Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tompkins County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
2 issues in public safety with critical priority
Proposed Special Victims Unit in the Sheriff's Office
The sheriff is building a Special Victims Unit for sex offenses and crimes against children, and public commenters showed up to cheer it on — while also urging the DA's office to build a matching survivor-centered prosecution approach.
Independent review of the District Attorney's office
Legislators voted 14-2 to spend up to $200,000 on an independent review of how the DA's Office handles sexual assault cases, prompted by the Jane Doe case. The resolution also demands victim-centered reforms like meeting victims directly and reviewing all evidence before declining charges. The DA told legislators he welcomes the review.