The Canandaigua Planning and Finance Committees met Tuesday to advance a special event request from the Canandaigua Knights Youth Hockey organization and to discuss a range of community safety concerns. The committees also reviewed updates to the city’s comprehensive plan and took financial action regarding sewer infrastructure and a county service agreement.
Knights 5K run receives committee approval
The committee unanimously voted to advance to full council a request from the Canandaigua Knights Youth Hockey to host its first-ever Ice Breaker 5K on September 20. The event will be part of the organization’s third annual Ice Breaker celebration at the Greater Canandaigua Civic Center.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, Secretary Sarah Cook described the 5K as a way to expand the annual community event and boost awareness and fundraising for the local youth hockey program. “Our goal is to bring in as many members of our community and bring them together to celebrate our Knights,” Cook said.
Several youth participants shared their support, emphasizing the need for new gear and opportunities to grow the sport. The proposed race route would begin and end at the Civic Center and pass through residential neighborhoods and town roads, including North Bloomfield and Outhouse roads.
Officials noted that the event would require police assistance at key intersections for traffic safety but would not involve road closures. City Manager John Goodwin said the route crosses into the Town of Canandaigua, but coordination had already taken place and no additional approvals were needed.
Councilmember Gwen Van Laeken expressed appreciation for the initiative and asked for details about safety on steep or high-traffic sections of the route. Police Chief Mathew Nielsen and city staff explained that intersection coverage and jurisdictional coordination would ensure runner safety.
The full council is expected to vote on the event at its next meeting.
Pedestrian and traffic safety concerns discussed
The committee also held an extended discussion on pedestrian safety, speeding, and e-bike enforcement following a resident’s letter and concerns raised on social media. The discussion included remarks from Chief Nielsen, Director of Public Works Sarah Brown, and Councilmember Michael Mills.
Nielsen outlined ongoing enforcement efforts supported by state grants, including “Click It or Ticket” and DWI checkpoint campaigns. He said the department has increased its use of traffic speed signs, expanded grant-funded educational programs in schools, and reinstated a dedicated traffic enforcement officer.
Brown noted that new hardwired speed signs are scheduled for Chapel Street, a corridor expected to see increased traffic due to North Road construction. Officials said the city is working closely with the school district to identify needed crosswalk and signage improvements.
Councilmembers emphasized the importance of equitable pedestrian safety infrastructure around parks and schools, citing examples where crossing beacon lights downtown are more visible than those near schools. Goodwin said some requests for beacon lights are included in the capital budget for future consideration.
Chief Nielsen also addressed enforcement challenges related to e-bikes and bicycles on sidewalks. He said the department is working with the Ontario County Traffic Safety Board to secure additional training for officers.
Lakefront rule violations prompt zero-tolerance response
Council also received an update on enforcement at city parks and lakefront areas. Officials cited concerns about open alcohol consumption, illegal swimming, and aggressive behavior toward staff. In response, the police department has implemented a zero-tolerance policy, with citations issued for all violations and juveniles detained until a parent arrives.
Finance Committee reviews sewer funding, county agreement
The Finance Committee reviewed a budget amendment to reallocate $178,040 from the city’s Sewer Capital Reserve. The adjustment was necessary because relining work originally planned for joint city/county infrastructure was redirected to city-only sewers after contractor pricing changes.
There are sufficient funds in the reserve, and the committee moved the amendment forward.
Additionally, the committee supported renewing the city’s Priority Service Agreement with Ontario County. The new three-year agreement includes an annual payment increase from $39,745 to $49,727 for 2026 through 2028, reflecting updated staffing distributions and a 2 percent inflation factor.
Comprehensive Plan Task Force update presented
The meeting concluded with an update on revisions to the city’s Comprehensive Plan. The task force, which includes councilmembers and residents, has made edits to reflect updated census data and priorities. Recommendations include the creation of an implementation committee, zoning revisions, and a new community survey before the next full review.
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