Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tompkins County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in environment
County Investment in Waste Diversion
Judith Hubbard laid out three places the county could invest more in waste diversion: growing the food scrap collection pilot, enforcing recycling rules for businesses and apartment buildings, and building the reuse economy. The question now is how big a priority the legislature wants to make it.
Countywide Skip the Stuff Local Law
A proposed law would stop restaurants from automatically including disposable utensils, straws, napkins and condiment cups with orders, cutting an estimated 174–347 tons of waste and up to $820,000 in business purchasing costs per year. Zero Waste Ithaca has pushed the idea since 2023 and expected a vote, but the committee says enforcement, staffing and jurisdictional questions must be settled first.
Peak Electricity Demand Management Outreach
A new flyer will tell local businesses about NYSEG programs that pay them to cut electricity use during peak demand periods, when the grid runs dirtier and more expensive power. County buildings don't participate yet, but battery storage is being studied for the airport and public works facility.
Tompkins Food Future Food System Finding Funds proposal
A resident urged the county to fund the Tompkins Food Future food system plan through the budget. The proposal seeks county financial support for local food system work.
Recycling and waste reduction budget amendment
Legislator Randy Brown proposed adding $500,000 to the 2027 recycling enterprise fund to support more aggressive waste reduction, funded partly by a $5 annual solid waste fee increase. Former Legislator Martha Robertson spoke strongly in support.
Solar panels on county roofs
A 156-kilowatt solar canopy at the county's Whole Health building is finally moving forward after a lease negotiation with Cornell — expected to cost the county essentially nothing thanks to grants and tax credits, with power flowing by August.