Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Schenectady public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in development
Multi-Family Residential Expansion on Front Street
Sixty apartment units could anchor the Front Street waterfront if two additional 3-story buildings are approved — a significant addition to the neighborhood's housing stock.
Commercial and Residential Proposals on Union Street & Lower Broadway
A mosque is proposed for two adjacent Union Street parcels, adding a house of worship to a mixed-use commercial corridor.
Downtown housing at 192 Erie Boulevard
Nine more apartments could be added on the third floor of a downtown building if the commission grants the extension. It matters for how much housing gets built downtown.
Housing Stability Task Force Recommendations and Good Cause Eviction
Speakers pushed the council to act on homelessness — especially veterans — and on people with mental health and substance issues occupying public spaces like the public library. Council President Williams said Code Blue season efforts through the Schenectady Hub are running but insufficient, and acknowledged the Carver Center needs major investment.
Stockade Historic District Expansion and Streetscape Implementation Plan
Homeowners in local historic districts need approval for exterior repairs like roofs and gutters to preserve the neighborhood's historic character.
Carrie St townhouse subdivision variances
Crown 6 LLC wants to build townhouses on two narrow Carrie Street lots that don't meet the city's 40-foot frontage rule. The variances let the lots be buildable at 33 feet of frontage; the Planning Commission has already conditionally approved the subdivision pending these approvals.
Infill housing on formerly city-owned land
The Carrie St lots were originally owned by the city, and the project is part of a pattern of putting vacant parcels back on the tax rolls with new housing. The board's approval removes the last zoning obstacle after the Planning Commission's conditional subdivision sign-off.