The Auburn City Council approved a trio of resolutions Thursday evening, including the sale of a city-owned lot, updates to the city’s plumbing regulations, and a contract award for a regional watershed study. But the meeting’s business proceedings were preceded by a tense and emotional public comment session, dominated by concerns over layoffs at the Auburn Correctional Facility and sidewalk safety.
During the “Public to Be Heard” portion, residents voiced concerns ranging from neighborhood revitalization efforts to calls for stronger municipal responses to state actions. Arlene Ryan of Orchard Street, representing the Orchard Street Area Association, delivered a heartfelt update on the group’s decades-long efforts to improve the neighborhood. She recognized two residents — Charles Amstell and Paul Gaviano Sr. — with Good Neighbor awards.
In stark contrast, James Chambers, a Swift Street resident, criticized the city’s response to what he described as mass layoffs of correctional officers in Auburn. Chambers demanded accountability from local officials and accused them of failing to support affected workers.
Mayor James Giannettino forcefully rejected those claims, calling them “baseless and absurd.”
“I have signed my name to a lawsuit against the state,” he said, referencing his opposition to state criminal justice reforms and support for correctional staff. “Leadership comes in many forms, and I do not refuse meetings with anyone.”
Another speaker, Andrew Bishop, echoed concerns about the environmental risks associated with water toxins in Owasco Lake and repeated frustrations over unanswered FOIL requests about Fire Department finances.
Later, Charles Amstell raised pedestrian safety issues, citing icy and neglected sidewalks. City staff clarified that enforcement is typically complaint-driven but assured that property owners can be held responsible when violations are confirmed.
Council Actions
The council unanimously approved Land Sale Resolution #32 of 2025, authorizing the sale of a six-acre, wooded parcel at 175 Murray Street Extension to RJC Development, Inc. for $14,000. The property was acquired through tax foreclosure and is zoned commercial.
Corporation Counsel Nate Garland noted that RJC had previously attempted to acquire the land in conjunction with the adjacent parcel on John Walsh Boulevard, where the company has since built its headquarters. The deal had fallen through due to issues with the prior owners, not the buyer.
“This was always part of their development plan,” Garland said. “They currently employ about 20 people, and this enables potential expansion.”
The transaction will involve a quit claim deed and requires the buyer to cover all title and closing costs.
Council also passed Resolution #33 of 2025, updating sections of the city’s Rules and Regulations for Plumbing and Drainage. The revisions allow homeowners — rather than only licensed master plumbers — to obtain permits for minor fixture replacements that can be isolated by shutoff valves. The changes also realign plumbing fee references to the city’s annual budget, streamlining administrative processes.
Director of Municipal Utilities Seth Jensen explained that the updates aim to simplify basic maintenance tasks for residents while ensuring safety and oversight remain intact.
Lastly, Award Resolution #34 of 2025 was adopted, awarding a contract to support the Owasco Lake Subwatershed Stream Corridor Assessment — a project funded through the state’s water quality improvement initiatives. The work is part of Auburn’s ongoing commitment to protecting its primary drinking water source from harmful algal blooms and sedimentation.
Additional Updates
City Manager Jeff Dygert reported that engineering crews are finalizing bid documents for Auburn’s annual road program. Asbestos testing has been completed at the police station ahead of upcoming renovations, and ADA-compliant sidewalk upgrades are planned in coordination with the state-funded CHIPS paving initiative.
Mayor Giannettino also updated the public on efforts to address skyrocketing NYSEG bills, encouraging residents to visit the local walk-in office at 73 Wright Circle.
As budget season looms, he reiterated calls for increased AIM (Aid and Incentives for Municipalities) funding, reading a letter co-signed by over 300 local leaders urging the state to commit to predictable annual aid increases.
Councilors also shared reflections on recent community events, including volunteer work with the Sleep in Heavenly Peace bed-building nonprofit and participation in the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
The meeting concluded without further public comment. Minutes from the March 13 meeting are expected to be reviewed at a later date.
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