Official Concerned Fire Tragedy Could Happen in Town of Dickinson

The town of Dickinson supervisor is speaking out about potential safety issues at a motel Broome County uses to house homeless individuals and families.

Michael Marinaccio said he felt compelled to discuss his ongoing concerns about the Hillside Inn & Suites on Old Front Street.

The town supervisor called into a WNBF Radio talk program on Tuesday, the day after six people died as the result of a fast-moving fire at the Knights Inn in Endwell.

A section of the Hillside Inn & Suites motel in the town of Dickinson on June 23, 3036. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Marinaccio said he believes a "similar situation" exists at the Hillside Inn, which also is used by Broome County to provide housing for those in need. He said "I'm afraid that it could happen here."

The supervisor noted more people are staying at the Hillside Inn than were at the Knights Inn at the time of Monday's deadly fire. He's concerned about putting so many unhoused people is creating "a very unsafe environment, a very unhealthy environment."

Marinaccio said the town's code enforcement inspector frequently finds violations at the Hillside Inn.

A stroller and children's toys were in the parking lot of the Hillside Inn & Suites motel on June 23, 2026. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

He said he has expressed his concerns about the issues at the motel to county officials but the problems persist.

Marinaccio said Broome County sheriff's deputies have responded to hundreds of calls at the location in recent years.

The manager of the Hillside Inn & Suites Tuesday told a reporter he was unable to comment about the supervisor's remarks but he said he is concerned for the safety of those who stay at the motel.

Four weeks ago, County Executive Jason Garnar announced an initiative to end "motel shelter housing." He said the goal will be to develop short-term and long-term ways to assist those who are homeless.

LISTEN: Town of Dickinson supervisor Michael Marinaccio was interviewed on WNBF Radio on June 23, 2026.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @bobjoseph.bsky.social on Bluesky or @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.