SYRACUSE — After hearing a request from two local businesses to expand a newly formed riverfront district, Syracuse Town Council approved naming the entire commercial district a riverfront district during its regular monthly meeting Tuesday, Feb. 21. The vote was 4-1 with Councilman Bill Musser abstaining.

Police Chief Jim Layne received permission to purchase a new squad car and have it outfitted. The car being replaced will become the reserve car, while the reserve car will be either sold or salvaged.

Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, reported the last family movie of the fall/winter will be shown at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the community center. The indoor yard sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 4 with 31 booths.

Councilman Larry Siegel asked about plans for the concessions stand. Jonsson said he is looking at possibilities but noted the building would need a lot of work. Siegel said he has some ideas he’d like to discuss.

Robin Merchant, public works superintendent, reported he is looking at Community Crossing Funds, matching funds from the state for paving projects. He has three in mind he would like to seek grant money for: Front Street, Harkless Street and Medusa Street. Since this is community development block grants, all three streets need to have 51 percent low to moderate income in order to qualify.

The south water tower will have its interior cleaned and inspected. Merchant is looking for someone to clean the outside.

Fire Chief Mickey Scott reported he has two firefighters attending paramedic school. The department is working on ISOs, pulling together information on equipment testing and other records for insurance ratings. The department is also trying to fill an open position for a firefighter/paramedic. The position has been open since September.

The council approved spending $4,145 to have spray foam installed in the interior walls of town hall after department heads complained the walls are too thin. The council tabled a request to hire a company to assist in updating the town’s employee handbook until more information can be gathered.

The council also tabled a request to find a new website and email provider.