NORWICH — During the recent Chenango County Board of Supervisors meeting, board members discussed the need for a timely public forum regarding the razing, rebuilding and possible refurbishment of the county office building.

After seven years of discussion, in 2024 a committee was formed to review a proposed $35 million construction project and the costs involved.

Leaders cite the building's many modern deficiencies, asbestos in the current ceiling construction, uneven stairs, distances to bathrooms and only one elevator at one end of the building. The best solution is to invest long-term say supporters, and construct a new building or seriously refurbish and possibly rebuild part of the current building.

County officials said they have received many messages regarding the project and said they supported the feedback and the the idea for a public forum.

City of Norwich Supervisor Robert Jeffrey said many have asked him about “When” a public forum will take place. He said their voices should be heard and suggested the board consider holding one sooner, rather than later.

“This is affecting my town, my city,” he said. “ I think it would be good for us to start making a game plan and an action plan to have the forum.”

Jeffrey also urged estimates for the building refurbishment be made easily available for public review.

Additional board members gave support and said the public must feel like they have input and there was an obvious need for an open forum to share information about building renovations.