Help strengthen local news and public information

Published on June 04, 2026

Tompkins County is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on the Tompkins County Public Information Advisory Board (TCPIAB), a citizen advisory board that works to strengthen public access to information, support civic engagement, and promote transparency in local government.

The county legislature will appoint one Tompkins County resident to complete an unexpired term ending December 31, 2027. Upon completion of the term, the appointee may apply for reappointment to a regular three-year term.

TCPIAB advises the Tompkins County Communications Director and the Tompkins County Legislature on effective ways to disseminate information and encourage meaningful public involvement in county government, issues, and activities. The Board is committed to transparency in government and works to improve the flow of public information throughout the community.

TCPIAB typically meets monthly and provides advice and recommendations to county leaders on public communication, community engagement, and local information needs.

TCPIAB also examines ways to support local journalism and strengthen the local information ecosystem. Most recently, the TCPIAB sponsored and received a proclamation adopted by the Tompkins County Legislature declaring April 9, 2026, as Local News Day in Tompkins County. The proclamation recognized the vital role local news organizations play in informing residents, fostering civic engagement, and strengthening democracy. The initiative is part of a national effort to celebrate local journalism and promote the sustainability of community news.

TCPIAB consists of seven voting members with diverse backgrounds and experience in public information, media, and community relations. Current voting members are Linda Holzbaur (Chair), Paul Boyer (Vice Chair), Ron Van Ormer (Secretary), Kate Supron, Carissa Parlato, and Patricia Poist. Ex officio, non-voting members include Dan Wakeman (Tompkins County Legislator Liaison) and Monika Salvage (Tompkins County Communications Director).

Tompkins County residents with an interest in public information, journalism, communications, media literacy, community engagement, or government transparency are encouraged to apply. The county welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

"Strong local news and reliable public information are essential to an informed and engaged community," said Linda Holzbaur, Chair of TCPIAB. "We're looking for residents who care about transparency, civic participation, and ensuring that people have access to the information they need to be involved in local government."

Interested residents must complete and submit an Advisory Board Application by Friday, June 26, 2026. Applications may be obtained from the Clerk of the Legislature's Office, Governor Daniel D. Tompkins Building (Old Courthouse), 121 E. Court Street, Ithaca (Dewitt Park side entrance), or downloaded from the county website.

Completed applications may be dropped off at the Clerk of the Legislature's Office, mailed to the Clerk of the Legislature, emailed to legislature@tompkins-co.org, or faxed to 607-274-5430.

For more information about the Public Information Advisory Board, including meeting schedules and current initiatives, visit the county website.