GLOVERSVILLE - The city and the town of Johnstown will consider an intermunicipal agreement to help move a business project forward on Steele Avenue land in the town.
Landowner Steven Mauro wants to develop 16.6 acres on the parcel, which is near the Gloversville and town of Johnstown border, but needs sewer and water service, he said.
The city conducted a public hearing Tuesday on annexation of the land into the city, but officials say they will consider an intermunicipal agreement instead.
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Steven Mauro, who wants to develop land on Steele Avenue in the town of Johnstown, talks to the Gloversville Common Council on Tuesday.
The Leader-Herald/Lisa Connell
Mauro, Recreation Realty and Stan Kucel are working on developing the parcel.
"We need water and sewer to proceed with the least amount of trouble," said Mauro, who spoke at City Hall on Tuesday.
City and town officials said they will work on a proposal for an intermunicipal agreement so both communities benefit from the project.
Beth Schloicka, a Johnstown Town Board member, told Mauro the town had expected another meeting with Mauro to learn more about the project. Instead, she said, "about a week later, we received papers [regarding annexation], which meant we couldn't do anything."
A request to annex land would hamper negotiating abilities between the city and town.
Tamara Healy, deputy town of Johnstown supervisor, asked Mauro more about the timing of the annexation request.
"Why did you lead us to believe we were in the process of working together instead of not saying anything?" asked Healy.
"We're businesspeople, we're not trying to cross anybody up, cause any animosities," Mauro said.
Mauro did not say what businesses may go into the site.
"We have some ideas," Mauro said after the public hearing. "We're talking to some developers, but right now, we're keeping all of our options open."
Officials also discussed curb cuts leading from the roadway into the site.
Lisa D. Connell covers Gloversville news. She can be reached at gloversville@leaderherald.com.