Seneca County’s newly formed Water-Sewer Authority held its first meeting this week, marking a major step toward strengthening the region’s infrastructure through collaboration and long-term planning.
The board convened March 27 for its launch meeting following the Authority’s creation by the state Legislature. The move comes after a county-commissioned study and extensive consultation with local officials concluded that a unified Authority would best support countywide infrastructure development.
“The Board of Supervisors has positioned Seneca County for growth,” said the board’s Chairman Mike Enslow. “This Authority represents an opportunity to think creatively, be collaborative, and to elevate the County’s position in the region as a destination for investment and development.”
The Authority’s Board of Directors, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, includes Curtis Biery, Brian Preston, Faith Smith, Robert Carroll, Tom Dyson, Clara Walborn, Damon Nicholson, Greg Keefe, and Mike Shores. Board members will serve staggered one- to three-year terms.
During the meeting, the board reviewed the Authority’s formation process, examined existing infrastructure across the county, and discussed models from similar authorities in other counties. They named Daniel Schmalzel, the County’s current Director of Water and Sewer Operations, as Interim Executive Director to oversee daily operations.
Robert Carroll of Romulus was elected chairman of the board. He praised county leadership for its strategic thinking and said the board is committed to helping Seneca County achieve its economic development goals.
The Authority plans to meet monthly, with early efforts focused on setting operating procedures and developing intermunicipal strategies. The next meeting is scheduled for April 24 at 5:30 p.m. in the Board of Supervisors Meeting Room.
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