July 6th Legislative Session

In the July session of the Onondaga County Legislature, legislators came together as one to unanimously approve every item on the agenda. Working together to achieve for the community in a bipartisan manner is the hallmark of local government, and the Onondaga County Legislature, led by Chairman Dave Knapp and Leader Brian May this month, exemplified that principle.

Gordon “Gordie” Lane was a lifelong resident of Syracuse and Onondaga County. Gordie was a combat veteran in Vietnam, serving in the United States Marine Corps before he was a Syracuse Police Officer for 20 years until his retirement. Gordie was a driving force behind updating the Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Chapel, located at 4069 Howlett Hill Road. 15-0 vote with two legislators absent, the County Legislature voted to rename the chapel as the “Gordie Lane Memorial Chapel.”

“Gordie was a powerhouse for veterans locally,” commented Chairman Knapp. “His advocacy for and involvement with veteran’s groups had an impact on so many lives in the Syracuse area, and his perspective on things was always welcomed into any discussion. We are honored to name the Veterans Memorial Chapel after him today.”

Legislator Kevin Holmquist sponsored a resolution that allows the Community Development Block Grant to move forward. There are already funding applications in from towns and villages countywide, and this resolution enables the process to move forward. 

“It is always exciting when we get to direct money to the towns and villages we serve. I love seeing the results of the local governments’ hard work and am thrilled to be a part of it,” said Legislator Holmquist.

In one final vote, the Legislature approved a Local Law that begins a youth deer hunting pilot program in the county. With this vote, Onondaga County opted into a program that allows 12 and 13 year olds to hunt from the ground with a parent or guardian. 

“It is imperative to get more young people hunting to continue the robust conservation efforts under way in New York State,” finished legislator Burtis. “Now, they can be taught safety practices at a young age while helping to maintain wildlife in Onondaga County.”