Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck is warning residents that a newly implemented county hiring freeze will pose serious challenges for public safety services amid an ongoing budget crisis.
In a statement released this week, Schenck said the county legislature’s decision on May 27 to freeze hiring will affect every department, including the sheriff’s office, which is already stretched thin. The fiscal strain comes in the wake of unexpected expenses related to the closure of the county office building more than a year ago.
“Providing the critical public safety services that we are responsible for will undoubtedly become even more challenging moving forward from a budgetary standpoint,” Schenck said. “We at the sheriff’s office will continue to do our part to address the fiscal crisis, while at the same time, seeking to find the most fiscally responsible ways to fulfill our mission of securing and maintaining a safe community.”
The original resolution included an exemption for custody deputies in the county jail—positions mandated by the New York State Commission of Correction. However, Schenck thanked Legislator Mark Strong for successfully pushing to amend the resolution to include road patrol deputies, who are not state-mandated but are essential for covering the county’s nearly 700 square miles of land, lakes, and waterways.
“While not mandated by the state to fill, these positions are just as critical,” Schenck said. “Providing public safety is a top priority for governments at all levels. Cayuga County is no exception.”
The sheriff acknowledged that every department in county government is facing similar struggles to maintain services with fewer resources. He praised county employees for their dedication and ability to “do more with less.”
As budget planning for 2026 approaches, Schenck called for clear priorities and fiscal responsibility in service delivery. He emphasized the need for open communication and collaboration among county representatives, government employees, and the community to find sustainable solutions.
“I welcome your feedback and thoughts about service priorities and our future fiscal planning,” he added, encouraging the public to contact him directly via email, mail, or phone.
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