Dave Rosenberry, front, and Larry Siegel chat after the May Syracuse Town Council meeting Tuesday night, May 16. Siegel announced his retirement from the RDC effective immediately at the meeting.

By Lauren Zeugner
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE  — Larry Siegel, who has served as president of the Syracuse Redevelopment Commission, announced his retirement during the new business portion of the commission’s regular meeting Tuesday night, May 16.

“Over the past many years, I have had the opportunity to work with many great people, board members, business owners, leaders and CEOs who have a heart for the Town of Syracuse, its financial health and its future,” he said.

In an prepared statement, Siegel continued, “On the RDC, we were able to work on the redevelopment of Oakwood Park, the expansion of Polywood, the construction of Aluminum Insights, Legacy Wood, Travel Star and Travel Lite, to name a few.

“We have created several tax increment finance districts collecting millions for town infrastructure projects. We have provided the environment that has created hundreds of new high paying jobs. We set up the first TIF bond in Syracuse, which assisted with financing for the construction of the new Schrock Athletic Complex.
“Through these projects and others on the drawing board, we have increased the assessed value of Syracuse over an estimated $100,000,000, putting downward pressure on our local tax rates.

“With the current RDC board, Syracuse is left in very capable hands and is set up for a bright future.
“It is time to pass the baton.”

In other business, Mark Aurich, public works superintendent, reported there is a great need for pumps in the wastewater system. He noted the West Pickwick lift station’s newest pump, which is 15 years old, has failed. A new pump will cost $29,040, which covers installation, startup and a warranty. He requested funds come from the Syracuse TIF.

“We need to move some of these pumps out,” he told the commission.

The commission approved the expense and Aurich told the board to expect him to return in the near future for funds to replace more pumps.

The commission also approved $50,000 for new street lighting in the tech park. There will be 14 solar powered street lights installed in the technology park. Aurich told the commission he is looking for a contractor to do the bases, but so far everyone he’s contacted is booked out several weeks.