CLAY — The Town Board took a major step forward in the region’s economic future Monday night, unanimously approving the final local zoning changes needed for the massive Micron semiconductor manufacturing project. The vote, which took place during the board’s final regular meeting of 2025, clears the way for three specific parcels totaling approximately 21.27 acres within the White Pine Commerce Park to be converted from Residential Agricultural (RA-100) to Industrial 2 (I-2) zoning. The parcels, located on Burnet Road, are owned by the Onondaga County Industrial Development Agency (OCIDA). According to the meeting minutes, the rezoning request was submitted jointly by Micron New York Semiconductor Manufacturing LLC and OCIDA. While 98% of the commerce park is already zoned industrial, these specific lots required a change to align with the town's vision for the site. Board members stressed that the action followed years of environmental review. The Onondaga County Industrial Development Agency served as the lead agency for the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) process, issuing a positive declaration in 2023 and a Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) in November. "The Town Board finds that the current zoning of the Residential Parcels is inconsistent with the I-2 zoning within the White Pine Park," the resolution stated. The board certified that the rezoning would not create significant environmental effects beyond those already assessed in the impact statement, noting that mitigation measures identified by OCIDA would be adhered to. The vote was 7 to 0. **A Night of Transitions** Beyond the heavy economic development business, the meeting was marked by a sentimental shift in power. It was the final meeting for Councilors Deborah Magaro-Dolan and Ryan Pleskach. Magaro-Dolan delivered a lengthy farewell letter to the board and the community, reflecting on her tenure and offering advice to the incoming members. "I am proud of the work we have done together," she read, citing the preliminary planning for a new splash pad and the town's responsiveness to resident concerns regarding drainage, potholes, and even "bees in a tree." She urged the new board to maintain the town’s tradition of fiscal responsibility, which she noted has helped keep taxes low. However, she emphasized that governance is about personal connection as much as policy. "Do the small stuff—the calls, the emails, the walk-throughs—along with the flashy projects," Magaro-Dolan said. "Those small things matter more than you may ever realize." She also advocated for keeping public meetings accessible and welcoming, stressing the value of face-to-face discourse. Councilor Eugene Young thanked both outgoing members for their service and wisdom. Deputy Supervisor Joseph Bick echoed those sentiments, noting they would be missed in the public discourse. Councilor David Capria, who has served for one year, thanked them for being welcoming and helpful to a newcomer. Jared Pikosky, representing State Senator Chris Ryan’s office, was also present at the meeting. **Other Business** In other unanimous votes, the board moved forward with a proposal for a new Northern Credit Union. The board approved a Special Permit for the financial institution to construct a new facility with drive-thru ATMs at 5004-5008 West Taft Road. The property comprises about 2.54 acres in the O-2 Office District. The Planning Board had previously voted 6-0 to issue a favorable recommendation on the site plan. Additionally, the board authorized the transfer of $650,000 to the General Capital Fund as part of housekeeping measures for the 2025 budget.