Monday News Brief

OAE and Alexander Survive First-Round Sectional Scares

It wasn’t always pretty on Friday night, but Alexander and Oakfield-Alabama/Elba survived upset scares to advance to the Class D Sectional Semifinals.

2-seed Alexander hosted 7-seed Attica, and early in the game, it looked like Alexander would run away with it going up 14-0 in the first quarter. However, following 3 turnovers by the Trojans, Attica clawed back into the game and tied it at 14 entering the 4th quarter. The Trojans were able to lock in scoring twice in the 4th quarter to fend off the upset scare and win 30-14. 3-seed OAE hosted 6-seed York/Pavilion, and the game stayed close throughout. The Aggies were able to hold onto the win 26-14 behind solid performances from several players.

As we head into the semifinals, 4 teams from Genesee County are still alive.

Batavia City Council Considering Greater Home Tax Exemptions for Seniors

Joanne Beck with the Batavian reports, that the Batavia City Council is considering giving homeowners aged 65 and older who meet certain income limitations a greater tax exemption on their home.

City Manager Rachel Tabelski has recommended adjusting the current scale to give senior residents whose income is at or below $23,000 a 50% property tax exemption and capping it off at $32,199.99 with a 5% property tax exemption. As things currently sit, to get a 50% tax exemption seniors need an income of $16,500 or less, and to get 5% the maximum income seniors can have is $24,000. Tabelski acknowledged that by implementing this exemption, the City of Batavia would lose up to $2.6 million.

But Tabelski went on to say, “In the last year, the assessor had reported to us that we have $100 million in taxable value from 2023 to 2024, so this would be a year to go ahead and do that. So the value that came in is not only reassessments of homes but also new and improving businesses.”

Steve Hawley Gets Endorsed by NYS Troopers Police Benevolent Association

Over the weekend, the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association endorsed Batavia City Assemblyman Steve Hawley.

Over 7,000 active and retired members of the New York State Police are represented by the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association. Hawley has been a longtime advocate for supporting police and ensuring that they get the resources necessary for them to do their jobs efficiently and effectively.

Hawley said, “With the challenges facing law enforcement today, it’s more important than ever to stand together. Having served on the Genesee County Legislature and engaged with various community organizations, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of strong public safety policies. With the backing of NYSTPBA, I will continue to fight for policies that respect and empower our officers,”