Canandaigua City Council moved forward Monday with a series of flood mitigation measures and formally approved the sketch plan for a controversial residential development, capping a packed agenda that also included capital budget amendments and public safety equipment upgrades.
The Council unanimously passed multiple resolutions related to the Waterchase Residential Subdivision, a planned 27.4-acre development proposed by Canandaigua Homes LLC between North Road, Stewart Place, and Kennedy Street. The body issued a negative declaration under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), determining that the project will not have a significant impact on the environment. The Council also approved the development’s sketch plan and corresponding rezoning under the city’s Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinance.
The plan will allow higher residential density and altered development standards, including increased lot coverage and front-facing garages. Officials praised the proposal for aligning with the city’s 2020 Comprehensive Plan, noting it adds housing variety and enhances connectivity. Final approval remains contingent on adherence to a detailed phasing plan and stormwater management conditions.
“We’ve taken a hard look at this and believe the project will benefit Canandaigua without compromising environmental or neighborhood integrity,” Mayor Bob Palumbo said during the meeting.
$5.8M flood control plan gets green light
Council members also approved the use of existing flood mitigation funds to support two new initiatives. The first allocates $10,000 to Colliers Engineering to prepare a grant application under the state’s Resilient Watershed Grant Program. If successful, the city could receive millions in funding to implement a $5.88 million suite of improvements across the Sucker Brook Sub-Watershed.
The second allocation sets aside $25,000 to support the voluntary donation and legal transfer of nine acres on North Street and associated easements on Buffalo Street. The city plans to use the land for a new stormwater detention facility aimed at reducing downstream flooding.
A separate resolution formally authorized the submission of the grant application to the state.
Police department upgrades unveiled
The Council approved a capital budget amendment to replace damaged electrical service infrastructure at the city’s police department. Rochester Gas & Electric will cover the cost of external work, while the city will pay $35,000 for internal repairs, including rewiring and a new junction box.
The Council also authorized the use of $38,585 from the Police Asset Seizure & Forfeiture Reserve to purchase two new laptops, radar units, and 35 updated Glock 47 service weapons. Police Chief Mathew Nielsen said the upgrades were not included in the department’s 2025 budget but were necessary due to hardware failures and an ongoing equipment transition.
“These tools are critical for officer safety and operational readiness, especially with the department’s new electric vehicles arriving later this year,” Nielsen stated in his proposal to Council.
Recognition and routine business
In a moment of reflection, the Council honored Public Utilities Maintenance Assistant Mark Francese with a resolution of thanks for his 34 years of service. Francese began his career in 1988 and worked through numerous administrations and emergencies, including sewer line and water main breaks.
Other resolutions passed Monday included budget amendments to support a GIS intern position, declare surplus city vehicles, and authorize a license agreement and event permit for the annual Butterfly Trail celebration.
The meeting concluded with an executive session. No action was taken afterward.
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