March 13, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes, Draft (Minutes)

The Northport Village Council convened on March 13, 2025, with President Christopher McCann leading the session. Key actions included the approval of minutes from several previous meetings and the agenda for the current meeting. The council addressed correspondence from Anne Harper regarding street lighting and heard public comments, notably from James Thatcher who supported a zoning variance but suggested it be considered on a case-by-case basis. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Village Manager selection process, culminating in a decision to enter negotiations with Jered Ottenwess for the position. This decision followed a thorough discussion of the candidates’ qualifications, with a focus on Ottenwess’s experience and readiness to manage ongoing projects. The council also conducted a Zoning Board of Appeals hearing, approving a variance request for Northport Rainbow Properties, LLC, to modify the front yard setback requirement.

The council reviewed various staff and committee reports, including updates on audit-related issues from Village Manager/Zoning Administrator Jim Dyer, who highlighted discrepancies and system limitations affecting the audit process. The Infrastructure Committee reported on water main and sidewalk projects, while the Planning Commission discussed ongoing revisions to the Master Plan and potential housing development on Fleece Road. Financial matters were also addressed, with Clerk Scott presenting a six-month budget status update, detailing revenues, expenditures, and completed capital projects. The council considered the upkeep and potential replacement of electric vehicle charging stations, directing staff to explore options and report back.

New business items included the approval of the Vincer Woods Site Condominium, with conditions to preserve the natural environment, and the adoption of revised Village Council meeting rules to improve efficiency. The council also approved a modified budget allocation for upgrading the SCADA water system, emphasizing its importance for preventing system emergencies. The meeting concluded with the approval of payments for January and February bills, public comments on street lighting and housing development, and expressions of gratitude for outgoing Village Manager Jim Dyer’s service. The session ended with a closed session to discuss legal matters and adjourned at 9:22 PM.