Concerns over recent ICE activity took center stage during the Ontario County Board of Supervisors meeting on September 11, where multiple residents called on local leaders to clarify the Sheriff’s position on immigration enforcement.
The packed meeting also included several public hearings, the adoption of new public safety and workplace policies, budget adjustments, and over 40 resolutions across all county committees.
Residents urge stance on ICE cooperation
More than half a dozen speakers addressed the Board during public comment, calling for a clear statement from the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office on its stance regarding cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Speakers referenced recent ICE raids in upstate New York — including one in Cato, where 57 people were detained — and voiced fears that legal immigrants and even citizens are being targeted without due process.
Many called for county leaders to pass resolutions or policies limiting law enforcement’s involvement in federal immigration enforcement unless a judicial warrant is issued. Residents cited state laws, past ICE activity in neighboring counties, and the constitutional right to due process.
One speaker, Connie Mussaw of Gorham, asked, “Will our sheriff’s deputies go to the aid of ICE — or to the aid of our residents?” Others echoed the request, urging the Board to affirm the county’s commitment to constitutional protections and racial equity.
Public hearings span hunting, housing, and abandoned vehicles
Four public hearings were held during the meeting:
- Youth hunting law: A speaker urged the Board to renew a local law allowing licensed 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt deer with firearms or crossbows under adult supervision, citing strong safety records for that age group.
- Sheriff’s salary increase: No comments were made during the hearing on a proposed salary raise for the Ontario County Sheriff in 2026.
- Abandoned vehicles: A local law updating how abandoned vehicles are handled also saw no public comment.
- Housing repairs and CDBG funding: Planning Director Tom Harvey and Geneva Housing Authority CEO Bob Doeblin described a grant application to rehabilitate older housing units in Geneva. The funding would come through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.
Proclamations and recognitions
The Board unanimously approved a proclamation naming September 17–23 as Constitution Week, encouraged by the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The resolution honors the anniversary of the U.S. Constitution’s signing.
Dr. Alexandra Adams was recognized for her service to the county’s tuberculosis program, praised for her expertise, compassion, and dedication to public health.
New policies address drugs, workplace violence
Two countywide policies were adopted:
- A Drug, Alcohol, and Substance Use Policy aiming to address recent changes in New York State law and maintain high safety standards.
- A Workplace Violence Prevention Policy that updates the county’s plan to comply with state labor law and ensure employee safety.
Both policies apply to all county employees and take effect immediately.
Key resolutions and contract approvals
The Board approved dozens of additional items, including:
- Reappointment of Dennine Leeson as Director of Real Property Tax Services, despite one dissenting vote over residency concerns.
- New therapy service contracts for children and adult crime victims, funded through state victim assistance grants.
- A contract with Crawford and Associates to continue updating the county’s emergency management plan.
- Designation of Finger Lakes Visitors Connection as the county’s official tourism agency for 2026.
- A $17,600 contract with Barton & Loguidice to refine plans for improvements to Deep Run Park.
- Approval of property acquisitions in Richmond to support future upgrades to the Honeoye Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant.
- $77,000 purchase of a new hydroseeder for the Highway Department, using water quality grant funds.
- Award of bids for flooring, pest control, and mechanical services at county buildings.
- The sale of dozens of tax-delinquent properties to the highest bidders through online auction.
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