URGENT UPDATE: Buffalo’s Common Council has officially approved Mayor Ryan’s government reorganization plan, a significant move that aims to reshape the city’s administration. This development was confirmed just moments ago, marking a pivotal step toward enhancing city management.
The reorganization includes a proposal to increase the number of deputy mayors from two to four and to establish an independent parks commissioner. Although the council’s approval is crucial, the plan still requires a public hearing and final approval from Mayor Ryan.
In another major development, the family of William Sager has been awarded a $3 million settlement related to his tragic death in 2014. Sager, a National Guardsman, was fatally injured after being shoved down a flight of stairs at a Buffalo bar. The perpetrator, Jeffrey Basil, is currently serving an 18-year prison sentence for his role in the incident.
Advocates are also urgently pushing for Kyra’s Law to be included in New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s upcoming state budget proposal. This legislation aims to protect children during custody disputes, a pressing issue highlighted by the tragic case of Kyra Franchetti, a two-year-old who was shot by her father during an unsupervised visit in 2016.
Adding to the holiday excitement, the Powerball jackpot has surged to an eye-popping $1.7 billion, with the drawing set for Christmas Eve. Millions are expected to participate, making this a potential life-changing moment for one lucky winner.
In response to the recent proposals from the Trump administration concerning gender-related care for minors, New York advocates are voicing concerns about the potential impact on vulnerable populations. They argue that cutting federal funding to hospitals providing such care endangers the well-being of many minors.
As Christmas approaches, Buffalo is experiencing relatively quiet weather, with temperatures hovering in the mid to upper 30s. However, residents should prepare for a storm system arriving on Friday, which is expected to bring a mix of snow and ice, particularly affecting the Southern Tier.
Stay tuned as these stories develop, and prepare for a potentially transformative weekend in Buffalo.
