Local News: August 16, 2023

- Ithaca Encampment Vote Postponed -

The draft encampment policy in Ithaca will not be voted on during the August 16 of the planning committee. The agenda for the Planning Committee of the Ithaca Common Council was changed this afternoon. The draft policy is now in the discussion section of the meeting. Another change is that people can attend in person by Zoom. You can find the Zoom registration and meeting agenda at this link .

- Opioid Overdose Deaths Are On The Rise In Tompkins County -

Opioid overdose deaths have increased in Tompkins County compared to recent years. Tompkins County Whole Health reports that in the first six months of the year, there were 17 opioid overdoses in the county. They say the main reasons are the increased presence of fentanyl and xylazine or tranq in street drugs. Director Frank Krupa is urging people who use street drugs to test for fentanyl and carry Narcan. Both fentanyl test strips and Narcan kits are available from Tompkins Whole Health. The health department will also give Narcan training. For more information follow this link.