Thursday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on February 12, 2026
Batavia Builds Budget ‘From the Ground Up,’ Targets Infrastructure and Efficiency
Batavia’s proposed 2026-27 budget isn’t built on automatic percentage increases. City Manager Rachael Tabelski says every department starts from scratch, reviewing each line item individually.
In the Wastewater Fund, that includes lift station repairs, new bay heaters, a remote-control mower for steep terrain, algae control units, and replacing a 2011 mechanic’s truck. Despite contractual raises, the overall wastewater budget drops from $4.86 million to $4.73 million.
The city continues investing about $200,000 annually in sewer lining to preserve pipes—some more than 100 years old—avoiding costly full replacements.
In the Water Fund, bulk water costs from Genesee County and rising insurance premiums are driving increases. A proposed 3% water rate hike would add about $250,000 in revenue, with no change to sewer rates.
Meanwhile, City Centre maintenance fees are rising, HVAC units will be replaced, and officials are seeking a creative partner to bring more events to the mall concourse.
George Washington Trivia Night at Holland Land Office Museum
It’s happening tonight in Batavia. The Holland Land Office Museum is hosting Trivia Night at 7 p.m., with a special focus on George Washington. The event celebrates both Washington’s birthday and the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
Test your knowledge of the nation’s first president at the museum on West Main Street. Admission is $5, or $3 for museum members.
If you’re planning to attend, organizers ask that you call 585-343-4727 or email hollandlandoffice@gmail.com to reserve your spot.
Pentagon Drone Laser Test Sparks Temporary El Paso Airspace Shutdown
New details are emerging about the sudden airspace closure over El Paso, Texas. According to multiple sources, the shutdown stemmed from Pentagon plans to test a laser system designed to shoot down drones used by Mexican drug cartels.
The move reportedly created tension with the Federal Aviation Administration, which raised concerns about commercial air safety. Despite a meeting scheduled later this month, the Pentagon wanted to proceed with testing — prompting the FAA to temporarily close the airspace.
The FAA initially announced a 10-day closure before lifting it just hours later, leaving travelers confused. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar says local officials received no advance notice and disputes claims that a drone in U.S. airspace triggered the shutdown.
Drone activity along the U.S.-Mexico border has been an ongoing concern for years.
Desserts and Data Center Discussion Set for Tonight in Oakfield
A community discussion on the proposed STAMP data center is happening tonight in Oakfield.
“Desserts and Data Center Discussion #3” runs from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Goose Community Center on South Main Street. The event is free and hosted by the Allies of the Tonawanda Seneca, a local nonprofit group opposed to building a data center at the STAMP site.
Organizers say the presentation will focus on environmental and cultural concerns tied to the project, followed by a question-and-answer session. Free desserts and drinks will be available.
San Francisco Teachers Strike Leaves 50,000 Students Out of Class
Nearly 50,000 students in San Francisco remain out of the classroom as about 6,000 teachers continue their strike for a third day.
Educators are demanding higher wages, fully funded family health care, and more resources for special education. The union initially asked for a 9% raise over two years, while the district has countered with 6% over three years, citing a $100 million budget deficit.
Parents across the city are scrambling to adjust. Some are relying on relatives or community programs, while others are missing work to stay home with their children.
Negotiations are ongoing, but there’s no clear timeline for when students will return to school.
