Thursday News Brief

Batavia School Board Approves $66.1M Budget, Points to Rising Health Costs

The Batavia City School Board has approved a $66.1 million budget for the upcoming school year, including a 2% increase in the property tax levy.
District officials say the roughly $2.8 million increase in spending is being driven largely by rising costs, especially a significant jump in healthcare expenses. Employee benefits alone are increasing more than 9%, with health insurance costs cited as a primary factor.
The budget also includes increases in instruction, transportation, and debt service, while a small decrease is expected in general support. To help balance the plan, the district will use a combination of fund balance and reserve funds.
For taxpayers, the increase is expected to translate to about 33 cents per $1,000 of assessed value — roughly $33 more per year on a $100,000 home.
The budget will go before voters on May 19, alongside a small capital project and two open school board seats. A public hearing is scheduled for May 11, with voting split between Batavia High School and John Kennedy Intermediate due to construction.

 

 

Bulldawgs Registration Open for 2026 Season

Registration is now open for the Batavia Bulldawgs Youth Football and Cheer program, with an in-person sign-up event set for Sunday, April 26 from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Polish Falcons in Batavia.
The program is open to athletes ages 6 to 13, offering multiple divisions and an inclusive, unlimited weight format.
New participants should bring a birth certificate, while pre-registered families can complete payment and take part in signing day photos. The organization is also looking for coaches.
More information is available on the Bulldawgs’ website and social media pages.

 

 

Trump Approval Slides as Economy, Iran War Weigh on Voters

President Donald Trump’s approval ratings are slipping, according to a new AP-NORC poll, as concerns grow over the economy and the ongoing conflict with Iran.
The poll shows approval of Trump’s handling of the economy falling to 30%, down from 38% last month, while overall job approval sits at just 33%. Support for his handling of the Iran situation remains low at 32%.
Rising gas prices and continued inflation appear to be key factors, with many Americans expressing frustration over the cost of living. Even among Republicans, confidence has dipped, particularly among younger voters.
Overall, about three-quarters of Americans now describe the economy as poor, highlighting growing unease as the administration faces mounting pressure heading into an election cycle.

 

 

 

Byron-Bergen Budget Proposal Driven by Rising Costs

Byron-Bergen school officials are proposing a $28.9 million budget for the upcoming school year, with rising health insurance and utility costs driving much of the increase.
Superintendent Pat McGee says employee benefits alone are jumping by more than $770,000, largely due to a 30% spike in health insurance premiums. Overall, the proposed tax levy would increase by about 1.57%.
Despite the rising costs, the district says it will maintain current levels of academics, athletics, and student programs, while also adding staff for full-day Universal Pre-K.
The district is also planning to purchase up to four buses before a state mandate requiring electric buses takes effect, citing the high cost of transitioning to electric fleets.
A public hearing is set for May 7, with voters heading to the polls May 19 to decide on the budget and board seats.

 

Batavia CAP Squadron Honors Top Cadets, Earns State Recognition

The Batavia Composite Squadron is celebrating several major honors recognizing leadership and service.
At a ceremony on April 16, representatives from Congresswoman Claudia Tenney’s office presented certificates to Cadet 1st Lt. Andrew Korzenieski, named Cadet Officer of the Year, and Cadet CMSgt. Cooper Swanson, named Cadet NCO of the Year.
The squadron also earned the 2025 Squadron of Merit Award, recognizing it as one of the top-performing units in New York for excellence in leadership, growth, and cadet achievement.

 

 

 

Jet Fuel Concerns Could Drive Up Summer Travel Costs

A potential jet fuel shortage tied to the ongoing Iran conflict could soon impact travelers around the world, raising the possibility of higher airfare and even flight cancellations.
Experts warn that if disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue, regions like Europe and Asia could face tightening fuel supplies within weeks, with some areas already reporting limited reserves.
Jet fuel prices have surged since the conflict began, and airlines are already responding by cutting routes, raising fees, and adjusting schedules.
While the U.S. is less likely to face shortages, travelers could still feel the impact through increased costs and fewer budget-friendly options as the busy summer travel season approaches.

 

Hornets Roll, Batavia Stays Unbeaten in Busy Softball Night

Oakfield-Alabama stayed red-hot Wednesday, dominating Byron-Bergen 16-0 in five innings behind a complete-game one-hitter from Allison Harkness, who struck out 10 and added three RBIs at the plate. The unbeaten Hornets improve to 5-0 and have now outscored opponents 67-5.
Batavia also kept its perfect start intact, taking down Gates Chili 7-3. A five-run second inning fueled the win, highlighted by Harper Davis’ three-run double, while Libby Grazioplene added a solo homer and Arianna Almekinder struck out 13 in a complete game.
Elba turned in one of the most dominant performances of the night, blanking Notre Dame 15-0. Brea Smith tossed a complete-game shutout, while Elle Bentley led a big offensive effort.
Pembroke’s bats stayed hot as well, erupting for a 20-7 win over Wheatland-Chili in five innings, powered by a lineup that piled up hits and runs throughout the game.