Chemung County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Chemung County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Sewer District Scale of Charges and Debt Repayment
Legislators scrutinized major change orders and overall progress on the $275 million sewer consolidation project, discussing ratepayer impacts and financing.
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.
Proposed Junkyard Near Ernie Davis Legends Hall
Legislators expressed alarm over an out-of-town developer's proposal to open a commercial junkyard with multiple dumpsters directly across the street from the planned Ernie Davis Legends Hall, Head Start program, and veteran housing.
Reedman-Edger Housing Project Tax Abatement
Residents in Big Flats strongly objected to a 30-year tax abatement for a major housing development, citing strains on school capacity, local infrastructure, and traffic while bringing only four permanent jobs. IDA officials defended the agreement by pointing to an upfront $300,000 impact payment and the pressing regional need for housing.
New York State Budget and Local Fiscal Impacts
Lawmakers debated the financial crisis facing the City of Elmira, including a 12% city tax increase, a high proportion of tax-exempt properties, and the risk of hitting constitutional tax limits. A proposal was made to hire an independent consultant to study how city financial distress could impact the entire county.
Gas-Electric Tax Relief Extension
Legislators discussed capping the county sales tax on gasoline and diesel at a three-dollar valuation per gallon. Officials noted that consumers might not immediately see noticeable changes at the pump because taxes are baked into total displayed prices, but the county will see a drop in collected revenue.
Project Milo (Amazon) Site Access and Development
Developers for the Amazon project at Airport Corporate Park South received approval for early site access to begin moving dirt while final legal and regulatory requirements are finalized.
Utility Rate Increases and Energy Supply Costs
Committee members reviewed skyrocketing utility bills and discussed a proposed county sales tax exemption on utility services, with suggestions to extend the relief period from six months to a full year.
Emergency Communications Center Power Failure
Legislators expressed grave concern over a recent total power outage at the county's emergency communications center caused by failed backup batteries.
MUCT Travel Center at 905 East Church Street
A developer is planning a $22 million full-service travel center and truck stop on Church Street to boost local economic activity and provide truck services.