Blue Spruce in Ballston Lake will be featured on “George to the Rescue.” WNYT reports the company helps Capital Region community center Hope 7 in Troy with much-needed renovations. The Saratoga County company was involved with the landscaping at Hope 7 as part of the renovation, along with its new outdoor play area. The episode will air at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23.
Siena Poll Gauges Cost Of Living, Quality Of Life In NY
A new poll is out on top issues for New Yorkers. The Siena College Research Institute Poll finds the cost of living in New York is the biggest issue, reports WNYT. The poll found 57% said the quality of life in the state is getting worse. However, 14% said it’s getting better, and 27% said it’s about the same.
Report: Montagnino Says He Owes No Apology To Mayor
The Saratoga Springs Public Safety Commissioner, Jim Montagnino, said he does not owe the mayor an apology following two arguments filled with profanities. WNYT reports Montagnino recorded the phone conversation, saying he thought it was necessary at the time. He added, he does not owe the mayor an apology, but he would like to move on from this.
Ordinance Proposed Addressing Public Comments At Saratoga City Council Meetings
A proposed ordinance regarding public comment during Saratoga Springs City Council meetings would require those seeking to speak provide proof that they either live, work or own property in the municipality. According to the Daily Gazette, the statute, proposed by Public Safety Commissioner James Montagnino, would also prioritize speakers in order by city residents, those who work in the city, those who own property in the city, and then everyone else.
Judge Rejects Saratoga BLM Co Founder’s Appeal To Have Charges Dropped
A judge has rejected an effort by Saratoga Black Lives Matter’s co-founder to drop charges related to his alleged disruption of a city meeting. According to WNYT, Alexis A. Figuereo is accused of taking the microphone away from a speaker at the April 4 Saratoga Springs City Council and preventing the meeting from continuing. Figuereo was charged with misdemeanors of obstruction of governmental administration and a violation of disorderly conduct.
Report: Secret Recording Of Heated Conversation Between Saratoga Mayor, Public Safety Commissioner
The relationship between two Saratoga Springs leaders does not appear to be any better. WNYT obtained a secret recording of a phone conversation between Mayor Ron Kim and Public Safety Commissioner James Montagnino.
The conversation was immediately after a shouting match in City Hall in May. Saratoga Springs Police caught it on body camera, and the department posted it on their Facebook page.
Man Charged With Stabbing Three People In Troy
Anthony Cresser, 26, of Brunswick, was arrested and charged with three counts of Attempted Murder, three counts of Assault, Robbery, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. WNYT reports he allegedly stabbed three people Saturday evening at an apartment complex in Troy, State Police said.
School Board Candidate Proposes Using CDTA To Combat School Bus Driver Shortage
A candidate for the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors has suggested the county and Capital District Transportation Authority partner to provide transportation to students in the county as a possibly remedy to the current bus driver shortage. The Daily Gazette reports Gordon Boyd, who is running to represent Saratoga Springs on the Board of Supervisors, is proposing that older students have bus passes to take a CDTA bus to school.
Hochul Looks To Crack Down On Car Thefts
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a series of actions to combat the high number of car thefts, particularly of certain Kia and Hyundai model vehicles, in counties across New York State The actions include fast-tracking $50 million for law enforcement technology and equipment, $5 million to enhance youth justice alternatives and diversion programming for teenagers and young adults, and the launch of a public engagement campaign targeting vulnerable car owners.
Schenectady Fire Displaces 11 Adults, 22 Children
A fire at a Schenectady apartment complex left 11 adults and 22 children displaced. WNYT reports the fire broke out around 3:30 a.m. Saturday at the South Gates Apartments in a building with 10 units. One person was treated at the hospital and released. The Red Cross is now helping the families with food, clothing, and shelter.