Local News: September 12, 2023

- NYSEG To Hold Pop-Up Service Center In Ithaca -

NYSEG customers can speak directly with representatives from the power provider on September 13. Customer service representatives will be at Southside Community Center in Ithaca on Wednesday from 9 to noon. State Assemblyperson Anna Kelles says they will be there to help with billing, shut-off or termination notices, smart meter installation questions, and help with new service or “vegetation management” requests.

- Tompkins County To Look Into Homeless Encampment Issue -

Tompkins County officials are creating a working group to delve into the issues related to Ithaca’s homeless encampment, the Jungle. The Ithaca Voice reports that officials say their work is meant to improve coordination with the City of Ithaca and will focus on services needed by those living in the area. How to address homelessness in Ithaca has been debated for several years. A draft policy about the encampment was sent back to city staff last month after it failed to get enough votes to move out of committee. 

- New York State’s Ethics Commission Ruled Unconstitutional -

A State Supreme Court judge declared that New York’s independent ethics commission is unconstitutional on Monday. The Albany Times Union reports Justice Thomas Marcelle says the commission was formed without a constitutional amendment voted on by the people. His ruling also points out that the commission has the power to punish ethics violators and impose fines. The ruling is the result of a lawsuit by former governor Andrew Cuomo alleging the commission didn’t have the authority to investigate a $5 million dollar book advance he received while in office. Gov. Kathy Hochul and the legislature created the commission after she took office in 2021. Hochul says her administration will work with the commission on an appeal of the decision.