Your Morning Edition for Friday, Mar. 14th presented by DiSanto Propane!
Two FLX landmarks make 'Five to Revive' list, state lawmakers consider new enviro programs, Odessa voters meet the candidates, and Walworth solar farm criticized by residents. Plus so much more!
Landmark Society’s ‘Five to Revive’ spotlights Wells College and Bellona Mill
The Landmark Society of Western New York has unveiled its 2025 “Five to Revive” list, highlighting historic properties in need of preservation and investment. Among this year’s selections are Wells College in Cayuga County and the Bellona Mill in Yates County, both significant for their architectural and cultural heritage.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Spring has sprung!
The Finger Lakes region will see a mix of sunshine, showers, and fluctuating temperatures over the next several days. After a mostly sunny and warm Friday, rain chances increase Saturday evening with breezy conditions continuing into Sunday, when thunderstorms and steady showers are expected. Cooler air moves in Monday with a slight chance of morning snow showers, but temperatures rebound by midweek, reaching the upper 60s with more sunshine before another round of showers on Thursday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
A state audit found that the Village of Penn Yan failed to ensure competitive procurement for its water treatment plant, potentially leading to unnecessary costs for ratepayers. Auditors reviewed $1.15 million in purchases and identified nearly $95,000 in transactions that did not follow procurement policies, along with $30,000 in undocumented sole-source purchases. Village officials agreed with the audit’s recommendations and pledged to improve procurement practices.
New York lawmakers have included environmental initiatives in the 2025-26 budget proposal, notably a cap-and-invest program aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by requiring businesses with high emissions to buy allowances. Supporters argue the program, along with the HEAT Act’s push to phase out gas line extensions, would help electrify buildings and align utilities with state climate goals, though concerns about costs and misinformation persist. Additionally, potential energy import reductions due to trade tensions with Canada could impact the state’s future energy landscape.
Odessa residents gathered to hear from four mayoral candidates—Dustin Carnes, Ron Greschler, Daniel Heichel, and Kathy Wilkens—along with Village Trustee candidate Cindy Emerson ahead of the upcoming election. The discussion focused on financial challenges, infrastructure repairs, and ways to encourage younger generations to return to the village. The election will take place on Tuesday, March 18, from noon to 9 p.m. at the Village Community Room.
A proposed solar farm in Walworth by Rochester-based Norbut Solar Farms is facing opposition from local residents concerned about its impact on wildlife, wetlands, and the rural landscape. While Town Supervisor Mike Donalty acknowledged the area's appeal for solar development and highlighted potential tax revenue benefits, opponents argue the project would disrupt the ecosystem and alter the town’s character. The proposal is currently under review by the Planning Board before moving to the Town Board for final approval.
The Steuben County Legislature has opposed Governor Kathy Hochul’s executive order barring corrections officers fired after a wildcat strike from obtaining public sector jobs. County officials argue the decision worsens a staffing crisis and undermines public services, joining other local leaders in urging Hochul to revoke the order. With 2,000 corrections officers terminated statewide, some counties are questioning the order’s legality, while federal officials have called for an investigation.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Huge fourth quarter run sends Honeoye to state quarterfinals
Honeoye entered Wednesday night’s Class C Regional qualifier against York at Dansville High School as one of just two Wayne-Finger Lakes teams still standing. But through 26 minutes, the Bulldogs struggled to find their rhythm, and their hopes of advancing were fading. Then, Landon Washburn took control. The sophomore guard erupted for 12 points in the fourth quarter, sparking a 14-0 Honeoye (23-1) run to seal a 52-42 comeback victory over York (14-12).
New York burn ban takes effect this weekend: What you need to know
New York State is set to implement a statewide burn ban beginning March 16, running through May 14, as part of an effort to reduce the risk of wildfires during peak fire season. The annual ban helps protect communities, forests, and wildlife from potentially devastating fires caused by dry conditions and strong winds. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enforces the annual burn ban due to the increased wildfire risk in early spring. Dry conditions, strong winds, and leftover dead vegetation from winter contribute to fire hazards across the state.