Tuesday News Brief

Old Main Street Building Getting Apartments, Major Upgrade

A familiar Main Street building in Batavia is set for a major transformation.
Local developer Matt Gray has secured support from the Genesee County Planning Board for a mixed-use project at 215 East Main Street. The plan calls for a two-story addition and the creation of nine apartment units above the existing commercial space.
The apartments will include a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts, while the first floor will remain open for business use. The project also includes exterior improvements like balconies, updated windows and doors, and new finishes.
Backed by a $500,000 New York Main Street Anchor Grant, the total investment is expected to exceed $1.4 million.
The building — once home to Sears and later the Continental School of Beauty — is now in line to play a key role in Batavia’s downtown growth.

 

New Report Questions STAMP Data Center Benefits as Rally Planned Today

A new report is raising fresh questions about the financial impact of the proposed STAMP data center — and it sparked a local rally yesterday.
The Applied Economics Center reviewed STREAM’s incentive request and found gaps in its cost-benefit analysis, including missing data on potential impacts like infrastructure costs and utility demand.
The report also claims the project’s job estimates may be overstated and that requested tax breaks could far outweigh the projected local return.
Residents gathered yesterday afternoon at Batavia City Centre to highlight those findings ahead of upcoming public hearings later this month.

 

 

U.S. Blockade of Iran Sparks Global Tensions

Tensions are rising overseas after the U.S. launched a military blockade of Iranian ports Monday morning.
President Donald Trump confirmed the operation began around 10 a.m., warning that any Iranian ships approaching U.S. forces could be met with force.
The move follows failed ceasefire talks over the weekend and sets the stage for a potential escalation, as Iran has already issued threats in response.
The situation is drawing global concern, especially because the region includes key shipping routes critical to the world’s oil supply. Some vessels have already turned away from the area as uncertainty grows.
World leaders are now urging restraint, warning that any disruption could have major economic consequences worldwide.

 

 

 

Parole Shock, Fake Docs & Drug Charges Highlight Busy Arrest Report

A string of arrests across Genesee County and surrounding areas is drawing attention this week — headlined by a troubling parole violation case.
Authorities say 27-year-old Leonard Hahn, a Level 3 sex offender, is back in custody after allegedly going to a victim’s home just minutes after being released from prison — and returning again the next day. He’s now facing new felony charges and is being held without bail.
In Batavia, 24-year-old Takari Blue is accused of submitting a falsified document to the probation office, while 28-year-old Kiha McNear was charged with violating an order of protection.
In the Town of Batavia, 39-year-old Jesse Repass of Oakfield is facing drug possession and license-related charges following a traffic stop.
And in Bergen, 56-year-old Roy McKissock of Holley was charged after a crash on North Lake Road.
All cases are pending in local courts.

 

 

 

Last Chance for Free Tax Help in Bergen Today

Today is the final day for free tax assistance at the Byron-Bergen Public Library.
Volunteers from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance are offering help from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for anyone needing assistance with their returns.
The service is completely free, but appointments are required.
Residents can call the library to check for any remaining time slots.
Organizers say it’s a great last-minute opportunity for anyone who still needs help ahead of tax deadlines.

 

 

Super Typhoon Sinlaku Roars Toward U.S. Pacific Islands

A powerful super typhoon is closing in on U.S. territory in the Pacific, bringing the threat of major damage.
Super Typhoon Sinlaku is expected to make landfall Tuesday in the Northern Mariana Islands, packing winds over 170 miles per hour — making it the strongest storm on Earth so far this year.
Forecasters warn of destructive winds, heavy rain, and dangerous flooding across islands like Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, where about 50,000 people live.
Nearby Guam is also bracing for impact, with tropical storm warnings in place and concerns about potential power outages and damage to infrastructure.
Emergency declarations have already been approved, allowing federal assistance as the storm approaches.
Even as it weakens slightly, Sinlaku is still expected to hit the region as a major Category 4 or 5 system, posing a serious threat to residents and military operations in the area.

 

 

 

Y/P Breaks Through, Batavia Explodes in Season Opener

York/Pavilion softball picked up its first win of the season Monday, rolling past Dansville 14-4.

CC Biondo and Maddy Ezard led the charge with three hits and two RBIs each, while Megan MacKay added a double, triple, and three RBIs — plus four hitless innings in the circle with eight strikeouts.
Batavia also made a statement in its opener, beating Albion 13-3 behind a dominant outing from Arianna Almekinder, who struck out 16 and added three hits at the plate.
Around the area, Pembroke softball topped Holley 13-5, Pavilion/York baseball beat Letchworth 19-9, and Pembroke baseball knocked off Alexander 8-3.