chemung county

DNA testing and investigative genetic genealogy helped solve the murder of 12-year-old Mary Theresa Simpson nearly 62 years ago in Elmira.

The city of Elmira is hoping a proposal made by the Chemung County executive can cut the city’s 2026 tax levy by half. It needs county and city approval first.

The Economic Opportunity Program of Chemung and Schuyler Counties was awarded a $7.5 million grant from the state this month. Funding will support upgrades and a new addition to the Ernie Davis Community Center in Elmira.

The city of Elmira’s proposed nearly $47 million 2026 budget includes a 12 percent property tax increase and the appropriation of nearly a million dollars from the general fund balance to bridge budget gaps.

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

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.

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.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation wants the public to weigh in on thousands of acres of public lands in Steuben, Chemung and Schuyler counties.

The Chemung Canal Connector Trail project will help connect several miles of walking and bicycle paths from Elmira to Ashland and Watkins Glen.