Natalie Abruzzo

After more than 40 days away from Washington D.C., Republican Congressman Nick Langworthy held a virtual press conference this week ahead of a House vote to reopen the government on Wednesday. The fate of expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits for 24 million Americans remains uncertain.

A proposed expansion of the Hakes C&D Landfill is raising concerns about wastewater discharge, greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants for the village of Painted Post, which sits downstream of the landfill.

Chemung County is proposing a $296 million budget for 2026, which includes the continued sewer consolidation, highway, nursing facility, airport and public safety projects.

The pumpkin smash will take place on Sunday. Instead of sending the organic waste to the landfill, participants are encouraged to bring their Halloween jack-o-lanterns or any squash or gourds to smash for composting.

Voters cast ballots in local races across the region Tuesday. Results are unofficial until all votes have been counted and certified by the state’s board of elections.

Polls are open until 9 p.m. in New York and 8 p.m. in Pennsylvania.

Residents will vote in a number of races in Steuben, Schuyler and Chemung counties, though most seats are unchallenged.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are set to be suspended on Nov. 1 amidst the government shutdown. It is the first time in the program’s history that benefits will be stopped.

The city of Elmira is facing a legal challenge to a rezoning ordinance passed in 2023. The New York Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit this month against the city alleging discrimination against people with disabilities.

Corning Town Supervisor Jenniffer Mullen has her arraignment hearing in Steuben County court on Oct. 22. Mullen faces felony charges, including grand larceny.