Motorist helps locate and save Silver Creek child found Tuesday on State Thruway...
The parents of a four-year-old child were arrested after State Police responded to a report of the child being seen wandering on the side of the road on the State Thruway in Silver Creek.  Troopers say they were called to the scene in the westbound lanes of the I-90 shortly after 6 p.m. Tuesday.  Police say a motorist had spotted the child... stopped and called 911... and, kept the child out of the roadway until they arrived.  Troopers later arrested the parents... 31 year-old Robert Lyman and 30 year-old Mikayla Miller... who live near the Thruway.  Child Protective Services was making an unannounced visit... and, discovered the child was not in the residence... and, began looking for the four-year-old.  They then saw the emergency lights on the Thruway... and troopers reported they had the child... and, the youngster was okay.  Lyman and Miller were both charged with endangering the welfare of a child... and, the child was turned over to family members.

Schumer and Gillibrand write letter, calling on Trump to release emergency funds for SNAP...
The two U.S. Senators representing New York say they have written a letter to President Donald Trump... calling on he and Congressional Republicans... to release funding for the federal SNAP program.  Democrats Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand hosted a joint, virtual press conference Thursday morning... calling on Mr. Trump and majority leaders in both chambers... to fund the program -- which ends temporarily -- at the end of the day today.  Schumer says there's money available to use... and, he adds it's something the Trump administration and the GOP leadership wants.  He and Gillibrand say that even the U.S. Department of Agriculture... which administers the Supplimental Nutrition Assistance Program... say they could keep funds flowing to the program.  The senators say they have co-authored legislation that would authorize those funds to be used until the current shut-down ends.  Gillibrand adds the "Big Beautiful Bill" slashes $186-billion from SNAP... and, they're trying to use the shutdown to move the program in that direction.  Schumer and Gillibrand claim Republicans are using the shut-down to score "political points."  They add that during the last shutdown during Trump's first term in office... he agreed to use emergency funding to keep SNAP in place.

Langworthy says it's time for Congressional Democrats to "come to their senses..."
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy maintains that -- "Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats forced this shutdown -- and they can end it today by changing their ‘no’ votes and making sure 42 million Americans don’t go hungry.  The President cannot legally fund programs that Congress hasn’t appropriated."  He added that -- "Democrats have a choice to make: stand with needy American citizens or continue prioritizing benefits for illegal immigrants.  I voted to keep the government open with a clean continuation of funding, and I hope Senate Democrats come to their senses before more Americans are hurt by their partisan games."

Chautauqua County reports new details on $1-Million for two housing projects from Empire State Development Corp...
We've received more details on a $1-million state grant to boost housing initiatives in Chautauqua County.  The county's Department of Planning and Development says two major projects are receiving the grant through the New York State Empire State Development's County Infrastructure Grant Program.  In a press release Thursday... county officials said the funding will be used to advance "transformative housing and infrastructure projects" in Dunkirk... and, Westfield.  The project in Westfield is receiving $200,000 to support infrastructure costs to relocate sewer infrastructure for the Homesteads at Dunkirk Landing housing development project in the north county city.  The remaining $800,000 will be used for infrastructure improvements for the Welch’s Building redevelopment project in the village of Westfield.  The funding will go toward electrical service upgrades, underground vault seal-offs, sidewalks, landscaping, and lighting improvements to create 46 new housing units.  Deputy County Executive for Economic Development, Mark Geise says -- "this funding award gets two very important housing projects over the finish line, and enables the County to get one step closer to meeting the housing needs of the community."  

Geise says "Blueprint for New York" report verifies that taxes and regulations hurt business and job growth in the state...
A new report by the Public Policy Institute of New York State reaffirms the stance of Chautauqua County leaders that a number of outside factors are hindering economic development not just in the county... but, the entire state.  More than 550 economic development officials and business leaders were surveyed as part of the report called -- "Blueprint for New York -- Creating a Roadmap for Change."  County Industrial Development Agency Chief Executive Officer, Mark Geise, says their responses overwhelmingly point to the overall cost of doing business in New York as the primary barriers to growth... including to labor costs, compliance, workforce, and access to capital, among others.  Geise adds that New York has the second-most business regulations, behind only California... and, says the county is supporting the Business Council of New York State and the state Economic Development Council in calling on lawmakers to make "immediate" improvements in order to make New York more business friendly.  The Blueprint report also indicates that jobs in New York have grown by 7.3% from 2014-2024, which is lower than the national average of 12%.  

Wendel urges county residents to support local food pantries, soup kitchens and charities helping peope during delay in SNAP benefits as part of government shut-down...
With many local families facing uncertainty over November SNAP benefits during the ongoing federal government shutdown... Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel is highlighting the importance of supporting local food pantries, soup kitchens, and charitable partners that provide vital assistance.  Wendel says "across Chautauqua County, our food pantries and soup kitchens are the backbone of compassion.  While federal assistance programs like SNAP may be delayed in November, these local organizations continue to step up -- feeding families, children, and seniors who are in need.  I’m encouraging everyone who can to lend a hand to donate food or volunteer your time to help your neighbors through this difficult period."  The Lakewood Republican says the community -- working together -- helps create a support system for those in need.  County Social Services Commissioner Carmelo Hernandez says -- "we understand that the uncertainty caused by this situation is deeply concerning for families who depend on SNAP to meet their basic food needs.  We want residents to know that we are doing everything we can to keep cases up to date and to make sure families are ready to receive benefits as soon as federal funding is restored."

Rowland says St. Susan's Center hopes to have built up 90-day supply of food donations with SNAP benefits ending...
The St. Susan's Center in Jamestown is in decent shape for the next 90 days or so to help low-income families in need with SNAP benefits running out due to the federal government shut-down.  The Jamestown-area's largest soup kitchen is continuing to gear up in anticipation of more need in the community.  That from St. Susan's Center Executive Director Cheri Rowland... who says they've been working to get more non-perishable and other food items in place in anticipation of many more people coming to their Water Street location.  They often get help from FeedMore Western New York... but, Rowland says they've taken a hit as well.  She says FeedMore is taking a 15% cut in funding support in the president's "Big Beautiful Bill."  Rowland adds they are still looking for mainly non-perishable food items... such as canned goods... which can last for a signficant period of time.  She says the one area they still need help in for volunteers to help get food items... and, to help with their distribution.  Rowland says you can call (716) 664-2253 for more information about donating food, money or time.  You can also donate by going to their website at stsusanscenter.org.

Deputy County Executive says findings in "Blueprint for New York" report confirms taxing and regulations make the state unattractive to business... 
A new report by the Public Policy Institute of New York State reaffirms the stance of Chautauqua County leaders that a number of outside factors are hindering economic development not just in the county... but, the entire state.  More than 550 economic development officials and business leaders were surveyed as part of the report called -- "Blueprint for New York -- Creating a Roadmap for Change."  County Industrial Development Agency Chief Executive Officer, Mark Geise, says the responses show the cost of doing business is a primary barrier to growth... along with regulations.  Geise says the state has more than 300,000 regulations on the books -- which is second only to California.  He adds that in 2023-24 there were over 24,000 new bills introduced dealing with regulations.  Geise says the county is supporting the Business Council of New York State and the state Economic Development Council in calling on lawmakers to make "immediate" improvements in order to make New York more business friendly because so much is "out of our control."  The report also indicates that jobs in New York have grown by 7.3% from 2014-2024, which is lower than the national average of 12%. 

West Ellicott man arrested for allegedly threatening to stab person with "large dangerous knife..."
A man from West Ellicott has been arrested for allegedly threatening and then trying to stab another person during an incident last weekend in the town.  Ellicott Police say they were called to the scene for a person with a weapon last Friday... and, found that 37 year-old Dustin Pickett had menaced... and, then tried to stab the victim with the "large dangerous knife" several times.  Officers arrested Pickett without further incident for second-degree menacing... second-degree assault... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the county jail pending Centralized Arraignment... and, will appear in Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

Western Pa. man arrested after handgun is found in bathroom at Ellicott business...
A man from Western Pennsylvania is accused of possessing a gun illegally after the firearm was found in the bathroom of a town of Ellicott Business.  Town police were called to a property complaint about a week ago... and found that 34 year-old Nathan Kowatch of Latrobe, Pa., had left the handgun in the rest room.  However... officers say they found that Kowatch did not have a State Pistol Permit... and, he was arrested for criminal possession of a firearm.  He was issued an appearance ticket for town court.

Man from W. Ellicott arrested for menacing and assault following attempted stabbing...
A man from West Ellicott has been arrested for allegedly threatening and then trying to stab another person during an incident last weekend in the town.  Ellicott Police say they were called to the scene for a person with a weapon last Friday... and, found that 37 year-old Dustin Pickett had menaced... and, then tried to stab the victim with the "large dangerous knife" several times.  Officers arrested Pickett without further incident for second-degree menacing... second-degree assault... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the county jail pending Centralized Arraignment... and, will appear in Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

City teen arrested for allegedly punching female during domestic insident...
A Jamestown teenager has been arrested for allegedly punching a woman in the face multiple times during a domestic incident on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the location about 3:30 a.m. Tuesday... and, learned that 18 year-old James Leonard had struck the woman several times... and, had left the scene.  Leonard was later found at his home... and, he was arrested for third-degree assault.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Rowland says St. Susan's ready to deal with influx from loss of SNAP benefits at start of Nov...
The Jamestown-area's largest soup kitchen has been gearing up in anticipation of more need in the community with federal SNAP benefits running out of money by the end of the week.  That from St. Susan's Center Executive Director Cheri Rowland... who says they've been working to get more non-perishable and other food items in place in anticipation of many more people coming to their Water Street location.  Rowland says they're averaging about 178 people a day... but, adds that number grows to about 240 at the end of the month, when benefits run out.  She adds they have enough in storage and committed to be able to provide for those numbers for about 90-days.  However... Rowland also says they are still looking for mainly non-perishable food items... such as canned goods... which can last for a signficant period of time.  She says the one thing they don't have enough of for the anticipated influx of people in need is volunteers.  She says you can help out when it works for you.  Rowland says you can call (716) 664-2253 for more information about donating food, money or time.  You can also donate by going to their website at www.stsusanscenter.org.

Borrello critical of 2026 switch to "even-numbered" local elections...
Many local candidates who get elected to office next week will find themselves having to run again next year.  That after the New York State Court of Appeals earlier this month unanimously upheld a law that shifts a number of local elections to even-numbered years, starting in 2026.  Democrats in Albany say aligning local elections with state and federal elections will increase voter turnout for local races.  However, State Senator George Borrello believes local elections should not be lumped in with presidential and gubernatorial politics because those will tend to "suck all the oxygen" from the local races.  The law was passed by the State Legislature in 2023.  Borrello calls it a "horribly irresponsible" law and also calls it a "veiled" attempt by Democrats to skew elections in their favor.  He adds the ruling shows the state's courts have been compromised by "political activist judges."  The Sunset Bay Republican also believes it will bring out more people who vote straight party-line who may not know who local candidates are, making "blue areas bluer and red areas redder."

Ribbon cut on new concrete steps for Allen Park Bandshell...
The ribbon has been cut on the completion of a new set of concrete steps that have been long-talked about at the Allen Park Bandshell in Jamestown.  City officials and members of the Allen Park Women's Club were on hand to cut the ribbon on the bandshell's new steps that lead from the sidewalk... to the floor of the bandshell area.  City Parks Manager Dan Stone says he was approached by the women's club some time ago about the idea because they had some extra funding... and, was a project he wanted to take on.  Stone says he pitched the idea to Mayor Kim Ecklund and the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation... and, they came on board.  There are also bases for three new street lights for the steps to improve the looks -- and safety of the steps.  Mayor Ecklund praised the effort... in her "home-area" of the city.  Allen Park Women's Club President Jackie Benson says it great to have the steps... with a railing now in place... in plenty of time by next year's Summer Concert Series.  Stone says R. Patti Construction was contractor for the $121,000 project.

Gov. Hochul announces fast-tracking of $30-million in Emergency Food Aid with SNAP benefits running out...
New York's governor is "fast-tracking" $30-million in state emergency funds to help provide more than 16-million meals to people lossing SNAP benefits later this week.  During a rally yesterday with people impacted by the cuts... Democrat Kathy Hochul said the funding would help the 3-million New Yorkers who receive help from the federal Supplimental Nutrition Assistance Program... which runs out of money November 1st.  It's one of the direct impacts of the federal government shut-down... which is into it's fourth-week... and, still shows no end in sight.  Hochul's office says the $30-million dollars is in addition to last week's announcement of more than $11-million to support local emergency food relief.  The governor's funding announcements come as federal administrators at the U.S. Department of Agriculture have refused to unlock the funding needed to ensure SNAP recipients receive their November food assistance. 

Sellstrom named by BPU to succeed Leathers as utilities' new GM next January...
A Jamestown native who's worked at the Board of Public Utilities for nearly the past 14 years has been appointed as the BPU's next general manager.  The board announced late Monday that Kristofor Sellstrom had been approved by the board to replace Dave Leathers... who is retiring next January.  Mayor Kim Ecklund... who serves as BPU President by virtue of her office... says the Personnel Committee approved Sellstrom from a field of four finalists.  Ecklund says they started with 60 applicants before the field was cut to six... and, four were called back for second interviews.  A group of employees also did interviews.  Sellstrom is a lifelong city resident and a New York-licensed professional engineer... who had advanced to senior leadership roles... most recently as Deputy General Manager for the Electric Division.  He began at the BPU in 2011 as a Junior Engineer.  He was named as Deputy GM in June of last year.  Eckund says there were other "strong" internal candidates, as with Sellstrom.  She says he now has the benefit of working directly with Leathers before the current GM retires to get a better feel for the entire operation. 

County announces that Water Conservation Order in Ripley is now lifted...
Officials with Chautauqua County and the town of Ripley have announced that the water conservation order issued for Ripley Water District customers on Oct. 10 has now been lifted.  The good news was announced this afternoon by the County Health Department... which reports that town water operators have confirmed that the Ripley Reservoir has returned to near normal levels for this time of year, and the creek that flows into the reservoir is no longer dry.  With that... they say it's no longer necessary to conserve water.  Town Supervisor Laura Pless says "the town would like to thank all of our customers for doing their part to conserve water while this order was in effect.  We would also like to thank all of the volunteer fire fighters and Companies that helped us with trucking water and North East Township for allowing us to draw water from their system."  With that... residents may return to normal water use at this time. 

City Council hears about increasing costs for DPW and Parks budgets...
There are a number of increasing expenses in the city of Jamestown's Public Works... and, Parks Departments in the proposed 2026 budget.  However... the increases are due mainly to increased costs for items... and, due to a longer Winter season this part year.  That from Acting DPW Director Mark Roetzer... who told City Council during last night's budget hearing that Snow and Ice Removal are up about 20% to just over $1-million.  In addition... Roetzer says the cost for road salt in 2026 has gone up 41%... and, that's for all municipalities in Chautauqua County because they all buy their salt through the county.  He says another area of increases... due to an aging fleet of vehicles... is parts.  He says all of those are going up in price -- some due to new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.  Roetzer says he and his department inventoried $7.6-million worth of vehicles and equipment in the DPW... and, says they need to start looking at replacing about $5-million worth of that because they have exceeded their anticpated life span.  Budget meetings on Mayor Kim Ecklund's $45.5-million budget plan continue next Monday night.            

Wendel happy to see 2026 spending plan approved; still concerned about what 2027 may hold...
Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel says he's excited about the passage of his 2026 budget that lowers property taxes by 54-cents per $1,000 assessed value.  Wendel says the $309.7-million spending plan also marked the fifth straight year that the county's tax rate has been decreased.  The Lakewood Republican says that decrease was made possible despite the declining number of residents and businesses in the area.  Wendel says, even with those losses, they've been able to hold the line on taxes while still providing the services people need.  The budget was passed last week along party lines, with County Legislature Democrats wanting to use $2-million of the county's fund balance to offset a $1.7 million increase in the tax levy.  That proposed amendment was defeated.  Wendel feels the fund balance is at a good level... because they need to keep a close eye on 2027 when provisions of President Donald Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" will take effect.  

Water Conservation Order in Ripley lifted after rains replenish water system...
Officials with Chautauqua County and the town of Ripley have announced that the water conservation order issued for Ripley Water District customers on Oct. 10 has now been lifted.  The good news was announced this afternoon by the County Health Department... which reports that town water operators have confirmed that the Ripley Reservoir has returned to near normal levels for this time of year, and the creek that flows into the reservoir is no longer dry.  With that... they say it's no longer necessary to conserve water.  Town Supervisor Lauree Pless says "the town would like to thank all of our customers for doing their part to conserve water while this order was in effect.  We would also like to thank all of the volunteer firefighters and companies that helped us with trucking water, and North East (Pa.) Township for allowing us to draw water from their system."  With that... residents may return to normal water use at this time. 

Man from Dunkirk sentenced to 15 years in prison for illegal possession of a gun...
A Dunkirk man convicted earlier this year of felony illegal possession of a handgun will spend the next 15 years in state prison -- the maximum allowed by law.  That from Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt... who has announced that 34 year-old Nathaniel Hollins received the sentence in county court late last week on one count of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon by a county jury.  In addition... Schmidt says Hollins will also be subject to five-years of post-release supervision.  Hollins was sentenced as a violent predicate felon for having more than one violent felony conviction within a certain time period.  Schmidt says Dunkirk Police had received a tip provided by their federal partners on Nov. 8 of 2023... and, arrest Hollins in the area of Webster Street in the north county city.  An FBI agent working with Dunkirk Police officers found a loaded handgun near the place Hollins was caught... and, Schmidt says a DNA analysis found that Hollins was in possession of the gun that day.  The jury rendered the guilty verdict on June 11.

Jamestown man accused of being in possession of drugs during traffic stop...
A city man is accused of being in possession of quatities of methamphetamine and fentanyl following a traffic stop on Jamestown's southside.  City police say they stopped a vehicle in the area of King and English Streets about 5 p.m. last Friday for multiple traffic infractions.  They identified the driver as Jarred Ristau... who they found had an outstanding warrant out of the Sheriff's Office.  Police took him into custody without incident... and, alleged found him in possession of methamphetamine.  Officers then searched the car turned up additional quantities of meth and fentanyl inside.  Ristau was arrested on two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  He was issued an appearance ticket for City Court... then turned over to the Sheriff's Office to answer to the outstanding warrant.

City man arrested for breaking victim's glasses, and choking them during a physical domestic incident...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly breaking another person's glasses... and, trying to choke them during a domestic incident on the city's southside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the unidentified location shortly before 4 p.m. last Friday... and, investigated.  Officers found that 23 year-old Michael Shafer had physically prevented the victim from leaving the residence before breaking the glasses... and, applying pressure to their neck.  Schafer was taken into custody without further incident for second-degree unlawful imprisonment... fourth-degree criminal mischief... and, criminal obstruction of breathing.  He was held pending arraignment.

Early voting in Chautauqua County draws more than 700 people to the polls...
Early voting for the upcoming general election continues the rest of this week after getting underway this past weekend.  That was the start of the nine-day early voting period that runs through Sunday, Nov. 2.  Here in Chautauqua County... Republican Elections Commissioner Nacole Ellis says there were 754 total votes cast this past Saturday and Sunday... with 488 submitting ballots on Saturday, and 266 on Sunday.  The four polling locations include the county's Board of Elections Offices on North Erie St., the Chautauqua County Fairgrounds in Dunkirk, the Robert H. Jackson Center in Jamestown... and the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood.  Ellis says early voters do not need to bring anything to cast their ballot... you just need to verify your home address.  She adds that voters can also preview their ballots by going to the County Board of Elections website at VoteChautauqua.com.  Hours for the four polling sites today and Tuesday are Noon until 8 p.m.... they're then 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday.  They'll again be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. next Saturday and Sunday.

City man arrested following domestic in front of two minor children...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly getting involving in a physical altercation with another person in front of two minor children on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the scene just before 7 p.m. Friday for a report of a "fight in progress."  Officers say they learned that 34 year-old Jamie Sheldon and the other person had gotten into a domestic dispute that became physical.  Police arrested Sheldon for two counts of endangering the welfare of a child... and, he was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

City firefighters quickly extinguish fire inside vacant, condemned home on Jamestown's northside...
Fire has damaged a vacant, condemned building in the 800-block of North Main Street in the city of Jamestown.  City fire officials say crews were called to the scene at 810 North Main... next to the former M&M Sports Den building... shortly before 1 p.m.  Officials say there were reports initially of smoke and flames showing.  When crews arrived... they said there was smoke showing from the rear of the building... and, the fire was knocked down quickly.  North Main in that area was closed while firefighters snuffed out the flames.  No one was inside... and, there were no injuries were reported.  The cause is under investigation.  The building is slated for demolition in the future.

North County man arrested for allegedly not providing shelter for his horse...
A Silver Creek area man has been arrested after he was found to not have provided adequate shelter to a horse in his possession.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to a report of animal cruelty this past Wednesday on Angell Road in the town of Hanover.  Deputies say their investigation showed that 40 year-old Ryan Smith had not protected the horse from the elements... and, he was cited for overdriving... torturing and injuring animals.  The horse was relocated to a local animal rescue.  Smith was issued an appearance ticket for Hanover Town Court.

Legislature approves changes to Government Reduction Initiative to help with mergers, consolidations and sharing services in Chautauqua County...
County lawmakers in Mayville have approved establishing an up to $500,000 fund to help support local communities with "up-front" monies to pursue mergers, consolidations or shared services.  The legislature Wednesday night unanimously approved changing the 2017 program to allow for providing up to $100,000 for those communities through a "Government Reduction Initiative."  Sheridan Republican Terry Neibel says there has been some recently history behind the program... including $50,000 for the village of Forestville's dissolution in the town of Hanover... and, the town of Cherry Creek received just over $36,000 for dissolution of the village of Cherry Creek.  Jamestown Democrat Fred Larson, though, questioned where the money would come from for County Executive P.J. Wendel's proposed "Government Efficiency Fund."  Larson says he asked if it was in the 2026 budget proposal during the Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting because he thought it would be in the spending plan.  However... he says he found out there would be no money for it in the budget.  He asked Legislature Chairman Pierre Chagnon if money for it was in the budget.  Chagnon said "no."  Wendel told lawmakers during his budget presentation that the fund would "not be part" of the spending plan... with some money coming from the undesignated fund balance.  Specifics still have to be worked out.

Schumer joined by NYS residents in calling on GOP to continue ACA tax credits...
Time is ticking for Americans who get their health care insurance through the Afforable Care Act to decide on their plan for 2026... and, the options aren't looking good.  That from U.S. Senator Charles Schumer of New York... who says -- unless ACA subsidies are continued -- enrollees will see premiums increase by 40% or more.  In his latest effort to get Congressional Republicans to discuss the matter... the Democrat Minority Leader noted that many of the people impacted are those just below retirement age.  He says the typical couple in their mid-50s, who make $85,000 a year will see an increase of $25,000 in one year.  He says "horrible choices" have to be made at that point.  Schumer was joined Thursday by members of families who rely on the ACA tax credits to afford healthcare to demand New York House Republicans stop their vacation and extend the program.  One is Jeremy Koulish of the Hudson Valley... who lost his job of six years as a Senior Software contractor with the Census Bureau last May.  With that... Koulish resorted to the ACA for coverage... and, called it a "critical lifeline" to him.  Unless the credits are extended... Kulisch says he and his wife face a nearly $950 a month increase in their current plan. 

Langworthy blasts Senate Democrats for blocking pay for essential workers...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy is blasting Senate Democrats for blocking pay for essential federal employees during the current government shutdown -- a bill that needed 60 votes to move forward.  Langworthy says quote -- "Chuck Schumer and his allies have admitted it  —  they think “suffering” is their leverage.  That’s not leadership, that’s cruelty.  Because of their political games, our troops and air traffic controllers won’t get paid, and SNAP and WIC programs are on the verge of running out of money. All while Democrats hold the government hostage to protect illegal immigrants.  It’s shameful."

City man arrested for alleged effort to steal E-Bike...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested after allegedly damaging property at a location on the city's westside while trying to steal an e-Bike.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene for a "suspicious situation" shortly before 10 p.m. Tuesday... and, investigated.  Officers say they found that 42 year-old Christopher Smith had tried to take the bike... and, he was located a short distance away.  Police arrested Smith for attempted petit larceny... fourth-degree criminal mischief... third-degree criminal tampering... and, possession of burglar's tools.  He was also sought on an outstanding city court warrant.... and, was jailed pending arraignment.

Jamestown woman arrested following raid for being in possession of illega narcotics -- including more than 7 libs. of Meth...
A city woman has been arrested... and more than 7-pounds of methamphetamine was seized during a drug raid early Wednesday afternoon on Jamestown's southside.  City police say their narcotics investigators... along with those from the Sheriff's Office and Dunkirk Police... executed a search warrant just before 12:30 p.m. at an apartment at 168 Barrett Ave.  Officers say they found... and, arrested 37 year-old Cassandra Chadwick... and, seized 7.7-pounds of meth... 5.5 grams of fentanyl... scales and packaging used for the sale and distribution of narcotics and nearly $1,200 in cash.  Chadwick was taken into custody on one count each of second-and third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  She's jailed pending arraignment.

County Legislature approves final budget with 54-cent per $1,000 tax rate cut...
The Chautauqua County Legislature has approved a $309.7-million budget for fiscal year 2026 that includes a 54-cent per $1,000 assessed value tax rate decrease.  However... the tax levy... or amount to be raised by taxes... will increase by $1.7-million.  Lawmakers in Mayville approved the spending plan in a party-line, 14-5 vote... with Democrats calling for use of more of the fund balance to eliminate the levy increase.  Majority Republicans... including Sheridan's Terry Neibel... feel using more undesignated fund balance would leave the county vulnerable to likely state and federal funding cuts next year... noting that the county's "safety net" program could be underfunded by as much $3-million to $4-million... and, the county jail is in desperate need of upgrades and repairs -- especially to the 1939 section.  Sheriff Jim Quattrone and jail consultants have outlined a $120-million proposal to upgrade the jail to comply with state standards.  However... Democrats like Jamestown's Fred Larson... felt -- while the finance team and department heads developed a solid budget -- the county has enough undesignated fund balance to provide more tax relief.  Both Democrats and Republicans who spoke commended those involved for their efforts to hold the line on spending for 2026.  The final budget would lower the tax rate to $6.17 per $1,000 assessed value.

Legislature Republicans nix use of more undesignated fund balace to cut tax levy increase in budget to zero...
County Legislature Democrats proposed using an additional $2-million dollars from the undesigned fund balance to bring the tax levy down to about $72-million.  That was rejected in a party-line vote, 5-to-14.  The amendment was offered by Fred Larson... who argued that while it would lower the county's rainy day fund by $2-million... there would still be at least $33-million left for emergencies.  However... Republicans argued that the county had to pull another $2.3-million this year to cover the county's "safety net" costs.  One said he was concerned it's underfunded again in 2026.

Hochul announces additional paving projects in NYS -- including four in Chautauqua Co. -- in 2026...
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced an unprecedented investment to repave dozens of vital state roadways across New York during the 2026 construction season.  Hochul's Office reports that four of those projects... totaling $6.2-million... will take place in Chautauqua County.  She says they're part of close to 200 new paving projects across the state... that will invest more than 600-million dollars in local and state highways.  Hochul says they're part of the final two-years of the state Department of Transporation's $34.3-billion capital projects effort... to fund an additional 180 projects.  Combined with the original, 70 projects set for next year... the DOT says they'll have more than 250 projects going on next year.  Hochul told a local highway crew that about 4,000 miles of highways will be re-surfaced next year... the most ambitious effort in the history of the state.  Two projects in the county are each receiving $2-million towards those efforts.  They include: a repave of Route 60 in Mill Creek to the Cassadaga southern village line, and, resurfacing Route 60 from Stateline Road... to Harrington Hill Road.  There's also $1.2-million set aside for a project on Route 394 from County Route 65 to the Cattaraugus County Line.  The fourth project is for repaving Route 5 in the city of Dunkirk.

City man arrested following Street Check...
A man from Jamestown wanted by police has been arreste following a street check early Wednesday morning on the city's southside.  Jamestown police say a patrol spotted 27 year-old Todd Dellahoy, Junior in the area of The Arterial and South Main Street shortly after 1 a.m., and, knew of the City Court warrant.  Officers say when they approached Dellahoy... he refused their commands and was taken into custody after a brief struggle.  He was also allegedly found in possession of a quantity of cocaine.  Dellahoy was charged with resisting arrest... criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, on the warrant.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

National Fuel acquires CenterPoint Energy... 
National Fuel Gas Company has announced that it's purchasing CenterPoint Energy Resources' natural gas utility in Ohio for just over $2.6-billion.  Upon the closing... officials say National Fuel will also acquire a dedicated team of employees that operate nearly 6,000 miles of distribution and transmission pipeline and serve approximately 335,000 residential, commercial, industrial and transportation customers.  National Fuel's President and Chief Executive Officer David Bauer says the closing it expected to take place in the fourth-quarter of next year... pending completion of a notice filing and review with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio... and, other closing conditions. 

Man from Westfield arrested on child porn charges following lengthy investigation...
A Westfield man has been arrested following a several month-long investigation into alleged possession and promotion of internet-based child pornography.  The Sheriffs' Department's Criminal Investigation Division initiated the probe into 25 year-old Nicholas Neal back in March... and, he was arrested Tuesday afternoon... and, his devices were seized.  Further investigation... and, the use of search warrants... led investigators to find a large quantity of images portraying obscene sexual performances by children.  Neal was arrested at his home... and, charged with one count of promoting an obscene sexual performance by a child... and, 10 counts of possessing an obscene sexual performance by a child.  Deputies say Neal was taken to the Chautauqua County Jail for centralized arraignment... and, he'll answer for his charges in State Supreme Court in Mayville.  The Sheriff’s Office states it remains committed to protecting children from online exploitation and holding offenders accountable.  They work closely with local, state, and federal partners through the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in utilizing advanced technology and any available investigative resources to identify, track, and arrest those who target children online.

Silver Creek man arrested for DWI after his motorcycle crashed last month in north county village...
A man from Silver Creek has now been arrested for drunk driving following a motorcycle accident that sent him to a Buffalo-area hospital.  Sheriff's deputies say 57 year-old David Babcock, Junior was operating the bike in the north county village on the morning of Monday, Sept. 22 when he crashed.  Babcock was taken to the Erie County Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.  Further investigation led to officers determining that he was operating the bike while drunk.  Babock is charged with DWI... failure to keep right... moving from lane unsafely... and, operating out of class.  He was issued appearance tickets for Hanover Town Court at a later date.

Ferguson says water conservation order remains in effect, but, hopefully not much longer... 
Fredonia water customers remain under a water conservation order amid the ongoing drought... but, conditions appear to have improved in the Fredonia Reservoir.  That from Mayor Mike Ferguson... who says the water level in the reservoir has risen by a couple of inches in the last couple of days.  However... it's still about 8 inches below the spillway.  Ferguson adds that he doesn't expect the conservation order to last much longer... especially if the area receives the 2 to 4 inches of rain in the next few days from a Lake Effect system that's been predicted.  The National Weather Service in Buffalo is forecasting that rain to be in the area through Friday.  Ferguson adds that village residents have helped "a lot" by following the conservation order.  He says people have been avoiding washing their cars... and watering their lawns.  Ferguson adds that Village Emergency Manager Joshua Myers is working on contingency plans in case the area don't get enough rain.  Most of Western New York, including Chautauqua County, remains under a drought warning from the State Department of Environmental Conservation.

City of Jamestown to file new application for DRI funding...
It's been a decade since the city of Jamestown applied for... and, was one of the first communities in New York state to receive a $10-million Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant.  With that time passage... the city is now eligible to apply for the program again... and, the Department of Development in preparing to submit a new proposal on Nov. 7.  Finance Committee Chairman Brent Sheldon led the discussing during Monday night's City Council Work Session... saying the DOD is looking at improvements to the Brooklyn Square and riverfront areas... and, some downtown businesses.  The resolution to be voted on next week would also outline strategies for promoting and connecting waterfront activity along the Chadakoin River.  Sheldon says another regional city -- Olean in Cattaraugus County -- recently unveiled what their DRI did for their downtown area.  A few of the projects from the first DRI program... which took place under the Teresi administration... were wrapped the past 2 to 3 years.  The north county city of Dunkirk has also been awarded a $10-million DRI Grant.

Rousch highlights revenues from fire department's second ambulance, and program...
More revenues are coming in from the Jamestown Fire Department's second ambulance... but, that revenue has not been consistant.  That from City Fire Chief Ryan Rousch when discussing revenues that his department has brought in during the course of 2025.  During Monday night's budget session at City Hall... Rousch told the City Council that they had brought in just over $272,000 through insurance billing from both ambulances through mid-October.  With this year's trends... Rousch says City Comptroller Ericka Thomas noted they were on pace to collect just under $340,000 from the program.

City police and fire budgets discussed during city council meeting Monday...
New vehicle requests by the Jamestown Police and Fire Departments highlighted some of the first night of budget deliberations for the City Council.  Lawmakers reviewed both public safey budgets prior to Monday night's work session.  Fire Chief Ryan Rousch noted that while it's not in the budget plan... the department needs a new fire truck.  Current costs are estimated at about $1-million dollars... but, Rousch adds there's also a significant waiting period.  He says it'll take about a year to "spec out" a new truck, and, then place the order and about 3 years later take delivery of the truck.  Rousch was asked if any grant funding may be available for a new truck... but, said he says they haven't received any guidance for seeking grants yet.  Mayor Kim Ecklund included one new police cruiser for the department in 2026... but, Chief Tim Jackson requested two of them... along with more money for repairs to keep the current fleet on the road.  Jackson says the motor vehicle line in the budget was cut by about $50,000 in next year's budget.  Ecklund's 2026 budget totals $45.5-million... and includes a 7.5% property tax increase.  The tax rate would increase by just over $2 per $1,000 assessed value if no changes are made. 

City Fire Chief says second ambulance helps to bring in $272,000 to date for city coffers...
More revenues are coming in from the Jamestown Fire Department's second ambulance... but, that revenue has not been consistant.  That from City Fire Chief Ryan Rousch when discussing revenues that his department has brought in during the course of 2025.  During Monday night's budget session at City Hall... Rousch told the City Council that they had brought in just over $272,000 through insurance billing from both ambulances.  With this year's trends... Rousch says City Comptroller Ericka Thomas noted they were on pace to collect just under $340,000 from the program.

Ribbon is cut on new, BPU, high-speed fiber optic project...
The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities and it's partners in developing it's new, high-speed fiber optic network celebrated it's launch Monday afternoon with a ribbon cutting at the BPU.  City leaders were joined by Chautauqua County... state and federal officials for the event... which BPU General Manager Dave Leathers called both "exciting and meaningful" to he, and his Deputy GM for the Electric Division, Kris Sellstrom... and, others.  He says Sellstrom has "really been the point (person) for the project."  Sellstrom rom noted that it's been a team effort to get the infrastructure installed... but, adds there's still plenty of work yet to do.  He thanked partners -- including New York state's "Connect All" program -- which funded the city's project.  That's headed up by Senior Vice-President Joshua Breitbart... who praised the local effort to get the project moving.  Breitbart says in less than a year... they had gone from a concept, to infrastructure being installed, and people getting signed up.  He says "it's incredible to see."  Two internet providers -- Fiberspark from Ithaca -- and SumoFiber of Utah -- will be providing the low-cost internet connections for local users.  They have been working with EntryPoint Networks... led by Jeff Christenson... who says they started with more than 300 applicants...but, adds the BPU's project is one of only 11 to have gotten this far.
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BPU officials noted that more than 900 customers have already signed up for the high-speed internet connections... which will be up and running in the city by the end of 2026.  For more information... call 661-1633... or go on-line to Jamestownbpu.com/fiber.

County kicks off National Lead Poison Prevention Week in Jamestown...
The threat of lead poisoning in Chautauqua County has not gone away.  However... there are preventive measures that families can take to keep children safe from lead poisoning.  The county's Lead Poison Prevention Team Monday hosted a press conference at Jamestown City Hall to mark the start of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week.  County Public Health Director Lacey Wilson commended the team for it's efforts... and the progress they've made in recent years.  However... she added that... they reality is that it remains a "pressing threat in communities like ours."  Wilson noted that most of the city of Jamestown's housing was built prior to 1978 before lead paint restrictions were enacted.  She says lead poisoning is one of the most preventable, environmental issues residents face.  However... she says Chautauqua County -- and mainly Jamestown and Dunkirk -- have a large amount of housing stock built before 1978... when regulations took effect to eliminate use of lead paint in homes.  Dr. Paul Robbins from The Chautauqua Center noted that they can do a blood test that indicates if a child has an "elevated" lead level... and, they can then intervene. 

Several fire departments called to put out Ellery Center house fire Monday afternoon...
Several local fire companies responded to a house fire in the town of Ellery early Monday afternoon.  Chautauqua County fire dispatchers say Ellery Center firefighters were called to the scene on Pickard Road just after 1 p.m., and, were later joined by Sinclairville, Stockton, Maple Springs, Bemus Point and North Lake fire crews... and County EMS.  Firefighters were at the scene about 2-and-a-half hours.  No injuries were reported.  No cause has yet been released.

Cause released in Villanova house fire...
A malfunctioning gas boiler valve is the listed cause of a fire that destroyed a home in the Town of Villenova late Sunday morning.  Chautauqua County fire investigators released the cause late this morning... adding that the blaze at 935 Route 83 originated in the basement.  Fire dispatchers say the fire was called in about 11:15 a.m., and, eight departments responded.  South Dayton received mutual aid from Cherry Creek, Forestville, Sunset Bay, Cassadaga, Sheridan, Ellington and Leon in battling the fire.  One firefighter was taken to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. 

Georgia man arrested for alleged menacing with a gun in Jamestown...
A Georgia man has been accused of threatening another man... who was holding a 2 year-old child... on Jamestown's northside late last week.  City police say they were called to an intersection near a business about 11:30 a.m. last Friday on a report of an argument.  Officers say -- when they arrived -- they learned that 39-year-old Larico Jones had allegedly threatened the other man with a gun.  Police say a search of the area led them to find a loaded, .380-caliber pistol concealed under Jones’s car at the scene.  Jones did not have a valid pistol permit, and, he was arrested for second-degree menacing... endangering the welfare of a child... and, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Quattrone says Sheriff's Department to get just over 6% bump in proposed 2026 budget... 
Chautauqua County's tentative 2026 budget contains a spending increase of just over 6% for the Sheriff's Office.  That from Sheriff Jim Quattrone, who says the bulk of that increase comes from three new collective bargaining agreements that were recently approved by county lawmakers.  Quattrone says it also includes funding for a new animal control officer position... and says there is a need for it.  While there dog control officers in local cities, towns and villages, he says there are no animal control officers in Chautauqua County.  Quattrone adds that if everything in County Executive P.J. Wendel's spending plan passes, he wants to be able to make security upgrades at the County Jail.  Quattrone says they need to upgrade their camera systems... and, possibly provide body cameras for their corrections officers.  The County Legislature is expected to take action on Wendel's $309.7-million budget for 2026 this coming Wednesday night... Oct. 22.

Gillibrand says any military operations against Venezuela, and other South American countries regarding drug trade or other issues need to be brought before Congress...
President Donald Trump recently confirmed that he's authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations inside Venezuela... and, says he was weighing carrying out land operations on the country.  That acknowledgement comes after the U.S. military in recent weeks has carried out a series of deadly strikes against alleged drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean.  U.S. forces have destroyed at least five boats since early September, killing 27 people, and four of those vessels originated from Venezuela.  U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand says Mr. Trump does not have that authority -- Congress does.  Gillibrand says he did not even advise Congress about taking out the alleged Venezuelan drug boats.  Asked during an event in the Oval Office on Wednesday why he had authorized the CIA to take action in Venezuela... Trump affirmed he had made the move.  He said he authorized the moves for two reasons... "Number-one... they have emptied their prisons into the United States of America.  And the other thing, the drugs, we have a lot of drugs coming in from Venezuela, and a lot of the Venezuelan drugs come in through the sea." 

City man arrested following DWI crash on Harrison Street late last Friday...
An accident near a business in the Brooklyn Square area late last week has led to the arrest of a Jamestown man from for drunk driving.  City police say they responded to the Harrison Street busienss about 9:45 p.m. last Friday... and, determined that 51 year-old John Thompson, Jr. was one of the drivers involved.  They also found he was allegedy under the influence of alcohol... and, he was arrested for DWI... and, Aggravated DWI with a blood alcohol content of more than .18%.  He was released with traffic tickets for city court.

Woman from town of Portland arrested on Felony warrants...
A north county woman has been arrested on multiple Felony warrants... and, illegal drug possession after she was found by Sheriff's deputies at a town of Portland home.  Officers say they had received a tip that 43 year-old Rachel Blanchard was at the location... and, with the help of Narcotics Investigators... they raided the home.  They found Blanchard... who was allegedly in possession of 4-grams of Fentanyl.  She was arrested on the warrants... and the drug possession.  She was jailed pending arraignment.

Man from Dunkirk accused of drunk driving in DWI Crash in town of Sheridan...
A north county man is accused of driving drunk after his car struck a utility pole in the town of Sheridan last Friday night... injuring a passenger.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene on Route 20 shortly before 7 p.m.  They say the driver... 21 year-old Julian Alcongaspar of Dunkirk... was not hurt... but, found to be driving while intoxicated.  Alcongaspar was arrested for DWI... and, moving from lane unsafely... and, taken to the Sheriff's Office Substation for processing while the passenger was taken to a local hospital for treatment of injuries.  It was later revealed that Alcongaspar was being investigated by U.S. Border patrol and he was transferred to their custody.

Erie County, NY man arrested for having sexually explicit communications with town of Villenova juvenile...
A man from Southern Erie County has been arrested for allegedly requesting sexually explicit pictures and videos of a juvenile victim in the town of Villenova.  Chautauqua County Sheriff's officers say they began an investigation into inappropriate communications between 39 year-old Justin Stanfield of Brant... and, the juvenile... back on Sept. 26.  Investigatiors say they also determined that Stanfield had also sent indecent material to the same minor.  Deputies say Stanfield voluntarily turned himself into police Thursday afternoon... and was charged with first-degree disseminating indecent material to minors... and, use of a child in a sexual performance.  He was held pending centralized arraignment.

Pair of Hanover women arrested on assault, and manacing charges...
Two women from Irving have been arrested for allegedly getting into a physical altercation at a home on Buffalo Road in the town of Hanover.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene about 6 p.m. Tuesday... and, found that 29 year-old Kaitlin Parker of Milestrip Extention had struck 60 year-old Kimberly Cook multiple times.  Deputies say Cook had tried to hit Parker with a baseball bat... and, she was arrested for second-degree menacing.  Parker was arrested for third-degree assault.  Both women were issued appearance tickets for Hanover Town Court at a later date.

Gillibrand again pushes for extention of ACA subsidies due to skyrocking premiums announced to begin in 2026...
New York's Junior U.S. Senator is again calling on Republican colleagues to work with Democrats to extend health insurance subsidies that help many middle-class Americans afford health care.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference Thursday to further highlight skyrocketing costs of premiums that families will face if Affordable Care Act subsidies are not extended before the end of the year.  Gillibrand says a family of four with a total, household income of $125,000 annually will have to pay an additional $14,000 for coverage.  She says that means they will pay more than one-fifth of their earnings on health insurance.  Gillibrand adds that a single parent in Albany making $70,000 a year will pay $215 more a month for health insurance for themself, and two children.  There has been word that some Republicans have been talking quietly with Democratic colleagues about a plan to "phase-out" the extended subsidies over time to end the government shut-down.  However... Gillibrand says rank-and-file GOP Senators seem more willing.  However... she says the House is another story because they've been out for three weeks, and, seem to be doing what the president wants them to do.  A significant number of people who get the credits work... but, don't have employer-provided health coverage... and, make too much money to qualify for Medicaid.

Gillibrand urges administration to reach a deal in trade with Canada in wake of announcment of Stellantis move from Ontario to the U.S...
There's new fall-out between the United States and Canada after automaker Stellantis announced it would be moving production of it's Jeep Compass vehicles from Ontario to the U.S.  Ontario Premier Doug Ford directly blamed President Donald Trump's tariff war for the company's decision to move the plant to Illinois... along with it's 3,000 jobs.  U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling on the administration to resolve outstanding trade issues soon... saying the U.S. needs the partnership with Canada on a number of "cross-border transactions."  Those transactions have taken a hit in recent times due to the tariff battles... and, many Canadian tourists who might have visited the U.S. have stayed home... or have gone elsewhere.  Gillibrand says efforts to get Stellantis to open a plant in the U.S. have actually been in the works for "a long time" now.  The move to Illinois is part of a plan by Stellantis to invest $13-billion to expand its manufacturing capacity in the United States.  The company's announcement comes as Canada and the U.S. are negotiating to reduce tariffs.

Rain coming over weekend to help cut down on drought conditions...
Chautauqua County remains under a drought warning... but, some relief should be on the way by the weekend.  That from the National Weather Service in Buffalo... which reports were down about an inch of rainfall for the month of October already.  However... Forecaster Liz Jurkowski says we should see the start of some soaking rain by early Sunday... with about 3/4s to an inch of rain possible.  We'll have a chance of showers Friday night into Saturday... but, Jurkowski says Sunday will be the start of a "more active pattern" of more Fall-like weather... including increased chances of rain.  Rain in the forecast is welcome news to people in the town of Ripley... and, the village of Fredonia... where the drought has really taken a toll.  Ripley remains under a State of Emergency due to "critically low" water levels in their reservoir.  In Fredonia... officials are urging conservation due to low levels.  However... the situation there is not as severe.

Portland woman arrested on warrants, drug possession...
A north county woman has been arrested on multiple Felony warrants... and, illegal drug possession after she was found by Sheriff's deputies at a town of Portland home.  Officers say they had received a tip that 43 year-old Rachel Blanchard was at the location... and, with the help of Narcotics Investigators... they raided the home.  They found Blanchard... who was allegedly in possession of 4-grams of Fentanyl.  She was arrested on the warrants... and the drug possession.  She was jailed pending arraignment.

Rain is on the way this weekend as drought continues in Chautauqua County...
Chautauqua County remains under a drought warning... but, some relief should be on the way by the weekend.  That from the National Weather Service in Buffalo... which reports we're down about an inch of rainfall for the month of October already.  However... Forecaster Liz Jurkowski says we should see the start of some soaking rain by early Sunday.  Jurkowski says a cold front is going to come across the area... and, that'll bring some rain early in the weekend... but, she says Sunday we'll see rain most of th day with at least half, to three-quarters of an inch of soaking rain.  Jurkowski says that'll be the start of a "more active pattern" of more Fall-like weather... including increased chances of rain into next week.  She says we'll also see more seasonal temperatures come next week... ranging from the upper 50s to low 60s.  

Town of Ripley's State of Emergency continues, but, residents and county and fire officials helping out...
The news of some significant rain coming is welcome news in the town of Ripley... where customers of the town's Water District are now under a State of Emergency.  Town officials, along with the Chautauqua County Health Department, Tuesday declared the emergency due to "critically low" water levels in the town's reservoir.  Since then... the county's Director of Environmental Health Services, Jessica Wuerstle, says local fire departments have set up a fire truck relay to bring water from Lake Erie to the reservoir.  Wuerstle adds that the water in the reservoir is safe to drink.  Town Supervisor Lauree Pless says they have also set up the first bottled water distribution to local residents for tomorrow morning at the Town Highway Building from 9 a.m. to Noon.  Ripley Water and Sewer District Superintendent, Andrew Strine, thanked the district's 18-hundred customers... the county and others for helping them out.  For drinking water and fire emergencies... he says they want to keep at least 100-thousand gallons of water in the reservoir.  He says they met that goal Wednesday.

Water conservation now being urged in village of Fredonia...
The village of Fredonia... which also has a water system that depend's on a reservoi... has also begun urging users to also reduce water usage.  Village officials add the ongoing lack of rainfall has significantly impacted the reservoir, which is now in extreme danger of reaching a critically low point.  Fredonia's Emergency Manager, Josh Myers, says if the current trends continue, the Village’s ability to produce and supply adequate drinking water will be severely compromised.  The county's Environmental Health Services Director, Jessica Wuerstle says there are three reservoirs in the county... including Westfield, Ripley and Fredonia... and, she says all three a reporting much lower levels due to the drought.  Fredonia officials are asking all village residents, businesses, and institutions to take the steps to help mitigate the situation by following immediate conservation measures -- like those in Ripley.

Fredonia mayor says he's disappointed that village is facing another lawsuit surrounding where it gets it's water...
Fredonia Mayor Mike Ferguson says he's "not surprised, but disappointed" that the village is facing a second lawsuit over a decision to abandon its current water system in favor of an alternate source.  Ferguson is calling on village taxpayers to "step up and speak out" about the suit brought by three village residents that was filed late last week in State Supreme Court in Mayville.  He says this lawsuit will likely cost as much, if not more, than a suit that was filed in early 2024.  Ferguson says that suit cost just over $32,000... and, this one may well cost more than that.  That legal action kept the village from implementing a project to get its water directly from the City of Dunkirk.  Ferguson adds that the new lawsuit may ultimately end up costing taxpayers as much as $8-million to $13 million, due to a possible loss of grant funding from the state for the project to connect the village to the North County Water District.  He says that's due to the fact there are deadlines for getting the paperwork finalized.  The current suit contends that the village violated the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act, General Municipal Law, and the Village Code during the process of pursuing the project.  On Sept. 10, the Board of Trustees approved a resolution, 4-1, to move forward with the project that also involves demolishing the water treatment plant and decommissioning the dam at the Fredonia Reservoir.

Two north county women arrested following assault/menacing...
Two women from Irving have been arrested for allegedly getting into a physical altercation at a home on Buffalo Road in the town of Hanover.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene about 6 p.m. Tuesday... and, found that 29 year-old Kaitlin Parker of Milestrip Extention had struck 60 year-old Kimberly Cook multiple times.  Deputies say Cook had tried to hit Parker with a baseball bat... and, she was arrested for second-degree menacing.  Parker was arrested for third-degree assault.  Both women were issued appearance tickets for Hanover Town Court at a later date.

Three city residents arrested following drug raid on Jamestown's westside...     
Three Jamestown residents have been arrested on multiple drug-related charges following a raid on an apartment late last week on the city's westside.  Jamestown police say members of the Metro Drug Task Force... and, Chautauqua County Sheriffs Office Narcotics Investigators executed a search warrant at 17 West 7th St. shortly after Noon last Thursday... and, located the three:  49 year-old Wendy Merrill... 43 year-old Tiffany Mahoney... along with five other people.  They add that 32 year-old David Burkhart III was found on the front porch of the residence, actively trying to be let into the apartment as officers approached.  Once the apartment was secured... detectives searched and found 10.4 grams of methamphetamine... 7.3-grams of fentanyl... a small amount of crack cocaine... digital scales... packaging materials... hypodermic needles and a small amount of cash.  Police say Merrill and Mahoney were both charged with two counts each of third-and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, three counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... along with two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphenalia.  Burkhart is charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a contrlled substance... and, on an outstanding city court arrest warrant.  The other five subjects were released without charges.  Police say all three suspects were held pending arraignment.
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In addition...  police say the city's Department of Development was later called in... and, condemned the apartment, which was in deplorable condition.  Anyone with information about drug or other criminal activity is asked to call the JPD Tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.  For the Sheriff's Office tip line... call either 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420.

Ripley Water District remains under State of Emergency... but, water levels holding at necessary levels...
The lack of rainfall in recent weeks has Chautauqua County, and Ripley town officials to now declare a State of Emergency with "critically low" water levels in the town's reservoir.  Last week... officials issued a "Mandatory Water Conservation Order..." which remains in effect for all customers of the Ripley Water District.  County Health Department officials say, despite efforts to reduce water use, a lack of rainfall since early last week has caused reservoir levels to continue to decline.  A further review Tuesday found that stronger measures are necessary to safeguard public health and safety.  Water supplied to district customers remains safe to drink... but, bottled water donations are being requested from local retailers... and, the first will be held this coming Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon at the Town Highway Building.  Details about distribution will be shared once they become available.  Water is also being trucked to the reservoir increase supply to the treatment plant.  Residents should expect increased fire truck activity along Routes 20 and 76 during this period.  
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Ripley officials are calling on conserving a number of ways... including turning off the faucet while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes;  Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.  Take short showers... use disposable plates, cups, and utensils.  Do not wash vehicles... hose down sidewalks, decks, or driveways — use a broom instead.  For more information... call the Ripley Water District at 413-8010... or the County Health Department at 753-4481.

Fredonia water users now being called on to conserve water as it's reservoir levels drop...
The village of Fredonia... which also has a water system that depend's on a reservoir for it's water... has also begun urging users to also reduce water usage.  Village officials add the ongoing lack of rainfall has significantly impacted the reservoir, which is now in
extreme danger of reaching a critically low point.  Fredonia's Emergency Manager, Josh Myers, says if the current trends continue, the Village’s ability to produce and supply adequate drinking water will be severely compromised.  County Environmental Health Services Director, Jessica Wuerstle says there are three reservoirs in the county... including Westfield, Ripley and Fredonia... and residents should be aware, and "reduce the amount of water they're using in their daily lives."  Fredonia officials are asking all village residents, businesses, and institutions to take the steps to help mitigate the situation following immediate conservation measures. 

Two city residents arrested for animal cruelty...
Two Jamestown residents were arrested Tuesday afternoon for alleged animal cruelty at a home on the city's northside.  city police say they were called to the location about 3:30 p.m., and, found two malnourished dogs who were in poor health.  Officers arrested the owners... 56 year-old Robert Santiago, and 29 year-old Melissa Santiago... and both dogs were seized.  Police say both Santiagos are charged with two counts each of overdriving... torturing... and, injuring animals -- failure to provide sustenance.  Both were issued appearance tickets for city court.

Ripley now under State of Emergency for "critically low" reservoir water levels...

An on-going lack of rainfall has led Chautauqua County, and Ripley town officials to declare a State of Emergency with "critically low" water levels in the town's reservoir.  In addition... officials say their Mandatory Water Conservation Order remains in effect for all customers of the Ripley Water District.  County Health Department officials say, despite efforts to reduce water use, a lack of rainfall since early last week has caused reservoir levels to continue to decline.  Following a further review earlier today... officials determined that stronger measures are necessary to safeguard public health and safety.  Water supplied to district customers remains safe to drink... but, bottled water donations are being requested from local retailers to help reduce household water use and preserve the limited Reservoir supply.  Details about the distribution of bottled water will be shared as soon as they become available.  In addition... local authorities are coordinating efforts to transport water via fire trucks to the Ripley Reservoir to increase supply to the treatment plant.  Residents should expect increased fire truck activity along Routes 20 and 76 during this period.  Town Supervisor Laura Pless says... in a press statement... says all Ripley Water District customers — both residential and commercial — must take steps to reduce water usage.  These restrictions will remain in place until further notice and can be enforced now that a state of emergency has been declared.  Pless adds the town "sincerely appreciates the collaboration and support we are receiving from Chautauqua County and New York State Emergency Services, and our local fire department.  Their tireless efforts to assist the Town are greatly appreciated.”
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There are several ways to conserve water Ripley officials ask you to take:  They include:  turning off the faucet while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes;  Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.  take short showers; turn off water while lathering. Skip pre-rinsing dishes; most dishwashers can remove food particles without pre-rinsing... and, use disposable plates, cups, and utensils.  Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator or microwave — not under running water.  Do not wash vehicles... hose down sidewalks, decks, or driveways — use a broom instead.  Do not water lawns or landscaping... nor fill pools, hot tubs, or other large containers.  And... make every toilet flush count.  Don’t use the toilet like a garbage can to flush away tissues, etc.  For more information... call the Ripley Water District at 716-413-8010... or the County Health Department at 753-4481.
 

Pa. pair arrested following traffic stop in Jamestown for drug possession...
Two people from Pennsylvania face multiple Felony drug possession charges following a traffic stop on Jamestown's southside last Saturday night.  City police say they conducted the stop on a vehicle in the area of Cole Avenue and Snell Place shortly after 8 p.m. for multiple traffic infractions.  Officers identified the two occupants as 30 year-old Rachel Anderson... and, 35 year-old Shane Hurlburt.  Police say their investigation led to a search of the vehicle... and, they found about 242-grams of Methamphetamine... 6.6-grams of fentanyl that was individually packaged... a digital scale... and, drug paraphernalia.  Both were taken into custody without incident... and, taken to the city jail pending arraignment.  While at the jail... officers also found that Hurlburt had an outstanding parole warrant in Pennsylvania, and was in possession of an additional quantity of meth and cocaine.  Anderson was charged with one count each of second, third and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and second-degree criminal possession of drug paraphernalia.  Hurlburt was charged with two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, being a fugitive from justice.

City woman arrested for alleged assault on Jamestown's northside...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for assault following a call for an unwanted person at an address on the city's northside late last week.  Jamestown police say they were called to the unidentified location shortly before 6 p.m. last Thursday... and, found that 27 year-old Kaisha Diaz had gotten into an altercation with the victim... and, then bit... struck... and, tried to choke the victim.  Diaz is also accused of damaging a window screen before fleeing the scene.  Diaz was found a short time later at her residence... and, she was taken into custody without further incident.  She was charged with third-degree assault... criminal obstruction of breathing... and, fourth-degree criminal mischief.  She was jailed pending arraignment.

Jamestown man assault's teen during domestic incident...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly getting into a fight with child under the age of 17 during a domestic incident on Jamestown's eastside late last week.  City police say they were called to the location just before 7:30 p.m. for a "physical domestic."  Officers say they found that 23 year-old Brandon Adams got into an altercation with the teenager... and, during the altercation it was found that Adams had in kicked a door that struck the victim, causing a hand injury.  He was arrested for endangering the welfare of a child... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Ecklund interested in looking into proposed, county "Government Efficiency Fund..."
The city of Jamestown is "100%" open to discussions about consolidations and sharing services that could be eligible for funding by Chautauqua County.  That from Mayor Kim Ecklund after the proposal was made by County Executive P-J Wendel during his budget presentation on Sept. 24.  Wendel called for creation of a $500,000 "Government Efficiency Fund" to help pay upfront costs for local government mergers and consolidations.  Ecklund made her comments during her budget presentation last Wednesday... and, believes it's "critical" that the city look at it if -- and when -- it's approved and in place.  As for right now... Ecklund says city staffing is pretty much set and "adequate."  But... beyond 2026... such discussions would be "wide open."  Wendel has said there are a handful of such discussions already underway in the north county area.  He says the new proposal would allow for the upfronting of the money... which is now only allowed once the project is completed.  Wendel adds it would also expand the county's ability to pay more for those upfront costs... up to $100,000 instead of the current $50,000.

Village of Fredonia sued over most recent vote to join with North County Water District...
The Village of Fredonia has been sued again over the board's decision to go with the North County Water District as it's water supplier.  A proceeding filed in State Supreme Court in Mayville last Friday says former Village Trustee James Lynden... and, Gladys and Marie Sedota... are seeking to annul a resolution the current board approved on Sept. 10 for a project to decommission and demolish the Fredonia Water Treatment Plant... and, decommission the dam at the Fredonia Reservoir.  The project would also connect the village with the North County district.  At the time... Trustee Nicole Siracuse said the move would cost less than going with one of the alternatives... which would maintain and upgrade current infrastruture.  Siracuse says they are also more likely to get more grant funding for going in that direction.  However... Michelle Twichell, who cast the lone "no" vote... said if "something were to happen" with the district's water supply... the village would not get top priority.  

City man arrested for allegedly assaulting juvenile...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly getting into a fight with child under the age of 17 during a domestic incident on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the location just before 7:30 p.m. last Thursday for a "physical domestic."  Officers say they found that 23 year-old Brandon Adams got into an altercation with the teen... and, during the altercation it was found that Adams had kicked in a door that struck the victim, causing a hand injury.  He was arrested for endangering the welfare of a child... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Gillibrand releases statement on release of Israeli hostages by Hamas in Gaza...
New York's Junior U.S. Senator is praising the release of the remaining 20 living Israeli hostages in Gaza.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand says "I am filled with relief and joy seeing 20 hostages rejoin their families after two long years of anguish and I pray for their healing.  While we celebrate their freedom... I hold in my heart the 28 families who still await the return of the remains of their loved ones.”  Some of those have now been released.

North county man arrested for resisting arrest, drug possession and on warrant following weekend traffic stop...
A Dunkirk man has been arrested following a traffic stop early last Saturday in Jamestown after being found to be wanted in the Buffalo area... and, being in possession of cocaine.  City police say a GIVE Targeted Patrol Detail stopped the car... driven by Clarence Williams III... for multipe traffic infractions in the area of East Sixth and Grant Streets shortly after 1 a.m.  Officers say Williams tried to give a false name to evade arrest.  Due to him lying about his identity... police ordered Williams to get out of the car... but, he refused.  Officers then tried to physically remove him... but, Williams resisted.  There was a brief struggle before police were able to get him out of the vehicle.  Once he was outside the car... officers say Williams tried to discard the quantity of cocaine and destroy it.  He was taken into custody... and, charged with resisting arrest... seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree obstruction... false personation... and, tampering witn physical evidence... along with his outstanding warrant out of the Hamburg Police Department.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Brocton man arrested on drug possession charges following traffic stop in Jamestown...
A Brocton man has been arrested on multiple drug possession charges after he was allegedly found to be driving under the influence of drugs late last week in Jamestown.  City police say a patrol spotted 34 year-old Steven Seavy commit a traffic infraction in the area of North Main and West Seventh Streets shortly after 2 a.m. last Thursday... and, stopped the vehicle.  Officers say they spoke with Seavy... and, further investigation found he was driving while impaired by drugs.  He was also accuxed of being in possession of a large quantity of Methylphenidate tablets -- a controlled substance... as well as a quantity of Methamphetamine and others.  Seavy was arrested for driving while ability impaired by drugs... fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  He was arraigned and released with appearance tickets for city court.

Borrello calls James indictment "Karma..."
While Democratic elected officials in New York are decrying last week's indictment of State Attorney General Letitia James as political retribution.... an elected, GOP official from Chautauqua County sees it as "karma" for her.  State Senator George Borrello believes the fraud-related charges against James are legitimate despite claims that President Donald Trump is retaliating against her for previous legal action she led against him.  Borrello says the charges are "real" because they involve her signing a document in Virginia that the house involved would be her "primary residence."  He also spoke about $10-million that's set aside in the state budget that Republicans have criticized as a defense fund for state elected officials who face federal investigations.  He says it appears that the Attorney General has not decided to use those funds as of yet.  When Borrello was asked if he believes the indictment will compromise James' ability to do her job, the Sunset Bay Republican said, "I don't know how it could negatively impact her job because I don't think she's doing it well to begin with."

Absolut of Westfield's union chief talks about nursing home being shut-down in one week...
News of the decision to close Absolut of Westfield by the end of the month came as a surprise to the union representing the workers at that nursing facility.  Executive Vice-President Todd Hobler of 1199SEIU Upstate, says it was "a bit of an outrage" because none of the workers, residents and community members were "in the loop" when the McGuire Group submitted its plans to the New York State Department of Health.  Hobler says by the time they found out, "it was a done deal."  The union says it has submitted a demand to bargain over the impact of the closure to workers and has since held meetings with workers to discuss plans going forward. Hobler says the impact of the closure will be "pretty dramatic" to not just workers, but the community at large.  Absolut Care of Westfield is scheduled to close a week from today on Monday, Oct. 20.  

Langworthy joins in penning letter to Schumer and Gillibrand calling for end to shut-down...
Republican members of Congress -- including local Representative Nick Langworthy -- have signed onto a letter to Senate Democratic leaders calling on them to vote to "immediately reopen the federal government.  Langworthy says the letter is being sent to Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer of New York... and, the state's Junior Senator -- Kirsten Gillibrand.  The Buffalo-area Republican says Congressman Mike Lawler of New York led the effort... and, the delegation "condemned Schumer and Gillibrand for reversing their long-held positions on avoiding government shutdowns and prioritizing partisan politics over the needs of hardworking New Yorkers." 

City man gets 6-years in prison on drug possession charge...
A man from Jamestown has been sentenced to six-years in state prison on a drug possession charge following a home visit in November of 2023.  Chautauqua County Distrrict Attorney Jason Schmidt says 29 year-old Donavan Paquette was arrested on several charges following the supervised home visit by County Probation... and, Jamestown police.  Schmidt says Paquette was later indicted by the county Grand Jury on charges of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  The defendant later pled guilty to one count of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, was sentenced in County Court this past Monday.

Man from Westfield charged in connection with fatal, trailer fire in Ripley...
A Westfield man is facing charges in connection with the death of a Ripley woman this past August.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says a grand jury on Wednesday indicted 40-year-old Jonathan Wilson on charges of second-degree murder, third-degree arson, and aggravated cruelty to animals for allegedly killing 43-year-old Alice Waters and her dog in the town of Westfield.  Schmidt says an investigation determined that Wilson fatally shot Waters inside a camper at 7984 McKinley Rd. on Aug.6, then left the scene briefly before coming back and setting fire to the camper with Waters and her dog inside.  Schmidt says Waters' dog succumbed to the heat and smoke that resulted from the fire.  He says Wilson, who was being held in the Chautauqua County Jail on a warrant out of the town of Sheridan, is now jailed without bail.   Wilson pleaded not guilty to all three counts in the indictment.  Schmidt says Wilson's next court date will be Oct. 31.   The indictment was the result of a multi-agency investigation that also involved the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office, and Westfield Police and the Westfield Fire Department.

City woman arrested following large fight earlier in the week at 7-Eleven store, now faces another charge...
A Jamestown woman arrested with another woman for their alleged involvement in a large fight at the 7-Eleven store on North Main Street faces an additional charge.  City police say 35 year-old Leonela Rodriguez was arrested last Sunday night after allegedly hitting and biting another person during the fight.  Officers later determined that Rodriguez was "highly intoxicated" after being at the Wine Cellar bar earlier in the evening.  At the jail... police say she decided to relieve herself by deficating and urinating onto the floor of her jail cell.  She then allegedly tried to kick the water at officers while spitting on them.  Rodriguez was additionally charged with third-degree tampering.

Jackson Center hosts Naturalization Ceremony for 56 new Americans...
There are 56 new U.S. citizens in the region following a naturalization ceremony in Jamestown Thursday morning at the Robert H. Jackson Center.  The Cappa Theater was briefly turned into a courtroom of the U-S District Court of Western New York... with Justice Mark Pedersen presided over the ceremony.  Jackson Center President Kristan McMahon says this was the third ceremony hosted by them.  McMahon says they began hosting them the year the Smithsonian Exhibit at the center... and, says it's "for me, it's one of the most visable, and joyous ways for us to live our mission."  McMahon says the 56 new American citizens come from 21 different countries... as close as Canada and distant as Malaysia.  Judge Pederson was presented a motion from an officer of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announcing each of the candidates are eligible... and, ready to take the oath of citizenship.  The judge happily accepted the motion.  The Clerk of the Court administered the oath to each new citizen.  One of them led the Pledge of Allegiance, and each were called to accept their official citizenship certificate.

Wdowiasz to present 2026 Dunkirk budget proposal next week...
Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz is in the final stages of preparing a draft of her tentative 2026 city budget, and she is looking to unveil that spending plan next week.  During Tuesday's Common Council meeting... Wdowiasz revealed that she plans to make her budget presentation on Tuesday, Oct. 14.  She says this year's presentation is happening later in the calendar compared to previous years because the city wanted to wait for release of the 2024 audit... to make sure they're on pace to meet their spending guidelines going into 2025.  Wdowiasz says she is aiming to stay under the state's 2% tax cap, but the final number will depend on what the Common Council wants.

A.G. James gets indicted in federal mortgage fraud case...
New York Attorney General Letitia James was indicted Thursday in a mortgage fraud case that President Donald Trump urged his Justice Department to bring after vowing retribution against some of his biggest political enemies.  James, a Democrat who infuriated Trump after his first term with a lawsuit alleging that he built his business empire on lies about his wealth, was charged with bank fraud and making false statements to a financial institution in connection with a home purchase in Norfolk, Virginia in 2020.  The top federal prosecutor for the Eastern District of Virginia, a former Trump aide, personally presented the case to the grand jury weeks after she was thrust into the role amid the administration’s pressure to deliver charges. 

Ecklund proposes tentative, $45.5-million budget with 7.5% tax increase...
Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund is proposing a $45.5-million budget for 2026 that increases taxes by 7.5%.  However... Ecklund adds that it uses a majority of the city's rainday fund to do it.  Ecklund presented the budget at City Hall Wednesday afternoon... noting that the proposal uses just over $3.3-million of the city's remaining $6.28-million undesignated fund balance.  Ecklund says it's a "very risky and concerning move... and, she's expressed those concerns to City Comptroller Ericka Thomas, and retired Comptroller Joe Bellitto, who has lent his expertise in crafting the 2026 budget, as well as the one for the current year.  Ecklund says the property tax rate... under the plan... would increase by $2.01 cent per $1,000 assessed value... while the levy is up by $1.2-million.  She says there are some significant losses in property value... totaling about $6-million... with the majority of that coming from reductions, and loss of four properties.  City Council will begin formal deliberations on Oct. 20.  The budget is due by Dec. 1.

City woman arrested after allegedly using her young daughter to shield her from arrest...
A woman from Jamestown is accused of trying to use her young daughter as a shield to prevent city police from arresting her late last week.  Jamestown police say they were called to a southside address shortly before 10 p.m. last Thursday for a disorderly person.  When officers arrived... they found that 35 year-old Briana Winslow was being disorderly inside the home... and, had an active warrant for her arrest.  Upon making contact with her... Winslow allegedly grabbed her four-year old daughter in an attempt to prevent officers from taking her into custody.  Winslow continued to scream... kick at officers... and, threw herself around her bed, all while holding onto her daughter.  A short time later... the 4-year old was safely taken from Winslow... and, officers tried to take her into custody.  However... she continued to resist, and refused to place her hands behind her back.  After a brief struggle, Winslow was arrested for resisting arrest... and, endangering the welfare of a child... in addition to the bench warrant.  She was jailed pending arraignment.

Pair of Jamestown women arrested following large fight inside 7-Eleven store on North Main St....
Two city women have been arrested following a large fight at the 7-Eleven store on Jamestown's northside late Sunday night.  City police were called to the scene at 518 North Main St. about 10:30 p.m., and on arrival, officers secured the scene and requested EMS because several of those involved had apparent injuries.  Police say they found that 34 year-old Darieli Rodriguez had entered the store... and, began provoking customers before striking and biting one.  They add that 35 year-old Leonela Rodriguez... who was with Darieli, also bit and injured another person.  Both women were taken into custody and transported to the city jail.  Darieli Rodriguez is charged with second-degree harassment... and second-degree obstructing governmental administration.  Leonela was charged with third-degree assault.  Darieli Rodriguez was jailed pending arraignment... while Leonela was released with an appearance ticket for city court.

Langworthy touts attention to the plight of rural hospitals... and, potential loss of support at WMH...
The future of rural hospitals could be in jeopardy at a time where some -- including Westfield Memorial Hospital -- are doing better.  In fact... contrary to what a Democratic colleague recently stated -- local Congressman Nick Langworthy says Westfield is doing well and even expanding it's mission.  The Buffalo-area Republican stood in front of new construction taking at the hospital... which is now classified as a Rural Emergency Hospital as opposed to a full, inpatient facility.  Langworthy says Westfield is transitioning to becoming a "24/7 -- Emergency, Observation, and Outpatient Care Facility.  He says hospitals -- like Westfield Memorial -- will also benefit from One Big Beautiful Bill because it included $50-billion for a new, Rural Health Transformation program... which he says is in jeopardy now due to the federal government shut-down.  Langworthy says the Democrat proposal for a continuing resolution keep the tax subsidies for the Affordable Care Act in place... along with expanded Medicaid -- which he says includes coverage for illegal immigrants.  However... he says it would eliminate the $50-billion rural health care program.

Falconer man arrested at County Jail for allegedly destroying phone handset in his cell...
A Falconer man being held at the Chautauqua County Jail has now been arrested for alegedly destroying a phone handset inside his holding cell.  Sheriff's officers say 37 year-old Shaun Clutter as being held on unrelated charges... and, while being held in his cell Sunday night... Clutter intentionally smashed the handset against the cement block wall causing it to shatter.  Deputies say the handset had to be replaced... and, he was additionally charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief.

Fight on Jamestown's southside lands another person in jail...
A Jamestown teenager has been arrested following a fight on the city's southside early Monday evening.  Jamestown police were called to the scene shortly before 7 p.m., and, spoke with the two people involved.  During the investigation... officers say 19 year old Leanette Arizmendi tried to restart the fight.  Police tried to take Arizmendi into custody... but, she tried to pull away from officers.  After a very brief struggle... Arizmendi was finally arrested on one count each of second-degree obstructing governmental administration... and, resisting arrest.  She was issued an appearancet ticket for city court.

Fire at County Landfill keeps firefighters from nine department's busy early Monday morning...
Several south and center Chautauqua County fire departments responded to a significant fire at the county landfill near Ellery overnight.  Sinclairville Fire officials say they were called to the Towerville Road locations just after 3:30 a.m., and, called in eight other mutual aid departments.  They worked to truck water to the locations... using a tanker shuttle system with a fill site established at the Den Adelsman's Klub.  The situation was brought under control when Landfill staff were able to mitigate the fire at its source by deploying heavy equipment to cover the affected area with dirt.  The fire was contained considered "stable" about three hours later.  Mutual aid was provided by Ashville... Cassadaga... Ellery Center... Ellington... Falconer... Fluvanna... Gerry and Stockton.  No cause has been released... and no injuries were reported.

DEC fines Great Lakes Cheese Company in Franklinville $475,000 
The Great Lakes Cheese plant in Cattaraugus County has been fined nearly half-a-million dollars in penalties and corrective actions for last August's discharge into Ischua Creek.  The announcement was made Monday afternoon by the state Department of Environmental Conservation... noting that the $475,000 is required in an Order of Consent the DEC entered into with the Franklinville company.  The discharge resulted in a large fish and wildlife die-off... and, the enforcement requires "significant operational changes and full compliance with water quality, air quality, and chemical and petroleum requirements, enhanced real-time water quality monitoring to further protect Ischua Creek, and other actions closely overseen by DEC to ensure effective implementation."  The DEC Commissioner adds that the "enforcement action not only secures a large fine but also requires a project that will benefit environmental quality in the community and help it heal from the significant loss of tens of thousands of fish and other aquatic species."  The consent order addresses the numerous violations connected to the Ischua Creek impacts and earlier violations assessed in June and July 2025.  DEC required a total civil penalty of $475,000 -- $250,000 paid to DEC, and $75,000 suspended pending compliance with the terms and conditions of the Order and an environmental benefit project valued at $150,000.  The DEC will also pursue a Natural Resources Damage claim against Great Lakes Cheese, as warranted, to ensure restoration of the impacted section of Ischua Creek. 

Ecklund to present proposed, 2026 budget Wednesday afternoon...
Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund will release her proposed, 2026 budget plan during a presentation Wednesday afternoon at City Hall.  During Monday night's Council work session... Ecklund announced the presentation would be made at 3:30 p.m. in the Police Training Room on the fourth-floor of City Hall... and, adds her budget team will be hard at work on the proposal up until the last minute.  She urged council members to be on hand... if they can make it.  If not... she says her administration will get it to them a copy of the budget sometime following the presentation.

U.S. Dept. of Energy Grant for BPU Micro-Grid project "terminated..."
The U.S. Department of Energy has cancelled more than 300 federal grants for projects nationwide... including $17-million for the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities Micro-Grid project.  A list of the 321 terminated awards were obtained by Latitude Media... and, every cancelled award was for a project led by a company based in a Democrat-led state.  The canceled amount of the awards totaled nearly $8-billion.  The BPU's award of $17.37-million was for the total project of $23.2-million.  A BPU official told Media One late Monday morning that they had received no confirmation of any grant award being terminated... and, would not be commenting on it.  The BPU had been awarded the funding about a year ago... and, had already sent out requests-for-proposals that were due at the beginning of June for the project.  The microgrid would utilize the city utility’s existing gas-fired turbine, a district heating system, and would add a battery storage system for “black start” capability.  Black start is a process of restoring power to a part of the electric grid without connecting to the external electric transmission or distribution system.

"Made in Falconer" event also highlights renewed effor to get local students to consider careers in the trades, and manufacturing...
Last Saturday's "Made in Falconer" event was a chance to celebrate local manufacturing... but, it was also a call to arms because a lot of those jobs are going unfilled.  Several local manufacturers say they don't have enough people to replace baby-boomers who are retiring.  County Executive P.J Wendel... who taught school for about 25 years in Falconer... says there needs to be a change in the local "mind-set."  Wendel says the emphasis was on going to college for many years... but, now with boomers retiring "there's almost a panic" in trying to "replace these people."  He also related a recent story about a conversation he had with the superintendent at the Chautauqua Lake School District about a female graduate who took some tech in high school, and is going onto a job that pays $38 an hour to start.  State Senator George Borrello highlighted the achievements of local manufacturers... including Ellison Bronze... which is where the day began.  State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor noted that both his father and grandfather worked in the tool-and-die trade... and, their work ethic rubbed off on the family. 
 

Flash fire-explosion at McDonald's in Fredonia sends two to the hospital...
An explosion and flash fire injured three workers... one seriously... at the McDonald's restaurant on East Main Street in Fredonia late last night.  Village Police say the county's dispatch center received multiple 9-1-1 calls shortly before 10:30 p.m. reporting the explosion.  Fredonia firefighters with mutual aid from Dunkirk... arrived within three minutes of the call... and, found all occupants evacuated and being treated at the scene.  A Fredonia Fire Captain confirmed that the fire had been contained by the sprinkler system with no extension... and, the utilities were secured.  One of the three workers was flown by Medivac helicopter to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo... while another was taken to Brook's Hospital in Dunkirk.  A third was treated at the scene.  County fire investigators say an employee had pulled out a grilling unit in order to clean behind it... but, in doing so... the natural gas line that supplied the grilling unit became detached, allowing gas to flow freely and it was ignited by another grilling causing the explosion.  They add that safety features that were in place automatically shut off the natural gas supply and put out the fire keeping damages to a minimum.  The McDonalds Restaurant was closed and this fire is being ruled accidental in nature.  No first responders were hurt.  Crews were at the scene about three hours.  It's not known if the McDonald's had reopened.

City teen arrested for holding person against their will...
A Jamestown teen is accused of holding a woman against her will during a domestic dispute on the city's eastside late last week.  Jamestown police were called to the scene last Friday... and, on arrival... made contact with the suspect, 18 year-old James Leonard.  Officers determined that Leonard had restrained the victim... not allowing her to leave the home.  Leonard was arrested without incident on one count of second-degree unlawful imprisonment.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

"Made in Falconer" event helps kick-off Manufacturing Month in county...
Six manufacturing companies in Falconer were featured during the kick-off to the second-ever "Made in Falconer" event in the south county village last Saturday.  The program began at Ellison Bronze on Main Street to help kick-off "National Manufacturing Month" locally.  It was hosted by the CHQ Chamber... and, Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Dan Heitzenrater says the day gave people the chance to learn more about the manufacturers in their community... noting there's a "great partnership" going on to highlight and showcase what each manufacturer does.  Ellison Bronze President and Chief Executive Officer Tracy Hultin says they were pleased to host the event.  Hultin says last year's "Made in Falconer" event gave people a chance to see how they make their custom, balanced doors.  She says their custom doors are on many U.S. Navy Ships... and, were on the ground-floor of the former World Trade Center towers -- prior to the "9/11" terrorist attacks.  Still... their doors are also in the new "Freedom Tower" in NYC.  Also taking part again was the Manufacturer's Association of the Southern Tier.  MAST Executive Director Todd Tranum says Western New York still makes -- and ships -- about $26.5-billion of product each year.  In addition to the tours of the six plants through the CHQ Transit Trolley program... stops were also made at other business locations... including West Main Mercantile.  Also on hand for the kick-off were State Senator George Borrello... Assemblyman Andrew Molitor... and, County Executive P.J. Wendel.  Falconer Mayor Jim Jaroszynski also offered comments. 

CHQ Chamber presents business awards at annual banquet...
The CHQ Chamber celebrated several high-achieving businesses and organizations Thursday evening at one of its biggest annual events.  A large gathering of businesspeople throughout Chautauqua County packed SUNY at Fredonia's Williams Center for the Chamber's Awards Banquet.  Among the award recipients was Fredonia's White Inn, which was named the Hospitality Business of the Year.  Co-owner Steve St. George says he and co-owner Devin Jones, who purchased the facility in 2022, have received plenty of community support.  The White Inn reopened to the public last November.  The Business of the Year Award went to the Bemus Point Golf Club & Tap House.  Karen Kearney was on hand to accept that award on the owners' behalf... and, says it's "exciting" to be recognized.  The other awards went to West Main Mercantile in Falconer for Emerging Business of the Year... Porter-Blair Cleaning Company in Jamestown got Service Business of the Year.  Triple E Manufacturing in Sherman is Producer of the Year... and, the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities is Business Champion of the Year.
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The CHQ Chamber also recognized numerous businesses and organizations for milestone years of service.

City man arrested on multiple warrants, and drug possession...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested on several active, city court warrants... and, allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of methamphetamine.  Jamestown police say a foot patrol encountered 31 year-old Mackenzie Kelley just before 8 a.m. last Friday... and, were aware of the warrant.  Officers took Kelley into custody without incident... and, upon further investigation... found Kelley with the meth.  He was subsequently charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... in addition to the warrants.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Woman originally from Gowanda arrested in Texas for fatal, DWI crash in town of Hanover in 2023...
A former Gowanda resident has been arrested on seven charges in connection with a fatal, two-car crash that occurred in the Town of Hanover in December 2023.   Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says an investigation involving State Police led to the indictment of 25-year-old Milly Garcia, who now lives in Texas.  Schmidt says Garcia was the driver of one of the vehicles involved in the crash on Route 39... and says three people were in the other car... with one dying, and the other two seriously hurt.  State Police Trooper James O'Callaghan says Garcia was indicted by a Chautauqua County grand jury on Aug. 22 and was taken into custody locally Wednesday night after being extradited from Texas.  According to Schmidt, toxicology results determined that Garcia had a BAC more than 2 1/2 times the legal limit when the crash took place.  He says her BAC was .21%... and, there was also evidence of her using marijuana, as well.  Schmidt says 31-year-old Miranda Fraley of Ripley died in the crash, while Angela Waldemarson of Westfield and William Hamilton of Portland suffered life-threatening injuries.  Garcia faces two Felony counts of aggravated vehicular homicide, one count of vehicular manslaughter, two counts of aggravated vehicular assault, one count of vehicular assault, DWI, and aggravated DWI.  Schmidt says Garcia was arraigned Thursday... and, is being held in the County Jail on $50,000 cash bail... or $100,000 property bond.  She pleaded not guilty and will return to court on Oct. 27.

Silver Creek woman arrested for leaving scene of DWI crash...
A Silver Creek woman has been arrested for allegedly leaving the scene of a drunk driving accident in the village of Silver Creek.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene at the intersection of Central Avenue and Christy Street just after 11 p.m. Wednesday... and learned the driver -- 73 year-old Alexandria Amendola -- had left the scene.  Deputies later found Amendola... and, determined she had been driving while intoxicated.  Officers arrested her for DWI... Leaving the scene of a property damage accident... moving from lane unsafely... and, third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation.  Amendola was issued appearance tickets for Hanover Town Court at a later date.

Investigation continues into Barker St. house fire in Jamestown...
The investigation is continuing into a house fire on Jamestown's southside that city firefighters made quick work of early Wednesday night.  Interim Fire Chief Ryan Rousch says crews were called to 114 Barker St. about 7:30 p.m., and, found flames at the front of the single-family home. Rousch says bystanders, and witnesses helped direct firefighters... who quickly knocked down the flames.  He says firefighters were able to get inside the house shortly after that to check for any extension.  However... none was found and fire investigators were called in.  However... no cause has been determined at this time.  No injuries were reported.  It wasn't clear whether anyone was home at the time the blaze broke out.

Second annual Made in Falconer "Manufacturing Weekend" to be held this weekend...
After a successful debut last year, an open house showcasing a variety of products made in the Village of Falconer is returning this weekend. CHQ Chamber will hold its 2nd annual "Made in Falconer" event on Saturday in celebration of National Manufacturing Month. CHQ Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Dan Heitzenrater says manufacturers throughout the village will participate in this event... with tours every half-hour at places like Fancher Chair... Ellison Bronze, and Dahlstrom Rollform.  Heitzenrater says it's a chance to see "behind the doors and walls" what goes on there.  Along with the manufacturers, there will be several small businesses involved in the open house.  The CHQ Transit Trolley will be making loops through the Falconer region and stop at all participating tour locations, as well as in front of West Main Mercantile, making it easy to park once and ride the trolley to a variety of locations.  Made in Falconer is also made possible with support from the village, the Manufacturers Association of the Southern Tier, and Dream It Do It Western New York.

BPU begins Fall Flushing Friday in Falconer...
The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities Water Division is beginning it's fall water main flushing with the pre-flush in the village of Falconer.  BPU Spokesperson Becky Robbins says the pre-flush begins at 1 p.m. today... in the areas of Aldren, Mapleshade, Ralph and Valmeere Avenues.  Robbins says the entire village will be flushed from 8 p.m. Saturday... overnight into Sunday, Oct. 5 until flushing is completed.  She says water in the village and on the north side of Jamestown can be expected to be discolored when Falconer flushing occurs.  Flushing for the rest of the BPU Water system will take place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, Oct. 6 through 10... and, Monday through Wednesday, Oct. 13 through 15.  The exception will be on Wednesday, Oct. 8, when flushing will begin at 4:30 a.m. to accommodate downtown Jamestown and Fairmount Avenue businesses and restaurants. Water customers on streets and neighborhoods located off West Third Street, Harding and Fairmount Avenue could experience discolored water on Oct. 8, even though their own streets are not directly flushed that day.  Flushing of the mains usually discolors water, especially when the process takes place in the customers’ immediate areas, near or on their scheduled flushing days. Customers may see discolored water at any time during flushing, even on days other than their scheduled flushing days. The BPU’s August customer newsletter contains a two-page color-coded map showing which areas will be flushed on which days.  The maps are also posted on www.jamestownbpu.com.  If you have questions about flushing and the dates... call the Flushing Hotline at (716)661-1613.

County Legislature finds Wendel prposed, 2026 Budget is solid, and looks at few if any changes...
The Chautauqua County Legislature has begun it's review of Executive P.J. Wendel's 2026 tentative budget... and, are looking at only one minor change.  Wendel says lawmakers began looking at the $309.7-million spending plan Monday... and, they call it a "solid" budget that really needs few changes.  He says there was one change to be made... and, that was a cost reduction of $50,000 in social services in overtime.  Wendel adds that he's proud to be able to propose a $.54 per $1,000 assessed value property tax rate reduction... but, says the tax levy increase of $1.7-million is misunderstood.  He says that's being driven by a significant increase in the market value of county properties.  He says those have gone up an average of 11.2%... based on home sales and revaluations.  Wendel says more people have been returning to the county to work and "raise their families."  Wendel says the budget does use more of the undesignated fund balance than he would like... but, adds that it would still remain about 11.5% of expected revenues.  The county did have to use about $2.3-million in contingency funds to cover increase in public assistance "Safety Net" costs.  Wendel made his comments for this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Three arrested in Jamestown on drug charges following traffic stop...
Three people have been arrested on drug possession charges following a traffic stop in Jamestown's Brooklyn Square area early Wednesday morning.  City police say a patrol in the area spotted the car... driven by 44 year-old Joseph Davis... commiting several traffic violations about 3 a.m near Foote Avenue and Harrison Street.  Officers allegedly found Davis... and, his passengers... 39 year-old Christine Park and 23 year-old Michael Shafer... in possession of quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl... and, a digital scale.  Police also allegedly found Park in possession of glassine envelopes and an additional quantity of meth.  All three were taken to the city jail on two counts each of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Davis and Shafer are charged with one count each of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... while Park faces two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Davis was also issued several traffic summonses.

Hochul calls on Congressional Republicans and Democrats to negotiate end to federal shut-down in "good faith..."
New York Governor Kathy Hochul says federal lawmakers need to negotiate in good faith to stop President Donald Trump from continuing to "unleash chaos" on the nation.  Hochul and other state leaders -- including Attorney General Letitia James -- blamed Congressional Republicans for failing to negotiate an end to the stalemate with Democrats involving the first government shutdown in several years.  She says the state will do what it can to mitigate the impact of the shut-down... and, the possbiility of more federal cuts to such programs as the Supplimental Nutrition Assistance Program, WIC and others.  Hochul touted her administration's efforts to make the stawte more affordable... including those inflation reduction checks of $200 for single adults... and, $400 for couples.  Hochul hosted a rally in New York City with the Statue of Liberty in the background.  She says the state will be monitoring whatever cuts are made to programs including the Supplimental Nutrition Assistance Program... WIC... and, Medicaid.  However... she says loss of the Affordable Care Act at the end of 2025 looms for some 25-million Americans.  She says the state is still looking at a federal cut of $750-million in health care this year... and, possibly another $3-billion cut next year.  

DiNapoli says government shutdown will have "painful consequences" on the state...
New York state's fiscal watchdog says the federal government shut-down has "painful consequences" to the state.  Comptroller Tom DiNapoli says prolonged shut-downs hurt the economy... disrupt critical services... and, harms federal workers."  DiNapoli says some people may have their benefits delayed, and business operations may be interrupted.  He says more than "115-thousand federal employees work in New York, ranging from healthcare workers to engineers and, parks workers. The longer the shutdown drags on, the more families and businesses will suffer.  Our economy is slowing down and prices are high.  New Yorkers and all Americans deserve action to get government back up and running."

A city man has been arrested for allegedly threatening to kill, and then hit another person...
A Jamestown man is accused of threatening to kill another person... and, then hitting that person during a domestic incident on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the location about 10:30 a.m. Tuesday for the domestic incident... and, learned that 37 year-old Tyler Stakelum had threatened to kill the victim with a knife.  He then allegedly struck the victim on the right side of the face... causing an abrasion.  Officers also found that the victim had a stay away order of protection against Stakelum... who was taken into custody.  He's charged with second-degree menacing and harassment... first-degree criminal contempt... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, jailed pending arraignment.

Langworthy says government shut-down is totally to be blamed on Senate Democrats...
Senate Democrats used their slim minority last night to vote down a Republican bill to keep the government running... effectively beginning a shutdown just after midnight.  The 55-45 vote Tuesday on the bill to extend federal funding for seven weeks fell short of the 60 needed to end a filibuster and pass the legislation.  With that... local Congressman Nick Langworthy said Tuesday afternoon that Democrats will "own this shut-down."  The 23rd District Representative commented during a press conference at his main district office in Clarence.  He says "we've passed clean funding... it's not controversial... it's just an extention so we can continue the appropriations process."  The finger-pointing ratcheted up in recent days since the House of Representatives approved the latest continuing resolution in a near party-line vote.  Langworthy voted with fellow Republicans in favor of keeping the government operating until late November... and insisted that it continues funding of government programs... and, operations... at the most recent levels of the Biden Administration.  However... he says Democrats... led by Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer of New York... want to add $1.5-trillion in spending... to allow illegal immigrants to receive health care benefits, and maintain "COVID-era spending."  He says that'll take millions away from rural health facilities.  For his part... Schumer says Republicans are trying to “bully” Democrats by refusing to negotiate. 

City police continue investigation into weekend shooting incident on eastside...
Jamestown police say they are continuing to investigate an alleged shooting incident that occured early last Saturday morning on the city's eastside.  In a Facebook post... Jamestown police were called to a reported house party on Curtis Street about 3:30 a.m.  Officers say one person was grazed by a bullet... and, suffered non-life-threatening injuries.  JPD investigators are urging anyone with information on the incident to send them a Facebook message or call the JPD TIPS line at 483-8477.  Police say they are aware of who was involved in the incident... and, that the dispute originated at The Wine Cellar on North Main Street.  JPD adds "we will continue to dedicate available resources to target those individuals involved in violent, reckless acts."

Jamestown police warn of alleged church scam...
City police say they have been made aware of a scam that has targeted at least one area church.  Investigators are warning about this on Facebook.  They say the scammers were able to access the church directory... and, then began emailing and texting the members asking them to purchase gift cards... and, then send the scammer a picture with the gift card information. 

City man arrested for making threats, hitting victim, during domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly threatening to kill... and, then hitting another person during a domestic incident on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the location about 10:30 Tuesday morning for the domestic incident... and, learned that 37 year-old Tyler Stakelum had threatened to kill the victim with a knife.  He then allegedly struck the victim on the right side of the face... causing an abrasion.  Officers also found that the victim had a stay away order of protection against Stakelum... who was taken into custody.  He was charged with second-degree menacing and harassment... first-degree criminal contempt... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, jailed pending arraignment.

City Council approves funding for engineering design work for repairs on Cherry, and Spring St. Ramps...
City lawmakers in Jamestown have approved $78,000 for engineering design work for likely repair work on the Cherry and Spring Street Parking Ramps.  The City Council approved the measures unanimously during Monday night's monthly voting session.  Acting Public Works Director Mark Roetzer says Ryan Biggs Clark Davis had done manditory evaluations of both ramps last Spring.  Roetzer says this will be for smaller repairs, and some traffic coding work that needs to be done.  Roetzer says... since the Cherry Street ramp had some major renovation work recently... that work will only cost $23,000.  The engineering design work for Spring Street will cost $55,000.  At some point... Roetzer says a complete refurbishing of that ramp will have to be done... because it will end up costing more than that for demolition of the structure.  Roetzer says the money will be paid out for both projects from the city's 2021 bond issue.
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City lawmakers Monday night also approved amended right-of-way permitting fees for utility contractors, and building permits.  They also approved amended alternate parking regulations for portions of Pearl Avenue... and, Chandler Street.

Hochul announces completion of State Thruway project between Westfield and Fredonia...
 A $45-million repair project on the New York State Thruway between Fredonia and Westfield in Chautauqua County has been completed.  Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement Tuesday that the project in both the east and westbound lanes between Exits 59 and 60 involved repairs... and new pavement being laid for nearly 70 miles.  Hochul says the project also included clearance improvements to 16 bridges to mitigate any future bridge hits.  She says "New York is committed to rebuilding aging transportation infrastructure and improving commutes in every corner of the state.  By modernizing the Thruway system through significant repaving investments, we can ensure a safe and reliable roadway for all travelers."  The state Department of Transporation says Oakgrove Construction of Elmira was the contractor and completed the project on time, and on budget.