Latest News
February 25, 2026
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Lansing Town Board Proposes Adding Two Planning Board Alternates: Following extensive debate among residents and officials, the Lansing Town Board intends to appoint both Aimee Caffrey and incumbent John Duthie as planning board alternates. The decision comes as the town prepares for possible major reviews, such as a planned AI data center at the former Cayuga Power Plant. Community members have expressed concerns about representation and board approach to development. A public hearing on the proposal is scheduled for March 18 before the final decision is made. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 25)
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 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 16, 2026
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Kinney Drugs on North Cayuga Street in Ithaca to Close After Decades of Service: Kinney Drugs will permanently close its North Cayuga Street pharmacy in Ithaca on March 5, ending nearly a century of service at that location. The store, which has operated under various names since the 1920s, is closing due to a combination of rising lease costs, limited retail space, and reduced pharmacy profitability. Prescriptions and staff will transition to the Triphammer Marketplace store in Lansing. This closure leaves Northside and Fall Creek areas without a nearby walk-in pharmacy. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 16)
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Lansing Woman Located Safely After Reported Missing from Auburn Road Home: A 73-year-old Lansing resident was found safe after being reported missing Friday afternoon. She left her Auburn Road home late Thursday night without her phone or vehicle, prompting State Police to initiate a search. Authorities were alerted to her location on the Cornell University campus by a community member who recognized her from a public notice. Officials canceled the missing person alert Friday evening, confirming her wellbeing. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 16)
February 14, 2026
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Suspect Arrested in Connection With Tompkins County Storage Facility Burglaries: The Tompkins County Sheriff's Office has apprehended a Lansing resident following an extended investigation into burglaries at several storage facilities across the county. Authorities began their inquiry in November 2025 after a pattern of break-ins was identified. The suspect was charged after evidence linked him to multiple incidents throughout Tompkins County. The case marks a significant development in efforts to address property crimes in the area. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 14)
February 13, 2026
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New York State Police Request Assistance in Search for Missing Lansing Resident: Authorities are actively searching for Margaret Schoneman, a 73-year-old woman from Lansing, who was last seen at her residence on Auburn Road late Thursday night. According to New York State Police based in Ithaca, a family member realized she was missing the following day. The public is being asked to provide any information that could help locate her. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine her whereabouts. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 13)
February 11, 2026
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Lansing Resident Arrested After Series of Storage Unit Burglaries: A Lansing man has been arrested after authorities linked him to a string of storage unit burglaries that spanned several counties. The Tompkins County Sheriff's Department charged 36-year-old Jarrod Nickerson with third-degree burglary following a lengthy investigation. Evidence found at his residence included stolen tools, household goods, and family heirlooms, with links to roughly 25 incidents. License plate readers reportedly played a role in identifying the suspect in this case. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 11)
February 10, 2026
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Lansing Resident Charged in Multi-County Storage Unit Burglary Investigation: A Lansing man has been arrested after authorities recovered an estimated thousands of dollars in suspected stolen property linked to recent storage unit burglaries. The Tompkins County Sheriff's Department charged the 36-year-old with third-degree burglary following surveillance footage and a search that yielded household goods, tools, and family heirlooms. Investigators believe the stolen items are connected to about 25 storage unit break-ins across several counties. The suspect remains in custody as the search for rightful owners continues. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Feb 10)
January 30, 2026
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Environmental Groups Challenge Lansing Zoning Board Over TeraWulf Data Center: Two local environmental organizations have filed a lawsuit against the Town of Lansing Zoning Board of Appeals and TeraWulf over the approval of an AI data center at the site of a former coal-fired power plant. The dispute centers on a recent decision by the zoning board, which determined the project met industrial use requirements, despite earlier objections from the town's code enforcement officer. The groups claim the board's decision was legally flawed and have initiated proceedings in New York State Supreme Court. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jan 30)
January 28, 2026
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Overnight Crash Forces Closure of NY-34 in Lansing; Route Reopens in Morning: A crash late Tuesday night led to the closure of NY-34 in both directions between Waterwagon Road and Burdick Hill Road in the town of Lansing. Emergency responders were called to the scene around 11:27 p.m., and the highway remained closed into early Wednesday as crews worked to clear the area. Details regarding the cause of the incident have not been released by authorities. The affected section of NY-34 reopened to traffic shortly after 6 a.m. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 28)
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State Police Request Public Assistance Identifying Larceny Suspect in Lansing: The New York State Police in Ithaca are seeking help from the community to identify a woman suspected of stealing merchandise from BJ's Wholesale Club on Graham Road in Lansing. The incident occurred on January 20, with authorities reporting that items valued at around $950 were taken. Investigators have released surveillance images and are asking anyone with information to come forward to support the ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made so far. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 28)
January 23, 2026
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Eric Stickel Officially Becomes Cornell University Police Chief: Eric Stickel has been formally inaugurated as the chief of the Cornell University Police Department, marking a significant milestone in his 17-year tenure with the department. The official ceremony took place on January 21 at Friends Hall, with his family participating in the proceedings. Stickel had previously served as interim chief following Anthony Bellamy's departure for a new role in Ithaca. Stickel, a Lansing native, emphasized his intent to lead with integrity and maintain safety on campus. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 23)
January 22, 2026
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Tompkins County Requests State Deny Permit for Proposed TeraWulf Data Center: Tompkins County legislators have called on New York State environmental regulators to deny a water permit renewal for a proposed AI data center project near Cayuga Lake in Lansing. The county passed a resolution urging the state to require a comprehensive environmental review and initiate a new permit process before proceeding. The proposed facility would utilize the site of a former power plant and is associated with TeraWulf. Lawmakers cited concerns about water quality, energy costs, and transparency in their appeal. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 22)
January 21, 2026
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Tompkins County Urges Denial of Water Permit for Proposed Lansing AI Data Center: The Tompkins County Legislature recently approved a resolution urging New York State regulators to reject a water permit renewal for an artificial intelligence data center proposed in Lansing. The center would be located at a former power plant and has generated considerable local debate. County officials seek a stricter review process, expressing concerns about water quality and the transparency of the project. The resolution encourages the state to conduct a new permit review along with an environmental assessment. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jan 21)
January 19, 2026
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Ithaca Alderperson Explains Rationale Behind Recent Increases in Parking Fees: Alderperson Pat Sewell, recently elected to Ithaca's Common Council, offers their perspective on the city's decision to raise parking fees. Sewell notes that the increase is the first in over a decade and is necessary to cover rising costs associated with maintaining local parking infrastructure. The commentary highlights growing expenses such as inflation, higher material prices, and labor commitments. Though Sewell did not vote on the changes, they express ongoing support for the new fees. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jan 19)
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)
December 31, 2025
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Suspect Arrested Following Robbery on Ithaca Commons: Ithaca police have arrested Madison E. Hornbrook, 25, of Lansing, in connection with a robbery at a business on East State Street in Ithaca Commons. The incident, which began as a reported theft on December 22, was determined by officers to meet the criteria for robbery under New York law. Hornbrook was taken into custody on December 30 and charged with third-degree robbery. The investigation continues as authorities seek further information. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 31)
December 30, 2025
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AI Data Center Planned for Southern Cayuga Lake in Lansing: A major artificial intelligence data center is under consideration for the southern edge of Cayuga Lake in Lansing, Tompkins County. The proposed facility aims to serve growing demands in AI computing infrastructure while potentially impacting the regional economy and environment. Local officials and stakeholders are preparing to review the project's scale and implications. Community input and formal assessments will occur before any final decisions are made. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Dec 30)
December 27, 2025
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Lansing Zoning Board Allows TeraWulf Data Center Plan to Move Forward: The TeraWulf company has received approval from the Lansing zoning board, allowing its proposed data center at the former Cayuga Power Plant site to proceed. The narrow decision reverses a previous interpretation and classifies the facility as a permitted use in the industrial district. While two other zoning appeals from TeraWulf were unsuccessful, the company is now able to submit a site plan application to the planning board. The public hearing saw significant opposition to the project. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 27)
December 23, 2025
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Lansing Zoning Board Approves TeraWulf Data Center Appeal Amid Community Debate: The Lansing Zoning Board of Appeals has approved an appeal from TeraWulf, advancing the company's proposal for an AI data center at a former coal power plant site. The project has generated local discussion, with environmental concerns and potential power cost increases highlighted by critics. Proponents emphasize the redevelopment of unused land, potential tax benefits, and job creation, though most roles would be in construction. The data center proposal will now proceed to the next stage of local review. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Dec 23)
December 19, 2025
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Zoning Dispute Delays Planned Lansing Data Center Near Cayuga Lake: Plans for a new data center in Lansing have encountered significant delays due to local zoning disagreements. TeraWulf, the company behind the project, is requesting its proposed center near Cayuga Lake be classified as a scientific research lab or warehouse to comply with zoning rules. During a lengthy public hearing, opponents questioned this classification and raised environmental and legal concerns, especially regarding cryptocurrency operations. The zoning board has postponed its decision to December 22. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 19)
December 18, 2025
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Emerson DeMeester-Lane Named Director of Tompkins County Public Library: The Tompkins County Public Library in Ithaca, New York, will welcome Emerson DeMeester-Lane as its new director on January 12. DeMeester-Lane, an experienced librarian from Tucson and originally from New York, takes over after a ten-month search following the previous director's resignation. His arrival coincides with ongoing labor negotiations affecting approximately 40 library employees. DeMeester-Lane has indicated he will start his role by actively engaging with community members and staff. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Dec 18)
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Lansing Zoning Debate Continues Over Proposed TeraWulf Data Center at Milliken Site: TeraWulf, a Maryland company, is seeking approval to build a data center on the former Milliken Station coal plant site in Lansing, New York. The project's alignment with local zoning laws has been challenged, as company executives argue it qualifies as a scientific research facility. Environmental groups have opposed the plan, citing potential effects on Cayuga Lake and concerns about rising electricity costs. At a recent zoning board meeting, no final decision was made on the appeals. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Dec 18)
December 17, 2025
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TeraWulf Argues Data Center in Lansing Qualifies as Research Amid Zoning Dispute: TeraWulf, a Maryland-based company, is appealing a zoning decision that prohibits data centers in Lansing's industrial areas, contending that its planned A.I. facility should be classified as scientific research. The company points to potential collaborations with local educational institutions, although no official agreements are in place. Environmental advocates have voiced concerns over the facility's expected energy and water consumption. A zoning board hearing is scheduled, but a final decision is not anticipated at this session. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 17)
December 15, 2025
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Lansing Zoning Board Faces Scrutiny Before Vote on Proposed AI Data Center: Environmental groups have raised concerns over potential bias as Lansing’s Zoning Board of Appeals prepares for a key decision on whether TeraWulf’s proposed AI data center can be approved at the former Cayuga Power Plant. The board will hold a public hearing on December 16 before making its final determination. Controversy was sparked by an email from the board chair, which some interpreted as indicating a predetermined outcome, though he asserts his intent was misunderstood. The decision may impact the community and future development at the site. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 15)
November 21, 2025
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Lansing Town Board Reverses Land-Use Moratorium Proposal Following Debate: The Lansing Town Board has unanimously decided to withdraw a proposed land-use moratorium after weeks of community debate and pressure. The measure, which would have halted new development for a year to review zoning regulations, faced criticism for potentially hindering TeraWulf’s AI data center plans at the former Cayuga power plant. Legal concerns were raised by the company, influencing the board's decision. Although the moratorium proposal has been dropped for now, officials indicated it could be reconsidered in the future. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 21)
November 20, 2025
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Lansing Town Board Ends Land-Use Moratorium Amid Community Debate: The Lansing Town Board has decided to withdraw a proposal for a one-year land-use moratorium following weeks of public debate. The moratorium aimed to pause certain developments while the town reviewed its zoning regulations, but faced opposition from residents and businesses concerned about negative impacts. Controversy centered on a proposed artificial intelligence data center by TeraWulf, which had threatened legal action if the rules were enacted. The planned public hearing was canceled after the board opted to end the measure. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 20)
November 17, 2025
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Lansing Town Board Postpones Decision on Development Moratorium: Lansing town officials have delayed action on a proposed one-year moratorium for major development following concerns raised over a planned AI data center at the former Cayuga Power Plant site. Debate among board members and the community has resulted in the cancellation of a scheduled public hearing, with officials stating more time is needed to review the proposal. The developer, TeraWulf, has claimed the plan targets them unfairly and has raised the possibility of legal action. The Town Board must now evaluate its next steps. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com 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 14, 2025
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Lansing Town Reconsiders Land-Use Moratorium, Cancels Public Hearing: Town officials in Lansing, New York are re-evaluating a land-use moratorium initially proposed to pause new large-scale developments for a year. A planned November 19 public hearing on the measure has been canceled as the Town Board reconsiders its position. The moratorium was introduced following a proposal to convert the defunct Cayuga Power Plant into an artificial intelligence data center. Debate continues surrounding the necessity of halting development while updates to zoning laws are discussed. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 14)
November 12, 2025
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Mary Lehr, Longtime Lansing Resident, Remembered for Her Resilience and Warmth: Mary Louise Lehr, aged 83, of Lansing, New York, passed away on November 11, 2025, after a courageous journey through health challenges. Originally from Ava, Illinois, Lehr built a life in several states before settling in Lansing. She is remembered by family and friends for her strength, kindness, and the positive impact she had on people throughout her life. Lehr's legacy endures in the community and among those who knew her. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 12)
November 11, 2025
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Lansing Continues Debate on Proposed Moratorium for Local Development: The Lansing Town Board has decided to continue discussions on a proposed one-year moratorium affecting certain local development approvals. The moratorium would impact projects such as a planned AI data center near Cayuga Lake, drawing opposition from some residents and developers who view it as unfair. Supporters believe it could help protect the local environment and guide future zoning policies. The board rejected a motion to withdraw the proposal and will revisit it in December after a public hearing set for November 19. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 11)
November 10, 2025
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Lansing Town Board Continues Debate Over Proposed Land-Use Moratorium: The Lansing Town Board in Tompkins County is extending discussions on its contentious land-use moratorium, after reports of heated board debate and public opposition. Originally, the draft moratorium aimed to pause certain development approvals for a year, potentially delaying an AI data center planned on Cayuga Lake's shore. The proposal includes provisions to safeguard local environmental and cultural resources. Town officials intend to revise the moratorium as they update zoning in line with their 2018 plan. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 10)
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 28, 2025
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Cayuga Heights Townhouse Proposal Scaled Back Amid Regulatory Hurdles: A development plan for East Upland Road in Cayuga Heights has been significantly reduced in scope following community feedback and updates to New York State wetlands regulations. Originally conceived as a 37-unit project, the proposal now seeks to build just 10 townhouses due to expanded wetlands buffers affecting usable land. The revised design includes two-story, three-bedroom homes, each with dedicated parking. Local officials continue to review the adjusted plan for compliance and impact. (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 26, 2025
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Tompkins County Aging and Assessment Offices Set for Temporary Relocation: Tompkins County will temporarily move its Office for the Aging and Department of Assessment to 31 Dutch Mill Road in the Town of Lansing. This shift is part of the county’s ongoing Center of Government project, aimed at improving administrative services and operations. The move was authorized by local officials and will remain in effect until further notice. Residents should direct inquiries and visits to the new address during the relocation period. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 26)
October 24, 2025
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Tompkins County to Temporarily Relocate Office for the Aging Amid Construction: Tompkins County officials have agreed to temporarily move the Office for the Aging to Dutch Mill Road in the Town of Lansing. The relocation is necessary to allow for the construction of the new Center of Government on North Tioga Street. Despite objections from community members concerned about seniors' access to services, a proposal to delay the move did not pass at the county legislature meeting. The new Center’s construction is expected to last three to five years. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Oct 24)