Local News for April 19, 2023

Ithaca Is Considering A New Plan To End Homelessness

A comprehensive new proposal to end homelessness in Ithaca is now public. The plan suggests among other things creating 100 new permanent housing units combined with supporting services, hiring more outreach staff, and establishing a special fund for landlords or businesses that help people transitioning from homelessness. The plan was developed by Liddy Bargar and Simone Gatson of the local Continuum of Care program. The Common Council’s Planning and Economic Development Committee will vote on the proposal at its meeting this evening.

Eighteen People Across the Southern Tier Indicted On Child Sex Crime Charges

A Yates County grand jury has indicted 18 people across the Southern Tier for the sexual exploitation of one child. Some of those charged with the abuse are from Corning, Elmira and Binghamton. State police say the child was abused for seven years in different locations. The case began with an investigation of Andrew Daugherty of Dundee last year. The grand jury met this March and the charges were announced last week. They include rape and promoting a sexual performance of a child.

Board of Regents Bans School Mascots Relating To Indigenous People

School mascots using names or images relating to indigenous people are officially banned from New York schools. The Albany Times Union reports that the Board of Regents unanimously voted for the ban on Tuesday. Last November, the state education department said the mascots should be eliminated by the end of this school year. It cited research that found indigenous mascots promote prejudice and stereotypes against Native American people. About 60 school districts across the state still have Native American mascots and nicknames.