The Cayuga County Legislature’s Public Safety and Public Works Committees met this week, addressing staffing needs, grant funding, public safety initiatives, and infrastructure concerns.
Legislators approved several resolutions related to emergency services and law enforcement, including the hiring of personnel and the acceptance of grant funds.
The 911 Center secured nearly $1 million in state grants for maintaining communication systems and staffing costs. A hiring shortage remained a concern, with officials reporting low turnout for a recent dispatcher exam.
The coroner’s office sought to fill a part-time typist position due to a retirement. However, legislators expressed frustration over Coroner Dr. Duckett’s absence from meetings. Some members called for increased participation, citing past discussions where his input was valuable.
Cayuga County District Attorney Brittany Grome Antonacci presented data highlighting delays in felony case trials and a statewide increase in dismissals due to procedural issues. She voiced support for proposed changes to the state’s discovery laws, which she believes could improve case processing efficiency.
The District Attorney’s Office also announced plans to modify its traffic enforcement program. The office aims to implement a traffic diversion program that would allow offenders to pay a fee and complete a course to dismiss their violations. Antonacci stated the initiative could generate up to $100,000 in additional revenue for the county.
Additionally, Cayuga County was selected for the state’s new STRIVE program, an initiative focused on reducing domestic violence. The county could receive up to $600,000 in funding for a prosecutor dedicated to handling intimate partner violence cases.
The Emergency Management Office received nearly $100,000 in flood mitigation equipment from the state. The new tools include portable pumps, signage, and sandbagging equipment, which officials said would improve the county’s response to severe weather.
Sheriff Brian Schenck addressed changes to jail funding, noting a federal ruling that prohibits jails from collecting commissions on inmate phone calls. The decision could impact funding for services within the facility, though reserves will cover costs for 2025.
Legislators also approved the purchase of new patrol vehicles and funding for a credentialed substance abuse counselor to work in the county jail.
The Public Works Committee discussed road maintenance and the ongoing challenge of securing road salt amid supply delays. Highway Superintendent Brian Soper warned that the county may need to ration salt usage due to slow deliveries. He noted that while the county remains within its contract for supply, the budget is already strained.
Discussions also touched on infrastructure concerns, including a boiler leak at the county’s historic post office building. Officials are seeking repair quotes, though supply chain issues could delay replacements for months.
The committee meetings concluded with discussions on upcoming appointments to county advisory boards and the future of several resolutions, including a proposal to create a separate bargaining unit for certain sheriff’s office personnel. The resolution was tabled for further review next month.
Legislators adjourned with plans to revisit these issues in future sessions, focusing on improving county services, public safety, and financial management.
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