Get Local: June begins in the Finger Lakes!
Get the biggest headlines to start your Sunday including a story about 'sanctuary status' in Wayne Co. Plus, a new store in Dundee, Moravia's growing sewer project, and a major Hornell court case.
Wayne County sheriff disputes DHS sanctuary label
Wayne County Sheriff Rob Milby rejected a federal claim labeling the county as a “sanctuary jurisdiction,” calling it “nonsense.” He stated that his office cooperates with federal agencies but does not engage in civil immigration enforcement. Milby said he is now working with DHS to clarify the county’s role and have it removed from the list.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Warming up soon.
Cool and unsettled weather continues Sunday with a chance of showers and a high near 58. Conditions improve Monday through Wednesday, bringing sunshine and steadily warmer temperatures, peaking near 88 by midweek. Rain chances return Thursday and persist into the weekend, with daily highs settling in the 70s.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Thad Fox has been named General Store Manager of the soon-to-open Dundee Fresh Grocery at 19 Union St. in Dundee. With experience in grocery operations and a strong community focus, Fox aims to create a local, affordable shopping hub. The non-profit store is now recruiting volunteers and promises to support area farmers and the Finger Lakes lifestyle.
A Hornell man was convicted of violently shaking his infant daughter in 2022, causing permanent brain damage. Robert E. Taft, 28, was found guilty on six felony counts following a two-week trial in Steuben County. He faces up to 25 years in prison at sentencing, as prosecutors highlighted the severe injuries and lasting impact on the child.
Town of Seneca Supervisor Drew Wickham announced he will not seek reelection after a decade in office, citing the need for new leadership and support for term limits. Republican Roslyn Grammer is the sole candidate running to replace him, with no Democrats filing for any positions. Several other GOP candidates are running for Town Board as incumbents step aside.
The cost of renovating Moravia’s wastewater treatment plant has nearly doubled to $25.5 million, prompting the village to bond an additional $15.5 million. Despite the surge, Moravia will only pay $5.8 million, with most costs covered by the Cayuga Correctional Facility and government aid. The project, which aims to protect Owasco Lake, is expected to finish by November 2026.
Most lights inside the closed Cayuga County Office Building have finally been turned off after months of public criticism. The building was shut down in May 2024 due to vermiculite contamination, but lights remained on due to blocked access to electrical panels. Officials say utility use has dropped significantly since the partial shutoff, though some emergency systems remain active for safety.
