Your Morning Edition for Tuesday, Mar. 25th presented by DiSanto Propane!
Today we have the latest on K2 Bros. unexpected closure of a major Wayne Co. development, an update on Newark housing, opposition to a Geneva housing project, and much more!
REPORT: K2 Brothers faced lawsuits, tax debts before former Wayne Co. school facility was closed
K2 Brothers Brewing has closed its Freewill Elementary location just 15 months after opening, citing financial strain, though lawsuits and tax debts also played a significant role. The brewery faced mounting legal troubles, including a $43,370 court order, a $299,970 lawsuit, and a $115,160 state tax warrant. Despite the setback, K2 Brothers plans to focus on its Empire Boulevard location while honoring gift cards and memberships from the shuttered site.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Chilly days ahead, getting mild this weekend.
Temperatures in the Finger Lakes will remain cool through the weekend, with highs mostly in the 40s before warming into the upper 50s by Sunday. Light snow showers are possible Wednesday, followed by scattered rain showers Thursday and Friday, with a mix of rain and snow likely Friday night into Saturday morning. A wetter pattern sets in Sunday and Monday, with widespread showers expected both days.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Developers are seeking additional tax breaks to advance a $2.7 million project converting the long-vacant Newark Hospital into nine market-rate apartments. With nearly $2.25 million already secured in state grants and tax credits, a PILOT agreement is being pursued to support structural repairs and restorations. If approved, construction could begin in April, creating up to 50 jobs and contributing to Newark’s downtown revitalization.
Seven suspects face first-degree murder charges in the brutal killing of 24-year-old transgender man Sam Nordquist in Canandaigua, but prosecutors have declined to pursue hate crime charges, citing his connection to the suspects. The Ontario County DA’s office argues that proving a hate crime would be legally complex and add only five years to sentencing, though activists say the designation is crucial in acknowledging violence against transgender individuals. While prosecutors prioritize securing convictions, Nordquist’s supporters continue to push for official recognition of the attack’s nature.
Opposition is growing against a proposed 60-unit affordable housing complex on the former Geneva Foundry site, with critics citing environmental hazards and equity concerns. Former City Councilor Mark Gramling argues that contamination was not fully remediated and warns that excavation could release buried toxins, disproportionately impacting a working-class neighborhood. Despite concerns, city officials insist that strict environmental regulations will be followed as the project moves to the Planning Board for review.
Braving freezing winds, rain, and snow, around 200 protesters gathered at Lakefront Community Park in Geneva to oppose federal cuts to healthcare, veterans services, and education. Speakers, including veterans and local officials, condemned the policies of the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, arguing they undermine essential public services. Demonstrators lined Routes 5 and 20, chanting slogans and emphasizing their activism as a defense of democracy.
The Auburn City Council will meet Thursday to confirm Jennifer L. Haines as the next City Manager, effective May 31, following the retirement of Jeffrey Dygert. The agenda also includes a presentation from the Auburn Police Department on acquiring a rescue vehicle and a proclamation recognizing March 29 as "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day." The meeting, open to the public, will be held at Memorial City Hall and streamed online.
Walworth supervisor leaves office after final board meeting
Walworth Supervisor Mike Donalty officially resigned during the March 20 Town Board meeting, stepping down to take a law enforcement position at a local college. The board approved multiple resolutions, including budget adjustments, seasonal hiring, and infrastructure planning, while tabling a fire department service award vote due to a lack of quorum. A special meeting is scheduled for March 27 at 6:30 p.m., with residents encouraged to stay engaged on ongoing local issues.
Geneva’s Mission Zero 4 event to showcase sustainability initiatives
The City of Geneva Green Committee and its partners will host Mission Zero 4, a community event focused on sustainable living, on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Geneva Recreation Complex. The event brings together local organizations, vendors, and residents to explore innovative ways to reduce environmental impact and live in harmony with the Earth.