New York officials and community leaders announced a series of developments and decisions this week across multiple regions in the state.

In New York City, the state Gaming Commission gave final approval for three new casinos—two in Queens and one in the Bronx. The projects, including sites near Citi Field, Resorts World NYC and Bally’s in the Bronx, are projected to generate approximately $7 billion in gaming taxes by 2036.

Ithaca residents will soon see Dairy Queen return with a new Grill & Chill location on Elmira Road. The restaurant will open in a renovated former Tim Horton’s and Cold Stone building located next to KFC.

A town court judge in Yates County, Todd C. Whitford, resigned following state investigator allegations of bias, courtroom misconduct, and lack of legal competence. Whitford agreed never to serve as a judge again after the charges were brought forward by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

In Seneca Falls, a New York State Court of Appeals decision reinstated a legal challenge by Seneca Meadows Inc. against the town’s Local Law 3 under SEQRA as the landfill approaches a December 31 permit deadline. The case was sent back to the Appellate Division.

Auburn will welcome a new drive-thru-only 7 Brew coffee location at 153 Grant Avenue, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for December 17 and planned events including a United Way ceremony and a promotional “swag day.”

During the same period, Wayne County Treasurer Patrick Schmitt announced he will resign on January 4 after 13 years to join Clifton Larson Allen’s State and Local Government Accounting Division in the private sector. Deputy Treasurer Megan Fralick will assume the role, and the vacant seat will be on the November 2026 ballot.

North Rose-Wolcott residents are set to vote on a $30 million school upgrade proposal that includes construction of a new bus garage, renovations to a science wing, improved cooling systems and classroom updates. The plan is funded by approximately $23 million in state aid along with the county’s capital reserves.

Health officials are investigating a suspected tuberculosis case at the former Broome County Jail after an inmate was hospitalized. Testing is underway and officials emphasized that there is no confirmation of active TB at this time.

Protesters gathered outside Broome County Jail in support of Guan Heng, a 37-year-old Uyghur rights activist detained at the facility. Heng had fled China amid claims of abuse against the Uyghur minority.

President Trump prepared an executive order that would reclassify marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. The change is expected to recognize marijuana’s medical use and potentially unlock tax deductions for licensed cannabis businesses, though further congressional measures are seen as necessary.

A former Central New York state Senate candidate, Caleb Slater, is under investigation for alleged use of gift cards and cash to buy fake campaign donations in order to receive public matching funds. The investigation focuses on claims that false donors were listed and payments made to secure signatures.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill aimed at supporting communities affected by local college closures. The law will allow the state to offer technical assistance in workforce planning, property reuse, and economic development. The legislation received unanimous support in both legislative chambers following revisions requested by the governor.

The Canandaigua City Council approved its 2026 budget during a roll-call vote. The meeting also featured several appointments, budget resolutions, and contract approvals related to engineering and chemical services, with outgoing Mayor Bob Palumbo dissenting.

Binghamton lawmakers introduced an ordinance to cut city cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The proposal would restrict the use of city resources for Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations and limit inquiries into immigration status, except where legally required.

In Geneva, two stalled development projects are now facing possible foreclosure over unpaid taxes. The sites, including the Lake’s Edge hotel and a townhome project, owe over $63,000 in taxes with liens and separate foreclosure actions looming. City officials expect at least one tax bill may be paid before the May 2026 deadline.

In Auburn, local sports and community history was marked by the passing of Ormonde “Ormie” E. King, aged 87, who was known for his decades of service, coaching, writing, and storytelling.

Two New York lawmakers proposed a plan to bring the Winter Olympics back to the state by splitting events between New York City and Lake Placid. The proposed bid, which would rely on existing venues, comes even as host city contracts remain in place through 2034, pushing a potential bid at least a decade into the future.

In Cayuga County, the sheriff’s office issued a warning to residents about scam calls. Phone scammers posing as law enforcement are reportedly demanding money or gift card payments. Residents are advised to disconnect suspicious calls and contact the sheriff’s non-emergency line for assistance.

Finally, in Penn Yan, authorities arrested 37-year-old Russell J. Aliff following a theft reported on December 6. Officers found Aliff in possession of stolen items at a local business. He was charged with two counts of petit larceny and released on an appearance ticket.

These stories represent the latest factual updates from communities across New York State.

Binghamton, NY

Broome County Library Plans Lighter Programming This Week

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Whittingham Offers Advice in Binghamton Q&A

Binghamton University shared a Q&A featuring Nobel Laureate and battery pioneer Stan Whittingham. The post says Whittingham offers advice for students and discusses what comes next.

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Horace Mann students move to middle school

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Lee Barta Community Center to Move Facebook Page

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Lee Barta Center Seeks Owner for Long-Haired Cat

The Lee Barta Community Center in Binghamton, New York posted a clearer photo of a long-haired cat looking for its owners. People were asked to contact the center at 772-7226 to help reunite the cat with its owners.

Broome Library to Host Book Discussion Dinner

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West Middle School Pre-K Graduates Transition to Kindergarten

The West Middle School Pre-K class is headed to kindergarten. The post congratulated the graduates and teacher Mrs. Salamida, who is graduating to retirement.

Binghamton Schools marks Juneteenth with reflection message

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