Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 28th of May.
Good morning, Buffalo.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday that GM will invest $888 million in its Tonawanda plant to produce its sixth-generation V-8 engines — the project will begin in July and finish in 2027, supporting 870 jobs and protecting 177 positions.
Attorney Kayla Ferrel Onder plans to file a legal complaint against Buffalo Public Schools—alleging a dozen of her clients experienced failed abuse reporting and sexual assault, with a written complaint expected within the next 30 days.
The case focuses on alleged cover-ups, mandated reporter failures, and harmful disciplinary practices.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office said that 51-year-old William A.
Quinones (from Mayville) was sentenced to life in prison after a federal jury convicted him of sex trafficking a minor over an eight-year period with four victims (the case involved repeated abuse and threats to silence the victims).
Buffalo Council member Mitch Nowakowski said the Statler tower project is delayed by high costs and tight loans that have left permits on hold for upper floors planned for 200 hotel rooms and 500 apartments.
Douglas Development has finished renovating ground floor areas like the ballroom, but falling short on state funds and rising expenses have slowed further work—raising concerns about the project’s future impact downtown.
The Erie County Water Authority will spend over $10 million in the next several months in Tonawanda, Depew, Blasdell, and the Town of Hamburg to test over 5,200 water service lines and replace any lead pipes with copper at no charge to homeowners.
Crews will use vacuum extraction—using water and suction—to check the pipes as new EPA rules require removal of lead pipes.
Today, the Buffalo Common Council approved Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon's proposed 2025–26 budget by a 6–2 vote, cutting $30 million from a $70 million deficit and linking an 8% property tax increase to $26.5M in savings.
The council also amended the budget to curb overtime spending and plan tax breaks for low-income homeowners— and to add council representation on the Parking Authority board.
Recent research by University at Buffalo researcher Sarah Lima shows that women living in formerly redlined neighborhoods face a 32% higher risk of dying from breast cancer than those living elsewhere — even after adjusting for race, poverty, and stage of disease the risk remains at least 12% higher. The study shows that segregation policies from decades ago still affect community health by limiting access to care and increasing exposure to industrial hazards.
On Tuesday, the Bills held on-field voluntary OTAs at One Bills Drive with all players present except running back James Cook — who is in search of a new contract — and defensive lineman Joey Bosa, who is out with a calf injury.
Coach McDermott praised quarterback Josh Allen’s leadership and welcomed the return of former defensive backs Tre'Davious White and Dane Jackson as the team moves toward training camp.
The Garcia Project Tribute Show
8-11 p.m. — Buffalo Iron Works — Tickets available — Experience a faithful performance of classic Jerry Garcia Band set lists spanning 1976-1995.
The Unlikely Candidates Live Concert
6:30-8 p.m. — Rec Room — $27.47 — After Dark presents an evening with The Unlikely Candidates and special guests for an entertaining night out.
Grappling Industries Buffalo Tournament
9 AM – 11 PM — Kevin T. Keane Sports Park at Nardin Academy — Check the website for registration fees — Experience an exciting day of grappling competitions in the heart of Buffalo.
Simple Plan Live Concert
6-9 p.m. — Terminal B — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energetic performance of Simple Plan at Buffalo Outer Harbor.
Wallows Live in Concert
7:00-9:30 p.m. — Terminal B — Visit website for ticket info — Experience an exciting night of music with Wallows and special guest Porches.
Heart Attack Man Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Rec Room — Buy Tickets — Experience an electric performance by Heart Attack Man in Buffalo's vibrant music scene.
EXTC & XTC’s Terry Chambers & Friends Concert
7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Caz — $30 — Experience the iconic sounds of XTC live with original drummer Terry Chambers and his band.
Kevin Hall Concert
7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Caz — $25 — Experience a captivating evening of smooth jazz and R&B with award-winning saxophonist Kevin Hall.
Texas Hippie Coalition Concert
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Rec Room — Buy Tickets — Enjoy a night of southern rock with Texas Hippie Coalition in Buffalo.
HireBuffalo Multi-University Alumni Career Fair
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Buffalo Marriott Niagara — Free entry — Connect with 80+ employers offering full-time jobs across all industries in the Buffalo-Niagara area.
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