Planning and economic development ask council to fund Castle Creek study, subdivision code updates and a full‑time grant writer

Geneva — David (Planning & Economic Development representative) outlined priorities for 2026 that include preliminary engineering for Castle Creek, small‑area planning tied to DRI opportunities, subdivision code updates to allow administrative lot splits and an increased grant capacity.

David said the department’s budget is roughly $338,000 and that much of its supplies line funds operational programs such as the farmer’s market and a leased commercial kitchen. He said the department manages event permitting (about 100 events a year), the CDBG housing repair program (more than $600,000 cited for repairs), the micro‑enterprise and economic development grant programs, and revolving loan fund administration.

On Castle Creek, David said the city is not yet eligible for many grants because preliminary engineering and feasibility work have not been completed; he urged funding for an initial feasibility and design study to reduce stormwater issues in the watershed. He also recommended small area plans for Exchange or Hamilton Street as DRI follow‑ups and advocated a New York Main Streets program or similar revolving fund to support facade and building improvements downtown.

David emphasized grants capacity: the department has produced roughly $2,000,000 in external grant funding in less than two years with part‑time efforts, and he argued a dedicated full‑time grant writer would “more than pay for themselves.” He also proposed subdivision code changes to create administrative paths for simple lot consolidations and small splits that currently require planning board review.

Councilors asked for clarification on the subdivision code process; David described administrative paths used elsewhere to avoid planning board review for minor consolidations and said code changes would streamline routine transactions and reduce project backlog.