The Seneca Falls Town Board voted to approve a $16.99 million overhaul of its water treatment and distribution system, one of the largest projects ever taken on by the town. The board authorized the project, adopted the necessary bond resolution, and supported applying for state financing and grants that could cover a portion of the cost.
Officials said the bond resolutions were required before the town could qualify for zero-interest financing and a $5 million state grant. Some residents urged the board to use part of the town’s reserves to reduce borrowing, but the majority proceeded with bonding to keep reserves intact and maximize grant eligibility.
Landfill host agreement controversy
Discussion also turned to the future of Seneca Meadows Landfill and the town’s 2016 law requiring its closure by the end of 2025. During the meeting, it was revealed that landfill officials have tied their willingness to sign a new host community agreement to the repeal of that local law. The condition sparked disagreement on the board, with one member suggesting repeal would only be worth considering if the town secured a much larger financial commitment—an additional $100 million—while others said they were surprised to hear about the landfill’s stance for the first time.
Audit proposal rejected
The board voted down a resolution to seek proposals for a forensic financial audit. Several members argued the town is already audited annually by Bonadio & Co. and reviewed by ProNexus, making another review unnecessary. Supporters of the proposal said an additional audit would provide transparency during a transition year with new officials taking office.
Community and cultural updates
Andrew Olden of the Seneca Falls Museum presented plans for a fall arts festival on September 20 along the canal, coinciding with a stop by attendees of the World Canals Conference. The event will feature local vendors, food trucks, and live music. The board later approved the event permit.
The Comprehensive Plan Implementation Committee also gave an update, recommending a full-time town manager position to handle operations and pursue grants. Other petitions included approval for temporary signs advertising a local yard sale at Academy Square Park.
In other business, the board also:
- Appointed Louis Archer as chief water treatment plant operator.
- Approved continued lease of temporary Fall Street museum space during renovations.
- Authorized road paving projects on Kingdom Road, Ridge Street, and several others.
- Approved repair of the street sweeper ($17,200 transfer).
- Approved purchase of hydrants and water department parts.
- Hired Gregory Donato as wastewater operator trainee.
- Approved transfer of a retired police vehicle to the community center and purchase of a replacement police vehicle.
- Approved filling a vacant crossing guard position.
- Approved auction of a highway truck.
- Approved transfer of mowers from Parks & Rec to DPW.
- Tabled action on surplusing a Parks Dept. truck with salter.
The supervisor’s report also highlighted upcoming water tower maintenance, a hazardous waste drop-off event, school safety reminders, and progress on infrastructure projects including the Kingdom Road culvert and bridge painting.
The meeting ended with approval of bills pending a third signature and an executive session to discuss personnel.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].