Published on June 10, 2025
The Legislature approved up to $50 million in funding for the development of the Center of Government (COG). The funding is expected to be a combination of cash, debt, and potential grant sources and encompasses the full scope of the project, including the deconstruction of existing facilities, planning and design, construction of the new COG building, furniture, IT infrastructure, renovation of the Old Jail and a portion of the Old Courthouse. This member-filed resolution was introduced by Legislator Anne Koreman (D-Ulysses, Enfield, Ithaca) and was approved after a robust discussion in a 9-4 vote. Legislators Mike Sigler (R-Lansing), Lee Shurtleff (R-Groton, Dryden, Lansing), Randy Brown (R-Newfield, Enfield), and Travis Brooks (D-Ithaca) were opposed.
Downtown Facilities Committee Chair Randy Brown reported the relocation of County Administration and Human Resources to the County’s Whole Health building on Green Street, which will allow Information Technology Services to temporarily relocate to the County’s Old Jail building at 125 E. Court Street.
In support of moving ahead, Legislator Rich John (D-Ithaca) noted, “We have been very deliberate. We have had an ongoing discussion to consolidate departments for years. I feel very confident moving forward with this in a financially responsible way.” Other legislators echoed that sentiment.
Legislator Shurtleff expressed concerns about other project costs on the horizon. “I can’t support nailing down this number without the implication on future tax rates. It’s not that I don’t want to see that project move forward.”
Legislator Koreman stated, “We owe it to our employees. When we get plans, we can get estimates, and we get closer to knowing the cost. We need to get there.”
County Administrator Akumfi reported that five town-hall-style community engagement sessions are planned throughout June: Groton Town Hall 6/11, Enfield Community Center 6/12, Dryden Village Hall 6/16, Caroline Town Hall 6/23, and Legislature Chambers in Ithaca 6/24. All are scheduled for 6-7:30 pm. The project web page tcgov.co/cog is live and will be continuously updated as the initiative progresses. It also lists the town hall meeting dates and a link to the community feedback survey at tcgov.co/cogsurvey.
The Legislature approved engaging the Center of Government Research to analyze the County’s EMS services, current gaps, proposed expansion of the countywide Rapid Medical Response presented by the Department of Emergency Response, benefits to residents and other EMS providers, potential funding sources, and what impacts the scenarios would have on existing EMS providers. The member-filed resolution introduced by Legislator John passed unanimously.
If a County government decides to adopt a County budget with a property tax levy that exceeds the level set by the State, the County government must pass a local law to override that cap, and it needs a 60% vote to pass. Adopting said local law is not predictive of the final tax levy, but provides the Legislature flexibility to exceed the property tax cap if it is deemed necessary. The Legislature has passed such a law every year but has used it only once in the past. The resolution was adopted in a 10-3 vote. Legislators Mezey, Shurtleff, and Sigler were opposed.
Legislator Sigler commented that “There is a reason the tax cap is in place.”
Legislator Black supported this resolution that shows “commitment to our citizens to provide great services,” pointing out that “Maintenance of effort would likely be more than the tax cap.”
Legislator Dawson reminded legislators that “This is not a usual year, as millions of dollars we depend on might be cut – housing security, food security, health insurance.”
County Finance Director Lorrie Scarrott reported that sales tax for April was up +2.33% over last year. 13 properties will be available for online auction; bidding starts on June 12. Scarrott announced that outstanding energy tax credit payments of $1.8 million were received relative to the Green Facilities initiative. As this was her last meeting, legislators thanked Scarrott for her years of leadership and wished her well in her retirement. The search for a replacement is underway. Andrew Braman was appointed Interim Finance Director as of June 6.
During public comment, representatives of Tompkins County Food Policy Council, United Way, and Loaves and Fishes spoke on the impact of federal funding cuts and in support of investment in local food systems, farms, and food pantries.
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