Click here or on the ad above to reach the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development website

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Sealing, Striping
Crack Filling, Paving,
Patching, Consulting.
Commercial, Residential

207 Speedway
Odessa, NY 14869

Duff Terry
Roxanne Terry
Owners

Phone: 607-594-3856
Cell: 607-331-3182

Link to Website:
runriteconstruction.com

Email:
runrite55@yahoo.com

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Click on the ad below to reach the NY Connects website.

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Click here or on the ad above to reach a Chamber of Commerce website.

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Click on the ad below to go to the Schuyler County Transit website.

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Click on the logo above to visit the website for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schuyler County

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O'Mara: State Budget is 'out of touch'

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, May 29, 2026 -- State Senator Tom O’Mara (R-C, Big Flats), Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee, Thursday called the final 2026-2027 New York State budget being enacted by Governor Kathy Hochul and the Legislature’s Democrat majorities “out of touch with the affordability crisis crushing New York’s state and local taxpayers, and their families and communities and local economies.”

O’Mara stressed that the final budget, approved Wednesday night by the Democrat-led state Senate and Assembly, and that will be quickly signed into law by Hochul, is being enacted nearly two months late. He criticized the final plan for its continued focus on spending that is out of control, for its reliance on a broken budget adoption process, and for its failure to move New York in a stronger, more responsible direction economically, fiscally, and on public policy priorities in fundamentally key areas including energy, health care, and public safety and security.

O’Mara noted that Hochul and the Legislature’s majorities are increasing spending by at least $14 billion over last year and will adopt a $268 billion-plus fiscal plan. He said that the new budget will result in state spending under all-Democrat control since 2018 increasing by 55%, or nearly $100 billion. It also means that New York State will face multi-billion budget deficits for years to come.

O’Mara said, “New York State taxpayers today and long into the future already face trying to afford, live, and work under a bloated, wasteful, and unaffordable state government. New York is already one of the highest taxed, heavily mandated, overregulated, and least affordable states in America. This budget makes it worse. It increases spending by at least fourteen billion dollars but fails to include a shred of meaningful tax relief, mandate relief, debt relief, or spending restraint. It fails to address key priorities in energy policy, health care, public safety, and so many other fundamentally important areas. It ignores the economic and fiscal warnings on the horizon and keeps on increasing government spending like there’s nothing to worry about tomorrow.”

O’Mara pointed to a statewide poll earlier this month from the Siena Research Institute showing that more than 70 percent of respondents believed the state’s fiscal condition is fair or poor. The survey also found 75% of respondents reporting that the cost of utilities was having a “serious impact on their financial condition.” Fifty-one percent said their bills for heating and electricity are unaffordable, with nearly 30 percent admitting that they have been forced to borrow money or take on debt to cover utility costs.

O’Mara continued, “This budget acts like New York taxpayers and families shouldn’t have a care in the world in the face of the worst affordability crisis they have ever faced. It’s a budget built on bailouts and giveaways to special interests and favored constituencies that everyday taxpayers will never be able to afford. It ignores the ratepayers who can’t afford their unrelenting utility bills and instead tries to buy off the wrath of these ratepayers by giving them back pennies in so-called ‘energy rebates’ after the state has already collected billions from these same ratepayers through surcharges on their monthly utility bills for years on end. It’s offensive to ratepayers. They shouldn’t stand for it."

O’Mara also strongly criticized the state’s budget adoption process that has produced a string of late state budgets and continues to allow the use of “messages of necessity” to rush through votes on final budget legislation. He said the existing process prevents individual legislators, and the public, from having adequate time to review and debate budget legislation before it’s voted on and enacted.

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara

Palmesano rips finalized State Budget

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, May 29, 2026 -- Assemblyman Phil Palmesano says the finalized New York State budget "does not address the affordability crisis; it only exacerbates it."

In a press statement, the Assemblyman said the following:

“Nearly two months after the legally mandated deadline and three weeks after Gov. Hochul announced a budget deal, New York finally has a state budget. A process fraught with confusion and a lack of transparency has finally concluded, but its product isn’t pretty, a monstrosity of a budget coming in over $268 billion, over a quarter of a trillion dollars.

“This budget continues us down the unsustainable path of even more uncontrolled increased spending, taxes and debt. This budget does not address the affordability crisis; it only exacerbates it. Our state budget has increased over $90 billion since Gov. Hochul took office in 2021. Families and small businesses tighten their financial belts and continue to make difficult decisions every day, but, unfortunately, New York State fails to do so. I think my Democrat colleagues in Albany think it is their money they continue to spend and forget it’s the taxpayer’s money. That’s just sad and wrong,” said Palmesano.

“Certainly, with a budget this big, there are, of course, some good things. For example, the electric school bus mandate was delayed, additional CHIPS funding was provided for municipalities to help improve our local roads, bridges and culverts and small steps in the right direction were taken to modify and delay parts of the CLCPA. We also finally passed the death gamble legislation to help protect the pensions for our dedicated correctional officers and their families. I have supported these policies in the past and will continue to do so in the future.

“Unfortunately, this might be the least transparent budget process I have ever seen in my years in the state Assembly and is the latest state budget since 2010. I will continue to be vocal and a tireless advocate for common-sense policies that address the affordability, public safety and quality of life crisis facing New Yorkers because they deserve nothing less.”

Photo in text: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano

Alpine incident: Bomb report proves false

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, May 27, 2026 -- The Schuyler County Sheriff's Office reported the following:

"On May 25th, 2026, at around 6:20 p.m., the Schuyler County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center received a call reporting a bomb threat with hostages at a residence on County Road 11 in Alpine, NY. The Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police and Watkins Glen Police responded and quickly set up a perimeter. As a precaution some nearby residents were requested to leave their homes for their safety.

A request for the New York State Police Explosives Unit was made and once on scene it was quickly determined that there was no threat of explosives in the area.

Investigation determined that the incident reported was false, and the investigation continues."

Palmesano rips Electric Bus Bill defeat

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, May 18, 2026 -- Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) is voicing his disappointment after Democrats on the Education Committee voted to block his bill to delay the implementation of mandated electric school buses in New York State (A.5168).

Palmesano says that Assembly Democrats are trying to win political points with their progressive base at the expense of school districts. Specifically, this bill would do the following:

-- Delay statewide implementation of the zero-emission school bus mandate until 2047 or until all state agencies convert their fleets, whichever comes later.

-- Require all components and parts used in zero-emission school buses to be made in the U.S.

-- Direct the commissioner of education to complete a cost-benefit analysis for each school district and provide extensions to schools if necessary.

-- Authorize the commissioner of education, in consultation with NYISO, utilities and the Department of Public Service, to override the mandate if it is determined that zero-emission school buses are not feasible.

-- Direct NYSERDA to consult with the Office of Fire Prevention and Control to develop fire-suppression and safety procedures related to lithium and hydrogen-based fires.

“I am disappointed, but not surprised, that Assembly Democrats have decided to vote down my bill," said Palmesano. "Instead of looking out for school districts and local property taxpayers, they have decided to placate their far-left base. The fact of the matter is, these buses are much more expensive than conventional school buses and will cost school districts billions of dollars in replacement costs, charging and electrical infrastructure upgrades, causing local property taxes to rise significantly. On top of that, they are more dangerous than conventional buses. When they catch fire, they burn hot and fast, putting our children at risk.”

Palmesano also point the hypocrisy of making school districts convert to all-electric school buses a full five years before the state has to convert its fleets. He says this is unfair, and that the state should convert its entire state fleet first.

“The arrogance and audacity of the state to force our school districts to convert their fleets before the state has to is the embodiment of everything wrong with Albany," he said. "If Democrats are sure that electric fleets are so great, then why don’t they have the state convert its fleets first? Instead, they want our schools, children and local property taxpayers to be guinea pigs for this social experiment. This is a slap in the face to all New Yorkers, and they deserve better.”

Photo: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano

Comprehensive Plan open for public review

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 22, 2026 -- The final draft of Schuyler County's Comprehensive Plan update is now available for public review and comment.

The plan outlines key priorities for housing, economic development, and quality of life improvements across the county.

Developed using public input gathered through surveys and community meetings, as well as recent studies on housing, economic development, and transportation, the plan documents progress made over the past decade and establishes goals for the next five to ten years.

Residents are encouraged to review the draft plan and share their feedback. The document is available online via the Planning Department's website at https://www.schuylercountyny.gov/566/County-Wide-Comprehensive-Plan.

For additional information, contact the Schuyler County Planning Department at 607-535-8211 or planning@schuylercountyny.gov.

Schuyler County to consider joining
new $97.6 million Opioid Settlement

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 8, 2026 -- The Schuyler County Legislature will review and consider a resolution authorizing participation in a new national opioid settlement at its meeting on Monday, April 13, 2026.

The proposed resolution would authorize Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman to finalize the county’s participation in a settlement with six regional pharmaceutical distributors, collectively referred to as the “Remnant Defendants.” The agreement, if finalized, would resolve the county’s claims against those entities while allowing litigation against remaining defendants to continue.

According to Getman, under the proposed agreement, the six defendants will collectively pay approximately $97.6 million nationwide to support opioid abatement efforts. Each participating municipality, including Schuyler County, will receive a one-time payment. The specific amount allocated to Schuyler County is still being calculated based on a national formula, he said.

The measure has already advanced through the county’s committee process, receiving approval from the Management and Finance Committee on March 23, and the Legislative Resolution Review Committee on April 8.

Funds from the settlement would be used for approved opioid abatement strategies, including prevention programs, treatment services, naloxone distribution, and support for vulnerable populations affected by opioid addiction.

“This proposed settlement represents another step forward in holding opioid distributors accountable while delivering meaningful resources to our community,” Getman said. “While the exact amount is still being determined, these funds will directly support evidence-based strategies to combat opioid addiction and its impacts in Schuyler County.”

Schuyler County Administrator Shawn Rosno emphasized the importance of continued investment in public health efforts.

“Schuyler County has remained committed to addressing the opioid crisis through litigation and collaboration,” Rosno said. “Participation in this settlement will help strengthen our ability to fund prevention, treatment and recovery programs that serve our residents at no additional costs to our taxpayers.”

Schuyler County began pursuing legal action related to the opioid crisis in 2017, when the Legislature authorized Getman to work with outside counsel to seek damages from opioid manufacturers and distributors.

In 2018, the county adopted a local law declaring the opioid epidemic a public nuisance and filed a comprehensive lawsuit against multiple opioid supply chain participants, including manufacturers, distributors and pharmacies.

Since 2021, Schuyler County has secured over $862,000 in opioid-related settlements, including $121,000 from Johnson & Johnson, $546,000 from distributors McKesson Corporation, Cardinal Health Inc., and AmerisourceBergen Drug Corporation, $41,000 from Actavis Inc., $116,000 from Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., and $38,000 from Sandoz Inc.

These settlements are part of a broader national effort to hold companies accountable for their role in the opioid crisis and to fund long-term recovery and prevention programs at the local level.

Schuyler County remains committed to pursuing additional claims in the ongoing litigation to address the opioid epidemic’s devastating impact, Getman said.

Photo in text: Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman and County Administrator Shawn Rosno. (File photos)

Schuyler County expands legal services
for local veterans with free April 15 event

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, March 26, 2026 -- Schuyler County officials and Cornell Law School’s Veterans Law Practicum have announced a free civil legal services advice clinic event for local veterans and service members to be held in April.

According to Schuyler County Veterans Services Director Jason Gilliland, the event will be held Wednesday, April 15, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Schuyler County Human Services Building, Montour Falls.

The event is intended to offer legal advice to veterans and service members on a variety of issues, including veterans’ benefits, discharge upgrades, eviction prevention, family law, estate planning, as well as benefits claims with the VA or Social Security Administration, Gilliland explained. The clinic is not able to provide advice on any criminal matters, he noted. Law students and a supervising attorney will provide the legal assistance, he said. Participants are encouraged to bring photocopies of relevant documents.

The clinic, Gilliland said, has been developed with the assistance of Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman and Cornell adjunct professor James Hardwick, the Law School’s first full-time veterans law staff attorney and the clinic’s director. It is a continuation of a county-Cornell program that began in 2025.

Said Gilliland: “The impact of having an attorney present onsite is incredible, especially when veterans apply for benefits or an upgrade in their military discharge. Studies show veterans are much more successful in claims for VA benefits when they have an attorney helping them.”

Hardwick said that the clinic can offer 8 slots during the event. The clinic will be staffed with at least two law students plus a supervising attorney. Most advice will not be given on the date of the clinic but will come in a follow-up advice letter after the students do any necessary research into the issue, he explained.

Said Hardwick: “We are happy to review any civil matters or claims veterans might have with state and federal agencies. We are grateful for the opportunity for our students to work with local veterans. The students will witness first-hand our obligation as lawyers to leverage our legal training in the service of others, especially for those who served our country.”

According to Getman, the county strongly encourages veterans to sign up in advance so they can secure a spot, though walk-in appointments will also be available. Information that will be helpful to receive during registration includes a short description of the issue, location and date of any pending hearings or deadlines, and names of any opposing parties.

Said Getman: “As the son and nephew of Navy veterans, I am proud to be able to assist our local veterans service agency in providing needed civil legal services. As a Cornell alum (CALS ’86), I am happy that my alma mater can and will be giving something back to our local veterans community.”

Veterans and service members seeking assistance at the event may contact the county veterans’ services agency at (607) 535-8187 or sign up in person at 323 Owego Street, Montour Falls, NY 14865. Interested veterans and service members may also email: JGilliland@schuylercountyny.gov.

Schuyler County and the law school hope to host more legal assistance events for veterans and service members in the future, County Administrator Shawn Rosno said.

Said Rosno: “Schuyler County remains committed to our veterans. I want to applaud our veterans director and our county attorney for their initiative in setting up this event and I want to thank Cornell Law School for their assistance to our community.”

The Schuyler County Veterans Service Agency provides assistance to Schuyler County veterans and members of the armed forces as well as their dependents and survivors through the pursuance of veterans benefits at the County, State and Federal levels and referrals to other agencies for possible assistance. This is done to promote better physical and mental health, improve quality of life and to ensure every veteran or dependent receives the benefits to which they are entitled.

The Schuyler County Attorney is the civil legal advisor to the county legislature and other county agencies, including the local veterans service agency. The county attorney prosecutes and defends civil actions on behalf of the county, in Family Court, Surrogates Court and New York State Supreme Court.

In Cornell Law School’s Veterans Law Practicum, students provide information, legal advice, and representation to veterans seeking legal assistance. Students work on cases, including to secure service-connected disability compensation, discharge upgrades, overpayment issues, and other related claims. In 2023, Cornell was one of three law schools nationwide to receive a $150,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to provide legal services for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Photos in text: Schuyler County Veterans Services Director Jason Gilliland (top) and Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman. (File photos)

Donate Life art contest deadline extended

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, March 7, 2026 -- Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) has announced that the deadline has been extended and entries are still being accepted for the Third Annual Student Art Contest hosted by Donate Life New York State.

In celebration of Donate Life Month, students are encouraged to share their donation stories and perspectives on organ donations through art. Submissions must be in by March 13, and winners will be notified by March 20. Entries must be submitted by a teacher or parent and must include the participating student’s name, grade level, age, address, phone number and email. There are four separate categories for the contest:

Elementary: fourth-fifth grades
Middle School: sixth-eighth grades
High School: ninth-tenth & eleventh-twelfth grades

Artwork will be hung throughout the Legislative Office Building during Donate Life Month in April. Winners will receive a $100 gift card and will be recognized at a press conference to be held on March 31 in Albany. For more information on this opportunity, please see the link here.

“Organ donation is a cause near and dear to my heart, so I am always happy to help promote this important issue however I can," said Palmesano. "We have 8,000 New Yorkers waiting for an organ donation, and we have the third-greatest need for organs but the sixth-worst enrollment rate. We can, and must, do better. I hope this art contest will help spread the word about the importance of organ donation.

"If you have already registered to become an organ donor, thank you. If you have not, please talk to your family and consider it, as you can help save the lives of your fellow New Yorkers. In fact, one person who donates at their time of death can save up to eight lives and impact the lives of 75 others. To register to donate, visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles or visit the NYS Donate Life Registry website today.”

Photo in text: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano

Local, state leaders call for stronger commitment by NY to roads and bridges

Special to The Odessa File

BIG FLATS, March 2, 2026 -- State and local officials called Monday on Governor Kathy Hochul and the Democrat leaders of the State Legislature to provide increased state aid for local roads and bridges in the final 2026-27 state budget.

State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C-Big Flats), Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning), Assemblyman Chris Friend (R,C-Big Flats), Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski (R,C-Olean), Elmira Mayor Dan Mandell, Hornell Mayor John Buckley, and other local leaders issued the call at an afternoon press conference at the Big Flats Town Highway Garage.

Joint Senate-Assembly hearings on the governor’s proposed $260 billion budget concluded last week. Hochul and the Legislature’s all-Democrat majorities are set to begin final budget negotiations throughout March. The deadline for approving the new state budget is April 1.

During the news conference, the group urged the governor and legislative leaders to keep strengthening New York’s commitment to local transportation infrastructure.

In a February 12, 2026 letter to Hochul and legislative leaders, O’Mara, Palmesano, Friend, Sempolinski, and nearly 70 of their Republican legislative colleagues in the Senate and Assembly wrote, in part, “More funding is essential to help offset rising construction costs, stabilize the transportation program, and ensure critical infrastructure projects can move forward. It is unfortunate the Executive Budget proposes no increases to local road, bridge, and culvert funding for the fourth year of the five-year Department of Transportation (DOT) Capital Plan. The local system is owned by 1,600 local governments and consists of over 97,000 centerline miles of roadways and 8,600 highway bridges ... In our view, the Governor’s proposal fails to recognize or understand the significant impact inflation is having on local highway departments."

The group in particular opposes Hochul’s proposal to keep state funding at last year’s level for the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS), the state’s primary source of funding for local roads, bridges, and culverts. They argue that the Hochul proposal fails to recognize the enormous impact inflation is having on the costs of construction and, consequently, on the budgets of local highway departments. Nationally, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s Highway Construction Cost Index, highway construction costs over the past three years have increased by 70 percent.

Consequently, local roads advocates are calling on Hochul and legislative leaders to:

--increase the CHIPS base aid level funding by $250 million to a total of $898.1 million. This would allow municipalities to recoup some of the real funding value lost to inflation since 2022;

--consolidate five of the state’s local road assistance programs into two programs which would reduce the administrative burden and recordkeeping costs at the state and local levels; and

--increase the CHIPS bidding threshold from $350,000 to $1,000,000 -- or eliminate the threshold altogether -- to give municipalities more flexibility to pursue the most cost-effective option to bid out or perform in-house projects.

The group is also reiterating growing concerns over the impact of a state mandate that will, starting in 2027, require all new school bus purchases to be electric. New York’s 1,600 municipalities will be responsible for ensuring that the local road system is capable of handling the significantly heavier weight of electric school buses. Preliminary data, they said, shows that when a heavier electric bus is used, the expected life expectancy of most town roads would fall from 10 years to 8 years and lead to significant cost increases.

In a joint statement, O’Mara, Palmesano, Friend, and Sempolinski said, “The ‘Local Roads Are Essential’ coalition has worked long and hard over the past decade to strengthen New York State’s commitment to local transportation infrastructure. We have long stood with New York’s county and town highway superintendents, and local leaders, in support of this effort. We continue to believe this commitment is a fundamental responsibility and critical to the strength and success of local communities, economies, environments, governments, and taxpayers. We will do everything we can to raise our voices, raise awareness, and raise support for the local roads and bridges that are essential to New York’s future.”

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara at the podium during the press conference. (Photo provided)

From left: Assemblyman Christopher Friend; Ken Dahlgren of Tobacco Free Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany; Hannah Lee of the Tobacco Action Coalition of the Finger Lakes; Ryan Mulhern of the Center for a Tobacco-Free Finger Lakes; Danielle O'Brien of the CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Free Health Systems; Tierra Starkweather of Tobacco Free Broome & Tioga; Emily Hoffman of the Southern Tier Tobacco Awareness Coalition; Sawyer Amadeo, a Watkins Glen High School student and a member of Watkins Glen Reality Check; Assemblyman Phil Palmesano; Anthony Hooks of the Drug Free Community Coalition of Chemung County; and Sarah Welch of the Southern Tier Tobacco Awareness Coalition. Senator Tom O'Mara had to leave before the photo was taken. (Photo provided)

Local public health workers meet with state lawmakers to discuss tobacco use prevention

Special to The Odessa File

ELMIRA, Feb. 23, 2026 -- Local tobacco prevention experts from the Southern Tier and Central New York met recently with state lawmakers to discuss state and local progress in reducing tobacco use -- underscoring the importance of tobacco prevention and treatment efforts in reducing illness, disability, and death related to it. The work is supported by the New York State Tobacco Control Program.

Representatives from the Southern Tier Tobacco Awareness Coalition; Reality Check of New York; Tobacco Free Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany; Tobacco Action Coalition of the Finger Lakes; Tobacco Free Broome & Tioga; Center for a Tobacco-Free Finger Lakes, and the CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Free Health Systems met with New York State Senator Thomas O'Mara, Assemblymen Christopher Friend and Phil Palmesano, and prevention partner Anthony Hooks from the Drug Free Community Coalition of Chemung County.

During the meeting, the group discussed the growing popularity of nicotine pouches and the ongoing appeal of e-cigarettes -- particularly among youth -- which pose a serious threat to future progress. These products, the representatives said, increase the risk of nicotine addiction among young people. In addition, recent cuts to federal tobacco prevention and control programs could reverse decades of hard-won gains.

A Reality Check of New York youth member, Sawyer Amadeo, said: “From my perspective, it’s obvious that these new nicotine products are made to hook a new generation. We see the ads, the flavors, and the social media trends, and we know it’s not random. Nicotine addiction affects our health, our focus, and our future.”

“The problems associated with commercial tobacco," said Sarah Welch of the Southern Tier Tobacco Awareness Coalition, "continue to affect communities across New York. Tobacco still claims lives, and the tobacco industry continues to aggressively market its products. The result is a significant human toll and an economic burden on New Yorkers. By working together, we can ease this burden and build a healthier future for New York State,”

“E-cigarettes and nicotine pouches may appear harmless," said Danielle O’Brien of the CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems, "but they quietly alter the developing brain and weaken the body. What’s most troubling is that these products are engineered to stay hidden from parents until the damage has already begun. We cannot afford to wait -- action is urgently needed,”

Ryan Mulhern from the Center for a Tobacco-Free Finger Lakes added: “Healthcare providers have the greatest impact on reducing tobacco use. Our mission is to equip healthcare systems of all sizes and specialties with best practices to screen and treat tobacco use, implement supportive policies, and train providers to help patients quit.”

Teens and young adults in New York State who are trying to quit vaping or using nicotine pouches can access DropTheVape, a free and confidential texting program designed specifically for youth ages 13 to 24. DropTheVape sends participants skill-building texts to overcome the use of tobacco products. Get started at nysmokefree.com/drop-the-vape.

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara (File photo)

Palmesano named ranking minority member
of Assembly Committee on Ways and Means

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, Feb. 19, 2026 -- Assembly Minority Leader Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) has announced the appointment of Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) as the ranking minority member of the Committee on Ways and Means. In his new role, Palmesano will play a key role in leading fiscal analysis, review and advancing the Minority Conference's priorities during the state budget process.

"I am honored to be appointed as the ranking minority member of the Ways and Means Committee," said Palmesano. "At a time when New York faces serious fiscal challenges and while the Legislature debates the governor's proposed $260 billion budget, I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure transparency, accountability and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I want to thank Leader Ra for the trust and confidence he has placed in me to serve in this important role at this critical time."

Assemblyman Palmesano has represented the 132nd Assembly District since 2010. He has most recently served the Conference as Assistant Minority Leader and as ranking minority member on the Energy Committee.

"Phil Palmesano has the expertise, knowledge, and experience to excel as ranking member of the Ways and Means Committee and I'm proud to appoint him to this position," Leader Ra said."His leadership as a ranking member on the Energy Committee and years of service to this Conference give him a deep understanding of fiscal policy and the complex challenges facing New York. I know Phil will work tirelessly to hold the line on spending and demand more transparency and fiscal responsibility in the state budget process."

Palmesano has served on several committees during his tenure, and has previously served as co-chairman for the Assembly Minority Task Force on Critical Infrastructure and Transportation. He has been an advocate for improving the state's business climate, investing in local infrastructure, promoting organ and tissue donation and standing up for New York's most vulnerable residents, including individuals with developmental disabilities.

Assemblyman Palmesano represents the 132nd District, which includes parts of Chemung County, Schuyler County, Seneca County, Steuben County and Yates County.

Photo: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (File photo)

NY Forward Small Business Fund awards
of $160,000 go to 3 Montour Falls businesses

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 4, 2026 -- Mayor James Ryan has announced that three local businesses have been awarded a total of $160,000 through the NY Forward Small Business Fund, a state-supported program designed to strengthen and sustain small business growth in local communities.

The award letters were officially signed this week by Mayor Ryan following a comprehensive review and approval process. Each applicant submitted a detailed five-page proposal to the Village Review Committee, which evaluated and ranked the submissions before forwarding recommendations to the New York State Department of State for final approval and grant determinations.

Under program guidelines, each awardee is responsible for providing a percentage of local match to maximize the impact of the state funds. The grant program is being administered by Heritage Resources of Buffalo on behalf of the village.

The following local businesses were selected for funding:

-- Jerlando's Pizza Corp. -- $85,000
-- FLX Studio and Makers Market -- $55,000
-- H.L. Stevens Furniture -- $20,000

Mayor Ryan praised the recipients' dedication to community investment, stating, "These businesses not only contribute to our local economy but also reflect the creative energy and resilience that make our village a great place to live and work."

For more information about the NY Forward Small Business Program or upcoming funding opportunities, contact Alma Brown at hrllcab@gmail.com

Photo in text: Award ceremony in the office of Mayor James Ryan. Standing, left to right, Amanda Colunio of FLX Studio; Gerlando Purpura of Jerlando's Pizza Corp.; Dirk and Brad Stevens of H.L. Stevens Furniture, and Deputy Mayor Jeff Confer. Seated is Mayor Ryan. (Photo by EJ Holter, Village Photographer)

Annual Donate Life Art Contest announced

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, Feb.3, 2026 --Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) has announced the 3rd Annual Student Art Contest hosted by Donate Life New York State. In celebration of Donate Life Month, students are encouraged to share their donation stories and perspectives on organ donations through art.

Submissions must be in by Feb. 26, and winners will be notified by March 20. Entries must be submitted by a teacher or parent and must include the participating student’s name, grade level, age, address, phone number and email. There are separate categories for the contest: elementary, fourth and fifth grades; middle school, sixth through eighth grades; and high school, ninth and tenth grades and eleventh and twelfth grades.

Artwork will be hung throughout the Legislative Office Building during Donate Life Month in April. Winners will receive a $100 gift card and will be recognized at a press conference to be held on March 31 in Albany. For more information on this opportunity, please see the link here. 

“Organ donation is a cause near and dear to my heart, so I am always happy to help promote this important issue however I can," said Palmesano. "We have 8,000 New Yorkers waiting for an organ donation, and we have the third-greatest need for organs but the sixth-worst enrollment rate. We can, and must, do better. I hope this art contest will help spread the word about the importance of organ donation.

"If you have already registered to become an organ donor, thank you. If you have not, please talk to your family and consider it, as you can help save the lives of your fellow New Yorkers. In fact, one person who donates at their time of death can save up to eight lives and impact the lives of 75 others. To register to donate, visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles or visit the NYS Donate Life Registry website today.”

Photo in text: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano

O'Mara rips governor's spending plan

ALBANY, Jan. 20, 2026 -- State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C-Big Flats), Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee, said Tuesday that Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed 2026-2027 state budget calls for a highest-ever, $260 billion fiscal plan that increases spending by at least $8 billion over the budget she proposed last year and “continues to downplay the long-term fiscal realities facing this state, largely ignores the long-term burdens being shouldered by middle-class taxpayers, and refuses to take the steps needed to seriously address affordability and accountability.”

“It’s a budget plan and a fiscal strategy," he added, "that, in the end, remains focused on how state government can maintain irresponsible levels of spending with an eye clearly on increasing spending in the future.”

O’Mara stressed that over the past six years, since the beginning of all-Democrat, total one-party control of state government in 2019, the Democrats’ “spend it now and figure it out later” approach to government has increased state spending upwards of $85 billion, a roughly 50% growth in spending far outpacing inflation during that time.

O’Mara released the following statement in reaction to the governor’s budget proposal:

“Governor Hochul and Albany Democrats can’t stop spending. It has been out of control, irresponsible, and even shocking. Despite all the warning signs, Governor Hochul keeps feeding a ‘spend, spend, spend’ addiction that will never make New York more affordable. It will keep driving hard-working taxpayers and middle-class families out of the state. It will keep killing jobs and strangling local economies.

“Throughout this era of total one-party control of the state’s purse strings, Albany Democrats have ignored the affordability crisis, ignored the overriding need for mandate relief and regulatory reform, ignored the need for commonsense energy policies, ignored the demand for permanent, broad-based tax relief, and ignored the need for more responsible and efficient government that targets fraud and waste. Instead, the Democrats’ spending plans over the past several years have been just that: a one-party, far-left vision for spending billions upon billions of taxpayer dollars.

“The Albany Democrat spending addiction has put in place massive, long-term spending commitments -- including massive commitments looming in their pursuit of radical climate and other agendas -- that will never be affordable or sustainable for state and local taxpayers, small businesses and manufacturers, and continually hard-pressed upstate communities, economies, and workers.

”Can taxpayers even begin to go on affording it in a state that is already one of the highest-taxed and least-affordable in the nation? Why is there no focus on taking a good, hard, renewed look at the cost of government to ensure it’s being run affordably, efficiently, legally, and responsibly -- and that taxpayer dollars aren’t being ripped off?”

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara (File photo)

Palmesano: 'More out-of-control spending'

ALBANY, Jan. 20, 2026 -- Assemblyman Phil Palmesano was highly critical Tuesday of Gov. Kathy Hochul's budget proposal, weighing in with the following statement:

“The governor just proposed the largest budget in state history, coming in at more than a quarter-trillion dollars with a projected three-year budget gap of more than $27 billion. As usual, this budget seems to be filled with more misplaced priorities, out-of-control spending and debt. In fact, this is insulting to the millions of New Yorkers who have to make difficult decisions and cuts to their family budgets just to see the state continue to increase its own.

"The governor and Albany Democrats think taxpayer money belongs to them and continue to create undue financial stress on the hardworking taxpayers of this state because they fail to recognize it’s the people’s money.

“Under one-party rule, the cost of living has gone up, and outmigration in New York is second in the nation, despite the governor claiming she has a handle on the affordability and quality-of-life crisis. If the governor really wanted to address this issue, she would cut taxes and spending and put forth a budget that addresses the concerns of all New Yorkers instead of catering to the socialist and progressive wing of her party.

“The Legislature will now conduct public budget hearings through the month of February, where we will examine the proposed budget and question the governor’s agency commissioners, department heads and community stakeholders to evaluate the impact of her proposals on New Yorkers.

“I will continue to push for fiscal responsibility, public safety, lower taxes, less red tape, as well as oppose the costly green energy mandates and will prioritize a common-sense energy agenda that prioritizes affordability, reliability, feasibility, safety, fuel diversity and energy choice.”

Photo in text: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (File photo)

Beware of Planning Board scam e-mails

Schuyler County offers tips to avoid scams, and says where to seek help

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 8, 2026 -- Schuyler County Planning Director Joann Lindstrom and County Attorney Steven Getman are jointly alerting residents, businesses, and applicants to be vigilant against a scam involving fraudulent invoices and emails that impersonate county planning offices.

This scam, which has been reported across New York State, and in other states nationwide, attempts to deceive individuals into paying nonexistent fees for land use or planning reviews.  At least one incident has been reported in Schuyler County.

“The Schuyler County Planning Department and its Planning Commission do not charge any costs for land use reviews,” said Lindstrom. “If you receive a bill from the Planning Department, do not submit payment and contact the Schuyler County Planning Department immediately.”

"We want to ensure that our community is protected from these deceptive practices," said Getman.  “If you've received any such email, report it immediately to help us track and stop these fraudsters."

Getman said residents should be on the lookout for common signs of potential scam emails, including:

--Urgent or high-pressure demands for immediate or expedited payment, often containing threats of delays to project review.
--Request for payment through suspicious channels: wire transfers, gift cards, prepaid debit cards or cryptocurrency.
--Multiple spelling or grammatical errors.
--Poor formatting or unclear language.
--Scam communications most often occur the week before the county planning board meeting is scheduled, as seen on the schedule posted to the county planning board web page. Scam attempts typically occur the first week of each month.

Getman offered the following tips to avoid the scam:

-Verify e-mail addresses and confirm all communications come from official sources like “schuylercountyny.gov” or “schuylercounty.us.”
--Confirm any invoice or request by contacting the Schuyler County Planning Department directly using known phone numbers or the county website, not those provided in the suspicious message.
--Be wary of high-pressure tactics, such as threats of delays or urgent deadlines.
--Avoid payments through wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards -- these are common scam indicators.
--Educate yourself on official processes by being an active member of the local community.

Persons who suspect they have encountered this scam should report it immediately to the Schuyler County Planning Department (Telephone: 607-535-8211) or visit the planning department’s website: https://www.schuylercountyny.gov/484/Planning.

Anyone who suspects they may have been the victim of fraud may also contact local law enforcement agencies, including the Schuyler County Sheriff's Office at 607-535-8222, the New York State Attorney General's Office Consumer Frauds Bureau at 1-800-771-7755, or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov/complaint.

The Schuyler County Planning Director provides land use guidance to the county's municipalities, its legislature, and the public. The County Attorney is the chief legal advisor for county government and is responsible for the prosecution and defense of civil actions brought by and against the county.

Photo in text: Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman

From left: Former District Attorney Joe Fazzary, County Judge Matt Hayden and new DA Jeremy Hourihan share a light-hearted moment in the county courtrooom.

Hourihan sworn in as Schuyler County DA

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 1, 2026 -- Jeremy Hourihan was sworn in Thursday afternoon as Schuyler County District Attorney in a ceremony before more than 75 people in the county courtroom.

Hourihan, who has been serving as Chief Assistant DA for the county since 2020, succeeds Joseph Fazzary, who did not seek re-election after 28 years in the DA post.

Fazzary, who recruited Hourihan from Chemung County six years ago, introduced the honoree and Schuyler County Judge Matthew Hayden before Hayden applied the oath of office.

Assisting in the oath was Hourihan's wife, Lynsey, who held the Bible.

After being sworn in, Hourihan addressed the county employees, family members and friends on hand, thanking Fazzary for his guidance and his foresight in planning such a transition. He promised to "work hard to do a good job," mindful that what he does "affects real people every day."

He said that while he might not have fully understood the extent of the job's responsibilities initially, he had grown into the position over the years, and now:

"I feel like this is the job I should be doing."

Photos in text:

Top: Jeremy Hourihan, right, is sworn in by Schuyler County Judge Matt Hayden while Hourihan's wife, Lynsey, holds the Bible.
Bottom: Hourihan addresses the audience on hand to witness the ceremony.

Left: Former Schuyler County Judge J.C. Argetsinger, left, and current County Judge Matt Hayden talked after the ceremony. Argetsinger swore in the last DA, Joe Fazzary, in 1998. Right: Former DA Joe Fazzary, right, hugs Judge Hayden, who served as Fazzary's Chief Assistant DA before being elected to the bench.

Hourihan, unopposed, elected to DA post

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 5, 2025 -- Jeremy Hourihan has been elected Schuyler County District Attorney following the November 4, 2025, general election. He will assume office on January 1, 2026.

Hourihan, who ran unopposed, currently serves as Chief Assistant District Attorney for Schuyler County, a position he has held since 2020.

"I'm humbled by the trust the people of Schuyler County have placed in me, and I am honored to serve them as District Attorney," said Hourihan. "It has been a privilege to serve alongside District Attorney Joe Fazzary, whose leadership and dedication to justice have set the standard for our office. I look forward to continuing that commitment and ensuring that Schuyler County remains a safe and fair community for all."

Fazzary, who has served since 1998, announced his plans month ago to retire at the end of his term on December 31, 2025.

Photo in text: District Attorney-elect Jeremy Hourihan

Sheriff Rumsey: 'We continue to focus
on modernization and on public safety'

Special to The Odessa File

The following was issued by Schuyler County Sheriff Kevin Rumsey, who is running unopposed for re-election in the Nov. 4th balloting.

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 31, 2025 -- Schuyler County Sheriff Kevin Rumsey, first elected in 2021, is seeking re-election as Sheriff. He is running unopposed in the upcoming general election.

"I'm honored and humbled by the continued support of the people of Schuyler County," said Sheriff Rumsey. "Serving this community has been one of the great privileges of my life. Over the past several years, our Sheriff's Office has worked hard to modernize operations, expand community outreach, and strengthen public safety."

During his tenure, the Schuyler County Sheriff's Office has implemented a wide range of new initiatives and upgrades, including:

--The 9-1-1 Center implemented major updates, including Increased Staffing & Supervision, Text-to-9-1-1 and Prepared Live, all improving emergency communication and public safety.

--Patrol Deputies have added new in-car cameras, and all deputies now use upgraded body-worn cameras for greater transparency and safety.

--The Office now has a Drone Unit with two drones used for a variety of things including locating missing hikers and suspects of crime.

--The Navigation Division has hosted public boater-safety trainings throughout the past year. They continue to be on the lakes during the season for the safety of residents and boaters.

--The K-9 Division continues to train on a regular basis and puts on demonstrations across the county for schools and community events.

--In the Jail, every Corrections Officer now is certified to carry a taser and wears a body camera -- both firsts for this office.

--The Office has established a monthly in-service training program for deputies and corrections officers, along with specialized state training opportunities.

--The Sheriff's Office has also launched the new Schuyler County Sheriff's App, which provides real-time notifications about accidents, weather alerts, lake safety conditions, and other emergencies. The app also connects residents to victim services, jail and court updates, and the sex offender registry, keeping the public informed.

"These upgrades bring the Sheriff's Office in line with today's standards for transparency and accessibility," Rumsey said. "The Sheriff's App, in particular, gives residents instant access to critical updates and public safety information -- something that's been long needed in our community."

While running unopposed, Rumsey emphasized the importance of civic participation and community connection.

"As voters head to the polls this November for other important elections," he said, "I would be honored if they also take a moment to fill in the circle for Kevin Rumsey, Sheriff -- a simple gesture that shows continued support for the men and women who serve Schuyler County with pride and professionalism every day."

Looking Ahead

Sheriff Rumsey said his focus for the next term will be to expand on the progress already made -- continuing to develop new initiatives, strengthen community partnerships, and enhance the tools and training that keep both deputies and residents safe.

"We're not slowing down," Rumsey said. "Our goal is to keep building a stronger, more responsive, and more connected Sheriff's Office -- one that reflects the pride and safety of the people we serve."

Photo in text: Schuyler County Sheriff Kevin Rumsey (File photo)

Drug Take Back Day set for Oct. 25th

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Oct. 21, 2025 -- The Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office, the Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking and Drugs (SCCUDD), and Schuyler County Public Health are encouraging community members to participate in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

Community members can drop off their expired, unused, or unwanted medications between 10 AM and 2 PM at the Odessa and Tyrone Fire Departments and Walmart in Watkins Glen. Community members who are trying to quit smoking are also able to dispose of tobacco products at the events.

“Medications that sit unused in homes can be dangerous,” warned Schuyler County Sheriff Kevin Rumsey. “They can end up being taken and abused by someone, or a child can end up taking them by accident and become extremely ill or worse.”

Free and anonymous medication disposal will be available during these events. Medications, ointments, and sprays will be accepted. Needles cannot be accepted. Tobacco products, except for e-cigarettes, will also be accepted at these events.

“We are happy the Sheriff’s Office was able to add tobacco take-back services once again,” said Schuyler County Public Health Director Jill Kasprzyk. “It is great that community members have the opportunity to take that first step toward quitting by throwing out their cigarettes, chew, or other tobacco products.”

Community members can also dispose of unwanted, expired, and unused prescription drugs year-round by using the 24/7 confidential drop boxes available at the Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office in Watkins Glen, in the foyer at the Human Services Complex in Montour Falls, in the lobby at Schuyler Hospital, in the pharmacy area at CVS Pharmacy, and in the lobby at the Watkins Glen Village Police Department.

Schuyler Meet the Candidates event set

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 5, 2025 -- Four Schuyler County Legislature candidates will discuss their reasons for seeking election at a Meet the Candidates Night on Tuesday, Oct. 14, presented by the Watkins Review & Express.

The event, organized by a non-partisan committee, will be at the Watkins Glen Elementary School auditorium beginning at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome. The election is Tuesday, Nov. 4, with polling places open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

District 1 candidates Robert L. Halpin, Republican, and Joan Hendy-Kline, Common Sense Schuyler, are vying to represent residents of the Towns of Catharine and Cayuta. Erich Asperschlager, Democrat and Common Sense Schuyler, is a candidate for District 2, covering most of the southern half of the Town of Hector. Republican Kimberly A. Rhode-Rozell is on the ballot to serve District 3, the northern half of the Town of Hector.

The candidates will give timed remarks and answer selected questions from the audience. The session will be led by a moderator.

Also attending the event to be introduced is Steven M. Decker, Republican incumbent and unopposed candidate for Town of Montour justice.

Three candidates responded by the required deadline that they would not be able to attend. They were Alan Gregory, Republican unopposed, incumbent candidate for Town of Dix council; Mark C. Taber, Republican candidate for Town of Hector council; and David L. Scott, Republican, unopposed incumbent candidate for Town of Montour supervisor.

Ballots for this year’s election show 50 opposed and unopposed candidates for county and town positions. The non-partisan committee organizing the event said every candidate was invited to speak or be introduced at the event, which has been held in Schuyler County annually for decades, with only a few, rare exceptions.

Committee members said they were disappointed in the low participation by candidates this year. Last year’s event was cancelled due to even less participation.

A list of all candidates on Schuyler County ballots can be found on the Board of Elections website page at schuylercounty.us. Other details about the election, including early voting schedules, are also available on the website.

Schuyler joins nationwide opioid settlements

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 26, 2025 -- The Schuyler County Legislature has authorized County Attorney Steven Getman to execute legal documents finalizing two landmark settlement agreements addressing the opioid crisis, totaling more than $7 billion.

The agreements include a $720 million national settlement with eight pharmaceutical companies and a $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family.

The $720 million settlement involves Alvogen Inc., Amneal Pharmaceuticals Inc., Apotex Inc., Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc., Indivior Inc., Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Inc., and Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. Schuyler County expects payments to begin as early as 2026, with New York State and its counties receiving up to $38.7 million collectively. The agreement also includes injunctive relief prohibiting certain opioid marketing practices and provides opioid addiction treatment medications or equivalent cash payments valued at approximately $86 million.

The $7.4 billion Purdue Pharma and Sackler family settlement ends the Sacklers’ control of Purdue and bars them from selling opioids in the United States. The settlement, implemented through Purdue’s ongoing bankruptcy proceedings, includes a $6.5 billion contribution from the Sackler family over 15 years, with $1.5 billion paid in the first year. Funds will support opioid addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery programs in Schuyler County and communities nationwide over the next 15 years. A board of trustees, selected by participating states and creditors, will determine Purdue’s future, with oversight by a monitor to prevent opioid lobbying or marketing.

“These settlements mark a significant step toward continued accountability for the opioid crisis that has devastated our communities,” said Steven J. Getman, Schuyler County Attorney. “The funds will provide critical resources for treatment and prevention, and the injunctive relief ensures these companies can no longer fuel addiction through allegedly deceptive practices.”

“This is a victory for Schuyler County and every community impacted by the opioid epidemic,” said M. Shawn Rosno, Schuyler County Administrator. “These settlements will provide essential funding to support our residents in recovery and prevent future harm, while holding those responsible accountable.”

The amounts due Schuyler County under these agreements are still being determined. Since 2021, Schuyler County has secured over $862,000 in opioid-related settlements, including $121,000 from Johnson & Johnson, $546,000 from McKesson Corporation, Cardinal Health Inc., and AmerisourceBergen Drug Corporation, $41,000 from Actavis Inc., $116,000 from Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., and $38,000 from Sandoz Inc. These funds stem from a 2018 lawsuit filed by Schuyler County, in collaboration with at least 14 other New York counties and the state, alleging fraudulent marketing by major pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors.

The 2018 lawsuit, filed by Getman, with Napoli Shkolnik PLLC as special counsel at no cost to the county, alleged that defendants misrepresented the risks of long-term opioid use, despite knowing their addictive nature, particularly for non-cancer pain. The Napoli Shkolnik law firm has been a central participant in the opioid litigation nationwide. They have represented state and local governments, as well as individuals, in holding companies accountable for their role in the opioid crisis.

Schuyler County’s nearly 250-page Summons and Complaint remains pending, with additional settlements possible. A complete copy of Schuyler County’s initial lawsuit can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/5auyrmdc

Photo in text: Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman

Montour Falls earns silver tier level in NY's Climate Smart Communities Program

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 23, 2025 --The Village of Montour Falls has achieved the highest level in New York State’s Climate Smart Communities Program. The village joined six other communities to reach the silver tier, making it one of 25 silver tier communities in the state.

According to a village press release, the Climate Smart Communities program helps local governments across New York reduce their carbon footprint and helps prepare them for weather-related environmental impacts.

Communities earn points by completing actions like installing LED lighting, managing storm water, and launching food waste programs.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton calls certified communities “essential partners” in helping the state hit its climate energy targets.

Said Montour Falls Mayor James Ryan: “Our Village is moving forward and joining others in the state to be recognized for our sustainability efforts. We have improved our government operations and community with clean energy opportunities. As Mayor I continue to take an integrated approach on actions to achieve these goals. Our village will become a stronger, healthier, and more sustainable place to call home.”

Photo in text: From left, NYS DEC Climate Policy Analyst Dazzle Ekblad, Montour Falls Mayor James Ryan, and NYS DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. (Photo provided by the NYS DEC.)

Protesters line the east side of Franklin Street, in front of the Schuyler County Courthouse. About 40 people were on hand for the demonstration. (Photo by Jon Haeffner)

Schuyler Legislature listens to anti-ICE pleas

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 8, 2025 -- The Schuyler County Legislature heard Monday night from several speakers urging the lawmakers, as representatives of area residents, to do what they can to encourage Sheriff Kevin Rumsey not to cooperate with federal ICE efforts to remove immigrant laborers from the county.

The speakers were among a group of 40 anti-ICE protesters lined up along Franklin Street -- in front of the County Courthouse -- before and after the Legislature session.

One of the speakers, Marsha Smith of Hector, delivered a letter to the Legislature stating in part:

"The Schuyler County Sheriff's Department is not obligated under federal law to participate in immigration enforcement ... The federal government cannot compel local law enforcement agencies to use their resources to enforce federal immigration law, based on the 10th amendment to the Constitution. Several New York county sheriff's departments have already refused to cooperate with ICE, including Onondaga, Monroe, Tompkins, Yates, and Wayne counties."

"I believe you are here to protect us and serve us, not ICE,'" Smith told legislators.

A winery owner, Phil Davis, said that ICE agents -- "all militarized up" with masks and no identification -- had already taken one of his workers. "I have no idea where he is," said Davis. "Where's the due process? This is a humanity issue. Things are out of control. They're taking Moms and Dads, and without identification. This is what we've become."

Speaker John Hayes said that helping ICE "would be teaming up with redneck rebels" who "are not nearly as qualified as the people you hire" in the Sheriff's Department. ICE actions taking immigrants off the streets, he added, amount "to kidnapping."

Joe Chicone of Burdett, who played banjo at the protest, singing "This Land Is Your Land," told legislators that "we trust you. We trust our police department. We depend on you and on your dignity. Don't take part in this thuggery -- of crazy men terrorizing us."

And Elena Deustua of the Town of Catharine said she was "concerned about having ICE in our community. They are so committed to a quota ... they're not careful about who they pick up." Should workers be taken from the large Bergen farm, she added, "it could severely affect its operation. I urge you to follow the law and help keep due process in our community."

The Legislature took no action on the requests, nor indicated its feelings on the ICE matter.

Photos in text:

Top: Spectators at the Legislature meeting. Among the group were several protesters.
Middle: Marsha Smith of Hector, who delivered the letter to legislators.
Bottom: Winery owner Phil Davis, who said "things are out of control."

O'Mara: Speak up on NY's Draft Energy Plan

Special to The Odessa File

ELMIRA, Aug 27, 2025 -- State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats) is urging New Yorkers to make their voices heard during a series of public hearings beginning on September 3 and through written comments on the state’s recently released “Draft 2025 Energy Plan.”

O’Mara, however, remains critical of the upcoming public comment period for its short timeframe and for its failure to include direct public hearings in several upstate regions, including the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes.

O’Mara said, “Are we finally facing a ‘back to the drawing board’ moment on the CLCPA timeline and other climate mandates? Are we about to undertake an honest, open, long-awaited, and desperately needed public discussion on the realities of where we’re headed? Will it be followed by meaningful action out of Albany? It will be critical to provide every opportunity for public input and then to ensure that their input is taken seriously.”

The New York State Energy Board will begin a series of public hearings on Wednesday, September 3, and is accepting written public comments on the plan until early October, before finalizing an updated state energy plan.

Find out more and review the full draft plan here: https://energyplan.ny.gov/Plans/Draft-2025-Energy-Plan.

Additional information on the hearing process can be found at: https://energyplan.ny.gov/Get-Involved/Hearings.

Written comments will be accepted through October 6 and you can find out more on that process here: https://energyplan.ny.gov/Get-Involved/Comment.

O’Mara, a member of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee, has said that the finalization of an updated state energy plan could mark a potentially critical turning point for this state’s energy future. The need to rethink New York’s existing energy plan has been gaining momentum for several years as doubts have steadily increased over the strategy first set in motion by then-Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Legislature’s all-Democrat majorities to impose radical and sweeping clean energy mandates following the enactment of the Climate Leadership and Protection Act (CLCPA) in 2019. The state’s Climate Action Council (CAC), established through the CLCPA, issued its action report in December 2022, a year and four months after Governor Hochul was sworn in as New York’s chief executive.

From the outset, O’Mara and many legislative colleagues, as well as other independent watchdogs, have warned that the failure to put forth a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis of the costs of implementing far-reaching clean energy mandates under their prescribed timelines doomed the entire effort. They have continuously questioned the affordability, feasibility, and reliability of the strategy for ratepayers and taxpayers, business and industry, and local economies.

O’Mara said, “We have raised concerns for good reasons. The newly released ‘Draft 2025 Energy Plan’ clearly acknowledges that the CLCPA timeline the state has been pushing at breakneck speed to achieve 70 percent renewable energy by 2030 and zero emissions by 2040 isn’t realistic and can’t be met under the plan with current technologies as it stands. The key bottom line here is that the ‘Draft 2025 Energy Plan’ could mark the beginning of a vital realignment, one that heeds the widespread warnings over affordability, feasibility, and reliability that have long been voiced by our Senate and Assembly Republican conferences, as well as by the New York Independent Systems Operator (NYSIO), State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, the Empire Center for Public Policy, and other independent watchdogs. But will it? It is important for all New Yorkers who have shared our concerns to continue to share them now during this public comment process to ensure that their voices are heard moving forward.”

O’Mara, however, is already critical of the scheduled public comment period for failing to include hearings in several upstate regions and for not providing enough time for the public to provide written comments. Current hearings are scheduled to begin next Tuesday in Buffalo and continue through the end of September with additional hearings in Rochester, Albany, Poughkeepsie, Brooklyn, Bronx, and on Long Island.

O’Mara noted that while the hearings are being held in sites along the State Thruway corridor, no hearings are scheduled in the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes, Central New York, or the North Country. He has asked the Hochul administration to schedule hearings in each of these regions and to extend the current public comment period, set to end on October 6, until at least November 1.

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara (File photo)

Schuyler County 2035: Public input sought

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 25, 2025 -- Schuyler County government is updating its Countywide Comprehensive Plan, a forward-looking blueprint that will guide growth, development, infrastructure, and environmental preservation throughout the county for the next ten years.

The plan will be developed through public engagement and in collaboration with local municipalities and community leaders.

"This is more than a planning document -- it's a community-driven vision for the future of Schuyler County," said Schuyler County Administrator Shawn Rosno. "It sets priorities for housing, transportation, land use, economic development, public services and environmental stewardship."

The county invites all residents, business owners, and stakeholders to provide feedback through an online survey available online at https://arcg.is/0CyTKX.

For more information, visit https://www.schuylercounty.us/566/County-Wide-Comprehensive-Plan or contact the Schuyler County Planning Department at 607-535-8211. Paper copies of the survey are available upon request.

Truck-livestock trailer rollover closes Rt. 227 in the Town of Hector for more than 3 hours

Special to The Odessa File

TOWN OF HECTOR, Aug. 18, 2025 -- Emergency crews responded shortly before 10 a.m. Monday to a motor vehicle accident involving the rollover of a truck and livestock trailer at the intersection of State Route 79 and State Route 227 in the Town of Hector.

A preliminary investigation conducted by the Schuyler County Sheriff's Office revealed that a four-door sedan operated by Lan Tian, a citizen of the People's Republic of China, was traveling eastbound on State Route 79 when the vehicle allegedly failed to yield the right of way after stopping at a stop sign.

As a result, a westbound truck hauling a trailer loaded with cattle -- owned by Seneca Valley Dairy Farms LLC -- that was proceeding straight onto State Route 227 took evasive action to avoid a collision. The truck and trailer veered off the north side of the roadway and rolled over, coming to rest on their roof.

There were two occupants in the truck. One individual refused medical treatment at the scene. The driver was pinned inside the vehicle and required extrication. After coordination with emergency crews and heavy recovery equipment, the driver was freed and subsequently airlifted by LifeNet Helicopter Services to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania, for treatment of injuries sustained in the crash.

The trailer was transporting approximately 10 head of cattle. None of the animals appeared to have sustained visible injuries. They were transported to a holding pen for observation and care.

Responding agencies included the:

--Burdett Fire Department
--Watkins Glen Fire Department
--Mecklenburg Fire Department
--Montour Falls Fire Department
--Centralus EMS
--LifeNet Helicopter Services
--Schuyler County Emergency Management
--Fleetpride Heavy Wrecker Service

As a result of the crash and recovery operations, State Route 227 was closed for approximately 3.5 hours, with a detour in place via State Route 79.

Lan Tian was issued two citations: one for leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident, and one for failure to yield the right of way after a stop sign.

Schuyler to receive settlement funds of up to $38,000 from Sandoz related to opioid crisis

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 11, 2025 -- A New Jersey pharmaceutical company and its affiliates will pay Schuyler County up to $38,000 to settle claims it contributed to the ongoing opioid crisis in that county, under a resolution approved by the Schuyler County Legislature.

Meeting on Monday (August 11), the legislature voted to accept the settlement and authorized Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman to execute the necessary legal documents.

According to the resolution, Sandoz, Inc. and several related entities (Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, Novartis AG, Sandoz International GmbH, Novartis Manufacturing LLC, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Inc., Novartis Corporation, and Novartis Consumer Health), agreed to the settlement with the county in exchange for being released from a pending lawsuit filed by the county, as well as claims brought by other participating local governments nationwide.

The agreement calls for a one-time payment to be issued in 2026. According to Getman, the funds can be used for a variety of purposes related to opioid abatement and remediation.

“Potential uses may include supporting police and first responders, treating opioid addiction, funding social services and similar anti-drug efforts,” Getman explained.

The motion authorizing Getman to accept the settlement was made by County Legislator Phil Barnes (R-District VI) and seconded by Legislator Mark Rondinaro (R-District VII).

The Sandoz agreement is the latest opioid settlement Schuyler County has been a part of in the past seven years. In 2021, the county legislature authorized Getman to accept up to $121,000 from Johnson & Johnson and up to $546,000 from distributors McKesson Corporation, Cardinal Health Inc. and Amerisource Bergen Drug Corporation to treat, reduce and prevent opioid use through a court settlement with the opioid maker. A similar agreement, for $41,000, was obtained from defendant Actavis, Inc. in early 2022. In 2023, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. and its subsidiaries agreed to a settlement with the county that resulted in payments up to $116,000 to settle claims that company contributed to the ongoing opioid crisis.

The settlements stem from a 2018 lawsuit the county filed against approximately thirty defendants, including some of the biggest names in the pharmaceutical industry. The lawsuit alleged the defendants had long known that opioids were addictive and subject to abuse, particularly when used long-term for chronic non-cancer pain, and should not be used except as a last resort. However, the lawsuit stated, the defendants spent hundreds of millions of dollars disseminating scientific materials and advertising that misrepresented the risks of opioids’ long-term use. In 2023, the county filed an amended complaint to include in the action supplemental defendants and causes of action.

Schuyler County was one of many local governments that filed lawsuits against the manufacturers and distributors of opioid pain killers. At least 14 counties across New York sued the pharmaceutical companies for fraudulent marketing practices.

Schuyler County’s lawsuit against other defendants remains pending, Getman said, with the possibility of more settlements and additional funding to the county still to come.

Said Getman: “One cannot put a price on lives lost and families torn apart, but with the more than $862,000 expected to be delivered to Schuyler County from these lawsuits, we can provide the county with financial assistance to continue this battle and hold these companies responsible for their role in the opioid epidemic.”

County Administrator M. Shawn Rosno agreed: "County officials have expended significant resources to help its residents battle opioid addiction and prevent further deaths. By voting to go forward with this latest settlement, the County Legislature hopes to lessen the burden to taxpayers for expenses related to the opioid crisis."

According to a February 2025 report by the National League of Cities, the national opioid settlements have directly allocated funds to thousands of state and local governments across the United States, enabling cities and counties to invest funds in evidence-based solutions to address their community’s needs.

“It is possible that reductions in drug overdose deaths are associated with the opioid settlement payouts as localities start funding strategies to support treatment and recovery,” the report noted.

Under the settlement, Sandoz does not admit liability or wrongdoing.

A complete copy of Schuyler County’s lawsuit can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/5auyrmdc

A copy of the county’s resolution approving the settlement can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/sandozschuyler

Photo in text: Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman

Schuyler GOP Committee elects officers

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, July 18, 2025 -- The Schuyler County Republican Committee has recently elected officers who -- says a press release -- "will lead the organization in advancing its mission to promote Republican values, support qualified candidates, and engage the community in Schuyler County."

The officers:

“We want to thank the Republican Committee for their support,” said Chair Maryann Friebis. “Together, we will continue to build a vibrant, inclusive Republican Party in Schuyler County, working to elect principled leaders and engage our community year-round.”

The Schuyler County Republican Committee says it is dedicated to fostering conservative principles, including limited government, individual liberty, and economic opportunity.

During election cycles, the Committee plans to work tirelessly to identify, endorse, and support Republican candidates who "reflect the values of Schuyler County residents." This includes organizing voter outreach, hosting fundraising events, and coordinating grassroots efforts to ensure strong voter turnout.

Outside of election periods, the press release said, the Committee "engages the community through educational events, public meetings, and initiatives to promote civic participation."

For more information about the Schuyler County Republican Committee or to get involved, contact Friebis by emailing schuylergop@outlook.com or visit https://www.facebook.com/schuyler.gop.

Tax foreclosure filing date has changed; delinquent tax notices now come in July

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, July 4, 2025 -- Schuyler County officials are notifying all persons owing back property taxes of a significant change in New York State’s filing date for counties to commence real property tax foreclosures. They also want delinquent property owners to know that there may be options to avoid foreclosure, including installment agreements and legal assistance.

According to Schuyler County Treasurer Holley Sokolowski and Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman, the date for filing Notices and Petitions in Schuyler County tax foreclosure cases has been changed from November to July, due to changes in New York State Real Property Tax Law.

“This change affects property owners with outstanding tax obligations in Schuyler County,” Sokolowski said. “Under the revised schedule, tax foreclosures for unpaid property taxes, including town, county and school taxes, will now be filed and served in July of each year, rather than the previous November date.”

“Property owners with delinquent taxes are urged to act promptly to avoid additional penalties, interest, or even loss of your real property. We want to avoid people losing their homes whenever possible.”

According to Getman, the change was signed into law in 2024 by Gov. Kathy Hochul. He stressed that the change will not affect property owners who have paid their taxes, but only those properties where taxes are unpaid for at least eighteen months.

“We encourage all property owners to review their tax status and make any outstanding payments as soon as possible to avoid further financial penalties or loss of their homes,” said Getman. “Schuyler County is committed to assisting residents in navigating this change and ensuring compliance with the new deadline.”

Sokolowski agreed, stating “the Treasurer’s Office is here to support residents in maintaining compliance and protecting their property.”

Sokolowski said her office offers several options to assist eligible property owners facing challenges in paying delinquent taxes:

• Installment Agreements: Property owners may contact the Schuyler County Treasurer’s Office to explore monthly installment agreements, which can divide tax payments into manageable amounts, particularly for those on fixed incomes.
• Redemption Period: Property owners can redeem their property by paying all delinquent taxes, interest, and fees before the expiration of the redemption period, which is typically February of the following year.
• Surplus Funds: In the event of a tax foreclosure sale, property owners may be eligible to claim surplus funds.

According to Getman, for property owners needing legal guidance to address delinquent taxes or potential foreclosure proceedings, the following resources are available:

• Legal Assistance of Western New York, Inc.: Provides free legal aid for eligible low-income residents in Schuyler County in certain cases. Visit www.lawny.org for more information.
• New York State Courts Electronic Filing System (NYSCEF): For those involved in foreclosure proceedings, legal documents can be accessed and filed electronically. Visit http://www.nycourts.gov/efile-unrepresented for details.
• Local Attorney Consultation: Property owners with back taxes are encouraged to consult with a qualified attorney to explore options such as filing an answer to the petition or negotiating payment plans. Property owners may contact the New York State Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service (1-800-342-3661) to locate a qualified local attorney.

“It's the job of the county to collect taxes, but the main focus here is keeping people on their property and in their homes," Getman said. “We do not want anyone surprised by this change in New York State law.”

As County Treasurer, Sokolowski is the chief fiscal officer of county government and enforcement officer for unpaid property tax liens.

As County Attorney, Getman is the chief legal advisor for county government and responsible for the prosecution and defense of civil actions brought by and against the county, including tax matters.

Photo in text: Schuyler County Treasurer Holley Sokolowski and County Attorney Steven Getman. (Photo provided)

Palmesano rips failures of one-party rule

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, June 11, 2025 -- Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) joined Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski), Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R,C-North Tonawanda) and his Assembly and Senate Republican colleagues at a press conference to call for "real, meaningful change" to help New Yorkers.

Palmesano argues that under one-party rule, New York has become less safe, less affordable and a worse place to raise a family.

“Under Kathy Hochul and one-party Democrat rule, nothing has gone right for the people of New York," said Palmesano. "From bail reform to green energy and electrification mandates, New York is on the wrong path. All you need to do is look at our nation-leading outmigration numbers to see people are fed up with the way New York is being run. Even with all this, Democrats are spending the last handful of days of session doing nothing but passing bills to please their progressive base, instead of working to make New York a safer, more affordable place to live.”

Palmesano also argues his colleagues across the aisle should start engaging Republicans seriously and earnestly to find bipartisan solutions.

“Our New York residents and businesses are facing an affordability, public safety and quality-of life-crisis," he said. "Unfortunately, in this state, no matter how good an idea is, it has no chance of becoming law unless it was put forth by a Democrat. This isn’t how government is supposed to operate. We should look at bills and vote on them based on their merits, not based on which political party they originated from.

"I’m calling on my Democrat Assembly colleagues to finally put politics aside and work with our side of the aisle to make New York a better place for all. New Yorkers deserve nothing less," concluded Palmesano.

Phtoto in text: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano.

The ribbon is cut by Kisha Santiago, NYS Deputy Secretary of State, right of center.

Ribbon-cutting celebrates ADA-compliant playground at Clute, the final DRI project

WATKINS GLEN, May 20, 2025 -- Government leaders and well-wishers were on hand late Tuesday morning at Clute Park for a ribbon-cutting celebrating the completion -- and approaching opening -- of a playground that was the last of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative projects undertaken in Watkins Glen in recent years.

The playground, with more than 12,000 square feet, has Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible equipment, which emcee Judy McKinney Cherry, Executive Director of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development, said makes the project "about inclusion, dignity, and making sure that every member of our community can fully participate in public life."

Several speakers thanked the various individuals and committees that helped bring the project to fruition -- although the official opening is up to two weeks away while freshly seeded lawn gets a chance to gain traction. Among the speakers was Kisha Santiago, New York State Deputy Secretary of State, who concluded her remarks by saying: "Well done. Mission accomplished."

Other speakers included Schuyler County Legislature Chair Carl Blowers; Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo; Salvatore Garozzo, CEO of the Chemung/Schuyler ARC; and Nigar Hale, Executive Director of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce.

Also on hand -- and taking part in the culminating ribbon-cutting -- were children from the My Place-A Play and Learning Center, a business housed in a DRI project building on 2nd Street in Watkins Glen, and representatives from the Chemung/Schuyler ARC.

As the ceremony program explained, the goal of the playground project was "to further enhance the Clute Park experience by providing an all-inclusive ADA playground." A total of $750,000 went into it -- with $375,000 from an LWRP Grant; $250,000 from DRI; and $125,000 from the Village of Watkins Glen.

Photo in text: Kisha Santiago, NYS Deputy Secretary of State, addresses the scores of area officials and community members on hand to observe the ribbon-cutting.

Speakers included Salvatore Garozzo, CEO of the Chemung/Schuyler ARC, and Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo (with one of the playground's climbing/sliding attractions in the background).

A view of part of the 12,000-square-foot playground, located near the Seneca Lake shore.

O'Mara, Palmesano rip new state budget

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, May 9, 2025 -- New York State Senator Tom O'Mara and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, both Republicans, are highly critical of the newly enacted 2025-26 state budget.

O'Mara, Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee, called the budget enacted by Governor Kathy Hochul and the Legislature’s Democrat majorities "another late, bloated and unaffordable spending spree."

O'Mara stressed that the final budget was over a month late, and said it was "keeping New York moving in the wrong direction economically, fiscally, and on public policy priorities" like health care, public safety and security, and transportation.

He said the $254 billion fiscal plan -- an increase by $13 billion over last year and by $90 since 2018 -- "fails to address any meaningful tax relief, mandate relief, debt relief, or key priorities in health care, public safety, local roads and bridges, and so many other fundamentally important areas. It ignores the economic and fiscal warnings on the horizon and keeps on increasing government spending like there's no tomorrow.

"To afford it, Governor Hochul and the Democrat majorities in the Legislature will go on squeezing every penny they possibly can from state and local taxpayers through higher taxes, passing the buck to localities, ignoring badly needed priorities." It will mean "more borrowing, raiding reserve funds, increasing fees, and ... other anti-taxpayer, anti-business, anti-economic opportunity, anti-economic growth, anti-freedom actions."

O'Mara also strongly criticized the state's budget adoption process that has produced a string of late state budgets and continues to allow the use of "messages of necessity" to rush through votes on final budget legislation. He said the existing process prevents individual legislators, and the public, from having adequate time to review and debate budget legislation before it's voted on and enacted.

"When Gov. Hochul released her budget, she claimed it would make the lives of everyday New Yorkers better and more affordable. The unfortunate reality is that this record-breaking budget is just more of the same. A $254 billion plan of higher taxes, uncontrolled and unsustainable spending and debt. An irresponsible budget that increases spending nearly $13 billion more than last year and creates a three-year budget deficit of nearly $29 billion. Unfortunately, this will do nothing to address New York’s affordability, public safety and quality of life crisis. It will just exacerbate it.

"Also, once again, this budget authorizes the governor to close even more correctional facilities, up to three, with just 90 days’ notice, another insult to the brave correctional officers who work a very dangerous job to keep us safe. This, at a time when 2,000 correctional officers were fired for their demonstrations as they simply asked for their employer, our state, to have their backs and provide them with proper tools and safety measures in their facilities. Now the governor, once again, has the power to close their places of employment, uproot their families and leave hundreds of staff without a job. This is just wrong.

"Our New York families and businesses continue to face a challenging economic and business climate with an onslaught of rising costs, taxes, regulations and unfunded mandates that hinder private sector investment, economic development and job creation. Instead of giving hard-working New Yorkers real relief, Albany Democrats have decided to march on with their disastrous, bloated spending and misplaced priorities, which will do nothing but drive more and more families and businesses out of our state and increase our nation-leading outmigration."

Photos in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara (top) and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano.

Legislators approve 'Law Day' resolution

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, April 27, 2025 -- Law Day is Thursday (May 1) and the Schuyler County Legislature has recognized as the Law Day 2025 theme, “the Constitution's Promise: Out of Many, One.”

The Legislature passed a resolution at its April 14, 2025 meeting recognizing “Law Day” as an occasion of public acknowledgement of our nation’s heritage of justice, liberty, and equality under the law.

The resolution was submitted to the Legislature by Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman.

“The Preamble to the Constitution asserts that the Founders established the Constitution as representatives of ‘We the People, in Order to Form a More Perfect Union,’” Getman wrote. “And the Constitution establishes a framework for government that unites us as one citizenry, through means such as our representative government and an engaged populace.”

In passing the resolution, the legislature called upon all Schuyler County residents “to observe this day together as one ... whether through legislative efforts that serve the common good, through service to our county, state and nation, or by working together, every day, to fulfill the promise of ‘E pluribus unum,’ or ‘Out of many, one.’”

The measure was introduced by Legislator Phil Barnes (R- District VI) and seconded by Legislator Mark Rondinaro (R-District VII). It was supported unanimously by the members present.

May 1, 2025 is the 67th Law Day. In 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first Law Day Proclamation to mark our nation’s commitment to the rule of law. Each year the American Bar Association selects an annual theme for Law Day.

Photo in text: Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman

April 26: Take Back Unwanted Drugs Day

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, April 16, 2025 -- The Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office, the Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking and Drugs (SCCUDD), and Schuyler County Public Health are encouraging community members to participate in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Community members can drop off their expired, unused, or unwanted medications between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Beaver Dams and Hector Fire Departments.

Community members who are trying to quit smoking are also able to dispose of tobacco products at the events.

“Unneeded medications in people’s homes can be dangerous if they are misused or accidently ingested by a child,” warned Schuyler County Sheriff Kevin Rumsey. “Last year, we were able to dispose of over 400 pounds of unwanted or expired medication to help keep the community safe.”

Free and anonymous medication disposal will be available during these events. Medications, ointments, and sprays will be accepted. Needles cannot be accepted. Tobacco products, except for e-cigarettes, will also be accepted at these events

“We are happy the Sheriff’s Office was able to partner with us again to provide this service for the community,” said Schuyler County Public Health Director Jill Kasprzyk. “Community members who want to quit smoking can also get rid of tobacco products at the events.”

Community members can also dispose of unwanted, expired, and unused prescription drugs year-round by using the drop boxes available throughout the community:

• The Schuyler County Sheriff's Office in Watkins Glen (Open 24/7)
• The Human Services Complex in Montour Falls (Open Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.)
• The Watkins Glen Village Police Department in Watkins Glen (Open Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Friday 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.)
• CVS Pharmacy (Open Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed for lunch daily from 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.)
• Schuyler Hospital (Open 24/7. Enter through ER.)

Schuyler housing study is under way

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 26, 2025 -- Schuyler County government is conducting a Comprehensive Housing Study and Needs Assessment this year to address reports of a lack of available housing. The study will look at the current housing inventory and characteristics, analyze market demands, and identify critical gaps.

Joann Lindstrom, Director of the Schuyler County Planning Department, noted that "an important part of the process involves gathering input from the public. The county has engaged Urban Partners, an economic development consulting practice, to gather feedback using a survey that asks county residents about their current and future housing needs.

"Later this spring," she added, "Urban Partners will be conducting interviews with community-based organizations, housing developers, realtors, builders, lenders, and landlords and will be holding an in-person Housing Forum in May."

The results of the study, she noted, will help developers meet existing and future housing needs of the community "and are intended to support economic development through workforce attraction."

A grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission, a federal agency, provided half ($25,000) of the study’s cost.
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County offficials, she concluded, are encouraging all residents "to respond to the survey" by visiting this site.

NYSEG public meeting offers customers chance to inquire about rising utility bills

Special to The Odessa File

BIG FLATS, March 25, 2025 -- State Senator Tom O’Mara, Assemblyman Chris Friend, and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano on Tuesday reminded area residents that New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) has scheduled a “Community Connection” public forum on Thursday, March 27, at the Big Flats American Legion.

According to NYSEG, these events are aimed at giving customers an opportunity to meet directly with NYSEG representatives to address billing concerns and learn more about available resources to help manage energy costs. The company said it plans to hold additional Community Connection events throughout the region. O’Mara, Friend, and Palmesano have requested NYSEG to hold as many of these public meetings as possible.

NYSEG’s event on Thursday at the Big Flats American Legion (45 Olcott Road S) will run from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Customers can meet with NYSEG representatives on a first-come, first-served basis.

The local lawmakers welcomed NYSEG’s outreach effort, noting that their offices have been inundated with constituent complaints over skyrocketing utility bills over the past several months. O’Mara said that his office has heard from over 300 constituents in the past two months alone.

In a joint statement, O’Mara, Friend, and Palmesano said, "Skyrocketing utility costs have been the number one constituent complaint that our offices have been fielding throughout this new year. And rightly so. Some of these billing increases have been outrageous and inexplicable. We have been working with NYSEG, as well as with state officials at the state Public Service Commission and other state agencies, to try to get answers and assistance. Unfortunately, we haven’t yet received the answers or solutions we need. It’s critically important for NYSEG to conduct this direct outreach with ratepayers. Hopefully, more customers can begin to get the answers they need and deserve."

The lawmakers attributed at least part of the problem to the state's “Community Leadership and Climate Protection Act” (CLCPA) passed in 2019, the year Albany Democrats took control of the State Senate. O’Mara, Friend, Palmesano, and other legislators have warned that clean energy mandates being rapidly imposed on all New Yorkers under that new law would have dire consequences across the board, including higher utility costs.

In addition to the public forum in Big Flats, the area lawmakers said that customers unable to attend should continue filing complaints directly through NYSEG's customer service hotline at 888-315-1755, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

They also encouraged customers who don’t get a satisfactory explanation or result to file complaints directly with the state Public Service Commission (PSC) through the PSC Helpline at 1-800-342-3377, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Complaints to the PSC can also be filed online at: https://dps.ny.gov/file-complaint.

Photos in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara (top) and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano.

County tables resolution to sue NY State

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 24, 2025 -- The Schuyler County Legislature has tabled its resolution suing the state over Governor Kathy Hochul's executive order that banned fired striking Corrections Officers from seeking other public employment, after getting news that the state is backing down.

According to Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman, on Monday (March 24) the legislature adjourned the action to its April 14 meeting, after the county received word from state officials that the relevant provisions of Hochul’s Executive Order 47.3 will expire April 9 and will not be renewed.

“After the county’s proposed lawsuit was announced, the New York State Division of Homeland Security issued a letter March 22 to all counties,” Getman said. “That letter states the governor’s order prohibiting the hiring of correction officers whom she fired in connection with the strike is temporary,” Getman said. “The letter says these provisions of the order will expire on April 9 and the governor does not intend to renew these provisions.”

“That means any local government, including Schuyler County will be able to hire any terminated correction officer any time on or after April 10.”

If the order does expire, Getman explained, the county has received the bulk of the relief it wanted in the lawsuit and the case would be moot.

Sheriff Kevin Rumsey agreed with the decision to table, noting that if the order is extended, the county legislature can authorize the lawsuit on April 14.

"If the order is not rescinded, I will ask the legislature to move forward to protect our ability to staff our jail with experienced personnel and to stand against unconstitutional overreach," said Rumsey.

Rumsey also expressed concerns with the governor’s plan to decertify the fired officers.

“If she decides to push the issue of having them all decertified, counties will have to spend the time and money to ‘re-train’ these DOCCS CO's, which many of them have some considerable time on the job,” Rumsey said. “It would be a cost benefit to have them lateral rather than to have to send them through another academy.”

Rumsey, along with County Legislature Chair Carl Blowers, blasted Hochul’s “no hire” order affecting the corrections officers fired after a three-week strike, in a letter sent to her on March 18.

“We write to express our strong opposition to your recent Executive Order, which unjustly prohibits Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) employees from being hired by other state, county, or local government workers ... Leadership means standing up for workers, not abandoning them to serve political expediency.”

Blowers and Rumsey noted that the county is experiencing staffing shortages and sees this order as something that only worsens things for the county.

“It is unthinkable and outrageous that, in the same breath that you push for second chances through the Clean Slate Act, you are denying those who have devoted their careers to public service the chance to continue their work and support their families,” their letter states.

“We urge you to reconsider this ill-conceived, arbitrary, and capricious order and immediately reverse your decision.”

Schuyler County’s April 14 meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Schuyler County Courthouse, 105 Ninth Street, Watkins Glen. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

Photos in text: From top, Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman, Schuyler County Sheriff Kevin Rumsey, and New York Governor Kathy Hochul.

Deadline nears on scholarship opportunity

Special to The Odessa File
 
ALBANY, March 21, 2025 -- Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) is reminding constituents that the New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators is accepting applications for its annual scholarship program. The conference will be providing four $3,000 scholarships, two academic and two athletic.

Scholarships are available to residents of the 132nd Assembly District who are current college students or high school seniors entering college. Students can access and complete the application by visiting: https://www.nyiacsl.org/apply-for-scholarship-form.

The application deadline is Sunday, March 30.

"This is an excellent scholarship opportunity for high school seniors and college students in the 132nd Assembly District who have worked hard, distinguished themselves from their peers and intend to pursue higher education," said Palmesano. "With college costs continually rising, this is a chance to lessen the financial burden that is a concern for so many young people and their families. I encourage eligible students in my district to apply."

Applicants should have a grade-point average of 85 or higher; be active in community service and extracurricular activities; and demonstrate financial need. In addition to these qualifications, students applying for an athletic scholarship must also be involved in an organized sport(s).

Applicants need not be of Italian-American heritage to apply.

Scholarship recipients will be announced in April, and the winners will be honored at a ceremony in Albany.

Photo in text: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano

Hourihan announces run for DA position

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 26, 2025 -- Jeremy Hourihan, Chief Assistant District Attorney for Schuyler County, announced his candidacy Wednesday for Schuyler County District Attorney during a gathering of about 80 well-wishers at the Seneca Lake Events Center.

The event started with an introduction by current District Attorney Joseph Fazzary, who announced Monday his intention to retire at the end of his term on Dec. 31, 2025. The general election for the position will be held in November 2025.

Fazzary, calling him "my friend, my colleague," said he is "fully endorsing" Hourihan as the best candidate to be the next DA. No other candidate has surfaced.

Hourihan has been the Chief Assistant since 2020. Prior to that, he was a civil litigator in private practice, and an Assistant District Attorney with the Chemung County District Attorney's Office.

Hourihan is actively involved in the Schuyler County community, including serving on the Board of Directors for the FLX Gateway Community Development Corporation, as a member of the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club, and as a member of the Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking and Drugs.

Photo in text: Chief Assistant District Attorney Jeremy Hourihan (Photo provided)

Fazzary will step down as DA at year's end

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 24, 2025 -- Longtime Schuyler County District Attorney Joseph G. Fazzary will not seek reelection this fall. He officially announced his retirement -- effective Dec. 31, 2025 -- to the Schuyler County Legislature Monday morning.

Fazzary started as an intern in the District Attorney’s Office in August of 1992. He became an Assistant District Attorney in 1993 after passing the New York State Bar examination. He ran for, and was elected, District Attorney in 1997. At the time he was 29 years old and was the youngest District Attorney ever elected in the state.

He will be stepping down after nearly 28 years as District Attorney, and 34 years in that office -- currently the person ranked third in seniority among all New York State District Attorneys. He is one of only three current DAs elected in the 1990s.

Throughout his tenure as DA, Fazzary has prosecuted many high-profile cases, including the murders of Amber Brockway, Daniel Bennett, and Theresa Ford. In 2024, he and his staff created and established the Justice Center of the Southern Tier, located in Montour Falls. The Justice Center is a place where victims can receive needed services all in one venue. To date, the center has assisted over 400 victims of crime from five different counties.

In February 2024, Fazzary received the highest honor for a prosecutor in New York State, the Hogan Award. He has been asked to speak on many subjects and sit on many panels throughout the state over the course of his career. He has trained new and veteran prosecutors through the New York State Prosecutors’ Institute for over 20 years, and has also lectured and presented to hundreds of students from the Southern Tier at local schools.

Since taking office, Fazzary has also acted as a Special District Attorney for many of the surrounding counties, prosecuting numerous difficult cases when the District Attorney of those counties had a conflict of interest.

“It has truly been an honor and privilege for me to serve the residents of Schuyler and many of the surrounding counties, as well as the People of the State of New York for all these years," said Fazzary. "I have always tried to be fair and seek justice instead of convictions. In every case, I tried to delve into the minds of the offender and the victim to help me decide how justice could best be served. I could not have done this without the amazing staff that I have been blessed with for the last 28 years.

"I have had three Chief Assistant District Attorneys who dedicated their careers to prosecution and seeking justice. Two of them went on to become superior court judges and one stands by my side every day, protecting the citizens of Schuyler County. On a special note, I would not have been nearly as effective had it not been for my paralegal, Robin Craver, who has been with me for all 28 years. I would also like to thank the multiple police agencies that I have worked with for so long. The Southern Tier is extremely fortunate to have the law enforcement professionals it has. They are all well trained and work hand in hand to make our region a safe place to live.”

As for the future, Fazzary said he has no immediate plans in retirement except to take some time off and spend it with his family.

Photo in text: District Attorney Joseph G. Fazzary (File photo)

New EV charging stations open in Glen

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 20, 2025 -- Four new fast-charging stations for electric vehicles are now open in the village of Watkins Glen. Installed by the New York Power Authority (NYPA), the chargers are part of the state's extensive EVolve NY charging infrastructure network that provides accessibility to many of New York State's top tourism destinations.

"From hiking to racing to agrotourism, Watkins Glen draws more than a million tourists from around the world to the Finger Lakes each year, and this expansion of the EVolve NY fast charging network ensures that those who drive electric vehicles have a seamless and accessible experience in New York State," said Justin E. Driscoll, Power Authority president and CEO. "This fast-charging bank in Watkins Glen also highlights NYPA's work with local government partners to bring the convenience and environmental benefits of electric vehicles to more New York residents and communities."

Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo supported NYPA's work to install the fast chargers.

"We are elated to bring this service to our community and are grateful to the New York Power Authority for their expertise and collaboration as we strive to expand our sustainable actions to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions," said DeNardo.

The Watkins Glen chargers are located in Clute Park. The site is equipped with four of them -- all with combined charging system (CCS) connectors rated at up to 350 kilowatts (kW). Under ideal conditions, charging time is as little as 20 minutes.

NYPA's EVolve NY network now has 232 chargers statewide at 56 sites.

In the Finger Lakes region, EVolve NY chargers are available in Geneva, Bath, Preble, and Victor. A site recently opened in Horseheads, and a Skaneateles location, in Onondaga County, is targeted to be operational this summer.

New York State regulations require all new passenger cars, pickup trucks and SUVs sold in New York State be zero emission by 2035. The rules, officials say, will help decarbonize the state's transportation sector and advance the state's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which calls for emissions to be reduced 85 percent by 2050.

Photo in text: The four new fast-charging stations at Clute Park. (Photo provided)

O'Mara seeking Veterans HOF nominations

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, Feb. 3, 2025 -- State Senator Tom O’Mara (R-C, Big Flats) is seeking nominations for the New York State Senate "Veterans Hall of Fame," an online tribute to the military service and civilian lives of distinguished veterans from the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions, and throughout New York State.

O'Mara is currently accepting nominations for the 2025 inductee to represent the 58th Senate District at a ceremony in Albany in late May.

Nominations will be accepted until Friday, March 8, 2025. Nomination letters should include a short biography highlighting the nominee's military and civilian service, including awards and achievements, and be e-mailed to omara@nysenate.gov.

"So many veterans served our nation courageously and honorably and then returned home to contribute to the strength of our local communities. The Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is just one more way to give a local veteran a well-deserved and well-earned expression of our admiration, gratitude and respect," said O’Mara, who represents New York’s 58th Senate District encompassing Chemung, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, and Yates counties, and part of Allegany County (the towns of Alfred, Almond, Amity, Andover, Birdsall, Burns, Grove, Independence, Scio, Ward, Wellsville, and Willing).

The Senate established its Veterans Hall of Fame in 2005. It honors New York State veterans whose service in the United States Armed Forces has been accompanied by service to the community and accomplishments as a civilian. It pays tributes to veterans representing Senate districts statewide. Senators conduct induction ceremonies within their respective legislative districts and at the Capitol coinciding with veterans-related observances throughout the year.

O’Mara’s inductees in the Senate Veterans Hall of Fame have included the following Schuyler and Yates County notables, as well as others from Chemung and Steuben Counties.

> Philip C. Smith, a highly decorated Korean War combat veteran and well-known figure in Schuyler County government and veterans’ affairs;

> Anthony J. "Tony" Specchio, Sr., a distinguished Korean War veteran and widely respected for his long-standing and active service to veterans and government in Watkins Glen and throughout Schuyler County;

> P. Earle Gleason, a lifelong Yates County resident and longtime director of the Yates County Veterans' Service Agency;

> Richard T. "Dick" Gillespie of Penn Yan, a veteran of World War II;

> Andrew Swarthout of Yates County, a highly decorated Vietnam War veteran and mainstay of local veterans' organizations.

Photo in text: Senator Tom O'Mara, left, with his 2024 inductee, Merle John Tobias, a native of Hornell who served in the United States Army during the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and throughout the Persian Gulf War. (Provided)

2nd annual Donate Life Art Contest slated

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, Jan. 29, 2025 -- Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) has announced the 2nd annual Student Art Contest hosted by Donate Life New York State. In celebration of Donate Life Month, students are encouraged to share their donation stories and perspectives on organ donations through art.

Submissions must be in by Feb. 28 and winners will be notified by March 21. Entries must be submitted by a teacher or parent and must include the participating student’s name, grade level, age, address, phone number and email. There are four separate categories for the contest: elementary, fourth and fifth grades; middle school, sixth through eighth grades; and high school, ninth and tenth grades and eleventh and twelfth grades.

Artwork will be hung throughout the Legislative Office Building during Donate Life Month in April. Winners will receive a $100 gift card and will be recognized at a press conference to be held on April 8 in Albany. For more information on this opportunity, please see the link here.

“I am pleased to announce the Donate Life Student Art Contest," said Palmesano. "Organ donation is a cause near and dear to my heart, so I am always happy to help promote this important issue however I can. According to Donate Life New York, our state ranks 47th out of 52 registries of states and territories in the country in total organ donor enrollment. We have a 50% enrollment rate while the national average is 64%. As a state, we have the third-greatest need for organs but the sixth-worst enrollment rate. We can, and must, do better.

"I hope this art contest will help spread the word about the importance of organ donation. If you have already registered to become an organ donor, thank you. If you have not, please talk to your family and consider it as you can help save the lives of your fellow New Yorkers. In fact, one person who donates at their time of death can save up to eight lives and impact the lives of 75 others. To register to donate, visit your local DMV or visit the NYS Donate Life Registry website today.”

Assemblyman Palmesano represents the 132nd District, which includes Schuyler County, Yates County and Parts of Chemung County, Seneca County and Steuben County.

Family Court E-Filing expands to Schuyler

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 27, 2025 -- More family courts in the Finger Lakes now offer electronic filing (e-filing) for new custody/visitation, guardianship, parentage, paternity and support matters.

According to Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman, as of January 21 Schuyler, Seneca and Yates counties joined 16 other counties across New York State in offering the service, known as NYS Courts Electronic Filing (“NYSCEF”).

“NYSCEF service permits the filing of legal papers by electronic means with the courts in certain case types,” Getman said. “In an e-filed case, the court and all parties to the action are provided with the same documents as they would receive in a non e-filed case. The difference is that the documents are provided electronically. This avoids the costs and time associated with printing, copying and mailing documents.”

“Expanded e-filing helps lawyers provide better service to their clients. Using technology to submit paperwork saves time, energy and taxpayer dollars,” Getman added. “This is especially helpful for rural communities, such as those in the Finger Lakes, where litigants may find travel difficult or costly and where there may not be enough lawyers.”

New York State courts were already using e-filing statewide for many other types of cases, Getman noted. Courts having already instituted e-filing include Supreme Court, Surrogate’s Court and the New York State appellate courts. The federal courts also have their own electronic filing system, available to lawyers and the public, he said.

The court system offers training on how to use the e-filing system for people who do not have an attorney and are representing themselves, Getman said. Training also is available to attorneys and their staff members, he noted.

The New York State Bar Association studied the impact and benefits of e-filing for more than a decade with the most recent report adopted in 2023, which detailed the benefits of an expanded, statewide e-filing system.

As County Attorney, Getman is the chief legal advisor for county government and responsible for the prosecution and defense of civil actions brought by and against the county. In that role, his office represents the Department of Social Services and Probation Department in various family court prosecutions, including child abuse and neglect, juvenile delinquency and child support enforcement.

For more information on New York State family court e-filing, including a complete list of counties participating, click here: https://www.nycourts.gov/whatsnew/efile-family-jan21-2025.shtml

Photo in text: Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman

O'Mara rips Hochul's proposed budget

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, Jan. 21, 2025 -- State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C-Big Flats), Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee, says that Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed 2025-2026 state budget calling for a record-breaking $252 billion fiscal plan -- a spending increase of nearly $20 billion over the budget she proposed last year -- “downplays the fiscal realities facing this state, ignores the long-term burdens being shouldered by middle-class taxpayers, and refuses to take the steps needed to seriously address affordability.”

O’Mara stressed that over the past six years, since the beginning of all-Democrat, one-party control of state government in 2019, state spending has increased nearly $70 billion, a 40% growth in spending far outpacing inflation during that time.

O’Mara said, “Governor Hochul and Albany Democrats are addicted to spending. They can’t stop. It’s out of control and it’s shocking. Despite all the warning signs, Governor Hochul keeps feeding a ‘spend, spend, spend’ addiction that will never make New York more affordable. It will keep driving hard-working taxpayers and middle-class families out of the state. It will keep killing jobs and strangling local economies. It keeps ignoring the reality that New York remains one of America’s highest-taxed, least affordable, most debt-ridden and overregulated states, and that we’re leading the nation in population loss.

"The Albany Democrat spending addiction over the past six years has put in place massive, long-term spending commitments -- and with massive commitments looming in their pursuit of a radical climate agenda -- that will never be affordable or sustainable for state and local taxpayers, small businesses and manufacturers, and continually hard-pressed upstate communities, economies, and workers.”

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara

Palmesano: Hochul budget hike irresponsible

Assemblyman Phil Palmesano released the following statement regarding the state budget proposal issued by Gov. Kathy Hochul.

“Last week, Gov. Hochul said 'affordability' was one of her top priorities. Her solution? The largest state budget ever, $252 billion, an increase of $19 BILLION from last year's proposal is what Gov. Hochul proposed in her executive budget presentation. The governor’s plan continues New York down a dangerous and reckless path of more unsustainable and out-of-control spending and misplaced priorities that will just further compound the affordability crisis and financial struggles and challenges facing New York families and businesses.

"At a time when New Yorkers are making difficult decisions and having to tighten their own budgets, why does the governor think it is appropriate to increase the state's budget so dramatically and irresponsibly? The governor and our Democrat colleagues in the Legislature need to remember this is the people’s money, not their money.

“The Legislature will now conduct public budget hearings through the month of February where we will examine the proposed budget and question the governor’s agency commissioners, department heads and community stakeholders to evaluate the impact of her proposals on New Yorkers.

“Budgeting is about priorities, and it is imperative we work to help support and improve the quality of life of our most vulnerable New Yorkers, individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities and the dedicated direct-support professionals who care for them. This must be a priority.

“With all the talk about transportation funding focused on the MTA, which I do support, and do understand is the lifeblood of the downstate transportation network, it is equally important however, that we have funding parity for the DOT Capital Plan to help improve our roads and bridges upstate, especially funding for our local roads, bridges and culverts through the critically important and successful Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS). Just as the MTA is the lifeblood of the downstate transportation network, CHIPS is certainly the lifeblood of our upstate transportation network, and in some instances, the only funding some local communities have to fund their local infrastructure. This must be a priority.

“We have some of the highest taxes and cost of living coupled with the most burdensome and costly regulations in the country, all of which have contributed to New York’s nation-leading outmigration. This is an untenable situation that we must address if we truly want to make New York more affordable for New York families and businesses and if we want to make New York a great place to work and raise a family."

Photo in text: Assemblyman Phil Palmesano

Facade Improvement Program reopened

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 18, 2025 -- After five rounds of a successful matching grant program for facade improvements, The Schuyler County Legislature, in partnership with the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development, has reopened the Schuyler County Facade Improvement Program with revised criteria and expanded area.

Over $200,000 is now available in matching grants for facade improvements to commercial and mixed-use buildings throughout Schuyler County.

In 2021 Schuyler County allocated $350,000 from funds received through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and allocated these monies to improve the downtown villages in Schuyler County, reflective of the transformation that Watkins Glen realized with the Downtown Revitalization Initiative funding received in 2018. Through five rounds of funding, 22 buildings were granted matching funds ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. Total private investment reached over $2 million and helped to revitalize the downtown communities of Burdett, Odessa, Montour Falls, and Watkins Glen.

With the success of the original program, the Schuyler County Legislature has allocated the additional $200,000, and the program was expanded so that all commercial and mixed-use buildings in Schuyler County were eligible to apply.

Carl Blowers, Chairman of the Schuyler County Legislature remarked, "This program has proven successful in rejuvenating storefronts in all of our Villages. The County Legislature looks forward to the investment this program will stimulate."

County: We're fixing errors found in tax bills

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 8, 2025 -- Schuyler County has identified an error with certain property tax bills in the county and says it is in the process of making corrections.

The error relates to the calculation of agriculture and veterans exemptions. The average error for county veterans exemptions, if any, is estimated at $60 or less. The average error for county agriculture exemptions will depend on acreage and other factors such as soil type and land use.

"Affected taxpayers," the county said in a press release, "do not have to do anything to receive a credit. The credit will be provided automatically on their next year’s bill."

Anyone who would like an immediate administrative adjustment may contact the County’s Real Property Tax Services Office at (607) 535-8118, which is ready to assist individual taxpayers. A process to assist taxpayers, review the bill in question and make a refund, if necessary, will be provided as set by New York State Tax Law. "In addition," the press release said, "our Schuyler County Treasurer, Holley Sokolowski (Ph: (607) 535-8181), stands ready to assist."

In addition, the county’s veteran’s services office, headed by Director Crystal Kawski, will be scheduling one or more walk-in sessions for veterans to assist with the administrative process and to answer questions.

"The Schuyler County Legislature," the press release added, "is committed to correcting this administrative error and is taking all steps necessary to do so in a timely manner.

"A letter will be sent to all affected taxpayers, explaining the above and notifying them of the right to any credit and other available assistance."

Speakers and other participants shovel the celebratory ground-breaking soil at Clute Park.

Ground-breaking ceremony celebrates redevelopment of Clute Park play area

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 12, 2024 -- On a cold day with the wind whipping off of Seneca Lake, state and local officials gathered Tuesday at Clute Park for a ground-breaking ceremony marking the coming redevelopment of a portion of the park into an all-inclusive ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) playground.

Funding for the $750,000 investment is coming from various sources, including the $10 million New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant won by Watkins Glen several years ago. Other funding is coming from the New York State Department of State, the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, and the Village of Watkins Glen.

On hand as the keynote speaker was New York State Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley -- who was also present earlier in the day for the ribbon cutting at another DRI-related project, the opening of the Harborside Village Apartments in downtown Watkins Glen (see story below).

“The Village of Watkins Glen," said Mosley, "started its DRI with a clear vision and goal of capitalizing on historic assets to create a thriving year-round economy and public spaces for all to enjoy. It’s exciting to see all the progress that has been made so far with the completion of the Harborside Village Apartments and the groundbreaking for the Village’s final DRI project -- the Clute Park Playground.”

Other speakers at the park -- their hair windblown, and bundled against the cold knifing in from the lake -- included State Senator Tom O'Mara, Schuyler County Administrator Shawn Rosno, Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo, Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Nigar Hale, and Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development Executive Director Judy McKinney Cherry.

Once construction of the Clute Park Playground is completed, Mosley said, Watkins Glen will have implemented its full DRI award of $10 million.

“Watkins Glen has exceeded all expectations with each of our DRI projects,” said Mayor DeNardo. “Thank you, Governor Hochul, and the state agencies who supported all of our projects. The new ADA playground will be our final DRI project in the Village and ... will provide years of enjoyment for the future that we all should be proud of."

The park project will include handicap-accessible playground equipment in a 12,000-square-foot area along with benches, a drinking fountain, and ADA-compliant individual and group swings.

According to the ground-breaking's official program, "A 2- to 5-year-old play area will be nautical-themed, with a slide, hammock, accessible stairway, musical play panels, and a sea monster-themed seesaw. A 5- to 12-year-old play area will include a large Man-O-War structure with a track ride, large slide, hammock, and climbing performer dome. The central feature of the project is an ADA-accessible carousel, which will allow mobility-impaired children and caretakers to wheel directly on to the carousel."

The target date for completion of the project is June 2025.

Photos in text:

Top: Speakers Judy McKinney Cherry, SCOPED Executive Director, and New York State Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley.

Middle: State Senator Tom O'Mara issues some remarks, NYS Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley in the background.

Bottom: Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo speaks during the ceremony.

The front entrance of the Harborside Village Apartments at 101 First Street in Watkins Glen.

Ribbon-cutting celebrates the opening
of Glen's Harborside Village Apartments

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 12, 2024 -- A ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday afternoon marked the opening of the Harborside Village Apartments in what used to be the Guthrie Medical Building at 101 First Street in the village.

The apartment complex is one of more than a dozen projects associated with a $10 million New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant that Watkins Glen received several years ago.

The structure has five two-bedroom modern apartments ranging from 1,150 to 1,400 square feet. Each features granite countertops, stainless steel applicances, French door refrigerators, washer-and-dryer sets, off-street reserved parking, and on-site private storage.

Speakers at the ceremony included New York State Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley, State Senator Tom O'Mara, Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo, Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development Executive Director Judy McKinney Cherry, and David Hart, President and CEO of Hart Hotels, who with business partner Peter Krog were the major investors in the apartment project.

The apartments were actually an offshoot of one of the orginal DRI projects, another Hart-Krog project turning the old VFW Building across the street into a workout center and four apartments. When those apartments rented quickly, eyes turned toward the vacant Guthrie Building as the site of five more.

Hart and Krog, whose total investment since 2008 in First Street projects (including the Harbor Hotel) has totaled $31 million, received a $250,000 stimulus from the state through the DRI for the Harborside project, investing $1.6 million of their own money.

Photo in text: The ribbon is cut at the Harborside Village Apartments, NYS Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley wielding the scissors. (Provided)

Montour Falls fleet is going electric

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Nov. 1, 2024 -- And now there are three.

The Village of Montour Falls now owns and operates three electric vehicles. The first was placed into service for use by the Public Safety Department; the second is assigned to the Department of Public Works; and now, the third is assigned to the Water Department. All three were acquired through grant funding by meeting clean energy action goals.

The goals were achieved through actions completed by the Montour Falls Sustainability Committee and village staff. The village’s actions were rewarded with funding for addressing energy reduction and the government's carbon footprint.

While the “We’ve never done it that way before” mentality is typical among some bureaucratic institutions, such as governmental bodies, Montour Falls Mayor James Ryan says that is not the case in his village.

“Red tape, onerous regulations, unnecessary systems, unfunded compliance, and all other forms of bureaucracy can drain the life out of local government. I meet this head-on,” said Ryan. “I am proud of the team I have assembled and the progress we have made as a Clean Energy and Climate Smart Community."

The cost of operating the village is challenged everyday by rising energy prices, said Ryan, who added: "The Village looks for practical ways to reduce costs, including through the electrification of the municipal fleet. By taking a holistic approach to reducing carbon emissions, the village has found ways to both reduce its carbon footprint and save money on behalf of residents and businesses."

Montour Falls is the regional Climate Smart Communities leader, especially for small municipalities, Ryan noted.

“My hope is that our journey will be an example and inspiration for others,” he said. “Small creative and consistent actions can have big positive impacts today and well into the future. Stay tuned to see what we have planned next!”

Photo in text: Montour Falls Mayor James Ryan stands with three EV Ford Lightnings owned by the Village of Montour Falls. (Photo by Erik J. Holter)

State Park's Sentry Bridge to be replaced

Century-old span will be rebuilt "to last through the next 100 years"

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 24, 2024 -- The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) has announced that the current footbridge known as the Sentry Bridge at the entrance of Watkins Glen State Park will be replaced next year. A new, sustainable span will be built "to last through the next 100 years," said park officials. It will replace the 1908 span that has been compromised by time and weather.

"When coming to Watkins Glen, we want visitors to have the full park experience so they can enjoy nature's beauty," said State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons.

"For more than a century, park goers have crossed the Sentry Bridge, taken a deep breath, and gone on to explore the park. This new bridge will blend the natural landscape and keep the gorge as the focal point making the next century just as memorable."

A study conducted by OPRHP determined a full replacement of the Sentry Bridge is needed to address unstable rock conditions. The current footbridge was made of concrete with stone veneer cladding. The new, lightweight bridge reinterprets the historic arch with a contemporary half-arch made of durable stainless steel. It will tie in the natural landscape with state-of-the-art materials. The bridge will now rely on the stronger rock of the gorge's north side for support, "creating an enduring new symbol for Watkins Glen State Park."

Construction is expected to begin on July 7, 2025. The bridge is expected to re-open prior to July 4, 2026. The new design came from a team led by the New York City studios of schlaich bergermann partner (sbp) and Snøhetta. After carefully studying the site conditions with the design team, OPRHP determined that a full replacement of the Sentry Bridge was needed.

Since this has a tight access location, removal of the current bridge will take time. The new bridge will be constructed off-site and then lifted into place in one piece. This means it will be completed sooner and bring less disturbance to the site overall with an estimated cost of $7.5 million from NY Works funding.

During construction, the Gorge Trail and 15 waterfalls will be accessible from the North Rim Trail starting at the Main Entrance. Throughout the project, shuttle service will be available, the park's pool will remain open, and the gift shop and north entrance concession will also be open to the public.

Watkins Glen State Park is the most popular of the Finger Lakes State Parks, welcoming 1.2 million annual visitors. It is on track to surpass that number in 2024. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. And rim trails overlook the gorge.

Photos in text: Renderings of the planned new Sentry Bridge. (Provided)

Montour Falls gets $50K in business funding

Special to The Odessa File

“The Village of Montour Falls relies on its small businesses to drive local economic growth,” said Langworthy. “This grant will give these businesses the support they need to expand and stay competitive, which in turn strengthens the entire community.”

The Village of Montour Falls has 63 year-round businesses, 83% of which are considered micro-businesses with fewer than ten employees. This grant program will provide targeted support to 10 of these businesses, helping them thrive and grow in a competitive market. With additional support of $50,000 from local sources, the total funding for the project will be $100,000, allowing for significant community improvements and the development of plans to implement Climate Smart Communities Best Practices.

Judge Spaccio resigns amid investigation
by NYS Commission on Judicial Conduct

The following article was released by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 28, 2024 -- Donald R. Spaccio, a Justice of the Montour Falls Village Court and the Montour Town Court, has resigned while under investigation by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

In April 2024, the Commission apprised Judge Spaccio that it was investigating complaints that he:

--Impermissibly attended the political rally in Washington, DC, on January 6, 2021. (Judge Spaccio testified during the Commission’s investigation that he did not participate in the assault on the Capitol that day.)
--Shouted at police officers and invoked his judicial office when they asked him to remove a propane cannon from the roof of his building; and
--Yelled profanities at the Montour Code Enforcement Officer during the course of a dispute.

Judge Spaccio resigned from office by letter dated September 9, 2024, and agreed never to seek or accept judicial office at any time in the future. The Commission accepted a stipulation to that effect signed by the judge and the Commission’s Administrator. Judge Spaccio waived the statutory provision of confidentiality applicable to Commission proceedings, to the limited extent that the stipulation and Commission’s order accepting it would be public.

The judge’s resignation is effective October 7, 2024.

Judge Spaccio, who is not an attorney, has been a Justice of Montour Falls Village Court since 2001, and a Justice of the Montour Town Court since 2005. His current terms would have expired on March 31, 2026, and December 31, 2025, respectively.

Commission Administrator Robert H. Tembeckjian made the following statement: “Judges may not engage in political activity except for a limited time when running for office, and even then there are constraints on what they may do. Whether or not a judge was a candidate, attending the rally in Washington on January 6, 2021, was impermissible. So is invoking one’s judicial title in the midst of a testy personal dispute.”

The Commission has accepted 140 such permanent resignation stipulations since the procedure was instituted in 2003.

Photo in text: Donald R. Spaccio (File photo)

Some of the officials at the public hearing from five town councils and one village board.

Fire District public hearing hits a bump; boards to meet for 2nd session on Oct. 16

ODESSA, Sept. 18, 2024 -- It was perhaps predictable, what with five town boards and one village board gathered in one place in an attempt to reach a meeting of the minds on a complicated -- and relatively new to them -- issue: formation of an Odessa Unified Fire District that would provide service to all of them.

It hit a bump in rhe road.

The district, similar in scope to the existing Fire Protection Service it would supplant -- which is provided by the only fire department in the service area, the one in Odessa -- would include all of the Village of Odessa and Town of Catharine, and portions of the Towns of Veteran, Hector, Montour and Cayuta (although the latter opted out in the course of Wednesday's hearing).

Those are the municipalities from which the officials came, all gathered Wednesday night in the Odessa-Montour High School's Fetter-Brown Auditorium -- seated in a line of tables reaching across the room -- to hear about the proposed district, and possibly to give their approval. That approval would be all that was needed for its activation unless someone filed petitions meeting the requirements for a permissive referendum ... in which case the district's approval or rejection would be in the hands of the public. The carrot dangling in front of the various boards: a list of pluses enumerated in a letter from the Odessa Hose and Chemical Company on the Forum Page.

In the end -- after a presentation about the proposed district by Attorney Mark C. Butler, who has worked for years on fire department issues -- questions accompanied by doubts took over the session, with one of the town boards (Cayuta) saying it had no interest in being part of the district formation. The other affected towns -- Catharine, Veteran, Montour and Hector -- finally settled on another hearing to be held after Butler provides them with more detailed information on the issue. (He and Odessa Mayor Gerry Messmer said information was provided well in advance of Wednesday's hearing through emails and a previous informational meeting at the Odessa Fire Department, but the scope of questions at the hearing made it clear officials needed more.) Butler said he would provide it by week's end, leading to a second public hearing, to be held at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 16 in the same auditoriuim.

The sixth municipal body represented at Wednesday's hearing, the Village of Odessa, was led by Messmer, who made it clear the village is staking its very existence as a municipality on a new fire district -- which would remove the Odessa Fire Department from village control and from its books. The cost of operating the department has grown beyond what the village can afford, he said -- adding afterward that "villages running a fire department are a thing of the past." They can't secure the loans and grants that cities and fire districts can, he added.

With the current upward trajectory of the cost of fire trucks and equipment, not to mention insurance and other expenses, Messmer said, a continuation of the status quo "is going to bankrupt and lead the village to dissolution. The economy is devastating." His board essentially serves now as the guiding Fire Protection Service hand, a role that would be taken over in a Fire District by a five-member Board of Commissioners.

That Board of Commissioners, if the fire district is approved, would be appointed by the participating councils (through 2025, and then elected). The district would be a municipal entity itself, as provided in New York State Law -- but a muncipality with one primary reason for being; the fire protection of the citizens within its boundaries. (See charts below.) The proposal before the town councils Wednesday even named a proposed lineup of Commissioners: Teresa Letteer, Joel Moore, Andrew Campbell, Les Vogal and Rebecca Franklin-Guild, a mix of district residents described as part fire prevention veterans and part fire prevention newcomers.

While everybody listened closely to Butler's presentation, it was followed by many questions -- primarily about the cost of the fire district -- and clear resistance by the town boards to take any action at the hearing to approve the proposal. Messmer said lacking approval of the district, the future contracts involved in continuing the existing Fire Protection Service would be based on the fire district proposal anyway -- and thus reflect the same costs.

The new district proposal, Butler said, gives a true representation of the cost of operating fire protection in the area -- with a 2025 budget proposal totaling $512,000, significantly more than the current cost. But not everyone accepted that as the final word. Ronald Hoffman of the Catharine Town Board said any budget resulting from creation of a fire district should be of the austerity variety, including scaling back on the number of fire trucks being operated by the Odessa Fire Department. "That would be easier on our stomachs," he said. "Everybody agrees the fire district is a good way to go, but we need to back off on equipment."

There was a great deal of parliamentary back-and-forth as the hearing dragged on -- it lasted more than three hours. And after the three Cayuta Town Board members departed, the other four town councils and the Odessa Village Board grappled with the direction all felt they might be able to follow to a positive conclusion. That ultimately came down to Butler promising to send to the boards the detailed information they were seeking..

The various councils, minus Cayuta, then voted to re-gather on Oct. 16. That is two weeks after the establishnent date proposed in the formation resolution that had been on the table Wednesday night. So some things in the proposal will change: the establishment date, plus the elimination of Cayuta as an active participant, although Messmer made it clear Cayuta, if contracting with the new district, would be paying the same amount it had been expected to pay in Wednesday's proposal.

Photos in text:

Top: Members of the Odessa Village Board on hand at the hearing included (from left) Deputy Mayor Thomas Letteer, Mayor Gerry Messmer and Trustee Alijia Bailey. Others present: Pam Cicconi and Kristine Gardner.

Middle: Attorney Mark C. Butler, who explained the fire district proposal.

Bottom: Odessa Fire Chief Adam Mahnke, who outlined the history of fire protection in the region.

Parts of Atty. Butler's presentation:

Schuyler names Veterans Service Director

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 16, 2024 -- Schuyler County has announced the appointment of Crystal Kawski as the new Director of Veterans Services.

She succeeds Kristine Gardner, who the county dismissed without explanation on April 18, leading to a concerted outcry from area veterans who supported her efforts on their behalf. Gardner has since secured employment with the federal government, once again seeking benefits for veterans.

As the new Schuyler County director, Kawski will be responsible for overseeing the Veterans Service Agency, focusing on expanding outreach, advocating for the needs of veterans in the county and overall management of the department.

“We are thrilled to welcome Crystal to the county,” said Schuyler County Administrator Shawn Rosno. “Her experience working directly with veterans and passion for ensuring high-quality assistance to those who need it make her an excellent fit for this position.”

Kawski is a veteran of the United States Army and has worked as a vocational rehabilitation counselor for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and as a veterans service representative. She holds a bachelor’s degree in non-profit/public/organizational management from Ashford University and a master’s degree from Kaplan University.

Reflecting on her new role, Kawski said: “I’m honored to join Schuyler County’s Veterans Service Agency. As an Army Veteran myself, wife of an Army Veteran, and mom of an Army Veteran, I’m eager to work with the team to ensure our veterans receive the support and resources they deserve, and I look forward to making a positive impact on the lives of our veterans and their families.”

For more information about the Schuyler County Veterans Service Agency, visit schuylercounty.us, or call (607) 535-2091.

About Schuyler County Veterans Services

The Schuyler County Veterans Service Agency is committed to providing assistance to Schuyler County veterans and members of the armed forces as well as their dependents and survivors through the pursuance of veterans benefits at the County, State and Federal levels and referrals to other agencies for possible assistance.

Odessa Mayor Gerry Messmer and Clerk Pam Kelly at the Village Board's Aug. 5 meeting.

Odessa moves ahead on water project

ODESSA, Aug. 6, 2024 -- The Odessa Village Board Monday night approved two resolutions for construction of the treatment facility at the heart of Phase Two of the village's ongoing water project.

The board also approved a resolution authorizing removal of an estimated 18 inches of sludge from the bottom of the village water tank. That will be done with a suction device by Atlantic Underwater Services for an estimated $8,000.

The treatment facility will be built by Vacri Construction Corp. for $6,067,000, with electrical work done by MATCO for $1,065,161. The latter includes a surveillance system for $55,400.

The board also rejected an easement for logging that would impact the Odessa-Hector Rail Trail; and heard from Fire Chief Adam Mahnke on the progress of formation of a new fire district.

Members of the FLX Gateway Community Development Corp. board that oversaw the FLX Works project. Chair Ben Stamp receives a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Sharon Murphy of Congressman Nick Langworthy's office.

New co-working space, FLX Works, opens in Watkins; project funded through DRI

WATKINS GLEN, July 17, 2024 -- The Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development, the Watkins Glen Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Local Planning Committee, and the FLX Gateway Community Development Corporation held a ribbon cutting ceremony Wednesday celebrating the completion of FLX Works, a coworking space in downtown Watkins Glen, at 216 N. Franklin Street -- on a second floor above the Chamber of Commerce office.

Speakers ran the range of government -- Sharon Murphy from the office of Congressman Nick Langworthy; State Senator Tom O'Mara; Asssemblyman Phil Palmesano; Schuyler County Administrator Shawn Rosno; and Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo. Also speaking: the emcee, Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development (SCOPED) Executive Director Judy McKinney Cherry; Jim Guild, who owns the building housing the Chamber and FLX Works; and Ben Stamp, chairman of the FLX Gateway Community Development Corp. that has overseen the project.

FLX Works is a co-working space that rents out space and the use of Wi-Fi and other services for designated periods of time, from daily to by-the-month. It is designed for entrepreneurs, small businesses and others in need of a convenient workspace, including those who have been working at home but are seeking an alternative. It has the advantage of being in the heart of the downtown business district. Daily use passes in the 5,000 square foot facility run $25 a day, while monthly access is $150. Three private offices are $650 a month and require a three-month minimum, and can be shared by more than one business, splitting the cost. One of those offices is currently occupied by The Esses. Coworking is available 24/7 through a secure badge system and security cameras.

Said Stamp: "FLX Works is a modern downtown coworking space with a unique rural flavor. It will provide a community anchor for our freelance and remote workers and a home base for our small business entrepreneurs."

McKinney Cherry called FLX Works "the culmination of SCOPED's role in the transformative Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI)" -- a $10 million infusion of New York State money won by Watkins Glen in 2017 and leveraged into projects totaling many times that amount. "We are celebrating not just a physical transformation" of Watkins Glen, she added, "but a rejuvenation of the spirit and energy of this wonderful village. ... As we look around, we see a downtown that has been transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, commerce, and community life. New businesses have opened their doors, historic buildings have been restored, public spaces have been revitalized, and the overall quality of life has been enhanced for all who live, work and visit here."

Said Senator O'Mara: "FLX Works is a fantastic addition to downtown Watkins Glen. This exciting new and innovative workspace continues the important revitalization efforts that have been ongoing over the past several years through the state's DRI investment and the incredible leadership and support of SCOPED and other local agencies and partners."

Added Palmesano said,: "Thank you to the ongoing efforts of SCOPED and all of our local leaders, agencies and partners who have worked long and hard over the past several years to fully and effectively utilize and build on the state's Downtown Revitalization Initiative investment. The arrival of FLX Works represents the latest exciting addition to this comprehensive revitalization strategy. It has been an amazing cooperative effort and, together, we have helped make Watkins Glen stronger for the future."

Mayor DeNardo, who served as Co-chair for the DRI's Watkins Glen Local Planning Committee, said this: "This coworking space is a fabulous addition to Watkins Glen. This space will be used by locals, tourists, visitors and companies throughout Schuyler County and beyond our borders. FLX Works will complement the other businesses along Franklin Street as its members will naturally utilize the stores, shops and restaurants in its proximity. This last private investment project of the DRI truly completes the story of what we set out to accomplish with the DRI, and I am proud to be here for the official opening."

Building owner Guild added the following: "This space has undergone a lot of change and it's wonderful to see the second floor transformed in this way. It was once an active building, supporting small businesses, and now, with the funding received through the DRI and ESD, I am pleased that it will once again be a beacon for small businesses to learn, work and flourish."

Construction of the space took nearly two years to complete, with funding from the DRI, an Empire State Development (ESD) Non-Profit Capital Grant, the Schuyler County Legislature, the Schuyler County IDA, SCOPED, the Cargill Foundation, and a number of private investors, The project, which totaled just over $375,000, included the construction of two rest rooms and a kitchen.

Photos in text:

Top: SCOPED Executive Director Judy McKinney Cherry.
2nd: FLX Gateway Community Development Corp. board member Abby Lane, left, and on the right, Kerri Green, SCOPED Senior Economic & Community Development Specialist.
3rd: State Senator Tom O'Mara.
4th: State Assemblyman Phil Palmesano.
5th: FLX Works building owner Jim Guild.

Celebrants prepare for the ribbon-cutting part of the FLX Works ceremony.

Watkins Glen receiving $4.6M EDA grant for water infrastructure improvements

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 25, 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo has announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $4.6 million grant to the village of Watkins Glen, New York, for water infrastructure improvements needed to boost business and job growth.

The grant will support rehabilitation of Watkins Glen’s water storage tank and pump station, replacement of water lines, and other water infrastructure improvements needed to increase capacity for the local business community. This EDA investment will be matched with $4.6 million in local funds and is expected to create or retain 120 jobs, according to grantee estimates.

"We are graateful to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand for their support in securing this federal investment," said Village of Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo (pictured at right). "The EDA award will provide long overdue improvements to our water infrastructure, secure additional housing and jobs, and improve livability. This award provides the economic engine and infrastructure improvements we need for our future generations."

“The Biden-Harris Administration knows that infrastructure is key to building an economy that works for all Americans and helps every community grow,” said Secretary Raimondo. “This EDA investment will ensure that Watkins Glen has the resources necessary to support local businesses, create good-paying jobs, and boost their regional economy.”

“The Economic Development Administration works closely with communities to support their locally driven economic development strategies,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will provide the modern infrastructure that Watkin’s Glen needs to grow and thrive.”

“Access to clean water is a basic right, and we’re making essential investments to protect this vital resource for all New Yorkers,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “Thank you to the Biden Administration and Secretary Raimondo for this commitment to updating our water infrastructure, which will protect the health and safety of Watkins Glen residents and support the local economy.”

“Federal dollars are flowing to improve water infrastructure in Watkins Glen. This will help give Watkins Glen families and businesses the modern water infrastructure they deserve all while creating a steady stream of jobs, jobs, jobs,” said Senator Chuck Schumer. “I am proud to deliver this major $4.6 million federal investment to help lay the foundation needed for future growth and economic development in Schuyler County.”

“Watkins Glen is a vital part of our community, and this substantial investment in its water infrastructure is crucial for our future growth,” said Representative Nick Langworthy (NY-23) (pictured at right). “Supporting economic development in rural areas will ensure that small businesses can continue to create jobs while also bolstering the quality of life for hard-working families. I will always fight to ensure that Watkins Glen gets a fair shake and the resources they need to suceed for generations to come.”

“Investments in infrastructure improvements like these are crucial to help support residents, businesses, and tourists alike,” said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “This $4.6 million grant will bring much-needed water infrastructure improvements to the Village of Watkins Glen that will help the local economy and create or retain dozens of good-paying jobs. I applaud the EDA for making this vital investment and will fight to secure more federal dollars to support New York’s businesses and boost job growth throughout Schuyler County.”

The project was made possible by regional planning efforts led by the Southern Tier Central (STC) Regional Planning & Development Board. EDA funds STC to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration ( www.eda.gov):
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.

Photos in text: Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo and Congressman Nick Langworthy.

Horein parole denied; another hearing set

SCHUYLER COUNTY, June 4, 2024 -- Convicted murderer Joshua Horein has been denied parole after appearing April 11th before the New York State Parole Board at the Fishkill Correctional Facility.

The Schuyler County District Attorney's Office, in a press release Tuesday, said Horein -- who has another hearing upcoming -- appeared "for a De Novo interview to determine if he should be granted parole. His application was denied."

"Horein," the release added, "murdered Amber Brockway, a 15-year-old girl, in the Village of Watkins Glen on August 5, 2000. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison on April 6, 2001. He first became eligible for parole in 2019 and has been denied release on multiple occasions since then.

"In his most recent appearance before the Parole Board, parole commissioners noted their concern that Horein was still 'casting some blame on the victim.' The board was also concerned that Horein had written Amber Brockway's mother a letter of apology that could have been construed as intimidation. He also wrote a letter to Schuyler County District Attorney Joseph Fazzary in which he blamed Fazzary and the legal system for putting him, a 16-year-old, in prison for life.

"Finally, the commissioners had concerns about Horein's lack of truthfulness during the hearing and believed that his rehabilitation was not yet complete."

The DA's office said Horein is eligible this month for another parole hearing that it will oppose, as will family members of Amber Brockway.

Photo in text: Joshua Horein (File photo)

Legislature Chairman

Carl Blowers, 535-6174 or 237-5469

Legislature Members:

Gary Gray, 292-9922

Jeffrey Fazzary

Gail M. Walker

Phil Barnes, Watkins Glen, 481-0482

Mark Rondinaro, 398-0648

Sheriff: Kevin Rumsey, 535-8222

District Attorney: Jeremy Hourihan, 535-8383