Politics
Geneva Council Reviews Water Service Billing With Six Neighboring Towns
Geneva residents could face adjusted water and sewer rates depending on outcomes from the ongoing study of how the city bills surrounding municipalities for services.
How we reported this
Geneva City Council discussed revisions to how the city bills neighboring towns for water and sewer services during its regular November meeting. Officials reviewed existing intermunicipal agreements and a rate study that examines charges to out-of-district users, including the Town of Seneca and the Town of Geneva.
Agreements and rate equity under review
Comptroller Adam Blowers confirmed payments arrive through current contracts. Assistant City Manager Anna Youngs said the study will show whether rate structures need updates. Councilor Ken Lavin asked why the Town of Seneca does not pay the city directly and how assessment-based billing by the Town of Geneva affects fairness. Council members expressed interest in using the data to adjust charges for users outside city limits.
The discussion occurs while the city prepares its 2026 budget. City Manager Amie Hendrix and Comptroller Adam Blowers reported a proposed 7.45 percent rise in General Fund expenditures and a planned draw of $835,764 from reserves. Public commenter Cyril Smith urged limits on spending to preserve future flexibility.
Next steps for residents and services
Council agreed to revisit the sidewalk maintenance ordinance in December after reviewing three options: continued homeowner responsibility, a cost-sharing model, or full city funding through capital budgets. Mayor Steve Valentino recommended waiting so the incoming council can assess costs.
Separate public comments addressed the police budget and a proposed $1.2 million fire truck replacement. Anthony Noone of the Police Budget Advisory Board called for restoring two officer positions and funding a mental health co-response program. Fire Chief Parrotta noted the apparatus would take at least three years to arrive and that bidding will proceed with bonding as a backup if grants do not materialize.
The meeting record is available at https://www.fingerlakes1.com/2025/11/09/5-biggest-takeaways-from-geneva-city-councils-november-meeting-video/.