By JIMMY LAWTON

OGDENSBURG -- Ogdensburg councilors will continue to reimburse residents for 50 percent of the cost to replace and repair sidewalks, as long as there is money to do so.

After a brief debate, Ogdensburg officials voted to continue offering the 50 percent reimbursement, which they had proposed reducing to 25 percent.

However, the program is likely to be largely defunded in the proposed budget. The council is considering cutting $40,000 from the program and leaving just $5,000 to allow for repairs.

Public Works Director Scott Thornhill said the low funding, but continued 50 percent reimbursement, will be difficult to achieve. But he pledged to make it work. He said that will certainly mean fewer sidewalk replacements.

Traditionally, the city has contributed 50 percent of the cost for sidewalk replacements, but a tough budget season had lawmakers scrambling for savings..

According to the bill, sidewalks must be replaced or fixed in a manner prescribed by the director of public works. If the city determines a sidewalk needs repair or replacement, the property owner will be notified. If the work is not completed within 30 days of the notice, the city will address the issue by performing the work.

Calls for a moratorium on sidewalks replacements failed to get a consensus from the board due to potential safety and legal concerns.