As plans move forward to build the proposed downtown hospital, one Utica official is speaking out against the process.

Common Council President Michael Galime says he's been bringing his concerns to the common council for years, but feels they've never been considered. After speaking with the hospital's attorneys, Galime says he was shocked to learn that some of the property owners in the hospital's footprint have yet to receive a purchase offer, and some businesses won't be receiving an offer at all.

The hospital's attorneys say another batch of offers are on the way, and for businesses who won't be getting an offer, it's due to the fact that they refused an appraisal.

Galime believes business owners have been left in the dark for most of this process.

"Our community leaders have been pushing people's concerns under the rug. It's unfortunately ... shouldn't have been done, it's how they proceeded and right now that can't be undone," Galime said. "So if we're going to move forward, somebody needs to actually change how things are operating."

"My goal and objective at this point is to simply continue to talk to and work with and negotiate with these property owners and try and address their concerns, and I know that's my client's goal and objective as well," said Kathleen Bennett, an attorney with Bond, Schoeneck and King, the law firm representing the hospital.

The Mohawk Valley Health System will make an announcement Tuesday which they say should address many of Galime's concerns. It is expected to include a new plan to provide assistance to property owners within the hospital's footprint.