Binghamton Hearing Set On Health Facility Closures

A state Assembly panel has scheduled a public hearing in Binghamton on plans to close the Broome Developmental Center and end in-patient services at the Greater Binghamton Health Center.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, an Endwell Democrat, says the session is to be held September 13 at 11 a.m. The hearing will be at Binghamton City Hall.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Lupardo said local officials are appealing the plans which were recently announced by state officials.

Lupardo expects testimony from people in the Binghamton and Elmira area who have specific concerns about the reconfiguration of services that's been put forward by Albany officials.

The assemblywoman said there are "lots of questions" regarding people who now are at the Broome Developmental Center in the town of Dickinson.

Many of the issues surround where will the center's residents ultimately be housed if the facility is closed.

Lupardo said she expects a full day of comments. As it currently stands, testimony is expected to be heard only from those who've been invited. Written comments will be accepted from those who are unable to speak at the hearing, which will be open to the public.

The hearing will be conducted by Assembly mental health committee chairwoman Aileen Gunther of Sullivan County.