Child welfare and protective service workers in Cayuga County are carrying heavier caseloads as staffing shortages deepen inside the Department of Social Services, according to county officials.
Seven of the department’s 24 caseworker positions are vacant, Social Services Commissioner Christine Bianco told legislators this week. She said applicants have been scarce while reports involving children and vulnerable adults continue at the same pace.
County leaders worry the shortage is pushing workers toward burnout. Bianco said the department never fully recovered after the 2024 closure of the county office building disrupted operations and training. Officials are now considering outside recruiting help as contract talks with the workers’ union continue.
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