New York officials and community leaders had a busy day on December 16, 2025, as a series of events and decisions were announced across the state.

The state Gaming Commission gave final approval for three new casinos in New York City. Two of the casinos will open in Queens and one in the Bronx. Projects include Metropolitan Park near Citi Field, Resorts World NYC, and Bally’s in the Bronx. Together the casinos are expected to generate around $7 billion in gaming taxes by 2036.

In Ithaca, Dairy Queen is set to return with a new Grill & Chill location on Elmira Road. The establishment is moving into the former site of a Tim Horton’s and Cold Stone building next to a KFC. Renovations are nearly complete, and job postings have been made public.

In Yates County, a town court judge resigned following charges of bias and courtroom misconduct. Todd C. Whitford stepped down after the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct levied allegations of a lack of legal competence. Whitford also agreed not to serve as a judge in the future.

A recent decision by the New York State Court of Appeals has reopened a legal challenge against Seneca Falls’ landfill closure law. The court ruled that Seneca Meadows Inc. has standing to challenge the town’s Local Law 3 under SEQRA. The case has been sent back to the Appellate Division as the Seneca Meadows landfill nears its December 31 permit deadline.

In Auburn, a new drive-thru-only coffee shop from 7 Brew is set to open at 153 Grant Avenue. The opening ceremony is scheduled for December 17 and will include a ribbon-cutting event, a United Way ceremony, and later promotional activities.

Wayne County is also seeing a change in leadership. Treasurer Patrick Schmitt will resign on January 4 after 13 years of service. Schmitt is leaving to join Clifton Larson Allen’s State and Local Government Accounting Division in the private sector. Deputy Treasurer Megan Fralick will assume the role until a replacement is chosen in the November 2026 ballot.

North Rose-Wolcott residents will vote on a $30 million school upgrade plan. The project, which includes a new bus garage, science wing renovations, improved cooling systems and classroom updates, will receive about $23 million in state aid with the remainder coming from capital reserves.

Public health and activism were also in the spotlight. Health officials are investigating a suspected case of tuberculosis in a former inmate from Broome County Jail. Tests are ongoing. Separately, dozens of protesters gathered outside the Broome County Jail to support 37-year-old Uyghur rights activist Guan Heng, who is being held in connection with his asylum claim after exposing alleged abuses in China.

National news included a planned executive order by former President Donald Trump to reclassify marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. The proposed change could recognize the drug’s medical use and allow licensed cannabis businesses to gain access to tax deductions, although experts noted that further congressional action would likely be needed.

In political news, former Central New York state Senate candidate Caleb Slater faces an investigation after being accused of purchasing fake campaign donations. The investigation, led by the state attorney general, focuses on whether false donor listings were used to secure public matching funds during his 2024 campaign.

Elsewhere, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a bill designed to aid communities affected by college closures. The new law provides for technical support in workforce planning, property reuse and economic development efforts in impacted towns. In Canandaigua, the City Council approved the 2026 budget after an evening session that featured multiple appointments and contract approvals.

Binghamton lawmakers introduced an ordinance proposing a cessation of city cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The measure also seeks to limit inquiries into immigration status by city employees, except where legally required.

In Geneva, two stalled development projects, including the Lake’s Edge hotel and a townhome project, face possible foreclosure over unpaid tax bills. City officials hope that at least one of the tax bills may be paid before the May 2026 deadline while one developer is actively talking with potential buyers.

In Auburn, long-time local sports figure Ormonde “Ormie” E. King passed away on December 13 at the age of 87. King was known for his decades of service in local sports, coaching and his contributions to preserving Auburn history.

In another statewide development, two New York lawmakers proposed a plan for a Winter Olympics bid that would divide events between New York City and Lake Placid. The plan highlights current venues as a cost-effective option and is aimed at a bid for a Winter Olympics at least a decade in the future.

The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning to residents about scam calls from individuals posing as law enforcement. Officials advised residents to disconnect suspicious calls and contact the non-emergency line for verification if needed.

Finally, in Penn Yan, police arrested 37-year-old Russell J. Aliff following an investigation into a theft earlier this month. Aliff was charged with two counts of petit larceny after officers found him in possession of stolen items. He was released on an appearance ticket.

All these developments mark a day of significant legal, political, public health, and community events across New York.

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.