Latest News
Summaries of local government news from verified sources across New York State.
Jeremy Moss Wins Michigan's 11th Congressional District Democratic Primary
CBS News projects Jeremy Moss as the winner of Michigan's 11th congressional district Democratic primary. He will face Republican candidate and Troy Mayor Ethan Baker in November's general election, following Congresswoman Haley Stevens' decision to run for U.S. Senate. Moss defeated three other candidates: attorney Aisha Farooqi, John Paul Torres, and former engineer Don Ufford. The 11th district includes major cities like Auburn Hills, Ferndale, Pontiac, Royal Oak, Troy, West Bloomfield Township, and Wixom. Baker previously served on the Troy City Council before becoming mayor in 2019 and was reelected in 2023.
Assemblymember Bronson Urges Governor to Sign Labor Bills
Democratic Assemblymember and Chair of the Assembly Labor Committee, Harry Bronson, has called on Governor Kathy Hochul to sign several labor-related bills that passed during the legislative session. Despite the end of the current session and the upcoming November elections where all members will be up for re-election, lawmakers continue to introduce new legislation. This includes Senator Pat Fahy's Purple Alert bill aimed at creating an Amber Alert-like system for individuals with disabilities who go missing, and Senator James Skoufis' TEXAS Act which aims to prevent New Yorkers from bearing life insurance costs originating in other states. Additionally, Assemblyman Pat Burke has urged the New York State Police to investigate the Diocese of Buffalo following recent arrests involving child sexual abuse by a priest.
NYC-DSA Survey Reveals Racial Composition
An internal survey conducted by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) in New York City shows that 60% of its members are white. The article notes a slight increase in racial diversity among newer DSA members, suggesting some progress towards inclusivity within the organization. However, concerns remain about representation and engagement across different racial groups.
Catskill Maintains Boil Water Advisory as Coxsackie Lifts It
The Village of Catskill has not lifted its boil water advisory due to cloudy water at the village’s water treatment plant. The advisory will remain in place until the water clears sufficiently, allowing for system flushing. In contrast, Coxsackie recently lifted its own advisory after addressing issues following heavy rains on July 29th.
Saratoga Springs Design Review Board Advances Major Redevelopment Projects
The Saratoga Springs Design Review Board met on August 5, 2026, to review several redevelopment and preservation projects. The board advanced the plans for a 76-unit mixed-use development at 17 West Avenue, which includes ground-floor commercial space and basement parking. Commissioners supported the project's concept but requested further refinements before final approval. Additionally, the Board granted final architectural approval for a 27-unit mixed-use building at 64 Washington Street, marking another milestone in downtown redevelopment efforts. The board also approved modifications to the Excelsior Park/Whistler Court development but declined to approve wire-mesh balcony railings, directing the applicant to submit alternative designs.
N.Y. State Lawmakers Introduce Bills Ahead of January Reset
Despite the legislative session ending and lawmakers facing reelection in November, many members of the New York State Senate and Assembly continue to introduce new bills. One example is state Sen. Pat Fahy's Purple Alert bill, which aims to create an Amber Alert-like response for individuals with disabilities who go missing. Another bill introduced by state Sen. James Skoufis is the TEXAS Act, designed to prevent New Yorkers from bearing life insurance costs originating in other states. Additionally, Assemblyman Pat Burke has called on the New York State Police to investigate the Diocese of Buffalo following an arrest of a priest for child sexual abuse charges.
Small Business Owners Urge Council to Consider Amazon Delivery Model Regulations
In Saratoga Springs, NY, small business owners and associations are urging the City Council to carefully consider the potential real-world impacts of regulating Amazon's delivery model. The concerns raised by these stakeholders highlight the need for a balanced approach that takes into account both the benefits and challenges associated with such regulations. This discussion is part of broader conversations about local economic development and the role of major corporations like Amazon in shaping community dynamics.
Judge Approves New York's Ban on ICE Agreements, Blocks Mask Ban
A federal judge in the Northern District of New York has ruled that New York State’s ban on agreements between local governments and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is valid under state law. The ruling allows for the prohibition of formal 287(g) agreements, which permit ICE to work directly with local police departments to enforce immigration laws. However, the judge also blocked a provision in the same legislation that would have prohibited ICE agents from wearing masks while performing their duties. Additionally, Governor Kathy Hochul signed several measures into law aimed at limiting cooperation between state and local entities and ICE, including prohibitions on holding individuals for ICE and banning formal agreements with ICE.
Governor Hochul Announces $10 Million for Cardiac Care Expansion in South Bronx
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a significant investment of nearly $10 million to complete the construction of a new cardiac catheterization lab at Lincoln Hospital, located in the south Bronx. This initiative aims to enhance access to critical and lifesaving heart care services for residents in the area. The funding is part of Governor Hochul's broader efforts to improve healthcare accessibility across New York State without increasing taxes on citizens.
Mayor Mamdani Establishes Office to Prevent Deed Theft
Troy Mayor Mamdani has established the Mayor’s Office of Deed Theft Prevention and appointed Peter White as its director. This new office aims to address the issue of deed theft, which can lead to significant property fraud and financial loss for homeowners. The initiative underscores the city's commitment to enhancing public safety and protecting residents' assets.
Governor Hochul Announces $10 Million for New Cardiac Lab and Details Budget Initiatives
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a nearly $10 million investment to build a new cardiac catheterization lab at Lincoln Hospital in the South Bronx, aimed at expanding access to critical heart care services. This initiative is part of Governor Hochul's broader efforts to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability across New York State. Additionally, she highlighted key budget initiatives for fiscal year 2027, which include funding for universal child care without increasing taxes on residents. The governor also emphasized her commitment to making life more affordable for New Yorkers through measures such as inflation refund checks sent out in fall 2025 and the implementation of smartphone restrictions in K-12 schools starting September 2025.
NYC's Luxury Second-Home Tax Survives Initial Court Challenge
A Staten Island judge temporarily blocked New York City’s luxury second-home tax on Monday. However, the city swiftly appealed this decision, lifting the restraining order and allowing the rollout of Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s policy to proceed until a higher court rules on its legality. The non-primary residence tax, also known as the pied-à-terre tax, targets properties valued at $5 million or more in an effort to help close the city's budget deficit by raising taxes on wealthy individuals who own second homes.
Mayor Gahan to Attend MUST Meeting Amid SEA 1 Concerns
Mayor Jeff Gahan of New Albany will attend the Municipal Unit Strategic Taskforce (MUST) meeting as part of ongoing discussions about Senate Enrolled Act 1 (SEA 1). Mayor Gahan emphasizes that New Albany's participation in the MUST process is not an endorsement of city-county mergers or service consolidations. He highlights the city’s strong financial record, including consecutive years of budget surpluses and excellent audits without tax increases. The mayor stresses the importance of maintaining local decision-making authority and protecting public safety funding to preserve residents' quality of life.
Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Addresses UDO Amendments and Budget Concerns
During the Saratoga Springs City Council meeting on August 4, 2026, community members and preservation organizations expressed strong opposition to proposed amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). They raised concerns about reducing demolition reviews in architectural districts, diminishing the Design Review Board's authority, and risking the city’s Certified Local Government status. Mayor Stafford defended the process, stating that it aims to protect property owners from arbitrary decisions while distinguishing between historic and architectural districts. Additionally, the meeting discussed municipal finances, including a structural deficit and high overtime costs.
NYC's Luxury Second-Home Tax Survives Temporary Court Block
A Staten Island judge initially blocked Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s luxury second-home tax in New York City. However, the city quickly appealed this decision, lifting the temporary restraining order and allowing the rollout to continue until a higher court rules on the matter. The tax is designed to help close a $500 million budget deficit by imposing taxes on second homes valued at more than $5 million.
Judge Approves New York's Ban on ICE Agreements While Blocking Mask Ban
A federal judge in the Northern District of New York has ruled that New York State’s ban on formal agreements between local governments and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), known as 287(g) agreements, is lawful. The ruling supports the state's argument that such bans are necessary to protect public welfare and manage local resources effectively. However, the judge also blocked a provision in the law prohibiting ICE agents from wearing masks. Additionally, Governor Kathy Hochul signed several immigration protection measures into law as part of the state budget, including prohibitions on local jails holding individuals for ICE and banning formal agreements with ICE.
New York State Budget Signed After Deadline, Includes Measures on ICE and Utilities
Governor Kathy Hochul signed a $268.5 billion state budget nearly two months after the April 1 deadline. The budget includes measures to limit cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), prohibiting local jails from holding individuals on behalf of ICE and banning formal agreements between local governments and ICE, known as 287(g) agreements. A federal judge has also allowed New York's ban on these agreements while blocking a provision that prohibits ICE agents from wearing masks. Additionally, the budget addresses high utility costs by enacting new reporting requirements for utilities seeking rate hikes, requiring companies to submit lower-cost alternatives, and allowing an independent affordability monitor if rates increase by more than 3%. Eligible households will receive rebate checks of between $150 and $200.
New York State Approves $268.5 Billion Budget Two Months Late
Governor Kathy Hochul and the Democrat-led legislature in New York have approved a $268.5 billion state budget nearly two months after its deadline, addressing high utility costs with new measures including reporting requirements for rate hikes and affordability monitors. The budget also includes immigration protection laws that prohibit local jails from holding individuals on behalf of ICE and ban formal agreements between local governments and ICE (287(g) agreements). A federal judge has upheld the state's ban on 287(g) agreements, ruling it as an appropriate means to protect public welfare and manage resources. However, the judge blocked a part of the law that prohibits ICE agents from wearing masks.
Mayor Mamdani Announces Multiple Initiatives to Enhance Public Services
The official New York City government website highlights several recent initiatives by Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani. On August 10, the mayor, along with Governor Kathy Hochul and MTA officials, announced a plan to lower subway platform temperatures in Lower Manhattan while harnessing thermal energy. This initiative aims to improve passenger comfort during hot summer days. Additionally, on August 5, Mayor Mamdani hosted 'Talk With The People,' featuring Bernie Wagenblast, a transit icon known as the voice of the New York City Subway. During this event, the mayor also issued cease-and-desist orders to online retailers selling dangerous and illegal motorized devices in New York City. Furthermore, on August 4, Mayor Mamdani extended 2-K offers to over 2,000 children and announced that more than 5,700 applications had been submitted for the program.
Catskill Brings in Water Tank During Boil Advisory
The village of Catskill has brought in a 6,700-gallon water tanker to provide clean drinking water for residents as the municipality remains under a boil water advisory. This action was coordinated by the Village Board of Trustees President Natasha Law and Greene County Emergency Services with support from NYS Homeland Security and Emergency Services. The village's reservoir, which is the largest in Greene County, received 11 inches of rain within five hours during a recent storm, causing contamination concerns. The water tanker will be available at Dutchman’s Landing Park for residents to fill their containers free of charge until the advisory can be lifted.
Kingston Seeks Development Proposals for City-Owned Land
The City of Kingston is seeking proposals from qualified entities to develop city-owned land. Mayor Steve Noble has recently accepted submissions for these development ideas. The initiative aims to explore various possibilities for the underutilized properties, encouraging community input and innovative solutions.
Omar Sterling McGill Joins Schenectady Mayoral Race Focusing on Neighborhoods and Housing
County Legislator Omar Sterling McGill has entered the race for mayor of Schenectady. In an interview with CBS6, McGill emphasized his campaign's focus on strengthening neighborhoods and improving housing conditions in the city. He highlighted the importance of affordable housing and diverse home ownership to enhance residents' quality of life. Additionally, McGill discussed the need for better infrastructure such as walkable sidewalks and drivable streets free from potholes. His goal is to prioritize resident needs and foster a strong relationship between the mayor's office and the city council.
Budget Car Rental Offers Discount Rates and Deals
Budget Car Rental provides customers with the opportunity to book vehicles at discounted rates. The company offers various vehicle types including sedans, SUVs, trucks, and electric vehicles (EVs). To access these discounts, users are encouraged to sign into their Budget account or create a new one if they do not already have an account. Signing in also grants access to additional benefits such as the best rate guarantee and free upgrade options when available. However, certain conditions apply, including exclusions for package rates, pre-negotiated rates, and discounts obtained through other means.
Governor Hochul's Budget Aims for Universal Child Care and Cost Reductions
In her FY 2027 Executive Budget, Governor Kathy Hochul aims to fund universal child care without increasing taxes on New Yorkers. The budget also includes measures to address federal Medicare Part D cuts that would raise prescription costs for over a million seniors in the state. Additionally, Governor Hochul highlights initiatives such as inflation refund checks sent to 8.2 million households and statewide restrictions on smartphone use during school hours in K-12 schools starting September 2025.
Former Mayor's Legacy and Legal Battles in New Albany
The letter to the editor discusses former Mayor Bob Real of New Albany leaving behind $4 million for sewage improvements. However, his successor initiated a prolonged legal battle with federal authorities over these funds. This conflict was only resolved when a female mayor took office and ended the litigation, leading to the correction of the sewage issues without any suspicion of corruption or kickbacks.
Catskill Village Board Hosts Meeting on Main Street Construction Projects
The Catskill village held a special meeting to discuss ongoing construction projects on Main Street. The first project involves $2.3 million for streetscape improvements, including new sidewalks and crosswalks, tree planting, and public amenities. A second project aims to enhance street signage with an investment of $432,000 to guide residents and visitors to popular village destinations. During the meeting, which lasted about three hours, the Village Board of Trustees and the engineer managing the water and sewer projects addressed questions from the public.
Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Agenda Includes Multiple Site Plan Approvals
The Saratoga Springs City Council is scheduled to meet on August 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City of Saratoga Springs Council Chambers. The agenda includes several site plan approvals for commercial developments and a fiber shelter amendment. Specifically, Westlake Partners Phase G, LLC will present plans for Lot 710 and Lot 711 on West Crossroads Boulevard. Forrest Gaskill will present a site plan for Jacob Ranch Marketplace Lot 10 on South Redwood Road. Additionally, Weston Remund will propose a major site plan amendment for the Avative Fiber Shelter UCCU Site Plan at North Commerce Drive. The meeting also allows for public input and council member comments.
Cost of Living Comparison Between Kingston and New York City
A cost comparison between Kingston, NY and New York City reveals significant differences in living expenses. For a single person with rent, monthly costs are $3,081 in Kingston versus $4,792 in New York City. Couples can expect to spend approximately $4,526 per month in Kingston compared to $6,961 in New York City. A family of three would incur roughly $5,971 monthly costs in Kingston and $9,130 in New York City. Housing and childcare expenses are notably lower in Kingston, making it a more practical choice for families. Additionally, the cost of dining out, groceries, and transportation is generally cheaper in Kingston than in New York City.
Pataki Urges Candidates to Accept Gubernatorial Election Results
Former New York Governor George Pataki addressed candidates at a new building named in his honor. He emphasized the importance of accepting election results and urged both major political parties to respect democratic processes. The event highlighted the ongoing dialogue about electoral integrity and the role of former leaders in guiding current political discussions.
Assemblymember Bronson Urges Governor to Sign Labor Bills
Democratic Assemblymember Harry Bronson has called on Governor Kathy Hochul to sign a series of labor-related bills he sponsored during the legislative session. Despite the end of the legislative session and upcoming November elections, lawmakers continue introducing new legislation. This includes State Senator Pat Fahy's Purple Alert bill for individuals with disabilities and State Senator James Skoufis' TEXAS Act to prevent New Yorkers from bearing life insurance costs originating in other states. Additionally, Assemblyman Pat Burke has urged the New York State Police to investigate the Diocese of Buffalo over child sexual abuse allegations following the arrest of a priest on federal charges.
East Hills, NY Real Estate Guide: Understanding Incorporated Village Living
East Hills is an incorporated village within Nassau County, New York, covering approximately 2.28 square miles and governed by its own mayor and board of trustees. The village operates independently from the surrounding town, providing services such as building permits, sanitation, and a resident-only park funded through village taxes. Residents are subject to multiple layers of government taxation: village tax on top of county and town taxes. East Hills spans three school districts—Roslyn, East Williston, and Jericho—and most residents assume it is just another neighborhood in Roslyn due to its mailing address. However, the article clarifies that East Hills has its own municipal governance structure, which impacts various aspects like permits, tax bills, assessments, and recreational facilities.
Schenectady City Council Urged to Adopt Policy for Extended Absences
The Schenectady City Council is facing a situation where a councilwoman's seat was vacant for nearly six months due to her extended absence. The article suggests that the city needs to establish clear policies regarding how long an elected official can be absent before their position must be vacated or filled. This recommendation comes after a prolonged period of uncertainty and conflict over replacing the absent council member, highlighting the need for a more structured approach to address such issues in the future.
Judge Upholds New York's Ban on ICE Agreements While Blocking Mask Ban
A federal judge in the Northern District of New York has ruled that New York State's ban on agreements between local governments and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), known as 287(g) agreements, is constitutional. The ruling supports the state’s argument that such bans are necessary to protect public welfare and manage state resources effectively. However, the judge also blocked a provision in the law prohibiting ICE agents from wearing masks. Additionally, Governor Kathy Hochul signed several measures into law aimed at limiting cooperation between local authorities and ICE, including prohibitions on holding individuals for ICE and banning formal agreements with ICE.
Anniston City Council Reviews $51.76 Million Budget and Approves Development Measures
The Anniston City Council reviewed the city manager's proposed fiscal year 2027 budget of approximately $51.76 million during a work session on August 4, 2026. Finance Director Jessica Leonard presented the budget, which includes about $50.1 million in anticipated revenue and an additional $1.66 million from accumulated fund balance reserves for one-time expenditures such as paving, vehicles, equipment, and facility improvements. The proposed budget maintains a minimum fund balance of 17% of general fund expenditures, equivalent to around $8.5 million. Public safety spending represents about 35% of the total budget, with approximately $10.2 million allocated for the Anniston Police Department and $7.8 million for the Fire Department. The council also approved development measures related to transportation services, downtown sidewalk repairs, property maintenance bids, redevelopment at McClellan, and proposed billboard regulations.
N.Y. Lawmakers Introduce Bills Ahead of January Reset
Despite the legislative session ending and all bills needing to be reintroduced in January due to upcoming elections, New York lawmakers continue to introduce new legislation. State Senator Pat Fahy proposed a Purple Alert bill similar to Amber Alerts for individuals with disabilities who go missing. Meanwhile, State Senator James Skoufis introduced the TEXAS Act to prevent New Yorkers from covering life insurance costs originating from other states. Additionally, Assemblyman Pat Burke urged the New York State Police to investigate the Diocese of Buffalo over child sexual abuse allegations following the arrest of a priest for sexually abusing children.
Schenectady Residents Sue Over Pied-à-Terre Tax Implementation
A lawsuit has been filed against the Mamdani administration in New York City over the implementation of a tax on luxury second homes. The plaintiffs, represented by former First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, are challenging the city's rollout of this tax aimed at closing the budget deficit and taxing the wealthy. Meanwhile, another lawsuit targets New York State’s lead paint regulations, arguing they do not meet state law requirements for preventing lead poisoning. Additionally, advocates urge Governor Kathy Hochul to sign Kyra’s Law, which would prioritize child safety in custody disputes following a tragic murder-suicide case involving a 2-year-old. Environmental groups also push for the governor to approve legislation limiting PFAS in drinking water amid recent severe weather events.
Governor Hochul's Budget and Policies Address Affordability and Education
Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled the FY 2027 Executive Budget that focuses on universal child care without increasing taxes. Additionally, she enacted a statewide ban on smartphone use in K-12 schools starting September 2025 to reduce distractions. The budget also includes measures to combat federal cuts affecting Medicare Part D subsidies and aims to lower prescription costs for seniors. Inflation refund checks up to $400 were distributed to 8.2 million households across New York State in fall 2025, aiming to ease financial burdens.
Catskill Maintains Boil Water Advisory as Coxsackie Lifts It
The Village of Catskill has not yet lifted its boil water advisory due to cloudy water at the village’s water treatment plant. Meanwhile, the Village of Coxsackie has successfully lifted its own advisory after addressing issues caused by heavy rains on July 29th. The water in Catskill needs to become clear enough before flushing and treating can begin, according to Natasha Law, President of the Village Board of Trustees.
Judge Approves New York's ICE Ban but Blocks Mask Prohibition
A federal judge has ruled that New York State’s ban on agreements between local governments and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), known as 287(g) agreements, is lawful. The decision supports the state's argument that such bans are necessary to protect public welfare and manage resources effectively. However, the judge also blocked a provision in the law prohibiting ICE agents from wearing masks. Additionally, Governor Kathy Hochul signed several immigration protection measures into law, including prohibitions against local jails holding individuals on behalf of ICE and banning formal agreements with ICE. These actions were part of New York's recently passed state budget, which includes provisions to address high utility costs by enacting new reporting requirements for utilities seeking rate hikes and enabling the Public Service Commission to install an independent affordability monitor if a rate request exceeds 3%.
New York State Budget Signed After Delay; Includes Immigration Protections and Utility Rebates
Governor Kathy Hochul signed a $268.5 billion New York State budget nearly two months after the original deadline. The budget includes measures to limit cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), such as prohibiting local jails from holding individuals on behalf of ICE and banning formal agreements between local governments and ICE known as 287(g) agreements. A federal judge has allowed these bans while blocking a provision that prohibits ICE agents from wearing masks. The budget also addresses high utility costs by enacting new reporting requirements for utilities seeking rate hikes, requiring companies to submit lower-cost alternatives, and enabling the Public Service Commission to install an independent affordability monitor if rates increase more than 3%. Additionally, eligible households will receive rebate checks of between $150 and $200.
Governor Hochul's Budget and Initiatives for New York State
Governor Kathy Hochul has outlined her budget initiatives for the fiscal year 2027, emphasizing a path towards universal child care without increasing taxes. The budget also includes historic investments in various sectors aimed at enhancing affordability and opportunity for all residents of New York State. Additionally, Governor Hochul criticized federal plans to cut Medicare Part D subsidies, which would raise prescription drug costs for over one million seniors in the state. She has also enacted a statewide ban on smartphone use during school hours from September 2025 onwards, aiming to reduce distractions and improve educational outcomes.
Mayor Mamdani's Recent Activities and City Services
The official New York City government website provides updates on parking regulations, waste collection schedules, and school statuses. It also highlights recent news from Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, including a roundtable discussion on extreme weather with ethnic and community media representatives, hosting 'Talk With The People' featuring transit icon Bernie Wagenblast, issuing cease-and-desist orders to retailers selling illegal motorized devices, extending 2-K offers for children's education, breaking ground on new housing projects in Hunts Point, and launching the LIFT Tracker to facilitate affordable housing development. Additionally, the site lists popular city services such as noise complaints, waste disposal, and birth certificates.
Catskill Sets Timeline for Cementon Redevelopment Plan
James Hannahs, Greene County’s director of economic development, tourism and planning, addressed the Catskill Town Board at a meeting on Tuesday to discuss the timeline for the Cementon Rebirth Plan. The plan includes creating a general environmental impact statement expected to be completed by 2027. In August, the county received a $400,000 Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York grant to support this initiative.
Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting Addresses UDO Amendments and Budget Concerns
At the Saratoga Springs City Council meeting on August 4, 2026, community members expressed strong opposition to proposed amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). They highlighted concerns about removing demolition reviews in architectural districts and diminishing the Design Review Board's authority. Mayor Stafford defended the process, emphasizing that it aims to protect property owners from arbitrary decisions while aligning with state guidelines. The meeting also discussed municipal finances, including structural deficits and rising overtime costs.
Save A Lot to Anchor $115M Hamilton Hill Redevelopment in Schenectady
Save A Lot will anchor a $115 million redevelopment project in Schenectady's Hamilton Hill neighborhood, addressing the area’s food desert status. The project includes a full-service grocery store of 17,250 square feet and is scheduled to open by spring 2028. This mixed-use development, supported by New York State, Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority, The Community Builders, Five Corners Development, and Save A Lot, will also provide 171 units of affordable and workforce housing, including 36 supportive-housing units, along with greenspace, a playground, and parking. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the plans on July 21, highlighting the store's offerings such as fresh produce, meat cut in-store, private label products, and household essentials.
Governor Hochul's Budget Aims for Universal Child Care and Cost Reductions
In her FY 2027 Executive Budget, Governor Kathy Hochul aims to fund universal child care without increasing taxes. The budget also includes measures to eliminate distractions in schools by enacting statewide restrictions on smartphone use during school hours starting September 2025. Additionally, the governor sent inflation refund checks up to $400 to over eight million households across New York State in fall 2025. Governor Hochul's initiatives focus on making life more affordable and expanding opportunities for all New Yorkers.
Troy Mayor Establishes Office to Prevent Deed Theft
Mayor Mamdani of Troy has established the Mayor’s Office of Deed Theft Prevention and appointed Peter White as its director. The office aims to address issues related to deed theft, a significant concern for property owners in the city. Additionally, the Department of Finance is experiencing technical difficulties with their call center phone systems but remains operational through physical business centers across the five boroughs.
New York State Budget Signed After Delay; Includes Immigration and Utility Measures
Governor Kathy Hochul signed a $268.5 billion New York State budget nearly two months after the deadline, addressing various issues including immigration and utility costs. The budget includes measures to limit cooperation with ICE by prohibiting local jails from holding individuals on behalf of ICE and banning formal agreements between local governments and ICE (known as 287(g) agreements). Additionally, a federal judge has allowed New York's ban on these agreements while blocking part of the law that prohibits ICE agents from wearing masks. The budget also addresses high utility costs by enacting new reporting requirements for utilities seeking rate hikes and allowing the Public Service Commission to install an independent affordability monitor if rate requests exceed 3%. Eligible households will receive rebate checks between $150 and $200.
Lawsuit Challenges New York City's Pied-à-Terre Tax Implementation
A lawsuit has been filed against the New York City administration over its implementation of a new tax on luxury second homes. The tax, known as the pied-à-terre tax, targets properties valued at $5 million or more and was introduced to help close the city's budget gap. Former First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, representing angry homeowners, is leading the legal challenge against the Mamdani administration’s rollout of this new tax. Meanwhile, in Albany, environmental advocates are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation limiting PFAS in drinking water and raising concerns about algal blooms due to recent heavy rains.
Governor Hochul Announces $434 Million for Water Infrastructure Projects
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant investment of $434 million to improve water and sewer infrastructure across New York State. This funding, approved by the Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) Board of Directors, includes low-cost financing and grants designed to minimize ratepayer burden while ensuring critical improvements in public health and environmental protection. The initiative aims to support local governments in modernizing aging systems without imposing excessive costs on residents. Notably, $361 million is allocated for 11 projects in New York City, bringing the total financial assistance provided by EFC to these projects to $1 billion.