NORWICH — A proposition to sell a park owned by the Norwich City School District to Opportunities for Broome and Chenango, so they could be developed 20 unit apartment building for low income housing, was soundly defeated by voters on Tuesday.

Norwich City School District budget voting, Proposal #2 for the sale of surplus property at Flanagan Field, for $150,000, was voted down, meaning the park will remain an open ball field. According to the district, 646 voted against it and 285 voted for it.

The vote stopped the project from moving forward and interrupted a $9 million plan with financial aid from the NYS Homes and Community Renewal Opportunities, specifically tied to the Flanagan Field property.

Norwich resident Paul Eaton lives near the proposed development and organized an effort to reject the housing project.

“The residents of Norwich have won!” he shouted following the result.

He said it was an ill-fated plan from the get-go and gave thanks to the residents who showed up in record numbers.

“The best little city in New York proved once again, we have eyes wide open heading into the future with a nod and understanding of the past,” said Eaton.

In contrast to the proposition, the school's budget passed with sound support.

Norwich City School District Superintendent Scott Ryan said nearly 70% of the voters supported the school budget at a time when New York State has not yet finalized its own budget.

“To me, that level of community support and confidence in the direction of the district should absolutely be celebrated,” said Ryan.

“With respect to Proposition 2 involving Flanagan Field, this is exactly how the process is intended to work. The district’s role was to ensure compliance with all required legal and procedural steps to bring the proposition before the voters,” he said.

Ryan said the “No” vote reflects community opinion that there is not sufficient support at this time for the sale of the property for the purpose of a housing development.

“I am pleased that the community came out in record numbers to engage in the process, as designed by New York State. Community participation is an important part of these decisions,” Ryan continued. “At this point, the property remains under district ownership.”

He noted Opportunities for Broome and Chenango does not acquire the property unless voter authorization for the sale is granted and since the proposition did not pass, the sale cannot move forward.

Ryan explained the district will likely pursue another round of Requests for Proposals in the near future, and he said it sounds like there may be additional interest in the property and potential future uses.

“To be clear, the district is legally required to seek market value for surplus property. Otherwise, there would understandably be significant interest in simply donating unused property for worthwhile and supported causes,” said Ryan. “Our obligation is to balance community interest with our fiduciary responsibilities to taxpayers.”

  In a statement from Opportunities for Broome and Chenango Inc., CEO Mark Silvanic said “Greater Opportunities is disappointed by the outcome of the vote regarding the proposed Flanagan Field project. While we respect the decision of the Norwich community, we recognize that this is a missed opportunity to bring much-needed, high-quality affordable housing to the area.

“At this time, we are actively working with our funding partners to determine whether any portion of the awarded grant funding can be preserved and potentially reallocated to another site within the community. We remain committed to exploring all possible options that will allow us to continue addressing local housing needs.

“The need for safe, affordable, and supportive housing in Chenango County has not changed. Access to stable housing is critical to the health, well-being, and long-term success of individuals and families, and it remains a priority for our organization. 

“We are grateful for the partnerships we have built with the City of Norwich and look forward to continuing to work collaboratively on future opportunities that will support the community’s growth and stability. Greater Opportunities remains committed to advocating for solutions that benefit all residents.”