City Council funds two parks projects and revises demolition budget ahead of new properties

During the City Council Work Session on June 16, 2025, a significant focus was placed on funding for local parks and the demolition budget, highlighting the city's ongoing efforts to enhance community spaces and address vacant properties.

City officials confirmed that two out of four proposed parks projects—Webster and Rec—will receive funding, with plans to revisit the remaining projects in the upcoming budget process. This decision underscores the city's commitment to improving recreational areas for residents.

In a related discussion, the council addressed the demolition budget, which was initially recommended at $200,000 by the Community Development and Economic Committee (CDEC). This figure was a reduction from a previous request by the mayor for an additional $250,000. However, the mayor opted to increase the budget back to his preferred amount, adding $157,000. The mayor emphasized that removing blighted properties is a priority, particularly as the county finalizes its foreclosure list, which has been delayed since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The council also discussed the need for a standardized process in determining whether properties should be demolished or rehabilitated. Concerns were raised about the current nonstandard practices, with calls for clearer protocols to guide decisions on property redevelopment. The city relies on inspections from the vacant property officer and various departments to assess the condition of properties, ensuring that salvageable buildings are rehabilitated rather than demolished.

As the city moves forward, these discussions will shape the future of community development and property management in Binghamton, with an emphasis on strategic planning and effective use of resources.