Latest News

February 28, 2026

  1. Cazenovia Financial Adviser Pleads Guilty to $686,000 Fraud Scheme: A Cazenovia financial adviser, Dean Dellas, admitted to defrauding clients out of nearly $686,000 by collecting unauthorized fees and making improper withdrawals from investment accounts. Dellas, age 41, pleaded guilty to federal charges including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft in Syracuse. Prosecutors outlined that the fraudulent activity occurred between June 2021 and November 2023 and included misrepresenting his client relationships and compensation. Sentencing is scheduled for June 22. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 28)

February 26, 2026

  1. School Officials Cite High Costs of New York Electric Bus Requirement: School leaders in New York are raising concerns about the state's mandate to transition to fully electric school buses by 2035, citing financial challenges and technology limitations. Districts such as North Syracuse report that the high price of electric buses would allow only a fraction of their fleets to be converted, even with current aid programs. Lawmakers have proposed options to opt out, while state agencies claim existing incentives can address most additional costs. The debate highlights funding and implementation concerns in multiple districts. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 26)

January 8, 2026

  1. Redevelopment Planned for Former Cazenovia College Campus: A local investment group, 9Fresh, has acquired the former Cazenovia College campus and is moving forward with an extensive redevelopment project. The initial phase will add apartments and senior living facilities, with construction expected to begin in summer 2026. The broader vision includes new office space, community areas, and culinary venues, all while aiming to honor the campus's educational heritage. This project is expected to provide renewed activity in the village center after years of vacancy. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 8)

December 16, 2025

  1. 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)