Wednesday was a trip back in time for Fredonia water customers. What was usually a once-a-year occurrence happened for the first time in about a decade: a conservation order was issued for users. “This is a serious situation,” said Josh Myers, Emergency Manager for the village of ...

One of the most debated pieces of the 2026 city of Dunkirk budget proposal, announced this week by Mayor Kate Wdowiasz, revolves around the salary of its top elected official. Currently the position pays $54,500. For next year, the mayor plugged in a major increase of $20,500 to $75,000 — ...

It’s been 20 years since the Commission on Health Care Facilities in the 21st century, or the Berger Commission, said Westfield Memorial Hospital should be turned into a diagnostic treatment center. The community rallied on the hospital’s behalf, with the state choosing to reverse the ...

It is often easy to criticize struggles when it comes to city school districts across New York state. New Dunkirk Superintendent Brian Swatland, however, is finding the silver linings when it comes to recent test results. Swatland, took the position in July, spoke with the OBSERVER last week ...

During the most recent College Council meeting, State University of New York at Fredonia President Stephen Kolison listed 12 goals for the campus. Most of them were talking points regarding what was happening at the institution and its efforts on finances. He also mentioned one other ...

In recent months, the city of Dunkirk has put its best face on its recent money troubles. During Financial Committee meetings, elected officials are being told that there is a regular balance between revenues and expenses. That is the good news. On Tuesday, however, we will find out if ...