Steuben Co Adopts 2026 Budget Following Public Hearing

From Steuben County Spokesman Eddie VanStine: 

The Steuben County Legislature on Monday adopted the 2026 County Budget following a scheduled public hearing, finalizing a spending plan that holds the property tax levy increase to 1.9 percent — a rate that remains 1.56 percent below the current inflation level. County officials say the plan reflects steady financial discipline while continuing to support essential programs and services across Steuben County.

The 2026 Budget maintains the county’s overall fiscal strength, balancing operational needs with long-term planning. While mandated social service costs, , personnel expenses, and inflation in materials and maintenance continue to exert pressure on local governments statewide, Steuben County’s budget continues its investment in core areas including public safety, transportation, and social services.

Despite rising operational demands, the adopted budget preserves the county’s stable reserves, sustains its capital outlook, and continues an approach that has prioritized conservative financial management for many years. Officials note that the county remains well-positioned heading into the new fiscal year.

 

Statement from County Manager Jack Wheeler:  “Adopting a budget in today’s financial environment is never simple, but this year’s plan is a strong reflection of Steuben County’s stability and our commitment to the people we serve,” said County Manager Jack Wheeler. “Even with increasing state mandates and inflationary pressures, we were able to maintain essential services and keep the property tax levy increase minimal. This budget positions us well for 2026 and continues the steady, responsible path that taxpayers expect.”

With the 2026 Budget officially adopted, Steuben County enters the upcoming year with a balanced, forward-focused plan that underscores stability, responsible spending, and continued service to residents. The budget takes effect January 1, 2026.

 

Click to register For Snowmobile Safety Class In Howard

https://www.register-ed.com/events/view/236847

 

Mayor Sweet: A New Rescue Truck For The Bath Fire Dept

The Village of Bath is proud to announce that it has been awarded $1 million toward the purchase of a new rescue truck. This critical investment will enhance emergency response capabilities and ensure the safety of residents.

This grant was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Tammy Kunzman, grant writer from Hunt Engineers, and Jackie Shroyer, Village Clerk/Treasurer. Their work has secured funding that will save local taxpayers $1 million.

“We are deeply grateful for Tammy and Jackie’s commitment to our community,” said Mayor, Michael Sweet. “Their success ensures that the Bath Volunteer Fire Department has the resources it needs to continue protecting our residents.”

Congratulations to the Bath Volunteer Fire Department on this exciting milestone!

 

Double Homicide In The Allegany Co Town Of Allen

FROM NYSP:  On November 24, 2025, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation out of SP Amity arrested Scot D. Thompson, 65 of Englewood, FL for Murder 2^nd degree- 2 counts- (A-1 Felony) and Criminal use of a Firearm 1^st degree- 2 counts- (B Felony).

On November 23, 2024, at approximately 10:06 P.M., Troopers out of SP Amity responded to a disturbance on Botsford Hollow Road in the town of Allen. Troopers located two deceased individuals at the residence. Investigation determined that three brothers were staying at a hunting cabin on Botsford Hollow Road. They got into a physical altercation and one of the brothers called 911. During this altercation Scot Thompson fatally shot Mark B. Thompson, 70 of Canterbury, CT and David E. Thompson, 69 of Port Charlotte, FL with a rifle. Scot left the scene in David’s vehicle. The vehicle information was disseminated to Law Enforcement. Livingston County Sheriff’s Office and Geneseo Police Department located the vehicle and took Scot into custody without incident. Scot was turned over to Troopers and transported to SP Amity for processing. Scot was processed and will be transported to the Allegany County Jail for CAP arraignment.

An autopsy is scheduled for the victims at Strong Memorial Hospital.

The NYSP Forensic Identification Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Allegany County District Attorney’s Office, Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, Geneseo Police Department and the Allegany County Coroner assisted in this investigation.

This is an ongoing criminal investigation.

 

A Former Penn Yan School Principal, Has Passed Away

Dr. James Tette, the former principal at St Michael’s School in Penn Yan, has passed away.  School officials say St. Michael’s School would not exist today if it had not been for James Tette, and that Tette was great at increasing enrollment for them, back in the late 1990’s. 

Calling hours will be on Sunday from 4pm to 6pm at the Townsend-Wood Zinger Funeral Home in Penn Yan.  Dr James Tette was 86 years old. 

 

The NY Association Of Fire Chiefs To Hold A Local Seminar

The state association of fire chiefs has announced that they’re having a seminar in Hammondsport on the evening of May 4, 2026.  The seminar will be about how to handle garage and basement fires.   The cost of attending the seminar will be $35.00. 

 

Adoption Awareness Event In The Village Of Bath

Steuben County officials held an adoption awareness month event.  That was last Friday night in the conference center at the county annex building in Bath.  Steuben County Judge Chauncey Watches was there along with county legislative chairwoman Kelly Fitzpatrick and Steuben County Social Services Director Katherine Muller.