Tompkins County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tompkins County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Countywide Minimum Wage Study
The minimum wage study the committee championed is done and public online, but action on its findings has moved to the Legislature's Housing and Economic Development Committee, which plans a working group. WDIC members agreed their work on this item is complete.
2027 County Budget and 2027-2031 Capital Program
The county set an October 27 public hearing on the 2027 budget and capital program, with adoption required by December 10. The expanded budget committee is still hearing from departments before amendment votes.
New Recycling Regulations Effective July 1
New recycling guidelines take effect July 1 — paper cups are now accepted in the curbside stream. Updated local recycling laws are under attorney review with adoption targeted for December, plus stronger enforcement coming in 2027.
Code Blue shelter activation
The Cherry Street shelter opens November 15; before that, anyone seeking shelter when temperatures drop below freezing with wind chill will be housed in hotels, and legislators asked for better public communication.