Point Plan for Public Works
5
1. Leadership & Experience for Saratoga Springs DPW
My name is Chuck Marshall and I'm running for Public Works Commissioner of Saratoga Springs, NY, to bring Leadership and Experience to City Hall. I hold a Civil Engineering Degree from Clarkson University and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. I have an extensive background in civic leadership, including participating in over 500 municipal meetings, prior service on the Saratoga County Sewer District, and am an alumnus of the Leadership Saratoga program (Class of 2012). Additionally, through my work on the Saratoga Springs Planning Board, where I currently serve as Chair, I learned what Public Service truly means.
I will always put service to Saratoga Springs over everything and will foster a Public Works Department that works for you!
2. Saratoga Green for Green
“Saratoga Green for Green” is a green infrastructure project that will provide investment in dated buildings with updated technology. To pay for these improvements, we will use Net Metering of the Ice Rink and water treatment plants to offset energy consumption. By redistributing this electric load to a solar alternative, the City will turn an existing liability into a revenue stream paid for by an existing solar farm.
3. Dedicated Sidewalk Funding
The City utilizes grant funding through its “Missing Link” program to fund projects where there are existing gaps in City sidewalks. I currently support legislation at the Planning Board which would dedicate funds to support the Missing Link program. Under this proposal, any payment in lieu of funds collected by the City would be dedicated to the missing link program to help fix our important sidewalks.
4. Eliminate Downtown Paid Parking
I will not mince words, I am against downtown paid parking. Paid parking is just another inhibitor stopping Saratoga residents, tourists, and visitors from visiting our downtown shops, services, and eateries. We must STOP punishing our neighbors and visitors for the popularity of our community and develop alternative funding mechanisms to support the City’s budget.
5. Lead DPW Infrastructure Projects
Through my private sector experience working with regulatory agencies to make infrastructure improvements, I can provide leadership to guide needed infrastructure projects throughout the city. Examples would be the relocation of the DPW Garage and fixes along Gilbert Road.
One of the most dangerous intersections in the City is where Gilbert Road meets Lake Avenue. The geometry of this intersection does not allow visibility, particularly for vehicles exiting Gilbert Road and entering Lake Avenue. Moreover, further to the south, Gilbert Road floods at a culvert crossing underneath it. By tying into the new signal that Stewart’s installed, the City will be able to utilize the signal and realign Gilbert road ensuring a safer approach.
Additionally, the existing DPW “Barn” is located on Division Street and takes up too much City property for what is actually used. In total the City owns roughly five acres and owns a similar land mass on Weibel Avenue just north of the skating rink. Relocating DPW can be achieved by selling the lots for residential houses that can be affordably priced for introductory home ownership. I’m sure we can find even more ways to make smart decisions to benefit our City and our Community!
