SYRACUSE — Syracuse Town Council approved the 2018 budget during its regular monthly meeting Tuesday night, Oct. 17.

Police Chief Jim Layne reported he has been addressing complaints in the neighborhood around Harrison Street regarding street parking. The parking safety committee recommended the council consider one side parking or making streets one-way streets. Currently residents park on both sides of the street making it difficult for traffic, especially emergency vehicles and in winter, snowplows, to get through.

Councilman Larry Siegel said he felt there should be more input from those residents who will be affected. “We’re here to serve the public. This is one of those times we should involve them,” he said. “It will give you guys (Layne and Fire Chief Mickey Scott) an opportunity to explain why change is needed rather than jam it down their throats.”

Councilman Paul Stoetling, who represents the area, said he favored one-side parking. “You’re going to have one or two people on each block who won’t like it. No one likes change,” he said.

After more discussion it was decided a letter should be sent to residents.

Chad Jonnson, park superintendent, reported the annual Fall Harvest Festival went well. The annual indoor garage sale will be this Saturday and features 31 vendors. The Haunted Thrill at Crosson Mill will be Oct. 27-28 and 31. The park board is continuing work on its master plan update and hope to have things completed after the first of the year.

Town Manager Henry DeJulia informed the council the new tax increment finance district for the technology park is now in place. The town also closed with Travel Lite on the property in the park.

The council approved purchasing 10 decorative lights for $22,080 from the beautification fund. The vote was 4-1 with Councilman Bill Musser voting against the purchase.

Fire Chief Mickey Scott expressed appreciation to area departments who have provided assistance to the department in the last few months. “These relationships with these other departments are huge,” he said.

The pumper trucks passed their inspection. He also attended a multi hazard mitigation meeting and is now asking the public to complete an online survey on what they consider possible threats.

Outdoor warning sirens were tested Oct. 13. Usually the sirens are tested the first Friday of the month, but the weather was not conducive to testing.