The Auburn City Council tackled major infrastructure, environmental, and public safety issues during a packed session on May 8, 2025, including awarding a $784,405 contract for road improvements and reaffirming its commitment to clean water through watershed protection initiatives.
City awards $784K road improvement contract
The Council unanimously approved a bid from Northern Asphalt LLC for the 2025 Road Improvement Program, totaling $784,405. The program includes milling, resurfacing, patching, and sidewalk work across multiple city streets.
- Work will begin once the New York State budget is finalized, as it provides critical funding.
- Northern Asphalt was the city’s contractor last year and was praised for its milling and paving capabilities.
Lake protection remains a top priority
The Council renewed its support for Lake Friendly Living Awareness Month, spotlighting efforts to reduce pollution and protect Owasco Lake, the city’s primary drinking water source.
Adam Effler, Executive Director of the Owasco Lake Watershed Management Council, presented updates on:
- New state requirements for designating Owasco Lake as an impaired waterbody due to harmful algal blooms (HABs).
- Expanded wetland protections by New York State.
- The council’s successful efforts to gain 100% municipal financial participation for 2025, totaling $53,750, with Auburn providing the largest share.
Effler also announced Lake Friendly Living Awareness Day on May 17 at Emerson Park, where residents can participate in conservation activities.
Public speaks out on parking enforcement
During the public comment period, resident Cindy Cooper raised concerns about non-enforcement of alternate side parking in high-traffic areas near Perine and State Streets. She warned the situation was dangerous for emergency access and personal safety:
“If it’s a law, enforce it year-round. It’s unsafe, and someone’s going to get hurt.”
Motorcycle safety spotlighted
The Council also proclaimed May as Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month, emphasizing the need for all drivers to watch for motorcycles. Dennis Pelmear of ABATE (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) highlighted statewide efforts to reduce rider fatalities and increase public awareness:
- 28 times more likely for motorcyclists to die in crashes compared to car occupants.
- 750,000 licensed motorcyclists in New York State, with accidents rising, especially in urban areas.
Water system handles extreme rainfall
City staff reported that recent heavy rainfall overwhelmed parts of the sewer and stormwater systems:
- 45 million gallons passed through the wastewater plant—far above the 8 million average.
- Multiple Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) were activated, prompting NY Alerts.
- Staff managed Owasco Lake’s elevation and floodgate operations to prevent damage.
Mayor Jimmy Giannettino praised city crews, noting “to go through a rain event like that and have no complaints from lake residents is remarkable.”
What’s next?
- May 15, 5 p.m.: Public hearing on Verizon’s cable franchise renewal.
- May 22, 5 p.m.: Hearings on Local Law #1 of 2025 and the city’s 2025–2026 budget.
- May 26: Auburn’s annual Memorial Day Parade, with a May 16 registration deadline.
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