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.
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.
Election Turnout
Early voting has kicked off in Chemung County, and lots of people are already heading to the polls to beat the Election Day rush. If you want to skip the long lines next month, you can cast your ballot right now.
Election Information
Early voting dates and locations have been released for Chemung County, so you can figure out when and where to cast your ballot before Election Day. It's time to make a plan to vote so your voice is heard.
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.
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.
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.
CCIDA 2027 Proposed Budget
The Chemung County Industrial Development Agency reviewed its $815,000 spending and revenue plan for the upcoming year. The budget balances conservative revenue estimates from fees and rentals with operational needs and economic development marketing.
2027 CCRC Operating Budget
The Capital Resource Corporation is keeping its 2027 budget at a balanced $10,000, funded entirely by the IDA to cover audit costs and administrative help from STAG. Because there are no bond projects planned, day-to-day operations are expected to stay very quiet.
Chemung County Airport Lease Controversy and Transparency
Legislators discussed delays in finalizing a county land lease for Carrington Aviation at the former warplane museum site, potentially stalling economic growth and tax revenue.
2027 Budget Process and Sales Tax Distribution
Legislators expressed frustration over being excluded from preliminary 2027 budget discussions with the County Executive. They also raised questions regarding expiring sales tax agreements and municipal preemption options.
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.
County Annual Financial Audit and Process Findings
Auditors presented a clean financial report for the Industrial Development Agency, though they noted a recurring issue with documentation for small purchases and a decrease in overall revenue and assets.