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Press Release:

The Town of Alexander Republican Committee is seeking Republican candidates for the following positions that will be placed on the ballot for the November 4th, 2025 General Election.

• Town Council (2) four-year term
• Town Clerk - four-year term
• Republican Committee member, District #1 (west of Route 98)

If interested, please send a letter of intent by January 26 to Chairwoman Barbara Eddy, 11054 Alexander Rd., Attica OR contact by phone at 585-507-9930.

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the winners of the People’s Choice and Director’s Choice awards for the 24th Annual Wonderland of Trees decorated trees. 

The winner of the People’s Choice Award is the Friends of the Batavia Peace Garden, and the winner of the Staff Choice Award is the City of Batavia. 

We would like to congratulate our winners and thank everyone who participated this year. This year’s Wonderland of Trees was one of the most successful in its history.

We had more trees this year than in recent years and they were all so beautifully done that the choices were very difficult. Also, thank you to everyone who donated towards the event, and all who came to see the wonderfully decorated trees.

Genesee County will have spent upwards of a million dollars on competency-related services for questionable individuals sent to court, Mental Health Services Director Lynda Battaglia says.

Battaglia requested $166,000 during Monday’s Human Services meeting for an additional 730 competency invoices, explaining to county legislators that “I will be coming back to ask for additional funding, but this is what we’re going to pay so far.”

“We’re waiting for some invoices to come in from (the Office of Mental Health) and (Office for People With Developmental Disabilities). When those invoices come in, we will have spent about $775,000 in 2024 on these services,” she said as some legislators seemed sticker-shocked. “So this is 100% county cost. The individual is not competent to stand trial. Therefore, they’re designated to a psychiatric facility in order for competency to be restored because that’s their due process, right?”

A person who is charged with anything from petit larceny up to more serious felony crimes such as assault and who may be incompetent and therefore unable to stand trial is afforded due process, she explained. Defendants have a right to understand the charges being brought against them and to be able to aid in their own defense for the legal process to proceed.

“So if our psychologists deem them incompetent, then they’re designated to a bed, and they have to get restored to competency, depending on the length of that time and the changes, they will come back once they’re restored and go have their trial and their hearing,” she said. 

Legislator John Deleo asked if all of these people were from Genesee County or from other counties, and others asked how many actually go through this process. Each county is going through a similar situation and expense, Battaglia said, and these people belong to Genesee.

“For 2024, we probably have had about eight to 10 individuals. Sometimes we run the risk that it’s the same individual a couple of times throughout the year,” Battaglia said. “Those are individuals who pay their time, go back out into the community, get rearrested, and don’t link with services. So it’s not a huge number of individuals; it’s the cost that is the significant number. It’s about $1,300 or $1,400 per day per person. The average length of stay in a (mental restoration) facility is about 90 days. But this is on NYSAC’s (the NYS Association of Counties) radar, and this is on the conference’s radar, and they’re always trying to push legislation to make changes.”

Legislative Chair Shelley Stein asked her to explain the full process of how someone enters the system and is not only diverted for a mental health evaluation once but that it can be a repetitive cycle.

For example, a person is arrested, goes before a judge, and is released on his own recognizance but has to return. If the attorney or anybody determines that the person is experiencing symptoms of mental illness and doesn’t understand the process, the judge can be asked to order a 730 competency evaluation.

“It’s the judge's decision. The judges will usually order that evaluation, and the judge is ordering me to find two psychologists to evaluate an individual. So through the clinic, we schedule this individual, let's say, for two competency evaluations by two different psychologists, and then they will make the determination as to whether or not they're competent to stand trial or not,” Battaglia said. 

A report is returned to the judge when a defendant is found incompetent. The judge decides whether he or she agrees with the evaluation. Therefore, it is not a decision of the Mental Health Department; it is a criminal justice system decision, she said.

If the judge agrees with the report that the person is not competent, then he will be designated to a facility for restoration services and may go back to the jail and wait for a bed to be designated, she said. When a bed is designated, her office is notified, and the jail transports the person. During that time in the facility, a treatment team does “whatever they need to do in order to try to restore competency.”

“Oftentimes, that might be medication over objection, that might be going through some mock trials to see if they understand the charges. Once restoration is restored, they go back,” she said. “Sometimes their charges may be dropped if they're lower misdemeanor charges because of the lot of time that they've spent in the jail and facility, they might just say, Okay, your time's kind of been served. If they're felony charges, they're going to come back to the jail and stand trial."

Others could be ordered to serve a few months in jail, and once released, they're back in the community and may commit another crime. That could mean another 730 proceeding is ordered. 

"When you think about an individual who has developmental disabilities, if somebody has a cognitive developmental disability, the restoration for that is, I hate to say it, but it's nothing," she said. "We can't restore that cognitive functioning. So they come back in the community, try to wrap services around them, work with service providers. But ultimately, that person has autonomy, and they can decide whether or not they want those services. They might not want them, and therefore the cycle continues.”

Those who are restored go on to face a trial, and some may end up going to state prison, returning to the community, and/or obtaining additional legal services. It’s “very, very individualized,” she said, depending on the crime.

The Human Services Committee agreed to pass along the resolution for approval to transfer an amount of $166,000 to cover the expense of competency restorations for individuals found unable to assist in their defense at a court hearing in the year 2024. 

A winter chill on Tuesday didn't stop the Batavia Society of Artists in its third attempt to hold the opening reception for its annual winter show at Richmond Memorial Library.

Snow storms forced the society to cancel its previously scheduled reception, the first one scheduled a month ago.

Andrea Kuehn, who entered three paintings, won the People's Choice Award, the only award handed out at this show, for her painting, "Stop and Smell the Flowers."

Photos by Howard Owens

Two workers for Casella Waste Systems, Inc. were struck by a vehicle Tuesday morning on Ellicott Avenue in the city of Batavia and taken to Strong Memorial Hospital with serious but non life-threatening injuries, Batavia Police said in a press release.

At approximately 7:16 a.m., the Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center received a call for a report of a car vs. pedestrian accident in the area of 40 Ellicott Ave. Patrols arrived within minutes to find a passenger vehicle had struck a garbage truck and two workers that were outside of the truck at the time.

The individuals that were struck are identified as Scott Shea, 33, and Michael Cowham, 39, both employees of Casella. Officers, an off-duty City of Batavia fireman and bystanders provided aid to the injured until Mercy EMS and City of Batavia Fire Department arrived, the release stated.

Mercy EMS transported both Casella employees to the Rochester hospital, and the driver of the passenger vehicle, identified as Kimberly Przybysz, 38, of Batavia, was taken to United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia as a precautionary measure.

Initial investigation shows that the Casella employees were stationary outside of the garbage truck, which was parked alongside the westside of Ellicott Avenue, for a normal pick-up. The operator of the passenger vehicle was northbound on Ellicott Avenue, crossed the street and drove into the side of the garbage truck, striking the truck and both employees. 

Initial investigation reveals the driver of the passenger vehicle may have suffered a medical event, and therefore momentarily lost control of the vehicle. The operator of the passenger vehicle was issued a traffic ticket for failure to keep right, the release stated.

Anyone with information regarding the accident is asked to contact Officer Wesley Rissinger at 585-345-6350. 

Press Release:

The Genesee County Democratic Committee (GCDC) actively seeks individuals who want to serve their community. We invite those interested in running for office, becoming an election inspector, joining the Democratic Committee, or simply learning more about the Democratic Party in Genesee County to connect with us. We are here to provide
support and guidance.

Anyone can run for office — and we are committed to showing you how. All it takes is a dedication to service and a willingness to work hard. Whether your passion lies in lowering taxes, protecting the environment, or shaping the future, we want to hear from you.

The GCDC is currently seeking candidates for the following positions:
- Genesee County District Attorney
- Genesee County Legislature Districts:
- District 1: Alabama and Oakfield
- District 3: Pembroke and Darien
- District 5: LeRoy
- District 7: City of Batavia Wards 1 & 6
- District 9: City of Batavia Wards 4 & 5
- City of Batavia – 3 At-Large council seats
- Town of Alabama – 2 Council seats
- Town of Alexander – 2 Council Seats, Town Clerk
- Town of Batavia – Supervisor, Clerk, 1 Justice, 2 Council seats, Highway Superintendent
- Town of Bergen – Supervisor, 2 Council seats
- Town of Bethany – 2 Justices, 2 Council seats
- Town of Byron – Supervisor, Clerk, 2 Council seats, Highway Superintendent
- Town of Darien – Clerk, 2 Council seats
- Town of Elba – Supervisor, 2 Council seats
- Town of Le Roy – 1 Justice, 2 Council seats
- Town of Pavilion – 2 Council seats
- Town of Pembroke – 1 Town Justice, 2 Council seats
- Town of Stafford – Clerk, 2 Council seats, Highway Superintendent

Make a Difference in Your Community.

For more information, please visit our website at geneseenydemocrats.org or contact us via
email at geneseenydemocrats@gmail.com.

Considering that Eleanor Davis was celebrating her 38,690th day of life on Monday, she was taking it rather casually.

When asked how it felt to turn 106, she dryly responded, "The same as 105, just a different day,” during her birthday party at Premier Genesee in Batavia. “I had nothing to do with it.”

Actually, according to a family member and therapist, that may not be quite true. The Long Island native who grew up and lived in the same house for 75 years, eventually moving to Manor House in Batavia when she was 100, had a daily regimen that seemed to work for her.

“A couple of cocktails, dry martinis,” daughter Patricia Davis of Albion said. “Her sister is 15 years younger and is in worse shape than she’s in.”

Teressa Monroe, who has asked Eleanor her secret for longevity while working with her as speech therapist, said there has been a definite answer.

“Chocolate, vodka, and thinking young,” Monroe said, giving the sweet stuff its due. “My grandma ate a pound a week, so I buy into the chocolate.”

Fellow Premier residents gathered together for a round of “Happy Birthday” and a piece of cake to help Eleanor celebrate her big day. There are “quite a few in the upper 90s,” and staff just threw a party for another resident who turned 104 a couple of weeks ago, Hawley said. 

As for her steadfastness, Eleanor has not subscribed to the traditional physical recommendations of regular walking, her daughter said, and she does miss the salt water of her homeland so she wasn’t as much a landlubber.

Eleanor does have hearing and vision issues, but, as Activity Director Julie Hawley put it, “she’s still full of it.” Eleanor was honored as Resident of the Month at Premier when she was all of 105, which meant being recognized in the monthly newsletter. 

She provided tidbits of information, including her favorite foods of tiramisu and chocolate ice cream; her favorite animal of a cat; the best day of her life was getting married; giving advice to the next generation to “go with the flow;” and three words to describe her: easygoing, smart and compassionate. 

When asked at the party about her secret for long life, she spiced up her usual answer.

“A Bloody Mary every night,” she said. 

Here are The Batavian's Top 10 most viewed stories for 2024

• New owner to take over, transform site of former Artemis spa in downtown Batavia, by Joanne Beck
• Batavia pastor denies allegations of sexual abuse as his name disappears from church website, by Joanne Beck
• At Darien Lake, 'Tommy had it under control', by Howard Owens
• 'Sad loss for downtown,' The Spa at Artemis apparently closed, by Joanne Beck
• O'Lacy's Irish Pub to continue with new owner, by Joanne Beck
• Sheriff's Office sergeant dies in the line of duty while trying to make arrest at Batavia Downs, by Howard Owens
• News surfaces that suggests Plug Power pulling out of WNY STAMP, by Howard Owens
• The biggest change coming for The Family Diner in West Batavia -- it's closing, by Howard Owens
• Expanding longtime Batavia chiropractic business adds on to 'slow down a bit', by Joanne Beck
• Court documents say Elmore used (necklace) to beat officer, placed him in a chokehold, by Howard Owens

Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) was sworn in as a Member of the United States House of Representatives by the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson.

"It is an honor and a privilege to be elected to serve the constituents of the newly formed New York District 24. I will continue to be a transparent and aggressive advocate on behalf of all of my constituents. Our team is deeply committed to delivering outstanding results for NY-24, by implementing innovative and common-sense solutions to the issues facing our communities. Our team will continue to provide top-tier constituent services. House Republicans are eager to begin implementing President Trump’s agenda by making America secure and prosperous again. We are eager to hear from you and ensure that your views are represented in Washington. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I am committed to upholding our Constitutional principles and delivering meaningful results for our nation and especially New York," said Congresswoman Tenney.

Redistricting in 2024 has eliminated parts of Cayuga and Ontario Counties and added parts of Steuben and Schuyler Counties to NY-24. As a result, Rep. Tenney’s district office in Victor is no longer within NY-24. To better serve the Finger Lakes Region, Rep. Tenney is opening a new district office in Ontario County. For more information about who will represent you in Congress starting January 3, visit  www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative.

Rep Tenney’s Office Locations for the 119th Congress:

Washington, DC Office

• 2230 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington DC 20515
• Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Phone: 202-225-3665

Canandaigua District Office

• Address: 2375 Rochester Road, Suite 250, Canandaigua, NY 14424
• Opening Soon
• Phone: 585-869-2060

Oswego District Office

• Address: 46 E Bridge St, Oswego, NY 13126
• Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Phone: 315-236-7088

Lockport District Office

• Address:169 Niagara Street Lockport, NY 14094
• Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Phone: 716-514-5130

Watertown Satellite Office

• Address: 317 Washington Street, Suite 418, Watertown, NY 13601
• Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

On Saturday, members of the Alexander Volunteer Fire Department honored its own and installed its 2024 officers at the department's annual dinner, held this year at Attica's 10th Hole.

Photos by Philip Casper.

Press Release:

The Town of Batavia GOP Committee has set an Endorsement meeting on Jan. 29 for the following positions:

Supervisor (1)
Council Member (2)
Town Justice (1)
Highway Superintendent (1) 
Town Clerk (1)

 Any town resident who has an interest can submit a letter of interest and resume to Steve Hawley at: PO Box 1733, Batavia, NY, 14021 by Jan. 24. 
 

Matt Hlushak is not afraid of career diversity, and has always tried to use what he learned in both his personal and professional experience, he says. 

A native of Pennsylvania, he worked for many years as a cook, some in retail, and eventually made his way to Batavia, where he has lived for about six and a half years, working for most of that as a document specialist. Then came the time to leave.

“I quit my job to do this because of my family’s needs. My daughter is involved in dance; she has four dance classes a week, and my son has special needs. So this was a business I thought I could set up to probably sustain a family, using the skills that I have already and based on the needs that I do have. It absolutely gives me more flexibility,” he said of his new business at The Harvester Center. “This business was more about my experience as a customer, by buying the smoking accessories and buying toys and playing with the toys after I've used the accessories. And I was just thinking, since the cannabis industry is a relatively new thing here in New York, how can I get involved in it without having money for licensures, and I’m not predisposed to a criminal record to get ahead of the list or anything? So this is how I figured I could be part of it.”

CleanHit Services will open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday at 56 Harvester Ave., Batavia. It’s Unit 103 on the first floor and can be accessed from the outside. Hlushak plans to give away samples of Stacey’s Pies for opening day.

As it may sound, CleanHit cleans cannabis accessories of tar residues left behind from using glass and metal paraphernalia and also cleans jewelry. Hlushak was surprised to learn that many people would just toss out their stuff and buy new ones instead of cleaning or having them cleaned, he said. He brings his personal experience to the table, as well as his prior work in a hospital using ultrasonic equipment for a central sterilization unit, he said.  

He took that resume bullet item and put it to good use with his own equipment and mission statement to help others save some money, reuse their goods instead of throwing them out and buying new, and preserve what might be sentimental from having been a gift. He doesn’t sell any actual cannabis, CBD or THC products. 

“It’s just a cleaning service with a relaxing place to wait while we clean your stuff, a place to shop if you’d like to look around,” he said. “A lot of smoking accessories are made out of glass. They're not all glass, they actually make them out of silicone and stuff. And I can clean those as well. But there's a lot of other small parts that are glass or metal. And with the ultrasonic cleaning and then doing it by hand as well, I can really get into some spaces and clean it up so that you can get a clean hit the next time around.”

He opted for the east side’s Harvester complex for various reasons.

“As far as setting up for somebody who’s brand new to setting up a business, I think it’s fantastic. The business incubator thing, I think, is a great idea for repurposing this old factory instead of tearing it down or doing some other unthinkable thing with it. I think it’s a fantastic use of the property, and I think it’s great that it allowed an opportunity for me personally that I appreciate,” he said. “And it was really simple to get in; it’s low rent and a smooth, easygoing process. All of these furnishings I got locally. I’m trying to find local craftspeople and artisans … I’m still looking for people. If they have crafts, I’d give them a shelf, they can consign, or I can buy at a discount and sell them.”

He has a table and two chairs set up for a game of checkers or chess, and a ring and hook game available to customers, along with a small couch and upholstered chairs, what he calls “a little light display,” which was showing a space backdrop and will switch scenes so as not to get stale, he said. 

Toys include “fidgety, sensory type of things,” such as bendable spacemen, aliens, astronauts, a wooden puzzle or a block to unravel into a snake, and then one can turn it into different shapes. There are also squishy items and slimes and more traditional paraphernalia, though he’s not in this to compete with anyone, he said.

“I’m not trying to compete with any of the head shops in town or Adam Miller with their toys. The toys I’m selling are things they don’t generally have for sale,” he said. “I’m not trying to undercut anybody or say, shop with me instead. But I have a couple of things that were harder for me to find that I really liked and I think other people would like to use. So once I got my tax ID and I was able to buy in bulk, then I had access to the things that I can’t always find myself.”

Explain your process for cleaning these items.

“There’s some hand cleaning involved and there’s ultrasonic cleaning machines that I have. So you would put it in water, and you can treat it with an ultrasonic cleanser, and it could get sort of like the tiny bits of dirt and debris that you get in your rings and takes away the luster from your gems and your bracelets,” he said. “That ultrasonic machine with a bit of cleanser can loosen that up, free it up, and make it look practically like new. And I also have polishing cloths, so I can dry and polish them just like you would if you went back to your jewelry store where you got your original pieces. 

“The paraphernalia is more of a hand cleaning, but sometimes they get neglected, and the tar just gets built up, and the ultrasonic portion of that will help free it up and really renew your glass pieces and your metal pieces,” he said. “I would always clean mine because I didn’t always want to spend anywhere from $5 to $40 every time I needed a new one, so I would clean it out myself, and I realized that I really did a pretty decent job. And then I thought that this is a really dirty job that a lot of people probably don’t want to do, so I can offer, I will gladly do it.”

He offers walk-in service, and wait time is about 15 to 20 minutes, he said, depending on how much a customer brings in to clean.  Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

For more information, call 585-813-6202.

Press Release:

January is National Radon Action Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of radon exposure and encourage homeowners to take proactive steps to protect their families. 

“Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that naturally forms from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause among non-smokers,” stated Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health).

Radon can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, walls, or floors. Prolonged exposure to high radon levels can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), nearly one in every 15 homes in the United States is estimated to have elevated radon levels. 

Fortunately, radon exposure is preventable through simple actions that homeowners can take. 

Take Action to Protect Your Family: 

1. Test Your Home for Radon
   • The only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels is by testing. Residents of Genesee County can receive a radon test kit at no cost to them, while supplies last, by contacting the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580 x5555. Residents in other counties can purchase a radon test kit at a hardware store, or at the NYS Department of Health (DOH) website https://www.health.ny.gov/forms/doh-2247.pdf . The EPA recommends testing every two years, or after major home renovations.
2. Mitigate High Radon Levels to lessen severity and reduce harm 
   • If radon levels are found to be elevated (above 4 pCi/L), it is essential to take corrective action. Radon mitigation includes installing a ventilation system that reduces radon levels in the home. A certified radon professional can evaluate your home and recommend the best mitigation strategy.
3. Educate Your Friends and Family 
   • Spread the word about the importance of radon testing and mitigation. Share resources and encourage neighbors to test their homes. 
4. Health & Safety First
   • Radon exposure is preventable, and by testing and mitigating radon in your home, you can significantly reduce the threat of lung cancer caused by this invisible danger.

Radon Facts:

• Radon is responsible for approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the U.S.
• Radon exposure is particularly dangerous for children and non-smokers.
• Testing and mitigation are effective in reducing radon exposure and protecting health.

Resources:

• For more information on radon testing and mitigation services, visit the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) at https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/radon/ or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at https://www.epa.gov/radon.
• The National Radon Hotline, 1-800-SOS-RADON (767-7236), is available for guidance on radon testing, mitigation, and professional services in your area.

Press Release:

Elba Central School is proud to announce its recognition as a recipient of the prestigious USDA Healthy Meals Initiative "Innovation in Food Nutrition" Award for the 2024-2025 school year. 

This national honor highlights Elba's commitment to providing students with nutritious, innovative, and delicious meals that support their overall well-being and academic success.

The "Innovation in Food Nutrition" Award celebrates schools that demonstrate outstanding efforts to improve school meal programs, integrate locally sourced ingredients, and engage students in nutrition education. Elba Central School earned this recognition by implementing creative strategies, including:

Locally Sourced Ingredients: Partnering with local farmers to bring fresh, seasonal produce and dairy products directly to the cafeteria.

Student-Centered Menu Design: Collaborating with students to design menus that reflect their preferences while ensuring meals meet USDA nutrition standards.

Nutrition Education Programs: Offering hands-on learning opportunities, such as cooking classes and school garden initiatives, to empower students with lifelong healthy eating habits.

“This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our food services team, educators, and community partners,” said Gretchen Rosales, Superintendent of Elba Central School. “At Elba, we believe that healthy meals are a cornerstone of student success, and we are thrilled to be recognized for our efforts to prioritize their well-being.”

Elba Central School has also taken a groundbreaking step by constructing a new greenhouse on campus to grow fresh vegetables for the school’s salad bar. This hands-on initiative allows students to learn about sustainable agriculture while contributing to their own nutritious meals. 

Additionally, the school runs a summer-long farmers market, managed by students, where produce from local farms is sold to the community. The market provides practical business experience for students and also strengthens the bond between the school and local families, promoting a culture of health and sustainability. Not only do students sell fruit and vegetables, but also honey, maple syrup, and flowers. 

This past summer, Elba families also had the opportunity to participate in a community garden experience; this allowed residents to maintain a produce garden on the school grounds to grow vegetables and herbs. Recipes were shared at Open House in the fall of items such as pesto, pasta with zucchini, and salsa - made with ingredients straight from the gardens.

Kim Walczak, Food Service Director at Elba Central School, added, “Our team has worked tirelessly to create meals that students love while ensuring they meet the highest nutritional standards. This award inspires us to continue pushing boundaries and serving as a model for schools nationwide.” 

The USDA Healthy Meals Initiative is part of the federal government’s broader effort to promote health and reduce hunger among school-age children. Elba Central School has received a grant to further expand its innovative programs and share its best practices with schools across the nation.

Elba Central School is dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment where every student can thrive, especially when provided with delicious and nutritious meals. With a focus on academic excellence, community involvement, and student wellness, Elba Central School is committed to preparing students for a bright and healthy future.

Submitted photos.

As predicted later last year by city officials and a property realtor, the former JC Penney’s site will be put on the auction block later this month for default of money owed by California owner Yong Guang Ye.

The site that served as anchor to Genesee Country Mall-turned Batavia City Centre for decades closed its doors in fall of 2020, and was purchased for $500,000 by Ye in February 2021. It will go up for sale — via public auction — at 10 a.m. Jan. 16  in the second floor waiting area of the Genesee County Courts Facility, 1 W. Main St., Batavia.

Batavia Development Corporation Executive Director Tammy Hathaway has fingers crossed that this time an owner will take hold of the possibilities and future for the building.

“I’m hopeful that someone viable will bid on it, but my optimism is slightly plagued, as I don’t know how well broadcasted the auction public notice was,” Hathaway said Thursday. “So I’ve been sharing it personally with business owners and developers that I’ve had conversations with about the building.”

During a tour of updates at City Centre with The Batavian in early December, City Manager Rachael Tabelski said she thought the property owner was about one year behind in paying his taxes, and the lender was planning to put the 38,524-square-foot site up for mortgage foreclosure auction. A judgment of foreclosure was filed on property owner Yong Guang Ye on Nov. 8 for the amount of $179,141.46 plus interest and costs. 

City officials, including Tabelski and Hathaway, also had an open house with renderings of ideas for the Penney’s site and adjacent parking lot, and the south Creek Side Park area along the Tonawanda.Both sides of the city focused largely on housing concepts. 

According to online records, the Penney’s property is assessed at $400,000. The property is sold subject to the terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Premises are identified as Tax Account No. 84.049-1-9.

Press Release:

On Sunday January 5 at Batavia Downs, Thurman Thomas will host his final regular season Tailgate Party at 34 Rush for the Bills-Patriots game.

There will be 3 drawing for Playoff tickets at halftime and at the game's end. You can receive free entry at Players Club starting at 11 a.m. You MUST be present to win.

Fans also have the chance to win Bills merchandise and also get a photo with Thurman Thomas.

There will also be samplings by Genesee Brewing Company and food/drink specials. Come on in and cheer Buffalo onto a victory! 

Happy New Year everyone!
 

Press Release:

Beginning on January 1, the Genesee County Treasurer's Office will collect all 2025 property tax payments for the Town of Alexander. Please note that this applies to the Town of Alexander only, all other current 2025 town and county taxes will be collected at the other respective towns.

2025 Town of Alexander tax payments can be made in person or by mail to: 

Genesee County Treasurer’s Office, 15 Main Street Batavia, NY

Checks should be made payable to Genesee County Treasurer. For added convenience, online payments can also be made at: https://genesee.go2gov.net/faces/search.jsp

Important Notice: No tax payments will be accepted at the Alexander Town Hall in 2025, all payments must be made to the Genesee County Treasurer’s Office. 

For questions or additional information, please contact the Genesee County Treasurer’s Office at 585-815-7803.

Press Release:

In the wake of Governor Hochul’s recent announcement regarding an “inflation refund” plan, Republican Senators George Borrello, Dean Murray, and Pam Helming, all members of the Senate Committee on Small Business, Commerce and Economic Development, have called on the governor to take decisive action to alleviate the burdens facing New York’s small businesses.

In a joint letter, the Senators urged Governor Hochul to dedicate state funds to paying off the roughly $6 billion in Unemployment Insurance (UI) Fund debt that is still owed to the federal government, a critical step that they argue would provide a more effective and long-term solution to alleviating inflation and reducing consumer costs.

The senators highlighted that New York State’s UI Fund debt, accrued during the COVID-19 pandemic, has placed an undue financial burden on small businesses, forcing them to shoulder higher unemployment insurance premiums. These increased costs threaten to stifle recovery efforts for small businesses that are already grappling with inflation and other economic pressures.

"Instead of following the commonsense approach of other states and using some of the billions in federal COVID aid to pay down the unemployment debt, the governor unfairly shifted the burden to businesses and employers through the Unemployment Insurance Assessment Surcharge (UIAS),” said Senator George Borrello, 57th District. “Since the UI deficit stems from the government-mandated shutdown during the pandemic, it is only fair that employers are not left to shoulder these costs."

Senator Dean Murray, the Ranking Member of the Committee, emphasized the connection between this issue and rising consumer costs.

"By eliminating a massive expense for employers and businesses, we are helping them and allowing them to lower the costs of goods and services, which in turn, helps consumers. Instead of a one-shot check, this brings long-term relief for everyone,” said Senator Dean Murray, 3rd District.

The legislators also underscored that addressing the UI debt would demonstrate the state’s commitment to supporting its small business community.

“The state must take full financial responsibility for its UI debt to the federal government and end this burden on our small businesses and family farms,” said Senator Pam Helming, 54th District. “If we truly want to help our employers grow and protect local jobs, we must reduce the cost of doing business in New York State. Our economic success depends on it.”
The senators are calling on the governor to act swiftly and decisively to address the issue before it further impacts New York’s economy.  Their letter is attached.