Sheriff reports critical staffing shortages at local jail amid retirement concerns

Cayuga County's judicial and public safety meeting on June 10, 2025, highlighted a critical staffing crisis in the county jail, prompting urgent calls for action. Sheriff Thomas reported a significant loss of personnel, with four staff members leaving last month alone—three due to retirement and one for a new opportunity. This has left the jail down 13 employees, raising alarms about the potential for burnout among remaining staff and the risk of having to outsource inmate housing to other counties, which could strain the budget.

Sheriff Thomas emphasized the need for immediate negotiations on the jail's union contract, which is set to expire at the end of the year. He expressed concern that without a competitive contract, the county may struggle to attract and retain qualified candidates. The sheriff noted that the hiring process has become increasingly challenging, with many applicants failing to meet physical and psychological requirements.

To combat these issues, the sheriff announced plans for weekly open interviews and ongoing recruitment efforts, including open houses to engage potential candidates. He stressed the importance of not only hiring new staff but also retaining experienced employees, as up to 30 more could become eligible for retirement by next June.

The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing staffing shortages in the jail, with Sheriff Thomas warning that continued losses could lead to drastic measures that would impact the county's budget and public safety. The sheriff's proactive approach aims to stabilize the workforce and ensure the jail can operate effectively without compromising safety or incurring additional costs.