Two Tompkins County departments will soon have a new temporary home as part of the county’s ongoing Center of Government construction project.
The Office for the Aging (COFA) and Department of Assessment will relocate to 31 Dutch Mill Road in the Town of Lansing, after the Tompkins County Legislature approved the move. The county is in the process of acquiring the property, with a move-in date to be announced once the site is ready.
The relocation will allow construction on the new Center of Government to move forward and free up space at 214 W. State Street in Ithaca, where the Board of Elections will move in. County officials say services from both departments will continue without interruption during the transition.
The Dutch Mill Road site offers several accessibility and convenience benefits, including free on-site parking, single-story access, ADA-compliant entrances and restrooms, and proximity to major roadways—making it especially convenient for rural residents. The offices also include private areas for client consultations and additional space for staff collaboration.
To ease transportation challenges, county staff will help clients coordinate rides, including Gadabout and ADA Paratransit services for those with mobility limitations. Phone and virtual appointments will remain available, and the county may introduce satellite office hours to better serve residents.
County leaders say purchasing the Dutch Mill property instead of leasing comparable office space will save taxpayers about $250,000 per year.
“This relocation is a necessary step in moving the Center of Government project forward, while also making thoughtful use of county resources,” said County Administrator Korsah Akumfi. “We are committed to making the transition as smooth as possible for staff and clients.”
Legislator Lee Shurtleff (R–Groton, Dryden, Lansing), who chairs the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, said the decision “balances long-term cost savings with the space needs of our departments.”
A timeline for the relocation will be announced once preparations at both sites are complete.
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