Bob Joseph/WNBF News
Bob Joseph/WNBF News
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Several members of Laborers Local 785 demonstrated in downtown Binghamton today protesting the city's use of a New Jersey company for repair work at the three parking garages.

Maarv Waterproofing of Clifton is to be paid about $1.4 million for restoration work at the three structures.

Chris Bushnell, a union field representative, said he believes taxpayer money should not go to an out-of-state company that is employing no local workers.

Bushnell said about 200 of the local's 650 active members are out of work.

Union members carried signs and walked in front of City Hall and next to the Collier Street parking garage this morning. The demonstration occurred as crews worked to repair damaged concrete on the upper levels of the structure.

The union used a fifteen-foot tall inflatable rat as an attention-getting device on the Hawley Street side of City Hall. A smaller inflatable rodent had been erected Wednesday on the lawn of the Broome County courthouse but security personnel ordered its removal.

City officials say Maarv Waterproofing submitted the lowest bid for the emergency repair work that is planned to keep the downtown parking garages in service.

Bushnell said he and the union's business manager would like to meet with the mayor to discuss their concerns. He recalled David had sought the support of Binghamton union members when he was running for mayor.

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