City Council Meeting March 9, 2026

The Ogdensburg, NY City Council meeting on March 9, 2026, focused heavily on public safety and healthcare challenges facing the community. The Chief of Emergency Services reported increased call volumes and staffing pressures, particularly due to issues at North Star Health Alliance, including a non-functional CT scanner and financial instability linked to bankruptcy proceedings. The Police Chief presented 2025 crime statistics, noting increases in arrests and specific crime categories, and discussed staffing improvements. Public comments highlighted concerns about hospital layoffs, equipment maintenance, and the need for greater transparency from hospital administration. The council also addressed home-based business regulations, tax and fee enforcement challenges, and utility tax clarifications. Resolutions were passed supporting increased state aid to municipalities, authorizing grant writing services, and approving budget transfers. The council authorized engagement of legal counsel to represent the city's interests in ongoing hospital bankruptcy proceedings. Overall, the meeting underscored the community's struggles with healthcare infrastructure, public safety demands, and fiscal management amid broader state and local policy contexts.