Local News: January 11, 2024

- Tompkins County health officials offer caution as COVID rates rise and students return -

For the seven days between December 28 and January 4 state health records show there were 91 COVID cases reported in Tompkins County. Cases of COVID and flu are rising this winter, that’s not unusual. Tompkins County health officials say they are concerned about what might happen when college students return to Ithaca. Ithaca College and Cornell resume classes on January 22.  The Ithaca Voice reports officials’ concerns aren’t just more infections but an increase in hospitalizations especially among people who aren’t vaccinated or are sensitive to becoming seriously ill. And remember the flu can morph into a serious illness like pneumonia. Beyond getting flu and COVID vaccinations they recommend that people continue to practice the basics – thorough washing hands, if you’re feeling sick avoid groups, wear a good quality face mask, and use at-home COVID tests.

- Former town supervisor in Cayuga County pleads guilty to stealing $11,000 -

The former town supervisor of Throop in Cayuga County pleaded guilty to stealing almost $11,000 between 2017 and 2019. Throop is near Auburn. The state Attorney General announced on Thursday that William Tarby used town funds for home improvements and to pay off personal debts. Tarby was town supervisor from 2004 to 2019. They were discovered by investigators from the State Comptroller's office. As part of his plea deal, he can never seek public office and has to pay back the money he stole.

- DEC issues draft guidance for public water treatment facilities to monitor “forever” chemicals -

The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued a draft guidance policy for public water treatment facilities to set monitoring levels for PFAS, PFOS, and 1,4 Dioxane. The deadline to submit public comments is February 9. PFAS and PFOS chemicals are difficult to destroy and toxic to human health. They are used to make heat, oil, stains, grease, and water-resistant products. Last March, the New York DEC issued guidance for monitoring levels for industrial permitting.