Watertown public meetings in 2020

City Council

The Watertown City Council will vote on 13 resolutions, including approving a 1.5% cost-of-living increase for Watertown Housing Authority employees, reducing emergency medical service from the Fire Department, and selling surplus equipment. The agenda also includes reappointments to boards and the designation of the official newspaper.

• Resolution 9: Approve 1.5% salary increase for Watertown Housing Authority employees effective Jan 1, 2021
• Resolution 12: Reduce level of Emergency Medical Service from Watertown Fire Department
• Resolution 10: Authorize online auction sale of surplus equipment (2000 Skyjack scissor lift, 1987 Boss light tower, air compressor, cast iron radiators)
• Resolution 13: Approve MOU with CNY Fair Housing for fair housing education and enforcement program
• Resolution 8: Designate Watertown Daily Times as official newspaper for 2021

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss two requests from Stateway Plaza Wine and Liquor, LLC. The items involve seeking permission for specific sign placements and increasing allowed sign surface area.

• Use Variance #563: allow multiple freestanding signs and a building sign above the roof line at 1222 Arsenal Street
• Area Variance #564: increase maximum allowed sign surface area at 1222 Arsenal Street

Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown)

The Advantage Watertown Citizen Advisory Board meeting scheduled for December 10, 2020 has been cancelled. The next meeting will be held on January 14, 2021 via Zoom. This notice is purely procedural, with no agenda items for discussion.

• December 10, 2020 meeting cancelled
• Next meeting scheduled for January 14, 2021
• January meeting to be held via Zoom

City Council

The Watertown City Council is meeting to vote on several resolutions, including accepting a $7,000 donation for the police K9 unit, approving a contract with Auctions International for surplus equipment sales, selling an unimproved portion of Brett Street for $5,500, and establishing the 2021 county tax rate. The agenda also includes a presentation recognizing the K9 unit and a request for state legislation to reduce the number of city court judges.

• Accepting $7,000 donation for Police Department K9 Unit
• Approving online auction contract with Auctions International, Inc.
• Authorizing sale of unimproved Brett Street parcel for $5,500 to Anthony M. Augliano
• Approving CDBG grant agreement with CARES of NY, INC for 2020 Point in Time program
• Establishing 2021 county tax rate

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet on December 1, 2020, to consider a site plan application for building additions and a loading dock at 981 Waterman Drive. The meeting includes reading minutes from the October 26 special meeting and is open to the public with COVID-19 safety measures in place.

• Site plan review for 624 and 960 sq-ft building additions and 1,632 sq-ft loading dock at 981 Waterman Drive (Parcel 9-43-101.005)
• Applicant: Matthew J. Cervini, P.E. of GYMO, DPC on behalf of SHBP Realty Holdings, LLC
• Jefferson County Planning Board 239-m review required

The Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend City Council approve a site plan for building additions and a loading dock canopy at 981 Waterman Drive, contingent on the applicant addressing parking information, revising drawings, submitting a photometric plan, and obtaining permits. The board also approved the minutes from the October 26, 2020 special meeting.

• Approved minutes from October 26, 2020 special meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of site plan for 624 and 960 sq ft additions and 1,632 sq ft loading dock canopy at 981 Waterman Drive (unanimous)
• Set conditions: fix parking info in engineering report, revise C-101 drawing, submit photometric plan, obtain zoning and building permits

City Council

The Watertown City Council will vote on several resolutions, including hiring Kenneth A. Mix as city manager for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021, with an annual salary of $130,000. The council will also consider agreements for traffic signal design, waterfront revitalization, and CDBG CARES Act funding for food pantries, as well as adopt a revitalization plan for Sewall's Island and Factory Square.

• Employment agreement with Kenneth A. Mix as city manager, $130,000/year, Jan 1, 2021–Dec 31, 2022
• Supplemental agreement with NYS DOT for Public Square traffic signal optimization, increasing federal funds to $108,000 and city match to $27,000
• Grant agreements with Watertown Urban Mission, Community Action Planning Council, Salvation Army, and United Way for CDBG CARES Act food pantry funding
• Adoption of Revitalization and Redevelopment Design Plan for Sewall's Island and Factory Square
• Contract with NYS Department of State for Local Waterfront Revitalization Program

Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown)

The Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown) is holding its November 2020 meeting outdoors at Marble Street Park. The agenda includes a site visit to the park and the city's Hydroelectric Facility, as well as a walk to view the new Black River Trail extension. No formal decisions or proposals are listed; the meeting is primarily for discussion and observation.

• Site visit to Marble Street Park (1050 Marble Street)
• Site visit to the City's Hydroelectric Facility grounds
• Walk across Eastern Blvd. Bridge to view Black River Trail extension
• Next meeting scheduled for December 10, 2020

City Council

The City Council will discuss a contract amendment with the Watertown Wolves hockey team, including requests to extend the ice season into mid-May, start games earlier, and reduce practice fees. The city staff notes these changes could affect other arena users and revenue. The council is also scheduled to discuss a micro hydro project.

• Contract amendment with International Development Hockey League, LLC (Watertown Wolves)
• Request to extend ice season into mid-May
• Request to start games earlier than 7:30pm
• Request to reduce practice fees
• Discussion of micro hydro project

City Council

The Watertown City Council will vote on nine resolutions and one ordinance, including rezoning three Washington Street parcels from Residence B to Limited Business and approving a site plan for an 11,532-square-foot building with a 29-space parking lot. The council will also hold public hearings on a special use permit for an auto sales lot at 1170 Water Street and the Washington Street rezoning. Other items include approving an IT security policy, a library window replacement contract, a CDBG homebuyer program agreement, and a tree planting grant.

• Rezoning 1348, 1352, 1356 Washington St. from Residence B to Limited Business
• Site plan for 11,532 sq-ft building and 29-space parking lot at 1348-1356 Washington St.
• Special use permit for WER Yellow Cab auto sales lot at 1170 Water Street
• Professional services agreement for Flower Memorial Library window replacement with C&S Companies
• CDBG sub-recipient agreement with Neighbors of Watertown, Inc. for 2020 Homebuyer Program

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend City Council approval of a site plan by Ferris Holdings, LLC for a 2,707 square-foot parking lot and new retaining wall at 1511 Washington Street, with conditions. The board also approved the October 6, 2020 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved site plan for 2,707 sq-ft parking lot and retaining wall at 1511 Washington St, contingent on erosion control, SWPPP compliance, and zoning certificate (5-0)
• Approved minutes from October 6, 2020 Planning Board meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council approved all nine resolutions and two ordinances on the agenda. Notably, it re-adopted the FY 2019-20 Risk Retention Fund budget at $56,000 and approved a $3,907,000 transfer and appropriation across multiple funds to cover overdrafts and reallocate contingency funds. The council also approved a site plan for expansions at 981 Waterman Drive, a special use permit for an auto sales lot at 1170 Water Street, and a zone change for 1348-1356 Washington Street from Residence B to Limited Business, despite a petition against it. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Change Order No. 1 for Hydro Plant Canal Maintenance, increasing project to $551,268.79 (all yea)
• Authorized online auction sale of surplus vehicle (all yea)
• Accepted $19,500 bid from Bronze Contracting LLC for demolition at 428 Maple Avenue (all yea)
• Adopted new Records Retention Schedule LGS-1 and deleted Chapter 57 (all yea)
• Discontinued unimproved portion of Brett Street for sale to adjoining owners (all yea)
• Approved site plan for building additions and parking lot at 981 Waterman Drive (all yea)
• Granted special use permit for auto sales lot at 1170 Water Street (all yea)
• Re-adopted Risk Retention Fund budget and approved $3,907,000 in fund transfers (all yea)

City Council

The Watertown City Council is holding an adjourned meeting on October 18, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. The agenda includes an executive session to discuss the employment history of particular individuals, followed by adjournment. No other business is listed, so the meeting is primarily procedural.

• Executive session to discuss employment history of particular individuals
• Meeting held at City Council Chambers, 245 Washington Street, Watertown, NY

City Council

The City Council is holding a work session to discuss water and sewer services provided to outside users, including Fort Drum, six towns, and one village. The discussion will compare rates paid by inside city users to those paid by outside users, based on a report from the City Manager. The agenda includes detailed rate schedules and revenue figures for the 2019-20 fiscal year.

• Outside users pay higher water rates: $49.12 per 1,000 c.f. first 1,200 c.f. vs. $40.93 for inside users
• Outside sewer rates: $35.91 per 1,000 c.f. first 1,200 c.f. for inside users; outside rates not listed but noted as higher
• Water revenue from outside users: $1,210,508 (24.4% of total water rents)
• Sewer revenue from outside users: $1,952,531 (29.6% of total sewer rents)
• Agreements with DANC, Town of Watertown, Town of Hounsfield, Town of Pamelia for water sales

The City Council held a work session to discuss water and sewer districts and outside users, but took no formal votes or decisions. Mayor Smith suggested negotiating new contracts with the Town of Watertown and other districts at 120% of the City rate, and floated the idea of annexing adjacent areas, but these were only discussion points. Staff noted the Town of Watertown's contract expired in 2019 and the Town of Pamelia's contract expires in December 2020.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the work session
• Discussed negotiating new water contracts at 120% of City rate (proposal only)
• Discussed potential annexation of adjacent areas (proposal only)

Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown)

The Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown) is meeting to receive updates on engineering projects and the Watertown Family YMCA Downtown Community and Aquatics Center, celebrate successes, and tour the former Convergys Call Center Building at 146 Arsenal Street. The agenda includes public comment and other business.

• Tour of former Convergys Call Center Building at 146 Arsenal Street
• Watertown Family YMCA Downtown Community and Aquatics Center project update
• Engineering project updates
• Privilege of the Floor (public comment)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet on October 6, 2020, to consider several land-use requests, including a special use permit for an auto sales lot, waivers and approvals for site plans, a zone change, and a zoning text amendment. The board will also discuss planning board training. All applicants must attend for the board to act on their requests.

• Special use permit for WER Yellow Cab to allow automobile sales lot at 1170 Water Street
• Waiver of site plan approval for 962 SF concrete parking slab at 741 Leray Street (Ray's Service Center)
• Waiver of site plan approval for 920 sq ft addition and 1,080 sq ft asphalt pavement at 275 Bellew Avenue South
• Site plan approval for building additions, loading dock canopy, and 26,450 sq ft parking lot expansion at 981 Waterman Drive
• Zone change of 1348, 1352, 1356 Washington Street from Residence B to Residence C

The Planning Board voted 3-2 to recommend a zone change for 1348, 1352, and 1356 Washington Street from Residence B to Limited Business, but the motion failed because it required four votes. The proposed zone change will go to the City Council with a negative recommendation. The board also approved a Special Use Permit for a used car dealership at 1170 Water Street, and approved waivers of site plan approval for projects at 741 Leray Street, 275 Bellew Avenue South, and 981 Waterman Drive.

• Approved Special Use Permit for WER Yellow Cab used car lot at 1170 Water St (5-0), max 10 vehicles, Zoning Compliance Certificate required
• Approved Waiver of Site Plan Approval for 962 SF concrete slab at 741 Leray St (5-0), Zoning Compliance Certificate and Building Permit required
• Approved Waiver of Site Plan Approval for 920 SF addition and 1,080 SF asphalt at 275 Bellew Ave S (5-0), ADA parking space, Zoning Compliance Certificate, Sewer and Building Permits required
• Approved Site Plan Approval for 981 Waterman Dr additions, canopy, and parking expansion (5-0), with 8 conditions including SWPPP, SPDES permit, and photometric plan
• Tabled Waiver of Site Plan Approval for 1511 Washington St parking lot and retaining wall (5-0), requiring full site plan application
• Zone change for 1348-1356 Washington St to Limited Business failed 3-2, will go to City Council with negative recommendation
• Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment for Section 310-6 not considered due to modification of preceding zone change

City Council

The Watertown City Council is meeting to vote on several resolutions, including a collective bargaining agreement with the firefighters union, appointments for constable positions, and a zoning change. They will also consider selling surplus equipment, rejecting bids for a water treatment project, and accepting a CARES Act grant. The meeting includes a public comment period and an executive session to discuss collective bargaining.

• Approve collective bargaining agreement with Watertown Professional Firefighters Association, Local 191 (July 1, 2016–June 30, 2020)
• Appoint Patrick T. Connell as City Constable and Robert D. Connell as Deputy City Constable
• Change zoning of 1348, 1352, 1356 Washington Street from Residence B to Residence C
• Authorize sale of surplus equipment/vehicles and bicycles
• Reject bids for Water Treatment Plant Soda Ash System Rehabilitation Project

The City Council approved a collective bargaining agreement with the Watertown Professional Firefighters Association for July 1, 2016-June 30, 2020, and authorized the sale of surplus equipment and abandoned bicycles via online auction. It also approved a $541,672 CARES Act grant agreement with HUD and rejected bids for the Water Treatment Plant Soda Ash System Rehabilitation Project. The council discussed a proposed zoning change for 1348, 1352, and 1356 Washington Street, with staff recommending a change to Limited Business instead of Residence C, but no final decision was made. A $500 donation from Stephen Gilbert to the Police Department was accepted.

• Approved collective bargaining agreement with Watertown Professional Firefighters Association (all yea)
• Authorized online auction sale of surplus equipment/vehicles and abandoned bicycles (all yea)
• Rejected bids for Water Treatment Plant Soda Ash System Rehabilitation Project (all yea)
• Approved $541,672 CARES Act grant agreement with HUD (all yea)
• Accepted $500 donation from Stephen Gilbert to Police Department (all yea)
• Appointed Patrick T. Connell as City Constable (all yea)
• Appointed Robert D. Connell as Deputy City Constable (all yea)
• Tabled zoning change for 1348, 1352, 1356 Washington Street; referred to Planning Board for Limited Business review

City Council

The Watertown City Council will hold a work session to discuss three items: the Pamelia Water District, the transit system and mobility management, and police reform. The police reform discussion is part of the state-mandated process to adopt a plan by April 1, 2021, with the council needing to adopt it by resolution. The transit discussion includes short-term and long-term goals, including expanding routes and a county-wide system. The Pamelia Water District item is listed but no details are provided.

• Police reform: state mandate to adopt plan by April 1, 2021; stakeholders include DA, public defender, police union
• Transit: goal to fill all bus advertising spots by November 1, 2020
• Transit: expansion to include Arsenal Street BOCES, Industrial Park, Outer Washington Street
• Transit: county-wide system partnership discussions, with buses delivered December 2022
• Pamelia Water District: discussion item, no details provided

City Council

The City Council met in adjourned session and immediately moved into executive session to discuss the employment history of a particular individual. No substantive decisions were made; the council reconvened and adjourned without taking any public action.

• Moved into executive session to discuss employment history (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:24 p.m. (unanimous)

City Council

The Watertown City Council is deciding on the environmental impact of rezoning three parcels on Washington Street from Residence B to Neighborhood Business. This action is tied to a site plan for an 11,532-square-foot building and a 29-space parking lot. The council is also approving a $6,500 grant for a food program and a federal grant application for police equipment.

• Resolution to find no significant environmental impact for rezoning 1348, 1352, and 1356 Washington St. to Neighborhood Business
• Approval of site plan for an 11,532-square-foot, two-story building and 29-space parking lot at 1348, 1352, and 1356 Washington St.
• Approval of $6,500 CDBG grant agreement with United Way of Northern New York for the Food 4 Families Program
• Approval of Justice Assistance Grant application for $12,294 to upgrade traffic radar units and purchase portable radios
• Public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant Program Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report

The City Council withdrew two tabled items—a resolution and an ordinance—that would have rezoned 1348, 1352, and 1356 Washington Street from Residence B to Neighborhood Business, and decided to return the matter to the Planning Board to reconsider other zoning options. Resolutions 3 and 4, which would have approved the environmental review and site plan for an 11,532-square-foot building and 29-space parking lot, were not introduced. The Council also approved two resolutions: one authorizing a $6,500 CDBG grant agreement with the United Way of Northern New York for the Food 4 Families Program, and another approving a Justice Assistance Grant application and interlocal agreement with Jefferson County.

• Approved CDBG grant agreement with United Way of Northern New York for Food 4 Families Program ($6,500) (all yea)
• Approved Justice Assistance Grant application and interlocal agreement with Jefferson County (all yea)
• Withdrew introduction and second of tabled resolution on zoning change for 1348-1356 Washington St.
• Withdrew introduction and second of tabled ordinance on zoning change for 1348-1356 Washington St.
• Decided to return Washington St. rezoning matter to Planning Board for reconsideration
• Did not introduce Resolution No. 3 (SEQRA negative declaration) or Resolution No. 4 (site plan approval) for Washington St. project

City Council

The Watertown City Council is holding an adjourned meeting from September 8, 2020. The agenda includes an executive session to discuss the employment history of particular individuals, followed by adjournment. No other business items are listed.

• Executive session to discuss employment history of particular individuals

The Watertown City Council held an adjourned meeting on September 14, 2020, and immediately moved into executive session to discuss the employment history of a particular individual. The motion passed unanimously. The council reconvened at 8:37 p.m. and adjourned without taking any public substantive actions.

• Moved into executive session to discuss employment history of a particular individual (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:37 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet September 1, 2020, to consider three items: a final plat for a two-lot subdivision on VL-Roundhouse Drive, a waiver for a gravel parking area at 1015 Arsenal Street, and a tabled site plan for a mixed-use building at 1348-1356 Washington Street. A public hearing is scheduled for the subdivision request. The meeting is in person at City Hall with mask and social distancing requirements.

• Public hearing at 3:05 p.m. for two-lot subdivision of VL-Roundhouse Drive, Parcel 9-43-101.210, by Howard P. Lyndaker III for Watertown Local Development Corporation
• Waiver request by John M. Bellanger for 2,475 sq-ft gravel parking area at 1015 Arsenal Street, Parcel 9-12-113.000
• Tabled site plan by BCA Architects for Sundus and Sarah, LLC: 11,532 sq-ft mixed-use building, 29-space lot at 1348-1356 Washington Street
• Meeting held in person; entry via Sterling Street entrance, facemask required, chairs six feet apart
• Applicants must attend; otherwise Planning Board will not act on their request

The Watertown Planning Board approved a two-lot subdivision of VL-Roundhouse Drive for the Watertown Local Development Corporation, contingent on assembling the parcel with 800 Rear Massey Street. It also approved a waiver of site plan approval for a gravel parking area at 1015 Arsenal Street, contingent on ADA compliance and other conditions. The board voted 3-2 against recommending site plan approval for an 11,532 SF mixed-use building at 1348-1356 Washington Street, with conditions, and will forward its recommendation to City Council.

• Approved two-lot subdivision of VL-Roundhouse Drive (Parcel 9-43-101.210) for WLDC, contingent on assembling with 800 Rear Massey Street (unanimous).
• Issued Negative Declaration under SEQRA for the subdivision (unanimous).
• Approved waiver of site plan approval for 2,475 sq ft gravel parking at 1015 Arsenal Street, contingent on ADA compliance, erosion controls, and soil schedule (unanimous).
• Defeated motion to recommend site plan approval for 11,532 SF mixed-use building at 1348-1356 Washington Street (3-2 vote).
• Tabled request for 1348-1356 Washington Street was removed from table and considered (unanimous).

City Council

This is an adjourned City Council meeting, continuing from August 17, 2020. The only substantive item is an executive session to discuss proposed, pending, or current litigation. The meeting is open to the public with COVID-19 safety measures in place.

• Executive session to discuss litigation
• Meeting open to public with mask and spacing requirements
• Next regular meeting scheduled for September 8, 2020

Zoning Board of Appeals

The City of Watertown has cancelled the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for August 19, 2020, because no applications were submitted this month. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on September 16, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of applications
• Next meeting set for September 16, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.

City Council

The City Council will consider five resolutions, including approving a $60,800 comprehensive energy audit agreement with Wendel Energy Services, LLC, and rejecting all bids for the Fairgrounds Baseball Stadium bleacher improvements because they exceeded the $95,000 budget. The council will also discuss amending the Citizen Participation Plan for the Community Development Block Grant Program under the CARES Act, adopting an amendment to the 2020 Annual Action Plan, and appointing Jeph Smith to the Transportation Commission.

• Resolution 1: Approve $60,800 energy audit agreement with Wendel Energy Services, LLC
• Resolution 2: Reject all bids for Fairgrounds Baseball Stadium bleacher improvements (lowest bid $179,250, over $95,000 budget)
• Resolution 3: Amend Citizen Participation Plan for CDBG Program under CARES Act
• Resolution 4: Adopt amendment to CDBG 2020 Annual Action Plan
• Resolution 5: Appoint Jeph Smith to Transportation Commission

Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown)

The Advantage Watertown Citizen Advisory Board is holding its regular meeting, with agenda items including downtown updates and discussions of downtown ideas. The meeting also includes a privilege of the floor for public comment and a segment for celebrating successes and upcoming events.

• Downtown updates
• Downtown ideas
• Privilege of the floor
• Celebrating success and upcoming events
• Next meeting scheduled for September 10, 2020

City Council

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss several items, including a proposed energy performance audit agreement with Wendel Energy Services, a sign ordinance amendment, a crow management program, and a redevelopment plan for Sewall's Island and Factory Square. The council will also consider de-commissioning the Alteri Pool. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Energy Performance Audit agreement with Wendel Energy Services, LLC for $60,800, contingent on future contract
• Sign Ordinance Amendment presented by Elan Planning and city staff
• Crow Management Program by Loomacres Wildlife Management
• Sewall's Island and Factory Square Redevelopment Plan (virtual presentation)
• Alteri Pool De-commissioning discussion

The City Council held a work session with no formal votes. They heard presentations on a comprehensive energy audit by Wendel Companies, a draft sign ordinance amendment for electronic messaging centers, the crow harassment program, a redevelopment plan for Sewall's Island and Factory Square, and options for decommissioning Alteri Pool. Council members expressed support for converting certain billboards to digital signs, amending the crow contract to start earlier, and discussed but did not decide on the pool's fate, with some members opposing closure.

• No formal decisions or votes were taken at this work session.
• Council agreed to convert eligible billboards to electronic messaging centers, pending further details.
• Council discussed amending the Loomacres crow harassment contract to start October 1 instead of November 1.
• Council discussed training city staff for crow harassment, with City Manager to explore options.
• Council discussed options for Alteri Pool decommissioning, with no final decision made.

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet on August 4, 2020, to review three development requests. The agenda includes a final plat approval for a two-lot subdivision, a waiver for a small building addition, and a site plan for a large mixed-use structure. The meeting will be held in person at City Hall with public attendance subject to health and safety protocols.

• Subdivision Final Plat Approval for a two-lot subdivision at 650 State Street (Parcel 12-05-232.000)
• Waiver of Site Plan Approval for a 496 square-foot one-story building addition at 1155 Coffeen Street (Parcel 8-18-217.000)
• Site Plan Approval for an 11,532 square-foot mixed-use building and 28-space parking lot at 1348, 1352, and 1356 Washington Street

The Planning Board tabled a site plan application for an 11,532 SF mixed-use building at 1348-1356 Washington Street, pending revisions to widen the drive aisle and remove compact parking spaces. The board approved a two-lot subdivision at 650 State Street and a site plan waiver for a building addition at 1155 Coffeen Street. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved two-lot subdivision at 650 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of site plan approval for 496 SF addition at 1155 Coffeen Street (unanimous)
• Tabled site plan for 11,532 SF mixed-use building at 1348-1356 Washington Street (unanimous)
• Issued Negative Declaration under SEQRA for 650 State Street subdivision (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council readopted the FY 2020-21 General Fund budget, appropriating funds to operate the Thompson Park pool, create a shared secretary position, abolish a Civil Engineer I position, and run a youth baseball program. The council also approved 12 resolutions, including authorizing fundraising for city pools, selling two city-owned lots, accepting a change order for the pool project, and appointing a zoning rewrite steering committee. An ordinance to issue refunding bonds was laid over, and two zoning items for Washington Street remained tabled.

• Readopted FY 2020-21 General Fund budget (all present voting yea)
• Authorized fundraising for city pools via Northern New York Community Foundation (all present voting yea)
• Appointed Patrick T. Connell as Deputy City Constable (all present voting yea)
• Approved sale of 13 Shepard Purchase to Albert E. Gault for $100 (all present voting yea)
• Approved sale of 14 Shepard Purchase to Sidney A. Pond for $100 (all present voting yea)
• Accepted Change Order GC-2 for Thompson Park Pool & Bathhouse, $4,288.29 (all present voting yea)
• Appointed Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Project Steering Committee (all present voting yea)
• Approved sale of 1101 Bronson Street to Neighbors of Watertown, Inc. (all present voting yea)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual meeting on July 15, 2020, to discuss three variance requests. These include an area variance to reduce a side-yard setback, and two use variances for accessory uses in side and front yards. The board will not act on any request if the applicant is not present.

• Area variance #560 to reduce side-yard setback at 782 Lansing Street (applicant: Michael Fiorentino)
• Use variance #561 for accessory use in side yard at 417 Pawling Street (applicant: Anne Ciscell)
• Use variance #562 for accessory use in front yard at 322 Broadway Avenue West (applicant: Kristen Rigabar)

Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown)

The Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown) is meeting to discuss downtown updates, including outdoor dining, sidewalk zones, and a façade and rent assistance program, as well as Community Development Block Grant – CARES Act funding. The meeting is open to public comment and will also cover upcoming events.

• Outdoor dining and sidewalk zone discussions
• WLDC Façade and Rent Assistance Program
• Community Development Block Grant – CARES Act funding
• Public comment period (Privilege of the Floor)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet virtually on July 7, 2020, to consider two subdivision final plat approvals. Public hearings are scheduled for each, and the board may also take public comment on other applications. The agenda includes only these two items plus routine approval of minutes.

• Two-lot subdivision at 902 Emmett Street (Parcel 8-12-103.000), applicant Amy O'Brien for Rocco J. Pangallo
• Three-lot subdivision of VL Shepard Purchase (Parcel 14-16-218.000), applicant Thomas M. Storino for Rick Gaskin, Susan L. Favreau, Sidney A. Pond, Jean C. Pond
• 239-m review by Jefferson County Planning Board required for the Shepard Purchase subdivision
• Public hearings scheduled at 3:05 p.m. and 3:15 p.m.

City Council

The City Council approved a bond ordinance amendment increasing authorized bonds from $525,000 to $750,000 for the Court Street Bridge and Massey/Coffeen Street resurfacing project, expanding the scope to include construction and right-of-way acquisition. The council also approved a $200,000 supplemental agreement with Fisher Associates for the project, bringing the total contract to $703,000. Several other resolutions were passed, including agreements for public benefit services, youth employment training, and a Community Development Block Grant. The council also agreed to open Thompson Park Pool for an abbreviated season, pending budget amendment.

• Approved bond ordinance amendment increasing bonds to $750,000 for bridge rehab (4-0)
• Approved $200,000 supplemental agreement with Fisher Associates for bridge project (4-0)
• Approved agreement with Community Action Planning Council for public benefit services (4-0)
• Approved 2020 Youth and Young Adult Employment Training Program contract (4-0)
• Approved Community Development Block Grant funding agreement with HUD (4-0)
• Accepted donation from Dr. Jeffrey and Susan Aronowitz for seating area (4-0)
• Approved alcohol consumption permit in Whitewater Park (4-0)
• Approved Whitewater Park limited use agreement with Hole Brothers Holdings (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved area variance #559, allowing a two-family dwelling at 507-509 Holcomb Street despite the lot being 73.14% smaller than required. The approval was conditioned on strict enforcement of a June 17, 2020 easement providing permanent right-of-way and parking access across the adjacent property at 277 Ten Eyck Street. The board found the property had lost its grandfathered status in 2009 but had always been a duplex, and no feasible alternatives existed.

• Approved area variance #559 for 507-509 Holcomb St (5-0)
• Stipulated that the June 17, 2020 easement provisions be strictly enforced
• Noted SEQR was already considered at the May 20 meeting, no new review needed

City Council

The City Council unanimously readopted the FY 2020-21 General Fund and Self-Funded Health Insurance budgets, restoring one Parks and Recreation Maintenance Worker position by reducing temporary personnel and other line items. The Council also approved all 14 resolutions on the agenda, including requests to reduce City Court judgeships, a lease and services agreement with Thompson Park Conservancy, a bus advertising fee change, an energy performance contract, a $529,000 bridge project funding commitment, a $39,782 DOJ COVID-19 grant, a $20,988.60 sidewalk change order, a site plan for a 47-space parking lot, an alcohol consumption permit for Public Square, and a grant application for a Thompson Park amphitheater. Two zoning items for 1348-1356 Washington Street remained tabled, and a petition with 24 signatures opposing the development was received.

• Readopted FY 2020-21 budgets, restoring one Parks maintenance worker (unanimous)
• Approved resolutions requesting state legislation to reduce City Court judges to 1.25 (unanimous)
• Approved lease and public benefit services agreements with Thompson Park Conservancy (unanimous)
• Authorized bus advertising fee schedule change effective July 1, 2020 (unanimous)
• Accepted Wendel Energy Services proposal for energy performance contract (unanimous)
• Authorized $529,000 for Massey/Coffeen/Court Street bridge project (unanimous)
• Accepted $39,782 DOJ COVID-19 grant for police PPE (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for 47-space parking lot at Gaffney Drive (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend City Council approve the ARC of Jefferson-Saint Lawrence's site plan for a 47-space parking lot, parking lot reconfiguration, and site improvements across multiple parcels. The recommendation includes conditions: designating the western internal drive aisle as one-way, assembling all seven parcels, and obtaining necessary permits. The board also discussed a special use permit request for multifamily housing on Washington Street, but no action was taken because City Council tabled the related zone change and environmental review.

• Approved minutes from May 5, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ARC site plan for 47-space parking lot and reconfiguration (unanimous, with conditions)
• Condition: designate western internal drive aisle as one-way traffic
• Condition: assemble all seven subject parcels into one via metes and bounds description
• Condition: obtain building, general city, sanitary sewer, water supply permits and zoning compliance certificate
• No action on special use permit for 1348-1356 Washington Street; application withdrawn by applicant

City Council

The Watertown City Council will vote on accepting bids for chemicals used at the water and wastewater treatment plants, including contracts with Slack Chemical, Thatcher Company, and others. They will also hold public hearings on two zoning changes: one to rezone properties on Gaffney Drive, Glenn Avenue, Stanton Street, and Carlton Avenue to Planned Development District #2, and another to rezone 1348, 1352, and 1356 Washington Street to Neighborhood Business. The meeting will be held remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions.

• Accept bids for water treatment chemicals: Slack Chemical (liquid chlorine $1,098.42/ton, hydrofluosilic acid $621.31/ton), Thatcher Company (copper sulfate $3,298/ton, aluminum sulfate $289/ton), Chemical Distributors (sodium silicate $348/ton), George S. Coyne Chemical (powdered activated carbon $2,188.89/ton), Kemira Water Solutions (polyaluminum chloride $365/ton)
• Accept bid for dry polymer at wastewater plant from Slack Chemical at $1.66/lb
• Accept bid for ferric chloride at wastewater plant from Kemira Water Solutions at $774/ton
• Public hearing on zoning change for Gaffney Drive, Glenn Avenue, Stanton Street, and Carlton Avenue to Planned Development District #2
• Public hearing on zoning change for 1348, 1352, 1356 Washington Street to Neighborhood Business

The Watertown City Council approved a zone change for ARC of Jefferson-St. Lawrence properties (Gaffney Drive and Glenn/Stanton/Carlton) to Planned Development District #2, along with a negative SEQRA declaration for a proposed 47-space parking lot. The council tabled a separate rezoning of 1348-1356 Washington Street from Residence B to Neighborhood Business, along with its related SEQRA resolution, after hearing resident concerns about drainage, privacy, and property values. The council also approved bids for water and wastewater treatment plant chemicals and authorized agreements for Phase 2 preliminary design of the sludge disposal process modification project.

• Approved zone change for ARC properties to Planned Development District #2 (all yea)
• Approved negative SEQRA declaration for ARC parking lot project (all yea)
• Tabled Washington Street rezoning to Neighborhood Business (all in favor)
• Tabled SEQRA resolution for Washington Street rezoning (all in favor)
• Approved 8 bids for water/wastewater treatment chemicals (all yea)
• Authorized NYSERDA agreement modification for sludge project Phase 2 design (all yea)
• Authorized GHD Consulting agreement for sludge project Phase 2 design (all yea)
• Moved into executive session for employment history and collective bargaining (all in favor)

City Council

The City Council approved two resolutions: an access agreement with National Grid for remedial work at 337 Engine Street, and a joint service arrangement with CENTRO to loan the city a backup bus at no cost. Both passed unanimously. Public comment focused on the closure of Alteri pool and budget cuts, including library and police positions.

• Approved Resolution No. 4, Access Agreement with National Grid (all yea)
• Approved Resolution No. 5, Joint Service Arrangement with CENTRO for a backup bus (all yea)
• Council Member Henry-Wilkinson requested budgetary impact of restoring library position

City Council

The City Council is deciding on three resolutions and two ordinances. The most significant actions involve rezoning properties on Gaffney Drive, Glenn Avenue, Stanton Street, Carlton Avenue, and Washington Street. The council will also approve the sale of 77-79 Public Square and reappoint Robert Lawlor to the Empire Zone Administrative Board.

• Ordinance No. 1: Rezone 1348, 1352, and 1356 Washington Street from Residence B to Neighborhood Business
• Ordinance No. 1: Rezone 77-79 Public Square (Parcel 7-01-107.000) to Planned Development District #2
• Resolution No. 3: Approve sale of 77-79 Public Square to 624 Camp Avenue, LLC
• Resolution No. 1: Reappoint Robert Lawlor to Empire Zone Administrative Board for a three-year term
• Resolution No. 2: Readopt Citizen Participation Plan for Community Development Block Grant Program

The City Council held a budget session, approving three resolutions and scheduling public hearings on two zoning ordinance changes. During budget discussions, the Council agreed to add $200,000 in spending, including $10,000 for CAPC, $10,000 for the Flower Memorial Library, $50,000 for the Zoo at Thompson Park, and the reinstatement of two IT positions. The Council agreed to keep the tax levy at 1.9% and use money from the General Fund to cover the difference. The meeting was adjourned to May 26, 2020, at 6 p.m. for further public input.

• Reappointed Robert Lawlor to the Empire Zone Administrative Board for a three-year term (all yea).
• Readopted the Citizen Participation Plan for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program (all yea).
• Approved the sale of 77-79 Public Square (Strauss Memorial Walkway) to 624 Camp Avenue, LLC; Council Member Compo abstained.
• Scheduled public hearings for June 1, 2020, on two proposed zoning changes: one for properties on Gaffney Drive and Glenn Avenue, and one for properties on Washington Street.
• Agreed to add $10,000 for CAPC, $10,000 for the Flower Memorial Library, and $50,000 for the Zoo at Thompson Park to the budget.
• Agreed to reinstate two positions in the Information Technology department.
• Agreed to keep the tax levy at 1.9% and use General Fund money to cover the budget difference.
• Adjourned the meeting to May 26, 2020, at 6 p.m. to provide the public an additional opportunity for input.

City Council

During a budget session, the City Council discussed the proposed FY 20/21 budget, focusing on cuts to parks, police, fire, library, and other departments. Council members expressed support for option one: keeping the Northside pool open, closing the Fairgrounds pool, and beginning decommissioning, with a long-term plan for a splash pad. No formal votes were taken; the session was for discussion only.

• Supported option one: keep Northside pool open, close Fairgrounds pool, start decommissioning (3-1, Ruggiero opposed)
• Discussed cutting two parks & recreation maintenance workers and one part-time clerk
• Discussed police budget cut of four officer positions
• Discussed library staff cut of 15%, reducing hours and cutting Sunday and one weekday evening
• Discussed potential State AIM funding cut due to pandemic
• Discussed closing Alteri pool as an alternative, with $90,000 future repair estimate

Citizen Advisory Board (Advantage Watertown)

The Citizen Advisory Board met virtually via Zoom to discuss downtown updates, including the Watertown Local Development Corporation's small business assistance and the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. The agenda included a review of the Sewall's Island and Factory Square Feasibility Study and updates on city capital projects for the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 cycles. No specific decisions, dollar amounts, or ordinances were listed in the agenda text.

• Review of Sewall's Island and Factory Square Feasibility Study
• Updates on Watertown Local Development Corporation Small Business Assistance
• Discussion of Downtown Revitalization Initiative
• Review of City Capital Projects for 2019-2020 and 2020-2021

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet virtually on May 5, 2020, to consider two subdivision final plat approvals, a site plan for a parking lot expansion, and two zone change requests. Public hearings are scheduled for the subdivisions, and the public can participate via GoToMeeting.

• Two-lot subdivision at 650 State Street (Parcel 12-05-232.000) - public hearing at 3:05 p.m.
• Two-lot subdivision at 890 Pearl Street (Parcel 4-20-102.000) - public hearing at 3:10 p.m.
• Site plan for 44-space parking lot and reconfiguration at 420 Gaffney Drive (multiple parcels)
• Zone change for VL-2 Gaffney Drive and several Glenn/Stanton/Carlton properties to Planned Development District #2
• Zone change for 1348-1356 Washington Street from Residence B to Neighborhood Business

City Council

The Watertown City Council will consider a resolution asking state lawmakers to reduce City Court judges from two full-time positions to one full-time and one part-time. The council will also vote on bids for production services, land surveying, sidewalk ramps, concrete, and truck rentals, and hold public hearings on the 2020-21 operating and capital budgets and a local law overriding the tax levy limit.

• Resolution to request state legislation reducing City Court judges from two full-time to one full-time and one part-time position
• Bid award to Steve Weed Productions for recording council sessions at $250 per regular session and $150 per short session
• Three-year renewal of land surveying agreement with Storino Geomatics, 179 Conger Avenue, Watertown
• Public hearings at 7:30 p.m. on FY 2020-21 operating budget, capital budget, and proposed Local Law No. 2 of 2020 overriding the tax levy limit
• Bids for 2020 CHIPs sidewalk ADA ramps, ready mix concrete, and truck rental services

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a use variance to Matthew Roy for an aboveground swimming pool in the side yard at 715 Eddy Street. The board deferred action on a separate request by William Monica to reestablish a two-family dwelling at 507 Holcomb Street, keeping the public hearing open for additional financial and parking information.

• Granted use variance for aboveground pool at 715 Eddy Street (unanimous)
• Deferred decision on two-family dwelling variance at 507 Holcomb Street
• Deferred decision on lot size variance for 507 Holcomb Street
• Adopted negative declaration under SEQR for pool variance

City Council

The Watertown City Council will meet remotely on April 20, 2020, to consider four resolutions: rejecting a single over-budget bid for the Cooper Street Outfall and Harrison Street Sewer Rehabilitation Project, approving a five-year fiber optic franchise with WESTELCOM Network, Inc., approving a similar conduit franchise, and contracting with Elan.3 Consulting for a zoning ordinance rewrite. The agenda also includes a proposed local law to override the state tax levy limit and a staff report on Fire Department heavy rescue truck and EMS service levels.

• Reject bid for Cooper Street Outfall and Harrison Street Sewer Rehabilitation Project; sole bid was $1,613,759.60 from Sparacino Construction Inc., over the $1,410,000 combined budget; staff recommends rebidding in July 2020 as separate projects.
• Approve 5-year franchise agreement with WESTELCOM Network, Inc. for fiber optic cable in City conduit, effective April 1, 2020, with $500 permit fee and monthly rental based on conduit occupancy.
• Approve 5-year franchise agreement with WESTELCOM Network, Inc. for telecommunications conduit in City right-of-way.
• Approve contract with Elan.3 Consulting for the Zoning Ordinance Re-Write Project.
• Proposed Local Law No. 2 of 2020 to override the tax levy limit established by New York General Municipal Law §3-c.

Planning Commission

The City of Watertown Planning Board meeting scheduled for April 7, 2020 has been cancelled because City Hall is closed to the public and non-essential personnel in response to COVID-19. The next meeting is tentatively set for May 5, 2020, pending City Hall reopening. Any applications received in the interim will be deferred to the next meeting.

• April 7, 2020 Planning Board meeting cancelled
• Next meeting tentatively May 5, 2020
• Applications received will roll over to next meeting

City Council

The Watertown City Council will consider nine resolutions, including waiving credit card fees for certain payments through April 30, 2020, rejecting bids for the District 14 Sidewalk Repair and Soda Ash Improvements projects, accepting a bid for the Hydro Plant Canal Maintenance Project, and approving a site plan for the Watertown Golf Club. The meeting is closed to the public due to COVID-19 and will be live-streamed.

• Waive credit card fees for property tax, water/sewer, trash totes, and parking ticket payments through April 30, 2020 (approx. $1,300 in fees in April 2019)
• Reject all bids for District 14 Sidewalk Repair Project (low bid $175,475.50 from Concrete Slipform Inc.) to delay project one year
• Reject sole bid of $758,900 for Soda Ash Improvements Project (budget $270,000) to rebid later
• Accept bid of $497,499.49 from DC Building Systems, Inc. for Hydro Plant Canal Maintenance Project
• Approve site plan for new buildings, event tent, and 50-space parking lot at Watertown Golf Club, 1 Thompson Park

The City Council approved the site plan for new buildings, an event tent, and a parking lot at the Watertown Golf Club, adding a condition requiring the applicant to remediate the current parking lot and septic tank upon direction of the City Engineer. The council also waived credit card fees for certain payments through April 30, 2020, and rejected bids for two projects. A resolution to change the Fire Department's EMS response level was tabled for further discussion.

• Approved site plan for Watertown Golf Club improvements (1 Thompson Park) with added condition to remediate parking lot and septic tank (vote: 4-1, Ruggiero nay)
• Waived credit card fees for property tax, water/sewer, trash tote, and parking ticket payments through April 30, 2020 (unanimous)
• Rejected all bids for District 14 Sidewalk Repair Project to delay for a year (unanimous)
• Rejected the bid for Soda Ash Improvements Project to re-bid later (unanimous)
• Accepted $497,499.49 bid from DC Building Systems, Inc. for Hydro Plant Canal Maintenance Project (unanimous)
• Accepted $37,000 bid from DC Building Systems, Inc. for Hydro Plant Trash/Safety Rack Replacement Project (unanimous)
• Approved granting easements to National Grid for electrical upgrades to City Hall and Roswell P. Flower Memorial Library (unanimous)
• Discontinued a 0.166-acre portion of Bellew Avenue South for rail spur relocation (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council unanimously approved 11 resolutions, including appointing Kenneth A. Mix as City Manager through December 31, 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. They also approved site plans for expansions at Roth Industries and Parkside Bible Church, accepted a $248,981.50 bid for sidewalk and ADA ramp repairs, and readopted the FY 2019-20 General Fund budget with a staffing adjustment. A public hearing on the CDBG Citizen Participation Plan was held with no speakers.

• Appointed Kenneth A. Mix as City Manager through Dec 31, 2020 (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for Roth Industries expansion at 268 Bellew Ave S (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for Parkside Bible Church building at 491 Eastern Blvd (unanimous)
• Accepted $248,981.50 bid from Concrete Slipform Inc. for CDBG sidewalk/ADA ramp repairs (unanimous)
• Readopted FY 2019-20 General Fund budget, eliminating one heavy MEO and creating one light MEO (unanimous)
• Accepted $18,450 proposal from C&S Companies for DPW facility assessment (unanimous)
• Reappointed Sam Purington and Owen Virkler to Transportation Commission (unanimous)
• Accepted $450 donation from Hyde-Stone for a bench in Thompson Park (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet to review three site plan approval requests. These include expansions for Roth Industries, a new building for Parkside Bible Church, and multiple structures for the Watertown Golf Club. Two of the requests require review by the Jefferson County Planning Board.

• Roth Industries: 1,880 and 5,460 sq ft additions, 10,400 sq ft storage building at 268 Bellew Avenue South
• Parkside Bible Church: 9,500 sq ft building at 491 Eastern Boulevard
• Watertown Golf Club: 320, 480, 3,744 sq ft buildings, 800 sq ft addition, 2,400 sq ft event tent, 50-space parking lot at 1 Thompson Park
• 239-m review by Jefferson County Planning Board for Parkside Bible Church and Watertown Golf Club

The Watertown Planning Board voted to recommend City Council approval of three site plan requests: Roth Industries' building additions and storage building at 268 Bellew Avenue South, Parkside Bible Church's new 9,500-square-foot building at 491 Eastern Boulevard, and Watertown Golf Club's new buildings, event tent, and parking lot at 1 Thompson Park. All recommendations were made contingent on specific conditions, including permits, ADA parking, and engineering requirements. The board also approved the minutes from the February 21, 2020 meeting.

• Recommended approval of Roth Industries site plan for 1,880 and 5,460 SF additions and 10,400 SF storage building (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Parkside Bible Church site plan for 9,500 SF building (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Watertown Golf Club site plan for buildings, event tent, and 50-space parking lot (4-0, Katzman abstained)
• Approved minutes from February 21, 2020 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Watertown City Council is deciding on several resolutions, including a $15,000 public benefit services agreement with Thompson Park Conservancy to fund a zoo educator, and accepting a $125,242 proposal from Volunteer Transportation Center for mobility management services. They will also consider re-adopting the FY 2019-20 budget to account for the mobility services funding, authorizing the sale of surplus equipment via online auction, and approving various change orders for ongoing projects. A public hearing on the CDBG 2020 Annual Action Plan is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

• Resolution 1: Approve $15,000 agreement with Thompson Park Conservancy for zoo educator salary
• Resolution 2: Accept $125,242 proposal from Volunteer Transportation Center for mobility management services
• Resolution 3: Re-adopt FY 2019-20 General Fund budget to add $125,242 in revenues/expenditures
• Resolution 4: Authorize online auction sale of surplus city equipment/vehicles
• Public hearing on CDBG 2020 Annual Action Plan at 7:30 p.m.

City Council

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss funding for the Thompson Park Zoo and a 5311 transit funding application. The agenda includes a draft strategic plan for Zoo New York, which outlines goals for animal care, guest experience, and financial stewardship. No formal votes are scheduled; this is a discussion-only meeting.

• Discussion of Thompson Park Zoo funding
• Discussion of 5311 Transit Funding Application
• Review of Zoo New York strategic guidelines draft

The City Council held a work session with no formal votes. They heard a presentation on the Thompson Park Zoo's new strategic plan, including a proposed name change to Zoo New York and a request for an additional $50,000 annually for five years for marketing. They also discussed a 5311 transit funding application, which was submitted that day, and all members agreed to prepare resolutions for future votes.

• Heard presentation on Zoo New York strategic plan (no vote)
• Discussed request for additional $50,000/year for Zoo marketing (no vote)
• Agreed to prepare resolutions for 5311 transit funding (all members)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet to consider final plat approval for two subdivisions on Rail Drive, involving a three-lot split of VL-2 Rail Drive and a two-lot split of 901 Rail Drive. A public hearing is scheduled for 1:05 p.m., and the Jefferson County Planning Board will review the request under 239-m. The board will also read minutes from the February 4 meeting.

• Final plat approval for three-lot subdivision of VL-2 Rail Drive (Parcel 9-43-101.220)
• Final plat approval for two-lot subdivision of 901 Rail Drive (Parcel 9-43-101.008)
• Public hearing at 1:05 p.m. on the subdivision requests
• 239-m review by Jefferson County Planning Board required

City Council

The Watertown City Council will meet on February 18, 2020, to consider three resolutions: a favorable performance review for City Clerk Ann M. Saunders, authorization to apply for a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) for $88,152 in fire equipment, and adoption of updated guidelines for the CDBG Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Program. The agenda also includes staff reports on transit operating expenses and the CDBG Citizen Participation Plan, plus an executive session for personnel, litigation, and collective bargaining matters.

• Resolution No. 1: Favorable performance review for City Clerk Ann M. Saunders
• Resolution No. 2: Authorize application for FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) — $88,152 total, with $8,815 city match for fire attack hose and appliances
• Resolution No. 3: Adopt updated guidelines for CDBG Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Program, aligning with Homebuyer Program guidelines and updated HUD income/rent limits
• Staff report: Transit Operating Expense
• Staff report: CDBG Citizen Participation Plan

The Watertown City Council approved three resolutions: a performance review of the City Clerk, authorization to apply for a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant of $88,152 with an $8,815 city match, and adoption of updated guidelines for the CDBG Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Program. The council also scheduled a public hearing for March 15 on the CDBG Citizen Participation Plan and discussed bus expansion costs, CDBG funding for foot patrols, and other topics.

• Approved performance review of City Clerk Ann M. Saunders (all yea)
• Authorized application for FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant of $88,152 with $8,815 city match (all yea)
• Adopted updated CDBG Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Program guidelines (all yea)
• Scheduled public hearing on CDBG Citizen Participation Plan for March 15 at 7:30 p.m. (all in favor)

City Council

The Watertown City Council is meeting to hear the independent audit report for fiscal year 2018-19, vote on several resolutions including a zoning change for properties on Goodale and Sterling Streets, authorize $300,000 in bonds for sidewalk improvements, and consider a waiver for the city manager. A public hearing is scheduled for the zoning change. The agenda also includes a resolution supporting Fort Drum expansion and participation in a state opioid response grant.

• Resolution to rezone 231, 237, 241 Goodale St. and 201, 209 Sterling St. from Commercial/Residence C to Downtown, with public hearing at 7:30 p.m.
• Ordinance authorizing $300,000 in bonds for sidewalk construction in Special Assessment District No. 14
• Resolution supporting Fort Drum expansion
• Resolution approving participation in State Opioid Response Grant
• Resolution authorizing mayor to execute Section 211 waiver for City Manager Kenneth A. Mix

City Council

This is an adjourned City Council meeting with a largely procedural agenda: roll call, minutes, communications, and public comment. The only substantive item listed is an executive session to discuss the employment history of particular individuals; no resolutions, ordinances, or public hearings are listed for action.

• Executive session to discuss employment history of particular individuals
• Next regular City Council meeting scheduled for Monday, February 3, 2020

City Council

The Watertown City Council is meeting to vote on several resolutions, including amendments to the GHD engineering agreement for the sludge disposal project, change orders for the Thompson Park Pool & Bathhouse, re-adoption of the 2019-20 budget, and a zoning change for properties on Goodale and Sterling Streets. A public hearing is scheduled for a sidewalk assessment district.

• Amendment #3 to GHD agreement: $18,375 for Resident Project Representative services (rate increase from $80 to $90/hr)
• Amendment #4 to GHD agreement: $52,450 for design and construction of new mixing system for Primary Digester #2
• Change Order GC-1 for Thompson Park Pool & Bathhouse: $26,534.88 (total contract $2,165,174.88)
• Change Order EC-1 for Thompson Park Pool & Bathhouse: $6,422.51 (total contract $156,222.51)
• Zoning change for 231, 237, 241 Goodale St and 201, 209 Sterling St to Downtown

City Council

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss two items: a presentation from a consultant on a traffic corridor and a discussion on bus advertising. No formal votes are scheduled; these are discussion items only.

• Traffic corridor consultant presentation by Tim Faulkner of Fisher Associates
• Bus advertising discussion led by Patrick W. Keenan, Superintendent of Public Works

The City Council held a work session to discuss a traffic signal coordination project on Arsenal Street funded by a grant, with a resolution to be brought to the next meeting. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational only.

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Board will meet to consider a final plat for a two-lot subdivision at 131 Moore Ave and a zone change request for properties on Goodale and Sterling Streets. A public hearing is scheduled for the subdivision request. The zone change would reclassify several parcels from Commercial and Residence C to Downtown.

• Final plat approval for two-lot subdivision at 131 Moore Ave (Parcel 12-16-208.000) by Faith Fellowship of Watertown
• Public hearing at 3:05 p.m. for the subdivision request
• Zone change for 231, 237, 241 Goodale St from Commercial to Downtown
• Zone change for 201 and 209 Sterling St from Residence C to Downtown
• Jefferson County Planning Board review required for zone change

City Council

The City Council approved a $1.6 million bond ordinance to fund part of the $3.3 million Thompson Park pool and bathhouse project, with the remainder covered by $1.5 million from the fund balance and $200,000 in state grants. The council also adopted a three-month moratorium on permits for digital/LED billboards after amending it from six months. Two resolutions were passed: designating depositories for city funds and approving a $50,000 grant agreement for the 10th Mountain Memorial Monument.

• Approved $1.6M bond for Thompson Park pool (all yea)
• Adopted 3-month moratorium on digital sign permits (all yea)
• Amended moratorium from 6 months to 3 months (all yea)
• Approved Resolution No. 1 designating Community Bank, Key Bank, WSB Municipal Bank as depositories (all yea)
• Approved Resolution No. 2 accepting $50,000 Empire State Development grant for 10th Mountain Monument (all yea)