News

Even with a few add-ons, the Common Council made quick work of its regular meeting this week. Some of the items dealt with use of public space for the 2015 Harborfest and Polar Plunge; though it remains to be seen which councilors will participate. The next meeting will be held in January.

At the annual Regional Economic Development Council Awards competition, the Central New York region was named a “Top Performer.” The region was awarded $80.2 million for projects aimed at creating jobs and fostering economic development.

Susan Downey is no stranger to Oswego, having grown up there and now residing not far down the road in Baldwinsville. She continues to maintain her mother’s residence with the hope that she will move back to her hometown in the coming years. Those strong ties motivated Susan to contribute $100,000 to the newly established Oswego County Community Foundation

The Oswego County Legislature, after some lengthy debates, approved the 2015 spending plan. Legislators whittled some more off the tentative $54,479, 777 budget before it was passed 17-7-1 along party lines. The legislature’s seven Democrats were in opposition and Legislator John Martino was excused. The tentative tax levy was lowered to $53.8 million, and the increase dipped to 1.15 percent. The generic average tax rate fell from $7.59 per thousand of assessed value to $7.49.

During National Influenza Vaccination Week, Dec. 7 through 13, the Oswego County Health Department is reminding residents that it’s not too late to get vaccinated against the flu. Annual flu vaccination is the first and most important step in protecting against the flu and its potentially serious complications.

SUNY Oswego President Deborah F. Stanley has invited the public to enjoy free use of many of the college’s recreational and educational facilities during the second annual Cruisin’ the Campus at the Holidays from Dec. 22 to Jan. 25. Special hours will be in effect during Cruisin’ the Campus at the Holidays for a variety of activities: public skating, hiking, walking, running, library browsing, shopping, and viewing of art, history and planetarium shows and exhibits.