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Residents urge legislature to reinstate DSS citizens advisory committee and act on homelessness
Summary
During public comment, multiple speakers described barriers to accessing Department of Social Services (DSS) assistance and urged the legislature to reinstate a state-mandated DSS citizens advisory committee to improve accountability and service delivery.
Several members of the public addressed the Tompkins County Legislature during the Oct. 15 meeting, urging action on homelessness and DSS procedures.
Theresa Fulton, vice chair of the Tompkins County Human Rights Commission, read a joint statement with the Alliance of Families for Justice and urged the reinstatement of a citizens advisory committee for the Department of Social Services as described in New York Social Services law and the State Codes, Rules and Regulations. Fulton stated, "We urge the legislator to reinstate the DSS Citizens Advisory Commission as soon as possible so that the Department of Social Services can better support community members who urgently need better support."
Other public speakers recounted personal experiences with homelessness, shelter navigation, and DSS sanctions. Cassandra Ponton described repeated homelessness and difficulties navigating shelters and supports. Outreach advocate Anest Desoufaj reported frequent sanctions imposed by DSS, noting a 90‑day sanction can leave people without shelter or benefits while they pursue a fair hearing.
Legislators responded by thanking speakers and directing County Administrator Lisa Holmes to follow up with DSS on the advisory committee suggestion; Holmes confirmed she would follow up. The item is now identified for committee follow-up and possible future action.
Provenance: topicintro SEG 541, topfinish SEG 605.
