Jacob Manning

The Board Meeting addressed several operational and financial matters. Discussions included the remittance of payments for General Operations, particularly the 50/50 split of principal payments for the Canon Financial Services (CFS) printer lease with the City Treasurer, and attempted negotiations for grace regarding late fees. Financially, the Board decided against appropriating budget funds for the continuation of the CFS printer lease, intending to utilize a contract provision for termination due to non-appropriation. The Board approved PARIS reporting estimates as-is, considering fiscal viability and agency uncertainty. In Old Business, progress on the DRI grant funding was reported, including ongoing outreach to applicants. A successful DRI Public Forum was discussed, with initial feedback indicating strong support for the Main Street canopy, opposition to diagonal parking due to traffic and delivery concerns, and pending discussion on bike trail location. Preliminary next steps include developing plans for the canopy and maintaining parallel parking. No new business was brought before the Board.

The board meeting addressed several operational and financial items, including the acceptance of a bill due in June and the approval of the Year-To-Date check register in lieu of new transactions for the prior month. A significant discussion involved approving Mr. Manning as a signatory for Adirondack Bank accounts, establishing a dual-signature requirement involving the Mayor/Common Council President and Mr. Manning/Mr. LaQue. Under old business, program updates were provided on the HOME Grant and $600k DRI Grant, which included the approval of change orders totaling $23,800 for additional costs related to construction issues at 127 Church St and 84 N. William St. Discussion also focused on maximizing the utilization of both the DRI and HOME Grants for community benefit, and the implications of lowering the DRI funding threshold to include Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E). In new business, the board discussed a draft Community Needs Assessment intended to gather community sentiment and serve as a key performance indicator for the Agency's success.

The meeting addressed general operations, confirming no new bills were received and prioritizing aging accounts payable for timely payment. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) updates. Three projects were reviewed: 28 W Main St (That Little Place on Main) for energy efficiency and exterior updates (approx. $15k requested), 48-54 W Main St (Body Siense, et. al.) for estimated siding and parging work (approx. $50,000), and 608 E Main St (PILATES CONTROLOGY STUDIO) for essential equipment acquisition (approx. $35,000). Financial discussions were delayed due to administrative hurdles in establishing online access with Adirondack Bank, which is necessary to verify real-time account balances before proceeding with bill payments.

The City of Little Falls Comprehensive Plan 2018 outlines a vision and framework for future public and private investment. It prioritizes the efficient delivery of quality city services, the creation of great homes and beautiful neighborhoods in a sustainable community, fostering an environment for business and industry innovation and growth, and developing a vibrant arts and culture scene. The plan aims to position Little Falls as a preferred destination for residents and businesses by leveraging its unique character and resources.

The City of Little Falls' South Side/Waterfront New Vision Plan aims to revitalize the South Side/Waterfront Area by focusing on the reuse of vacant and deteriorated properties to attract new residents, jobs, and investments. Key strategic pillars include fostering manufacturing and craft enterprises, supporting local businesses, enhancing arts, recreation, and natural features to draw visitors, providing safe and affordable housing, and improving connectivity for pedestrians, bicyclists, and boaters. The vision is to transform the area into a vibrant, well-connected community with thriving industries, diverse cultural attractions, and appealing residential options along the Mohawk River and Erie Canal waterfront.