Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Chemung County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
15 issues with medium priority
Lecom Center Redevelopment Success
Elmira College will play its men's and women's home hockey games at the Leecom Center, securing the venue's future. Legislators credited Chairman Margeson and the IDA board for the deal with a local businessman who bought the arena.
Battery energy storage moratorium
A constituent letter about a proposed battery energy storage project by Sol America on Hillcrest Road prompted Legislator Palmer to call for a county local law to keep such facilities out of Chemung County. Many towns and villages have already imposed moratoriums, though limits on their duration were discussed.
Short-Term Rental Registration and Occupancy Tax
New York now requires short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO to collect sales and lodging tax. The Treasurer's office signed on with a vendor to identify non-compliant rentals, with an occupancy tax audit planned for early 2027.
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.
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.
Southport Corners Senior Housing Project Assignment
The IDA consented to assign its existing option agreement for the Southport Corners project to an entity controlled by Arbor Development. The $18 million project will bring 58 units of senior housing near Topps Plaza.
Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Update
Legislators discussed progress on the local FQHC access point, upcoming community meetings, and efforts to address local dental and medical provider shortages.
Landfill Operations and Gas Recovery System
Committee members discussed county landfill operations, noting the success of the methane gas recovery system which has eliminated odor issues and generates revenue. An upcoming landfill open house is scheduled for August 27.
Tanglewood Walkway and Tourism Development
Legislators reviewed progress on the Tanglewood walkway project, which is on track for a May 2025 completion date. Officials discussed promoting local tourist attractions such as the walkway, Civil War Camp, and John Joseph Museum through the Chamber of Commerce.
Rabies Exposure Public Health Alert
Chemung County health officials are trying to find anyone who may have touched or been near a possibly rabid stray cat. If you had contact with a stray in the area, call the health department—rabies is serious but treatable if you act fast.
Chemung County Fairgrounds Capital Investments and Updates
Fair President Mark Watts presented an update on over $400,000 in recent investments, sweat equity, and improvements made to the county fairgrounds, noting increased vendor and livestock participation for the upcoming fair.
Southern Tier Logistics Railroad Crossing Study
The county is sponsoring a federal grant application to study reopening a closed railroad crossing on Watkins Road, which will improve safety and operational efficiency for local freight traffic.
325 Weber Street Listing Price and Improvements
The land bank lowered the price on 325 Weber Street and approved funding for an asphalt driveway to make the home more competitive on the real estate market.
Airport Facility Tour and FBO Review
Legislators requested a coordinated tour of the county airport and fixed-base operators (FBOs) to better understand local aviation operations.