Tompkins County Legislature - June 16, 2026

The Tompkins County Legislature met on June 16, 2026, with key procurement and budget discussions focused on the proposed operating and capital budgets for Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) and the Tompkins County Center of Government project. TC3 presented a balanced operating budget of approximately $34.5 million for 2026-2027, requesting no additional increase from county sponsors but seeking $251,100 in capital funding to leverage state matching funds for deferred maintenance and facility upgrades. The legislature also received an update on the Center of Government project, which was redesigned to reduce size and cost to $50 million by relocating some departments to existing county buildings. The project maintains sustainability goals and is planned for bidding by October 2026. The legislature approved a local law overriding the tax levy limit for 2027, allowing flexibility to exceed the tax cap if necessary, passing narrowly with 10 votes in favor. Additionally, a resolution was passed to adjust the 2026 budget for city-county sales tax distribution based on actual receipts. Other procurement-related topics included a contract amendment for bridge design services and discussions on purchasing policies, including increased use of Amazon and efforts to prioritize local vendors. The meeting concluded with a move to executive session on real property acquisition matters, with no further action taken publicly.