While fire department staffing dominated the conversation at the December 10 Canandaigua City Council meeting, there were several other significant actions, including finalizing the 2025 budget, addressing handicapped parking concerns, adjusting water rates, and supporting some local development initiatives.
The council approved the $7.4 million tax levy for 2025 and various fee schedule changes, including contracts for essential city services. These contracts covered hauling bio solids and securing chemical supplies, such as sodium hydroxide and ferric chloride, crucial for the continued operation of the city’s water treatment plant.
Water rates for 2025 will increase slightly. City customers will pay $5.77 per 1,000 gallons of water, while suburban customers will pay $7.94 per 1,000 gallons. Officials explained that the increase is necessary to offset rising operational costs.
In response to public concern, the council discussed downtown handicapped parking regulations. Following public concerns City Manager John Goodwin pledged to review signage and ensure compliance with accessibility requirements.
To support local businesses, the council authorized a memorandum of understanding with the Town of Canandaigua to continue funding the Canandaigua Local Development Corporation (CLDC). Both municipalities will contribute $40,000 each for 2025, maintaining efforts to boost economic development. Council member Dan Unrath underscored the need for clearer deliverables from the CLDC moving forward.
Additionally, the council approved a $40,000 budget for the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID), aimed at enhancing the city’s commercial center through maintenance and improvement projects.
The meeting also saw the acceptance of a memorial bench donation from the Canandaigua Kiwanis Club, honoring long-time member R. Stuart Morris. The bench will be installed at the City Pier for public use and enjoyment.
Environmental matters were also addressed. The council determined that planned improvements to the city’s water treatment plant would not pose significant environmental risks, clearing the way for necessary upgrades.
To close out the meeting, the council approved a new meeting schedule for 2025. Regular council meetings will move to the third Monday of each month, with committee meetings scheduled for the first and second Mondays.
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