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SLICFiber Announces Launch of 100% Fiber Internet in City of Saratoga Springs

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

SLICFiber, the fastest growing internet service provider in Upstate New York, today announced the launch of the first 100% fiber-optic internet and phone service in Saratoga Springs, strengthening the city’s economic competitiveness. 

The company announced this major milestone in connectivity alongside elected officials and business leaders in the Spa City at a press conference at Saratoga Springs City Hall to showcase the economic impact of 100% fiber-optic infrastructure and the difference this service makes in providing faster speeds to accommodate the city’s growing economy. 

“We’re pleased to invest in Saratoga Springs and bring our 100% fiber optic service to the area, offering consumers another choice,” said SLICFiber Chief Executive Officer Kevin Lynch. “This is new technology, not the legacy technology utilized by existing providers in this area. Fiber is the infrastructure that will support communities long into the future, and we’re ‘future-proofing’ Saratoga Springs by having it here.” 

Unlike traditional cable or hybrid networks, SLICFiber delivers 100% fiber-optic connections directly to homes and businesses, offering symmetrical upload and download speeds, increased reliability during peak usage times, and long-term scalability. This means faster internet service that is unaffected when the power goes out, and more reliable internet service that doesn’t crash when there is high community usage. 

Local business and economic development leaders also highlighted the broader impact of fiber infrastructure on the region.

“SLIC represents another choice for our residents and businesses,” said Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford. “They’ve taken the time to work with us every step of the way, and their commitment to serving the community sets them apart. Importantly, this investment comes at no cost to the City and will add to our tax base, providing additional value to taxpayers.” 

“The presence of broadband fiber is an important asset for this community,” said Todd Shimkus, President of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “It strengthens our ability to retain and attract businesses, supports our existing employers, and helps position Saratoga Springs for long-term growth.” 

“Reliable, fast internet is of utmost importance to our businesses and retailers who are already here, as well as those who want to start businesses here,” said Saratoga Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) President / CEO Greg Connors. “Fiber also helps us attract people who want to live here but, in the past, have been tied down to other locations because of better connectivity.” 

SLICFiber’s investment in Saratoga Springs represents more than three years of planning, collaboration, and infrastructure development. The company worked closely with city leadership and local partners to ensure a thoughtful, community-driven approach to building out its network. Residents and businesses may remember promises of fully fiber-optic internet four years ago. Those plans were never realized, leading to SLICFiber studying the area and deciding to build here. 

SLICFiber also announced that Saratoga Springs is the latest community to participate in its #FiberofHope initiative, which donates $25 to local cancer charities for every new customer installation. Custom pink drop fiber optic cable was developed to provide a powerful visual for this initiative. In Saratoga Springs, SLICFiber will partner with Kelly’s Angels, a nonprofit organization supporting children and families affected by cancer and other serious illnesses. 

“We work with each community to identify a local beneficiary for our #FiberOfHope give-back effort, ensuring donations stay local and support those affected by cancer,” Lynch said. 

SLICFiber is now actively serving portions of Saratoga Springs, with continued expansion planned. Residents and businesses can check service availability and sign up through the company’s website, slicfiber.com.

New York State Police Introduces Ford Mustang Patrol Vehicles

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured, News.

The State Police have revealed several new Ford Mustangs which are being rolled out across the Capital Region (Courtesy of NYSP)

The New York State Police recently announced the addition of new Ford Mustang GT patrol vehicles to its fleet, marking a strategic investment to modernize traffic enforcement capabilities and enhance roadway safety across the state.

A total of 19 Mustangs has been acquired, including a prototype that has been used for training and evaluation, and will begin its initial patrol deployment in Troop G (Capital Region) this week.

The rest of the Mustangs are in the process of being outfitted with emergency lighting, communications, and safety equipment before being deployed statewide in the coming weeks.

“These vehicles represent a thoughtful and strategic addition to our fleet,” said Superintendent Steven G. James. “Our goal is to provide troopers with the tools they need to safely and effectively carry out their mission. The Mustang enhances our ability to conduct traffic enforcement while reinforcing our commitment to protecting the public on New York’s roadways.”

The Mustang patrol vehicles are being introduced as part of the Division’s ongoing effort to adapt to evolving traffic enforcement challenges.  As the State Police transitions its patrol fleet to SUVs for their improved visibility, safety, and all-weather capability, the Mustangs’ performance and maneuverability will provide an effective tool for addressing aggressive driving, excessive speeding and other hazardous driving behaviors that put public safety at risk.

The Mustangs, which cost about 30% less than the patrol SUVs, will be deployed in a targeted manner in each State Police Troop on highways to support high-visibility enforcement details and complement existing patrol vehicles. Their introduction is expected to improve enforcement effectiveness and officer safety, and to serve as a visible deterrent to dangerous driving.

Saratoga National Historical Park Kicks off 2026 Special Events Schedule 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Saratoga National Historical Park kicks off its 2026 schedule of special events in May with the following offerings: 

Saratoga Battlefield Guide Tour 

Saturday, May 2 at 9 a.m. 

Visitor Center 

Join the Official Saratoga Battlefield Guide for a free, one hour tour on a topic of his choice related to the Saratoga Campaign. This week’s focus is the Battle of Freeman’s Farm. Meet at the Visitor Center. Participants will then travel in their own vehicles to the tour location. 

B.A.R.K. Ranger Program Lauch 

Saturday, May 9 at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

1 p.m. Fashion Show 

Schuyler Estate 

Saratoga National Historical Park invites you and your pup(s) for the launch of our new and improved B.A.R.K. Ranger Program at the Schuyler Estate in Schuylerville, NY. You will find restrooms, access to water and pet friendly trails nearby. Learn what it means to be a B.A.R.K Ranger, explore the history of dogs at the Schuyler Estate, visit with park rangers, and get your pup officially certified! 

The event will feature Lucky Puppy Rescue, Out of the Pits, and Saratoga County Animal Shelter sharing their work to help animals in our community and information about their adoptable animals. Friends of Fort Hardy Park and the Friends of Saratoga Battlefield join us to discuss more dog-friendly recreation opportunities in the area. 

The highlight of the day will be the B.A.R.K. Ranger fashion show at 1 p.m. Show off your pet’s style. Bonus points for American Revolution themed outfits! Remember, the best accessories your pup can wear when visiting Saratoga NHP is a six-foot leash with a poop bag dispenser attached.

Saratoga Battlefield Guide Tour 

Saturday, May 16 at 9 a.m. 

Visitor Center 

Join the Official Saratoga Battlefield Guide for a free, one hour tour on a topic of his choice related to the Saratoga Campaign. This week’s focus is the Battle of Bemus Heights. Meet at the Visitor Center. Participants will then travel in their own vehicles to the tour location. 

History Caravan 

Saturday, May 23 at 9:30 am 

Meet in the Visitor Center 

Looking for a more in-depth, hands-on experience during your visit? Join a Park Volunteer for a caravan-style tour of the Battlefield! Tours will last 2.5-3 hours. Meet in the Visitor Center and follow along in your own vehicle for as long as you like. May be cancelled in the event of inclement weather. 

In Memoriam 

Monday, May 25 at 1:00 pm 

Visitor Center 

Park Ranger Eric Schnitzer reveals newly discovered stories of the lives – and deaths – of Americans who perished in the Battles of Saratoga. 

A complete list of events can be found at go.nps.gov/saraevents.

Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office Honored for Excellence in Impaired Driving Enforcement and Victim Advocacy

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office is proud to announce that sev- eral members of its team have been recognized with presti- gious Recognition of Excellence Awards presented by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), STOP-DWI New York, and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

Assistant District Attorney Robert Conklin, along with Crime Victim Specialists Mollie Benware, Ashley Kitts, and NicoleLichva,werehonoredfor their outstanding dedication to impaired driving enforcement, prosecution, and victim support services. These awards recognize

law enforcement professionals, prosecutors, and agencies that demonstrate exceptional com- mitment to reducing impaired driving and supporting victims impacted by these crimes.

The honorees were selected for their tireless efforts in pros- ecuting impaired driving cases and for providing compassion- ate, comprehensive assistance to victims navigating the crim- inal justice system. Their work plays a critical role in promot- ing public safety and ensur- ing accountability for those who endanger others through impaired driving.

“I am incredibly proud of the dedicated individuals we have

working in this office,” Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby said “Their commitment to victims and their pursuit of justice is evident in everything they do. They approach each case with professionalism and compassion, to hold offenders accountable while supporting those impacted by these crimes.”

The Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office remains steadfast in its mission to combat impaired driving and to advocate for victims, work- inginpartnershipwithorgani- zations like MADD, STOP-DWI New York, and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee to make local communities safer.

Code Blue Shelter Gets New Permanent Location in Saratoga Springs

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in Featured, News.


Parcel of land at 96-116 Ballston Ave., captured from Finley Street Aug. 21, 2024, with Route 50 visible at left. The existing building in the distance is 96 Ballston Ave. and is included in the county purchase. Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos

The Saratoga County Code Blue Shelter will have a permanent location starting in the winter 2027 after the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors approved a site in Saratoga Springs. 

The new facility will be located at 96 Ballston Ave, directly across the street from Market 32, in the city of Saratoga Springs. It is listed as being a 25,600 square foot facility with a common room, office spaces, commercial kitchen and mess hall. When in operation, the shelter will have 75 beds available with capacity for an additional 43 beds in times of emergency. 

Under the ordinance, Shelters of Saratoga will build and operate the facility. It is expected to be open during the winter months and any time the temperate dips below freezing. 

The shelter was approved during a Saratoga County Board of Supervisors meeting on April 21, 2026. The permanent shelter was described by members of the board as a good first step and that it would avoid the continual need to find locations for the shelter year after year. It also coincides with the end of the lease at the current code blue shelter located at 120 South Broadway.

During the meeting Saratoga Springs Supervisors Minita Sanghvi and Sarah Burger spoke about the impact the code blue shelter would have on the city. Both said they received numerous comments from residents speaking about safety concerns surrounding the shelter. According to the supervisors, numerous residents reported issues with public urination, verbal assaults, physical altercations, indecent exposure and incapacitated individuals in the neighborhood surrounding the current code blue shelter and the proposed site.

This has created concerns over public safety costs for handling the incidents. Sanghvi said that while those who use the services come from across the county, Saratoga Springs has had to bear the cost of providing emergency services to the shelter. 

“While the county dispatch would get the calls, Saratoga Springs police, EMS and fire will be responding to the calls,” Sanghvi said. “This is a significant burden on our city residents that we shouldn’t have to bear alone.” 

Sanghvi said that she hopes that the county can come to an intermunicipal agreement with the city to share resources and costs associated with the shelter moving forward.

Supervisor Burger echoed Sanghvi saying there were 264 emergency calls to the current code blue shelter in 2025 and that the city can’t afford the bill for the county.

Both supervisors emphasized that while this was an important first step, it shouldn’t be the only step. Sanghvi said that homelessness comes in many forms and that a single shelter open in winter cannot be the only solution. 

The discussion around a code blue shelter has been going on for over a decade. In 2013, the death of Saratoga Springs resident Nancy Pitts due to freezing temperatures led the City of Saratoga Springs to first establish a code blue shelter. Later in 2016, a statewide mandate was issued requiring counties to provide a code blue shelter when the temperature dips below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Saratoga Springs City Council Rundown: UDO, Parking and Charter Changes

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in Featured, News.

It was a long night in Saratoga Springs as the City Council held its normally scheduled meeting on the night of April 21.

On the docket were clarifications to parking rules, discussions of charter review, and the beginning of the process to change the cities Unified Development Ordinance. 

From parking to planning and everything in between: here is a rundown of the updates from City Hall.

Possible changes coming to the UDO 

The City of Saratoga Springs is set to begin review of its Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) after City Council vote 4-1 to approve a resolution initiating a review of the UDO and publishing a draft of proposed changes. 

The proposed changes mostly focused on the Design Review Board (DBR), one of three building-related boards in the City of Saratoga Springs. Under the proposed changes, the DBR’s role and abilities would be clarified. Among the more controversial changes is a change removing the ability of the DBR to prevent demolition of structures in the Architectural District for preservation purposes unless the structure had been designated a landmark by the City Council.

In addition, citizens would be able to appeal DBR ruling to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford said that the changes to the UDO were due to complaints he heard from citizens in dealing with the Design Review Board. Safford cited one instance where a resident was told by the DBR that if they didn’t want to pay for a slate roof, then they shouldn’t have bought a house in the architectural review district as well as several instances where businesses looking to modify or demolish structures were told no by the DBR. 

He also said that there was pressure to pass an updated UDO as it had become a “political” issue and was upset with the lone Democrat on the City Council, BK Keramati for voting against the ordinance proposing review of the UDO. 

During the meeting, Keramati had pressured the mayor for a list of specific reasons for the changes to the UDO prior to taking action on it. Keramati and Safford were seen talking after the meeting regarding his vote on the matter, with Safford expressing his displeasure with Keramati’s vote. 

The proposed changes were also met with push back by members of the public who protested the changes and cited Saratoga Springs’ historic character as a reason for people to move to and visit the city. Of the 14 speakers who gave public comment, eight spoke out against the changes. In addition, prior to the meeting, the Saratoga Springs Democratic Party had put out a public call for attendance at the meeting and voiced its opposition to the proposed changes.

Parking

Two bills clarifying parking regulations were passed during the meeting. The first of these bills set a two-hour limit on parking along Phila Street between Broadway and Henry Streets. The time limit is in effect between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. 

The second bill also impacted Phila Street, this time adding two commercial loading zones. The first of these zones will go from Broadway to Putnam Street on the North side of the street and be in effect on weekdays from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.  The second loading zone will be    on the South side of Phila between Putnam and Henry Streets. 

Pushback on Charter Proposal 

A proposal to change the language of Saratoga Springs’ charter regarding the number of city supervisors elected to the Board of Supervisors was met with pushback during the meeting. Under the proposed change instead of establishing two supervisors the charter would allow for “One or more Supervisors, as may be established by County Law”

While the proposals were introduced back in December, several speakers took time during public comment to address this proposed change, arguing that it would potentially diminish Saratoga Springs’ representation at the county level if the county chose to reduce the number to one. 

In response to these comments, Mayor Safford asked for comments from the two current Saratoga Springs Supervisors — Sanghvi and Burger. Both asserted that they saw no need to change the charter when it came to the number of supervisors. Instead, Burger advocated for compensation from the city for Supervisors’ attendance at City Council meetings — something done by most other municipalities in the county. 

Chamber Fee Waiver rejected

A proposed fee waiver for the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce was unanimously rejected by City Council. The waiver, which covered public safety related fees associated with several events held by the Chamber had been introduced by Coll after he said he met with the Chamber the week prior. Coll opposed the measure and said that approving the waiver might show favoritism to the group. He wasn’t alone as Finance Commissioner JoAnne Kiernan said the fee waiver as proposed would violate existing Finance Department policies. 

Halfmoon Woman Arrested for Son’s Death

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Sheriff’s Office responded to an unattended death call involving a 10-year-old male on Jan. 19, 2026, at 9:40 a.m., at 430 Route 146 in the town of Halfmoon. 

Investigation into the matter led to the arrest Wednesday of Rebecca A. Jordan, 43, of Halfmoon, N.Y. Jordan was charged with manslaughter in the 2nd degree (class C felony), tampering with physical evidence (class E felony) and endangering the welfare of a child (class A misdemeanor). 

She is accused of recklessly causing the death of the child – who was her son – by providing him with an excessive amount of diphenhydramine resulting in intoxication by that drug with aspiration of gastric contents and probable restriction of normal ventilation. Jordan was also charged with concealing physical evidence – specifically a bottle of diphenhydramine – from investigators with the intent to prevent it from being used in an official proceeding. 

She was arraigned before the Honorable Ellwood A. Sloat Jr. in the Malta Town Court and remanded to the Saratoga County Jail pending further proceedings in the Halfmoon Town Court. 

“Child death cases are among the most tragic that we handle and I am extremely proud of the true professionals that worked this case,” Sheriff Jeffrey R. Brown said. “We will always be a deafening voice for those who cannot speak for themselves, and I look forward to justice being served for this innocent boy.”

District Attorney Brett Eby Announces Indictment in Animal Abuse Case

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Saratoga County, NY — Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby announced today that a Saratoga County Grand Jury has returned an indictment against Paul H. Daby Jr. in connection with an animal abuse investigation. 

The indictment charges the defendant with 13 counts of Tampering with Physical Evidence, a Class E Felony. 

It is alleged that the defendant, on June 24, 2025, unlawfully concealed 13 deceased canines in garbage bags within his vehicle. 

The case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Mary T. Northrup. 

The District Attorney’s Office extends its gratitude to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation, including Investigator Kyle Rossi, Investigator Samuel Speziale, Investigator Jillian Knox, Deputy Alexandra Donner, Deputy Connor McCrea, and Deputy Nicole Voegler. 

Additional thanks are extended to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Health Diagnostic Center for its expertise. 

“This office takes allegations of animal abuse extremely seriously,” said District Attorney Brett Eby. “We are committed to holding individuals accountable for acts of cruelty and ensuring that those who cannot speak for themselves are protected under the law.”

County-Wide Short-Term Rental Registry Coming to Saratoga.

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in News.

Planning on renting out your home as an Airbnb or VRBO in Saratoga County coming up? Well, you’ll have to register with the county before you do. 

A new law was passed by the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors on April 21 establishing a new county-wide short-term rental registry. The law was enacted due to a statewide mandate requiring such registries which counties had the option of opting out of. 

Under the law, booking services are required to collect data on all short-term rentals in the county such as dates of stay, number of guests, costs, address, and registration number. Hosts meanwhile are required to comply with state law, self-certify that they complied with state law, and allow the county to inspect units to ensure compliance. It also allows the county to collect occupancy and sales tax on behalf of municipalities.

As for registration itself, all short-term rentals would be required to register online with the Treasurer’s Office prior to listing the rental. The registration would last for two years before renewal. 

While the law allows municipalities with existing short term rental registries like Saratoga Springs to continue to use those registries, it preempts the establishment of registries in new municipalities. 

While counties had the option of opting out of the legislation, Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett said they went with a countywide approach in order to benefit the municipalities. 

“The county has used economies of scale and shared assets to benefit all the municipalities,” Barrett said. “It saves the county money, and it saves the municipalities money.” 

Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford also welcomed the move, saying that the counties’ registry will have a huge impact in terms of sales and occupancy tax. 

Paving Notice 4/27/26 – 4/30/26

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Winter is over meaning Saratoga Springs must now contend with its aftermath: potholes. 

This week marks the first effort of the year against this menace as residents trade cold temperatures for minor traffic inconvenience. 

Here is the paving update for the coming week. 

• Monday April 27: Caroline Street between Henry Street and Nelson Ave will be milled. 

• Monday April 27: Court Street between Caroline Street and Talford Place will be milled. 

• Tuesday April 28: Henry Street between Spring Street and Lake Avenue will be milled.

• Tuesday April 28: Hodgeman Street from Lake Avenue to Caroline Street will be milled. 

• Tuesday April 28: the driveway apron of Fire Station 1 on Hodgeman Street will be milled. 

• Wednesday April 29: Caroline Street between Henry Street and Nelson Ave will be paved.

• Wednesday April 29: Court Street between Caroline Street and Talford Place will be paved.

• Thursday April 30: Henry Street between Spring Street and Lake Avenue will be paved. 

• Thursday April 30: Hodgeman Street from Lake Avenue to Caroline Street will be paved. 

• Thursday April 30: the driveway apron of Fire Station 1 on Hodgeman Street will be paved.

There is no parking of cars on the street during these hours, and driveway access/egress will be limited with potentially lengthy delays. On the day of paving, the road will be closed to all thru traffic until midafternoon.