UPDATE: The Buffalo Common Council has just approved Governor Ryan’s government reorganization plan, marking a significant shift in city administration. Key elements include the creation of four deputy mayors and an independent parks commissioner, pending public hearings and final approval from Mayor Byron Brown.
In another major development, the family of William Sager, a National Guardsman who tragically died in 2014, has been awarded a $3 million settlement. This settlement comes after Jeffrey Basil was sentenced to 18 years for causing Sager’s death by pushing him down a flight of stairs.
Advocates are urgently pushing for Kyra’s Law to be included in Governor Kathy Hochul’s upcoming executive budget proposal. This legislation aims to protect children during custody battles, sparked by the heartbreaking case of Kyra Franchetti, who was shot by her father during an unsupervised visit in 2016.
While these legislative efforts unfold, New York advocates are responding to the Trump administration’s controversial proposals that threaten to cut federal funding for hospitals providing gender-related care to minors. Advocates warn that this could severely impact an already vulnerable population.
Adding to the holiday buzz, the Powerball jackpot has surged to an astonishing $1.7 billion, making this Christmas Eve drawing one of the most anticipated in recent history. Millions of hopeful players are eager for a chance to change their lives.
In weather news, Buffalo will experience mostly cloudy skies with temperatures reaching the middle to upper 30s throughout the holiday season. However, residents should prepare for a potential winter storm on Friday, which could bring 3-6 inches of snow to the Buffalo area, while the Southern Tier may face a wintry mix and ice.
As these stories develop, the community is encouraged to stay informed and engaged. The next public hearing on the reorganization plan is critical, and updates on Kyra’s Law are expected soon. Additionally, the Powerball drawing is set for December 24, promising excitement for players across the state.
Stay tuned for more updates as Buffalo navigates these significant changes and events.
