization projects, fostering community engagement through events, supporting business growth and housing initiatives, and enhancing public safety and park facilities. The administration emphasizes its commitment to securing grant funding, ensuring transparency, and promoting collaboration for the long-term health and prosperity of the region.

The meeting addressed several items, including the approval of department head reports and outstanding claims totaling $628,744.36. Miscellaneous business included the approval of the Maple City Softball Season Event and recognition of Commissioner Jared Zigenfus for his eight years of service. Updates from the Water Pollution Control Plant indicated the arrival of a new crane and plans to proceed with the replacement of three main sewage pumps following construction completion; a meeting was scheduled to discuss project timelines. The Department of Public Works reported on ongoing road maintenance, plowing activities (using 500 tons of salt), sidewalk repairs, and compiling a new list of streets for paving; interest was noted in two Boces House construction projects. The Water Treatment Plant reported high water usage at 2.6 million gallons per day and full reservoirs, along with recent concrete restoration work.

The meeting included updates on the Phase 1B project at the Water Pollution Control Plant, including the upcoming installation of Process Control Software and a generator test. The Department of Public Works reported that the new salt truck is operational, addressed recent water main breaks, and discussed an accident involving a plow truck. The water levels in the reservoirs are lower than normal. There was also a mention of paving projects for the upcoming year.

The Board of Public Works meeting addressed several topics, including the approval of claims, the Hornell Association Annual Shrimp Bake, and Garcia's Back 2 School Bonanza. The city received an engineering planning grant to study solid waste treatment needs. Updates were provided on the construction project, including the installation of a staircase and internal seal doors. The EPA conducted an inspection at H.P. Hood. Paving season is coming to an end with plans to pave Hill and Center Streets. Main Street, Seneca Street, and areas around schools have been restriped. The board was thanked for the new sewer truck. Water production is higher than normal, and reservoirs will be treated for algae bloom. A retirement was announced, necessitating a replacement.

The Board of Public Works meeting included discussions and approvals related to various operational aspects. The Turkey Trot 5K was approved. The Water Pollution Control Plant reported on a new employee and the start of land application, along with issues concerning a digester dome and the waste gas burner. The Public Works Superintendent provided updates on hydrant flushing, the seasonal shutdown of the Union Square park fountain, securing the old hospital, and challenges related to providing gas service to a Boces house. The Water Filtration Plant Chief Operator discussed the benefits of hydrant flushing, reservoir levels, and generator testing.