Public Meetings - Syracuse, New York

The Syracuse Planning Commission met on April 6, 2026, to consider five applications: two resubdivisions, one resubdivision paired with a zoning map amendment, a major site plan review for a grocery store, and a companion resubdivision and major site plan for an apartment building. All items were approved with conditions after public comment. Consent Calendar - Approval of the March 2026 meeting minutes was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Regarding the Valley Plaza grocery store (MASPR-2026-13): - Kathy Stravely (316 Monticello Drive North) spoke in favor, noting stormwater issues and the need for landscaping islands to absorb runoff and shade the parking lot. She urged careful snow storage away from City Line Brook and requested more trash cans. - Lisa Lambert (194 Maplewood Avenue) expressed strong support for the grocery store but criticized the landlord's neglect of the parking lot, calling for full repaving rather than patching. She stated the neighborhood deserves a well-maintained plaza. - No public comments were made on the other agenda items. Discussion Items - Resubdivision R-2026-5 (346-48 Elm Street): Owner Seth Rutledge sought to combine two lots into one to resolve non‑conformities with a porch and driveway. Staff clarified that a statement about two future houses in the application was erroneous; the sole purpose is the resubdivision. Approved with conditions. - Resubdivision R-2026-11 (808 Velasco Road and 100 Ethel F): Terry Leckett of the Syracuse Land Bank explained a two‑foot‑wide strip of land became tax delinquent; the owner of 808 Velasco Road wants to combine it with their lot to regularize the driveway. Approved with conditions. - Resubdivision R-2026-19 and Zoning Map Amendment Z-2919 (234 and 300 Marguerite Ave): Reginald Ware requested combining two parcels and changing the zoning to eliminate a split‑zone condition. Staff noted the zoning amendment must be approved by Common Council before the resubdivision can be filed. Both approved with conditions; the zoning recommendation will go to Common Council for final action. - Major Site Plan Review MASPR-2026-13 (4141 South Salina Street – Valley Plaza): Jeremy Mossel (Elk Development Company) presented plans for a new grocery store, Imperial Food Market, occupying approximately 30,000 sq ft (85% of the former Tops space). The project is supported by a $1.7 million state Food Access Expansion Grant. Immediate improvements include parking lot patching and restriping, and lighting repairs before opening. A full parking lot redesign (including landscaping islands, compliance with current code, and a bus stop coordination with Centro for the BRT line) must be submitted to the Planning Commission within one year of the opening. Operating hours set at 9 am–9 pm Monday–Saturday and 9 am–5 pm Sunday. A separate pharmacy will open earlier in a nearby suite. Public speakers raised concerns about parking lot deterioration, stormwater, and snow storage near City Line Brook. Approved with seven conditions. - Resubdivision R-2026-21 and Major Site Plan Review MASPR-2026-11 (411-413 University Ave): Brian Bouchard (CHA Consulting) presented a redesigned three‑story, 30‑unit apartment building (all one‑bedroom units, approximately 400–500 sq ft each) replacing a previously approved nine‑story project that became unfeasible due to tariffs and construction costs. The new building will have a stone water table per the Landmark Preservation Board’s request, and materials changed from vinyl to engineered wood (LP SmartSide). A bike rack was added, and driveway dimensions were clarified. 10% of units (3 units) will be affordable for 30 years. Ground‑floor commercial space for future tenant. No public comments. Approved with conditions. Key Outcomes - All applications received negative SEQR declarations (no moderate to large environmental impact). - R-2026-5 (Elm Street): Approved with two conditions: (1) file resubdivision map within 62 days; (2) obtain a retroactive building permit for the porch reconstruction. - R-2026-11 (Velasco Road): Approved with two conditions: (1) file map within 62 days; (2) comply with staff analysis. - R-2026-19 (Marguerite Ave): Approved with condition: file map within 62 days of Common Council approval of Z-2919. - Z-2919 (Marguerite Ave zoning amendment): Recommended to Common Council for approval with condition: file map within 62 days of council action. - MASPR-2026-13 (Valley Plaza): Approved with seven conditions: (1) general conditions; (2) parking lot striping and lighting before grocery store opens; (3) full parking lot redesign plan submitted within one year of opening; (4) snow storage not encroaching on right‑of‑way or City Line Brook; (5) licensing for on‑site alcohol/tobacco/lottery; (6) operational hours as specified; (7) loading hours only 7 am–10 pm. - R-2026-21 (University Ave): Approved with condition: file resubdivision map within 62 days. - MASPR-2026-11 (University Ave): Approved with seven conditions: (1) general conditions; (2) 10% of units designated affordable; (3) affordability compliance regardless of ownership; (4) 30‑year affordability term from certificate of occupancy; (5) ground‑floor commercial use to obtain appropriate approvals before operation.

The Syracuse Common Council convened on April 6, 2026, opening with a prayer led by Reverend Abrams, followed by a roll call (with Councilor Jones Rowler absent). The meeting proceeded through consent items, committee reports, and the introduction and adoption of numerous resolutions and local laws. Notable discussions included a resolution on business dealings with ICE, a proclamation for Autism Acceptance Month, a debate over gun‑violence program funding versus youth programming, and a controversial cannabis dispensary license that passed 7–1. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Unanimously approved the minutes from March 23, 2026. - Committee Reports: Heard reports from the Economic Development Opportunity Committee (on code enforcement department operations) and the Public Safety Committee (on amending contracts for the Community Violence Intervention Grant with the U.S. Department of Justice). - Communications: City Auditor Alex Marion’s annual report, a mid‑year report from Owens Evan Lovins, and recommendations from the Commissioner of Finance (no changes to the City’s Investment Policy) were received. Syracuse University accepted terms and conditions for ordinances 128, 129, and 130 of 2026. - Local Law 8A: Adopted unanimously without discussion. - Resolutions 10–17, 20–25, 27–29, 35–38, 40, 42–44, 46: Introduced and adopted unanimously with no debate. - Item 18 (Resolution): Introduced and tabled. - Item 34: Withdrawn. - Item 41: Held. Public Comments & Testimony - Jean Leaker, Executive Director, Central New York Chapter of the Autism Society of America: Spoke during the presentation of a resolution recognizing April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month. She highlighted that 1 in 31 children is diagnosed with autism, called for acceptance and inclusion, and invited the community to the organization’s annual walk on April 25, 2026, at Jamesville Beach Park. Discussion Items - Item 19 – Resolution on Business with ICE: Councilor Majok and Councilor Aaron Wright introduced a resolution requiring companies contracting with the city to disclose whether they share client information with third parties, including immigration enforcement. Councilor Moore stated it is “a step in the right direction” but not a complete solution. Councilor Majok thanked community advocates and the DSA for their advocacy. Councilor Williams noted that her district has been targeted, expressing strong support. The motion passed unanimously. - Item 26 – Autism Acceptance Month Proclamation: Initially titled as “Autism Awareness Month,” Councilor Aaron Wright offered a friendly amendment (accepted by unanimous vote) to change the language to “Autism Acceptance Month” to align with the speaker’s remarks. The amendment passed unanimously, and the resolution was adopted. - Items 30–33 – Gun Violence Program Funding: Councilor Moore expressed concern that the city spends “millions of dollars” on gun‑violence programs targeting about 40 individuals while only spending $12,000 on a program for 210 children (Item 21, not voted on this day). She urged more investment in youth prevention programs. Councilor Williams echoed the sentiment, calling for expanded evening programs and citing ideas to keep schools open at night. Items 30–33 were all adopted unanimously. - Item 45 – Cannabis Dispensary License: Councilor Mato opposed the license, though he acknowledged the applicant (the Capano family) are “good people.” He argued that the New York State Department of Cannabis Management should give more weight to neighborhood input, especially because the site is near an Assumption Church food pantry and Tilly’s Touch after‑school program. He noted an ongoing illegal operation across the street and stated his district residents were concerned. The council voted 7–1 to pass the item, with only Councilor Nabay voting against (roll call: Thagwell yes, Machot yes, Aaron Wright yes, Hudson yes, Nabay no, Moore yes, Williams yes, Mato yes). Key Outcomes - Unanimous approvals: All consent items and non‑controversial resolutions passed without opposition. - Item 18: Tabled for future consideration. - Item 19 (ICE disclosure resolution): Adopted unanimously. - Item 26 (Autism Acceptance Month): Adopted unanimously with an amendment to the title. - Items 30–33 (gun violence program funding): Adopted unanimously, but with councilmembers expressing a desire for more balanced youth programming investments. - Item 45 (cannabis dispensary license): Passed 7–1, with Councilor Mato voting no and Councilor Nabay also voting no. - Items 34 and 41: Withdrawn or held respectively.

On April 6, 2026, the City Council committee met with the Department of Code Enforcement, led by Deputy Commissioner Jake Dish and Michael Collins, to review departmental operations, successes, challenges, and resource needs. The discussion covered enforcement strategies, revenue generation, legal processes, and future priorities. Discussion Items - Department Overview: Jake Dish emphasized code enforcement as a lifeline for community safety and economic growth, highlighting collaboration with fire, police, law, public works, and other departments. The department employs approximately 75 staff, including 35 state-certified code officers and 14 housing inspectors deployed in nine data-driven territories. - Digital Transformation: The department has fully digitized permitting (Camino system) and online payments, enabling 24/7 service. Code enforcement still uses the older IPS system, which is outdated and requires replacement. - Revenue and Enforcement: Code enforcement is a revenue-generating division, with a fiscal year 2026 projected revenue of over $5 million (nearly offsetting its $5.8 million operating budget). Revenue sources include permits, BAA (Building and Administrative Adjudication) fines, and business license fees. The department has collected approximately $500,000 in BAA revenue this fiscal year and expects to reach $1 million. - Legal Actions and Judgments: The law department, with Assistant Corporation Counsel Rob Carpenter, has obtained nearly $15 million in judgments against property owners in 2025-2026, though collection is difficult due to single-asset LLCs. The department has successfully defended numerous Article 78 lawsuits. - Business Closures: Since 2024, code enforcement has closed nearly 50 unruly businesses and illegal occupancies, reducing crime as noted by the police chief. Settlement agreements have been used for first-time cannabis violations, collecting $5,000–$6,000 per store. - Property Maintenance and Vacants: Housing inspectors handle reactive complaints and proactive patrols. The city spends about $400,000 annually on vacant grass mowing (billed to owners at $63/hour plus 15% surcharge). Nearly two-thirds of vacant properties are tax-current, complicating enforcement. - Challenges and Needs: Officials identified needs for additional staff (more boots on the ground), marked vehicles (currently inspectors use personal cars with no logos), updated equipment (cell phones and laptops), and expanded legal resources to accelerate property seizures and collections. The zoning fee structure, unchanged since 1996, is being revised. - Boarding and Squatters: A councilor raised concerns about a property on Hillview where boards were removed and squatters re-entered. The legal process for seizing abandoned properties takes at least six to eight months, leading to potential loss of housing stock. - Third-Party Reviews: The department spent roughly $200,000 on third-party plan reviews in FY26, generating nearly $1 million in revenue. These reviews are used for complex projects. Key Outcomes - The department will provide a monthly vacant property list to the council. - A revised fee structure for zoning applications is expected to be proposed by July 2026. - The council requested data on judgment collection rates and options for selling debt. - Officials will explore additional training for small contractors on the digital permitting system. - The department will consider new boarding methods (including red X markings) but noted it would require more resources. - No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational with commitments to follow up on specific data requests.

The Syracuse Landmark Preservation Board met on Friday, April 3, 2026, at approximately 12:25 PM. The meeting covered approval of previous minutes, a site plan review for new construction at 411 University Avenue, and a discussion of proposed improvements to the historic amphitheater in Thornden Park. No public hearings were on the agenda. Consent Calendar - Minutes of February 19, 2026: Approved as revised. Corrections included fixing a misspelling of “proposed” and changing “installation of wood jams” to “existing wood jams.” Motion carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public hearings were on the agenda; no public comments were taken. Discussion Items - Old Business – 713‑15 East Genesee Street (Facade Alterations): The project remains on hold pending additional information requested by the board, specifically regarding window treatments and the treatment of the IFIS (International Fireplace and Insulation System?) around the corner. No action taken. - New Business – SPR 26‑26‑11: 411 University Avenue, New Construction: Brian Bouchard (CHA) presented a revised three‑story mixed‑use apartment building (30 units) on the site of two existing parcels. This replaces a previously approved nine‑story building that was financially unfeasible due to tariffs, construction costs, and interest rates. The new design meets MX4 zoning, includes 10% affordable units, and uses LP SmartSide engineered wood siding in a cedar shake pattern. The board offered non‑binding recommendations for the applicant to consider before a Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, April 5: - Break the cornice line at the vertical center element to better separate the two‑building massing. - Replace the board‑and‑batten siding on the ground floor with a more durable material (e.g., stone veneer) to improve durability and contextually reference Grace Church and neighboring Ronald McDonald House. - Consider altering the white color scheme to reduce maintenance and visual contrast. - The applicant agreed to try to incorporate these changes and share updated elevations before the Planning Commission meeting. - Discussion Item – Thornden Park Amphitheater Improvements (Phase 1): The parks department proposed adding wheelchair‑accessible paths and viewing platforms, improving drainage, and installing concrete stairs. The board provided formal comments aimed at preserving historic materials and site character: - Preservation of historic brick walkways and stone columns: The board strongly opposed removing the original brick path that leads from Thornden Park Drive to the amphitheater, recommending instead a new accessible route that cuts through the fence near the field house, avoiding disturbance of historic fabric and tree roots. - Materials: Board members suggested using asphalt or stained concrete with exposed aggregate instead of conventional concrete to better blend with the setting and reduce root damage. Asphalt would require shallower excavation and be more forgiving of root heave. - Tree protection: Concern was raised about root damage from excavation for the concrete path and stairs. The board recommended limiting removal of historic curbing, working with the Department of Forestry on a replanting plan for aging trees, and preserving field stone retaining walls. - Stairway: The board asked for a detail showing how new concrete stairs would interface with existing field stone walls to minimize disturbance. - Overall recommendation: Retain historic materials and features to the maximum extent possible. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved as corrected. - 411 University Avenue: No formal vote; board gave advisory recommendations to the applicant for refinement before the Planning Commission meeting. - Thornden Park Amphitheater: The board finalized its comments to the parks department, prioritizing preservation of historic brick, stone, trees, and minimizing excavation. No formal vote needed as city‑owned property is exempt from a certificate of appropriateness. - Meeting adjourned via unanimous motion.

The Syracuse Common Council held a study session on April 1, 2026, to discuss a wide range of items including contract renewals, capital projects, public safety grants, land use permits, and community programs. The session covered approximately 37 agenda items, with several held for further review or public hearings. Discussion Items - Item 10 – Energy Automation Contract Renewal: The council discussed renewing a contract with Energy Automation for energy expertise and support, including preparation of the annual energy budget. The service was originally RFP'd and this is a renewal. No questions raised concerns. - Item 11 – Amendment for Temporary Structure (Trash/Recycling Carts): An amendment to an agreement for a temporary building to hold trash and recycling carts, adding insurance for builders. The price increased slightly. Councilors asked about the number of individuals requesting additional carts and abuse of carts (e.g., used for bottle/can collection). The deputy commissioner noted they track carts and retrieve them weekly. - Items 12-14 – Harbor Brook Parking Lot: The city engineer presented three items related to a new parking lot off Fowler High School, providing 16 spaces and pedestrian access. Items included a SEQR negative declaration (12), a bond ordinance increase of $500,000 for a total of $650,000 (13), and project authorization for construction (14). The lot will serve the new police building. - Items 15-17 – Demolition of Fayette Parking Garage: Three companion items for the demolition of the unsafe Fayette parking garage at 300 East Fayette: a SEQR Type II action (15), a bond ordinance not to exceed $3 million (16), and project authorization not to exceed $3 million (17). The garage is unsafe and repair costs are exorbitant. - Item 18 – Permanent Easement to Niagara Mohawk at Airport: A local law to grant a permanent easement for an underground power line to the new consolidated rental car facility. - Item 19 – Resolution for Disclosure Checkbox in RFPs: A resolution to add a checkbox in city RFPs requiring disclosure from individuals doing business with the city. The councilor expressed unanimous support. - Items 20-21 – After-School Program Trip to Dorney Park: Authorization for transportation (coach buses, not to exceed $14,000) and ticket purchase (not to exceed $12,000) for 210 youth participants (224 total including chaperones due to free tickets). The program serves over 200 youth. - Item 22 – Public Arts Initiative Capital Improvement: Authorization to proceed with the 25-26 capital improvement program for public arts, not to exceed $35,000, for repair, replacement, and site preparation. Councilors inquired about audits and inventory; the parks department is currently inventorying public art. - Items 23-24 – Wayfinding Signage for Parks: Authorization for capital improvement for wayfinding and signage, total not to exceed $150,000, including bond issuance. The signage will replace wooden entry signs with concrete/wood signs, and include banners and directional arrows. Councilors requested tick signage, creek walk wayfinding, and additional trash cans. New signs for ticks and trash are drafted. - Item 25 – Accept Funds from Coordinated Care Services: Acceptance of reimbursement funds for after-school programs, not to exceed $18,741. - Item 26 – Resolution for Autism Awareness Month: A resolution recognizing April 2026 as Autism Awareness Month in Syracuse. - Items 27-28 – Technology Agreements: Agreements with Site Improve (for digital accessibility compliance) and SurveyMonkey (for resident engagement). Both were procured through multiple quotes below the RFP threshold. - Item 29 – Fiber Access Agreement with Syracuse Urban Partnership: A no-cost access agreement to install fiber at the Chimes building for broadband infrastructure. The contract aligns with the state grant and will likely need extension. The city owns the fiber and infrastructure. Councilors discussed subscriber numbers (currently 1,500-1,600) and asked for updates. - Items 30-32 – Gun Violence Reduction Program (Held): The council discussed the program that was paused due to the Trump administration's hold on DOJ grants in April 2025. Contracts expired Jan/Feb 2026. The director requested extending contracts and reallocating funds. The program serves youth ages 14-24 (and 16-19 for Exalt). A vetting process involving SPD and DA will be used for contractors and staff. Councilors questioned the pause and contract end dates. The director provided a narrative and budget update. Items were held. - Item 33 – Withdrawn - Item 34 – Withdrawal - Item 35 – Byrne Memorial Justice Grant: Authorization for an agreement with NYS DCJS for $27,500 to enhance the Stride program (domestic violence training) using the Geiger Institute's train-the-trainer model. - Item 36 – CIT Program Grant: A three-year grant for the Crisis Intervention Team program, requiring 20% match in years 1-2 and 40% in year 3. Funds a proactive unit with two officers and mental health workers, plus CIT training. - Items 37-38 – Fire Department Vehicle Purchases: Request to purchase light first response vehicles (two F-350s, two SUVs, two incident command vehicles, three motor pool vehicles) for $775,000, as part of a replacement program. The chief noted a backlog; orders placed now would arrive spring 2027. The goal is a yearly replacement plan to avoid emergency purchases. - Item 39 – Amendment to Senior Exemption Ordinance: An amendment to ordinance 5 of 2026 to correct the effective date to January 1, 2027 (from 2026). The commissioner explained that 1,800 senior citizens applied for a different exemption, and the software wasn't updated for the current year. - Item 40 – Public Hearing for CDBG Year 51: Authorization to advertise a public hearing on April 20, 2026, at 1 p.m. for CDBG replacement funds. - Item 41 – Reallocation of CDBG Funds (Held): Due to two agencies declining awards after executive orders, funds are being reallocated to Peace Inc. (tax prep program) and Home Headquarters (urgent care program). The public comment period ran March 9-April 8; no one spoke at the March 25 meeting. The item was held until after the public hearing. - Item 42 – Appropriation of Cash Capital for Broadband Grant: A request to appropriate $108,388.83 as an administrative fee to Empire State Development for the broadband infrastructure grant. This is required before the city can submit its first reimbursement request ($8 million). The director expects payment within four weeks of submission. - Item 43 – Resolved - Item 44 – Special Use Permit for Greenhouse Manufacturing: Approval for a greenhouse manufacturing plant at 2956 East Genesee Street. The use was permitted under the prior zoning code before an October 2025 amendment. The planning commission attached conditions limiting use to greenhouse manufacturing. Councilors noted opposition from neighbors regarding traffic and non-conforming use. - Item 45 – Special Use Permit for Cannabis Dispensary (To Executive Session): A permit for a smoking establishment (cannabis dispensary) at 911 North Salina Street. The council discussed concerns about safety, illegal cannabis shops across the street, and the neighborhood's existing drug issues. The city attorney noted that illegal shops are being addressed through code enforcement. The council voted to go into executive session to discuss further, including hearing from a police captain. - Item 46 – Zone Change for Subdivision at 910 Bellevue: A zone change to combine two lots into a single zone to allow a driveway and fence. No questions. Key Outcomes - Many items were discussed and are expected to be voted on in future meetings. Items 30-32, 41, and 45 were held or deferred. Item 45 was sent to executive session. Item 39 was moved to amend the effective date. The council did not take formal votes during the study session.

The Syracuse Public Arts Commission met on March 31, 2026, at approximately 5:03 PM, chaired by Benny Guzman. The meeting began with a lack of quorum (one commissioner short), preventing official votes. Commissioners present: Lisa Lambert, Maggie Levis, Manuel Carter, Chris Abbott. The session focused on discussion of administrative and strategic items, including the public art coordinator position, outreach events, commission vacancies, and an executive session on open meeting law. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Minutes from January 13, 2026: Reviewed but not approved due to lack of quorum. A typo ("September 9th") was noted and will be corrected before approval at a future meeting with quorum. Discussion Items - Public Art Coordinator Position: Chair Guzman reported ongoing discussions with Shaisha (Parks) and Eric Ennis (Mayor's economic development team) to revamp the position's responsibilities. The original posting did not mention parks, despite the role being housed under Parks & Rec. The position has been vacant since Anne resigned in August 2025 (originally contracted July 2024). Guzman will request the commission review the job description before posting. - District Art Show (May 2, 2026): Commissioner Maggie Levis suggested the commission give special awards to student artists. Chair Guzman expressed support for commission presence but noted legal uncertainty about formal recognition on behalf of the city. The event is at Dr. King Elementary School, 10 AM–12 PM, coinciding with Makers Fair and Parks Day. - SPAC Website: The website is 95% complete; missing content includes artist features, project listings, and the public art registry. Commissioner Chris Abbott offered to help generate content. - Social Media: Chair Guzman noted limited bandwidth and requested volunteers for training to manage the city social media account. Commissioner Levis volunteered. - Commission Vacancies: Four positions are available (including Blondine's resignation and expiring terms for Elias and Devana). Nominees must live within Syracuse city limits. Chair Guzman noted Rebecca as a potential candidate, but no vote could occur without quorum. - Vice Chair and Secretary: A vice chair will be elected at the next meeting with quorum. The secretary position (currently held by Takara) may be revisited due to confusion about the role. - Ordinance Review: Commissioner Lambert offered to convert the PDF ordinance into a Word document for individual review, avoiding online collaboration due to open meeting law concerns. Key Outcomes - Executive Session: The commission adjourned to an executive session at 5:33 PM to discuss open meeting law and legal advice. A motion was made and seconded (Manuel Carter) to enter executive session. - Next Steps: Chair Guzman will follow up with Shaisha and Eric Ennis on the coordinator position, request commission input on the job description, and work to fill vacancies. The next regular meeting will aim for quorum to approve minutes, elect vice chair, and formalize appointments.

The Syracuse Board of Assessment Review convened on March 31, 2026, to finalize determinations on grievances heard during the February designated grievance session. After exiting executive session, the board voted on six classifications of assessment outcomes, approving all motions unanimously. Discussion Items - The board deliberated in executive session on all grievances presented in February. Upon returning to regular session, Chair Joe Saya summarized six classifications of determinations: denials of exemptions (Exhibit A), granted exemptions (Exhibit B), no change in assessments (Exhibit C), reductions in assessment (Exhibit D), dismissal of petitions (Exhibit E), and stipulations ratified (Exhibit F). - A motion to approve the sorting of determinations into those six classes was seconded and carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Denials of exemptions (Exhibit A): Motion to deny all exemptions listed in Exhibit A carried unanimously. - Granted exemptions (Exhibit B): Motion to grant all exemptions listed in Exhibit B carried unanimously. - No change in assessments (Exhibit C): Motion to decline changing assessments (denying reductions) for Exhibit C carried unanimously. - Reductions in assessment (Exhibit D): Motion to reduce assessments as stated in Exhibit D carried unanimously. - Dismissal of petitions (Exhibit E): Motion to dismiss grievances listed in Exhibit E carried unanimously. - Stipulations ratified (Exhibit F): Motion to ratify stipulated grievances in Exhibit F carried unanimously. - The meeting adjourned after all business was concluded.

The SIRA (Syracuse Industrial Development Agency) board convened on March 30, 2026, to approve the minutes from the December 23, 2025 meeting and to award a new liability insurance contract. All members were present except the interim director of finance (on vacation). The meeting was brief and concluded with unanimous approval of the resolution. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (December 23, 2025): Commissioner Collins, as secretary, confirmed the minutes were accurate. A motion was made, seconded, and approved unanimously by all present members. Discussion Items - Resolution 3476 – Liability Insurance Contract: The board considered awarding a contract to Mesa Underwriter Specialty Insurance for liability insurance coverage on SIRA-owned properties. The previous carrier, Dryden Mutual, had decided not to renew the policy, which expired approximately one week prior but was extended to April 2, 2026. The insurance agent, Hale Fryer & Kuhn, solicited multiple markets, and Mesa was the only responder. The proposed coverage increases the per-incident limit from $1 million to $2 million and the aggregate limit from $2 million to $4 million. The board approved a not-to-exceed amount of $6,000, which is higher than the previous premium of roughly $3,000 but includes enhanced coverage and optional terrorism coverage. The actual premium is expected to be slightly lower. Commissioner Collins noted that the increased limits were appropriate and would have been recommended at renewal. Key Outcomes - Resolution 3476 Approved: A motion to approve the resolution was made, seconded, and passed unanimously with ayes. The board authorized the contract with Mesa Underwriter Specialty Insurance, not to exceed $6,000. - Meeting Adjourned: Following the resolution, the board adjourned without further discussion.

Discussion Items - Funding Reallocation: City officials stated that two original grantees, "Unbelievable" and "OGs Against Gun Violence," failed to submit invoices or perform work. Their combined funding was redistributed to Good Life Youth Foundation (an additional $73,000) and Southwest Community Center / Syracuse Community Connections (an additional $103,000), bringing the total updated award to $272,278.36. - Hiring and Vetting Process: The Mayor's Office detailed a "focused deterrence" model. All hires under the city contract must pass a second interview with the Syracuse Police Department and District Attorney's Office. Good Life Youth Foundation founder Hassan Stevens stated his organization requires a two-year window since incarceration for applicants and boasts zero law enforcement involvement among employees in five years. - Sustainability Concerns: Councilors repeatedly voiced alarm that the federal grant expires in roughly six months (around September 2026). Chief Strategy Officer Stephanie Pasqual emphasized demonstrating program efficacy to secure future funding. Providers outlined a "Plan B" involving Medicaid billing through a partnership with ICANN and pursuing new grants like the "Syracuse 360" model. - Cost and Capacity Scrutiny: A councilor expressed clear frustration, stating, "We're spending 500, 600,000 for 30 kids," and questioned the cost-effectiveness of the program. Councilors formally requested a "line-by-line" budget comparison showing the original awards against the proposed changes to understand staffing modifications. - Program Operations and Data: Hassan Stevens reported that 76% of participants in the prior "Safer Streets" program did not re-offend, and highlighted partnerships with Wegmans and CNY Works for employment. Yolanda Seegers of Southwest Center noted "Syracuse is resource rich but coordination poor" and described new efforts, including the Mothers Against Gun Violence program led by LIPA Jones to provide family therapy. Key Outcomes - The council requested a detailed "line-by-line" budget comparison from the administration before formalizing the allocation. - No formal vote was cast during this discussion; further deliberation is expected. - The Mayor's Office and providers committed to providing detailed outcome data and a sustainability plan. - The discussion underscored the council's demand for long-term solutions and careful oversight of violence intervention spending.