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Legislature authorizes NYSEG easement for two fast chargers at Ithaca Tompkins Airport
Summary
After debate over revocable vs. perpetual easement language and concerns about NYSEG negotiation stances, the Tompkins County Legislature approved a resolution authorizing the county administrator to sign an easement with NYSEG to support two fast EV chargers at the Ithaca Tompkins International Airport; revenue sharing estimated at 5% for the airport.
The Tompkins County Legislature approved a resolution authorizing the county administrator to sign an easement with New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) to permit installation of two fast electric vehicle chargers on airport property. Hailey, the presenting staff member, said GreenSpot will provide and install the charging equipment and that the easement is needed so NYSEG can place a transformer and access the pad; GreenSpot would cover construction costs and the county would not pay capital costs.
Discussion focused on easement length and revocability. Administration said NYSEG refused to grant an easement that expires automatically when chargers are no longer in use; legislators attempted amendments to require a revocable easement or to send the resolution back to committee to seek a Public Service Commission declaratory opinion. Supporters argued the chargers provide critical fast‑charging infrastructure for the county, while opponents worried about permanently encumbering county land and uncertain long‑term negotiating leverage with NYSEG. Revenue projections provided by GreenSpot and staff estimated modest annual revenue sharing to the airport (5% of usage revenue, with a range presented of roughly $2,000–$35,000 depending on utilization). After discussion and recorded raised‑hand voting, the resolution passed (ayes 13, noes 3).
