Violence at the Tompkins County Human Services Building was the focus of a discussion at the Thursday, July 7th meeting of the Tompkins County Government Operations Committee. County officials advanced a plan to station two Tompkins County Sheriff’s Deputies at the Human Services Building to provide security for staff and patrons, as well as screen for weapons, which are not allowed in county buildings.
Tompkins County Administrator Lisa Holmes described an “ever increasing array of incidents and emergencies” at the Human Services Building, including a recent stabbing and shooting. “A higher level of security is warranted,” Holmes said as she brought forward a recommendation to consider a magnetometer to screen building visitors for weapons as well as armed security staff in the form of Tompkins County Sheriff deputies.
A Human Services official explained that homeless individuals seeking assistance often carry weapons on their person for protection. Personal disputes, overdoses & mental health crises are routine issues in the lobby. Following the recent shooting, two deputies were stationed at the building for a week, and their presence temporarily alleviated staff concerns.
Legislator Mike Sigler voiced objection to Sheriff’s deputies being deployed in such a manner, and suggested the possibility of private armed security. It was explained that this potential had been explored in other counties, with Sheriff’s unions typically objecting to the approach.
Legislator Greg Mezey expressed frustration with the City of Ithaca’s lack of initiative in addressing issues at the site. “Where is the city in all of this? I mean, come on, city folks. If you’re watching, I think this is a conversation that needs to be had at the Common Council level or a much broader level because there is a problem. Again, I think it is another example of the city handing the problem, or the cost burden, to the county. I look forward to hearing what their possible solutions are to be a supportive partner in this process.”
The Tompkins County Human Services Building is directly adjacent to the Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP) needle exchange. Ithaca’s drug users and dealers congregate at STAP, and it is often the site of violence and overdoses. County Human Services workers have reported being accosted going to and from work, as well as having their cars broken into and stolen from. County employees have also been shot at with paintballs while leaving work.
STAP management recently installed bright lights on the porch of their Ithaca location. This has seemingly not deterred individuals from congregating on the porch all night. STAP management has previously expressed an intent to fence the porch, but has not applied for permits. STAP management also tells Ithaca Crime that none of the other sites it operates in other counties have the issues that STAP in Ithaca does.
The resolution passed the Government Operations Committee unanimously. The resolution will face further discussion in the Budget, Capital and Personnel Committee before being presented for a vote to the full legislature.
