Hochul's annual "State of State" Address focuses on affordability...
New York Governor Kathy Hochul outlined new efforts to deal with the affordability crisis Tuesday during her annual State of the State Address in Albany.  Hochul also declared that the state is positioned to face it's challenges... and, she declared the state of the state "is strong."  She highlighted the struggles of many New Yorkers due to the affordability crisis... adding that as a child... she remembers her family's struggles living near Buffalo.   She also talked about the need to invest in universal child care to support families that need it... and, those who work in the profession.  She also proposed ways to cut car insurance rates... which are among the highest in the U-S... and, says the state will be putting the "brakes on fraud..." and, standing up for good drivers who "deserve a break."
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Hochul also talked about the need to take more of an "all of the above" approach to rising energy costs... touting a new hydropower deal with Quebec... and, setting a goal of the state getting 5 gigawatts of electricity from nuclear power.  Hochul also discussed cutting red tape for communities who support new housing projects across the state... as well as a ban on the ability of 3D Printers to make "Ghost Guns."

Borrello says there are areas of agreement in "State of State" response..."
There are areas of agreement Chautauqua County's New York State Senator has with Governor Hochul on affordability.  However... Sunset Bay Republican George Borrello says New York "remains one of the highest-taxed and least affordable states in the nation, putting growing pressure on families, businesses, and communities."  Borrello says the areas of agreement include cracking down on car insurance fraud and joining the federal "no tax on tips" initiative."  However... he says he didn't hear anything about "broad-based tax cuts or structural reforms needed to change the state’s direction or reverse the outmigration that is hollowing out our economy."  On energy and utility costs... Borrello says he supports the focus on developing more nuclear power, but that is at least a decade away.  He says she should "expand access to natural gas and dependable baseload energy instead of waging war against them."
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Borrello says that it was "disappointing that the Governor did not address the state’s disastrous bail and discovery "reforms" and other pro-criminal laws that continue to harm public safety and deny justice to victims.  The high car insurance rates the Governor wants to fix are due, in large part, to soaring motor vehicle thefts.

Molitor calls Hochul's "State of the State" a "stunning admission" of failed policies..."
Chautauqua County's representative in the State Assembly called the governor's address "a stunning admission" of failed Democrat policies in Albany.  Westfield Republican Andrew Molitor says... because of that... he's dubious about how much of what Governor Hochul outlined will actually come to fruition... and, what worries him is that a lot of her rhetoric is designed to get "her through the elections."  Molitor says the biggest admission was regarding energy... and, the need for an "all of the above" strategy... that now includes upping the nuclear power ambitions from one to 5 gigawatts.  He feels the state got the cart way too far in front of the horse.  Molitor says that's become clear with the needs of power for data centers... and, concerns over possible rolling black-outs -- especially in New York City.  On another local note... Fredonia Mayor Mike Ferguson was part of a video early in the governor's presentation... touting state support for a new, Brooks Memorial Hospital. 

Langworthy announces securing $1.25-million for Jamestown Stormwater Channel Maintenance...
The city of Jamestown has formally been approved for $1.25-million in federal funding for it's Stormwater Channel Maintenance Project.  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy announed he had secured the funding... which he called a "critical investment aimed at reducing flooding risks and protecting public safety along the Chadakoin River... which is the outlet for Chautauqua Lake."  The channels are located off Jones and Gifford Avenue... and, have been prone to flooding in the recent times.  Langworthy was in Jamestown several months ago to announce the effort... which he adds will support the restoration and maintenance of the stormwater channels by removing accumulated sediment, debris, and obstructions that threaten nearby homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure.  Langworthy says -- "this $1.25-million investment will help reduce flood risks, protect public safety, and preserve vital infrastructure."

Jamestown man arrested after failing to show up, or work on contracted work at Lakewood home...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly contracting to do work at a home in Lakewood... and, not showing up to do it.  Lakewood-Busti Police say they took 38 year-old Tyler Shirley into custody last weekend after investigating allegations that he was paid for materials to do the work... and, failed to complete any work.  Officers say Shirley was arrested for first-degree scheming to defraud... and, fourth-degree grand larceny.  He was arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court.