Natalie Abruzzo

The Economic Opportunity Program of Chemung and Schuyler Counties was awarded a $7.5 million grant from the state this month. Funding will support upgrades and a new addition to the Ernie Davis Community Center in Elmira.

The city of Elmira’s proposed nearly $47 million 2026 budget includes a 12 percent property tax increase and the appropriation of nearly a million dollars from the general fund balance to bridge budget gaps.

The New York state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced several new actions to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) “forever chemicals” Thursday. These pollutants do not break down in the environment and are found in air, soil and water.

The county will increase spending by approximately $17 million next year. Social services, public safety, personnel costs and infrastructure are the largest expenditures.

The Corning town board approved a $2.2 million budget Nov. 18 after nearly two hours of public comment, corrections and changes. The board also approved a tax cap of just under one percent and a nearly $4 tax rate.

The Town of Corning Supervisor pleaded not guilty to several felony charges in Steuben County Court last month. Jennifer Mullen was arrested during the summer for allegedly providing false information to the New York State Department of Labor.

After more than 40 days away from Washington D.C., Republican Congressman Nick Langworthy held a virtual press conference this week ahead of a House vote to reopen the government on Wednesday. The fate of expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits for 24 million Americans remains uncertain.

A proposed expansion of the Hakes C&D Landfill is raising concerns about wastewater discharge, greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants for the village of Painted Post, which sits downstream of the landfill.

Chemung County is proposing a $296 million budget for 2026, which includes the continued sewer consolidation, highway, nursing facility, airport and public safety projects.

The pumpkin smash will take place on Sunday. Instead of sending the organic waste to the landfill, participants are encouraged to bring their Halloween jack-o-lanterns or any squash or gourds to smash for composting.