Residents Voice Concerns Over Fulton Professional Building Proposal and Parking Issues Near Muskie’s Sports Bar

FULTON – In a recent council meeting, Local resident Bill Kszystyniak, a lifelong Fultonian, raised significant concerns about a proposed conversion of the Fulton Professional Building at 826 Holly Drive into a residential facility. Castiniac emphasized safety issues related to the busy intersection near the building, particularly noting its location on a blind curve frequented by various vehicles, including large trucks. He expressed skepticism about how safety will be ensured for potential residents who might need to cross this dangerous area on foot.  Kszystyniak further questioned the stability of the residential arrangement, citing reports that some residents may stay for as little as six months. He argued that such a transient environment could lead to increased risks and an unstable community dynamic. Concerns were also raised about the vetting process for future residents, the qualifications of supervisory staff, and what measures would be taken to ensure residents find employment. The resident also highlighted the implications of having a facility of this nature in a neighborhood populated with children and elderly residents, expressing worries about the potential for increased traffic and the socio-economic impact on the community.  Kszystyniak urged local officials to err on the side of caution before moving forward with the project, questioning whether this conversion reflects the best interests of the Fulton community. He concluded with a call for thoughtful consideration of the facility’s future and its impacts on local residents.

Local residents asked Frank Castiglia to read their letter to the council on their behalf opposing the boar5ding house proposal.

Michelle Baker, owner of Muskie’s Sports Bar, addressed ongoing parking issues in the neighborhood surrounding her establishment. Baker recounted a petition she submitted two years ago, signed by over 25 residents, requesting the removal of two no-parking signs that have reportedly caused ongoing disputes and inconvenience. She claimed no damage or safety concerns have arisen from patrons parking in the area and argued that removing the signs could help alleviate tensions.

Baker expressed frustration over little progress since her initial petition, noting that the situation has led to legal involvement. She urged council members to reconsider the parking regulations, stating that previous attempts to address the matter did not resolve the issues.

Conversely, a local resident, Gregory Lafrate, defended the necessity of the no-parking signs, referencing longstanding city codes that have been in place for over 50 years due to safety concerns stemming from traffic incidents. He highlighted ongoing problems with blocked driveways on busy nights and stressed the importance of enforcing existing ordinances for the safety of local families.

During the two public hearings, Public Hearing relative to amending Chapter 608-47 Schedule II entitled “Speed Limits” and Chapter 608-53 Schedule VIII entitled “Stop Intersections”. and Public Hearing relative to the Restore NY Grant. There were no speakers

All resolutions passed:

• Resolve to authorize the Mayor to sign an agreement with Oswego County.
• Resolve to authorize the City Clerk/Chamberlain transfer funds for various Building Operation fees.
• Authorize the Commissioner of Public Works to purchase rock salt for the 2024-2025 winter season
• Resolve to award the Community Solar Consulting proposal.
• Resolve to authorize the Mayor to sign agreements related to Community Solar Consulting.
• Resolve to authorize the mayor to sign an addendum to the employment contract with the Code Enforcement Bureau Chief.

Notations:

• Notation to appoint Graham B. Seiter, Esq. as the part-time City Judge.
• Notation to re-appoint Rick Kersey to the Electrical Board.
• Notation to re-appoint Alan France to the Board of Ethics.
• Notation to re-appoint Steve Sunday to the Board of Ethics.

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