Latest News
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)
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Tompkins County Library Director Outlines Plans for Collaboration and Growth: Emerson DeMeester-Lane has been appointed director of the Tompkins County Public Library, where he aims to strengthen cooperation among rural libraries and foster county-wide initiatives. The year ahead will feature robust summer reading activities, community partnerships, and discussions about facility expansion in places like Lansing and Newfield. Groton library will participate in a national summer learning program, while other branches pursue a range of community events. The new director emphasizes the importance of libraries as vital community resources. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 18)
February 4, 2026
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Groton Recognizes Don Scheffler for Decade as Town Supervisor: Groton recently recognized Don Scheffler for his decade of service as town supervisor, capping more than 25 years on the Town Board. Scheffler played a key role in addressing a range of local issues, including zoning, fracking, budgets, and recreational projects, and was honored with a 2025 Cornell Town-Gown Award. With Scheffler stepping down at the end of 2025, Crystal Young assumed the role of supervisor on January 1. The leadership transition has been described as seamless as Groton moves ahead. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 4)
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)
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 16, 2025
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Groton Resident Charged After Property-Damage Collision in Ovid: A 41-year-old man from Groton was taken into custody following a property-damage traffic incident in the Town of Ovid. Authorities report the individual, identified as Malcond Valladares-Herrera, was traveling northbound on State Route 96 when he did not yield to another vehicle, causing a collision. There were no reported injuries, but damages to the vehicles occurred. Law enforcement responded to the scene and initiated charges against the driver. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 16)
December 15, 2025
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Driver Arrested for Unlicensed Operation Following Crash in Ovid: A crash at the intersection of State Routes 96A and 96 in Ovid resulted in the arrest of Malcond D. Valladares-Herrera of Groton after deputies determined he failed to yield the right of way. The incident occurred around 8:35 a.m. on December 10. No injuries were reported, but both vehicles required towing. Valladares-Herrera faces multiple charges, including aggravated unlicensed operation, and is expected to appear in Town of Ovid Court. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 15)
December 8, 2025
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Three Injured in Early Morning Crash on Route 34B in King Ferry: A serious accident occurred early Sunday morning in King Ferry, sending three people to the hospital after their vehicle veered off Route 34B and landed in a culvert. First responders from several area fire departments and ambulance crews assisted at the scene. One person was airlifted to a hospital, while two others were transported by ground ambulance to Syracuse. Authorities have not yet released the cause of the crash or updated the conditions of those injured. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 8)
December 1, 2025
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Old Chatham Creamery Cheddar Named Top American Cheese at World Cheese Awards: Stockinghall Cheddar, produced at Old Chatham Creamery in Groton, New York, has been recognized as the best American-made cheese at the World Cheese Awards held in Bern, Switzerland. The cheddar also secured the titles of best cheddar overall and tied for fifth place among all cheeses judged worldwide. The creamery, led by head cheesemaker Jeremiah Timmins since 2021, has received multiple accolades for its artisanal products. This award highlights the region's reputation for high-quality dairy craftsmanship. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Dec 1)
November 18, 2025
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Fire Departments Respond to Shed Blaze on Booth Hill Road in Cayuga County: Multiple fire departments from Cayuga and Tompkins counties responded to a shed fire on Booth Hill Road Monday after it was believed the blaze began in a chicken coop. Agencies from Locke, Moravia, Genoa, and Groton, along with a specialized team from Cortlandville and Fourtown Ambulance, assisted at the scene. Some responders were released while others remained to ensure the area was secure. No injuries or additional damage were reported, and the cause remains under investigation. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 18)
November 17, 2025
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Catherine Gooch, Longtime Ithaca Resident and College Employee, Remembered: Catherine Gooch, aged 59, passed away after a prolonged illness, leaving a profound impact on the Ithaca community. Originally from Maryland, she and her husband relocated to Ithaca, where Cathy dedicated 24 years to serving at Ithaca College. She was known for her devotion to family, kindness, and active role in supporting others both at work and in her community. Her legacy includes three daughters and many friends who remember her fondly. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 17)
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)