OGDENSBURG – Ogdensburg City Manager Sarah Purdy has addressed several concerns raised by the public in the most recent council update.

On June 12 dozens of Ogdensburg residents questioned city officials about a variety of issues including the large amount of untaxed property, business development and the inclusion of fluoride in water.

Purdy said a concern was raised about the trimming of trees on New York Avenue.

“This is being conducted by National Grid in order to keep their lines clear. Concerns or questions about  the trimming can be directed to National Grid,” she said.

At the meeting residents questioned if the city would the city save money by no longer fluoridating the water.

“Eliminating it would save approximately $10,000 but fluoridation is recommended by the NYS Department of Health and the city supports this recommendation. Fluoridation has been in place for decades here,” she says.

Some residents questioned why the owner of the vacant property off of Paterson Street had not cut the grass. She said the owner was notified in writing regarding the issue.

Residents also questioned why a large percentage of property is not on the tax rolls in Ogdensburg and said the city should find a way to get tax-exempt property back on the tax rolls.

“State law governs the taxable status of property owned by not-for-profit organizations. The city is required to follow these regulations,” Purdy said. “The city has had discussions with the larger not for-profits about the possibility of making payments in lieu of taxes, but these agencies have articulated financial stresses they are facing which do not make this concept possible.”

Another concern raised at the meeting was the development of the old tank farm. Purdy said the city does not own any of the three properties that comprise the former “tank farm,” and “therefore, as a municipality we have no jurisdiction over whether or not it is developed.”

 In addition, the property is contaminated. She said the city has worked with the property owners to assist where possible with the use of EPA funding to encourage cleanup since 2010.

Purdy also addressed claims that the city isn’t focused on development.

She said the city continually works closely with the St Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency and with the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority on development.

“Unfortunately the city’s latest effort, to sell the Newell Building was unsuccessful due to the discovery of contamination issues. Many times the work the city does to try to bring development to the city cannot be publicized because it involves negotiations with potential buyers, which may create the perception that nothing is being done,” she said.

Ogdensburg city council will meet again June 26