Corry Officials Weigh Sidewalk Costs, Advance Planning Efforts and Key Agreements

A wide range of infrastructure, planning, and policy topics were discussed during Monday’s Corry City Council work session, with officials focusing on long-term needs, funding strategies, and several agreements expected to move forward.

Sidewalk Snow Removal and Long-Term Planning

Sidewalk maintenance—particularly winter snow removal—has remained a recurring topic in recent months, driven in part by concerns from residents about accessibility and safety. During a prior public hearing, one resident proposed a community-based snow removal assistance fund to help seniors, individuals with disabilities, and others unable to meet the city’s ordinance requiring property owners to clear sidewalks.

Building on those concerns, Public Works Manager Mark Leofsky outlined the realities of expanding the city’s sidewalk plowing program. He said current efforts are limited and rely on equipment that is not well-suited for the job, with priority given to street plowing during snow events.

Leofsky presented two potential options to restore broader sidewalk service, with estimated first-year costs ranging from roughly $323,000 to more than $570,000 depending on equipment. Both scenarios would require hiring two additional full-time employees, with ongoing annual costs exceeding $150,000.

He emphasized that staffing remains a major constraint, noting that during storms, employees from multiple departments are reassigned to snow removal, delaying other work. He also cautioned that expanding services could ultimately require a tax increase.

Beyond winter operations, officials discussed the need for a long-term sidewalk improvement strategy. City Solicitor Lydia Caparosa said the city should begin evaluating sidewalk conditions citywide and developing a structured plan to address maintenance, accessibility, and liability concerns.

Mayor Jeffrey Fike said the city is preparing to conduct a comprehensive inventory of sidewalks and tree lawns using GIS technology, which would help prioritize improvements and support future grant applications.

Agreements, Ordinances and Administrative Updates

Caparosa also outlined progress on two proposed memorandums of understanding (MOUs). One would formalize the city’s relationship with the airport authority, requiring annual budget submissions and allowing the city to review major contracts and leases to ensure proper oversight.

A second MOU involving Impact Corry would establish guidelines for grant-funded projects where the city serves as a pass-through entity. The agreement would also include liability protections, such as requiring waivers for volunteers performing work on city-owned property.

Officials are also working to update two ordinances. A revised tree ordinance would clarify responsibilities for planting, maintenance, and removal while potentially eliminating the existing commission structure. Meanwhile, the city’s solicitation ordinance—originally adopted in 1962—is being rewritten to better reflect current practices and enforcement needs.

Planning Efforts and Infrastructure Projects

Councilperson Charles “Chuck” Gray provided updates on several ongoing projects, including evaluation of the mural wall on North Center Street. Engineers have been engaged to assess the structure and recommend repairs, with hopes of preserving the wall if possible.

The city’s comprehensive plan has entered a 45-day public review period, during which residents and regional partners can provide feedback. The plan will also be reviewed by Erie County planners, the Corry Area School District, and neighboring municipalities before final adoption. A similar process is underway for the city’s long-range transportation plan, which will help guide future infrastructure investments and support grant applications.