Johnson City Ready to Tackle Empty Downtown Storefronts

A new effort to improve the appearance of vacant properties in Johnson City is about to get underway.

Village officials are moving to get owners of empty storefronts to clean up their act.

Mayor Martin Meaney said he expects enforcement of a new Johnson City local law requiring basic maintenance of vacant commercial properties to start soon.

Village residents and business owners frequently complain about unsightly downtown storefronts that result in a blighted look.

The recently-approved Johnson City measure will require commercial property owners to register with the village. They'll have to provide appropriate contact information and meet some basic insurance requirements.

Properties covered under the local law must be re-registered every six months.

Meaney said paper coverings will not be permitted to cover the windows of vacant storefronts. The properties must be kept clean and properly maintained.

The mayor said owners will be required to disclose an asking price for properties or what they're seeking to lease their commercial space.

Meaney said he believes the village will be able to begin enforcement of the new guidelines in June.

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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 @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.