New York Authorities Budget Office

The meeting commenced with the Chair calling the annual and regular meeting to order, acknowledging the passing of former board member James Frisela, and welcoming new board member Mike Francini, a former commissioner. The minutes of the previous meeting were approved. A public comment period followed, featuring testimony from Kurt Moore of Carver Plant Nursery regarding issues with water maintenance fees for vacant lots, his initiatives involving sustainable urban agriculture, and concerns about conflicting city department actions. Staff reports detailed operational metrics: Operations Manager Justin Shivaban noted a doubling in main breaks repaired compared to the previous year, an increase in service line replacements, and reduced hydrant flushing due to reassignment to leak detection. He also reported on a 20% increase in sewer camera footage due to equipment repair, but a decrease in preventive sewer cleaning due to staff resignations and retirements. Rebecca Calvin provided updates on capital projects, noting aeration winding down at Per Bush, progress on the fluoride project with a targeted March 19th startup date, and a pause on CIP lining, with work resuming in March for the 2024 contract. Stormwater projects were discussed, including three projects expected to go for ESC review, and final design status for dam projects (Wrenchler and Basic Creek).

The meeting commenced with introductions and an acknowledgement of an absent board member. A significant portion of the discussion involved a public commentary regarding a federal court ruling on water fluoridation and urging the board to refuse authority to the city regarding the water supply. The board addressed the correspondence concerning the ruling and scientific reports. Financially, year-to-date revenues were up $2.15 million compared to the prior year, though monthly collections for July were down due to timing issues and collection challenges with specific clients. Expenditures were almost $2.7 million higher year-to-date, primarily due to increased ramp-up in equipment and vehicle capital expenditures. The establishment of a new $2.05 million line of credit, previously an audit comment concern, was finalized. Financial analysis highlighted higher aged receivables and lower-than-budgeted year-to-date revenues, contrasting with expenditures closing under budget. Discussions also covered debt service costs, which remained relatively consistent, and overtime analysis showed higher figures than the prior year. The board expressed concern over a significant due-to/due-from balance of $2.4 million, which they intend to resolve by year-end to free up cash flow, including funds needed to address the interest on the new line of credit.

The meeting commenced with a public hearing regarding the Line Factory Commerce LLC project, which involves commercial space development complemented by a 10-year pilot program, distinct from a previously approved residential component. Key discussion points for the commercial aspect included plans for mixed-use commercial/flex space, potential interest from quasi-governmental or non-profit organizations, and exploring a shared communal kitchen concept. The Board approved closing the public hearing and subsequently approved the minutes from the December 18, 2020, board meeting. A resolution authorizing the Line Factory Commerce LLC project was approved, which includes authorizing proceedings for the project and approving the form of the pilot agreement, mortgage reporting tax exemptions, and sales and use tax exemptions. The Board also approved the Administrative Funding Agreement with the City of Troy for $100,000 to cover staff and space costs for the previous year (2020), with the 2021 funding agreement forthcoming. Additionally, the Board addressed annual record-keeping items, including board evaluations and fiduciary forms, and deferred discussion on a sales tax exemption application for the Clark House project until new business. Updates were provided on the Saint Augustine School pilot project, indicating that the 34 apartments are progressing well.

The meeting commenced with a roll call and confirmation of notice. Key discussions included the approval of the previous October meeting minutes, and an executive session was held to discuss the lease or sale of real property, during which no decision was made. The Treasurer's report for November was presented, detailing balances, deposits, disbursements, and interest income across multiple accounts, followed by a motion to approve the report and pay November's bills. The Audit and Finance Committee reported on reviewing the budget, recommending the adoption of policies, and noted a discussion regarding the investment policy maximum deposit amount. The committee also indicated plans to use PKF O'Connor Davies for 2024 audit services. The Chairman's report covered attendance at the Orange County Partnership annual event, emphasizing the importance of fostering relationships with local and business development entities. The Executive Director provided a summary of board accomplishments for the year, including approving a new logo, engaging in banking and labor monitoring RFPs, and updating the UTP. Finally, the Council's report addressed policy changes, potential real estate disposition, and the Brookfield project application, noting that a public hearing resolution is pending the completion of a cost-benefit analysis. Discussions also touched upon the importance of workforce development and the potential benefits of industrial facilities like warehousing.

The meeting focused on the annual update of the five-year capital improvement plan (CIP) for 2026 through 2030, presented by the official consultant. Key discussions included facility condition assessments, summarizing recently completed projects, and detailing projects for 2025, such as work at the filtration plant, pump station rehabilitation, sewer repair, and water main replacement. Significant attention was given to the service lead service line replacement program, with 725 replacements completed in 2025, and the implementation of continuous distribution system leak detection technology on hydrants. Financial discussions covered the 2026 budget projections, noting a strong performance with revenues exceeding prior years, and an update on the PARS compliance status and property tax rollover, which reached a record high.