To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- The City of Binghamton continues to explore new options to cut down on crime. An informational meeting was held Wednesday, looking at how the city can improve police presence in the community.

City Council members Bill Berg and Chris Papastrat say they've received calls from constituents about safety in their districts. Due to budget constraints, there is no money to beef up patrols right now. Lawmakers are exploring a number of options to help curb crime, including working more closely with auxiliary police, retired police officers and even citizen patrols.

"Crime is not what we want to bring into the city. We're looking at economic development, bringing in jobs and if the crime rate for the city is that high, we're not going to attract the people we want to," Berg said.

Police Chief Joe Zikuski says he is working with the council on improving police work.
His biggest concern is making sure the options on the table are legally viable.