Tompkins County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tompkins County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Kratom Regulation
No county update was ready on kratom, a substance tied to injuries; the county attorney promised a written report before the next meeting and will track pending state legislation.
Sheriff's Office staffing and recruitment
For possibly the first time ever, road patrol and corrections are fully staffed at the same time after successful open interviews; the sheriff also highlighted hiring his third deputy of color on road patrol.
Rodent Control and Integrated Pest Management
A resident raised pest control problems in the City of Ithaca during public comment, seeking county-level attention to the issue.
Social Media Policy for County Departments
Updated rules govern how county departments run social media pages, including when comments can be removed. The county attorney steered the language away from First Amendment landmines, and legislators flagged the need for a broader policy on which platforms the county uses.
Recycling Facility Safety Vests
Starting August 1, everyone using the recycling facility's tip floors must wear a high-visibility vest — industry standard after close calls and fatalities elsewhere. The operator will hand out free vests through year-end, with a loaner program after that.
Security officer transition from DSS to DOER
County security officers are moving from Social Services to Emergency Response; the transition takes effect next week.
Schuyler County conflict defender agreement renewal
Tompkins County will keep serving as Schuyler County's conflict defender for five more years, with Schuyler paying all costs — about $622,512 total through 2030. It also broadens the local attorney panel.