Latest News
March 1, 2026
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Early Week Cold Snap Expected Before Warmer Temperatures Arrive in Ithaca Area: The Ithaca area will experience a brief cold snap at the start of meteorological spring before temperatures rise to the 60s by the weekend. According to climate data, similar warmth has not been recorded since last October. Precipitation during the week should mainly fall as rain, with temperatures expected to stay above freezing. No significant weather-related disruptions are anticipated in Tompkins County over the coming days. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Mar 1)
February 21, 2026
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Dryden Implements Comprehensive Ban on Data Centers and Cryptocurrency Mines: The Town of Dryden has enacted a full prohibition on data centers and cryptocurrency mines, becoming the first in New York State to take such action. Officials finalized a zoning update that bans these facilities due to concerns about their substantial energy use, water consumption, and operational noise. The decision follows an 18-month moratorium and vigorous debate, especially after a major data center was proposed in nearby Lansing. Town leaders emphasize that the ban aligns with both local and state climate objectives. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 21)
February 20, 2026
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Dryden Passes Ban on Data Centers and Cryptocurrency Mines After Moratorium: Officials in Dryden, New York, have enacted a ban on both data centers and cryptocurrency mines, following an 18-month moratorium on such projects. Citing concerns about high energy consumption, water use, and noise pollution, the town updated its zoning laws to prohibit the facilities. The change was approved unanimously and also establishes clear definitions for the restricted operations. This regulatory step makes Dryden one of the first towns in the state to adopt such measures. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Feb 20)
February 18, 2026
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Tompkins County Expands Property Tax Exemption for Low-Income Seniors: The Tompkins County Legislature has approved an increase in the property tax exemption for low-income senior homeowners. Residents aged 65 or older with an annual income of up to $33,500 are now eligible for a 65% reduction on their county property tax bill, up from the previous 50%. The measure passed with significant support, reflecting concerns over rising living costs affecting seniors in the area. The new exemption aims to help older adults remain in their homes. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Feb 18)
February 13, 2026
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Dryden Officials Investigate Unexplained Water Loss in Village System: The Village of Dryden is experiencing a significant loss of water, with officials unable to identify where the supply is disappearing. Crews have noted increased pumping activity but have not yet found the source. Theories include a potential water main break or undiscovered leaks in residential plumbing. Local authorities are encouraging residents to be vigilant for signs of leaks as the search continues. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 13)
January 29, 2026
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Proposed Dryden Housing Development Raises Concerns Over Impact on Rare Habitats: A planned housing development in Dryden, New York, could affect two protected natural areas, Trillium Woods and the Freeville Fir Tree Swamp. Both locations are recognized for their rare plant life and sensitive ecosystems, but their designation as Unique Natural Areas does not provide legal protection. Local officials anticipate the review process to last several months, as they weigh housing needs against environmental risks. Conservationists advocate for full exclusion of the sensitive areas from development plans. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 29)
January 27, 2026
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Dryden Considers Housing Development Near Environmentally Sensitive Sites: Two unique natural areas in Dryden are under consideration for new residential development, raising concerns about habitat protection. The Trillium Woods Farm project, proposed by New York Land & Lakes, could add 19 single-family homes on a 236-acre parcel. Both the Trillium Woods and Freeville Fir Tree Swamp are recognized by Tompkins County for their significant ecological value. Local officials are beginning a review process expected to last several months, during which public input will be sought. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jan 27)
January 20, 2026
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Dryden's Taylor Van Fleet Named Head Coach of Le Moyne Women's Soccer: Taylor Van Fleet, a Dryden native, has been appointed head coach of the Le Moyne College women's soccer team. Van Fleet previously served as an assistant coach at Binghamton University, where she contributed to multiple conference titles. Her background includes a strong high school and Division I playing career, as well as experience competing professionally in Iceland. Van Fleet takes over a Le Moyne program looking to rebound from a difficult 2025 season. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 20)
January 18, 2026
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State Funds Bolster Water Quality Initiatives in Cayuga and Tompkins Counties: Cayuga and Tompkins counties are set to receive significant state funding for water-related infrastructure upgrades. Cayuga County will use over $730,000 to address soil erosion and reduce road salt usage, with projects including hydroseeding and the acquisition of new snow management equipment. Tompkins County is also receiving major awards, largely aimed at municipal wastewater and resilience upgrades. These investments aim to curb erosion, flooding, and pollution in the Finger Lakes region. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 18)
January 13, 2026
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New Officials Sworn In for Tompkins County and Ithaca Common Council in 2026: A wave of new leadership is evident in Tompkins County as local officials took office last week. Both the Tompkins County Legislature and the City of Ithaca Common Council began the year with around half of their members newly elected. Notable among the new legislators are Irene Weiser, who will serve Danby, Brooktondale, and Caroline, and Dan Wakeman, representing Dryden and Freeville. This significant change in representation marks a fresh start for local government in the area. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jan 13)
January 8, 2026
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Fire in Dryden School Bathroom Prompts Investigation and Brief Disruption: A fire originated in a bathroom trash can at the Dryden Middle and High School campus around noon on Wednesday, causing a temporary evacuation of part of the campus. Responding firefighters quickly put out the flames, but students and staff were instructed to wait outside while the fire alarm system was reset. The building was declared safe for return, but the affected bathroom remains closed as New York State Police investigate the cause. Classes resumed normally on Thursday. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 8)
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Authorities Investigate Small Fire in Dryden School Restroom: New York State Police and district safety officials are investigating a fire that began in a trash can in a bathroom at the Dryden Middle School and High School campus around noon on Wednesday. The incident was managed without reports of injury, and authorities are working to determine the cause. School operations have not reported major disruptions as a result. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities gather more information. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 8)
January 6, 2026
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Eric Jon Humerez, Respected Sound Technician, Remembered in Ithaca Community: Eric Jon Humerez, who was 68, died on December 13, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida. Originally from Ithaca, he attended local schools and later studied at Tompkins Cortland Community College. Humerez devoted much of his career to sound engineering with Calf Audio and Cornell University, where he played a significant role in supporting Tompkins County’s music scene. He was recognized for his talents and commitment to local music and volunteer work. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jan 6)
January 5, 2026
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Dryden Firefighters Contain Basement Furnace Fire in Single-Story Home: Firefighters from the Dryden Fire Department responded to a furnace fire in a single-story residence early Sunday morning. Upon arrival, Dryden Police had confirmed there was an active fire, prompting fire officials to issue a second alarm for additional support. The team located and extinguished the flames in the basement, preventing further damage to the home. No significant injuries or additional hazards were reported following the incident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 5)
December 28, 2025
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Ithaca Weather Forecast Calls for Cold, Snow, and Possible Icing to Start 2026: Ithaca and much of Tompkins County are set to experience continued cold and snowy conditions as the year draws to a close. December has been the coldest in the city since 2000, with forecasts showing little relief as snow, winds, and sub-freezing temperatures persist. High winds and icing risks are anticipated Monday night, especially along the route from Ithaca to Albany, while lake effect snow bands are expected northeast of Ithaca through midweek. Residents should prepare for unsettled weather through the start of 2026. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Dec 28)
December 19, 2025
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Land Trust Acquisition Adds 108 Acres to Ithaca's Emerald Necklace Conservation Area: The Finger Lakes Land Trust has secured a 108-acre forest parcel in Dryden, bordering the Yellow Barn State Forest near Ithaca. This addition will ultimately expand Yellow Barn State Forest, supporting public recreation and safeguarding water resources vital to the city. The newly acquired land, which includes a pond and streams linked to Six Mile Creek, will strengthen the interconnected Emerald Necklace conservation corridor around Ithaca. The property was purchased from the family of a former Cornell professor. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 19)
December 17, 2025
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Tompkins County Seeks Dog After Skier Bitten Near Cornell Fields in Dryden: Health officials in Tompkins County are seeking the public's assistance in locating a dog that bit a skier near Hanshaw and Freese roads in Dryden. The incident occurred Tuesday afternoon in Cornell-owned fields, and the dog in question is described as a large black, possibly Bernese Mountain Dog, seen with another similar dog off leash. The dog's owner reportedly leashed the animal after the bite but left without providing contact information. Officials want to observe the dog for a 10-day rabies monitoring period. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 17)
December 9, 2025
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TC3 Lists Three Dryden Residence Halls for Sale Amid Housing Demand Shift: Tompkins-Cortland Community College has placed three former residence halls up for sale in Dryden, offering a total of 117,000 square feet across 28 acres. The portfolio includes Tioughnioga, Cascadilla, and Seneca Halls, each containing 134 rooms. Although the college recently experienced a rise in enrollment, it is reducing on-campus housing due to continued low demand. Interested buyers must submit their bids by January 26 for consideration. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 9)
December 1, 2025
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Missing Dryden Resident Located Safely in Tompkins County: Authorities in Tompkins County report that a Dryden resident who was the subject of a missing person search has been safely located. The sheriff's office had sought public assistance after a 44-year-old man from Ellis Hollow Road was reported missing early Friday morning. The individual is confirmed to be unharmed, and the case has now been resolved. Officials have not released additional details regarding the circumstances of his disappearance. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 1)
November 30, 2025
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Missing Dryden Resident Safely Located After Search: The Tompkins County Sheriff's Office reports that Nathan Cramer, a 44-year-old Dryden resident who disappeared from Ellis Hollow Road on Friday morning, has been found safe. Cramer was last seen around 7 a.m. on November 28, prompting law enforcement to issue a public alert later that day. Authorities believed he had left the area on foot. Officials have stated that no additional information about his recovery will be released. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 30)
November 29, 2025
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Sedan Collides With Dryden Apartment, No Injuries Reported: A car collided with a ground-floor unit at a Dryden apartment complex on Thanksgiving morning, causing significant damage to a wall but resulting in no reported injuries. The incident took place around 11 a.m. on Keats Way, near Freeville Road, where emergency crews responded promptly. Firefighters evacuated residents and worked to secure utilities as a safety precaution. Some tenants were temporarily relocated to a vacant apartment until the scene was deemed safe. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 29)
November 28, 2025
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Authorities Seek Public Help Locating Missing Man in Dryden Area: The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information regarding the disappearance of Nathan S. Cramer, a 44-year-old resident of Ellis Hollow Road in Dryden. Cramer was reported missing on the morning of November 28 and is believed to have left his residence on foot, though his clothing at the time is unknown. The authorities have asked anyone who may have knowledge of his whereabouts to contact the Tompkins County Dispatch Center. The search remains ongoing as officials work with the community for leads. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 28)
November 16, 2025
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Windy and Damp Conditions Persist, Warmer Temperatures Expected in Ithaca Area: Residents in the hills north and east of Ithaca should prepare for continued lake-effect snow over the next couple of days, while lower elevations and areas near lakes in Tompkins County experience mostly rain. By midweek, high pressure is forecast to bring temperatures back to normal or slightly above average. Friday is expected to be damp but will likely bring rain across the Greater Ithaca area. No significant weather-related travel disruptions are anticipated locally for the upcoming holiday period. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 16)
November 3, 2025
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Guide to Ithaca and Tompkins County Elections and Statewide Ballot Measure for 2025: Voters in Ithaca and throughout Tompkins County will participate in the 2025 general election to select representatives for the county legislature and various municipal legislative positions, including the Ithaca Common Council. Additionally, a statewide ballot proposal concerning development of ski trails within the Adirondack Park is on the ballot, potentially impacting state land use near Lake Placid. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4. Results and key updates will be available after polls close. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 3)
October 29, 2025
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Broadband Expansion in Tompkins County to Bring High-Speed Internet by 2026: Hundreds of homes in the towns of Caroline and Dryden are set to gain access to high-speed internet following the start of a major broadband expansion project. Officials have commenced work on a new fiber facility in Caroline, which will extend the Dryden Fiber network using an $11.6 million grant. This initiative will install 143 miles of fiber line and connect over 6,000 residents, many of whom currently rely on outdated dial-up or DSL. Completion of the project is targeted for late 2026. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 28)
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Thomas Corey Runs as Independent for Tompkins County Legislature District 10 in Dryden: Thomas Corey, a retired insurance agent and longtime resident of Dryden, has entered the race to represent District 10 on the Tompkins County Legislature. Running as an independent under the Bull Moose Party banner, Corey brings decades of political experience, including previous service on the Village of Dryden's Board of Trustees and several prior campaigns. He describes himself as a compassionate conservative, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and support for essential social benefits. Corey faces Democratic candidate Dan Wakeman in the upcoming election. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Oct 28)
October 27, 2025
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Dryden Deputy Mayor Dan Wakeman Runs for Tompkins County Legislature Seat: Dan Wakeman, currently serving as Deputy Mayor and a longstanding board member in the Village of Dryden, is seeking election to the Tompkins County Legislature representing District 10. He faces third-party challenger Thomas Corey in a race covering the eastern Town of Dryden, including the Villages of Dryden and Freeville. Wakeman, a networking engineer, emphasizes addressing housing affordability and the county’s fiscal management. He is considering programs like New York's Move-In initiative if elected. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Oct 27)
October 23, 2025
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Universal Free Meals Change School Lunch Experience in Tompkins County: All public schools in Tompkins County now provide free breakfast and lunch to students, following a statewide initiative funded by New York's recent $340 million investment in universal school meals. This policy has eased financial pressure on families, saving an estimated $165 per child each month, (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 23)