WSSV News

Saratoga Springs is starting the new year with a new mayor and new public safety commissioner. They took the oath of office on Monday, along with other city and county leaders. WNYT reports John Safford, Republican veteran and entrepreneur, defeated Democratic Mayor Ron Kim in November. Republican and former FBI agent Tim Coll claimed victory over Democratic Public Safety Commissioner Jim Montagnino.

Jason Schofield has withdrawn his name for the Assistant to the City Clerk position in Troy. WRGB reports
Schofield, the former Republican commissioner with the Rensselaer County Board of Elections, resigned from his county position in December 2022, just a couple weeks before pleading guilty to 12 federal counts of voter fraud in January 2023.

The new year means new laws go into effect across the state. On Monday the New York state minimum wage will rise to $15 an hour. An additional $.50 increase goes into effect in 2025 and again in 2026 to bring it to $16 an hour. WTEN reports people against the increase said businesses will pass along that cost to consumers.

Saratoga welcomed people to celebrate the start of 2024 with their three-day New Year’s Fest. WTEN reports it’s been called New York’s biggest New Year’s party north of Times Square by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. More than 3,000 people were expected to participate in the festivities. Local businesses became involved with a mix of free and paid events.

Saratoga Springs Police continue their investigation into the discovery of a body found near South Broadway and Adelphi Street over the weekend. WNYT reports authorities say the body was there for some time. olice stated that the uncovering of the remains does not appear to be suspicious and that there is no threat to the public. No identification on the person as yet.

Unfinished business was addressed at the last Saratoga Springs City Council meeting of the year. A special meeting was held on Thursday to vote on several measures, including funding for a temporary homeless shelter. WTEN reports a total of $387,000 was awarded to RISE Housing and Support Services to continue its work into next year.

A local financial planner has donated books to the Saratoga Center for the Family. Jeffrey C. Vahanian, president of Vahanian & Associates Financial Planning Inc., and his wife Corinne donated150 copies of the book “Rise Up Gold Dust Queen, ” which they hope will be helpful for those rebuilding their self-esteem and their lives.

Niskayuna Police have identified the victims of Saturday’s fatal crash. WNYT reports Mohaned Yousif, 32, and Samey Hussain, 28, – both of Schenectady – died after their car struck a tree on Saint David’s Lane near Morgan Avenue.
The crash happened just after 4:30 a.m. The vehicle burst into flames and both occupants were pronounced dead.

The Department of Aging and Youth Services is offering Winterfest meals throughout Saratoga County. The meals feature a hot cocoa bar with fixings, Belgian waffles with toppings, and sausage prepared by Mazzone Hospitality. WTEN reports
Saratoga County seniors ages 60 and older are encouraged to attend at their local location. Reservations are required. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance by noon.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced Hoosick Falls and Schuylerville as this year’s Capital Region NY Forward winners, receiving $4.5 million each in funding. NY Forward is a central component of the State’s economic development policy. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.