At its June 3 meeting, the Seneca Falls Town Board voted to lift a previously imposed hiring freeze and formally designated Convention Days as an official town event. The board also conducted a public hearing on a proposed local law addressing solar energy systems and stormwater management, approved several contracts, and discussed infrastructure and staffing needs.
Town Supervisor Frank Schmitter opened the public hearing concerning proposed Local Law #2, which would amend Chapter 300, Chapter XIV regarding solar energy systems and add Chapter 159 on erosion control and stormwater management. With no public comments received, the hearing was closed following a motion by Councilwoman Kaitlyn Laskoski and Councilwoman Dawn Dyson.
During the privilege of the floor, Charlie Cappellino, representing the comprehensive plan implementation committee, provided an update on its progress, including efforts to improve communication through newsletters and town halls. Diana Smith and Adrinne Emmo presented plans for this year’s Convention Days, including collaborations with local organizations and a special appearance by the mayor of Tenafly, New Jersey.
Police Chief Tim Snyder, presenting on behalf of Axon representative Jake Edelen, outlined a proposed $995,000 ten-year technology package including updated body cameras, tasers, AI report-writing tools, and virtual training systems. District Attorney Barry P. Nabinger expressed support, particularly for the real-time translation features.
The board voted 3-2 to lift the town’s hiring freeze, citing urgent staffing needs in emergency and essential services. The resolution noted that the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) had encouraged lifting the freeze despite ongoing negotiations. Voting in favor were Supervisor Schmitter, Councilmen Jackson Puylara and Frank Sinicropi, while Councilwomen Laskoski and Dyson opposed.
A motion to declare Convention Days as an official event of the Town of Seneca Falls passed unanimously. The resolution highlighted the town’s historic role in the women’s rights movement and set July 18–20, 2025, for the event. A planning committee will be appointed by the supervisor to coordinate efforts with Convention Days, Inc.
The board approved a resolution supporting a grant application for the Intermunicipal Water Quality Demo Network. Supervisor Schmitter stated the project would incur no costs to the town, with the required match covered through Hobart labor.
In other action, the board approved:
- The town’s application to the Greater Tompkins County Municipal Health Insurance Consortium, despite concerns raised by Councilwoman Laskoski.
- A SEQRA determination of non-applicability for repainting the “It’s a Wonderful Life” Bridge.
- Per diem reimbursement of $165 to Detective Christopher Denny for attending a child safety training conference.
- Purchase of new evidence tracking software for the Police Department from Erin Technology for $4,724.
- Hiring Albert Kemp as a Motor Equipment Operator at $23.45/hour, subject to a background check and drug screening, with a 3-2 vote.
- Contracting McGhan Inc. at $95/hour for ditch and drainage work on an as-needed basis, over objections about the bidding process.
- Awarding a water valve installation contract to Ontario Water Tap, LLC.
- Increasing tapping fees to $1,020 for short-side and $1,800 for long-side water service connections, including asbestos removal costs.
- Establishing a $10 zoning permit extension/renewal application process.
- Issuing water leak and pool filling credits totaling $699.28 to 11 accounts.
Special event approvals included the Flotsam River Circus (Aug. 14), Cycle the Erie Canal (July 15), Girl Scouts NYPENN Pathways 2026 Annual Meeting (May 1–3), and Scouting America Summer Kickoff (June 10).
The board accepted departmental reports and communications. Councilman Sinicropi raised concerns about unresolved industrial grievances and delays in generator installation at the water treatment plant.
The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss litigation, labor negotiations, and personnel matters. No actions were taken following the session.
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