Tensions flared and long-simmering frustrations boiled over at Geneva’s July 2 City Council meeting, where neighbors demanded action on a burned-out building, officials pitched an eight-figure rec center overhaul, and the fire chief made a million-dollar ask to replace a rig on its last legs.
Public hearings spotlight blighted property and grant opportunities
The Council held three public hearings. The most contentious centered on 314-316 Castle Street — a plaza destroyed by fire in 2022. Residents urged the city to begin enforcement proceedings under Chapter 111 of the municipal code, citing safety hazards, environmental concerns, and long-standing inaction.
Dan Long, an architect working with the current property owners, updated the Council on demolition preparations. He said asbestos testing was completed and contractors like Rock Environmental were awaiting final reports before submitting bids. Long emphasized that the owners were not requesting more time but hoped to meet city-imposed deadlines for cleanup.
Neighbors, however, expressed frustration. Linda and Arthur Iqunazi, whose home is near the property, said delays were unacceptable. “It has stood abandoned and condemned for much, much too long,” said Arthur. Another neighbor, Sharon Hogan, noted safety concerns and questioned the presence of hazardous materials post-fire. All called on the Council to move forward with enforcement to compel demolition.
The Council also held brief, uneventful hearings on the sale of 63 Gates Avenue and a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for New York State’s 2025 consolidated funding program.
Recreation report reveals aging infrastructure, high costs
City Manager Amie Hendrix introduced a detailed presentation by Jared Heinlein of Beardsley Architects on the future of the city’s Recreation Complex. The facility, built in the 1970s and modestly updated in the 2000s, is struggling with outdated systems — especially its ice rink refrigeration unit, which Heinlein said is obsolete and nearly impossible to maintain.
Three options were outlined:
- Option 1: Minimal rehab at $8–10 million, offering a facelift but few layout improvements.
- Option 2: Partial demolition and reconstruction of support areas to create a multi-use community center at a cost in the high teens.
- Option 3: Complete teardown and rebuild, projected at over $30 million.
Heinlein and Hendrix noted the availability of funding through the New York State BRICKS program for community centers, though a 20% local match would be required.
City eyes fire engine replacement through CDBG funds
Fire Chief Del Parrotta requested Council support to pursue a $1 million CDBG grant to replace the department’s 2006 fire engine. The truck, now in its 19th year, has exceeded its useful life and requires increasingly costly maintenance — over $14,000 last year alone.
The estimated replacement cost is $1.1 to $1.2 million, meaning the city would need to cover $100,000 to $200,000. The truck also plays a role in the city’s insurance rating, a fact highlighted by Chief Parrotta in response to questions about sharing apparatus with neighboring departments. Councilors generally supported pursuing the grant.
Council seeks more oversight in small business grant review
Councilors initiated a discussion on adding a council liaison to the committee that oversees Geneva’s Microenterprise Assistance Program (MAP), now rebranded as BEST. Currently, IDA, LDC, and BID representatives review grant applicants, but Council plays no role in the review process. Pealer and others supported adding a non-voting liaison to ensure transparency.
City Manager Hendrix said the mayor could appoint a representative without further legislative action.
Heated discussion over West Street School project and city authority
The Council revisited concerns about the Geneva City School District’s controversial expansion project at West Street School. City leaders and neighbors have raised concerns about neighborhood impact and traffic. However, a letter from the district’s attorney asserted that all legal approvals had been obtained and warned the city against obstructing the project — even threatening litigation.
Mayor Steve Valentino criticized the letter’s tone, calling it “disappointing” and “not kind or polite.” Councilors debated whether they had any authority to halt or amend the project and whether the city should be compensated for road improvements related to school traffic.
Council gets updates on other business
The Council approved meeting minutes from May and June and amended the agenda to include a resolution in support of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Scenic Byway. The session concluded with public comment and routine administrative reports.
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