Harrietstown Town Board: Broadband Paused, STR Law in the Works, New Council Member Appointed
Franklin County has paused its broadband initiative. A short-term rental law is being drafted. George Connelly appointed to fill vacated council seat.
The Harrietstown Town Board met Thursday evening. Here is what happened.
Franklin County Broadband Initiative Paused
Franklin County has halted its ongoing broadband expansion project due to cost increases and permit delays. The project had been scheduled for completion by December 31, 2026. The county said it will not move forward until a sound financial position can be established. More information is available at broadband.ny.gov.
Short-Term Rental Law Being Drafted
The board is moving forward with drafting a Short-Term Rental law for community consideration. The stated goals are to improve safety for renters and to ensure that housing remains available and affordable for year-round residents.
George Connelly Appointed to Fill Council Vacancy
Following an executive session, the board voted to appoint George Connelly to fill the seat vacated by Jeremy Evans. Connelly will serve through December 31, 2026, and will join the council at its next meeting on Thursday, June 11.
Rotary Park Design Moving Forward
The board voted to contract North Woods Engineering — based in Saranac Lake and Harrietstown — to begin the first phase of design for Rotary Park. The project is funded by a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Smart Growth Grant.
Sidewalk Expansion Planned
The town is seeking construction estimates for a sidewalk expansion from the Saranac Lake Civic Center to Schroeter's Field, a joint project with the Village of Saranac Lake. The Town has allocated $50,000 in its budget toward the project.
Affordable Housing Duplex Planned for Neil Street
The Harrietstown Housing Authority is in the final stages of planning a new duplex on Neil Street in Saranac Lake. When complete, two three-bedroom units will be added to the affordable housing market.
Airport Cafe on Track for Fall
Construction at Adirondack Regional Airport is progressing. The new cafe is anticipated to be ready in the fall. The town will issue a Request for Proposals next month for vendors interested in operating it. Asbestos abatement is currently underway in the terminal.
New Procurement Policy Adopted
The board passed Local Law #1 of 2026, a new procurement policy aligning with State Finance Law 163. The law governs how the town awards purchase contracts on the basis of best value. No public objection was raised at the public hearing held before the meeting.
Full video and minutes from the meeting will be posted at harrietstown.gov/agendas-minutes. The next meeting is Thursday, June 11.