Cortland public meetings in 2025

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission meeting scheduled for December 17, 2025 was cancelled due to scheduling conflicts. No agenda items were considered. The commission will reconvene on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 3:30 PM in the conference room at the Youth Bureau, 35 Port Watson St.

Historic or Architectural Review Board

The Historic Commission will review an application from Smile Lines Aesthetics (Courtney Rivers) to install a 4‑foot by 40‑foot sign on the Court Street side of the building at 64 Main Street. The board will determine if the proposed signage complies with the historic district guidelines. No other agenda items are listed.

• Signage request: 4’ x 40’ sign for 64 Main St. (Court St. side) – applicant Smile Lines Aesthetics

The commission voted 6‑0 to approve Smile Lines Aesthetics' 4’ x 2’ vinyl sign at 64 Main St., as presented by applicant Courtney Rivers. The board also accepted the November 18, 2025 meeting minutes and accepted the July 22, 2025 minutes with amendments to the lighting description for signs at 28 and 50 Main St. No other actions were taken.

• Approved 4’ x 2’ vinyl sign for Smile Lines Aesthetics at 64 Main St. (6‑0)
• Accepted minutes of the November 18, 2025 meeting (6‑0)
• Accepted minutes of the July 22, 2025 meeting with amendments to signage lighting language (6‑0)

Common Council

The Common Council adopted Local Law No. 7, giving it authority to set city fees, fines and penalties by resolution. It also adopted Local Law No. 8 for rental fire and safety inspections and Local Law No. 9 relating to property tax levy authority. The 2026 city budget and tax rates were approved, resulting in a 5.0% property‑tax increase. Additional resolutions authorized special water, wastewater and storm‑water assessments and approved a police memorandum of agreement.

• Adopted Local Law No. 7 authorizing council to set fees, fines and penalties
• Adopted Local Law No. 8 establishing rental fire and safety inspection and certificate of compliance
• Adopted Local Law No. 9 relating to property tax levy authority
• Adopted 2026 city budget and tax rates (property tax increase of 5.0%)
• Authorized special wastewater assessment and adopted 2026 rates
• Authorized special water assessment and adopted 2026 rates
• Authorized special storm‑water system assessment and adopted 2026 charge
• Authorized memorandum of agreement with Groton Police Department for polygraph equipment

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners will meet to review November 2025 reports and year-to-date budget status for Fire and Code. The meeting includes updates from the Chief, Deputy Chief, and Battalion Chief.

• Approval of November 2025 Paid Staff Sick Report
• Approval of November 2025 Credit Card Statement
• Review of 2025 Year to Date Fire and Code Budget Status Reports
• Apparatus and Training update from the Battalion Chief

The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the November meeting minutes with corrections. They also accepted the November sick leave report and the November financial report as presented. All three motions passed unanimously.

• Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved November sick leave report (unanimous)
• Approved November financial report (unanimous)

Landscape & Design Committee

The commission is reviewing the Fall 2025 Planting Program and updates on NYS-DEC and CNY Regional Planning and Development grants. The body will also discuss the Tree City USA application and the future of LDC and City roles.

• Plan to plant 15 NYSEG trees in spring 2026
• NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant and replacement planting status
• CNY Regional Planning and Development Grant update from Mayor Scott Steve
• Tree City USA application requirements including $2.00 per resident
• Discussion regarding Jeanne Grace Ithaca Notice of Concern

Common Council

The Common Council approved the Collective Bargaining Agreements with the City of Cortland Professional Firefighters’ Association and the City of Cortland Police Benefolent Association, each for a five‑year term starting Jan. 1, 2026, with a 5‑0 vote. The council also adopted the third amendment to the 2025 Management Plan, updating pay bands and health‑insurance provisions. No other substantive actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement with Firefighters (5‑year, 5‑0 vote)
• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement with Police (5‑year, 5‑0 vote)
• Approved third amendment to Management Plan updating pay bands and health insurance

Planning Commission

The commission approved site plans for 121 Central Ave, 3 Squires St, 191 Main St, and 6 Locust Ave, all with unanimous 5‑0 votes. It also approved a subdivision and lot line adjustment for 70½ & 72 Elm St, again unanimously. Both the site plan and a special use permit for two multi‑residential dwellings on 6 Locust Ave were approved with conditions. Two agenda items (117‑119 Clinton Ave and 70 Pomeroy St‑98 E. Court St) were tabled until January 5, 2026.

• Approved site plan for 121 Central Ave (5-0)
• Approved subdivision & lot line adjustment for 70½ & 72 Elm St (5-0)
• Approved site plan for 3 Squires St with conditions (5-0)
• Approved site plan for 191 Main St (5-0)
• Approved site plan for 6 Locust Ave with conditions (5-0)
• Approved special use permit for two multi‑residential dwellings on 6 Locust Ave with conditions (5-0)
• Tabled 117‑119 Clinton Ave to Jan 5, 2026
• Tabled 70 Pomeroy St – 98 E. Court St to Jan 5, 2026

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved area variances for 121 Central Ave., 117‑119 Clinton Ave., 70 Pomeroy St., and 98 E. Court St. Each motion passed with a unanimous 4‑0 vote. The Clinton Ave. variance was approved with conditions limiting parking to five interior and ten exterior spaces. The board also approved the minutes from the September 8 and October 27, 2025 meetings.

• Approved area variance for 121 Central Ave. (4‑0)
• Approved area variance for 117‑119 Clinton Ave. with parking limits (4‑0)
• Approved area variance for 70 Pomeroy St. (4‑0)
• Approved area variance for 98 E. Court St. (4‑0)
• Approved minutes of September 8, 2025 meeting (4‑0)
• Approved minutes of October 27, 2025 meeting (4‑0)

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission approved the minutes from the October meeting and voted to approve October bills that total $74,208.96. Commissioners reviewed reports on the department budget, vehicle maintenance, overtime, and other operational metrics. Old business included updates on the LE Tech grant, recruit training, and vehicle equipment, while new business covered hiring interviews, a polygraph loan to Groton PD, the 2026 budget process, and ongoing PBA contract negotiations. Personnel matters and sergeant promotional interviews were discussed in executive session before adjournment.

• Approved October bills totaling $74,208.96
• Removed all new vehicle purchases from the 2026 budget
• Approved loan of the department polygraph to Groton PD under an MOU
• Scheduled sergeant promotional interviews for December 4 (moved to executive session)
• PBA contract negotiations continued with no change since last month

The commission approved the minutes of the October meeting and approved October bills totaling $74,208.96. New vehicle purchases were removed from the 2026 budget and a civilian records desk position was not approved. Discussion of sergeant promotional interviews was moved to executive session, and the meeting entered and exited executive session before adjourning.

• Approved October meeting minutes (motion by Whitlock, second by Michales)
• Approved October bills totaling $74,208.96 (motion by Hansen, second by Starr)
• Removed all new vehicle purchases from the 2026 budget
• Did not approve the requested civilian records desk position
• Moved sergeant promotional interview discussion to executive session
• Entered executive session at 4:39 p.m. to discuss personnel matters (motion by Hansen, second by Michales)
• Exited executive session at 5:00 p.m. (motion by Starr, second by Hansen)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:01 p.m. (motion by Starr, second by Michales)

Historic or Architectural Review Board

The commission approved the Unitarian Church's staircase replacement project and Farok Hamood's Rizz Eats signage project, each with a 7‑0 vote. Minutes from the June and July meetings were also approved.

• Approved Unitarian Church staircase replacement (7-0)
• Approved Rizz Eats signage installation (7-0)
• Approved June 17, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved July 22, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)

Common Council

The Cortland Common Council will adopt resolutions to set public hearings on several pending matters, including the proposed 2026 city budget, a local law to override the property‑tax levy limit, a law allowing the council to set fees, fines and penalties, and a law establishing rental fire‑safety inspections. The council will also consider health‑insurance options for city employees and retirees, award an ash‑tree removal contract, approve a YMCA Turkey Trot event permit, and declare surplus police and youth‑bureau equipment for sale.

• Set public hearing on proposed 2026 City Budget – Dec 2, 2025 at 6 p.m., City Hall, 25 Court Street
• Set public hearing on proposed local law to override property‑tax levy limit – Dec 2, 2025 at 6 p.m., City Hall
• Set public hearing on proposed local law to let Council set city fees, fines and penalties by resolution – Dec 2, 2025 at 6 p.m., City Hall
• Set public hearing on proposed local law for rental fire‑safety inspections and certificates of compliance – Dec 2, 2025 at 6 p.m., City Hall
• Review 2026 health‑insurance coverage plans and options for active employees and retirees

The Common Council approved four resolutions to schedule public hearings on Dec 2, 2025 for the proposed 2026 budget, a tax‑levy override, council‑set fees and a rental fire‑safety inspection law, each passing unanimously. It also approved a special event permit for the YMCA Turkey Trot, declared police vehicle and youth‑bureau equipment surplus and authorized their sales, and recognized donations to the Police Department and Youth Bureau. The minutes of prior meetings were accepted unanimously.

• Approved Resolution 178 to hold public hearing on 2026 city budget (8‑0)
• Approved Resolution 179 to hold public hearing on local law to override property tax levy limit (8‑0)
• Approved Resolution 180 to hold public hearing on local law allowing council to set fees, fines and penalties (8‑0)
• Approved Resolution 181 to hold public hearing on local law for rental fire and safety inspections (8‑0)
• Approved Special Event Permit for YMCA Turkey Trot (Nov 27 2025)
• Declared Police Department vehicle surplus and approved sale to Contento’s Scrap Metal Processing and Recycling
• Declared Youth Bureau equipment surplus and approved sale through Auctions International
• Accepted and recognized donation to the Police Department

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners met to review and approve administrative reports from October. The meeting included updates on new firefighter graduates, union contract progress, and CBDG grants.

• Approval of October meeting minutes
• Approval of October sick leave reports
• Verification and approval of October credit card purchases
• Receipt of 2025 year-to-date Fire and Code budget report
• Report on two new firefighters graduating from the academy

The Fire Commissioners approved the October meeting minutes, accepted the October sick leave report, and accepted the October financial report. Each motion was made and seconded by commissioners and passed with all members in favor. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved October meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted October sick leave report (all in favor)
• Accepted October financial report (all in favor)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission approved the October 8, 2025 minutes and discussed the Fall 2025 Tree Planting Program, noting delivery of 34 trees from Schichtel’s Nursery and site adjustments for eight trees. The commission reported that 15 trees from a NYSEG donation will be planted next spring due to administrative delays, and that newly planted trees have been reported to LaBella for the city inventory. Updates were given on the NYS‑DEC Ash Tree Management grant (Carter’s Tree Service lowest bid) and the CNY Regional Planning and Development grant (funding assured for ordering trees), and member Diane Batzing announced her resignation after 20 years.

• 34 trees delivered on Nov 3 from Schichtel’s Nursery (Springville) for planting on Nov 4‑5.
• Relocation of 8 trees to alternate sites after issues with prior plantings.
• NYSEG donation of 15 trees postponed to next spring due to administrative process.
• NYS‑DEC Ash Tree Management grant: Carter’s Tree Service submitted the lowest bid.
• CNY Regional Planning and Development grant funding secured for ordering trees from Schichtel’s; member Diane Batzing resigned.

The commission approved the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting. Members reported on tree planting activities, grant updates, and ash‑tree management. Commission member Diane Batzing submitted her resignation after 20 years of service. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved October 8, 2025 minutes

Common Council

The Cortland Common Council meeting will review the city’s health insurance plan, provide an update on collective bargaining and union contracts, discuss the 2026 budget, and give a status report on the tobacco litigation and related Article 78 proceeding. The session is a rescheduled meeting originally set for October 30, which was cancelled. All items are on the agenda for discussion, with two items potentially moving to executive session.

• Health insurance discussion
• Collective bargaining/union contracts update
• 2026 budget discussion
• Tobacco litigation and Article 78 proceeding update

The Common Council voted 8-0 to enter an executive session under Open Meetings Law §105(1) to discuss collective bargaining negotiations and pending litigation. No other actions were taken, and the meeting adjourned at 9:16 p.m.

• Approved entry into executive session on collective bargaining and litigation (8-0)

Common Council

The Common Council amended the 2025 budget by $49,961 to allocate new revenue and authorize expenditures (7‑0). It authorized a snow‑removal and salting agreement with the Cortland Enlarged School District for the 2025‑2026 school year (7‑0). The Council also approved a design‑services contract with Saratoga Associates for the Randall Park restroom renovation and pavilion project, not to exceed $77,125 (7‑0). Additionally, the Council accepted donations totaling $568 for the Police Department and $3,280 for the Youth Bureau (each 7‑0).

• Approved Modification of 2025 Budget by $49,961 (7‑0)
• Authorized agreement with Cortland Enlarged School District for snow removal and salting (7‑0)
• Authorized agreement with Saratoga Associates for Randall Park design services up to $77,125 (7‑0)
• Accepted Police Department donations totaling $568 (7‑0)
• Accepted Youth Bureau donations totaling $3,280 (7‑0)
• Adopted November 2025 Monthly Financial Report (7‑0)
• Approved minutes of October 21, 2025 meeting (7‑0)

Planning Commission

The commission granted a one‑year extension for the 30 River St. site plan and flood‑plain permit (4‑0). It denied the 52 Clayton Ave. site plan despite ZBA variances (3‑1). It approved the subdivision at 8‑8½ South Ave., the site plans for 212 Tompkins St. and 139 N. Main St., and a special‑use permit for 82 Pomeroy St., all with conditions where noted (each 4‑0).

• Approved 30 River St. extension (4‑0)
• Denied 52 Clayton Ave. site plan (3‑1)
• Approved 8‑8½ South Ave. subdivision with conditions (4‑0)
• Approved 212 Tompkins St. site plan (4‑0)
• Approved 139 N. Main St. site plan (4‑0)
• Approved 82 Pomeroy St. special‑use permit with conditions (4‑0)

Common Council

The Cortland Common Council will meet to approve modifications to the tentative budget. The meeting will be held at City Hall and streamed via Zoom.

• Approve modifications to the tentative budget
• Council Member Katy Silliman may virtually attend via videoconferencing
• Public viewing via Zoom Meeting Room ID: 923 566 4700

Common Council

The Common Council will examine the tentative budget proposals for six city entities: the Police Department, the Department of Public Works, the Department of Administration & Finance, the Law Department, the Common Council itself, and the Mayor's Office. The meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2025 at City Hall and will be streamed via Zoom. No final budget decisions are indicated; the agenda calls for review of the proposals.

• Review of tentative budget for the Police Department
• Review of tentative budget for the Department of Public Works
• Review of tentative budget for the Department of Administration & Finance
• Review of tentative budget for the Law Department
• Review of tentative budget for the Common Council

The Common Council reviewed departmental budgets, including Police, Public Works, Administration & Finance, Law, Council, and the Mayor's office. Recommendations were made to decrease a Public Works line item and increase another for snow‑removal overtime, and to raise retiree expenses and revenue to reflect a 1% tax levy increase. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals approved area variances for 8‑8 ½ South Ave. and 52 Clayton Ave., and a use variance for 73 N. Main St., each with specific conditions. The board also determined that a use variance was not required for 8 ½ South Ave. and upheld a zoning interpretation for 28 Madison St. All votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved area variances for 8‑8 ½ South Ave. (including 8 South Ave.) with conditions (3‑0)
• Determined use variance not required for 8 ½ South Ave. (2‑1)
• Approved area variances for 52 Clayton Ave. with condition (3‑0)
• Approved use variance for 73 N. Main St. with condition limiting to 7 parked vehicles (3‑0)
• Upheld zoning interpretation for 28 Madison St. (3‑0)

Common Council

The Cortland Common Council meeting on October 23, 2025 will review the tentative budgets for four city departments. Items include the Fire Department, the Wastewater Treatment Facility, the Youth Bureau, and the Office of the City Clerk. The budget documents are posted online at the city website.

• Agenda Item No. 1 – Review of Tentative Budget for the Fire Department
• Agenda Item No. 2 – Review of Tentative Budget for the Wastewater Treatment Facility
• Agenda Item No. 3 – Review of Tentative Budget for the Youth Bureau
• Agenda Item No. 4 – Review of Tentative Budget for the Office of the City Clerk

The council held a budget review session. Department heads presented tentative budgets for the Fire Department, Wastewater Treatment Facility, Youth Bureau, and Office of the City Clerk. The council recommended decreasing the Youth Bureau revenue line A7010 42350 by $80,000 and reducing the corresponding expense line proportionally due to loss of funding from Cortlandville. No formal votes or approvals were recorded.

Police Commission

The Cortland Police Commission meeting on Oct. 22, 2025 will review prior meeting minutes and reports, consider updates on technology grants, recruitment, equipment, and training, and discuss new business including hiring interviews, the 2025 budget, 2026 budget progress, special patrol officer positions, and the PBA contract. Decisions may be made on budget allocations and personnel appointments.

• Approval of minutes from the September 24, 2025 meeting
• Review of LE Tech Grant – Power DMS (FTO, Policy, Engage)
• Appointment interviews and hiring for police positions
• Discussion of the 2025 spending/budget and 2026 budget progress
• Update on the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) contract

The Police Commission approved the minutes of the August meeting and the September bills totaling $37,099.05. It then voted to enter an executive session to discuss personnel matters, and later adjourned the meeting.

• Approved August meeting minutes (motion by Whitlock, second by Michales)
• Approved September bills totaling $37,099.05 (motion by Hansen, second by Starr)
• Moved into executive session at 4:41 p.m. (motion by Hansen, second by Michales)
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:07 p.m. (motion by Starr, second by Michales)

Common Council

The Common Council approved Resolution 168, creating two full‑time Special Patrol Officer positions as School Resource Officers for the Cortland Enlarged School District and eliminating two part‑time police officer positions previously assigned as SROs. The council also adopted Resolution 166, acknowledging receipt of the 2026 tentative city budget and setting dates for budget review meetings, public hearings, and final adoption. Resolution 167 was adopted to schedule a public hearing on November 4, 2025 regarding the renewal of Spectrum’s fifteen‑year cable franchise. The council received and filed the 2026 tentative budget and the 2025 tree‑planting program update by unanimous consent.

• Approved Resolution 168 creating two SRO Special Patrol Officer posts and eliminating two part‑time police SRO positions (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 166 to receive 2026 tentative budget and set budget review meeting dates (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 167 to hold a public hearing on Spectrum franchise renewal on Nov 4, 2025 (6‑0)
• Received and filed the 2026 tentative city budget (unanimous consent)
• Received and filed the 2025 City Tree Planting Program update (unanimous consent)
• Approved minutes of the October 7, 2025 council meeting (6‑0)

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners will meet to review September 2025 reports and budget status. The meeting includes updates from the Chief, Deputy Chief, and Battalion Chief.

• Approval of September 2025 Paid Staff Sick Report
• Approval of September 2025 Credit Card Statement
• Review of 2025 Year to Date Fire and Code Budget Status Reports
• Apparatus and Training update from the Battalion Chief

The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the September meeting minutes, accepted the September sick‑leave report, and accepted the September financial report, each by unanimous vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved September meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted September sick‑leave report (all in favor)
• Accepted September financial report (all in favor)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape & Design Commission will review and approve the Fall 2025 Planting Program, including tree selections and Franklin Street plantings. It will consider a change to the National Grid tree order and related funding, as well as plans for tree and stump removal and replanting. The committee will also address the LDC membership transition to Cortland County DEC Director Matt Swayze and receive updates on NYS‑DEC inventory, the Ash Tree Management Grant, and the CNY Regional Planning and Development Grant.

• Fall 2025 Planting Program planning – 15 NYSEG tree selections and Franklin St. plantings
• National Grid tree order change and funding
• Tree and stump removal and replanting plan (in‑house or contractor)
• LDC membership transition to Cortland County DEC Director Matt Swayze
• Updates on NYS‑DEC inventory, Ash Tree Management Grant, and CNY Regional Planning and Development Grant

The commission voted to approve the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes. Members reported that 34 trees will be planted this fall, with the remainder scheduled for spring 2026, and 15 sites were selected for the NYSEG donation, including five lindens for the S. Franklyn St. compost area. No updates were given on the NYS‑DEC inventory plan, ash‑tree grant, or CNY regional planning grant. Additional items discussed included removal of grates on S. Main St., a proposal for a volunteer tree‑pruning group, and the chair’s pending resignation.

• Approved September 10, 2025 minutes (2‑0 vote)

Common Council

The Cortland Common Council approved several resolutions, including adding health plan options for city employees, issuing a special event permit for a housing‑insecure outreach, authorizing a police SWAT inter‑municipal agreement with Syracuse, and establishing a part‑time School Resource Officer. It also approved the donation of abandoned bicycles to the Youth Bike Initiative and ratified the collective bargaining agreement with the School Crossing Guards Association. All actions were adopted unanimously or with all present members voting aye.

• Approved October 2025 Monthly Financial Report (7‑0)
• Accepted September 16, 2025 Council minutes (7‑0)
• Authorized agreement to add healthcare plans (7‑0)
• Approved special event permit for Compassion to Action (7‑0)
• Authorized inter‑municipal police SWAT agreement with Syracuse (7‑0)
• Authorized School Resource Officer MOU, $35,000 salary (8‑0)
• Authorized donation of abandoned bicycles to Youth Bike Initiative (8‑0)
• Ratified collective bargaining agreement with School Crossing Guards Association (8‑0)

Police Commission

The Police Commission will meet to discuss personnel matters, including hiring interviews and a potential change to a 4-10 work schedule. The body will also review memorandums of understanding with Syracuse PD SWAT and Cortland CSD SRO.

• PBA Contract Negotiations
• Considering 4-10 Schedule
• MOU With Syracuse PD SWAT
• MOU SRO Cortland CSD
• Exception to Tattoo Policy

The commission approved the minutes from the August meeting and authorized $44,667.48 in August bills. New patrol cars 17 and 25 were placed into service, and two older vehicles were donated to community agencies. Negotiations began on a new police union contract, and the commission decided not to pursue a 4‑10 work schedule. A memorandum of understanding with Syracuse PD SWAT and an updated MOU with Cortland CSD were also approved.

• Approved August meeting minutes
• Approved August bills totaling $44,667.48
• Placed new cars 17 and 25 into service
• Donated old K9 vehicle to local hospital
• Donated older detective vehicle to the SPCA
• Started negotiations on PBA contract
• Decided 4‑10 schedule is no longer being considered
• Approved MOU with Syracuse PD SWAT

Common Council

The Common Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a local law allowing members to attend meetings via videoconference under extraordinary circumstances. The body is also reviewing several special event permits and the sale of impounded vehicles.

• Proposed Local Law 6 of 2025 authorizing virtual attendance for Common Council members
• Special Event Permit for Annual Trunk or Treat on Main St. (Oct 25, 2025)
• Special Event Permit for Cortlandville Masonic Lodge Chicken BBQ at City Hall lot (Oct 25, 2025)
• Sound Device Permit for bullhorns at Indivisible Cortland protest rally (Oct 18, 2025)
• Authorization to sell five abandoned and two surplus vehicles from the impound lot

The Common Council adopted Local Law No. 6, allowing members to attend meetings by videoconference under extraordinary circumstances, with a 5‑0 vote. The council also approved special event permits for the Annual Trunk or Treat on Main St., a chicken‑BBQ for Cortlandville Masonic Lodge, and a sound‑device permit for an Indivisible Cortland protest rally, each by a 5‑0 vote. Minutes from the August 19 and September 4 meetings were approved unanimously.

• Approved August 19 and September 4 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Adopted Local Law No. 6 authorizing videoconferencing for council meetings (5‑0)
• Approved special event permits for Annual Trunk or Treat on Main St., Oct 25 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved special event permit for Cortlandville Masonic Lodge Chicken BBQ, Oct 25 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved sound‑device permit for Indivisible Cortland protest rally, Oct 18 2025 (5‑0)

Fire Commission

The Cortland Fire Commission will consider several routine items, including the minutes from the August 2025 meeting, approval of the August 2025 paid staff sick report, and approval of the August 2025 credit card statement. The commission will also receive the 2025 year‑to‑date fire and code budget status reports and updates from the chief officers and volunteer coordinators. No new business or decisions beyond these reports are listed.

• Minutes from the August 2025 Board of Fire Commissioners Meeting
• Approval of Paid Staff Sick Report: August 2025
• Approval of Credit Card Statement: August 2025
• Fire and Code Budget Status Reports for 2025 Year to Date
• Updates from Chief, Deputy Chief, Battalion Chief, and volunteer coordinators

The Board of Fire Commissioners unanimously approved the August meeting minutes. They also accepted the August sick‑leave report and the August financial (credit‑card) report. No other substantive actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved August meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted August sick‑leave report (all in favor)
• Accepted August financial report (all in favor)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape and Design Commission will approve minutes from July and August, review the Fall 2025 Planting Program, and discuss the status of the NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant.

• Approve July 9, 2025 and August 13, 2025 minutes
• Review Fall 2025 Planting Program (tree selections, Port Watson St. median)
• Discuss NYS-DEC Ash Tree Management Grant
• Review CAPCO elm tree removals
• Discuss Ithaca Notice of Concern

The Landscape & Design Commission approved the July 9 and August 13 meeting minutes. The proposal to plant median trees on Port Watson Street was deferred until next year. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved July 9, 2025 minutes
• Approved August 13, 2025 notes
• Deferred Port Watson St. median tree planting to next year

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals approved area variances for 94 Greenbush St., 20 South Ave., 25 Mildred Ave., and 68 Pomeroy St. (with conditions). It denied the variance requests for 8‑8 ½ South Ave. and 52 Clayton Ave. All votes were 3‑0 in favor of the board members present.

• Approved area variance for 94 Greenbush St. (3‑0)
• Approved area variance for 20 South Ave. (3‑0)
• Approved area variance for 25 Mildred Ave. (3‑0)
• Approved area variance for 68 Pomeroy St. with conditions (3‑0)
• Denied area variance for 8‑8 ½ South Ave. (3‑0)
• Denied area variance for 52 Clayton Ave. (3‑0)

Common Council

The Common Council adopted several resolutions, including authorizing an agreement with Solar Simplified to offer the NYS Community Solar Program and modifying the 2025 budget by $47,005. It approved special event permits for the 9/11 ceremony, the Crown City Latinx Festival, a car show at Yaman Park, and the Guthrie Cortland Trick‑or‑Trot 5K. The Council also accepted donations for the Police Department and Youth Bureau and set a public hearing on a virtual‑attendance local law.

• Authorized agreement with Solar Simplified for Community Solar Program (Resolution 146)
• Modified 2025 adopted budget by $47,005 (Resolution 147)
• Approved special event permit for 9/11 ceremony at Courthouse Park (Resolution 148)
• Approved special event permit for Crown City Latinx Festival on Sep 20, 2025 (Resolution 149)
• Approved special event permit for car show at Yaman Park on Sep 27, 2025 (Resolution 150)
• Approved special event permit for Guthrie Cortland Trick‑or‑Trot 5K on Oct 26, 2025 (Resolution 151)
• Accepted and recognized donation to the Police Department (Resolution 152)
• Accepted and recognized donation from Porchfest to the Youth Bureau (Resolution 153)

Police Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the July meeting and approved July bills totaling $91,979.34. A motion was passed to enter Executive Session at 4:32 p.m. to discuss personnel matters, and the meeting was adjourned at 5:03 p.m. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved July meeting minutes (motion Whitlock, second Starr)
• Approved July bills totaling $91,979.34 (motion Hansen, second Michales)
• Entered Executive Session at 4:32 p.m. for personnel matters (motion Hansen, second Michales)
• Exited Executive Session at 5:01 p.m. (motion Starr, second Michales)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:03 p.m. (motion Starr, second Michales)

Common Council

The Cortland Common Council adopted Resolutions 136 through 144. The actions include updating Main Street traffic patterns, adopting fire department cost‑recovery fees, scheduling public hearings on fee setting and community‑development needs, authorizing art contracts for downtown revitalization, approving two special‑event permits, over‑hiring a wastewater‑treatment operator, and awarding micro‑enterprise assistance funds from a CDBG grant. No vote tallies were recorded in the minutes.

• Adopted Local Law No. 4 to update city traffic regulations for two‑way Main St. patterns (Resolution 136)
• Adopted proposed local law relating to fire department cost‑recovery fees (Resolution 137)
• Set September 2, 2025 public hearing for proposed law to set city permit, license and other fees (Resolution 138)
• Set September 2, 2025 public hearing on community‑development needs and possible CDBG applications (Resolution 139)
• Authorized contracts with artists for downtown revitalization art installations (Resolution 140)
• Approved special‑event permit for C.A.R.E Recovery Picnic at Suggett Park, Sept. 6, 2025 (Resolution 141)
• Approved special‑event permit for Family & Children’s Counseling Services Compassion to Action event at Courthouse Park, Sept. 19, 2025 (Resolution 142)
• Authorized over‑hire of one wastewater‑treatment plant operator through Dec. 31, 2025 (Resolution 143)

Fire Commission

The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the July meeting minutes, the July sick‑leave report, and the July financial report, each by unanimous consent. They also accepted the resignation of volunteer Jaylynn Robinson and welcomed new volunteer Thomas McGill, both by unanimous vote.

• Approved July meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved July sick‑leave report (all in favor)
• Approved July financial report (all in favor)
• Accepted resignation of volunteer Jaylynn Robinson (all in favor)
• Accepted new volunteer Thomas McGill (all in favor)

Landscape & Design Committee

The committee reviewed the Fall 2025 Tree Planting Program, including suggestions on tree staking and updates on tree availability. Members reported on the status of NYS‑DEC inventory and ash‑tree management grants, and noted funding expectations for the 2026 planting program. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Planning Commission

The commission approved site plan reviews for 95 Port Watson St., 26-28 Elm St., 156-162 Tompkins St., 40 Grant St., and 66 Pendleton St., each with specified conditions. It also approved the site plan and special use permit for 40 Grant St. with additional city and FEMA requirements. The subdivision request for 8‑8½ South Ave. was tabled for further review. Minutes from the June 2 and July 7, 2025 meetings were also approved.

• Approved 95 Port Watson St. site plan with conditions (4-0)
• Approved 26-28 Elm St. site plan with conditions (4-0)
• Approved 156-162 Tompkins St. site plan & special use permit with conditions (4-0)
• Approved 40 Grant St. site plan & special use permit with conditions (4-0)
• Approved 66 Pendleton St. site plan (4-0)
• Tabled 8‑8½ South Ave. subdivision request (4-0)
• Approved minutes of June 2, 2025 meeting (4-0)
• Approved minutes of July 7, 2025 meeting (4-0)

Common Council

The Common Council adopted multiple resolutions scheduling public hearings on proposed local laws, including updates to traffic regulations for the newly converted two‑way Main Street, loitering and public order, and e‑bikes and scooters. It also authorized a sales‑tax agreement with Cortland County, reappointed the city assessor, and approved participation in PFAS litigation. Additional actions included approving special event permits for St. Mary’s School Color Run and modifying the 2025 budget by $13,801.01. All resolutions were approved unanimously (6‑0).

• Adopted Resolution 120 to set Aug 19 public hearing on traffic regulation updates (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 121 to set Aug 19 public hearing on loitering and public order law (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 122 to set Aug 19 public hearing on e‑bikes, gas‑assisted bikes, and scooters law (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 124 to authorize sales‑tax agreement with Cortland County (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 125 to reappoint Brian Fitts as City Assessor (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 126 to authorize city participation in PFAS litigation (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 127 to approve special event permits for St. Mary’s School Color Run (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 134 to modify 2025 budget by $13,801.01 (6‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved area variances for six properties, with conditions attached to two of them. The variance request for 8‑8 ½ South Ave. was tabled pending additional site plans. All votes recorded were 3‑0 in favor, and no members opposed any motion.

• Approved with conditions – 37 Madison St. (3‑0)
• Approved as submitted – 28 Main St. (3‑0)
• Tabled – 8‑8 ½ South Ave. (3‑0)
• Approved with conditions – 26‑28 Elm St. (3‑0)
• Approved as submitted – 7 Pendleton St. (3‑0)
• Approved as submitted – 156‑162 Tompkins St. (3‑0)
• Approved as submitted – 95 Port Watson St. (vote not recorded)

Police Commission

The commission approved the minutes of the June meeting and authorized June bills totaling $32,907.19. A motion was made and seconded to enter Executive Session to discuss personnel matters, and the session was later closed. The meeting was adjourned after the Executive Session.

• Approved June meeting minutes (motion by Comm. Whitlock, second by Comm. Michales)
• Approved June bills totaling $32,907.19 (motion by Comm. Hansen, second by Comm. Starr)
• Entered Executive Session at 10:06 a.m. to discuss personnel matters (motion by Comm. Hansen, second by Comm. Michales)
• Exited Executive Session at 10:23 a.m. (motion by Comm. Michales, second by Comm. Hansen)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:30 a.m. (motion by Comm. Starr, second by Comm. Michales)

Historic or Architectural Review Board

The Cortland Historic Commission approved the application to install a lit façade sign for Sun Dog Downtown Clubhouse at 28 Main St. The commission also approved a lit façade sign for Fruit Da La Sol at 50 Main St. Both motions were adopted with a unanimous 5‑0 vote.

• Approved lit façade sign for Sun Dog Downtown Clubhouse at 28 Main St. (5-0)
• Approved lit façade sign for Fruit Da La Sol at 50 Main St. (5-0)

Common Council

The Common Council adopted "Cortland" as the city’s official song by a 7‑0 vote. It also approved seven resolutions authorizing the mayor to apply for state grant funding for projects such as a new fire‑engine truck, accessibility improvements at City Hall, housing rehabilitation, and a Main Street anchor renovation. All grant‑related resolutions passed unanimously (7‑0). The council also approved the transfer of police firearms to a federally‑approved dealer and the donation of a surplus police vehicle to a local medical center.

• Adopted "Cortland" as official city song (7‑0)
• Authorized application for up to $1,000,000 Small Cities CDBG to fund a fire‑engine truck (7‑0)
• Authorized application for up to $50,000 CDBG Planning grant for City Hall accessibility (7‑0)
• Authorized application for up to $750,000 CDBG Housing Rehabilitation grant (7‑0)
• Authorized application for up to $500,000 NY Main Street Anchor grant for 110 Main St. (7‑0)
• Authorized application for Smart Growth Funding for zoning updates (vote not shown, assumed approved)
• Authorized application for NY BRICKS funding for a new community recreation center (vote not shown, assumed approved)
• Authorized police department to transfer firearms to a federally‑approved dealer (7‑0)

Fire Commission

The commission approved the June meeting minutes after a motion by Commissioner Hotchkiss and a second by Vice‑Chair Quinlan; all members voted in favor. A motion by Vice‑Chair Quinlan and a second by Commissioner Saddlemire approved the June sick‑leave report, with unanimous support. The June credit‑card purchases financial report was accepted after a motion by Vice‑Chair Quinlan and a second by Commissioner Saddlemire, also unanimously.

• Approved June meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved June sick‑leave report (all in favor)
• Approved June financial report (all in favor)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape & Design Commission approved the June 11, 2025 minutes. Members discussed the fall 2025 tree planting program and the NYS‑DEC grant, noting $39,000 for tree removal and $26,000 for planting. The commission assigned Batzing to contact Ryan Harriott about transferring tree‑application files and to reach out to Ithaca arborist Jeanne Grace regarding hazard certification. The regional planning grant was reported as back on track.

• Approved June 11, 2025 minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Assigned Batzing to contact Ryan Harriott about transferring tree‑application folder
• Assigned Batzing to contact Ithaca arborist Jeanne Grace about tree‑hazard certification

Planning Commission

The commission approved the site‑plan for 152 Clinton Avenue and approved a subdivision and lot‑line adjustment that creates three new parcels on Commando Avenue and Bartlett Avenue. It also approved the site‑plan for the three new parcels at 8 Commando Avenue, 95 and 98 Bartlett Avenue, with eight specific conditions. All motions passed unanimously (4‑0).

• Approved Site Plan for 152 Clinton Ave. (4‑0)
• Approved subdivision of 1‑3 Commando Ave. into 3 Commando Ave. & 98 Bartlett Ave. (4‑0)
• Approved 10‑ft lot line adjustment consolidating 3 Commando Ave. with 5 Commando Ave. (4‑0)
• Approved subdivision of 8 Commando Ave. into 8 Commando Ave. & 95 Bartlett Ave. (4‑0)
• Approved Site Plan for 8 Commando Ave., 95 & 98 Bartlett Ave. with conditions (4‑0)

Common Council

The Common Council approved an $84,376.60 amendment to the 2025 adopted budget. It also authorized an agreement with Toshiba America Business Solutions for managed print and cloud services. A sound‑device permit for two bullhorns at an Indivisible Cortland protest rally was approved without fee. Council members voted to receive and file grant and capital‑project status documents.

• Amended 2025 budget by $84,376.60 (5‑0 ayes)
• Authorized agreement with Toshiba America Business Solutions (5‑0 ayes)
• Approved sound‑device permit for Indivisible Cortland protest rally (no vote recorded)
• Accepted motion to receive and file grant and capital‑project status documents (5‑0 ayes)

Police Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the May meeting and the May bills totaling $141,755.34. A motion was passed to enter Executive Session at 9:56 a.m. for personnel matters, then to exit Executive Session at 11:08 a.m. The meeting was adjourned at 11:11 a.m.

• Approved May meeting minutes (motion by Starr, second by Whitlock)
• Approved May bills totaling $141,755.34 (motion by Hansen, second by Starr)
• Moved into Executive Session at 9:56 a.m. (requested by Sponaugle, second by Michales)
• Exited Executive Session at 11:08 a.m. (motion by Michales, second by Sponaugle)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:11 a.m. (motion by Michales, second by Starr)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Cortland Zoning Board of Appeals approved area variances for seven properties and upheld an appeal of a zoning officer’s interpretation. One variance request (26-28 Elm St.) was tabled. Several approvals included conditions such as parking limits, sign compliance, and coordination with Code Enforcement.

• Approved area variance for 7 Randall St. (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 4 S. Franklin St. (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 8 Randall St. (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 10 Hickory Park Rd. with a four‑vehicle long‑term parking limit (3-0)
• Tabled area variance for 26-28 Elm St. (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 152 Clinton Ave. with a condition that the pole sign be brought into code compliance (3-0)
• Approved area variance for 1-3,5,8 Commando Ave. with a condition to work closely with Code Enforcement (3-0)
• Upheld appeal of zoning officer’s interpretation for 79 Main St. (vote not recorded)

Common Council

The Common Council approved the minutes of the May 20, May 27 and June 3 meetings. It approved special event permits for the Great Pumpkinfest (Oct. 4‑5) and the ADA Celebration (July 26). The council amended the 2025 Management Plan to add lifeguard‑related positions and set higher wages. Finally, it authorized an agreement with Thoma Development Consultants to provide administrative and program‑delivery services for the $7.5 million Community Development Block Grant for housing rehabilitation.

• Approved minutes of May 20, May 27 and June 3 meetings (8‑0)
• Approved special event permits for the Great Pumpkinfest (8‑0)
• Approved special event permits for the ADA Celebration (8‑0)
• Amended Management Plan to add lifeguard positions and set wage increases (8‑0)
• Authorized agreement with Thoma Development Consultants for CDBG grant administration (8‑0)

Fire Commission

The commission approved the May meeting minutes, the May sick‑leave report, and the May financial report. Each motion was made by a commissioner or the vice‑chair, seconded by another commissioner, and passed with all members in favor. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved May meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved May sick‑leave report (all in favor)
• Approved May financial report (all in favor)

Landscape & Design Committee

The Landscape & Design Commission did not approve any motions or vote on any items. The meeting consisted of procedural notes, status updates on tree planting, grant applications, and upcoming actions. No substantive decisions were recorded.

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Board of Public Works approved the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting with a 6‑0 vote. It also voted to deny a grievance over quarterly water charges for the property at 32‑34 Pomeroy St., again by a 6‑0 vote. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved minutes of April 8, 2025 meeting (6-0)
• Denied quarterly water charge grievance for 32-34 Pomeroy St. (6-0)

Common Council

The Common Council approved a $34,740 amendment to the 2025 budget and set a second public hearing for the $500,000 Community Development Block Grant. It also approved special event permits for the YMCA Downtown Fun Run and the C.A.R.E. Recovery Picnic, reappointed Paul Quinlan to the Housing Authority board, and declared fire department and Youth Bureau equipment surplus for sale. Finally, the council appointed Dana Merkur to fill the Ward 1 Councilperson vacancy through Dec 31 2025.

• Resolution 77 – Amend 2025 budget by $34,740 (5‑0)
• Resolution 78 – Schedule second CDBG public hearing June 17 2025 (5‑0)
• Resolution 79 – Approve YMCA Downtown Fun Run special event permit (5‑0)
• Resolution 80 – Approve C.A.R.E. Recovery Picnic special event permit (5‑0)
• Resolution 81 – Reappoint Paul Quinlan to Housing Authority board (5‑0)
• Resolution 82 – Declare Fire Department equipment surplus and authorize sale (5‑0)
• Resolution 83 – Declare Youth Bureau equipment surplus and authorize sale (5‑0)
• Resolution 84 – Appoint Dana Merkur as Ward 1 Councilperson (5‑0)

Planning Commission

The commission tabled two applications from Vince Fragnoli concerning subdivision and site‑plan review until July 7, 2025. It approved a site‑plan for 236 Main St., a special‑use permit and site‑plan for 160 Clinton Ave., and an extension for 32 Miller St. All votes were unanimously in favor. The minutes of the May 3, 2025 meeting were also approved.

• Tabled Agenda 2025.06‑01 (Fragnoli subdivision/consolidation) to July 7, 2025 (5‑0)
• Tabled Agenda 2025.06‑02 (Fragnoli site‑plan) to July 7, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved site‑plan for 236 Main St. (CAPCO) (5‑0)
• Approved special‑use permit for 160 Clinton Ave. (Keystone Novelties) (5‑0)
• Approved site‑plan for 160 Clinton Ave. (Keystone Novelties) (5‑0)
• Tabled Agenda 2025.06‑05 (Elm St. parking and driveway) pending detailed drawings (5‑0)
• Approved extension of site‑plan for 32 Miller St. to 2 June 2026 (Calabro Properties) (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of May 3, 2025 meeting (5‑0)

Common Council

The Common Council approved special event permits for the Cortland Arts off Main Festival on August 2, 2025, and for PorchFest on August 17, 2025. Both resolutions passed with a 6‑0 vote. The agenda item titled “Home Rule Request” was tabled after a 6‑0 vote. The meeting adjourned at 6:09 p.m.

• Approved special event permits for Cortland Arts off Main Festival (6-0)
• Approved special event permits for PorchFest (6-0)
• Tabled Home Rule Request agenda item (6-0)

Police Commission

The Police Commission approved the minutes from the April meeting and authorized April bills totaling $106,594.13. It also voted to enter and later exit an Executive Session to discuss personnel matters, and then adjourned the meeting. No vote tallies were recorded for these actions.

• Approved minutes of April meeting (motion by Hansen, second by Starr)
• Approved April bills totaling $106,594.13 (motion by Starr, second by Hansen)
• Approved motion to enter Executive Session at 9:34 a.m. (motion by Sponaugle, second by Michales)
• Approved motion to exit Executive Session at 9:49 a.m. (motion by Hansen, second by Whitlock)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:18 a.m. (motion by Hansen, second by Michales)

Historic or Architectural Review Board

The Cortland Historic Commission approved three modification applications: a new Premier Roofing sign at 77 Main St., an elevator shaft extension for the Cortland Free Library at 32 Church St., and two ground‑mounted HVAC units at the same library with a condition to screen them with shrubbery. The commission also adopted the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting and agreed to develop mural guidelines for the downtown historic district.

• Approved Premier Roofing sign (84"w × 36"h) at 77 Main St. – Ayes 4, Nays 0
• Approved elevator shaft extension (~8'‑6") at 32 Church St. – Ayes 4, Nays 0
• Approved HVAC units at 32 Church St. with shrubbery screening condition – Ayes 4, Nays 0
• Approved minutes of the April 15, 2025 meeting – Ayes 4, Nays 0

Common Council

The council approved special event permits for a July 26 benefit concert and a June 14 YMCA 5K run, authorized an agreement for financial auditing services, and approved a lease of a downtown parking area. It designated the city as lead agency and a Type II action for the Maple Avenue over Otter Creek culvert replacement. The council accepted a $100,000 donation from Bailey Place Insurance for playground and gym improvements at Parker School.

• Approved special event permits for the Reunion of the Ages Benefit Concert (4-0)
• Approved special event permits for the YMCA Viking 5K Run (4-0)
• Authorized Mayor Steve to enter into an agreement for financial auditing services (4-0)
• Authorized lease of parking area at 76-78 Main St. up to $20,000 for 12 months (4-0)
• Designated the city as Lead Agency and a Type II action for Maple Ave culvert replacement (4-0)
• Accepted and appropriated $100,000 donation from Bailey Place Insurance for Parker School playground and gym (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board approved an area variance for Donna Davis‑Howard to install an in‑ground pool at 22 Delaware Ave. It also approved an area variance with conditions for Nicholas Holcomb to widen the driveway at 40 Pearl St. Two other applications—Vincent Fragnoli’s multiple lot‑size variances and Paul Stewart’s parking‑area variance—were tabled for a June 10 special meeting. All motions passed unanimously (3‑0).

• Approved area variance for pool at 22 Delaware Ave. (3‑0)
• Approved area variance with conditions for driveway at 40 Pearl St. (3‑0)
• Tabled Vincent Fragnoli’s multiple area variance requests (3‑0)
• Tabled Paul Stewart’s parking area and fence relocation variance (3‑0)

Landscape & Design Committee

The commission could not approve the April 4, 2025 minutes because a quorum was not present. Members discussed planning for a fall 2025 tree‑planting program, grant status updates, and recent tree‑related concerns, but no votes or approvals were recorded. The next meeting is scheduled for June 11, 2025.

Fire Commission

The Fire Commission approved the minutes from the April meeting. The April sick‑leave report was accepted. The April financial report was accepted. All motions passed with unanimous support.

• Approved April meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted April sick‑leave report (all in favor)
• Accepted April financial report (all in favor)

Common Council

The Common Council approved the minutes from the April 15 and April 22 meetings. It confirmed Mayor Steve’s appointments of Julie Ray and Randall Lewis to the City Ethics Committee. The council approved event permits for the St. Anthony’s Italian Festival and the Dark Horse Tavern 50th Anniversary celebration. The City Driver and Vehicle Use Policy was received and filed.

• Approved minutes of April 15 & 22, 2025 meetings (8‑0)
• Confirmed appointment of Julie Ray and Randall Lewis to the City Ethics Committee (8‑0)
• Approved event permits for St. Anthony’s Italian Festival, June 7‑8, 2025 (8‑0)
• Approved event permits for Dark Horse Tavern 50th Anniversary, July 19, 2025 (8‑0)
• Received and filed City Driver and Vehicle Use Policy (motion by Pennello)

Planning Commission

The commission adopted a negative SEQR declaration, approved a special‑use permit, and approved the site plan with testing and fire‑lane conditions for a new generator building at 134 Homer Avenue. All three motions passed unanimously (4‑0). The minutes from previous meetings were also approved.

• Negative SEQR declaration approved (4‑0)
• Special use permit approved (4‑0)
• Site plan approved with conditions (4‑0)
• Minutes of Jan 6, Mar 3, Apr 7 approved (4‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved five area variance applications and one flood‑plain development permit at its April 28, 2025 meeting. Each motion received unanimous approval (4‑0) from the board members present. Two variances (15 Cherry Lane and 91 Pendleton St.) were approved with specific conditions, while the others were approved as submitted. The meeting was adjourned at 6:41 p.m.

• Approved area variance for 134 Homer Ave (4‑0)
• Approved area variance with conditions for 15 Cherry Lane (4‑0)
• Approved area variance with conditions for 91 Pendleton St (4‑0)
• Approved area variance with condition for 34 Evergreen St (4‑0)
• Approved area variances and flood‑plain development permit for 8‑10 Samson St (4‑0)

Police Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the March meeting. It also approved the March bills of $33,661.18 and the February bills of $64,431.21. The body entered an executive session to discuss personnel matters and then adjourned the meeting at 10:17 a.m.

• Approved March meeting minutes
• Approved March bills totaling $33,661.18
• Approved February bills totaling $64,431.21
• Moved into Executive Session to discuss personnel issues
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:17 a.m.

Common Council

The Common Council adopted Resolution No. 58, authorizing the issuance of up to $1,856,930 in serial bonds to finance three capital projects. The projects include a ladder truck, Randall Park restroom reconstruction, and a water‑quality improvement system, with a combined estimated maximum cost of $5,183,730. The resolution was approved by a 6‑0 vote and takes effect immediately.

• Approved Resolution No. 58 authorizing $1,856,930 serial bonds (6‑0)
• Authorized up to $1,000,000 bonds for a ladder truck purchase
• Authorized up to $306,330 bonds for Randall Park restroom reconstruction
• Authorized up to $550,600 bonds for water‑quality improvement project
• Designated $3,326,800 in federal and state grants to fund the projects
• Delegated bond issuance authority to the City Director of Administration & Finance
• Stated the resolution is not subject to a mandatory or permissive referendum
• Resolution takes effect immediately upon adoption

Historic or Architectural Review Board

The Historic Commission voted 5‑0 to approve the application to repair and reconstruct the terrace at 29 Tompkins Street. The motion was made by Member O’Connell and seconded by Member Dineen. The board also approved the minutes of the February 18, 2025 meeting with a corrected vote record, also by a 5‑0 vote. The meeting adjourned at 8:31 a.m.

• Approved terrace repair and reconstruction at 29 Tompkins St. (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of February 18, 2025 meeting with correction (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Dineen)

Common Council

The Common Council accepted the April 1 minutes and proclaimed May as Frontline Worker Appreciation Month. It approved seven special event permits for dates in May and June, with vote counts ranging from 4-1 to 5-0. The council also declared police department equipment surplus and authorized its sale at auction.

• Accepted April 1 minutes (5-0)
• Proclaimed May as Frontline Worker Appreciation Month (no vote recorded)
• Approved Event Permits for National Day of Prayer (5-0)
• Approved Event Permits for YMCA Corn Ducky Derby 5K & Youth Waddle (5-0)
• Approved Event Permits for Cruise Nite Car Show (4-1)
• Approved Event Permits for Cortland County Mental Health Walk (5-0)
• Approved Event Permits for Cortland County Dairy Parade (5-0)
• Declared Police Department equipment surplus and authorized sale at auction (outcome recorded, vote not specified)

Fire Commission

The commission unanimously approved the February and March meeting minutes, the February and March sick‑leave reports, and the February and March financial reports. It also decided to wait for the next civil service list before hiring a new firefighter. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

• Approved February meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved February sick‑leave report (unanimous)
• Approved March sick‑leave report (unanimous)
• Approved February financial report (unanimous)
• Approved March financial report (unanimous)
• Decision to wait for next civil service list for new firefighter (no vote recorded)

Landscape & Design Committee

The committee approved moving the 2025 tree‑planting program to the fall after learning spring expenses were not in the budget. Members secured a $5,330 pledge from Steve and Janine Franco and will notify tree recipients of the delay. The commission arranged for the city’s Master Tree List to be sent to LaBella Associates for the NYS‑DEC inventory, which is to be completed by Dec 31 2025. Grant paperwork for a $65,000 NYS‑DEC Ash Tree Management grant was completed and will be discussed with the DEC, while the mayor will refer a hazardous‑tree complaint notice to the law department.

• Batzing will email the Cortland Master Tree List to Mayor Steve for forwarding to LaBella Associates
• LaBella Associates will finish the city’s tree inventory and management plan by Dec 31 2025
• Steve and Janine Franco pledged $5,330 to fund the fall 2025 tree‑planting program
• The commission will send a letter to 2025 tree recipients informing them of the program’s delay
• Thoma Development will handle only grant writing for the tree program moving forward
• The commission will obtain three estimates before selecting a tree‑purchase vendor, expanding beyond Schichtel’s
• Grant paperwork for the $65,000 NYS‑DEC Ash Tree Management grant has been completed and will be presented to the DEC
• Mayor Steve will refer the Ithaca hazardous‑tree “Notice of Complaint” to the city law department for review

Public Works & Public Safety Commission

The Board of Public Works accepted the minutes from the February 11 and January 14, 2025 meetings. It also denied a grievance over quarterly water charges for the property at 53 Hamlin St. Both actions passed unanimously with a 7‑0 vote. No other decisions were recorded.

• Accepted minutes of Feb 11 and Jan 14, 2025 meetings (7‑0)
• Denied water charge grievance for 53 Hamlin St. (7‑0)

Planning Commission

The commission approved site plan reviews for Riverside Plaza, 51‑53 & 55 Main St., and 199 Clinton Ave. It denied the site plan for 159 Port Watson St. but approved a special use permit for parking there until September 30, 2026. Commissioners also elected Chris Peppel as Vice Chair.

• Approved site plan for 178 Clinton Ave (Riverside Plaza) – Ayes 4, Nays 0
• Approved lot consolidation and site plan for 51‑53 & 55 Main St – Ayes 4, Nays 0
• Denied site plan review for 159 Port Watson St – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved special use permit for 159 Port Watson St (parking) until 9/30/2026 – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved site plan for 199 Clinton Ave – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved special use permit for 199 Clinton Ave – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Elected Chris Peppel Vice Chair of the Planning Commission – Ayes 5, Nays 0

Common Council

The Common Council approved Local Law No. 3 of 2025, amending Chapter 29 to let the council adopt a management plan for all non‑union city employees (5‑0 vote). It also adopted the City Management and Non‑Contractual Compensation Plan (5‑0 vote) and updated several city personnel policies. Additional actions included a $45,500 budget amendment, a new tobacco retail license fee, a trash and recycling contract with Blue Moose, a request for proposals for waste collection at the Groton Ave. parking lot, and a supplemental glass recycling program.

• Adopted Local Law No. 3 of 2025 to authorize council‑approved management plan for non‑union employees (5‑0)
• Adopted City Management and Non‑Contractual Compensation Plan (5‑0)
• Updated and adopted multiple city personnel policies (no vote recorded)
• Amended the 2025 budget by $45,500 (no vote recorded)
• Established a local tobacco retail license fee (no vote recorded)
• Authorized agreement with Blue Moose Sanitation Services for trash and recycling collection (no vote recorded)
• Authorized request for proposals for waste and recycling collection at Groton Ave. parking lot (no vote recorded)
• Authorized supplemental recycling program for glass collection (no vote recorded)

Police Commission

The Police Commission approved the minutes of the January meeting. It also approved the January bills totaling $66,891.87 and the February bills totaling $64,431.21. The Commission entered Executive Session at 10:13 a.m. for personnel matters, exited at 10:20 a.m., and adjourned the meeting at 10:23 a.m.

• Approved minutes of the January meeting
• Approved January bills totaling $66,891.87
• Approved February bills totaling $64,431.21
• Moved into Executive Session at 10:13 a.m. (personnel matters)
• Exited Executive Session at 10:20 a.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 10:23 a.m.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board approved area variances for 159 Port Watson St, 178 Clinton Ave, and 71 Floral Ave, each passing 5‑0. Conditions requiring code compliance by September 30 2027 were attached to two of the approvals. The board also elected Tom Larson as chair and Kyle Davis as vice chair, both unanimously. All motions were adopted without opposition.

• Approved area variance for 159 Port Watson St (5-0)
• Approved area variance for 178 Clinton Ave (5-0)
• Approved area variance for 71 Floral Ave (5-0)
• Elected Tom Larson as ZBA chair (5-0)
• Elected Kyle Davis as ZBA vice chair (5-0)
• Approved minutes of the previous meeting (5-0)