Latest News
April 8, 2026
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Judge Rules Cayuga Nation and Institute Founder Lack Standing in Wells College Sale: A New York State Supreme Court judge has determined that neither the Cayuga Nation nor Harriet Higgins, who founded the Minerva Institute, have the legal standing to contest the pending sale of Wells College in Aurora. The decision removes two parties from the legal challenge over the college's future ownership. The ruling streamlines the proceedings surrounding the sale, clarifying which entities may participate. The decision marks a significant development in the ongoing legal process. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Apr 8)
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Monthly Maintenance Costs for Closed Wells College Campus Exceed $200,000: Wells College in Aurora, New York, continues to incur significant costs even after its closure in 2024, with monthly maintenance expenses now surpassing $200,000. The college has placed barricades and warning signs throughout the 127-acre campus to restrict access. Ongoing legal disputes surrounding the sale of the property are contributing to these expenses. The outcome of these proceedings will have a lasting impact on the campus and the local community. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 8)
April 7, 2026
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Judge Allows $12.5 Million Wells College Sale to Advance Amid Opposition: A state Supreme Court judge has permitted the $12.5 million sale of the former Wells College campus in the Finger Lakes to move forward despite legal objections. Challenges were brought by the Cayuga Nation and a competing bidder, but the court dismissed those efforts. The approved purchaser plans to use part of the campus for Indigenous-focused education and develop the remainder commercially. The transaction awaits final court confirmation after the college closed due to financial struggles in 2024. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 7)
April 1, 2026
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Heavy Rain Triggers Flash Floods and Road Closures in Finger Lakes and Southern Tier: Severe storms moved through the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier on Tuesday night, releasing several inches of rain that caused widespread flash flooding. Emergency services received numerous reports of flooded roads, property damage, and hazardous travel, particularly in Yates, Cayuga, Ontario, and Schuyler counties. Some areas reported up to four inches of rain, overwhelming drainage systems and leading to multiple road closures. Officials continue to urge caution as cleanup and assessments proceed. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 1)
March 19, 2026
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Odessa, Penn Yan, and Aurora Village Election Outcomes Announced: Recent village elections in Odessa, Penn Yan, and Aurora produced notable results. In Odessa, two trustee positions were filled through write-ins, with Kristine Gardner and Joel Moore emerging as winners. Penn Yan's mayoral race was decided by a margin of three votes, with Patricia Christensen narrowly leading incumbent Dan Condella and a recount is scheduled. In Aurora, Janet Murphy, previously deputy mayor, takes over as mayor following the latest results. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 19)
March 13, 2026
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State Officials Oppose Auction of Rare Wells College Collection: New York state authorities are challenging Wells College’s plan to auction rare books and artwork to help pay for the school's closure. The Education Department and Board of Regents argue the items, including valuable works by major artists and significant historical texts, should be given to public institutions instead of sold to private collectors. Wells College has requested court approval in Cayuga County to conduct the sale through auction houses. Legal proceedings regarding the collection's fate are ongoing. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 13)
March 9, 2026
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Aurora Volunteer Fire Department Deploys New Ambulance After Successful Fundraising: The Aurora Volunteer Fire Department introduced a new ambulance to its fleet following an extensive fundraising campaign. Community members contributed $120,000 through donations and memorial funds, while the Aurora-Ledyard Fire District equipment fund covered additional expenses. The project was completed with assistance from North Eastern Rescue Vehicles. The new ambulance is expected to enhance emergency response capabilities for residents within the district. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 9)
March 6, 2026
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Wells College Seeks Court Approval to Proceed With Campus Sale Amid Challenge: Attorneys representing Wells College in Aurora, New York, are requesting that a judge dismiss the Cayuga Nation's attempt to halt the sale of the college's former campus. The dispute centers on whether the sale should move forward despite objections raised by the tribe. This legal challenge could affect the timeline and outcome of the property transfer. The court's decision will play a crucial role in determining the campus's future ownership. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 6)
March 5, 2026
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Wells College Opposes Legal Challenge to Campus Sale in Aurora: Wells College is engaged in a legal dispute over the proposed $12.5 million sale of its former campus in Aurora. The Cayuga Nation has sought to halt the transaction, citing ancestral land claims and concerns about the buyer's financial capability. Attorneys for the college argued that the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge, the intended purchaser, has secured up to $25 million in backing from Native American Bank. A preliminary court conference on the matter is scheduled for March 11. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 5)
March 3, 2026
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Unity House of Cayuga County Names 2026 Community Award Honorees: Unity House of Cayuga County, located in Auburn, has revealed the recipients of its 2026 community awards, which honor individuals for their notable service and advocacy in the region. Julie Bennett of Aurora has been selected for the organization's Open Arms Award, now in its 15th year. Melody Smith Johnson is also among the honorees, recognized for making a positive local impact. The awards highlight outstanding community leadership within Cayuga County. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 3)
February 27, 2026
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United Way of Cayuga County Opens Youth Drawing Contest for Day of Caring Shirts: The United Way of Cayuga County has launched its fifth annual Youth Drawing Contest, inviting local students from age 10 through high school to submit original artwork for consideration. Winning designs will be featured on T-shirts for the 2026 Day of Caring, an event that previously saw over 370 volunteers participate in community projects. The contest emphasizes hand-drawn and secular line drawings, with entries due by April 17. Finalists will be determined by United Way staff and community voting. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 27)
February 24, 2026
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Legal Dispute Emerges Over Wells College Campus Sale and Development Plans: The proposed $12.5 million sale of Wells College to the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge is facing a legal challenge. The Cayuga Nation and another bidder have asked a judge to halt the sale, citing concerns about financing and limited campus use for Indigenous education, with most land intended for business development. Harriet Higgins, a competing bidder, also questions the fairness of the bidding process. The outcome will likely have significant implications for the future of the Wells College property. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 24)
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Cayuga Nation Opposes Planned Sale of Wells College Campus in Aurora: The Cayuga Nation, along with a previous interested buyer, is seeking judicial intervention regarding the pending sale of the former Wells College campus in Aurora. Both groups have submitted motions for consideration in Cayuga County Court, aiming to influence the outcome of the property's transfer. The legal challenge centers on the future use of the campus and the rights of involved stakeholders. A decision from the court will determine the next steps in the sale process. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 24)
February 10, 2026
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Wells College Requests Court Approval to Auction Art and Rare Books: Wells College in Aurora has petitioned Cayuga County Court to approve the sale of valuable art and rare books from its collection. The items, including a first edition of Moby-Dick, Isaac Newton’s Opticks, and works associated with Rembrandt and Picasso, are being considered for auction due to high maintenance costs and the prospect of faster financial returns. The college, which is closed, believes the sale will help resolve its debts. A court conference regarding this request is scheduled for February 24. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 10)
February 5, 2026
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Wells College Seeks Court Approval to Sell Multiple Properties After Closure: Wells College, now closed, is seeking permission from Cayuga County Court to sell seven off-campus properties in Aurora. The proposed sales are valued at about $2.8 million and would help settle the college's remaining financial obligations. Among the deals, the Paul Jones House would be transferred to a preservation group, with additional properties purchased by a notable alumna and other private buyers. Any surplus from the sales will go to charitable organizations. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 5)
February 4, 2026
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Wells College Trustees Move Ahead With Auction of Art, Books, and Valuables: Wells College's board of trustees is proceeding with plans to auction a collection of artwork, rare books, and additional valuables as part of ongoing efforts to manage the institution's assets following its closure. The decision has drawn criticism from the Wells Legacy Society, which opposes the sale of these items. The auction process is set against the backdrop of the college's shuttering and ongoing discussions about its future. Community reactions reflect growing concern over the loss of cultural and historical resources. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Feb 4)
February 3, 2026
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Wells College Alumni Advocate to Preserve Historic Artifacts in Finger Lakes: Alumni of Wells College are urging that significant historic items remain in the Finger Lakes region as the college prepares to close. Recent documents reveal plans to sell rare books, artwork, and properties which could generate substantial revenue. The Wells Legacy Society argues that proceeds from the pending sale to the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge may cover debts, making additional asset sales unnecessary. Concerns focus on preserving pieces important to both local and state heritage. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 3)
January 15, 2026
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Hiawatha Institute Approved for $12.5M Purchase of Wells College Campus: The former Wells College campus in Aurora may soon see new purpose after the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge secured a $12.5 million bid to acquire the property. The institute aims to dedicate around twenty percent of the campus to establishing an Indigenous university, with the remainder allocated for workforce housing, community partnerships, and a new music school named in honor of Joanne Shenandoah. The agreement includes a 60-day period for further inspections and financial review before finalization. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 15)
January 13, 2026
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Wells College Agrees to Sell Aurora Campus to Hiawatha Institute for $12.5 Million: Wells College has finalized a $12.5 million sale agreement for its campus in Aurora with the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge. The Hiawatha Institute intends to establish an Indigenous college at the site, marking a significant change in the campus's future use. The deal follows Wells College's previous announcement regarding its closure. The transition will affect both the local community and higher education opportunities in the region. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 13)
January 9, 2026
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Wells College Agrees to $12.5 Million Sale of Aurora Campus: Wells College has agreed to sell its Aurora campus for $12.5 million to the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge. The proposed transaction includes most campus structures, dormitory furnishings, and library materials, with rare books excluded. The Hiawatha Institute intends to establish an Indigenous higher education institution and repurpose certain buildings as residential apartments, while allowing existing tenants like the Community Medical Center and Peachtown Elementary to remain. This sale follows Wells College's closure in 2024. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 9)
January 2, 2026
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Eight Finger Lakes Towns Highlighted for Weekend Getaways in 2026: The Finger Lakes region has been recognized as an accessible retreat for residents seeking a peaceful weekend close to home. The article identifies eight towns—including Penn Yan, Geneva, and Hammondsport—as top choices, each known for their unique offerings such as lakeside vistas, local wineries, and quaint downtown areas. Activities range from hiking scenic trails to exploring historic main streets and sampling regional wines. These destinations cater to visitors looking to unwind in a relaxed setting. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 2)
December 25, 2025
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Finger Lakes Land Trust Reaches 35,000 Acres of Conserved Land in Region: The Finger Lakes Land Trust has surpassed 35,000 acres of conserved land throughout the Finger Lakes region, marking more than three decades of preservation efforts. Established in 1989, the organization has protected significant water resources, habitats, and trails across a 12-county area. Notable achievements include safeguarding over six miles of lakeshore and creating 55 miles of hiking trails. Recent initiatives feature new parklands and shoreline protections at Skaneateles, Cayuga, Keuka, and Honeoye lakes. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 25)
December 20, 2025
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State Awards Over $21 Million for Sewer Upgrades in Cayuga and Varick: New York State has allocated more than $21 million to enhance sewer infrastructure in Cayuga County and the Town of Varick, aiming to modernize local systems and improve the health of Cayuga Lake. Cayuga County is set to receive $16.5 million for a new sewer district and upgrades at the Aurora Wastewater Treatment Plant, with service expansions in Ledyard and Genoa. Varick will use $5.3 million to establish a new sewer district on Route 89. These projects are expected to reduce pollution and address aging septic systems. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 20)
December 16, 2025
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New York Enacts Law to Support Towns Affected by College Closures: New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation designed to support communities impacted by recent college closures, including towns such as Aurora. The law enables state assistance for workforce planning, property redevelopment, and economic revitalization. It was introduced following the shutdown of Cazenovia and Wells colleges and passed both legislative chambers unanimously. Lawmakers plan to further refine the bill’s language in 2026 based on the governor’s recommendations. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 16)
December 10, 2025
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Finger Lakes Small Towns Recognized Nationally for Quality of Life and Charm: A recent national feature has spotlighted 11 small communities in the Finger Lakes region for their outstanding peace, natural beauty, and high quality of life. Towns such as Watkins Glen, Montour Falls, Canandaigua, Aurora, and Geneva were praised for their historic character, scenic attractions, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Each location was noted for unique attributes, such as lakefront parks, historic architecture, and welcoming atmospheres. This recognition highlights the region's ongoing appeal to both residents and visitors. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 10)
December 9, 2025
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Aurora-Ledyard Fire District Approves $125,000 Allocation for New Ambulance: The Aurora-Ledyard Fire District has authorized the use of up to $125,000 from its capital reserve to purchase a new ambulance, replacing its current 2002 Wheeled Coach vehicle. The new ambulance will also be equipped with associated gear and will be obtained through a competitive bidding process outlined in Bid 2025-1. The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the resolution, and it is subject to a permissive referendum that allows voters to challenge the expenditure if requested. Funding will come from the district’s Equipment/Capital Reserve Fund. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 9)
November 29, 2025
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Judge Allows Wells College Asset Transfer to Proceed Despite Village Objections: A Cayuga County judge has allowed Wells College to advance its asset transfer, including most of its $28 million endowment, after denying the Village of Aurora's request to halt the process. The decision clears legal barriers for the college's legacy agreement with Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Although the campus remains unsold, school officials indicate that finalizing the property sale is essential to complete the asset transfer. This follows Wells College’s closure in 2024. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 29)
November 27, 2025
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Colorado Man Receives Federal Prison Sentence for Threats to Cayuga County Resident: A Colorado resident, Jerry Gordon, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison after admitting to sending violent text threats to a man living in Aurora, Cayuga County. Authorities say Gordon traveled from Colorado with the intention of following through on his threats but was arrested by federal agents upon his arrival in Syracuse. He later pleaded guilty to transmitting threats across state lines. Following his prison term, Gordon will also serve three years of supervised release. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 27)
November 21, 2025
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Wells College Faced $7.8 Million Deficit Before Shutting Down: Wells College in the Finger Lakes region reported a financial loss exceeding $7.8 million during its final year of operation, based on newly reviewed tax records. The college's expenses reached nearly $38 million in the 2023–24 academic year, while revenues remained at $30 million, leading to a cumulative two-year loss of $11 million. Enrollment had declined to around 340 students by the time of closure. Assets from Wells College are currently being transferred to Hobart and William Smith Colleges. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 21)
November 18, 2025
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Skaneateles String Quartet to Perform at Morgan Opera House in Aurora: The Skaneateles String Quartet will present a classical concert at the Morgan Opera House in Aurora on Sunday, November 30. The program will feature pieces by Haydn, Dvorak, and DeBeriot, with musicians Benjamin Mygatt, Laura Smith, Batmyagmar Erdenebat, and Lindsay Groves performing. The event is supported by local organizations, including the Community Regrant Program and the Village of Aurora. The quartet's return is anticipated by local fans of chamber music. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 18)
November 17, 2025
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Cayuga County Lawmakers Discuss Tourism Tax, Immigration, and Lake Sewer Project: The Cayuga County Legislature recently held a session that featured heated public discussions on several pressing local issues. Officials gathered input on a proposed occupancy tax aimed at short-term rentals, with tourism advocates emphasizing its benefits for local funding and fair tax collection. Community members also called for the county to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement following a recent raid. Lawmakers further heard debates regarding the contentious Cayuga Lake Protection Project. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 30)