Monday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on March 23, 2026
Batavia City Council to Tackle BESS Moratorium, Budget Moves at New Meeting Time
The Batavia City Council has a full agenda heading into this week—and a new meeting time to go with it.
Council members voted earlier this month to move meetings to 5:30 p.m., starting Monday at City Hall.
Among the key items up for discussion, City Manager Rachael Tabelski is recommending a six-month moratorium on battery energy storage system projects. Officials say the pause would allow time to review safety concerns, including fire risks tied to lithium-ion batteries.
Council will also consider funding moves tied to the America250 celebration, including reallocating nearly $9,200 for community events.
Other items include a $49,000 bid to refurbish a fire engine, new Audit Committee appointments, and a property exchange at Batavia City Centre for a planned public restroom.
Public comment will be taken at the start of the meeting.
Alexander GOP Seeks Candidates for Town Supervisor Role
The Town of Alexander Republican Committee is now accepting applications for the position of Town Supervisor.
Officials say they’re looking for a qualified town resident to fill the role, with interested candidates asked to submit a letter of interest and resume by April 4.
Applications should be sent to Committee Chairperson Barbara Eddy at 11054 Alexander Road in Attica.
For more information or questions, residents can contact Eddy directly at 585-507-9930.
Middle East War Escalates as Iran Threatens to Close Key Oil Route
Iran and Hezbollah have ramped up attacks on Israel as tensions rise in the fourth week of war, with the United States also warning of potential strikes on Iranian infrastructure.
Iran says it could completely shut down the Strait of Hormuz — a vital global oil route — if the U.S. follows through on threats from Donald Trump to target its power plants. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply moves through that waterway.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the country is making progress toward its war goals after missile strikes injured dozens near a sensitive nuclear site.
The conflict has already killed more than 2,000 people, disrupted global energy markets, and raised fears of a wider regional war, with both sides now threatening to target critical infrastructure.
Notre Dame Caps Magical Run with State Title
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish girls basketball are New York State champions, knocking off previously unbeaten Chateaugay 65-49 to claim the Class D title.
After entering the final four as an underdog, Notre Dame leaned on a dominant performance from Sofia Falleti, who poured in 29 points and controlled the game on both ends.
The Irish led early, battled through a Chateaugay surge, then took over in the fourth quarter—outscoring the Bulldogs 26-11 to pull away.
Shirley Thompson added 18 points, while Quinn Boardman chipped in a double-double as Notre Dame’s depth and defense sealed the win.
It marks the program’s third state championship—and first since 2013—cementing one of the most memorable seasons in school history.
Crowd Packs Hearing as Opposition Grows to STAMP Data Center Plan
A packed crowd voiced strong opposition to a proposed $19.46 billion data center project in Alabama during a public hearing Thursday night.
Residents filled the Alabama fire hall, with many speaking out against STREAM U.S. Data Centers’ plan to build three massive facilities at the STAMP site on Crosby Road.
Critics, including members of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, raised concerns about environmental impact, noise, and long-term effects on wildlife and future generations. Several speakers urged developers to move the project elsewhere.
Project leaders say the development would bring 125 full-time jobs with average salaries of $88,000, along with millions in tax revenue and economic impact over the next 30 years.
Supporters, including local construction workers, pointed to job creation and the need to keep up with growing technology like artificial intelligence.
The proposal remains under review as public debate continues.
Adams Named Firefighter of the Year at Batavia Installation Banquet
The Town of Batavia Fire Department recognized its members during its 78th annual installation banquet Saturday night.
Jonathan Adams was named Firefighter of the Year, also ranking among the department’s top responders with 251 calls.
Leading the department in calls was Caiden Crist with 319, followed by Adams and Taylor Rivenburgh with 207.
Officers for 2026 were officially installed, with Christopher Strathearn serving as Fire Chief, alongside a full slate of line and corporate leadership.
The ceremony highlighted the department’s dedication and service across Genesee County over the past year.
Cuba’s Energy Crisis Deepens Amid U.S. Pressure
Cuba is facing a deepening energy and economic crisis as fuel shortages continue to strain daily life across the island.
The situation worsened after the United States cut off key oil shipments from Venezuela following the removal of leader Nicolás Maduro—long a major supplier to Cuba. President Donald Trump has also threatened tariffs on any country that provides oil to the island.
With limited fuel, Cuba is relying on solar power, natural gas, and its own production—but it’s only meeting about 40% of demand, leading to widespread blackouts and disruptions.
Hospitals have postponed surgeries, food is spoiling without refrigeration, and schools and transportation have been impacted.
The U.S. is pushing for political and economic reforms from Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel in exchange for easing sanctions, as both sides continue talks amid the growing crisis.
