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Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R, C-Batavia) was proud to honor Chapin International and Max Pies Furniture, two staple businesses in Western New York, on Tuesday, Oct. 29, for being officially designated on the New York Historic Business Preservation Registry (HBPR). Established in 1920, the HBPR highlights the legacy of local businesses that have made a significant impact in their communities, offering them recognition and support to continue growing and serving the public.

On Tuesday, Oct. 29, Assemblyman Hawley presented certificates to both businesses in honor of their recognition. This recognition represents their long-standing service and dedication to their community, enriching the Batavia area.

Assemblyman Hawley admires the businesses, stating, “Both Chapin International and Max Pies Furniture have built a legacy of hard work, integrity and service to the people of Batavia and the greater part of Western New York. Recognizing these historic businesses is about honoring their contributions to our communities and supporting their continued success,” said Hawley. “Their presence has been a pillar in Batavia, and I am honored to celebrate their achievements.”

The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “The New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry is a remarkably diverse collection of businesses across the state that have demonstrated generations of dedication to their local economies and communities. We welcome the opportunity to recognize businesses like Max Pies Furniture Company through this honorific program and appreciate receiving nominations from state elected officials to help this registry grow. With more than 200 businesses now listed, it is a fascinating history lesson on New Yorkers’ ongoing ambition, ingenuity and perseverance.”

The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “The New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry is a remarkably diverse collection of businesses across the state that have demonstrated generations of dedication to their local economies and communities. We welcome the opportunity to recognize businesses like Chapin Manufacturing through this honorific program and appreciate receiving nominations from state elected officials, who will help this registry continue to grow. With over 200 businesses now listed, it is a fascinating history lesson on New Yorkers’ ambition, ingenuity, and perseverance.”

Press release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney decisively won the 2024 General Election for NY-24.
 
“I am honored by the overwhelming support from the voters of NY-24 tonight. Our grassroots campaign was able to reach voters in every corner of this new district with our message of economic growth, a secure border and safe streets,” Tenney said. “Since representing NY-24, our office has delivered millions for this community, stood up for local taxpayers against oppressive governments in Albany and Washington and remain the only Member of Congress to explain every vote I take on the House Floor in detail. Our unparalleled transparency and aggressive advocacy have resonated with voters across all party lines. While our election may be over, the fight has just begun to ensure President Trump’s victory tonight along with key Congressional Districts. As the founder and Chair of the Election Integrity Caucus, we will continue to closely monitor the swing states and swing districts to ensure that only legal votes are counted," Tenney continued.

At the time of this release, Claudia Tenney held a commanding lead.

Pub Coffee Hub owner Rob Credi has mixed but confident feelings about his latest decision to close the shop at 56 Harvester Ave., Batavia, after a four-year run.

Credi announced the news on social media Tuesday and talked to The Batavian about prioritizing his work and family life. Pub Coffee Hub will close on Nov. 16.

“There’s nothing wrong with the business; it’s a profitable business. I think that we really exceeded my expectations. I feel like we really hit the ceiling for as how much we can grow in this space. I was actively looking for somewhere to move the coffee shop to, which is why I was originally engaged in conversations with (realtor) Gavin when the whole Gilliana's thing came up. But there wasn’t really anything that was worth moving the whole shop into … that would give us the greatest opportunity to expand and grow. So that was my first choice was to move it somewhere … and the second option was to see if someone wanted to take it over, whether it was buying the business as a whole and continuing this Pub Hub or just buying the assets and starting their own coffee shop,” Credit said, explaining that nothing worked out for any of those options. “And ultimately, you know, my life will be so much easier if I just wash my hands and call it a day. It’s been a great run. No regrets. We did incredibly well, and I’m happy with what we were able to do.

“So 99% of me is very sad, but the 1% is like, selfishly speaking, happy to get that off of my plate,” he said. “It’s nice because my staff is great; they really do run the day-to-day for me, but there’s still so much that I still need to do that they can’t do for me. So, being able to take that off my plate, we prioritize my young son at home, more that I want to be more available for, and then with my actual full-time job and everything, it’s just going to make my life a little bit easier.”

He currently has five part-time staff, and he is very grateful to them for being dedicated workers, as he is the customers, many who were regulars and most likely will continue to get their coffee and food orders up to the last day of closing, which is Nov. 16, he said. 

Credi considered staying open a while longer, but he didn’t want to get into the holiday season, when Pub Hub sold a lot of gift cards, and then have to deal with closing later and the potential for issuing refunds and unused cards. So, mid-November would give a couple of weeks’ notice to everyone and not get into that, he said.

An entrepreneur at heart, Credi bucked the odds by opening the coffee shop on the east end of town, moving into the Harvester Center complex formerly occupied by Moon Java and building up a business frequented not only by coffee lovers but by folks who enjoyed mingling and meeting and conducting business and arts events. He served as a spokesman of sorts when the avenue was torn up and parking became an issue, advocating for better communication between small businesses and municipal leaders. 

Credi also opened the Crapshoot Kitchen & Commissary and Xavmen Ramen just down the street in the same complex, closing them after a stint of finding some success with the takeout ramen place and hosting a Puerto Rican takeout restaurant for a short time. 

He continues to serve as business manager for Shush Wine Bar LLC (the actual name will change once opened next spring 2025) at 41 Jackson St. in the former Gilliana’s restaurant, in downtown Batavia, and looks forward to that venture owned by Bonnie Woodward and family. 

Throughout all of his endeavors, Credi understands and appreciates the patronage of loyal customers. On social media, he expressed how “incredibly grateful” he is for the support of his family, wife, customer base, and “trustworthy” staff.

“I couldn’t have taken it on without them,” he said,” “for making Pub Hub what it was.”

Isabell Herdlein, a 1st grader at Jackson Primary School, rode to school today in City Fire's ladder truck as her prize for winning the department's annual coloring contest at her school.  Joining her in the photo with the firefighters is her teacher, Lexi Wahr.

It's Election Day 2024 across the nation, and all polls are open in Genesee County. 

As one voter noted this morning, with the good weather, there's no excuse not to vote (if you haven't already).

Polls close at 9 p.m.

Lagging sales tax growth was the biggest challenge in drafting a proposed Genesee County budget, Matt Landers says. For 2025, the budget has tacked on $6.2 million more from this year’s total to accommodate several cost increases.

The county manager has carved out a budget of $189,249,435, which includes a tax rate of $7.57 — a 51-cent decrease from the current rate of $8.08 due to increased property assessments, he said this week.

“Large drivers of the increased budget were New York State retirement increases, health care cost increases, jail operating cost increases, preschool supportive health services program cost increases, assigned counsel cost increases, just to name some,” he said Monday to The Batavian. 

A budget presentation will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Courthouse Chambers of the Old County Courthouse, 7 Main St., Batavia. 

The budget increase is 3.4% more than from the 2024 adopted budget due to those increases and a lack of sales tax growth “to help offset the various cost increases,” Landers said.

If this budget is adopted by the county Legislature, it would mean an annual bill of $757 for a property assessed at $100,000, versus this year's tab of $808, for a decrease of $51 if a homeowner has not had a property assessment increase.

However, if a home's value went up from $100,000 to $125,000, it would mean that home that cost a yearly $808 would now cost $946.25, for an overall yearly increase of $138.25 due to that increased assessment. 

A brand new $70 million county jail on Route 5 has meant a debt service for several years to come, and those payments began in 2023. However, there are other considerations to go along with the larger size and responsibilities of the facility, Landers said. 

“The proposed budget has ten new correction officer positions created for the new county jail,” he said. “The medical costs at the jail are increasing due to the utilization of an additional contracted nurse in the 2025 budget.”

Which department raised the most concern in terms of cost?
“Jail, preschool supportive health services cost increases in which the county Public Health Department oversees, assigned counsel cost increases and 730 mental health restoration costs are all areas that continue to be closely monitored,” he said.

As an example of the increases, preschool program costs have gone from the 2024 budget of $2.7 million to the proposed 2025 budget of $4.6 million due to the program's rising demands and related costs of transportation, personnel, and benefits.

During his annual report to the Legislature in February, Public Health Director Paul Pettit discussed how transportation, in particular, was driving up pre-school costs, projecting a tab of nearly $1 million for busing alone in 2024.

Transportation and center program costs have been rising as an "underfunded mandate," Pettit had said.

“One of the drivers that’s really expensive is that more kids get referred.  You probably saw on the governor's proposal she's proposing a 5 percent rate increase across the board. And then there's a 4 percent rider for rural counties, which we would fall under that bucket. So that'd be a 9 percent rate increase for early intervention,” he said. “And this is one of those programs that, again, we don't have a lot of control over the services that are provided.” 

Landers has earmarked $1.14 million for preschool transportation in 2025. Mental health court is slated for an extra $200,000 in 2025, for a total of $500,000.

How is the water project fitting in -- debt service, the planning for work to be done this next year? 
“Besides the annual $515,000 General Fund contribution to water from sales tax, which has been taking place for 20+ years, all operations of the water fund continue to be paid for out of operating revenues of the water fund,” he said. “Planning continues for Phase 3 of the water system.”

Circumstances may not have been perfect, but Landers is pleased with what he plans to present on Wednesday, he said.

“I am happy with the efforts made by my department heads and staff to deliver responsible budget requests that meet the demands of the community while providing quality service and do so in an efficient manner,” he said. “I would say the reduction in sales tax is a challenge that doesn’t present itself very often, which makes this budget a little more unique.” 

The Legislature will meet on Nov. 13 to discuss the budget and include any public feedback to make further recommendations if necessary. The Ways & Means Committee will then review the budget and refer it to the full Legislature for vote. A vote to adopt the budget is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Nov. 25 in Courthouse Chambers. 

Not pictured:

Top 10 Responders were Alex Summers, 90; Ryan Thompson, 85; Todd Thompson, 85; James Nichols, 83; Rob Crossen, 78; John Summers, 67; Johsh Mullen, 65; Terry Thompson, 61; Max Maerten, 35; and Gary Patnode Jr., 28.

10 Years of Service - Leah Thompson and Jamie Belluscio.

15 Years - David Kinney and Gary Patnode Sr.

35 Years - Rick Brunea and Alison Thompson

70 Years - Hank Mudrzynksi

Press Release:

As the holiday season approaches, the Salvation Army in Batavia is excited to announce the launch of its annual Red Kettle Campaign, set to begin in November 2024. 

This initiative aims to raise funds to provide warm clothing, holiday meals, and gifts to families in need, as well as to support year-round family service programs. The campaign presents an opportunity to spread joy and make a meaningful impact in our community.

In light of declining contributions in recent years, we are actively seeking support from local businesses and organizations to help achieve our campaign goals. This year, we aim to raise $100,000, with a target of securing $50,000 before the bell ringing begins outside select locations. 

We are inviting local partners to join us in this effort through:

Donations: Financial contributions, gift items, or resources that directly benefit those we serve.

Volunteers: Individuals or teams willing to assist with bell ringing at various locations during the campaign.

Christmas Partnerships: Sponsorship opportunities at different levels, including Press Release sponsors, T-shirt sponsors, and Social Media sponsors.

For more information contact Bradley Moore at 585-343-6284.

Press Release:

This year EMTs, Laura Platt and Tatum Higby from Byron Fire Department’s Rescue Squad, took first place in the NYS Basic Life Support competition. 

The EMS Games held this year at the Riverside Convention Center in Rochester on October 16-20 brought together teams of EMTs and Paramedics from across New York State for an exciting competition sponsored by Aura Prep and the BMCC Paramedic Program. The event featured a series of challenging, real-world scenarios designed to test participants' clinical skills, quick thinking, and teamwork under pressure.

Teams demonstrated their expertise in emergency response, patient care, and problem-solving, vying for top honors and recognition. The sponsorship by BMCC and Aura Prep highlighted their commitment to advancing EMS education and fostering a robust and skilled community of first responders across the state.

The workshop is designed to help first responders hone their knowledge and collect CME credits to maintain their license with the state. The last one held in Rochester was in 2017.

Besides Platt and Higby, Brad Nickerson, Squad Captain attended. Higby is an energetic 17-year-old who recently completed her Basic EMT Training in March of this year while attending Byron-Bergen High School as a junior.

Higby currently has completed all her CME credits for recertification, which is 3 years away. Higby was so excited when she learned that Vital Signs was being held in Rochester; she was eager to learn even more.

This year the council added a new twist for all attending. The games were held at the Strong Museum of Play on Saturday, October 19 in the morning. Each company was encouraged to sign up a team that would then participate in a “real life scenario.” Higby urged her mentor, Platt, to team up and compete. Higby created the team’s name, “Lil Legs of Byron.” 

Just before the “call” the teams consisting of two people were given a few minutes to familiarize themselves with the equipment available for them to use; and they were allowed 20 minutes to complete the call. 

The scenario that the Byron team was in a restaurant setting where an employee was having trouble breathing. The team accessed the scene and the patient, who was alone in the restaurant. The team used all their skills as they treated the patient with oxygen, EpiPen and albuterol to keep the patient alive because they were notified that the ambulance was 40 minutes away. 

The two teams that were in first place in both categories, EMT and Advanced, received medals. Both winners were also awarded a large trophy cup that they can keep and display for the year. It will eventually have their names and date engraved on it.

Team Lil Legs of Byron took the EMT first place. Second place went to Wayne County and third place to Madison County. The Byron Fire Department will proudly display their trophy in their hall.

Jon H. Bush, 41, of Batavia, is charged with menacing a peace officer, criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, and obstructing governmental administration 2nd. Bush is accused of threatening two probation officers with a knife at an unspecified location and preventing them from arresting another person during a home visit on June 28. He was arrested on Oct. 18. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed. Cindy L. Bush, his mother, was also charged with obstructing governmental administration and issued an appearance ticket.

Shawn P. Wolcott, 42, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 3rd, criminal possession of stolen property 5th, and petit larceny.  Wolcott broke into a building on Harvester Avenue and stole property on Oct. 12.  He was arraigned and released.

Carolyn L. Kurek, 82, of Batavia, is charged with unlawful imprisonment 2nd and harassment 2nd. Kurek is accused of blocking another person from leaving a room at an apartment building on West Main Street, Batavia, on Oct. 16. She allegedly struck a person with her cane. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Kamau S. Freeman, 30, of Buffalo, was arrested on Oct. 15 on a warrant. Freeman was previously arrested on July 23 and charged with robbery 3rd, grand larceny 4th, criminal contempt 1st, and criminal mischief 3rd. The warrant was issued after he allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned and released.

Morgan A. Schoonmaker, 28, of Perry, and Jaqulyn A. Dueppengiesser, 40, of Perry, are charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Schoonmaker and Dueppengiesser are accused of possessing narcotics during a traffic stop on Pearl Street on Oct. 15. They were issued appearance tickets.

Emily D. Shea, 29, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Shea was stopped on Oct. 10 on East Main Street by a Batavia patrol officer for allegedly driving putout headlights. She was issued tickets and released.

Ryan A. Decillis, 32, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Decillis was allegedly caught speeding after Batavia PD received a traffic complaint on Oct. 5 (location not disclosed). He was issued tickets and released.

Kristen L. Kocent, 36, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Kocent allegedly passed narcotics during an investigation on Oct. 13 at an undisclosed location. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Douglas G. Goodwin, Jr., 33, of Alabama, is charged with petit larceny. Goodwin is accused of stealing a gold chain from another person on Sept. 19. He was arrested on Oct. 21. He was arraigned and released.

Alicia M. Lyons, 45, Batavia, is charged with resisting arrest. Lyons is accused of resisting police on Oct. 17 when they attempted to take her into custody on multiple warrants. She was arraigned in City Court and was released.

Tek B. Giri, 46, of Scottsville, is charged with DWI. Giri was stopped on Clinton Street on Oct. 17 after Batavia PD received complaints of an erratic driver. Giri was issued tickets and released.

Mark J. Schultz, 38, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Schultz was stopped on Oct. 20 on West Main Street by a Batavia patrol officer who reportedly observed him driving without tail lights. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Francis A. Coombs, III, 57, of Batavia, was arrested on Oct. 16 on a warrant. Coombs was initially arrested on Aug. 25 and charged with criminal mischief 4th. He was issued an appearance ticket but allegedly failed to appear in court. Coombs was arraigned in City Court and released. 

Carolyn L. Kurek, 82, of Batavia, is charged with unlawful imprisonment 2nd and harassment 2nd. Kurek is accused of blocking another person from leaving a room at an apartment building on West Main Street, Batavia, on Oct. 16. She allegedly struck a person with her cane. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Arnold B. Colopy, 67, of Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass. Colopy is accused of unlawfully entering an apartment on School Street on Oct. 19. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Kelly Marie Zwolinski, 45, of Broadway Road, Darien, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd. Zwolinski is accused of damaging the property of another person at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 29 at a location on Broadway Road, Darien. The value of the property is reportedly in excess of $250. He was held pending arraignment.

Harold Phillip Duell, 62, of Perry, is charged with felony DWI, open alcohol container, license restricted, driving on shoulder, and aggravated unlicensed operation. Duell was stopped at 1:24 a.m. on Oct. 28 on Richmond Avenue by Deputy Matthew Wesolowski. He was released on tickets.

Paul William Zeches, 36, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with sex offender failure to report a change of address. Zeches was arrested on Oct. 30. He was jailed on the charge.

Nathaniel Ashton Finta, 20, of North Main Street, Oakfield, is charged with assault 2nd and criminal mischief 4th. Finta is accused of burning another person's clothing and of striking that person in the face with an open hand causing an injury. Finta was held pending arraignment.

Press Release:

The Kiwanis Club of Batavia will be hosting its annual Free Thanksgiving Morning Community Skate on Thursday, November 28, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena on Evans Street in Batavia. 

Admission and skate rentals are free (while supplies last). There will also be free hot chocolate. 

The Kiwanis Club of Batavia is thankful for the local community's support of their fundraisers. It’s through their fundraisers that events such as this can be provided for the children of Batavia and surrounding communities. Please come out and enjoy this free event!

Anyone who has walked or cycled down a city street may have experienced some trepidation when dealing with automobile traffic on major routes and wished there were more options for pedestrians and bicyclists to get from home to shopping, recreation, work and appointments.

City management is hoping to do just that with a citywide transportation study, with the eventual goal of improving transportation options and safety for people who use modes of transportation other than motorized vehicles. 

City Council has tentatively approved the study for $80,000, which will be paid for with a $70,000 federal grant and $10,000 from the city, and City Manager Rachael Tabelski briefed council members about the study during this week’s conference session.

“The corridors we've identified that we really want to focus on include downtown Batavia, the Uptown Connection, which would be connecting transportation options from downtown to the Harvester campus, the Healthy Living triangle that connects the McCarthy Ice Arena, Austin Park and Ellicott Trail with the newly constructed Healthy Living campus, improving the Ellicott Street corridor — that's one of our main focuses of the study is to look at the traffic in that corridor and look at any type of traffic calming measures that help it help pedestrians and bicyclists feel safer in the Ellicott Street corridor — the West Side commercial corridor, and then parks and recreation areas and how they connect to neighborhoods,” Tabelski said. “So those would be the goals and the focus of the study. Once the study is done, you can then apply for grant funds using the study in the future.”

The city has been awarded a $70,000 grant from the Genesee Transportation Council. It will match the funding with $10,000 of committed funds and establish a steering committee to work with a consultant to complete the project.

The study will identify opportunities for enhanced connectivity between neighborhoods, reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles, and ensure that all residents, including those in underserved areas, have access to safe and efficient active transportation options, according to the plan. It will also aim to bolster the use of non-motorized transportation, such as walking, cycling, and multi-modal transportation options, which align with the goals of the city’s 2017 Comprehensive Plan.

The city has already made progress on improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure through various initiatives, Tabelski said, including the Transportation Enhancements/Alternatives Program, Healthy Schools Corridor, approximately $5 million in sidewalk investments over the past decade, and the creation of the Ellicott Trail that winds throughout the city. However, officials believe there remains a need to identify and implement further improvements to create a more connected and accessible transportation network and a healthy living corridor.

Once the final plan is adopted, it should provide a framework that will help the city achieve the following:

Create a citywide transportation plan as a guide for implementing and enhancing safety, access, and connectivity for all modes of transportation.

Provide opportunities to promote healthier, more active lifestyles for city residents by improving mobility and connections to jobs, shopping, and recreation in the downtown area, focusing on the "Healthy Living Triangle."

Improve access to the South side of Batavia through improvements to the Ellicott Street corridor, including pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.

Connecting downtown, Ellicott Street/Ellicott Trail and the Uptown corridor (Harvester Street and Swan Street) will improve walkability, access to businesses, arts and culture, and create a feeling of safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Reduce the risk of traffic accidents on major routes within the city.

There are several projects underway that will have an impact on transportation in Batavia, city management says, including:

Ellicott Street Corridor -- a key route through Batavia that connects Routes 63 and 5 -- had a major overhaul several years ago to make it a two-lane highway for trucker traffic and seemed to hamper much of the traffic entering from side streets, is in need of improvement to better connect neighborhoods, key destinations, and the growing pedestrian and cyclist traffic. 

Ellicott Trail, a multi-use path that runs through the corridor, requires upgrades to enhance safety and accessibility for non-motorized users. Additional housing developments and mixed-use projects have added affordable and market-rate housing units, increasing pedestrian and bike traffic. With 38% of traffic consisting of light trucks and an active rail line crossing near downtown, the corridor faces significant challenges.

Planned upgrades will focus on improving traffic flow, ensuring pedestrian and cyclist safety, reducing speed, exploring traffic-calming measures, improving crossings, and improving signage. 

Environmental Justice and equity: the city is home to several environmental justice block groups, and the demographic composition underscores the importance of making the transportation system more accessible, inclusive and safe for all residents, especially the Ellicott Street Corridor. The transportation plan will focus on addressing the needs of these vulnerable populations, ensuring that improvements benefit all residents, particularly those in underserved communities.

Downtown/Uptown Connection: In 2017, the city began advancing downtown revitalization projects to stimulate economic growth and revitalize its downtown. To date, it has resulted in $65 million in improvements. These grant-funded improvements have enhanced the downtown, improving connectivity for residents, supporting multimodal transportation between downtown, the uptown connection of Harvester Avenue and surrounding residential neighborhoods, helping to sustain economic momentum.

Zoning code update: For the first time in more than two decades, the city is reevaluating and comprehensively updating its city code. The code update will be comprehensive, user-friendly, pro-economic development and simple to read.

The mandatory task is to form a project steering/advisory committee by identifying all applicable stakeholders, such as state transportation facilities and other infrastructure (road, bridge, bike or pedestrian facilities or transit). If stakeholders are not part of the committee, they must have the opportunity to review and comment on draft recommendations that impact their facilities.

Other tasks include publicly announcing a request for proposals, and a designated group will evaluate the responses and hire a consultant with specialized experience in active transportation planning; having the consultant collaborate with the committee, which may include representatives from the Genesee County Planning Department, town of Batavia, Batavia Development Corp., Batavia Improvement District, Genesee Community College, Chamber of Commerce, City Council, Genesee County Economic Development Center, Batavia Police Department, local business owners, GTC staff, Regional Transit Service and Office for the Aging. These entities will assist by providing relevant data, reviewing project tasks and evaluating feasible options. 

The consultant is to perform an analysis of current conditions and assess the needs of the project area, including the city’s background, historical context, planning documents, existing land use, ownership and zoning regulations; a comparison of the findings to the goals and priorities outlined in the city’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the vision for the community’s future development, including integration of complete street and traffic calming elements where applicable; analyzing motor vehicle traffic patterns, identifying physical and program needs; and engaging the public through meetings, surveys, stakeholder interviews and/or focus groups.

The committee and consultant will collaborate to identify opportunities to enhance active transportation throughout the city based on the needs previously identified and eventually recommend improvements to multi-modal circulation and access throughout the area, in preparation for a final report that summarizes the key findings and recommendations. 

Public participation is crucial to the study, and the consultant plans are to include and engage low-income, minority, disabled, senior and youth populations. Two public meetings will be scheduled to gather input on existing conditions, needs and goals and to then present draft findings and recommendations and obtain feedback before finalizing the study. 

A tentative schedule has been set to begin with November for scope of work approval, an RFP release in January 2025, selection of the consultant and City Council approval in March, a signed contract by April, a kickoff meeting in May, existing conditions analysis and needs assessment finalized by August, concept plans, strategies and recommendations finalized by October, a draft final report by the end of 2025, and a completed study by February 2026. 

Press Release:

CHAPIN International, Inc. will be featured as the Executive Producer with a $3000 sponsorship in honor of Genesee Cancer Assistance’s Annual Dinner Event. 

John Riter, representing the local Merrill Lynch office and Gerace Realty will be noted as co-producers for this red carpet-themed evening Night of Celebration and Hope. 

The event will take place in the Park Place Banquet Room at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel on Saturday, November 16.

Genesee Cancer Assistance, Inc. is proud to acknowledge Chapin International, John Riter/Merrill Lynch, Gerace Realty, Reliant Real Estate, Beverly’s Fowers and Three Little Birds Pediatrics for their support of GCA with 29 years of serving cancer patients in Genesee County.

Doors will open at 4 p.m. with a basket raffle and cash bar. Appetizers at 5 p.m., a buffet dinner served at 6 p.m., and followed with a special program. The ticket price is $35 and includes $25 in free play. Tables can be reserved for parties of 8 or more. 

Tickets are presale only and available for purchase until Friday, November 8 by calling the office at (585)345-0417 or online at www.geneseecancerassistance.org. The public is invited to join us!

Press release:

The public will have an opportunity to meet the artists who are participating in the Grateful for Recovery art show that is on display throughout November at Richmond Memorial Library in Batavia.

An artists’ reception is scheduled for 4 to 5:30 p.m. Nov. 6.

Presented by the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Genesee County and UConnectCare, the show is designed to showcase the talents of those in recovery from substance use disorder, mental health and other issues, and to reduce the stigma associated with the recovery community.

Press Release:

GO ART! is thrilled to announce an exciting new project set to transform the Genesee-Orleans region: GO BARN! Located at the Orleans County Fairgrounds on Route 31, between Medina and Albion, GO BARN! will be a dynamic cultural community hub designed to bring arts, agricultural education, and entrepreneurial opportunities together under one roof.

GO BARN! will serve as a vibrant space for a wide range of arts and educational programs, with workshops spanning fine arts, culinary arts, horticulture, fiber arts, and more. Developed in partnership with Orleans Cornell Cooperative Extension, the facility will offer specialized programs in sustainable agriculture and fiber arts, alongside dedicated areas for performances, gallery exhibitions, community gardens, and artisan workshops. GO BARN! will be a cornerstone for local artisans, performers, and small business owners, creating opportunities for connection, learning, and economic growth in the region.

Community Backing Needed to Secure Funding

GO ART! has identified significant funding sources for GO BARN!’s construction; however, major funders want to see strong community support before committing to full project funding. To demonstrate the region’s commitment, GO ART! is launching a community campaign to raise $150,000 by December 31. This initial funding will advance key programming and design stages, laying the groundwork for grant applications that will unlock the larger financial resources needed to bring GO BARN! to life.

“GO BARN! is about more than just a building—it’s about creating a shared space where our community can thrive,” says Gregory Hallock, Executive Director of GO ART!. “Every donation, no matter the size, is a show of support for our vision of a place where people of all ages can connect, create, and grow together.”

How You Can Help

Community members across Genesee and Orleans Counties are invited to join this transformative effort by:

• Making a Donation: Every gift, large or small, will help reach the $150,000 goal and demonstrate community backing to our funders. Donations can be made at www.goart.org.
• Spreading the Word: Share the news about GO BARN! with friends, family, and neighbors. 
• Volunteering and Getting Involved: GO ART! is also seeking representatives from Orleans County to join its board and committees.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) was recently endorsed by the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association (NYSTPBA). More than 7,000 active and retired uniformed members of the New York State Police from the rank of trooper through the rank of major are represented by the NYSTPBA.

“I’m deeply honored to receive the endorsement of the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association,” said Hawley. “As a lifelong resident of Western New York, I understand the vital role our law enforcement plays in maintaining the safety and security of our neighborhoods. These brave men and women put their lives on the line every day, and I will always advocate for the support and resources they need to do their jobs effectively.”

“With the challenges facing law enforcement today, it’s more important than ever to stand together. Having served on the Genesee County Legislature and engaged with various community organizations, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of strong public safety policies. With the backing of NYSTPBA, I will continue to fight for policies that respect and empower our officers,” Hawley concluded.

It's Legends and Stars Weekend at Batavia Downs, which includes a memorabilia show in the Parks Place Events Center and autograph sessions for several retired sports stars.

The show opened Friday evening and will continue on Saturday.

The new CEO and president of Western Regional Off-Track Betting, Byron Brown, was on hand Friday, mingling with guests and vendors. This visit was documented by a video crew, capturing footage for planned future TV commercials promoting Batavia Downs as an event center.

Here's Saturday's autograph session lineup:

• Mark Recchi, 11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
• Pierre Turgeon, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
• Brett Hull, 12:00 – 12:45 p.m.
• Scott Norwood, 12:30 – 1:15 p.m.
• Chris Chelios, 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.
• Howard Ballard, 1:45 – 2:00 p.m.
• Bruce Smith, 2:00 – 2:30 p.m.
• Eric Wood, 2:30 – 3:00 p.m.
• Cornelius Bennett, 3:00 – 3:45 p.m.
• Darryl Talley, 3:00 – 3:45 p.m.

For more information and tickets, click here.

Photos by Howard Owens.

Press Release:

On November 7 at 7 p.m., come to the next edition of the Guest Speakers Series and hear Public Historian Michael Block's presentation, "Only One Shout, Then a Terrible Silence!" The fighting along the Rappahannock on November 7, 1863, is lost in the general history of the Civil War. In the annuals of the Army of the Potomac and the Army of Northern Virginia, the fighting usually receives a passing reference. The battles of Rappahannock Station and Kelly’s Ford resulted in lost opportunities for both armies. Admission is $5 for non-members and $3 for members, please get in contact with the museum if you would like to attend either at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.

"This project is made possible with funds from the statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!"

The museum is extending its hours every first Wednesday of the month until 8 p.m.! You will get personal tours from staff and volunteers, meaning you will get a more in-depth history of Batavia and Genesee County! You also may be able to go upstairs, if you are able and want to! 

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next edition of our Trivia Night @ the Museum on Thursday, November 14 at 7 p.m. In honor of the end of World War I, the topic is the 1910s. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.

Press Release:

In honor of Veterans Day, the Holland Land Office Museum (HLOM) and the Anna Ingalsbe Lovell Chapter NSDAR are hosting a Veterans Open House on Wednesday, November 6, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The HLOM and DAR chapter’s appreciation for their service will include special “thank you” gifts for each veteran, waiving their admission fee, and providing refreshments. 

The Anna Ingalsbe Lovell chapter members honor our Revolutionary patriots and support current and retired military personnel with donations and programs. 

Granting an age exemption would mean a loss of more than $2 million in taxable property value for the city; however, given the city’s overall $100 million property value, City Manager Rachael Tabelski says the timing seems right.

City Council is looking at giving property owners age 65 and older who meet certain income limitations a greater tax exemption on their home, similar to what Genesee County has already adopted. The county’s resolution increased the exemption levels for county tax, and “in response, the city would also propose to increase the income levels of individuals to qualify for the exemption,” Tabelski said.

“So to be in line with the county — we haven't changed the limit since 1994 — I'm bringing it to you for your discussion and decision,” she said during this week’s conference meeting at City Hall.

She has recommended adjusting the scale to mirror the county’s income limits for homeowners 65 and older with incomes at or below $23,800 for a 50% property tax exemption and capping off at $32,199.99 with a 5% exemption.

Council briefly discussed this option previously, and Tabelski brought it back to the table to potentially include in future budget talks. She said it would become effective in the 2025 assessment roll year. 

Exemptions would be 50% for a maximum income of up to $23,800, slide down to 45% for up to $24,799.99, and continue decreasing by 5% increments while the income level increases about $1,000 each time until it hits the highest income of $32,199.99 for an exemption of 5% (see table below).

Exemption Minimum Income Maximum Income

50%               $0                         $23,800.00

45%               $23,800.01           $24,799.99

40%               $24,800.00           $25,799.99

35%               $25,800.00           $26,799.99

30%               $26,800.00           $27,699.00

25%               $27,700.00            $28,599.99

20%               $28,600.00           $29,499.99

15%                $29,500.00           $30,399.99

10%                $30,400.00          $31,299.99

5%                  $31,300.00           $32,199.99

The city’s current sliding scale for property tax exemptions begin with an income of $16,500 or below for the 50% exemption, and tops out at $24,000 for 5% exemption.

Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. said he was for this exemption. He emphasized the importance of approving this plan as another way for people to retain their own properties.

“Not only is it important to keep in line with the county, but more important to help people in the city; this might make the difference of whether they’re able to stay in their house, so I think we should do all we can,” Jankowski said.

A councilman asked how this would impact city revenue. 

“We’ll lose up to $2.6 million. So that is your assessment value, so it’s not pure revenue, it’s what we assess properties at,” Tabelski said. “So this exemption would take $2.6 million out of that value. But in the last year, the assessor had reported to us that we have $100 million in taxable value from 2023 to 2024, so this would be a year to go ahead and do that. So the value that came in is not only reassessments of homes, but also new businesses and improving businesses.”

The consensus of the group was to move forward with the exemption.