Local News

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) Finger Lakes Aurora, NY

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) Finger Lakes Aurora, NY

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) Finger Lakes Aurora, NY

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) Finger Lakes Hornell, NY Wayland, NY

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) Finger Lakes Odessa, NY Aurora, NY

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