Latest news with #2025StateoftheCity
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
City of Rome growing, looking toward future with new opportunities, new legacy
Though Rome has had a tough year after a tornado ripped through its heart, its future is looking bright as new projects and strong foundations are being laid for the future. From a successful cleanup and continued work on damaged or destroyed properties, to the reveal of the Michael E. Jensen Recreation and Civic Center, Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan went over all the strides and future projects at the 2025 State of the City, held at the Griffiss Institute and livestreamed. 'Just a year ago, our city was tested by an EF2 tornado,' Lanigan said on the livestream. 'It could have broken our spirit, but it didn't. We came together. We rebuilt. And today, we look forward with hope, with confidence, and with purpose.' On July 16, 2024, an EF2 tornado struck the city of Rome, carving a path of destruction that irrevocably damaged many lives in an instant. Lanigan said over 400 properties were damaged and 82 were deemed unsafe or unfit to live in. Some people were trying to clean up the day after, with trees still lodged in their homes. 'To date, 31 properties were unable to be saved and have now been demolished, either publicly or privately,' Lanigan said. 'And, unfortunately, there are still another 13 to come down.' City officials estimated damages to city property, the loss of infrastructure, and the loss of trees totaled around $23.6 million. County damages were estimated at approximately $8 million, just short of the FEMA threshold. Clean up was quick and efficient, with the city spending over $800,000 in payroll and just over $500,000 in other expenses. The cost was offset by a $1 million New York State emergency operating expenses grant. 'Our emergency crews were truly the unsung heroes in this disaster. They worked tirelessly, logging over 17,000 hours to clear nearly 30,000 cubic yards of debris- much of it downed trees,' Lanigan said. 'Our city streets were clear in just under five days, which is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of our DPW crews, working alongside multiple agencies who came to assist. We cannot thank them enough for their efforts.' The Rome Victim Recovery Fund, in partnership with Oneida County and the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, provided $1.3 million in emergency assistance to 500 residents. Additionally, Rome, Oneida County, and the Rome Chamber of Commerce partnered to create the Rome Emergency Business Fund, assisting 50 local businesses in their recovery, totaling $231,301.76. And through all the municipal work distributing funds and assistance, Lanigan said the most powerful force was the people of Rome. 'We can never fully recognize the number of people, businesses, and organizations that stepped up to help this community,' Lanigan said. 'It was difficult, and it was emotional. But Rome was strong. Rome is strong, and we proved it together. And I'd like to thank the residents for their patience during a very difficult time.' Animal Deaths: Fire in Rome claims life of two dogs, two cats; fire department investigating Corrections: 2 inmates have been killed in Oneida County prisons in past year. Where the cases stand Shooting Investigation: Man grazed by bullet while in his home in Utica. What we know Thanks to a $1 million grant in emergency funding from the New York State Assembly, Lanigan said the city of Rome is launching a recovery strategy at the site where the tornado first touched down. Step one is the Erie Boulevard Brownfield Opportunity Plan, which extends from south Rome to Erie Boulevard. A comprehensive flood and drainage strategy will be implemented for South Rome and a new streetscape project is in the works on South Madison Street. Trees are also expected to be removed and replaced to create a new 'urban canopy' as the city starts its sidewalk repairs and expansion. 'This will be a significant targeted investment to improve and transform that corridor into a vibrant and walkable neighborhood,' Lanigan said. Oneida County has provided $500,000 of recovery funds to the project. And this is only one part of the major plans the city has in store. 'For industrial recovery, we applied for a $3.5 million New York State RESTORE grant to help rehabilitate the buildings at 220 South Madison Street and 522 Henry Street, both tornado-damaged properties,' Lanigan said. "We are very happy that we just received notice last week that our application for funding was approved.' Once rehabilitated, 220 South Madison will be, according to the mayor, the largest available industrial property in the Utica-Rome area at 180,000 square feet. Among the new announcements was what would happen to the YMCA property on Floyd Avenue. Lanigan said the new facility was 'abandoned' and its absence left a major gap in services and opportunities for residents. And so, Lanigan has revealed that the city is moving forward with The Legacy Center, the Michael E. Jensen Recreation and Civic Center.' 'Named in honor of Michael E. Jensen, a Rome native and heroic Syracuse Police Officer who gave his life in the line of duty, the Legacy Center will serve as a lasting tribute to those who have shaped and served our city," Lanigan said. "At its heart will be Legacy Hall, where community members will have the opportunity to honor individuals whose knowledge, talent, and service have left an enduring mark on the city of Rome.' Lanigan said the Legacy Center will feature the region's largest single indoor turf field — capable of supporting 11x11 soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, and other field sports in all four seasons. 'The Legacy Center will feature many amenities requested by residents, including an indoor walking track, fitness center, and community space for public use,' the mayor said. At the end of April, the Greek yogurt company Chobani announced its intention to build a $1 billion facility at the Griffiss Triangle Site in Rome. 'A few weeks ago, I had the incredible honor, alongside my good friend County Executive Picente, of officially welcoming Chobani to our great city,' Lanigan said. 'What an amazing time to be a Roman.' The mayor said this will bring jobs, growth, and new opportunities for families, Rome's workforce, and local businesses. 'This is more than a single investment — it's a spark. A transformational force that has the power to shape the future of Rome for the next 50 years,' Lanigan said. The city of Rome is working closely with Chobani's engineering team to ensure infrastructure is ready and in place to support operations. 'With an aggressive construction timeline already in motion, we anticipate seeing shovels in the ground within months and the completion of this significant project in 2026,' Lanigan said. On a dark day in July last year, Rome's skyline was changed forever as the EF2 tornado tore down buildings and broke many a spirit. But now, Lanigan said the city isn't just imagining a better future, it's building it. 'This is a proud moment, but it is also a defining responsibility. We understand that this project will reshape Rome's economy, our skyline, and our story. And we are more than ready to lead that transformation,' he said. 'Here at City Hall, we're energized by what's ahead. We're focused. We're united. We're determined.' This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Rome, New York, looks to future with new projects, new legacy
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Frederick faces budget challenges from shake-up of federal workforce, contracts in limbo
FREDERICK, Md. () — A new fiscal year approaches for Frederick County, and an unsettled federal government landscape is presenting challenges to County Executive Jessica Fitzwater. The county executive's budget comes in at $981,919,496, but sudden turmoil from the new administration in Washington, D.C. may shift priorities for her fiscal strategists. Hagerstown hosts 2025 State of the City event 'So many of the decisions affecting federal agencies right now impact decisions we make right here in Frederick County,' Fitzwater said. In just the past month, Fitzwater said jobless claims have jumped five-fold. 'We're seeing an increase in workforce service who were either federal employees or federal contractors,' Fitzwater said during a press conference. 'They either lost their job or anticipate losing their job.' With that as a backdrop, the county executive is still managing a fast-growing region and proposes a new elementary school to accommodate close to 900 students. She also proposes renovations to Brunswick High School. According to Frederick County Schools' chief operation officer, Paul Lebo, there is a 'significant need' to address the schools' 'aging infrastructure.' Fighting climate change brings activists to Hood College conference Fitzwater has scheduled a public hearing on her proposed budget for Saturday. The County Council will hold a hearing on the spending plan on Wednesday, March 19, at 7 p.m. at Winchester Hall, 12 E. Church St. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
05-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Mayor Marks speaks at 2025 Athens State of the City
ATHENS, Ala. (WHNT) — Monday morning, members of the Athens and Limestone County business community as well as state and local officials gathered for the 2025 State of the City breakfast luncheon. The event was hosted by the Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce. BLOG: Damage left behind by strong winds on Tuesday Rather than giving a State of the City address, Mayor Ronnie Marks participated in a Q&A. He answered a series of questions discussing a range of topics including quality of life improvements, crime levels, tourism, parks & recreation improvements, mental health and more. Mayor Marks said the City of Athens is doing well, financially. 'Our budget and our finances are in very good shape,' he said. Marks also spent time encouraging residents to 'shop local.' News 19 viewers want to know if Congressman Dale Strong is holding town hall meeting He said '42% of the general fund' comes from sales taxes. That money helps provide funding for police, fire, and sanitation. He said he hopes Athens residents continue to grocery shop in city limits, rather than visit neighboring cities like Madison and Huntsville. Speaking of grocery shopping, residents will soon have more options within city limits. Marks told News 19 that a Publix is going in at the intersection of U.S. Highway 72 & Mooresville Road, and a Food City is going in on the west side of town. It's no secret that Athens is growing quickly, and Marks also touched on the growth. He said the City of Athens currently has about 31,000 residents, but that will change quickly. 'You're going to be a city of 40,000 people not in 10 years, not in 20 years, but in the next few years,' Marks said. The mayor said that there are a lot of housing projects on the way, including '9,000 housing units in the queue.' Marks said as they focus on expanding housing, they need to make sure there's something for everyone. 'What are we going to do in the future in this area for affordable housing?' he said. 'It's a real challenge, and I don't want to just say, hey, whoopee break out the pompoms and everything's wonderful. It is wonderful, but we have opportunities to make it better.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
03-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Mayor, City Council to discuss State of City this week
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso Chamber will host its 2025 State of the City event this week. The event will happen from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 6 at the El Paso Convention Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza. Mayor Renard Johnson and members of the City Council will discuss their vision, priorities and the future of the City. 'The event will include conversations with the El Paso City Council and a fireside chat featuring Mayor Johnson, providing a unique opportunity for the community to hear directly from local leadership about the policies and initiatives shaping El Paso's growth,' the Chamber said in a news release. You can click here to find out about tickets and sponsoring opportunities. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
