Binghamton Blight: What’s Next for the Anzaroot Properties

Dozens of buildings and lots once owned by Brooklyn developer Isaac Anzaroot now have been turned over to the city of Binghamton.

While the city now owns many of the properties, some of them have new owners, including banks and other out-of-town firms.

Sharestates, a Long Island real estate investment firm, took ownership of the vacant Masonic Temple building at Main and Murray streets over a year ago.

Despite efforts to secure the property, vandalism and arson continue to be a concern.

Mayor Jared Kraham said the city is being "aggressive with the property manager" when issues occur with the building.

Someone recently spraypainted a message on the front structure that reads "Let It Rot."

Although it has been unused for decades, Kraham indicated there are no plans to tear it down. He told WNBF News the current owners have shown no desire to have the building demolished.

The mayor said efforts to redevelop buildings like the Masonic Temple can take years because they require "the right type of person that has a vision for the property."

Kraham believes the building remains a "historic asset." He the city is not considering taking over the property and demolishing the structure.

The mayor said if a situation develops in the future where the taxes on the site aren't being paid and it goes into foreclosure, the city would have to consider various options for the site.

Meanwhile, the city is reviewing the 26 properties it now owns as the result of a settlement with Anzaroot that bans him from the real estate business in Binghamton for 15 years.

Two Henry Street buildings that were part of the legal deal were destroyed by fire early this year before the court settlement was finalized.

Anzaroot could not be reached to comment on his former Binghamton properties.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.