Looking back on the week; Kathy Hochul is still dealing with the the resignation of Brian Benjamin. The NYSDOT confirmed the Community Grid will replace the I-81 viaduct. Also, the Everson will debut an exhibit by artists with disabilities.
1. Proposal would make it easier to remove former Lt. Gov Benjamin from the ballot
A new proposal sponsored by a New York State Assembly member would make it easier to remove a candidate from office if they are charged with a crime. If approved, Benjamin’s resignation will present a quandary for Hochul in the upcoming June primary.
2. The final decision on the I-81 viaduct project is here
After years of discussions and public outcry to replace the I-81 viaduct through Syracuse with a Community Grid, the project’s future is now very clear. The Final Environmental Impact Statement has been released.
3. Mayor's budget invests in schools, police, and infrastructure without raising property taxes
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh presented his 2023 budget to Common Councilors Monday. It includes a number of investments, including increased spending on police, schools, and city workforce.
4. Onondaga County families could see lower childcare costs
A combination of state budget aid and local action is expected to make childcare significantly more affordable in Onondaga County. That money is being used to make more families eligible for the childcare subsidy and increasing reimbursement rates for childcare providers.
5. County points to new strain as driver behind higher case rate
Central New York is the first region in the state to detect a new, highly contagious strain of COVID-19. Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said this variant and increased travel could explain the area’s elevated case rate.
6. The plan to better help Syracuse residents experiencing a mental health crisis
City representatives approved a $257,000 agreement between Liberty Resources and the Syracuse Police Department which offer an around-the-clock mobile crisis response service. The agreement aims to make it easier to help people facing mental health, drug addiction, or other issues.
7. UNIQUE exhibit will shine light on artists with disabilities at first event since the pandemic
Arise of CNY is placing its final call out for submissions from artists with disabilities to be featured in the ‘UNIQUE’ exhibit this summer at the Everson Museum. The program has been showcasing the talents of artists for 20 years and will return to the museum for the first time in August since the pandemic began.
A Syracuse University watchdog group found evidence to prove Vladimir Putin's committing War Crimes in the invasion of Ukraine. The project was started by Law School Scholar and former war crimes prosecutor in Sierra Leone David Crane.