On the agenda: Lyons meeting — Data Center (May 18)

AGENDA
Wayne Economic Development Corporation
May 18, 2026 9:10 AM
9 Pearl Street, 2nd Floor Conference Room
Lyons, New York 14489
1. Call to Order - David Fantuzzo
2. Motion to Approve April 20, 2026 Meeting Minutes
3. Resolution Authorizing New Assistant Secretary and Records Management
Officer
4. Fiscal Officer’s Report
5. Project Updates
a. Wayne County Pitch Competition Update
b. Small Business Week
6. May Go Into Executive Session
7. Executive Director’s Updates
8. Next WEDC Meetings
a. Board Meeting June 15, 2026 at 9:10 a.m.
9. Motion to Adjourn.

DRAFT
WEDC Board Meeting
April 20, 2026
9 Pearl St., Lyons, NY
Minutes
Members Present: David Fantuzzo, Chairperson; Kim V. Leonard, Vice-Chairperson; Julie
DiLella, Treasurer; Kaye Stone-Gansz, Board Secretary; Amanda McDonald, Member; Pamela
Heald; and Member; Kenneth VanFleet, Member
Also Present: Brian Pincelli, Executive Director; Katie Bronson, Deputy Director; Ryan Gentile,
Fiscal Officer; and Mark Humbert, Interim County Administrator
The meeting was called to order at 9:54 A.M. by Mr. David Fantuzzo.
The Board meeting began with reviewing meeting minutes from the March 2026 meeting. No
questions or changes were presented. Ms. McDonald made a motion to approve the meeting
minutes; Ms. Stone-Gansz seconded the motion. All present approved - minutes were approved.
Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Discussion: Mr. Pincelli introduced this discussion. On
an annual basis, staff reaches out to WCIDA and WEDC customers for a meeting/site-visit. To
start these site visits, the staff have included a draft survey in the board packet and would like to
talk with the board about BRE. This survey will start with current customers, and will be expanded
to other Wayne County businesses. This will take a few months to complete, and staff will follow
up with the board for the next few months with progress. Ms. DiLella suggested a marketing packet
with information on resources and contact information. The board mentioned the importance of
reaching out to other businesses and code enforcement to discuss projects in the local communities
that can help create new contacts. Mr. VanFleet mentions an impediment for businesses often
includes state mandates and changes in laws. Knowledge of resources is key to business attraction.
Mr. Humbert made a comment. What are those hurdles, and who helps get over those hurdles? Our
State representatives are key to that. Code officers and consultants can help. Other BRE resources
include the REsimplifi, the website link on the agenda. This is broker-generated data. If there are
properties not commercially listed, we have a form for people to fill out. Site readiness and project
readiness is also a key component to BRE as well as business attraction. The IDA is working with
MRB on the Water and Wastewater Study to be better prepared to answer specific site information
requests, as well as gaining a better understanding of current infrastructure location and capacity.

Mr. Fantuzzo requested that the Board enter executive session at 9:55 A.M.. Ms. DiLella made a
motion to enter executive session; Ms. Heald seconded the motion. The subject for the executive
session regarded “to discuss the financial history of a particular third-party corporation.” Ms.
Heald made a motion to exit executive session at 9:59 A.M.; Ms. Leonard seconded the motion.
Mr. Fantuzzo provided information to the Board that Pier Fifty-Three has been listed for sale and
sale did not go through. Mr. Gentile opened the Fiscal Officer’s Report with Account Balances.
He then reviewed the Loan Aging Report, and the Budget v. Actuals Report. He mentioned
reimbursements from the Land Bank for the Brownfield RLF program were received last month.
Mr. Pincelli then presented the executive director’s update. No questions were presented. Mr.
Pincelli clarified the NYS comptroller’s office is here to audit WCIDA, WEDC is not being
audited.
Ms. Stone-Gansz made a motion to adjourn the WEDC meeting. Ms. Heald seconded the motion.
Mr. Dave Fantuzzo adjourned the meeting at 10:08 A.M.
The next WEDC Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026.
Respectfully Submitted,

Katie Bronson Deputy Director, in absence of the Assistant Secretary

Wayne Economic Development Corporation
Resolution Authorizing New Assistant Secretary and Records Management Officer
Whereas, the Assistant Secretary and Records Management Officer positions with Wayne
Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) are currently vacant; and
Whereas, WEDC determines Rebekah Howell, Secretary 1, is selected to serve as Assistant
Secretary and Records Management Officer for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2026; be it hereby
Resolved, that WEDC Board approves and authorizes Rebekah Howell, Secretary 1, to serve as
Assistant Secretary and Records Management Officer for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2026.
Moved:
Second:
David Fantuzzo
Kim V. Leonard
Julie DiLella
Kaye Stone-Gansz
Pamela Heald
Amanda McDonald
Kenneth VanFleet

Ayes:
Nays:
Yea

Nay

Absent

Abstain

The above resolution is certified and true and was passed at the Wayne Economic Development
Corporation board meeting on May 18, 2026.
_________________________________________
Katie Bronson, COO (in absence of the Assistant Secretary)

Wayne County Pitch
Competition 2026
How Applicants Hear about the Adult Wayne County Pitch
SMALL BUSINESS OWNER

RADIO

1
1
0
1
0
1
0

NEWSPAPER

1

WAYNE COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE

0

ECON. DEV. EMPLOYEE

0

SBDC

0

ONTARIO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MACEDON LIBRARY FLYER

2

2
2

BILLBOARD

22
15

8

1
1

WORD OF MOUTH

15

5

SCORE

15

3

18

2
0

5

10

Over the years (2021- 2026)

15

2026

Funds to Winner/s
WEDC Funds Other sponsors

2019
16
$25,000
2020
20
$25,000
2021
10
$25,000
2022
8
$30,000
2023
12
$26,000
2024
15
$25,000
2025
18
$30,000
2026
29
$30,000
Total
128
$216,000
Total Funds $314,613
* 2026 Marketing does not include videography

4
6

FACEBOOK

Year Applications (adults
and students)

4

WAYNE COUNTY WEBSITE

LINKEDIN

Over the years

20

$15,000
$7,000

$22,000

By the Numbers
SCORE workshop 1
SCORE workshop 2
Virtual workshops request
Student Applications
Adult Applications
Attendance
at the event
25

WCIDA
(marketing)

$4,389
$9,620
$9,467
$9,886
$6,231
$10,713
$12,349
$13,958
$76,613

20
24
12
13
16
56

Small Business Week 2026
108 nominations

53 Businesses Nominated

Majority of the Towns and
Villages

WAYNE COUNTY 2026 SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
NOMINATED SMALL BUSINESSES

Arcadia / Newark Macedon
Blue Line Graphics
The Apple Shed
The Flower Mill
The Tire Rack
Oats & O’s
Optimum coaters
Revive salon
The Lil Barn
Union Street Automotive/Gulf Gas Station’s
Allstate- The Katie Pullen Agency
Newark Arcadia Emergency Medical Services
Candy Apple Pre-School Center, Inc.
Runaway Blue
Q's Power Equipment Inc.
Canalview Restaurant

Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort
The Brew House
Disbatch Brewing Company

Galen / Clyde

Hair with Flair
Paige’s Parlor

AP Drywall and Painting
Faithful Body Works
Livingston’s Tree Service
Mill Street Gardens
Olivia's Wine & Spirit
Studio 31
The Landing-By the park
Brandon Livingston Contracting
Norcott Tree Service & Excavation

Marion

Casa Mexicana Bar & Grill
Lollypops & Polkadots
Morgan farms market
Pi Squared Farm, LLC
The More The Marion
Fresh Family Cleaning LLC

North Rose
Ontario

Bear Creek Bloom
Sarah’s Country Barn

Palmyra

Around the Block
BeWitched Coffee Co.
MomEase Services
Morrisey Farms

Sodus / Sodus Point
KnC Worm Farm
Sodus Feeds and Needs
Giuseppina’s
The Mouse House Stitchery
Pop’s House of Collectables
Bay Street

Walworth
Stumps R Us
Domestic Diva

Wolcott/ Red Creek
Johnson Forest Management
Field & Flour
3 sisters boutique
Sweet indulgence

WEDC Fiscal Officer’s Report
Date: May 18th, 2026

•
•
•

Bank Balances
Loan Aging Report
Budget vs Actual

Fiscal Officer's Report
WEDC Account Balances
Q1 2025
(3/31/25)

Q2 2025
(6/30/25)

Q3 2025
(9/30/25)

Q4 2025
(12/31/25)

Q1 2025
(3/31/26)

CURRENT
(4/30/26)

MAIN CHECKING *7144

$

810,913.75 $

764,751.40 $

875,215.51 $

871,746.06 $

874,526.06 $

865,988.12

RLF *0300

$

1,410,293.61 $

1,447,952.14 $

1,492,860.24 $

1,516,732.08 $

1,579,359.83 $

1,591,548.28

Econ Opp/GAIN *4494

$

433,016.91 $

440,043.32 $

454,069.85 $

457,588.49 $

473,006.00 $

473,712.10

Micro *0458

$

258,681.80 $

267,912.12 $

282,205.80 $

287,571.91 $

261,546.35 $

269,365.22

Microburst Loan *4728

$

96,229.54 $

100,728.55 $

105,227.91 $

108,227.61 $

215,109.89 $

215,114.31

Microburst Grant *4710

$

-

-

-

-

-

Brownfield RLF *4020

$

200,108.43 $

TOTAL WEDC Funds

$

$

3,209,244.04

$

$

200,120.90 $
3,221,508.43

$

$

$

1,077,540.06 $

1,075,189.91 $

4,287,119.37

4,317,056.06

$

$

$

-

876,980.51 $
4,280,528.64

876,998.53

$

4,292,726.56

$3,000,000.00
$2,500,000.00
$2,000,000.00
$1,500,000.00
$1,000,000.00
$500,000.00
$-

TOTAL WEDC Funds

Q1 2025
(3/31/25)

Econ Opp/GAIN *4494

Q2 2025
(6/30/25)
MAIN CHECKING *7144

Q3 2025
Q4 2025
(9/30/25)
(12/31/25)
Brownfield RLF *4020

Microburst Grant *4710

Micro *0458

Q1 2025
(3/31/26)
RLF *0300

CURRENT
(4/30/26)

Microburst Loan *4728

WEDC Loan Aging Report
5.18.26
Borrower Name
MJB Property Holdings LLC(Legendary Auto)
Empire Fruit Growers Co-Op Inc.
TJJK Properties LLC
Altra Rental. 2127 Route 104 LLC
Pier Fifty-Three LLC
Nathali Neal Enterprises, LLC.
4320 Canandaigua Road, LLC. (K2 Brewing)
Red Creek Land Holdings LLC
Dis-Batch Brewing LLC.
Kidtopia Ontario LLC
Nathali's Farm Market & Supply LLC.
Ten Decade Enterprise
Ten Decade Enterprises LLC (2)
4320 Canandaigua Rd LLC K2 Brewing Inc (2)
Wayne County Regional Land Bank
Wayne County Regional Land Bank
Kidtopia Ontario LLC - Marion

Original Balance Principal Balance Regular Payment
Days Late as of 5/8/26
$2,036.32
$297,000.00
$86,907.51
$2,084.26
$300,000.00
$113,808.90
$1,121.92
$170,000.00
$111,364.80
7
$978.30
$170,000.00
$107,768.03
$1,783.00
$170,000.00
$76,256.06
37
$530.74
$63,215.00
$49,599.44
$5,551.03
$500,000.00
$446,005.01
556
$5,935.09
$500,000.00
$414,304.66
$2,531.20
$140,000.00
$5,041.90
$1,383.83
$73,000.00
$22,961.83
$696.37
$79,490.00
$52,552.99
$1,725.81
$187,612.00
$22,305.67
$1,077.42
$122,987.50
$83,387.50
$8,761.62
$104,572.04
$26,240.79
518
deferred until remediation
complete
$431,375.00
$431,375.00
deferred until remediation
complete
$76,125.00
$76,125.00
$1,367.17
$44,442.00
$39,935.42

Wayne Economic Development Corporation
Budget vs. Actuals: Budget_FY26_P&L_1 - FY26 P&L
April 2026

TOTAL
ACTUAL

BUDGET

OVER BUDGET

4300 Agency Fee Income

625.00

-625.00

4301 Agency Application Fee Income

41.67

-41.67

Total 4300 Agency Fee Income

666.67

-666.67

% OF BUDGET

Income

4400 County Contractual Income
4400.1 Insurance Reimbursement Income

1,610.26

4400.2 Accountant Reimbursement Income
4400.3 Audit Reimbursement Income

8,000.00

0.00

0.00

250.00

1,360.26

416.67

-416.67

750.00

7,250.00

4400.4 Copier Lease Reimbursement Inc.

46.67

-46.67

4400.5 Software,Supply,SubscriptionINC

291.67

-291.67

4400.9 Other County Contractual Income
Total 4400 County Contractual Income
4820 Interest Income-Checking
4850 Interest Income-Loans

644.10 %
1,066.67 %

36.67

-36.67

9,610.26

1,791.68

7,818.58

536.38 %

70.20

33.33

36.87

210.62 %

5,138.63

6,666.67

-1,528.04

77.08 %

Total Income

$14,819.09

$9,158.35

$5,660.74

161.81 %

GROSS PROFIT

$14,819.09

$9,158.35

$5,660.74

161.81 %

Expenses
5041 Grants Awarded

0.00

0.00

5041.1 Pitch Competition Grant

2,500.00

-2,500.00

Total 5041 Grants Awarded

2,500.00

-2,500.00

5045 Provision for Loan Loss

833.33

-833.33

5100 Postage Expense

29.17

-29.17

2,814.67

-2,814.67

5220 Depreciation
5250 Legal Expenses
5251 Legal Expenses- eligible reimb

833.33

-833.33

Total 5250 Legal Expenses

833.33

-833.33

5280 Sponsorship

83.33

-83.33

5320 Legal Notices & Publications

4.17

5340 Office Supplies

488.44

5350 Repairs & Maintenance Exp

3,653.57

-4.17
488.44

2,500.00

1,153.57

5360 UCC Lien Filing Fees & Mortgage

41.67

-41.67

5365 Loan Underwriting Expenses

16.67

-16.67

5501 County Contractual Expenses

0.00

0.00

5501.1 Insurance Expense

250.00

-250.00

5501.2 Accountant Expense

500.00

-500.00

5501.3 Audit Expense

750.00

-750.00

5501.4 Copier Lease Expense

46.67

-46.67

5501.5 Software,Supply,SubscriptionEXP

500.00

-500.00

5501.9 Other County Contractual Expens

36.67

-36.67

Total 5501 County Contractual Expenses

2,083.34

-2,083.34

8.33

-8.33

$11,748.01

$ -7,606.00

6020 Bank Fee
Total Expenses

$4,142.01

Accrual Basis Friday, May 8, 2026 12:25 PM GMT-04:00

146.14 %

35.26 %
1/2

Wayne Economic Development Corporation
Budget vs. Actuals: Budget_FY26_P&L_1 - FY26 P&L
April 2026

TOTAL
ACTUAL

BUDGET

OVER BUDGET

% OF BUDGET

NET OPERATING INCOME

$10,677.08

$ -2,589.66

$13,266.74

-412.30 %

NET INCOME

$10,677.08

$ -2,589.66

$13,266.74

-412.30 %

Accrual Basis Friday, May 8, 2026 12:25 PM GMT-04:00

2/2

Executive Directors Report
WCIDA/ WEDC

May
•

New craft brewery set to open in historic 1800’s building in upstate NY (Drummlins 2024
Winner)
o https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2026/04/23/drumlins-brewing-toopen-in-historic-1800s-building-in-palmyra-ny/89700347007/?tbref=hp

•

Ontario Midland Railroad Annual Report
o Total Car Count-305 (up 15 from prior year).
o NY Sugar Project phase 1 complete- took delivery of first rail car.
o Meeting to discuss pursuit of grants for safety and track improvements.
o Looking to utilize and expand Newark Rail Yard for transload opportunities.

•

More Data Centers
o Data centers descend on needy Upstate NY towns. Is anyone looking out for us?
https://www.syracuse.com/news/2026/05/data-centers-descend-on-needy-upstate-nytowns-is-anyone-looking-out-for-us.html
o Data center’s power demand drives backlash in Genesee County
https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/2026/05/04/ny-data-centerplan-at-stamp-faces-power-tax-break-backlash/89779431007/?tbref=hp

April

•

•

•

Judge strikes down DEC regulation over definition of 'freshwater wetland'
o https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/central-ny/politics/2026/04/09/judge-strikes-downdec-regulation-over-definition-of--freshwater-wetlandJamestown Container celebrates 70 years, eyes continued growth in Rochester
o https://rbj.net/2026/04/06/jamestown-proposes-container-70-years-rochester-growth/
o https://www.jamestowncontainer.com/about/packaging-facilities/lyons-ny-packaging/
Data Centers
o https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/17/nyregion/ai-data-center-newyork.html?unlocked_article_code=1.T1A.SpEv.HRC3uzkMnV7-&smid=url-share
o Proposed $19.4B data center in Genesee County draws community concerns
▪ https://13wham.com/news/local/proposed-data-center-in-genesee-county-drawscommunity-concerns-stamp-stream-town-of-alabama-ny-western-new-york-wnyscience-technology-and-advanced-manufacturing-park-tonawanda-seneca-nationreservation-iroquois-national-wildlife-refuge

March 2026

•

NYSERDA memo on state's 2019 climate law costs is latest signal of coming budget fight
over its mandates- https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/politics/2026/02/27/nyserdamemo-foreshadows-budget-fight
o “Current estimates indicate that the most impacted households — upstate, twocar households that rely on heating oil — would likely experience gross cost
impacts in excess of $4,100 annually. Even after affordability benefits, this
amount remains above $2,400,”
o “Absent changes, by 2031, the impact of CLCPA on the price of gasoline could reach or
exceed $2.23 per gallon on top of current prices at that time; the cost for an MMBtu of
natural gas $16.96; and comparable increases to other fuels. Upstate oil and natural gas
households would see costs in excess of $4,000 a year, and New York City natural gas
households could anticipate annual gross costs of $2,300. Only a portion of these costs
could be offset by current policy design.”

February 2026

•

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the launch of EXPRESS NY (Expediting Processes
and Regulations to Enable Streamlined Services), a new statewide effort to make government
work better by tackling outdated and burdensome regulations, policies, and practices that stand in
the way of delivering for New Yorkers. https://forms.ny.gov/s3/how-can-we-make-new-yorkstate-work-better-for-you

•

Proposed changes to SEQR that were described in the SOTS and in the proposed State Budget
o

•

New definition for "previously disturbed site" - means a parcel of land that has been
developed ("developed" not defined) more than 2 years before a permit request, AND
has either buildings or impervious surfaces, or public infrastructure, or maintained
lawns, AND in not within a FEMA floodplain, AND hasn't been used for agricultural use 3
of the last 5 years
o Sets a one-year cap for lead agencies to make an initial determination
o Sets a two-year cap for agencies to prepare and make available the environmental
impact statement
▪ Extensions must be written in consultation with an application, and at the
discretion of the agency, and must establish a new deadline
Exclusions (Type II) section is expanded to include:
o Construction of housing in municipalities with populations of 1 million or more:

▪
▪
▪
▪

o

o

Cannot be in a coastal flood area
Can't be in an area zoned industrial
For mixed-use projects, no more than 50k sq ft can be non-residential
Cannot exceed 250 dwelling units for lower density areas. Project within
medium or high-density areas cannot exceed 500 dwelling units
Construction of housing in municipalities with less than 1 million persons
▪ Projects must be connected to water / sewer
▪ Must be in previously disturbed areas
▪ For mixed-use projects, no more than 50k sq ft can be non-residential or 20%
non-residential uses by gross floor area, whichever is less
▪ Projects don't exceed 100 dwelling units
On previously disturbed site sites, construction of public parks, bike lanes / trails,
childcare facilities, rehab of municipal water / wastewater infrastructure.

January 2026

•

Public Service Commission Announces Extension of Nuclear Power Credit Program- January 22
o Commission Provides Owner of 4 Nuclear Reactors in New York With Necessary
Financial Certainty to Assist in Federal License Renewal Process.
o Next steps, the Commission directed NYSERDA to develop and file an updated ZEC
implementation plan to reflect the ZEC 2.0 Program. NYSERDA must file the plan
within 60 days from today’s decision.
o https://apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/mediacontact/public/view.cfm?parm=08F8F0CF-C450E67D-2C6FD718885242CF&backButton

•

Governor Kathy Hochul provided her 2026 State of the State
o See a Summary of Policy and Economic Development Proposals Here

December

•

IDA Director and Board Member Meeting:
o There is a well-documented need for energy to support housing, commercial and
industrial development. Energy is the number one challenge facing New York State and
needs to be addressed.
o The group also shared the importance engagement with elected officials to emphasize the
importance of energy availability, improvements to energy policy, common sense
permitting and alignment of state agencies with economic development priorities. There

o

•

was a great deal of discussion on these issues including specific examples where
improvement needs to be made. Many of these items are captured in the NY
Competitiveness Blueprint report.
Support of local housing was also discussed with IDA’s sharing local programs and
policy adjustments to address the issue as well as the need for more economical
approaches from state agencies. Each county has taken some innovative approaches to
local housing continues to be part of a solution on this issue.

Governor Hochul Announces Launch of $300 Million ‘POWER UP’ Program to Create PowerReady and Shovel-Ready Industrial Sites.
o First Introduced in 2025 State of the State and Funded in FY26 Enacted Budget.
o Will provide an initial $100 million in grants.
o Engaging with the utility to discuss. App webinar 12/10/25.

November

•

ESD’s New York Ventures Division Will Help Early-Stage Companies Access Legal,
Accounting and Financial Services.
o Will provide hands-on support to early-stage startups across New York State to help
founders strengthen business operations, improve financial readiness, and position their
companies to attract investment capital.

October

•

All IDA PILOT payments have been made and are prepared to be distributed.

•

Several County resolutions in October encouraging NYS to consider opt-out of natural gas
mandate, extension of the Zero Emission Credit (ZEC), and requesting dismissal of
NYSEG/RG&E rate increase case by the PSC.

•

Reminder Real Estate Breakfast 10/29
September

NYSEG/RG&E

$313.5 M

Rate Case Projects

These details were shared at a meeting I attended recently. I will elaborate with more detail in our
meeting.

August

State
•

Ontario County faces major energy cost hurdle in housing development efforts- the Uptown
Landing development on County Road 332, which includes 680 housing units…. the developer
was recently informed it would cost an additional $10 million to $15 million to supply the project
with electricity.
July

County
•

•

•

•

RG&E completes $5M circuit upgrade in Sodus- Rochester Gas and Electric has finished a $5
million upgrade to its electric circuit infrastructure in Sodus, aiming to improve reliability and
meet growing demand. The project increased the voltage on the circuits feeding Substation 210
from 4.16kV to 12.47kV. The work included converting three miles of lines and installing
modern components such as transformers, conductors, and enhanced digital controls.
Small upstate N.Y. community excited about job opportunities from nuclear power plantso Comments from the County Administratorhttps://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/rochester/news/2025/07/02/nuclear-jobopportunities
A proposed $38 million housing project in downtown Lakeview Health Services is seeking a 30year PILOT agreement for a 74-unit development that would include affordable and supportive
housing. https://www.fingerlakes1.com/2025/07/09/geneva-housing-project-sparks-publicdebate/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
Funding Supports County-Led Infrastructure Projects That Encourage Housing Growth,
Placemaking and Tourism- Additional $50 Million Included in Newly Enacted FY 2026
Budget
o

Wayne County – $500,000: This project in the Town of Lyons will address safety issues
and accessibility challenges by removing and replacing damaged sidewalks in Central
Park, improving pedestrian safety, and reinforcing the walkability and historic character
of the town. The improvements will create smoother, safer pedestrian pathways that
encourage foot traffic, support local businesses, and enhance the town’s overall appeal.
By investing in sidewalk renovations, Lyons will preserve its role as a central gathering
place, strengthen its economic and social vitality, and ensure a safe and welcoming
environment for residents and visitors alike.

June
County
•
•

Six or more solar projects in various stages of development in Wayne County.
Substation improved project in Lyons Completed- Eye on Lyons Industrial Park.

May

Country
•

President’s Executive Order on Workforce Developmenthttps://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/preparing-americans-for-highpaying-skilled-trade-jobs-of-the-future/
o streamline fragmented Federal workforce development programs
o equip American workers to fill the growing demand for skilled trades and other
occupations.
o Within 90 days of the date of this order…submit... a report setting forth strategies to help
the American worker.

State
•

New York State Economic Development Budget Highlights
o $100 Million reallocation to the FAST NY Program to help build shovel and marketready sites across the state.
o $300 Million for the new Power Up Program which will provide much-needed capital
towards energy infrastructure for commercial, industrial, and residential site
development.
o $100 Million for both the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward to
revitalize main street and downtown corridors.
o An expansion of the Excelsior Tax Credit to support supply chain companies in the
semiconductor industry looking to locate or expand in New York State. There is also a
new R&D Investment tax credit available to companies expanding their research and
development capacity in the semiconductor industry.
o $800 Million increase to core NYSDOT Capital Investments. Thank you to the
Associated General Contractors of New York State for leading on this.
o $400 Million through ESD for EDF.
o $400 Million for the revitalization of downtown Albany.
o $2.2 Billion in funding to support childcare services and access across the state.
o $500 Million in new capital for housing, including $100 Million for pro-housing
communities that will run through the CFA.
o $50 Million for County Infrastructure projects.
o $50 Million for the Housing Access Voucher Program.
o $68.4 Billion in funding for the MTA Capital Plan.
o $648.1 Million in CHIPs funding which includes a $50 Million increase.

County
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The 7 Macedon NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

Revitalize the Former Village Hall to Relocate Ambulance Services Downtown ($1,250,000):
Renovate the former Village Hall building to be the new downtown headquarters for ambulance services
in order to improve response times.
Create a Residential Campus at 2 West Street ($920,000): Construct new townhouse units to expand
downtown housing options and grow the 2 West Street property into a larger residential campus with a
variety of housing types and price-points.

Redevelop 103 Main Street as a Mixed-Use Downtown Anchor ($915,000): Redevelop the building at
103 Main Street into a downtown anchor, with a mix of uses including loft-style apartments and a
ground-floor retail space for a food and beverage tenant.
Enhance Recreational Facilities at Gravino Park ($740,000): Expand recreational opportunities and
amenities at Gravino Park to encourage increased utilization and diversify programming options.
Establish a Downtown Small Project Grant Fund ($450,000): Create a matching grant fund to support
smaller scale improvements and renovations that will enhance properties and businesses throughout the
NY Forward Area.
Activate 90 Main Street to Bring Auto Service Downtown ($125,000): Complete the final phase of
facade improvements and renovations to allow 90 Main Street to re-open as an auto repair shop after
years of vacancy.
Revitalize the Masonic Block B&B with a New Restaurant ($100,000): Fit-out the ground floor of the
bed & breakfast at 96-98 Main Street to support the needs of a future cafe or restaurant tenant in order to
activate this currently vacant space with a new business.
April

State
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The New York State Economic Development Council (NYSEDC) has announced findings from a
comprehensive report underscoring the substantial economic and societal contributions of
Industrial Development Agency (IDA) investment across the state. IDAs create jobs, attract
private investment, build housing, support clean energy projects, and revitalize downtowns:
https://www.nysedc.org/docs/3.12_Final-2022_Economic_Impact_of_IDAs-NYSEDC.pdf

Region
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Empire State Development (ESD) today announced that 10 companies from around the world
will be headed to Rochester, NY after being selected to take part in round eight of the Luminate
NY accelerator program, investment fund, and competition. A program record-breaking total of
197 applications from 38 different countries were received for consideration to participate in the
world’s largest accelerator for startups working on industry-first solutions that are enabled by
optics, photonics, and imaging (OPI).

County
•

Mark Humbert named Wayne County's interim administratorhttps://www.fltimes.com/news/mark-humbert-named-wayne-countys-interimadministrator/article_0358ba66-042e-11f0-9aae-0b812323d5fb.html

March 2025
State

•

•

Real Property Tax Law § 575-b (Solar Assessment) Held Unconstitutional by New York
Trial Court- https://www.hodgsonruss.com/newsroom/publications/real-property-tax-law-575-bheld-unconstitutional-by-new-york-trial-court-what-this-means-for-assessment-of-renewableenergy-projects
Over $230 Million in FAST NY Grants Awarded to Date to Help Communities Attract and
Grow Businesses in Advanced Manufacturing and Other Key Industries- Wayne County
Industrial Development Agency (Finger Lakes) – $100,000: This pre-development project will
enable studies to evaluate water and sewer treatment and delivery infrastructure.
• Additional $100 Million in FAST NY Funding Proposed in 2026 Executive Budget
February 2025

State
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Senator James Skoufis (SD42) and Assemblymember Harry Bronson (AD138) held a press
conference in Albany to fight for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (“WOTC”) to be included in
the FY ‘26 state budget. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (S2429/A4012) will create a $90
million dollar investment over three-years to increase participation in New York’s workforce,
countering both the employment shortages affecting businesses and addressing anti-poverty in
some of New York’s most marginalized populations. https://trackbill.com/bill/new-york-senatebill-2429-creates-a-work-opportunity-tax-credit/2615078/

Region
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Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $32.6 million has been awarded to improve seven
locations under the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York grant program,
administered by Empire State Development.
o Wayne County Industrial Development Agency (Finger Lakes) – $100,000: This predevelopment project will enable studies to evaluate water and sewer treatment and
delivery infrastructure, with a focus on Lyons Industrial Park and additional industrial
parks located along the Route 31 corridor spanning east to west through the southern end
of the county. These parks were recently identified via a feasibility study, conducted to
evaluate potential areas for future industrial development.
https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-326-million-fast-nygrants-awarded-attract-high-tech-manufacturing

County
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NYS Urban Development Corporation Directors' Meeting 4th Floor Conference Room Thursday,
2/20/2025 9:30 - 11:30 AM ET
o IX. Administrative Actions A. Wayne County – Disposition of the Butler Correctional
Facility to the Wayne County Industrial Development Agency Authorization to Dispose
of Real Property; Determination of No Significant Effect on the Environment; and
Authorization to Take Related Actions IX. A. - Butler Correctional Facility Disposition
FINAL - Page 325 IX. A. - Schedule A - Butler Correctional Facility - Site Map - Page
331
https://esd.ny.gov/sites/default/files/media/document/02-20-25-ESD-Directors-MeetingMaterials-posting.pdf

December

State
•

New York is exploring interest in building out nuclear power- The New York State Energy
Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) announced the issuance of a Request for
Information (RFI) to gauge market interest in activities to develop advanced nuclear energy
technologies in New York State.

•

Governor Hochul Announces $22 Million is Now Available to Strengthen and Modernize New
York’s Electric Grid- The new grid modernization program, administered by NYSERDA,
provides funding to municipal utilities, rural cooperatives, or consortiums that apply on their
behalf, and small electricity providers that sell no more than 4,000,000 megawatt hours (MWh) of
electricity per year for projects that strengthen the capacity of New York State’s grid systems to
prepare for future extreme weather events.

Region
•

Pfisterer opens new Rochester facility promising new jobs for region. German energy
infrastructure leader Pfisterer announced the launch of its first North American manufacturing
facility in Gates, near Rochester. The announcement marks the company’s first factory outside
the European time zone.

County
•

Butler Correction Updateo Special Permit Applications are moving forward.
o LDA with Westbury being drafted.
o Phase 1 Study initiated.
o Waiting on ESD for several items including 90 disposition notice, additional conditions
on transfer including recapture details.

•

New Economic Development Staff at CCE- Meeting set

November
State
•

Grow NY Winners Announced

Region
•

IDA’s and Housing

o

Syracuse agency to vote on $24 million tax deal for Gateway Apartments projecthttps://www.syracuse.com/news/2024/10/syracuse-agency-to-vote-on-24-million-taxdeal-for-gateway-apartments-project.html

County
•
•

IDA lead agency adoption for Butler Correction Transfer
Broadband Project reaches 50%
October

State
•

•

Legislation that would prevent IDAs from granting property tax breaks where the revenue would
otherwise flow to a local school district. The bill failed to make it out of committee for a third
year in a row.
Legislation would require IDAs to have a labor union representative and a school board
representative.

Region
•

New York Semiconductor Manufacturing and Research Technology Innovation Corridor (NY
SMART I-Corridor) has been awarded a $40 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of
Commerce’s Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs program. This significant investment
will support the advancement of semiconductor research, manufacturing, and workforce
development across the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse corridor.
https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-celebrates-federal-award-empower-newyork-businesses-access-opportunities

County
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•
•
•
•
•
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Butler Correction- Moving Forward, questions relative to SEQR review and scope being
discussed with ESD.
Pitch Competition- Update from staff. Event November 14th.
Solar Project Development- Increase in discussions around projects under development. Increase
in charge.
Loan Fund Legal Cost Analysis- discussions with Council and recommendations.
Discussion around IDA support for Housing.
Federal and NY State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) https://esd.ny.gov/ssbci
Norbut Solar and Arcadia Development Discussion