The Kiwanis Club of Batavia will be hosting its annual Free Thanksgiving Morning Community Skate on Thursday, November 28, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena on Evans Street in Batavia.
Admission and skate rentals are free (while supplies last). There will also be free hot chocolate.
The Kiwanis Club of Batavia is thankful for the local community's support of their fundraisers. It’s through their fundraisers that events such as this can be provided for the children of Batavia and surrounding communities. Please come out and enjoy this free event!
A pedestrian walks on the crosswalk at Harvester Avenue and Ellicott Street, Batavia. Photo by Howard Owens
Anyone who has walked or cycled down a city street may have experienced some trepidation when dealing with automobile traffic on major routes and wished there were more options for pedestrians and bicyclists to get from home to shopping, recreation, work and appointments.
City management is hoping to do just that with a citywide transportation study, with the eventual goal of improving transportation options and safety for people who use modes of transportation other than motorized vehicles.
City Council has tentatively approved the study for $80,000, which will be paid for with a $70,000 federal grant and $10,000 from the city, and City Manager Rachael Tabelski briefed council members about the study during this week’s conference session.
“The corridors we've identified that we really want to focus on include downtown Batavia, the Uptown Connection, which would be connecting transportation options from downtown to the Harvester campus, the Healthy Living triangle that connects the McCarthy Ice Arena, Austin Park and Ellicott Trail with the newly constructed Healthy Living campus, improving the Ellicott Street corridor — that's one of our main focuses of the study is to look at the traffic in that corridor and look at any type of traffic calming measures that help it help pedestrians and bicyclists feel safer in the Ellicott Street corridor — the West Side commercial corridor, and then parks and recreation areas and how they connect to neighborhoods,” Tabelski said. “So those would be the goals and the focus of the study. Once the study is done, you can then apply for grant funds using the study in the future.”
The city has been awarded a $70,000 grant from the Genesee Transportation Council. It will match the funding with $10,000 of committed funds and establish a steering committee to work with a consultant to complete the project.
The study will identify opportunities for enhanced connectivity between neighborhoods, reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles, and ensure that all residents, including those in underserved areas, have access to safe and efficient active transportation options, according to the plan. It will also aim to bolster the use of non-motorized transportation, such as walking, cycling, and multi-modal transportation options, which align with the goals of the city’s 2017 Comprehensive Plan.
The city has already made progress on improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure through various initiatives, Tabelski said, including the Transportation Enhancements/Alternatives Program, Healthy Schools Corridor, approximately $5 million in sidewalk investments over the past decade, and the creation of the Ellicott Trail that winds throughout the city. However, officials believe there remains a need to identify and implement further improvements to create a more connected and accessible transportation network and a healthy living corridor.
Once the final plan is adopted, it should provide a framework that will help the city achieve the following:
Create a citywide transportation plan as a guide for implementing and enhancing safety, access, and connectivity for all modes of transportation.
Provide opportunities to promote healthier, more active lifestyles for city residents by improving mobility and connections to jobs, shopping, and recreation in the downtown area, focusing on the "Healthy Living Triangle."
Improve access to the South side of Batavia through improvements to the Ellicott Street corridor, including pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.
Connecting downtown, Ellicott Street/Ellicott Trail and the Uptown corridor (Harvester Street and Swan Street) will improve walkability, access to businesses, arts and culture, and create a feeling of safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Reduce the risk of traffic accidents on major routes within the city.
There are several projects underway that will have an impact on transportation in Batavia, city management says, including:
Ellicott Street Corridor -- a key route through Batavia that connects Routes 63 and 5 -- had a major overhaul several years ago to make it a two-lane highway for trucker traffic and seemed to hamper much of the traffic entering from side streets, is in need of improvement to better connect neighborhoods, key destinations, and the growing pedestrian and cyclist traffic.
Ellicott Trail, a multi-use path that runs through the corridor, requires upgrades to enhance safety and accessibility for non-motorized users. Additional housing developments and mixed-use projects have added affordable and market-rate housing units, increasing pedestrian and bike traffic. With 38% of traffic consisting of light trucks and an active rail line crossing near downtown, the corridor faces significant challenges.
Planned upgrades will focus on improving traffic flow, ensuring pedestrian and cyclist safety, reducing speed, exploring traffic-calming measures, improving crossings, and improving signage.
Environmental Justice and equity: the city is home to several environmental justice block groups, and the demographic composition underscores the importance of making the transportation system more accessible, inclusive and safe for all residents, especially the Ellicott Street Corridor. The transportation plan will focus on addressing the needs of these vulnerable populations, ensuring that improvements benefit all residents, particularly those in underserved communities.
Downtown/Uptown Connection: In 2017, the city began advancing downtown revitalization projects to stimulate economic growth and revitalize its downtown. To date, it has resulted in $65 million in improvements. These grant-funded improvements have enhanced the downtown, improving connectivity for residents, supporting multimodal transportation between downtown, the uptown connection of Harvester Avenue and surrounding residential neighborhoods, helping to sustain economic momentum.
Zoning code update: For the first time in more than two decades, the city is reevaluating and comprehensively updating its city code. The code update will be comprehensive, user-friendly, pro-economic development and simple to read.
The mandatory task is to form a project steering/advisory committee by identifying all applicable stakeholders, such as state transportation facilities and other infrastructure (road, bridge, bike or pedestrian facilities or transit). If stakeholders are not part of the committee, they must have the opportunity to review and comment on draft recommendations that impact their facilities.
Other tasks include publicly announcing a request for proposals, and a designated group will evaluate the responses and hire a consultant with specialized experience in active transportation planning; having the consultant collaborate with the committee, which may include representatives from the Genesee County Planning Department, town of Batavia, Batavia Development Corp., Batavia Improvement District, Genesee Community College, Chamber of Commerce, City Council, Genesee County Economic Development Center, Batavia Police Department, local business owners, GTC staff, Regional Transit Service and Office for the Aging. These entities will assist by providing relevant data, reviewing project tasks and evaluating feasible options.
The consultant is to perform an analysis of current conditions and assess the needs of the project area, including the city’s background, historical context, planning documents, existing land use, ownership and zoning regulations; a comparison of the findings to the goals and priorities outlined in the city’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the vision for the community’s future development, including integration of complete street and traffic calming elements where applicable; analyzing motor vehicle traffic patterns, identifying physical and program needs; and engaging the public through meetings, surveys, stakeholder interviews and/or focus groups.
The committee and consultant will collaborate to identify opportunities to enhance active transportation throughout the city based on the needs previously identified and eventually recommend improvements to multi-modal circulation and access throughout the area, in preparation for a final report that summarizes the key findings and recommendations.
Public participation is crucial to the study, and the consultant plans are to include and engage low-income, minority, disabled, senior and youth populations. Two public meetings will be scheduled to gather input on existing conditions, needs and goals and to then present draft findings and recommendations and obtain feedback before finalizing the study.
A tentative schedule has been set to begin with November for scope of work approval, an RFP release in January 2025, selection of the consultant and City Council approval in March, a signed contract by April, a kickoff meeting in May, existing conditions analysis and needs assessment finalized by August, concept plans, strategies and recommendations finalized by October, a draft final report by the end of 2025, and a completed study by February 2026.
CHAPIN International, Inc. will be featured as the Executive Producer with a $3000 sponsorship in honor of Genesee Cancer Assistance’s Annual Dinner Event.
John Riter, representing the local Merrill Lynch office and Gerace Realty will be noted as co-producers for this red carpet-themed evening Night of Celebration and Hope.
The event will take place in the Park Place Banquet Room at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel on Saturday, November 16.
Genesee Cancer Assistance, Inc. is proud to acknowledge Chapin International, John Riter/Merrill Lynch, Gerace Realty, Reliant Real Estate, Beverly’s Fowers and Three Little Birds Pediatrics for their support of GCA with 29 years of serving cancer patients in Genesee County.
Doors will open at 4 p.m. with a basket raffle and cash bar. Appetizers at 5 p.m., a buffet dinner served at 6 p.m., and followed with a special program. The ticket price is $35 and includes $25 in free play. Tables can be reserved for parties of 8 or more.
Tickets are presale only and available for purchase until Friday, November 8 by calling the office at (585)345-0417 or online at www.geneseecancerassistance.org. The public is invited to join us!
One of the many pieces of art that will be on display throughout November as part of the Grateful for Recovery art show at Richmond Memorial Library in Batavia. Submitted photos.
Press release:
The public will have an opportunity to meet the artists who are participating in the Grateful for Recovery art show that is on display throughout November at Richmond Memorial Library in Batavia.
An artists’ reception is scheduled for 4 to 5:30 p.m. Nov. 6.
Presented by the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Genesee County and UConnectCare, the show is designed to showcase the talents of those in recovery from substance use disorder, mental health and other issues, and to reduce the stigma associated with the recovery community.
One of the many pieces of art that will be on display throughout November as part of the Grateful for Recovery art show at Richmond Memorial Library in Batavia. Submitted photos.
GO ART! is thrilled to announce an exciting new project set to transform the Genesee-Orleans region: GO BARN! Located at the Orleans County Fairgrounds on Route 31, between Medina and Albion, GO BARN! will be a dynamic cultural community hub designed to bring arts, agricultural education, and entrepreneurial opportunities together under one roof.
GO BARN! will serve as a vibrant space for a wide range of arts and educational programs, with workshops spanning fine arts, culinary arts, horticulture, fiber arts, and more. Developed in partnership with Orleans Cornell Cooperative Extension, the facility will offer specialized programs in sustainable agriculture and fiber arts, alongside dedicated areas for performances, gallery exhibitions, community gardens, and artisan workshops. GO BARN! will be a cornerstone for local artisans, performers, and small business owners, creating opportunities for connection, learning, and economic growth in the region.
Community Backing Needed to Secure Funding
GO ART! has identified significant funding sources for GO BARN!’s construction; however, major funders want to see strong community support before committing to full project funding. To demonstrate the region’s commitment, GO ART! is launching a community campaign to raise $150,000 by December 31. This initial funding will advance key programming and design stages, laying the groundwork for grant applications that will unlock the larger financial resources needed to bring GO BARN! to life.
“GO BARN! is about more than just a building—it’s about creating a shared space where our community can thrive,” says Gregory Hallock, Executive Director of GO ART!. “Every donation, no matter the size, is a show of support for our vision of a place where people of all ages can connect, create, and grow together.”
How You Can Help
Community members across Genesee and Orleans Counties are invited to join this transformative effort by:
Making a Donation: Every gift, large or small, will help reach the $150,000 goal and demonstrate community backing to our funders. Donations can be made at www.goart.org.
Spreading the Word: Share the news about GO BARN! with friends, family, and neighbors.
Volunteering and Getting Involved: GO ART! is also seeking representatives from Orleans County to join its board and committees.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) was recently endorsed by the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association (NYSTPBA). More than 7,000 active and retired uniformed members of the New York State Police from the rank of trooper through the rank of major are represented by the NYSTPBA.
“I’m deeply honored to receive the endorsement of the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association,” said Hawley. “As a lifelong resident of Western New York, I understand the vital role our law enforcement plays in maintaining the safety and security of our neighborhoods. These brave men and women put their lives on the line every day, and I will always advocate for the support and resources they need to do their jobs effectively.”
“With the challenges facing law enforcement today, it’s more important than ever to stand together. Having served on the Genesee County Legislature and engaged with various community organizations, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of strong public safety policies. With the backing of NYSTPBA, I will continue to fight for policies that respect and empower our officers,” Hawley concluded.
It's Legends and Stars Weekend at Batavia Downs, which includes a memorabilia show in the Parks Place Events Center and autograph sessions for several retired sports stars.
The show opened Friday evening and will continue on Saturday.
The new CEO and president of Western Regional Off-Track Betting, Byron Brown, was on hand Friday, mingling with guests and vendors. This visit was documented by a video crew, capturing footage for planned future TV commercials promoting Batavia Downs as an event center.
On November 7 at 7 p.m., come to the next edition of the Guest Speakers Series and hear Public Historian Michael Block's presentation, "Only One Shout, Then a Terrible Silence!" The fighting along the Rappahannock on November 7, 1863, is lost in the general history of the Civil War. In the annuals of the Army of the Potomac and the Army of Northern Virginia, the fighting usually receives a passing reference. The battles of Rappahannock Station and Kelly’s Ford resulted in lost opportunities for both armies. Admission is $5 for non-members and $3 for members, please get in contact with the museum if you would like to attend either at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.
"This project is made possible with funds from the statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!"
The museum is extending its hours every first Wednesday of the month until 8 p.m.! You will get personal tours from staff and volunteers, meaning you will get a more in-depth history of Batavia and Genesee County! You also may be able to go upstairs, if you are able and want to!
Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next edition of our Trivia Night @ the Museum on Thursday, November 14 at 7 p.m. In honor of the end of World War I, the topic is the 1910s. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.
In honor of Veterans Day, the Holland Land Office Museum (HLOM) and the Anna Ingalsbe Lovell Chapter NSDAR are hosting a Veterans Open House on Wednesday, November 6, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The HLOM and DAR chapter’s appreciation for their service will include special “thank you” gifts for each veteran, waiving their admission fee, and providing refreshments.
The Anna Ingalsbe Lovell chapter members honor our Revolutionary patriots and support current and retired military personnel with donations and programs.
Granting an age exemption would mean a loss of more than $2 million in taxable property value for the city; however, given the city’s overall $100 million property value, City Manager Rachael Tabelski says the timing seems right.
City Council is looking at giving property owners age 65 and older who meet certain income limitations a greater tax exemption on their home, similar to what Genesee County has already adopted. The county’s resolution increased the exemption levels for county tax, and “in response, the city would also propose to increase the income levels of individuals to qualify for the exemption,” Tabelski said.
“So to be in line with the county — we haven't changed the limit since 1994 — I'm bringing it to you for your discussion and decision,” she said during this week’s conference meeting at City Hall.
She has recommended adjusting the scale to mirror the county’s income limits for homeowners 65 and older with incomes at or below $23,800 for a 50% property tax exemption and capping off at $32,199.99 with a 5% exemption.
Council briefly discussed this option previously, and Tabelski brought it back to the table to potentially include in future budget talks. She said it would become effective in the 2025 assessment roll year.
Exemptions would be 50% for a maximum income of up to $23,800, slide down to 45% for up to $24,799.99, and continue decreasing by 5% increments while the income level increases about $1,000 each time until it hits the highest income of $32,199.99 for an exemption of 5% (see table below).
ExemptionMinimum IncomeMaximum Income
50%$0$23,800.00
45%$23,800.01$24,799.99
40%$24,800.00$25,799.99
35%$25,800.00$26,799.99
30%$26,800.00$27,699.00
25%$27,700.00$28,599.99
20%$28,600.00$29,499.99
15%$29,500.00$30,399.99
10%$30,400.00$31,299.99
5%$31,300.00$32,199.99
The city’s current sliding scale for property tax exemptions begin with an income of $16,500 or below for the 50% exemption, and tops out at $24,000 for 5% exemption.
Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. said he was for this exemption. He emphasized the importance of approving this plan as another way for people to retain their own properties.
“Not only is it important to keep in line with the county, but more important to help people in the city; this might make the difference of whether they’re able to stay in their house, so I think we should do all we can,” Jankowski said.
A councilman asked how this would impact city revenue.
“We’ll lose up to $2.6 million. So that is your assessment value, so it’s not pure revenue, it’s what we assess properties at,” Tabelski said. “So this exemption would take $2.6 million out of that value. But in the last year, the assessor had reported to us that we have $100 million in taxable value from 2023 to 2024, so this would be a year to go ahead and do that. So the value that came in is not only reassessments of homes, but also new businesses and improving businesses.”
The consensus of the group was to move forward with the exemption.
The Genesee County Master Gardeners are collecting NEW, unwrapped BOOKS for youth, ages infant to 18 years old. The books will be donated to the Batavia Salvation Army for their annual Christmas Angel Tree program.
The gift of a new book delivers a message of hope and instills self-confidence in children. Books enhance a child’s ability to read and communicate effectively.
The Batavia Salvation Army has requested the following needs for books:
Graphic Novels (Such as Dog Man, Cat Kid, Capt. Underpants, etc.)
Elementary age books
Early reader chapter books
Young adult fiction
Comic Books
You can drop books off at the Genesee County Cornell Cooperative Extension office (420 East Main St., Batavia), Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A collection bin has been set up near the reception area window. Donations of new books can be made through December 4.
The Genesee County Master Gardeners thank you in advance for your support.
Please contact Jan at 585-343-3040 x132 if you have questions.
It's become quite the tradition in Genesee County government departments -- staff members coordinate a theme for Halloween, with each department competing for the best costumes of the day.
We have no word on who won but here are pictures of a few of the departments that joined in this year.
Submitted photo: DMV Ladies Have S'more Fun.
It's all in The Adams Family at the Clerk's Office. Photo by Howard Owens
Offices of the County Manager, County Attorney, and Legislature in the Old Courthouse. Submitted Photo
The Harlem Wizards visited Oakfield-Alabama High School on Wednesday and put on a show, demonstrating their trick ball handling, shots, and high-level basketball skills while playing a game against a team comprised of OA teachers and staff.
The Oakfield-Alabama PTO hosted the fundraiser. During half-time, souvenirs were on sale, and players autographed items. Half-time was followed by a three-minute game between O-A elementary school students.
AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 1ST CITY OF BATAVIA 4-5 bedroom Duplex apartment with 1 Bedroom, Living room, laundry room, dining room, bathroom, and small kitchen on first floor. 4 bedrooms 2nd floor. Newly painted. Some new carpet. Basement storage. 1/2 garage use for storage/ not parking. Large yard. $1,100/month includes trash pickup, Refrigerator, Gas Stove. You pay gas, electric, water. No dogs. Good references required with background check. Pathstone approved. Near ARC. Mike 585-993-4002
