The Village of Watkins Glen Board of Trustees approved more than $260,000 in paving projects and accepted a new state-backed tourism grant during this week’s meeting, while also backing a regional artificial intelligence research partnership tied to the village’s electric utility system.
Mayor Peter Cherock also appointed Kayla Christensen to fill the unexpired trustee term formerly held by Peter Cherock before he became mayor.
One of the board’s largest actions involved approval of the village’s 2026 street paving list, totaling approximately $235,993 through Seneca Stone Corporation and an additional $1,680 contract through Suit-Kote for related work.
According to documents included in the board packet, the paving work will target multiple village streets, including portions of Franklin Street, Porter Street, 8th Street, 3rd Street, Seneca Street, North Glen Avenue, 12th Street and Smalley Lane.
Trustees also approved a $23,181 paving project for the village firehouse parking lots. During discussion, Trustee Stephen Klemann raised concerns about potential fuel-cost increases and suggested the village prepare for the project cost to exceed the quoted amount. Village officials said the fire department budget includes approximately $24,000 for the work.
The board additionally accepted a $24,000 Tourism Infrastructure and Amenities grant to support construction of a new pavilion at Clute Park. The project will require a dollar-for-dollar local match through cash or in-kind contributions.
Village officials said the pavilion nearest the concession stand is expected to be built first and will replace the existing structure with a slightly larger facility. Because the project exceeds state bidding thresholds, trustees acknowledged the final project cost remains uncertain until formal bids are received.
Earlier in the meeting, trustees unanimously approved a resolution supporting participation in “The Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI,” a federal research collaboration involving SmartKable Powerline Solutions and the University at Buffalo.
The project proposal aims to use artificial intelligence tools for electric grid operations, including real-time anomaly detection, risk analysis and decision support for municipally owned electric utilities. Trustees said Watkins Glen’s electric system could serve as a pilot participant if federal funding is awarded.
The meeting also highlighted several infrastructure and flooding concerns across the village.
During department reports, officials discussed persistent groundwater and drainage problems affecting properties near Third Street and 12th Street following recent heavy rain. Code Enforcement Officer Marty discussed ongoing issues involving flooded basements, drainage hoses pumping water into streets and legal questions surrounding a deteriorating property on 12th Street that may ultimately need demolition.
Trustees and staff also repeatedly raised concerns about high water conditions ahead of NASCAR weekend at Watkins Glen International. Officials discussed continued flooding issues around the canal and rising groundwater levels, with several board members joking nervously about muddy campground conditions if additional rain arrives during race weekend.
The board also heard a presentation from Mary Cavasca of Schuyler County Public Health, who outlined upcoming rabies clinics, volunteer opportunities and the department’s planned 100th anniversary open house later this year.
Additional actions approved during the meeting included seasonal hiring for parks and recreation staff, purchase of wastewater and fire department equipment, approval of several summer community events and adoption of a proclamation recognizing the first week of May as Elks Youth Week.
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