Public Meetings - Syracuse, New York

The Syracuse Common Council met on October 14, 2025, to discuss several agenda items, including a contract for parking garage beautification, holdovers for items related to the SDC project, and authorization for an appraisal. The meeting concluded with adjournment to executive session. Discussion Items - Item 15 – Parking Garage Beautification Contract: A proposal for a three-year contract with a $100,000 contribution for entry-level beautification and landscaping was discussed. Council members expressed a preference for shorter terms (one-year at $33,000 or two-year at $66,000) due to concerns about locking into a lengthy contract and ensuring value for money during a new administration. The discussion focused on using funds for upgrades to painting, lighting, and entryways. No final decision was made; further discussion was scheduled before the voting session. - Held Items and Committee Referrals: Multiple items were held pending a meeting the following day regarding the SDC project: - Items 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, and 59 were held for committee meetings or additional discussion. - Items 38, 39, and 40 were withdrawn. - Items 27, 28, 29, 58, and 61 were declared ready for further action. - Item 61 – SDC Property Appraisal: An authorization to obtain an appraisal on the SDC project property was considered. Councilor Montos indicated it was eligible for a vote that day. Key Outcomes - Item 15: No vote taken; continued discussion scheduled. - Items 18, 19, 23–26, 30, 59: Held pending future meetings. - Items 38–40: Withdrawn. - Items 27–29, 58, 61: Declared ready for consideration. - The council voted to adjourn for executive session on item 60 (supplemental).

The Economic Development Committee met on October 9, 2025, from approximately 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM to discuss proposed amendments to the city's zoning code (rezone). The meeting was chaired by Councillor Paniagua and included Councillor Nave, Councillor Caldwell, Councillor Jones-Rouser, Commissioner Michael Collins, and staff member Jake (likely a planner). The primary focus was on technical corrections and policy adjustments to the code adopted two and a half years prior, with a real-world example of a two-story minimum requirement hindering a proposed redevelopment on Erie Boulevard. Discussion Items - Two-Story Minimum on Erie Boulevard: The current code requires any new development or substantial renovation on Erie Boulevard to be at least two stories. An applicant (Biggie Tires) wants to redevelop an existing single-story building but is blocked by this provision. The proposed amendment would exempt existing single-story buildings from the two-story minimum, allowing renovations without adding a story. This change is intended to prevent disinvestment and was initially limited to Erie Boulevard, but future amendment cycles may expand it to all MX2 districts. The commissioner explained that the two-story vision was ideal but impractical for all property owners. - Clarifications and Restructuring: Many amendments are technical: restructuring language, adding definitions, and clarifying measurement rules (e.g., counting stories on sloped streets). These changes result from practical experience administering the new code since adoption in July 2023. Jake stated that the code is a living document and this is the second amendment cycle. - Residential Commercial (ResCom) Classification: Councillor Nave raised concerns about the "ResCom" classification used to regulate rental properties without the term "family." Under the scheme, a homeowner renting out three or more rooms is classified as residential commercial, which triggers land use rules when converting non-bedroom spaces to bedrooms (e.g., requiring off-street parking and common area offsets). The classification is intended to prevent overcrowding and illegal conversions, and was reviewed by the state for constitutionality. There was confusion about how it applies to owner-occupied homes; Jake and the commissioner clarified that it only affects land use approvals, not day-to-day operations. - ADU Restrictions: Councillor noted that Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are only permitted for owner-occupied properties, limiting community-based landlords. This has resulted in only two ADU applications citywide. She suggested future legislation to expand ADU allowances. - Syracuse University Concerns: SU had concerns about PDI/PDD changes, but most have been resolved except for signage. A negotiated language change for Table 2.17 was too late for this cycle and will be included in the next amendment cycle. No concerns were received from LeMoyne College. - Variances and BZA: Discussion on whether a pattern of variance requests could prompt code changes. Commissioner noted no pattern yet. Councillor expressed concern that applicants are sometimes discouraged from applying for variances if the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) lacks jurisdiction, and questioned whether applicants are informed about Article 78 appeals. The commissioner stated that the code specifies the right, but staff cannot give legal advice. - Meeting Time and Public Participation: Councillor Caldwell raised that the meeting time (1 PM) may limit public participation. Jake noted that the Planning Commission work session was held in the evening, and that overall public engagement remains a challenge. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken during this discussion. The amendments are expected to be presented to the full City Council on Tuesday (likely October 14, 2025). Councillor Paniagua noted he would be absent and asked committee members to handle questions. - The two-story minimum exemption for Erie Boulevard is included in this amendment cycle. Future cycles will address SU signage and possibly expanding the exemption to all MX2 districts. - The committee adjourned around 3:00 PM to attend another meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting.

The Syracuse Landmark Preservation Board convened on October 9, 2025, at 12:21 PM (Eastern Time) to review three agenda items: a certificate of appropriateness for window replacement at 215 Green Street, a major site plan review for the Onondaga Hotel project at 325-45 South Warren Street, and a discussion on capstone restoration for the Niagara Mohawk building. The meeting included public comment, board deliberation, and votes. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the September 18, 2025, meeting were unanimously approved (motion by [unidentified], seconded by [unidentified]). No modifications or abstentions were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - 215 Green Street (Window Replacement): Jim Keller (JK General Contracting) described a fire-damaged property with mold issues. He stated that vinyl windows were installed due to urgency (two-week delivery vs. 8-12 weeks for wood) and noted that half the windows were already vinyl. No public speakers in favor or opposition were present. Discussion Items - Certificate of Appropriateness 2531 – 215 Green Street: The board discussed the property's status as an individually listed historic structure in the Holly Green Historic District. Board members noted that the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation (Standards 2 and 6) were not met, as vinyl windows alter the historic character. Staff clarified that no emergency exception exists in the standards. A motion to deny the application was made and seconded, citing non-compliance with Standards 2 and 6. The board also suggested that the applicant could reapply with wood or fiberglass windows (brown color). The motion passed, and the owner may appeal to the Planning Commission or submit a new application. - Major Site Plan Review 2524 – Onondaga Hotel (325-45 South Warren Street): Brian Bouchard (CHA Consulting) presented the final design for a 10-story hotel with 248 rooms, 321 parking spaces, and 26,500 sq ft of convention/banquet/restaurant space. Key features included: preservation and relocation of the historic "PARK" sign; a facade with thin brick, glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC), and tile; and a multi-level parking garage incorporated into floors 1-4. Board comments praised the scale, urban feel, and material palette. Concerns included: the visibility of parking garage doors (requested darker blending), sign details (encroachment approval pending), and the use of GFRC at the base. The referral will proceed to the Planning Commission on October 20, 2025, with final material samples expected before that date. - Niagara Mohawk Building Capstone Restoration (Discussion): Peter Nelson (Nelson Associates) and Andy Morgan presented plans to replicate and replace ornate capstones on the parapet walls. The capstones, previously clad in lead-coated copper (installed circa 2016), have deteriorated due to water infiltration. The proposed solution includes new, vented capstones attached with pins to allow drying, and a counterflashing to facilitate future roof replacements. A sample of a restored spandrel panel was displayed. The board encouraged the use of historic tax credits and commended the project's preservation approach. Key Outcomes - 215 Green Street: Application for vinyl windows denied. Owner may appeal to Planning Commission or submit a new application with wood/fiberglass windows. - Onondaga Hotel: Positive board comments; final materials and renderings to be shared with the board before the October 20, 2025, Planning Commission hearing. - Niagara Mohawk Building: Discussion only; no vote taken. Board recommended consideration of historic tax credits.

The Syracuse Common Council held a regular meeting on October 8, 2025, addressing multiple agenda items including traffic camera enforcement, property appraisals for potential acquisitions, land transfers for development, and various administrative approvals. Key discussions centered on the implementation of speed and red-light cameras, the timing of fines, and the need for community notification regarding land bank transfers. Discussion Items - Dash Cameras (Item 12-14): Councilor McJoff inquired about the operation of dash cameras for new traffic vehicles. Chief indicated the cameras likely activate with emergency lights, but will confirm policy. Councilor also asked about school zone speed cameras and red-light cameras, noting that warning period began September 4 and fines are set to start November 2. Councilor expressed concerns about camera placement in locations like Calvin Street and Fowler, questioning the rationale behind certain locations. Connor (transportation) explained that locations were chosen by traffic engineers from Fisher based on transportation factors, school proximity, and traffic volumes, and that police were part of final approval. Councilor requested that before fines begin, a comprehensive study be done, and that district councilors be consulted on locations within their districts. Councilor also suggested adding pavement markings (arrows, speed limits) and trimming vegetation obscuring signs and cameras. A committee meeting was scheduled to discuss further. - Police/Fire Furniture & Equipment (Item 14Q): Deputy Commissioner Mike Lehman presented authorization to spend bonded funds ($2 million) for furniture, fixtures, and equipment at 1153 West Fayette Street for police and fire. The expenditure follows an RFP process requested by council. Clarification was provided that a second RFP for another vendor will come back for similar authorization. - DPW Garage Engine Repairs (Item 17): An ordinance amendment to increase funds from $25,000 to $125,000 for Cummins engine repairs and parts at the DPW garage was presented. No questions were raised. - Hold Items (18-24, 25-26, 15-16): Several items were held for committee meetings, including items related to a developmental center (19-24), and items 15-16. - Property Appraisals (Items 27-28): Deputy Commissioner Mike Lehman requested authorization to hire an appraiser for 200-232 Park Avenue (school district maintenance facility) to value the property as part of a disposition and redevelopment RFP process. For 636-638 Midland Avenue, the city is interested in acquiring a privately owned parcel to consolidate a block for parks maintenance; an appraisal is needed. Commissioner OJ noted receipt of a letter requesting appraisal of 800-802 Wilbur (former SDC site). Councilor Hogan pressed for an expedited timeline (two weeks) to meet a December closing deadline, and Commissioner OJ agreed to solicit bids rapidly. - Stenographer Services (Item 29): Authorization for use of a stenographer/recording service was presented and approved without debate. - Local Code Enforcement Law Update (Item 30): Deputy Commissioner Jake Dish introduced a local law amendment to align with New York State's new 2025 uniform code (adopted from 2020). All changes are state-mandated and non-restrictive. Council decided to hold this for a committee meeting. - Land Bank Transfers (Items 31-40): MBD representatives Kaylin Hubbard and Camone Jordan presented requests to transfer city-owned lots to the Greater Syracuse Land Bank for site assembly and infill development. Items 38, 39, and 40 were withdrawn for further neighbor coordination. Councilor Jones-Rouser requested a map showing the parcels and development plans, emphasizing the need for community awareness. The department agreed to provide a map. - Airport Parking Lot Easement (Items 58-59): City Engineer Mary Robison presented a local law to grant National Grid an easement for an underground power line and transformer for a new parking lot at the airport. The law was placed on desks and is eligible for vote on the next meeting day. Key Outcomes - Direction to Administration: To consult with district councilors on final camera locations before fines begin; to conduct a comprehensive study of side streets; to consider pavement markings and vegetation trimming. - Committee Referrals: Items 18-19, 19-24, 25-26, 15-16, and 30 were held for committee meetings. - Approvals: Items 14Q, 17, 27, 28, 29, and 58-59 were moved forward for potential vote or further action. - Land Bank Transfers: Items 31-37 to proceed; 38, 39, 40 withdrawn; department to provide maps and development plans. - Expedited Appraisal: Commissioner OJ committed to soliciting bids for the Wilbur Avenue appraisal with a 48-hour turnaround to meet deadlines.

The Syracuse Citizen Review Board (CRB) held its regular meeting on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 5:38 PM. The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. Key actions included approving September minutes, appointing a new board secretary, scheduling a board meet-and-greet, receiving updates on staffing and technology, and hearing public comments on board operations and a pending complaint. The board then entered executive session to discuss casework and later adjourned. Consent Calendar - Approval of September Minutes: The board voted unanimously to adopt the minutes from the September meeting. A motion was made, seconded, and carried without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Barry Gwanter (Strathmore neighborhood): Congratulated the board on having a full board. Noted that his March 2025 presentation on CRB history is available on YouTube and offered to meet with new members. Praised the board for posting minutes again. Asked about the planned external advisory committee, specifically its purpose, membership, and whether meetings would be open to the public. Suggested that meetings discussing amendments to the legislation should be public for good public relations. Reminded the board of a list of suggested amendments from advocates. - Desiree Yagan (citizen): Presented a letter and evidence (body-worn camera footage) regarding a complaint against Syracuse Police Officers Frollo, Steica, and Sergeant Webb for alleged First and Fourth Amendment violations. Stated the complaint was previously submitted to the board chair. Raised concerns about the CRB's hiring of an investigator: objected to the job posting requiring former law enforcement experience, citing guidelines from the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE). Also raised a conflict of interest issue, arguing that the CRB administrator's 17-year tenure with the Syracuse Police Department creates an inherent bias, especially when complaints involve the chief of police. The chair responded that legal counsel has determined no conflict of interest exists and that the administrator's experience has been an asset. Ms. Yagan's time was extended slightly but she was ultimately cut off after five minutes; the chair advised her to submit concerns in writing. Discussion Items - New Board Members: The chair welcomed new members Octavia and Desire, thanking them for their civic duty. A correction was made to the spelling of Octavia's name (Octavia Gernhardt, not Octava Gernhart). - Administrative Report (Nalita, Administrator): - Staffing: Announced the hiring of Adonia Wade as Community Engagement Specialist. Adonia has already represented the CRB at the Westcott Culture Fest. A planned event with Syracuse City School District was canceled. The CRB is actively building connections in schools. - Upcoming Events: Planning a Halloween community event (date TBD, possibly Halloween day). - Hiring: Interviews for a Data Analyst are nearly complete (4 candidates interviewed, 2 more scheduled). The process for an Investigator has begun, with interviews next week. Goal is to be fully staffed before the end of the year. - Casework: In September, 11 cases were handled, with 6 moving to the next stage. - Technology: The CRB now has free access to Lexapol (police policies) via the Syracuse Police Department. Approval from the Common Council received for Axon services; awaiting mayor's approval. Annual cost for Axon is $978.96, with a year-to-year contract. Budget items for Boostnik/hostings, Toshiba copier, WB Mason supplies, and freelance investigation are included but not yet expended. - Old Business - Secretary Position: The chair distributed a written description of the secretary's duties. A discussion arose about whether meeting minutes are necessary given the YouTube recordings. The chair noted that a hard copy of minutes is required. Desire volunteered to serve as secretary. A motion was made and seconded, and Desire was unanimously appointed as the CRB board secretary. - Old Business - Board Meet-and-Greet: The board discussed scheduling a social event to allow members to get to know each other. A show of hands favored Friday evenings over Saturday mornings. The board voted to hold a meet-and-greet on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 5:30 PM at the CRB office (300 State Street, Park Place, 5th floor). The administrator stated food arrangements would be determined. The motion carried unanimously. - Committee Reports: The chair noted that committee assignments need to be updated due to new board members. He will review past minutes to identify current members and then email the board. The Government Relations committee (including the chair, Linda, and another member) has a meeting scheduled for October 14 at 1:30 PM. - External Advisory Committee: The chair acknowledged Barry Gwanter's public comment. The board is still in the planning stage, consulting with legal counsel on scope and public access. Information will be shared once finalized. - Public Comment on Hiring and Conflict of Interest: The board addressed Desiree Yagan's concerns. The chair stated that the hiring process for the investigator is a personnel matter not discussable in public, but noted that the job posting is as per the board's needs. The administrator's background was defended as an asset, not a conflict, per legal advice. Key Outcomes - Approved: September meeting minutes (unanimous). - Appointed: Desire as Secretary of the CRB board (unanimous). - Scheduled: Board meet-and-greet for Friday, October 17, 2025, at 5:30 PM at the CRB office (unanimous). - Agreed: To finalize committee assignments based on past minutes and circulate to members. - Noted: The CRB will continue planning for an external advisory committee, with legal guidance. - Adjourned: The meeting moved into executive session to discuss casework, then returned to public session and adjourned.

On October 2, 2025, the Syracuse Common Council held a regular meeting with all members present except Councilors Pennyagua and Gathers. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation. The council approved minutes from September 15, 2025, and received committee reports from various committees. A communication opposing the city adopting drones for first responders was noted, as was a resignation letter from a former first district member. Under unfinished business, item 8A was approved unanimously. Under new business, numerous items were introduced and adopted unanimously, while several items were held or withdrawn. The meeting adjourned without public comment. Consent Calendar - Minutes of September 15, 2025 approved. - Items 8A, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, and 36 were adopted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Committee reports were presented by Councilors Caldwell (DRTIC management program on September 29), Hogan (public safety committee on drones and fire department maintenance facility on September 16 and 23), Williams (finance committee on payroll modernization on September 23), and others. - A communication from the C Fallons Technology Oversight Project opposing the city adopting drones for first responders was received. - A resignation letter from former first district member Olivier was received. Key Outcomes - Items 13, 23, 26, 27, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, and 49 were held (postponed). - Items 17 and 21 were withdrawn. - All votes on adopted items were unanimous. - The meeting adjourned after a motion.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for the meeting that took place on 2025-09-29 at 15:56:20+00:00. Therefore, no substantive summary of the proceedings can be generated.

This committee meeting of the Syracuse City Council focused on the results of the city's tick and deer management program for the 2024-25 season and plans for the upcoming season. Greg Lowe (Intergovernmental Affairs, Mayor's Office) presented an overview of the program's history, methods, outcomes, and costs, followed by questions and comments from councilors and public testimony. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Haley (University area resident and deer diarist for 5-6 years): Expressed strong support for the program, praised the trap-and-euthanize method as a necessary and humane advance, and advocated for more educational signage at schools, gardens, and greenways (e.g., Ed Smith School, creek walks). - Nancy Larson (Meadowbrook Drive resident): Opposed the program, stating that deer numbers in her neighborhood have decreased to nearly zero. She argued the program is primarily a deer killing program, not a tick management program, and criticized the trap-and-euthanize method as egregious. She suggested alternatives such as fences and different plantings. Discussion Items - Greg Lowe provided background: the program began in 2019-2020 and has completed six seasons. It addresses deer overpopulation due to ecosystem and human interaction, with goals to reduce Lyme disease, deer-vehicle collisions, and environmental damage. - Methods used: firearms (where state criteria are met) and a new trap-and-euthanize pilot (used on the east side where firearm use is infeasible). All work is conducted by USDA Wildlife Services with support from Syracuse Police Department. - 2024-25 season results (January-March 2025): 137 white-tailed deer were culled; approximately 4,000 pounds of venison were donated to the food bank (over 12,000 meals). The trap-and-euthanize pilot used soft-sided traps at 7 properties, resulting in 55 deer euthanized. Cost: about $60,000 (shared with Onondaga County). - USDA recommended continuing the trap-and-euthanize method and identifying additional properties. The city plans to renew the state's urban deer management pilot program (3-year pilot requiring extension). - Councilor Caldwell raised concerns about tick warning signs in parks; the parks department lowered signs to eye level. Caldwell also suggested placing signs at schools (e.g., Cork, Roberts, Ed Smith) and community gardens. Greg Lowe agreed to coordinate. - Councilor Caldwell asked about a deer sanctuary; Greg explained that DEC prohibits moving deer due to disease risks. - Councilor Williams (former councilor) thanked Greg and emphasized the need for continued state legislative support. - Councilor Navi inquired about north side deer activity; Greg noted it is not currently a focus but could be considered with increased reports. - Councilor Caldwell suggested engaging veterinarian offices and pet groomers to track tick locations; Greg mentioned the city could reach out and also noted the CNY Lyme Alliance as a complement. - Councilor Williams asked about collaboration with neighboring municipalities (e.g., DeWitt); Greg confirmed coordination with DeWitt and Solvay. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken. The committee received the update and discussed next steps. - The city will continue the trap-and-euthanize method and seek additional properties for management. - Greg Lowe will work to expand the deer diarist program and encourage public participation. - The administration will ask the council to support renewal of the state's urban deer management pilot program through advocacy with state delegation (Assembly Member Hunter, Senator May, and the Governor). - Parks will consider placing tick warning signs at schools and community gardens, with council input. - The administration will follow up with the CNY Lyme Alliance and consider outreach to veterinarians and pet groomers.

The Syracuse Industrial Development Agency (IDA) held a special meeting on September 26, 2025, to consider a refinancing proposal for the Marriott Syracuse Downtown. The board approved the refinancing with a new lender after a previous attempt did not close. The meeting was brief and included a roll call, approval of prior minutes, and a single agenda item. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the board meeting on September 16, 2025, were approved unanimously. Motion made by Ricky, seconded by Ken, with all members in favor. No changes, comments, or concerns were raised. Discussion Items - Marriott Syracuse Downtown Refinancing: The board reviewed a request to authorize the IDA's participation in a refinancing of the existing note and mortgage. The original amount of the note and mortgage was $61,345,000, with the current outstanding principal approximately $38,800,000. The borrower is working to refinance this obligation with a new lender and hopes to close the following week. The new mortgage will be approximately $43,000,000. The company is not seeking any additional financial assistance—only the IDA's participation in the mortgage documents. The company is current on all obligations to the IDA. Council and a representative from the company were present to answer questions. No further questions were raised by board members. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Resolution for Refinancing: Motion made by Ken, seconded by Ricky. All members voted in favor, with no opposition or abstentions. The motion carried. The board expressed congratulations and anticipation of seeing final pay paperwork soon. - Motion to Adjourn: Motion made by Ken, seconded by Ricky. All in favor. The meeting was adjourned.