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Hochul, Schumer And Others Are Praising The Bryant School Apartments

January 25, 2025

FROM GOV HOCHUL: HORNELL, NY – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced completion of Bryant School Apartments, the adaptive reuse of a former public school into 39 affordable homes for working families in the city of Hornell. The energy-efficient building is adjacent to public transit and within a mile of the city’s growing downtown district.

“Access to affordable, modern, secure housing is a primary concern for New Yorkers in every region of the state, one we are committed to addressing head on,” Governor Hochul said. “The city of Hornell is in tune with our statewide, multi-pronged efforts to solve the housing crisis and create communities with strong local economies that people of all income levels can be proud to call home. This innovative project will create the types of high-quality, sustainable homes that my administration is supporting in every corner of New York.”

In the last five years, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has created or preserved 3,500 affordable homes in the Southern Tier. Bryant School Apartments continues this effort and complements Governor Hochul’s $25 billion comprehensive Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes.

The Bryant School closed in 2021. As part of the project, the existing two-story, 50,000-square-foot building was renovated, and a new 8,500-square-foot addition was constructed at the south end of the building. The developers, Park Grove Development and Providence Housing, preserved the school’s original hallway tile, entrance sign, playground, mature trees, and fenced-in greenspace, while adding modern amenities including a fitness center, community room with kitchen, and laundry rooms on each floor.

All 39 apartments are affordable to households earning at or below 60 percent of the Area Median Income and residents will have free high-speed broadband internet.

The development is in a walkable neighborhood and adjacent to a Hornell Area Transit bus stop, providing residents access to shopping, healthcare, and recreational and educational facilities within the Hornell community.

Bryant School Apartments adheres to the latest Enterprise Green Communities requirements and was awarded funding from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s New Construction Housing Program to achieve a high level of sustainability and carbon reduction. All apartments have ENERGY STAR rated appliances, equipment and lighting, low-VOC building materials, and integrated pest management.

State financing for the $14.3 million development includes $7.7 million in Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, $2 million in State Low Income Housing Tax Credits and $3.5 million in subsidy from HCR. NYSERDA awarded $39,000 under the New Construction – Housing Program. The city of Hornell IDA awarded the project a PILOT agreement.

In addition to boosting the region’s Southern Tier Soaring revitalization plan, the new housing development is in sync with the State’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative investment in Hornell’s downtown, by helping the city meet a significant need for workforce housing.

New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “This $14 million, 39-apartment development is a perfect example of what Governor Hochul is urging every locality to consider: making use of existing resources to create new homes for working families to grow and thrive. Congratulations to Park Grove Development and Providence Housing and the people of Hornell for welcoming growth and taking this step into a solid future.”

NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “NYSERDA is proud to partner with NYS Homes and Community Renewal to help provide modern, affordable spaces for vulnerable New Yorkers across the state. The completion of this 39-unit complex will ensure Stueben County residents have access to energy efficient features, such as ENERGY STAR appliances, high performance windows and insulation in their apartment, that can help to lower energy consumption and costs while creating a healthier, more comfortable place to live.”

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer said, “Every New Yorker in the Southern Tier deserves access to safe affordable housing and I am proud that the Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, that I fought hard to bolster, has supplied the millions needed to transform this former, out-of-use school into dozens of new affordable homes. These apartments will not only put a roof over vulnerable New Yorkers’ heads, but will also provide residents easy access to public transportation so they can get to work, medical appointments, and school. High housing costs are a key driver of inflation so we must build more housing like this to bring down those high prices. I applaud Governor Hochul’s commitment to increasing access to affordable housing in the Southern Tier and across New York State, and I will never stop fighting to ensure that every single New Yorker has a roof over their head.”

State Senator Tom O’Mara said, “State investments in affordable, energy-efficient, and excellent housing in our communities continue to strengthen the fabric of neighborhoods and the quality of life for residents and families in the city of Hornell and communities across this region and state. We are grateful to Park Grove and Providence, as well as to Mayor Buckley and local leaders for seeing through an important commitment that will deliver critical short- and long-term benefits to continue revitalizing and strengthening the entire Hornell community.”

Assemblymember Phil Palmesano said, “The new Bryant School Apartments are a perfect example of adaptive reuse and reinvestment in our local infrastructure. This is great news for the City of Hornell and the local community. Preserving history and addressing a local need by creating 39 new affordable apartments is evidence that federal, state, local, public and private entities can work together.”

Steuben County Legislative Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick said, “The Bryant School Apartments are an excellent investment in Hornell. It has given life to an otherwise unused building, and in giving it life, it has revitalized an entire neighborhood. It is a welcome addition to our County.”

City of Hornell Mayor John J Buckley said, “I am pleased to welcome the Bryant School Apartments to the city of Hornell. I commend Park Grove Realty for the successful completion of this beautiful project and their continued investment in the city of Hornell. Park Grove has a proven track record here in Hornell, with this being the second housing project they have competed. With this project, they have transformed and repurposed an unused school building into beautiful new apartments. I would also like to thank all our partners at the state level for their continued support in making projects such as this a reality.”

Park Grove Realty Partner Andrew Bodewes said, “Park Grove Realty, LLC is pleased to have played a part in the creation of the Bryant School Apartments. These 39 units have proved to be much needed and are safe, modern, and affordable. The project preserved a significant community asset that will keep the neighborhood stable. The city of Hornell, Providence Housing, the Hornell IDA and NYS HCR along with Governor Hochul were very supportive and instrumental in this effort.”

Executive Director of Providence Housing, Mark Greisberger said, “Providence Housing Development Corporation was pleased to partner with Park Grove LLC in the redevelopment of the former Bryant School into affordable housing. These are not just units of housing, but hopefully will be decent, safe, and affordable homes for local residents. I would like to thank all of those who have supported this project.”

Accelerating Southern Tier Soaring
Today’s announcement complements “Southern Tier Soaring,” the region’s comprehensive strategy to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on attracting a talented workforce, growing business and driving next-generation innovation. More information is available here.

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State Police Hold Their 2023 Graduation Ceremony Thursday In Albany

December 22, 2023

ALBANY, NY – Governor Kathy Hochul yesterday, joined Acting Superintendent Dominick L. Chiumento in honoring 232 new State Troopers as they graduated from the 213th session of the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy. The ceremony was held at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany. Thursdays graduation increases the State Police ranks to 4,781 sworn members.

“I commend these 232 men and women for dedicating themselves to public service, and their commitment to protecting the people of New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “The members of the New York State Police put their lives on the line each day to keep the rest of us safe – in a world where their mission has grown more challenging and complex. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I want to thank the graduates for their hard work and perseverance – and welcome them to the long gray line.”

New York State Police Acting Superintendent Dominick L. Chiumento said, “Today marks another significant moment in the proud history of the New York State Police. The graduation ceremony is one of our finest traditions and introduces a new generation of highly trained Troopers, who will serve the citizens of the State of New York with honor and integrity. They have endured months of intense training both within and outside the classroom, and have earned their place in our ranks. I am proud to welcome these graduates to the most prestigious and well-respected law enforcement agency in the nation.”

Since the last State Police graduation in June, the State Police were involved in lifesaving, monumental cases across New York State. The State Police was involved in the capture of the Gilgo Beach serial killer, bringing back a sense of security to a Long Island community. In addition, the State Police were involved in saving the lives of more than 50 high school students from Farmingdale in a bus crash in Orange County. Lastly, the State Police were instrumental in returning a young girl home after being kidnapped from a state park.

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Gov Kathy Hochul Issues Statement About The Flu

December 7, 2023

“I want to acknowledge that flu season is here again. And it has gone up – the number of flu cases in the State of New York is now defined as prevalent in the state, that’s a new category. The flu is prevalent here in New York, they are up 25 percent over one week. Hospitalizations are up 30 percent. Very, very sad to report that there have been two pediatric deaths related to flu.

“So, I want to make sure that everyone is reminded to get their flu shots. I had mine a couple days ago. And it’s really important that we keep ourselves and our families safe.”

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Borrello: Statement On The Agreement On Keeping Cuba NY Casino Going

December 2, 2023

STATEMENT FROM SENATOR GEORGE BORRELLO ON EXTENSION OF SENECA NATION GAMING COMPACT

“The news that an agreement has been reached on an extension of the Gaming Compact between the state and the Seneca Nation is welcome news to those of us who have been urging the Hochul administration to act before the December 9 expiration date.

The Seneca Nation is a valued neighbor in Western New York and their gaming facilities and resorts are a major economic driver. This agreement relieves a measure of uncertainty that has increasingly clouded this issue as the expiration date approached.

I urge the Hochul administration to use this extension productively rather than as an excuse to kick the can down the road. The Governor and her team need to come to the table with a commitment to engaging in good faith negotiations on an agreement that is fair to all parties. That commitment has been lacking in this process up until now.

The gaming landscape has changed profoundly in the last two decades and any new agreement should reflect that while simultaneously assuring that critical funding to host communities is sustained.”

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Gov Hochul Is Increasing NYSP Members Of FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force

November 13, 2023

From the Governor’s Office:

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that in response to a rise in hate crimes and incidents of harassment, the State of New York will increase staffing to the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. Governor Hochul has directed an additional $2.5 million to the New York State Police to deploy ten additional investigators in New York City, Albany, Buffalo and Rochester, ensuring the State Police has a presence in all JTTF investigative groups and areas. This is Governor Hochul’s latest effort to fight hate in all its forms after the Hamas terror attacks, which have been followed by a reported increase in Antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents.

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Gov Hochul Recognizes Firefighters Statewide

October 10, 2023

Governor Hochul also today issued two proclamations to honor the state’s career and volunteer firefighters, marking October 10, 2023, as Firefighter Appreciation Day, and the week of October 8-14, 2023, as Fire Prevention Week. Every day, the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control works in partnership with local fire departments, fire service organizations, school districts, civic groups, and the National Fire Protection Association to provide information and programs about the importance of fire safety awareness.

Each year in the United States, more than 3,500 Americans die in fires and approximately 18,300 are injured, according to the United States Fire Administration. Children and the elderly comprise many of these deaths and injuries.

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “It’s an honor and privilege to recognize these 29 fallen firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice. Please join me today in remembering these firefighters and their families in your thoughts. I am continually in awe of New York’s firefighting community and the firefighters who put their lives on the line every day to protect New Yorkers. Thank you for your service.”

New York State Fire Administrator James Cable said, “Today, we honor and remember the service of 29 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice. I’m proud to honor their memory and extend my gratitude for their service to their families. Please remember these fallen firefighters, and their families, in your thoughts.”

Most of the firefighters recognized, were from New York City. The closest ones to us, were in Olean and Ithaca.
Tracy Veno Olean City Fire Department
Daryl Lynn Pace Ithaca Fire Department

The Governor’s Remarks, Are Below:

I’ve been coming to this event since I was Lieutenant Governor for eight years. It’s something I would never miss because I wake up every day feeling I am lucky. Because I’m not asked to go to a service like this. So, I’m always struck by the courage that it takes in every one of you to get out of bed on a day like today, a day when it’s probably a lot easier to put the covers back over your head and say, “I don’t want to do this, it’s just too hard. My pain is still so great. I’m still so sad.” But you do it.

You get dressed, you travel, you gather, you come here, commiserate with others who have that shared experience of enormous pride. Pride – the fact that your son or daughter, who you obviously taught so well to be so selfless to go into this career instead of a job that offered safety and security. Or to your partner or spouse, you chose well. You chose someone who is not self-centered and thinking only of themselves and how to get a paycheck and just check the box – I had a job. They answered to a call. This is a calling. This is a calling that is out there for every single New Yorker. But how many respond? How many say yes? I know there’s risks. I know the training is tough. I know when we’re in the throes of a fire, it is a horrific inferno. And we don’t know if we’ll leave safely again.

And yet your loved one, your son or your daughter, husband, wife, boyfriend, girlfriend, mom or dad, they demonstrated they have far more courage than almost anybody else in this state. All of you in the fire service. All of you do. Before I became Governor, I was a local official. I spoke at countless, I mean, at least 10 a year for 14 years, Fireman installation dinners. I love the camaraderie. I love the jokes. I love talking about who screwed up on this call or that call. But there was a deep, abiding love for each other.

So also, to all of you who lost that friend, that partner, the person you used to hang out with at the fire hall or have a beer with after work. You’re mourning as well. Every corner of this state has lost people this year, 29 – more than half of which thought they made it home safely from 9/11. You thought they made it home safe. You thought they were the lucky ones on that day, and yes, you may have had a few more years. But as you saw the disease take over your loved one’s body, but not their spirit, you hoped you’d never end up in this place on this day. Or those who just said goodbye and said, “I’ll see you tonight,” and your loved one didn’t make it back. We don’t take for granted what they do. We never have, we never will. We don’t take for granted your pain, your loss. They say grief is the price we pay for love. All of you had the opportunity to love someone who is just an extraordinary person.

They’re not just a name on a wall, they’re a human being. But what they will be is a constant reminder to the family around and the children and the other relatives who know they had someone in their midst who was so selfless, so brave of heart, that they put themselves in harm’s way by selecting this career. That, to all the families, should be an enormous source of pride, because as Governor of a large family of 20 million New Yorkers, it’s a source of pride for me.

So, hold that close in your heart, next to all your fond memories, but say, you know what? I was so close to someone so special. And know, that as Commissioner Bray so eloquently said, they’re not forgotten by you ever, they cannot be. They’re not forgotten by us, either, because we go to bed every night, safe and secure, that if something happens, someone’s going to show up and help us. Whether it’s our law enforcement, our firefighters, State Police – I just had a briefing this morning on how we’re protecting our state – all these people are extraordinary people who said, I will do this, I’ll do this. I will be willing to go into harm’s way to protect people I may never ever see. And for that, we’re a better state. We’re a safer state.

Many more people are alive today because of the courage of your loved one. Take that to heart. You may have an empty chair at the dinner table, but because of the firefighters in the State of New York, there’s a lot of seats that are filled with someone who survived because of courage.

May God bless the firefighting community. May God bless the families that are suffering and mourning today. May God bless the great State of New York, and may God bless the United States of America. Thank you.

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U.S. Supreme Court Denys Application For Overturning NYS Gun Laws – NYS GOP: This Is Not The End….

October 10, 2023

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL ON SUPREME COURT’S DECISION FROM TODAY:

“The United States Supreme Court has sided with common sense, denying the application for emergency relief that would have temporarily dismantled New York’s nation-leading gun safety laws. This news comes following the plaintiffs’ last-ditch effort to get Justice Clarence Thomas to grant the same application that Justice Sonia Sotomayor had already denied, to attempt to block the law on firearms checks that we passed last year following the Buffalo massacre and the overturning of New York’s century old gun safety laws. Public safety is my top priority, and I’m committed to working with law enforcement and leaders across New York to keep our communities safe.”

FROM THE NYS ASSEMBLY GOP’S ATTORNEY: “This is not the end, it was just a denial of the emergency application requesting a stay.

‘On March 20, 2023 a 3 judge panel from the Second Circuit Court of Appeals heard 5 cases challenging the CCIA. All five case motions for preliminary injunctions, deemed submitted in March remain pending and awaiting a decision from the Circuit Court. I am unsure of the timing for when we can expect a decision.

“One of the 5 cases is Nadine, Seth Gazzola, et al v. Kathleen Hochul, et al. On August 29, 2023, an emergency motion was filed requesting a stay on the take over of the firearms background check system and the launch of the new ammunition background check system. On September 8, 2023, the emergency motion was denied. As a result of the denial of the emergency motion, the ability to appeal that decision to SCOTUS existed. Paloma Capanna filed an emergency application on September 11th in this case asking for a stay over the take over of the firearms background check system and a stay of the ammunition background check system. The application for an emergency stay was just denied by SCOTUS.”

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Gov Hochul Offers To Help Out Israel

October 7, 2023

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL ON VIOLENCE IN ISRAEL: “In the face of abhorrent attacks from Hamas terrorists, New York stands steadfast in support of our neighbors in the State of Israel. This cowardly attack comes on a day when Jewish New Yorkers had planned to joyously celebrate Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. New York is proud to be home to the largest Jewish population outside Israel and as the community grieves today, we stand in solidarity with them.

“My Administration has been in touch with the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to assess any ongoing threats. While there are no known active threats to New Yorkers at this time, I have directed the New York State Police to work closely with local law enforcement to ensure all New Yorkers are safe and protected.

“I have also spoken with Israel’s Acting Consul General in New York to offer our support, and we are working with the American Embassy in Israel to discuss ways to get New Yorkers home safely if they so choose. I am committed to doing everything possible to support this community at this critical time.”

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Gov Hochul Modifies Sunday Alcohol Laws, For This Weekend’s Bills Game

October 5, 2023

NBC Sports reports that Governor Kathy Hochul is allowing alcohol to be sold as early as 8am, this Sunday morning. The governor is doing this, because of the time zone difference with the Bills game being in London England this Sunday, and in the U.K., they are five hours ahead of us here in New York State.

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Governor And NYS Health Dept Send Out Covid Statement

August 29, 2023

FROM GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL: The Department of Health remains vigilant for changes to the virus that could further threaten our public health. We continue to monitor as new strains have emerged, with a particular focus on BA.2.86, the most genetically different strain we have seen since the original Omicron variant. These significant changes are important to note as mutations may allow the virus to evade prior immunity. Remember, COVID is now a treatable disease and tests are both easy and highly accurate. Antivirals such as Paxlovid are most effective when started within five days of the onset of symptoms.

As students begin to return to school for the next academic year, Governor Hochul and DOH recommend that schools review current CDC school guidance for COVID-19 prevention and work with their local health department to implement effective and feasible public health measures.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the CDC recommends schools:

Promote vaccination and testing;
Encourage students, teachers, and faculty to stay home if they are sick and exhibiting symptoms;
Optimize ventilation and maintain improvements to indoor air quality to reduce the risk of germs and contaminants spreading through the air; and
Teach and reinforce proper handwashing and hygiene practices.

Schools that experience outbreaks should work with their local health department for timely outbreak response support. More guidance for schools is available here.

All individuals who have symptoms of COVID-19 should immediately get tested. If a test is positive, consult a health care provider about treatment, as it’s important to begin treatment soon after the onset of symptoms to ensure the utmost effectiveness. Individuals who do not have a regular health care provider can find locations for treatment here. Those with COVID-19 should follow CDC guidance to avoid transmitting it to others, including isolating for 5 days after the onset of symptoms, as well as masking and avoiding contact with those who may be at higher risk of negative outcomes.

At-home tests are available at many local pharmacies statewide, and New York continues to make high-quality N-95 masks and test kits available to state and county officials by request. New Yorkers should contact their respective county health department or local emergency management office for more information.

The New York State Department of Health recently contacted nursing home providers statewide to alert them of the increase in COVID-19 infections reported over the past several weeks, and to remind facilities of measures that can be taken to help reduce transmission among vulnerable populations.

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Gov Hochul: 60 Years Since The March On Washington

August 28, 2023

“Today we mark sixty years since the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic ‘I Have A Dream’ speech, a March that would change the course of our nation’s history. Hundreds of thousands of Americans came together to demand civil rights, equality, and an end to segregation – ultimately leading to necessary change and meaningful federal legislation.

“Like most social movements that have transformed America, the March on Washington had its roots in New York. Throughout much of the summer of 1963, a townhouse at 170 West 130th Street in Harlem served as headquarters for the planning of the March. New Yorkers like Bayard Rustin, Harry Belafonte and A. Philip Randolph played critical roles in coordinating the work that led to this significant day. Thanks to the careful planning that took place in that Harlem townhouse and across the country, a national movement inspired Congress to move forward with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

“Yet as we mark this anniversary, it’s clear there is more work to do. The legislative victories of the 1960s have been diminished by an extremist Supreme Court. The demands for economic equality have not yet been fully realized. And as we saw this past weekend in Jacksonville – and last May in my hometown of Buffalo – racist violence continues.

“From signing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act to establishing the New York State Commission on African American History, my administration has made it a priority to make New York a more equitable and just state. Guided by the memories of those iconic New Yorkers, and by the sage wisdom of living legends like Dr. Hazel Dukes, I am committed to keeping up that fight.”

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Hochul: Getting Migrants Farm Work Visas

August 9, 2023

Spectrum News reports that Governor Kathy Hochul is getting backing from the Farm Bureau, on her idea of getting work visas for migrants coming to be farm workers in New York State. “In a Tuesday interview on Spectrum News, Hochul said there are 5,000 jobs on farms in the state that could, at least in part, be filled by migrants, a point she initially raised in May”. reports Emily Kenny on Spectrum’s website.

Click here for full story from Spectrum.

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