Senator Helming's Monthly Newsletter |January 2026

Monthly Newsletter
January 11th, 2026

Happy New Year!

2025 was about people and progress—celebrating dedicated public servants, inspiring the next generation of leaders, supporting local businesses and job creation, securing resources for our communities, and honoring our veterans, whose sacrifices we will never forget.

Relive the highlights of 2025 by clicking the button below:

Pam

WATCH: 2025 Recap

Ringing in the New Year with Team USA

Bristol Mountain hosted an exciting U.S. Freestyle aerial exhibition and New Year's Eve celebration. Enjoyed the festivities with family and caught up with members of The U.S. Freestyle Aerial Team, including Pittsford native and Olympic gold medalist Chris Lillis.

Good luck to Team USA!

Fighting for Upstate

You sent me to Albany to fight for you, and that is exactly what I continue to do as the Legislative Session gets underway.

I wanted to share a quick video update on the work ahead and hope you will take a moment to watch by clicking the button below:

WATCH

Letter Combatting Wasteful Spending in NYS

I sent a letter to Governor Hochul calling on her to protect taxpayer dollars by ordering an independent audit of state spending. New Yorkers should not be asked to pay more when the state is not doing a good enough job managing the money it already has.

The State Comptroller has repeatedly shown that New York can save billions of dollars simply by making sure state agencies follow the rules. One audit found that $1.2 billion in Medicaid payments went to people who did not even live in New York, in part because the state failed to properly verify residency and waited too long to recover improper payments. That is money that should be helping New Yorkers here at home.

Before raising taxes or increasing costs, the state must clean up waste, stop abuse, and make sure every dollar is working for New Yorkers.

Read the Letter

Ensuring our region receives our fair share of resources is a priority for me. This year, I returned millions of dollars to our area for strategic investments.

These investments support a wide range of projects that promote economic growth, infrastructure improvements, and jobs.

Library Revitalization

Our libraries do far more than house books. They serve as community hubs, learning centers, and gateways to opportunity. Proud to deliver critical funding that helps modernize library facilities.

Improving Patient Protections

Protecting patient data requires strong, reliable cybersecurity. Delivering $15 million to Rochester Regional Health helps strengthen systems and safeguard patients’ personal information.

Upgrading Infrastructure

Reliable infrastructure is essential to affordability and quality of life. Helped deliver funding to the Village of Honeoye Falls, the Village of Phelps, and the Town of Canandaigua to upgrade critical infrastructure.

Announcing Grant Opportunities

Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment

This is a $25 million competitive grant program for volunteer fire departments and districts.

Applicants may request funding for fire facility construction, renovation, or purchases. Applications are due by February 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

For more information, click the button below:

Learn More

Farmland Protection

The Farmland Protection Implementation Grants Program provides funding to support agricultural conservation easement projects to protect our prime agricultural lands.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

For more information, click the button below:

Learn More

An All-of-the-Above Approach to Affordable,
Reliable Energy

To learn more about the state energy plan: https://energyplan.ny.gov/

Welcoming the New Leaders in Our Justice System

Our region is fortunate to welcome three outstanding public servants into new leadership roles within our justice system: Jason MacBride as Ontario County District Attorney, Jeannie D’Alessandro as Wayne County Court Judge, and Stefanie Barnes as Ontario County Court Judge.

As a State Senator, and as a mother and grandmother, I know how important it is that our courts are led by individuals with experience, integrity, and sound judgment. Each brings those qualities to their new roles, and I wish them every success as they serve our region.

Ratnik Industries, Inc. Join Historic Business
Preservation Registry

It was a pleasure to recognize Ratnik Industries, Inc. as a New York State Historic Business in celebration of more than 60 years of innovation in snowmaking and manufacturing.

Local manufacturers like Ratnik Industries play a critical role in supporting jobs, innovation, and economic opportunity in the Finger Lakes, and this recognition is a well-deserved tribute to their impact on our community.

Learn More

Supporting Local Leadership
Across the 54th

I convened newly elected officials from across the 54th Senate District to outline how my office supports local leaders and to reinforce a shared commitment to collaboration. When local and state leaders work together, we are better positioned to address challenges and deliver meaningful results for our communities.

Supporting Local Families Through
Toys for Tots

Thank you to everyone who donated to our Toys for Tots drive. At a time when many families are feeling the affordability crunch, your generosity will help ensure local children can experience the joy of Christmas. A special thank you to the Cheshire Volunteer Fire Department and the Fishers Fire Association for their support, and to all who contributed. This effort is a powerful reminder of the strength and compassion of our community.

Public Service Spotlight: Mendon Supervisor John Moffitt

After 16 years of dedicated service, I joined the Mendon community in congratulating Town Supervisor John Moffitt on his well-earned retirement. His leadership helped deliver meaningful improvements for residents, from the new library and military memorial to the splash park enjoyed by so many families.

John led with integrity, commitment, and a clear focus on putting people first. Thank you to John and his family for their years of service and support. Mendon is stronger because of his leadership.

Celebrating Allen Ruliffson II
100th Birthday!

Allen Ruliffson ll, WWll Veteran, served our country with distinction as a member of the United States Coastguard. It was a pleasure to join Al’s family, friends and representatives of the Patriot Guard Riders, Inc. to celebrate this milestone birthday. Al’s dedication to his family, friends & community continues to inspire everyone he meets.

Celebrating Our State Champions

Victor Girls Lacrosse Brings Home a State Title

One of the best parts of my job as State Senator is celebrating the incredible accomplishments of our students.

I was honored to present the Victor Girls Lacrosse team with Senate Citations to recognize their fourth consecutive State Championship. Their dedication and perseverance are a testament to the strength of our schools and community.

Geneseo High School 4x4 State Champions!

I recognized Geneseo Central’s 4x4 relay team with Senate Citations for their State Championship at a recent Board of Education meeting. The citations honor the hard work and dedication of these student-athletes and their coaches. Congratulations to Simon, Caleb, Bennett, Liam, Coach Morens, and Coach Rice!