Tompkins County officials have announced that the Office for the Aging (COFA) and the Department of Assessment will temporarily move to 31 Dutch Mill Road in the Town of Lansing as part of the county’s ongoing Center of Government project. The relocation, approved by the county legislature, will allow construction on the new government center to move forward while also providing space for the Board of Elections at COFA’s current location at 214 W. State Street in Ithaca.
Both the Dutch Mill Road and West State Street offices will be prepared for occupancy, with a move-in timeline to be announced once renovations are complete. County officials emphasize that services will continue without interruption during the transition.
The Lansing site offers ample free parking, proximity to major roadways, and single-story, ADA-compliant accessibility, making it convenient for rural clients who may be hesitant to travel into Ithaca. The offices feature flexible layouts for confidential client consultations and co-locating the departments provides added efficiencies for residents who use services from both offices.
Financial stewardship was also a factor in the decision, as purchasing the Dutch Mill property instead of leasing comparable space is expected to save the county an estimated $250,000 per year.
County officials acknowledge that the move will require an adjustment period for both clients and staff and encourage patience and understanding. To help mitigate transportation concerns, staff will continue to offer phone and virtual appointments, coordinate door-to-door options for eligible clients, and assess the need for satellite office hours for in-person services and form drop-off.
“This relocation is a necessary step in moving the Center of Government project forward, while also making thoughtful use of county resources,” said Tompkins County Administrator Korsah Akumfi. “We are committed to making the transition as smooth as possible for staff and clients by providing clear information and maintaining access to high-quality services for aging adults and their caregivers.”
“This decision balances long-term cost savings with the space needs of our departments,” added Legislator Lee Shurtleff (R-Groton, Dryden, Lansing), Chair of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee. “Purchasing the Dutch Mill property rather than leasing comparable space is estimated to save the county about $250,000 per year.”
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