Village of Lancaster

The meeting addressed several key operational and planning matters. Discussions included reviewing meeting minutes from February 9th and abstract audit vouchers. Correspondence involved reviewing building permits, approving a special events application for Scoob's St. Patrick's Day parade, receiving an application for a monthly concert series, and noting the renewal of an adult use retail dispensary license. Additionally, information was reviewed regarding a performance evaluation of the village's status as a certified local government member. Resolutions approved authorization for the Sustainability Coordinator to attend the New York State Climate Connection Summit, the Mayor to approve engineering services for a mini system 5 storm sewer investigation, the issuance of an RFQ for wastewater infrastructure engineering services for mini systems 2, 3, and 6, and authorizing the Superintendent to award an automatic transfer switch for the north end fire hall. Public Works noted the replacement of a missing no-parking sign on Clark Street. Significant discussion focused on major electric and plumbing upgrades in the fire department building, including the installation of a generator and new shower/laundry facilities. A presentation was given on conceptual designs and cost estimates (approximately $350,000) for creating a public terrace project on Main Street. Finally, cost details for GIS services were provided, and the building department confirmed signing a compliance letter for a battery energy storage facility.

The board meeting included discussions and actions on multiple items. The abstract of audited vouchers was approved, totaling $600,157.43 across various funds. Correspondence items included receiving reports from the Town of Lancaster building department, approving a special event application for Scoob's 7th annual St. Patrick's Day parade, placing the Lancaster Village Merchants Association concert series application into the special events committee, and receiving notification regarding a dispensary license renewal. Several resolutions were passed, authorizing expenses for the Sustainability Coordinator to attend a summit, approving a proposal for storm sewer investigations (Mini Systems 5), authorizing the issuance of a request for qualifications for wastewater infrastructure engineering services, authorizing the execution of a flood plane certificate of compliance for the Lancaster Village Center phase 2, and approving the purchase and installation of a natural gas generator for the north end fire hall. Committee reports covered the progress of the Plumb Bottom Creek cover project and the EV charging stations project, approval of the site plan for the pocket park next to the building, and a public presentation scheduled for the Central Avenue improvements project (TAP funded). The board also discussed the replacement of chairs in the municipal auditorium and updates regarding the installation of double glaze windows at the north end fire hall via a grant.

The primary discussion focused on the adoption of the meeting minutes from January 15th, which involved some comment on attendee names. The main agenda item was the presentation by Labella Associates regarding the proposed Pocket Park project, which involves removing asphalt pavement to create a park connecting municipal parking to the downtown area. There were detailed discussions addressing preliminary questions concerning the placement of picnic tables over grease traps, the absence of new storm work, and the type of mulch to be used, including concerns from the fire department regarding combustion risk with deep mulch layers. Other topics included the relocation of a dumpster servicing Picasso's Pizza and a discussion regarding a battery energy storage facility approved on Erie Street, specifically addressing the application of a newly adopted local law concerning special use permits. Furthermore, the body was informed about an upcoming public presentation for the Central Avenue streetscape project, detailing plans for replacing bricks with exposed aggregate, repaving, bike lane updates, and the placement of a mobility hub.

The meeting commenced with the call to order and the pledge of allegiance. Key agenda items included the approval of minutes from the September 8th meeting and the authorization to pay abstract of audited vouchers from various funds totaling $162,628.91 for the period of August 26, 2025, to September 22, 2025. Correspondence reviewed involved a building permit report from the Town of Lancaster, approval for a community blood drive and a Halloween parade, referral of a Christmasville Fire Truck Parade application to committee, and notification from the New York State Department of Transportation regarding crosswalk enhancement requests. Resolutions approved the temporary hiring of a clerk for Public Works assistance, the engagement letter for the annual audit services by Dresser and Malaki LLP, the issuance of an RFP for architectural/engineering services for facility condition assessments, and the creation and appointment of three part-time Assistant Fire Chiefs. The board also approved the contract with Mr. Salvatore for the Kyuga Creek Park band shell project, set a public hearing for October 14th regarding a local law to amend speed limits on St. Mary Street, and scheduled a future public hearing for the adoption of a model energy law. Committee reports covered updates on grants (ZEV, USDA forest service tree planting, DEEC tree planting, Central Avenue grant, CDBG splash pad project), the successful annual Fall Fest, and the receipt of a donation for splash pad improvements (benches and tables). The Superintendent reported on ongoing sewer smoke testing.

The meeting involved a public hearing to consider a request for variance from village codes by Daryl Skelton regarding the location of an 8 by 12 greenhouse at 38 Grand Avenue. The petitioner sought relief from setback requirements (Section 350-33A and Section 350-33E) concerning location in a front yard/required sideyard and proximity to the dwelling (less than 10 feet). The request was ultimately granted without contingencies. The board confirmed that the petitioner must adhere to uplift requirements for anchoring the structure.