Auburn City Council met Thursday for a meeting that covered a range of pressing issues, from infrastructure investments to community development projects. With Mayor Jimmy Giannettino absent, the council led by the remaining members, heard updates on ongoing capital improvements, considered future adjustments to water and sewer rates, and approved measures aimed at enhancing public spaces. Among the key topics were a review of city plumbing regulations, an expansion of the community garden at Miles/Lepak Park, and support for a county grant application to boost local housing development.
Water and sewer rates evaluated
Municipal Utilities Director Seth Jensen presented a detailed analysis of Auburn’s water and sewer rates, comparing them to other upstate cities and offering projections for future costs. Jensen noted that Auburn’s water and sewer rates remain competitive, with the city’s average quarterly bill falling below both the state and national averages.
Despite the city’s competitive pricing, the analysis suggested that minor annual rate increases—about 2% per year—could help Auburn proactively maintain and upgrade aging infrastructure. Jensen highlighted ongoing capital projects, such as the raw water intake extension and wastewater treatment plant upgrades, and emphasized the importance of reinvestment to avoid large, sudden cost increases in the future.
“We’re sitting on 100-year-old infrastructure,” Jensen said. “If we can move toward cash-flowing some of these projects instead of financing them, we’ll save significant money on interest over time.”
The council will consider potential rate adjustments in the coming months.
Plumbing board updates and potential code change
Jensen also provided an update on the city’s plumbing board, outlining its role in certifying plumbers, updating codes, and ensuring safe installations for Auburn residents. He announced that a resolution will be introduced soon to allow homeowners to replace simple fixtures—such as toilets, faucets, and dishwashers—without hiring a licensed plumber, a move aimed at reducing costs and increasing convenience for residents.
“Right now, it’s technically illegal to replace your own toilet without a plumber,” Jensen noted. “This change would allow homeowners to make simple replacements while maintaining safety standards.”
Community garden expansion gets green light
The council also unanimously approved a resolution allowing for the expansion of a community garden at Miles/Lepak Park. The project, which will add approximately 2,000 square feet of garden space and ten new raised beds, is intended to improve food security, provide educational opportunities, and encourage community engagement.
Councilor Rhoda Overstreet-Wilson, who introduced the resolution, highlighted the health and environmental benefits of the initiative. “Community gardens promote access to fresh food, encourage physical activity, and strengthen neighborhood ties,” she said.
Other business from Feb. 27
- The council approved a resolution supporting Cayuga County’s $1 million grant application for infrastructure improvements at a site proposed for a 70-unit housing development on Dunning Avenue.
- An update was provided on the ongoing Hoopes Park Pond restoration, which has faced weather-related delays but is expected to resume progress in the coming weeks.
- The council entered an executive session to discuss real estate matters and personnel issues.
The next city council meeting is scheduled for March 4 at 6:30 p.m. in Memorial City Hall.
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