The Oswego Committee Meeting held on January 6, 2025, focused on significant developments regarding local property management and community services. Key discussions centered around lease agreements that will impact the city's historical sites and early childhood education programs.

One of the primary topics was the renewal of a lease with Safe Haven, a local organization responsible for managing a historic building owned by the city. The lease, which spans 25 years, is set at a nominal fee of $1. This arrangement allows Safe Haven to take charge of insuring the building and its contents, which is expected to significantly lower their insurance premiums. The committee expressed confidence in the ongoing efforts to secure a national park designation for the site, which would enhance its historical significance and ensure its preservation for future generations.

In addition to the Safe Haven lease, the committee discussed a new lease agreement with Switzerland County Opportunities Incorporated for the use of Building 31, which has housed the Head Start daycare program since 1994. The current lease has expired, and the proposed agreement aims to extend the lease for five years at an increased annual rent of $15,000, up from the previous $12,500. This adjustment reflects the city's commitment to supporting early childhood education while also aligning with the anticipated National Park Service designation for the property.

These discussions highlight the city's proactive approach to managing its historical assets and supporting community services. The committee's decisions are expected to foster partnerships that benefit both the local community and the preservation of Oswego's heritage. As the city moves forward with these agreements, the implications for local education and historical preservation will be closely monitored by residents and stakeholders alike.