As he nears the end of his tenure, Odessa Mayor Gerry Messmer took time to recognize key village officials for their service while providing an update on the ongoing water project.
In a recent column, Messmer congratulated Department of Public Works Supervisor Steve Siptrott on his upcoming retirement, praising his decades of dedication to the village. Siptrott, set to retire on April 1, has been a fixture in Odessa, working long hours to keep the village running smoothly while also serving in the fire department. “His work ethic and commitment to Odessa are unequaled in the history of the village,” Messmer wrote.
Messmer also acknowledged the contributions of three departing village trustees. Deputy Mayor Tom Letteer is stepping down after nearly two decades of service, while Kristine “Sparky” Gardner and Alijia “AJ” Bailey are also leaving their posts. He credited Letteer for his steady leadership, Gardner for bringing fresh ideas and her commitment to veterans, and Bailey for her attention to detail in financial matters.
In his update on the water project, Messmer announced that Phase 2 is set to begin on March 24, weather permitting. This phase includes constructing a new water treatment plant on Vacri Court, designed to enhance the village’s water system for future generations. The project is expected to take about 18 months. Additionally, the old water tower will be removed this spring as part of the upgrades.
Messmer encouraged residents to help maintain the village’s appearance, particularly by preserving newly restored green spaces along the sidewalks. He promised a final update after the upcoming elections to provide further details on ongoing projects and to congratulate the newly elected officials.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.