March 15th, 2022 Daily Headlines

The Tompkins County Legislature has been granted over $120,000 for distribution to local food and shelter programs. According to the Ithaca Voice, the funds were granted by the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA. The county is asking local organizations to apply for funds by April 8th. Most of the funds were allotted through the American Rescue Plan passed last year.

——-

Village elections are scheduled for today in the villages of Dryden, Cayuga Heights, Groton, and Trumansburg. However, Dryden is the only village with a contested election, where three candidates are vying for two seats on the Village Board of Trustees. According to the Ithaca Times, incumbent Democrats Debbie Fischer and Dan Wakeman are seeking their third and second terms respectively. They’re being challenged by Republican David Bravo-Cullen. The two candidates who receive the most votes will take seats on the board, meaning at least one Democrat will be re-elected. The board currently has a 5-0 Democratic majority.

——-

State Lawmakers are considering legislation that could bring “advanced recycling” to Central New York. According to WSYR,  the bill would create “advanced recycling centers,” which allow 100 percent of used plastics to be recycled. This would make New York the 15th state to introduce advanced recycling. The bill was introduced by State Senator John Mannion who represents parts of Onondaga and Cayuga counties.   

——-
A bi-partisan measure has been introduced in the state legislature to make Daylight Savings time permanent. According to Spectrum News, the measure is backed by Republican state senator Joe Girffo and Democratic Assemblymember Angelo Santababara. Proponents argue that the bi-annual process of turning clocks backwards and forwards has a negative effect on “productivity, concentration, and general well-being.” Only two states, Hawaii and Arizona, have made daylight savings time permanent along with some U.S. territories.