The Watkins Glen Village Board addressed public health updates, infrastructure repairs, police operations, and a long-discussed parking policy at its October 21 meeting.
Public health updates
Schuyler County Public Health representative Alyssa briefed the board on ongoing initiatives, including vaccine promotion for flu, COVID-19, and RSV; National Drug Take-Back Day events on October 25 at the Odessa and Tyrone fire departments; and upcoming rabies clinics, with the next session set for November 8 at the Monterey Fire Department. She also distributed materials on lead-poisoning prevention and encouraged residents to complete the county’s six-year Community Health Assessment survey.
Parks, recreation, and maintenance
With Parks Director Stacy Gray on vacation, board members noted that the community center’s skate nights are drawing 60–70 children and that rental opportunities for small food businesses may expand once health-department certification is complete. Seasonal parking fees remain $8 per day, though village residents park free with a current decal. Public Works reported continuing dry conditions, pending leaf collection, and repairs on sewer-line obstructions and pumping equipment.
Police and equipment updates
Police Chief Ethan Fries said the department expects delivery of a new fingerprint machine within weeks and discussed options for donating or re-registering 32 unclaimed bicycles stored by police. Trustees suggested posting photos of the bikes online and offering them to residents who can describe ownership before redistribution.
Sewer, infrastructure, and credit approvals
The board approved purchasing two submersible sewer pumps for $5,900 and granted a sewer-bill credit for 240 North Glen Avenue, pending confirmation of conditions at the property. A request for code-enforcement training was tabled until the code officer could attend a future meeting.
Police-school contracts and SRO funding
Trustees approved a 2025–2026 evening School Resource Officer (SRO) agreement, adding $2,000 for vehicle and supply costs. Mayor Laurie DeNardo said daytime SRO contracts would be reviewed soon with Sgt. Mosher and Superintendent Kai D’Alleva to align language, pay, and operational terms.
Parking passes and enforcement
A major discussion centered on parking decals for residents, landlords, and business owners. After extended debate, the board voted to provide two passes per resident household, one per non-resident property owner, and one per business owner, with enforcement exceptions for special events. Officials said residents may also purchase a $72 seasonal parking pass if they live outside the village. Police will continue warning violators until the new parking law is updated and publicized.
Other actions and next steps
Board members reviewed preparations for Halloween trick-or-treating, approved department reports, and entered executive session to discuss litigation. Staff are also revising the village’s street-parking ordinance to clarify time limits and enforcement hours for residential areas.
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