Cortland County, NY

Legislature

The Cortland County Legislature will conduct a public hearing for the tentative 2027 budget. The body is also considering a resolution calling on New York State to fund the modernization of county correctional facilities.

• Public hearing for the Tentative 2027 Budget
• Proposed agreement with Vital Records Control for shredding services not to exceed $14,000 annually
• Budget amendment to shift $150,000 from Personal Services to Fuel for the Department of Public Works
• Appointment of Hayley Rowley to the Cortland County Planning Board
• Authorization of voluntary supplemental employee insurance benefits through NACo Public Promise Insurance

Public Works Committee

Government Operations Committee

Health & Human Services Committee

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

Finance and Administration Committee

General

Public Works Committee

Government Operations Committee

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

Health & Human Services Committee

Finance and Administration Committee

General

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee is considering the establishment of a structured review process for county-administered grants. The body will also review budget amendments for fuel and several airport hangar leases.

• Resolution to create a Grant Review Committee for programs including Tourism and Microenterprise grants
• Proposed 2026 budget amendment to shift $150,000 from Personal Services to Fuel for the Department of Public Works
• Proposed three-year agreement with BPI Mechanical Service for mechanical and plumbing services
• Proposed five-year lease of Hangar MH-1 to 7:47 Aviation, Inc. with monthly rates from $1,280 to $1,360
• Proposed five-year lease of Hangar MH-3 to 7:47 Aviation, Inc. with monthly rates from $650 to $690

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee is meeting to review monthly reports and consider a resolution regarding emergency communications. The primary action item is a contract extension for 911 telephone system maintenance.

• Proposed contract with Frontier Communications for 911 telephone maintenance not to exceed $144,152.25 for the period of December 1, 2027 through November 30, 2029

The Cortland County Judiciary & Public Safety Committee approved a resolution to extend the 911 telephone system maintenance contract with Frontier Communications through November 30, 2029, at an amount not to exceed $144,152.25, supported by grant funding with no additional County cost. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and received monthly departmental reports from the District Attorney, Emergency Response & Communications, Coroner, Probation Department, and Public Defender.

• Authorized a 911 telephone maintenance contract extension with Frontier Communications for $144,152.25 (5-0)
• Approved September 10, 2026 Judiciary & Public Safety meeting minutes
• Received monthly reports from District Attorney, Emergency Response & Communications, Coroner, Probation, and Public Defender

Health & Human Services Committee

The Health & Human Services Committee is meeting to review a multi-year agreement for appointment reminders and the reallocation of opioid settlement funds. The session also includes monthly reports from the Health Department and Office for Aging.

• Proposed three-year agreement with RevSpring for Mental Health Department appointment reminders and patient communication
• Proposed reallocation of $160,236 in Opioid Settlement Funds for Family and Children Counseling Services to be used for Outreach and Engagement

The committee approved a three-year agreement with RevSpring for appointment reminders and patient communication services. A proposed reallocation of opioid settlement funds was pulled from the agenda.

• Approved three-year agreement with RevSpring for Mental Health Department communication services (7-0)
• Pulled proposal to reallocate $160,236 in Opioid Settlement Funds for Outreach and Engagement
• Approved September 10, 2026 meeting minutes

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The committee will meet to approve minutes from September 10, 2026, and review the Department of Planning & Economic Development monthly report. No specific resolutions or action items are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of September 10, 2026 minutes
• Department of Planning & Economic Development Monthly Report

The Cortland County Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment Committee convened to review monthly reports from the Soil & Water Conservation District and the Department of Planning & Economic Development. The meeting consisted of procedural items, administrative updates, and departmental reports with no separate substantive resolutions recorded for committee vote.

• Approved committee minutes from September 10, 2026
• Completed Soil & Water Conservation monthly reports
• Completed Department of Planning & Economic Development monthly report

Government Operations Committee

The Cortland County Government Operations Committee meets Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 10:30 AM in Room 302, 60 Central Ave., Cortland. The committee will consider two resolutions: authorizing an agreement with Vital Records Control for countywide shredding services not to exceed $14,000 annually, and authorizing the County Administrator and Personnel Officer to offer voluntary, employee-paid supplemental insurance through NACo Public Promise Insurance. It will also approve minutes from September 15, 2026, and receive monthly reports from several county offices. The agenda does not state whether the resolutions were voted on or passed.

• Resolution to authorize an agreement with Vital Records Control for shredding services, not to exceed $14,000 annually, funded from account A14105.54055
• Resolution to authorize voluntary supplemental employee insurance through NACo Public Promise Insurance, with premiums paid entirely by participating employees
• Approval of minutes from the Government Operations meeting of September 15, 2026
• Monthly reports from the County Clerk, Personnel, Board of Elections, County Attorney, Safety Director, and Clerk of the Legislature

The Government Operations Committee approved a contract for countywide shredding services and authorized the implementation of voluntary supplemental insurance for eligible employees. The committee also reviewed monthly reports from several county offices.

• Approved agreement with Vital Records Control for shredding services not to exceed $14,000 annually (5-0)
• Approved expansion of voluntary supplemental employee benefits through NACo Public Promise Insurance (5-0)
• Approved minutes from the September 15, 2026 meeting

Public Works Committee

The Cortland County Public Works Committee meets Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Room 302 at 60 Central Ave. to review six resolutions, monthly reports, and a tentative 2027-2031 capital improvements plan. Resolutions include a veterans recognition designation, a new FirstLight internet contract at $2,100.00/month, a $150,000.00 fuel budget amendment, a mechanical/plumbing services agreement with BPI Mechanical Service, and five-year hangar leases at Cortland County Airport with 7:47 Aviation, Inc. The committee will also approve minutes from its September 8, 2026 meeting. All resolutions are listed as moved by Committee Chair Paul Heider; final approval rests with the full Legislature.

• Resolution designating Cortland County a Green Light for Veterans County, lighting county buildings green November 4-11, 2026
• New three-year FirstLight internet contract at $2,100.00/month, up from $1,800.00/month, to move one connection to an independent path
• 2026 budget amendment shifting $150,000.00 from Personal Services (E51105.51005) to Fuel (E51105.54078) for two 8500-gallon deliveries monthly, October-December 2026
• Three-year agreement with BPI Mechanical Service, 5 Hemlock Street, Latham, NY 12110, for mechanical and plumbing repair, maintenance, installation and emergency services, with two optional one-year renewals
• Five-year leases with 7:47 Aviation, Inc., 922 NYS Route 222, Cortland, NY 13045, for Hangar MH-1 ($1,280.00-$1,360.00/month) and Hangar MH-3 ($650.00-$690.00/month), January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2031

The Public Works Committee approved two five-year hangar leases at the Cortland County Airport for 7:47 Aviation, Inc. and a three-year mechanical and plumbing services agreement with BPI Mechanical Service. The committee also approved a $150,000 budget amendment for fuel purchases.

• Approved lease of Hangar MH-1 to 7:47 Aviation, Inc. for 5 years (6-0)
• Approved lease of Hangar MH-3 to 7:47 Aviation, Inc. for 5 years (6-0)
• Approved 3-year mechanical and plumbing services contract with BPI Mechanical Service (6-0)
• Approved $150,000 budget amendment to increase fuel funds by decreasing personal services (6-0)
• Approved designation as a Green Light for Veterans County for Nov 4-11, 2026 (6-0)
• Pulled agreement with FirstLight Internet for redundant backup connections

General

The Cortland County Finance and Administration Committee meets Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 9:00 AM in Room 302, 60 Central Ave., Cortland, NY. The agenda lists a call to order, roll call of members, a discussion of the 2027 Cortland County Budget, and adjournment. Aside from the budget discussion item, the agenda is procedural; no specific budget figures, resolutions, or votes are included in the text provided.

• 2027 Cortland County Budget Discussion
• Roll call of seven committee members, including Chair Cathy Bischoff and Vice-Chair William McGovern
• Meeting held in Room 302 at 60 Central Ave., Cortland, NY, with virtual attendance via Microsoft Teams

The committee met to discuss information regarding the 2027 County Budget. No substantive decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes.

General

Legislature

The Cortland County Legislature will hold a public hearing on a local law amending the occupancy tax allocation, then consider several resolutions including budget amendments, a contract for FOIL management, a transition of retiree drug coverage, an internet service agreement, a courthouse HVAC study, a guide rail services contract, a bridge project amendment, in-kind support for Pumpkinfest, an electricity supply agreement, and the reappointment of the Commissioner of Public Works.

• Public hearing on Local Law 'I' of 2026 amending occupancy tax revenue allocation
• Authorize $12,467.97 agreement with Granicus for GovQA FOIL platform
• Authorize transition of retiree prescription drug coverage to EGWP
• Authorize $79,960 for courthouse heating/cooling evaluation with Trane (NYSERDA cost share)
• Award guide rail services to Chemung Supply Corp. at $369/hour

The Cortland County Legislature held its September 24, 2026 session and adopted 20 of 22 resolutions, most by unanimous 16-0 votes. Major actions included Local Law 11 of 2026 amending how occupancy tax revenues are allocated (15-1), a transition of Medicare-eligible retiree prescription drug coverage to an Employer Group Waiver Plan (10-6), and a CDL stipend for Department of Public Works employees (15-1). Two resolutions — a RevSpring patient communication agreement and an opioid settlement fund amendment — were referred to committee and not decided. The meeting also included a public hearing on the occupancy tax law, which closed 16-0, and an executive session on pending litigation.

• Adopted Local Law 11 of 2026 amending occupancy tax revenue allocation (15-1, Cleland nay)
• Closed public hearing on Local Law 'I' of 2026 occupancy tax amendments (16-0)
• Approved transition of Medicare-eligible retiree drug coverage from RDS to EGWP (10-6)
• Approved $7,500 annual CDL stipend for non-management DPW employees through 2027 (15-1, Bischoff nay)
• Approved $12,467.97 Granicus GovQA FOIL platform agreement, as amended with AI restriction (16-0)
• Approved guide rail services agreement with Chemung Supply Corp. at $369/hour for 3 years (16-0)
• Approved $17,500 demolition of 83 Pendleton Street to Contento's Demolition (16-0)
• Reappointed Charles Sudbrink as Commissioner of Public Works at $155,289/year through 2030 (16-0)

Public Works Committee

The Cortland County Public Works Committee is considering four resolutions: authorizing a three-year electricity supply agreement with Constellation Energy Services, reappointing Charles Sudbrink as Commissioner of Public Works, creating a stipend for CDL-required positions, and awarding a demolition contract. The committee will vote on these items, which will then go to the full Legislature.

• Authorize agreement with Constellation Energy Services for electricity at fixed rate per kWh for 25 county facilities
• Reappoint Charles Sudbrink as Commissioner of Public Works for term Oct 1, 2026–Sep 30, 2030, salary $155,289
• Provide up to $7,500 annual stipend through 2027 for DPW employees with Commercial Driver License
• Award demolition of structure at 83 Pendleton Street to Contento's Demolition for $17,500

The Public Works Committee approved four resolutions, all by 7-0 votes. It authorized a three-year electricity supply agreement with Constellation Energy Services at a fixed rate of $0.9778 per kilowatt hour through October 31, 2029. It also reappointed Charles Sudbrink as Commissioner of Public Works for a term from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2030 at an annual salary of $155,289, approved a CDL stipend of up to $7,500 annually through 2027 for certain DPW employees, and awarded a $17,500 demolition contract for 83 Pendleton Street to Contento's Demolition.

• Approved 3-year electricity agreement with Constellation Energy Services at $0.9778/kWh (7-0)
• Reappointed Charles Sudbrink as Commissioner of Public Works, term Oct 1, 2026–Sep 30, 2030, salary $155,289 (7-0)
• Approved CDL stipend up to $7,500 annually through 2027 for eligible non-management DPW employees (7-0)
• Awarded demolition of 83 Pendleton Street to Contento's Demolition for $17,500 (7-0)
• Amended demolition resolution to specify funding from Buildings & Grounds Capital Project Reserve (unanimous voice vote)

Finance and Administration Committee

The Cortland County Finance and Administration Committee will discuss the 2027 county budget, including presentations from several departments. The committee will also consider three resolutions referred from the Public Works Committee: authorizing a three-year electricity supply agreement with Constellation Energy Services, approving a $7,500 annual stipend for certain Department of Public Works employees with Commercial Driver Licenses, and awarding a demolition contract for a structure at 83 Pendleton Street.

• 2027 budget discussion for District Attorney, Public Defender, Assigned Counsel, Probation, Planning & Economic Development, IT, and Public Works departments
• Resolution to authorize agreement with Constellation Energy Services for electricity at a fixed rate per kilowatt hour for multiple county facilities
• Resolution to provide up to $7,500 annual stipend to non-management DPW employees with Commercial Driver Licenses, paid in $288.46 installments
• Resolution to award demolition of structure at 83 Pendleton Street to Contento's Demolition for $17,500
• Public hearing on electricity contract and CDL stipend resolutions

The Cortland County Finance and Administration Committee reviewed the 2027 budget and approved three resolutions referred from the Public Works Committee. The committee authorized a three-year electricity supply agreement with Constellation Energy Services through MEGA, approved an annual CDL stipend of up to $7,500 for non-management DPW employees through 2027, and awarded a $17,500 structure demolition contract for 83 Pendleton Street to Contento’s Demolition.

• Authorized 3-year electricity supply agreement with Constellation Energy Services via MEGA at $0.9778 per kilowatt hour (5-0)
• Authorized up to $7,500 annual CDL stipend through 2027 for non-management Department of Public Works employees (4-1)
• Awarded demolition contract for 83 Pendleton Street to Contento’s Demolition for $17,500 (5-0)
• Authorized use of up to $17,500 from Buildings & Grounds Capital Project Reserve for 83 Pendleton Street demolition (5-0)
• Amended 2026 Cortland County Budget to increase Building Improvements and Appropriated Reserves by $17,500 for demolition (5-0)

General

The Cortland County Finance and Administration Committee is meeting to discuss the 2027 county budget, reviewing information for various departments including the County Clerk/DMV, Board of Elections, Personnel, Health, Social Services, and others. The agenda includes approval of minutes and a series of budget-related items for each department. This is a working session focused on budget discussions, not final approvals.

• 2027 Budget Information
• Office of the County Clerk/DMV
• Board of Elections
• Personnel/Civil Service Department
• Department of Social Services

The Cortland County Finance and Administration Committee met on September 22, 2026 to review the 2027 county budget department by department. The committee approved two action items directing the County Administrator to bring forward proposals to fund shortfalls: $441,751.24 for Workforce Development and $65,000 for the Child Advocacy Center. Both votes were 5-0, with Legislators Jones and Waldbauer excused. All other budget review items were recorded as completed with no other decisions noted in the minutes.

• Approved directing County Administrator to propose funding the Workforce Development shortfall of $441,751.24 (5-0)
• Approved directing County Administrator to propose funding the Child Advocacy Center shortfall of $65,000 (5-0)
• Reviewed 2027 budget requests for 17 departments/offices; all recorded as COMPLETED with no other votes

Government Operations Committee

The Cortland County Government Operations Committee will consider three resolutions: abolishing a Human Resources Generalist position and creating a Human Resources Assistant, amending the 2026 budget to fund the GovQA FOIL management platform, and transitioning Medicare-eligible retiree prescription drug coverage from the Retiree Drug Subsidy Program to an Employer Group Waiver Plan. The committee will also review monthly reports from several county offices. This is a regular meeting with both action and discussion items.

• Abolish Human Resources Generalist (Grade 6H, $25.8383-$34.3909/hr.) effective Sept. 30, 2026; create Human Resources Assistant (Grade 4H, $22.3588-$29.7597/hr.) effective Oct. 1, 2026
• Authorize agreement with Granicus for GovQA FOIL platform, Oct. 1, 2026-Sept. 30, 2027, not to exceed $12,467.97; amend 2026 budget by $12,000
• Authorize transition of Medicare-eligible retiree prescription drug coverage from RDS to EGWP
• Monthly reports from County Clerk, Personnel, County Attorney, Safety Director, Board of Elections, Clerk of the Legislature

The Government Operations Committee approved three resolutions: abolishing a Human Resources Generalist position and creating a Human Resources Assistant (5-0), authorizing a $12,467.97 agreement with Granicus for the GovQA FOIL management platform and amending the 2026 budget (5-0), and authorizing the transition of Medicare-eligible retiree prescription drug coverage from the Retiree Drug Subsidy Program to an Employer Group Waiver Plan (4-1). Monthly reports from several departments were received as completed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved abolishing HR Generalist and creating HR Assistant position (5-0)
• Approved $12,467.97 Granicus GovQA FOIL platform agreement and budget amendment (5-0)
• Approved transition of retiree drug coverage to Employer Group Waiver Plan (4-1)
• Approved minutes of August 11, 2026 meeting
• Received monthly reports from County Clerk, Personnel, County Attorney, Safety Director, Board of Elections, and Clerk of the Legislature

Finance and Administration Committee

The Cortland County Finance and Administration Committee is reviewing resolutions that will be sent to the full Legislature, including a local law to amend the occupancy tax allocation, a contract for utility audits, and several budget amendments. The committee will also set a public hearing date for the 2027 tentative budget and consider agreements for guide rail services and a FOIL management platform.

• Local Law I of 2026 amends occupancy tax allocation: at least 75% of first $1M for tourism, remainder for economic development
• Authorize agreement with Troy & Banks for utility billing audit, paid 33% of refunds or savings
• Set public hearing on 2027 tentative budget for October 22, 2026 at 6:00 PM
• Award 3-year guide rail services contract to Chemung Supply Corp. at $369/hour
• Authorize $12,467.97 agreement with Granicus for GovQA FOIL platform

The Cortland County Finance and Administration Committee approved a local law amending how occupancy tax revenues can be used, sending it forward after a 5-2 vote. The committee also approved a 33% contingency-fee audit of county utility bills, a three-year guide rail services agreement, and a transition of Medicare-eligible retiree prescription coverage to an Employer Group Waiver Plan on a 4-3 vote. A public hearing on the tentative 2027 budget was set for October 22, 2026.

• Approved Local Law 'I' of 2026 amending occupancy tax revenue allocation (5-2)
• Approved agreement with Troy & Banks for utility billing audit at 33% contingency fee (7-0)
• Approved participation in TIPS purchasing cooperative (7-0)
• Approved three-year guide rail services agreement with Chemung Supply Corp. at $369/hour (7-0)
• Approved capital budget amendment for High Bridge Road bridge project, increasing local share to $22,250 (7-0)
• Approved $12,467.97 Granicus GovQA FOIL platform agreement and $12,000 budget amendment (7-0)
• Approved transition of retiree prescription drug coverage to Employer Group Waiver Plan (4-3)
• Approved $55,000 budget transfer for Probation Department equipment (7-0)

Health & Human Services Committee

The Health & Human Services Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding mental health services, including contract extensions and data sharing. The committee will also consider a workshop to improve coordination between behavioral health and criminal justice systems.

• Three-year agreement with RevSpring for patient communication services
• Participation in Hixny statewide hospital encounter data-sharing initiative
• $32,000 contract with Policy Research Associates, Inc. for a mapping workshop
• Rejection of a tobacco health equity mini-grant bid from Access to Independence
• $83,411 contract extension with Catholic Charities of Cortland County

The Cortland County Health & Human Services Committee approved six resolutions, all by 6-0 votes, covering a three-year RevSpring agreement for appointment reminders, participation in the Hixny statewide hospital data-sharing initiative at no cost, a $32,000 Sequential Intercept Mapping workshop contract, rejection of a single tobacco health-equity mini-grant bid, a contract extension with Catholic Charities, and reallocation of opioid settlement funds. Legislator Keith VanGorder was absent for all votes. The committee also approved its August 13, 2026 minutes and received monthly Health Department and Office for Aging reports.

• Approved three-year RevSpring agreement for appointment reminders and patient communication, with automatic one-year renewal and 90-day termination notice, at current pricing (6-0)
• Approved Mental Health Department participation in Hixny statewide hospital encounter data-sharing initiative at no cost to the County (6-0)
• Approved contract with Policy Research Associates/GAINS Center for a Sequential Intercept Mapping Workshop, not to exceed $32,000, funded by NYS OMH State Aid (6-0)
• Rejected the sole bid for tobacco health-equity mini-grant funding from Access to Independence (6-0)
• Approved extension of Contract No. 034-26 with Catholic Charities of Cortland County through September 29, 2028, not to exceed $83,411, paid via SAMHSA grant (6-0)
• Approved amendment to Resolution No. 188-25 reallocating $160,236 in remaining opioid settlement funds to Outreach and Engagement after Family and Children Counseling Services dropped methadone expansion (6-0)
• Approved August 13, 2026 committee minutes
• Received Health Department and Office for Aging monthly reports

General

The Cortland County Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss the 2027 budget. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the September 8, 2026, Committee of the Whole meeting.

• 2027 Cortland County Budget discussion

The Cortland County Committee of the Whole met September 10, 2026 and received a FY2027 budget update from County Administration and the Finance Department. No budget was adopted; the presentation laid out a current General Fund gap of $5.707M under a 5.5% property tax levy base scenario, with $2.450M in available fund balance as a separate one-time option. The committee also approved the September 8, 2026 minutes. A balanced Tentative Budget is scheduled for October 22 and adoption for November 19.

• Approved Committee of the Whole minutes of September 8, 2026
• Received FY2027 budget update; no line-by-line or position-level decisions made
• Presented 5.5% levy base scenario: $5.707M gap, $3.257M remaining after $2.450M fund balance
• Presented 7.5% levy scenario: $4.832M gap, $2.382M remaining after fund balance
• Presented 9.5% levy scenario: $3.957M gap, $1.507M remaining after fund balance
• No vote recorded on levy scenario, reductions, or one-time financing direction

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment Committee will meet to review monthly reports from the Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Department of Planning & Economic Development. The committee will also discuss Climate Smart Communities.

• Cornell Cooperative Extension Monthly Report
• Department of Planning & Economic Development Monthly Report
• Climate Smart Communities discussion

The Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment Committee met Sept. 10, 2026, approved its Aug. 13, 2026 minutes, and received a presentation and monthly reports. No resolutions or action items were decided; the recorded items were presentations, reports, and discussion only. The meeting adjourned at 12:10 p.m.

• Approved Aug. 13, 2026 committee minutes
• Received Diane Ferri presentation (completed)
• Received Cornell Cooperative Extension monthly report (completed)
• Received Planning & Economic Development monthly report (completed)
• Discussed Climate Smart Communities (completed)
• No resolutions or action items recorded as decided

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Cortland County Judiciary & Public Safety Committee will consider a resolution to amend the 2026 budget, moving $55,000 from Personal Services to Department Specific Equipment for the Probation Department to purchase portable radios, cell phones, protective vests, firearms, holsters, ammunition, and a storage locker. The committee will also review monthly reports from the Probation, Emergency Response & Communications, Assigned Counsel, Public Defender, and County Coroner departments.

• Budget amendment: $55,000 transferred to Probation Dept. equipment account (A31405-52015) from Personal Services (A31405-51005)
• Purchase of portable radios, cell phones, protective vests, firearms, holsters, ammunition, and storage locker for Probation
• Monthly reports from Probation, Emergency Response & Communications, Assigned Counsel, Public Defender, and County Coroner

The Judiciary & Public Safety Committee approved moving $55,000 within the 2026 budget from Probation's Personal Services account to its Department Specific Equipment account to buy portable radios, cell phones, protective vests, firearms, holsters, ammunition, and a storage locker. The vote was 7-0. The committee also accepted five monthly reports (Probation, Emergency Response & Communications, Assigned Counsel, Public Defender, Coroner) and approved its August 13, 2026 minutes. No other resolutions or action items were decided.

• Approved 2026 budget amendment shifting $55,000 from Probation Personal Services to Department Specific Equipment (7-0)
• Approved August 13, 2026 committee minutes
• Accepted Probation Department monthly report
• Accepted Department of Emergency Response & Communications monthly report
• Accepted Assigned Counsel monthly report
• Accepted Public Defender monthly report
• Accepted County Coroner monthly report

General

The Cortland County Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss proposed changes to retiree health benefits. No votes or final decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Proposed changes to retiree health benefits

The Committee of the Whole discussed a proposal to require Medicare-eligible retirees and their eligible family members to enroll in the county's Medicare Advantage plan and to transition prescription drug coverage to an Employer Group Waiver Plan (EGWP). No formal vote was taken; the discussion was informational to prepare for a future vote. The proposal is projected to save about $1.8 million annually.

• Discussed proposed changes to retiree health benefits (no vote taken)
• Reviewed mandatory Medicare Advantage enrollment for Medicare-eligible retirees
• Reviewed transition of prescription coverage from RDS to EGWP

Public Works Committee

The Cortland County Public Works Committee will vote on five resolutions, including awarding a three-year guide rail maintenance contract to Chemung Supply Corp. and a three-year mechanical/plumbing services contract to BPI Mechanical Service. They will also consider amending the capital budget for the High Bridge Road bridge replacement, authorizing a $7,500 annual CDL stipend for certain highway workers, and providing in-kind services for the Great Cortland Pumpkinfest. The agenda also includes monthly reports and discussion items on Dwyer Park and monuments.

• Guide rail services contract to Chemung Supply Corp. at $369/hour, 3-year term with two 1-year renewal options
• Mechanical/plumbing services contract to BPI Mechanical Service, 3-year term with two 1-year renewal options
• Capital budget amendment for High Bridge Road bridge replacement (BIN 3312330), increasing local share to $22,250
• Annual stipend up to $7,500 for non-management DPW employees with CDL, paid in $288.46 installments
• In-kind services for Great Cortland Pumpkinfest, Oct 3-4, 2026, cost not to exceed $2,500

The Public Works Committee approved a three-year agreement with Chemung Supply Corp. for guide rail installation, repair, replacement and maintenance along County-owned roadways at $369.00/hour, with options for two additional one-year renewals. The committee also approved a capital budget amendment for the High Bridge Road bridge replacement project and authorized up to $2,500 in in-kind services for the 2026 Great Cortland Pumpkinfest. A proposed agreement for mechanical and plumbing services with BPI Mechanical Service was pulled, and a resolution to provide a CDL stipend for Department of Public Works employees was postponed to a date certain. The committee also held an executive session on collective negotiations.

• Approved 3-year guide rail services agreement with Chemung Supply Corp. at $369.00/hour (8-0)
• Approved capital budget amendment for High Bridge Road bridge replacement, increasing land costs by $28,500 (8-0)
• Approved up to $2,500 in in-kind County services for the 2026 Great Cortland Pumpkinfest (8-0)
• Pulled resolution for mechanical and plumbing services agreement with BPI Mechanical Service
• Postponed to date certain a resolution authorizing a CDL stipend of up to $7,500 annually for eligible DPW employees (8-0)
• Approved August 11, 2026 committee minutes
• Entered executive session to discuss collective negotiations; no action reported

Legislature

The Cortland County Legislature will hold public hearings on a local law allowing 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt deer with adult supervision, and on Community Development Block Grant applications. The board will then vote on several resolutions, including a $79,960 contract with Trane U.S. Inc. to evaluate the courthouse's heating and cooling systems, a new internet service agreement with FirstLight, and a $4,300 Voice AI pilot for the DMV.

• Public hearing: Local Law 'H' to allow 12-13 year olds to hunt deer with firearm/crossbow under adult supervision
• Resolution: Authorize $79,960 Letter of Intent with Trane U.S. Inc. for courthouse HVAC evaluation (est. $15,000 net county cost)
• Resolution: New 3-year FirstLight internet contract at $2,100/month for redundant connections
• Resolution: Award $99,152 bid to The Resiliency Initiative for Hazard Mitigation Plan update
• Resolution: Accept $32,149 State Homeland Security Grant for Emergency Response

General

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee will consider resolutions establishing a five-year Capital Improvement Program, amending the 2026 budget for water damage recovery, and authorizing several contracts and grants. Key items include a $1.15 million Motorola software contract, a $4.4 million sales tax distribution, and a $160,648 state grant for children's mental health coordination.

• Establish 5-year Capital Improvement Program
• Amend 2026 budget: $75,000 insurance recovery, $25,000 deductible, $100,000 contingency for water damage
• Authorize $4,438,109.92 net sales tax distribution to municipalities
• Renew ATC property tax software contract: $39,700 (2026), $39,700 (2027), $42,000 (2028)
• Approve 7-year Motorola Flex software contract up to $1,152,000

The Finance and Administration Committee approved all 13 resolutions and the Capital Improvement Program policy, including a 7-year, $1,152,000 Motorola Flex public safety software contract (5-0) and a $160,648 state grant for a new Children's Single Point of Access Coordinator. It also authorized a $4,300 Voice AI pilot for the DMV (4-1) and a $100,000 budget amendment for water damage repairs. All items will go to the full Legislature.

• Approved 7-year Motorola Flex public safety software contract, $1,152,000 (5-0)
• Approved $160,648 OMH grant and creation of C-SPOA Coordinator position (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 budget amendment for water damage repairs (5-0)
• Approved $4,300 Voice AI pilot for DMV (4-1)
• Approved $1,152,000 Motorola contract (5-0)
• Approved Capital Improvement Program policy (5-0)
• Approved $128,089 OCFS Youth Bureau funds (5-0)
• Approved $32,149 Homeland Security grant (5-0)

Judiciary & Public Safety Committee

The Cortland County Judiciary & Public Safety Committee will consider three resolutions: accepting a $32,149 state homeland security grant, awarding a bid for a hazard mitigation plan update, and authorizing a seven-year, $1,152,000 software maintenance contract with Motorola Solutions. The committee will also receive monthly reports from several county departments.

• Accept $32,149 NYS Homeland Security Grant for Emergency Response and Communications
• Award $99,152 bid to The Resiliency Initiative for Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
• Authorize 7-year, $1,152,000 Motorola Flex software support contract
• Receive monthly reports from Assigned Counsel, Public Defender, District Attorney, Probation, and Emergency Response

Health & Human Services Committee

The Cortland County Health & Human Services Committee is meeting to consider seven resolutions, including accepting a $160,648 New York State Office of Mental Health grant to create a Children's Single Point of Access coordinator position, amending a $2.5M SAMHSA youth grant to add a suicide prevention coordinator, awarding $50,400 in JUUL settlement funds to two agencies, and approving a $128,089 state youth services funding plan.

The Health & Human Services Committee approved all ten agenda items, including accepting $160,648 in state funding to create a Children's Single Point of Access (C-SPOA) Coordinator position. It also approved writing off $74,279.35 in uncollectible Mental Health accounts, awarding JUUL settlement funds to two agencies, and amending the SAMHSA youth grant to increase funding for CACTC/RHI. All votes were 5-1 or 6-0, with Legislator Sandra Price voting against or absent for several items.

• Approved minutes of June 11, 2026 meeting.
• Approved amended Cortland County Youth Board By-Laws (5-1).
• Approved writing off $74,279.35 in uncollectible Mental Health accounts (5-1).
• Approved collaboration agreement with LIFEPlan CCO NY, Inc. (5-1).
• Approved accepting $160,648 OMH state aid and creating C-SPOA Coordinator position (5-1).
• Approved amending SAMHSA grant to increase CACTC/RHI funding to $797,184 (5-1).
• Approved awarding JUUL settlement funds: $7,900 to Family and Children's Counseling Services and $42,500 to Rural Health Institute of NY (5-1).
• Approved abolishing two positions and creating a 40-hr Staff Development Coordinator (6-0).

Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment

The Cortland County Ag, Economic Development, Planning & Environment Committee is meeting to consider a local law that would continue the county's participation in a state program allowing 12- and 13-year-old licensed hunters to hunt deer with firearms or crossbows under adult supervision through 2028. The committee will also review monthly reports from Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Soil & Water Conservation District, and the Department of Planning & Economic Development, and discuss an appointment to the Planning Board.

• Local Law H of 2026: authorizes 12-13 year old licensed hunters to hunt deer with firearm or crossbow under adult supervision through 2028
• Monthly reports from Cornell Cooperative Extension, Soil & Water Conservation District, and Planning & Economic Development
• Discussion of appointment to the Planning Board

The committee approved Local Law H of 2026, which authorizes 12 and 13 year old licensed hunters to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow under adult supervision, extending the county's participation in the state program through 2028. The vote was 6-0. The committee also approved the June 11, 2026 minutes and completed action items including monthly reports and an appointment to the Planning Board.

• Approved Local Law H of 2026 (6-0) to allow 12-13 year old licensed hunters to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow under adult supervision through 2028.
• Approved the June 11, 2026 committee minutes.
• Completed monthly reports from Cornell Cooperative Extension, Soil & Water Conservation District, and Department of Planning & Economic Development.
• Completed discussion on appointment to the Planning Board (no action taken).

Government Operations Committee

The Cortland County Government Operations Committee will consider three resolutions: increasing the county clerk's mortgage tax expense, authorizing a Voice AI contract for the DMV, and approving a five-year fire extinguisher inspection contract. They will also review several policies and monthly reports.

• Resolution to increase County Clerk's mortgage tax expense from $117,591.98 to $126,709.68 annually, effective Jan 1, 2027
• Authorize agreement with Carahsoft Technology Corp. for Voice AI services for DMV, not to exceed $4,300, Sept 1–Dec 31, 2026
• Authorize five-year contract with Jerome Fire Equipment Co. for fire extinguisher and Ansul system inspections, not to exceed $10,500
• Action items: Dress and Appearance Policy, Hazard Communication Policy, Exposure Control Plan
• Discussion item: Payroll Distribution

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will vote on a resolution to authorize a new three-year contract with FirstLight for internet services, increasing monthly costs from $1,800 to $2,100 to add true redundant backup connections. The committee will also consider allowing use of 83 Pendleton Street for training exercises and will receive monthly reports from Weights and Measures and Public Works.

• Authorize agreement with FirstLight Internet: new 3-year contract at $2,100/month, up from $1,800/month
• Authorize use of 83 Pendleton Street for training exercises from Aug 15 to Sep 15, 2026
• Weights and Measures monthly reports
• Department of Public Works monthly reports

The committee approved a resolution authorizing the County Administrator to sign a Letter of Intent with Trane U.S. Inc. for a comprehensive evaluation of the courthouse's heating and cooling systems, including a NYSERDA FlexTech energy study. The total authorization is $79,960, with the county's net cost for the study portion estimated at $15,000 after NYSERDA's 50% cost share. The committee also approved a new three-year FirstLight internet contract at $2,100 per month, and authorized the use of 83 Pendleton Street for training exercises from August 15 to September 15, 2026. The minutes from June 9, 2026, were approved.

• Approved the June 9, 2026 Public Works Committee minutes.
• Approved a new three-year contract with FirstLight for internet services at $2,100/month (5-0).
• Approved a Letter of Intent with Trane U.S. Inc. for courthouse HVAC evaluation and engineering services, up to $79,960 (4-0, Waldbauer recused).
• Approved the use of 83 Pendleton Street for training exercises from August 15 to September 15, 2026 (5-0).
• Completed the Weights and Measures monthly reports.
• Completed the Department of Public Works monthly reports.

Legislature

The Legislature will hold public hearings on revising the Office of the County Administrator and tax collection for the City of Cortland. The body is also deciding on the creation of an economic development reserve and the relocation of veterans' monuments.

• Public hearing on Local Law 'F' to establish a revised Office of the County Administrator
• Public hearing on Local Law 'G' regarding tax collection for the City of Cortland
• Proposal to establish an Economic Development Reserve with an initial $170,000 from Scott Road Solar
• Resolution to relocate veterans' monuments from Main Street to Courthouse Park
• Agreement with YWCA of Cortland for domestic violence services not to exceed $25,000

The Legislature approved the $34.5M operating budget for Tompkins Cortland Community College and reappointed Matthew McSherry to the Board of Trustees. Additional actions included authorizing the movement of veterans' monuments to Courthouse Park and restructuring dispatcher positions.

• Approved Local Law "F" of 2026 (16-0)
• Approved Local Law "G" of 2026 (16-0)
• Adopted $34,546,321 Tompkins Cortland Community College operating budget (16-0)
• Reappointed Matthew McSherry to TCCC Board of Trustees (16-0)
• Authorized relocation of veterans' monuments to Courthouse Park (16-0)
• Abolished one Senior Dispatcher and created one Dispatcher position (16-0)
• Approved agreement with SCRAM Systems for electronic monitoring (16-0)

General