Fulton Common Council Votes Down Pratt Street Parking Ban; Video of Meeting Included

FULTON, NY – The Fulton Common Council held its latest meeting last night, opening with four public hearings. The first hearing addressed a proposal to add fitness centers to the C2 city code. Councilor Sherman argued that it would be more efficient to simply list the types of businesses not permitted in the C2 zone, rather than attempting to specify every type of business that could be allowed.

Much of the meeting focused on a resolution to prohibit parking on Pratt Street. Mr. Lafrate expressed concerns that the city is not enforcing no-parking zones consistently, specifically mentioning the area around Muskie’s Sports Bar.

Owners of the Lorbird Kitchen & Bar, voiced concerns that restricting parking on Pratt Street could negatively impact their business. They also noted that the council did not seek input from local businesses before presenting the resolution. Planning Board member Mr. Patrick agreed, stating that when the restaurant opened two years ago, extended parking on Pratt Street was deemed necessary by the city council, planning board, and Oswego County officials.

During the discussion, confusion arose over the process for closing the public hearing. Ultimately, the council decided to close the hearing and proceed with a vote. All six councilors voted against the parking prohibition, meaning parking will continue to be allowed on Pratt Street. Councilor Sherman remarked that the council “went around the long way” to reach this decision.

Resident Frank Castiglia addressed the council, suggesting that widening Pratt Street could help resolve parking issues. In contrast, he raised concerns about the costs associated with city grants, particularly the matching funds required for CFA grants. City officials clarified that most matching contributions would come from in-kind and volunteer work over a two-year period, with little to no direct cash outlay required. Despite expressing some skepticism about grants, officials noted that such funding can often multiply the resources available to the city.