The Auburn City Council approved two major projects Thursday night and officially launched the city’s new occupancy tax. The meeting also featured updates on summer programs, parking changes, and a significant legal victory related to Owasco Lake.
Road work and police renovations approved
Councilors unanimously approved construction contracts totaling over $660,000. One project will widen the Standart Avenue and North Street intersection, improve drainage, and upgrade sidewalks and signage. Casanella Excavating of Warners, New York, submitted the low bid at $509,264.34. The state’s Touring Route Program will fund the work.
Construction will begin later this summer. Officials expect traffic detours during the project but say it should wrap up in early fall.
The second contract went to MJ Field Construction of Weedsport for $155,000. The company will renovate the Auburn Police Department’s second floor by converting two former cell blocks into offices. The project will also add 16 energy-efficient windows and divide an existing room into two smaller offices.
Occupancy tax now in effect
City Manager Jenny Haines said hotels and short-term rentals began registering this week to comply with the new occupancy tax, which took effect July 11. About 80% of operators have already submitted paperwork using forms available on the city’s website.
City explains downtown parking changes
Haines and City Clerk Chuck Mason discussed recent changes to downtown parking. The two-hour free parking in the garage has ended. New signage, kiosks, and mobile app updates now support updated rules. The city also introduced daily and hourly vouchers, which residents can buy at the Equal Rights Heritage Center.
Some residents have voiced confusion about the changes. Council members promised continued outreach to reduce frustration.
Mayor James Giannettino encouraged residents to use the garage. “There are a lot of small cities in Upstate New York that would love to have a facility like ours,” he said.
Court backs city in watershed lawsuit
The mayor also shared news about a court ruling in the city’s favor. The decision came in a lawsuit against the New York State Department of Health, which challenged the agency’s delay in updating outdated rules protecting Owasco Lake. The court ordered the state to reconsider its stance, citing scientific evidence linking runoff to harmful algal blooms.
“This confirms we were right all along,” Giannettino said. “Sometimes doing what’s right takes a long time, but it matters.”
He thanked staff, Earthjustice attorneys, and Councilors Terry Cuddy and Ginny Kent for supporting the lawsuit.
Summer programs draw record crowds
Mason reported strong attendance at summer recreation events, including over 350 children at a recent Clifford Park gathering. The city continues hosting movies, concerts, and Saturday markets. Updates are available online and on social media. Rain postponed the first scheduled movie night, but it will be rescheduled.
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