Your Morning Edition for Friday, April 4th presented by DiSanto Propane!
Today we've got an in-depth look at Cayuga Co.'s Healthy Neighborhoods program, a full-recap from last night's Auburn City Council meeting, updates on Victor's Chick-fil-A proposal, and more!
Cayuga County’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program aims to boost home safety
Cayuga County’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program, now in its fourth year, offers free home safety checks and education to residents, aiming to reduce risks like fire hazards, asthma triggers, and mold. Funded by the New York State Department of Health, the program primarily targets several local communities but is open countywide to those meeting specific criteria. By partnering with the Auburn Fire Department and other agencies, officials hope to expand its reach—especially among older adults—while emphasizing prevention and community trust.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Rainy weekend.
Today will start off cloudy but gradually turn mostly sunny with a high near 53°. Rain returns late tonight into Saturday, with occasional showers and possible thunderstorms throughout the day and evening, accompanied by gusty winds up to 33 mph. Cooler temperatures settle in Sunday through midweek, with chances for snow showers Sunday night and again Monday night, before skies clear and highs rebound into the low 50s by Thursday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
During a busy session, the Auburn City Council debated public concerns over a proposed police rescue vehicle, with residents expressing both support and opposition, while also tackling transparency issues and budget challenges. City officials revealed an $8.6 million shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year, prompting early calls for department cuts and new revenue strategies. The Council approved several key fiscal measures, including a five-year capital plan, property sale, and consulting contract tied to potential federal tax credits for a major wastewater treatment project.
A pedestrian was airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital Thursday morning after being struck in a crosswalk at the intersection of Liberty and Elm streets in downtown Penn Yan. Police say 92-year-old Suzanne Goodrich failed to yield and hit the pedestrian just after 8:30 a.m., resulting in a traffic ticket. Emergency crews responded quickly, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Victor Planning Board members pushed back on a proposal to build a Chick-fil-A at Eastview Mall, citing concerns over green space preservation and a longstanding no-build covenant. While officials expressed support for the brand’s arrival, they urged developers to find an alternative location on the mall property that avoids disrupting protected land. No decision was made, and the public hearing remains open as planners requested revised layouts that better balance development and conservation.
A head-on crash near the McDonald’s on Route 414 in Seneca Falls sent one person to the hospital Wednesday evening after a vehicle crossed into the turn lane and struck a car waiting to turn. The collision occurred around 6:53 p.m., with airbags deploying in both vehicles. One driver was taken to Geneva General Hospital with minor injuries, while a passenger was evaluated on scene and cleared.
Geneva’s City Manager released a broad update for April, detailing progress on hiring, infrastructure, and public engagement initiatives across the city. Highlights include cost-saving police staffing measures, major facility upgrades, and preparations for upcoming recreation programs and environmental projects. The city also launched new communication efforts—including radio and video outreach—and continues to strengthen regional partnerships while advancing long-term infrastructure planning.
Thursday’s high school sports scoreboard
Here’s a roundup of high school spring sports action from Thursday: In boys lacrosse, Victor topped Fairport, while Geneva fell to Webster Schroeder. Girls lacrosse saw wins for Greece Storm and Canandaigua, with standout performances from Leah Sheridan and Aviana Nelson. On the diamond, North Rose-Wolcott’s Cody Crane struck out 12 in a baseball win over Lyons, while Lyons dominated in softball behind Rylee Richardson’s pitching and a strong offensive showing; flag football action featured wins for Canisteo-Greenwood, Greece Odyssey/Olympia, and Hilton.
Hochul: Tariffs will have “cataclysmic” impact on New York economy
Governor Kathy Hochul warned that newly announced federal tariffs could have a "cataclysmic" impact on New York’s economy, driving up costs for households, farmers, and businesses while slashing state revenues. She pointed to early signs of damage, including declining Canadian tourism and rising expenses for farmers, and said Wall Street losses could further reduce funding for public services. While defending her current relief-focused budget, Hochul urged federal lawmakers to restore the full SALT deduction and pledged to keep pushing for affordability and economic stability.
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Conservative Party leader pleads guilty to stealing campaign funds for personal use