Local News for Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Tompkins County Hiring Homeless Services Coordinator

In its effort to address homelessness, Tompkins County is hiring a Homeless Services Coordinator. A 2022 study reported that the county has the third highest rate of homelessness in the state. It also pointed to slow progress toward the county’s goal of adding 100 beds of supportive housing. The coordinator will develop policies to combat homelessness, and coordinate the responses to homelessness across a range of County departments. More information on the position is available at the County’s website. 

Ithaca Police Benevolent Association Responds to Tyre Nichols Killing

Ithaca’s Police Benevolent Association issued a statement on the murder of Tyre Nichols, the 29 year old Black man who was beaten to death by five Black officers in Memphis, Tennessee, in January. The Memphis Police Department released video of the beating this past Thursday. The IPB condemned the killing as a “depraved criminal act,” and noted that in its own efforts, “we as a profession have much more work to do.” The statement comes as the Biden administration and police departments across the country urge protestors responding to the tragedy to be peaceful. 

Anna Kelles to Hold Virtual Town Hall on Public Safety

New York State Assembly Member Anna Kelles announced she will hold a virtual public safety town hall for Tompkins and Cortland Counties this Thursday at 6 pm. The event will be a conversation exploring the underlying causes of increased concern about crime in our local communities. The panel will include members from the criminal justice community, community service providers, and faith leaders.