This week on In Focus, Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens discusses her first State of the City address and reflects on her historic role as the city’s first Black mayor.
Owens highlights developments like the SDC project, which will create 250 affordable rentals and 27 townhomes. She advocates for the Good Cause Eviction law to prevent homelessness. Owens talks about inclusive zoning laws that ensure new developments meet affordability standards. She also details creative housing solutions, including converting hotels to student housing and exploring modular homes. Owens emphasizes the need to replace aging infrastructure, particularly lead pipes, and stresses the importance of conveying state-owned property under the 1-81 viaduct to the city for community benefit. She explains how the I-81 project, expected to be completed by 2028, aims to stimulate the economy and reconnect communities.
Owens shares her commitment to maintaining the city’s diversity and not involving city police in ICE operations. Owens highlights the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activities. She emphasizes her efforts to revive the Children’s Rising Center Project, now under city control, to provide resources for young people. Owens also introduces the GenNext initiative to retain and attract young people through improved housing and nightlife, including a potential nightlife coordinator role. She also proposes converting the winter ice rink in Clinton Square to a roller rink to enhance community engagement and winter activities.
Owens emphasizes her commitment to public service and the influence of mentors. She highlights her background as a pastor, which she believes helps her connect with citizens’ needs. Owens introduces her care team initiative to assist constituents beyond basic city services. She also reflects on her transition from Deputy Mayor under Ben Walsh, noting the significance of her photo being in color, symbolizing her place in history. Owens also shares her passion for music and her athletic achievements at Syracuse University. She honors her late mother, Pastor Esther Daniels, who was proud of her accomplishments.
You can watch the full interview above. And be sure to tune in for a look inside the biggest issues impacting upstate New York, on In Focus with JoDee Kenney — every Sunday on Spectrum News 1.