Schenectady public meetings in 2025
64 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
City Council
The City Council is deciding on a $1.57 million water main replacement contract and a temporary suspension of residential waste fees. The body is also discussing zoning changes for Maxon Road and new regulations for battery energy storage facilities.
- Contract for Craig Street Water Main Replacement awarded to American Evergreen, Inc. for $1,572,175.00
- Proposed temporary 60-day suspension of fees for excess residential waste and bulky items
- Re-zoning of parcels on Maxon Road from C-3 (Commercial) to M-1 (Light Industrial)
- Proposed one-way street redirections for Front Street and Monroe Street
- Proposed addition of Battery Energy Storage Facilities to the zoning code for C-5, M-1, and M-2 districts
The council approved a consent agenda that adopted three ordinances: a temporary suspension of payment for excess residential waste and bulky items, a one‑way traffic pattern for Front Street from John Street to Mohawk Avenue, and a zoning map amendment for parcels on Maxon Road. All three ordinances were adopted unanimously. The council also adopted Resolutions 2025‑234 through 2025‑238 and Resolution 2025‑CS‑16 unanimously. No public speakers were heard during the four public hearings.
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-18 to suspend payment for excess residential waste and bulky items (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-19 to make Front Street one‑way from John Street to Mohawk Avenue (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-20 to amend zoning map for parcels on Maxon Road (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolutions No. 2025-234 to 2025-238 and 2025‑CS‑16 (unanimous)
Historic Resource Commission
The Historic Resource Commission will consider an application for building repairs at 145 Barrett Street. The body will also discuss updates to City Ordinances regarding Historic District Resources and a Zoning Officer's Determination Request template.
- Application by Peter Montalto to replace windows and roof, paint, and restore façade at 145 Barrett Street
- Recommended corrections to City Ordinances Article X Historic District Resources
- Zoning Officer's Determination Request letter template
- SHPO FY2025 evaluation
- Staff approval for 1306 Union St.
The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November meeting. It granted a Certificate of Appropriateness for the property at 145 Barrett Street, adopting staff‑recommended amendments. The commission also unanimously approved sending recommended corrections to City Ordinances Article X to the City Council. All motions were carried without dissent.
- Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 145 Barrett St with staff‑recommended amendments (unanimous)
- Approved corrections to City Ordinances Article X to send to City Council (unanimous)
- Added 206 Union St and 16 S Church St to agenda for discussion (miscellaneous)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:30 PM (unanimous)
City Council
The council will vote on the proposed 2026 Operating and Capital Budgets, which include a $119,966,727 General Fund appropriation and a capital borrowing limit of $7,752,275. The ordinance also appropriates $10,625,956 for the Water Fund, $17,571,315 for the Sewer Fund, $1,716,503 for the Golf Fund, and raises the solid‑waste fee from $228 to $285. Council members will discuss and vote to appoint a qualified person to fill the council seat vacated by Joe Mancini.
- Adoption of the 2026 Operating Budget with $119,966,727 General Fund appropriation
- Capital Budget borrowing limit of $7,752,275
- Appropriations: Water Fund $10,625,956; Sewer Fund $17,571,315; Golf Fund $1,716,503
- Solid waste fee increase from $228 to $285
- Appointment to fill the City Council vacancy created by Council Member Joe Mancini’s resignation
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will review multiple site‑plan and subdivision applications. Items include signage for the Hyatt House Hotel, a retail business at 162 Jay Street, a food‑prep kitchen at 108 State Street, storage use at 1080 Catalyn Street, and a subdivision and townhouse project at 546 Schenectady Street. The commission will hold a public hearing and vote on these requests.
- Signage approval for Hyatt House Hotel at 110 Harborside Drive
- Site‑plan approval for a commercial retail business at 162 Jay Street
- Site‑plan approval for a food‑prep production kitchen at 108 State Street
- Site‑plan approval to use 1080 Catalyn Street for school district storage
- Subdivision and town‑house construction approval at 546 Schenectady Street
The commission unanimously approved the consent agenda items for Hyatt House signage and Sweet Sprig retail. It also approved the site plan for 1080 Catalyn Street to be used as storage for the city school district, with a two‑year compliance period. The subdivision of 546 Schenectady Street was approved, while its town‑house site plan was tabled. A site plan for Simone’s Kitchen at 108 State Street was approved with conditions, and negative SEQR declarations were issued for several projects.
- Approved Hyatt House signage consent agenda item (unanimous)
- Approved Sweet Sprig site plan consent agenda item (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for 1080 Catalyn Street storage facility (unanimous)
- Approved subdivision of 546 Schenectady Street into four parcels (unanimous)
- Tabled site plan for 546 Schenectady Street townhouses (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for Simone’s Kitchen at 108 State Street (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 1080 Catalyn Street project (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declarations for 546 Schenectady Street and Simone’s Kitchen projects (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The council will consider awarding a $1,569,415 contract to American Evergreen Inc. for the Craig Street watermain replacement. It will also discuss assuming lead agency status for the Jay Street Connector SEQR review and approve a new mobile parking‑payment agreement with Metroplex and LAZ Parking. Additional items include proposed one‑way street changes and several ordinance amendments.
- Award the $1,569,415 contract to American Evergreen Inc. for Craig Street watermain replacement
- Assume City Council role as SEQR lead agency for the Jay Street Connector
- Approve Metroplex/LAZ Parking agreement to transition to LAZgo mobile payment technology for on‑street parking
- Reminder: Redirection of Front Street to one‑way from John Street to Mohawk Avenue and Monroe Street to one‑way from Front Street to Erie Boulevard (public hearing 12‑22‑25)
- Amend Chapter 264 to re‑zone parcels on Maxon Road from C‑3 (Commercial) to M‑1 (Light Industrial)
City Council Committees
The Schenectady City Council will hold a special meeting to conduct an interview for a vacant council seat. This action follows an identified administrative oversight in the review process.
- Interview for vacant council seat
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider four variance applications. Three separate area variances are requested by Schaffer Heights Housing Corp for 107 Nott Terrace to allow additional wall signage beyond the limits in Schedule I. A use variance is requested by Shari Aluc for 1525 Mervin Avenue to permit a two‑family dwelling in an R‑1 single‑family district. No other agenda items are listed.
- Area variance for 107 Nott Ter to allow a wall sign not facing the street address
- Area variance for 107 Nott Ter to permit a third wall sign exceeding the two‑sign limit
- Area variance for 107 Nott Ter to permit a third wall sign creating 222 sq ft, exceeding the 150 sq ft limit
- Use variance for 1525 Mervin Ave to allow a two‑family dwelling in an R‑1 district
City Council
The Schenectady City Council will consider approving the 2026 budgets for the Upper Union Street Business Improvement District and the Downtown Special Assessment District, as well as an ordinance to abandon Roger Hull Place to create the Jay Street Connector.
- Approve 2026 Upper Union Street BID budget
- Approve 2026 Downtown Special Assessment District budget
- Abandon Roger Hull Place for Jay Street Connector
- Accept $299,581.00 DOJ grant for police
- Accept $114,591.00 DOJ grant for police
City Council Committees
City Council committees will discuss the proposed 2026 operating and capital budgets. Other agenda items include property acquisitions for the Jay Street Connector project and proposed zoning changes for energy storage and industrial parcels.
- Proposed 2026 Operating Budget & Capital Budget for the City of Schenectady
- Property acquisitions from Union College and Stockade Self-Serve Car Wash ($1) for Jay Street Connector
- Proposed zoning for Battery Energy Storage Systems (Tier 1 and Tier 2)
- Rezoning of Maxon Road Ext. parcels (39.26-1-2, 39.26-1-10, 39.26-1-3, 39.26-1-9) from C-3 to M-1
- Request for Proposal for 2025 Emergency Vehicle Uplift
City Council
The Schenectady City Council meeting will consider several resolutions, including public hearings on a one‑way traffic change on Front and Monroe Streets, the 2026 Downtown Special Assessment District budget, and the 2026 Upper Union Street Business Improvement District budget. The council will also endorse the Capital Region Land Bank’s application for MOVE‑NY funding. A key item is authorizing the sale of 450 Eleanor Street for $60,000 with specific rehabilitation requirements for the buyer.
- Resolution to hold a public hearing on converting Front Street (John St to Mohawk Ave) and Monroe Street (Front St to Erie Blvd) to one‑way streets
- Resolution to hold a public hearing on the Downtown Schenectady Assessment District 2026 budget
- Resolution to hold a public hearing on the Upper Union Street Business Improvement District 2026 budget
- Resolution approving and endorsing the Capital Region Land Bank’s application for MOVE‑NY program funding
- Resolution authorizing the sale of 450 Eleanor Street for $60,000 with $500 closing fee and rehabilitation deadlines
City Council Committees
The Schenectady City Council Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the Mayor's proposed 2026 Operating and Capital Budget. This session is part of the city's budget review process.
- Review of 2026 Operating and Capital Budget
City Council
The Schenectady City Council will hold a special meeting on Nov 21, 2025 to fill a vacant council seat for the unexpired term ending Dec 31, 2027. Council members will also consider an ordinance adopting the proposed operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2026. A local law will be considered that would allow the city to exceed the state‑mandated tax levy limit for FY 2026 if approved by at least 60% of the council. The ordinance also raises the solid‑waste administrative fee from $50 to $75.
- Appointment of a council member to fill a vacancy (term ending Dec 31, 2027)
- Adoption of the 2026 operating budget (amounts not specified in agenda)
- Adoption of the 2026 capital budget (borrowing limit not specified)
- Local Law 2025-2 to authorize overriding the tax levy limit for FY 2026, requiring 60% council vote
- Solid‑waste fee changes: administrative fee increased from $50 to $75; reduced fee rate changed from $137 to an unspecified amount
Historic Resource Commission
The Schenectady Historic Resource Commission will consider approvals for repairs to a front porch at 1186 Lowell Road, a gutter replacement at 1255 Lowell Road, and window replacement at 1027 Wendell Avenue. Staff approvals for the properties at 1027 Wendell Ave, 1103 Union St, and 1255 Lowell Rd will be reviewed. The meeting also includes discussion and possible approval of the Stockade Streetscape Plan.
- Approve repair of front porch at 1186 Lowell Road (G.E Realty Plot Historic District)
- Approve replacement of garage gutter at 1255 Lowell Road (G.E Realty Plot Historic District)
- Approve replacement of windows at 1027 Wendell Ave (Union Triangle Historic District)
- Staff approval for properties: 1027 Wendell Ave, 1103 Union St, 1255 Lowell Rd
- Discussion and/or approval of Stockade Streetscape Plan
The commission unanimously elected Commissioner Richard Unger as chair, Commissioner Patricia Yager as vice chair, and appointed City Planner Sergy Dossous as secretary. The commission also approved Certificates of Appropriateness for gutter replacement at 1255 Lowell Road and for window repairs/replacements at 1027 Wendell Avenue, both unanimously. Additionally, the commission approved revisions to the Stockade Historic District Comprehensive Streetscape Plan as recommended, unanimously.
- Elected Commissioner Richard Unger as chair (unanimous)
- Elected Commissioner Patricia Yager as vice chair (unanimous)
- Appointed City Planner Sergy Dossous as secretary (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for gutter replacement at 1255 Lowell Road (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for window repair/replacement at 1027 Wendell Ave (unanimous)
- Approved revisions to the Stockade Historic District Comprehensive Streetscape Plan (unanimous)
Planning Commission
The Schenectady Planning Commission will consider several site‑plan approvals, including a rehab of 145 Barrett Street for three apartments and one commercial unit, a diesel repair shop at 1419 Broadway and 8 Grand Street, and a 24‑unit apartment with a parking deck at 224 State Street. It will also review a rezoning request to change four Maxon Road Extension parcels from the C‑3 Waterfront Mixed‑Use District to the M‑1 Light Manufacturing and Warehousing District. Additionally, the commission will recommend to City Council new regulations and zoning for a battery energy storage facility.
- Site‑plan approval for 145 Barrett Street (3 apartments, 1 commercial) in C‑4 Downtown Mixed‑Use District
- Site‑plan approval for a 60’ × 70’ diesel repair shop at 1419 Broadway and 8 Grand Street in M‑1 Light Manufacturing District
- Site‑plan approval for a new 24‑unit apartment with parking deck at 224 State Street in C‑4 Downtown Mixed‑Use District
- Rezoning of Maxon Road Extension parcels 39.26‑1‑2, 39.26‑1‑10, 39.26‑1‑3, 39.26‑1‑9 from C‑3 Waterfront to M‑1 Light Manufacturing
- Commission recommendation to City Council on new Battery Energy Storage Facility regulations and zoning
The commission issued negative SEQR declarations for the consent‑agenda projects and for the State Street site‑plan proposals. It approved the site‑plan applications for 224 and 264 State Street with conditions, each vote 7‑0 with one abstention. Finally, it rezoned four Maxon Road Extension parcels from C‑3 Waterfront Mixed‑Use to M‑1 Light Manufacturing and recommended rerouting the ALCO Heritage Bike Trail. All actions were taken without public opposition.
- Negative SEQR declaration for consent‑agenda items (unanimous)
- Negative SEQR declaration for 224 and 264 State Street projects (7‑0, Beach abstaining)
- Approved site‑plan for 224 State Street with conditions (7‑0, Beach abstaining)
- Approved site‑plan for 264 State Street with conditions (7‑0, Beach abstaining)
- Rezoned Maxon Road Extension parcels to M‑1 district (unanimous)
- Recommended rerouting ALCO Heritage Bike Trail behind Maxon parcels (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The City Council Committees will discuss the 2026 Downtown Special Assessment District budget, the 2026 Upper Union Street Business Improvement District budget, and the city's overall 2026 operating and capital budgets. The committees will also consider a public hearing for converting Front Street and Monroe Street to one-way traffic and interview candidates for a vacant council seat.
- Public hearing for Front Street and Monroe Street one-way conversion
- 2026 Downtown Special Assessment District budget ($390,000)
- 2026 Upper Union Street Business Improvement District budget
- 2026 City operating and capital budgets
- Interviews for vacant City Council seat
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Schenectady Board of Zoning Appeals will review four variance applications at its regular meeting on November 12, 2025. Two applications from Schaffer Heights Housing Corp request area variances for 107 Nott Ter to allow a wall sign that does not face the street and to permit a third wall sign beyond the two‑sign limit in Schedule I Sign Regulations. Kevin Ramnath seeks an area variance for a vacant lot on Lenox Rd to build a single‑family house on a 4,945‑sq‑ft lot that is below the required 5,000‑sq‑ft minimum. Armin Hrelja seeks a use variance for 60 Cheltingham Ave to construct a four‑unit multifamily dwelling, which is not a permitted use in the R‑1 Single‑Family Residential district.
- Area variance for 107 Nott Ter (tax parcel #39.73-2-3.111) to allow a wall sign not facing the street per Schedule I Sign Regulations
- Area variance for 107 Nott Ter (tax parcel #39.73-2-3.111) to permit a third wall sign beyond the two‑sign limit in Schedule I
- Area variance for Lenox Rd (tax parcel #39.36-5-1) to build a single‑family dwelling on a 4,945‑sq‑ft lot, below the 5,000‑sq‑ft minimum
- Use variance for 60 Cheltingham Ave (tax parcel #49.69-4-3) to construct a four‑unit multifamily dwelling in the R‑1 district
City Council
The City Council is meeting to reconsider the proposed 2026 operating budget after a mayoral veto on November 6, 2025. The body will also consider ordinances regarding business certificates of use and several city property sales.
- Reconsideration of the vetoed 2026 Proposed Operating Budget
- Ordinance to require Massage Parlors to obtain a Certificate of Use
- Sale of vacant lot at 605 Craig Street for $3,500.00
- Sale of 22 James Street to Byron Miller for past-due taxes, interest, and a $1,000 administrative charge
- Sale of 269 Altamont Avenue
City Council Committees
The council's committees will discuss a police complaint packet and a one‑way change to Front Street. They will review amendments to the city code on acceptable ID for business certificates. The Development & Planning committee will consider adding massage parlors to the zoning definition and requiring a certificate of use, as well as a bulk‑waste fee and two property sales. A claim case (Harris vs. City of Schenectady) will also be noted.
- Review proposed amendments to Section 183-4 and 264-2 adding massage parlors to the zoning code definition and requiring a Certificate of Use
- Discussion – Bulk Waste Fee
- Sale of 605 Craig Street, Vacant Lot
- Sale of 269 Altamont Avenue & 22 James Street
- Discussion – CPRB Updated Complaint Packet
City Council
The Schenectady City Council will adopt the proposed operating budget for fiscal year 2026. The ordinance authorizes $119,966,727 in the General Fund and a $34,110,939 real‑property tax levy. It also caps capital borrowing at $7,752,275 and updates solid‑waste collection fees to $282.66. The budget sets water, sewer and golf fund appropriations and establishes ministerial change procedures.
- Adoption of the 2026 operating budget (Ordinance No. 2025‑10)
- General Fund appropriation of $119,966,727 for city expenses
- Real‑property tax levy of $34,110,939 for fiscal year 2026
- Capital borrowing limit not to exceed $7,752,275
- Solid‑waste collection fee increase from $228.00 to $282.66
City Council
The Schenectady City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including a public hearing on adding massage parlors to the certificate‑of‑use list and a hearing on revising application requirements. It will vote on a $1,472,075 contract to replace the Craig Street water main, install stop signs on Kings Road, settle a $10,000 mortgage on 39 Robinson Street, extend the redemption deadline for 1409 Fifth Avenue, and recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
- Awarding $1,472,075 contract to DeJong Brothers for Craig Street water main replacement
- Resolution to install stop signs at up to two locations on Kings Road
- Settlement of a $10,000 mortgage on 39 Robinson Street
- Amending Resolution 2025-165 to extend redemption deadline for 1409 Fifth Avenue to Nov 3 2025
- Public hearing on ordinance to add massage parlors to certificate‑of‑use requirements
The council approved the consent agenda, adopting Resolutions 2025-202, 2025-203, 2025-204, 2025-205, and 2025-CS-14, all by unanimous vote. The council also approved the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved consent agenda containing five resolutions (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 2025-202 recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 2025-203 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 2025-204 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 2025-205 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 2025-CS-14 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of the October 14, 2025 council meeting (unanimous)
- Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)
Historic Resource Commission
The Historic Resource Commission will review a consent agenda of repair and replacement projects for properties in several historic districts. New applications include window replacement, roof replacement, landscaping, and a material change for front steps. Staff approval will be sought for a list of addresses. The meeting also includes discussion of a Certificate of Approval application.
- Approve installation of two handrails at 31 Front Street (Stockade Historic District)
- Approve roof replacement at 20 North Church Street (Stockade Historic District)
- Approve front window replacement at 1022 Park Ave (Union Triangle Historic District)
- Approve material change to bluestone slabs for front steps at 113 North College Street (Stockade Historic District)
- Staff approval for properties at 4 Morris Ave, 15 Washington Ave, 1030 Park Ave, 1178 Lowell Rd, 1218-1220 Union Street
The Historic Resource Commission adopted the September 25 minutes and unanimously approved the consent agenda. It then granted Certificates of Appropriateness for eight historic‑district projects, including handrails at 31 Front St and roof work at 20 North Church St. All motions passed with unanimous votes.
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for handrails at 31 Front Street (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for roof replacement at 20 North Church Street (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for front step replacement at 123 North Ferry Street (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for roof replacement at 29 North Street (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for front‑window replacement at 1022 Park Ave (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for paint, landscape and roof work at 1445 Lowell Road (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for landscape redesign at 1132 Adams Road (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for porch repair and repaint at 20 Union Avenue (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The council will review a $1,472,075 contract with DeJong Brothers for the Craig Street water main replacement. It will also discuss trial stop‑sign installations at problematic locations and a proposal to make Front Street a one‑way thoroughfare. Additional items include a code amendment on business certificate identification and an exploration of a partnership with Union College.
- $1,472,075 contract to DeJong Brothers for Craig Street Water Main Replacement
- Discussion of installing trial stop signs at the corner of Kings Rd and Queen Philomena
- Discussion of converting Front Street to a one‑way street
- Reminder of amendments to Section 183‑6 of the City Code on business certificate ID requirements
- Exploring a partnership and possible PILOT agreement with Union College
Planning Commission
The Schenectady Planning Commission will consider multiple site‑plan approvals, including a law office at 1545 Union Street, a restaurant with apartments at 1010 State Street, and a 275‑unit apartment and daycare complex on McClellan Street. New‑business items also include renovation of 1 Broadway for county office use, construction of ten townhouses on Van Vranken Avenue, and a subdivision of those parcels into ten separate parcels. The commission will vote on each proposal during the meeting.
- Site‑plan approval for a 275‑unit apartment building and daycare at 600 McClellan Street (R‑3 Multi‑Family Residential District)
- Site‑plan approval for ten townhouses at 1713‑1733 Van Vranken Avenue (C‑2 Mixed‑Use Commercial District)
- Subdivision approval to split the Van Vranken Avenue parcels into ten separate parcels (C‑2 Mixed‑Use Commercial District)
- Site‑plan approval for a 12‑unit apartment building at 535 and 529 Schenectady Street (R‑2 Two‑Family Residential District)
- Site‑plan approval for a temple at 934 State Street (C‑2 Mixed‑Use Commercial District)
The commission approved site‑plan applications for three consent‑agenda projects—a law office at 1545 Union St, nine residential units at 192 Erie Blvd, and a restaurant with apartments at 1010 State St—while issuing a negative SEQR declaration for the restaurant. New‑business approvals included a county office renovation at 1 Broadway, a bar at 1631 Eastern Parkway, and a 215‑unit apartment and daycare project on McClellan Street, each with negative SEQR declarations and site‑plan approvals that included specific conditions. All motions were carried unanimously.
- Approved site plan for law office at 1545 Union St (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for 9 residential units at 192 Erie Blvd (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for restaurant with apartments at 1010 State St (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 1010 State St restaurant (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for county office renovation at 1 Broadway (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 1 Broadway project (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for bar at 1631 Eastern Parkway (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 1631 Eastern Parkway project (unanimous)
City Council
The Schenectady City Council will consider a series of resolutions, including authorizing the mayor to accept a $341,142 grant from the National Grid New York EV Make‑Ready Program and a $45,928 traffic‑safety grant. It will also review a lease letter of intent for a battery energy storage facility at 300 Anthony Street, proposed amendments to City Code Chapter 264, and a re‑zoning of parcels on Maxon Road Extension from commercial to light‑industrial. A public hearing on business‑certificate identification changes is scheduled for October 27.
- Resolution authorizing the mayor to accept $341,142 from the National Grid New York EV Make‑Ready Program for four DCFC charging stations near 1731 Foster Avenue
- Resolution authorizing the mayor to accept $45,928 from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee for the Schenectady Police Department
- Resolution authorizing the mayor to sign a Letter of Intent with New Leaf Energy Inc. to lease part of 300 Anthony Street for a Battery Energy Storage Facility
- Resolution transmitting proposed amendments to City Code Chapter 264 to define Battery Energy Storage Systems and set use regulations
- Resolution transmitting a proposed re‑zoning of parcels 39.26‑1‑2, 39.26‑1‑10, 39.26‑1‑3, and 39.26‑1‑9 on Maxon Road Extension from C‑3 (Commercial) to M‑1 (Light Industrial)
The October 14, 2025 Schenectady City Council meeting included public‑floor submissions on staffing, property taxes, and the Jay Street Connector shared‑use path. No votes, approvals, denials, or other formal actions were recorded in the minutes.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Board will review two variance applications. The first is a request by Gian Casale/Casale Investing LLC for a use variance to change 535 Schenectady St, located in the R‑2 Two‑Family District, to a 12‑unit apartment building, which is not a permitted use in that district. The second is a request by Anand Dhanraj for an area variance at 534 Mumford St, also in the R‑2 Two‑Family District, to reduce the required frontage from 40 feet to 33.33 feet for a single‑family dwelling. No other agenda items are listed.
- Use variance request for 535 Schenectady St (tax parcel # 49.40-1-18) to convert to a 12‑unit apartment building in the R‑2 Two‑Family District.
- Area variance request for 534 Mumford St (tax parcel # 49.31-3-21) to allow 33.33 ft frontage instead of 40 ft for a single‑family dwelling in the R‑2 Two‑Family District.
The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to issue a negative SEQR declaration. It then approved a use variance allowing 535 Schenectady St to be converted into a 12‑unit apartment building. The board also approved an area variance permitting 33.3 ft of frontage at 535 Mumford St, less than the required 40 ft. All three motions passed unanimously.
- Approved negative SEQR declaration (unanimous)
- Approved use variance for 12‑unit apartment at 535 Schenectady St (unanimous)
- Approved area variance for 33.3 ft frontage at 535 Mumford St (unanimous)
City Council Committees
Schenectady City Council committees will discuss several grant awards, including funding for police traffic services and electric vehicle infrastructure. The body will also consider zoning amendments for battery energy storage and the sale of multiple vacant lots.
- Acceptance of $341,142 National Grid grant for 4 DCFC charging plugs at 1731 Foster Avenue
- Acceptance of $45,920 GTSC grant for Police Traffic Services Program
- Proposed zoning code amendment to allow Battery Energy Storage Facilities in C-5, M-1, and M-2 districts
- Sale of vacant lots at 506 Schenectady Street, 605 Craig Street, 1118 Fourth Avenue, 1306 Fifth Avenue, and 1520 Fifth Avenue
- Proposed removal of citizenship or immigration status documentation requirements for city certificates, permits, and licenses
Housing Stability Task Force
The Schenectady City Council will meet on October 3, 2025 for introductions, a discussion of Resolution 2025‑138 that proposes a City Housing Stability Task Force, and to set the task force’s meeting schedule. The agenda does not list any other decisions.
- Resolution 2025‑138 – establishes a nine‑member City Housing Stability Task Force
- Resolution 2025‑149 – sets membership criteria and reporting requirements for the task force
- Resolution 2025‑171 – appoints Councilmember Carmel Patrick as chair of the task force
- Task force to review local housing trends, eviction filings, rent burdens, and vacancy rates
- Task force to report findings and recommendations within 120 days of its first meeting
Housing Stability Task Force
The City Council is holding a special meeting to review resident applications for the Housing Stability Task Force. This body is charged with assessing housing conditions, rental trends, and the potential impact of the Good Cause Eviction Law in Schenectady.
- Review of resident applications for the Housing Stability Task Force
- Appointment of nine volunteer members, including one City Council member as Chair
- Task Force mandate to report findings and recommendations within 120 days of its first meeting
Historic Resource Commission
The Schenectady Historic Resource Commission will meet to consider approval for exterior maintenance and construction projects in several historic districts. The body will review applications for painting, gutter installation, porch replacement, and steps repair.
- Approval for painting at 1 South Church Street (Stockade Historic District)
- Approval for copper gutter installation at 1435 Lowell Road (GE Realty Plot Historic District)
- Approval for porch replacement at 68 Union Ave (Union Triangle Historic District)
- Approval for steps replacement at 237 Green Street (Stockade Historic District)
- Approval for patio installation at 1 North Church Street (Stockade Historic District)
The commission approved repainting at 1 South Church Street, a copper gutter at 1435 Lowell Road, a porch replacement at 68 Union Ave, and new front steps at 237 Green Street. All motions carried unanimously, with one abstention on the repainting item. Item C (2 Nott Terrace) was moved back to the regular agenda and was not decided.
- Approved repainting of 1 South Church Street (Item A) – motion carried unanimously, 1 abstention
- Approved copper gutter installation at 1435 Lowell Road (Item B) – motion carried unanimously
- Approved porch replacement at 68 Union Ave – motion carried unanimously
- Approved front steps replacement at 237 Green Street – motion carried unanimously
- Moved Item C (2 Nott Terrace) to regular agenda – no vote recorded
City Council
The council will adopt a resolution scheduling a public hearing on October 27 to consider amendments requiring a certificate of use for massage parlors and adding them to the zoning code definitions. It will also approve the 2023 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report, authorize a $50,000 cybersecurity grant, and appoint Councilmember Carmel Patrick as chair of the City Housing Stability Task Force. Additional actions include authorizing sales of two vacant lots and settling a $1,000 claim by Anthony Roland.
- Resolution calling for a public hearing on proposed massage parlor code amendments (certificate of use, zoning definition)
- Resolution authorizing the Mayor to accept a $50,000 cybersecurity grant
- Resolution appointing Councilmember Carmel Patrick as chair of the City Housing Stability Task Force
- Resolution authorizing sale of vacant lot at 848 State Street for $3,000
- Resolution authorizing sale of vacant lot at 1856 Foster Avenue for $5,000
The council approved the minutes from the September 8 meeting by unanimous consent. It then approved the Consent Agenda, adopting Resolutions 2025-168 through 2025-CS-13, all unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.
- Approved September 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Consent Agenda, adopting Resolutions 2025-168 to 2025-CS-13 (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Planning Commission
The Schenectady Planning Commission will vote on several site‑plan and subdivision requests, including a flower shop at 112 Jay Street and a mural permit at 515 State Street. New business items include a 2,200‑sqft Starbucks at 1100 Erie Boulevard, a restaurant with two second‑floor apartments at 1010 State Street, and a massage spa at 1702 Chrisler Avenue. The commission will also address subdivision splits for 338 Abbottsford Road and 7 Gebhardt Street.
- Site‑plan approval for a 2,200 sqft Starbucks at 1100 Erie Boulevard (tax parcel #39.64-1-7)
- Site‑plan approval for a restaurant with two second‑floor apartments at 1010 State Street (tax parcel #49.42-3-7.11)
- Site‑plan approval for a massage spa at 1702 Chrisler Avenue (tax parcel #49.81-1-1.111)
- Special Use Permit to paint a 650 sqft mural at 515 State Street (tax parcel #39.80-1-29)
- Subdivision approval to split 338 Abbottsford Road into two parcels (tax parcel #49.82-1-7)
The commission unanimously approved site‑plan approvals for a flower shop at 112 Jay St., a storage building at 451 Peek St., and a Starbucks at 1100 Erie Blvd. It also unanimously issued negative SEQR declarations for two subdivision requests and the mural permit, denied the mural special‑use permit (4‑2 vote), and unanimously tabled the mural application.
- Approved site‑plan for 112 Jay Street flower shop (unanimous)
- Approved site‑plan for 451 Peek Street storage building (unanimous)
- Approved site‑plan for 1100 Erie Blvd Starbucks (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 338 Abbottsford Rd subdivision (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 7 Gebhardt St subdivision (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 515 State St mural (unanimous)
- Special Use Permit for 515 State St mural denied (vote 4‑2)
- Mural application tabled (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The council committees will consider accepting a $50,000 FY2022 State Homeland Security Grant Program cybersecurity award and approve the 2023 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report. They will also review a petition to connect Watt Street homes to the city sewage line, develop the selection process for the newly created City Housing Stability Task Force, and consider the sale of several vacant city lots.
- Grant Award – FY2022 SHSP Cybersecurity Grant Program ($50,000)
- Review – 2023 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)
- Watt Street Sewage Pipeline petition for septic‑to‑sewage conversion
- Selection Process for the City Housing Stability Task Force
- Sale of 848 State Street, vacant lot
City Council
The council approved the minutes from the August 25, 2025 meeting. It adopted multiple ordinances and resolutions listed on the consent agenda, each unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:38 p.m.
- Approved August 25, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-12..0..0.....0c ccc ccc cess eens unanimously
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-13 ........... cc cee cee ee eee eee ees unanimously
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-158........0. 2c. ccc cece eee unanimously
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-166 unanimously
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-167 unanimously
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-CS-12.......0.000.00002 ccc cee unanimously
- Adjourned meeting at 7:38 p.m.
Historic Resource Commission
The Historic Resource Commission unanimously approved extensions for two historic district approvals and several building rehabilitation applications. It approved Ditoro's fire‑damaged carriage house roof, siding and paint work, and approved Palma's skylight installation (4‑1 vote). It also approved Du Four's siding and paint project, accepted Samatulski's roof replacement (painting tabled) and recorded the withdrawal of Samatulski's sign‑pole application.
- Consent agenda extensions for 421 Union St. (until Nov 2026) and 205 Union St. (until Sep 2026) approved unanimously
- Ditoro carriage house roof, siding and paint repairs approved unanimously
- Palma skylight installation approved 4‑1 (Berkovich opposed)
- Du Four siding replacement and paint approved unanimously
- Samatulski withdrew sign‑pole application (no vote)
- Samatulski roof replacement approved unanimously (Berkovich abstained); painting deferred
- Prior meeting minutes adopted unanimously
City Council
The City Council will conduct a public hearing regarding the proposed 2025-2026 HUD Annual Action Plan. The body is also considering several grant acceptances for police and electric vehicle infrastructure, as well as the sale of multiple city-owned properties.
- Public hearing on the 2025-2026 HUD Annual Action Plan with total available funding of $3,421,993.39
- Proposed $1,700,000.00 in HOME ARP Funds for YWCA of Schenectady NorthEastern NY Habor House Project
- Acceptance of $327,379.98 from National Grid New York Electric Vehicle Make-Ready Program
- Sale of 66 Wylie Street for $45,000.00 and 103 Weaver Street for $20,000.00
- Acceptance of $6,200.00 grant from Governor's Traffic Safety Committee for the Police Department
The Council approved the consent agenda, adopting Resolutions 2025-145 through 2025-157, all unanimously. A motion to approve the minutes of the August 11, 2025 meeting was made and seconded and was approved. No other legislative actions were voted on.
- Approved Consent Agenda, adopting Resolutions 2025-145‑2025-157 (unanimously)
- Approved minutes of the August 11, 2025 Council meeting (motion passed)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission unanimously approved an extension of the site‑plan approval for a tavern at 421 Union Street and an amended site‑plan for the DePaul Group development on State and Brandywine Streets. It also issued a negative SEQR declaration and approved a special use permit for a mural at 332 Erie Boulevard, and approved a site‑plan for a convenience store at 851 Crane Street, each with specific conditions.
- Approved extension of site‑plan approval for 421 Union Street tavern (unanimous)
- Approved amended site‑plan for DePaul Group development at State and Brandywine Streets (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for mural project at 332 Erie Blvd (unanimous)
- Approved special use permit for mural at 332 Erie Blvd with conditions (unanimous)
- Approved site‑plan for convenience store at 851 Crane Street with conditions (unanimous)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider several area variance requests from Good Clean Money LLC regarding lot frontage and setbacks on Van Vranken. Other items include requests for apartment conversions and parking relief on Albany St, Schenectady St, and State St.
- Multiple area variances for Good Clean Money LLC at 1713, 1717, 1725, and 1733 Van Vranken regarding lot frontage and side yard setbacks
- Area variance request for 818 Albany St to permit a 5-unit apartment building and relief from 8 required parking spaces
- Use variance request for 535 Schenectady St to convert a property in the R-2 Two-Family District into a 12-unit apartment building
- Area variance request for 1326 State St for relief from 4 required off-street parking spaces
The Zoning Board adopted a Negative Declaration SEQR resolution by unanimous vote. It also unanimously approved an area variance to allow a 30‑foot minimum lot frontage where 40 feet is required. In addition, the board unanimously approved an area variance for a side‑yard setback of 0 feet where 5 feet is required.
- Negative Declaration SEQR resolution adopted (unanimous)
- Approved 30‑foot minimum lot frontage variance (unanimous)
- Approved side‑yard setback of 0‑foot variance (unanimous)
City Council
The council moved and seconded a motion to approve the July 28, 2025 meeting minutes; the outcome was not recorded. The consent agenda, containing Resolutions 2025‑139 through 2025‑CS‑11, was approved unanimously. The council then moved and seconded a motion to adjourn, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:20 p.m.
- Motion to approve July 28, 2025 minutes made and seconded (outcome not recorded)
- Consent agenda resolutions 2025‑139 to 2025‑CS‑11 adopted unanimously
- Motion to adjourn made and seconded; meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.
Historic Resource Commission
The commission approved eight applications for work on historic properties, including porch stabilization, shutter replacement, material changes, HVAC installations, repainting, chimney caps, roof replacements, and a renovation with several conditions. All motions were carried unanimously. Several approvals included specific material or design conditions, and one application (skylights at 1113 Union Street) was tabled for future design submission.
- Approved stabilization of front porch at 68 Union Ave with conditions (unanimous)
- Approved replacement of shutters at 1030 Nott Street (unanimous)
- Approved extension and aluminum material change for 1201 Union Street (unanimous)
- Approved mini‑split unit and duct line at 1386 Lowell Road with conditions (unanimous)
- Approved repainting of shutters at 1189 Lowel Road with specified colors (unanimous)
- Approved chimney cap addition at 122 N College Street with conditions (unanimous)
- Approved roof replacement at 1135 Avon Road with specified shingles (unanimous)
- Approved renovation at 1113 Union Street with multiple conditions and tabled skylight installation (unanimous)
City Council
Councilmember John Mootooveren moved to approve the minutes of the July 14, 2025 meeting and Councilmember Damonni Farley seconded the motion. The minutes do not record the vote tally or whether the motion passed. No other legislative actions were taken during the meeting.
- Motion to approve July 14 minutes made and seconded (outcome not recorded)
Ethics Board
The board accepted the minutes from the July 23, 2024 meeting. It approved the 2025 financial disclosure forms submitted by city officials. It adopted an amendment to the 2026 disclosure form to require reporting of business entities owned by officials. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Accepted July 23, 2024 meeting minutes (approved)
- Entered executive session to review disclosure forms (approved)
- Ended executive session (approved)
- Accepted 2025 financial disclosure forms (approved)
- Amended 2026 financial disclosure form to include business entities (approved)
- Adjourned the meeting (approved)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission denied Shannan Pabla's site plan for a convenience store and auto‑repair shop at 1401 Erie Boulevard by a unanimous vote. It issued a negative SEQR declaration for State Inn, LLC’s motel and parking lot project, also unanimously. The commission then approved State Inn’s site plan with six specific conditions, again unanimously. The June 18 minutes were approved unanimously as well.
- Denied Shannan Pabla site plan (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for State Inn (unanimous)
- Approved State Inn site plan with conditions (unanimous)
- Approved June 18 minutes (unanimous)
City Council
Councilmember John Mootooveren made a motion to approve the June 23, 2025 City Council minutes, and Councilmember Carmel Patrick seconded the motion. The minutes do not record the vote tally or whether the motion carried. No other substantive actions were taken during the meeting.
- Motion to approve June 23, 2025 minutes made and seconded (no recorded outcome)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The board voted against a motion to rehear the Starbucks drive‑thru application, so the case will be considered by the Planning Commission on July 23. The board unanimously approved a SEQR Negative Declaration. The board unanimously voted to table the area variance requests for signage at 107 Nott Terrace. The board unanimously approved the area variance for 6 School Street allowing a 2‑foot side‑yard setback.
- Rehearing motion for Starbucks drive‑thru denied (vote not unanimous)
- SEQR Negative Declaration approved (unanimous)
- Tabled area variance for signage at 107 Nott Terrace (unanimous)
- Approved area variance for 6 School St side‑yard setback (unanimous)
Historic Resource Commission
The Historic Resource Commission adopted three prior meeting minutes unanimously and moved agenda item H to the start. It tabled two incomplete applications (porch replacement at 68 Union Ave and rail addition at 1412 Lowell Rd) until future meetings. It approved four new applications—chimney repair at 1203 Wendell Ave, three new windows at 414 Union St, handrails at 115 North Ferry St, and window replacement at 1218 Union St—with the latter passing 5‑1. The roof‑replacement application at 1050 Gillespie St was presented but the vote outcome is not recorded in the minutes.
- Adopted April 24 minutes unanimously
- Adopted May 6 special meeting minutes unanimously
- Adopted May 22 minutes unanimously
- Moved agenda item H to the beginning of the agenda
- Tabled porch replacement application at 68 Union Ave until July (unanimous)
- Approved chimney repair application at 1203 Wendell Ave (unanimous)
- Approved three‑window addition at 414 Union St (unanimous)
- Approved handrail addition at 115 North Ferry St (unanimous)
City Council
The council approved the consent agenda, adopting Ordinance No. 2025-10 and Resolutions 2025-106 through 2025-112 and 2025-CS- unanimously. All items on the consent agenda were adopted without dissent. The public hearing on the Kings Road weight‑limit ordinance closed with no speakers.
- Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-10 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-106 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-107 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-108 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-109 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-110 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-111 (unanimous)
Planning Commission
The commission voted 7‑0 (with one abstention) to approve all consent agenda site‑plan applications after issuing negative SEQR declarations for two items. Separate negative SEQR declarations were adopted unanimously for the 801 State Street façade project, the Campbell Avenue subdivision, and the Eastern Avenue bar. The commission then approved the site‑plan for the State Street façade, the subdivision of 2637 Campbell Avenue, and the bar at 846 Eastern Avenue, each with unanimous support.
- Negative SEQR declaration for consent agenda items B and H (7-0, Roselan abstaining)
- Site‑plan approval for all consent agenda items (7-0, Roselan abstaining)
- Negative SEQR declaration for 801 State Street façade project (unanimously)
- Site‑plan approval for 801 State Street façade replacement (unanimously)
- Negative SEQR declaration for subdivision of 2637 Campbell Avenue (unanimously)
- Subdivision approval for 2637 Campbell Avenue (unanimously)
- Negative SEQR declaration for bar at 846 Eastern Avenue (unanimously)
- Site‑plan approval for bar at 846 Eastern Avenue with 12 am closing recommendation (unanimously)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals denied the use variance request for 1044 University Place, voting unanimously to reject the proposal. The board also adopted a SEQR Negative Declaration unanimously and approved the meeting minutes without dissent. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 6:45 p.m.
- Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Adopted SEQR Negative Declaration (unanimous)
- Denied use variance for 1044 University Place (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council approved the consent agenda, adopting Resolutions 2025-101 through 2025-104 unanimously. Resolution 2025-105, authorizing fee waivers for exterior building repair permits, passed with a vote of 4 ayes, 2 nays, and 1 abstention.
- Resolution 2025-101 adopted unanimously
- Resolution 2025-102 adopted unanimously
- Resolution 2025-103 adopted unanimously
- Resolution 2025-104 adopted unanimously
- Resolution 2025-105 adopted 4-2-1
City Council
The council approved the Consent Agenda, adopting twelve resolutions unanimously. A resolution to authorize a custodial account was rejected, with a 2-4-1 vote (AYE: Ditoro, Patrick; NAY: Farley, Mancini, Williams, Porterfield; absent Mootooveren). The meeting was then adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
- Approved Consent Agenda, adopting Resolutions 2025-090 through 2025-100 and 2025-CS-09 unanimously
- Rejected custodial account authorization (2-4-1 vote)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:50 p.m.
Historic Resource Commission
The Historic Resource Commission tabled the minutes from the April 24 and May 6 meetings. It also tabled a material‑change request for a wrought‑iron railing at 609 Union Street. The commission approved a tree‑removal application at 1198 Stratford Road with conditions (vote 4‑2) and approved restoration and roof replacement projects at 1053 Gillespie Street and 1386 Lowell Road, respectively. Additional approvals included a tree remediation plan, chimney caps, and a tree‑removal plan with a future remediation plan.
- Tabled April 24 and May 6 minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled Chris LaFlamme railing material change application (unanimous)
- Approved Forsyth tree removal with planting condition (4‑2)
- Approved Mardochee Besson porch restoration with detailed conditions (unanimous)
- Approved Alexander Trikalinos slate roof replacement (unanimous)
- Approved Samuel DeSorbo tree remediation with arborist consultation (unanimous)
- Approved Unitarian Universalist Church chimney caps with specifications (unanimous)
- Approved Robert & Diane Bartynski tree removal pending remediation plan (unanimous)
Planning Commission
The commission unanimously approved extensions for two Larapa Serafini apartment projects and an amended site plan for 308 State Street. It tabled a subdivision request for 2637 Campbell Avenue. It also unanimously approved site plan approvals for the Mangoes restaurant at 201 South Brandywine Avenue and a grocery store at 814 Eastern Avenue, each with detailed conditions.
- Approved one‑year extensions for two Larapa Serafini apartment projects (unanimous)
- Approved amended site plan for 308 State Street renovation (unanimous)
- Tabled subdivision request for 2637 Campbell Avenue (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for Mangoes restaurant at 201 South Brandywine Avenue with conditions (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for grocery store at 814 Eastern Avenue with conditions (unanimous)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals called the meeting to order and unanimously approved the meeting minutes. The board then voted 6‑1 to approve the zoning challenge, determining the 1100 Erie Blvd property is a fast‑food restaurant and that a drive‑in establishment is merely an accessory. No other applications received a recorded decision.
- Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved zoning challenge: use classified as fast‑food restaurant; drive‑in establishment deemed accessory (6‑1)
City Council
The City Council was presented with a written proposal to award the honorary title of Poet Laureate Emeritus to Yu Chang, a longtime resident and haiku poet. The proposal outlined Chang’s background and contributions to poetry. No vote or formal decision on the proposal was recorded at this meeting.
Historic Resource Commission
The commission unanimously approved the renovation of the Masonic Temple at 302 State Street. It also unanimously approved the designs for facades 1, 2, and 4 of the adjacent 306‑308 State Street buildings. Facade 3 was approved after an amendment (5‑1) requiring a lintel and a precast base, and the amended motion passed unanimously. All approvals are subject to Type I/II SEQR conditions and historic preservation standards.
- Approved renovation of Masonic Temple (302 State St) – motion carried unanimously
- Approved facades 1, 2, and 4 (306‑308 State St) – motion carried unanimously
- Amended motion for facade 3 to require lintel and precast base – carried 5‑1
- Approved facade 3 (306‑308 State St) as amended – motion carried unanimously
City Council
The City Council approved the consent agenda after a motion moved by Councilmember Patrick and seconded by Councilmember Mootooveren. Resolutions No. 2025-077 and No. 2025-078 were each adopted unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion moved by Councilmember Patrick and seconded by Councilmember Mootooveren.
- Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-077 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-078 (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Historic Resource Commission
The commission approved several applications for roof repairs, window replacements, and painting in historic districts, most with unanimous votes. Two applications were tabled: a tree removal at 1198 Stratford Road and a porch replacement at 68 Union Avenue. The YWCA renovation at 28 North Ferry Street, including a handicap entrance and a dumpster screen fence, was approved by a 5-0 vote with Commissioner Unger recused.
- Approved roof repair/replacement at 19 Ingersoll Ave (unanimous)
- Approved window replacement at 122 North College St (unanimous)
- Tabled tree removal application at 1198 Stratford Rd (unanimous)
- Approved garage roof replacement and house paint at 1178 Lowell Rd (unanimous)
- Tabled porch replacement application at 68 Union Ave (unanimous)
- Approved roof replacement and paint at 1350 Wendell Ave (unanimous)
- Approved YWCA handicap entrance at 28 North Ferry St (5-0, Unger recused)
- Approved dumpster screen fence for YWCA (5-0, Unger recused)
Planning Commission
The commission unanimously approved the March 19 minutes. It issued negative SEQR declarations for the 1115 McClyman Street barbershop project, the YWCA daycare renovation, and the 450 Duane Avenue storage project. It also unanimously approved site‑plan approvals for the YWCA daycare and the 450 Duane Avenue storage units, and granted a special‑use permit for the storage units with conditions.
- Approved March 19 minutes (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 1115 McClyman Street project (unanimous)
- Approved site‑plan for YWCA daycare at 28 North Ferry Street with conditions (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for YWCA daycare project (unanimous)
- Approved site‑plan for 450 Duane Avenue storage units with conditions (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 450 Duane Avenue project (unanimous)
- Approved special‑use permit for 450 Duane Avenue storage units with conditions (unanimous)
City Council
The Council approved the consent agenda, adopting dozens of ordinances and resolutions without opposition (5 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 abstentions). Health and Recreation Committee members reported that the summer 2025 pool rules and policy were forwarded for implementation. No other legislative items were debated or voted on during the meeting.
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-08 (unanimous, 5 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 abstentions)
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-09 (unanimous, 5 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 abstentions)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-058 supporting a school speed‑zone camera demonstration (unanimous, 5 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 abstentions)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-059 supporting a red‑light camera demonstration (unanimous, 5 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 abstentions)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-060 requesting amendments to state rental‑registration law (unanimous, 5 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 abstentions)
- Health and Recreation Committee approved forwarding the summer 2025 pool rules and policy
- Council motion to approve the consent agenda passed (motion by Mootooveren, seconded by Williams)
- Meeting adjourned at 7:31 p.m. after motion by Williams, seconded by Mancini
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals approved three area variance requests and one use variance request, all by unanimous vote. West Yard Properties LLC received variances to allow 1,063.78 square feet of signage and four signs at 101 Harborside Drive. GE Vernova was granted an area variance to construct a 115‑foot accessory structure at 1 River Rd. Alex Real Properties LLC was granted a use variance to operate a three‑family dwelling at 720 Congress St.
- Approved area variance for 101 Harborside Drive to permit 1,063.78 sq ft of signage (unanimous)
- Approved area variance for 101 Harborside Drive to permit four signs (unanimous)
- Approved area variance for 1 River Rd to allow a 115‑ft accessory structure (unanimous)
- Approved use variance for 720 Congress St to permit a three‑family dwelling (unanimous)
Historic Resource Commission
The commission approved extensions, door and window restorations, tree work, stair replacements, and signage for properties in several historic districts. All motions were carried unanimously except two 5‑0 votes where Commissioner Berkovich recused himself. No further discussion was recorded for any item.
- Approved extension for 145 Barrett St until Sep 30 2026 (unanimous)
- Approved paint/restore front door at 1176 Stratford Rd (unanimous)
- Approved removal of white pine tree at 1302 Stratford Rd and replacement with blue spruce (unanimous)
- Approved repair and repaint of window shutters at 1380 Wendell Ave (unanimous)
- Approved signage package at 1 North Church St (5‑0, Berkovich recused)
- Tabled 40 sq ft sign application at 1 North Church St pending complete design (5‑0, Berkovich recused)
- Approved replacement of front stairs with concrete at 113 North College St (unanimous)
- Approved replacement of front stairs with pressure‑treated wood at 5 Ingersoll Ave (unanimous)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved the meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved a use variance allowing a restaurant to operate at 1687 Foster Ave. An area variance for ancillary parking at 1671 Foster Ave was likewise approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.
- Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved use variance for 1687 Foster Ave restaurant (unanimous)
- Approved area variance for ancillary parking at 1671 Foster Ave (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2025-07 authorizing up to $15,700,129 in serial bonds and adopted Resolution No. 2025-056 classifying the issuance as an unlisted action, both by a 7‑0‑0 vote. A resolution honoring Walter Simpkins (2025-057) was also adopted unanimously. The minutes of the March 10, 2025 meeting were approved and the meeting adjourned at 7:28 p.m.
- Ordinance No. 2025-07 authorizing up to $15,700,129 bonds adopted (7-0-0)
- Resolution No. 2025-056 classifying bond issuance as unlisted action adopted (7-0-0)
- Resolution No. 2025-057 honoring Walter Simpkins adopted (7-0-0)
- Ordinance No. 2025-06 adopted unanimously
- Multiple ordinances/resolutions (2025-042 to 2025-054) adopted unanimously
- Minutes of March 10, 2025 meeting approved
- Public hearing on sound‑permit code amendment closed with no decision
- Council adjourned meeting at 7:28 p.m.
Planning Commission
The commission granted a one‑year extension on the 104‑112 Erie site plan, approved a special use permit for an electronic message board at 101 Harborside Drive, and approved site‑plan applications for 519 State Street and 807 Union Street. Negative SEQR declarations were adopted for each project. No rezoning action was taken.
- Approved one‑year extension of 104‑112 Erie site plan (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 101 Harborside sign (7‑0, Engert abstaining)
- Approved special use permit for 101 Harborside sign (7‑0, Engert abstaining)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 519 State Street site plan (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for 519 State Street with conditions (unanimous)
- Issued negative SEQR declaration for 807 Union Street site plan (7‑0, Beach abstaining)
- Approved site plan for 807 Union Street with conditions (7‑0, Beach abstaining)
- No rezoning action taken; recommendation to City Council only