During a press conference on February 25, Senate Republican Leader Robert Ortt, along with members of the Senate Housing Committee and the Senate Republican Conference, unveiled a comprehensive package of housing legislation designed to help New Yorkers build homes that are affordable in an effort to keep homeowners here in the Empire State.

The package includes affordability incentives for first-time homeowners and lowers the construction costs by removing regulatory burdens, such as streamlining the environmental review process to build homes. The package aims to increase housing supply by establishing a task force composed of local government officials, state agencies, and other stakeholders to develop best practices for local governments to incentivize housing development. In addition, the package includes legislation that ensures rent-controlled and stabilized housing goes to those who need it most.

“To keep New Yorkers living here, we need to ensure that housing is attainable and reasonably priced. The lack of housing affordability remains one of the most difficult economic hurdles facing our state, and a major driver of the affordability crisis that has so many New Yorkers leaving year after year. This is a direct result of policies by our Democratic colleagues. In contrast, our legislative package is about cutting costs, building more, and keeping New Yorkers here,” said Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt.

“For some, it may be uncomfortable to talk about politics. But the reality is that Albany Democrats’ high taxes, costly energy mandates, and excessive regulations are making homeownership harder to achieve. New York families are working hard and trying to put down roots, yet rising construction costs and skyrocketing utility bills are pushing the dream of owning a home further out of reach. These policies are also making it more difficult for retirees to stay in their homes. My housing and energy affordability package offers real, practical solutions. It reduces costly energy mandates that drive up utility bills, lowers construction costs, increases housing supply, and delivers meaningful property tax relief. If the Governor and the Legislature are serious about affordability, they should set aside their politics and pass these bills. Let’s work together to lower costs, expand opportunity, and make it possible for families, seniors, and workers to build a future and stay in New York,” said Senator Pam Helming, Member of the Senate Housing, Construction & Community Development Committee.

Included in the package are proposals that would:

Increase Housing Supply

S.538 (Martins) – Means test rent-controlled apartments to ensure that people who need affordable housing are occupying them.

S.3545 (Borrello) – Streamlines the environmental review process to make it easier to build more homes.

S.529 (Martins) – Establishes the local initiatives task force on housing, in order to collaborate with local government officials, state agencies, and stakeholders to develop best practices for local governments to incentivize housing development.

S.576 (Helming) – Create tax incentives for manufactured housing developers to build affordable homes in rural areas.

Homeownership Affordability

S.850 (Helming) – Provides a first-time homebuyer tax credit for local property taxes.

S.8489 (Weber) – Freezes real property taxes for three years to provide relief to New York homeowners. New York has some of the highest property taxes in the nation.

S.852 (Helming) – Give homebuyers who rehabilitate dilapidated properties an exemption from property tax reassessment.

S.9270 (Chan) – Establishes a new part of the housing court dedicated exclusively to buildings 35 units or less. The owners and tenants of these smaller buildings would benefit from faster resolution of issues.

Lower Construction Costs

S.1167 (Mattera) – Repeal the All-Electric Building Act. The all-electric mandate will increase the cost of the average single-family home by about $20,000.

S.8621 (Mattera) – Allow building developers to comply with the less costly and less burdensome 2020 Energy Codes in lieu of the 2025 Energy Code. This would result in lowering the cost of an average single-family home by approximately $7,400.

“Too many New Yorkers, especially young families and first-time homebuyers, are watching the American Dream of homeownership slip further out of reach. Between crushing property taxes, excessive regulations, and programs that too often miss the people they were meant to serve, the deck is stacked against those trying to put down roots in the communities they call home. This package advances common-sense reforms to increase the housing supply, cut unnecessary regulatory burdens, and provide property tax relief. These are practical steps toward restoring opportunity, bringing down costs, and making it possible for more families to build their future right here in New York,” said Senator George Borrello, SD 57th.

You can slice open a bud and see the tiny leaves and flowers that are folded up inside. A magnifying glass can make this task easier. Some trees have separate buds for leaves and flowers, while others have both flowers and leaves curled up in the same bud. Forming buds late in the growing season allows trees and shrubs to begin growth quickly in the spring.

You will notice that most deciduous tree buds have overlapping scales to protect the tender leaves and flowers inside. Some plants like magnolias and butternut trees have fuzzy buds. The buds on my magnolia are very prominent all through winter.

Because of the diversity of colors, shapes, and sizes, you can identify trees and shrubs in the winter simply by studying their buds and the arrangement of buds on the stem. In red and sugar maples, lateral buds are in pairs opposite each other on the stem. In elms, side buds spiral up the stem singly. Red oaks have a cluster of buds at the end of their branches – a terminal bud with many scales and two or three slightly smaller laterals. Other lateral buds alternate up the stem, according to northernwoodlands.org.

Wildlife can damage buds by eating them. They are packed with nutrition and can be attractive to deer. Additionally, squirrels, songbirds, and other animals can consume winter buds. I have watched sparrows eat the flower buds on my forsythia – the impact on the bloom can be quite noticeable in the spring.

If you have forsythia, crabapple, witch-hazel, or pussy willows in your yard, you can cut budded branches and force them into bloom inside. Michigan State University Extension says taking cuttings closer to springtime (right now) makes it easier to force them into bloom.

Use sharp pruners to cut branches that are at least one foot long. Have a bucket of warm water with you and immediately put the cuttings in the water. To help branches take up water, you can cut a short slit up the bottom of the stem before placing it in the bucket.

When you bring the branches inside, place them in a cool place, such as the basement, that stays around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep them out of direct sunlight, as that can dry out the branches and prevent blooms from opening. It can take two to five weeks, MSU says, for the branches to bloom. Change the water frequently, and misting the stems and buds with water can also help to keep them from drying out.

As the blooms begin to open, you can move the branches to a brighter location for display. Keeping them cool can prolong bloom time.

While New York has made strides in reducing overall tobacco use, significant disparities persist, with rates remaining stubbornly high among certain populations, including African Americans, Latinos, and individuals with mental health concerns. Despite this progress, alarming trends in youth vaping demand immediate attention. For instance, the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey revealed that 7.7% of middle and high school students (2.13 million) reported current use of any tobacco product, with e-cigarettes being the most commonly used product at 5.8% (1.59 million students). The U.S. Surgeon General has declared teen vaping a national epidemic, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.  

The New Year often inspires resolutions to quit, and while initial attempts may not always succeed, persistence is key. Individuals can substantially increase their chances of success by consulting their physician about effective strategies such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and evidence-based behavior modification programs. 

If you’re considering quitting smoking or vaping, talk with your doctor and contact the NYS Quitline at 1-866-697-8487, visit www.nysmokefree.com, or text QUITNOW to 333888. Teens can sign up for text-based help to quit vaping by visiting www.dropthevape.com. 

Lauren Gochenaur, MD  
Preventive Medicine Resident  
URMC Department of Public Health Sciences

Sarah Zeiler of Michigan State University Extension recently wrote an article on how these crops benefit home gardeners.

It is important to understand the differences among the methods and how to use them effectively to achieve the best results. Zeiler notes that as gardeners, we need to think about creating a healthy environment where our plants can thrive. It is not just about putting seeds and transplants in the ground and watching them grow. Companion, trap, and cover crops can help the garden in significant ways by controlling pests, improving soil health, and increasing productivity.

Companion crops are just that: they are planted close together and help each other. Zeiler says help is provided in multiple ways, including improving growth and protection against pests and disease. These plantings work by attracting beneficial insects – pollinators and bug-fighting insects like ladybugs. Some companions help improve soil nutrients – legumes, for example, fix nitrogen in the soil. Companions can even provide shade or support for neighboring plants. Examples include planting basil near tomatoes to help repel damaging insects and improve tomato flavor, and marigolds planted with vegetables to deter nematodes and aphids. The well-known Three Sisters combination of squash, beans, and corn utilized by Indigenous peoples is another example. Zeiler says companion planting can be especially helpful in small gardens with limited space. It creates a more balanced and diverse ecosystem and can help reduce the need for chemicals.

There are many great resources available with detailed information about companion planting, including books by Louise Riotte, Roses Love Garlic and Carrots Love Tomatoes, and a wonderful book by local author Sally Jean Cunningham, Great Garden Companions.

The next method is trap crops. Zeiler defines trap crops as those that are planted to attract pests away from your main crops. They act like decoys, distracting pests from the crops you are growing for harvest. In addition to keeping pests away from your plants, trap crops can also be a valuable way to monitor pest populations in your yard. One example of a trap crop is using mustard to deter flea beetles and cabbage worms away from cabbage. University of Florida Extension says that Blue Hubbard squash can trap squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and even squash vine borers, keeping them away from other cucurbit crops. University of Florida Extension says that trap crops should be planted in advance of the crops you plan to harvest. For pests with limited mobility, a perimeter of trap crops is most effective. For pests that can move freely between plants, planting the trap crop intermittently through the main patch will be most effective. Remove trap crops once they become infested.

Finally, cover crops help to feed and improve the soil. Zeiler says cover crops are planted when the garden would otherwise be bare – typically in the fall or early spring. They help by preventing soil erosion, adding organic matter, improving soil structure and fertility, suppressing weeds, fixing nitrogen (clover and vetch), and supporting beneficial insects. The largest benefit, Zeiler explains, is below-ground in the root matter, but the tops can be harvested and used for compost. Biomass from legumes and grasses, in particular, can make a rich biomass when composted to improve soil tilth, water retention, and nutrient availability. Common cover crops include rye, oats, clover, and hairy vetch. Look for cover crops in seed catalogs.

By Scott W. Hunsinger, President of the Board of Trustees,
Morgan-Manning House Museum

It’s been a year since a major fire caused extensive damage to our beloved landmark, The Morgan-Manning House Museum.  Last February, we were still in shock, but once it was determined that the house could be saved, we got busy.

Since then, significant progress has been made in the rebuilding process.

Shoring up walls and the belvedere were the first steps following the intensive clean-up. Rebuilding the attic to support the new roof followed. Some additional window installation and brickwork will be tackled when the weather improves. Planning for HVAC, plumbing, and wiring has started. Restoring, repairing, or replicating the extraordinary decorative details of the interior is yet another set of tasks that require careful consideration.

On behalf of everyone connected with the Morgan-Manning House, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Brockport community and beyond for the generous support during our rebuilding. That support included encouragement, volunteer efforts, and financial contributions.

As the candle shines in the upstairs window, let it serve as a beacon of hope and a symbol of this restoration project. We strive to continue being the heartbeat of our special village for this and future generations.  With your help, the house will be brought back to its former glory.

January marks the start of a new year and new possibilities. “Out with the old and in with the new.”   January is a month of letting go, change, and new hope.

If you are ready and willing to make some of these changes and meet new people, I encourage you to get involved in your community. Check out the clubs and organizations in the area and see where you can make a difference.

Those who qualify are welcome to join the American Legion Greece Post 468. There was a whirlwind of activity within the organization during December, as the holidays brought out the spirit of giving.

We started the month with Breakfast with Santa. Breakfast included scrambled eggs, bacon, French toast sticks with syrup, and orange juice. Guests enjoyed visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus, taking photos, and receiving a small gift. Attendees were asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Greece Ecumenical Food Shelf and Clothing Closet, located at 500 Maiden Lane. (For information about hours and donations, visit http://www.greececlothingcloset.org or https://www.facebook.com/greecefoodshelf/.)

Greece Post 468 also participated in Wreaths Across America, whose mission is to remember our fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation about freedom.  Wreath-laying ceremonies are held at over 5,200 locations across all 50 states in December. Greece Post 468 participates by purchasing wreaths and attending the ceremony at the Western New York National Cemetery located near Corfu, New York.  Currently, this location serves more than 98,000 veterans, spouses, and eligible children.

Over the years, Greece Post 468 has also served as a drop-off location for Marine Toys for Tots.  The mission of this organization, founded in 1991 on behalf of the Marine Corps, is to collect new, unwrapped toys and distribute them to children who may be economically disadvantaged. Each year, the Greece Post has overflowing boxes of donated toys. 

You want to make a change?  Then take action, do something different, break old habits, and make a difference. It’s not too late.

The American Legion Greece Post 468 accepts new members year-round, with membership based on meeting requirements. Members work to support veterans, active-duty service members, families, and local communities. The Post is located at 344 Dorsey Road, Rochester, NY 14616.

Visit online at: https://greeceny468legionpost.com

Facebook: The American Legion Auxiliary – Greece Post 468

Facebook: American Legion Riders – Greece, NY Post 468

When purchasing plants or planning your garden landscape, there are many things to consider that will help pollinators, even the color of the flower blooms. University of Wisconsin-Madison says bees cannot see the color red, but are attracted to day-blooming white, yellow, blue, and purple flowers with mild to sweet or minty scents. Wasps head for dull-colored white or yellow flowers with a nectar source. Wasps are garden helpers as they can be predators and even parasites of trouble-making insects like the tomato hornworm. Butterflies like red, orange, yellow, pink, and purple day-blooming flowers that are rich in nectar. Moths are drawn to late-day or night-blooming flowers that are dull colored but very fragrant. Beetles like blooms with large bowl-shaped white or green flowers with exposed stamens and pistils. Not surprisingly, flies like dark brown or purple flowers, especially those with a putrid scent. They are not looking for nectar, but pollen. Ants help to pollinate low-growing, small, inconspicuous flowers that grow close to the stem and have a nectar source. Finally, hummingbirds are drawn to hot, bright colors like red, yellow, and pink. They look for large, funnel, cup-shaped, or tubular flowers.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has a long list of ways to help support pollinators in your garden and yard. Diversity of plants is very important – think a mix of trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals with various bloom times. Go for a mix of woody and herbaceous plants with different colored flowers, shapes, and sizes. Stay away from double blooms that have no pollen or nectar, or pollen and nectar that are hidden. When disease and insect problems occur, make it a priority to avoid pesticides. Integrated Pest Management uses chemicals as a last resort.

Remember to include host plants for caterpillars such as milkweed and white oak. This will not only increase the number of pollinators but also support native bird species. Create places where soil can be left bare and undisturbed to encourage ground nesters. Provide habitat for shelter with trees, shrubs, and ornamental grasses. Keep part of a dead tree trunk or branches to provide cavities. A source of clean water is also very helpful. A birdbath, fountain, pond, or decorative trays and dishes that can hold an inch of water provide a place for birds and other pollinators to drink.

By Kelly Jo Stone

You know the feeling—the anticipation and excitement as you dress up for a night at the theatre. Walking into another world, we always have an expectation that rarely encompasses the actual theatre experience.

Everyone remembers feeling awed by a stage set that brings another world to life. The right set immediately immerses us in the story, enhancing or diminishing our experience. Imagine a theatre where every seat offers an unobstructed view, the sets feel enchanting, and the actors are so skilled that audiences become completely absorbed in the show.  

Welcome to Blackfriars Theatre, known for excellent sets, superb local cast members, and no bad seats. It is a theatre that is managed, staffed, performed by, and supported by the people of Rochester.

Perhaps a disclaimer here. If nothing else, it will temper your expectations of the article you are about to read. I am not a theatre critic; my degree in criminal justice is not the education needed to be one. I do, however, know what I like. Okay, ‘like’ is too soft because I LOVE Blackfriars Theatre. My husband and I have attended several shows there. The first one was The Mousetrap, a play by Agatha Christie. Then there was The Noteworthy Life of Howard Barnes, a musical in which the main character wakes to find himself living in a musical. I’m not going to go into a lot of detail; however, I would like to say that this musical warned of puppet violence. We thought that it was a reference we didn’t understand, but nope, it was actually puppet violence. It’s been a year, and we are still randomly laughing over the clever, completely original puppet character performed by Brynn Tyszka. I had the opportunity to chat with Brynn, the Artistic Director at Blackfriars Theatre, after the New Year’s Eve Musical Mayhem show.

When asked what she would want people to know about Blackfriars, she said,“I would want them to know that we really are a community theatre. We cast locally; we also use local suppliers, workforce, and volunteers. This is a place to come and express yourself. It’s also a place for people like me who need a place to explore our art but want to do it in a setting where family and community matter. We are a not-for-profit that relies on support from the community, and we try to give back as much as we can.”

I loved what Brynn had to say, but beyond her words was the simple fact that I approached her after the first show of a stressful two-show New Year’s Eve. She went from performer to Artistic Director, checking emails and working in the office, and without pause, took the time to chat with me. All of this was done with a gracious smile.

I suppose that is the main thing I love about Blackfriars; beyond the wonderful performances, the amazing sets, and the incredible talent is the sense of welcome. It does not matter who you are or what your economic, cultural, or religious background is; every person is treated as important.

My husband and I have attended murder mysteries, period productions, and musicals at the theatre, and each visit has provided enjoyment and lasting satisfaction. I am consistently impressed by the remarkable talent within Rochester. The New Year’s Eve Musical Mayhem show featured six local artists who entertained the audience with an hour of musical roulette. In the first act, the performers included Lyndsey Lord, Jade Hill, Brynn Tyszka, Max Ruscio, Hector Manuel, and (filling in for an ill cast member) Mary Tiballi Hoffman, the Executive Director.  

Each cast member sang a song of their choice, except Mary, who saved her humor and talent for the second act. The advertisement said, ‘show-stopping signature numbers,’ and they were not exaggerating. With a live band backing them, the five singers performed songs ranging from Max Ruscio’s upbeat, ‘I Love Betsy’ from Honeymoon in Vegas, to Jade Hill’s sentimental rendition of ‘Astonishing’ from Little Women. Each performance was breathtaking in its range and passion.

During act two, the performers, including Mary, were randomly chosen by audience members to perform a duet. It was challenging because all the performers had to learn all the songs, even though they did not know which ones they would actually be performing. Mary, who is the Executive Director and a talent all on her own, led off the duets with a bang. Her charm and sense of humor were as evident as her talent. She has the ability to draw you in and create a feeling of intimacy, as if she is chatting just with you rather than an entire audience, which makes her an incredible director.

We were seated next to Lyndsey Lord’s neighbor, who shared insights into her passion for music. “She loves to sing; it’s always a special moment when we get to listen to her sing. Everyone that knows her knows she was truly meant to be on stage.”

I specifically mentioned two songs from the first half of the show because they made me feel sentimental in a way that stuck with me. I spoke to Max during intermission, and he said, “This is the first time I have performed in the Musical Mayhem, and I think I did well. It was fun; we had to learn a lot of songs, but it was a challenge I really enjoyed.”

I spoke to all the performers, and while I did not quote them, it is not because they are not quotable; rather, it is due to article length. I will mention that Hector Manuel was extremely excited to be involved in the choreography of the upcoming show, Parade. Every person smiled with pleasant patience, which is not always easy when someone sticks a recorder in your face and starts asking questions, especially when all you really want to do is eat cheese and bask in your accomplishments. I reiterate that I love the kindness and generosity of the staff, volunteers, and performers.

The experience highlighted for me how the theatre fosters a sense of community investment, underscoring its status as a genuine local institution. Each visit leaves me deeply appreciative of the breadth and depth of talent found in our extended community, including not only the performers but also choreographers, set designers, builders, and musicians. It is unfortunate that many people remain unaware of the theatre’s existence.

So, if you have never been and want the best seat and the most amazing experience at an outstanding theatre, call 585-454-1260 or visit www.blackfriars.org to grab a couple of tickets. Box Office hours are 12 to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and one hour prior to curtain times.

You still have time to see The Grown-Ups, which runs January 29 through February 8. To see what’s up next, visit their website.

The Theatre is located at 795 East Main Street, Rochester, and there is a parking lot on the premises.

Enjoy the show; you can thank me later.

To Support Blackfriars Theatre

Ticket sales alone are not enough to sustain Blackfriars Theatre – donations are vital to its survival, growth, and mission to enrich, entertain, and inspire the community through exceptional theatre while engaging local artists. Gifts allow Blackfriars to tell stories that invigorate, inspire, move you to laughter and sometimes to tears, and create connection with audiences, artists, and the greater Rochester community. Visit www.blackfriars.org for information or to donate.

Photos courtesy of Ron Heerkens of Goat Factory Media.

I am a sitting judge in the Brockport Village Court and have held that privilege since its inception 11 years ago. Judge Christopher Martin and I are responsible for the judicial and administrative oversight of the Court and have always run the Court at or under budget, efficiently and effectively, respectful of the trust placed in us by the voters. That is why we were surprised when we were told our court was a financial drain on the Village.

Is Brockport Village Court a Financial Liability?

No. Looking through a purely financial lens, over its 11-year existence, the Court has returned a small profit of $778 annually to the Village. If you exclude our startup year, the Court contributed an average of $6,090 per year to the Village.

So, why is there such a difference between the Court’s actual financial performance and the picture suggested (https://brockportny.gov/wp-content/uploads/Court-Exp-Less-Rev.pdf) by the Village Board?  It is not a difference of opinion, or perspective, or interpretation. The Financial picture posted by the Village Board is incorrect in several ways.

I invite anyone to start with the statement posted by the Village Board, evaluate the adjustments made below, and do the math.

1. The Board did not apply any of the cost allocations from their margin notes. They did not calculate refunds against expenses, nor did they properly allocate shared expenses between the Court and the Emily Knapp Museum, which shares the building. Applying a 60:40 split reduces Court expenses by $68,959.

• They did not recognize the grants the Court received in 2017 and 2018, totaling $23,880, nor the reimbursement for interpreter services in 2024 and 2025, totaling $3,920. These total $27,800 in unrecognized revenue.

• Finally, the Board inexplicably added the $250,000 purchase price of Village Hall, even though the Court never occupied that building. It was not recorded that way on the audited 2018 financial statements. Changing it in 2025 is revisionist accounting and even worse logic. It grossly distorts the true picture of the Court’s day-to-day operating efficiency.

These adjustments to the Board’s own statement net to a $778 average annual gain.

Viability of Village Courts

The Village Board argues that village courts all over New York are closing, that Brockport has the only village court left in Monroe County, that Fairport closed in 2022, and Honeoye Falls in 2025. But just a bit more investigation would have produced the opposite conclusion: village courts are thriving all over the state.

Some facts: Fairport and Honeoye Falls village courts were much smaller than Brockport, together only 13% of Brockport’s collected revenue. They closed for reasons other than what the Board claims. The truth is that village courts are thriving all over the State. Of the 260 village courts operational in 2024, Brockport ranked 74^th, with collected revenue higher than 72% of all village courts and higher than 92% of all town courts. Six of the top 10 local courts by revenue collection in New York State are village courts.

The Hasty and Flawed Process

The Board made its unfortunate decision hastily, prior to public input, and relied on a flawed process. One driver to dissolve the Court seems to be selling the current Village Hall building after moving those operations into the vacated courthouse. But no feasibility assessment was done with consideration for the new, ongoing expenses of moving to a smaller space with no available storage.

It appears the Village Board did not consider the principal reason the Court was formed 13 years ago – to ensure Brockport’s revenue from parking tickets would be collected. In fact, they made the decision to dissolve the Court without any consultation with the Town of Sweden. This is a rather important connection since dissolving Brockport’s Court more than doubles Sweden’s volume.

The Board’s decision process should also have considered the tax consequences to Sweden taxpayers of increased court costs, especially since some of those new costs would be paid by Brockport residents who also live in Sweden.

What About Service?

Perhaps the most unfortunate failing of the Board was the short shrift it gave the non-monetary benefits the Court provides. Court judges live in the village. We see and understand the neighborhood impact of our decisions.

The Court flexes hours to the community’s needs and offers a plea-by-mail option for simple traffic cases. By making it easy to settle a ticket, the Court collects fines more quickly and completely. That helps the Brockport taxpayer since most traffic tickets are written to people who do not live in Brockport.

The Court provides community outreach through school programs, mock trials, and student interns. The Court offers restorative justice, sentencing defendants to community service. The Court opens its doors to the DMV, allowing citizens to avoid the lines and wait at a crowded city DMV office.

These benefits are harder to see than a financial gain or loss, but are just as real and contribute to the quality of life in the village. If the Village Board must look through the myopic lens of an income statement, they ought to be able to see that a near $2M investment over 12 years to establish, build, and grow the Court has produced a valuable, efficient, respected Village asset that pays for itself.

The Village Board’s Decision

Despite the rushed resolution, we believe the Brockport Village Board is working to improve the Village’s financial position and avoid tax increases. Our hope is that, recognizing that there is no financial win for the Village, that there is a very real and unrecoverable loss of services to their constituents, and that there are unexplored win-win options possible for Brockport and the community, the Village Board will reconsider their decision and keep what works.

Hon. William G. Andrews Jr.
Brockport

There are currently discussions before the Brockport Village Board of a possible dissolution of the Village Court, which was formed in 2013.  The Town of Sweden has no legal authority or input on that decision.  By NYS Municipal Law, if the Village Court dissolves, the Sweden Town Court is obligated to take on those cases.  

On December 22, 2025, I attended a Brockport Village Board meeting where the dissolution of the Village Court was an agenda item.  At that meeting, I stated that the Town of Sweden had not been brought into the discussion on a potential dissolution.  However, since that time, the Town has taken steps to prepare for the possible dissolution.  We have moved forward with meetings with Mayor Ben Reed and Dr. Sandeep Singh to discuss the logistics of a possible transfer of cases to Sweden Town Court.   

Subsequently, I have met with Sweden Town Court personnel, Town Attorney Jim Bell, and Finance Director Hiedi Librock.  Based on the information gathered, the Town will be ready to take on the Village Court caseload as of July 1, 2026, if necessary.  If needed, there will be personnel adjustments.  This is an evolving situation, which we will continue to plan for. 

I also attended the Public Information Session conducted by the Village Board on Friday, January 16, 2026. There were a number of misstatements and half-truths brought forward at the meeting.  I do not plan to address all of them.  However, I will emphatically state that the Sweden Town Court personnel, including the judges, are competent in their positions and well respected in NYS and Monroe County.  Any remarks to the contrary are unfounded.  The Town is respectful of the Village Court personnel; we would like the same in return. In addition, the minimum staffing levels of the court are based on population and dictated by NYS Municipal Law.  We operate the court as efficiently as possible based on what NYS law dictates. 

As a reminder, the Town of Sweden has no legal authority or input on the decision to dissolve the Village Court.  By NYS Municipal Law, if the Village Court dissolves, the Sweden Town Court is obligated to take on those cases.   We are ready and able to take on this additional caseload if the Village chooses to dissolve its court.  I am happy to meet with any of our residents to discuss this matter further. 

Patricia Hayles
Sweden Town Supervisor