Your Morning Edition for Saturday, Jan. 27th presented by DiSanto Propane!

NY's aging population will create fiscal crisis, Palmyra looks to new 20 year plan, and exclusive conversation with Mindy Robinson from the Wayne Co. Board of Elections!

Jan 27, 2024

New York State is grappling with the growing needs of its aging population, as 25% of its residents are expected to be 60 or older by 2030. This demographic shift coincides with a Medicaid budget that has expanded by 40% in the past three years. Governor Kathy Hochul, addressing the state’s budget gap, announced potential cuts to long-term care services and home care, crucial for older New Yorkers. [Keep Reading]
Palmyra is set to create a new comprehensive plan, a strategic “road map” for the community’s growth and development over the next 20 years. The initiative, a collaborative effort between the village and town of Palmyra, aims to evaluate demographic trends and market data, with significant community involvement in shaping a long-term vision. The last such plan was completed in 2004, highlighting the need for an updated approach to meet current and future challenges. [Keep Reading]

INSIDE THE FLX: Wayne County election official discusses transition from part- to full-time commissioners

In a significant development in the ongoing legal case involving Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard, a New York State Supreme Court Justice has granted permission to examine private conversations of county legislators. The review focuses on executive sessions held prior to the legislature’s decision to revoke legal protections for the sheriff’s position. The controversial vote, which took place on September 25, 2023, led to a 10-7 decision against indemnifying Sheriff Allard, sparking legal challenges and a temporary restraining order on the decision. [Keep Reading]
In a recent Seneca County Board of Supervisors meeting, a unanimous decision to create a county water and sewer authority was overshadowed by a debate over a $20,000 tourism promotion grant. The grant, requested by the town of Covert, aims to support the Three Falls Local Development Corporation (LDC) in managing the former Boy Scout Camp Barton, soon to become a public park. [Keep Reading]
In response to a severe staffing crisis, DOCCS is considering the closure of up to five state prisons. Acting DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello, during a recent budget hearing, cited 3,800 vacant positions, including 1,900 corrections officers, as a primary reason for this proposal in the 2024-25 state budget. Additionally, a significant decrease in the incarcerated population over 25 years has led to excess capacity, with 6,000 vacant staffed beds and another 6,000 beds consolidated to address staffing issues. [Keep Reading]