Schenectady public meetings in 2022

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will hold a public hearing on a Restore NY Round 7 grant application for the Mohawk Honda building at 756 State Street, which could bring up to $3 million for demolition and new construction. The council will also vote on resolutions calling for public hearings on several zoning and code changes, including an overlay historic district for 308 State Street, banquet facility regulations, and the HOME-ARP allocation plan. Additionally, the council will consider agreements for STOP-DWI funding, a CDBG contract extension, and a property transfer to the school district.

• Public hearing on Restore NY Round 7 grant application for 756 State Street (Mohawk Honda site)
• Resolution to call public hearing on 'OH' Overlay Historic District zoning for 308 State Street
• Resolution to call public hearing on zoning amendments for banquet facilities and private clubs
• Resolution authorizing $22,000 STOP-DWI grant agreement with Schenectady County
• Resolution to extend CDBG contract with Miracle on Craig Street to June 30, 2024

The provided text consists of an email from a resident expressing support for historic overlay protection for the Masonic Temple. No official council actions, votes, or decisions were recorded in this document.

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider two applications for work in the Stockade Historic Residential District. They will also adopt minutes from prior meetings and hear public comments on agenda items.

• Application by Francis & Nancy Landry for fencing and landscaping at 123 N. Ferry St (RH-2 Stockade Historic Residential District)
• Application by Rebecca Stern for roof replacement at 140 Front St (RH-2 Stockade Historic District)

The Historic District Commission approved a request for fencing and landscaping at 123 N. Ferry St. and a conditional roof replacement at 140 Front St. The board also discussed methods to hold property owners accountable for work done without prior approval.

• Approved installation of aluminum fence and brick sidewalk at 123 N. Ferry St (Unanimous)
• Approved roof replacement at 140 Front St conditioned on providing material and color documents (Unanimous)
• Approved October 27, 2022 meeting minutes as amended
• Approved amendments to November 17, 2022 meeting minutes

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on December 21, 2022, to review nine items of new business. These include requests for site plan approvals, special use permits, and one extension for projects ranging from a community action program addition to commercial and residential developments. The meeting is open to the public, with masks optional and email comments accepted before the meeting.

• Site plan approval extension for 8,030 SF addition at 100 Bigelow Avenue (Schenectady Community Action Program)
• Two warehouse buildings at 1641 Crane Street (Rodick Real Estate Land Holding, LLC)
• Three dwelling units at 2037 Wabash Avenue (Steven Cimino, Jr.)
• Automobile repair and sales business at 1467-1487 Broadway (Eric Gonzalez)
• Special use permit for youth programming at 867 Stanley Street (Cocoa House, Inc.)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will meet to discuss and act on several items, including a $22,000 STOP-DWI grant for police, a $3.8 million HOME-ARP allocation plan for homelessness services, updates on ARPA allocations, and zoning changes for banquet facilities. The agenda includes both decisions and discussions, with public hearings scheduled for December 27.

• Accept $22,000 NYS STOP-DWI grant for DWI patrols
• Public hearing on HOME-ARP allocation plan ($3,832,771) for homeless services
• Extend Aquatic Center ARPA allocation deadline to December 2023
• Zoning code changes for banquet facilities (SEQR and public hearing)
• Approve CDBG contract extension with Miracle on Craig Street

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will consider several resolutions at its December 12, 2022 meeting, including approving the 2023 budgets for the Downtown Special Assessment District and Upper Union Street Business Improvement District, authorizing the sale of two city-owned properties, settling a lawsuit for $1.5 million, and awarding a contract for park improvements. The agenda also includes a public hearing on a Metroplex application for a RESTORE NY grant.

• Settlement of lawsuit by Crystal Scism for $1,500,000
• Award contract for Jerry Burrell Park Improvements to Carver Construction, Inc. for $1,320,000
• Sale of vacant lot at 1530 Third Avenue for $1,600
• Sale of 516 Mumford Street for $25,000
• Approve 2023 Downtown Special Assessment District budget ($355,000 assessment) and Upper Union Street BID budget ($46,100 assessment)

The City Council adopted seven resolutions as part of a consent agenda. This included the authorization of a lawsuit settlement for Crystal Scism. Residents also used the floor to advocate for ARPA funding for the Central Park Casino building and affordable housing.

• Approved November 28, 2022 meeting minutes
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-258 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-259 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-260 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-261 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-262 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-263 authorizing settlement of lawsuit by Crystal Scism (4-2)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-264 (Unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a regular meeting on December 7, 2022, at 6:30 PM in City Hall Room 110. The board will review and approve the October meeting minutes and hear four variance applications: two area variances for signs, one use variance for a third dwelling unit, and one area variance for a residential setback.

• Joseph Peniciaro requests an area variance for a monument-style parking lot sign at 204 Lafayette St. in the C-4 Downtown Commercial District
• Reserve at Towpath Trail LLC requests an area variance for a 19 sq. ft. sign where 6 sq. ft. is allowed at 540 North End Dr. in a Planned Residential Development
• Carol Eto requests a use variance to use an existing third dwelling unit at 332 North Brandywine Ave in an R-2 Two-Family Residential District
• John Senisi requests an area variance for a 48.22 ft. setback where 25 ft. is required for a new residence at 1834 Lenox Rd. in an R-1 Single Family District

The Board approved area variances for two signs and one residential setback. A request for a use variance to allow a third dwelling unit at 332 North Brandywine Ave was denied.

• Approved area variance for monument parking lot sign at 208 Lafayette St (Unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 19 sq ft monument sign at 540 North End Dr (Unanimous)
• Denied use variance for third dwelling unit at 332 North Brandywine Ave (Unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 48.22 ft residential setback at 1834 Lenox Rd (Unanimous)
• Approved October 5, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will discuss applying for a Restore NY grant to redevelop the Mohawk Honda building at 756 State Street, potentially for a grocery store. They will also review several property sales, a contract for park improvements, and updates on ARPA contracts and sidewalk projects. The agenda includes reminders of previously held public hearings on district budgets.

• Application for RESTORE NY Round 7 Grant for Mohawk Honda building at 756 State Street (up to $3 million)
• ABAC for Jerry Burrell Park Improvements to Carver Construction, Inc. in the amount of $1,320,000.00
• Sale of 1530 Third Avenue to Seveeta Nepal for $1,600.00
• Sale of 516 Mumford Street
• Update on Central Park Sidewalk Project

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will hold public hearings on the 2023 Downtown Special Assessment District (DSAD) and Upper Union Street Business Improvement District (BID) budgets, then vote on several resolutions. Key items include authorizing an amended agreement with Metroplex Development Authority for South Church Street reconstruction (increasing the city's contribution to $640,000), selling city-owned properties, and recognizing local groups and a veteran.

• Public hearing on 2023 DSAD budget (total levy $355,000, up from $330,000)
• Public hearing on 2023 Upper Union Street BID budget (annual assessment $46,100)
• Resolution to abandon and sell 0.15-acre paper street behind 588 Broadway for $25,000
• Resolution authorizing amended agreement with Metroplex for South Church Street, city contribution up to $640,000
• Resolution to sell 234 Duane Avenue for $10,800 with rehabilitation requirements

The provided minutes contain no record of actions, votes, or decisions. The document consists of page markers only.

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees meet to discuss several finance and development items, including an amended agreement to increase the city's contribution to the South Church Street reconstruction project from $485,245 to $640,000 due to unexpected costs. They will also review the 2023 budgets for the Downtown Special Assessment District and the Upper Union Street Business Improvement District, with public hearings scheduled. Other items include a discussion on medical debt relief and the sale of a city-owned parcel behind 588 Broadway.

• Amended MOA with Metroplex for South Church Street reconstruction, city share up to $640,000 (from $485,245)
• 2023 Downtown Special Assessment District budget: total levy $355,000, base fee $340
• 2023 Upper Union Street BID budget: $46,100 assessment
• Sale of .15-acre site behind 588 Broadway to F.W. Webb for $25,000
• Discussion on creating a Medical Debt Relief Plan

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider an application for fencing and landscaping at 713 Union St. in the Union Street Historic District. The commission will also take public comments on the draft design guidelines for local historic districts and landmarks.

• Application by Spencer Napolitano for fencing and landscaping at 713 Union St.
• Public comments on draft 'Design Guidelines for the City of Schenectady: Local Historic District and Landmarks'

The Historic Resource Commission approved an application for fencing and landscaping at 713 Union St. with specific design conditions. The commission also received public feedback on the draft Design Guidelines for the City of Schenectady.

• Approved fencing and landscaping at 713 Union St. (unanimous)
• Approved October 27, 2022, minutes with corrections (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on November 16, 2022, to consider several land-use applications. New business includes a request to add 308 State Street to the OH Overlay Historic District, a self-storage facility at 1641 Crane Street, an electronic sign at 1040 Pearl Street, and a West Indian store at 1481 State Street. Old business includes an electronic sign at 1235 State Street, a charter school at 530 Franklin Street, and a private club/office renovation at 2525 Broadway. The commission will make recommendations or decisions on these items.

• Historic district inclusion for 308 State Street
• Self-storage facility at 1641 Crane Street
• Electronic message board signs at 1040 Pearl Street and 1235 State Street
• West Indian store at 1481 State Street
• Charter school at 530 Franklin Street and private club at 2525 Broadway

The Commission recommended that the City Council add 308 State Street to the OH Overlay Historic District. Several site plan and special use permit requests were decided, while two applications were tabled for further revisions or appeals.

• Recommended 308 State Street be added to OH Overlay Historic District (carried, 1 abstention)
• Tabled electronic message board sign at 1040 Pearl Street for architectural design updates (unanimous)
• Issued Conditional Site Plan Approval for West Indian store at 1481 State Street (unanimous)
• Issued Special Use Permit for electronic message board at 1235 State Street (unanimous)
• Issued Conditional Site Plan Approval for Destine Preparatory Charter School at 530 Franklin Street (unanimous)
• Tabled private club and business office application at 2525 Broadway pending Board of Zoning Appeals review (unanimous)
• October 19, 2022 minutes not approved

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will consider several resolutions, including the sale of a .15-acre city-owned parcel behind 588 Broadway to F.W. Webb for $25,000 to facilitate the company's opening of a retail/wholesale operation. The council will also vote on property sales, a trail signage contract, a senior meal program agreement, and a resolution supporting the NYS Climate Action Council Scoping Plan. Public hearings are scheduled for the 2023 Downtown Schenectady Assessment District and Upper Union Street Business Improvement District budgets.

• Sale of .15-acre parcel behind 588 Broadway to F.W. Webb for $25,000
• Sale of 13 Odell Street for $40,500
• Sale of 808 Stanley Street for $32,000
• Sale of vacant lot at 1467 Broadway for $5,500
• Award contract for 'Schenectady Park Connector Trail: Wayfinding & Signage' to W.S. Sign Design Corp. for $31,975.10

The City Council unanimously adopted nine resolutions via a consent agenda. The meeting included a public hearing on the abandonment of a 0.15-acre paper street and various resident comments regarding public safety and council conduct.

• Approved minutes from October 24, 26, and 30, 2022
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-245 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-246 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-247 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-248 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-249 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-250 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-251 (Unanimous)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees meet to discuss claims, presentations, and finance items, including a potential reimbursement to the Rose Garden Restoration Committee, the 2023 Downtown Special Assessment District and Upper Union Street BID budgets, and a bid award for park connector trail signage. They will also hear a presentation on the 'New Schenectady' concept and consider a senior meal program with Catholic Charities.

• Award bid for Schenectady Park Connector Trail wayfinding & signage to W.S. Sign Design Corp. for $31,975.10
• Potential reimbursement to Rose Garden Restoration Committee up to $5,745 for 2022 expenses
• Public hearing reminder for purchase of 0.15-acre paper street behind 588 Broadway
• Sale of city-owned properties: 13 Odell Street, 808 Stanley Street, 1265 Congress Street, 1467 Broadway
• Resolution supporting NYS Climate Action Council Scoping Plan

City Council

The Schenectady City Council is holding final consideration of an ordinance that amends the previously approved 2023 operating budget (Ordinance No. 2022-10) to correct errors. The amended budget appropriates $103,950,721 for the General Fund, sets a property tax levy of $31,629,000, and includes appropriations for Water, Sewer, and Golf funds. The council will also approve water, sewer, and solid waste rates, and designate certain budget amendments as ministerial changes that do not require a public hearing.

• Amends Ordinance No. 2022-10 to correct errors in the 2023 operating budget
• Appropriates $103,950,721 for the General Fund for 2023
• Sets property tax levy at $31,629,000 for fiscal year 2023
• Appropriates $9,096,284 for Water Fund, $13,736,856 for Sewer Fund, $1,408,050 for Golf Fund
• Approves water, sewer, and solid waste collection rates for 2023

The City Council voted to approve an ordinance amending the proposed operating budget for 2023 and the associated appropriations. This was the only substantive action taken during the meeting.

• Approved Ordinance 2022-11 amending the 2023 proposed operating budget (4-3)

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will consider two applications for work in historic districts: a fence at 1454 Lowell Rd. and siding/windows at 1039 Park Ave. It will also discuss recommending two properties for inclusion in the OH Overlay Historic District: Building 37 on the GE campus and the Masonic Temple at 302 State St.

• Fence installation at 1454 Lowell Rd. (GE Realty Plot Historic District)
• Siding and window replacement at 1039 Park Ave. (Union Triangle Historic District)
• Recommendation to add Building 37, 1 River Rd., to OH Overlay Historic District
• Recommendation to add Masonic Temple, 302 State St., to OH Overlay Historic District

The Commission recommended applying the OH Overlay Historic District zoning to the Masonic Temple and adjacent buildings. It also approved a fence installation at 1454 Lowell Rd. and denied a request for vinyl siding and windows at 1039 Park Ave.

• Recommended local historic designation and OH Overlay Historic District zoning for 302 State St. (unanimous)
• Approved aluminum fence installation at 1454 Lowell Rd. (unanimous)
• Denied installation of vinyl siding and windows at 1039 Park Ave. (unanimous)
• Adopted May 26, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted September 22, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the 2023 budget. This is a discussion item, not a final vote, and the agenda contains no other substantive business.

• Discussion of 2023 budget

City Council

The Schenectady City Council is holding a caucus and regular meeting on October 26, 2022. The main item is final consideration of an ordinance to approve and adopt the proposed 2023 operating budget and authorize its appropriations. This is a decision item requiring a council vote.

• Final consideration of ordinance adopting the 2023 operating budget and authorizing appropriations

The City Council voted to adopt the proposed operating budget for 2023 and authorize the associated appropriations. The measure passed with a 5-2 vote.

• Approved 2023 Proposed Operating Budget and appropriations (5-2)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will consider nine resolutions, including approving a multi-year agreement to pay Schenectady County for vehicle repairs, scheduling a public hearing on abandoning a paper street behind 588 Broadway, authorizing the sale of two vacant lots, and confirming appointments to city boards. The agenda also includes ceremonial recognitions for World Polio Day and a local business anniversary.

• Agreement to pay Schenectady County $58.72/hour for vehicle repairs, term Dec 1, 2020 – Nov 30, 2028
• Public hearing set for Nov 14 on abandoning 0.15-acre paper street behind 588 Broadway
• Sale of vacant lot at 24 Eagle Street for $1,500 to Debbie Sahadeo
• Sale of vacant lot at 2934 Albany Street for $1,500 to James M. Hafiz and Mohamad S. Uddin
• Confirm appointments of Michael Tearno and Hayden Engert to Planning Commission

The Schenectady City Council approved a consent agenda containing nine resolutions, all adopted unanimously. The meeting also included two ceremonial resolutions recognizing Rotary International World Polio Day and Pede Bros. for 55 years of business. Public comment addressed topics including rent stabilization, planning commission appointments, and city services.

• Approved consent agenda of 9 resolutions unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-236 recognizing Rotary International World Polio Day unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-237 recognizing Pede Bros. for 55 years of business unanimously
• Approved minutes from October 11, 2022 meeting

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on October 19, 2022, to consider new business items including special use permits and site plan approvals for various commercial and residential projects. Old business items include site plan approvals for a motor vehicle sales business and a charter school. The meeting is open to the public, with optional masks and email comments accepted.

• Special use permit for electronic message board sign at St. Luke's Catholic Church, 1235 State Street
• One-year extension of site plan approval for 9-unit apartment building at 1151 Hildebrandt Avenue
• Subdivision approval for land at Webster Street and 8th Avenue
• Site plan approval for laundromat at 1122 State Street
• Site plan and special use permit for convenience store/gas station at 1145-1147 Albany Street and 26 Kelton Avenue

The commission denied a special use permit for a convenience store and gas station at 1145-1147 Albany Street, citing traffic, parking, and neighborhood character concerns. It approved a site plan for a laundromat at 1122 State Street with conditions including green space and curb cut changes. A conditional approval for Destine Preparatory Charter School was extended to allow the applicant to return in November with a plan for drop-off and buffer requirements.

• Denied special use permit for Crazy Beer World gas station at 1145-1147 Albany Street (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for Andres Velez laundromat at 1122 State Street with conditions (unanimous)
• Extended conditional approval for Destine Preparatory Charter School at 530 Franklin Street to November 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved one-year extension of site plan for 1151 Hildebrandt Avenue apartment building (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision at Webster Street and 8th Avenue with negative SEQR declaration (unanimous)
• Tabled St. Luke's Catholic Church electronic message board sign application at 1235 State Street (unanimous)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will review several items, including the sale of a .15-acre city-owned parcel behind 588 Broadway to F.W. Webb, a plumbing and heating supplier, to enable the company to open a retail/wholesale operation creating 12 jobs. They will also discuss a vehicle repair agreement with Schenectady County, review the 2023 budget public hearing, and consider appointments and other property sales.

• Sale of .15-acre paper street behind 588 Broadway to F.W. Webb for $25,000
• Agreement with Schenectady County for vehicle repairs at $58.72/hour
• Review of 2023 Budget Public Hearing held 10-11-22
• Planning Commission appointments: Michael Tearno and Hayden Engert
• Sale of vacant lots at 24 Eagle Street and 2934 Albany Street

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission is holding a special meeting to review and comment on the draft Design Guidelines for the City of Schenectady, covering local historic districts and landmarks. The guidelines were prepared by Thaler Reilly Wilson Architecture & Preservation. No final decisions are on the agenda; the commission's role at this meeting is to provide input on the draft.

• Review of draft Design Guidelines for the City of Schenectady: Local Historic District and Landmarks
• Presentation by Thaler Reilly Wilson Architecture & Preservation

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will hold public hearings on the proposed 2023 budget and the 2021 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER). The council will also consider resolutions to sell a city-owned property on Devine Street and to recognize Italian-American Heritage Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

• Public hearing on proposed 2023 budget
• Public hearing on 2021 CAPER report
• Resolution authorizing sale of 1537 Devine Street for $21,500
• Resolution recognizing October as Italian and Italian-American Heritage Month
• Resolution recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The minutes record only public correspondence and privilege-of-the-floor submissions. No substantive decisions, votes, or official actions were taken by the City Council at this meeting.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider four applications for area and use variances. The board will decide on requests regarding signage, parking setbacks, and the operation of an auto business.

• Area variance for two attached signs at 530 Franklin Street
• Appeal of Zoning Interpretation for 2 North Ferry Street
• Area variance for a 4-foot parking setback at 1730-1732 State Street
• Use variance to operate an automobile sales and repair business at 743 Strong Street

The Board of Zoning Appeals voted unanimously to reverse a prior zoning enforcement officer's decision regarding a parking area at 2 North Ferry Street, declaring it not a legally established pre-existing non-conforming use and in violation of zoning ordinances. They also denied an area variance for a parking setback at 1730-1732 State Street and tabled a use variance for an auto sales and repair business at 743 Strong Street.

• Reversed zoning officer's decision on paving permit #202102700 for 2 North Ferry Street (unanimous)
• Declared parking area at 2 North Ferry Street not a legally established non-conforming use (unanimous)
• Denied area variance for 4-foot parking setback at 1730-1732 State Street (unanimous)
• Tabled use variance for auto sales/repair business at 743 Strong Street (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for two attached signs at 530 Franklin Street (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will consider several resolutions at its September 26, 2022 meeting, including supporting a $3 million Restore NY grant application for the Wedgeway/Kresge renovation project, extending a police reimbursement agreement with the county, and authorizing a bike-share agreement with CDTA. The council will also vote on selling four city-owned properties and awarding a contract for the Empire Trail project. These are all original or final considerations requiring four votes.

• Resolution supporting Metroplex's application for $3M Restore NY grant for Wedgeway/Kresge renovation
• Resolution to extend by one year the agreement to reimburse Schenectady County $21,000 annually for a police investigator
• Resolution authorizing MOU with CDTA for bike-share program, with $25,000/year reimbursement for 2022-2024
• Resolution to sell 13 Odell Street for $40,500, 37 Lorraine Ave for $2,000, 804 Arch St for $10,100, and 1530 Third Ave for $1,600
• Resolution awarding $349,730.55 contract to Callanan Industries for Washington Avenue & State Street Empire Trail

The Schenectady City Council held a regular meeting on September 26, 2022, but took no substantive votes or decisions. The meeting consisted of public comment on topics including rent stabilization, a proposed skate park, and allegations of racism among council members, followed by council members' statements addressing the same issues. No legislative items were acted upon.

• Approved minutes from September 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will hold its regular meeting on September 22, 2022, to consider nine applications for alterations to properties in local historic districts. These include new signs, structural changes, and painting. The commission will also handle routine items like approving prior minutes and public comment.

• New sign at 1327 Union St. (Union Street Historic District)
• Rear deck stairs and front stair replacement at 125 North Ferry St. (Stockade Historic District)
• Driveway replacement at 1161 Lowell Rd. (GE Realty Plot Historic District)
• New lights and extension request at 10 Front St. (Stockade Historic District)
• Pergola construction at 1181 Avon Rd. (GE Realty Plot Historic District)

The Schenectady Historic District Commission approved eight applications for signs, stairs, driveways, pergolas, painting, and roof repairs, all with conditions. One application was withdrawn by the applicant. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on a church painting request.

• Approved new sign at 1327 Union St. with conditions on materials and design (unanimous)
• Approved front stairs at 125 North Ferry St. with specific paint colors and rounded handrails (unanimous)
• Approved rear deck stairs at 125 North Ferry St. subject to site plan submission (unanimous)
• Approved driveway replacement at 1161 Lowell Rd. with aggregate material (unanimous)
• Approved pergola at 1181 Avon Rd. as submitted (unanimous)
• Approved painting of St. George's Church rectory at 23 Front St. (4-1, one abstention)
• Approved roof replacement and chimney repair at 1234 Lowell Rd. with condition to follow SHPO advice on water repellent (unanimous)
• Approved roof replacement at 1134 Rugby Rd. as submitted (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on September 21, 2022, to review several site plans and special use permit requests. These include renovations, murals, signs, a community center, a church, a medical office, and a mixed-use building. The commission will decide on these requests, which are all new business except for one updated site plan under old business.

• Stewart's Shops: site plan approval for renovation of convenience/gas store at 1739 Union Street
• Schenectady Light Opera Company: special use permit for mural at 427 Franklin Street
• St. Luke's Catholic Church: special use permit for electronic message board at 1235 State Street
• Schenectady Hindu Temple: special use permit for community center at 1218 Sixth Avenue
• Kemraj Shivprashad: updated site plan for 3,000 SF mixed-use building at 1461 State Street

The Schenectady Planning Commission approved several site plans and special use permits, including a mixed-use building at 1461 State Street, a Stewart's Shops renovation at 1739 Union Street, a mural for Schenectady Light Opera, a community center for the Hindu Temple, a church at 1834 Van Vranken Avenue, and a medical office at 1545 Union Street. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved updated site plan for mixed-use building at 1461 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for Stewart's Shops renovation at 1739 Union Street (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for mural at 427 Franklin Street (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for Hindu Temple community center at 1218 Sixth Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for Bethel Full Gospel Church at 1834 Van Vranken Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit and site plan for medical office at 1545 Union Street (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will consider a resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds totaling over $10.7 million for specific projects, including park improvements, housing assistance, and nonprofit support. The council will also hold a public hearing on a Restore NY grant application for downtown rehabilitation, and vote on several other items including property sales, a budget hearing date, and contract awards.

• Appropriate $500,000 for Hillhurst and Fairview Park improvements, $250,000 for Hillhurst Pool repairs, $500,000 for Central Park 'A Diamond' baseball field lighting, $500,000 for Central Park tennis courts, $250,000 for Riverside Park courts, $500,000 for Jerry Burrell Park, and $1,000,000 for Central Park pool/general site improvements
• Appropriate $1,000,000 to Electric City Food Cooperative for a downtown grocery store, $1,200,000 to Hamilton Hill Arts Center, and $750,000 to Stockade Association for revitalization
• Appropriate $1,000,000 to Better Community Neighborhoods for owner-occupied home repair, $500,000 for Hamilton Hill infill development, and $250,000 for foreclosure prevention
• Authorize sale of vacant lot at 5 Jefferson Street for $4,000 and 1627 Sixth Avenue garage for $23,000
• Award contract for Central Park site demolition to William J. Keller & Sons Construction Corp. for $218,000 and change order to Sealcoat USA, Inc. for $50,000 for crack sealing

The City Council received a forwarded email from Fred Schermer of Local Revolutions requesting a pilot of Thomas Jefferson's proportional voting system for local elections. The email was addressed to the Mayor, City Clerk, and County Board of Elections, and was also sent to Governor Hochul and the State Board of Elections. No council discussion, vote, or decision on the request is recorded in the minutes.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider several area variance requests regarding parking requirements, sign dimensions, and lot sizes. The meeting also includes an appeal of a zoning interpretation for 2 North Ferry Street.

• 31 Lafayette Street: request for 50 parking spaces instead of the required 69
• 2450 Van Vranken Avenue: request for directional signs up to 4 feet-6 inches tall
• 530 Franklin Street: request for two attached building signs instead of one
• 832 Union Street: request for three residential units on a 3,910 square foot lot
• 2 North Ferry Street: appeal of a Zoning Interpretation and Decision

The Schenectady Board of Zoning Appeals approved an area variance for 31 Lafayette Street to allow 50 parking spaces instead of the required 69, and approved a signage variance for the Schenectady Municipal Housing Authority at 2450 Van Vranken Avenue. The board tabled a signage request for 530 Franklin Street and an appeal regarding 2 North Ferry Street. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on the Union Street variance.

• Approved area variance for 31 Lafayette Street to allow 50 parking spaces (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 2450 Van Vranken Avenue for directional signs exceeding size limits (unanimous)
• Tabled area variance for 530 Franklin Street for two attached signs (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 832 Union Street for three residential units on undersized lot (unanimous, Keller abstained)
• Tabled appeal for 2 North Ferry Street regarding zoning interpretation (unanimous)

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider seven applications for property alterations within the GE Realty Plot and Stockade Historic Districts. The commission will decide on driveway replacements, a wall removal, a repaint, a fence installation, a rear addition, and a roof installation. Public comment will be heard on agenda items.

• Driveway replacement at 1201 Stratford Rd. (GE Realty Plot)
• Wall removal at 1198 Stratford Rd. (GE Realty Plot)
• Driveway replacement at 237 Green St. (Stockade)
• Repaint and rear deck stairs at 125 North Ferry St. (Stockade)
• Fence installation at 113 Union St. (Stockade)

The Schenectady Historic District Commission approved six applications and tabled one. Approved: driveway replacement at 1201 Stratford Rd., wall removal at 1198 Stratford Rd., driveway replacement at 237 Green St., painting at 125 North Ferry St., fence installation at 113 Union St., rear addition at 6 North St., and roof over walkway at 35 N. Ferry St. The portion of the application for rear deck stairs and front steps at 125 North Ferry St. was tabled due to incomplete details. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved driveway replacement at 1201 Stratford Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved wall removal at 1198 Stratford Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved driveway replacement at 237 Green St. (unanimous)
• Tabled rear deck stairs and front steps at 125 North Ferry St. (unanimous)
• Approved painting at 125 North Ferry St. (unanimous)
• Approved fence installation at 113 Union St. (unanimous)
• Approved rear addition at 6 North St. (unanimous)
• Approved roof over walkway at 35 N. Ferry St. (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will consider a $6,067,112 bond ordinance for improvements to the Rice Road Water Treatment Plant, along with several resolutions including ARPA fund allocations, property sales, and equipment purchases. The agenda also includes final consideration of an ordinance amending residency requirements for city employees.

• Bond ordinance for $6,067,112 for Rice Road Water Treatment Plant improvements
• Resolution appropriating ARPA funds and authorizing agreements
• Resolution to purchase Axon Officer Safety Plan from Axon Enterprise, Inc.
• Resolution to lease 62 lithium golf carts and 60 GPS systems from W & B Golf Carts, Inc.
• Resolutions authorizing sale of city-owned properties: 552 Crane St ($5,000), 820 Strong St ($40,000), 854 Albany St ($15,000), 1834 Watt St ($5,000), 1838 Watt St ($28,000)

The City Council approved a resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and authorizing the mayor to enter into related agreements (6-1). An ordinance amending Section 87-6.1 of the City Code was also adopted (5-2). The consent agenda, including one ordinance and 12 resolutions, was adopted unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included public comments on ARPA funding and other community matters.

• Approved ARPA fund appropriation resolution 2022-214 (6-1)
• Adopted ordinance 2022-09 amending Code Section 87-6.1 (5-2)
• Adopted consent agenda including ordinance 2022-08 and resolutions 2022-202 through 2022-213 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on August 17, 2022, to review seven new business items. These include site plan approvals for a mixed-use building, an electronics store, two parking lots, and two motor vehicle sales businesses, as well as a special use permit for a mural. The commission will decide or discuss these proposals, which are all in the public hearing phase.

• Site plan for 3,000 SF mixed-use building (restaurant/lounge + 1 residential unit) at 1461 State Street
• Special use permit for mural at 115 North Broadway (Habitat for Humanity)
• Site plan for electronics store at 1007 State Street
• Site plan for parking lot at 1288 Belmont Avenue (Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital)
• Site plan for motor vehicle sales at 1066 Altamont Avenue and 1730 State Street

The Schenectady Planning Commission approved conditional site plans for a parking lot at 1063-1065 Barrett Street, an electronics store at 1007 State Street, a parking lot at 1288 Belmont Avenue, a motor vehicle sales business at 1066 Altamont Avenue, and a motor vehicle sales business at 1730 State Street. A special use permit was approved for a mural at 115 North Broadway. A proposal for a restaurant and lounge at 1461 State Street was tabled due to neighbor concerns and the applicant's absence. The commission also adjusted its application deadline and review period to allow for more thorough staff review.

• Approved conditional site plan for AIK Property Group parking lot at 1063-1065 Barrett Street (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for Habitat for Humanity mural at 115 North Broadway (unanimous)
• Tabled site plan for restaurant/lounge at 1461 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for electronics store at 1007 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital parking lot at 1288 Belmont Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for motor vehicle sales at 1066 Altamont Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for motor vehicle sales at 1730 State Street, requiring return for rear building review (unanimous)
• Adjusted application deadline and review period for all applications (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will hold a public hearing and final consideration on amending the off-road vehicle redemption ordinance, and will set towing and storage fees for such vehicles. The council will also consider resolutions requesting state legislation for speed and red light cameras, and authorizing several contracts and property sales.

• Public hearing and final consideration of ordinance amending Section 248-101-c regarding redemption of off-road vehicles
• Resolution setting towing fee at $165 and storage fee at $40 per day for off-road vehicles
• Resolution requesting state legislation to allow speed and red light cameras
• Resolution authorizing agreement with NYS Division of Criminal Justice for GIVE grant funding of $354,142
• Resolution authorizing sale of 231 Lorraine Avenue for $20,000 and 851 Emmett Street for $25,000

The Council held a public hearing on amending Ordinance 87.6 to relax residency requirements for city employees, with several speakers supporting the change to help fill vacancies. No vote was taken on the amendment at this meeting. The Council also unanimously adopted a consent agenda of 15 ordinances and resolutions, and approved minutes from the July 25 meeting.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-186 honoring Harlem Cultural Fest (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including 15 ordinances and resolutions (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 25, 2022 Council meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider several applications regarding property uses and setbacks. These include requests for reduced off-street parking, an auto body repair establishment, and residential unit adjustments.

• AIK Property Group, LLC: Parking variance for 1101/1107 Barrett Street and 519 South Avenue
• AIK Property Group, LLC: Parking variance for 1052/1062 Barrett Street and 608 South Avenue
• Charlie Attar: Parking variance for 104-112 Erie Boulevard
• Sameer Gadwah: Use variance for auto body repair at 1318 State Street
• Steve Cimino, Jr.: Use variance for a three-unit dwelling at 2037 Wabash Avenue

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved four area variances for parking reductions and a use variance for a three-unit dwelling, but denied a use variance for an auto body repair shop on State Street. All votes were unanimous except for the three-unit approval, which passed 4-1.

• Approved area variance for 1101/1107 Barrett St & 519 South Ave to allow 9 parking spaces instead of 13 (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 1052/1062 Barrett St & 608 South Ave to allow 5 parking spaces instead of 24 (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 104-112 Erie Blvd to allow 214 parking spaces instead of 249 (unanimous)
• Denied use variance for auto body shop at 1318 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 6 North Street to allow 3-foot setback instead of 5 feet (unanimous)
• Approved use variance for three-unit dwelling at 2037 Wabash Avenue (4-1)

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will consider nine applications for changes to properties in local historic districts, including painting, repairs, a new sign, and a wheelchair ramp. They will also discuss a potential nomination of the Elmer Avenue School Building to the State and National Registers of Historic Places. The meeting is a regular session with public comment on agenda items.

• 1212 Union St.: one-year extension of prior approval (Spring Line Design Architecture + Engineering)
• 22 N. Church St. and 101 Front St.: painting approvals (Franca DiCrescenzo)
• 1056 Gillespie St.: porch roof repair and paint (Brandon LaFleur)
• 1327 Union St.: new sign (S&B Adirondack Properties)
• 1 N. Church St.: new doors, windows, wheelchair ramp, outdoor deck (John Samatulski)

The Schenectady Historic District Commission approved seven applications, including paint jobs, a lamp post replacement, and a wheelchair ramp, denied one sign application, and tabled a pergola application as incomplete. All approvals were unanimous except one abstention on the wheelchair ramp.

• Approved 1212 Union St. extension (unanimous)
• Approved 22 N. Church St. paint with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved 101 Front St. paint with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved 1056 Gillespie St. porch roof repair (unanimous)
• Approved 1172 Rugby Rd. lamp post replacement (unanimous)
• Denied 1327 Union St. sign application (unanimous)
• Tabled 1181 Avon Rd. pergola application (unanimous)
• Approved 125 N. College St. stairs unpainted (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will hold a public hearing on off-road vehicle redemption fees and consider final approval of two zoning changes, plus original consideration of resolutions on residency requirements, a $2.6M CARES Act grant for Wi-Fi and telehealth, and a $1.7M road safety contract.

• Public hearing on amending §248-101-c to set off-road vehicle redemption fees at $70 towing plus $20/day storage
• Final consideration: rezone 1276, 1278, 1288 Belmont Ave from R-1 to Institutional
• Final consideration: add OH Overlay Historic District to 145 Barrett St (C-4 zone)
• Resolution to accept $2,615,853 CDBG-CV CARES grant for Wi-Fi, community portal, telehealth
• Resolution to award Brandywine Ave safety improvements contract to Callanan Industries for $1,713,430.68

The Schenectady City Council held a public hearing on amending off-road vehicle redemption rules, with no speakers, and closed it. The council unanimously adopted the consent agenda containing two ordinances and three resolutions. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included public comments on the BLM mural, rent increases, traffic safety, and noise complaints.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 2022-05 unanimously
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2022-06 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-184 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-185 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-CS-17 unanimously

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to review site plan applications for new construction and business operations. New business includes two residential buildings proposed by AIK Property Group on Barrett Street and South Avenue. Old business includes a bar and music hall, a charter school, an auto sales addition, and a zoning interpretation for a private club. The meeting is open to the public with optional masks and email comments accepted.

• 16-unit residential building at 1052-1062 Barrett Street and 608 South Avenue
• 9-unit residential building at 1101-1107 Barrett Street and 519 South Avenue
• Bar and music hall at 116 Jay Street
• Destine Preparatory Charter School at 530 Franklin Street
• 3,120 SF addition to Amsler Auto Sales at 1545 Broadway

The Schenectady Planning Commission approved site plans for two AIK Property Group residential buildings on Barrett Street, a 16-unit and a 9-unit project, with conditions including bike racks and landscaping buffers. The commission also approved a site plan for a bar and music hall at 116 Jay Street, a conditional approval for a charter school at 530 Franklin Street, and an addition to Amsler Auto Sales at 1545 Broadway. A zoning interpretation request for 2525 Broadway was tabled.

• Approved 16-unit residential building at 1052-1062 Barrett St & 608 South Ave (Beach & Lewis abstained)
• Approved 9-unit residential building at 1101-1107 Barrett St & 519 South Ave (Beach & Lewis abstained)
• Approved bar and music hall site plan at 116 Jay St (Evers abstained)
• Conditionally approved charter school site plan at 530 Franklin St (unanimous)
• Approved 3,120 SF addition to Amsler Auto Sales at 1545 Broadway (unanimous)
• Tabled zoning interpretation for 2525 Broadway at applicant's request (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council is scheduled to vote on resolutions to sell five city-owned properties, ranging from $3,000 to $42,300, all with requirements for rehabilitation or consolidation. The body will also approve an amendment to the collective bargaining agreement with Firefighters Local 28 regarding pay steps. Additionally, the council will confirm two board appointments and authorize a public hearing on off-road vehicle regulations.

• Sale of 411 Summit Avenue for $3,000 to Chandradat Ishwar, requiring rehabilitation within six months
• Sale of 553 Mumford Street for $15,000 to Santokh Singh, requiring rehabilitation within six months
• Sale of 591 Lansing Street for $10,000 to Sandra A. Peguero, requiring rehabilitation within six months
• Sale of 1045 Glendale Place for $42,300 to Oscar Guillen, requiring rehabilitation within twelve months
• Amendment to the 2019-2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement with Firefighters Local 28 IAFF regarding Step 8 and Step 10

The Schenectady City Council unanimously adopted 10 resolutions on the consent agenda. During public comment, many residents spoke about the Black Lives Matter mural on Jay Street, and Mayor McCarthy stated it will remain as long as he is mayor. No formal action was taken on the mural or other public comments.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-174 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-175 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-176 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-177 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-178 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-179 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-180 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-181 unanimously

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board will consider two area variance requests from AIK Property Group, LLC regarding onsite parking requirements. The first request involves providing four spaces where 13 are required, and the second involves providing zero spaces where 24 are required.

• Area variance for 1101 and 1107 Barrett Street and 519 South Avenue (4 parking spaces requested; 13 required)
• Area variance for 1052 and 1062 Barrett Street and 608 South Avenue (0 parking spaces requested; 24 required)

The Schenectady Board of Zoning Appeals voted unanimously to table two area variance requests from AIK Property Group for affordable housing projects on Barrett Street and South Avenue. The board wants a parking plan that ties the parking lots to the properties via an easement or restrictive covenant before considering approval. No final decision was made on either application.

• Tabled area variance for 1101/1107 Barrett St & 519 South Ave (unanimous)
• Tabled area variance for 1052/1062 Barrett St & 608 South Ave (unanimous)
• Approved June 1, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council is meeting to consider 12 resolutions, including a request for Governor Hochul to sign a bill allowing municipalities to lower speed limits to 25 mph, budget reallocations, property sales, and contract awards. The agenda includes both original considerations and contract approvals, with all items requiring 4 votes.

• Resolution requesting Governor Hochul to sign A-1007/S-2021 to allow 25 mph speed limits
• Budget reallocation within Fire Department (cost neutral)
• Budget reallocation within Bureau of Code Enforcement (cost neutral)
• Allocate $20,000 CDBG-CV3 funding to Feed Albany, Inc. for food services
• Swimming pools operating agreement with Boys and Girls Clubs for $155,000

The Schenectady City Council unanimously adopted a 15-item consent agenda, including resolutions 2022-162 through 2022-173 and 2022-CS-15/16. Council Member Mootooveren noted one resolution transferred $300,000 in ARPA funds for the Summer Youth Employment Program to Schenectady County and the Schenectady City School District. No other substantive decisions were made; public comment covered the Vale Project, rent concerns, street art, and the Black Lives Matter mural.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-162 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-163 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-164 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-165 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-166 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-167 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-168 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-169 unanimously

City Council Committees

The Finance Committee will hear a presentation on the city's 2021 independent audit and consider accepting the results. The audit found a $5.6 million surplus in the general fund, with no material weaknesses or findings. The committee will also discuss the Summer Youth Employment Program.

• 2021 audit presentation by Cusack & Company, with unmodified opinion
• General fund surplus of $5.6 million, driven by sales tax, casino revenue, and insurance recoveries
• Water fund deficit of $57,000 and sewer fund deficit of $745,000
• ARPA funds: $26.5 million received, $786,000 recorded as revenue in 2021
• Summer Youth Employment Program discussion

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will hold its regular meeting on June 23, 2022, to consider eight applications for property alterations within local historic districts. These include driveway replacement, painting, roof installation, stair repairs, and column modifications. The commission will also handle routine items like minutes approval and public comment.

• Driveway replacement at 14 N. Ferry St. (Stockade Historic District)
• Painting at 1201 Stratford Rd. (GE Realty Plot Historic District)
• Painting at 22 N. Church St. and 101 Front St. (Stockade Historic District)
• New roof at 1207 Union St. (Union Street Historic District)
• Stair repairs at 847 Union St. and column modifications at 1332 Union St. (Union Street Historic District)

The Schenectady Historic District Commission approved six applications for modifications in historic districts, including a driveway replacement at 14 N. Ferry St., paint jobs at 1201 Stratford Rd. and 22 N. Church St., a roof at 1207 Union St., stair repairs at 847 Union St., and column work at 1332 Union St. Two applications were tabled due to incomplete submissions, and one was withdrawn. All approvals were unanimous.

• Approved driveway replacement at 14 N. Ferry St. with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved paint at 1201 Stratford Rd. with specified colors (unanimous)
• Tabled paint application at 22 N. Church St. (unanimous)
• Tabled paint application at 101 Front St. (unanimous)
• Approved roof installation at 1207 Union St. (unanimous)
• Approved stair repairs at 847 Union St., deferred front steps (unanimous)
• Approved column modifications at 1332 Union St. (unanimous)
• Withdrawn paint/stair tread application at 107 N. College St.

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees meet to discuss and act on several items, including accepting the 2021 audit, a police technology presentation, budget amendments for the Fire and Code Enforcement departments, and allocating $20,000 in CDBG-CV3 funds to Feed Albany. They will also discuss reducing the city speed limit to 25 mph, installing speed humps, filling vacant city positions, and other development and planning items.

• 2021 Audit Acceptance by Cusack & Company
• Police Department technology presentation by Axon
• 2022 Budget Amendment for Fire Department (reclassify Firefighter to Lieutenant, budget neutral)
• 2022 Budget Re-appropriation for Code Enforcement (add Assistant Building Supervisor, budget neutral)
• Allocate $20,000 CDBG-CV3 to Feed Albany, Inc.

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic Resource Commission is holding a public meeting to gather input on the creation of Historic Design Guidelines for the city's five locally designated historic districts. The guidelines will help residents, staff, and the commission understand the process for modifying historic properties and how preservation standards apply to rehabilitation and new construction. City representatives, commission members, and the consultant Lacey Thaler Reilly Wilson Architecture & Preservation will present and answer questions.

• Public meeting on June 16, 2022, at 7pm, City Hall Room 110 and virtually
• Project to create Historic Design Guidelines for five historic districts
• Guidelines will cover modification process and preservation standards
• Consultant: Lacey Thaler Reilly Wilson Architecture & Preservation
• Funding from NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Schenectady Heritage Foundation, and City of Schenectady

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to review several site plan applications and zoning recommendations. The most significant item is a proposal to demolish 104 Erie Boulevard and construct a 5-story, 110-unit residential building, with renovations to adjacent properties. The commission will also consider a charter school, a pizza restaurant, a convenience store, and two zoning changes.

• Site plan for 104-112 Erie LLC: demolish 104 Erie Blvd, build 5-story 110-unit residential building, renovate 106, 108, 112 Erie Blvd and 121 Edison Ave
• Site plan for Destine Preparatory Charter School at 530 Franklin Street
• Site plan for pizza restaurant at 1311 Nott Street
• Site plan for convenience store at 1570 State Street
• Zoning recommendation for Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital parcels on Belmont Ave from R-1 to I; zoning amendment request for 145 Barrett St to add OH Overlay Historic District

The Schenectady Planning Commission approved conditional site plans for a 166-unit residential redevelopment at 104-112 Erie Boulevard, a pizza restaurant at 1311 Nott Street, and a convenience store at 1570 State Street. It tabled a charter school proposal at 530 Franklin Street due to incomplete information, and recommended zoning changes for Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital and a historic overlay for 145 Barrett Street.

• Approved conditional site plan for 104-112 Erie Blvd residential project (unanimous)
• Tabled charter school site plan at 530 Franklin Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for pizza restaurant at 1311 Nott Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for convenience store at 1570 State Street (unanimous)
• Recommended rezoning of Sunnyview parcels from R-1 to I (unanimous)
• Recommended historic overlay for 145 Barrett Street (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is considering the adoption of the 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan, which allocates approximately $3.5 million in federal funding for housing and public services. The agenda also includes several budget reallocations and the awarding of a $3.1 million contract for the CHIP's Paving Program.

• Adoption of 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan totaling $3,499,426.00
• Contract award to Peter Luizzi & Bros. Contracting, Inc. for $3,108,576.65 for the CHIP's Paving Program
• Deposit of $267,140.74 for the NYDOT 'Pave Our Potholes' Program
• Authorization of the sale of 2037 Wabash Avenue for $60,000
• Authorization of the sale of 633 Lang Street for $3,500

The Schenectady City Council unanimously adopted a consent agenda containing 17 resolutions, including the award of the Municipal Water Supply Well Project to Layne Christensen Company for $1,133,200.00. The council also passed three ceremonial resolutions recognizing Flag Day, Gun Violence Awareness, and Pride Month, and approved the minutes from the May 23, 2022 meeting.

• Approved consent agenda with 17 resolutions (unanimous)
• Awarded Municipal Water Supply Well Project to Layne Christensen Company for $1,133,200 (included in consent agenda)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-145 commemorating Flag Day (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-146 recognizing Gun Violence Awareness (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-147 recognizing Pride Month (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 23, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will meet to discuss and vote on several items, including a $3.1 million paving contract, rezoning of properties on Belmont Avenue, and adoption of the final 2022-2023 HUD Action Plan. The agenda also includes appointments, budget amendments, and various resolutions.

• Award $3,108,587.65 contract to Peter Luizzi & Bros. for 2022 CHIPs Paving Program
• Rezoning of 1276, 1278, and 1288 Belmont Avenue
• Adoption of 2022-2023 Final Annual Action Plan with $3,499,436 in HUD funding
• 2022 Budget Amendment for Fire Department (Assistant Chief position)
• Appointments to Downtown Special Assessment District Board and Planning Commission

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider five variance applications. These include requests for changes to impervious surface limits, setbacks, parking capacity, signage, and land use.

• Hometown Health Centers: area variance for 84.5% impervious surface at 1108 State Street
• Hometown Health Centers: area variance for 76-foot front yard setback at 1108 State Street
• John Roth: area variance for 54 parking spaces at 224 State Street
• L&B State Street Properties: area variance for a 3-sided sign at 2200 Maxon Road
• Geeta Jagiah: use variance for a poultry meat slaughtering facility at 714 Broadway

The Schenectady Zoning Board of Appeals approved four area variances and denied one use variance. Approvals included impervious surface and setback variances for Hometown Health Centers at 1108 State Street, a parking variance for 224 State Street, and a sign variance at 2200 Maxon Road. The board denied a use variance for a poultry slaughtering facility at 714 Broadway, citing lack of evidence of prior approval and inconsistency with city direction.

• Approved 84.5% impervious surface variance for Hometown Health Centers at 1108 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved front yard setback variance for Hometown Health Centers at 1108 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved parking variance for 224 State Street with condition that parking agreement includes City as interested party (unanimous)
• Approved 3-sided sign variance at 2200 Maxon Road (unanimous)
• Denied use variance for poultry slaughtering facility at 714 Broadway (unanimous)

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider five applications for changes to properties in local historic districts. The items include painting, roof replacement, step replacement, and fence removal. No other substantive business is listed.

• Paint house at 6 Washington Ave. (Stockade Historic District)
• Replace front steps and paint at 1296 Lowell Rd. (GE Realty Plot Historic District)
• Replace carriage house roof at 1176 Stratford Rd. (GE Realty Plot Historic District)
• Remove fencing at 713 Union St. (Union Street Historic District)
• Replace front stairs at 15 N. Ferry St. (Stockade Historic District)

The Schenectady Historic District Commission approved all five applications before it, each with conditions and a one-year completion deadline. The most notable was approval for Spencer Napolitano to remove a deteriorated iron fence at 713 Union St., with conditions requiring the owner to keep the historic pieces and return within six months with a reconstruction or replacement plan. Other approvals included painting at 6 Washington Ave., stair and paint work at 1296 Lowell Rd., a carriage house roof at 1176 Stratford Rd., and front stairs at 15 N. Ferry St. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved painting at 6 Washington Ave. with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved stair replacement and painting at 1296 Lowell Rd. with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved carriage house roof replacement at 1176 Stratford Rd. with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved fence removal at 713 Union St. with conditions, including return within 6 months (unanimous)
• Approved front stair replacement at 15 N. Ferry St. with conditions (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a special meeting to review site plan applications for various commercial and residential projects, including restaurants, a rail car repair facility, apartment renovations, a bus stop, and a self-storage facility. The agenda includes both new business and continued items from previous meetings. No final decisions are noted; the commission is discussing and possibly voting on these proposals.

• Tino Graham: restaurant at 1126 State Street (C-2 district)
• John Raley: rail car mover repair facility at 1060 Altamont Avenue (M-1 district)
• Lalli Vermani: renovation for 3 commercial units at 1900 State Street (C-5 district)
• Hamilton Corner SSP, LLC: renovation of 18 apartments at 922 State Street (C-2 district)
• Amsler Auto Sales: 3,120 SF addition at 1545 Broadway (C-2 district)

The Schenectady Planning Commission unanimously approved conditional site plans for a restaurant at 1126 State Street, a rail car repair facility at 1060 Altamont Avenue, a three-unit commercial renovation at 1900 State Street, and an 18-apartment renovation at 922 State Street. It also approved a conditional site plan for a restaurant at 1472 State Street and a special use permit with conditional site plan for a self-storage facility at 450 Duane Avenue. The commission tabled a site plan for a 3,120 SF addition at Amsler Auto Sales due to drainage concerns and requested a zoning interpretation for a proposed private club at 2525 Broadway.

• Approved conditional site plan for Tino Graham restaurant at 1126 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for John Raley rail car repair at 1060 Altamont Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for Lalli Vermani 3 commercial units at 1900 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for Hamilton Corner SSP 18 apartments at 922 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for Kontchie Tchako-Ngalieuk restaurant at 1472 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit and conditional site plan for True Storage at 450 Duane Avenue (unanimous)
• Tabled Amsler Auto Sales site plan for 3,120 SF addition at 1545 Broadway due to drainage concerns
• Requested zoning interpretation for Crystal Jones private club at 2525 Broadway (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is considering the adoption of the 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan, which allocates $3,501,950.00 in federal funding. The meeting also includes public hearings for rezoning and historic district applications, as well as resolutions for several municipal contracts and property sales.

• Adoption of 2022-2003 Annual Action Plan totaling $3,501,950.00
• Contract for 'Furnishing Hydrants 2022' to Ferguson Waterworks for $167,212.00
• Construction contract for SPD Firing Range to Gallo Construction Corp. for $232,193.00
• Sale of vacant lot at 28 Kelton Avenue for $5,000.00
• Agreement with CARES of NY, Inc. for a needs assessment not to exceed $45,000.00

The Schenectady City Council held two public hearings with no speakers, then unanimously adopted all 11 resolutions on the consent agenda. No substantive decisions were made beyond the routine approvals; public comments focused on urban chickens, mental health, and tree planting.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-134 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-135 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-136 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-137 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-138 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-139 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-140 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-141 unanimously

Planning Commission

The City Planning Commission is reviewing multiple requests for site plan approvals involving new developments, renovations, and business operations. Items include residential construction on Erie Boulevard and various commercial uses on State Street and Broadway.

• Demolition of 104 Erie Boulevard and construction of an 88-unit residential building with renovated units at 106, 108, and 112 Erie Boulevard
• Site plan approval for a self-storage facility at 450 Duane Avenue
• Renovation of 18 apartments at 922 State Street
• Proposed restaurants at 1126 State Street and 1472 State Street
• A 3,120 SF addition to an existing building at 1545 Broadway

City Council Committees

The City Council committees will review the 2022-2023 Action Plan Allocation, which proposes using $3,501,950 in federal funds for housing, public works, and services. Other discussions include a police department grant for bulletproof vests and a needs assessment contract with CARES of NY, Inc.

• Adoption of the 2022-2023 Action Plan Allocation totaling $3,501,950
• BJA FY2021 Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant for 32 vests at a city cost of $15,033.60
• Contract with Gallo Construction Corp. for $232,193.00 for police firing range construction
• Agreement with CARES of NY, Inc. for a $45,000 homelessness needs assessment
• Sale of vacant lots on Willowcreek Avenue and 28 Kelton Avenue

City Council

The Schenectady City Council is meeting to consider a series of resolutions, including agreements for Community Engagement Officers in city schools, several property rezoning and historic designation requests, and the sale of city-owned properties. The agenda also includes budget reallocations and recognitions. All items are listed as original considerations requiring four votes.

• Agreement with Schenectady City School District for Community Engagement Officers, with $50,000 annual reimbursement per officer (2022-2025)
• Budget reallocation of $75,000 for Community Engagement Officers, adding one police officer and one sergeant
• Historic designation and 'OH' Overlay Historic District zoning for 145 Barrett Street, with public hearing set for May 23
• Rezoning of 1276, 1278, and 1288 Belmont Avenue from R-1 to I (Institutional) for Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital, with public hearing May 23
• Sale of city-owned properties: 13 Swan Street ($50,000), 123 Furman Street ($57,500), and 1012 Cutler Street ($11,000)

The Schenectady City Council approved Resolution 2022-133, authorizing an agreement with the Schenectady City School District to provide Community Engagement Officers in schools. The vote was 6-0, with Councilmember Farley abstaining. The council also adopted 16 consent agenda resolutions unanimously and recognized National Black Barber Shop Appreciation Day and National Foster Care Month.

• Approved Resolution 2022-133 authorizing Community Engagement Officers agreement with school district (6-0, Farley abstained)
• Adopted 16 consent agenda resolutions unanimously (2022-117 through 2022-132)
• Approved Resolution 2022-115 recognizing National Black Barber Shop Appreciation Day (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2022-116 recognizing National Foster Care Month (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 25, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will discuss and vote on several items, including a school resource officer agreement, budget re-appropriations, and historic landmark designations. The agenda includes public hearings and resolutions on funding allocations for tree planting, arts programs, and COVID-19 response initiatives.

• Agreement for up to 6 School Community Engagement Officers, with district paying $50,000 per officer in 2022-2023, increasing 2% annually
• Re-appropriation of $30,600 in CDBG funds for 2022 Tree Planting Collaborative with Community Fathers Inc.
• Reallocation of $70,000 to Hamilton Hill 'Drop In' Arts and Crafts Association for renovation costs
• Deposit of $2,106,616.64 in CHIPS, EWR, and PaveNY funding, and $1,625,567.57 in NYSDOT Touring Route Program funding
• Historic landmark designation for 145 Barrett Street and rezoning at Sunnyview/Belmont Avenue

Historic Resource Commission

The commission will consider several applications for exterior modifications in the Stockade and GE Realty Plot Historic Districts. The meeting also includes a review of a potential historic designation for the Schenectady Police Department building.

• Application to paint shutters at 19 Front St.
• Application to paint house at 3 Front St.
• Application to install new driveway at 22 Front St.
• Application to install new roof at 32 Washington Ave.
• Review of potential historic designation for 301 Clinton St.

The Schenectady Historic District Commission approved five applications for exterior changes, including painting, roofing, stair repair, and driveway work, all unanimously. It also recommended designating 145 Barrett St. as a historic structure and supported nominating the police building to historic registers. One application was withdrawn.

• Approved painting shutters at 19 Front St. (unanimous)
• Approved painting house at 3 Front St. (unanimous)
• Approved roof replacement at 32 Washington Ave. (unanimous)
• Approved stair and railing repair at 107 N. College St. (unanimous)
• Approved driveway replacement at 1191 Stratford Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved extension and modifications for 205 Union St. (unanimous)
• Recommended historic designation for 145 Barrett St. (unanimous)
• Supported nomination of police building to historic registers (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing the 2022-2023 HUD Annual Action Plan, which allocates over $3.5 million toward housing, public works, and public services. The plan includes funding for pandemic response through expanded WiFi connectivity and a telehealth pilot program.

• Proposed $3,501,950 HUD Annual Action Plan including CDBG, ESG, and HOME funds
• Public hearing for CDBG-CV funding to increase WiFi in underserved areas and launch 'Stay Well' telehealth pilot
• Resolution authorizing the sale of 113 Porter Street for $10,000.00
• Resolution authorizing the sale of 824 Stanley Street for $35,500.00
• Resolution authorizing the sale of 851 Emmett Street for $42,000.00

The Schenectady City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2022-106 recognizing Arbor Day and approved a 9-item consent agenda (Resolutions 2022-107 through 2022-114 and 2022-CS-12) without discussion. Two public hearings were held on the HUD Annual Action Plan and CDBG-CV funding for WiFi and telehealth, with comments accepted until April 27. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included committee reports, public comment, and discussion of tabled Community Engagement Officers item.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-106 recognizing Arbor Day (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-107 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-108 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-109 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-110 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-111 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-112 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-113 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on April 20, 2022, to review several site plan approvals and special use permits. The agenda includes new commercial and residential projects in the downtown C-4 district, a hospital expansion, and a dental lab renovation. Public comments can be emailed before the meeting.

• Cass Hill Development: renovate 271-275 State St (30 residential units) and add at 277 State St (50 units) with commercial space
• 31 Lafayette LLC: demolish and build 5-story, 46-unit residential building at 31 Lafayette St
• Civco Realty: demolish and rebuild at 438 State St
• Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital: 6,000 sq ft addition at 1270 Belmont Ave
• First United Methodist Church: electronic message board sign at 601 State St

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will discuss several items, including a presentation on the Black Freedom Project Community Safety Survey, a proposed agreement for School Community Engagement Officers, and multiple property sales. The council will also consider authorizing agreements for the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and a contract for a composting toilet. The agenda includes claims against the city and reminders about upcoming public hearings on federal funding.

• Agreement for up to 6 School Community Engagement Officers, with school district paying $50,000 per officer in 2022-2023, increasing 2% annually
• Authorize agreements with NYS Department of State for Downtown Revitalization Initiative contracts C1001884 and C1001885
• ABAC for 'City of Schenectady Greenhouse Composting Toilet' to MA Schafer Construction for $52,447.00
• Sale of properties at 113 Porter Street, 123 Furman Street, 824 Stanley Street, 851 Emmett Street
• Presentation on results of Black Freedom Project Community Safety Survey

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several resolutions including the sale of multiple vacant lots and properties. The agenda also includes establishing new rental fees for Central Park tennis courts and formalizing rules of decorum for public participation in meetings.

• Awarding a $98,700.00 contract to Sealcoat USA, Inc. for street crack sealing
• Accepting a $2,500 grant from Schenectady Heritage Foundation, Inc. for historic design guidelines
• Establishing hourly tennis court rental fees ranging from $5.00 for public agencies to $18.00 for commercial entities
• Authorizing the sale of 821 Strong Street to Debbie NY Inc. for $38,500.00
• Calling for a public hearing on the Proposed 2022-2023 HUD Annual Action Plan

The Schenectady City Council adopted Resolution 2022-105, establishing rules of decorum for council meetings, by a 5-2 vote after an amendment was approved 6-1. All 17 consent agenda resolutions were adopted unanimously. The council also approved the minutes from the March 28 meeting and received the mayor's appointment list.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-105 (decorum rules) 5-2
• Approved amendment to decorum resolution 6-1
• Adopted 17 consent agenda resolutions unanimously
• Approved minutes from March 28, 2022 meeting

City Council Committees

The City Development & Planning Committee is reviewing volunteer applications for the ARPA Review Advisory Committee, which will evaluate approximately 8-10 applications for projects to be funded with American Rescue Plan Act funds. The agenda includes three applicant forms (Cynthia Farmer, Michele E. Lupe, and Ifrecak Miller) with their qualifications and conflict-of-interest disclosures. No final decisions are being made at this meeting; it is a review of applicants for the advisory panel.

• Review of ARPA Advisory Committee volunteer applications
• Applicant Cynthia Farmer: NAACP Schenectady treasurer, NYS HESC analyst
• Applicant Michele E. Lupe: owner of Elektrik City Eats catering
• Applicant Ifrecak Miller: community member
• Reviewers commit ~4 weeks, evaluate 8-10 applications

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board will consider three variance applications regarding setbacks, parking requirements, and land use. These items involve properties on Edison Avenue, State Street, and Broadway.

• Area variance for 129 & 133 Edison Ave to allow a 3ft side yard setback
• Area variance for 922 State St to allow 2 off-street parking spaces instead of 27
• Use variance for 2033 Broadway to allow parking as an accessory use

The Schenectady Zoning Board of Appeals approved three variance requests. A 3-foot side setback variance was granted for a warehouse at 129 & 133 Edison Ave. A parking variance allowing only 2 spaces for an 18-unit apartment building at 922 State St was approved. A use variance to allow parking on a vacant lot at 2033 Broadway was also granted.

• Approved area variance for 3ft side setback at 129 & 133 Edison Ave (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 2 off-street parking spaces at 922 State St (unanimous)
• Granted use variance for parking at 2033 Broadway (unanimous)
• Declared SEQR unlisted action with Negative Declaration for 2033 Broadway (unanimous)

City Council Committees

The City Council committees will review a proposed HUD Annual Action Plan totaling $3,501,950 in federal funding for housing and public services. The plan includes allocations for CDBG, ESG, and HOME programs. A public hearing is scheduled for April 25, 2022.

• $3,501,950 proposed HUD Annual Action Plan
• $2,500 grant acceptance for Historic Design Guidelines
• $98,700 contract for street crack sealing with Sealcoat USA, Inc.
• Appointments to the Civilian Police Review Board
• Permit No. 667 for a sign at 727 Crane Street

City Council

The City Council is reviewing an ordinance to authorize up to $7,026,317 in bonds to fund the 2022 Capital Plan. This includes funding for police and fire equipment, street paving, and various city vehicle acquisitions.

• Bond issuance of up to $7,026,317 for the 2022 Capital Plan
• Zoning changes for multiple tax parcels on Barrett Street and South Avenue
• $90,000 CDBG fund allocation for National Fitness Campaign Outdoor Fitness Court
• $147,000 contract for Vale Park Improvement Project Phase 2 to Davey Tree Expert Company
• Multiple resolutions authorizing the sale of various city-owned properties

The Schenectady City Council unanimously adopted a consent agenda containing two ordinances and 18 resolutions, including a resolution recognizing the 150th anniversary of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church. No substantive decisions were made beyond the consent agenda; the meeting also included public comments and council member announcements.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 2022-03 unanimously
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2022-04 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-075 recognizing Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church's 150th anniversary unanimously
• Adopted Resolutions No. 2022-076 through 2022-090 unanimously
• Adopted Resolutions No. 2022-CS-06 through 2022-CS-09 unanimously

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider six applications for changes to properties in local historic districts. The items include window replacements, roofing, painting, and other exterior alterations. No major policy decisions are on the agenda.

• Replacement windows at 68 Union Ave. (Union Triangle Historic District)
• Brick color approval at 22 N. Church St. (Stockade Historic District)
• Roofing shingles at 1445 Wendell Ave. (GE Realty Plot Historic District)
• Replacement gate at 17 Front St. (Stockade Historic District)
• Building paint at 126 Front St. (Stockade Historic District)

The Schenectady Historic District Commission approved six applications for window replacements, brick color, roofing, a gate, and paint, all with conditions. One paint color application for St. John the Evangelist at 126 Front St. was initially rejected, but a revised blue-gray color was later approved unanimously.

• Approved window replacement at 68 Union Ave. with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved brick color for exterior wall at 22 N. Church St. (unanimous)
• Approved roofing shingle replacement at 1445 Wendell Ave. (unanimous)
• Approved replacement gate at 17 Front St. (unanimous)
• Rejected blue paint color for 126 Front St. (2-3)
• Approved revised blue-gray paint color for 126 Front St. (unanimous)
• Approved roofing shingle replacement at 237 Green St. (unanimous)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will discuss cannabis licensing and zoning, review the city's procurement policy, and consider several financial and property items. The cannabis discussion follows the state's legalization and the council's earlier failure to opt out. Other items include capital projects, grants, and the sale of vacant lots.

• Discussion on cannabis licenses and zoning
• Procurement policy review for 2022-2023
• Reallocation of $250,000 from SNAP and street paving to park improvements
• Accept $50,000 grant from MVP Health Care and National Fitness Campaign
• Award $545,715 for police firing range ventilation system

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to review six site plan applications. New business includes a dental lab at 1108 State Street, an auto sales addition at 1545 Broadway, a private club at 2525 Broadway, and a convenience store at 727 Crane Street. Old business includes a McDonald's drive-thru renovation at 1675 Union Street and a mixed-use redevelopment at 751 State Street. The meeting is a public hearing where comments can be emailed in advance.

• Hometown Health Centers: renovate 13,275 SF building into dental lab at 1108 State Street
• Amsler Auto Sales: 3,120 SF addition at 1545 Broadway
• Crystal Jones: private club and business office at 2525 Broadway
• Samera Al Ghaiti: convenience store at 727 Crane Street
• McDonald's: new drive-thru window and reconfigured lanes at 1675 Union Street

The Schenectady Planning Commission approved a conditional site plan and special use permit for McDonald's at 1675 Union Street, allowing a second drive-thru lane and building renovation. The commission also approved a conditional site plan for a convenience store at 727 Crane Street. All other new business items—Hometown Health Centers, Amsler Auto Sales, Crystal Jones, and Saddek Enterprises—were tabled for further review.

• Approved McDonald's special use permit and conditional site plan for second drive-thru lane (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan for convenience store at 727 Crane Street with 11 conditions (unanimous)
• Tabled Hometown Health Centers dental lab site plan for revisions (unanimous)
• Tabled Amsler Auto Sales building addition site plan for code compliance (unanimous)
• Tabled Crystal Jones private club site plan for code compliance (unanimous)
• Approved Saddek Enterprises mixed-use redevelopment at 751 State Street with conditions (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will consider 18 resolutions, including confirming two Planning Commission appointments, adopting a hazard mitigation plan update, accepting two Metroplex grants for the Mohawk Harbor Dock Project and Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, authorizing a revocable permit for a sign at Unique Lounge, reallocating $25,000 in HUD ESG-CV funds, selling eight city-owned properties, settling four claims, and honoring the Ancient Order of Hibernians for St. Patrick's Day.

• Confirm appointments of Dharam Hitlall and Colin M. Evers to Planning Commission
• Accept $75,000 grant for Mohawk Harbor Dock Project and $300,000 for Pedestrian Safety Action Plan
• Re-allocate $25,000 in HUD ESG-CV funds to Street Outreach Program
• Authorize sale of 8 properties: 42 Wyllie St ($9,000), 407 Mumford St ($42,000), 528 Clayton Rd ($53,000), 619 Seneca St ($45,000), 916 Strong St ($20,000), 1021 Davis Terrace ($18,000), 1034 Strong St, and 42 Wyllie St
• Settle claims by Gloria Brown, Ivette Rosado, Jennifer Saywack, and Denise & Ronald Sheridan

The minutes record no formal decisions; they consist solely of public correspondence submitted to the City Council. The emails request a 20% funding increase for CSTEP/STEP programs, raise safety and access concerns about the proposed Large Vessel Dock at Mohawk Harbor, and criticize the Pedestrian Safety Plan's proposed bump-outs. No votes or actions were taken.

• No formal decisions recorded; meeting was procedural only

City Council Committees

The City Council committees will review a proposal to rezone approximately 3.91 acres from R-2 Two-Family to C-4 Downtown zoning. The meeting also includes discussions on HUD grant amendments, planning commission appointments, and several property sales.

• Rezoning of 3.91 acres between Barrett Street and South Avenue
• Contract amendment for $25,000 in HUD ESG-CV funds for Cares of New York, Inc. and Bethesda House, Inc.
• Confirmation of two Planning Commission appointments
• Authorization for Mohawk Harbor Dock Project grant agreement with Metroplex Development Authority
• Sale of multiple city-owned properties including 42 Wyllie Street and 528 Clayton Road

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider area variance requests for a subdivision on Barrett Street. The board will also review two requests for zoning interpretations regarding setbacks and parking requirements for properties on North Ferry Street and Union Street.

• Area variance request for 1128, 1132, 1136, 1140, and 1144 Barrett St to allow a subdivision creating seven parcels with reduced frontage and side yard setbacks
• Zoning interpretation request for minimum rear yard setbacks at 2 North Ferry St
• Zoning interpretation request for off-street parking requirements at 203 Union St

The Schenectady Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved an area variance for Live in Schenectady, LLC to subdivide five lots into seven at Barrett Street. The board also unanimously upheld the zoning officer's interpretation that a preexisting parking area at 203 Union St is legal and not expanded by landscaping changes. In a separate matter, the board unanimously affirmed the denial of a building permit for a deck at 2 North Ferry St, ruling the enlarged structure was not a grandfathered landing.

• Approved area variance for subdivision at 1128-1144 Barrett St (unanimous)
• Declared Barrett St project a Type II SEQR action (unanimous)
• Affirmed zoning interpretation on off-street parking at 203 Union St (4-0)
• Affirmed building permit denial for deck at 2 North Ferry St (4-0)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a proposal to reallocate $250,000 in HUD funds for city park upgrades, including a new splash pad at Jerry Burrell Park. The agenda also includes several property sales, budget amendments for the municipal golf course, and various claim settlements.

• Public hearing to reallocate $250,000 in CDBG funds for park improvements
• Ordinance to change zoning from R-1 to R-3 on Revere Avenue, Fulton Avenue, and Rosa Road
• Budget amendment of $35,000 for tree removal at Schenectady Municipal Golf Course
• Sale of 42 Wyllie Street for $9,000 and 733 Bailey Street for $12,000
• Settlement of Lavonda Sontag claim for $100,000

The minutes contain no formal council actions, votes, or resolutions. They consist solely of two public emails submitted to the city clerk: one requesting a 20% funding increase for CSTEP and STEP programs, and another requesting that City Hall be lit yellow on March 8, 2022, for Problem Gambling Awareness Month, along with a sample proclamation. No decisions were made.

City Council Committees

The City Development & Planning Committee is reviewing a request to establish an advisory committee. This new group would assist in reviewing applications and evaluating the disbursement of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

• Creation of an advisory committee to review ARPA funding applications
• Discussion regarding committee size, qualifications, and expectations
• Discussion regarding the timeframe for fund evaluations and disbursement

Historic Resource Commission

The commission will consider several applications for exterior changes to properties within historic districts. These items include requests for new stairs, driveways, windows, and roof snow guards.

• Stair replacement at 607 Union St. (Union Street Historic District)
• New driveway installation at 32 Front St. (Stockade Historic District)
• Roof snow guard installation at 1105 Adams Rd. (GE Realty Plot Historic District)
• Window replacement at 68 Union Ave. (Union Triangle Historic District)
• Window replacement review for 852 Union St. (Union Street Historic District)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will meet to discuss and recommend action on several items, including a proposed rezoning of 22 parcels on Revere Avenue from single-family to multi-family residential, revised golf course fees, a golf budget amendment, and the sale of five city-owned properties. The Finance Committee will also address an amendment to the HUD Annual Action Plan, and the Government Operations Committee will discuss the Yellow Dot Program and broadcasting of meetings. Several claims against the city will be discussed, including in executive session.

• Rezoning of 22 parcels on Revere Ave from R-1 to R-3
• Revised green fees and rates at Schenectady Municipal Golf Course
• 2022 Golf Budget Amendment: reallocate $35,000 for tree removal
• Sale of 42 Wyllie Street, 458 Fourth St, 733 Bailey St, 1656 Carrie St, 2033 Broadway
• Litigation update and claims: Sontag, Charles, Nationwide Mutual vs. City

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is considering several site plan approvals and special use permits. Key items include a request to rezone 36 parcels from residential to downtown commercial and a proposal for a new 1,200-space parking garage.

• Rezoning of 36 parcels from R-2 to C-4 Downtown Commercial District
• Proposal for a new 1,200-space parking garage at 1101 Nott Street
• Site plan approval for a bar and music hall at 116 Jay Street
• Special Use Permit for a business office at 221 Harborside Drive
• One-year extension for senior living apartments at 90 Elmer Avenue

The Schenectady Planning Commission unanimously recommended changing the zoning of 36 parcels from R-2 to C-4, and also asked the City Council to require a Special Use Permit for convenience stores. The Commission also approved several site plans and special use permits, including a new parking garage for Ellis Medicine, a Stewart's Shops with gas, and a bar and music hall. One proposal, for a commercial renovation at 1900 State Street, was tabled due to code violations.

• Recommended rezoning 36 parcels from R-2 to C-4, with a request for a Special Use Permit requirement for convenience stores.
• Approved a Special Use Permit for Galesi Group to operate a business office at 221 Harborside Drive.
• Approved a conditional site plan for Princess Rallins to operate a bar and lounge at 353 Duane Avenue.
• Approved a conditional site plan for Waqar Farrukh to operate a COVID testing site at 1471 State Street.
• Approved a one-year site plan extension for Home Leasing, LLC to convert the Elmer Avenue School into senior apartments.
• Approved a conditional site plan for Mitchell Ramsey to operate a bar and music hall at 116 Jay Street.
• Approved a Special Use Permit and conditional site plan for Ellis Medicine's new 1,200-space parking garage at 1101 Nott Street.
• Tabled the site plan request for Lalli Vermani at 1900 State Street until code violations are resolved.

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will hold a public hearing on rezoning at Barrett Street and South Avenue, and consider 16 resolutions including property sales, grant acceptances, budget reallocations, and a settlement. The meeting includes routine items like recognizing American Heart Month and authorizing a revocable permit for a sign.

• Public hearing on rezoning at Barrett Street & South Avenue
• Sale of 3 Chester Street for $50,000
• Sale of 8 Mynderse Street for $40,000
• Sale of 1033 Glendale Place for $10,000
• Sale of 2321 Broadway for $41,750

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will discuss several items, including a request to rezone the Stadium Golf Club property at 302 Jackson Ave from residential to commercial, which would allow a wide range of uses. They will also consider accepting a $22,000 state grant for DWI enforcement, approving a revocable permit for an awning at 132 Jay Street, and authorizing a supplemental agreement for pedestrian safety improvements. The agenda includes multiple property sales and budget reallocations.

• Rezoning of Stadium Golf Club (302 Jackson Ave) from R-3 to C-5, with Council to act as lead agency for SEQR
• Accept $22,000 NYS STOP-DWI grant for DWI patrols
• Authorize Supplemental Agreement #1 with NYSDOT for Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, total project cost $2,000,752
• Issue Revocable Permit #664 to Jay Street Properties for awning overhang at 132 Jay Street
• Accept $200,000 from Schenectady County for Jerry Burrell Park improvements

Historic Resource Commission

The Schenectady Historic District Commission is meeting to consider three applications for work on properties in local historic districts, including door, fence, gutter, roof, and pinnacle repairs. They will also review a potential nomination of the Wedgeway Building to the State and National Registers of Historic Places. The meeting includes public comment and adoption of prior minutes.

• Application to modify doors, install fence and gutters at 308 Green St. (Stockade Historic District)
• Application to replace roof at 1003 Union St. (Union Street Historic District)
• Application to repair pinnacles at 806 Union St. (Union Street Historic District)
• Review of potential nomination of Wedgeway Building (271-277 State St.) to State and National Registers

The Schenectady Historic District Commission approved three applications: modifications at 308 Green St., a roof replacement at 1003 Union St., and pinnacle repairs at 806 Union St. It also expressed overwhelming support for nominating the Wedgeway Building to the State and National Historic Registers. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 308 Green St. modifications with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved 1003 Union St. roof replacement with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved 806 Union St. pinnacle repairs with conditions (unanimous)
• Supported Wedgeway Building nomination to historic registers (unanimous)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council is meeting to consider a final ordinance on unsafe building procedures, and to take initial steps on rezoning parts of Barrett Street and South Avenue, including setting a public hearing and environmental review. The council will also vote on creating an advisory committee for ARPA fund recommendations, accepting a grant for historic design guidelines, authorizing budget reallocations for union agreements, and approving the sale of multiple city-owned properties.

• Final consideration of ordinance amending Section 138-30 on unsafe structures
• Resolution calling for public hearing on rezoning Barrett Street and South Avenue (Feb 14, 2022)
• Resolution creating advisory committee for ARPA fund proposals
• Resolution accepting $13,000 grant for historic design guidelines
• Resolution authorizing agreement with Saratoga Associates for new pool at Central Park using ARPA funds

The Schenectady City Council unanimously adopted a 23-item consent agenda, including Ordinance 2022-01 and resolutions 2022-009 through 2022-031. It also passed Resolution 2022-010, creating an advisory committee for ARPA fund recommendations, by a 5-1 vote. The meeting included public comments and announcements but no other substantive decisions.

• Adopted Ordinance 2022-01 unanimously
• Adopted Resolutions 2022-009 through 2022-031 unanimously (consent agenda)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-010 creating ARPA advisory committee (5-1, Polimeni nay)
• Approved minutes from January 1 and January 10, 2022 meetings

Planning Commission

The Schenectady Planning Commission will review multiple site plans, special use permits, and subdivision requests. The largest proposal is a 60-unit residential development on Crane Street and Pleasant Street. Other items include a drive-through and electronic sign at 2526 Broadway, a building addition on Albany Street, and several residential and commercial projects.

• DePaul Properties: 60 residential units at 914-1002 Crane St and 933 Pleasant St
• Moonwatie Chaturi: electronic message board sign and drive-through at 2526 Broadway
• Charles G. Craft: 4,225 sq ft addition at 771-773 Albany St
• Live in Schenectady LLC: 15 single-family homes and subdivisions on Barrett St
• John Roth: 24 apartments and two parking levels at 224 State St

The Schenectady Planning Commission approved a conditional site plan for a 60-unit residential development across multiple parcels on Crane and Pleasant Streets, with conditions including lot consolidation and sewer review. The commission also granted conditional approvals for several commercial projects, including a convenience store at 1384 Crane Street and a clothing store with a drive-through at 2526 Broadway. A proposal for a mixed-use redevelopment at 751 State Street was tabled as incomplete.

• Approved 60-unit residential development at Crane/Pleasant Streets (6-0, Beach abstaining)
• Approved conditional site plan for convenience store at 1384 Crane Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan and special use permits for clothing store/drive-thru at 2526 Broadway (5-0, Healey abstaining)
• Approved conditional site plan for 4,225 sq ft addition at 771-773 Albany Street (unanimous)
• Tabled mixed-use redevelopment at 751 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional site plan/subdivision for 15 single-family homes on Barrett Street (6-0, Beach abstaining)
• Approved conditional site plan for parking garage/24 apartments at 224 State Street (6-0, Beach abstaining)
• Tabled site plan for 1900 State Street renovation due to unresolved violations (unanimous)

City Council Committees

The Schenectady City Council committees will discuss and potentially act on several items, including a $450,000 design contract for a new Central Park pool, rezoning of Barrett Street and South Avenue, and reallocations of HUD COVID-19 grant funds. The agenda also includes discussions on reducing fire department hiring barriers and holding meetings outside City Hall. Many items are routine budget reallocations and property sales.

• Authorize $450,000 agreement with Saratoga Associates for design of new Central Park pool using ARPA funds
• Rezoning of 3.91 acres at Barrett Street and South Avenue from R-2 to C-4, including SEQR lead agency and public hearing
• Move $40,000 in HUD ESG-CV funds to emergency shelter for domestic violence victims (YWCA)
• Move $33,000 in HUD ESG-CV funds to homeless outreach program (Bethesda House)
• Discussion on reducing fire department hiring barriers (EMT instead of paramedic certification)

City Council

The Schenectady City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on several items, including a local law to formalize procedures for condemning unsafe buildings, a charter amendment extending the foreclosure moratorium for owner-occupied homes, and resolutions to accept a $155,200 federal grant for police body-worn cameras, grant property tax exemptions per Governor Hochul's executive order, and approve multiple contracts for water treatment chemicals and electronics recycling.

• Public hearing on amending Chapter 138-30 to add rules for condemning unsafe structures
• Final consideration of charter amendment extending foreclosure protection for owner-occupied homes from 33 months to 3 years
• Resolution to accept $155,200 BJA grant for body-worn cameras for police
• Resolution to grant property tax exemptions to seniors and disabled persons without renewal applications
• Contracts for chlorine gas, sodium hypochlorite, hydrofluosilicic acid, liquid sodium bisulfate, and electronics recycling

The Schenectady City Council held a routine meeting on January 10, 2022, adopting a consent agenda of 10 items (one local law and nine resolutions) unanimously. A public hearing on amending Section 138-30 of the city code drew no speakers and was closed. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included recognition of Lt. Thomas J. Kelly Jr. and public comments on art funding and downtown parking.

• Adopted Local Law No. 2022-LL-O1 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-004 (recognizing Lt. Kelly) unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-005 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-006 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-007 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-CS-01 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-CS-02 unanimously
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-CS-03 unanimously

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals is meeting to consider area variance requests for two property developments. The board will review requests to reduce required parking spaces and modify setback and surface coverage limits.

• DePaul Properties, Inc. request for 50 parking spaces instead of 71 at 914-1002 Crane St.
• Bohler Engineering request for 8.1ft rear transitional yard setback instead of 15ft at 1675 Union St and 1017 Dean St.
• Bohler Engineering request for 84.6% impervious surface coverage instead of 80% at 1675 Union St.
• Bohler Engineering request for 76% impervious surface coverage instead of 70% at 1017 Dean St.

The Schenectady Zoning Board of Appeals approved two area variances. The first allows DePaul Properties to provide 50 parking spaces instead of the required 71 for a project on Crane Street. The second grants variances to McDonald's for setbacks and impervious surface coverage at 1675 Union St and 1017 Dean St, with conditions including site plan approval and parcel consolidation.

• Approved area variance for DePaul Properties to reduce parking from 71 to 50 spaces (unanimous)
• Approved area variances for McDonald's at 1675 Union St and 1017 Dean St (unanimous)
• Declared McDonald's project an unlisted action with Negative Declaration under SEQR (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 1, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

City Council Committees

City Council committees will review a $155,200 grant for police body-worn cameras and discuss extending property tax exemptions for low-income seniors. The meeting also includes reviews of electronic waste recycling bids and various water department purchase requests.

• $155,200 Body-Worn Camera Grant for Police Detective Division and other officers
• eLot Electronics Recycling Inc. bid for $644.50 per ton plus $100 per pick-up
• Authorization for NYDOT Pedestrian Safety Action Plan supplemental agreement
• Purchase requests for Sodium Hypochlorite, Liquid Sodium Bisulfate, and Hydrofluosilicic Acid
• Amendment to City Code regarding hearings for unsafe structures

City Council

This is the City Council's organizational meeting for 2022, where members will vote on appointing a Council President, appointing Samanta R. Mykoo as City Clerk, and designating The Daily Gazette as the official city newspaper. All resolutions require 4 votes.

• Resolution appointing a Council President
• Resolution appointing Samanta R. Mykoo as City Clerk
• Resolution designating The Daily Gazette as the official city newspaper

The Schenectady City Council held its organizational meeting on January 1, 2022, and unanimously appointed Marion Porterfield as Council President (6-0). The council also reappointed Samanta R. Mykoo as City Clerk and designated The Daily Gazette as the official city newspaper, both by unanimous votes. No other substantive business was conducted.

• Appointed Marion Porterfield as Council President (6-0)
• Reappointed Samanta R. Mykoo as City Clerk (6-0)
• Designated The Daily Gazette as official city newspaper (6-0)