New York officials and community leaders announced a series of developments and decisions this week across multiple regions in the state.

In New York City, the state Gaming Commission gave final approval for three new casinos—two in Queens and one in the Bronx. The projects, including sites near Citi Field, Resorts World NYC and Bally’s in the Bronx, are projected to generate approximately $7 billion in gaming taxes by 2036.

Ithaca residents will soon see Dairy Queen return with a new Grill & Chill location on Elmira Road. The restaurant will open in a renovated former Tim Horton’s and Cold Stone building located next to KFC.

A town court judge in Yates County, Todd C. Whitford, resigned following state investigator allegations of bias, courtroom misconduct, and lack of legal competence. Whitford agreed never to serve as a judge again after the charges were brought forward by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

In Seneca Falls, a New York State Court of Appeals decision reinstated a legal challenge by Seneca Meadows Inc. against the town’s Local Law 3 under SEQRA as the landfill approaches a December 31 permit deadline. The case was sent back to the Appellate Division.

Auburn will welcome a new drive-thru-only 7 Brew coffee location at 153 Grant Avenue, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for December 17 and planned events including a United Way ceremony and a promotional “swag day.”

During the same period, Wayne County Treasurer Patrick Schmitt announced he will resign on January 4 after 13 years to join Clifton Larson Allen’s State and Local Government Accounting Division in the private sector. Deputy Treasurer Megan Fralick will assume the role, and the vacant seat will be on the November 2026 ballot.

North Rose-Wolcott residents are set to vote on a $30 million school upgrade proposal that includes construction of a new bus garage, renovations to a science wing, improved cooling systems and classroom updates. The plan is funded by approximately $23 million in state aid along with the county’s capital reserves.

Health officials are investigating a suspected tuberculosis case at the former Broome County Jail after an inmate was hospitalized. Testing is underway and officials emphasized that there is no confirmation of active TB at this time.

Protesters gathered outside Broome County Jail in support of Guan Heng, a 37-year-old Uyghur rights activist detained at the facility. Heng had fled China amid claims of abuse against the Uyghur minority.

President Trump prepared an executive order that would reclassify marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. The change is expected to recognize marijuana’s medical use and potentially unlock tax deductions for licensed cannabis businesses, though further congressional measures are seen as necessary.

A former Central New York state Senate candidate, Caleb Slater, is under investigation for alleged use of gift cards and cash to buy fake campaign donations in order to receive public matching funds. The investigation focuses on claims that false donors were listed and payments made to secure signatures.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill aimed at supporting communities affected by local college closures. The law will allow the state to offer technical assistance in workforce planning, property reuse, and economic development. The legislation received unanimous support in both legislative chambers following revisions requested by the governor.

The Canandaigua City Council approved its 2026 budget during a roll-call vote. The meeting also featured several appointments, budget resolutions, and contract approvals related to engineering and chemical services, with outgoing Mayor Bob Palumbo dissenting.

Binghamton lawmakers introduced an ordinance to cut city cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The proposal would restrict the use of city resources for Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations and limit inquiries into immigration status, except where legally required.

In Geneva, two stalled development projects are now facing possible foreclosure over unpaid taxes. The sites, including the Lake’s Edge hotel and a townhome project, owe over $63,000 in taxes with liens and separate foreclosure actions looming. City officials expect at least one tax bill may be paid before the May 2026 deadline.

In Auburn, local sports and community history was marked by the passing of Ormonde “Ormie” E. King, aged 87, who was known for his decades of service, coaching, writing, and storytelling.

Two New York lawmakers proposed a plan to bring the Winter Olympics back to the state by splitting events between New York City and Lake Placid. The proposed bid, which would rely on existing venues, comes even as host city contracts remain in place through 2034, pushing a potential bid at least a decade into the future.

In Cayuga County, the sheriff’s office issued a warning to residents about scam calls. Phone scammers posing as law enforcement are reportedly demanding money or gift card payments. Residents are advised to disconnect suspicious calls and contact the sheriff’s non-emergency line for assistance.

Finally, in Penn Yan, authorities arrested 37-year-old Russell J. Aliff following a theft reported on December 6. Officers found Aliff in possession of stolen items at a local business. He was charged with two counts of petit larceny and released on an appearance ticket.

These stories represent the latest factual updates from communities across New York State.

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.