Town Board Meeting Highlights from
Positively Pittsford
Highlights seeks to efficiently inform residents about discussions and topics that Positively Pittsford thinks many residents will find relevant, interesting, or noteworthy. Highlights does not summarize or comment on every topic, discussion, or action taken at a Town Board meeting.
Comments made by Positively Pittsford are based on our interpretation of a topic and not meant to reflect opinions of the Town Board members.
HIGHLIGHTS is also on Substack! at positivelypittsford.substack.com.
Highlights of the latest Town Board Meeting
Highlights of the July 14, 2026 Town Board Meeting (1:28:14 minutes)
Click here to watch the video. cc available.
Announcements from Supervisor Smith:
- July 15 will be the first concert in our new Copper Beach Pocket Park.
- The Summer Concert series continues this Friday, July 17
- July 18, the Recreation Department will conduct a hike along the Mitchell Trail
Presentation by Andre Valente of Brown & Brown Insurance on Town Liability Insurance Renewal. Timestamp 1:22.Premiums are less volatile this year. Increase will be less than inflation. Renewal unanimously approved by the Town Board.
Short Term Rentals Discussion. Timestamp 10:10 (37-minute Board discussion)
✋ Resident Comment: Described her family’s poor experiences as a next door neighbor to an Airbnb. She asked the Town Board to create restrictions for these types of rentals.
Supervisor Smith noted a number of complaints from Pittsford residents with young children who live next to an Airbnb and worry about who is going to be next door from day-to-day. Nationwide, municipalities are grappling with this issue. The Board agreed to pull together data about the number of Airbnb in town and the number of complaints, as a next step in considering any restrictions.
Positively Pittsford is grateful for the board’s willingness to consider this issue and any issue that has a potentially negative impact on community safety and property values.
Reconnect Rochester Proposal Timestamp 47:20. is described by Paul Schenkel. Reconnect Rochester website “envisions a community connected by a robust transportation network that makes it easy for everyone—regardless of physical or economic ability—to get around.” the greater Rochester area. The proposal would install a continuous new trail in the Linden Avenue area. Board member Sattler-LeBlanc brought this idea to the board.
Crash Analysis Studio. Timestamp 1:13:46. Board Member Leblanc discussed this as a way of evaluating traffic accidents to improve safety at particular spots. She will be presenting more information on this tool at the next meeting.
✋Resident Comment: Resident supports the sense of urgency regarding short term rental regulation. Describes the positive impact of stop signs added to her neighborhood. Asks that Board prioritize Pittsford residents’ preference when evaluating requests that involve expense and changes to easements and paths in Pittsford.
✋Residents' Comments: Timestamp 1:22:10. Eight residents requested the installation of a Frederick Douglass statue at the town park at the library entrance on Main Street.
Other Routine Items: Consent to adjust manhole covers for repaving work. Approval to add stop signs to Coventry Ridge neighborhood. Food vending permit for Chabad of Pittsford. Budget transfers. Vouchers. Approval of fall 2026 recreational programs. Hiring resolution.
NEXT TOWN BOARD MEETINGS: Tuesdays. August 4 & 18. September 1 & 15.
Lower Level of Town Hall. 6PM.
Highlights of the June 16, 2026 Town Board Meeting (1:16:25 minutes)
NOTE: Closed Caption is available on the videos of Town Board meetings.
Announcements from Supervisor Smith:
- Kings Bend playground is open.
- On Juneteenth at noon at 28 Monroe Avenue there will be a plaque dedication honoring Pittsford’s locations on the Underground Railroad. Also, on Juneteenth there will be a concert by Judah Sealy in Carpenter Park.
- On June 20th, a walking tour to Pittsford’s locations on the Underground Railroad, led by former Village Mayor Robert Corby, will leave from the library at 10AM.
Timestamp 1:46: Opening of Public Hearing 1: Local Law #2 of 2026 - “Tax Cap Override” for 2027. NOTE: Bill Smith clarified that this Local law does NOT create a tax increase. It just allows the town to collect the Refuse Districts’ fees in order to pay the trash hauler. ✋In response to a resident’s question, the Supervisor explained that people in Refuse Districts pay a lot less for trash collection, but because they pay the fee to the town instead of the trash collecting company, its counted as a “tax” under the State tax cap law. So, the Refuse Districts cause Pittsford to exceed the tax cap every year even though Town taxes have stayed flat, with no increase, for more than 5 years.
✋Resident Question: Is this Public Hearing related to the Refuse Districts?
Answer: Yes, Pittsford’s tax rate and taxes remain flat. The Refuse District fees are considered “a tax” under the definition in the State tax cap law. So, each year the Town holds this same public hearing as part of the approval process for new Refuse Districts. It is necessary in order to continue the Refuse District program. Timestamp 7:30.
Timestamp 7:33: Opening of Public Hearing 2: Approval of 23 new 2027 Refuse Districts ✋Nine Residents spoke, all in support of the Refuse Districts. Comments included examples of cost savings, and questions that a Casella representative who attended the meeting, answered. Pittsford Dept. of Public Works received compliments for its part in the process. ✋Eight residents emailed in support of the Refuse Districts; one email opposed them, stating residents should be free to choose their own trash hauler.
“Tax Cap” Override Discussion and Vote. The Resolution passed by unanimous vote of the Town Board.
Adoption of the 23 New Refuse Districts (Timestamp 34:4)
Bill Smith recommended and the Town Board agreed to adopt all 23 Refuse Districts with one motion. Town board member Naveen Havannavar and Supervisor Bill Smith took a moment to acknowledge all the town residents who worked hard to make the 23 new refuse districts happen. Perhaps the Board might consider involving neighborhood leaders in future negotiations for a new contract. Adoption of the 23 Refuse Districts passed with a unanimous vote by the Town Board. Timestamp 38:40.
Positively Pittsford praises neighborhood leaders who volunteered their time on behalf of their neighbors so that Refuse Districts, resulting in better service and big savings, could be created. It also realizes that Town staff play a significant role in these successes. The Refuse District are one of the many jewels in the crown of our town and a strong example of the wonderful dynamic that occurs when involved residents, engaged staff, and dedicated leaders work together.
Presentation from Brennan Burt with NextEra Advisors (formally Power Management) an independent energy consulting firm with whom the Town contracts for electric power from all-renewable sources. The Town saved about $95,000 with the current contact. Brennan provided an update as to what to expect regarding energy rates when assessing the upcoming contract renewal. The Board agreed to enter into the new contract as long as the price tomorrow remains the same or close to the price as quoted in the presentation. Timestamp 40:55.
Town Board member Sattler-LeBlanc presented information that Reconnect Rochester Bike Path would like to see Pittsford create bike trails, possible considerations would be easements, maintenance, funding and resident support.
Town Board member Koshykar said the Village may accept a Frederick Douglas statue “at least temporarily” and is interested in placing it in on the town pocket park at the Library parking lot entrance on North Main Street. She asked if this could be referred to the Parks and Recreation Volunteer Board for evaluation, as has been the procedure before and all board members agreed to do this.
✋A resident emailed asking for help controlling the deer population, citing them as a menace to drivers and a cause of safety concerns.
✋A Resident asks the Town to address safety and/or restrictions for E-Bikes. There was a discussion and Board Member Sattler-Leblanc is looking into possible remedies. There is a new state law. Enforcement needs to be considered. Timestamp 1:12:01
Positively Pittsford agrees that this is an issue of concern, and with the comment made by Board member Sattler-LeBlanc that while the Town Board is earnestly looking into the Town’s options, it is up to PARENTS to ensure all children are aware of all Safety Precautions and Risk factors when using these devices.
Other routine Items: In July, the Town Board will meet once - on July 14th, hiring resolutions, budget amendments, disposal of surplus items, and easement encroachment at 10 Hunter’s Point, replacement of machinery to line athletic fields.
Highlights of the June 2, 2026 Town Board Meeting (31 minutes)
Note: Closed Caption is available on all Town Board meeting videos.
Announcements from Supervisor Smith:
- June is recognized as Pride Month; an opportunity to recognize the dignity and humanity of those who -for so long- were denied the basic right to live life as who they are without pretense, and who faced discrimination and cruelty. Positively Pittsford applauds the words of support from board members.
- Cheers to our many Pittsford sports teams who won Section V championships last week.
- Referring to a video a resident sent to Councilmember Havannavar, the Supervisor reminded drivers to observe pedestrian crossings identified by the white stripes across the road. The video showed drivers paying no attention to the pedestrians trying to cross at a pedestrian crossing in Pittsford. The Town will continue to ask the State for permission to install flashing lights to alert drivers at these crossings.
- Thanks and recognition to Town Hall's high school intern who will be leaving in the fall to begin her college studies.
The Board voted to hold the public hearings necessary to move forward with the new 2027 Refuse Districts at the June 16 Town Board meeting. Among the many benefits of this highly successful program, participating neighborhoods pay much less for trash services. More than 60% of the town now participates in this program. For full details, go to: https://www.townofpittsfordny.gov/refuse-districts (Timestamp 6:25)
Following the Public Hearing for Sewer District JHSD-163 and Water District #1 for 526 Mendon Road, the Board approved these two items. (Timestamp 10:15)
Board member Sattler-LeBlanc talked about efforts nationally around June 5, National Gun Violence Awareness Day and ways to participate. (Timestamp 16:11) Positively Pittsford notes that even though our town falls at the lowest end of the spectrum for gun violence, we are not immune from it as evidenced by the shootings at Wegmans parking lot in 2024 and the murder on Tobey Road in 2023.
Board members Sattler-LeBlanc and Havannavar discussed a recent program they attended on the topic of Composting. There are county and state incentives to encourage municipalities to consider composting. Two ideas mentioned for making composting attractive are central location to host composting machines and a residential pick-up service. Supervisor Smith noted that our Community and Senior Centers have been composting for some time. Staff and the Environmental Advisory Board are looking into the incentives application process and deadlines. (Timestamp 19:23)
Other Routine Items: Surplus inventory approval. Minor budget adjustments. Vouchers.
Highlights of the May 19, 2026 Town Board Meeting
Board member Sattler-LeBlanc was absent.
Announcements from Supervisor Smith:
- May 23: Paddle & Pour, one of our community's favorite events
- May 25: Memorial Day Parade which ends at the cemetery with the Remembrance Ceremony
- May 19: School district’s vote on the school budget and school board candidates
- An ASL interpreter is present at every Town Board meeting. Positively Pittsford reminds residents that, while watching the videos of Town Board meetings, one can select closed caption.
Gift of artwork for King's Bend Park by the Dogra Art Foundation.
🖐️Resident thanked the donors and asked about care of the artwork, including playground children climbing on it. Supervisor Smith explains that the material can be cleaned. Board member Havannavar suggested a “Please Do Not Climb” plaque. Board voted unanimously to accept this generous gift. Timestamp 3:18. Positively Pittsford sees this generous gift as one example of the pride its residents, many with roots in dozens of different countries world-wide, have in their town. This particular gift "passionately promotes and supports South Asian Art in North America".
Board Approval of Agreement with Northside Salvage for Payment in Lieu of Taxes. As a result of the approved annexation of five parcels of land to East Rochester, Northside Salvage agrees to pay $1000/year for the next 10 years to the Town of Pittsford, to make up what Pittsford would lose in property tax. Timestamp 13:30
Public Hearings for Mendon Road Water District and Sewer District Extension JHSD-163. Board voted in favor of conducting public hearings to create these two entities. Whenever changes are made to the Town’s water or water hydrants, the Town Board must be involved. Expenses for changes are the property owner's responsibility. Timestamp 15:56.
Board Discussion on Climate Action Plan
Board member Arcuri acknowledged the Environmental Advisory Board's work over the past 18 months. At the March 17th meeting, the Board heard a presentation about Phase 1: the municipal aspect. Phase 2 is the community part of the plan. Supervisor Smith suggested holding a hearing so the public has a chance to provide input; Board members agreed. Timestamp 19:40. 🖐️ A resident commented, suggesting that a better name for the Plan would be the Community Environmental Action Plan.
Other Business
Supervisor Smith mentioned a potential piece of the municipal portion of the Climate Action Plan is a location to consolidate all four departments of Public Works. This action would have the additional benefit of fulfilling an upcoming state requirement for a town dog kennel that includes particular specifications for animal control. Timestamp 25:20
Board member Koshykar asked about the next steps in addressing resident concerns about Airbnb short-term rentals. Supervisor Smith indicated that a town board discussion should occur soon and that resident input is essential to any decision the board might consider. Timestamp 28:37
🖐️A resident noted that a few months ago, she emailed each Town Board Member requesting a copy of their resume to broaden her understanding of the relevant experience and knowledge they bring to the Town Board in representing constituents; sharing information is a part of building trust. She thanked Board member Cha Ron Sattler-LeBlanc and Supervisor Smith for responding. She expressed concern at receiving no information from Board members Arcuri, Havannavar, or Koshykar. Timestamp 28:37 Positively Pittsford shares this resident's concern that residents should know the qualifications and experiences of our Town Board. Their actions directly affect your investment in Pittsford. Responding to reasonable residents' requests is an essential part of being a board member.
Other Routine Items: Surplus inventory. Vouchers. Hiring resolution.
Highlights of the May 5, 2026 Town Board Meeting
Board member Koshykar was absent.
- May is Asian American/Pacific Islander Month. The Supervisor acknowledged the residents of that background for their contributions and membership in our community. Positively Pittsford is reminded that 20 different languages besides English are spoken by students in our schools. In a recent Facebook comment, a resident said her neighborhood reminded her of the United Nations. Yes, we are part of the American Melting Pot!
- Recognition of Renee McQuillen, Town Clerk. Congratulations on earning the professional designation of Registered Municipal Clerk (RMC) from the NYS Town Clerks Association. This achievement acknowledges her successful completion of extensive educational requirements and her demonstrated mastery over time of the broad range of competencies required in her position. This RMC indicates the highest professional level in her position.
- An ASL interpreter is present at every Town Board meeting.
Gift of artwork for King's Bend Park by Dr. and Mrs. Vikram Dogra, Dr. Dogra is the Managing Director of the Dogra Art Foundation which promotes and supports South Asian art in North America. Dr. Dogra expressed the desire to present this gift to harmonize with the existing surroundings and create a lasting cultural gift for the Pittsford community. Next step is an unconditional gift affidavit, signed by the donors. Then, the board can vote to accept this generous gift. Timestamp 2:54.
Paul Schenkel. Commissioner of Public Works. Road Paving and Maintenance Schedule for this season including storm sewers and gutters. Timestamp 31:18. Positively Pittsford was impressed by the depth of this presentation - an informative update on projects and educational regarding the definitions, technology, challenges, process, planning, and execution that happen behind the scenes every day at our Dept. of Public Works. Let's be grateful for this skilled and dedicated leadership and the department's workforce.
🖐️A resident inquired if the Town considers sidewalks used by students walking to school; Commissioner Schenkel answered yes.
Other Business: Supervisor Smith raised a growing concern from town residents regarding Airbnb's, specifically from mothers concerned about a rotating cast of strangers occupying homes in their neighborhoods. Supervisor Smith was not suggesting restrictive policies for long-term rentals or residents renting homes for PGA championships or similar events, but rather he asks the board to think about recommendations to address this valid concern specifically about short-term Airbnb rentals. Timestamp 1:14:35
Board member Havannavar asked for input on remedies for the number of speeding infractions in Pittsford, he made particular note of infractions by teenagers. He also inquired about and suggested methods residents can use to report potholes and request repairs. Timestamp 1:21:20
Environmental Board Community Action Plan. Board member Arcuri encouraged residents to read the plan in preparation for input on this topic at the next board meeting.
Other Routine Items: Little League vendor permit. Budget transfers. Standard personnel adjustments.
Highlights of April 21, 2026 Town Board Meeting
NOTE: According to the Town’s website, the video recording had technical difficulties and cannot be recovered. So, Positively Pittsford’s Highlights for this meeting will lack any timestamps.
Public Comment on the Proposed Annexation of Linden Avenue Parcels by East Rochester. Supervisor Smith provided background including that the 5 parcels East Rochester is asking to annex are adjacent to Northside Salvage. The annexation would solve the problem of a single entity that now straddles two municipalities. It would also allow for an improved appearance of Linden Avenue by moving stacked cars away from the road and end many trucks backing into the roadway. To address the $800 / year loss in tax revenue to Pittsford, Supervisor Smith asked Northside Salvage to pay $1,000 per year to Pittsford for the next ten years and a representative of Northside Salvage agreed. There were about seven residents who commented. Most residents were supportive. One resident thought it was better to put subsidized housing on those parcels. Two residents complimented the Town attorney and Supervisor for the expertise they provided throughout this several month process and supported the annexation. Positively Pittsford supports the annexation. It is a sensible action, improves the aesthetics of properties, and was executed by a thorough process. Those interested in the process can find details in the minutes and videos of the March 3, 17, and April 7 Town Board meetings.
Proposed Annexation of Linden Avenue Parcels by East Rochester. Board Members Havannavar, Arcuri, Sattler-LeBlanc, and the Supervisor all spoke in support. Board member Koshykar expressed reservations. The proposal was then unanimously approved by the Town Board.
East Street Sidewalk Project: Grant of Easement to Water Authority. A ten-foot easement was granted to the Water Authority so a fire hydrant could be moved.
Annual Free Rabies Clinic is scheduled for May 14th. Cost to the Town is $500 for the event. There was discussion regarding communicating the event to as many dog owners as possible. Here's the link for details:
https://www.townofpittsford.org/news/rabies-vaccine-free-drive-through-clinic-may-14-2026
The Dobra Art Foundation gifted a piece of abstract art that will be displayed at Kings Bend Park.
Public Comment🖐️A resident questioned the wisdom of a state mandate for electric school buses.
Other Routine Matters included: The Town Court Lease Subordination Agreement and Tenant Estoppel Certificate. Payment of routine vouchers.
Highlights of April 7, 2026 Town Board Meeting (44 minutes)
Announcements from Supervisor Smith:
Sign Language interpreter is present at every Town Board meeting.
The Supervisor asked Deputy Supervisor Havannavar to present a commendation congratulating the School District's Pittsford Panthers Robotics Team for achieving a place at the World's Competition. (Time Stamp 00:49)
Bonadio & Co. Annual Audit Presentation by Randy Shepard, Bonadio Audit Partner. The auditors provided a clean audit opinion, which represents the highest level of assurance an audit can provide. Shepard noted, "The Town Finance Team does a great job throughout the year of providing you [TB members] with information." (Time Stamp 3:53)
Proposed Annexation of Linden Ave. Parcels by East Rochester. Discussion among Board members and the Town attorney regarding ER's request to annex four lots on the Pittsford/ER town line adjacent to the Northside Salvage that are in Pittsford. Town Attorney, Robert Koegel, requested and received from ER amendments to its town code that Pittsford considered necessary in order to consider the request. The annexation should permit ER to move Northside Salvage’s junkyard activities away from the road and create a more attractive property. Decision will be made by April 28. Board member Koshykar asked that the April 21 meeting include public input about this annexation. (Time Stamp 14:24)
Positively Pittsford has noticed in prior meetings and again in this one how heavily board members rely on the expertise of the Town employees and Supervisor Smith. In this meeting, that reliance can be seen in the discussion about the annexation of Town property to East Rochester and the sewer easement release to the school district.
Public Comment (Timestamp 35:45)
🖐️Resident Comment: This resident continued long beyond the guideline of 2 minutes. Positively Pittsford supports residents speaking up and voicing concerns. Respecting the order of the Board meeting, when an issue cannot be stated within the 2 minutes guideline, PP sees it as more appropriate for a resident to meet individually with the board members and those town employees best equipped to address the concerns.
The Board moved into Executive Session to discuss contract negotiations under the state civil service law.
Other agenda items: Approval of Partial Release of Sanitary Sewer Easement at Mendon H.S. Approval of Budget Transfer for Replacing the Synthetic Turf at Thornell Farm Park. Acknowledgment of the Annual Town Court Financial Review by Bonadio Group. Approval of Summer Recreation Programs. Mitchell Rd. Speed Bump to be painted as soon as weather permits.
Highlights of March 17,2026 Town Board Meeting (75 minutes)
Deputy Supervisor Naveen Havannavar is absent.
Supervisor Smith Announcements:
- Library sale on 3/19.
- Congratulations to Pittsford Rotary for another successful Taste of Pittsford.
- Residents can comment at a Town Board meeting or by emailing to comments@townofpittsford.org to have their comment read at the meeting.
Siemens Findings Re: Pittsford's Climate Action Plan (Timestamp 1:36) Siemens presented their audit of town facilities. Supervisor Smith noted this is the first step in a multi-year and potentially costly process likely requiring a public hearing and a referendum.
Trail License Renewal. (Timestamp 27:20) Permission by St. John Fisher for continued use by the public of its trail segment segment. Our Commissioner of Public Works also remarked that SJF graciously maintains most of the trail.
Bid Award for Parks Contracts to Josh Landscape as the lowest bidder. (Timestamp 31:00)
🖐️🖐️🖐️Resident Comments:
Resident Comment (Timestamp 33:00): Requests and receives confirmation that Josh Landscaping will not use pesticides unless absolutely necessary.
Resident Comment (Timestamp 57:27) : Questions plowing and mowing near his home.
Resident Comment (Timestamp 1:03:55): Compliments our town leadership and employees on their depth of knowledge, which allows for a proactive approach to resident safety, i.e. State Street Median, new sidewalks, and trails. Also, the resident values The Pittsford Messenger in print format in addition to electronic. In that way, everyone can have access.
Resident Comment (Timestamp 1:06:40): Resident reminder for the Library Zoom events on March 23 and 30, addressing topics related to the Town's pollinator pathway challenge.
Resident Comment: (Timestamp 1:08:44) This resident supports Deputy Supervisor Havannavar's 1/20/26 statement against ICE; asks for board action; mentions a walkout at Sutherland H.S. the following day. Positively Pittsford views it as inappropriate for the town board to take positions on national partisan issues that it cannot resolve. We also repeat our concern stated in a previous highlights regarding Havannavar's use of his title and board meeting time to voice his personal stance on this partisan national issue; it conflates town board and personal opinions. We continue to support a town board focused on Pittsford and that avoids becoming mired in partisan national issues.
Resident Comment(Timestamp 1:10:32): Requests smoke-free policies on town properties. Positively Pittsford supports any measures that help keep Pittsford a family-friendly community.
Resident Comment (1:12:34): Raises concerns about teen vaping and asks about school district actions.
Other Agenda Items: ZBest Foodz Thornell permit, NYS snow and ice agreement, surplus inventory disposition, repair of the library's HVAC units, new hires, staff attendance for training, congratulations to the new president of Nazareth College.
Highlights of February 24, 2026 Town Board Meeting (26 minutes)
Announcements from Supervisor Smith:
- Refuse Districts have recycling every week. Any letter from Casella stating otherwise is incorrect, and the Town has spoken, yet again, with Casella. (Timestamp 00:36)
- Congratulations to our own Pittsford native Gold Medal Olympian - Chris Lillis. See board remarks later this evening mentioning consideration of further acknowledgement of this achievement.
- National Public Schools Week. Congratulations to our schools for their outstanding performance resulting in a ranking once again in the top 1% of public school districts nation-wide. (Timestamp 1:14)
Public Hearing and Vote on proposed Local Law No. 1 of 2026: This Law proposes changing terms of the Real Property Tax Exemptions for Seniors to expand eligibility and improve the exemption for those at the lowest income levels. Following the public hearing, the Town Board voted unanimously to adopt this law. This exemption doesn't effect the bottom line of the Town's revenue. The tax burden shifts to other Pittsford taxpayers, both residential and commercial. Note that if 100% of people who qualify applied for the exemption, the total additional cost to each individual taxpayer would be less than one dollar a year. The estimated total annual absorption will be approximately $12,500. (Timestamp 2:18) Positively Pittsford applauds this action. It is one example of a commitment to focus on local issues.
Public Comment (Timestamp 20:28)
️ 🖐️Resident Comment: Calling attention to the tremendous value of the fabulous programs offered by the Pittsford Recreation Department.
️ 🖐️Resident Comment: Looking at tonight's 132-page agenda, it reminds her of the incredible amount of experience it takes to run our town. Appreciates Supervisor Smith being so knowledgeable and experienced. Also, how lucky we are to have employees with lots of experience. It is so reassuring to see how our town government has kept up with the town's growth. She is so impressed with Supervisor Smith's responsiveness and accessibility. Not everyone returns calls from town residents.
️ 🖐️Resident Email: Does the Town ever use MWBE businesses? Positively Pittsford wishes that residents would use the full name of entities.
Other agenda items: Storm Water Intermunicipal Agreement. Town Court rental space considerations. Approval of agreements to hold annual Town events. Library and Recreation Department positions filled. Playground Safety Inspector Certification.
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Highlights of March 3 Town Board Meeting (24 minutes)
Announcements from Supervisor Smith:
- Registration for Summer Camp & Spring Recreation programs is open.
- National Invasive Species Week. Fewer invasive species mean less need for pesticides. See the Town's website for our toxin-free challenge and pollinator pathway program.
Reminder: Residents can comment at a meeting or by emailing to comments@townofpittsford.org to have their comment read at the meeting.
East Rochester Annexation (Timestamp 03:25)
Consent to designate East Rochester as the SEQRA lead agent regarding the East Rochester annexation petition. After discussing the matter the motion to consent was approved. Essentially the annexation involves five parcels of land totaling 2.3 acres and owned by Northside Salvage.
State Street Median (Timestamp12:40)
As part of Pittsford’s Active Transportation Plan, this median should improve traffic speed mitigation for vehicles entering the village from the east. Simultaneously, it will serve as a pedestrian island, providing a safe crossing across State Street for people moving between the Wood Creek neighborhood and the canal path. Positively Pittsford applauds this action. This demonstrates the foresight possible only when our town board includes leadership that comprehensively understands our town’s dynamics, anticipates improvements, and proactively plans and budgets for them while keeping residents' welfare at the forefront, and is supported by experienced employees.
Kings Bend Park Playground Project (Timestamp15:25)
A recommendation from the Finance Director was made to create a capital project account. $175,00 is needed for the project, $80,000 of which will come from Pittsford. The rest will come from Monroe County ARPA and a NYS grant. The motion to approve this account passed.
Other Business (Timestamp18:48)
Deputy Supervisor asks the Town Clerk about data on the Town Window.
Positively Pittsford gives kudos to our Town Clerk, who, despite having no prior time to prepare, provided a comprehensive answer, including options other than the Town Window.
Public Comment (Timestamp 21:35)
🖐️Resident Comment: Praises the Highway Department's snow removal this year, noting the job was well done, particularly the maintenance performed on the canal path throughout the winter.
Other agenda items: An executive session to discuss a matter involving an employee's employment history. Hiring approvals. The county’s annual pre-order program for Native Tree and shrub seedlings is open until March 6th. Approvals for staff attendance at Genesee Valley Recreation and Parks Society and at American Public Works Association in Utica.
Highlights of January 20 Town Board Meeting (80 minutes)
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Town Board reads its Martin Luther King Proclamation.
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NYS DOT denied Bill Smith’s initial request for a traffic light at Mitchell & Jefferson Rds. Smith is pursuing.
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Presentation: Monroe County Aging Alliance. Melissa Wendland of Common Ground Health describes age-friendly livable communities; requests consideration in Pittsford’s comprehensive plans. (Timestamp 3:20)
🤔REFUSE DISTRICTS. Casella’s purchase of Seyrek. (Timestamp 31:50)
- The Town is “locked in” with Casella until the end of 2027. Fortunately, the rate remains $261 per year per household; a substantial savings.
- Casella did not notify the Town of its purchase of Seyrek.
- Casella's communication and the number of trucks need improvement.
- Smith- there are costs & intricacies to creating our own municipal trash collection including a bond referendum
- All Board members agreed for now to work with Casella; to communicate with residents; and to prepare for when the contract goes out for bid at the end of 2027. Seven locally-based companies are interested in bidding.
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Approval of Spring 2026 Recreational Programs:
🖐️ Resident Comment: Argues against a Town concert on Juneteenth. (Timestamp 56:10)
Other Business
😱Statement by Naveen Havannavar, the newly-appointed Deputy Town Supervisor, regarding his personal stance (his phrase) on Federal Immigration Control Enforcement. (Timestamp 1:03:40)
Positively Pittsford questions whether a personal statement made from the board table by a Town Board member regarding a national policy issue outside the scope of town operations is appropriate. PP appreciates Supervisor Smith’s response reiterating that the Monroe County Sheriff Department’s policy is to participate in apprehending or detaining an unauthorized immigrant and/or those subject to a valid criminal warrant. NOTE: See relevant resident comments made at the February 3 meeting. Positively Pittsford supports Town Board members’ efforts at the board table that focus on town operations and management. As regards national, political, or ideological matters outside the Town Board’s jurisdiction, restraint by individual board members helps ensure that personal views are not perceived as reflecting the collective position of the Pittsford Town Board.
Other routine items: Surplus Inventory / Pittsford Cemetery Assn. to archive records in the Town Archives.