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Board flags high call volume at Asteria Ithaca, questions who is responsible for building security
Summary
The Community Police Board discussed a high volume of police calls tied to Asteria Ithaca and debated whether building management and contracted service providers are meeting security and service obligations.
Board members told the Community Police Board that Asteria Ithaca — a recently opened supportive-housing building — and a related address together generate the highest call volume the dashboard shows, and they urged city and county officials to press building operators and service contractors to address problems.
Board members said the building’s funding model includes social-service contracts with Tompkins Community Action but questioned whether the operator is meeting obligations for on-site security and tenant management. The board said they have asked repeatedly for the building’s rental contract and behavioral requirements; those documents were not available at the meeting.
Members said the city has been filling response gaps at Asteria and told the building manager and contracted partners they need to increase private security, particularly for evening and overnight coverage. The police chief told the board that the department has been more visible in the building and has advised the building manager about needed security additions; the department will reduce its presence if private security is installed.
Board members said some residents housed at Asteria were placed there because they had higher risk factors, and those placements can create difficult management situations. Board members asked whether contract terms with Tompkins Community Action or state agencies require eviction or behavioral conditions to be enforced; they urged county and state officials to review contracts and enforcement if required.
One board member said another supportive-housing site, Art House, historically had staffing and security problems but improved after management made changes; members urged similar accountability at Asteria. The board did not take formal enforcement action but recommended staff and elected officials follow up with Tompkins Community Action and the building operator to clarify responsibilities and contract terms.
