Manlius · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Manlius public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Trash and brush collection bid extension
A resident asked why brush drop-off was cut from five days to one during highway construction. The town says DEC rules limit what it can accept, and it will revisit expanded hours in the spring.
Property Tax Cap Override for Fiscal Year 2027
The board overrode the state's 2% property tax cap so the 2027 budget — roughly 5% over — can go forward. Members cited healthcare costs up 8.8%, diesel up 75%, and union contract increases. The real number comes with the final budget November 18.
Maxwell facility study and police department review
A $6,750 contract will produce two five-minute videos showing town hall and police department deficiencies ahead of November 12 public forums. Two councilors voted no over narrative control and public-money concerns; scripts will be pre-approved before filming.
Town Clerk compensation
The board debated whether the Town Clerk should get a 6% or 5% raise, noting most town employees earning over $60,000 are getting only about 3.1%. They landed on 5%, citing comparable towns and her extra website and social media duties.
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.
Boardroom audio upgrade
Residents watching meetings online and in person have complained they can't hear. The board picked a $31,767 audio-only fix over a $57,220 full video-and-audio package, using leftover ARPA funds.