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Legislature rejects changing official newspaper designation after debate over print vs. online reach
Summary
A resolution to change the county’s official newspaper failed on a roll call (motion failed 2–12). Supporters argued online reach outstrips the print paper’s circulation; opponents cited legal constraints and the need for a publication that meets statutory criteria.
The Tompkins County Legislature voted down a resolution to change the county’s official newspaper on Nov. 18, with a roll call result described by the clerk as 2 in favor and 12 opposed.
Proponents argued that online readership figures for local digital outlets exceed the print circulation of the incumbent paper and that public notices should be distributed where readers actually look. Matt Butler, editor in chief of The Ithaca Voice, urged the legislature to consider where public notices will reach residents, saying that public notices are of limited value if the designated publication does not have engaged readers.
Opponents noted state statutory requirements for what qualifies as a county “official newspaper,” the practical need to ensure statutory publication requirements are met, and expressed concern about changing a designation without an agreed implementation plan. The clerk recorded the roll call vote; the motion did not pass. Legislators discussed options for pursuing state law changes to allow broader notice mechanisms in the future and for continuing conversations about public‑notice effectiveness.
