Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Troy public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
19 issues with high priority
Disposition of foreclosed city-owned properties
Thirteen properties the city took through tax foreclosure would be sold to auction winners, returning them to private hands and the tax rolls. One goes to the Troy Community Land Bank.
Gun Violence and Police Presence in Swift/Glen Area
Frank reported renewed shootings near Swift and Glen, asked for a police substation and more presence through the holiday season, and raised concerns about kids with nowhere to go at night.
Crow Hazing Contract Rejection
The council unanimously rejected a $13,000 USDA contract to haze crows downtown. Members said residents opposed it, the USDA rep admitted there's no public health crisis, and hazing just moves the birds elsewhere. Alternatives raised include better street cleaning and embracing the roost like Austin does its bats.
Crossing Guard Needed Near North Central Troy School
Frank urged the council to station a crossing guard at a school between English and Dow, where children dart across traffic daily and several near-misses have occurred.
Support for state e-moto regulation (S10700)
The council backed a state bill banning sales of illegal e-motos, with members citing serious resident injuries and the difficulty of enforcing sales rules city-by-city.
Verizon Wireless Cell Tower Installation at 207 Broadway
Verizon is requesting a use variance to add antennas and equipment platforms to a downtown property.
RPI Child Development Center Proposal
RPI is proposing a new Child Development Center with wider driveway entrances than current city code allows, requiring board approval.
Emma Willard School Signage and Campus Branding
Emma Willard School is asking to install 17 freestanding signs across its campus, which exceeds the standard limit of one sign per lot and requires relief from setback rules.
King Fuels Waterfront Redevelopment
Board members will discuss extension strategies and cooperative approaches with regional stakeholders for environmental cleanup at the King Fuels site.
Monument Square Mixed-Use Development Project
The corporation is reviewing ARPA fund allocations and letters of intent to advance the redevelopment of the prominent 1 Monument Square site.
Water fund transfer to general fund
The proposed budget moves $2.48 million from the water fund surplus into the general fund — a 32% jump. Council members argued the water fund is being treated like a hidden, regressive property tax; the administration countered the practice is decades old and needed to avoid tax hikes or service cuts.
2027 Water Rate Increase
The proposed 2027 sewer rate is $4.27 per thousand gallons, about 7.6% higher, continuing a steep climb since 2025. The administration points to aging 1880s-era sewer infrastructure, camera inspections, and long-delayed DEC compliance work as the reason.
Freer Park Infrastructure and Restaurant Redevelopment
The council approved the playground equipment contract using expiring ARPA funds, with an upgraded synthetic turf surface replacing poured-in-place rubber. Residents had raised concerns about vendor quality and the short public notice window, and questions remain about the lost state grant affecting the broader park project.
CY2025 Financial Audit and Property Valuation Review
The council was set to formally accept the 2025 financial statement audit plus federal and NYSDOT single audits from the Bonadio Group — the annual checkup on how the city handles public money.
Residential Care Facility Expansion on Tibbits Avenue
Troy Woodland LLC proposed expanding a residential care facility on Tibbits Avenue from 155 to 200 beds through interior renovations, partial demolition, and a four-story addition.
Police Department Staffing and Promotions
The commission approved upcoming civil service exams for both standard and Spanish-speaking police officer positions, opening doors for new recruitment into the police department.
American Theatre Redevelopment and Financial Assistance
Proctors and American Theatre Troy LLC are moving forward with a $7.4 million overhaul of the former movie theater on River Street into a modern performing arts space. The IDA approved an initial resolution and set a public hearing for next month to consider tax exemptions and financial assistance.
Community Grant Funding Program
The Troy Capital Resource Corporation awarded $25,000 in grants to three local non-profits to support heating repairs, community arts programming, and historic preservation.
2026 Budget and Financial Management
The board reviewed mid-year financials and adjusted the budget to account for unexpected bond revenue.