Village Board Meeting will be held at 5:30pm in the Municipal Building Board Room on Monday, July 27, 2026. ** If you require handicap accessibilty, please call the Village Clerk @ (315)-895-7449 Option #4.
Office hours are 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Monday through Friday, except all major holidays.
21‑Day Administrative Update – Office of the Mayor, Village of Ilion
It has now been 21 days—three weeks—since assuming office, and this administration is rapidly catching up and moving forward on numerous issues that residents and taxpayers have long needed addressed. The following is a comprehensive update on actions taken to stabilize operations, enhance public safety, and advance community priorities.
1. Public Safety Incidents and Emergency Response
DPW Burglary and Vehicle Theft The Village experienced a burglary at the DPW garage resulting in the theft of vehicles and equipment. The stolen trucks were recovered but badly vandalized and damaged. This remains an active investigation, and those found responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law upon apprehension.
South Ilion Power Outage & Water System Impact A significant power outage affected South Ilion and caused damage to the ultraviolet disinfection system at the water plant. Our utility crews responded professionally and expeditiously, restoring service with little or no major disruption to residents.
2. Community Events and Public Expression
Ilion Days Ilion Days was successful, supported by a major downtown cleanup and coordinated DPW preparation. This administration is committed to improving communication and cooperation with the Ilion Days Committee to ensure this cherished event continues to grow for years to come.
Peaceful Protests The Village has seen peaceful demonstrations exercising First Amendment rights. The administration remains committed to protecting lawful expression while maintaining public order and safety.
3. Parks, Recreation, and Public Facilities
Montgomery Street Playground – Emergency Closure & Remediation Montgomery Street presented an imminent health, safety, and liability hazard. The playground was ordered closed, and broken or dangerous equipment was repaired or removed. Re‑opening is scheduled shortly. Grant funding for new playground equipment is advancing.
Village Cleanups & Maintenance Rotation A major downtown cleanup was completed prior to Ilion Days. Routine maintenance rotations will now be implemented to ensure ongoing cleanliness and upkeep.
4. Infrastructure, Streets, and Capital Projects
Pothole Remediation Dozens of potholes across the Village have been addressed, with priority given to those posing the greatest hazard.
Paving Projects Central Paving continues work throughout the Village. West Main Street and other BID‑listed areas are scheduled for completion.
Lester Avenue Demolition & Remediation The Lester Avenue project remains on schedule, with demolition and remediation progressing as planned.
5. Grants, Planning, and Long‑Term Development
Grant Activity CDBG, recreational, and other grant applications continue to be pursued to support updates to the Village's Comprehensive Plan and zoning framework.
Major Development Projects The Mayor and Village Board continue active dialogue and planning regarding major redevelopment opportunities, including:
These projects represent significant potential for economic revitalization and long‑term growth.
6. Governance, Boards, and Citizen Engagement
Tonight, the Village will hold its organizational meeting to appoint citizens to various boards and committees. Their recommendations and advisements are essential to transparent, collaborative governance and to moving this community forward together.
Closing Statement
In just 21 days, this administration has taken decisive action on public safety, infrastructure, community events, emergency response, and long‑term planning. We will continue to operate with transparency, professionalism, and a commitment to delivering the services and progress that residents and taxpayers expect and deserve.
David W. Murray/ mayor
Click Here to view the Village of Ilion Resolution - Procurement Policy July 2013.
Village of Ilion – Official Public Announcement
Homelessness, Squatting, and Public Safety Responsibilities Under New York State Law
The Village of Ilion is committed to maintaining public safety, protecting property, and ensuring that all actions taken within the community comply with New York State law. This announcement provides residents with a clear explanation of how homelessness and squatting issues are addressed, and outlines the legal responsibilities of the Village, Herkimer County agencies, and local law enforcement.
1. Legal Framework: County Responsibility for Homeless Services
Under New York State Social Services Law, counties—not villages—are designated as local social services districts. As a result, all homelessness‑related services are administered by Herkimer County Department of Social Services (DSS). This includes:
The Village of Ilion does not operate shelters, place individuals, or administer homelessness programs. When homelessness or unsafe living conditions are identified within the Village, Ilion is legally required to coordinate with Herkimer County DSS.
2. Herkimer County Department of Social Services (DSS)
DSS is responsible for responding to homelessness and unsafe living situations throughout the county. Their duties include:
DSS involvement is required before any encampment or unauthorized occupancy is addressed by the Village, unless an immediate threat to life or safety exists.
3. Herkimer County Public Health
Herkimer County Public Health plays a critical role when homelessness or squatting creates conditions that may affect community health. Public Health may intervene when issues such as the following arise:
Public Health has the authority to issue health orders, require remediation, and coordinate medical outreach when necessary.
4. Ilion Police Department
The Ilion Police Department enforces laws related to public safety and conduct, not homelessness status. Police responsibilities include:
Police cannot remove individuals from private property without a court order, nor can they conduct evictions. All enforcement actions must comply with New York State law and constitutional due‑process requirements.
5. Village of Ilion Responsibilities
The Village's authority focuses on public safety, property conditions, and code enforcement. The Village may:
The Village cannot evict individuals from private property, operate shelters, or clear encampments without County coordination unless an immediate danger is present.
6. Required Interagency Coordination
New York State law requires municipalities to coordinate with County agencies because:
This coordinated approach ensures that all actions taken within the Village are lawful, safe, and respectful of individual rights.
7. Summary for Residents
The Village of Ilion remains committed to public safety, legal compliance, and responsible coordination with our County partners to address homelessness, squatting, and related concerns within our community.
David W. Murray- Mayor
Public Notice from the Office of the Mayor Village of Ilion
This morning at approximately 10:40 a.m., the Village of Ilion Codes Office, with assistance from the Ilion Police Department, formally closed the smoke shop/deli located at its newly occupied site. The business was found to be operating without the required Village permits, inspections, or approvals necessary for lawful commercial occupancy.
In accordance with New York State building and safety regulations, the Codes Office has posted green closure notices on the premises. These notices indicate that the location is not authorized for public entry or commercial operation until the permitting and inspection process is completed and compliance is verified.
Effective immediately:
The Village takes safety, regulatory compliance, and lawful business operation seriously. These steps are necessary to ensure that all commercial establishments meet required standards for fire safety, building code compliance, and proper licensing before serving the public.
We appreciate the cooperation of the Ilion Police Department and the prompt action of the Codes Office. The Village will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the permitting process moves forward.
Thank you for your attention and continued commitment to a safe and well‑regulated community.
VILLAGE OF ILION – PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT
Post‑Event Cleanup Review Following Ilion Days 2026
The Village of Ilion is conducting its standard post‑event review following the conclusion of the 2026 Ilion Days celebration. As a reminder, Ilion Days is an independently organized community event and is not sponsored or operated by the Village. Cleanup responsibilities rest solely with the event organizers.
DPW and Codes Enforcement have completed inspections of all affected areas. Any deficiencies identified will be formally communicated to the Ilion Days organizing group for correction. Costs associated with emergency remediation performed by the Village will be billed directly to the event organizers, consistent with Village policy.
To complete the compliance review, the Village has requested the following documentation from the Ilion Days committee:
• Final cleanup plan
• Staffing and equipment list
• Timeline confirming cleanup completion
• Proof of liability insurance naming the Village as additional insured
• Indemnification agreement
• Updated contact information for cleanup operations
Additionally, because the Ilion Days Chair also serves as a Village Trustee, the Village Attorney is reviewing any potential conflict‑of‑interest considerations to ensure full transparency and uniform enforcement of municipal standards.
The Village of Ilion remains committed to maintaining public safety, protecting taxpayer resources, and ensuring consistent application of policy for all non‑Village events.
Mayor David Murray
Public Statement from the Office of the Mayor – Village of Ilion
Subject: Procurement Compliance for Legal Services Date: July 17, 2026
The Village of Ilion is required under New York State General Municipal Law §104‑b to conduct competitive procurement for professional services, including the hiring of municipal attorneys. This requirement is not optional, and it applies to all municipalities in New York State.
At the most recent Board of Trustees meeting, a motion was introduced to initiate a Request for Proposals (RFP) for attorney services. The motion did not receive a second and therefore did not proceed to discussion or vote. As a result, the Village remains out of compliance with State procurement law.
It is important for residents to understand that the failure of a motion to receive a second does not eliminate the Village's legal obligations. The requirement to competitively procure legal services remains in effect regardless of board inaction. Continued non‑compliance exposes the Village to audit findings, financial risk, and potential challenges to the validity of professional service contracts.
As Mayor, I have a responsibility to ensure that Village operations adhere to State law and established procurement policies. I have formally notified the Board of Trustees of the compliance issue and have requested that the matter be addressed at the next regular meeting. The Village must take corrective action to restore compliance with General Municipal Law §104‑b.
This statement is being issued to maintain transparency in Village governance and to ensure residents are fully informed of the status of legally required procurement processes. The Village will provide updates as corrective steps are taken.
Mayor David Village of Ilion
Public Notice from the Office of the Mayor – Village of Ilion
Subject: Illegal Vape and THC Retail Operations Date: July 17, 2026
The Village of Ilion is issuing this public notice to inform residents of ongoing enforcement actions related to illegal vape and THC retail operations within the Village.
New York State law requires that any business selling nicotine vape products, e‑cigarettes, or THC/cannabis items must hold valid State authorization. Nicotine vape retailers must be registered with the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Tax Department. THC/cannabis retailers must be licensed by the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). These licenses are mandatory and are tied to specific business locations.
A business that has been shut down by State authorities for violations cannot legally reopen at a new location without obtaining new State authorization. Any attempt to resume operations without valid licensing is unlawful.
The Village of Ilion will not issue certificates of occupancy, business approvals, or zoning clearances to any vape or THC retailer that cannot demonstrate full compliance with State licensing requirements. Businesses operating without proper authorization will be subject to enforcement actions, including closure, citations, and referral to State regulators.
Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal vape or THC operations to the Village Clerk's Office or Codes Enforcement. The Village will continue to coordinate with State agencies to ensure compliance and protect public health and safety.
This notice is issued to maintain transparency and ensure that all residents are aware of the Village's obligations under State law and the steps being taken to enforce compliance.
Mayor David Village of Ilion
July 16, 2026
JOB POSTING – MOTOR EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
The Village will accept applications, letters of interest, and a resume for the position of Motor Equipment Operator (MEO) in the Ilion DPW. Qualifications are as follows:
Civil Service applications can be picked up in the Municipal Office or on our website @ ilionny.gov under forms & permits. Interested applicants should address the application & letter of interest to the attention of:
MariJo Rice, Treasurer/Administrative Assistant
49 Morgan St.
Ilion, NY 13357
All requested information shall be submitted by close of business (4 pm) on Friday, July 31, 2026.
Public Explanation for Residents
Village of Ilion — Mayoral Notice to Residents
Subject: RFP Process for Professional Appointments
Residents of Ilion,
To strengthen transparency, fairness, and accountability in Village government, we are implementing a Request for Proposals (RFP) process for key professional appointments, including Village Attorney, Village Clerk, and Code Enforcement Officer.
This means:
This process ensures that appointments are based on merit, qualifications, and value to taxpayers. It also provides a clear, documented method for selecting the professionals who serve our community.
This is part of our ongoing commitment to improving government operations, strengthening public trust, and ensuring that Ilion moves forward with transparency and accountability.
Mayor David Murray
Click Here to view the bills that didn't pass both houses, and the committee they are stuck in, of the NYS Legislature that have a direct impact on the Village of Ilion in some form.
Click here for the Press Release regarding the NYSERDA grant awarded to the IMEU (Ilion Municipal Electric Utility).
Click Here to view the 2026 milling and paving schedule.
Click Here to view the paving mobilization information 2026.
Click Here to view the NYMPA memo for the 2026 electric increase.
Click Here to view the press release for Village of Ilion Electric customers.
Click Here to view the current energy prices memo from the New York Municipal Power Agency.
Click Here to view the Information Sheet, Service Line Inventory Template, and Inventory Summary.
If you would like to advertise on the Village of Ilion's electronic sign that is in the front of the Fire Department, please contact Sue Hale at (315) 895-7449 ext. 3247 or email at shale@ilionny.com for details and pricing.
Click Here to view the Press Release: Drinking Water Notice.
Click Here to view the General Public Education Notice: Important Information About Lead in Your Drinking Water.
Click Here to view the Public Service Announcement.
Click Here to view the USDA Home Repair Loans and Grants brochure.
The Village of Ilion is pleased to announce the launching of a Village-wide notification system. The notification system will send voice alerts via cell/landline phones and/or text messages or email during emergency events, including but not limited to; snow emergencies, flash flooding, power outages, and boil water advisories. For information on how to sign up, please click here.
Parking tickets can be paid at the Municipal Office window. However, no cash is accepted for payment at the window. You can pay with with these options: check, money order, debit card or credit card. Checks and money orders are payable to: Village of Ilion.
Please Click Here to pay your electric bill. Please Click Here to pay your water bill. You can pay your bills online via computer, tablet or mobile phone here and also on the utilities page of our website.
Some of the Features of Invoice Cloud include:
