Manlius · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Manlius public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Town Budget
The B-Fund is short because the Twin Ponds project hasn't started construction, so expected building permit fees haven't come in. Budget adjustments are coming.
Town health insurance switch to Tompkins County consortium
Manlius is leaving its current health plan because rising costs made it unsustainable, and only two insurers would quote the town. Joining the 78-member consortium gives Manlius the same pooled rate as other municipalities and slightly lowers 2027 premiums for singles and families.
2027 Tentative Budget
The first look at the 2027 budget shows no major staffing changes, 3% non-union raises, department supplies cut 10%, and big pending numbers for health insurance (over $2.5M) and a state-mandated retirement program (over $1.5M). Public hearing and vote come in October/November.
Bonadio forensic audit of town finances
An independent forensic accounting review, done after the change in town leadership, found no irregularities in the town's finances. Auditors did recommend strengthening internal controls, and the town is looking at how to implement those suggestions.
Vacant councilor seat
Supervisor John Deer resigned; board members' letters of interest are due April 3, with an appointment expected at the April 8 meeting.
Planning Board vs. Supervisor over engineer hire
Supervisor John Deer texted the board chair saying he won't sign an agreement with engineer Doug Miller and the board won't authorize payments — right after the board voted to keep Miller. The board believes it can hire its own consultants and asked its new attorney to research town law. A real test of who controls planning board resources.