Brian Pohlis

This Strategic Plan outlines the City of Lockport's direction and priorities for the 2026-2029 period, driven by a commitment to thoughtful planning and high-quality municipal services. The plan is structured around four strategic goals: Effective Operations, Targeted Development, Resilient Infrastructure, and Improved Quality of Life. It aims to guide organizational focus, resource allocation, and decision-making to enhance the quality of life, promote community pride, and ensure the city's long-term sustainability and economic vibrancy.

The agenda includes a call to order, roll call, and the consideration of a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for new signage at 829 S. State Street. The staff report addresses concerns about the corrugated plastic material proposed for the sign, as it is typically used for temporary signs rather than permanent signage. The discussion also involves the design standards for signs in the historic district, with a focus on scale, character, material quality, and workmanship.

The Committee of the Whole meeting agenda included discussion items related to a valet services contract, an annexation agreement amendment, a 6-month review of closed executive session meeting minutes, bond releases and initial acceptance of site improvements for Rose Center Lot 1A Panda Express and Gas N Wash, and task orders for water model and master plan, and Bonnie Brae Facility Plan. Public comments were also scheduled. Executive session items included appointments, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of specific employees; collective negotiating matters; selection of a person to fill a public office; purchase or lease of real property; setting a price for sale or lease of property; litigation; and discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed.

The Committee of the Whole meeting addressed various topics, including updates on the Old Canal Days survey, beautification committee nominations, and the Chevron property for the car show. Discussion included financial matters, preventing identity theft, and updates on city projects such as curb work, the Veterans Memorial Bike Path, and a new Jeep dealership. The committee reviewed and provided direction on an agreement with BNSF for quiet zone projects, amendments to the City's Liquor Code regarding outdoor dining and drinking areas, and a moratorium on new gas station developments. The meeting also included a discussion on 5G infrastructure and a farewell to the Chief of Police.

The Committee of the Whole meeting agenda included discussions on an agreement with BNSF for preliminary engineering services for quiet zone projects, an amendment to the city's liquor code regarding outdoor dining/drinking areas, and a moratorium on new gas station developments. The quiet zone project involves a diagnostic review of the 9th Street BNSF crossing to evaluate its eligibility for a quiet zone. The liquor code amendment focuses on cleanliness and smoking restrictions in sidewalk café areas. The moratorium on gas stations aims to study the environmental impact and future redevelopment challenges associated with gas stations.