Environmental concerns, economic development, and public health took center stage at the April 22 meeting of the Cayuga County Legislature, where lawmakers backed a resolution opposing the expansion of the Seneca Meadows landfill, recognized Mental Health Awareness Month, and heard updates on growing support for small businesses across the region.
Held at the Ward O’Hara Agricultural Museum, the meeting included a packed agenda covering legal settlements, departmental staffing, state grant approvals, and appointments to local boards. Public comment periods saw passionate appeals from residents on issues ranging from tree removals tied to roadwork to staffing shortages in child protective services.
The Legislature also laid the groundwork for a May public hearing on a proposed local law to adjust salaries for certain county officers, and issued a formal proclamation highlighting the importance of mental wellness in the community.
Appointments and approvals
The Legislature approved multiple appointments:
- Frederick Hess to the Fire Advisory Board.
- Brian Muldrow, Brian Soper, Cathy Peluso, and Kari Terwilliger to the Cayuga Cortland Workforce Development Board.
Settlements and legal resolutions
Three tax certiorari settlements were approved:
- McDonald’s Corp at 198 Grant Avenue received a reduced assessment from $2 million to $1.8 million with no refund issued.
- McDonald’s Real Estate Co at 357 Genesee Street retained its assessment of $1,237,500.
- Marc Sholinsky’s property in Scipio retained its 2024 assessment; however, adjusted values were established for 2025 through 2027.
Health and human services
The Legislature approved multiple initiatives aimed at improving health and social services:
- Acceptance of a $690,000 “Leading with Lead” grant from NYS Homes and Community Renewal.
- Participation in the Drinking Water Enhancement Program with annual funding of $110,881 through 2031.
- Authorization to fill vacancies in the Health and Social Services Departments, including public health, caseworker, and social worker positions.
- A $15,000 contract with Booker T. Washington Community Center for summer camp services.
- A lease agreement renewal for the Office for the Aging at the Edward T. Boyle Center.
Veterans and government ops
The Veterans Service Agency was authorized to fill a part-time officer and driver positions in anticipation of upcoming vacancies. A public hearing was scheduled for May 27 regarding salary adjustments for elected and appointed county officers.
Public works and planning
The Legislature authorized contracts related to Emerson Park and other facilities, including:
- Preventive maintenance of sewer lift stations.
- Fireworks for Independence Day.
- Hospitality management at the Emerson Park Pavilion.
- Facility cleaning and chiller maintenance services.
Public safety and grants
The Sheriff’s Office was authorized to:
- Accept grants including the Operation Stonegarden, STRIVE, and STOP DWI awards.
- Enter agreements for community safety programs, including a distracted driving simulator for Auburn High School and continued STOP DWI outreach.
The Legislature also approved a temporary shift change for Sheriff’s Road Patrol Sergeants to a 12-hour rotation for a six-month pilot beginning May 1.
Resolutions and public comments
In legislative business, the board passed a resolution supporting the closure of the Seneca Meadows landfill. Public speakers, including members of FFI Climate Action, advocated for the resolution, citing environmental and public health concerns.
Residents also raised concerns about infrastructure impacts on private property and staffing crises at the Department of Social Services. One speaker cited excessive caseloads and requested bonuses and staffing reforms, while another called for stronger watershed protections for Owasco Lake.
Next meeting
The Legislature adjourned to meet again on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., where further discussion on the local law for salary increases is scheduled.
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