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The editor is John Ryan at email: perugazette@gmail.com. The Peru Gazette is a free community, education and information website. It is non-commercial and does not accept paid advertising.

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Invasive Species and Water Quality Walk at Heyworth/Mason Park

Three invasive species events planned in Clinton County

Two guided walks and a water chestnut pull scheduled for July, August

Click here for the Sun Community News story 

DiNapoli releases report on SFY 2025 state budget and financial plan

Albany, July 15, 2026 – The estimated $277 billion Enacted Budget for State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2027 is an increase of 7% from SFY 2026 with the state Division of the Budget (DOB) projecting that disbursements will exceed receipts in each year of the Financial Plan, raising questions about long-term fiscal sustainability, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

The Financial Plan reveals the impact of current pressures on state finances, with DOB projecting that cumulative out-year budget gaps have increased since January and now total $31.8 billion. Despite this growth, no increases were made to the state’s total reserves. In addition, the state is anticipating drawing down on $1.3 billion in General Fund balance by the end of SFY 2027 to help balance the budget.

“The state’s finances remain highly exposed to federal actions and potential economic downturns,” DiNapoli said. Read more »

DiNapoli: Tax Cap remains at 2 percent for 2027

Albany, July 15, 2026 – The 2027 property tax levy growth will be capped at 2% for local governments that operate on a calendar-based fiscal year, according to data released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. This figure affects tax cap calculations for all counties, towns and fire districts, as well as 44 cities and 13 villages.

“For the sixth consecutive year, the allowable tax levy growth will be limited to 2%,” DiNapoli said. “Local governments are tasked with the difficult challenge of delivering essential services efficiently while managing higher costs of goods and services, as well as the persistent threat of destabilizing federal actions. My office offers technical assistance for those that need it and provides transparency to the public so they understand the fiscal pressures facing local governments.” Read more »

Three reported dead after plane crash near Saranac Lake

Click here for the WTEN story 

New Semi-Conductor manufacturing workforce tax credit program

Program Will Help Connect Workers to Opportunities in America’s Fastest Growing Semiconductor Ecosystem

Albany, July 15. 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the Semiconductor Manufacturing Workforce Training Incentive Program, designed to connect workforce training programs to careers in the state’s rapidly growing semiconductor industry sector. The new program, administered by Empire State Development, supports eligible semiconductor manufacturers and manufacturing businesses by offsetting the costs of training employees for high-demand manufacturing careers, helping companies build the skilled workforce needed to support continued industry growth across New York State.

“New York is making historic investments to become the nation’s premier destination for semiconductor manufacturing, and that means investing in people just as much as projects,” Governor Hochul said. “This new workforce training tax credit will help manufacturers develop the highly skilled workforce they need while creating new opportunities for New Yorkers to build careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.”

The program supports employer-led training that addresses specific business needs, enhances employee skills, improves productivity and creates opportunities for career advancement. Eligible training may be provided directly by employers, third-party providers or New York State Registered Apprenticeship Programs. Tax credits can cover up to 75 percent of eligible training costs, including employee wages during training, curriculum development, instructor costs and qualifying wraparound services, up to $25,000 per employee receiving eligible training. Eligible semiconductor manufacturing businesses may receive up to $5 million in credits over the life of the program, while other eligible manufacturing businesses may receive up to $1 million.

To qualify, businesses must operate in New York State as eligible semiconductor manufacturing or manufacturing businesses, submit an approved workforce training plan before training begins, and demonstrate compliance with worker protection and environmental requirements. Applications are now being accepted through ESD. Additional program information, eligibility requirements and application materials are available here.

DON’T MISS OUT! REDC Urges Local Organizations to Apply for Share of $60 Million in State Funding Ahead of July 31 Deadline

Businesses, Municipalities, and Nonprofits Need to Submit Consolidated Funding Applications by 4 p.m. on July 31

The clock is ticking for North Country businesses, municipalities, and nonprofits to secure a share of millions of dollars in state economic development funding. The North Country Regional Economic Development Council (NCREDC) reminds potential applicants that the deadline for the New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) is Friday, July 31, 2026, at 4 p.m.

This year, up to $60 million in Regional Council Capital Funds—plus additional funding from more than 20 state programs—is available Read more »

Don’t miss the Strawhatter Band Wednesday Night at 7

Show starts at 7PM! The band will be performing a mix of marches, showtunes, swing standards, and patriotic pieces. The concert will be held on the back lawn of the church’s fellowship center, and is free and open to the public.

Champlain Area Trails Celebrates Grand Opening of Mount Inez Trail on August 1

LEWIS, N.Y., July 13, 2026  — Champlain Area Trails invites the community to celebrate the grand opening of the new Mount Inez Trail on Saturday, August 1, honoring the remarkable legacy of Inez Milholland, the women’s suffrage advocate, attorney, and longtime Lewis resident whose name now graces the mountain overlooking the Boquet Valley.

The celebration will bring together community members, local leaders, and project partners to commemorate both a new public trail and the successful effort to rename the mountain in recognition of Milholland’s lasting contributions to the fight for women’s voting rights and social justice. Read more »

1st statewide moratorium on new hyperscale data centers launched

Policy Outline for Community Investment Framework Available Here    Executive Order Available Here

Albany, July 14, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today signed an Executive Order to create the nation’s first moratorium on new hyperscale data centers, establishing the strongest standards for data center development and creating a blueprint to support localities. The Governor is temporarily pausing State environmental permits for up to one year in order to build a nation-leading regulatory framework that protects ratepayers, the environment, the energy grid and communities across the state.

“New York has always been at the forefront of innovation and change but we’ve also always guaranteed that New Yorkers benefit. As data center development threatens to hike up utility bills, deplete our natural resources, and create uncertainty for New Yorkers, it’s my responsibility to take action and lead,” Governor Hochul said. “New York will lead the way in creating the strongest standards in the nation for data center development, ensuring that when companies succeed because of New York, New Yorkers succeed too.” Read more »

Free food at the Peru Free Library on Saturday, July 25

Peru, NY Unitary America News Release – Unitary America is holding another food giveaway, on Saturday, July 25th, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., at the Peru Free Library. Unitary America will give away fresh bread, pastries, and other bakery treats. Food will be distributed as supplies last. If you are in need of food, we encourage you to attend.
Volunteers, please meet before or at 10:30 a.m. at the library to help with event set-up/ tabling. Spread the word, and let’s feed Peru.

DiNapoli release taxpayer migration dashboard

DiNapoli News Release – State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli unveiled a new taxpayer migration dashboard where users can track the number of personal income tax (PIT) filers moving in and out of New York.

DiNapoli has been monitoring taxpayer trends, most recently issuing a report that examined pre-pandemic trends in PIT tax filings and a follow-up report that analyzed changes in the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021. Using data from the Department of Taxation and Finance, this dashboard contains the latest numbers on part-year resident tax filers and will be updated annually to allow the public the ability to analyze trends on taxpayers moving into and out of the state each year.

Part-year resident tax filers made up 2% of New York state filers in 2024. These filers are those whose tax returns indicated they moved into or out of the state during the tax year. Though a small share of all taxpayers, the movement of these part-year residents can affect collections over time—particularly since New York has experienced a net out-migration of resident filers since 2015. However, the net out-migration of tax filers is not equal to state population gained or lost.

“Personal income taxes are New York’s largest tax revenue source, accounting for more than one out of two tax dollars collected by the state,” DiNapoli said. “When personal income taxes drive so much of the state’s revenue, even small shifts in the number of tax filers can have an impact over time. The pandemic caused a large movement of taxpayers out of New York in 2020, but the dashboard shows this was an aberration. Although out-migration has continued, it slowed considerably and was well below pre-pandemic levels in 2024. I remain very concerned about the net loss of married, middle-class filers, and urge policymakers to continue their efforts to improve affordability for New York’s families.”

The interactive chart provides data for tax filers moving into and out of New York in a given year based on part-year resident filers, and allows for analysis based on filing status or income. For example, the dashboard indicates:

  • In 2024 there were 256,164 part-year filers; of these filers, 121,251 moved into New York, while 134,913 left the state, a net out-migration of 13,662 taxpayers—a loss of approximately 1 in 1,000 resident taxpayers.
  • The greatest net loss of taxpayers was among married filers with incomes between $100,000 and $500,000 – a net loss of 8,200, or more than half of the total net out-migration, in 2024.
  • Net out-migration rates increase at higher income levels; in 2024, net out-migration averaged 1 in every 100 resident filers with incomes over $500,000.
  • One positive post-pandemic trend is that there has been a net in-migration of single filers each year since 2022.

Dashboard

Taxpayer Migration in New York State

Related Reports

Moving In or Out? New York State Personal Income Taxpayer Migration Trends

Taxpayer Movement During the Pandemic: Comparing 2020 and 2021 to Pre-Pandemic Baseline

Tee Off for a Great Cause at Heart Well Homestead’s 3rd Annual Golf Tournament

PORT KENT, N.Y. — Grab your clubs, gather your foursome, and get ready to swing for something bigger than birdies. Heart Well Homestead invites golfers of all skill levels to its 3rd Annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the beautiful Harmony Golf Club in Port Kent.

The day begins with check-in at 8:00 a.m. followed by a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start, offering participants a fun day on one of the North Country’s most scenic courses—all while helping provide hope and support to mothers and families in need. Following the tournament, golfers will enjoy lunch, prizes, and time to celebrate at the Harmony Golf Club Bar & Grill.

“This tournament is about more than golf,” said organizers at Heart Well Homestead. “It’s about bringing our community together to make a meaningful difference. Whether you’re chasing a low score or just out for a great day with friends, every swing helps support our mission.”

Heart Well Homestead is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive community for unhoused pregnant and parenting mothers, offering resources, stability, and hope during some of life’s most challenging moments. Proceeds from the tournament directly support the organization’s programs and services, helping local families build brighter futures.

Players, sponsors, and community supporters are all encouraged to participate. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply looking for a memorable way to give back, this tournament promises friendly competition, great prizes, and plenty of fun along the way.

For more information or to register, visit Heart Well Homestead’s Events Page or contact Jamie Dupell at (518) 569-4074 or HWH.fundraiser@gmail.com.

Clinton Community College to Host Summer Information Sessions on SUNY Reconnect Free College Program

Prospective adult learners can learn about tuition-free degree opportunities and available student support services
PLATTSBURGH — Clinton Community College will host two information sessions this summer to help prospective students learn about SUNY Reconnect, a program that provides eligible adult learners with the opportunity to attend college tuition-free.
The sessions will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, July 17, in person at the George Moore Building, 46 Beekman St., Plattsburgh, and from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 10, in a virtual format. Participants will receive an overview of the program, including eligibility requirements, benefits and enrollment information.
Representatives from Clinton Community College’s Financial Aid, Admissions, Bursar and Student Support Services offices, as well as the college’s ASAP program, will be available to discuss resources designed to support students throughout their educational journey.
Attendees are encouraged to register in advance for the session that best fits their schedule.

Read more »

New Family Physicians Graduate

CVPH Family Medicine Residency Faculty member Delaney Osborn, MD, left, presents graduate Nicholas Rzepski, MD with a Certificate of Completion

CVPH Residency Program advances rural healthcare

Plattsburgh, NY -, July 14. 2026 – Created to help meet the growing demand for primary care providers in rural communities, the CVPH Family Medicine Residency celebrated the graduation of seven physicians who are preparing to begin the next phase of their medical careers.

At the June 19 ceremony held at the Rainbow Banquet Hall, family, friends, fellow residents and faculty celebrated the Class of 2026: Maria Czajkowski, MD; Michal Klokner, MD; Jacob Moore, DO; T. Nicholas Rzepski, MD; Esha Sanyal, MD; Charlotte Spear, MD and Yanbo Yang, MD. Read more »

New chip-baed benefit cards for SNAP recipients

More Secure Technology to Protect Recipients’ Benefits from Theft

Albany, July 13, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York has made significant strides in its ongoing efforts to protect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients’ benefits from theft and that new, more secure chip-based cards will be issued beginning early in 2027. The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) recently finalized a contract with a vendor to provide the cards, which are expected to greatly limit theft of benefits by criminals using illegal “skimming” devices. Read more »

$270 million in tax credits and subsidies available to create and preserve affordable homes

Albany, July 14, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced proposals are now being accepted for the State’s annual 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credit awards, which will make available up to $58 million in 9% Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), $10 million in New York State Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (SLIHC) and more than $200 million in State Capital subsidy loan programs. The program, administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), will accept proposals through September 10, 2026. Read more »

Scott Ewing Announces Candidacy for Clinton County Coroner

Scott Ewing

Clinton County Democratic Committee Announces:

PLATTSBURGH, NY — Community advocate and public servant Scott Ewing will officially announce his candidacy for Clinton County Coroner on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Plattsburgh City Hall.
Ewing’s campaign is centered on community, compassion, and a commitment to continuing the work of strengthening the Clinton County Coroner’s Office. He believes the office plays a critical role in serving families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives and must continue to operate with integrity, transparency, and respect.
“The Coroner’s Office exists to serve our community with dignity and professionalism,” said Ewing. “I am committed to building on the progress that has been made and ensuring the office continues moving forward in a way that serves residents, supports families, and works collaboratively with law enforcement, emergency responders, and community partners.”
Ewing emphasized that the position is about public service above politics and maintaining the public’s trust. His focus will be on continuing efforts to modernize operations, strengthen partnerships, and ensure the office meets the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.
Throughout his career, Ewing has demonstrated a strong commitment to the people of Clinton County and understands the importance of treating every family with compassion and respect. He believes the Coroner’s Office should continue evolving to meet the needs of our growing and changing community while honoring the core mission of public service.
Community members, local officials, and supporters are invited to attend the announcement in front of Plattsburgh City Hall on Thursday, July 16, at 10:30 a.m.

National Weather Service Heat Advisory

National Westher Service
HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM THIS MORNING TO 8 PM EDT THIS
EVENING…
* WHAT…Heat index values between 91 to 99 expected.
* WHERE…Eastern Rutland County.
* WHEN…From 11 AM this morning to 8 PM EDT this evening.
* IMPACTS…Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat
illnesses.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Some wildfire smoke is possible late
afternoon and evening. This can increase heat-health impacts. Be
extra vigilant if outdoors for long stretches of time this
afternoon and evening.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of
the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose
fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning
or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and
heat stroke.

See less

Historial Association Date Change. Program originally schedule for July 23, now scheduled for July 30

July 30th – 6:00 pm, Clinton County Historical Association, 98 Ohio Avenue, Plattsburgh. Echoes if we listen with Helen Nerska based on the newest CCHA Revolutionary War exhibit: Native, Women and Black Patriots in Focus. Discover how each group contributed to the cause with expectations that were not realized.

After multiple accidents, Watertown passes new e-bike safety restrictions

Click here for the NCPR story 

Great music Wednesday night behind the Fellowship Center

St. Augustine’s Community Meal/Soup Kitchen Menu for Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Michigan
Salad
Snack Mix
Dessert
Served 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., take-out only, at St. Augustine’s Parish Center, 3030 Main St., Peru, NY 12972.
All are invited and welcome!

Champlain Area Trails and Town of Lewis ask for community input on Twin Valleys

Champlain Area Trails purchased Twin Valleys last fall, hoping to expand outdoor recreation, education and tourism

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

Vermont’s public schools could benefit from a new federal school choice tax credit program, but skeptics abound

Click here for the vtdigger story