Tompkins County has approved a new four-year labor agreement with the Tompkins County Correction Officers Association (TCCOA) aimed at supporting long-term staff retention and keeping the county competitive as an employer.
The county legislature approved the contract last month, with the agreement taking effect Jan. 1, 2026, and running through 2029.
County officials say the deal was the result of collaboration between Sheriff Derek Osborne, County Administration, and Association leadership. While many correctional facilities across New York State have faced staffing shortages, Tompkins County has maintained stable staffing levels. Sheriff Osborne said the new agreement will help further strengthen recruitment and retention while recognizing the essential work of correction officers in public safety and rehabilitation.
Under the new contract, a new officer in 2026 will earn just over $60,700 annually, with scheduled increases bringing that to more than $67,200 by 2029. Officers with 15 to 20 years of service will earn just over $74,400 in 2026, rising to more than $82,400 by 2029.
County leaders say the agreement reflects their commitment to fair compensation and continued investment in the workforce, and they encourage experienced correction officers statewide to consider Tompkins County as an “employer of choice.”
