April 28th, 2022 Daily Headlines

The Tompkins County Health Department has issued a mask advisory for county residents. The Health Department is advising all residents to wear masks regardless of vaccination status when in indoor public spaces. Yesterday, the county reported a total of 14 hospitalizations and a continued increase in the number of new COVID cases. The county will also require all county employees and patrons to wear masks in County buildings. 

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Yesterday, the New York State Assembly approved a crypto mining moratorium. The bill was sponsored by Assemblywoman Anna Kelles, who Represents Tompkins and part of Cortland Counties. The bill would create a two-year moratorium on new and renewed permits for proof-of-work crypto mining. The bill must now be passed by the State Senate before heading to Governor Hochul’s desk. The bill was applauded by environmentalists including Seneca Lake Guardian, a group which has rallied against the Greenidge Generation Crypto Mining facility in Dresden, New York. Proof-of-Work crypto mining has a substantial environmental impact due to its immense energy usage.

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The average home price in Tompkins County increased by over 11 percent in March. According to the Ithaca Journal, an analysis by Realtor.com found that the typical Tompkins County home was listed at $394,500. The report also found an increased demand with home listings spending a median of 15 days on the market. 

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Yesterday, the New York State Court of Appeals threw out the State’s new Congressional and State Senate maps saying they were drawn with “unconstitutional partisan intent.” According to Politico, the court decision may also lead to a delay of the state’s primary election currently scheduled for June 28th. The maps were thrown out in a 4-3 decision by the court which is made up entirely of Democratic appointees.