Cherie Bealer

The board meeting addressed various administrative and community matters, including the approval of budget transfers and payment of fund abstracts. Key topics included discussions on property maintenance codes, updates on the Erie Mill renovation plans, and sewer line issues on Wilson Avenue. The board also authorized an equipment service contract for copiers, approved various recreational board requests such as yoga and softball leagues, and finalized an employee handbook revision proposal. Additionally, the board initiated a local law regarding parking prohibitions and addressed the relevy of unpaid water, sewer, and code violation charges to the tax roll. Other administrative updates covered the Lewis Street bridge project, water quality for the Erie Canal, and upcoming infrastructure repairs.

The board meeting included several financial authorizations, such as wire transfers for bond payments and the approval of the 2026-2027 General Fund and Sewer Fund budgets. Additionally, the board approved an amendment to an intermunicipal agreement for zoning and code enforcement services. Discussions were held regarding the sale and trade-in of surplus municipal equipment, specifically a lawn mower and a golf cart. A change order for a fire truck component was approved. The board accepted a personnel resignation and reviewed modifications to the tentative budget, including police staffing and contractual expenses. Finally, the board discussed future plans regarding the Erie Mill site.

The board meeting included the approval of a consent agenda involving budget modifications and payments. Departmental updates were provided regarding historical markers, wastewater treatment plant repairs and cybersecurity requirements, the need for replacement pumps following station damage, and the ongoing sewer project on Canal Street. A public hearing was conducted for a local law regarding the property tax levy, which was subsequently adopted. Other discussions covered police training requests, the delivery schedule for a new fire truck and related town payments, potential community events, and a crossing guard appointment. Additionally, the board accepted a clerk resignation, discussed the future of the local court, and reviewed a proposed local law concerning parking prohibitions on specific streets.

The Board conducted a review of the General Fund appropriations and revenues for the upcoming fiscal year. Discussions included a directive to reduce non-essential budget lines by 10% and the proposal to increase the sewer rate from $7.94 to $8.62 for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Additionally, the Board scheduled subsequent workshops to continue budget deliberations.

The Board conducted a budget workshop to review and adjust appropriations, revenues, and fund balances, specifically targeting a 10% reduction in non-essential lines. Discussions included a request for a police staffing coverage schedule and the preparation of budget amendments for upcoming adoption. Additionally, the Board approved various budget transfers and fund abstracts, authorized health insurance-related payments, hired a new Court Clerk, and held an executive session to discuss personnel matters.