Cheryl Blodgett

This Stormwater Management Program Plan for the City of Mechanicville is designed to comply with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s), GP-0-24-001. The plan outlines six Minimum Control Measures: Public Education and Outreach, Public Involvement and Participation, Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination, Construction Site Runoff Control, Post-Construction Stormwater Management, and Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping of Municipal Operations. Its primary objective is to reduce the discharge of pollutants to the maximum extent practicable within the municipality.

The regular meeting addressed several commissioner reports and resolutions. Discussions included honoring a former Mayor and IDA Committee member, Patrick Hildreth. A change order resolution (26-2026) was added to the agenda concerning the Raw Water Pump Station Improvement, moving a completion date from February 27th to April 27th. Financial reports indicated decent balances, though high fuel costs and overtime were noted due to winter storms. Key actions involved approving a transition to SLICfiber internet service for cost savings and improved service, upgrading the city website platform to MUNIBit due to the current one being out of compliance and unsupported, and updating the credit card policy to feature cards in the City's name. A pilot program for a Limble work order system with DPW was planned using savings from the internet switch. Commissioners thanked DPW staff for snow removal efforts during a recent emergency, and updates were provided on community initiatives like the National Fitness Campaign grant award and increased Senior van rides. Public comments raised concerns regarding water bill notices, the City Hall office being closed during lunch hours, the need for a new website, and the process for obtaining bids for the Park Avenue Playground Roof repair.

Key discussions included updates on grant opportunities from the Department of Transportation, the upcoming deadline for the General Code draft, and positive reviews of recent community events such as the Veteran's Parade and Holiday Train. Financial matters were central, including the issuance of corrected water bills reflecting a 13% rate adjustment, updates on completing 2022 and 2023 Annual Financial Reports (AFRs), settling with NYSEG, and converting dam project notes to serial bonds. The Council also addressed solutions for acquiring new air packs via a municipal lease, achieving significant interest earnings, and ensuring ARPA funds were secured. Public comments raised concerns about pay equity for elected officials, lighting issues on Lower Park Avenue, and the need for clarity on youth programming and job descriptions. Several resolutions were passed, including adjustments to water rates, adoption of the Saratoga County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan, and salary increases for Public Safety personnel related to expanded duties concerning the splash pad.

The meeting included discussion of a fact sheet from the NYS Department of Civil Service regarding the Vacancy-Based Training & Experience Examination model. Personnel changes for both the City of Mechanicville and Mechanicville School District were reported. A Physical Agility Test for Police Officer candidates was held, and examinations were requested for 2026 holdings for Chief of Police, Sergeant, and Police Officer positions. A Public Hearing was announced for December 3, 2025, to review proposed amendments to the Mechanicville Civil Service Rule I and Appendix B. October payroll was received from the School District, and the payroll certification process is ongoing.

The meeting addressed ongoing water issues, including reservoir levels and water quality, with updates on work at the lower reservoir pump house and collaboration with Saratoga County Department of Health. A comprehensive plan meeting was scheduled with a state representative, and the completion of the splash pad was announced. The council discussed a Tonko grant for water system improvements and reassured that the grant was still active despite local reports. The Breast Cancer Walk and Veterans Day ceremony were announced. Issues with water bill readings were addressed, and reminders were given for DPW access for manual readings. The 2023 AFR was completed, and progress on the 2024 AFR was reported. Hydrant repairs and manhole cover fixes were discussed, along with damage to the South Main Street Playground Pavilion. A public hearing was held for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for a disinfection byproduct remediation project. Public comments were heard on water quality, infrastructure improvements, and community events. Resolutions were passed for budget transfers, amendments, payroll, a senior exemption public hearing, new hires, and a NY Forward Grant. The council discussed updating the PA system at the Senior Center.