The Seneca County Board of Supervisors met last week to address a series of resolutions aimed at infrastructure improvements, economic development, and public safety initiatives. Among the key actions taken were approvals for a major water project in the Village of Ovid, grant applications for public works, and measures to support housing development.
Support for Water Infrastructure and Economic Revitalization in Ovid
The board approved two resolutions supporting ongoing revitalization efforts in Ovid, particularly in response to a devastating fire that destroyed a commercial block in the village earlier this year. Resolution #47 provides funding for water infrastructure improvements, ensuring the affected area is “shovel ready” for future redevelopment. The project includes the installation of new water mains and filtration systems.
Bruce Murray, chair of the County Industrial Development Agency (IDA), underscored the importance of this investment. “For a developer to commit private capital, they need to see that the site is prepared,” Murray said. “Public infrastructure investment is a necessary first step.”
Resolution #44, a planning grant, was also approved to determine the most viable economic uses for the redeveloped space.
Land Bank Updates and Housing Projects Move Forward
Jill Henry and Joe McGrath of the Finger Lakes Regional Land Bank presented their annual report, detailing efforts to rehabilitate blighted and tax-abandoned properties. They highlighted ongoing partnerships with Seneca Housing, Inc., to create new affordable housing units in Willard and Ovid.
One significant project includes the construction of seven residential units across four sites, supported by $500,000 in county funding and an anticipated $3.4 million in state grants.
“We’ve taken steps to ensure these properties are shovel-ready so we can move quickly once funding is secured,” McGrath said, emphasizing a strategic shift toward reducing vacancy rates and increasing affordable housing availability.
Budget Amendments and Financial Adjustments
The board approved several amendments to the 2024 county budget, reallocating funds across multiple departments. Adjustments included transfers for community college tuition payments, sheriff’s department salaries, and emergency management expenditures.
Additionally, the board authorized an application for a $1 million County Infrastructure Grant through Empire State Development, which could further support public works projects and economic revitalization efforts.
Public Safety and Emergency Management Initiatives
In law enforcement matters, the board authorized Sheriff Tim Thompson to apply for a New York State Canal Corporation grant to fund marine patrol operations. The $40,000 grant would enhance safety on county waterways, with a 25% funding match provided by the county.
Other public safety measures included the approval of an intermunicipal agreement allowing the county jail to house inmates from other counties and the continued leasing of office space for the sheriff’s department at Waterloo Premium Outlets for a symbolic fee of $1 per year.
The board also greenlit the reclassification of a psychiatric social worker position and the addition of two peer advocate roles within the Mental Health Department. These positions, funded through opioid settlement grants, aim to expand support services for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
Environmental and Agricultural Concerns Addressed
The board voted to send a letter urging the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to fund hydrilla treatment at Sheldrake Point on Cayuga Lake.
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 [email protected].