Public Meetings - Syracuse, New York

The Syracuse Common Council met on August 3, 2026, at 1:00 PM for a regular meeting. All nine councilors were present. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by Father Fowley. The council approved the minutes of the July 13 meeting, heard committee reports, and voted on numerous items, including several with dissenting votes. A resolution recognizing Sharon Washington for her contributions to early childhood education and an honorary street sign for Lombardi's Import Market were adopted. Several items were held for further committee discussion. Committee Reports - Public Transportation Committee: Met on Wednesday, July 15, at 10 AM to discuss updates on the Interstate 81 and 690 project. - Public Safety Committee: Met on Wednesday, July 29, at 4 PM to discuss the status of the Citizens Review Board (CRB). A letter of support for the CRB was read into the record, signed by multiple councilors, directing the board to resume its investigations consistent with city code unless a court decides otherwise. Resolutions and Recognitions - Recognition of Sharon Washington (Item 40): Councilor Hudson introduced a resolution recognizing Sharon Washington for her 38 years of dedication to early childhood care, development, and education. Ms. Washington spoke about her career, noting it was her first formal award, and thanked the council. The resolution was adopted unanimously. - Honorary Street Sign – Lombardi's Way (Item 42): Councilor Nave introduced a resolution to install an honorary street sign at the intersection of Butternut and Lowery Street in recognition of Lombardi's Import Market, a family business operating since 1970. The sign will be in place for one year and then given to the family. Adopted unanimously. Discussion Items - Data Sharing Caution (related to Item 44): Councilor Moore urged caution to ensure that organizations receiving city contracts, such as Galaxy, do not share city data with third parties. He thanked the director of technology for taking the issue seriously. - Data Centers and State Moratorium (Item 33): Councilor Majak thanked the governor and state legislature for imposing a moratorium on data centers, citing massive trade-offs that need regulation. Item 33 was adopted unanimously. - Items 10 and 11: Adopted unanimously with the note that further discussion would occur at a committee meeting on Wednesday, July 15. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Adoption: Items 9, 10, 11, 13–32, 36–39, 41, 43, 45–47, 49–50, 52–53, 61–67 were adopted unanimously. - Item 12: Adopted with an 8-1 vote; Councilor Aaron Reich voted against. - Items 34 and 35: Each adopted with a 6-3 vote. Councilors Caldwell, Hudson, and Jones-Rouser voted against; Councilors McJoe, Aaron Reich, Nave, Moore, Williams, and Monto voted in favor. - Item 51: Adopted with a 7-1 vote; Councilor Aaron Reich voted against. - Items Held for Committee: Items 48, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, and 59 were held for further discussion at a committee meeting. - Local Law Introduced and Tabled (Item 60): Introduced and tabled without a vote. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned with a motion carried unanimously.

The Syracuse City Council held a study session on August 3, 2026, to review and prepare agenda items for upcoming meetings. Council members reported on the status of numerous items, with several being held for further committee discussion. The session concluded with a unanimous motion to enter executive session for legal advice. Agenda Item Status Updates - Item 9 (Councillor Cornwall): Declared ready for action. - Items 10–32 (Councillor McJuck): Items 10 and 11 were held for a committee meeting; the remainder were declared ready. - Item 36 (Resolution thanking Governor Kathy Hogle): Declared ready. - Items 37–39 (Councillor Hudson): Declared ready. - Item 40 (Resolution honoring Sharon Washington for early childhood care education): Declared ready. - Items 43–59 (Councillor Moore): Items 48, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, and 59 were held for a committee meeting; the rest were declared ready. - Items 60–64 (Councillor Williams): Introduced and tabled item 60; the others were declared ready. - Items 65–66 (Councillor Jones Rousser): Both declared ready. Key Outcomes - The council moved to enter executive session for legal advice, with the motion passed unanimously.

Committee Chair Donna Moore convened the meeting to address the suspension of Citizen Review Board (CRB) investigations following the Fourth Department's ruling in Locust Club II (Rochester). Three experts presented arguments that the ruling does not apply to Syracuse's CRB and urged the council to resist pressure to weaken the board. Public Comments & Testimony - Barry (Syracuse resident since 1992) praised the meeting for bringing the issue into the public sphere but called for greater transparency from both the CRB and the council, noting that public questions at recent CRB meetings went unanswered. He urged the city to provide a public mechanism for updates. Discussion Items - Alan Rosenthal (civil rights attorney) argued that the Syracuse CRB ordinance is fundamentally different from Rochester's: Syracuse's CRB only makes recommendations, does not impose discipline, and does not infringe on collective bargaining rights. He criticized corporation counsel's interpretation of Locust II as "jurisprudentially dishonest" and stated that the CRB can resume investigations immediately. He suggested the council hire independent counsel to seek a declaratory judgment rather than waiting for an appeal. - Michael Szyzinski (NYCLU Assistant Policy Director) echoed that Syracuse is the only locality in New York to have suspended investigations after Locust II. He urged the council not to pass any legislation that would weaken the CRB while the appeal is pending, and called on the administration to mount a vigorous defense of the board. He noted that the ruling was fact-specific to Rochester and did not mention Syracuse. - Mizahar (NAACP Legal Redress Chair) stated that the NAACP strongly supports the CRB, citing ongoing complaints from the community (over 30 this year) and a lack of trust between police and communities of color. She urged the council to be strategic, consider creative alternatives (e.g., policy review, data tracking), and seek independent legal counsel if corporation counsel cannot effectively defend the CRB. She also urged the council to hold off on any legislation until the Locust II appeal is resolved. - Councilor Questions: Councilors asked about the applicability of the ruling to Syracuse, the timeline for a declaratory judgment (3–6 months, per Rosenthal), and why other cities (Albany, NYC) have not paused investigations. Councilor Helen Hudson noted the difference between Rochester and Syracuse's ordinances. Councilor Chol Majuk expressed concern about losing 30 years of progress. Councilor Aaron Rike suggested that waiting for the Court of Appeals is not ideal. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the meeting was informational. - Council members expressed support for preserving the CRB's investigative powers and indicated they would continue to deliberate. - Chair Moore stated she would be willing to meet with the mayor and administration. - No immediate action was taken to resume CRB investigations or to advance legislation weakening the board.

The Syracuse Common Council convened on July 29, 2026, to address a broad agenda covering health insurance contracts, infrastructure bonds, technology upgrades, public safety equipment, fiscal policies, and various resolutions. The meeting included detailed discussions on several high-cost items and multiple votes on bond authorizations and contract approvals. Insurance & Health Benefits - Item 9: Approved a one-year extension with Excelis for health insurance administration, citing projected savings of $8.5 million split among the city, school district, and county. The city is self-insured, and the consortium model reduces administrative costs. The city will begin an RFP in January for the following year. - Discussion noted that the savings are built into the original contract and market changes have made the extension advantageous. No formal employee survey has been conducted, but few complaints have been received. Water & Environmental Infrastructure - Items 10-11: Authorized a $10 million bond for converting the chlorine gas system at Scene Atlas Lake to a liquid hypochlorite system. The project is required for safety (chlorine gas is a hazardous material). A $5 million state grant application was submitted; the bond approval was necessary for eligibility. The bond amount may not be fully used if the grant is awarded. - Item 12: Approved $94,000 for two new SUVs for the Water Department to replace vehicles that failed inspection. Discussion covered lack of hybrid options due to maintenance concerns and vehicle lifespan (8-10 years). DPW & Public Works Waivers (Items 13-17) - Approved waivers of competitive bidding for various repair services and parts: Binghamton Truck Body (trash packer parts), Echelon Supply (hydraulic repairs), Fleet Pride (drive shafts), SW Services (fuel island repairs), and Syracuse Truck & Trailer (trailers). Vendors are localized or sole source. Engineering & Streets - Item 18: Accepted three street lights installed by Syracuse University at no cost; city will own and maintain them. - Items 19-20: Amended ordinances to switch $410,000 in local funds to federal funds for a state DOT project. - Items 21-23: Increased East Calvin Street paving project cost by $1,032,500 due to higher bid prices. - Item 24: Approved revocable permit amendment reimbursing a property owner up to $100,000 for sidewalk and lighting improvements on Bank Alley using DASNY grant funds. - Item 25: Amended revocable permit for Alliance Energy to install a high-pressure gas main on Fineview Place due to I-81 construction; annual fee increased to $19,152. - Items 26-27: Two revocable permits for Syracuse University to install underground duct banks (fees: $2,565 and $1,040.72 per year). - Items 28-31: Amended SEQR and bonding for Creek Walk phases: Phase 3 (Calvin Street to Dorwin) and design phase (Kirk Park to Ballantyne Road) costing $886,000. Items 29-31 were held for further resident questions. Parks & Recreation - Items 34-35: Authorized $1.7 million bond for Westminster stairs reconstruction (total project $3 million). Stairs will use pre-cast concrete slabs; contractor selection pending. Goal to start spring 2027. - Item 36: Approved $45,103.10 agreement with Onondaga County for deer intake management program. Discussion noted increased tick prevalence and need for proactive measures. Technology & IT - Item 37: Waived competitive bid for fleet management platform (current vendor, will RFP next year). - Item 38: Approved a three-month free trial of an asset and work order management platform as a potential successor to CityWorks. - Item 39: Entered a five-year enterprise agreement with Cisco for networking hardware and licenses, total not to exceed approximately $1 million over five years. Agreement is cancelable for convenience. Includes firewalls and cybersecurity protections. - Item 50: Appropriated $150,000 in cash capital for server upgrades. - Item 51: Appropriated $400,000 for replacing broken COPS cameras (street cameras). Public Safety & Police - Item 43: Approved agreement with Auburn Hospital for emergency medicine supplies for paramedics. - Item 44: Waived RFP for Galaxy Media to market police hiring (due to expedited exam schedule). Deadline September 1. - Item 45: Approved $25,000 for department chaplains. - Item 46: Approved $18,000 agreement with Prime Info for tactical operations software (closed loop, data stored internally). - Item 47: Increased award for hard tokens (MFA) for staff. - Item 48: Authorized application for a $1 million law enforcement technology grant (cameras, computers, speed trailers, etc.). Held for committee until technology list provided. - Item 49: Approved grant application ($75k split with sheriff) for soft-target security barriers and emergency response equipment. - Items 52-53: Authorized $380,000 bond for rifle-rated vests for all sworn officers (level III/IV). Lifespan 5 years. - Items 54-55: Proposed increase of $1 million (to total $1.75 million) for a mobile command post vehicle. Discussion highlighted need for larger capacity; potential $1 million federal earmark. Held for committee meeting. - Items 56-57: Proposed $1.75 million bond for new records management system (replace 30+ year old system). Held for committee. - Items 58-59: Authorized $3.34 million bond for replacement of 31 marked police vehicles and unmarked units. Discussion on hybrid/electric feasibility; current evaluation deems not cost-effective for 24/7 use. Fiscal & Administrative - Item 60: Amended sewer rates, increasing from $1.25 to $1.35 per 100 cubic feet (8% increase). Finance noted sewer fund balance is low even with increase. - Item 61: Increased scope and funding by $100,000 per year for audit services from Bonadio. - Item 62: Approved hiring appraiser for 3614 Burnett Avenue (dog shelter). - Item 63: Executive session deferred to Monday. - Item 64: Approved contract with Downtown Syracuse Foundation for cultural festival funds. - Item 65: Re-awarded RFP for authorized contractors as two separate ordinances per law department recommendation. - Item 66: Approved community solar agreement with Power Market for city facilities, guaranteeing 10% savings with no cost to city. - Item 67: Extended battery energy storage system moratorium for up to six months (likely shorter, pending final regulations). Resolutions & Honors - Item 33: Adopted resolution thanking governor for data center moratorium and urging passage of comprehensive state legislation. - Item 40: Unanimously approved resolution honoring Sharon (business owner and daycare provider) for decades of community service. - Item 42: Introduced ordinance for honorary street sign for the Lombardi family at Butternut and Low Dye streets (56-year-old family business). Key Outcomes - Approved one-year contract extension with Excelis. - Authorized $10 million bond for water treatment conversion, contingent on grant. - Approved multiple waivers and contracts for vehicle purchases, repairs, and technology. - Advanced various infrastructure projects through bond authorizations and grant applications. - Held several items for further committee review: police technology grant (48), command post (54-55), records system (56-57). - Increased sewer rates by 8%. - Extended battery storage moratorium.

The Syracuse Public Arts Commission met on July 28, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting was called to order by Chair Benny Guzman. Commissioners present: Maggie Levis, Emma Reader, Sophia Gutierrez, Emmanuel Carter, Lisa Lambert, and Saisha Bird. The meeting addressed two applications for public art, a discussion about a youth project, and administrative updates. The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:40 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - David, representing Northside Youth Public Art, addressed the commission regarding a project involving youth-designed utility boxes. He explained that an application was submitted but miscommunication about meeting dates (the applicant believed the meeting was on August 11) led to it not being on the current agenda. He requested an opportunity for approval in time to complete the project before the school year and youth program end. The commission agreed to include the project in a special meeting on August 11, 2026. Discussion Items - SPAC 2606 – SU GOATS Mural (Chris Murray): The artist presented a mural featuring Syracuse University basketball players, both men and women. The project aims to involve local high school students (from STEAM High School and potentially Nottingham) in the painting process. Discussion focused on the need for documented funding sources (the artist stated funding is from private donors, alumni, and Jim Boeheim, but no receipts were provided) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the school district for student participation. The commission also raised concerns about the mural's background imagery not reflecting Syracuse's local flora and fauna. The artist agreed to consider adjustments. The commission voted to table the application, pending submission of required documentation. The item will be revisited at a special meeting on August 11, 2026. - SPAC 2607 – Unbox Round Three (Rachel Schaeffer, Downtown Committee): The Downtown Committee presented two utility box designs: "Cue's Box" by Brooke Schmedicke (a playful juice box design referencing Syracuse Pride) and "Flowers" by Soma Coker (featuring native plants and animals). The project is funded by TNT (a city grant). Commissioners noted that the "Cue's Box" design might include a recognizable logo of a local restaurant (Dinosaur BBQ) and requested it be adjusted to be generic. The artists will be guided through the process by the Downtown Committee and the Art Store. The commission approved the application unanimously, with Commissioners Benny Guzman and Lisa Lambert abstaining due to conflicts of interest (Guzman served on the selection committee, Lambert is on the TNT board). - Northside Youth Public Art Project: Following public comments, the commission discussed accommodating the late application for a youth-led utility box project. The project involves three of four planned boxes designed by youth participants in a CNY Works program that ends in mid-August. The commission decided to hold a special meeting on August 11, 2026, to review and vote on this application, along with the tabled SU GOATS mural. The applicant was advised to submit letters of support and any additional documentation from the checklist. Key Outcomes - Tabled: SPAC 2606 (SU GOATS mural) was tabled until a special meeting on August 11, 2026, pending submission of funding documentation and an MOU with the school district. - Approved: SPAC 2607 (Unbox round three) was approved unanimously (with two abstentions). - Special Meeting Scheduled: The commission agreed to hold a special meeting on August 11, 2026, at 5:30 PM (location TBD, likely in the ILAB downstairs) to consider the Northside Youth Public Art application and the tabled SU GOATS mural. - Updates: Chair Guzman reported that the public art coordinator position is close to approval by the county and will be posted soon. Applications for new commissioners are being reviewed by the mayor's office. Vice chair elections were deferred pending recommendations from commissioners.

The Joint Schools Construction Board (JSCB) met on July 23, 2026, to approve routine items, receive reports from the secretary and program manager, and pass resolutions for monthly payments and a final phase-two budget adjustment. The meeting focused on progress toward schematic design completion, the start of PLA negotiations, and the preparation of swing space for upcoming school renovations. Reports - Secretary’s Report – Joe reported that CNS is now officially on board as construction manager and is working with Turner and JSCB staff. The PLA attorney has contacted the trades attorney to schedule a meeting, which has not yet occurred due to summer vacations; an update is expected by the August board meeting. He noted that payment resolution 16 is higher than usual because it includes the Huber Brewer payment discussed in June and a one-time purchase (from Landon and Ryan) of all phase-two data related to minority and prevailing wage documentation, so the city now owns that data permanently. Going forward, the ICL software relationship has been adjusted to avoid similar data ownership issues. Also starting in September, quarterly diversity reporting will replace the current frequency. - Program Manager’s Report – The program manager stated that the schematic design (SD) phase is nearly complete. Architects have finished SD-level documents, and the construction manager’s estimating team is reviewing estimates against scope to ensure budget alignment. This reconciliation should wrap up next week, followed by submission to the State Education Department (SED) by the end of next week or the following week. The SED submission will provide a second check on maximum capital authorization (MCA) for each building. The team will then move into design development (DD), with a DD submission to SED targeted for November 2026. Final plans and approvals are expected in the second quarter of 2027, allowing construction to begin in the third quarter of 2027. The program manager also noted that 2027 will be a heavy construction year (including work on I-81 and other projects), but the two cape-coded school buildings are expected to attract bidders, and the high school’s one-phase renovation is being sequenced to remain attractive. No conflicts with nearby construction were identified. Discussion Items - Swing Space for Shea and Levy – In response to a board member’s question, the program manager confirmed that both Shea and Levy will serve as swing space. A neighborhood association (Strathmore) had inquired about Shea. The superintendent added that the school district (not JSCB) will prepare the swing schools using its own forces; students will move in over the summer and remain until their home school project is completed. There is no significant cost factor for preparing the buildings, as they are already in good shape (OIT currently uses space at Shea). - Phase Two Closeout – The secretary clarified that resolution 17 is a budget amendment for phase two, covering the final closeout of the Expeditionary Learning Middle School (ELMS) and the Huber Brewer contract. No further phase-two adjustments are anticipated. Remaining phase-two funds will be used for debt service, and the board is considering another bond refunding next year to take advantage of lower interest rates. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar – The minutes of the June 25, 2026 meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote (motion and second). - Resolution 16 (Monthly Payments) – Approved unanimously. The payment amounts are set forth in the appendix, which includes the Huber Brewer payment and the data purchase described in the secretary’s report. - Resolution 17 (Phase Two Budget Adjustment) – Approved unanimously (motion and second). The adjustment reflects the final closeout of the ELMS and Huber Brewer contract. - Adjournment – The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

The Syracuse City Planning Commission met on July 20, 2026, to consider several resubdivision applications, a major site plan review for affordable housing, a SEQR review for a large-scale redevelopment, and a special use permit for a cannabis dispensary. Two items were postponed. The commission approved several applications and tabled one due to a property line dispute. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the June 29, 2026 meeting as presented without amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - R-2026-10 (901 Hiawatha Blvd): Councilman Marino Nave spoke in favor, noting the area's need for redevelopment and returning property to tax rolls. - R-2026-37 (416 Monticello): Multiple neighbors opposed: - Kathy Stravy (316 Monticello Drive North) raised concerns about tree removal, stormwater runoff, a survey dispute, steep slope stabilization, and lack of infrastructure. - John Camarota (416 East Glen Avenue) opposed density and loss of greenspace, and noted he never received notice. - Jeremy Brown (412 East Glen Avenue) detailed a documented survey conflict between his 2012 survey and the land bank's 2018 survey versus a newer 2026 survey, requesting the resubdivision be tabled to resolve the boundary. - Rhonda Visi (117 Seneca Drive) opposed the manufactured homes not fitting the community and inadequate stormwater planning. - MASPR-2026-28 (East Adams Phase 3): Several residents spoke in favor: - Monique Mitchell supported low-income housing. - Ivan Monroe (Lukin 15) praised resident engagement. - Tara Harris, resident design team lead, expressed support for community involvement. - No public comments were made on other agenda items. Discussion Items - R-2026-10 (901 Hiawatha Blvd / 971 Spencer St): Applicant Mike Morbito presented a lot line adjustment of a 12.5-foot strip to include an existing mini-storage building within the proper parcel. No new construction. Approved after negative SEQR declaration, with condition to file resubdivision map within 60 days. - R-2026-37 (416 Monticello): Caitlin Wright (Greater Syracuse Land Bank) proposed splitting the parcel into two building lots for single-family homes (model Laurel, 1,100 sq ft, 3BR, attached garage) and a wedge sold to neighbor. After public opposition and discussion of a survey dispute with adjacent owner Jeremy Brown, the commission tabled the item to a future meeting (August 10, 2026) to allow resolution of the boundary issue. - R-2026-50 (215 & 217-19 West Borden Ave): Land bank proposal to sell a vacant lot mistakenly fenced and maintained by a neighbor to that neighbor for $1, merging the parcels. No opposition. Approved with condition to file map within 60 days. - R-2026-40 (303 & 307 Emerson Ave): Father Ambrose of Saints Peter and Paul Church sought resubdivision to consolidate residential parcels into church property for future playground/activities. No public comment. Approved with two conditions: file map within 60 days and submit major site plan review before any future development. - ASPR-2026-26 (300-310 Montgomery St – St. Paul’s Church): Applicant Randy Coogan (SHOP Architects) and Andrew Lunetta (Tiny Home for Good) presented a plan to renovate 9,200 sq ft of the second floor into 10 affordable apartments. All units will be affordable, with 4 ADA-compliant. Historic building, no exterior changes. After public support, approved with five conditions including 30-year affordability commitment and certification through the city’s Neighborhood and Business Development program. - MASPR-2026-28 (East Adams Phase 3 – Syracuse Housing Authority): Presentation only; no action taken. The project includes 147 total units (72 replacement public housing, 44 LIHTC affordable, 31 market rate) in a mix of townhomes and apartment buildings. Extensive SEQR review for phases 3-12 (1,563 units total) was conducted via long-form EAF. Counsel Brody Smith walked through Part 2, identifying moderate-to-large impacts on land (excavation), water/sewer infrastructure, noise/dust, soil contamination (brownfield cleanup), historic resources (Pioneer Homes), and environmental justice. Additional plans for dust, noise, and community engagement were requested. Public support noted. Item to continue at next meeting. - SP-2026-30A (900-916 East Fayette St – Q’s Clouds cannabis dispensary): Applicant Brian Bouchard requested a special use permit for retail cannabis sales in a vacant ground-floor space of an existing apartment building (Uncommon Apartments). No onsite consumption, hours 10am-10pm. Staff noted requirement for SEPTED review and window transparency standards. Approved with five conditions: maintain state license, certificate of use, comply with police design review, and adhere to hours. Recommendation to Common Council. Key Outcomes - R-2026-10: Approved (negative SEQR). Condition: file map within 60 days. - R-2026-37: Tabled to August 10, 2026 to allow resolution of survey boundary dispute between land bank and neighboring owner. - R-2026-50: Approved (negative SEQR). Condition: file map within 60 days. - R-2026-40: Approved (negative SEQR) with two conditions: file map within 60 days; major site plan review for future development. - ASPR-2026-26: Approved (negative SEQR) with five conditions including 30-year affordability restriction (units must remain affordable and certified by city). - MASPR-2026-28: No action; SEQR review part 2 completed; additional information requested; public hearing remains open. - SP-2026-30A: Approved (negative SEQR) with five conditions; recommended to Common Council. - Two items postponed: R-2026-42 (1405 East Genesee St) and SP-2026-17 (308-318 North Cross Ave).

The Syracuse Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on July 16, 2026, to consider two variance applications: a use variance for a property at 1115 East Calvin Street and an area variance for a deck at 303 Buckingham Avenue. The board also elected a vice chair. Both applications were approved with conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - First Application (1115 East Calvin Street): - The applicant, Greater Syracuse Property Development Corporation (the land bank), stated the property had been marketed for residential use without success due to a small, oddly shaped lot and a 912-square-foot building originally designed as a florist. The proposed use as a residential leasing office (by appointment only) would not generate significant traffic and would improve curb appeal. The hardship was not self-created as the land bank inherited the non-conforming property. - William Al Murphy Jr. (architect, representing an interested party) opposed the use variance, arguing that use variances have a high bar and that the property's unique character (including a greenhouse) and proximity to a cemetery made it unsuitable for an office. He urged the board to consider the difficulty of obtaining a use variance. - Joseph Italiano (former owner, business address 1115 East Calvin Street) objected to the office use, stating it would change neighborhood character and could lead to further conversions. He noted the property had been non-conforming since 2008 and that the land bank had not successfully marketed it for a floral shop. - The land bank representative responded that the property had been marketed for three years without success, that the previous non-conforming commercial use had expired, and that the greenhouse removal would improve appearance. He also noted that Mr. Italiano had filed multiple lawsuits, all dismissed, and that back taxes from 2008 to 2023 had not been paid. - Second Application (303 Buckingham Avenue): - Mirza Teach (applicant, owner of 203 Buckingham) requested an area variance to build a rear deck that would encroach into the required 4-foot side setback. He argued the house was built in 1900 on a narrow lot (2.8 feet from side property line) and that the deck would not be visible from the street. - Anne Ely (326 Kensington Road) opposed, expressing concerns about perpetuating the encroachment, potential for student rentals or party use, and noted that the front sidewalk had been paved (possibly a code violation). She suggested a patio instead of a raised deck. - Tony Guides (324 Kensington Road) opposed, stating the deck would be high and close to his bedroom window, and that there was no room for additional encroachment. - Beth Lawler Bailey (320 Kensington Road) opposed, citing privacy concerns. She said a six-foot fence already existed but the deck would overlook her yard; she requested a privacy fence or screening. - The applicant responded that he was willing to add vegetative screening (8-10 feet tall) along the rear property line to address privacy concerns. He also noted that the deck would not be visible from the street and that the house had been vacant for 30 years. Discussion Items - First Application (V2026-13 – Use Variance for 1115 East Calvin Street): - Staff noted that the property had lost its previous non-conforming flower shop use because it had been taken by the land bank in 2023 and the use had expired. The board discussed the zoning district (R2) and the area's mixed character, but affirmed the need for a use variance. - The board completed a short Environmental Assessment Form (SEQR) and voted to issue a negative declaration, finding no moderate to large impacts. - The board then discussed the use variance standards: inability to achieve a reasonable return (residential use not viable), unique circumstances (small lot, commercial structure), no self-created hardship, and no adverse effect on neighborhood character (commercial use has existed for decades, greenhouse removal would improve appearance). - The motion to approve the use variance included conditions: compliance with general conditions for use variances, any future expansion requires a separate variance, and site plan review for the proposed office use. - Second Application (V2026-14 – Area Variance for Deck at 303 Buckingham Avenue): - The board discussed the feasibility of alternatives (patio vs. deck), the existing non-conforming structure, and the potential impact on neighbors' privacy. - Staff noted that short-term rentals (Airbnb) are prohibited in R1 zoning districts, but long-term rentals are allowed. The applicant initially intended to use the property as an Airbnb but later stated he would either rent long-term or sell it. - The board considered conditioning the approval on vegetative screening (8-10 feet tall) along the rear property line, and requiring a planting plan to be submitted with the building permit. Key Outcomes - V2026-13 (Use Variance – 1115 East Calvin Street): Approved unanimously (all in favor, none against, no abstentions). Conditions: comply with general conditions for use variances; any future expansion requires a separate use variance; site plan review for the proposed office use must be completed prior to occupation. - V2026-14 (Area Variance – Deck at 303 Buckingham Avenue): Approved unanimously (all in favor, none against, no abstentions). Conditions: obtain a building permit; submit a planting plan showing location and species of vegetative screening (minimum 8-10 feet tall along the rear property line); any further encroachment requires a new variance. - Board Election: Caitlin Wright was elected vice chair of the board (motion and second, all in favor). - Meeting adjourned at 1:50 PM.

The Syracuse Landmark Preservation Board met on the morning of July 16, 2026, at 12:25 UTC. Board members present included Trish, Robert Searing, Kyle Gregory, Jeff Romano, and Kate Oweter; Nicole Fragnito was excused. The board approved minutes from the June 25, 2026 meeting, conducted one public hearing for a certificate of appropriateness, and provided advisory comments on a minor site plan review and a special use permit. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 25, 2026 were adopted by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Certificate of Appropriateness CA-26-14 (812 North Salinas Street): Brother Jim Moore, superior of St. Francis Friary, presented a proposal to replace 20-25 year old vinyl windows with new white (interior) and bronze (exterior) vinyl windows, including fixed transoms and double-hung sashes, retaining one existing wood basement window for historic documentation. No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition. Discussion Items - Minor Site Plan Review 2026-45 (136 Walton Street, Armory Square Historic District): Diana Germillo, architect with King Studio, proposed a rooftop deck with a brick penthouse access, black powder-coated metal railings, and a shed roof. Board members requested reducing the profile of the stair access to minimize visibility from the street, suggesting mimicking the stair slope with the roof. No vote was taken; comments were provided to the applicant. - Special Use Permit 2026-48 (108 Dell Street, Westcott-University Neighborhood Historic District): William Pitcher, architect with WJP Architecture, presented a conversion of an existing garage into a commercial space with a bronze aluminum storefront, fully glazed overhead door, man door, patio, landscaping, and a painted sign. Board members expressed strong positive support for the design, noting it retains existing materials and fits the neighborhood. No vote was taken; comments were to be relayed to the planning department. Key Outcomes - Approval with Condition: Certificate of Appropriateness CA-26-14 was approved by unanimous vote (moved, seconded) with the condition that the applicant retains one extant wood window sash on site as a historical artifact. - Board Operations: The board discussed upcoming meeting quorum for August 6, 2026, and announced a search for an architect with preservation expertise to fill a vacant board seat (currently six members; quorum is four).