After 27 years with Genesee County — for most of those years as highway superintendent — first managing the roads, bridges, and fleet, and later adding on water, parks, airport, environmental health review and facilities duties, Tim Hens will be retiring later this year with the more all-encompassing title of Public Works commissioner and a need for a change of venue, he says.
As Hens is confident about who he leaves behind — county legislators have appointed his assistant engineer to fill the role — he also looks forward to being able to step away from challenging and stressful projects. He plans to retire May 30.
“It's weird to walk away after so many years. I have always been a big believer in being where your feet are, doing your best to leave the community in a better place, and handing things off to someone else when you know it's the time. Well, it's time,” he said to The Batavian Wednesday. “I have put an amazing DPW staff together that does so many good things, and we have such good relationships with all of the town highway superintendents, but the job is stressful, and you're always in the public eye. The regulatory environment, especially within New York State, isn't getting any easier--this is certainly one of my biggest reasons to leave.
“I’m in a good place with my decision. A change in scenery/perspective will be good for me, and new leadership will be great for the County. In terms of champion projects, it’s a duel between the rebuild/success of the County Airport versus Countywide Water, but I think Countywide Water will have a longer/more significant impact on our community than any other project the County has ever accomplished,” he said. “It certainly hasn’t been the easiest or smoothest process (nor is it done yet), but getting reliable, safe drinking water for Genesee County makes a difference to the economy but, more importantly, for people's health and well-being.”
2024 File Photo of Laura Wadhams, assistant engineer for Genesee County's Public Works Department, showing progress at the new county jail during a county meeting. Photo by Joanne Beck
He has recommended the department’s assistant engineer, Laura Wadhams, who has become an increasingly visible staff member for major projects, such as the $70 million county jail that opened in late 2024.
“Laura is being considered by the Legislature as my replacement. I hired Laura in 2018 and knew right away that she was a perfect candidate to replace me in the future,” Hens said. “She has done an amazing job in so many different areas, from award-winning bridge projects to airport work, facilities projects and managing the construction of the new county jail. She is an excellent communicator and has the demeanor to work with all different types of agencies, contractors, community leaders, and people.”
Wadhams has worked as a civil, staff, and transportation engineer and transportation construction inspector for the New York State Department of Transportation. The new county jail was her largest county project since being hired as assistant engineer in September 2018, she said during a March 2024 meeting about the jail’s near completion.
The commissioner’s role oversees seven divisions, 57 full-time and 11 seasonal or part-time employees within the department, including highways and bridges; fleet management; engineering; facility management; parks and forestry; Genesee County Airport; countywide water; and environmental health, which means engineering reviews for water, septic, campgrounds and pools.
The Genesee County Legislature has interviewed and selected a candidate to fill this future vacancy, and based upon qualifications and the recommendation of County Manager Matt Landers, the Ways and Means Committee recommended Wadhams for the position during its meeting Wednesday.
Wadhams has shadowed the Commissioner of Public Works and “has demonstrated commitment to safe, reliable, professional and cost-effective planning and maintenance of county resources, facilities and infrastructure,” a related county resolution states. The group appointed Wadhams as commissioner of Public Works at a Grade of 124, Step 15 on the Management Salary Schedule, for a four-year term, effective June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2029. The full Legislature is expected to vote on the resolution during a future meeting.
Genesee County residents who wish to change their party enrollment to be eligible to vote in June 24, party primary must submit a completed application to the Genesee County Board of Elections by February 14.
For more information, visit the Genesee County Board of Elections website or call 585-815-7804.
Four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded through the annual UConnectCare Foundation Scholarship program in 2025.
The program, initiated several years ago, provides financial support to individuals pursuing their education at an institution of higher learning in the fields of human services or social services for the purpose of contributing to improving community health.
Scholarships will be given to one Genesee County high school student, one Orleans County high school student, one adult student pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree, and one technical/trade school student.
Applications are available on the UConnectCare website – www.uconnectcare.org – or can be obtained by contacting Diane Klos at Diane Klos at 585-815-1883 or dklos@unconnectcare.org. Completed applications must be received via email or postmarked by March 7.
The scholarships will be awarded at the agency’s annual membership meeting in May.
“We take great pleasure in being able to continue this important program,” said John Bennett, UConnectCare chief executive officer. “More than ever, substance use and alcohol use treatment and prevention agencies are seeking qualified, educated and dedicated employees.”
Students enrolled in a Genesee or Orleans County school can apply for the scholarship even if their primary residence is in another county.
Other pertinent scholarship information is as follows:
Applicant must be accepted at an accredited college or university and enrolled in or matriculated in an eligible program/major.
Eligible programs or majors include Social Work, Nursing, Health Science, Mental Health Counseling, Psychology, or Human Services.
Current UConnectCare employees, board members and UConnectCare Foundation board members are NOT eligible.
Relatives of UConnectCare employees, board members and UConnectCare Foundation board members ARE eligible.
Applicant must provide academic history such as high school and/or college transcripts.
Applicant must provide two letters of recommendation from someone who knows the applicant’s work/volunteer/academic history. Letters from relatives will not be accepted.
Applicant must provide a resume or personal biography including work history, volunteer experiences, and extra-curricular activities.
Applicant must provide an essay that addresses educational and employment objectives as they relate to the mission of UConnectCare. Financial need, volunteerism, employment history and civic involvement will be given careful consideration.
The scholarship monies will be awarded upon completion of the fall semester. The award recipient must provide a copy of their transcript demonstrating at least a 2.0 GPA.
Applicant may be invited for an interview before final awards are made.
Retired County Treasurer Scott German with a gag gift from current Treasurer Kevin Andrews, an old sock to symbolize an opposition write-in vote from one of German's runs for re-election. Photo by Howard Owens.
There were plenty of jokes at Scott German's retirement party at Batavia Downs on Saturday night along with kudos for a job well done during his 21 years as county treasurer.
German retired four months shy of being Genesee County's longest serving treasurer, the culmination of 31 years total working in the treasurer's office.
But the goodbye was also a hello because German has taken the part-time job of Republican Election Commissioner at the Board of Elections.
"I'm happy that he's staying with county government," said County Manager Matt Landers, who started working for the county 21 years ago as German's deputy treasurer. "He's gonna help us out on the election side. So it's interesting. It's a retirement bash and going away, and I'll give him a big hug at the end of the night and say, 'I'll see you on Monday.'"
Kevin Andrews, the new county treasurer, got in a few zingers while roasting his former boss.
German only faced an election opponent once over his five terms, in the first year, he stood for election (after being appointed mid-term by then Gov. George Pataki). That doesn't mean, however, that there weren't write-in votes.
"I honestly can't remember which year this happened, but Scott shared with me that one year when he ran for office, one of the write-in votes against him for county treasurer was an old sock," Andrews said.
So, Andrews wrapped up one of his old socks and gave it to him as a present. Just so he would have a moment of that write-in vote (top photo).
Andrews also praised his mentor.
"Sincerely, though, you've always been supportive of me, especially when I have been overly self-critical," Andrews said. "I appreciate the many conversations that we've had over the years where you've offered advice or encouragement when I've needed it personally; Scott, I want to say that it has been a pleasure and honor working with you."
Legislature Chairwoman Shelley Stein praised German for the millions of taxpayer dollars his diligent work has saved the county and the millions he earned for the county through wise investments.
"You've been passionate and you have been aggressive in your approach to county government," Stein said.
Garrett Macdonald, a consultant with Three+1 based in Rochester (Macdonald is also a Genesee County resident and a second cousin of German's, though they never met until they started working together), helped provide German with the strategy to invest the county's cash reserves.
"There's very few treasurers where you walk into their office, and they look at you dead in the eyes, and they say, 'I want to do everything I possibly can to earn and save and help my taxpayers,' and that has been a stamp on Scott's legacy for Genesee County, doing whatever he possibly can to take care of his constituents and taxpayers," Macdonald said.
When German closed out the evening, he put some hard numbers on those accomplishments. He said the county, by investing reserves, has earned $21 million for the general fund and more than $28 million overall.
"In 2004, the county's fund balance was $5.4 million, and at the end of 2023 the fund balance is $22.2 million," German said. "The total fund equity in 2004 was $11.8 million, but at the end of 2023, fund equity was over $84 million. Personally, I am very proud of those numbers, and I have turned over to Kevin accounting that is in a very strong financial state. So Kevin, don't screw it up."
Hawley took note of all the praise for German's handling of the county's finances and mused that it would be nice if state government could do as well.
"We've heard about the fact that you saved taxpayers millions and millions of dollars," Hawley said. "You've also earned the county millions and millions of dollars. And we wish that some of your philosophy of governing and finances would translate to the state of New York, I'll give Kathy Hochul your best and tell her to read your upcoming book on how to make money and not have to spend money just because it's there."
Photo by Howard Owens.
County Manager Matt Landers, who served as deputy treasurer for German's first 10 years in office. Photo by Howard Owens.
County Legislature Chairwoman Shelley Stein Photo by Howard Owens.
County Treasurer Kevin Andrews. Photo by Howard Owens
Bethany Fire Department held it's annual installation of officers banquet saturday evening. Photo by Steve Ognibene
On Saturday evening, Fire Chief Jeff Fluker of Bethany Fire Department led as the master of ceremonies at Bethany’s annual awards and installation of officer’s banquet.
More than 80 people attended, including VIP guests from other area fire departments, including Alexander, Attica, Elba, Pavilion, Stafford, and Wyoming.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley and County Legislator Gregg Torrey were also among the guests.
Steve Breckenridge and Emergency Coordinator Tim Yaeger gave opening remarks on the evening.
Jeff Fluker presented the installation of officers for 2025.
Steve Breckenridge presented the President's Award to Bethany Fire Department Treasurer Debbie Donnelly.
Jeff Fluker and John Szymkowiak announced the Firefighter of the Year award to EMS Captain, Gail Smith.
Jeff Fluker and John Szymkowiak presented the Chiefs award for the year to second assistant and training officer, Will Thurley.
Gregg Torrey presented the years of service awards to the members present.
The memorial service, led by Pastor Walter Wenhold, honored Robert Alwardt, (Divider NY) Don Frank, who passed away in 2024 and all deceased members of the department.
The department responded to 146 total calls in 2024.
The top responders were:
Will Thurley, 82 calls
Brian Bitton, 75 calls
Gail Smith, 62 calls
Glenn Adams, 55 calls
Peggy Johnson, 42 calls
Jeff Wolak, 40 calls
Carl Hyde Jr., 37 calls
Jeff Fluker, 35 calls
John Szymkowiak, 35 calls
Vicki Wolak, 34 calls
If anyone is interested in joining or learning more, contact Chief Jeff Fluker at 585-300-8153 or come to the fire hall any Monday at 7 p.m.
Photos by Steve Ognibene
Treasurer Debbie Donnelly, received the presidents award. Photo by Steve Ognibene
EMS Captain, Gail Smith, received the firefighter of the year award. Photo by Steve Ognibene
Second assistant and training officer, Will Thurley, received the chiefs award. Photo by Steve Ognibene
Members of Bethany fire department who were in the top 10 of attendning calls during the year. Photo by Steve Ognibene
A couple members in attendance recieved years of service awards. Photo by Steve Ognibene
A moment of silence for two members in 2024 and past members of the Bethany fire department who have passed away. Photo by Steve Ognibene
The Zonta Club of Batavia-Genesee County has continued their mission to tackle Period Poverty in our community. In January, the club donated $1000 worth of period products to Community Action and The Heart of Kindness Center.
According to a 2023 YouGov survey, 37% of all menstruating American females say they or their family have struggled to afford menstrual products and almost half (47%) agree that the current economic climate causes them stress about their ability to afford period products.
These donations are a continuation of the Zonta Club’s initiative to combat period poverty from last year when $1000 in products were donated to the Richmond Memorial Library Comfort Boxes and Community Action. For more information, please reach out to the Zonta Club at Zontabatavia@gmail.com.
Uncertainty seems to be the sentiment of the moment — from local school and county officials to state senators — about recent presidential executive orders and an attempted funding freeze that was halted by a court order this week.
Two orders, titled Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling and Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families, are posted on the U.S. government’s website and have not seemed to draw much public attention as of yet.
They involve the Education Department: divvying out funding for families to choose from a wider pool of public, private, faith-based, and military school options; and another order that pertains to less focus on diversity, equity and inclusion and bringing back “patriotic education” to the classroom.
The Batavian reached out to all eight of Genesee County’s public school superintendents and other county officials for responses to these and related orders, and the funding freeze, which Senators Chuck Schumer and Patty Murray not only publicly criticized this week but warned that the administration "will come back again and again and again” to try and implement some type of funding freeze, Schumer said.
Pembroke Superintendent Matt Calderón said, “certainly, I am always concerned about funding.”
“Because, as a small rural school with limited resources, we are already lean in regard to the programs we are able to offer, and we cannot afford to lose any of our current funding,” he said. “At the same time, I am not overly concerned about losing Pembroke students if educational options for families are expanded. I suspect we would lose some students and gain some students.
“As for the second order about restricting certain educational content, I don't believe this will have much impact on how we approach education in Pembroke due to the fact that we have never engaged in indoctrinating our students to subscribe to any specific ideology that may be politically motivated by either side of the aisle,” he said. “As educators, our responsibility is, in age-appropriate ways and in partnership with parents, to teach students about all the issues and perspectives that exist, to engage them in thinking and talking and reading and writing about those issues, with input from one another, from their parents, from community members, from experts and from an array of individuals who see things differently from one another.”
In addition to academics, he said that his district wants “to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students regardless of who they are or what they believe.”
“We want to help students recognize and experience that they can co-exist, love and respect people who are different than they are and who may not view things the way they do,” he said. “We don't need the federal government or the state to dictate that we do this or how we do it because, ultimately, each school district is most accountable to its own local community.”
As for any future funding freeze that should come back into play, he and Le Roy School Superintendent Merritt Holly said that they do not have enough information or explanation about such a freeze from the federal level to make a statement about how it would affect their respective districts.
Batavia City Schools Superintendent Jason Smith agrees that “without details, the impact is hard to assess” for some of these measures, including the executive order pertaining to expanded school choice.
“This is yet to be determined how this would impact public school funding. Given our state aid is derived from student population and student need, this diversion of resources could potentially lead to greater inequality for public education,” Smith said. “Families do have choices now, and it is always difficult to make predictions when details are sparse.”
As for the order to end racial indoctrination, Smith was more definitive. Batavia City School District “is committed to protecting and serving all students, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, or gender,” he said, adding his comments about reinstating patriotic education. “Local history is taught in fourth grade, and all seniors take a Participation in Government class, which is a NYS graduation requirement. In addition, United States History and Government is taught in Grades seven, eight, and 11, which follow the New York State Learning Standards for Social Studies.”
Since the funding freeze was “very broad, had few specifics, and was brief,” it is unclear at this time what the impact would have been, he said.
How would the district compensate for the loss if such a freeze is enacted down the road? “The District would fund as much as possible through the general fund, but because these programs are funded through federal grants, the District's general fund could not sustain many of these programs, and there would need to be adjustments to the services provided to our students,” he said. “If the freeze is reinstated, the District would need to evaluate the programs funded through these federal grants and determine to the extent that they can be added to the general fund.”
Will you plan for such impromptu measures in this year's budget process? While our budgets are built conservatively, and while we plan for worse-case scenarios, this would be an especially challenging situation,” he said. “So yes, to the extent possible, we will be planning for such measures.”
As with everyone else, County Manager Matt Landers didn’t know what the “true exposure is of a freeze” because he doesn’t yet have a good understanding of which areas would be selected for this measure, he said.
“I don’t want to speculate without more details. For example, the county receives federal monies for airport and bridge infrastructure projects, but I have not seen anything that indicates this funding could be in jeopardy, nor do I think those pots of money are under any particular scrutiny.
If, as Senator Schumer has predicted, the current presidential administration attempts again for a funding freeze, how would that affect Genesee County? In the short term, the funding freeze could potentially impact cash flow for Genesee County government, but fortunately, we have a fund balance and cash reserves that should get us through this period,” Landers said. “I can’t speculate on how a permanent freeze would impact the County because we have numerous federal funding streams that affect different operations. Predicting which programs could be more than temporarily impacted would be just guessing at this point. Nonprofits in the community face a more difficult challenge if their federal funds get frozen because many of them operate on a shoestring budget where a delay in reimbursement could be devastating.”
How would you deal with it and recoup the loss? How much loss in funding could it mean? “If the County were to lose federal funding, we would look to see if we could end the program that the funding supported,” he said. “Unless the program is mandated, in which case this would be another example of an unfunded mandate.”
Do you think that the DEI protocols/restrictions will be implemented on a local basis, and tied to funding? Your thoughts about that? “Even if the federal government removes DEI language from their funding, NYS has equally or more stringent DEI policies in place, so I don’t anticipate much changing for county government,” he said.
Peggy Marone has been selected to receive the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce’s Wolcott “Jay” Humphrey III Excellence in Community Leadership Award. The Chamber’s Board of Directors gives this award, no public nominations are solicited. It is not an annual award and is only given when the Board feels there is a qualified candidate.
The Award is named after Mr. Wolcott “Jay” Humphrey III who was President of the Wyoming County Bank (Pavilion State Bank/Five Star Bank). He was extremely involved in the community as a volunteer and encouraged his employees to develop a commitment to volunteerism and community. He was a visionary that could see the big picture and made real improvements to his passionate beliefs.
Peggy has served as Leadership Genesee’s program director for the past 23 years. During this time, Peggy has shaped the leadership within our community with more than 600 alumni participating under her tutelage. Peggy challenges each graduating class to contribute and make an impact on Genesee County.
The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce will be celebrating its 53rd Annual Awards Ceremony on Saturday, March 1 at Batavia Downs, Park Road, Batavia. This is the County’s premier event that honors businesses and individuals for their achievements in business, community service and volunteerism.
Tickets are $65.00 per person or a table of 10 for $480.00.
The evening begins at 5 p.m. with Hors D’oevures, Entrée Tables & Cash Bar (no formal sit-down dinner is to be served). The Award Program starts at 7 p.m. where dessert and coffee will be served.
This year’s honorees are:
Wolcott “Jay” Humphrey III Excellence in Community Leadership Award: Peggy Marone
Business of the Year: H.E. Turner & Co.
Small Business of the Year: Southside Deli
Agricultural Business of the Year: Alexander Equipment
Entrepreneurial Business of the Year: Meraki Beauty, LLC
Special Recognition of the Year: Genesee County 4-H Critter Crew
Geneseean of the Year: Mickey Charters
Call Kelly J. Bermingham, at 343-7440, ext. 1026 or email kbermingham@genseeny.com to make your reservations or with any questions you may have.
If you are someone who is civic-minded, independent, ambitious, enjoys exploring creative solutions to problems, and wants to make an impact in your community, we want to talk to you about running for local office.
If you are interested in getting involved politically in any capacity, please reach out to us at geneseenydemocrats@gmail.com or www.geneseenydemocrats.org
The following local elected offices will be voted on in November 2025.
County Legislature District 7: City of Batavia Wards 1 & 6
County Legislature District 9: City of Batavia Wards 4 & 5
The NYS LTAP Center - Cornell Local Roads Program (NYSLTAP-CLRP) congratulates the Genesee County Department of Public Works as one of the winners in the 2024-25 Work Zone Equipment Package Grant - funded by a grant from the New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. We know that many agencies with small budgets have difficulty getting new work zone equipment, especially when it’s stolen or damaged due to circumstances beyond their control.
The equipment includes cones, safety vests, work zone signs, and stop-slow paddles for setting up a proper work zone. These materials help keep our highway and DPW crews safe when working out on the road.
“We know that many agencies have difficulty getting work zone equipment, especially when it’s stolen or damaged due to circumstances beyond their control. Good work zone signs protect the workers, improve communication with the public, and make the work more efficient by allowing it to be done faster.” said NYS LTAP Center - Cornell Local Roads Program Director, David Orr, PE.
The NYSLTAP-CLRP Work Zone Equipment Package Grant is for NYS highway and public works departments that have lost, damaged, or are in need of work zone equipment. This year’s grant, from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, allows the NYSLTAP–CLRP to purchase 30 work zone packages, each work zone package comes to just over $1,900.
The NYS LTAP Center - Cornell Local Roads Program provides technical assistance and training to highway and public works departments across New York State. Additional information can be found www.nysltap.org by contacting NYSLTAP-CLRP at 607-255-8033 or clrp@cornell.edu.
Pictured from left to right: Laura A. Geary, Tompkins Community Bank; Chris Chadbourne, Oxbo; Chris Suozzi, GCEDC; Jay Lazarony, GLOW Workforce Development Board; Matthew Gray, Alex’s Place. Tompkins Community Bank, Oxbo, and Alex’s Place are among the 92 employers that support Genesee County’s ACT Work Ready Communities initiative. Submitted photo.
Press Release:
Genesee County’s ACT Work Ready Communities campaign has quickly achieved its first milestone with the support of manufacturing, Main Street, and professional service employers.
ACT Work Ready Communities is a workforce initiative connecting area students to businesses and in-demand careers available across Genesee County. The program demonstrates a community’s engaged participation by its workforce and businesses through the ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC).
Genesee County has completed the first of four targets to achieve ACT Work Ready Communities certification. 92 businesses located in and/or serving Genesee County have signed up as supporters of the initiative, matching the program’s goal.
“Genesee County is the second county in New York state to pursue work ready community status, and as a result of an expedited sign-up process by local businesses we see the region’s commitment to addressing workforce development needs,” said Fred McConnel, Senior Director, ACT Workforce. “As this initiative continues, more connections between these employers and the current and emerging workforces will grow.”
To reach the Work Ready Communities goal, Genesee County will also need to achieve targets for participation by students, incumbent workers, and job seekers in NCRC for applied math, graphic literacy, and workplace documents. This assessment can be utilized to assist individuals in their job searches and by employers to match skills with job opportunities.
“As we grow our region's workforce readiness, there are many great pathways for our youth and adults to grow their careers. Through ACT WorkKeys assessments, apprenticeships, and training programs, these are paths to success. And with direct support available for qualifying jobseekers and workers to complete training and start their new careers, we are truly ready to help you get ready,” added Jay Lazarony, Executive Director, GLOW Workforce Development Board.
Genesee County businesses that have signed up to date include companies in advanced manufacturing, food processing, healthcare, education, professional services, hospitality, and more.
“The National Career Readiness Certificates will fast-track current and future job candidates who are exploring career opportunities and provide companies across Genesee County with a pool of applicants that can easily match their skills with job openings,” said Chris Chadbourne, Plant Manager, Oxbo.
“By supporting the ACT Work Ready Communities, we are supporting the future of our workforce,” said Matthew Gray, owner, Alex’s Place. “Encouraging students, job seekers, and incumbent workers to gain a nationally recognized certificate and demonstrate their skills provides us with applicants ready for work.”
Any business located in and/or serving Genesee County can sign up to be a certified organization that recognizes or recommends the NCRC for applicants.
With this achievement, Work Ready Communities supporters are focused on achieving the next set of goals by collaborating with schools, workforce institutions, and other stakeholders to recruit candidates and local companies to participate in the ACT Work Ready Communities initiative.
“Partners across economic development and workforce development have demonstrated, through the ACT Work Ready Communities initiative, an ecosystem that allows our local and growing business to thrive,” said Chris Suozzi, Executive Vice President of Business and Workforce Development, Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC). “ACT Work Ready Communities shows how we will continue to prepare our students and residents for in-demand, good-paying careers.”
To see the list of participating businesses please visit https://www.workreadycommunities.org/NY/037/businesses.
The Genesee County Youth Board is looking for nominations for its annual Youth Recognition Banquet. There are three awards presented at the Youth Recognition Banquet:
Youth Recognition Award - this award recognizes young people who have performed exceptional service to the community and/or have assumed extraordinary roles in their families. Typically, the best candidates for this award are high school students, but we also know there are 12-, 13-, and 14-year-olds who exemplify distinctive qualities of service.
Adult Volunteer - this award recognizes an adult who provides service as a volunteer to youth in Genesee County.
Adult Youth Worker - this award recognizes a youth service professional whose work surpasses normal expectations.
Recipients will be honored at the Youth Recognition Awards Banquet on Tuesday, April 22. Nominations are due by Friday, February 14.
For more information or to receive nomination forms, please call the Genesee County Youth Bureau at 585-344-3960 or Genesee.youthbureau@dfa.state.ny.us .
The forms are also on the Youth Bureau page of the Genesee County website, www.geneseeny.gov/Department-Content/Youth-Bureau.
Genesee County has been notified that it will be awarded $8139 for Phase 41 federal Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) funds through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, as appropriated by Congress through FY2024.
Applications are due from qualified organizations by January 31.
The National Board consists of the U. S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), American Red Cross; Catholic Charities, USA; National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA; The Jewish Federations of North America, The Salvation Army; and, United Way Worldwide. More about the national program is available online at www.efsp.unitedway.org.
A Local Board is charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help supplement food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country. The Local Board will determine how the funds awarded to Genesee County are to be distributed among local qualifying agencies.
The Genesee County Emergency Food & Shelter Program (EFSP) Board is encouraging local agencies that meet requirements to apply for the funds. Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private voluntary non-profits or units of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an adequate accounting system, 4) practice non-discrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a private voluntary organization, have an active voluntary board of directors. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.
The deadline for applications to be submitted online is January 31. Non-profit organizations or public agencies interested in applying for funding may contact local board chair Katrina Standish at 585-589-5605, ext. 103 or via email at KStandish@caoginc.org.
As 2025 has run in the front door, it’s worth taking a look atwhere last year went and what’s happened throughout Genesee County in the world of business, people, construction projects and events during 2024 and that are continuing into this New Year.
The Spa at Artemis, a longtime beauty salon, abruptly closed its doors on Downtown Batavia’s Main Street. Still, not long after business owner Kate Willson of Meraki Beauty announced in April that she was going to transform the space as her own, and she opened The Beauty Lounge in July with a fun boutique in front and pampering spa services in the back half. She also accommodated customers that were holding gift certificates from the prior beauty salon by honoring them at a discount.
File Photo of the opening of Healthy Living Center and GLOW YMCA in downtown Batavia. Photo by Howard Owens
Across the street, GLOW YMCA kept its doors open while an entirely new construction project went upward alongside it, creating a wall of windows along Main Street and a Healthy Living Center that merged Rochester Regional Health United Memorial Medical Center and YMCA programs into two floors of wellness. Healthy Living opened toward the end of December, and the YMCA opened for physical fitness and child care services on Jan. 2.
File Photo of Assistant City Manager Erik Fix at one of the new entrances at Batavia City Centre. Photo by Howard Owens
Over at Batavia City Centre, yet more construction has taken hold of the former mall, removing the concourse stage and old silo-type entrances and putting in more contemporary-looking entryways with more windows and light. Another new business opened at the Centre, Renee Marie Aesthetics and Wellness, and more are to follow with the purchase of properties by Tyler Crawford, with plans for an indoor golf facility, andGuillermo Leon, with plans for Euphoria bar and lounge.
Buckets have been removed, except for portions of Main Street 56 Theater, which has been in the throes of negotiations with the city over back rent owed from 2021, when the theater fell behind due to pandemic shutdowns and the inability to open and draw any revenue. Batavia Players members Patrick Burk and Jo Coburn have said that the backstage green room has had issues with leaking water, and the Players hope the situation can be worked out as they are trying to work out a payment plan.
File Photo of Bonnie Woodward and Karie Credi in front of the future Shush Wine Bar on Jackson Street in downtown Batavia. Photo by Joanne Beck
Down on Jackson Street, a new Shush Wine Bar — the unofficial name for now — is to open in early 2025 at the former Gilliana’s Restaurant, across the street from where Save-A-Lot closed its doors, leaving a gap for a downtown grocery store and a sign with the words “Stay Tuned” in the glass doors as a tease that something may be coming in the future. A call to Victor Gautieri, property owner and landlord to the former grocery tenant, for comment did not get a response.
At the corner of Jackson and Main streets, the House of Bounce reopened after moving from the east side on Harvester Avenue, filling two floors of a void left by the Next Level Fitness when it closed in 2019 after 10 years.
With goals to improve the east side business climate, revitalize a deteriorating Harvester Center in need of rehab and renovation and increase the city’s tax base, Tabelski recommended — and City Council agreed to — a Restore NY grant application for up to $1 million.
“The Harvester Campus project qualifies for Restore NY funding for an extensive demolition project,” Tabelski said in a memo to council. “The owners of the Harvester Campus are looking to strategically demolish six buildings at the campus and commit to redeveloping the remaining buildings into a multi-use campus similar to Larkinville in Buffalo.
File Photo of Matt Hlushak and his children at CleanHit Services at Harvester Center. Photo by Joanne Beck
Meanwhile, a couple of new businesses, including CleanHit Services and Synapse Artistry Tattoo, have moved into the Harvester Center.
Continuing east, Tim Call sold his longtime Empire Tractor business in Stafford, but is remaining involved as an employee, which was welcome news for customers. James Pontillo faced some contention with the Stafford Town Board over an unresolved Odd Fellows Hall.
Back in downtown Batavia, Derek Geib bought and opened up O’Lacy’s in a similar Irish pub fashion, Audrey’s Bakery opened inside of GO ART! on East Main Street, and projects have begun at the former Batavia Showtime Theater — to turn it into a vampy live performance venue — and at the nicknamed Carr’s Reborn site at Main and Jackson streets, turning the former grand department store into market-rate apartments.
By September, both municipalities drafted a new wastewater agreement, and it was believed that HP Hood would be able to proceed with its project; however, a Hood official set the record straight by stating that the project was not going to happen in Batavia due to the delay, and it would be moving that particular project elsewhere.
The new location is part of the GCEDC-created industrial park, Apple Tree Acres, which already includes Liberty Pumps, Craft Cannery), All Season Party Tent Rentals, GE Renewable Energy, Insurance Auto Auctions, and Leonard Bus Sales.
Mark Sen. Chuck Schumer’s words, he promised in August 2024 that a year from then, there would be “hundreds" of local workers employed at the Edwards Vacuum factory that was celebrated at the time.
“What makes us so happy about this project is J-O-B-S," said Sen. Charles Schumer at the groundbreaking for Edwards Vacuum in the town of Alabama. "Jobs, right here. In just over a year, hundreds of local workers will be employed at this factory behind me, where they will build some of the most sophisticated, cutting-edge equipment for the semiconductor industry, not just in New York and not just in America, but in the world. This will be one of the world-class plants right here in Genesee County."
The clock has begun ticking.
As for the promises of Plug Power, that project has apparently been stalled locally.
Plug Power has preliminary approval for a $1.6 billion loan from the DOE to help it build more fuel plants. The company is aiming to become the nation's first vertically integrated green hydrogen producer, providing customers with fuel, products, and support.
Chris Suozzi, VP for business and workforce development at the Genesee County Economic Development Center, reportedly told a Washington, D.C.-based commercial real estate firm that Plug Power's STAMP project is on hold.
Asked to authenticate the quote, Suozzi said, "No comment."
According to Heatmap, Suozzi spoke to PRP Real Estate Management. The firm recorded the phone call.
“They’re not ready to go," Suozzi reportedly said. "They’re on pause. We don’t know what’s going to happen with them at this point.”
File Photo of Paul Guglielmo at the podium during expansion announcement. Photo by Howard Owens.
On the outskirts of the county, eastward toward Bergen, there’s been growth at Appletree with grants awarded and winning a Grow NY competition, enabling Craft Cannery to expand.
The proposed $1.465 million project enables Craft Cannery to expand operations at Apple Tree Acres by adding 4,000 sq. ft. to its existing 5,000 sq. foot facility. The USDA-certified contract manufacturer provides dozens of customers with the capacity to ramp up the production of sauces, dressings, marinades, and other foods, produce small-batch foods, and pilot unique recipes for commercialization.
The expansion was said to create four new full-time jobs and retain six full-time positions. Craft Cannery also won a $500,000 grant at the 2022 Grow-NY Global Food and Agribusiness Competition that supports the expansion that was announced in April.
And westward in Pembroke, all sorts of developments-in-progress have broken out, including at the Thruway travel plaza, the Nexgistics distribution warehouse and an apartment complex.
Who were the most-notables of 2024?
Tom Sanfratello
Claiming the most honorable, by far, goes to the late Tom Sanfratello, a hero who died tragically in the call of duty on March 10 at Batavia Downs. Named Officer of the Year by his own Genesee County Sheriff’s Office,Sanfratello has most rightfully been talked about, memorialized and remembered as a great officer, friend, family member and an all-around good person.
Next up, perhaps more controversial, is Byron Brown, the new chief executive officer of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. at Batavia Downs.
Byron Brown
No wallflower, Brown has been ever-present at meetings and events, announcements and in related news articles since the beginning of his term in October.
The city of Batavia lost a walking encyclopedia of facts when City Historian Larry Barnes died on June 21, 2024.
Larry Barnes
The position wasn’t just a job to Barnes, especially since he wasn’t even paid for most of his time there. He had a genuine passion for research and knowledge about all things Batavia.
The gauntlet was passed from longtime Sheriff William Sheron to Joseph Graff after Sheron announced he was retiring from the post at the end of 2024, and Graff was elected.
Well-known Batavia Pastor Marty Macdonald made the news after he was accused of sexual abuse by his family’s former babysitter, Melissa Hobson, for several years as a young girl. He denied the allegations through an attorney representing him and City Church. He had stepped down as senior pastor two years before the resurfaced allegations but hasn't been involved in church life since August.
Events of Note
A promotional flyer distributed by Savarino Management in 2023.
Although it didn’t shut down in 2024, we would be remiss not to mention the ongoing saga of a sad and stalled Ellicott Station apartment complex sitting lifeless on Ellicott Street as city and county officials remain tight-lipped, offering little to no more comments about the situation.
Having progressed to the point of management notifying people that they were chosen to live there as tenants to ceasing all construction and pulling the rug out from under prospective apartment dwellers, the property now sits idle and vulnerable to the wintry elements.
File Photo by Howard Owens.
The vacant JC Penney building at Batavia City Centre was announced that it will be going up for auction on Jan. 16 after its California owner defaulted on mortgage payments to the bank; city officials unveiled plans to sell the Brisbane Mansion, which currently houses the city police department and a section of the parking lot between the Penney site and Bank Street. Another plan is in the works to market Creek Side near the Tonawanda, but details with FEMA and the flood map need to be worked out first, city officials have said.
File Photo of Baskin Livestock property after a Nov. 9, 2024 fire. Photo by Howard Owens.
Considered to be the city’s largest structure fire in recent years, the blaze at Baskin Livstock was reported early on a Saturday morning on Nov. 9, and city firefighters continued to hit hot spots days afterward, Batavia City Fire Chief Josh Graham had said.
The call came in at 7:47 a.m. at 20 Howard St., Batavia, and Batavia patrol officers arrived on scene first and confirmed smoke and flames, which led to an immediate second alarm. When the first fire crew arrived he said, they realized the fire was going to require more resources so a third alarm was called.
It took hours to fight the fire, which as of 2 p.m. that Saturday, wasn't completely extinguished as firefighters worked to extinguish various hot spots. During a City Council meeting the following Monday, firefighters were still checking at the scene to catch any stubborn hot spots that remained.
File Photo of Backhoe Joe's after fire destroyed the building. Photo by Howard Owens.
Both Chief Josh Graham, City Fire, and Capt. Robert Fix, had said at the time that they had no clue how the fire started or why it spread so quickly. The building was a total loss as the property owner had no insurance on it.
An initial caller at about 12:10 p.m. Jan. 12, 2024 reported smoke coming from one of the windows. A few minutes later, Fix was leaving the County Courthouse, where Engine 17 had been dispatched earlier for a medical call, and he saw a tower of smoke to the east and immediately called for a second alarm.
Continuing the organization’s work to grow the economy, workforce, and communities of Genesee County, the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) supported 13 projects in 2024.
These projects spread across Genesee County’s business parks and other sites are estimated to produce an economic impact of $202 million. These include new municipal revenues and salaries for careers generated by over $1 billion of investment.
“The GCEDC is pleased to support the growth of our economy, workforce, and the tax base of Genesee County through projects that increase our manufacturing sector, renewable energy generation, and housing,” said Mark Masse, GCEDC President and CEO. “These investments have a significant impact that will grow over the next decade and beyond.”
In 2024, projects supported by the GCEDC pledged the creation of 96 new full-time equivalent positions and the retention of 513 positions.
In the town of Bergen, GE Bergen Owner, LLC’s $42.4 million project includes a new headquarters and manufacturing facility for Oxbo. The agricultural equipment manufacturer will increase their workforce to 200. The facility broke ground in September.
In the city of Batavia, Graham Corporation’s $17.59 million project includes a 28,867-square-foot expansion. The heat transfer equipment manufacturer will increase their workforce to 391. The facility broke ground in August.
The GCEDC supported market-rate housing developments in the towns of Batavia and Pembroke, with MedTech Landing, LLC building 80 units and Countryside Apartments building 96 units.
The GCEDC’s 2024 projects plan to build or renovate over 445,000 square feet of facilities, including Rochester Davis-Fetch's 32,500 square-foot renovation of a village of Le Roy facility and Craft Cannery's 4,000 square-foot expansion in the town of Bergen.
Six solar energy developments in the towns of Batavia, Byron, Elba, LeRoy, Oakfield, and Pavilion will generate 524.275 megawatts of electricity.
“This kind of success cannot happen without the support of the Genesee County Legislature, all our local municipalities, and the companies who are willing to invest capital in our community and create jobs,” said Masse. “We also must recognize the number of hours that the GCEDC Board members have invested in reviewing the details for all these projects. Their knowledge, guidance, and support have been invaluable to our success.”
In total, projects supported by the GCEDC in 2024 will generate a $16 benefit to the local community for every $1 of local incentives.
Officials sworn in on Friday, Sheriff Joseph Graff, Undersheriff Brad Mazur, County Treasurer Kevin Andrews, Coroner Drew Klotzbach, Coroner Karen Lang, and Republican Election Commissioner Scott German. Photo by Howard Owens.
Photos from Friday's swearing-in ceremony at the Old County Courthouse for Genesee County officials.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Melissa L. Gaebler, deputy election commissioner Photo by Howard Owens.
Retired Sheriff Gary Maha, Sheriff Joseph Graff, outgoing Sheriff William Sheron Photo by Howard Owens.
Outgoing Sheriff William Sheron, Sheriff Joseph Graff, Undersheriff Brad Mazur, Chief Deputy Brian Frieday. Photo by Howard Owens.
United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes has finalized agreements with 89 nonprofits to receive multi-year funding grants. Funding distribution is set to begin in January and will total more than $6 million in 2025.
United Way’s award of two, three, and five-year program grants is part of its strategy to deliver impact at scale. The strategy combines United Way’s traditional multi-year grants with additional funding opportunities and nonprofit resources to address the diverse needs throughout the region.
“Our multi-year grants are one way we are helping to support the critical work of local nonprofits and drive impact in our region,” said Jaime Saunders, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes. “Thank you to the generous donors who contributed to our 2024 annual campaign to make these grants possible. We are looking forward to closing gaps and opening opportunities alongside our inspiring partners.”
United Way also recently opened applications for two of their one-year and activity-based funding opportunities--summer program and synergy grants--with more to come in early 2025. Nonprofits are encouraged to learn more and apply to these funding opportunities at unitedwayrocflx.org/nonprofits.
United Way is committed to supporting impactful and essential initiatives so everyone in our region can thrive. Learn more about how you can make an impact by donating to United Way.
The following nonprofits will receive the first installment of multi-year grant funding from United Way in 2025:
Action for A Better Community
All Babies Cherished Pregnancy Assistance Center
American Red Cross, Greater Rochester Chapter
ANT Alliance
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester NY
Boy Scouts of America, Seneca Waterways Council
Boy Scouts of America, Western New York Scout Council
Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester
Cancer Action
CASA of Rochester-Monroe County
Catholic Charities Family & Community Services
Catholic Charities of the Finger Lakes
Catholic Charities Steuben/Livingston
Center for Employment Opportunities
Challenger Miracle Field of WNY
Chances and Changes
Charles Settlement House
Community Place of Greater Rochester
Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Rochester, Inc.
Dansville Food Pantry
Deaf Refugee Advocacy
Family Counseling of the Finger Lakes
Family Promise of Greater Rochester
Family Promise of Ontario County
Flower City Noire Collective
Geneseo Groveland Emergency Food Pantry
Gillam Grant Community Center
Goodwill of the Finger Lakes
Harbor House of Rochester
Hillside Children's Center
Hope Center of Le Roy
Hope585
Ibero-American Action League
Keeping Our Promise
Legacy Makers
Legal Aid Society of Rochester NY
Legal Assistance of Western New York
Lifespan of Greater Rochester
Literacy Volunteers of Wayne County
Margaret Home
Medical Motor Service of Rochester and Monroe County
MHA Rochester/Monroe County
Mission Fulfilled 2030
Monroe Community College Foundation
Mt. Hope Family Center
Partnership for Ontario County
PathStone Corp
Person Centered Housing Options
Prosper Rochester
Providence Housing Development Corporation
Reach Advocacy
Reentry Association of WNY
Roc Royal
Roc the Peace
Rochester General Hospital
Rochester Museum and Science Center
Salvation Army, Canandaigua
Salvation Army, Geneva
Society for the Protection and Care of Children
Spot-Canandaigua
St. Vincent DePaul Society
The Center for Teen Empowerment
The Center for Youth Services
The Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester
The Housing Council at PathStone
The Salvation Army (Rochester Area Services)
The Salvation Army- Batavia Corps
Trillium Health
United Youth Music and Arts
UR Medicine Home Care Certified Services
Urban League of Rochester New York
URMC Noyes Health - Home Safe Home Program
Venture Compassionate Ministries
Veterans Outreach Center
Victim Resource Center of the Finger Lakes
Volunteer Legal Services Project of Monroe County
Volunteers of America Upstate New York
W A V E Women
Warrior House Of WNY
Wayne County Action Program
Wayne Pre-Trial Services
Western New York Rural Area Health Education Center
Genesee County is pleased to announce the appointment of Katie L. Stein as the new Deputy County Treasurer. A lifelong resident, Katie brings a wealth of experience and a strong educational background to the position.
Treasurer-elect Kevin Andrews expressed enthusiasm about Katie joining the team, stating, “I am excited to work with Katie as we continue to serve the residents of Genesee County with transparency and fiscal responsibility.”
Katie resides in Le Roy and has deep roots in the Genesee County community. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Hilbert College and a Master of Science in Forensic Accounting from The College at Brockport, which showcases her commitment to excellence and specialization in finance.
With extensive experience in compliance and financial management, Katie’s background positions her to bring valuable expertise and leadership to the Treasurer’s Office. Genesee County is confident that her knowledge and commitment to the community will further strengthen the office’s mission of fiscal stewardship.
Katie will officially begin her role as Deputy County Treasurer in January 2025.
