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Press release:

This year’s fundraiser in memory of Azriel Butler will feature a variety of children’s activities, chicken BBQ, live music and more.

The “You Are My Sunshine” event is set for Nov. 12 at BW’s Restaurant, 11070 Perry Rd. in Pavilion.

Things get under way at 2 p.m. with kids activities, including a hot chocolate station, coloring contest, turkey decorating, balloon animals and hats.  The chicken BBQ (cost is $10) will take place from 4 p.m. until sold out.

“The fundraiser has been a big success the last couple years, and with it moving to BW’s in Pavilion, we are anticipating another great turnout,” said Katie Rumble, who is assisting the family and coordinator Katie Norstrand.

Bands include Audibull, Chris Moore Acoustic, Monkey in a Bottle and Shawn T.

Rumble noted that there will be a number of prize drawings throughout the day and that all proceeds will go directly to the Sunshine Nursery School in Le Roy. Azriel, who died on Dec. 10, 2011, at the age of 3, attended the school.

“The strength shown by the family (mother, Sarah Bell; father, Mason Butler) to continue this benefit each year is breathtaking,” Rumble said. “This really is a celebration of a little girl’s life that ended way too early. She had a contagious smile that just melted everyone’s heart.”

Press release:

Foxprowl Collectables, a toy and comic book store at 97 Main St, Batavia, is hosting its second Foxprowl-Con from Nov. 18-20 at Quality Inn & Suites on Park Road in Batavia.

The event will feature movie and comic book celebrities, games and activities, more than 60 panel discussions, life-size prop replicas, contests, and more.

Speakers and celebrity guests include:

-- Mark Dodson – Voice Actor from Star Wars: Return Of The Jedi and The Force Awakens, as well as the Gremlins movies

-- Ari Lehman – Jason Vorhees form the original Friday The 13th movie

-- Hanna Hall – Jenny from Forrest Gump (who said the famous line “Run Forrest run!”), and Rob Zombies’ Halloween

-- Rashaad Santiago – Faceoff season 6 champion

-- Bill Diamond – Puppeteer who worked on the Dark Crystal, the Muppets, Fraggle Rock, Sesame Street, and Dr Rock’s Dinosaur Adventures

-- Lydia Criss – Author of “Sealed With A KISS”, former wife of Peter Criss

-- Steve Geiger and Kurt Lehner – Marvel Comic artists

Entertainment and activities include:

-- Ookla the Mok: Rock Music for Nerds! Ookla the Mok have been playing catchy powerpop songs about Super-Heroes and Star Trek at science fiction and comic book conventions since the 90s. They wrote and performed the theme to Disney's Fillmore, and had Dr. Demento's most requested song of the year in 2012 and 2013. Song titles include favorites like "Tantric Yoda," "Welcome to the Con," and "Stop Talking About Comic Books or I'll Kill You"

-- Troupe Nisaa Bellydancers: This troupe dances various styles of bellydance from classic Egyptian style and tribal style with influences from other styles thrown into the mix. They will be performing and also hosting free mini-classes

-- Rochester Ghostbusters costuming group: Have you and your children’s pictures taken with the Ghostbusters, as well as life size props

-- Star Wars 501st costuming groups: Have your picture taken with various Star Wars characters from Garrison Excelsior, the North Ridge and the R2-D2 Builders Club

-- Ninja Turtles: (Friday only) Buffalos Best Turtles will pose with you for pictures

-- DMon Productions: Free Zombie Makeovers for children and adults

-- Experience Entertainment: Bringing life-size prop replicas of the Tardis from Doctor Who, a Weeping Angel, Silence, Empty Child, Michonne’s Walkers and more

-- Board Game playing: Collectors Inn will host an area of free board games to play

-- Large Dealer / Vendor Rooms: Many local and out of state artists and vendors will have their merchandise for sale, including toys, comics, jewelry, clothing, electronics, original artwork, prints and much more

All ages are welcome, and families are cncouraged. A schedule of events, activities, cosplay/costume contest information and panel discussions during the Con can be found at www.foxprowlcon.com.

Tickets are on sale now for $10-20 for a single day pass and $30 for the weekend. Kids 12 and under are free with paid adult.

VIP Passes are available for $80 and give the holder special privileges at the Con, including early admission to the event and to celebrity panels, express pass for all lines, and access to limited edition items.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the Foxprowl Collectables store at 97 Main St, Batavia.

Press release:

The City of Batavia Police Department and Batavia Police Benevolent Association will once again commence their annual MO-vember Campaign (AKA No-Shave November) to recognize men’s health awareness during the month of November.

Officers will donate in order to participate in the campaign and all proceeds collected will once again be donated to Genesee Cancer Assistance, a local 501(c)3 not for profit, helping cancer patients and their families living in Genesee County through their individual journeys by providing financial and other assistance.

In their efforts to have an everlasting impact on the face of men’s health, you will see officers sporting a mustache, goatee, or full beard -- a first for the campaign. Normally, according to Police regulations, officers are only allowed to sport a gentlemanly mustache. This year, Chief Shawn Heubusch has allowed officers to also grow a goatee or full beard, for a higher donation level.

“This is a way for our officers to give back to the community and do their part to raise awareness for the issue of men’s health," Heubusch said. "We are encouraging others to donate to such a great cause."

You can get involved by making a donation for the 2016 MO-vember Campaign by stopping at the Batavia Police Department, located at 10 West Main Street or Genesee Cancer Assistance located in their new office, in the lower level of United Memorial Medical Center, 127 North Street, or online at www.geneseecancerassistance.com.

Please ensure you earmark your donation for the 2016 Batavia Police MO-vember Campaign.

Keep watch on the Batavia Police Department Facebook page where you will be able to vote for your favorite display of follicular excellence upon the faces of our officers. Any questions about the campaign can be directed to Officer Frank Klimjack.

Press release:

The Genesee County Democratic Committee has signs for the 2016 Democratic slate including Hillary Clinton for President.

Signs may be picked up at 10 a.m. Saturday at Tim Horton’s by the City Center in Batavia, at the GCDC Office in LeRoy at 43 Main St., Le Roy or delivered by requesting on the geneseedemocrats.net contact page

The Batavia Bulldawgs youth football and cheer program captured the 2016 NOFA championship in the Mini (8-9-year-old) Division by virtue of a 12-0 victory over top-seeded Newfane.

The Bulldawgs ended the season with a 7-1 record, with the only loss coming at the hands of the Holley Hawks. The Batavia team avenged that defeat, however, in the playoffs with a 13-12 win.

The team is led by Head Coach Brian Mruczek and assistants coaches Shawn Bigsby, Kenny Griffin, Al White and Scott Lazarony.

Mruczek said an all-for-one and one-for-all mentality powered the team to victory.

 “The kids knew exactly what needed to be done in the championship game,” he said. “They proved all year that if we stick together as a family, play with heart and emotion, nothing could stop us.”

Mruczek thanked the team’s corporate sponsors, City of Batavia community leaders and Batavia City School District for their support.

The season concludes at 10 a.m. this Saturday (Nov. 5) with the CheerDawgs competing in the 2016 NOFA Cheer Zone at Attica High School.

Press release:

BATAVIA, NY– Proving that a minute can matter, Tompkins Bank of Castile is kicking off the second round of the Community Minute Challenge, a contest that invites participants to vote on the bank’s Facebook page and rewards local not-for-profits with a total of $10,000 in much-needed funds.

The second round will take place November 7 through 21, and the public is invited to watch one-minute videos produced by participating non-profits in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston, Monroe and Orleans counties, and then vote for their favorite. Each video explains how the non-profit will use the awarded funds. The contest will run in four different quarters and will award $2,500 to each quarterly winner.

Competing in this round are ARC of Genesee and Orleans County, Arts Council of Wyoming County, Big Springs Historical Society, Bishop Sheen Ecumenical Housing, GCASA, and Mercy Flight Central. To show support, participants should “like” Tompkins Bank of Castile’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/TompkinsBankofCastile), click on the Community Minute Challenge app and then select their favorite non-profit. Each individual can vote once per day during the contest period.

The winner from the first round was Going to the Dogs Rescue in Wyoming County, an organization dedicated to helping homeless pets find loving forever homes. They are involved in not only assisting dogs in the local community but all over as needed. Their rescue operates solely on generous donations, both in time and money, from individuals and corporations.

“We’re honored to present Going to the Dogs Rescue with the $2,500 prize,” said John McKenna, Bank President and CEO.  “The support the organization received during the Community Minute Challenge is indicative of how the community values the services it provides.”

A third round of this contest will launch in early 2017 with details posted to Tompkins Bank of Castile’s Facebook page.

John McKenna, president and CEO of Tompkins Bank of Castile, presents the $2,500 check to Melissa Nichols, president of Going to the Dogs Rescue.  

Press release:

The Genesee County Republican Committee and the Genesee County Women's Republican are urging anyone looking for a "Trump for President" lawn sign to visit campaign headquarters located at 440 Ellicott St. in Batavia.

One hundred fifty new Trump lawn signs were dropped off today.

Headquarters will be open until 6 tonight, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday. Please come down to headquarters and pick up your Republican signs and campaign material for this year's election.

If you would like to volunteer please stop by election headquarters at 9 a.m. Saturday for a City-wide literature blitz.

This year's Republican victory celebration hosted by the Genesee County Republican Committee will begin at 8 p.m. Nov. 8 at Terry Hills 5122 Clinton St. Rd., Batavia.

The Darien Town Board on Wednesday night approved a $3 million preliminary budget that keeps tax rates for its sewer and water districts in check and also renewed a contract with the Darien Chemical Volunteer Fire Company that keeps the tax rate the same as last year.

"I'm pleased to say that we will not need a public hearing to override the tax cap," Supervisor David Hagelberger said as about a dozen people looked on at the Town Hall. "The tax rate for fire protection will be held to this year's cap adjusted value of .68 percent."

Town residents will pay $1.05 per $1,000 of assessed valuation ($105 per year on a home assessed at $100,000) per terms of the $267,713 one-year pact with the fire company.  The town is obligated to pay $253,160 to the fire company by March 15. The additional $14,553 will be derived from revenues generated by Genesee County's revamping of its workers compensation program from assessment based to employee based.

Once again, there is no town tax in the general fund or the highway fund, while taxes to residents in the sewer district and various water districts either remain the same or decrease for 2017.

In sewer district No. 1, which takes in the hamlet of Darien Center, the levy is $395 per unit -- down 1.8 percent from last year.

In water district No. 3, the rate is $1.60 per $1,000 of assessed valuation -- down 9 percent -- and in water district No. 5, the rate is $284 per unit -- down 11 percent, Hagelberger said.

All told, the budget is $3,057,479, with the town contributing $539,249 from its unexpended fund balance and the residents contributing $346,857 hrough taxes.

"Last year, we used $4,000 short of $800,000 to put on a highway garage addition, wilth four new bays," the supervisor said. "Even with this year's amount, we're OK, having about $1.9 million in reserves (accumulated through savings and sales tax surplus)."

Hagelberger said Darien, like most towns and villages, is "heavily dependent upon sharing sales tax revenue with Genesee County" -- funds that enable the town to operate.  

The budget reflects minimal (1-2 percent) increases to elected officials.  The highest paid is the full-time highway superintendent at $58,687, one of seven full-time town employees who receive health insurance through the town.

On another front, Hagelberger reported that 482 of 869 postcards sent out by the town to gauge the community's feelings about a proposed new water district have been returned. The early results show that most property owners are against the measure.

Thus far, the tally has 294 opposed, 183 in favor, five undecided and 387 not yet returned.

While 60 percent of the cards returned reflect opposition to the water district -- which would cost property owners around $1,275 annually in debt service and water usage -- Hagelberger said it's too early to make a valid determination of the outcome.

"We're still collecting information from property owners," he said, adding that the board doesn't want to put a deadline on returning the postcards. "It's not a vote. The real purpose is to find out if we should proceed or not. If we had a tremendous amount opposed, we wouldn't proceed. If we had a lot for it, then we would. Right now, I would say it's a mixture."

He did acknowledge that a town resident, Trina Goodman, is circulating a petition seeking signatures from those opposed to creating the water district. The project to deliver public water to those who currently have wells calls for taking out an $18 million loan for 38 years to cover the debt service, with the overall cost being reduced by a $6.8 million grant from U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development.

"She has the right to circulate the petition, but I don't see how that provides any more information than we will get from the postcards," he said.

Goodman contends that the project is "simply too expensive" and that Genesee County could be putting pressure on the town to make this happen, which Hagelberger emphatically denied.

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is planning its 16^th annual Wonderland of Trees – a holiday tradition that brings more meaning and happiness to the holiday season.

Last year, more than 50 organizations, businesses, schools, children and church groups participated and more than 500 visitors enjoyed viewing the trees, wreaths and holiday décor throughout the museum.

The trees will be on display until Jan. 4. There will also be special events during “Christmas in the City” on Dec. 2.

An opening gala is set for 7 p.m. on Nov. 18 at the museum, 131 W. Main St., Batavia, It will include holiday decorations, food and music plus a premium basket raffle and silent auction.

The cost is $25 per person or $45 per couple. Tickets can be purchased at the museum or online at www.dailynewstickets.com.

 All proceeds will go to support the Holland Land Office Museum.

Representatives of businesses or groups interested in setting up a tree are asked to call 343-4727 or go to the museum’s Facebook page. Businesses pay a sponsor fee of $50 but there is no charge for nonprofit organizations.

Press release:

The 14^th annual World Wide Christmas Fair is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 12 at the First Presbyterian Church, 300 E. Main St., Batavia.

There is no admission charge.

The event features three types of vendors:

-- Local and regional not-for-profit organizations raising money for their programs or projects:

Healthy Sisters Soup and Bean Works (www.healthysisters.org ) from Catholic Family Services in Rochester. This organization provides women in Rochester the opportunity to learn about running a business and enables them to obtain the experience needed to be successful in the workforce. Their product is everything you need to make a pot of bean soup – the beans and spices, all neatly packaged with the recipe attached. They also have dip mixes for sale.

Guatemala Missions – Members of the First Presbyterian Church will have handmade items for sale that support The Garden’s Edge (www.gardensedge.org ), an organization that works to revitalize local culture and economy in Guatemala through projects in sustainable agriculture and environmental education.

-- Home businesses and craft people:

Representatives from several home business companies and members of the community with hand-crafted goods for sale will be on hand. All proceeds from sales made at the fair will be given to a charity chosen by each participant,

-- Vendors who promote and follow fair trade practices.

What are Fair Trade Practices?

One World Projects (www.oneworldprojects.com ), is a fair trade company located on Harvester Avenue  in Batavia. One World Projects was started in 1992 by Phil Smith. The mission of the company is to provide people in developing countries with the opportunity for economic sustainability and self-determination. 

• They do this by building open and respectful relationships with the people they work with around the world.
• One World Projects purchases high-quality products that have positive social impacts and environmental benefits.
• They pay artisans fair wages for their work allowing them to provide for their basic needs such as: food, shelter, clothing, education and health-care for their families.
• They provide financial and technical support to artisans by working with the artisans, suggesting product designs, improving artistic and technical skills, educating group leaders about the demands of the market.
• They support a safe and healthy work environment.
• They ensure the rights of children by not supporting exploitive child labor.
• They cultivate environmentally sustainable practices.
• And they reinvest in artisan groups and communities through economic programs and/or donations.

This is what it means to practice fair trade. One World Projects works with more than 80 artisan groups in more than 20 countries throughout Latin America, Africa and Asia. They sell hundreds of products and each item tells the story of the people who make them.

Other vendors who practice fair trade:

One World Goods (www.owgoods.org  ) from Rochester will have items from all over the world – jewelry, scarves, handbags, mittens, toys, Christmas ornaments, decorative items, candles and much more.

Equal Exchange Coffee (www.equalexchange.coop) is a co-op from Massachusetts that sells coffee, tea, chocolate and olive oil from around the globe. 

The fair provides the opportunity to purchase quality gifts and support all of these worthwhile causes. This is not a fund-raising event for the church as there is no admission charge and vendors are not charged to participate.

Soups and sandwiches will be provided by the Presbyterian Women’s group and baked goods provided by the church’s youth and congregation. All proceeds from food purchases are donated to charity.

Merchandise available for purchase include home décor items, toys, candles, baskets, handbags, scarves, pottery, fairly traded coffee and chocolate, olive oil and jewelry. In addition, Christmas decorations, ornaments, and nativity sets will be sold.

Press release:

Over the past several months, the Deer Management Committee has met and discussed how to best obtain information from the community in connection with the deer population.

As a result, a survey has been created to gauge the public’s interest in the topic and opinions regarding the local deer population. The committee would like you to participate and provide feedback on actual issues surrounding the deer population in our community.

There will be several ways to obtain the Deer Management Survey. The survey will be available on the City website: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3NRD7Z3 or a hard copy of the survey may be obtained at the City Clerk’s Office, City Manager’s office, Richmond Memorial Library or Senior Center.

Please complete and return all survey’s to the City Manager’s Office, One Batavia City Centre (City Hall) no later than Nov. 16.

If you have any questions or concerns about the survey please feel free to contact Jason Molino, City Manager at 345-6330 or jmolino@batavianewyork.com

Survey questions include:

-- Have you experienced landscape or garden damage from deer -- and how would you describe it?
-- Have you tried any of the following deer management methods (it lists several methods) -- and have they been effective?
-- Have you or anyone in your immediate family hit a deer with a motor vehicle in the City of Batavia?
-- Are you concerned about tick-borne diseases transmitted by deer?

The new, privately owned Hotel at Batavia Downs has "reinvented" the destination landscape in Batavia and Genesee County, the leader of the 84-room, luxury facility's investment group said at a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception on Wednesday night at Batavia Downs Gaming on Park Road -- and there could be more to come in the near future.

"This is a proud day for Batavia and Western New York. With this hotel, we have reinvented the hotel industry in Batavia," said Anthony Baynes, managing partner for ADK Hospitality, a Buffalo-based development team that purchased land from Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. in March 2015 and spent $7.5 million to build what it hopes becomes the county's first AAA four-diamond hotel. 

Baynes went on to thank Michael Kane, former WROTB president and CEO, for his efforts in forging what he called a "unique partnership" between private investors and a public corporation, and Hart Hotels, a highly respected firm that has been hired to manage the hotel.

Buffalo TV personality Laurie Lisowski Frey, WROTB President Henry Wojtaszek, Congressman Chris Collins and Dr. Laszlo Mechtler also spoke briefly to the estimated 400 people at the event before the investors cut the ribbon officially opening the hotel, which was nearly sold out for the evening.

"This is an extremely exciting time for our company, and for our region," Wojtaszek said. "This collaboration takes our organization to a new level and certainly strengthens our brand."

Collins said he was glad to say this was a "bipartisan" gathering.

"We have both Republicans and Democrats here, but when it comes to supporting worthwhile ventures (we're in agreement)," he said. "These entrepreneurs are risking their own capital ... and it's great to see the entrepreneurial spirit serving Genesee County and Batavia.

Rick Likus, hotel general manager, while leading tours for the invited guests, said the Hotel at Batavia Downs is "truly a destination that nobody else in this market can offer."

He said there are 40 rooms with double queen beds and 40 with king beds, as well as four two-room suites on the fourth floor that face the harness horse-racing track. He said extra "perks" for guests include specially made goose down pillows and mattresses, refrigerators and coffeemakers, Belgian chocolates and an early evening "turn-down service" where the rooms are spruced up by housekeeping staff.

Kane, who is acting as advisor to the WROTB board and management, said the hotel became "a priority" after the gaming facility completed its capital project downstairs. He said he is confident the hotel will succeed, thanks in part to the professionalism of Hart Hotels.

"Hart is the single-most capable organization in my opinion," he said. "They manage a five-star hotel in Watkins Glen (actually three four-diamond properties in Watkins Glen, 1000 Islands and Portland, Maine). The hotel here is very well appointed, and one more piece that will drive revenue to our municipalities."

Kane provided some insight into the Downs' future plans, stating that as more property becomes available, a banquet hall big enough to accommodate a couple thousand people could be added.

"That would be beneficial," he said. "In a constantly changing industry, you need to stay ahead (of the curve)."

IT'S OFFICIAL: ADK Hospitality investment partners and Congressman Chris Collins, right, surround Henry Wojtaszek, president of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp., during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday night to mark the opening of the upscale Hotel at Batavia Downs. From left are Jim Basil, John Basil, Anthony Baynes, Wojtaszek, Kent Frey, Dr. Laszlo Mechtler, David McNamara and Collins. 

Other photos -- Congressman Chris Collins, with WROTB executives Scott Kiedrowski​, Michael Nolan and Jacquelyne Leach in background; Thurman Thomas (former Buffalo Bills running back and Batavia Downs spokeman) speaking to Bills fan Jon Detwiler and Nolan, and posing with Connie Penkszyk of Batavia. Photos by Mike Pettinella.

Duane Preston and Adam Tabelski are running for the Councilman-at-Large seat on the Batavia City Council, a position that became open when former Council Member John Deleo left to run (successfully) for a seat on the Genesee County Legislature.

Preston, a longtime Batavian, is running on the Democrat and Conservative lines, while Tabelski, a former mayor of his native Medina who moved to the city a couple years ago, is running on the Republican, Independence and Reform ticket.

Tabelski has been serving as the Councilman-at-Large after his appointment in January, per city rules that the position had to be filled by a Republican.

Preston owns and manages about 70 apartments in the city and is chairman of the Batavia Planning & Development Committee. Tabelski is an account manager for Wendel Engineering.

Leading up to next Tuesday’s election, The Batavian posed four questions to the candidates (listed in alphabetical order).

What is the most important city issue you would like the next City Council to tackle? (Examples: vacant housing, business development, attracting residents back to the city/downtown, finances/spending, etc.)

Preston: The most important city issue to me is reducing city taxes. In  2006-2009, the city of Batavia residents took some very hefty tax increases in the amounts 12.6 percent, 20 percent, 9.7 percent and 4.2 perent change over the previous years. The city taxes that were levied on us got our city out of debt but never went away.

Those increased taxes are still built into our taxes today. At that time, the tax increases were greatly needed as we had a large debt. But times have changed; we have paid off a lot of old debt and are funding 12 reserve funds. We need to challenge old ways and stop taking the easy way out by raising taxes. We can still contribute to our reserve funds and reduce taxes. 

Tabelski: In the face of stagnant or reduced sales tax revenue, which is the largest single revenue source for the City, we must craft a responsible budget plan that makes critical investments in our personnel and infrastructure while generally living within our means in other areas.

Adopting a good budget is always Council's most important annual task.

What three additional issues would you like to see the next city council focus upon?

Preston: Downtown business development. Batavia could do a better job capturing foot traffic downtown. We have a Thruway that brings thousands of people to our doorstep daily, and we need to monopolize more on that fact. Even our very successful soccer program detours hundreds of people out to the town daily, six months out of the year.

The council needs to work together and develop a plan that brings people downtown and creates more foot traffic. There are many ways to bring people to our downtown, for example -- expanding the ice arena to a three-rink arena is an idea that would foster out of town tournament play. This would bring in additional tax dollars from restaurants, retail and hotel stays. Batavia is in a great location for Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse tournaments. Get the foot traffic in the city! For every 1 percent in sales tax revenue generated, we can reduce our property taxes by 1.5 percent.

Mall/city center revitalization plan. Ultimately Council will need to figure out what the long-term plan for the mall will be. Is it a city support center or will it be used for retail? Either way, we need to turn this space from a liability to an asset. An expanded City Centre can harbor all support services for the city: Police Services, City Hall, Office for the Aging, Pathstone, Rural Opportunities and light medical use. Even partnering with GVEP (Genesee Valley Education Partnership) or GCC (Genesee Community College) to hold a few satellite classes in this facility for added foot traffic can only benefit downtown businesses.

Another consideration would be support for a mixed use retail plan. Whichever decision is made, it is imperative City Council cleans up the concourse issues with the mall association. Let’s put this behind us and move on to the future use of this facility. 

Volunteer group. I would have Council look at the possibility of a volunteer group to continue the efforts of the former Vibrant Batavia. We would need to set up Ward member groups to keep the open lines of communication going. There are many citizens in Batavia that would love to volunteer a few hours a month to hold informational neighborhood meetings and discuss hot topics that are plaguing our neighborhoods. Safety in our neighborhoods is paramount! 

Tabelski: A) Renewed sales tax sharing and water/wastewater agreements with the County. These agreements, which are interrelated, are set to expire after next year. They have established steady revenue streams that, if changed, could significantly impact the City's finances. I am confident we can sit down with our partners in local government to find a good solution for all.

B) Explore reducing operating expenses through energy efficiency measures. This is a way for the City to reduce our costs without eliminating a service or personnel.  First, we need to conduct a review to see where the best opportunities for energy efficiency may be. As just one example, conversion to LED street lighting could save substantially on our electric bill.

C) Reaching an accord to allow redevelopment at the Mall and support of other downtown economic development projects such as Ellicott Station. Unfortunately, the public doesn't see the work that Council and our legal team puts into the Mall because it involves real estate and litigation -- matters best discussed in executive session. But Council and City staff agree that finding and bringing new investment to the Mall is near the top of our priority list.

What do you believe is the best option when it comes to the city’s police headquarters?

Preston: Adaptive reuse of the City Centre is the best bang for our buck. The city is currently holding storefronts that combined with other parcels may possibly be the key to a police station reconstruction. Why would we want to spend $7-$10 million on a new site? Similar to the City Hall expansion on the mall, we can clean up a section of the mall and take care of our police station needs all at the same time and for less money than building new.

Tabelski: This is not a simple question but suffice it say that an 1850s Italianate residence -- despite its good location near the center of the City -- is ill-suited to be a 21st century police department headquarters. Our government is actively trying to address the situation by investigating a preferred site for a new facility that was identified by an ad hoc citizen task force. If this option does not pan out, we have other options to pursue, including renovations to the current facility. The public should understand that there real estate negotiations underway so the situation is fluid. No matter what, we will keep the long-term cost impact to taxpayers at the top of mind.

What three books published within the last 250 years have most influenced you?

Preston: The books that have influenced me the most are the ones that have made me who I am today -- "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie, "Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki and "Building Real Estate Wealth in a Changing Market" by John Schaub.

Tabelski: "Walden" by Henry David Thoreau, "1776" by David McCullough, and "The Collected Poems" by Stanley Kunitz.

Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. officers and directors agreed today that a focus on "employee appreciation" is key to moving the organization in the right direction.

Several directors commented on a "Meet & Greet" session that took place on Wednesday afternoon with rank-and-file workers at Batavia Downs Gaming, applauding management with their efforts to reach out to its employees.

"We got a chance to meet the employees, and we want them to know that we're trying to do the best job possible for the corporation," said Board Chairman Richard Bianchi (Monroe County).

WROTB President Henry F. Wojtaszek said the get-together, along with a new employees' Anniversary Rewards Program, are ways for management "to let employees know that we appreciate their hard work."

The "Meet & Greet" session was "all positive," according to Jim Starkweather, an eight-year employee in the skilled maintenance department.

"I guess it's the new regime -- Henry, Scott Kiedrowski and Mike Nolan -- trying to reach out," Starkweather said afterward in the Paddock Room that has been set up for a Pink Hatters cancer awareness fundraising event this afternoon. "I thought it was all positive and good; promoting a family atmosphere."

Starkweather said he hopes more of these type of communication sessions are scheduled in the future.

The Anniversary Rewards Program, coordinated by Sean Schiano, director of Branch Operations, and Ryan Hasenauer, director of Marketing, offers merchandise, clothing, gift cards, concert tickets and sporting events tickets to employees based on their length of service -- one year, five years, 10 years, 25 years, 30 years and 35 years,

"We're trying to improve morale, and feel that this is a good program with something nice for everybody," Schiano said.

In other developments:

-- Wojtaszek said an accord between WROTB and the Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association will result in the opening of a new six-race paddock prior to the 2018 racing season. The new paddock became necessary when Batavia Downs tore down part of the old paddock to make room for the new hotel.

"We agreed to pick up the cost for some of the things they had (normally) paid for, to hold a holiday party for them and to add a couple of nights of racing," said Wojtaszek, noting that the current season has been extended for at least another week, until Dec. 17 or beyond. 

He said construction on the new paddock will begin after the first of the year.

CLICK HERE for an announcement from the WNYHHA website.

-- The president also gave an update on the Downs' expansion plans, a nearly $4 million Capital Award venture that will add another room on the east side of the Paddock Room for horse bettors, a new banquet room next to Fortune's Restaurant, and enhancements to the 34 Rush club, facility entrance and parking lot. He said he expects approval from the New York State Gaming Commission sometime next month.

-- Directors voted to authorize management to look into the possibility of downsizing the number of OTB branches from the current 24, a move that directors Elliott Winter (Niagara County) and Richard Haberer (Cattaraugus County) voted against.

"There's been a lot of negative discussion about the state of horse racing, but I believe that we need to do what we can to keep it going," Winter said.

-- Comptroller Jacquelyne Leach reported third-quarter earnings of $282,000 and September surcharge distributions of $108,000. Leach said the numbers were down compared to the same time last year because that's when the sale of property to developers of the Hotel at Batavia Downs went through, but otherwise "they were right on target."

-- Bianchi reported that Fred Hamilton, director of food services, submitted his resignation, effective Dec. 31. Hamilton said he is retiring after 11 years to spend more time with his wife and grandchildren.

-- Announced that the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new hotel is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. next Wednesday (Nov. 2). State and local dignitaries are expected to attend the invitation-only event.

Extending a sales tax allocation agreement with Genesee County, a pact that is set to expire in February 2018, would be in the "best interest of the city and residents of the county," City Manager Jason Molino said to City Council at the governing body's Conference Meeting Monday night (Oct. 24).

Council is being asked -- via a resolution that will be considered at its next Business meeting on Nov. 14 -- to notify the county of its intent to extend the agreement without modification by Dec. 1, per terms of the contract.

The Genesee County Legislature, however, may not be so eager to continue the agreement as currently written, Molino said, and some legislators already have expressed a desire to delete this "notification clause" going forward.

"I would want to see that kept in as it serves a definite purpose -- what is your intent?" Molino said.

Molino gave a brief history of the sales tax allocation agreement, stating it originated in 1999 "in tandem" with the water treatment plant and water treatment facilities agreements and addresses the Genesee County public water supply system program, economic development and water demands in the county. 

The current terms of the sales tax agreement provide the city with 16 percent of the sales tax generated in Genesee County, with the towns and villages splitting 34 percent (based on assessed valuation) and the county receiving 50 percent. 

Molino said the city's 16-percent share is more than it would receive if the sales tax/water treatment contracts weren't in place.

He explained that the city pays the county a surcharge of 60 cents per 1,000 gallons of water used and in return the county leases the water treatment plant from the city and reimburses the city for operational costs.

Additionally, the city buys water from the county (at a discounted rate) and the county sells water outside of the city. The revenue from the sale of water goes to pay for the infrastructure needed to distribute water to the towns.

"It's a comprehensive rural approach where everybody is sharing the resources," Molino said.

Negotiations between city and county leaders are ongoing, Molino said, adding that if a "regional solution isn't obtained by July 1, 2017, that City Council may be requested to extend all three agreements for a one-year term, ending Feb. 8, 2019, to provide sufficient time to finalize and execute new agreements."

He said this would give the Office of the State Comptroller time to review, approve and process the amendment to the sales tax allocation agreement as required by state law.

Molino said that since all three agreements are "intertwined and dependent upon each other," any future accord must continue the existing relationship.

Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. and Council Member Kathleen Briggs are representing the city in talks with the county. Jankowski said that County Legislator Marianne Clattenburg, whose district is in the City of Batavia, also is involved in the negotiations and is "protecting our interests."

In other action, Council moved to its Business meeting, resolutions to:

-- Accept a $1,500 state grant for a child safety seat program; a $3,394 grant from Genesee County STOP-DWI for road checks, saturation patrols and impaired driving crackdowns on eight specific dates starting on Halloween and ending on Labor Day 2017; and an $11,400 state grant to participate in the statewide Police Traffic Services Program. The goal of the program is to increase seat belt use and reduce dangerous driving behaviors.

-- Develop an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) transition plan. The document is a regulatory requirement, said Public Works Director Matt Worth, that identifies "noncompliance in pedestrian accessible routes and facilities in the cilty's right-of-way, and outlines a plan and schedule for corrective action."

-- Transfer $83,050 from the construction line to the right-of-way acquisition line for the Healthy Schools Corridor sidewalk project set for next year. Worth said this became necessary after it was discovered that there were three properties in which the new sidewalk would encroach on private lands requiring either a permanent easement or property taking.

Batavia Town Supervisor Gregory Post sees himself as "a merit-based guy" -- someone who believes in rewarding those whose job performances consistently exceed the expectation of the Town Board.

"And we have those type of people here," he said. "Employees who come in early and stay late, who have a high level of expertise, and who warrant a level of compensation that will enable us to recruit the best people and retain them."

But, Post is also a realist, and he has come to the realization that the town's contribution to staff health insurance premiums has reached a tipping point.

The supervisor fielded health insurance-related questions on Wednesday night, following the board's favorable vote on a resolution that mandates that the town pay up to 95 percent of the monthly premiums for its employees for 2017.

Rates under the Blue Cross Blue Shield Gold Standard Plan that the town will be purchasing range from $456 per month for an employee-only plan to $1,300 per month for a family plan. Employees hired prior to Sept. 18, 2013 will contribute 5 percent of the monthly cost and those hired after Sept. 17, 2013 will contribute 25 percent.

All told, the town is projecting in the neighborhood of $250,000 in health insurance premium costs.

"Traditionally the town's compensation package has been to provide health insurance, but eventually we will have to find something less expensive (to the town) and less generous (to its employees)," Post said, adding that the current formula is "unsustainable."

 "The staff is already aware that this will be addressed in 2017. Workshops will start in December."

Post said he expects health insurance costs to go up about 2 percent in 2017, although the tentative budget allows for a 12-percent increase to cover possible changes in employee status throughout the year. He said the board will be negotiating with both union (Batavia Town Employees Union) and non-union employees to come up with a more equitable payment plan.

When asked about the level of compensation throughout the town's organization, Post said that salary, health insurance, pension contributions, vacation time, etc., factor into the pay scale.

"One thing that stands out is that the staff here is the community's biggest asset," he said. "We've seen a 40-percent increase in the assessed value in this town over the past 10 years. The return on our investment (to employees) has been tremendous."

In a related development, Post shared a report from Daniel Lang, codes official, that indicated the town has received a more favorable rating from the Insurance Services Office, action that could lead to reduced liability insurance premiums for homeowners and business owners. This new rating, from a 9 to a 4 (the best score is 1), is for all one- and two-family dwellings and for all commercial and industrial buildings in the town.

The ISO is an organization that tracks property and casualty insurance risk, evaluates and rates a community’s ability to handle fires.

In other action, the board:

-- Set public hearings for Nov. 9 in connection with sewer rates (7 p.m.) water rates (7:05 p.m.) and the town budget (7:30 p.m.) for 2017.

The proposed rates for Sewer Districts No. 1 and No. 2 in the town are $6.13 per 1,000 gallons, a 10-percent increase from the 2016 rates. The water rates would go up by about 3 percent, with the base rate set at $5.10 per 1,000 gallons and the agriculture rate set at $3.73 per 1,000 gallons.

As previously reported first on The Batavian, the town's projected tax rate for 2017 is $2.64 per thousand of assessed valuation, up from the $1.42 rate in 2016. The tentative budget calls for a tax levy of $1 million.

Per public hearing notice guidelines, proposed salaries for the elected public officials in the town are as follows:

Supervisor -- $30,000
Deputy Supervisor -- $15,000
Councilpersons (3) -- $10,000
Town Clerk/Tax Collector -- $66,229
Highway Superintendent -- $18,035
Town Justices (2) -- $25,235

-- Transferred $89,600 from the unappropriated unexpended fund balance to cover additional equipment, water meter and meter reading instruments for both water and sewer districts in 2016.

-- Allocated $9,237 as the town's share to support Genesee County school districts' 2017 summer recreation programs. Batavia will receive $3,442, followed by Pembroke ($2,080), Oakfield-Alabama ($997), and Elba, Byron-Bergen and Alexander ($906 each).

Deputy Supervisor Dan Underhill (due to the death of his father, David) and Councilwoman Patti Michalak were absent.

Tenants at Big Tree Glen on West Main Street Road are settling in and the Conifer Realty LLC/United Memorial Medical Center joint venture is taking on a "community" feel.

That's the word from Joan Mrzywka, community manager of the apartment complex that currently has occupancy in 54 of its 56 one-, two- and three-bedroom units. Six of the apartments are specially designed for handicap or HVI (hearing vision impaired) persons. 

"Things are going really well thus far, just a few minor glitches," said Mrzywka, an Albion resident and former prerschool teacher who has been on the job for about a year.

Mrzwyka was joined by Town of Batavia Planning Board members, Conifer executives and the local media on a tour of the facilities on Tuesday night.

Big Tree Glen, which opened a couple months ago, features seven eight-plex buildings, with four first-floor apartments and four second-floor apartments. The building that houses Mrzwyka's office also includes a community room, fitness center, computer room (with four workstations) and a 24-hour accessible, security camera-equipped laundry room.

Mrzywka said the familes there are of all age groups. Eligibility is based on family and individual incomes in relation to Genesee County's median income.

Monthly rental rates are as follows:

Three-bedroom -- $812 (50 percent of the median income), $916 (60 percent).
Two-bedroom -- $704 (50 percent), $713 (60 percent).
One-bedroom -- $569 (50 percent), $570 (60 percent).

Rent does not include electricity but does include gas (which is used for heat and hot water), sewer and water, Mrzywka said.

Conifer plans to build 40 more apartments (all one- and two-bedroom units) as part of its Phase II project. It received site plan approval from town planners on Tuesday night and will be petitioning New York State in anticipation of breaking ground next spring.

"The residents here are expecting us to build more; there is such a need for housing in this area," Mrzywka said.

Company officials reported that they are working on two projects in Monroe County -- a supportive living facility in Webster in collaboration with Rochester Regional Health System and an 80-bed House of Mercy homeless shelter in the City of Rochester.

Photos: View from West Main Street Road, Community Room at Big Tree Glen, 3727 W. Main Street Road, Batavia.

Expansion and improvement projects at the Big Tree Glen apartment complex on West Main Street Road, Koolatron on Commerce Drive and Batavia Sports Park on Bank Street Road received "green lights" to move forward Tuesday night (Oct. 18) from the Town of Batavia Planning Board.

At their meeting at Batavia Town Hall, planners gave their blessing to Conifer Realty LLC after reviewing the Rochester company's site plan for Phase II of the income-based complex at 3727 W. Main Street Road. The site plan approval is contingent upon Conifer meeting all engineering criteria and setting up agreements with the Town of Batavia in line with those already in place from Phase I.

According to Paul Marfione, project director for Conifer, Phase II development will consist of 40 apartments (eight one-bedroom and 32 two-bedroom), which would increase the total number of units to 96.

Occupancy eligibility is based on the median income in Genesee County, Marfione said. Of the 40 new units, 10 would be offered to those at 50 percent of the income level, 15 to those at 60 percent and 15 to those at 90 percent.

"The median income in Genesee is increasing," Marfione said, which enables Conifer to offer 15 apartments to those individuals and/or families with annual earnings closer to the county average ($64,500 for a family of four, for example).

Marfione said Conifer is hoping for New York State approvals within a couple months. An early approval from the state could lead to groundbreaking on the $9 milliion Phase II project in the spring of 2017.

Conifer, in partnership with United Memorial Medical Center, completed Phase I this summer.

Before the meeting, Kathy Jasinski, planning board chairperson, and Conifer executives conducted a tour of the facility (photo above). (Watch for more photos and a story in The Batavian on Wednesday).

Koolatron to construct 25,000-square-foot warehouse

Planners approved a State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) and site plan for Mega Properties, or Koolatron Corp., to construct a 158-by-158-foot warehouse with loading docks and new driveway at its industrial park north of the NYS Thruway.

They had no issues with the Canadian-based firm's plan that includes area variances concerning the building's distance to the property line and lot coverage since they were both close to the town code requirements.

According to Gordon Pringle, Koolatron manager, said the nearly $1 million project will result in the addition of a few more jobs. Currently, the manufacturing and distribution business employs eight people.

Batavia Sports Park to install second driveway

Parents of the growing number of youth soccer players who compete at Batavia Sports Park on Bank Street Road will be overjoyed to learn that CY Properties (Batavia Turf Farms) plans to put in a second driveway before the start of the 2017 summer season.

"This will be a one-way in, one-way out" setup, said Chuck Hoover, sales manager for Batavia Turf Farms and liaison between the firm and the Batavia Soccer Club. "The traffic flow will be much safer, especially for those coming out of the park."

The new driveway will be situated closer to the intersection of West Saile Drive, near the company's maintenance building. As it stands now, cars are required to come in and exit via a narrow stone driveway across the street from New Hope Ministries.

Town planners approved the SEQR and the site plan, with the latter contingent upon engineering and design approvals by the town. They also are requiring CY Properties to obtain documentation from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) as to the project's impacts on archaeological resources.

Hoover said the town initially partnered with CY Properties in the venture, which currently has 12 soccer fields, by providing funding and other support, but is gradually reducing its involvement.

"That's one of the reasons we're looking to expand (the operation beyond summer soccer)," he said. "We've already hosted lacrosse tournaments and on Nov. 19 we will be hosting a flag football tournament with 20 teams. And we have an opportunity to land a couple of elite soccer tournaments that would have an economic impact of $400,000 to $500,000 over a two-week period."

Hoover said the project also includes adding a few more soccer fields and additional parking. He said the driveways would be blacktopped near the highway.

City Council tonight (Oct. 11) unanimously passed a resolution supporting the redevelopment of Ellicott Station, a move that officials of the Batavia Development Corp. hope spurs Empire State Development to act favorably and quickly on the BDC's request for $2.4 million in grant funding for the project.

"We intend to send this resolution to the agencies (ESD and Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council) to show more support and solidarity," BDC Coordinator Julie Pacatte said.

Pacatte was referring to the collaboration among the City of Batavia, Genesee County, Batavia City School District and Genesee County Economic Development Center, which joined together to commit a percentage of payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTS) to a unique program known as Batavia Pathway to Prosperity.

BPP and anticipated capital grants from the ESD -- $1.9 million through the Consolidated Funding Application and another $500,000 from Restore NY -- have paved the way for Savarino Companies of Buffalo to commit to investing millions of dollars into turning the former Santy's Tire Sales and Soccio & Della Penna construction firm site on Ellicott Street into a vibrant entertainment/office/apartment complex.

The resolution is meant to "reiterate the importance of this $17 million investment in a highly distressed area of the city experiencing 32 percent poverty and nearly 7 percent unemployment," Pacatte said. "We urge New York State to enable us to implement the plan in which they sponsored."

The Ellicott Station project is listed as a Five-Year Pipeline Initiative by the FLREDC within its 2016 progress report and recommended priority projects, which focus on mixed-use development, poverty levels and leveraging private investment.

Pier Cipollone, a BDC board member and former City Councilman, said that "closing the gap" in funding by obtaining these grants must happen before Savarino Companies can put its plan into action.

"If we can get moving on this, then we can turn some of these other sites around," he said, noting that the BDC has identified four other areas in the city (City Centre Mall, United Memorial Medical Center/YMCA corridor, Creek Park behind Falleti Ice Arena and the Harvester Center) for redevelopment.

The four-page resolution traces the city's now seven-year effort to revitalize Batavia's Brownfield Opportunity Area. It emphasizes that both of these grants are "necessary to advance the Phase I component (envirnmental assessment, cleanup, engineering costs, etc.) of the Ellicott Station project and will be matched by substantial private equity investment and significant local resources through the BPP program."

City Manager Jason Molino said that Savarino Companies will be responsible for about 70 percent of the project's total cost.

Pacatte, in a memo to Molino, wrote that Ellicott Station will create arouind 145 temporary construction jobs in which Savarino has committed to hiring some local unemployed workers. When finished, she noted, the project should result in 160 permanent jobs earning $6 million annually, while generating $500,000 in downtown consumer retail demand and $335,000 in sales tax annually.

She added that total assessed value will increase thirtyfold, and that values of properties within a half mile will improve by 10 to 15 percent.

Pacatte said that Savarino Companies has lined up some tenants and prospects, and she expects an announcement to be made in the near future.  

In other developments, Council:

-- Received word from Molino that the city was one of 76 municipalities to receive an "Operation Keep Our Home" grant available through a settlement by the state's Attorney General. Municipalities with at least 5,000 people and a minimum of 100 vacant homes were eligible for the program.

Molino said the $66,500 award will be used to combat "zombie" and vacant properties along several fronts -- the use of foreclosure prevention counselors, hiring an MBA graduate assistant to collect data on vacant homes in the city, working with agencies such as Habitat for Humanity, marketing, purchase of computer and software to keep track of properties, and to revise city codes relating to neighborhoods.

-- Authorized eight transfers from the city's assigned fund balance to the following dedicated reserve funds for future purchases, renovations, repairs and obligations -- police capital equipment, fire capital equipment, public works capital equipment, Dwyer Stadium, public facilities capital, capital sidewalk reconstruction, administrative services equipment and software, and employee benefit accrued liability.

-- Approved an agreement with Wells Fargo that allows the city to hire a contractor to demolish the single-family residence at 23 Columbia Ave., which has been vacant for quite some time and has numerous code violations, and then receive reimbursement from Wells Fargo for all costs associatied with the demolition (estimated to be around $25,000). 

"Preferably we would like them (banks) to demolish these types of homes rather than us, but in this instance this may be quicker," Molino said.

Molino said the condemed property on Columbia Avenue is "outside the ordinary" and this method could be used again to put pressure on lending institutions to meet their responsibilities.

-- Extended a contract with Environmental Solutions (U.S.) Ltd. to continue its removal of alum sludge from the Wastewater Treatment Plant off Pearl Street, action that adds $400,000 to the cost but still keeps the project under the original budgeted amount of $2.1 million.

-- Approved, by a 7-1 count, with Rose Mary Christian dissenting, a resolution to submit a request for a NYS Department of Transportation grant to construct sidewalks, high-visibility crosswalks and handicapped ramps in the areas of UMMC, downtown, Batavia school properties, NYS School for the Blind and Austin, Centennial and MacArthur parks. Council agreed to pay 25 percent (5 percent more than required) of the cost to better its chances of receiving funding.

Christian said she voted against it because the proposal did not include funding for any sidewalks in her Sixth Ward.

-- Voted in favor of a lease agreement with Dent Neurologic Institute at 35-39 City Centre for 1,122 square feet of space at $16.50 per square foot -- or $1,851.30 per month -- for a year, with two six-month renewal options.

Molino said the lease agreement would act as a "placeholder until we have an idea of bigger development of the mall."

Dent is using about a fourth of the total space at 35-39 City Centre, which recently was foreclosed upon by the city due to delinquent property taxes. Molino said Dent's lease payments will cover all of the city's costs related to taxes, insurances and maintenance of the property.