TOWN OF MANLIUS – Manlius Planning Board Chairman Joe Lupia has announced his resignation, effective Dec. 31, 2023.
At the end of the Monday’s planning board meeting, Lupia gave a lengthy statement detailing the ways he believes the town board and Supervisor John Deer have systematically ignored the planning board’s recommendations and how, in his opinion, the town is less safe under the current administration.
In particular, Lupia cited the town board’s decision to override the planning board’s wishes on the Bowman Road solar project, the town’s decision not to move forward with Flock security cameras, the “forced” resignation of Police Chief Mike Crowell and the town’s decision to hire engineers from outside the area, against the recommendation of planners.
“They don’t listen to us,” said Lupia, who has served on various boards in town government for 16 years. “I cannot remain on a board where the opinions of the board are ignored.”

Editor’s note: This story was updated to correct the effective date of the planning board chairman’s resignation.