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Binghamton committee hears family and community proposals to honor Major Barnett
Summary
Family members and community leaders asked the council to honor Major Barnett — a WWII veteran and longtime city employee — with an honorary street name, a building plaque, or an annual award; city staff recommended creating a consistent framework for future naming requests.
Family members and community representatives told the committee about Major Barnett's service as a city employee and veteran and urged a prominent, lasting recognition. "My father was an honorable man," a family member said, describing Barnett's long service, his later role at Mount Nebo Church and the family's wish for public recognition.
Deputy clerk Sam Costell said the city lacks a consistent framework for naming and recommended a sustainable option such as an honorary street name or an annual award tied to community service. Costell cautioned that legal and operational factors (post office, 9-1-1 addressing and maintenance) complicate formal street renaming, and suggested honorary street naming or an annual program as lower-barrier options that preserve long-term recognition.
Speakers from NAACP and other community groups urged an equity-focused rubric so similar requests are treated consistently. The committee agreed to continue the conversation in a follow-up meeting to discuss processes and preferred forms of recognition before drafting any formal resolution.
