The Binghamton City Council voted 4-1 on Aug. 13 to accept a $10,000 transfer from the county district attorney’s office to fund community-based policing patrols, including bike and foot patrols at parks and events.
Council member Middleton moved for the resolution, R25-48, describing the funds as county-level assistance to cover patrols that otherwise would come from the city budget. “This is just to cover the funding for that through the district attorney,” Middleton said.
One council member opposed the resolution and outlined broader concerns about funding more patrols without parallel accountability reforms in the police department. That speaker noted the Binghamton Police Department’s budget has increased by $3 million since 2020 and argued the city should demand transparency and misconduct accountability before expanding patrol programs. The opposition described the current administration’s handling of police discipline—citing Chief Sikorsky being on administrative leave—as part of the reason to withhold additional patrol funding until accountability mechanisms are clearer.
Another council member said the DA funds cover a pre-existing hole in the police budget for extra patrols needed during warmer months and events and argued the city should accept funds that offset the city’s general fund so long as the grant is not for an objectionable purpose.
The roll call recorded one “No” vote (Council member Athmel) and four “Aye” votes (Hotchkiss, Cavanaugh, Middleton, and President Dunton), producing a 4-1 outcome to accept the grant.
The resolution covers reimbursement or acceptance of $10,000 per municipality, as described during the meeting; council members asked for clarity on timing and whether the funds cover spending already incurred.