Get Local: Spotlighting the biggest headlines today in the Finger Lakes!
It's Tuesday, June 24th and we've got your rundown of the biggest stories across the region. From a public hearing in Penn Yan to tax cap vote in Cayuga Co., plus the latest on a new Dollar General.
New York is going nuclear to address its growing energy needs
New York State will build its first new nuclear power plant in decades as part of a push for clean, reliable energy. Governor Kathy Hochul directed the New York Power Authority to lead the project, which will use advanced zero-emission technology and provide at least one gigawatt of electricity. The facility will complement renewable sources like wind and solar while supporting grid stability and economic growth. While the site has not been finalized, the plan has bipartisan support and will involve public-private collaboration.
Finger Lakes Forecast: One more day of heat.
Temperatures in the Finger Lakes will soar into the mid-90s today, with heat index values potentially reaching 101 degrees. After a warm night, cooler air moves in Wednesday with highs near 83 and a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Rain chances increase through the end of the week, with the highest likelihood of showers and storms arriving Friday and Saturday. Conditions should begin to improve Sunday, though scattered thunderstorms may still linger into early next week.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
The Village of Penn Yan and Town of Benton will hold a joint public hearing Tuesday to consider annexing over 12 acres of land for new recreational facilities. The parcel, owned by Yates Cultural and Recreational Resources Inc., is located on the east side of North Main Street. Village officials will vote on two resolutions related to environmental review, including a declaration that the annexation poses no significant environmental impact. If approved, the documentation will be submitted to the New York State DEC for final processing.
The Cayuga County Legislature will vote Tuesday night on overriding the state property tax cap and approving a $7 million broadband infrastructure plan. The broadband project aims to expand high-speed internet access in rural areas and will be funded through state and federal grants. Lawmakers will also consider appointments, infrastructure repairs, and funding for youth employment and public health services. The tax cap override signals fiscal concerns as the county begins planning its 2026 budget.
A new list from Syracuse.com ranks the top 20 public beaches in Upstate New York for summer 2025, highlighting scenic and highly rated swimming spots. Glimmerglass State Park in Cooperstown claimed the top spot, followed by Potters Beach in the Thousand Islands and Black Point Beach on Lake George. The rankings are based on public access, water quality, and family-friendly amenities. Beaches across Central NY, the Adirondacks, Finger Lakes, and Hudson Valley regions made the list, offering a variety of outdoor recreation beyond swimming.
Dollar General has reopened in a new location at 8881 S Seneca Street in Weedsport and will celebrate with a grand opening event on Saturday, June 28. The first 50 adult shoppers will receive $10 gift cards, while the first 100 will get free tote bags. Company officials say the store will continue to offer essential household items and emphasized their commitment to local literacy efforts through the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. Schools, libraries, and nonprofits near the new store are encouraged to apply for grant funding.
The City of Geneva is creating an Assistant City Manager role as part of a broader leadership restructure aimed at improving coordination and service delivery. City Manager Amie Hendrix said the change follows recent staffing vacancies and will merge oversight of economic development, recreation, zoning, and more under one leader. A second support role will also be added, with the new structure expected to be fully in place by fall. Recruitment for the assistant manager begins this month, and community members will be invited to meet the new hire once selected.
HAPPENING TONIGHT: Cayuga Co. Legislature meeting — Watch LIVE at 6 PM
READER RUNDOWN: What else is happening in the Finger Lakes?
State police continue investigating murder-suicide in Steuben
Clifton Springs firefighters battle back-to-back blazes in busy week
Seneca Falls crews respond to Lake Road crash with two evaluated
Corning and Painted Post men arrested in federal drug trafficking bust
$250 million in food assistance coming to over 2 million New York children this summer