Legislature gives final OK to allow towns of Chemung and Erin to form single Justice Court

Albany, N.Y., June 20—The New York State Legislature has given final approval to legislation sponsored by Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats), Assemblyman Chris Friend (R,C,I-Big Flats) and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) to authorize the town boards of the towns of Erin and Chemung in Chemung County to establish a single town court.

The legislation (S7328/A10130) was approved by the Senate on June 9th, and by the Assembly last Wednesday.  It now goes to Governor Andrew Cuomo to be signed into law.

“The towns of Erin and Chemung have requested this authorization to consolidate their respective town courts into a single court with the recognition that it would be cost effective for local taxpayers.  It would cut costs, eliminate waste and improve efficiency, which are all critical goals for local governments across the state.  We’re happy to help facilitate this local consolidation at the request of the towns,” said O’Mara.

O’Mara said that the legislation was necessary since current state law does not allow consolidations like this one unless the towns form a contiguous geographic area.  A small portion of the town of the Baldwin separates the towns of Chemung and Erin.