Economic development in Utica continues during COVID pandemic By Rob Palmieri

Despite the lingering challenges associated with the Coronavirus, my Administration’s top priorities were to continue our economic development initiatives and protect the city’s fiscal health.

In regards to finances, earlier this year, the city announced its 8th consecutive budget surplus. This outstanding achievement was due to responsible and conservative budgeting, as well as the hard work and dedication from city personnel. As a result of the city’s fiscal improvement, Utica’s credit rating has
been upgraded by all three major financial rating institutions (Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, Fitch) over the past several years. In addition, the city has seen a consistent expansion of its tax base and increase in its sales tax revenue, all of which are strong indicators of growing economic development.

Photo by WKTV

I believe Utica residents made enough sacrifices in 2020 and should not have been expected to pay higher taxes. As such, in 2021 I presented a budget with no tax increase. In the coming months, my Administration will be presenting a budget for the upcoming year, and our goal, as always, is to keep taxes as low as possible, while also delivering the services our residents need and deserve.

As an important initiative, in 2019 the city purchased its street lights from National Grid. Throughout 2021 we have converted city street lights to LED. This project will save the city money, while upgrading our infrastructure and reducing greenhouse emissions.

While the past year certainly presented unique challenges, our community is resilient and we have become stronger. Looking forward to 2022, it is my goal to improve our residents’ quality of life by making Utica a safer, cleaner and more economically prosperous city. I am excited about the opportunities that lie before us, and, by working together, we will ensure Utica achieves its utmost potential.

Rob Palmieri is the Mayor of Utica, New York

Special thanks to The Genesis Group for facilitating this article. The Genesis Group is a civic organization that unites Business and Community Leaders working to advance regional Economic, Social and Cultural interests, and to foster unity and cooperation in the Mohawk Valley region of Upstate New York.