Thursday News Brief

Brand Genesee Releases Key Project Documents

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce has published several major documents tied to the ongoing Brand Genesee initiative, now available at BrandGenesee.com. The release includes the Destination Assessment Report, findings from the September public visioning workshop, and visitor and lodging data compiled through Rove.
The documents reflect nine months of research and community engagement with residents, leaders, and visitors. Tourism Director Kelly Rapone says the findings are already shaping discussions about community development, partnerships, and the county’s long-term tourism strategy.
In the coming months, the consulting team and Steering Committee will turn to two major tasks: creating a public-facing brand identity and developing a five-year strategic tourism plan based on the research and countywide priorities. The new brand will roll out across digital platforms and marketing materials, with a public launch planned for 2026.
Brand Genesee aims to establish a unified identity to strengthen the visitor economy and support quality of life. The project, led by the Chamber with BLKDOG Design and Think Place Agency, is expected to be completed by summer 2026.

PBA Highlights Need for More ECOs During Busy Hunting Season

The Police Benevolent Association of New York State is shining a spotlight on the dedication of Environmental Conservation Officers as deer and bear season ramps up. ECO staffing is nearly 20% below full strength, with fewer than 200 officers covering huge territories statewide.
The PBA says ECOs continue to protect wildlife, support safe hunting, and enforce state laws despite the strain — and they’re calling on state leaders to boost staffing and resources to match growing demand outdoors. They say stronger support will ensure safer hunts and better environmental protection across New York.

Batavia Downs Explores Hotel Expansion and Event Center

Western Regional Off-Track Betting directors voted Wednesday to hire Spectrum Gaming Group for a market study on expanding the Hotel at Batavia Downs and adding a multipurpose event center. The $39,500 study will update a previous analysis, paused last year due to high construction costs.
CEO Byron Brown said the timing is right, citing support from Empire State Development, the Genesee County Economic Development Center, and Key Bank. Local business leaders also see a strong need for modern event space.
Some directors, including Tim Callan of Erie County, expressed concerns about rising costs, while others said construction prices have stabilized and emphasized the need for a focused plan.
The study will determine the number of rooms and event center size, guiding potential state funding opportunities.
In related news, WROTB may owe $500,000 to former hotel owner ADK Hospitality after gross revenues surpassed targets, but payments will not affect municipal distributions.

Hawley Earns 95% Conservative Rating

Assemblyman Steve Hawley of Batavia says he’s proud to earn a 95% rating from the New York State Conservative Party. Hawley says the score reflects his commitment to conservative principles and fighting what he calls radical liberal policies out of Albany, contrasting his record with others in the Legislature.