Dear eNews Reader,
Donna
1. New Chapter for the E-J Victory Factory
After sitting vacant for over 40 years, the Endicott-Johnson Victory Factory in Johnson City is finally renovated and being re-used as housing. Once the most modern shoe factory in the world and employing 2,000 E-J workers, the building is now home to Victory Lofts, featuring 156 market-rate apartments that are almost completely occupied. I can’t thank Paulus Development enough for this remarkable transformation. For decades this historic building was an eyesore; a symbol of decline. It now stands as a symbol of progress; a symbol of what is possible when we work together to revitalize our community. For more information about the Victory Lofts go to: victorylofts.com
2. Major Upgrades Coming to Historic Downtown Building
Since 1900, the building that currently houses Boscov’s has served as a retail anchor in Downtown Binghamton. In fact, it is one of the few remaining downtown department stores left in the state. Owned by the City of Binghamton, it needs major renovations in order to remain a viable rental space. I was able to secure a $5M Assembly grant to support these much needed upgrades, helping Boscov’s decide to renew its lease for the next decade. The building is part of a National Historic Downtown District and certainly deserves to be protected. One day I hope to see the false brick facade removed to reveal the beautiful building that remains intact underneath (see photo below).
Click here for more information
Photo credit: Bronson Harris | Instagram: @BronsonHarris
3. Financial Relief for Ambulance Service Providers
After learning of the struggles facing our local EMS providers, I have worked hard along side many of my Upstate colleagues to address their concerns. Last month, Governor Hochul signed “Direct-Pay” legislation (A.250/S.1466) for local ambulance providers, requiring insurers to pay them directly for their services instead of sending payment to the patient. This will bring them much-needed financial relief. With the 2024 legislative session upon us, the work continues. Our next step involves changing state law so that EMS services are deemed as “essential” to a community as police and fire.
4. Proposed Gas Extraction Process Prompts Questions
After learning of the newly formed Southern Tier CO2 Clean Energy Solutions and their recent solicitation of leases from landowners in Broome, Tioga and Chemung Counties, Senator Webb and I sent a letter to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. We sent along a series of questions concerning their proposed gas extraction activities. The process involves capturing CO2 and using it to extract natural gas from the shale. Given the region’s past history with hydraulic fracturing, we are anxious to learn more about the company and how their extraction method conforms with state and federal law.
5. George F. Johnson Memorial Library
George F. Johnson Memorial Library’s Tech Center is a hidden gem in our community. They offer free programs to bridge the digital divide in a safe and supportive environment. I’m proud to have secured a $10K Assembly grant so they could purchase new laptops for the center. The equipment upgrades come in time for the launch of their upcoming Tech 360 and Digital Navigator programs.
To learn more about their programming and how you can participate: http://www.gfjlibrary.org/tc/
Utility Relief is Available
We had a successful event at the Broome County Library last month about the many utility relief services available in NYS. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please contact the Public Utility Law Project of New York at 877-669-2572 or info@utilityproject.org, or visit their website at utilityproject.org
Last Chance to Help a Family Receive a Holiday Giving Box
There are less than 2 weeks left to donate toward a Holiday Giving Box! A $60 donation provides a family of 4-6 with the ingredients needed to cook a complete holiday meal. It comes with a turkey, stuffing, corn, cranberry sauce, and sparkling cider, along with locally grown vegetables and dessert from Sinfully Sweet, a local bakery. We’ve reached 60% of our goal to raise enough funds for 275 boxes.
Click here to donate any amount.
