Cayuga County has joined the growing list of upstate counties declaring states of emergency in response to New York City’s plans to send asylum seekers northward.
Legislature Chairman David Gould announced the order Friday afternoon.
Like other area leaders, including Seneca County Board of Supervisors Chair Mike Enslow, Gould cites limited housing and related resources as a major factor in the county’s inability to accept an influx of migrants.
Gould stated “Cayuga County already has a crisis with its existing homeless population due to limited housing and related resources. The influx of migrant and asylum seekers to this existing needy population would strain our county facilities and resources beyond capacity,”
Under the order, lodging establishments are now prohibited from entering into contracts to house migrants.
The State of Emergency will remain in effect for 30 days unless rescinded or extended by Gould.
