The Seneca Falls Town Board met last week, addressing a series of resolutions and fielding lengthy public comment over zoning concerns, property maintenance, and community projects.
Zoning complaints dominate public comment
Several residents spoke about a controversial new home on Lower Lake Road, describing it as out of scale with surrounding cottages. Residents said the three-story structure violates local height limits and was approved without adequate review by the zoning and planning boards.
Councilors Dawn Dyson and Kaitlyn Laskoski questioned how the variance process handled plans that may have changed after approval. Supervisor Frank E. Schmitter said the board would review zoning code language and “look into this house and see if there’s anything we can do,” noting that any changes would require a public process.
Another speaker raised concerns about the Bridgeport Cemetery and unauthorized dwellings on town-owned waterfront property. Town Attorney Pat Morrell said he had received a proposed agreement and map from the Catholic cemetery’s attorney and expected little dispute. The board agreed to review the situation and report back next month.
Residents also criticized neglected fencing near Trinity Church, the lack of public garbage bins on Fall Street, and noise and lighting from a canal-side business. Schmitter said he would have the code enforcement office review complaints once the part-time zoning officer position is filled.
Board approves infrastructure and grant-related actions
The board approved several State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) resolutions, naming itself lead agency for two projects: rehabilitation of the Bayard Street culvert and drainage improvements at the Kids Territory playground. Engineers said the culvert work, supported by the Army Corps of Engineers, will stabilize the structure using a lining process that extends its life by up to a century. The playground work includes paving, drainage, and lighting upgrades.
A separate resolution accepted a low bid of $432,109 for paving on the North Canal Bridge, significantly under earlier estimates. The town plans to add decorative lighting as part of the project.
Other approvals included contracts for power-management consulting, fencing and backflow prevention at the water plant, and participation in New York’s Climate Smart Community program. The town will also add recycling bins to municipal buildings and designate the recreation center as a public cooling center during heat emergencies.
Staffing and operational changes
Board members debated new office hours for town operations. Councilor Jackson Puylara abstained, citing concerns from department heads and the need for a study on efficiency and public impact. Despite discussion about union negotiations, the resolution passed with one abstention and one dissent.
The board also voted to form a search committee for a new full-time town manager, replacing the current part-time arrangement. Dyson questioned whether the role’s duties should be updated to reflect expanded responsibilities. Morrell said the committee would develop the job description as part of its work.
Recognitions and community updates
Police Chief Tim Snyder presented a Life Saving Award to Officer Mitch Mestre for stopping a life-threatening bleed during a May emergency call. Several officers from Seneca Falls and the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office also received Letters of Commendation for rescuing a kidnapped juvenile in September.
The board also heard from museum director Dr. Andrew Olden, who reported on the success of the Fall Outdoor Arts Festival, funded through regional grants, and from residents thanking the town for ongoing recreation and beautification efforts.
The next Town Board meeting will be held Thursday, November 6, at 6 p.m., due to Election Day.
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