The Syracuse Landmark Preservation Board convened on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at approximately 1:25 PM to conduct a series of public hearings and discussions. The meeting included four certificate of appropriateness (CA) applications, a major site plan review for a historic building conversion, a discussion on preservation exemption legislation, and updates from the Preservation Association of Central New York (PACNY). The board approved three CA applications and provided favorable comments on two major site plan projects. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the October 30, 2025 meeting were adopted by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - CA-25-38 (931 Comstock Avenue): The applicants, Mr. and Mrs. [Mr. Daisy?], described their plans to install historically appropriate storm windows and awnings, paint the house in original colors, and rebuild original wood shutters. No public comments for or against were made. - CA-25-39 (118 Windsor Place): The applicant, Dennis Swainey, explained the need to replace two deteriorating garage doors. He presented several design options from Semke Garage Doors and sought board guidance on the most appropriate design. No public comments were made. - CA-25-40 (128 East Genesee Street): Joe Perino, representing owner Stephanie Sampreer, presented plans for a complete building renovation, including storefront rehabilitation, window replacement, and a color change to matte and gloss black. No public comments were made. - Major Site Plan 2529 – 652 West Onondaga Street: Hilary Donehue presented plans to convert the grand mansion (built 1893) into a private club and two residential units. No public comments were made. Discussion Items - CA-25-39 – 118 Windsor Place Garage Door Replacement: Board members discussed design options, noting that option with a double row of vertical glazing and ribbed panels (the "ribbed long option") was most historically accurate. Concerns were raised about window proportion (too squat) and repairability of the original doors. The board recommended the applicant investigate whether the manufacturer could provide taller windows. The board ultimately voted to approve with the understanding that the design would match the preferred option. - CA-25-40 – 128 East Genesee Street Renovation: Board members discussed the proposed storefront design, noting the historic photos show a curved entrance and more transparent storefront. Concerns were expressed about the "chunky" new design vs. historical minimalism. The board asked about window type (single hung vs. double hung) and the use of gloss vs. flat black paint. The board approved the application as submitted. - Major Site Plan 2560 – 200 East Genesee Street (City Hall Commons): Jamie Williams (Homeskin Colquist Architects) and Luke Esposito (Handover Development) presented conceptual plans to convert the mid-1800s building (with 1980s-era additions) into mixed-use with ground-floor commercial and residential apartments. Key proposals include restoring the masonry, retaining the atrium (with a new angled skylight), restoring historic windows, and potentially reopening bricked-over openings. The board offered strong support and recommended additional attention to the ground floor articulation and main entrance. The project is planned to go before the Planning Commission. - Major Site Plan 2529 – 652 West Onondaga Street (Smith Mansion): Hilary Donehue presented a plan to remove an unsympathetic bridge connection to a neighboring building, restore the driveway, and convert the grand mansion into two residential units in the former servants’ quarters and a private club (with a performing arts focus) in the main portion. The bridge removal will require a platform lift for accessibility. The board expressed unanimous support, noting the property is eligible for the National Register and that existing windows will remain in situ. - Exemption Legislation Update: The board was informed that the zoning administrator has requested a State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) assessment for a proposed text amendment. The review will evaluate environmental and historic resource impacts. A 60-day review clock will start once the documentation is complete. - PACNY Updates: Nicole Fragnito reported on a November summit for preservation partners across five counties. Topics included tax credit education, historic district nominations, and future programming (e.g., homeowner workshops on window repair). The annual preservation awards will be held December 5, 2025 at St. Paul’s Church. Key Outcomes - CA-25-38 (931 Comstock Avenue): Approved unanimously as submitted. - CA-25-39 (118 Windsor Place): Approved unanimously (with the applicant to follow up on window design details). - CA-25-40 (128 East Genesee Street): Approved unanimously as submitted. - Major Site Plan 2560 (200 East Genesee Street): Received favorable board comments; no formal vote (review and comment). - Major Site Plan 2529 (652 West Onondaga Street): Received favorable board comments; no formal vote (review and comment). - The meeting was adjourned at approximately 2:30 PM.
Public Meetings - Syracuse, New York
Public Meetings - Syracuse, New YorkThe Syracuse City Council held a public hearing on November 19, 2025, to consider revoking a special use permit granted to 634 South Getting Street due to unauthorized car sales, numerous DMV citations, and unpermitted business conversions. The hearing was limited to public testimony and a city staff presentation; a decision will be made at a future meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Ian Namard (address: 100 Ruckford Drive) – the business operator – stated he does not sell cars at the property. He explained he formerly had a dealership but canceled it after a complaint cost him $2,500. He now works for D'Zone Wheel and Auto Plug, performing detailing, tire service, and oil changes under contract. He acknowledged occasionally buying and selling a car via Facebook Marketplace, but argued that is not illegal. He also noted he blocked off a car wash bay to prevent drug trafficking and added a convenience store for customers, which he does not consider open to the public. He expressed willingness to adjust if he is doing something wrong. - Tyrell London (address: 615 Gifford Street) – an employee – stated he performs mechanic work at the shop and has no knowledge of car sales. He expressed concern that losing the business would force him to find another mechanic job to support his daughter and household. - Rodney Barnes (address: 237 Riverdale Drive) – a longtime customer – said the business provides cheap work for the community and is the cheapest tire spot in Syracuse. He has had work done there for 10–15 years. - Mohammed Mohammed (address: 515 Pan Street) – a mechanic who occasionally works for Mr. Namard – said he lost his own shop and now depends on this business to survive. - Christopher Baton – an ex-military friend – stated he has known Mr. Namard for 25 years and has never known him to be involved in anything illegal. He asked the council to be lenient and give him a chance to correct any issues, noting that he helps clean the property weekly. - Mahmoud Awad (owner of Sabatinos, 1000 South Gaza Street) – a neighbor – said Mr. Namard is a friend who helps him fix cars. He clarified that he stored grocery items in the garage during his own renovation and that the storage did not constitute an open store. He has never heard complaints about Mr. Namard from customers. Discussion Items - Rob Carpenter (City of Syracuse Department of Law) presented on behalf of the Office of Zoning Administration. He stated that the office relies on its report documenting numerous DMV investigations at the property over recent years, including ongoing investigations into further sales. Those investigations found that unroadworthy cars had been sold to Syracuse residents. Additionally, one of the car wash bays was converted into a convenience store without proper permits or licenses. For those reasons, the office recommended that the council revoke the special use permit. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was closed. The legislation will be considered during the regular order of business at a subsequent meeting. No vote or decision was taken at this hearing.
No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of discussions, decisions, or public comments can be generated.
The meeting focused on updates to the block challenge program, a proposed budget increase, and preliminary terms for a homeowner renovation program. Committee members discussed program expansion, community engagement, and logistical next steps. Discussion Items - Block Challenge Program Update: Michelle reported that as of the meeting date, the program had received applications for 108 individual properties across 23 teams. Total reimbursements approved reached $53,000, with the first reimbursement request received that morning. The program is seeing higher-than-expected project costs, with many participants undertaking roof, driveway, and painting projects. The original budget of $123,000 is nearly exhausted, and staff recommended increasing the authorized amount to at least $350,000 to accommodate continued applications through spring 2026. - Budget and Geographic Expansion: Committee members discussed the possibility of adding a cap per neighborhood (Tip Hill and Salt Springs) once the budget reaches $500,000, to ensure equitable distribution. Councillor Hogan proposed a future “little win” program for other city sectors (north side, west side, south side) using modest funding to foster community engagement. Staff noted that the current plan focuses on Eastwood and Elmwood next, contingent on securing at least $15 million in committed funds. - Resident Advisory Committee: Staff noted that the council authorized adjustments to legal language, and five resident advisory appointments are needed—one from the council president and four from district/at-large councilors. The goal is to confirm appointments by the November 10 council meeting to convene the group before year-end. - Legal Services RFP: The deadline for the legal services RFP expired without any responses. Staff will extend the deadline and promote it through the bar association. A selection process will involve staff interviews with potential board participation. - Homeowner Renovation Program Terms: Staff presented draft terms for an owner-occupied renovation program, sourced from the existing Invest ESM policy. Key points: no standalone roofs or water heaters (to be referred to urgent care or block challenge); a requirement to address exterior code violations if interior work is requested; and a focus on holistic property improvements. Legal services may be needed to assist with title issues. No decisions were made; committee members will review the draft and provide feedback. Key Outcomes - The committee agreed to bring a recommendation to the board to increase the block challenge program budget from $123,000 to $350,000 at the next board meeting. - The legal services RFP deadline will be extended, with staff to reissue and promote widely. - Resident advisory committee appointments should be finalized by November 10, 2025. - Staff will continue to develop the homeowner renovation program terms and bring refined proposals to future meetings.
The committee met to discuss a procurement waiver, a budget amendment, and the rollout of the block challenge program. Members reviewed policy clarifications on program eligibility, including line-of-sight requirements, commercial participation, shared driveways, and credit for future work. The meeting concluded with a timeline for additional programs in early 2026. Discussion Items - Procurement Waiver: The committee reviewed a request to waive competitive bidding for a contract. Staff noted that the waiver would allow the city to leverage existing technology and remote meeting capabilities. After discussion, the committee agreed to advance the waiver to the full board for a vote, with no significant concerns raised. - Budget Amendment (Fiscal Year 25 Operating Budget): Staff proposed adjusting the budget for directors, officers, and liability insurance, reflecting a $175 difference. The committee approved the amendment, which also reallocated funds from licenses and fees (e.g., QuickBooks) to cover the insurance costs. - Block Challenge Program Rollout: Staff reported that the program (launched three weeks prior) has received positive feedback, with over 100 phone calls/emails and four applications covering 18 properties. The program is about halfway through its budgeted funds. All applications so far are from the Tipp Hill neighborhood, but staff expects applications from Salt Springs soon. The committee discussed ensuring equitable distribution of resources across neighborhoods and noted that the current cost share is 50%, with potential future tiered income-based adjustments. - Policy Clarifications: - Line-of-Sight Proximity: Staff requested administrative discretion to allow participants who cannot find an immediate line-of-sight to join the next closest neighbor. The committee was comfortable with this approach. - Commercial Property Eligibility: A question arose about whether commercial businesses could participate in a team of residential homeowners. Some members expressed concern about setting a precedent and a slippery slope, while others saw value in including adjacent businesses. The committee decided not to allow commercial-only participation at this time but acknowledged the possibility of a future commercial program. Mixed-use properties with residential components would be considered residential. - Shared Driveway Reimbursement: For a shared driveway between two homeowners, the committee agreed that both could claim reimbursement if they either add another participant or pursue an additional project component. Legal shared driveway agreements would be required. - Credit for Future Work: The committee discussed allowing homeowners who undertake substantial renovations (e.g., $115,000 gut rehab) to count that investment toward future program matches. Members supported this as a way to incentivize early investment, but emphasized that it would be at the homeowner's own risk and require documentation (permits, receipts). Staff would provide non-binding guidance. - Timeline for Additional Programs: Staff outlined plans to open applications for owner-occupant and rental rehab programs in early 2026. The goal is to present draft templates to the board within two months, conduct focus groups with residents, and finalize terms by January 2026. Applications would open in February 2026. Staff also mentioned exploring state funds for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Key Outcomes - Decision: The committee voted to advance the procurement waiver to the full board for a vote. - Decision: The budget amendment for insurance costs was approved. - Decision: Commercial businesses will not be eligible for the current block challenge program; mixed-use properties with residential components are considered residential. - Decision: Shared driveway projects can be reimbursed if additional participants or project components are added, and legal driveway agreements are required. - Direction: Staff will develop guidance for homeowners seeking credit for future work, with clear disclaimers about risk. - Next Steps: Staff will bring program templates for owner-occupant and rental rehab programs to the board within two months, with final terms expected by January 2026.
The Housing Strategies Corporation Board held a meeting on November 19, 2025, to approve previous meeting minutes and consider two resolutions related to the block challenge grant program. The board also received updates on liability insurance and program launch timelines. Approval of Minutes - The board approved the minutes from the July 10, 2025, Governance Committee meeting. Discussion Items - Resolution to enter into an agreement with Syracuse Urban Renewal Agency (SURA) for administration of the block challenge grant program: The board discussed the draft agreement, which currently covers only the first tier (block challenge program) of the $2.5 million total funding. Senior Corporation Counsel Matt Ryan explained that SURA will review and approve the agreement subject to additional terms from legal counsel. Board members raised concerns about provisions requiring adherence to SURA's procurement policies, approval of subcontractors, and the lack of clarity on fund disbursement. It was clarified that the agreement may be amended later to incorporate homeowner renovation programs. The motion passed. - Resolution to waive the RFP process and enter into an agreement with Home Headquarters for administration of the block challenge grant program: The board reviewed terms authorizing just over $70,000, with 10% for administrative fees. Staff explained that Home Headquarters will cut reimbursement checks to homeowners after documented expenses are submitted, and homeowners may use any contractor or do the work themselves. The board approved the resolution. Key Outcomes - The July 10, 2025 meeting minutes were approved. - Both resolutions passed: the SURA agreement (with further revisions to be made by legal counsel) and the Home Headquarters agreement (waiving RFP). - The program is scheduled to launch on August 15, 2025, with applications opening. Staff will attend community events to promote the program. - Reimbursement will only cover new work completed after the program launch; retroactive expenses will not be accepted. - Liability insurance quotes were received and will be secured within 30 days of the agreement.
The Syracuse Common Council met on November 19, 2025, for a study session to discuss a broad range of legislative items, including council rule changes, park events, police department relocation logistics, infrastructure contracts, land bank transfers, and a proposed battery storage project. The session involved detailed questioning of city staff and department heads, with several items held for further discussion or public hearing. Discussion Items - Rules and Procedures (Item 11): Councilor Panny Agua co-sponsored a proposal to adopt changes to the 2024-25 Cyclist Common Council rules and procedures, including renaming committees and creating a new committee. Councilor Deathers questioned why a public meeting was not scheduled, emphasizing transparency. Corporation Counsel Joe Barry noted that amending rules requires six votes during the session. The council decided to hold internal discussions before deciding on a public meeting. - Park Events and Donation (Items 12-13): Commissioner Bird presented item 12, an authorized payment to Eric Jones for a performance at the home for the holidays tree lighting on November 28 at 6:00 p.m. (tree lit at 7:00). Councilor Caldwell suggested expanding tree lightings to other parks in 2026. Item 13 accepted a bronze statue, granite base, and benches valued at $63,716 from the Tip Hill Neighborhood Association to honor two fallen officers. The description letter will be corrected. - Police Department Cable Agreement (Item 14): Deputy Chief Rashaw requested an agreement with Spectrum for 25 cable TV boxes at $7/month each, plus fiber-based internet service, for the new public safety building at 1153 West Fayette Street, at an approximate monthly cost of $387.50 and a one-time installation fee of $625. Councilors questioned why Spectrum was needed when the city has its own broadband (Surge Link). Director of Digital Services Vinny Scipion explained that redundancy requires multiple providers on different routes. The three-year contract will not begin until the building is occupied. - Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) for Relocation (Item 15): Deputy Commissioner Lehman requested authorization to hire two additional vendors (Contract Ink for lockers, Design Specialists for window treatments) and add funding for Syracuse Office Environments for storage/shelving, using funds from an already-bonded $1 million. Two remaining categories (appliances and audio-visual) will be brought to the next meeting. Councilors inquired about the bidding process and the disposition of old equipment. - Parking Lease for Police (Item 16): The council considered a one-year lease for 225 parking spaces at 500 West Fayette Street as supplemental parking for the police department during the relocation. Deputy Chief Mark Russ explained the dynamic parking needs (currently 152 spaces at the PSB, plus 178 from Patrol East). Councilors asked about public parking availability and alternative lots. - Sanitary Sewer Offsets (Items 17-18): City Engineer Mary Robson presented two offset agreements: Syracuse University dorms (lining 12- and 18-inch combined sewer on Harrison Street) and the Rescue Mission exchange building (lining two sewer manholes). No questions. - Right-of-Entry Agreement (Item 19): A request for a right-of-entry agreement with New York Susquehanna & Western for a completed beautification project at South State Street. Approved. - Telecommunications Franchise (Item 20): Permission for Northland Networks to construct and operate a telecommunications network (underground and aerial) citywide. The annual fee is $1.90 per linear foot for 4-inch conduit, adjusted annually. A letter correction was noted. - Water Department Contracts (Items 21-24): Item 21: no-cost time extension with GHC for intake extension. Item 22: $47,000 increase with Onondaga County Soil and Water for watershed inspections. Item 23: permission for a homeowner to replace a wooden deck. Item 24: waiver of competitive bidding for water bill postcard paper. All approved. - Battery Storage Project (Items 25-26): Councilor Williams noted a public hearing is scheduled for item 25. For item 26 (special use permit for two 5-MW battery projects at 426 East Brighton), Terrence Nolan from New Leaf Energy gave a brief overview. Fire Chief Mike Mons reported that the proposal as submitted does not meet fire code, and the fire department does not typically review land use permits at this stage. The council decided to hold a public meeting on the project. - Payroll Modernization (Item 27): Held pending contact with Josh Sarrison to discuss selection of UKG Pro. - JSCB Phase 3 Financing (Items 28-29): Commissioner of Finance Mike Kinsara requested increasing the bond ordinance from $2 million to $4 million (with a future increase to $10 million) for JSCB phase 3. The short-term debt will not affect the city's bond rating. Approved. - 485-A Tax Exemption Fix (Item 30): An amendment to local law 12 of 2019 to correct discrepancies between the local law and state enabling legislation for the mixed-use conversion tax exemption. The amendment requires filing with the state, a 6-7 week process. - Technical Amendment (Item 31): Correcting a drafting error in a settlement ordinance for the full tax year. Approved. - Item 32: Held pending state review. - Land Bank Support (Item 33): Planner Calen Hubbard requested a resolution (not an ordinance) to support the Greater Syracuse Land Bank's application to fund their Move-In New York program. The council agreed to consider the resolution. - Demolition Contractor Renewal (Item 34): Deputy Commissioner Jake Dishaw requested renewal of six emergency demolition contracts for one year (budget $633,934). The RFQ will go out next year. Approved. - Land Bank Transfers (Items 35-89): Planner Hubbard discussed the batch of property transfers to the land bank. Several properties were withdrawn (e.g., item 53 on Grays Street) or questioned (e.g., West Brighton). Hubbard will resend the list and clarify. - Executive Session (Items 90-91): The council moved into executive session for these items. Key Outcomes - Items 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 31, and 34 were approved or advanced without opposition. - Item 11 (rules changes) was held for internal council discussion and possible public meeting. - Item 26 (battery project) will be the subject of a public meeting (date not specified). - Items 27, 30, 32, 33, and 35-89 were held or amended pending further information or procedural changes. - A public hearing is scheduled for item 25.
The Syracuse Public Arts Commission met on November 18, 2025, at 5:30 PM (estimated) under the new chair, Benny Guzman. The meeting lacked quorum, preventing any official votes or business, but members engaged in extensive discussion about structural issues, including attendance, commissioner roles, term limits, the vacant public art coordinator position, and future planning. The commission identified several areas needing clarification and committed to gathering information for a future quorate meeting. Discussion Items - Quorum and Attendance Issues: Chair Guzman opened a discussion on the recurring lack of quorum, noting that the commission has 11 seats but often fewer than half attend. Members acknowledged that the problem has worsened in the past year. Suggestions included: setting a minimum attendance requirement (e.g., 6 out of 10 meetings), a mandatory RSVP deadline (e.g., one week before meetings), and exploring the possibility of remote participation via Zoom (as used by the Central New York Regional Planning Board) to increase flexibility. Commissioner Manuel Carter emphasized that the commission is a government function and that members take an oath, so attendance should be treated seriously. Others noted that meeting dates are set a year in advance and that digital calendar reminders could help. The idea of an alternate voting member was also floated but subject to bylaw review. - Commissioner Roles and Term Limits: Chair Guzman raised the need to clarify the types of commissioner positions (artist vs. non-artist, mayor-appointed vs. common council-appointed) and to confirm term lengths. It was noted that two commissioners' terms expire in November 2025, and the renewal process typically involves a letter from the mayor's office asking if they wish to continue. The group discussed the importance of having a clear record of terms and a protocol for resignations or removals, especially if a commissioner is repeatedly absent. - Public Art Coordinator Position: The commission discussed the vacant public art coordinator role. Saisha Bird (Commissioner of Parks, Wax, and Youth Programs) stated that a job description exists and is being edited, and she will notify the commission when it is posted. She plans to include commissioners in the interview process. The group debated the relationship between the commission and the coordinator, with some members advocating for a clear division of duties: the coordinator as a parks employee who reports to the parks director, while the commission focuses on approving projects and providing community input. Others expressed a desire for more active involvement in generating ideas and connecting funding sources (e.g., the $2,000 per city section for arts, the $35,000 capital improvement fund). The need for a "welcome packet" outlining roles, expectations, and legal parameters was emphasized. - Future Meeting Logistics: The commission considered reducing the number of regular meetings (the minimum is six per year) and changing the day of the week from Tuesdays to potentially improve attendance. Chair Guzman noted that any change would require a one-month advance announcement. The group also discussed forming task forces to address specific issues, but acknowledged that open meeting laws limit task force membership to two commissioners unless outside members are recruited. - Vice Chair Vacancy: The chair noted that the commission currently lacks a vice chair and encouraged interested members to nominate themselves or others for a vote at the next quorate meeting. Key Outcomes - No formal votes could be taken due to lack of quorum. - The commission agreed to gather information on: commissioner term limits, appointment types, legal requirements for remote participation, and the official ordinance governing the commission. - Chair Guzman will compile a list of action items for the next meeting, including: confirming commissioner roles and term limits, reviewing the welcome packet, and setting attendance expectations. - Saisha Bird will share the revised public art coordinator job description when posted and will involve commissioners in interviews. - The commission will aim to hold a "101" session to review bylaws and clearly define roles. - The next meeting is scheduled for December 2025, where the commission hopes to have quorum to vote on the pending application from artist Allie Walker and other business.
The Syracuse Industrial Development Agency (SIDA) Board of Directors held a meeting on November 18, 2025, at 8:00 AM. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, consideration of three local access policy waivers for a tenant at 400 South Salina Street, the sale of three agency-owned parcels to the Greater Syracuse Land Bank, and an amendment to project resolutions for the SDC project at 800 South Wilbur Avenue. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the October 21, 2025 board meeting were approved unanimously via motion by Dirk, seconded by Ricky. New Business: 400 South Salina Street (City Center) – Local Access Policy Waivers - Three waivers were requested for the build-out of Five Iron Golf, a tenant at 400 South Salina Street. Each waiver required a separate vote. - First Waiver – Funk Bowling: A Missouri company manufacturing duckpin bowling machines. Cost: $80,000 (3% of project costs). No local vendors available in the six-county area. Motion to approve by Ricky, seconded by Dirk; carried unanimously. - Second Waiver – Captive Air: A Missouri company manufacturing air vent and exhaust hoods for the kitchen. Cost: $100,000 (4% of project costs). Local labor will install the equipment. Motion to approve by Ricky, seconded by Ken; carried unanimously. - Third Waiver – Strut Systems Installation: A company based in Buffalo, New York, providing structural strut supports for golf simulators. Only bidder on specifications. Cost: $15,000 (less than 1% of project costs). Motion to approve by Ricky, seconded by Dirk; carried unanimously. Disposition of Agency-Owned Parcels to the Greater Syracuse Land Bank - Eric presented a request from Caitlin Wright, Executive Director of the Land Bank, to sell three long-held parcels located within the East Adams neighborhood: 1216 South State Street, 1218-20 South State Street, and 211 Raynor Avenue. - Appraisals determined values of $4,000 for the Raynor Avenue parcel (formerly a single-family home) and $35,000 for the two South State parcels (appraised together), totaling $39,000. The Land Bank offered the appraised value. - The Land Bank intends to combine these parcels with adjacent land bank and city-owned parcels to create a 1.3-acre site for potential multifamily housing redevelopment. Blueprint 15 submitted a letter of support. - A SEQR review was completed; a negative declaration was issued (no significant environmental impact). - Board members discussed the parcels' history (acquisition predated creation of the Land Bank in 2009-2010) and their potential for redevelopment aligned with the East Adams transformation. - Resolution 1 (SEQR): Motion to approve by Ricky, seconded by Steve; carried unanimously. - Resolution 2 (Authorizing Purchase and Sale Agreement): Motion to approve by Ricky, seconded by Steve; carried unanimously. Executive Session - The Board voted to enter executive session to discuss a potential disposition of property interest. Motion by Ken, seconded by Ricky; carried unanimously. The session lasted from approximately 8:40 AM until shortly before adjournment. Amendment to SDC Project Resolutions - Upon returning from executive session, the Board considered an amendment to prior resolutions concerning the SDC project at 800 South Wilbur Avenue. - The project involves two multifamily high-rise buildings (financed through tax credits) and separate condominium units. The underwriter for the tax credits required that the condominiums be removed from the project definition to satisfy single-purpose entity financing requirements and avoid cross-ownership conflicts. - The City of Syracuse had already approved a similar amendment to its purchase agreement with the developer. - The Board formally amended its prior resolutions to remove the condominiums from the project definition. - Motion to approve by Steve, seconded by Ricky; carried unanimously. Adjournment - With no further business, a motion to adjourn was made by Ken, seconded by Ricky; carried unanimously. The meeting ended shortly before 9:00 AM.
The Syracuse Planning Commission convened on November 10, 2025, to consider a range of land use applications including resubdivisions, site plan reviews, and zoning map amendments. The meeting featured extensive discussion on the proposed Onondaga Hotel and Convention Center, where neighboring property owners raised concerns about building design, drainage, and access. The commission approved several routine resubdivisions and site plans, and postponed two other applications. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The commission approved the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting by a voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Onondaga Hotel and Convention Center: Multiple speakers provided updates and testimony: - Brad Hunt (attorney for Fred Davies, owner of the Lafayette building): Expressed appreciation for the removal of the proposed exit driveway on East Fayette Street but raised concerns about drainage from the new hotel onto his client's property. He argued the developer has a responsibility to avoid causing drainage problems and requested further discussion, though stated no objection to a demolition permit. - Fred Davies (owner of Lafayette building): Detailed concerns about the parking garage being placed 10 feet from his building, citing noise, safety (especially regarding electric car fires), dirt, and privacy. He proposed a redesign that would move hotel rooms to create a courtyard and enlarge the ballroom, arguing it would not reduce room count and would be technically feasible. He requested the commission approve demolition and lot consolidation but leave the building design open for continued discussion. - Doug Muncy (St. Paul's Church, 310 Montgomery Street): Stated the church decided not to pursue legal action over the easement issue. He noted a meeting with Spectrum and the developer found a temporary solution for cable service. He flagged concerns about multiple wires on the garage exterior and the emergency egress from the Common Space apartments through the church's parking lot. - Joe Sisko (Common Space, owner of apartments at 320 Montgomery Street and 349-353 Warren Street): Expressed frustration at not being notified of the plans despite being an adjacent property owner. He stated his egress would be affected but was informed the public hearing was closed. The developer's representative later clarified egress options. - Other Applications: - Councilor Martin Nave: Spoke in favor of the Carbon Street resubdivision, noting the homeowner's desire to improve the property, and in favor of the Burnett Avenue resubdivision for Pascarella Towing, citing the family's community service. Discussion Items - Onondaga Hotel and Convention Center (R-25-48 & MASPR-25-24): The applicant (Brian Bouchard, CHA Consulting) reported on meetings with neighbors since the October hearing. Changes included removing the East Fayette Street exit driveway and adding bike racks. The applicant stated concerns about property line overlaps, drainage, and garage wall openings were either already addressed by code or are private disputes. The chief building official affirmed the project met zoning criteria. The commission voted separately on the resubdivision and site plan review. - Resubdivision 610-616 Carbon Street (R-25-49): The owner explained the lot combination was to allow fencing to address trespassing. No opposition. Approved. - Resubdivision 1502-1510 Burnett Avenue (R-25-52): The representative explained the need to combine parcels to expand the impound lot due to city policy changes limiting vehicle disposal. The commission noted a prior resubdivision was never filed and emphasized filing within 62 days. Approved. - Zoning Map Amendment 100 Elizabeth Street (Z-29-12): The Syracuse Land Bank requested to rezone a small lot from R3 to R2 to combine with an adjacent R2 lot for future resubdivision and new construction. Approved with a recommendation to Common Council. - Valley Drive Resubdivision & Zoning Amendment (R-25-27 & Z-29-13): The applicant sought to recombine four parcels into two to match existing uses, including eliminating paper streets. Approved. - Resubdivision 111 Essex Street & 917 Milton Avenue (R-25-42): The applicant aimed to adjust lot lines to bring the properties into compliance. Staff noted the rear parking was illegal and a variance may be required. Bike racks were added as a condition. Approved. - Three-Mile Limit in DeWitt (3S-25-20): Routine application reviewed by engineering. Approved. Key Outcomes - Onondaga Hotel and Convention Center: - Resubdivision R-25-48 approved with condition to file map within 62 days. - Major Site Plan Review MASPR-25-24 approved with condition that future changes to commercial tenancy or hotel unit additions require further site plan approval. - Resubdivision R-25-49 (Carbon Street): Approved with condition to file within 62 days. - Resubdivision R-25-52 (Burnett Avenue): Approved with condition to file within 62 days. - Zoning Map Amendment Z-29-12 (Elizabeth Street): Recommended approval to Common Council with condition to file companion resubdivision within 62 days of administrative approval. - Valley Drive Resubdivision R-25-27: Approved with condition to file within 62 days of Common Council approval of companion zoning amendment. - Zoning Map Amendment Z-29-13 (Valley Drive): Recommended approval to Common Council with condition to file companion resubdivision within 62 days. - Resubdivision R-25-42 (Essex Street/Milton Avenue): Approved with two conditions: (1) installation of bike racks at a ratio of one per six parking spaces on the Essex Street property, and (2) filing within 62 days. - Three-Mile Limit 3S-25-20: Approved. - Postponements: Two applications (SP2513 at 4100 S Salina Street and the three-part Spencer Street concrete facility application R2547/SP2527/MASPR2523) were postponed at the applicant's request. No public hearings were held.