Concerns over emergency communication and infrastructure upgrades dominated the City of Glens Falls Common Council meeting on January 14, 2025. Council members expressed frustration regarding a recent electrical issue that had been anticipated but not adequately addressed, leading to a lack of timely communication about the situation.

During the meeting, a contractor discussed the need for a new switch, which was initially intended for another location but never utilized. This switch is now deemed essential for a short-term solution to avoid relying on costly generator backups. Council members questioned why this issue had not been prioritized earlier, given that it was recognized as a problem upon the arrival of new leadership.

The discussion highlighted the council's previous approval of bonding measures amounting to nearly $46 million, which aimed to secure funding for critical projects, including this electrical upgrade. However, concerns were raised about the lack of notification regarding emergencies, particularly an incident involving an open sewer that went unreported to council members for over a week.

Council members emphasized the importance of timely communication during emergencies, urging city staff to keep them informed to better address community concerns. The meeting underscored the need for improved planning and transparency as the city navigates its infrastructure challenges.