Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tompkins County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in business jobs with medium priority
Downtown Revitalization Initiative
The county wants a slice of the city's $10 million DRI award for Government Center campus improvements, tree planting, and library exterior work. It's a long reimbursement-based process, and members noted the county competing for funds others might need.
2026 Tourism Capital Grants
The county is putting $250,000 of hotel room tax money into long-term tourism improvements — trail work, theater upgrades, accessibility projects — but demand was more than triple the money available. The program skipped a year in 2025, creating pent-up demand.
Southern Tier 8 Regional Board Update
ST8 wants about 20% more in county dues (roughly $2,000 for Tompkins) to meet federal match requirements, citing a $14 return per dollar and $9.9 million brought in over five years. The line item sits in the Planning Department's budget ahead of budget season.
Tourism program and occupancy tax funding
Room tax collections are running ahead of 2025 at $4.57 million, and three grant programs — community celebrations, tourism advancement, and Tompkins Outdoors — are open through February 26.
Supported Employment for Adults with Serious Mental Illness
Unallocated state aid will fund the ACE program, offering vocational rehabilitation and supported employment for adults with psychiatric disabilities; an RFP for community providers is coming, and the program may also help people meet Medicaid work requirements.
Assisted Competitive Employment funding shift
Unallocated state aid would be moved into the ACE program, which helps people with disabilities and other barriers find and keep competitive jobs.