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City of Geneva Council Meeting 7/1/2026
Published: Jul 1, 2026
City Council Schedules Public Hearings for Property Conveyance and Dilapidated Building Action
The City Council discussed the potential conveyance of three city-owned vacant lots on Maryland Street, located at the end of Crystal Street and Virginia Street. The proposed buyer has increased their offer to $4,000 for the three properties. The council voted to set a public hearing to further discuss the sale, emphasizing that this action does not commit the city to selling the properties but allows for further negotiation and public input on the proposed plans, which are included in the meeting packet. Additionally, a public hearing was scheduled regarding the repair or demolition of 555 South Exchange Street, a property identified as being in significant disrepair with a "deadbeat owner." This process is the first legal step for the city to gain control and address potential public safety hazards posed by the building. Concerns were raised about the city potentially incurring costs for demolition or remediation if the owner remains unresponsive, with the possibility of the property eventually becoming the city's responsibility through foreclosure. The condition of the building was described as severely damaged, potentially beyond repair, and connected to an adjacent building, complicating demolition efforts. A previous case involving the demolition of the Medias building was cited as a successful, albeit different, Chapter 111 procedure where the owner ultimately funded the demolition.
City Council Tackles Budget, Governance Review, and Community Development Initiatives
The meeting covered several updates and discussions pertinent to city governance and operations. Mayor Cisery provided updates on meetings with state Senator Pam Helming and county officials regarding economic development, housing initiatives, and the potential implementation of an occupancy tax, aiming to ensure city benefits from collected revenues. He also addressed the ongoing process of reviewing the city manager role and structure, emphasizing the commitment to a city manager-city council form of government and the importance of refining the role for clarity and efficiency. Councilor updates included discussions on local events, business openings, infrastructure repairs by Norfolk Southern, and the police budget accountability board's concerns regarding proposed spending cuts impacting morale and training. A significant portion of the meeting involved a presentation by the Geneva Parks Collective proposing a public pool, and a detailed budget discussion focusing on revenue projections for 2027. Public comment addressed various issues including government accountability, abandoned construction sites, and code enforcement. The council also approved a Main Street grant application and scheduled public hearings for CDBG applications and property conveyances/actions.
Proposal for Public Pool at Clark Street Park Presented to City Council
The Geneva Parks Collective presented a proposal for a public pool at Clark Street Park in the East Lake View neighborhood. The proposal includes research into historical water infrastructure and recreational use of water in Geneva, noting the lack of a public pool since the demolition of the American Legion pool. Two design concepts were presented: a traditional chlorine pool and a natural pool. Both concepts include amenities like restrooms, play structures, fitness areas, and unique features like zero-entry access and sand volleyball courts. The natural pool concept offers year-round use for ice skating and lower maintenance costs. The collective highlighted potential partnerships with local organizations like the YMCA and Hobart and William Smith Colleges. They emphasized that such a facility could serve as an economic driver, retaining and attracting residents, and promoting a healthier lifestyle. The presentation also touched upon the increasing impact of climate change on natural water bodies like Seneca Lake, reinforcing the need for alternative recreational water facilities.
Community Development Initiatives Highlighted: From Local Events to Public Pool Proposals
The City Council acknowledged various community events and initiatives. Councilor Petropolis highlighted the success of Porchfest and the upcoming First Fridays and Art Walk events. Councilor Kane noted the Recreation Advisory Board's work on community partnerships and a rec survey, alongside updates on local businesses and the delayed completion of a new pavilion. Councilor Gelotti welcomed new businesses and mentioned Norfolk Southern's ongoing repairs to grade crossings. Councilor Gumo discussed code enforcement challenges and noted new businesses opening. The Geneva Mayor's update included discussions on economic development and housing. A significant community development focus was the presentation by the Geneva Parks Collective proposing a public pool at Clark Street Park, emphasizing community engagement and the need for recreational facilities. Public comment also touched on community needs and development concerns. The council approved a grant application for One Railroad Place, supporting mixed-use redevelopment, and scheduled public hearings for Community Development Block Grants and property matters, indicating a commitment to fostering growth and improving community assets.
City Council Reviews 2027 Budget Revenue Projections, Identifies Funding Gaps
The City Council reviewed revenue projections for the upcoming 2027 budget. Staff presented a detailed overview of anticipated revenues, highlighting a 3% increase compared to previous estimates, largely due to updated information on state aid and other grants. The property tax levy is projected to remain the same. Discussions also covered the handling of grants, ensuring they are budgeted for expenditure in the same year they are received. The water and sewer funds were also reviewed, with projected decreases in revenue due to new policies on fund balance and capital reserves, necessitating a makeup of $486,000 for water and $49,000 for sewer. The council was informed that a rate study for water and sewer services is underway and expected to impact future revenue figures. Potential areas for revenue increases, such as sales tax and various fees, were discussed, with a commitment to re-evaluating the true cost of services and potentially increasing penalties for repeat offenders and those with code violations.
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