On December 16, New York officials announced several developments statewide and locally. The state Gaming Commission approved three new casinos for New York City—two in Queens and one in the Bronx—with projects including Metropolitan Park near Citi Field, Resorts World NYC, and a Bally’s facility expected to generate $7 billion in gaming taxes by 2036.

In Ithaca, Dairy Queen is returning with a new Grill & Chill location on Elmira Road. Occupying the former Tim Horton’s and Cold Stone building next to KFC, the restaurant nears completion with job postings already online.

In Yates County, Town Court Judge Todd C. Whitford resigned after state investigators charged him with bias, courtroom misconduct, and a lack of legal competence. The resignation comes following actions by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct, with Whitford agreeing never to serve as a judge again.

A New York State Court of Appeals decision revived the legal challenge against Seneca Falls’ Local Law 3 concerning landfill closure. Seneca Meadows Inc. was determined to have standing to contest the law under SEQRA, and the case has been sent back to the Appellate Division ahead of a December 31 permit deadline.

A drive-thru-only 7 Brew coffee location opened in Auburn at 153 Grant Avenue, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony taking place on December 17 that included a United Way ceremony and forthcoming promotional events.

In Wayne County, Treasurer Patrick Schmitt announced he will step down on January 4 after 13 years with the county to join Clifton Larson Allen’s State and Local Government Accounting Division. Deputy Treasurer Megan Fralick will assume his duties until a new treasurer is elected in November 2026.

North Rose-Wolcott residents will vote on a $30 million school upgrade plan. The project, funded with about $23 million from state aid and the remainder from capital reserves, includes a new bus garage, science wing renovations, improved cooling systems, and classroom updates. Voting is scheduled for December 17.

Health officials are also investigating a suspected case of tuberculosis at a former Broome County Jail facility after an ex-inmate was hospitalized with symptoms. Tests continue, and officials are taking standard precautions while the investigation proceeds.

A rally took place outside Broome County Jail in support of Guan Heng, a 37-year-old Uyghur rights activist detained at the facility. Supporters, having traveled from New York City and Ithaca, gathered to back Heng, who fled China after reporting abuse against the Uyghur minority and seeking asylum.

Additionally, President Donald Trump prepared an executive order to reclassify marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. The proposed change could acknowledge marijuana’s medical use and allow licensed cannabis businesses to claim tax deductions, although experts noted that further congressional action would be needed for issues such as banking.

A former Central New York state Senate candidate, Caleb Slater, is under investigation by the state attorney general after allegations arose that he bought fake campaign donations using gift cards, cash, and donations from homeless individuals to collect public matching funds.

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a bill aimed at helping communities recover from local college closures. The legislation, supported by Sen. Rachel May, permits the state to assist with workforce planning, property reuse, and economic development initiatives.

In Canandaigua, the City Council approved the 2026 budget by roll-call vote. The meeting also featured several appointments, budget-related resolutions, and approvals for engineering and chemical contracts.

Binghamton lawmakers introduced an ordinance that would block the use of city resources for federal immigration enforcement operations and restrict inquiries about immigration status, except where required by law.

In Geneva, two stalled development sites—the Lake’s Edge hotel and a townhome project—are facing potential foreclosure due to unpaid taxes amounting to more than $63,000. City officials noted that one tax bill might be settled before the May 2026 deadline, while a developer expressed plans to pay and communicate with potential buyers.

Auburn mourning a notable community figure, reported that Ormonde “Ormie” E. King died on December 13 at the age of 87. King was recognized locally for his contributions to sports, coaching, and preserving Auburn history.

Two New York lawmakers also proposed a bid for a statewide Winter Olympics, suggesting that events be split between New York City and Lake Placid. The proposal emphasizes the use of existing facilities as a way to manage costs, with any bid expected to be at least a decade away due to current host city contracts running through 2034.

The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about scam calls. Residents were advised to disconnect suspicious calls and to contact the sheriff’s non-emergency line for verification if approached by callers posing as law enforcement demanding money or gift cards.

In Penn Yan, police arrested 37-year-old Russell J. Aliff after an investigation into a reported theft on December 6. Officers found Aliff in possession of stolen items, and he was charged with two counts of petit larceny before being released on an appearance ticket.

Binghamton, NY

Binghamton University Hosts Labor Day Weekend Events

Binghamton University in Binghamton, New York, says those staying in Bing for Labor Day weekend can check out events on and around campus, with details at bit.ly/420A9O8.

Binghamton shed fire at 53 Mill Street under control

At about 2:59 p.m., Binghamton Fire Department crews responded to a backyard shed fire at 53 Mill Street, upgraded to a full alarm, and the fire was quickly brought under control with no injuries reported; the cause is under investigation.

Little Venice marks 79th anniversary, aims for 80th in 2026.

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Devin Binghamton of Binghamton Econ reports that Little Venice Restaurant is celebrating 79 years and will reach its 80th anniversary in 2026.

Binghamton Family Welcomes Newborn Patriot Ahead of School Year

Binghamton, N.Y. — Michael Murphy, son of EMS teacher Conor Murphy, wore a Binghamton B onesie as he hyped his dad and the BCSD family ahead of the new school year.

Downtown Binghamton Sidewalks Underway, Arts District Nears Completion

New sidewalks are loading in downtown Binghamton as construction on the Downtown Arts District continues, with an update urging visitors to support local businesses such as Old Barn Market, Garage, Lost Dog Café & Lounge, and Old Barn Market & Gluten Free Bakery, and saying the district will be completed in a few short months.

Binghamton Schools issue Labor Day greeting

Binghamton Schools in Binghamton, N.Y., posted a Labor Day greeting inviting the Binghamton family to Thursday's return and included the hashtag #BPatriotProud.

Binghamton University honors faculty, staff, student workers on Labor Day

Binghamton University in Binghamton, New York, marked Labor Day by recognizing its faculty, staff and student workers who keep the campus thriving.

BCPL offers digital access to The New York Times

Broome County Public Library in Binghamton, New York, says it provides digital access to The New York Times both inside and outside the library, including access to the Learning Network, with no library card required to access the service (a library card or guest pass is needed to use a library computer).

Binghamton Schools report staff, retirees reunite

Binghamton Schools said current staff and retirees reunited on the same day, emphasizing that they’re still part of the Binghamton Family and posting the hashtag #BPatriotProud.

Broome County issues school bus safety reminder as school resumes

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — As school resumes, Broome County Emergency Services urged drivers to allow extra travel time and never pass a school bus with the stop arm extended and the red lights flashing, attributing the message to Broome County Emergency Services and Emergency Management.