Highlights of the 12/17/24 Meeting of the Tompkins County Legislature
Published on December 31, 2024
Resolution re: acquisition of land, Town of Ithaca Sage Preserve
Amanda Champion (D-Ithaca) brought forward a resolution for reconsideration to appropriate funds from the Tompkins County Natural Infrastructure Capital Program for the acquisition of land at the Town of Ithaca Sage Preserve (total purchase price of $676,000). Town of Ithaca Supervisor Rod Howe shared that the Town will be putting money forward – they have received $50,000 from Park Foundation and have submitted a CFA application; currently committing $50,000 while awaiting award of additional funds. Mike Sigler (R-Lansing) raised the question about using the land for developing housing. Howe responded that there is a need to balance recreational space with development at the anticipated SouthWorks project, with a vision of using the space to the benefit of all. Susan Currie (D-Ithaca), who represents the South Hill area, further supported the use of this green space for recreation. The motion carried 11-2, with Mike Sigler (R-Lansing) and Lee Shurtleff (R-Groton) opposing.
Addressing the homeless crisis in Tompkins County
Public comment was heard from multiple residents bringing forward concerns about the housing and homelessness crisis in Tompkins County. Travis Brooks (D-Ithaca) thanked members of the community for sharing their stories and encouraged additional advocacy efforts. Deborah Dawson (D-Lansing) voiced the need for the Legislature to take additional measures while Rich John (D-Ithaca) added that “there’s more work to do.”
Mike Sigler (R-Lansing) made a motion to use $10,000 from 2024 contingent funds to develop a “bus pass and shower access program” to support unhoused individuals accessing essential services, initially to be funded via Code Blue, and back-filled from contingency as needed. The motion was seconded by Susan Currie (D-Ithaca). County Administrator Lisa Holmes and Department of Social Services Commissioner Kit Kephart responded that they would first explore existing funds that could be used for this purpose, including provisions in the Code Blue Emergency funding, and use contingency funds if necessary. The motion carried unanimously.
Center of Government consultant selected
A resolution authorizing a contract with HOLT Architects for the planning, design and development of the County’s Center of Government project was passed 12-1, opposed by Lee Shurtleff (R-Groton). Randy Brown (R-Newfield), Chair of Downtown Facilities Special Committee described the lengthy process undertaken by Legislators and staff to evaluate architectural and engineering firms for this project, culminating in HOLT as the unanimous choice.
Concerns expressed over NYSDOH Early Intervention billing hub
Shawna Black (D-Ithaca), Chair of the Health & Human Services Committee, presented a resolution expressing concerns regarding the rollout of the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) Early Intervention billing hub, stating that the system has many technical issues that have resulted in significant delay of payment to Early Intervention service providers. Early Intervention service providers are hired locally within the Children with Special Care Needs division at Tompkins County Whole Health and are contracted through NYSDOH. The resolution expresses deep concern over the negative impact on service providers and the families they serve and calls upon NYSDOH to quickly resolve these issues and prioritize the care of children in early intervention services. The resolution was unanimously approved.
Among other business
Deputy Administrator Bridgette Nugent presented an update on progress toward the goals of the County’s Strategic Operations Plan, which was adopted in summer 2024. The Strategic Operations Plan is a five-year plan with specific timeframes for action under each priority area.
The resignation of Dr. Kenneth Clarke, Director of the Office of Human Rights was announced, with appreciation expressed for his 7 years of service to Tompkins County.
Shawna Black (D-Ithaca) read a proclamation honoring the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) on its 100-year anniversary and proclaiming 2025 as the “Centennial Year of the NYS Association of Counties.”
New York Coalition for Open Government added Tompkins County to its “2024 Nice List” for its efforts in proactively having departments publish data online, as well as its commitment to open access of meetings and public comment.
Mike Lane (D-Dryden), Chair of the Budget, Capital, and Personnel Committee, presented an annual resolution to approve the creation of over 80 positions, 64 of which are designated for shelter services, with 30% of these roles being part-time or on-call positions.
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