Thursday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on March 19, 2026
Batavia Planning Board Approves $8.5M Hotel Project
The Town of Batavia Planning Board has approved an $8.5 million renovation project that will transform the former Quality Inn and Suites Palm Island Waterpark on Park Road.
The redevelopment will convert the site into a dual-branded hotel, featuring a 99-unit Holiday Inn and a 68-unit Candlewood Suites. Plans include a roughly 1,900-square-foot expansion per floor, a new two-story lobby, a restaurant with a rooftop area, and a redesigned front entrance with a vehicle pull-up and pass-by lane.
The board determined the project will not have a significant environmental impact, clearing the way for development to move forward, though a construction timeline has not yet been announced.
In other business, a public hearing is scheduled for April 7 for a proposed expansion at Batavia-Oakfield Storage, which plans to add six new buildings.
Meanwhile, Splash Car Wash is proposing upgrades to its facility, including additional vacuum stations, a new pay lane, and site improvements.
Public Comment Open for Batavia Creek Site Investigation
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is inviting public comment on a draft plan to investigate contamination at the Batavia Creek Park Development site.
The site, located in Batavia, is part of the state’s Brownfield Cleanup Program.
Officials say the draft work plan outlines how the site will be studied for potential environmental concerns.
Public comments are being accepted through April 17.
Residents can review the full fact sheet and find instructions on how to submit comments through the DEC.
Tensions Escalate in Middle East as Strikes Hit Key Energy Sites
Tensions continue to rise in the Middle East as Israel and Iran exchange strikes impacting both military targets and critical energy infrastructure.
The U.S. was aware of Israel’s planned strike on Iran’s massive South Pars gas field but did not participate. Concerns over retaliation pushed global oil prices higher, especially after a missile strike caused extensive damage at a major natural gas facility in Qatar.
Meanwhile, violence has spread across the region. At least four people were killed in the West Bank during missile attacks, and Israel confirmed the killing of a high-ranking Iranian intelligence official.
Leaders in Iran have warned of retaliation, raising fears of further escalation as the conflict continues to widen.
Notre Dame AD Placed on Administrative Leave
Batavia Notre Dame High School announced Wednesday that Athletic Director Mike Rapone has been placed on administrative leave, effective immediately.
School officials emphasized the matter does not involve students or the campus, and said the decision was made following standard policies and procedures. They added that the leave is not an indication of any findings or outcome at this time.
Earlier this month, school principal Julia Rogers said she was not aware of any incident involving Rapone when asked about his status.
During his absence, Rogers will serve as interim athletic director, supported by a team including Art McGowan, Carolyn Babcock, and Eric Geitner to oversee athletic programs.
The school says student well-being remains its top priority as the situation is handled.
“Women in the Arts” Exhibition Opens at GO ART!
A new exhibit celebrating Women’s History Month is opening at GO ART! in downtown Batavia.
The “Women in the Arts” exhibition highlights more than 15 women from across the GLOW region, showcasing their impact in areas like visual art, dance, literature, and arts leadership.
The free event runs Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. and includes live music, a puppet performance, and a roundtable discussion.
Organizers say the exhibit aims to recognize the role women play in shaping the region’s cultural and creative future.
Dachshunds Climb Into Top 5 Most Popular Dog Breeds
Americans still love classic dog breeds, but one is making a big jump.
According to new rankings from the American Kennel Club, dachshunds have cracked the top five most popular breeds for the first time in more than 20 years.
They join familiar favorites like French bulldogs, Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, and German shepherds on the list.
Experts say dachshunds’ rise is fueled in part by social media, though the breed also comes with health concerns, including a higher risk of spinal issues.
The rankings are based on registered purebred dogs and don’t include mixed breeds, but still offer a snapshot of national trends in dog ownership.
