Workload prompts Cortland to look at promotions

Council gives initial approval for pair of associate directors

CORTLAND -- After a one-hour executive session, city council on Monday gave first reading to legislation creating two associate service director positions to work on upcoming projects in the city.

Mayor Deidre Petrosky said two current service department employees will be moved into the administrative roles.

Petrosky said Service Director Kim Blasco has an increase in her workload with many upcoming projects and could use two associates to work within the department on many administrative issues.

The associate service directors will work in the service department and with the zoning board with the analysis, interpretation and enforcement of the city's zoning code, implementation of the vacant property and occupancy permit programs, various water and sewer projects, and other projects as directed by Blasco.

The positions will be created effective July 18, but council needs to give two more readings on the ordinance.

The associate service directors are Michael Smith and Jason McCollum. Both will receive $25 per hour and will be on a 180-day probationary period.

Blasco said once the two staffers move to the new positions, only one of the former positions will be replaced, which will be seven workers in the service department.

"I appreciate the initial support of the ordinances," Blasco said.

Petrosky said upcoming projects include a new safety-service building and an outdoor education and events area.

"I appreciate council for the extra help you are willing to get her (Blasco) because these upcoming months are going to be very busy," Petrosky said.

Cortland's population was 7,105 in the 2020 census, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

METER REPLACEMENT

Council gave emergency reading to purchase cellular water / sewer meters, supporting equipment, and a service plan from Metron-Farmer Smart Water Meters and Systems.

The contract is for $18,095 for 48 meters, supporting equipment and a 10-year Verizon service plan. Blasco said old meters are being replaced.

"We have been able to identify so many leaks with the new meters. It is amazing the amount of leaks we have found. This will help residents know of leaks they do not need to be paying for," Blasco said.

One city resident who was on vacation was able to be notified about a leak and was able to contact a family member, officials said.

Also, council approved supporting the efforts of SCOPE for offering services to seniors. There is a SCOPE Center in Cortland.

Petrosky said the cost has increased from $10,244 to $14,086, which equated to a 5% increase -- from 20% to 25% -- in the contribution from other communities.

Council also heard from fire Chief David Rea, who said next month he will seek passage of a motion to get a new ambulance to replace an aging one.

Rea said if ordered this year, it would take three years for delivery.

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