As fall and winter approach, the Village of Cayuga is requesting input from residents regarding a potential shift in how water and sewer debt is billed. Mayor Don Wilson Jr. announced that the Village Board is considering moving the debt portion of water and sewer bills to the village tax bill. The idea has been discussed over the past decade and was recently affirmed as possible by the village’s new legal counsel.
Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the proposal to Village Board members, as the decision may be put to a public vote during the March election. “Feedback would be greatly appreciated… so a decision is made as a collective of the community,” said Mayor Wilson.
Downtown revitalization initiatives
In addition to the billing proposal, Cayuga is advancing its Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Grant process. Mayor Wilson praised the efforts of local property owners and volunteers who have contributed to project submissions, which include park improvements at McIntosh Park. The village’s strategic investment plan will be finalized by the end of November, with funding announcements expected in spring or early summer 2025.
Comprehensive Plan update and call for volunteers
The village’s Comprehensive Plan, which guides development for the next decade, is also undergoing an update, with the current plan having been adopted in 2013. The Village Board is seeking volunteers to assist in the review and update of the plan, which will address significant changes in the community since its original adoption.
“We are looking for a couple of volunteers from the public to assist in the review,” said Mayor Wilson, emphasizing the importance of public input on the document that will shape the village’s future.
Call for continued community involvement
Mayor Wilson highlighted the importance of volunteerism in the village’s progress, noting that previous committees have paved the way for current funding opportunities. “The people who VOLUNTEER created these opportunities,” he said, extending gratitude to those who contributed to past initiatives, such as the 2013 Comprehensive Plan and the 2018 Zoning Rewrite Committee.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed via the village’s Facebook page and website for updates on the DRI, upcoming meetings, and local events, including the Christmas Tree Lighting at Harris Park on December 6.
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