Friday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on April 10, 2026
A Battery Storage System
Byron Approves Moratorium on Battery Storage, Renewable Projects
The Byron Town Board has hit pause on certain energy projects, approving two moratoriums Wednesday night.
Town officials unanimously voted to temporarily block new battery energy storage systems and renewable energy projects for at least six months. The goal is to give the town time to review zoning laws and address potential safety and environmental concerns.
Leaders say lithium-ion battery systems, in particular, raise questions about fire risks, emergency response capabilities, and possible impacts on air and groundwater.
Some residents pushed for an outright ban on large-scale battery projects, while town officials said the moratorium allows them to craft clearer rules — especially to separate small residential use from large commercial developments.
The same six-month pause applies to new renewable energy proposals as the town reevaluates its overall approach.
Officials say no new applications will be considered during that time as they work to update local codes and protect community interests.
Annual Home Show Kicks Off Today in Batavia
The Annual Home Show gets underway today in Batavia, bringing together home improvement experts and vendors under one roof.
The event runs all weekend at the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena, featuring exhibits, live demonstrations, and ideas for everything from renovations to new technology.
Admission is $5 at the door, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Friends of the Rink. Kids under 12 get in free, and adults receive a $5 free play voucher for Batavia Downs.
Hours run tonight from 5 to 9, Saturday from 10 to 5, and Sunday from 10 to 3.
Organizers say it’s a great opportunity for homeowners to connect with local professionals and get inspired for their next project.
Calls Grow to Remove Trump After Iran Threats
Pressure is mounting on President Donald Trump following controversial comments about Iran.
A growing number of Democrats are now calling for his removal from office, either through impeachment or the 25th Amendment, after he threatened to destroy what he described as “an entire civilization.”
While Trump later agreed to a temporary ceasefire, the remarks sparked outrage and led to a surge of calls and messages to congressional offices from concerned constituents.
Democratic leaders are stopping short of launching immediate impeachment efforts, but are pushing for more oversight and requiring congressional approval before any further military action.
With Republicans controlling Congress, any effort to remove the president faces long odds, but the political pressure surrounding the situation continues to build.
Architect’s rendering of one of the proposed buildings for the STREAM Data Center in WNY STAMP.
Major Revisions Made to $19.5B STAMP Data Center Project
A massive data center project planned for the STAMP site in the Town of Alabama is undergoing dozens of revisions as part of the environmental review process.
Stream Data Centers has submitted 45 updates to its $19.5 billion proposal, responding to concerns raised by the Genesee County Economic Development Center.
Many of the changes are technical, but some address environmental concerns — including new landscaping near the Tonawanda Seneca Nation and adjustments to infrastructure to avoid nearby properties.
Officials say the revisions also clarify details like construction traffic, building sizes, and emergency response planning.
The project remains under scrutiny, with critics questioning whether the review process is truly independent, given the financial incentives tied to the development.
GCEDC leaders say the process has been thorough, with outside consultants reviewing environmental impacts and requesting additional information where needed.
Public hearings on both the project’s incentives and site plan are scheduled later this month in Alabama.
Stuart Steiner Theater
“Little Shop of Horrors” Coming to GCC Stage
Genesee Community College is bringing a fan-favorite musical to the stage later this month.
The Theatre Arts Department and Forum Players will present Little Shop of Horrors April 23 through the 26th at the Stuart Steiner Theatre on GCC’s Batavia campus.
The hit horror-comedy follows Seymour, a struggling florist who discovers a mysterious plant that could change his life — if he’s willing to pay the price.
Showtimes include evening performances at 7:30 and a Sunday matinee at 2.
Tickets range from $5 to $10, with free admission for GCC students and staff.
USPS Cuts Pension Payments, Seeks Stamp Price Hike
The U.S. Postal Service is taking emergency steps to stay financially afloat.
Officials say USPS will temporarily suspend contributions to employee retirement funds to preserve cash, warning the agency could run out of money by early 2027 without changes.
At the same time, the Postal Service is proposing a price increase, including raising the cost of a First-Class Forever stamp from 78 to 82 cents, pending approval from regulators.
Leaders say the moves are necessary to maintain daily operations, including paying workers and continuing mail delivery, as the agency faces billions in annual losses and declining mail volume.
Despite the changes, officials say current retirees and employee benefits will not be immediately affected.
Photo Courtesy of Steve Ognibene
Genesee County Sports Roundup
Batavia’s offense couldn’t get going Thursday, falling to Webster Thomas 10-0 in baseball action. The Blue Devils were shut out as Thomas controlled things from the start.
On the flag football side, it was a defensive battle — Batavia and Greece Olympia/Odyssey played to a 0-0 tie, with neither team able to find the end zone.
