ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) — Demolition at Erie Plaza in the city of Elmira has been paused for the time being. Chemung County is taking action after it says the city attempted to start the demolition process when the property is still owned by the county.
According to public tax records, the property at 826 Erie Street is owned Chemung County, after it was taken from the prior owner in foreclosure in April of 2025.
However, court records filed by Chemung County show the city of Elmira also took court action against the prior owner in late 2025 to take over the property, even though Chemung County already owned it.The court filing alleges the city then made an agreement with a demolition company from Vestal to demolish the buildings, in exchange for the title of the parcel.
RELATED: Erie Plaza in Elmira Undergoing Demolition
The county issued a stop work order, after learning the city planned a press conference in January to discuss the future of Erie Plaza.
County Attorney Hyder Hussain tells WENY News he has filed a motion on behalf of the county to vacate the court order granting the deed to the city, and return the title to Chemung County.
Once the county and the city’s law departments work to clear up what he calls a “title issue”, Hussain says they will be able to figure out how to move forward.