The Cortland Police Department told council members on Oct. 6 it will host an informational meeting about a police levy at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 20, and union representatives announced a family trick‑or‑treat event on Main Street on Oct. 25.

Why it matters: The levy information session is intended to give residents details about services already provided and proposed funding; council and police said they want broad community attendance. The union event is a separate community outreach activity that will close part of Main Street for candy distribution and include fire‑department participation and food trucks.

Details: Police Chief Morris said the informational meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 20 at council chambers; he offered to meet one‑on‑one with council members who cannot attend. John Weston, president of Lodge 168 of the Fraternal Order of Police, said the FOP‑organized street event is set for Oct. 25 from 5 to 7 p.m., that a permit has been secured, and that about 40 participants were lined up to hand out candy.

Council and residents asked about outreach methods. Chief Morris said the department will advertise “as we do any other meeting,” and council members suggested community time and social media posts to promote attendance. A resident offered to make signs for the informational meeting.

Rules and limits discussed: A resident asked what campaign activities are permitted near polling locations during the ballot period; staff referred to polling‑place boundary rules and advised that election officials mark the line voters must not be asked to cross. The council clerk said the city posts ordinances and pending legislation on the city website; staff and council encouraged residents to consult posted ordinances for detailed cost or ordinance language rather than relying only on meeting minutes.

Next steps: Police will promote the Oct. 20 informational meeting; the FOP event will proceed under the permit the union secured. Chief Morris and staff said they will provide council members with materials for the informational meeting when available.