A local mayoral candidate is pushing his platform to revitalize downtown Johnson City just as the city of Binghamton has done in past years. Democratic candidate Barrett Esworthy said Tuesday in order to accomplish his goals, he’ll create a property tax-free zone running from Arch Street to Avenue C. Esworthy says to help businesses see more customers he would also like to end all metered parking in the village. Esworthy said he wants to tear down the remaining empty Endicott-Johnson shoe factories to make space available for future development. He admitted it will be tough to find funding, but he would make it a priority if elected. Johnson City Mayor Greg Deemie said he’ll issue a statement on Esworthy’s plans later this week.
