Binghamton/ Johnson City Sewer Agreement Draws Objections

Lawmakers in the City of Binghamton are considering a project labor agreement for a reconstruction project at the Binghamton/Johnson City Joint Sewage Treatment Plant that would guarantee the work would be done by union employees.

The PLA proposal drew vocal opposition from private, non-union contractors during a work session at Binghamton City Hall.

Supporters say the PLA would save about $5.5 million on the cost of the project to repair 2011 flood damage. Opponents say the deal stymies fair competition.

A decision in Binghamton is expected November 4.

The plant has been out of compliance with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation discharge guidelines since the flood but had reached a deal with the DEC to make repairs by April 2017 or be fined $38,000 a day.

Nautilus Consulting in Nassau County has recommended the signing of the PLA that would include a no-strike clause.