Village Notes 2025-02-10

Do Outs

Community Feedback: The Village will reach out to hotel owners and short-term rental operators for input on a potential occupancy tax.
Fire Tower Proposal: Coordination continues with the Community Enhancement Fund group to finalize a proposal for a fire tower project in Ward Plumadore Park.

Key Board Actions

Bill 12 (Passed 5-0) – Transfers Harrietstown Housing Authority funds to support Police Department supplies & equipment.
Bill 13 (Passed 5-0) – Amends and restates a bond resolution for improvements to the Water Pollution Control Plant.
Bill 14 (Passed 5-0) – Allocates $275,000 from the General Fund to a Capital Project Fund for Municipal Building Improvements.
Bill 15 (Passed 5-0) – Transfers $67,900.80 for the purchase of a new Bobcat for the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
​​Bill 16 (Tabled) – A resolution for creating an Emergency Water & Sewer Grant and Loan Program.
The board tabled a vote on creating an emergency water and sewer loan fund to allow the village attorney to review the proposal. While forgiving fees is illegal, the fund would provide a legal, streamlined way to assist residents facing extreme circumstances.
Bill 17 (Failed 3-2, Mayor Williams, Trustees Ryan & Scollin opposed, Trustees Brunette & White in favor) – A proposed resolution related to safeguarding residents and financial resources.
The board did NOT pass a resolution that would have prioritized the use of limited Village of Saranac Lake resources for local law enforcement while leaving immigration enforcement to federal authorities. The intent was to ensure all residents, regardless of immigration status, feel safe seeking help from local police, while reaffirming that criminal activity has no place in the village.
Bill 18 (Passed 5-0) – Establishes a joint working group between the Village, the Town of Harrietstown, and NYSDOT.

Public Discussions & Concerns

Request for closing portions of downtown for the ArtWalk four times a summer to boost community activity.
Request for additional signage for Mt. Pisgah ski area to improve navigation.
Concerns about Baldwin Park being plowed for private use—residents questioned the fairness and legality.
Request for an inclusive, accessible playground at Garwood Park.
Ongoing discussions about the funding of the Emergency Services Complex and concerns about financial risks.
Safety and insurance implications of the proposed fire tower.