City Hall: "Landmark" Binghamton Building Can't Be Torn Down

A Binghamton official says the owner of the iconic First National Bank building on Court Street won't be able to have the structure demolished.

Isaac Anzaroot on Tuesday told WNBF News he was considering tearing the building down after all tenants were ordered out following an inspection by the fire marshal.

But Jared Kraham, executive assistant to Mayor Richard David, responded to Anzaroot's comments by issuing a statement saying: "It can't happen."

Kraham by email said: "There is no mechanism for demolition of a local landmark." He wrote: "Despite Mr. Anzaroot's statements, no demolition permit could be issued for the building."

The First National Bank building has stood at the corner of Court and Chenango streets for more than nine decades. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Anzaroot acquired the property four years ago for $775,000. He oversaw renovations that included new doors and windows for street-level retail spaces.

In May, the city ordered the building vacated within 72 hours due to safety issues, including a fire alarm system that was not connected to a monitoring station.

A view from the roof of the First National Bank building looking northwest over Chenango Street. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Anzaroot said the system has been repaired but the city still won't allow the building to be occupied.

Kraham said the National Bank building is "within the Court St. historic district, meaning in essence it’s a landmark property as a contributing building to the district."

A Closer Look at the Binghamton First National Bank Building

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 772-8400 extension 233.

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

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