Local News: July 26, 2023

- Schuyler County Administrator To Leave Position This Week -

The Schuyler County Administrator, Fonda Chronis is resigning effective this Friday. The sudden announcement came from the county attorney’s office on Tuesday. It stated that the legislature and administrator “announce their mutual decision to conclude their working relationship”. No reason was given for the administrator’s departure.

- Public Input Sought For Tompkins County New Strategic Operations Plan -

Tompkins County residents will get to have a say in the further direction of the county during a new strategic planning process. Members of the community can offer ideas about natural resources, sustainability, transportation, public safety, and more through a survey and website set up by the county government. Other opportunities, like community forums, will also be happening. This is the first time Tompkins County has created a strategic plan. The county’s budget is over $220 million and it has about 800 employees. Legislature chair Shawna Black says the public input is a chance for residents to influence how the government operates in the future. The county legislature will adopt the final Plan sometime in 2024.  Here's a link with more information.

- Rabid Beaver Confirmed In Mulholland Preserve -

The public is advised to avoid the First Dam and the Mulholland Wildflower Preserve in Tompkins County. Tompkins Whole Health reported several biting incidents by a beaver over the weekend. The animal was captured and tested positive for rabies. Whole Health is asking anyone who may have been in contact with a beaver in the area to contact them. This includes pets, too. Authorities are conducting an investigation and looking for other beavers that may have rabies.