Town of Niagara: Virtuoso provides updates on much-discussed topics

Guest editorial by Town of Niagara Supervisor Sylvia Virtuoso

July and August 2026 have been difficult for our town. We have faced several serious issues at once, and I want to provide a clear update on what has happened, what is being addressed, and what residents can expect next.

I want to begin with the DEC and EPA radioactive assessments. The town fully understands the hardship faced by families whose properties require remediation, and we support them in every way we can. This matter is being handled at the state and federal levels, not by town or county government. While residents may have differing opinions about how the situation has been handled, the town does not control those decisions.

I do believe the agencies on site are working to help, and I have been in direct contact with them through daily meetings since they arrived. At this time, four properties continue to require remediation. The vast majority of assessed properties have been cleared with no further action needed. Emails are being sent to those who were tested, and informational packets will follow by mail. The governor has spoken with one of the affected families, and I hope their concerns are being heard and that EPA follow-up regarding relocation, work to be completed, and related questions meets their expectations. The town will assist in any matter that is in our jurisdiction.

The most recent rainstorm was unprecedented, bringing approximately 4 inches of rain and causing stormwater backups as well as a few sewer backup situations. Stormwater flows into the town from the north, and as more patios, widened driveways, and parking areas replace grass, there is less ground available to absorb rainfall. When this much rain falls at once, the drainage systems can become overwhelmed. Along the side of Isherwood Drive that backs up to NYPA land, there is a ditch, but some portions have been filled in by residents, which has added to the problem.

Regarding the sewer backups, we are reviewing backflow preventers and working with a plumbing company to determine a reasonable path forward. Catch basins have been cleaned, and more will be cleaned. The sewer vac truck will also be used where possible, but these systems can only move a limited amount of water at one time before carrying it to the creek. New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has also sent a letter regarding a Resilient Watershed Grant to co-fund a flood mitigation project at Reservoir Park, north of the town. The project would remove the culvert pipe and create a more natural drainage ditch, which should help alleviate some of the flooding issues. More information will follow as those plans move forward.

Bri Estates, a long-discussed subdivision off Colonial Drive, continues to be the subject of public concern and misinformation on social media. I understand that residents want transparency, and I continue to take calls, listen to concerns, and explain the status of the application and related property activity as clearly as possible. To summarize the current situation:

•No subdivision approval has been granted; the application remains under review.

•Recent activity on the property is drainage maintenance and general upkeep – including ditching to better define existing drainage – and is nearing completion.

•Mowing, limited brush clearing, and drainage maintenance are all well within the property owner’s rights and require no town approval.

•Several neighbors have expressed appreciation for the work and were glad to see the area maintained.

•Drainage deficiencies identified in both Niagara and Lewiston during required studies have been reported to each town.

•The recent radiation findings in the town are a separate matter; the Bri Estates property is not among the locations identified, and Double C Realty will cooperate fully if the agencies wish to include it in their review.

Now for some good news.

“Music Mania Mondays” has been a very successful series this season, with only one event canceled due to the storm. Mini Putt participation has increased, and Family Nights and senior events have been fully booked and successful.

Budget season has arrived, and we are approaching it with optimism and careful planning as we work to stay within the 2% tax cap this year.

Upcoming fall and winter events include “Trunk-or-Treat,” “Noel at Niagara,” and the Town Street Parade. Watch for dates to be announced soon.

The town will soon launch a new app called NiagaraNY Connect. Residents will be able to download the app to receive notifications and information, pay bills, and access town updates. We are currently working on the launch, and more information will be shared soon. Residents who are already registered for emergency messaging will be encouraged to use the app, but they may still choose to receive messages as they do now. This tool will help improve communication with town residents by providing accurate and timely information.

Wishing all the students, faculty and administrators a successful school year!!

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

 Nelson Mandela

Happy fall to all.

Your town supervisor

Sylvia Virtuoso