Get Local: Palmyra man charged in stabbing hate crime, Geneva project draws backlash, and Auburn developer seeks breaks
It's Saturday, July 12th and we've got the latest from around the Finger Lakes for you in your daily local newsletter!
Palmyra man indicted in Perinton trail stabbing: Authorities call it hate crime
A Palmyra man has been indicted on attempted murder and assault charges in what authorities are calling a hate crime after a June 23 stabbing on a Perinton trail. Derrick Van Epps, 30, allegedly targeted Dylan Ghaemi, a Fairport man of Iranian descent, during an unprovoked attack. Ghaemi survived the stabbing and Van Epps was arrested shortly after in a nearby park; he remains in custody in Monroe County.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Heating up!
Hot and humid weather continues in the Finger Lakes, with highs near 90 and chances of showers and thunderstorms through Sunday night. Storms may bring heavy rain, especially Sunday afternoon and evening, with up to three-quarters of an inch possible. Conditions improve Monday with drier, sunny weather expected through midweek, followed by more storm chances late Wednesday into Friday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
A proposed 74-unit housing development in Geneva by Lakeview Health Services is drawing strong opposition from residents and business owners. Critics say the project’s size, location, and 30-year tax break would worsen parking, hurt tourism, and concentrate poverty. The Industrial Development Agency delayed a decision on the tax deal, with a vote expected next month and further public hearings planned.
The Village of Dundee has applied for a new surface discharge permit from the state DEC for its upgraded wastewater treatment plant. The permit would remove previous oversight requirements, citing completed infrastructure improvements. A draft has been issued and is open for public comment through August 1, with a hearing possible if requested.
Yates County officials are raising concerns after a letter from New York’s Medicaid director warned that future reimbursements could be withheld if counties fail monthly compliance reviews. Local leaders say the surprise directive threatens funding used for staff salaries and benefits. The county also discussed vaccine updates, a climate funding bid, and passed a resolution honoring the U.S. Coast Guard’s upcoming birthday.
Two teens are accused of breaking into Dundee Central School late at night using a stolen access card, according to the Yates County Sheriff’s Office. A 19-year-old from Dundee was charged with third-degree criminal trespass, while a 17-year-old from Himrod faces additional charges, including possession of stolen property. The older teen received an appearance ticket, and the juvenile was referred to probation.
A Syracuse developer is seeking a 14-year tax break to support a $3.6 million renovation of the former Citizen building in downtown Auburn. The project, called Dill St. Commons, will feature office, retail, restaurant, and medical space, with construction already underway. The Auburn Industrial Development Authority will review the PILOT request on July 16, with a possible vote by late August.
