For the last year, Chief Fiscal Officer Kristi Smiley has been able to accept donations on behalf of Friends of the Aquarium without approval by the legislature. Democrats proposed legislation to change that.
Aquarium Project
Posted inNews
As the cost of Onondaga County’s new aquarium climbs over $100M, legislature fights over donor transparency
Some legislators raised concerns over “famously anonymous” donor rolls.
Posted inAquarium Project
Onondaga County legislators are still getting emails asking them to stop the aquarium. It’s too late, they say
Legislators acknowledged the aquarium will open this year and plan to turn their attention to making the aquarium work for residents.
Posted inOnondaga County
Onondaga County legislators likely to dump transparency for aquarium donations
The county has made similar exceptions for the Erie Canal Museum and Rosamond Gifford Zoo. An open government expert says it’s not best practice.
Posted inEconomic Development
Syracuse wants your input on its Onondaga Lakefront revitalization plans
The Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, which includes the inner harbor, calls for community input. Here’s how to add your voice.
Posted inGovernment & Politics
Micron, Interstate 81 and elections: Looking back at 2022 in Central New York
Read some of our best journalism from 2022 on the government and politics beat.
Posted inAquarium Project
How an Onondaga County legislator voted for the $85M aquarium from the Jersey Shore
Legislator Mark Olson voted from the Jersey Shore because of a family vacation he takes every year.
Posted inNews
Onondaga County Legislature passes $85 million aquarium with Dem as deciding vote
The vote ends a 10-month debate over the $85 million project. Legislator Charles Garland was the deciding vote.
Posted inNews
‘No one at the Nation supports this’: Science committee makes for latest aquarium battle
Poor communication with the Onondaga Nation and the timing of the committee’s creation have frustrated those who want a greater focus on science at the aquarium.
Posted inNews
Syracuse legislator will vote for aquarium, gets housing deal for South Side
Onondaga County 16th District Legislator Charles Garland announced he would vote in favor of County Executive Ryan McMahon’s proposed $85 million aquarium.