July 2026
S	M	T	W	T	F	S
	1	2	3	4
5	6	7	8	9	10	11
12	13	14	15	16	17	18
19	20	21	22	23	24	25
26	27	28	29	30	31

Approved Minutes of Peru Town Board’s Meeting of June 22, 2026

The regular meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on June 22, 2026 at the Peru Town Hall. Those present were Mr. Craig Randall, Supervisor; Mr. Richard Barber, Jr., Councilman; Mr. Kregg Bruno, Councilman; Mr. Mel Irwin, Councilman and Mrs. Christine Crawford, Town Clerk. Mr. Nick Weaver, Councilman was excused.

Also present were Mr. Matthew Favro, Town Attorney, Mr. Michael Farrell, Highway Superintendent; Ms. Pamela Barber, Confidential Secretary to the Board; Ms. Helen Nerska, Historian; and Mr. T’chaka Sikelianos, Dog Control Officer.

Mr. Tyler Jarvis, Deputy Highway Superintendent and Ms. Kristen Marino, Recreation Director

were absent. Mr. Courtney Tetrault, Water/Sewer Superintendent was excused.

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by Mr. Randall, with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Motion by Mr. Bruno; seconded by Mr. Barber to approve the minutes from the Regular Meeting of June 8, 2026.

Ayes 4, Noes 0

Motion Carried

Motion by Mr. Irwin; seconded by Mr. Bruno to approve the minutes from the Special Meeting of June 15, 2026.

Ayes 4, Noes 0

Motion Carried

Community Input

Teresa Larsen again questions the validity of the contract between the Town and LCT. She mentions deadlines and says she would like answers. The contract is under consideration by Town Counsel and Counsel for the Client. Mr. Randall stresses that this is the same answer for everyone that asks. Ms. Larsen mentions the possibility of legal action and says she will continue to come to the Town Board meetings. Mr. Randall says the Board is not being combative and will continue to give the same answer about this being in the hands of Counsel. Read more »

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Community Events, Northern NY News, Peru News, Town Board News.
Comments: none

Approved minutes of Peru Town Board’s Special Meeting of June 15, 2026

A Special meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on Monday, June 15, 2026 at the Peru Town Hall. Those present were Mr. Craig Randall, Supervisor; Mr. Richard Barber Jr, Councilman, Mr. Mel Irwin, Councilman; Mr. Nick Weaver, Councilman, Mrs. Christine Crawford, Town Clerk, Ms. Pamela Barber, Confidential Secretary to the Board, and Mr. Courtney Tetrault, Water/Sewer Superintendent.

Mr. Kregg Bruno, Councilman was absent.

The meeting was called to order at 12:00 PM by Mr. Randall, with the Pledge of Allegiance.

RESOLUTION NUMBER:26.06-15.01

A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE ACCEPTING THE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWN OF PERU AND LAKE CHAMPLAIN TRANSPORTATION COMPANY TO UPGRADE A WASTEWATER HOLDING TANK AND PUMP DISCHARGING INTO THE VALCOUR SEWER SYSTEM.

MOTION: Mr. Weaver SECOND: Mr. Barber

WHEREAS, the Town Board has received the maintenance agreement in front of them for the

holding tank and pump upgrade.

WHEREAS, there is an existing sanitary pump chamber and gravity lines located at the northerly end of the Town Sewer System on the Property, with a capacity of approximately 250 gallons. The chamber originally utilized a Meyers WG20 pump (25 g.p.m.), which was replaced by the Town with an E/ONE pump (15 g.p.m.).

WHEREAS, Owner proposes to remove the existing 250-gallon sanitary pump chamber, the existing E/ONE pump, and to install and operate in their place: (i) a new sanitary pump chamber with a capacity of approximately 1,500 gallons; (ii) an internal lift station to pump effluent to the new chamber; and (iii) a new Zoeller Model 7021 pump which closely mimics the E/ONE pump, together with associated appurtenances, controls, alarms, electrical, piping, valves, and force main/gravity lines, all to better service the restaurant and marina uses on the Property (collectively, the “Facilities”).

WHEREAS, the Plans for the proposed work have been reviewed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Adirondack Park Agency; both have indicated no objections.

WHEREAS, as a condition of the Town’s approval of the foregoing modifications and continued connection to the Town Sewer System, the Town requires, and Owner is willing to enter into, this Agreement, pursuant to which Owner will be responsible for the operation, inspection, maintenance, repair, and replacement of the Facilities at Owner’s sole cost and expense.

The Facilities are, and shall remain, privately owned by Owner. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as an offer of dedication, acceptance, or conveyance of the Facilities to the Town. The Town does not accept, and shall have no obligation to accept, ownership, operation, or maintenance responsibility for the Facilities. The Town’s review or approval of any plans, specifications, or work related to the Facilities shall not constitute an assumption of responsibility or liability by the Town.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, that the maintenance agreement is hereby accepted. The Owner shall, at its sole cost and expense, operate, inspect, maintain, repair, and replace the Facilities as necessary to keep them in safe, sanitary, and good working order and condition, and to ensure reliable and continuous service to the Property without causing interference, surcharge, or adverse impact to the Town Sewer System.

The Town Supervisor is hereby authorized to execute any further documentation necessary to facilitate the proposal and it is further,

RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

Roll Call:		YES	NO
	Richard Barber Jr.	x
	Kregg Bruno	absent
	Mel Irwin	x
	Nick Weaver	x
	Craig Randall	x

Carried:4 Ayes; 0 Noes

Motion by Mr. Weaver; seconded by Mr. Irwin to adjourn the Special meeting at 12:12p.m.

Ayes 4, Noes 0

Motion Carried

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Business News, Northern NY News, Peru News, Water & Sewer Dept. News.
Comments: none

Christmas in July at Roger’s House

Christmas in July, Roger’s House, 3030 Main St., Peru. Friday and Saturday. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Charity Events, Community Events, General News, Northern NY News, Peru News.
Comments: none

Mark your Applefest calendars for Saturday, September 19

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Arts and Entertainment, Community Events, Faces of Peru, General News, Northern NY News, Peru News, Youth News.
Comments: none

U.S. Treasury Announces the Official Launch of Trump Accounts and Full Scope of the App

July 4, 2026

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of the Treasury today announced the official launch of the full Trump Accounts app, giving American families a new way to view, manage, and grow their children’s stake in the nation’s economic future.

On the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the U.S. Department of the Treasury is marking a historic milestone with the nationwide launch of Trump Accounts, an innovative savings and investment platform designed to ensure that future generations of Americans own a stake in the American economy from day one.

“Trump Accounts are now live, giving every child a stake in the American Dream from day one thanks to President Trump,” said U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent,“The Trump Accounts app is now updated with the full suite of account capabilities: you can start funding your child’s account, exploring financial education modules, and more.”

Trump Accounts will help families build long-term financial security while deepening their understanding of how our markets work.

FULL-SCOPE APP LAUNCH

With today’s launch, the Trump Accounts app now offers full-scope functionality nationwide, allowing parents and kids to securely access their account, see their funds in real time, and contribute to their Trump Account directly from their phone or tablet.

New account dashboards provide a clear view of balances, contributions, and investment performance, empowering families to track progress as children grow. The app also includes exciting new features for parents, making it easier to set recurring contributions, link bank accounts, and receive personalized guidance on building their child’s financial future.

FINANCIAL EDUCATION FOR FAMILIES

To complement the launch of full account access, Trump Accounts now includes 15 interactive financial education modules for parents and children. These modules introduce concepts such as saving, investing, compound growth, diversification, and the role of American capital markets in supporting businesses and jobs.

Parents and kids can explore lessons together in the app as they complete modules and apply what they learn to their own Trump Account. By linking learning directly to a real investment account, the program aims to make financial education concrete, engaging, and actionable for families across the country.

EXPANDING STOCK OWNERSHIP FROM DAY ONE

Historically, stock ownership in the United States has been unevenly distributed, with many households—especially younger and lower‑income families—having little or no exposure to the stock market. While recent data show that a majority of adults now own stock in some form, millions still lack an easy, trusted way to begin investing for their children’s future.

Trump Accounts are designed to change that trajectory by helping children start with a foothold in the American economy from birth or early childhood. By combining automatic contributions, long-term investment options, and clear educational tools, the program seeks to increase the share of Americans who benefit from the growth of U.S. businesses and markets over their lifetimes.

ENROLLMENT AND MARKET OPENING

If families have not yet signed up for Trump Accounts, they can do so by visiting TrumpAccounts.gov, where they can learn more about eligibility, safeguards, and program features before opening an account. TrumpAccounts.gov also links directly to major app stores where parents can download the official Trump Accounts app.

There is no cost to open an account. Employers, charitable organizations, and governments can contribute free money to Trump Accounts, and children can only receive those contributions if they have an account.

Once enrolled, parents can begin contributing immediately, and children will be able to track their investments beginning Monday, July 6. Simple performance graphs in the app will help young account holders see how saving and investing over time can build meaningful resources for education, entrepreneurship, homeownership, and retirement.

EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTIONS

Over 50 companies have committed to offer Trump Account contributions for children of their employees. Employer contributions are one example of free money that may be available for children through Trump Accounts, even if they aren’t eligible for the $1,000 from Treasury.

Trump Accounts give small businesses a new, low-cost, tax-preferred benefit they can use to attract and keep workers, invest in their employees’ families, help workers share in America’s growth, and strengthen Main Street over the long term, while also helping employees build long‑term wealth for their kids. Even small, regular contributions can compound over 18+ years, so modest small‑business dollars can turn into meaningful long‑term assets for employees’ families.

If you are a business or company and interested in employee contributions to Trump Accounts, please email TrumpAccounts@treasury.gov.

Click here to apply for a Trump Account.

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, National History, National News, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History, Youth News.
Comments: none

Largest Private-Sector Construction Project in New York State History Races Forward Ahead of Schedule

Albany, July 9, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the largest private-sector construction project in New York State history has rapidly accelerated into its next phase, with workers pouring the first foundations for Micron’s $100 billion semiconductor manufacturing campus in Central New York (Town of Clay, Onondaga County). This major milestone was achieved less than six months after breaking ground and marks a pivotal turning point from site preparation to full vertical construction. The accelerated timeline reflects seamless coordination between state agencies, Micron, contractors, local partners, and labor to maintain momentum at the site.

“Today’s milestone marks another major step for Micron in Central New York, and what makes it even more remarkable is that we’re here in July — months ahead of schedule — pouring the concrete foundation,” Governor Hochul said. “This is the largest private investment in New York State history, and it’s already delivering for New Yorkers, our state economy, and our local businesses. With up to 50,000 jobs on the horizon, we are building the future of American memory manufacturing right here in Central New York, and we are building it fast.”

Micron Chairman, President, and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra said, “As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, data and memory are foundational to the modern economy — and Micron is increasing our U.S. investments to more than $250 billion through 2035 to meet that moment. I want to thank President Trump, Secretary Lutnick, Governor Hochul, Senator Schumer, County Executive McMahon, and our partners across government and the community for their leadership. Reaching this milestone ahead of schedule reflects the speed and determination behind this project. Micron is proud to bring the world’s most advanced memory manufacturing to Central New York, strengthen the domestic semiconductor supply chain and help secure America’s technology leadership for generations to come.”

When complete, Micron’s Central New York campus will be the largest semiconductor manufacturing facility in the United States and will anchor a new advanced manufacturing hub across Upstate New York. The project, together with its vast supply chain, is expected to create 50,000 good-paying jobs and support tens of thousands of construction jobs while further establishing New York State as the domestic leader in America’s semiconductor manufacturing resurgence.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “By working in total alignment from Day One, New York State and Micron have accelerated the largest economic development project in state history. This milestone demonstrates that this partnership is producing rapid, tangible results to help realize the full economic potential of this generational opportunity. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, our efforts are literally laying the foundations upon which we will build the economic future of an entire region for generations.”

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Business News, Community Events, County Government News, General News, National News, Political News, State Government News, State Legislator News, Statewide News, Upstate New York.
Comments: none

Assemblyman Cashman: Statement on Prison Safety Report

Plattsburgh, N.Y., July 9, 2026 – The June 29, 2026 report concerning the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision confirms what correction officers, civilian staff, families, and communities across the North Country have known for years: our correctional system is under tremendous strain. While I appreciate the report’s publication, I was disappointed to see that it revealed few new insights into the state of corrections and failed to address staff concerns about the HALT Act, which was a specific cause of last year’s strike.

Click here to view a Spectrum News story on the report.

Click here to view the complete report.

Morale is at an all-time low. Recruitment remains sluggish, retention continues to hemorrhage experienced professionals, and too many of the men and women who report to work each day do so without confidence that their safety is being adequately protected.

As a freshman Assemblymember who entered office after this study was already underway, I was not part of the decisions that brought us to this point. However, I remain unflinching in my commitment to help shape where we go from here.

Every state employee deserves a safe workplace. That includes the correction officers and civilian professionals who work behind the walls of our correctional facilities and dedicate their careers to maintaining order, safety, and rehabilitation under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. Our facilities must operate with policies, practices, staffing levels, and resources that protect the lives and safety of everyone behind the walls.

Our correctional facilities absolutely need reform. However, reforms cannot be implemented at the cost of safe working conditions. New York State cannot continue treating the safety of our correctional facilities with any less urgency than we would the safety of our schools, state offices, or other public institutions. The men and women who serve in these facilities deserve the same commitment to workplace safety as every other public servant.

We must also confront the growing presence of illicit substances inside our correctional facilities. These dangerous drugs threaten the safety and health of correction officers, civilian staff, and incarcerated individuals alike, while creating secondary consequences for local emergency medical systems already operating under significant strain. Keeping illicit substances out of our facilities must be a central component of any serious reform effort.

Staffing shortages further compound these challenges. Chronic vacancies have created environments that are not only unsafe, but increasingly inhumane for both staff and incarcerated individuals. Many correction officers report being unable to take adequate time off, missing important family events, and working excessive overtime simply to maintain minimum staffing levels. Additionally, the lack of support for officer well-being and the dismissal of officers’ concerns about safety and mental health contributes to feelings of disenfranchisement and helplessness. This cycle fuels burnout, damages morale, accelerates retirements and resignations, and makes recruitment even more difficult.

I call on the Governor and Commissioner to implement solutions to address the short-term issues of morale, accountability, and safety while continuing to explore solutions to long-term problems within the State Correctional System.

Corrections rests on two fundamental principles: accountability and safety. The overwhelming majority of correction officers and staff report to work every day committed to both. As policymakers, we have a responsibility to ensure they have the tools, protections, and support necessary to uphold those principles and safely return home to their families at the end of every shift.

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Corruption in Gov't., General News, Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News, Political News, State Government News, State Legislator News, Statewide News.
Comments: none

Newcomb, NY: State Comptroller determines Town Supervisor did not maintain complete and accurate accounting records and reports.

Audit Objective

Did the Town of Newcomb (Town) Supervisor (Supervisor) maintain complete and accurate accounting records and reports?

Audit Period

January 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025

Understanding the Audit Area

A town supervisor, as chief fiscal officer, should maintain complete and accurate accounting records and reports for informed decision-making, legal compliance, accountability and transparency. These records are essential for a town board and officials when monitoring a town’s financial health, making informed financial decisions and protecting public funds.

The Town’s accounting records included five operating funds during the audit period: general, highway, water district, sewer district and fire protection district. The Town’s 2025 budgeted appropriations for these funds totaled approximately $6.5 million. During the audit period, the Town also had an active capital project for constructing a community center that was accounted for in a capital projects fund in the accounting records.

Audit Summary

The Supervisor did not maintain complete and accurate accounting records and reports. As a result, the Town Board (Board) and Town officials could not determine or manage the Town’s true financial condition. This also impaired the Board’s ability to make informed financial decisions and caused taxpayer inequities.

Although the Supervisor delegated his records and reports duties to an appointed Clerk to the Supervisor (Clerk), the Supervisor remained responsible for ensuring they were properly maintained. However, the Supervisor did not adequately oversee or monitor the responsibilities he delegated to the Clerk. As a result, errors and deficiencies in the Town’s accounting records and reports occurred, including the following:

The balance sheets for the general, highway, water district, sewer district and capital project funds only contained asset accounts for cash and investments and no liability accounts as of December 31, 2024. However, the balance sheets for these funds should have contained receivables, prepaid expenses and accounts payable balances totaling a combined $834,594, $103,864 and $192,435, respectively.
Expenditures for New York State and Local Employees’ Retirement System (NYSLRS) contributions were not recorded based on the actual expenditures incurred by the Town or properly allocated to each of the operating funds in 2024, which resulted in the recorded expenditures being overstated for the general fund by $22,772 and understated for the highway, water district and sewer district funds by $8,547, $1,935 and $1,541, respectively.
Bank reconciliations were not prepared for all accounts or properly reviewed. For 14 of the 42 bank reconciliations (33 percent) that we prepared, the adjusted bank balances did not agree with the general ledger cash or investment balances at month’s end, including the general ledger balance exceeding the adjusted bank balance for one account by $38,779.
The Supervisor did not provide the Board with complete and accurate monthly reports during the audit period. For example, the three-monthly reports we reviewed had 15 cash and investment balances that were overstated by amounts up to $85,997 and 12 balances that were understated by amounts up to $259,908.
The 2024 Annual Financial Report (AFR) was incomplete and inaccurate because it was prepared using the Town’s incomplete and inaccurate accounting records. For example, the general and highway funds’ reported unrestricted fund balances were overstated by $119,311 and $97,317, respectively.

The Supervisor also did not provide an annual accounting to the Board for 2024, and the Board did not audit, or contract with an independent public accountant to audit, the Supervisor’s records for 2024. This annual accounting would have helped the Board fulfill its overall fiscal oversight responsibilities by providing it with an opportunity to assess the reliability of the books, records and supporting documents. Had the Board performed the annual audit, it may have observed the deficiencies that we identified during the audit and corrected them in a timely manner.

The report includes eight recommendations that, if implemented, will improve the Supervisor’s recording and reporting of financial transactions. Town officials generally agreed with our recommendations and have initiated or indicated they planned to initiate corrective action.

We conducted this audit pursuant to Article V, Section 1 of the State Constitution and the Office of the New York State Comptroller’s (OSC) authority as set forth in Article 3 of the New York State General Municipal Law (GML). Our methodology and standards are included in Appendix C.

The Board has the responsibility to initiate corrective action. A written corrective action plan (CAP) that addresses the findings and recommendations in this report should be prepared and provided to our office within 90 days, pursuant to Section 35 of GML. For more information on preparing and filing your CAP, please refer to our brochure, Responding to an OSC Audit Report, which you received with the draft audit report. We encourage the Board to make the CAP available for public review in the Town Clerk’s office.

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Community Events, General News, Northern NY News, State Government News, Town Board News, Upstate New York.
Comments: none

$110 million in state finding to strengthen emergency communications for 1st responders

Clinton County awarded $1.5 million to Support New Projects, Equipment Installation and Enhanced Communications Channels at Local Levels

Albany, Gov. Hochul News Release of July 9, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $110 million in State funding to improve emergency communications systems and enhance public safety call-taking and dispatching capabilities through the combined SFY2025 and SFY2026 Statewide Interoperable Communications (SICG) and Public Safety Answering Points (PSAP) Operations Grant Programs.

“Every moment counts in an emergency, and making sure our communications equipment is ready when we need it is vital to keeping New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said. “Public safety is always my top priority, and this funding will go a long way to strengthen our emergency capabilities in every part of the state.”

Through the SICG-Formula Grant Program, $90 million is being awarded to support local governments’ efforts to bolster communications networks through Land Mobile Radio (LMR) Systems, expand access to communications-focused training and exercises and maintain communications equipment.

The SICG-Formula Grant Program awards announced today are:

County	Award Amount	County	Award Amount
Albany	$2,011,036	Niagara	$1,416,668
Allegany	$1,232,212	Oneida	$1,706,830
Broome	$1,436,884	Onondaga	$2,454,890
Cattaraugus	$1,233,480	Ontario	$1,106,038
Cayuga	$1,201,396	Orange	$1,986,096
Chautauqua	$1,319,226	Orleans	$872,190
Chemung	$914,684	Oswego	$1,344,814
Chenango	$968,746	Otsego	$1,203,144
Clinton	$1,140,176	Putnam	$895,262
Columbia	$921,076	Rensselaer	$1,282,720
Cortland	$1,336,038	Rockland	$1,722,494
Delaware	$1,168,150	Saratoga	$1,607,978
Dutchess	$1,250,992	Schenectady	$1,100,732
Erie	$2,736,718	Schoharie	$802,608
Essex	$1,411,982	Schuyler	$725,734
Franklin	$1,251,036	Seneca	$703,354
Fulton	$838,514	St. Lawrence	$1,843,106
Genesee	$1,168,988	Steuben	$1,323,874
Greene	$877,238	Suffolk	$2,512,226
Hamilton	$1,133,398	Sullivan	$1,109,208
Herkimer	$1,212,350	Tioga	$830,060
Jefferson	$1,359,508	Tompkins	$1,037,238
Lewis	$1,146,942	Ulster	$1,258,750
Livingston	$1,032,416	Warren	$1,024,736
Madison	$1,216,278	Washington	$1,270,600
Monroe	$3,231,362	Wayne	$1,015,174
Montgomery	$789,704	Westchester	$1,549,916
Nassau	$2,050,446	Wyoming	$830,046
New York City	$15,195,902	Yates	$676,636

The PSAP Operations Grant Program provides funding to support county 911 centers by ensuring personnel are prepared as they respond to calls for service. PSAPs can use funding to support current operations as well as develop systems needed to implement Next Generation 911 (NG911). Through this program, $20 million is being awarded.

County	Award Amount	County	Award Amount
Albany	$456,200	Niagara	$375,216
Allegany	$286,626	Oneida	$446,226
Broome	$393,534	Onondaga	$465,122
Cattaraugus	$334,508	Ontario	$371,832
Cayuga	$357,114	Orange	$368,834
Chautauqua	$353,564	Orleans	$227,612
Chemung	$370,826	Oswego	$336,302
Chenango	$310,184	Otsego	$319,826
Clinton	$313,774	Putnam	$248,182
Columbia	$278,552	Rensselaer	$345,450
Cortland	$341,726	Rockland	$445,156
Delaware	$319,990	Saratoga	$316,288
Dutchess	$380,862	Schenectady	$320,716
Erie	$479,232	Schoharie	$238,760
Essex	$405,532	Schuyler	$319,758
Franklin	$338,410	Seneca	$281,876
Fulton	$303,222	St. Lawrence	$475,828
Genesee	$356,046	Steuben	$354,596
Greene	$255,344	Suffolk	$466,688
Hamilton	$312,268	Sullivan	$306,892
Herkimer	$352,810	Tioga	$244,860
Jefferson	$362,514	Tompkins	$286,480
Lewis	$359,466	Ulster	$321,828
Livingston	$301,732	Warren	$288,122
Madison	$291,780	Washington	$281,552
Monroe	$558,696	Wayne	$327,486
Montgomery	$338,544	Westchester	$350,338
Nassau	$305,890	Wyoming	$244,856
New York City	$447,130	Yates	$357,242

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, County Government News, General News, Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News, State Government News.
Comments: none

Local Musicians Take the Stage at CVPH This Summer

Free community concerts on the front lawn

Plattsburgh, NY – The Foundation of CVPH invites the community to enjoy the talents of local musicians on the hospital’s spectacular front lawn as it presents its 2026 Concert Series.

On Thursday, July 30, LP Acoustic will offer a blend of old and new country music with a hint of the blues. Playing a great variety of tunes from the ’80s until present with a few classics and other genres sprinkled in is All Without the Bass who will perform on Thursday, September 3.

“We are excited to showcase this local talent and welcome the community to the hospital campus for a wonderful evening of friends, family and music,” said Associate Vice President of Philanthropy Kerry Haley.

Both free concerts begin at 6 pm. Concert goers are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. Parking is conveniently located in the Medical Office Building lots just off the Cornelia Street entrance to the CVPH campus. CVPH prohibits smoking, alcohol and glass containers on its campus.

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Arts and Entertainment, City News, Community Events, General News, Heathcare News, Northern NY News.
Comments: none

Schuyler Falls: State Comptroller Audit finds $329,588 is unpaid landfill host fees

Fees paid with interest in February 2026

Issued Date

June 18, 2026

[read complete report – pdf]

Audit Objective

Did the Town of Schuyler Falls (Town) receive accurate host fee payments?

Audit Period

April 1, 2016 – February 17, 2026

Understanding the Audit Area

Landfill host fee payments are intended to compensate municipalities for having landfills located within their borders, making it important that town officials ensure these fees are accurately calculated and paid. Accurate calculations and payments strengthen accountability by ensuring landfill operators comply with contractual agreements, while providing town officials and taxpayers with confidence that revenues are properly received so they can be used for their intended public purpose and potentially reduce the financial burden on town taxpayers.

The Clinton County (County) Landfill (landfill) is located in the Town and is operated by a waste management company (corporation). As of January 31, 2026, the Town received host fee payments from the corporation totaling approximately $4.3 million for waste received at the landfill during the period of April 1, 2016, through December 31, 2025.

Audit Summary

The Town did not receive accurate host fee payments. As a result, the Town did not have access to funds that could have been used for its operations or to potentially reduce the financial burden on Town taxpayers.

We reviewed all 39 quarterly host fee payments totaling approximately $4.3 million that were received by the Town as of January 31, 2026, for waste received at the landfill during the period of April 1, 2016, through December 31, 2025, and determined that 35 of the 39 payments (90 percent) were inaccurate and had calculation errors totaling $464,122. This occurred because the corporation did not accurately calculate payments in accordance with the terms of the host agreements. As a result, as of January 31, 2026, the Town had not received $329,588 in host fees that it was entitled to.

Because officials did not establish adequate procedures to review the host fee payments, they were unaware that the corporation had not paid all host fees owed to the Town until we notified them in January 2026. Officials contacted the corporation to discuss the accuracy of the host fee payments previously made to the Town. The corporation subsequently agreed to pay the Town the outstanding host fees and interest. On February 17, 2026, the Town received a payment from the corporation totaling $370,651, consisting of $329,588 for the outstanding host fees and $41,063 for interest.

The report includes one recommendation that, if implemented, will improve the Town’s oversight of host fee payments. Town officials generally agreed with our recommendations and have initiated or indicated they planned to initiate corrective action.

We conducted this audit pursuant to Article V, Section 1 of the State Constitution and the State Comptroller’s authority as set forth in Article 3 of the New York State General Municipal Law (GML). Our methodology and standards are included in Appendix C.

The Town Board (Board) has the responsibility to initiate corrective action. A written corrective action plan (CAP) that addresses the findings and recommendations in this report should be prepared and provided to our office within 90 days, pursuant to Section 35 of GML. For more information on preparing and filing your CAP, please refer to our brochure, Responding to an OSC Audit Report, which you received with the draft audit report. We encourage the Board to make the CAP available for public review in the Town Clerk’s office.

Posted: July 9th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Business News, Environmental News, General News, Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News, State Government News.
Comments: none

Stec: Prison Safety Report falls short in addressing prison safety needs

Albany, July 8 Senator Stec Press Release-

“More than a year ago, the governor and DOCCS gave the law firm WilmerHale $9.3 million to conduct a thorough investigation into the root causes of the correctional facility safety crisis taking place across our state. Instead of a comprehensive look at conditions inside all 42 facilities, this final report has a narrow, limited focus.

“Nearly 18 months ago, thousands of correction officers went on strike and specifically cited HALT as a major reason for this work stoppage. Given that documented statement, one would think this topic would receive due consideration. However, there’s no examination or substantive mention of HALT and the impact that’s had on staffing levels and preventing violent, disruptive incarcerated individuals from harming COs, civilian staff and other incarcerated individuals. Further, the report suggests digitizing a host of records and forms for staff, but doesn’t suggest digitizing legal mail and combating the ease with which it is used to smuggle contraband.

“Last fall, I sat with a team from WilmerHale for several hours to discuss loopholes with legal mail and many other issues. It was a detailed discussion and I submitted testimony highlighting my firsthand experiences visiting our prisons and relayed many of the concerns I’ve heard from our area facility superintendents, COs and civilian staff. To see the vast majority of these go unaddressed in this final report is deeply frustrating.

“Going forward, I fear that this report will do little to actually address prison safety and staffing concerns. If the goal is to make correctional facilities safer for correction officers, civilian staff and incarcerated individuals alike, this report falls well short of that aim.”

Posted: July 8th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News, Political News, State Government News, State Legislator News, Statewide News.
Comments: none

New N.Y. state report highlights prison system problems, possible solutions

Click here for the Spectrum News story

Posted: July 8th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History, State Government News, Statewide News.
Comments: none

Cottekill Fire chief David A. Gagnon dies in line of duty

Click here for the Hudson Valley1 story

July 8, 2026 GOVERNOR HOCHUL DIRECTS FLAGS TO HALF-STAFF IN HONOR OF FALLEN FIRE CHIEF DAVID A. GAGNON

Flags To Be Flown at Half-Staff Across New York State on Thursday, July 9

Governor Kathy Hochul today directed flags on all State government buildings to be lowered on Thursday, July 9 from sunrise to sunset in honor of Chief David A. Gagnon, of the Cottekill Fire Department who died in the line-of-duty on July 3, 2026 after being struck by a portion of a tree while clearing a roadway in the Town of Rosendale.

“For more than three decades, Dave lived a life of extraordinary services to his country and his community,” Governor Hochul said. “A member of the New York Army National Guard and a firefighter with the Cottekill Fire Department, served with honor and protected his neighbors until the end. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, fellow soldiers, and the Cottekill Fire Department as we honor his lasting legacy of selfless service.”

Posted: July 8th, 2026 under Community Events, Fire Department News, State Government News, Statewide News.
Comments: none

Cutting Red Tape: Gov. Hochul issues Executive Order kicking off “Regulatory Reset”

Executive Order Directs State Agencies to Methodically Review Regulations and Laws to Identify Opportunities for Modernization or Efficiencies

Albany, July 9, 2026 NYS News Release – Governor Kathy Hochul today issued an Executive Order to commence New York’s “Regulatory Reset,” a comprehensive and methodical review of thousands of regulations and laws across all state agencies, to improve the functioning and efficiency of state government. Through this “Regulatory Reset,” agencies will reform outdated regulations, fees, and requirements that waste New Yorkers’ time, and make sure that taxpayer dollars are being put to good use.

The “Regulatory Reset” Executive Order specifically directs agencies to review the following opportunities for modernization and reform:

Outdated requirements in regulations that add unnecessary burdens for New Yorkers, including requiring people to mail or fax information, submit wet signatures or multiple physical copies of documents, file information in person, or notarize documents.
Burdensome fees and fines imposed on individuals and small businesses which drive up costs without generating meaningful revenue for the State.
Mandated reports and boards, commissions, and councils that state agencies are dedicating significant resources to, but no longer serve the public interest.

Posted: July 8th, 2026 under Business News, Northern NY News, State Government News, Statewide News.
Comments: none

Community invited to Miner Institute’s Open House Aug. 1

Wagon rides, Morgan horses, food trucks, dairy cows & a peek at modern ag

Click here for the Sun Community News story

Posted: July 8th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Agricultural News, Community Events, Education News, General News, Northern NY News.
Comments: none

OP-ED: New York City Continues to Lead the Next Generation of Technology and Innovation

Crain’s New York Business recently published commentary by Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight about New York City’s importance in driving the innovation economy.

Text of the commentary is available below and can be viewed online here.

When American Express announced plans earlier this year to establish its new global headquarters at 2 World Trade Center— alongside other major investments such as JPMorganChase’s new Park Avenue headquarters — it reinforced what we are seeing across New York City: the world’s leading companies are continuing to invest and grow here.

As head of New York State’s economic development agency, I am seeing tremendous momentum across New York City. Firms of all sizes are choosing to grow here, looking to leverage our world-class talent, capital access, and overall innovation ecosystem. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is making unprecedented investments to ensure that the City and State remain at the cutting edge.

Companies at the forefront of innovation are expanding across New York City, creating thousands of new jobs and driving more than $250 million in research and development activity in the process. Since 2024, fintech industry leaders like PayPal and iCapital have committed to creating thousands of jobs and expanding their presence in New York City in exchange for State incentives. At the same time, a range of high-growth technology firms have continued to expand their footprint in Manhattan, underscoring sustained confidence in the city’s future. Read more »

Posted: July 8th, 2026 under City News, General News, State Government News, Statewide News.
Comments: none

As climate change damages streets and highways, the road ahead may be expensive

Click here for the NCPR story

Posted: July 8th, 2026 under Environmental News, Highway Dept. News, National News, Northern NY News, Weather News/History.
Comments: none

Meet the prison journalist in Malone with an insider’s perspective

Click here for the NCPR

Posted: July 8th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News, Upstate New York.
Comments: none

$170 Million in State Pre-K Funds Went Unused by New York School Districts

Amid growing spending on universal pre-K, school districts failed to spend millions earmarked for the 2024-25 school year.

Click here for the New York Focus story

Posted: July 7th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Business News, Education News, General News, National News, Northern NY News, Peru School News, State Government News, Statewide News.
Comments: none

Consumer Alert: Attorney General James Urges Student Loan Borrowers on SAVE Plan to Choose New Repayment Options

Borrowers on SAVE Plan Will Receive Notices About Finding a New Federal Payment Plan Within 90 Days

NEW YORK, July 6, 2026 – New York Attorney General Letitia James today issued a consumer alert urging New Yorkers with federal student loans to prepare for the upcoming termination of the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan. On July 1, 2026, borrowers who are enrolled in the SAVE plan began receiving notifications from their student loan servicer about choosing a different repayment plan. All those currently enrolled in the SAVE plan who do not choose a new repayment plan within 90 days of receiving a notification will likely be automatically moved to the Standard Plan, which does not consider income and often requires higher monthly payments than other plans. Attorney General James encourages all New Yorkers on the SAVE plan to consider their options and choose the repayment plan that makes the most financial sense for them.

“As federal cuts change student loan programs across the country, my office is here to ensure New Yorkers have all the facts about their loan options,” said Attorney General James. “Student loans are already a heavy burden, and no New Yorker should find themselves in an expensive repayment plan they didn’t choose. New Yorkers enrolled in SAVE plans should start searching for an alternative repayment plan to get ahead of this transition.”

The SAVE plan is an income-driven repayment plan implemented in 2023 that was designed to be one of the most affordable options available. In 2024, a federal court ordered the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to place all borrowers enrolled in SAVE into a mandatory forbearance and eventually terminate the SAVE Plan. The Trump administration announced its measures to end the SAVE plan in December 2025. Starting July 1, 2026, loan servicers began notifying each borrower of the date their SAVE forbearance will end. After a borrower receives this notice, they will have 90 days to select a new repayment plan before being automatically enrolled in another plan, most likely the Standard Plan. The Standard Plan does not take the borrower’s income level into account, meaning that monthly payments under the Standard Plan are often higher than under other loan repayment plans.

Borrowers whose most recent loan was disbursed or consolidated before July 1, 2026 might have the following options depending on their circumstances:

Income-Based Repayment (IBR);
Pay as You Earn (PAYE);
Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR);
The Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), which became available on July 1, 2026; or
Traditional repayment plans, including Standard, Graduated, and Extended plans.

While returning borrowers have access to PAYE and ICR plans for now, all borrowers on these plans will have to pick new plans by July 1, 2028.

Borrowers whose most recent loan will be disbursed or consolidated on or after July 1, 2026, will have to choose between the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), which became available on July 1, 2026, and the Standard Plan.

For free, personalized advice and guidance about student loan options, New Yorkers can contact the Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program (EDCAP) by phone at 888-614-5004 or by email at edcap@cssny.org. More information about transitioning away from the SAVE is available online from EDCAP. More information on student lending is available in The Office of the Attorney General’s Student Lending guide.

Posted: July 7th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Education News, General News, National News, Northern NY News, Political News, Social Issues, State Government News, Statewide News, Veterans' News.
Comments: none

Exploded New York gunboat cannon displayed at Clinton Co. History Museum

Cannon discovered in Valcour Bay launched detailed underwater research

Click here for the Sun Community News story

Posted: July 7th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Community Events, General News, Lake Champlain News, National History, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History, Things to do in & near Peru.
Comments: none

$100 million investment in law enforcement technology and equipment

$75 Million Available for Police Departments and Sheriffs’ Offices Through the LETECH Grant Program and Another $25 Million Will Fund a New Statewide Records Management System

Albany, July 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a $100 million state investment in law enforcement technology and equipment. As part of this investment, $75 million is available for police departments and sheriffs’ offices to improve technology and modernize equipment, allowing them to more effectively solve and prevent crime, and improve officer and community safety. Another $25 million will fund a new, statewide records management system, replacing a decades-old platform to improve information sharing and streamline reporting. This new investment in the state’s LETECH Grant Program builds upon $127 million previously awarded through the program to 378 agencies from Western New York to Long Island, and is included in the FY27 Enacted Budget, which sustains record-level funding for public safety initiatives statewide.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe means ensuring the men and women who protect our communities have the tools and technology they need to meet today’s public safety challenges,” Governor Hochul said. “This investment will help agencies modernize equipment, strengthen public safety, and improve information sharing capabilities to enhance the work they do to protect the communities they serve, while continuing our comprehensive approach to reducing crime across the state.”

Administered by the state Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), the LETECH program will fund a variety of equipment and technology, including but not limited to acoustic gunshot detection systems, drones, counter-drone mitigation systems, 3-D crime scene laser scanners, trauma kits and automated external defibrillators, body-worn cameras and vests, traffic and safety equipment, lighting, specialized records management systems, and patrol vehicle and officer equipment. Agencies also may purchase equipment and technology to support 911 centers, emergency management operations, parking and code enforcement, and communication platforms to engage with the community.

Posted: July 6th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, County Government News, Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News, State Government News, State Legislator News, Statewide News.
Comments: none

Big Fish. Big Air. Big Summer.

Peru Gazette 2024 File Photo

Championship Bass Fishing and East Coast Watercross Return to the Adirondack Coast

PLATTSBURGH, NY (July 6, 2026) – Get ready for one of the biggest summers on Lake Champlain! From championship bass fishing tournaments to high-flying jet ski racing, the Adirondack Coast is serving up weeks of nonstop action that will draw thousands of competitors and spectators to the region.

Whether you’re watching the country’s best anglers reel in trophy bass at the Dock Street Waterfront or cheering as personal watercraft soar through the waves at Plattsburgh City Beach, there’s no shortage of excitement on—and around—the lake.

More than 2,000 anglers, racers, crews, and fans are expected to visit throughout the season, generating millions in economic impact while filling local hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions.

“These events showcase everything that makes the Adirondack Coast special,” said Kristy Kennedy, Vice President of Marketing and Tourism for the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau. “Lake Champlain is already one of the country’s premier freshwater destinations, and every summer we get to welcome some of the world’s best anglers and racers while introducing thousands of visitors to our communities.”

Reel in the Action

Professional bass fishing returns with an impressive lineup of tournaments featuring many of the sport’s biggest names. Best of all, spectators can watch daily launches and weigh-ins for free.

2026 Tournament Schedule

🎣 July 18 – Reynolds Boats Northern Bass Tournament
🎣 July 24–26 – MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit
🎣 July 31–August 2 – Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Championship
🎣 August 8 – MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League
🎣 August 13–16 – Bassmaster Elite Series
🎣 August 22 – Thayer’s Marine Tournament
🎣 August 27–29 – MLF Toyota Series

Lake Champlain’s reputation for world-class bass fishing continues to attract elite anglers from across North America and internationally, while catch-and-release tournaments help preserve this incredible fishery for future generations.

Then… Turn Up the Throttle

Just across town, the excitement shifts from fishing rods to horsepower as East Coast Watercross returns to Plattsburgh City Beach, July 31–August 2.

Expect a weekend packed with:

High-speed personal watercraft racing
Edge-of-your-seat action on Lake Champlain
Event merchandise
Family-friendly fun
Incredible waterfront views

Event Schedule

Admission is free, with regular beach parking fees applying.

Whether you’re a die-hard fishing fan, a motorsports enthusiast, or simply looking for an unforgettable summer weekend, the Adirondack Coast is the place to be.

Plan your visit, find lodging specials, and learn more at goadirondack.com/bass and goadirondack.com/watercross.

Posted: July 6th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Business News, Community Events, General News, Lake Champlain News, National News, Northern NY News, Peru News, Recreation opportunities.
Comments: none

Tickets and vouchers for 2026 NYS Fair go on sale July 7

The Great New York State Fair to Run Wednesday, August 26 Through Labor Day, September 7

Albany, July 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that admission and parking passes for The 2026 Great New York State Fair will go on sale Tuesday, July 7, at 9 a.m. Packed with incredible value, a single admission ticket costs $8 and includes access to all grounds entertainment, agricultural exhibits, live demonstrations, and the Chevrolet Music Series. Admission remains free for those aged 65 and older along with children 12 years old and under, continuing to ensure that The Fair is one of the most affordable fairs in the nation, providing an accessible space for the whole family to get offline and get outside. This year’s Fair will include more programming than ever before, with dozens of live performances and demonstrations, returning fan favorites and exciting new competitions, food and beverages from regional producers including a fresh lineup of vendors in the Taste NY marketplace, daily events in the reimagined Empire Room, and much more to discover.

“The Great New York State Fair is a time-honored tradition, celebrating our agricultural heritage and a cornerstone of our summers here in New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “People shouldn’t have to break the bank to have fun. As of today, tickets for this affordable, family-friendly event that will be packed with old favorites and new attractions are now on sale. New Yorkers – get your tickets today and I’ll see you at The Fair this summer!”

For those fairgoers who have plans to attend The Fair multiple times over the 13-day run, the $25 Frequent Fairgoer option again allows fairgoers to enter The Fair once a day, every day during The Fair. A Frequent Fairgoer ticket is non-transferable and is available exclusively online. Parking for the Fair costs $12. Advance tickets for The Fair’s famous Midway, operated by Wade Shows, will go on sale in the coming weeks.

There are three ways fairgoers can buy admission tickets and/or parking: online, over the phone, and in-person from August 26 through September 7.

Online: The link to purchase admission tickets and parking will go live at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, at The Great New York State Fair’s website.
Over the Phone: Starting July 7, tickets and parking may also be purchased over the phone by calling Etix toll-free at 1-800-514-3849 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday.
At the Gate: Beginning Wednesday, August 26, kiosks positioned at all gates will be available for electronic ticket purchases. To minimize waiting time for the kiosks, large signs featuring QR codes will also be available at all entrances and in parking lots so fairgoers can use their smartphone to purchase tickets. Reverse ATMs are on site to convert cash into a usable card.

Including fees, the total cost for fairgoers will be:

Admission: $8.32 per ticket ($8 admission, ticket fee of 14 cents, credit card processing fee of 18 cents)
Frequent Fairgoer: $25.70 ($25 Frequent Fairgoer pass, ticket fee of 14 cents, credit card processing fee of 56 cents; note that the Frequent Fairgoer passes are available exclusively online)
Parking: $12.41 per vehicle ($12 parking, ticket fee of 14 cents, credit card processing fee of 27 cents)

Posted: July 6th, 2026 under Agricultural News, Arts and Entertainment, Community Events, Education News, General News, Northern NY News, State Government News, Statewide News, Upstate New York.
Comments: none

News Categories

Site search

More About The Peru Gazette

Comment Policy

Recent Comments

July 4, 2026

FULL-SCOPE APP LAUNCH

FINANCIAL EDUCATION FOR FAMILIES

EXPANDING STOCK OWNERSHIP FROM DAY ONE

ENROLLMENT AND MARKET OPENING

EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTIONS

Town of Newcomb – Town Supervisor’s Records and Reports (2026M-15) Report Issued Date – July 03, 2026 [read complete report – pdf]

Audit Objective

Audit Period

Understanding the Audit Area

Audit Summary

Fees paid with interest in February 2026

Town of Schuyler Falls – Host Fee Payments (2026M-26)

Audit Objective

Audit Period

Understanding the Audit Area

Audit Summary

Borrowers on SAVE Plan Will Receive Notices About Finding a New Federal Payment Plan Within 90 Days