Highlights of the 4/7/26 and 4/14/26 Legislature meetings
Published on April 15, 2026
Watch the meeting recording
Topics included:
- Fair Housing Proclamation
- Local News Day Proclamation
- Flock Safety contract termination
April 2026 declared Fair Housing Month
The legislature declared April 2026 Fair Housing Month and is committed to fair housing, and to promoting appropriate activities by private and public entities to provide and advocate for equal housing opportunities for all residents and prospective residents of Tompkins County.
April 9, 2026 proclaimed Local News Day
The legislature proclaimed April 9, 2026 Local News Day, supporting a national day of action that connects communities with trusted local news sources, supports the growth of local newsrooms, promotes long-term sustainability of local journalism, and builds public awareness of local news resources in the United States.
Flock Safety contract to be terminated
The Legislature approved a motion directing the County Administrator and County Attorney to draft a resolution to terminate the County’s contract with Flock Safety at the earliest feasible time while preserving grant funding obligations. Discussion reflected a consensus to end the contract, driven by community concerns, lack of confidence in the vendor, and recognition that there were not enough votes to continue it, while also emphasizing the need for a legally sound and coordinated approach due to funding and timing constraints. Supporters of the action to terminate the agreement argued the company is untrustworthy and inconsistent with County values, while some legislators raised concerns that the cameras have contributed to safety in high-crime areas and cautioned against losing a tool valued by certain communities without clear alternatives. Overall, legislators signaled their intent to move away from Flock while balancing legal, financial, and public safety considerations. Legislators Sigler (R-Lansing), Shurtleff (R-Groton, Dryden), and Brown (R-Newfield, Enfield) were opposed.
In its April 14 special meeting, following extensive public comment and input, research, and deliberation over the past several months, the legislature approved a resolution to terminate the county’s contract with Flock Group, Inc. before its auto-renewal on May 28th. The Tompkins County Sheriff, in coordination with other county partners and the Chief of the Ithaca Police Department, has submitted a GIVE application for the next grant cycle that does not involve Flock. The resolution passed 12-1 with Legislator Brown (R-Newfield, Enfield) opposed.
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