Chemung County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Chemung County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Elmira Corning Regional Airport Runway Rehabilitation
The county is preparing for an $11.4 million project to rehabilitate the main runway at the Elmira Corning Regional Airport in August 2027, which will require a 37-day airport closure and temporary suspension of commercial flights.
Owner-Occupied Critical Repair Program
The land bank is reviewing how to evaluate applicant assets, such as retirement accounts, when determining eligibility for home repair grants. They are considering adopting standardized HUD guidelines to ensure fair and consistent treatment for all applicants.
Property Disposition and Rehabilitation Projects
Developers are converting the historic Booth Elementary School into 58 market-rate apartments and commercial space, seeking tax and mortgage exemptions.
Recurrent Energy HB1 Solar Project & Big Flats Impact Fee
The IDA is reviewing a preliminary request from a public entity to study a solar project on agency-owned land on Fyler Road.
Downtown Mixed-Use Building Redevelopment & Pilot
Walgreens representatives asked the IDA for a 10-year tax agreement to keep the 402 North Main Street store open. The company cites steep losses driven by pharmacy benefit managers reimbursing far below operating costs.
Permanently Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption
Local officials discussed a new New York State law taking effect October 1, 2026, that exempts 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans from property taxes, though counties must opt in and tracking eligible residents poses a challenge.