What Binghamton city council vote means for future of Binghamton Plaza

After two separate votes regarding the future of the Binghamton Plaza by Binghamton City Council Wednesday, the city is moving forward with their eminent domain proceedings.

City council members authorized the proposed condemnation in a five-to-two vote, with council members Angela Riley and Aviva Friedman voting against the acquisition, which includes 29, 31, 33, 37 and 41 W. State St. in Binghamton.

Ahead of Wednesday’s vote, Riley acknowledged the plaza has changed but has reservations about the city’s lack of plans for the space.

“I’m not sure I have enough information,” Riley said. “I want us to reflect upon the time where we have offered aid to other major entities in disrepair.”

Opposition to city’s plan for Binghamton Plaza

Friedman, who represents the North Side, said plaza business owners she spoke with do not want to relocate, and the relocation services offered by the city are inadequate.

North Side residents also expressed their disappointment with the city’s plans to turn the area into mainly greenspace, saying they would rather have businesses.

“This is not a cut-and-dry issue,” Friedman said. “It’s complicated and I think everyone has good points. There’s not a clear answer here.”

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What happens next in Binghamton Plaza dispute

Owners of the Binghamton Plaza have 30 days from the city’s publication of its synopsis to challenge the decision.

Four grounds for challenging exist, the Owners’ Counsel of America says, derived from the following:

• Was the proceeding in compliance with federal and state constitutions?
• Is the proposed acquisition within the city’s statutory jurisdiction or authority?
• Was the city’s determination and findings made in accordance with Article 2 (Eminent Domain Procedure) and Article 8…