The Village Board in Penn Yan approved five local laws and advanced multiple public projects during its May 20 meeting, addressing zoning reforms, short-term rental inspections, sewer penalties, and traffic regulations.
The meeting opened with three public hearings. The board adopted Local Law C, which modifies the terms of Planning and Zoning Board of Appeals members, sets new training standards, and introduces fees for external plan reviews. Another public hearing led to the adoption of Local Law D, authorizing periodic fire safety and property inspections for short-term rental units in the village.
Trustees also approved Local Law F, which raises administrative fees for sewer violations to a maximum of $5,000 and provides clarification on shared sewer laterals. Mayor Danny Condella said the updates allow the village to pass enforcement fines from the Department of Environmental Conservation onto the responsible parties.
In a fourth public hearing, Local Law J was adopted to address chronic delivery truck congestion on Maiden Lane. The law requires delivery vehicles to use a nearby municipal lot instead of blocking the narrow roadway. Mayor Condella noted that construction-related activity at 148 Main Street will still require proper right-of-way permits.
The board also reviewed concerns related to the upcoming Cruisin’ Night event, particularly the timing of street closures and volunteer barricade management. Trustee Dan Henries relayed safety concerns raised by the Public Safety Committee. Despite the discussion, trustees agreed to maintain the previously approved 1 p.m. closure to avoid last-minute changes to event logistics.
Several community events received approvals, including the Keuka Outlet Half Marathon and 10K on July 19, the second annual Wagers Apple Festival on October 11, and fireworks for the Penn Yan Youth Baseball and Softball closing ceremony on June 21. Trustees also granted a waiver for fees related to the Stone Walk event and issued a one-month peddler’s license for a Firehouse Concessions fundraiser benefiting Sheldon Hose Company.
In other business, the board appointed Mike Madigan to the Zoning Board of Appeals and accepted the resignation of Shirley Owens from the Historic Preservation District Commission.
Trustees also approved a June 25 joint public hearing with the Town of Benton on the Yates Cultural and Recreational Resources annexation petition. Jill Bird, representing YCRR, said planning for the proposal remains on track.
Later, the board heard a presentation on legal services related to PFAS contamination settlements. Jerry King outlined how municipalities can seek portions of a $12 billion national settlement against chemical manufacturers.
On the infrastructure front, the board approved 10 motions from the Municipal Utilities Board, including change orders for water and sewer projects, fuel bids, and contractor agreements. Officials noted progress on the Main Street water main replacement and preparation for a $1.1 million interceptor sewer project along the Outlet Trail.
The board adopted multiple motions to finalize the 2025-2026 fiscal year budget, including salary schedules, tax levy resolutions, and insurance renewals. Clerk-Treasurer Holly Easling explained changes in coverage, noting that Selective Insurance and CFC Insurance were selected for general and cyber liability, respectively.
Additional staffing actions included the hiring of a new parking enforcement officer, appointment of several summer recreation assistants, and the permanent appointment of Deputy Clerk Margaret Brennan.
The meeting concluded with department reports, an executive session regarding a personnel matter, and updates on the Downtown Revitalization Initiative at Lake Street Park, where construction is expected to begin within days.
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