Stay Informed & Get Involved in District 16: Your Guide to Community Meetings and Public Events

Written By Nicole Shaw

Keeping our community connected to decision-making is essential for trust, transparency, and accountability. That’s why it’s important for residents of Onondaga County District 16 to know where and when local government and other public forums are happening — so your voice can be part of the conversation.

📣 County Legislature Meetings

The Onondaga County Legislature Meetings and Calendar are open to the public, with regular legislative sessions held on the first Tuesday of each month and committee meetings scheduled throughout the year. These meetings are where many key funding, policy, and community service decisions are discussed, including the county budget, infrastructure projects, and public programs. You can attend in person at the County Legislature Chambers in Syracuse or watch many sessions via livestream.

📅 Micron Project Public Hearing – Sewer District Focus

As the large semiconductor investment continues to develop locally, there are public opportunities to weigh in on aspects of its infrastructure impacts. A public hearing about creating specialized sewer districts related to the Micron project was held by the Legislature — and written public comments were accepted through early March. These forums give residents a chance to learn about how wastewater will be managed and to submit feedback that becomes part of the official record.

🏛 Onondaga County Public Service Boards & Meetings

There are several ongoing meetings throughout the year that residents can join to stay informed:

  • County Aging Services Advisory Board (held quarterly with Zoom option) — discuss resources for older adults and caregivers.

  • OCRRA (Resource Recovery Agency) Meetings — open meetings on waste and recycling management.

Attending these meetings helps you understand how county services operate and gives a chance to ask questions or offer input.

🗣 Engagement Beyond Government Meetings

Community forums and discussions — whether focused on environmental review processes or public budget priorities — are excellent ways to stay connected. Groups across the region have hosted workshops and comment sessions on the Micron Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), providing structured forums where residents can ask questions and submit written or spoken feedback. While some comment periods have closed, others continue to offer opportunities to participate in related state permitting processes.

✅ How to Participate:

  • Attend county meetings in person or via livestream; many are listed on the Legislature’s official site.

  • Submit written comments ahead of public hearing deadlines when they’re announced.

  • Sign up for notifications directly from the Onondaga County Legislature or specific boards you care about.

By staying informed and participating in these meetings and hearings, your voice becomes part of the local decision-making process — shaping how resources are allocated, how growth is managed, and how our shared future unfolds.

Nicole Shaw