An appellate division of the New York state Supreme Court has denied a motion to rehear arguments aimed to prevent the city of Syracuse to remove or alter the Christopher Columbus monument located for several decades in downtown Syracuse.

The same court over the summer had reversed an Onondaga County Supreme Court judge's 2022 ruling, stating there is nothing in the city charter's language that precludes the city from altering or moving the monument.

There has been a years-long movement to remove the statue due to Columbus' controversial past with Native Americans. In October 2020, Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh announced the statue would come down in favor of creating a cultural heritage site where it stood, honoring both Italian Americans and Native Americans. The Columbus Monument Corp. has challenged that decision ever since.

Walsh said in a statement Monday that the court's latest decision is a welcome one.

"The Appellate Division had previously ruled against the Columbus Monument Corporation allowing us to proceed with the established process to create a heritage and education site that celebrates the rich diversity of Syracuse. Rightfully, that decision stands," he said. "My goal has always been to create a public place that is welcoming to all and honors Italian American heritage. We will continue on that path following the steps in state and local law and involving the community along the way. I stand committed to working with all parties in creating this public space and preserving history."

There has not been a response to the decision yet by the Columbus Monument Corp.