Michael M. Bessette

The meeting included discussions and actions on several agenda items. For Project PB# 26-01 HSR concerning the 24 US Oval Walkway and Canopy, the board decided to table the resolution pending the receipt of the CRIS response and State Historic Preservation Office recommendation. For Project PB# 26-02 Subdivision (Chase Subdivision), the board accepted the SEQRA Classification and subsequently accepted the resolution with several specified conditions related to plat labeling, zoning comparison tables, variance references, and required sign-offs from the City Chamberlain and Building Inspectors office. The board also acknowledged the bylaws for 2026.

The meeting involved a detailed review of the Plattsburgh House of Prayer project, which requests approval for a single-story addition to the existing house of worship building, including associated modifications to parking and open space. The Board adopted the detailed site plan contingent upon the completion of all staff report comments dated January 14, 2026. Other business included an announcement that a new regular member would join the Planning Board in February 2026 and that another individual would be appointed at a future Common Council Meeting. The Board also solicited comments regarding the DRAFT UDO.

The agenda for the meeting included a motion to accept the minutes from the November 24th, 2025 meeting. A detailed review was scheduled for Project PB# 25-02 SPR, concerning the Plattsburgh House of Prayer's request to construct a 3,679 square foot addition to their existing house of worship, including associated modifications to parking and open space. Other business included the upcoming addition of Curt Gervich, Ph.D. as a regular member starting in February 2026, and soliciting questions or concerns regarding the DRAFT UDO.

The Common Council authorized several actions, including the renewal of a sports programming service agreement with the Plattsburgh YMCA, a budget adjustment for the Water Fund Capital Reserve, and a budget adjustment for the Sewer Fund Capital Reserve. They also authorized an extension of the NYS Community Development Block Grant for the Mead Reservoir new water transmission main. Mayoral appointments to the Planning Board were made, and a contract for a Records Management System with Tyler Technologies for the Police Department was authorized. Additionally, the renewal of the City's ClearGov Transparency Edition Software was authorized.

This Strategic Investment Plan for Downtown Plattsburgh aims to transform the community into a vibrant neighborhood for residents, workers, and families. The plan outlines a vision to foster educational, cultural, historic, artistic, recreational, dining, and retail opportunities. Key goals include connecting existing assets to create a vibrant downtown destination, providing diverse housing and shopping options through targeted investments, and attracting and growing businesses and jobs. These objectives are supported by core strategies focused on strengthening the downtown core through catalytic development, establishing a food and creative hub, and growing the local market to attract future investment.