The City of Ithaca is rolling out a new community-based response team aimed at handling non-violent calls for service without relying solely on police.
City leaders have approved a three-year pilot program for the “ROOTS” team — short for Responders Offering Outreach, Trust, and Support, as part of Ithaca’s broader Reimagining Public Safety initiative. The program is designed to provide a more supportive, people-focused approach to situations that don’t require law enforcement.
ROOTS responders may be dispatched through 911, requested by Ithaca Police, or proactively engage with people they see who may need assistance. The team will work alongside existing efforts such as community policing, the CARE mental health response team, and other outreach programs.
Acting City Manager Dominick Recckio called the launch a measured step forward, saying the city is starting small, using existing funding, and coordinating closely with police and community partners to build a strong foundation.
Officials say the goal is to build trust, connect people with services, and reduce the need for traditional enforcement when a non-police response makes more sense.
Community Justice Center Director Monalita Smiley said the program follows the policy direction set by Common Council and uses current resources responsibly while strengthening partnerships across city departments.
Mayor Robert Cantelmo said the new team delivers on a long-standing promise to create an alternative crisis response option. He called ROOTS a step toward a safer and more supportive Ithaca, focused on care, de-escalation, and connection rather than enforcement.
The city plans to track data and gather community feedback throughout the pilot to guide future changes or possible expansion.
