By JIMMY LAWTON

OGDENSBURG – Despite attempts warnings from the city manager that Ogdensburg could not afford to restore summer brush pickup, the council voted Monday to once again offer the service.

Councilors voted 4-3 to restore the summer pickup policy despite warnings from the city manager that it would be difficult to stay within budget estimates. That same night the city council approved borrowing $2 million for cash flow, despite news that it’s bond ratings were now considered junk by Moody’s Investor Service.

Voting against the measure were councilors Jennifer Stevenson, David Price and Timothy Davis.

Ogdensburg residents in the second ward can place brush out for pickup July 8, which will be picked up July 10.

Summer brush pickup was cancelled by city council last year in an attempt to minimize the growing tax burden. Even with the cut, the city was forced to raise taxes by more than 13 percent. This year unexpected costs and a variety of under estimated line items are making it difficult for Ogdensburg to stay on target.

However, city council decided to pack pedal the cost saving measure after dozens of Ogdensburg residents attended a July meeting and shared frustrations that they were paying high taxes but not receiving services in return.

DPW employees also spoke at that meeting. And while they were not opposed to brush pickup, they were concerned about implementing the program without hiring extra help.

DPW Director Scott Thornhill said his department gave up a position in order to save money last year, which was part of the reason summer pickup was cancelled.