On a surprisingly sunny February afternoon, local officials and community members flocked to Roberson Museum to hear Broome County Executive Jason Garnar’s 2026 State of the County Address.
In his address, Garnar brought up recent successes, future investments and areas of improvement for Broome County. An increase in jobs, housing and youth programming took center stage at the address, with public safety and the economy emerging as top priorities as well.
According to Garnar, the success of Broome County comes in part from the willingness of elected officials to cross party lines when identifying which choices will ultimately benefit the area’s residents. Garnar also thanked department heads and the Broome County workforce for working to ensure the county not only functions, but thrives on a daily basis.
“When it comes to Broome County, we tend to check the party labels at the door and get to work,” said Garnar. “We sit at the same table, we hash things out, and at the end of the day we figure out how to move forward together.
“That spirit of cooperation isn’t flashy, and it doesn’t always make headlines – but it’s the reason we’ve been able to get so much done. And truth be told, it’s something pretty special about this community.”
Broome County Executive outlines plan for youth in State of the County
Garnar emphasized the importance of the future in Broome County — particularly, the area’s young people. Broome County’s Youth Bureau will be its own department for the first time in 15 years, providing programs and opportunities for youth throughout the county.
According to Garnar, the county is also preparing to break ground on a new, 200-slot childcare center, which he said will greatly benefit Broome County families. In early February, New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Broome County had been selected as one of three counties for a pilot program that will boost universal childcare.
SUNY Broome Community College’s 15% increase in enrollment in the fall is another indication that youth is being served across Broome County. Garnar also referenced Binghamton University and Broome-Tioga BOCES as critical parts of the county’s success, with a specific emphasis on programs that ensure students can remain in Broome County both during and after their education.
Private investment, economic growth in Broome County
Garnar also reflected on the success of the Oakdale Commons, which has seen a resurgence over the past several years, unlike many malls throughout the United States. Garnar referenced the establishment of a new and highly requested Chick-fil-A at the mall later in 2026 as a telling sign that its growth hasn’t slowed.
Garnar said that throughout the county, massive private investment demonstrates confidence and assurance that Broome County is a place for companies to thrive. Garnar referenced expansions from Guthrie, the Raymond Corporation, BAE Systems and CMP Advanced Mechanical Solutions, all of which will create new jobs and invest millions in the county’s economy.
Overall, Garnar said more than 10,000 jobs have been created over the past five years — a significant increase which begs further questions, including what housing is available for both residents and transplants.
Garnar talks affordable, market-rate housing in 2026 State of the County
According to Garnar, more than 1,500 units of housing are either imminently planned, under construction or have recently been completed around the county. Garnar also referenced the work of the Broome County Land Bank, which addresses vacant and blighted properties, creating opportunities for local families.
Garnar emphasized the rehabilitation and redevelopment of vacant properties as drivers for the county, including a building at 1 North Depot St., the former Kmart Plaza in Endicott, the Brandywine Corridor and 600 Main St. in Johnson City. The latter has been the target of investments, with The Agency securing $11 million in state funding to flood-proof and improve the property’s infrastructure, paving the way for new development.
Garnar also referenced the roadwork throughout the county, including the massive Route 363 Gateway Corridor project, which started earlier in the month. In 2025, Garnar said the county set a fifth consecutive record for road work, with 85 miles improved throughout the county.
Garnar emphasizes parks, recreation in State of the County address
Garnar said that in the spring, the county will open the Crime Victims Memorial at Roundtop Park, a space to honor the lives lost to acts of crime.
Event venues across the county will see major events in the coming years, including the Girls Softball Championships held at Greenlight Grand Slam Park, and the New York State Boys Basketball Championships held at Visions Veterans Memorial Arena through 2027.
Garnar also referenced investments in organizations like The Discovery Center, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Visit Binghamton, and GiGi’s Playhouse. GiGi’s Playhouse, which received increased funding in 2026, will expand opportunities and services for individuals with Down syndrome.
Public safety and health services a core focus of county government
Garnar praised both the sheriff’s office and district attorney’s office, stating that the two are at the forefront of safety and security for Broome residents. Garnar referenced programs like the Strategic Response Group, Youth Diversion Program and STRIVE as examples of the two offices’ impact.
The county’s Advanced Life Support First Response program, which places a paramedic in first response vehicles, allows caregivers to reach patients faster and begin advanced care immediately, leading to shorter wait times in emergency situations.
Garnar also said the county has made strategic investments in prevention, treatment, recovery services, as well as training for those involved with opioid crises including law enforcement and service providers. In 2025, Garnar said suspected fatal overdoses across the county dropped by 43%, while non-fatal overdoses dropped by almost 30%.
Broome County is also continuing to invest in veterans through the opening of the Timothy M. Grippen Veterans Resource Center and the establishment of 10 tiny homes for veterans facing homelessness or housing insecurity.
Garnar announced lower property tax rates for 2026
According to Garnar, the property tax rate cut was made possible through the increase of property values and investments in new housing and business throughout the county.
To wrap up his speech, Garnar thanked the officials present at the address, as well as the Broome County community as a whole for creating an environment of mutual collaboration and growth.
“This is what progress looks like. And none of it happens by accident. It happens because of strong partnerships – between government, community organizations, educators, and residents,” said Garnar. “It happens because of dedicated county employees who show up every day committed to serving others. And it happens because we are willing to think differently, take action, and move forward together.
“Each project, each investment, each success is part of a much larger picture. Much like the artwork around us. Every detail, every contribution comes together to tell a story. And that story is one of resilience, progress, and pride in the place we call home.”
This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Garnar talks county investment, housing, youth in State of Broome address
Reporting by Riccardo Monico, Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin / Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin
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