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Village of Saranac Lake

Located in the heart of the Adirondack Park, Saranac Lake is a community that is decidedly different - where access to nature exists alongside a vibrant downtown, where creativity and small businesses thrive, and where neighbors work together to shape a strong future.

For generations, people have been drawn to Saranac Lake for its unique character, rich history, and enduring sense of community. Today, that spirit continues to define who we are. We are committed to preserving what makes this place special while embracing thoughtful growth that keeps Saranac Lake welcoming, affordable, and resilient.

The Village of Saranac Lake is dedicated to serving its residents through transparent government, responsible stewardship, and investment in the services, infrastructure, and public spaces that support everyday life. Together, we are building a community that honors its past, serves its present, and confidently shapes its future.

A Message from Mayor Kelly Brunette

One hundred days ago, I took an oath to serve the people of Saranac Lake. Since then, I have spent my time listening, learning, and working alongside residents, employees, volunteers, business owners, community partners, and my colleagues on the Village Board.

During these first one hundred days, we have focused on strengthening the foundation of Village government. By building our leadership team, improving communication and transparency, examining our financial position, and establishing priorities that will guide our work in the years ahead.

Saranac Lake faces significant challenges, including aging infrastructure, rising costs, and increasing demands on local government. But I remain optimistic because every day I see people stepping forward to help make this community stronger.

I am pleased to share my First 100 Days report, A Foundation for the Future. This report reflects what we have learned, the work that has been accomplished, and the priorities that will guide us moving forward.

The first one hundred days were about laying the foundation. Now, together, we begin the work of building the future of Saranac Lake.

– Mayor

 

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Village Tax Bills

Village Tax Billing

The Village of Saranac Lake issues and collects Village property taxes in accordance with New York State law and the adopted Village budget.

Tax Bills

Village tax bills are issued annually on June 1st.

Property owners are responsible for ensuring taxes are paid by the applicable due dates, regardless of whether a bill is received. 

Payments can be made in full or installments, at least half needs to be paid by June 30th to avoid penalties. The remaining balance will then be due by August 31st without penalty.

Payment Information

Payments may be made:

  • In person at the Village Office
  • By mail
  • Through participating financial institutions or escrow services

Delinquent Taxes

Unpaid Village taxes may be subject to:

  • Interest and penalties
  • Re-levy onto county tax bills (on November 1st)

Property owners are encouraged to contact the Account Clerk promptly if they have questions regarding balances or payment arrangements.

Tax Information Requests

The Finance Department may assist with:

  • Tax balance inquiries
  • Payment history requests
  • General billing questions

 

Water & Sewer Bills

Water & Sewer Billing

Water and sewer charges are billed quarterly.

If a due date falls on a weekend, payment is due on the preceding Friday.

Important Billing Information

  • Bills unpaid after the due date are charged 1.5% monthly interest on unpaid balances.
  • Outstanding Village accounts unpaid after April 30 may be re-levied onto Village property tax bills.
  • Outstanding district accounts unpaid after October 31 may be re-levied onto Town property tax bills.
  • The Village does not perform special meter readings for property closings.

Rates

The Village works to set water and sewer rates each year. To find out the current year's rates visit the Water and Sewer Rates Schedule.

Pay your Water/Sewer Bill Online 

Online Portal/Payment Registration Guide

1st Quarter: Due July 31
Covers March, April, and May
Bills issued July 1

2nd Quarter: Due October 31
Covers June, July, and August
Bills issued October 1

3rd Quarter: Due January 31
Covers September, October, and November
Bills issued January 2

4th Quarter: Due April 30
Covers December, January, and February
Bills issued April 1

Water & Sewer Emergencies

Water & Sewer Emergencies

The Water & Sewer Division responds to water and sewer emergencies, infrastructure failures, utility leaks, and publicly owned system issues.

Sewer Emergencies

If a sewer backup or clog occurs:

  • Contact the property owner
  • Determine whether the issue may be located within the building or private service line
  • Contact a licensed plumber if necessary

If the issue appears related to a publicly owned sewer main or infrastructure, contact the Village immediately.

Residents are also encouraged to report:

  • Overflowing manholes
  • Water main leaks
  • Sewer main failures
  • Utility emergencies

Emergency Contact Information

During Business Hours

Monday – Friday
7:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Department of Public Works
(518) 891-4160

Water & Sewer Department
(518) 891-3037

After Hours Emergencies

Saranac Lake Volunteer Fire Department
(518) 891-2333

Meetings & Events

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Meeting Documents

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