Local News: April 30, 2024

Chemung Sheriff's Office Gets Boost for Door Breach Training

The Chemung County Sheriff’s office has a new training tool. WETM reports that the Elmira-based manufacturer the Hilliard Corporation donated a reinforced door to the Sheriff’s Special Services Unit. The door will be used in training deputies in breaching locked, reinforced doors. The technique is used in situations including executing no-knock warrants used to enter well guarded drug houses. A study by the New York Times showed that raids of this sort led to the deaths of at least 81 civilians and 13 law enforcement officers between 2010 and 2016. 

INHS Proposes Project in Varna

Ithaca Neighborhood Housing is eying a large-scale project in the hamlet of Varna. The Ithaca Voice reports that multiple projects have been proposed for the site over the years, none of which have yet been built. The corner of Freese and Dryden roads, known to many as “Mt Varna,” has been vacant for years and a source of dismay for many in the community. The project would construct 53 low- and moderate-income apartments for rent, and six single family homes for sale. The Voice described the Dryden planning board as cautiously optimistic about the proposal. 

Tomkins Seeks Input on Community Health Plan

Tompkins Whole Health is seeking input on its Community Health Improvement Plan. The agency will be circulating community visioning boards at locations throughout the county through mid-May. The boards will provide opportunities to supply input toward Whole Health’s goal of building equitable access to good health for everyone in Tompkins County. They’ll circulate among local libraries and community centers. There will also be a virtual live visioning session Thursday, May 2, from 7-8pm on Zoom.