▼

911

Show All Answers

1. What is 911?

911 is a universal three digit number utilized to report a law, fire, or ems emergency. 

2. When should you call 911?

You should call 911 when you have an emergency. An emergency is considered an immediate threat to persons and/or property. 

3. What should you expect when calling 911?

A trained 911 Supervisor or 911 Dispatcher will answer your phone call. Each employee has had many hours of training in the handling and processing of your emergency.

Common Questions

While no two emergencies are alike, they all present many similarities. Therefore, there are common questions that will be asked on all emergencies. You will be asked the following questions:

• What is the location of the emergency?
• What is the nature of the emergency?
• What is your name?
• What is your phone number?

Importance of Information Gathering

These are the basic questions that the Dispatcher will be asking to obtain the necessary information from you. They are important to help ensure a timely dispatch and arrival of the appropriate Emergency Response. Do not assume that because you have lived in your house for many years that everyone knows who you are and where you live. The people taking your call and the people responding often times do not know where you live.

4. What does the 911 Center expect from me when I place a 911 call?

We know that for many, calling 911 is not an every day event. You may be nervous about calling and about the situation you are calling for. We request that you try to remain as calm as possible. While we may be able to get the location of the emergency, we still need to be able to determine what the emergency is to ensure the appropriate response.

Things to Remember

• We do not want to send a police car for someone having a medical emergency.
• We would like for you to stay on the line until we tell you it is ok to hang up.
• We would like for you to answer the questions that we are asking.
• Asking you questions is not delaying Emergency Response in any way but in fact is helping us to determine the appropriate response.
• We know how to do what is required and it is a waste of time for us to hear over and over, "Just send someone."
• We need to know what is going on to make the appropriate determination on whom to send.

5. What if I call 911 by mistake?

If you or anyone in your household, including children, call 911 by mistake, do not hang up but stay on the line.

Enhanced 911

Cayuga County is an Enhanced 911 center and we can obtain the location of where 911 was called from. If you dial 911 by mistake and hang up, our policy is to try to call back the number and reach an adult who can tell us if there is any problem. We then have to send Law Enforcement to verify that there isn't any problem. This takes Law Enforcement away from being able to handle a real emergency.

Verify a Non-Emergency Situation

If you stay on the line and speak with a 911 Center employee, we will ask you to verify that you do not have an emergency and also verify that what shows up on our computer is correct in case you ever do have one.

Things to Remember

Remember that old, deactivated cell phones can still call 911 as long as there is a charge in the battery. Do not allow your children to play with home phones or cell phones. Children make the majority of 911 hang up calls we get, but we still have to treat them as if they are true emergencies.

6. Can you find me if I call 911 from my cell phone?

GPS Phone

If your cell phone is equipped with GPS we should be able to pin point your approximate location. Each cell phone provider has different standards that they use so not all are have the same accuracy.

Phone with No GPS

If you have an older cell phone that does not have GPS you will need to stay on the line and try as best as you can to direct the Dispatcher to your location.

Cell Towers & Location

When you call 911 from your cell phone, your call will hit the nearest tower of your cell phone provider. So while you may be in Cayuga County using your cell phone, you may actually hit a tower in another County and your call will be directed to that County. Just explain that your emergency is in Cayuga County and they will transfer you to us.

Important Reminder

Also, keep in mind that cell phone calls are not always very clear. There is a routing process that they have to go through and sometimes the beginning of the call is broken up. Please be patient as the Dispatcher is doing everything they can to assist you.

7. How can I help Emergency Responders find me faster?

• Make sure that your house and/or mailbox are numbered with the correct address. Reflective numbers work best for dark.
• If it is dark outside, turn some outside lights on to aide responders in finding your house. If you can hear the siren and are able to reach the light switch, start turning it on and off so that it flickers and draws the attention of the responders.
• If you have a long driveway or your house is not easily seen from the road, try to have someone at the end of the driveway by the road to flag down responders.
• Consider placing driveway markers at the end of your driveway to help responders find it.
• Put all pets safely away. Responders will refrain from exiting their vehicles or entering a residence if there is a dog barking and growling at them.
• Have a list handy of all medications that are taken by the people who reside with you.

8. Can I text 911?

Yes. Simply make 911 the recipient of the text and we will receive the message. Phone is our preferred method of communication as it is generally easier to collect information that way, but sometimes it may not be safe to call. Example: Someone in a domestic situation wants help but does not want the other party to know they are contacting 911. 

9. What qualifies as a police emergency?

A police emergency is any situation that requires immediate police response to protect life and/or property. These may include but are not limited to:

• Assaults
• Burglaries
• Damage to property
• Domestics
• Motor Vehicle Accidents
• Suicides

Remain Calm & Remain on the Line

Try to remain calm while talking to the Dispatcher and stay on the line until they tell you it is ok to hang up. You may have to remain on the line until responding Law Enforcement arrives on the scene. Depending on the situation, the Dispatcher will be asking questions that will help ensure officer safety, public safety and your safety.

Safety Concerns

While obtaining information about the situation you will be asked if you and/or other people involved are safe. If the answer is no, they will try to help you to get yourself and others to a safer location.

More Information

For more information about police emergencies, please review the Police Emergencies page.

10. What qualifies as a fire emergency?

A Fire Emergency is any that requires an immediate response from a Fire Department. These could include but are not limited to:

• Car Fires
• Field Fires
• House Fires
• Weather Related Emergencies

Remain Calm & Remain on the Line

Stay as calm as possible and answer the questions that are being asked. Remember that we are not delaying Emergency Response by asking these questions. Do not hang up the line until you are advised to do so. You may be asked to stay on the line until Emergency Responders arrive on the scene.

More Information

For more information about fire emergencies, please review the Fire Emergencies page.

11. What qualifies as a medical emergency?

A Medical Emergency is any that requires immediate response from an Ambulance Service. In Cayuga County most areas will also send a Fire Department Response. These may include but are not limited to:

• Allergic Reactions
• Heart Attacks
• Illnesses
• Injuries from falls
• Seizures

Remain Calm & Stay on the Line

Remain calm, answer the questions that are asked and do not hang up until told to do so.

More Information

For more information on medical emergencies, please review the Medical Emergencies page.

▼

All Hazard Mitigation Plan

Show All Answers

1. What is Hazard Mitigation?

Hazard Mitigation is any action taken to reduce the loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters (natural, technological and man-made) according to FEMA. It is often considered the first of the four phases of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

Mitigation measures fall into the following six general categories, and address both public and private property:

• Emergency Services: Measures such as:
  • Communication systems
  • Emergency response
  • Hazard threat recognition
  • Hazard warning systems
  • Health and safety maintenance
  • Protection of critical facilities
• Natural Resource Protection: Measures such as erosion and sediment control, stream corridor protection, vegetative management, and wetlands preservation
• Prevention: Measures such as:
  • Building codes
  • Development regulations
  • Fire fuel reduction
  • Open space preservation
  • Planning and zoning
  • Sediment control
  • Soil erosion
  • Storm water management
• Property Protection: Measures such as:
  • Acquisition
  • Barriers
  • Flood-proofing
  • Insurance
  • Rebuilding
  • Relocation
  • Storm shutters
  • Structural retrofits for high winds and earthquake hazards
• Public Education and Awareness: Measures such as outreach projects, real estate disclosure, hazard information centers, technical assistance, and school age and adult education programs
• Structural Projects: Measures such as:
  • Bulkheads
  • Buttresses
  • Channel modifications
  • Dams
  • Debris basins
  • Elevated roadways (seismic protection)
  • High flow diversions
  • Levees
  • Retaining walls
  • Retrofitted buildings
  • Revetments
  • Seawalls
  • Spillways
  • Storm sewers

▼

Area Code Overlay

Show All Answers

1. What is an area code overlay?

An overlay is the addition of another area code (such as 680) to the same geographic region as an existing area code (such as 315). An overlay does not require customers to change their existing area code.

2. Who will be affected?

The 315 area code covers the west-central portion of New York serving communities such as Syracuse, Utica and Watertown. The new 680 area code will serve the same geographic area currently served by the existing 315 area code.

3. What will be the new dialing procedure?

To complete calls within the 315 area code region, the new dialing procedure requires callers to dial area code plus telephone number. This means that all calls in the 315 area code that are currently dialed with 7 digits will need to be dialed using 10 digits, that is, the area code plus telephone number. The same dialing procedure will apply to telephone numbers assigned to the new 680 area code.

4. When will the change begin?

Effective March 12, 2016, you should begin using the new dialing procedures whenever you place a call from the 315 area code. If you forget and dial just seven digits, your call will still be completed.

Required Dialing Procedures

Beginning February 11, 2017, you must use the new dialing procedures, as described above for all calls. After this date, if you do not use the new dialing procedures, your calls will not be completed and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again.

New Lines & Services

Beginning March 11, 2017, new telephone lines or services may be assigned numbers using the new 680 area code. All calls made within and between area codes 315 and 680 must be placed using the 10-digit telephone number (315 or 680 plus the 7-digit telephone number).

5. What will you need to do?

In addition to changing your dialing procedures, all services, automatic dialing equipment, or other types of equipment that are programmed to dial a 7-digit number will need to be reprogrammed to use the new dialing procedure.

Equipment Changes

Some examples are:

• Alarm and security systems or gates
• Call forwarding settings
• Fax machines
• Internet dial-up numbers
• Life safety systems or medical devices
• Mobile phone contact lists
• Private Branch Exchanges (PBXs)
• Speed dialers
• Voicemail services and similar functions

Update Personal Information

Be sure to check your website, business checks, contact information, and your personal or pet ID tags to ensure the area code is included.

6. What will remain the same?

• Your telephone number, including current area code, will not change.
• The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to the overlay.
• What is a local call now will remain a local call regardless of the number of digits dialed.
• You will continue to dial 1 plus the area code plus the telephone number for all calls to other area codes (outside of 315 and 680).
• You can still dial just three digits to reach 911.
• If 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711 or 811 are currently available in your community you will still dial these codes with just three digits.

7. Who may you contact with questions?

If you have any questions regarding information provided in the notice, please visit the New York Public Service Commission's website for further information.

▼

Childhood Lead Poisoning

Show All Answers

1. What is lead?

Lead is a metal found in the earth and it is a poison. For years lead was used in paint, gasoline, plumbing and many other items. Lead paint was banned from home use in 1978. If you live in a home built before 1978, there could be lead paint and dust in your home.

2. Where can lead be found?

Homes Built Before 1978
     Many homes built before 1978 contain lead-based paint. Lead paint is dangerous when it:

• Gets old and begins to chip, flake or wear;
• Creates a lead-dust hazard;
• Contaminates exposed soil.

Work or Hobbies
     Lead can also be brought home by family members who work with lead or have hobbies where lead is used in:

• Home renovations or working with stained glass, ceramics, jewelry, auto repair, battery manufacturing, or firearms (bullets, projectiles, firing ranges).

Everyday Products
Many products, especially items that are imported from other countries, may contain lead. Some examples are:

• Traditional Ceramics
• Traditional Makeup (Kohl, Surma)
• Jewelry (Especially children's jewelry)
• Folk Remedies (Azarcon, Sindoor and Greta)
• Toys, such as those imported from other countries, purchased at antique or dollar shops, collectables passed down through generations.

3. How does a child become poisoned?

A child can get lead poisoning by swallowing or breathing in lead. Oftentimes, children are poisoned by lead dust. 

Since many young children spend a lot of time on the floor where lead dust collects, they can end up poisoning themselves when they put their hands and toys with lead dust on them in their mouths. Lead can also pass from a mother to her baby during pregnancy. 

Children 6 and younger are the most at-risk of lead poisoning. Their bodies and brains are more sensitive because they are still growing. The good news is that lead poisoning can be prevented. 

4. Why is lead a problem?

If a child becomes poisoned by lead it can cause problems with a child's growth, behavior and ability to learn.

Lead dust as small a grain of sand can be enough to poison a child. This can cause:

• Brain and nervous system damage
• Learning and behavior problems
• Slowed growth and development 
• Hearing and speech problems

This can:

• Lower a child's IQ
• Make it hard to learn and pay attention
• Lead to underperformance at school

5. Is your family at risk of lead poisoning?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you should have your child tested for lead.

• Does your child live in or regularly visit a building built before 1978 with potential lead exposures, such as peeling or chipping paint, recent or ongoing renovation or remodeling?
• Has your child spent any time outside the  United States in the past year?
• Does your child live or play with a child who has an elevated blood lead level?
• Does your child have developmental disabilities, put nonfood items in their mouth, or peel or disturb painted surfaces?
• Does your child have frequent contact with an adult who may bring home traces of lead from a job or hobby such as: house painting, plumbing, renovations, construction, auto repair, welding, electronics repair, battery recycling, lead smelting, jewelry, stained glass or pottery making, fishing (weights, "sinkers"), firearms, or collecting lead or pewter figurines?
• Does your family use traditional medicines, health remedies, cosmetics, powders, spices, or food from other countries?
• Does your family cook, store, or serve food in crystal, pewter, or pottery from other countries?
• Did your child miss a lead test? New York State requires all children be tested for lead at age 1 and again at age 2.

6. How can I prevent lead poisoning?

Here are some ways to lower your child's risk of lead poisoning:

• Always wash your child's hands before eating, sleeping and after playing;
• Keep hands, toys, and pacifiers clean and free of dirt and dust;
• Keep your home clean and free of excess dust and chipping or aging paint;
• Wipe down floors, window sills, and places where children are;
• Always use a HEPA vacuum. HEPA vacuums trap lead particles and prevent them from being released into the air. 

And be sure to give your child healthy foods! Lead absorption decreases when there is enough iron and calcium in a child's diet. To help protect their body from lead and make them stronger, serve them foods high in Calcium, Iron, and Vitamin C.

7. Are pregnant and lactating women at risk for lead poisoning?

Lead can pass from a mother to her unborn baby. Maternal lead exposure during pregnancy can cause fatal lead exposure, which may impact fetus growth and neurodevelopment.

Prenatal healthcare providers are expected to provide each pregnant woman anticipatory guidance on lead poisoning prevention during pregnancy, and to assess each pregnant woman at the initial prenatal visit for high dose lead exposure using a risk assessment tool. 

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends only women who are at risk get tested. If you answer "yes" to any of the questions below, you may be at risk for lead exposure and should talk with your doctor about having a blood test.

• Do you live in or regularly visit an old house (built before 1978) the has peeling, chipping, dusting, or chalking paint?
• Do you live in or regularly visit an old house (built before 1978) with on going renovations that generate dust (e.g. sanding, scraping)?
• Sometimes pregnant woman have the urge to eat things which are not food, such as clay, soil, plaster, or paint chips. Do you ever eat or chew non-food items?
• Do you have children in the house with elevated blood lead levels?
• Are there any lead pipes in your home?
• Do you use non-commercially prepared pottery or leaded crystal?
• Do you use any traditional folk remedies or cosmetics that are not sold in a regular drug store; are homemade or imported?
• Do you or others in the household have an occupation or hobby involving lead exposure?
• Have you recently moved to the United States from another country?
• Do you live near a point source of lead, such as mines, smelters, or battery recycling plants (even if closed)?

▼

Civil Service

Show All Answers

1. When will I receive my admittance notice to take an exam?

Admittance notices are mailed approximately 5 days before the exam.  If you do not receive a notice by the Wednesday before the exam, please contact the Human Resources office.

2. When will I know my score on the exam and my rank on the Civil Service List?

Test results are received from New York State Civil Service approximately three months after an exam is held.  You will be notified by mail of your score and placement on the eligible list for that title.  An eligible list is a ranked listing of all passing candidates from an exam.  An eligible list is established for a minimum of one year and can be extended to a maximum of four years.

3. How do I know what jobs are available?

Many Civil Service jobs are filled by lists.  In order to get on the list, you must take an exam.  If no exam is required for the job, the appointing authority may advertise on the County Civil Service vacancy page or their own website.

4. What is Civil Service?

The majority of positions in local government fall under the Civil Service System.  A Civil Service employee can be anyone from a deputy sheriff, secretary, registered nurse, mechanic, nurse's aide, attorney, accountant, laborer, food service worker, etc.  The Civil Service System is required by the New York State Constitution and is intended to ensure all positions are filled by merit and fitness.  Cayuga County Civil Service manages all civil service positions in the county including towns, villages, school districts, and special districts, except the City of Auburn and the Auburn Enlarged City School District.

5. Can I receive notification of exams and vacancies?

Yes, you can receive notification of exams and vacancies.  You can also receive notification of exam deadlines and cancellations to submit applications by visiting our calendar center .

6. Do I have to take a test?

Most, but not all, positions require you take a test.  These are called competitive positions.  For competitive positions where there is not list of tested applicants, a person may be appointed provisionally until the results of the test are established.  There are certain positions that do not require a test.  These are called non-competitive, labor, or exempt.

7. What is a provisional vacancy?

A provisional vacancy is a competitive (testable) position that Civil Service does not have a current list to hire from.  If appointed (hired) provisionally, the employee needs to take a test and be reachable (score well enough) on a list to keep their job.

8. Are there positions that do not require a test?

Yes.  There are three types of positions which have no test requirements.  Exempt positions are those where the employer decides the qualification of applicants and choose the person they want to hire.  The process is similar to that found in the private sector.  Non-competitive positions have specific education, experience, or licensing requirements you must meet that can't be tested.  Employers choose from a pool of candidates that meet the qualifications.  Labor positions have no requirements.  Employers may choose anyone for these jobs.  However, they frequently select individuals with the best work record.

9. Do I have to be a resident?

Most civil service agencies do have a residency requirement.  This requirement can be different for each municipality or position within a municipality.  The exam announcement for each position will state the residency requirement is for that position.

10. How do I apply for a Civil Service exam?

You must complete a Civil Service application in full.  Cayuga County accepts electronic applications as well as paper applications for exams and vacancies.  Only information provided on the Cayuga County Civil Service application will be taken into consideration when determining if a candidate meets the minimum requirements.

11. Can I submit a resume for a job?

You may attach a resume to the application, but Civil Service requires you complete a Civil Service application in full.  Only information provided on the application will be taken into consideration when determining if a candidate meets the minimum requirements.  

12. How do I apply for a position that does not require an exam?

You must complete a Civil Service application in full.  Cayuga County accepts electronic applications as well as paper applications for exams and vacancies.  Only information provided on the Cayuga County Civil Service application will be taken into consideration when determining if a candidate meets the minimum requirements.

13. Do I need to fill out a separate application for each position I apply for?

Yes, you must complete a Civil Service application for each position or exam you wish to take.  Most exams require that you pay a non-refundable application fee.  Check the exam announcement to see if a fee is required.

14. Is there an application or examination fee?

There is a non-refundable application processing fee (NOT examination fee) for each examination which must accompany your application.  The amount of the fee depends on the type of examination and is listed on each examination announcement.  This non-refundable fee is used to defray the cost of processing applications.  Therefore, please carefully review the minimum qualifications required for each exam you intend to take.

15. Will you accept an application submitted after the deadline?

No.  When applying for an exam, take note of the application deadline for filing on the exam announcement.  Applications submitted online or in person must be filed (received) in the Civil Service office by 5:00 pm.  Applications that are mailed must be postmarked by the application deadline date.  No exceptions will be made.

16. How specific do employment dates need to be on an application?

Please be as specific as you can.  You must provide at least the month and year of your employment start and end dates.  Vagueness on dates will not be resolved in your favor.

17. What happens after I apply for a test?

Applications are reviewed to determine if all information was provided and if minimum qualifications have been met.  Applicants who do not meet the minimum qualifications are notified and given a deadline to respond with additional information.  Applicants that meet the minimum qualifications are notified by mail approximately 5 days prior to the test date of the test location and other instructions.

18. What can I do if I receive a disqualification letter from Civil Service?

The letter usually states that is appears that you do not meet he minimum qualifications for the examination.  This means you may not have provided enough information on the application to determine that you meet the qualifications.  Read the disqualification letter closely, and submit a letter providing the missing or unclear information.  The Civil Service Commission will then be able to take a second look at your application and determine if you qualify.

19. What will be on the test?

You can find out what areas each test will cover from the exam announcement under the heading "Scope of Examination". Exam announcements can be found under current exams, the civil service calendar, or human resources calendar.

20. What do I study to prepare for an exam?

You can find out what areas each test will cover from the exam announcement under the heading "Scope of Examination".  Many exams have practice test materials available from NYS Civil Service, your local library, or union.

21. What are rank and position?

Ranks and positions are created when all exam results are in.  A rank is a group of same scores for an exam.  Candidates that received the same score are in the same rank.  The group of candidates with the highest score are in Rank 1.  The next highest group of scores are in Rank 2, and so on.  Position is a tie breaker within a rank of scores.  If 5 candidates receive a 100 on an exam they would be positions 1 through 5.  Their placing in the position is randomly determined by the computer.

22. What if I have moved since taking a test?

Please notify the Civil Service office promptly with your change of address.

23. Can I receive notification of application deadlines?

Yes.  You can sign up to receive text or e-mail notification of application deadlines by visiting the Notify Me center and signing up to receive calendar alerts.

24. How do I find out if an exam is cancelled?

Sign up for alerts by visiting our alert center.  Cancellations will be also be announced on news channels 3 (WSTM) and 9 (WSYR) ; and radio stations 98.5 (WNYR) , 99.3 (WFLK) , 1110 (WSFW), 1240 (WGVA) , 1550(WCGR) , and 1590 (WAUB).

25. What type of application review payments do you accept?

Online payments with credit cards can be made at the time of application submission.  There is a $3.00 convenience fee for each application.  You can pay via USPS with a check or money order.  You can pay in person with cash, check, money order, or credit card.  You can by telephone with a credit card.

26. When do I need to cross-file?

You should notify each jurisdiction when you are taking exams on the same day in different jurisdictions.  There is a cross-filing form that needs to be submitted for Cayuga County.

27. Can I receive notification when the agenda for the Commission meeting is ready?

Yes, you can sign up for e-mail and/or text alert when the agenda for the Civil Service Commission is complete by visiting the Notify Me center and signing up for Agenda Center.

28. How will I know if an exam is cancelled due to weather?

Exam cancellations are announced on television stations WSTM (Channel 3) and WIXT (Channel 9); radio stations 98.5 (WNYR), 99.3 (WALL), 1110 (WSFW), 1240 (WGVA), 1550 (WCGR), and 1590 (WAUB).  You can sign up for alerts center to receive a text or e-mail notification.

29. If my exam is cancelled due to weather, how will I be notified of the new (re-scheduled) test date?

You will be notified by Cayuga County Civil Service via e-mail, telephone, or USPS of the new exam date.  You can also sign up for text and/or email alerts.

30. How do I apply for a typing waiver?

Typing waiver requests must be made to the Civil Service Commission in writing.  

31. Do I have to take a typing performance test?

You have to take the typing performance test if you are not a current Cayuga County employee, an employee of a jurisdiction within Cayuga County Civil Service, or have not taken a comparable exam within the last 4 years.  If you are a current Cayuga County employee, an employee under the jurisdiction of Cayuga County Civil Service, and you had to take a typing performance test to be appointed to your current position, or you have written proof that you passed a comparable exam in another jurisdiction you may not have to take a typing performance test.  You can apply for a typing waiver.  

▼

Clerk - Passport

Show All Answers

1. What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?

•    A passport book can be used to travel anywhere in the world- by land, sea, or air. A passport card can only be used to travel by land or sea to Canada or Mexico.

•    Note: Cruise lines differ in their requirements- if you are going on a cruise, contact the cruise line directly to ask about their document requirements.

2. How much does a passport cost and how long does it take to get one? Currently it is up to 13 weeks. What are acceptable payments?

• You will need a check or money order for the passport fee of $130.00 for an adult passport (16 and older), and $100.00 for a child passport (under 16). 
• The passport fee payment must be made payable to the U.S. Dept. of State. 
• There will also be an additional processing fee of $35.00 per person payable to Cayuga County Clerk 
• If you would like us to take your passport photo, it is $15.00 ($10.00 if you are a Veteran). The processing/photo fees can be paid by cash, check, or credit card (note: there will be an additional fee if you pay by credit card). 
• The processing and/or photo fee and the passport fee are two separate payments. 
• Please see estimated processing times. If you need a passport quicker, you can expedite your passport. For those fees, please see our fee schedule.

3. How long is a passport good for?

•    An adult passport (16 years and older) is valid for 10 years. 

•    A child passport (under 16) is valid for 5 years.

4. Can I still renew my passport even though it has expired, or do I have to pay the processing fee again?

•    You can renew your passport up to 5 years past its expiration date if you have an adult passport (16 years and older). 

•    All children passports (under 16) must pay the processing fee each time they apply. All 5 year passports are not renewable.

5. I am travelling overseas and my passport only has a few months left on it before it expires. Should I renew my passport before my trip?

•    In order to travel internationally, your passport must have at least 6 months remaining on it before it expires.

6. What do I do if my passport is expired for more than 5 years? What documents do I need to apply for a new passport?

•    After 5 years past the expiration date, you must start over and fill out a new passport application form (DS-11), NOT a renewal form. You will need to pay the $130.00 passport fee as well as the $35.00 processing fee, and you will need a valid ID (ex.: Driver’s License). You will also need to submit your expired passport.

•    If you are applying for a passport with an out-of-state ID, you will need two forms proving who you are (ex.: social security card). You will also need to bring your expired passport book to use for your proof of citizenship. 

•    If you are unable to submit your expired passport, you will need to bring in your certified birth certificate and complete a lost or stolen passport form as well. Your birth certificate must have both your mother and fathers names on it along with a raised seal. 

•    If you have a Naturalization Certificate, you can use that for your proof of citizenship.

•    Note: all original proof of citizenship documents will be sent away with your passport application and will be returned to you in 10-13 weeks.

7. When am I required to use a passport?

•    No matter what age you are, you must use a passport when you are flying out of the country to re-enter the United States. 

•    You may also use your passport when travelling by land or sea to Canada or Mexico. Other options: you can use your passport card or NYS Enhanced Driver’s License. 

•    If you are under 16 years of age and don’t have a passport book/card, you will only need your birth certificate when you travel by land or sea to Canada or Mexico. However, the adult(s) accompanying you will be required to have the proper documentation to re-enter the United States.

8. What if one parent cannot be present when applying for a passport for their child under the age of 16?

•    If one parent is unable to be present, that parent must fill out the statement of consent form and it must be submitted with the child’s passport application. The absent parent must have their signature notarized, and provide a copy of the front and back of their driver’s license or non-driver ID.

▼

County Assets

Show All Answers

1. Post-secondary Education and Training

Cayuga Community College

Offers small classes, dedicated teachers, financial aid, honors study, transfer counseling, and a wide range of degree and certificate programs. Programs also arranged with area employers and workplaces.

Auburn Campus (Cayuga County)

197 Franklin St. Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-1743
Fax: (315) 255-2117 
Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm 
Website: www.cayuga-cc.edu

Fulton Campus (Oswego County)

11 River Glen Drive, Fulton, NY 13069
Phone: (315) 593-9300
Fax: (315) 592-4143

Cayuga Community College Foundation

197 Franklin St. Auburn, NY 13021
Website: www.cayuga-cc.edu/giving/college-foundation

 Programs:

• 2 Year Degree Programs
• 1 Year Certificate Programs
• Microcredentials for Credit
• GED program with Auburn ECSD

Wells College

2. K-12 Certificate and Degree Programs

Auburn Enlarged City School District

Casey Park Elementary School

101 Pulaski St., Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-8760
Fax: (315) 282-2804
Hours: 8:40am - 3:15pm
Website: www.aecsd.education

Genesee Elementary School

244 Genesee St., Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-8640
Fax: (315) 282-2775
Hours: 8:40am - 3:15pm
Website: www.aecsd.education

Herman Avenue Elementary School

2 North Herman Ave., Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-8680
Fax: (315) 282-2815
Hours: 8:40am - 3:15pm
Website: www.aecsd.education

Owasco Elementary School

66 Letchworth St., Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-8720
Fax: (315) 282-2788
Hours: 8:40am - 3:15pm
Website: www.aecsd.education

William H. Seward Elementary

52 Metcalf Drive, Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-8600
Fax: (315) 282-2805
Hours: 8:40am - 3:15pm
Website: www.aecsd.education

Auburn Junior High School

191 Franklin St., Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-8480
Fax: (315) 282-2824
Hours: 7:50am - 2:20pm
Website: www.aecsd.education

Auburn High School

250 Lake Ave., Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-8300
Fax: (315) 255-8357
Hours: 7:50am - 2:26pm 
Website: www.aecsd.education

Harriet Tubman Administration Building

78 Thornton Ave., Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 255-8800
Fax: See Website
Hours: TBU
Website: www.aecsd.education

Preschools

Preschools - Cayuga Community College Preschool Child Care Center, Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES, Community Action Program (CAP) Cayuga/Seneca (Head Start), E. John Gavras Center, Early Childhood Center, The Montessori School of the Finger Lakes, and YMCA Preschool

Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES

Center for Learning

12 Allen St., Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 253-4899
Fax: (315) 253-2972
Hours: M-F 8am-4pm
Website: https://cayboces.org/domain/16 

Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES Main Campus (Regional Education Center)

1879 West Genesee Street Road, Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: (315) 253-0361
Fax: 315-252-6361
Hours: M-F 8am-4pm
Website: https://www.cayboces.org/ 

Cato-Meridian Central School District

Cato-Meridian Elementary

2851 State Route 370, Cato, NY 13033
Phone: (315) 626-3439
Fax: (315) 626-2293
Hours: 8:35am - 3:10pm
Website: catomeridian.org 

Cato-Meridian Jr./Sr. High School

2851 State Route 370, Cato, NY 13033
Phone: (315) 626-3439
Fax: (315) 626-2551
Hours: 7:40am - 2:17pm
Website: catomeridian.org 

▼

County Historian

Show All Answers

1. Do I need an appointment to visit your office?

At the present time, because of COVID-19, appointments are required to visit our office.  Please call 315-253-1300 to arrange an appointment.

2. How do I obtain a Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, or Death Certificate?

The Cayuga County Historian’s Office holds vital records for 1847 to 1850 only, and not all towns recorded all records for all years. For certificates 1880 to the present, you will need to contact the Clerk or Registrar of the town, village, or city the event occurred in. Please keep in mind not all towns have complete records for all events.

Divorce Records

Divorce Records are sealed in New York State for a 100 year span.

Adoption Records

Adoption Records are sealed unless otherwise directed by a judge.

3. Who is in charge of records for a cemetery?

If the cemetery is active and accepting new burials, an association or caretaker would be the best person to contact in regards to obtaining burial records. If a cemetery is considered abandoned, please contact the Town Clerk in which the cemetery lies. Our office holds Cemetery Internment Listings based on Headstone Inventories, most are current up to the 1960’s. Please visit the Cayuga County Genwebsite for further information.

4. Do you have a picture of...?

Due to the nature of our collection, we cannot guarantee to have a photo of the person, building, street, or subject you are looking to obtain. Please contact the office at 315-253-1300 for additional information. Please review our Photo Reproduction Policy and Fees.

5. Can I get a Certified Copy of...?

The Cayuga County Historian’s Office cannot legally certify copies of documents.

6. Where can I find Wills, Probate, Surrogate?

Probate & Wills

Probate and Wills can be found at the Cayuga County Surrogate’s Court at the Cayuga County Courthouse located at:
152 Genesee Street
Auburn, NY 13021

Surrogate Files

Surrogate Files such as Guardianships are obtained through the Cayuga County Surrogate’s Court at the Cayuga County Courthouse located at:
152 Genesee Street
Auburn, NY 13021

▼

COVID 19 Business Support

Show All Answers

1. Cayuga County Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber website provides resource links for businesses for financial assistance and state and federal programs.

2. Cayuga Economic Development Agency Microloan Program

The Cayuga Economic Development Agency (CEDA) is offering an Emergency Microloan for businesses impacted by the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

3. Empire State Development

Information for businesses regarding state regulations and general guidance related to the coronavirus.

4. Essential Businesses

Essential Business Guidance from Empire State Development for determining whether a business is subject to a workforce reduction under recent executive orders

5. Facebook Group

Community Facebook group Auburn support local businesses shares tips and resources

6. Grocery Store Information

Article about grocery stores hours, senior hours, and buying limits

Instacart - Groceries delivered to your door from local grocery stores, stores currently participating with Instacart: Wegmans, Tops, BJ’s, Aldi

Maxwell’s Food Store in Auburn also delivers 315-253-5621; call in before 10 am

Shop Walmart’s food selection online; free same-day pickup when you order before 1 pm

7. Loan Programs

Governor Cuomo has issued the proper declaration to allow businesses to apply for disaster loans from the US Small Business Administration (SBA). Loans will be available to small businesses and nonprofit organizations in designated areas. Call the SBA at 1-800-659-2955 or email.

8. Restaurant Delivery & Take-Out

A list of eateries that offer delivery and/or tak-oout

9. Sell products to NYS

NYS is in need of masks gloves and gowns

10. Shared Work Program

The Department of Labor is also reminding businesses of its Shared Work Program that can provide an alternative to laying off employees during business downturns by allowing workers to work a reduced work schedule and collect partial unemployment insurance benefits for up to 26 weeks. Instead of cutting staff, a business is able to reduce the number of hours of all employees or just a certain group.

▼

COVID-19 Assistance

Show All Answers

1. Addiction & Recovery

• Addiction Peer Services Nick’s Ride 4 Friends in Auburn: 315-246-6485
• Addiction Services Hopeline: call 1-877-8-HOPENY or text 467369
• Alcoholics Anonymous Online Syracuse AA Meetings or call the Service Center at Syracuse Intergroup Inc. at 315-463-5011
• Confidential Help for Alcohol and Drugs in Auburn has partnered with the Central Region Addiction Resource Center to begin using telehealth for outpatient substance use treatment. CHAD can also provide information on online self-help meetings and other forms of support.
• East Hill Medical Center, which offers addiction medicine services, has expanded its operations to anyone in the community, not just established patients. All requests for services are being screened at (315) 253-8477.
• Emotional Support Line for COVID-19: 1-844-863-9314 - staffed by specially trained volunteers
• FindTreatment.gov
• Finger Lakes Area Counseling & Recovery Agency: 315-462-9466
• Friends of Recovery New York has created a list of online recovery groups meetings
• Helio Health Regional Open Access Center: 315/471/1564
• Online therapy Better Help and Talk Space
• Syracuse Recovery Services in Auburn is providing outpatient treatment services and medication management: 315-282-5351

2. Childcare

Daycare Waiver

Cayuga County will be requesting approval of amendment changes to the childcare services portion of its Child and Family Services Plan due to the novel coronavirus COVID-19 disaster emergency. The Office of Children and Family Services has given district the option of expanding the childcare services they provide to families affected by COVID-19. Any waivers granted to Cayuga County will be valid for a period of 30 days. Cayuga County will need to resubmit a new waiver request if they wish to extend the waiver period beyond the 30 days unless the district is directly notified by OCFS that the waiver is being extended.

Childcare for First Responders

Child Care Solutions is still open for business and working diligently to meet the child care needs of first responders in our community; medical, fire and law enforcement personnel. Child Care Solutions is maintaining a real-time data base of child care programs who remain open and have openings to meet the needs of first responders. These parents can call us at 315-446-1220, ext. 303 or complete a Referral Request form online and we will call them back.

Gavras Center daycare is open from 6 am to 6 pm, 7 days a week, birth to 12 years.

3. Crisis Hotlines

• Addiction Peer Support Nick’s Ride 4 Friends: 315-246-6485
• Addiction Services Hopeline: call 1-877-8-HOPENY or text 467369
• Crisis Text Line: free 24/7 confidential text service for those in crisis, text "Got5" to 741-741
• Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-942-6906
• Emotional Support Line for COVID-19: 1-844-863-9314 - staffed by specially trained volunteers
• Finger Lakes Area Counseling & Recovery Agency: 315-462-9466
  
• Online therapy Better Help and Talk Space
• Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • The Suicide Prevention Resource Center has compiled a selection of information on mental health and coping with the effects of COVID-19.
• Respite programs and mobile crisis
• Veterans Crisis Line: call 1-800-273-8255 or text 838255

4. Emergency Home Repair & Rental Assistance

Cayuga County Homsite Development Corporation has received Emergency COVID-19 funding from Central New York Community Foundation in partnership with United Way of Cayuga County and Cayuga Community Fund. These funds will be used for those who are at or below 80% of the Area Median Income and those who have experienced a financial hardship relative to COVID-19. Homsite will manage two programs using these funds, Emergency Home Repairs, and Emergency Rental Assistance.  

Emergency Home Repair – Homeowners in need of emergency repairs (plumbing, HVAC, electrical).  This does not include replacement of furnaces – we have other funds available for that. Maximum funding per household is $1,500 and is disbursed on a first come first serve basis. To apply, applicants must meet the following criteria and supply the following information with their applications. 

• Photo ID 
• 80% or below AMI 
• Must be Owner Occupied 
• Must have Homeowners Insurance 
• Must show proof of financial hardship due to COVID-19 

Referrals should be sent to Breanna Ryan or call 315-253-8451. 

Emergency Rental Assistance – Tenants at or below 80% of the Area Median Income who are in need of a one-time rental payment due to financial hardship from COVID-19. Maximum funding equal to one month of rent and funds will be disbursed on a first come first serve basis.  To apply, applicants must meet the following criteria and supply the following information with their applications. 

• Photo ID 
• 80% or below AMI 
• Proof of Rental Amount (lease, contract, etc)
• Landlord Contact info (Landlord will need to supply a w9) 
• Proof of financial hardship due to COVID-19

Referrals should be sent to Kaleigh Smith or call 315-253-8451. 

5. Food Needs

Download a list of Cayuga County Food Pantries (updated 4/16/20) and the Hunger Task Force Soup Kitchen Schedule in Auburn (grab and go).

• Mobile Food Pantry Drive-Through Distribution at First Love Ministry on May 22nd

Meals on Wheels 315-253-1550 for home-bound seniors age 60 & up

Fully prepared meals delivered to home:

• Mom’s Meals Nourish Care Phone: 1-877-508-6667
• Magic Kitchen Phone: 877-516-2442 (877-51-MAGIC)

6. Medicare

Beware of COVID-19 SCAMS! Review the COVID-19 Consumer Tip Sheet for what you can do to stop COVID-19 fraud and what Medicare covers in relations to COVID-19.

7. Scams

COVID-19 Text Scams

The New York State Office for the Aging warns: If you receive a text message like the one pictured below, DO NOT click the link. It could be a phishing scam to get your personal information or install malware on your phone and/or harvest data. State or county health departments are NOT sending text messages to people to notify them of a possible exposure.

Government Grant Scams

Guidelines, tips, and warnings about potential scams of homeowners

The New York State Office for the Aging was notified by the Montgomery County Office for the Aging that they have been getting a large number of NY Connects calls from older adults who had received a postcard mailing addressed to “resident” from the National Residential Improvement Association (NRIA) offering to help them get a grant to repair their home. The postcard looks official, but it is not a government program, and the company currently does not have a valid business license. NRIA has been reported to the Better Business Bureau multiple times since 2008. This is a scam.

Government grant scams are on the rise. With the recently passed federal stimulus bill, scammers are taking advantage of homeowners of all ages by making bogus offers to secure generous grants for home repairs.

What to look out for:

•    Unsolicited phone calls or emails from someone claiming to be an official from the Federal Grants Administration (which does not exist), or a nonprofit organization like the National Residential Improvement Association offering grants or funding for repairs.

•    Social media messages or posts from people excited to share the thousands of dollars they claim to have received from an organization that secures grants for homeowners.

•    Callers who ask you to pay a fee in order to receive a grant. Federal grants never charge for grant applications.

•    Magazine or newspaper ads that offer “free grants.”

•    Calls or emails that claim you’re eligible for a personal grant that does not restrict how you spend the money. 

Protect yourself:

•    Do not answer your telephone if you do not recognize the caller or number.

•    Never share personal information over the telephone, like your Medicare number, Social Security number or banking information.

•    Never pay a fee to a company that says it will help you get a grant.

•    Block or unfriend anyone who offers unsolicited grant information on social media. Even if you are “friends” with that person – they may have been hacked. 

•    Only use local contractors with validated references to do work in your home.

If you have been a victim of such a scam:

•    Report it to the New York State Attorney General’s Office: 800-771-7755

•    Report to the AARP Fraud Watch Network: 877-908-3360

•    Report the scammer to the Better Business Bureau: https://www.bbb.org/consumer-complaints/file-a-complaint/get-started

8. Social Security

Please visit the Social Security COVID-19 web page to find out what services they are continuing and which ones they are suspending, how to contact them, and important information about deadlines they are extending to ease the burden on the public and medical providers during this pandemic.

Most SSA services are available online. Here is list of available online services.  

While SSA offices in New York and New Jersey are temporarily open to authorized personnel only, SSA staff from those local offices will continue to be accessible by phone. SSA local office phone numbers are available on the Social Security Office Locator. To find your local SSA office phone number, go to the Social Security website, select Contact Us under Items of Interest, and then Office Locator under Ways to Contact Us. SSA local office staff are accessible by phone Monday to Friday, 9:00 am. to 4:00 pm. Some critical services also are available by calling SSA’s national toll-free line at 1 (800) 772-1213 or 1 (800) 325-0778 TTY. National toll-free line staff are available Monday to Friday, 7:00 am. to 7:00 pm. They offer many automated telephone services so callers do not have to wait to speak with a telephone agent. 

Up-to-date information about SSA office closings and emergencies

9. Stimulus Check

Who is eligible? Who receives the payment automatically? What do non-filers have to do? Find the answers on the IRS website.

Action needed for Social Security beneficiaries with dependents and who do not file tax returns to receive $500 per child payment. Go to Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info Here section on the IRS website.

There has been a lot of confusion and questions regarding the Economic Relief Payments that were sent to those who are deceased. The IRS has posted on their website that those checks will need to be returned by following the instructions on their page. Please refer to question 10

Nursing home residents are entitled to the stimulus payments; they do not count as income for Medicaid, and they are not to be used by the facility for payment for their care. Find out more

10. Telehealth

Many local healthcare providers, such as the Cayuga County Community Mental Health Center are using telehealth (video conferencing) and telephone consulting to diagnose and stay connected with patients while they are at home. Call your service provider for more information on how they continue their services.

11. Unemployment

New York State is waiving the seven day waiting period for unemployment insurance benefits for people who are out of work due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) closures or quarantines. Applying for these benefits must be done online as all unemployment offices are closed.

Reach out to the County Employment & Training office for assistance with unemployment insurance.

Find more information at NYS Unemployment Assistance and NYS Department of Labor or call 1-888-209-8124.

12. Veterans

Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255 or text 838255

13. Violations of COVID-19 Emergency Mandates

If you believe your employer is in violation of either existing labor laws or recently issued executive orders, please contact the Attorney General’s office at 212-416-8700 or email.

14. WIC Women Infant Children Program

Go to Health Department FAQs

▼

COVID-19 Community Resources

Show All Answers

1. City of Auburn Information

Visit the City of Auburn website

2. Closures and Cancellations

List of closures, postponements, cancellations and other changes in the Cayuga County area due to the coronavirus pandemic.

3. Religious Gatherings & Funerals

NYS Department of Health guidance on religious gatherings

National Funeral Directors Association guidance on funerals and visitation

4. Town & Village Information

Link to town & village websites to find out how to get in contact with them.

▼

COVID-19 County Departments

Show All Answers

1. 911 Center

E-911 Center

Cayuga County E-911 is continuing efforts to support the public 24/7 during this crisis. For the health and safety of our responders we have amended our call-taking procedures to include COVID-19 related questions. These questions include but may not be limited to, ‘Have you traveled outside of the country in the last 14 days’ ‘Have you knowingly been exposed to someone who has been exposed to COVID-19’ ‘Are you or is anyone in your home having flu-like symptoms.’ In the case of law enforcement related issues, based on the answers to these questions, you may receive a phone call prior to the arrival of a uniformed officer. 

The 911 Center is locked down to 911 staff only. Staff was split into teams of two and are operating from both our Primary and Backup E-911 Centers as a measure to reduce cross-contamination. Regardless of the situation, Cayuga County staff continues to fulfill the duties of the mission of the Cayuga County E-911 Center.

2. Board of Elections

Board of Elections

During the coronavirus pandemic, the Board of Elections is required by the state to maintain usual business hours (8-4). We are, however, minimally staffed during this time. Any form that a candidate or a voter might need is available on our website. Persons lacking the ability to print forms can call our office at 315-253-1285 and forms will be mailed. If you need to personally visit our office we request that you call ahead.

The April 28th Democratic Presidential Primary and the NY Senate Special Election have been postponed until June 23rd. Voters who are concerned about the voting process given the impact of the corona virus can download an Absentee Ballot Application. You can print the form, fill it out and mail it to our office. We will mail you a ballot with instructions on returning it properly to the Board. If you have no ability to print the form, call our office at 315-253-1285 and request that we mail an application to you. You can also email us to request an application.

Voting absentee will have several benefits. First, you avoid any contact with other voters or contact with the pens or other materials used by multiple voters on Election Day. And if enough people vote by Absentee Ballot we will have fewer voters on Election Day, easing the problem of “crowding” at the polls. This protects the voter and our poll workers. There will be some later changes to polling locations.

As voting rules or dates change we will adjust our operations to protect your right to vote. Our office location is minimally staffed and available by appointment. Any form or information a candidate or voter might need can be found online on our website. Our phones will be monitored regularly and requests will be answered. Changes will be posted here on our website as determined by needed reaction to Governor’s orders or county-wide decisions.

3. County Clerk's Office

County Clerk’s Recording Office

The County Office Clerk’s Office is open by appointment, and we will be offering the following in-office services by appointment only:

Online Appointments: Now Available for the following

Title Search: Records Search in our office Monday- Friday 9:00 am-3:00 p.m. Visit time restricted to 3 Hour Maximum Per Week/ will need to make multiple one hour appointments to extend visit beyond an hour

DBA Filings: Monday - Friday from 10:00am–2:00pm

Notary Services: Take Oaths & Process Renewals Monday - Friday from 10:00am–2:00pm.

Oath of Office: administer oath for appointment to Cayuga County Board  Monday - Friday from 10:00am - 2:00pm

Appointments for the above services can be made online at https://cayugacountyclerk.setmore.com 

Recording and Filing Documents:

 Options:

Mail your documents to the office address: 160 Genesee St Auburn NY 13021

Drop off your documents to security guards at the front door of County Office Building. You can pick up your copies of processed paperwork the next day at the front door or include a postage paid envelope.

Efile: Electronically file court papers through NYSCEF e-filing system

E-Record: Land documents can be submitted through one of our e-recording partners

DBA’s: Download the form from our website and make an appointment to have your document notarized and processed or mail completed form to office, with a copy of your driver’s license, a check for $35 made payable to Cayuga County Clerk, and we will mail you two certified copies.

Passports: Until further notice, we are not processing passports. If you need a passport, please check with your local post office.

4. Department of Motor Vehicles

View updated information on the DMV -  Department of Motor Vehicles 

5. Department of Social Services

Department of Social Services

The County Office Building is closed to the public, except for Department of Social Services emergency services per guidance from the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

NYDocSubmit is a mobile application that allows Cayuga County applicants and recipients of Temporary Assistance, SNAP, HEAP and Medicaid to take pictures of their documents and submit them to the Department of Social Services. 

This free mobile app is available for download on Google Play or the Apple App Store. There is no need for you to take time off from work or travel to DSS to drop off documents. During this time of COVID-19 restrictions, having the ability to submit the necessary documentation from the comfort and safety of home is essential to continue supporting families in our county. 

Review the Quick Reference Card and FAQs.

At this time, there are no evictions and utility shut-offs

Notice to all recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or Temporary Assistance Cash Benefits (TA) with Medicaid (MA)

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) is automatically extending certain TA/MA/SNAP and SNAP only recertifications scheduled to expire in March, April and May for a period of six (6) months (see below). The COVID-19 pandemic prevented some households from submitting recertification forms in a timely manner.

For the certification periods ending 3/31/20, 4/30/20, 5/31/20, and 6/30/20 a six (6) month extension of SNAP or TA/MA/SNAP benefits has been approved for cases throughout the State. 

If your case was scheduled to recertify by March 31, 2020, and did not get processed, your case must now be recertified by September 30, 2020. Your benefits WILL END if you do not recertify. 

If your case was scheduled to recertify by April 30, 2020, and did not get processed, your case must now be recertified by October 31, 2020. Your benefits WILL END if you do not recertify.

If your case was scheduled to recertify by May 31, 2020, and did not get processed, your case must now be recertified by November 30, 2020. Your benefits WILL END if you do not recertify.

If your case was scheduled to recertify by June 30, 2020, and did not get processed, your case must now be recertified by December 31, 2020. Your benefits WILL END if you do not recertify.

Daycare waiver

Cayuga County will be requesting approval of amendment changes to the childcare services portion of its Child and Family Services Plan due to the novel coronavirus COVID-19 disaster emergency. The Office of Children and Family Services has given district the option of expanding the childcare services they provide to families affected by COVID-19. 

Any waivers granted to Cayuga County will be valid for a period of 30 days. Cayuga County will need to resubmit a new waiver request if they wish to extend the waiver period beyond the 30 days unless the district is directly notified by OCFS that the waiver is being extended. Details can be found on the social services website.

Please call the department you are seeking applications and other information from:

Temporary Assistance: Applicants 315-253-1294, Recipients 315-253-1291, Fax 315-253-1505

Day Care: 315-253-1218, Fax 315-253-8050

SNAP: 315-253-1210, Fax 315-253-4960. Apply online 

HEAP: 315-255-4904, Fax 315-253-1295. Apply online  

Medicaid Local: 315-253-1382, Fax 315-253-1230, State 1-888-355-5777. Apply online 

Child Support: 1-888-208-4485, Fax 315-253-1283. Statewide Reporting for Child Abuse Toll Free Hotline Number: 1-800-342-3720

Any paperwork can be placed in the drop box on the 1st floor. You can also mail to: Cayuga County Department of Social Services, 160 Genesee Street, Auburn, NY 13021 or email Temporary Assistance or email SNAP.

6. County Court

Cayuga County Court

All Court activity is consolidated into the Historic Post Office. All phones are operating and there are staff to answer inquiries. We are only hearing emergency and urgent matters. All cases that had been scheduled for the next 60 days are being rescheduled. Notices should go out by the end of the week. Litigants are encouraged to access services by phone at 315-237-6450, email or postal mail. No mundane inquiries will be answered in person until further notice. Filings received by mail will be scheduled out beyond the 60 day mark. Any cases that do come on the calendar as emergencies will be heard in the Historic Post Office and no spectators (friends or family) will be allowed into the building.

7. District Attorney's Office

District Attorney’s Office

The office is no longer open to the public until further notice. Further, we are not currently accepting materials in person.  We accept correspondence, facsimile at 315-253-1521 or email.

If you have any questions or wish to speak with someone regarding a case please call the office at 315-253-1391 or send an email/fax and the staff will assist you.

If you are a crime victim, please contact Crime Victim/Witness Coordinator Kristine Francey at 315-253-1494 or email.

8. Emergency Services

Emergency Services

Effective 3/16/2020 the EMT Original and EMT Refresher courses will be postponed for 4 weeks. Instructors are preparing plans to keep students engaged from home. More communication to follow.

There will be no in-person appointments or meetings conducted in the Emergency Services department until further notice.

NYS OFPC has suspended state fire training effective 3/16/2020 for two weeks, tentatively ending on Sunday, March 30th.

9. Employment & Training

Employment & Training

The office is closed to the public but staff is taking calls to assist over the phone with unemployment insurance questions. Claims can be made online at www.labor.ny.gov and over the phone at 1-888-209-8124 M-F 8-5. Cayuga County Employment and Training and NYS DOL are both co-located at the Cayuga Works Career Center and can be reached at 315-253-1590.

10. Health Department

Health Department

The Cayuga County Health Department is diligently responding to COVID-19 by conducting disease surveillance, monitoring of quarantined individuals, facilitating and performing swabbing. Communication has taken place with many community partners including Auburn Community Hospital, healthcare providers, colleges and universities, schools, organizations and businesses. Staff have been fielding questions and concerns from members of the public.

The Cayuga County Health Department remains open, but our offices will be closed to the public unless an appointment is made. Please call the following numbers if you have any questions or need to discuss a public health issue.

Campgrounds

The Cayuga County Health Department is currently issuing permits for campgrounds for season-long occupancy, in which the campsite is like a second home to the occupant, with the following conditions:

• Only campsites leased by one family group for the entire camping season may be occupied.
• Only self-contained recreational vehicles with on-site bathroom facilities, potable water, and a sewer connection or an operator-run sewage scavenger service may be occupied.
• All common areas must remain closed including bathhouses, laundry facilities, community rooms, pools, dining areas, campfire pits, etc.
• All campers must be provided with County Health Department COVID-19 educational materials at check-in.
• All campers from outside of the local area are encouraged to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival and non-essential travel during that time is discouraged. The campers must be advised that if they come down with symptoms during this time such as a dry cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, they should contact their primary care physician.
• Campers must maintain a safe social distance of at least 6 feet from others and shall not congregate at another camper’s campsite.
• Only registered campers are allowed into the campground. No outside visitors are allowed into the campground.

COVID-19 Testing
NYS Guidance - Testing for COVID-19 shall be authorized by a health care provider when:

•    An individual has come within proximate contact (same classroom, office, or gatherings) of another person known to be positive; or 

•    An individual has traveled to a country that the CDC has issued a Level 2 or Level 3 Travel Health Notice, and shows symptoms of illness; or

•    An individual is quarantined (mandatory or precautionary) and has shown symptoms of COVID-19 illness; or

•    An individual is symptomatic and has not tested positive for any other infection; or

•    Other cases where the facts and circumstances warrant as determined by the treating clinician in consultation with state and local department of health officials.

Community Health: 315-253-1560. While staff are responding to COVID-19, the Cayuga County Health Department still continues to perform our mandatory services. These include communicable disease control monitoring and investigations and programs that serve pregnant and postpartum women, infants and children.

Nursing services are limiting face-to-face interactions at this time and existing clients will be visited through tele-health exchange. All breastfeeding mothers in the community experiencing difficulty nursing their child should still reach out to the Health Department by either calling 315-253-1560, or by sending a direct message through the Cayuga County Breastfeeding Connection Facebook page to speak with one of our Certified Lactation Counselors.

WIC: 315-253-1406. Cayuga County WIC continues to provide services to the community. All sites including our main office location in Auburn and our sites in Cato and Moravia are closed to the public at this time. However, all appointments are being completed over the phone. Your benefits will not be cancelled and you must complete your appointment over the phone to have any additional benefits loaded to your eWIC card. Because all communication is happening over the phone, it is very important that we have accurate contact information so we can reach you. Please call us with any changes to your contact information to avoid a lapse in benefits. We continue to accept new applications through our website or by phone. Call our office if you have any questions and follow our Facebook page for updates. 

Immunization Clinics are cancelled until further notice.  If you had an appointment scheduled, a staff member from the Cayuga County Health Department will contact you to reschedule at an appropriate time in the future.  

Early Intervention: 315-253-1560. At this time, there will be no home visits. If appropriate, some therapy visits may be conducted through a teletherapy platform. IFSP reviews can be done via phone conferences. Please reach out to your service coordinator with any questions. Early Intervention is also suspending intake visits on any new referrals.   

Environmental Health: 315-253-1405. For questions or concerns related to rabies, food borne illnesses, public water, restaurants, mobile home parks, or other Environmental Health issues.

11. Historian's Office

Historian’s Office

The County Historian’s Office on Court Street in Auburn will be staffed but will be closed to the public until further notice. Contact the Historian’s Office via email at historian@cayugacounty.us or call 315-253-1300 from 9 am - 4 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. The office is closed on Wednesdays.

12. Human Resources & Civil Service

Human Resources and Civil Service

If you need assistance, please call 315-253-1284 and leave a message or email. Someone will get back to you. Postponements and changes to exams will be communicated by website, email, and phone.

The May 16th Civil Service Exam has been postponed.

13. Legislature

Due to the recent circumstances of COVID-19, Legislature and Committee Meetings will be live streamed for the public to view. 

Tune in to upcoming Legislative Meetings or view videos of previous Legislative Meetings. 

14. Mental Health

Mental Health

The Cayuga County Community Mental Health Center (CCCMHC) remains open. Some changes have been made to the services provided. There is no change for community members who receive medications at CCCMHC. If you receive medications (including injectable medications), you will continue to receive your medication as regularly scheduled. Please report to the building for your appointment.

If you are a current client and have a scheduled appointment with a therapist, nurse practitioner or psychiatrist, your appointment will be conducted via telephone. You will receive a phone call from your provider at your scheduled appointment time. Future appointments will continue to be scheduled and will be conducted via telephone until further notice. If you do not receive a phone call during your scheduled appointment time and are waiting more than 10 minutes, please call 315-253-0341 to let us know.

For community members who work with a care manager at CCCMHC, all appointments will be conducted by telephone until further notice.

If you are a current client and your phone number has changed, please call CCCMHC at 315-253-0341 to update your phone number.

If you would like to request services at CCCMHC as a new client, please call CCCMHC at 315-253-0341 to make an appointment. All appointments with new clients will be conducted via telephone.

If you do not have a phone or have access to a phone, please come to CCCMHC for your scheduled appointment. You will be given access to a phone in the building in order to speak with your therapist, psychiatrist, nurse practitioner or care manager.

If you are experiencing a crisis, please contact our office at 315-253-0341. Staff is available to assist community members experiencing a crisis during normal hours of operation (Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm).

Crisis services remain available after our normal business hours and can be accessed by calling the same number 315-253-0341. You will be connected to the after-hours crisis service.

More frequently asked questions regarding medications, refills, and phone appointments.

15. Office for the Aging

Office for the Aging

Our staff will respond to your inquiries at 315-253-1226 or e-mail between 9 am and 2 pm Monday - Friday, but the building is not open for office visits. We can help with:

• Medicare questions and enrollment/changes for 5/1/20 for Medicare Supplements, Advantage plans, and Part D drug coverage
• In-home contracted aide service and case management services for clients 60 and over who meet program eligibility requirements.
• Questions about long term care and benefits eligibility assistance for those 60 and over.

Free Masks for Seniors

• Cayuga County Office for the Aging and the NYS Office for the Aging are providing clos face masks for seniors during the month of May. Find out when and where

Meals on Wheels (315-253-1550) will be delivered on a normal schedule as long as possible. We are accepting new referrals for those 60 and over who meet program eligibility requirements, but due to a high volume of requests, there is currently a waiting list.

Congregate nutrition sites at Boyle, Mercy, Stryker, and Schwartz Towers apartment buildings are closed, but registered congregate participants 60 and over can still request a daily meal.

For all senior nutrition program questions, please call 315-253-1550 or e-mail. All program participants are encouraged to have a supply of shelf stable meals on hand in case of service disruption.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service announced that Social Security beneficiaries who are not typically required to file tax returns will not need to file an abbreviated tax return to receive an Economic Impact Payment. Instead, payments will be automatically deposited into their bank accounts. Read press release

Advice about medical appointments: While everyone is urged to stay home as much as possible, this may effect prior scheduled doctor’s appointments. Try calling the office to see if you could speak to someone by phone instead of going in to be seen. Telehealth is also an option for many people with Medicare. Call the back of your card for a phone number or ways to be contacted by telehealth. Some plans require you to register, go online for a mobile app, and some Advantage plans have a direct phone number to call. OFA staff have some of the plan specifics – call us at 315-253-1226. Remember, if this is COVID-19 related, the call and service should be covered without any cost-sharing from you.

Matilda’s Law was enacted to protect New York’s most vulnerable populations, including individuals age 70 and older, those with compromised immune systems and those with underlying illnesses. 

Beware of COVID-19 SCAMS! Review the COVID-19 Consumer Tip Sheet for what you can do to stop COVID-19 fraud and what Medicare covers in relations to COVID-19.

More frequently asked questions regarding food needs, grocery delivery, home care, medicare, NYS benefits, social security, transportation, and tax preparation.

Recommendations from the NYS Department of Health on protecting residents in nursing homes. 

AgingCare.com - Activities for the elderly (and others) at home

16. Parks & Trails

Parks & Trails

Call 315-253-5611 or email for all inquiries prior to visiting the offices. Event inquiries, rentals, boat slips, contracts and other inquiries can be handled over the phone, by email or postal services. 

• The Agricultural museum has returned to normal operating hours.
• The Sterling Nature Center is offering limited programming and facility hours.

17. Planning & Economic Development

Planning & Economic Development

The Cayuga County Department of Planning and Economic Development is operating with reduced staff in the office and we are asking members of the public to conduct business remotely.

Please use email or phones for questions and correspondence. Emailing is the most effective way to communicate during this time and our staff will respond to you as soon as possible. Please visit the department web page for our staff directory or email us for general questions/correspondence.

Until further notice, County Planning staff will not be attending meetings or traveling to any remote meetings.

18. Probation

Probation

Call 315-253-1246 to speak to your Probation Officer about reporting requirements and appointments. For restitution payments call 315-294-8115.

19. Real Property

Real Property

Visitors by appointment only. All inquiries should be made via phone at 315-253-1270 or email.

20. Records Retention Office

Records Retention Center

The County Records Retention Center on Court Street in Auburn will be staffed, but will be closed to the public until further notice. Records may be obtained via email at ccrecords@cayugacounty.us or call 315-253-1037 from 9 am - 4 pm Monday through Friday.

21. Sheriff's Office

Sheriff’s Office

The lobby at the Sheriff’s Office is closed until further notice. Please contact the following resources to meet your needs and allow us time to accommodate requests.

Reporting a crime: 315-253-1222 or 911

Records Requests: 315-253-1148 or ccsorecords@cayugacounty.us

Pistol Permit Questions: 315-253-4148 or jryan@cayugacounty.us

Deliveries and Jail Business: Push button on wall for entry

Any other questions or issues: 315-253-1222 or fcornelius@cayugacounty.us

Changes to patrol response:

In a continuing effort to contain and minimize the spread of the COVID-19 (Corona Virus) pandemic and operating under a State and County State of Emergency, the Sheriff’s Office has implemented some precautionary measures while still maintaining our role in public safety.

The 911 Center will inquire from every caller whether or not anyone in their household is experiencing flu-like symptoms. This will allow our supervisors to make a determination on how to best handle complaints while maintaining a degree of social distancing. It is imperative we do our part not to spread this virus while keeping our officers healthy in order to continue maintaining public safety.

Our patrols will continue to respond to all in-progress and emergency calls while taking precautions such as the wearing of N95 masks and gloves when necessary.

Our patrols may connect with complainants via phone to initiate and handle complaints that are not in-progress emergencies when it is determined to be in the best interest of those involved. We recognize this is a change in practice, however we believe this temporary measure will contribute to minimizing our exposure and spread of this virus within our community.

No matter the circumstances, the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office continues to uphold our mission of providing responsive, caring, unbiased, and professional services during this time.

22. Treasurer's Office

Treasurer’s Office

Our office is closed to the public, however staff are maintaining operations. Our hours of operation are currently 8:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Payments

Payments to our office may be mailed, made on-line (2.25% service fee for credit/debit transactions or a flat $2.50 fee for e-checks will be applied by the credit card processor), or payment may be dropped off to security to be placed in a locked drop box in the lobby. Payments dropped off to security should be in a sealed envelope with "Treasurer’s Office" written on the front. If you would like a receipt, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

For payment figures please contact our office at 315-253-1211.

Certificate of Residence

Students may submit completed applications to the County Treasurer’s Office by mail or they may drop off their application to security to be placed in a locked drop box in the lobby. Please include with your application a stamped, addressed envelope, so we can mail the Certificate of Residence to the correct location.

Students should complete the application by filling out the top portion, signing the application in front of a Notary Public, and having the Town Clerk/City Clerk (not County Clerk) in which they reside verify residency on the bottom of the form. Incomplete applications will be returned to the student.

Retiree Benefits

Payments may be mailed or dropped off to security to be placed in a locked drop box in the lobby. Payments dropped off to security should be in a sealed envelope with "Treasurer’s Office" written on the front.

Other Services (Bail Return, Witness Fees, etc.)

Please contact our office at 315-253-1211 for further direction.

▼

COVID-19 How you can help

Show All Answers

1. Donations of goods, services, and space

NYS is accepting donations of essential goods, services, and spaces to support New York’s response to the COVID-19 public health emergency. 

2. Donations of personal protective equipment

The Cayuga County Emergency Management Office is seeking donations of personal protective equipment (PPE) from local companies, such as unused masks, gowns, gloves, and Tyvek suits. The county’s frontline staff in fire rescue and law enforcement as well as staff at the hospital, health department, and medical facilities are in dire need of PPE to tackle the Novel Coronavirus COVID-19 in our communities. Being able to supply our frontline staff with sufficient supplies of PPE goes to the heart of the county’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic in an effort to protect them, their families, and everyone they work with and serve.

Construction companies or other industries that have extra PPE to donate can contact Harry Sherman at the County Emergency Management Office at 315-702-7643 to coordinate the drop-off. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

3. Seeking qualified health professionals

The state is taking measures to create a reserve workforce

4. Sell products to NYS

NYS is in need of masks gloves and gowns

▼

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

Show All Answers

1. How can I learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine?

For more information about the vaccine, safety, distribution priorities, clinics, FAQs and more:

• Visit the NYS COVID-19 vaccine website
• Call the NYS Vaccination Hotline, 1-833-4VAX (1-833-697-4829)

2. How do I find out if I am eligible for the vaccine?

New York State is in rolling out the vaccine in a phased distribution. To find out what groups are currently eligible click here.

To find out if you are eligible for the vaccine and for a list of clinic locations, please use the "Am I Eligible" tool or call the New York State Vaccination Hotline, 1-833-NYS-4VAX (1-833-697-4829).

3. I am eligible for the vaccine, where can I make my appointment for my first dose?

Supply is limited and demand is high. It may take a bit of time for you to get an appointment. Those who are eligible can try to get an appointment at one of the New York State run sites, which includes those who are 65 years old and older. Pharmacies can also provide vaccine by appointment to people 65 years and older.

New York State Clinics (including the Fairgrounds)
To make an appointment at a New York State-run vaccine site, “Am I Eligible” tool or call the New York State Vaccination Hotline, 1.833.NYS.4VAX (1.833.697.4829).

Cayuga County Health Department Clinic 
Clinics are NOT open to the general public at this time. If you are currently eligible to receive the vaccine, please work with your employer or call your City, Town or Village clerk for assistance in our county to identify where you may receive vaccine. With the vaccine supply being limited and the demand being high the Cayuga County Health Department is working with worksites to coordinate vaccinating eligible employees.

4. Do I need to prove I am eligible when I arrive for my appointment?

Yes, individuals being vaccinated must bring proof of eligibility to the vaccination site. This may include an employee ID card, a current letter from an employer or affiliated organization, a pay stub or a letter from healthcare provider. If you are eligible because of your age, bring a government-issued ID that includes your date of birth (like a Driver’s License or passport).

5. Do I need health insurance to get the vaccine?

You do not need to have health insurance to get the vaccine. There is no cost to you.

6. What type(s) of vaccine(s) are offered by the Cayuga County Health Department?

The Cayuga County Health Department is currently providing the Moderna vaccine. To learn more about the Moderna vaccine click here.

The Moderna vaccine is two separate shots given 28 days or more after the first dose. The first shot starts building protection, but everyone has to come back 28 days later for the second dose to get the most protection the vaccine can offer. The second dose is most effective when received 28-42 days after the first dose.

7. I received my first dose of the vaccine at a Cayuga County Health Department clinic. How do I schedule my second dose?

The Cayuga County Health Department will contact all of those who are eligible for second doses to let them know of second dose clinics. IF you registered for an appointment online with an email address, we will email you. If you do not have an email, we will call you.

8. Can I get my second dose at a different location than my first dose?

Those who receive the vaccine must return to the same provider/site to receive the second dose, unless New York State Department of Health approves an alternative due to extenuating circumstances.

9. Do I have to get the same vaccine for my second dose?

The COVID-19 vaccine requires a second dose of the same vaccine. The vaccines are not interchangeable.

10. What kind of side effects can the COVID-19 vaccine cause?

It is normal to have certain reactions after the vaccination. Most post-vaccination symptoms are mild to moderate in severity, occur within the first three days of vaccination, and resolve within 1–3 days of onset. There may be redness, swelling or pain around the injection site. Fatigue, fever, headache and aching limbs are also not uncommon in the first three days after vaccination. These symptoms are more frequent and severe following the second dose and among younger persons compared to older persons (i.e., >55 or ≥65 years). If symptoms start 3 days after vaccination or symptoms last longer than 2 days, Covid-19 testing is recommended.  

After receiving your vaccine, please register for V-Safe, a smartphone-based tool that provides personalized check-ins so you can quickly tell the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) if you have any side effects or report and side effects through the CDC Vaccine Adverse Reporting System (VAERS).

11. How was the vaccine developed so fast? Is it safe?

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. The first COVID-19 vaccines authorized in the United States were developed using Messenger RNA—also called mRNA. The mRNA technology is new, but not unknown. They have been studied for more than a decade. mRNA vaccines do not contain a live virus and do not carry a risk of causing disease in the vaccinated person.

Millions of people in the United States have received COVID-19 vaccines and these vaccines have undergone the most intensive monitoring in U.S. history.

12. I am nervous about getting one of the COVID-19 vaccines, what should I do?

If you are nervous or have questions about receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, you should contact your healthcare provider to have a conversation and see what they recommend since they know you and your healthcare best.

13. Who should get the vaccine and when?

Currently, the United States supply of COVID-19 vaccine is limited, because of this the CDC is providing recommendations to federal, state, and local governments about who should be vaccinated first. New York State is following a phased-approach and determines who is eligible within specific priority groups and has begun rolling out the vaccine. To view who is eligible as outlined on the State website.

If you have an underlying medical condition which puts you at more risk for serious complications, you should get vaccinated.

We know that Black, Hispanic and Native Americans are dying from COVID at nearly three times the rate of white Americans, which is why it is important for everyone start having conversations with their healthcare providers.

Pregnant women are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. We ask that those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or plan to become pregnant that they speak with their OB/GYN to have a conversation about getting vaccinated.

The long term goal is for everyone to be able to easily get a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as large enough quantities of vaccine are available.

▼

Harmful Algal Blooms

Show All Answers

1. What are Harmful Algal Blooms and why should I be concerned?

Some types of algae can produce toxins that can be harmful to people and animals. Algal blooms that produce toxins are known as Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). Environmental conditions that contribute to the formation of HABs in bodies of water include excess nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen), lots of sunlight, calm water conditions, and warmer temperatures.

For the past few summers, Harmful Algal Blooms have been identified in many Cayuga County lakes including Skaneateles, Cayuga, and Owasco Lakes. In Cayuga County, Owasco Lake is the source of public drinking water for the City of Auburn, Town of Owasco and surrounding municipalities who purchase their public drinking water from Auburn or Owasco. Cayuga Lake is the source of water for Wells College and the Village of Aurora. In addition, many residents use water drawn from these three lakes for their own private water supply.

In September and October of 2016, low-levels of toxins as a result of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) were found in the public drinking water produced by both the City of Auburn and Town of Owasco. The toxin levels remained low enough, based on current research, for the water to be considered safe for drinking. In 2017, both the City of Auburn and the Town of Owasco installed carbon treatment systems that are designed to remove toxins associated with HABs from the drinking water.

The information provided in the following answers is based on current science from the New York State Department of Health, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Environmental Protection Agency.    

2. Can my children and pets play in the lake water if it is experiencing a Harmful Algal Bloom?

People, pets, and livestock should avoid contact with water that is discolored or has floating scum on the surface. If contact does occur, rinse the exposed skin thoroughly with clean water. Exposure to Harmful Algal Blooms can be deadly for pets, especially if they drink water with HABs or when they lick their fur after swimming in waters with HABs.

3. How soon after a bloom dissipates will it be safe to swim?

The Health Department regulates public bathing beaches and closes those beaches when a HAB occurs. After the bloom dissipates and before the beach can be re-opened, the water is sampled to make sure the toxin concentration is below the level at which health impacts may occur. Private swim areas are not regulated or sampled by the Health Department and therefore it is unknown when it is safe to swim after a bloom dissipates. The Health Department’s experience with public bathing beaches, however, suggests that typically 24 hours after a bloom dissipates, levels have been below those at which health impacts occur.

4. What health effects can I expect to see if I was recreating in lake water experiencing a bloom?

Recreational exposures can occur while swimming, wading, fishing, or boating in areas with Harmful Algal Blooms if this water is touched, swallowed, or airborne droplets are inhaled. Exposure to Harmful Algal Blooms can cause:

• diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• skin, eye, or throat irritation
• allergic reactions
• breathing difficulties

Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms after exposure to Harmful Algal Blooms.

5. Have any health problems been reported by people after recreating in water bodies experiencing Harmful Algal Blooms?

According to the New York State Department of Health, there have been infrequent reports of illnesses associated with recreational exposure to Harmful Algal Blooms, and most illnesses reported were minor. Since the symptoms from Harmful Algal Bloom exposure are very similar to symptoms from other gastrointestinal illnesses or allergic reactions, we expect that bloom-related illnesses are under-reported.

6. What health effects may my pet experience if they were exposed to Harmful Algal Blooms?

Symptoms for animals who have been exposed to toxins in a Harmful Algal Bloom can include:

• vomiting
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite
• excessive salivation or drooling
• stumbling
• seizures
• convulsions
• paralysis
• disorientation
• inactivity
• excessive tiredness
• elevated heart rate
• difficulty breathing

Seek veterinary care if your pet experiences these symptoms after exposure to Harmful Algal Blooms.

7. What municipalities draw water from Owasco Lake and supply public drinking water?

Owasco Lake is the source of public drinking water for the City of Auburn and Town of Owasco water treatment facilities.

Residents in the following municipalities obtain their public drinking water from the City of Auburn’s water treatment facility:

• The City of Auburn 
• Town of Aurelius
• Town of Brutus
• Town of Fleming – Water District #6
• Town of Mentz
• Town of Montezuma
• Town of Sennett
• Town of Springport – Water District #2
• Town of Throop
• Village of Cayuga
• Village of Port Byron
• Village of Weedsport

Residents in the following municipalities obtain their public drinking water from the Town of Owasco’s water treatment facility: 

• Town of Owasco
• Town of Fleming – Consolidated Water District

8. What municipalities draw water from Cayuga Lake and supply public drinking water?

Cayuga Lake is the source of public drinking water for the Wells College water treatment facility. Residents from the Village of Aurora obtain their drinking water from Wells College’s water treatment facility.

9. How is the public drinking water being monitored?

The City of Auburn, the Town of Owasco, Wells College, and the Cayuga County Health Department are monitoring the public drinking water for the presence of toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms. Samples of the public drinking water are collected and sent to a certified laboratory when HABs are noted to determine if toxins are present.

Water sampling results can be found on the Cayuga County Health Department website at: www.cayugacounty.us/health and click on Harmful Algal Blooms.

10. If toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms are in the public drinking water, is the water safe to drink?

The Cayuga County Health Department will notify the public when alternative water should be used for drinking, making infant formula, making ice, brushing teeth, and preparing food. 

The Cayuga County Health Department in consultation with the New York State Department of Health will issue necessary advisories for drinking water when levels exceed normal limits via our website and several media outlets, including tv, radio, social media, and the newspaper.

Water sampling results can be found on the Cayuga County Health Department website at: www.cayugacounty.us/health and click on Harmful Algal Blooms.

11. What could the effects on my health be if I drink public drinking water with toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms above the levels set by the EPA?

Symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, skin, eye or throat irritation, allergic reactions, or breathing difficulties may occur after drinking water with elevated levels of toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms. These symptoms are very similar to symptoms from other gastrointestinal illnesses or allergic reactions. Stop drinking the water and seek medical attention if you or your family experience these symptoms.

Gastroenteritis, which may include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and/or liver and kidney damage, has been reported in humans following short-term exposure to toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms in drinking water. However, more research is needed to fully understand the health effects.

12. I’m pregnant (or planning to be). Will consuming the public drinking water toxins effect my unborn child?

There is limited information available in the scientific literature on the potential for health effects from ingesting microcystin – the primary toxin associated with Harmful Algal Blooms – during pregnancy.

The Cayuga County Health Department in consultation with the New York State Department of Health will advise pregnant women not to drink the water if levels exceed normal limits. 

13. What can I safely use the public drinking water for if the toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms exceed levels set by the EPA?

If the toxins in the public drinking water exceed the levels that are considered safe for children and/or adults, you may still use the water to:

• wash laundry
• wash dishes
• bathe/shower
• water plants
• flush toilets. 

14. If I live near a lake experiencing a Harmful Algal Bloom, is my private well water safe to drink, bathe, wash dishes, etc.?

If a private well is a properly-installed, drilled well, it is unlikely to be impacted by Harmful Algal Blooms present in the lake. If the well is shallow and installed along the shore of a lake experiencing a Harmful Algal Bloom, toxins associated with the bloom may be present in the well water. In-home treatments such as boiling, disinfecting water with chlorine or ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and water filtration units do not remove the toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms. There are treatment units on the market that have been shown to reduce microcystin levels in water, but it is not known if the microcystins would be reduced to a level considered safe. Since individual water supplies are not regulated or monitored, it is not known if there is a health risk to drinking the water from your private well.

15. If I draw my water directly from the lake experiencing a bloom, is my water safe to drink, bathe, wash dishes, etc.?

Never drink untreated surface water (water that is drawn from the lake, at any depth), whether Harmful Algal Blooms are present or not. Even if the water is treated by in-home treatment units, avoid using the water for:

• drinking
• making infant formula
• making ice
• brushing teeth
• preparing food
• bathing/showering
• washing dishes

In-home treatments such as boiling, disinfecting water with chlorine or ultraviolet radiation (UV), and water filtration units do not remove the toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms. There are treatment units on the market that have been shown to reduce microcystin levels in water, but it is not known if the microcystins would be reduced to a level considered safe. Since individual water supplies are not regulated or monitored, it is not known if there is a health risk to drinking the water from your private water supply.

16. If a “do not drink” order is issued by the Cayuga County Health Department due to elevated toxins associated with a HAB in a public water supply, what can I safely use the public water for?

If a “DO NOT DRINK” order is issued by the Cayuga County Health Department due to elevated toxins associated with a Harmful Algal Bloom in a public water supply, water can be used for:

• showering/bathing 
• washing dishes 
• flushing toilets
• laundry
• watering plants

17. If a “do not drink” order is issued by the Cayuga County Health Department due to elevated toxins associated with a HAB in a public water supply, what should I use bottled water for?

If a “DO NOT DRINK” order is issued by the Cayuga County Health Department due to elevated toxins associated with a Harmful Algal Bloom in a public water supply, bottled water should be used for: 

• Drinking
• Bottle-feeding infants
• Food preparation and ice making
• Brushing of teeth

18. How much bottled water should I store in preparation for an issued “do not drink” order?

To be prepared for a “DO NOT DRINK” order, residents should store one gallon of water per day for each person and pet in your household. You should plan on storing three days’ worth of water. Bottled water should be stored in a cool location away from direct sunlight.

To view an informational flyer about how much water you should store, visit: www.cayugacounty.us/health and click on Harmful Algal Blooms.

19. How will I know the bottled water I am drinking is safe?

You should purchase bottled water that is certified by New York State Department of Health. This certification will be printed on the label of each bottle. The FDA considers bottled water to have an indefinite shelf life if it is produced in accordance with regulations and remains sealed and unopened. Therefore, expiration dates on bottles are voluntary and may reflect concerns for taste and odor rather than safety.

If you bottle up public drinking water from your faucet prior to toxins being identified in the public drinking water, use only clean, food-grade plastic or glass containers that seal tightly and replace the supply every six months.

20. What symptoms should I be looking for if I or family members drink the water after a “do not drink” order is issued due to elevated toxins associated with a Harmful Algal Bloom in a public water?

Symptoms may occur after drinking water with elevated levels of toxins associated with Harmful Algal Blooms, such as:

• vomiting
• nausea
• diarrhea
• skin, eye or throat irritation
• allergic reactions
• breathing difficulties

These symptoms are very similar to symptoms from other gastrointestinal illnesses or allergic reactions. Stop drinking the water and seek medical attention if you or your family experience these symptoms.

21. What do Harmful Algal Blooms look like? How will I be able to identify these blooms if I am on the lake?

Discolored water, often with a paint-like appearance, with or without floating scum or mats may be evidence of a Harmful Algal Bloom. Pictures of Harmful Algal Blooms can be found here:  http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/81962.html 

It is hard to tell a Harmful Algal Bloom from other non-harmful algae blooms. Therefore, the Cayuga County Health Department recommends that you avoid wading, swimming, boating, and fishing in bodies of water that are discolored or have scum or floating mats present.

22. How will I know if a water body recently has experienced a Harmful Algal Bloom?

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) maintains a website of bodies of water that have had Harmful Algal Blooms. The link to this website is: http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/83310.html 

***Please note: not all blooms are reported to the NYSDEC. If a body of water is not listed, it does not mean that it currently does not have a bloom or did not have a bloom in the past. It is best to avoid swimming, boating, fishing or other recreating if the body of water you are interested in has discolored water or has scum or floating mats present. 

23. What should I do if I see a Harmful Algal Bloom on a body of water?

If you think that a bloom may be harmful, report it through New York State’s online Harmful Algal Blooms map and reporting system: https://nysdec.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=ae91142c812a4ab997ba739ed9723e6e. 

24. What causes Harmful Algal Blooms?

Scientists do not fully understand the exact causes of Harmful Algal Blooms. They are likely triggered by a combination of water and environmental conditions that allow Harmful Algal Blooms to outcompete other algae. This occurs most often in waters that are high in nutrients (phosphorus and/or nitrogen) and during periods of sunny days, calm water conditions, and warmer temperatures. Harmful Algal Blooms may be short-lived—appearing and disappearing in hours—or long-lived—persisting for several weeks—depending on the weather and the characteristics of the lake.

25. Are Harmful Algal Blooms caused by climate change, agriculture, or septic systems?

Harmful Algal Blooms tend to occur during sunny days and warmer water temperatures. The prevalence of these weather conditions may be related to climate change and global warming effects. Harmful Algal Blooms occur in waters that are high in nutrients (phosphorus and/or nitrogen). Nutrients come from many sources including agriculture, failing septic systems, and storm water runoff. To reduce the occurrence of Harmful Algal Blooms, it is important to reduce all sources of nutrients seeping into a body of water.

26. What preparations are being made within the City and the County to prevent toxins from getting into the public drinking water?

The City of Auburn, the Town of Owasco, and Wells College have installed treatment processes at their water treatment plants to remove toxins from the drinking water before it leaves the plant.

27. Do we have a back-up water source available and ready for distribution?

The City of Auburn, the Town of Owasco, and those municipalities who purchase water from the City and Town, as well as the Village of Aurora who purchases water from Wells College, have prepared emergency plans for distributing drinking water in the event the Cayuga County Health Department issues a “Do Not Drink” order. In addition, the Cayuga County Health Department is encouraging residents to store 3 days’ worth of water before the Harmful Algal Bloom season begins this year. 

28. What is being done to prevent this from happening in future years?

A Steering Committee has been put together to revise the Owasco Lake Watershed Rules and Regulations to make them more protective of water quality. For more information about this Steering Committee, click http://www.cayugacounty.us/776/Owasco-Watershed-Rules-and-Regulations 

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has developed a Finger Lakes Water Hub to address water quality issues in the Finger Lakes Region. 

29. Where can I find current information on Harmful Algal Blooms?

• Health Department Facebook Page & Instagram Account – 
  1. Search Cayuga County Health Department on Facebook and like our page.
  2. Search Cayuga County Health Department on Instagram and follow our page. 

• Health Department Website – www.cayugacounty.us/health 

• Health Department Main Phone Number – 315-253-1560 

  • Answered by Health Department staff during business hours Monday – Friday.
  • Answered by our answering service at night, weekends, and holidays.

30. How will I be notified if toxins are identified in the drinking water?

The Cayuga County Health Department would issue a press release that would be sent to local media outlets including newspapers, TV stations, and radio stations. This press release would also be posted on our website: www.cayugacounty.us/health as well as posted on the Cayuga County Health Department Facebook page and Instagram account. We encourage you to like our Facebook page and follow our Instagram account so our updated posting will appear in your newsfeed.

If a DO NOT DRINK ORDER is issued, we will utilize the Cayuga County Hyper Reach system. Landlines are already registered with the Hyper Reach alert system, but if you would like the alerts sent to your cellphone or email address, you must register at: http://hyper-reach.com/cayugasignup.html 

31. Where will users of water (i.e. businesses, schools, hospitals and restaurants) be getting their water if a “do not drink” order is issued by the Cayuga County Health Department?

Hospitals and healthcare facilities are required by the New York State Department of Health to have emergency plans in place that address a loss of potable water.

If a “DO NOT DRINK” order is issued by the Cayuga County Health Department, Health Department Staff will advise restaurants on what they need to do in order to stay open. Otherwise, the restaurants may have to close until the “DO NOT DRINK” order is lifted.

Schools & Businesses: We encourage all schools and businesses to prepare an emergency plan on how they will continue to remain open in the event that a “DO NOT DRINK” Order is issued by the Health Department. The Cayuga County Health Department will advise the schools on what they can do to keep their cafeterias open during a “DO NOT DRINK” event.

▼

Health - Residential Lead Assessment

Show All Answers

1. What is lead?

Lead is a heavy metal used in many materials and products before the risk to young children was known. Certain products such as paints used in older houses before 1978, lead solder used in plumbing, and leaded gasoline were used before their harmful health effects were recognized. Although laws now prevent lead from being used in many products, there can still be lead hazards in and around many homes. Lead can get into the air, water, food, soil, and even dust and then can be breathed or swallowed leading to serious health problems, especially for young children.

2. Why is lead harmful?

Lead is a toxin (poison) that can harm young children. Children 6 years old and under are most at risk because their bodies are still developing. A young children's exposure to lead can cause learning and behavioral problems and possibly damage their brains, kidneys, and other organs.

3. How do people become exposed to lead?

Lead enters the body when children breathe lead dust or lead fumes, or swallow something with lead in it. Young children often put things in their mouth creating a way for lead paint chips or lead dust to enter the body. The main way most young children are exposed to harmful levels of lead is through contact with lead-contaminated paint and dust.

Less often, water is contaminated when it flows through lead pipes or brass fixtures, or food is contaminated by contact with lead-glazed ceramic dishes. Certain ethnic spices, foods and cosmetics, and children's jewelry also have lead. In certain jobs and hobbies, adults may work with leaded materials and can possibly expose their child to lead if proper cleaning is not done.

▼

Health Department - Complete Streets

Show All Answers

1. What are Complete Streets?

Complete Streets are streets for everyone. They are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users. Pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and public transportation users of all ages and abilities are able to safely move along and across a complete street. Complete Streets make it easy to cross the street, walk to shops, and bicycle to work.

2. What do Complete Streets Policies do?

Creating complete streets means transportation agencies change their approach to community roads. By adopting a Complete Streets policy, communities direct their transportation planners and engineers to routinely design and operate the entire right of way to enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.

3. What does a Complete Street look like?

There is no one single design for Complete Streets; each one is unique and responds to its community context. A complete street may include any of the following:

• Accessible pedestrian signals
• Bike lanes (or wide paved shoulders)
• Comfortable and accessible public transportation stops
• Curb extensions
• Frequent and safe crossing opportunities
• Median islands
• Narrower travel lanes
• Roundabouts
• Sidewalks
• Special bus lanes
• And more

▼

Health Department - For Bicyclists

Show All Answers

1. Why wear helmets?

• Professional and amateur athletes in many sports wear helmets. Football, hockey and even baseball players wear helmets. Cyclists need protection for the special risks they face, too.
• Brain injuries are usually the most serious injuries a bicycle rider will sustain. Helmets prevent many of these injuries or reduce their severity.
• Studies in the U.S. and elsewhere have shown that bike riders wearing helmets are less likely to suffer brain injuries than those who don't.
• Bicycles, even when in the hands of young children, can be rapidly moving vehicles, easily reaching speeds of 20 miles per hour or more.
• Compared to the dollar and human cost of brain injuries, helmets are inexpensive insurance.

2. What should you look for when buying a helmet?

• Only buy helmets that meet the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standard for bicycle helmets. The federal government requires all helmets manufactured after March 10, 1999, to meet the CPSC standard, so look for a CPSC sticker.
• A helmet must be constructed with thick, firm polystyrene or other shock-absorbing material. This is the essential safety ingredient. It is the polystyrene that crushes on impact to absorb the shock of the fall and reduce the likelihood of brain injury. Many helmets have foam pads. These are used for comfort and sizing. They do not provide crash protection.
• A helmet must have a strong strap and fastener to assure it will stay on in a crash.
• Try on a helmet and adjust the straps to fit snugly. The helmet should cover the top of the forehead to be in the proper position. It should have only limited movement front to back and up and down. If the helmet cannot be adjusted to minimize both types of movement, try another size, style or brand. A helmet that isn't worn properly won't protect a rider in a crash.
• If you fall and hit your head, your helmet has served its purpose. Don't use it again. Your helmet's essential shock-absorbing material that protects your head in a crash may not retain its cushioning properties after a fall. That damage is not always apparent. Either have your helmet checked by the manufacturer to make sure it's still usable or buy a new one.

3. Are there other safety precautions to take when riding a bicycle?

Absolutely. Here are some basic rules of the road:

• Always ride with traffic.
• Ride one to a bike.
• Follow all traffic lights and signs. Signal all turns.
• Ride single file.
• Use a horn or bell.
• Make sure your bike is in good working order.
• If you're riding at night, make sure your bike has reflectors and a headlight and taillight. Consider using additional lighting and reflective bands, vests and clothing to increase your visibility.
• Keep to the right, but leave enough room to steer around road hazards and avoid car doors that may suddenly swing open.

▼

Health Department - HPV

Show All Answers

1. Can the Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cancer?

Yes.

The Human Papillomavirus is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives. There are many different types of HPV. Some types of HPV can cause cervical and other cancers including cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus. It can also cause cancer in the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils (called oropharyngeal cancer).

Cancer often takes years, even decades, to develop after a person gets HPV. The types of HPV that can cause genital warts are not the same as the types of HPV that can cause cancers.

2. Can the HPV vaccine protect you from HPV types that cause cancer and genital warts?

HPV vaccine prevents infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) types that are associated with many cancers, including:

• Anal cancer in females and males
• Cervical cancer in females
• Penile cancer in males
• Throat cancer in females and males
• Vaginal and vulvar cancers in females

In addition, HPV vaccine prevents infection with HPV types that cause genital warts in both females and males.

3. Who should get the HPV Vaccine?

Preteens and teens need 2 doses of the HPV vaccine as part of their routine vaccine schedule. They get the second dose about 6 to 12 months after the first dose. Preteens usually get the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12, though vaccination can start as early as age 9.

If you didn’t get the HPV vaccine as a preteen, you can still get it. Teens and young adults need 3 doses of the HPV vaccine. They need to get the second dose 1 to 2 months after the first dose - and the third dose 6 months after the first dose.

4. How can I protect my children from HPV?

HPV vaccines offer the best protection to girls and boys who complete the series and have time to develop an immune response before they begin sexual activity with another person. This is not to say that your preteen is ready to have sex. In fact, it’s just the opposite - it’s important to get your child protected before you or your child have to think about this issue. The immune response to this vaccine is better in preteens, and this could mean better protection for your child.

5. How can I protect myself from HPV and cancer?

HPV can cause cervical and other cancers including cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus. It can also cause cancer in the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils (called oropharyngeal cancer).

Cancer often takes years, even decades, to develop after a person gets HPV. The types of HPV that can cause genital warts are not the same as the types of HPV that can cause cancers.

You can do several things to lower your chances of getting HPV.

Get vaccinated. The HPV vaccine is safe and effective. It can protect against diseases (including cancers) caused by HPV when given in the recommended age groups.  Catch-up vaccines are recommended for boys and men through age 21 and for girls and women through age 26, if they did not get vaccinated when they were younger.

6. How can I get the HPV vaccine today?

Many Cayuga County pediatricians and family health care providers offer the HPV vaccine to their patients. Ask your doctor about the vaccine and schedule an appointment.

The Cayuga County Health Department also offers the HPV vaccine. Please call us at 315-253-1560 for an appointment.

Protection from cancer is a great thing, and it starts with you!

▼

Health Department - Tdap

Show All Answers

1. What is Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and why is it a problem?

Pertussis, a respiratory illness commonly known as whooping cough, is a very contagious disease only found in humans. It is spread from person to person. People with pertussis usually spread the disease to another person by coughing or sneezing or when spending a lot of time near one another where you share breathing space.

Many babies who get pertussis are infected by older siblings, parents, or caregivers who might not even know they have the disease. Pertussis is a serious disease that can cause babies to stop breathing.

2. What can you do to prevent Pertussis?

The best way to prevent pertussis (whooping cough) among babies, children, teens, and adults is to get vaccinated. Also, keep babies and other people at high risk for pertussis complications away from infected people. Like many respiratory illnesses, pertussis is spread by coughing and sneezing while in close contact with others, who then breathe in the pertussis bacteria. Practicing good hygiene is always recommended to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. To practice good hygiene you should:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Put your used tissue in the waste basket.
• Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands, if you don't have a tissue.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.

3. Should pregnant women get vaccinated with every pregnancy?

If you are pregnant, talk with your doctor or midwife about getting the whooping cough shot called Tdap, to help protect yourself and your baby. CDC recommends you get your Tdap vaccine between the 27th and 36th week of each pregnancy. After you get the shot, your body will create protective antibodies and pass some of them to your baby before birth. These antibodies provide your baby some short-term protection against whooping cough in early life when your baby is too young to get vaccinated.

4. Who else should receive the Tdap vaccine?

Tdap vaccine can protect adolescents and adults from tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Everyone should receive one dose of Tdap. Tdap is especially important for healthcare professionals and anyone having close contact with a baby younger than 12 months.

5. Where can you get vaccinated for Tdap?

Everyone should check with their healthcare provider. The Cayuga County Health Department does offer the Tdap vaccine. If you are interested or want more information please call 315-253-1560.

▼

Household Hazardous Waste

Show All Answers

1. What is household hazardous waste?

Household hazardous wastes are products containing potentially dangerous chemicals that are used in your home, garden, and garage and includes items such as:

• Automobile fluids
• Cleaning agents
• Driveway sealers
• Oil-based paint items
• Pesticides
• Pool chemicals

2. What harm is caused by improper disposal?

These wastes can contribute to water pollution and adversely affect sewage treatment when improperly disposed.

Sanitation workers are directly at risk if incompatible wastes accidentally mix in a garbage truck or the landfill. The result could be an explosion or fire.

3. How can I identify hazardous products?

Federal law requires that the words danger, warning or caution appear on labels of hazardous products. 

Other signal words or symbols you can look for on product labels include:

• Combustible
• Corrosive
• Flammable
• Poison
• Reactive
• Toxic

4. How can I properly dispose of hazardous products?

In an effort to prevent environmental contamination and protect human health, Cayuga County provides opportunities for county residents, including City of Auburn residents, to properly dispose of old chemicals and outdated supplies of hazardous products.

5. Can I clean without hazardous chemicals?

There are alternative methods or products without hazardous constituents to accomplish a certain cleaning tasks.

For more information please view the following:

• Household Hazardous Waste Disposal and Alternatives Chart (PDF)
• Managing and Disposing of Household Hazardous Waste (PDF)
• Reduce Your Household Hazardous Waste Use

6. Are there everyday disposal options for household hazardous waste?

Everyday disposal options exist for:

• Antifreeze (PDF)
• Automobile batteries (PDF)
• Latex paint (PDF)
• Lead-acid batteries (PDF)
• Motor oil (PDF)
• Nickel-Cadmium batteries (PDF)
• Rechargeable batteries (PDF)
• Water based paint (PDF)

▼

Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. How do I update my contact information?

You can update telephone, address, emergency contact information by completing the Change of Contact Information Form.

2. Who gets notified when my contact information is updated?

Civil Service, payroll, and benefits (health, dental, and vision insurance) are notified when you update your contact information.  You need to contact deferred comp and the retirement system directly to update your contact and beneficiary information.

3. How do I submit a resignation?

Resignation should be made in writing.  Standard business practice is to give two weeks notice.

4. Do I have to submit a written resignation?

Yes, Cayuga County Civil Service states resignations must be in writing.  Two weeks notice is standard practice.

▼

Probation Department

Show All Answers

1. What are your hours?

We are open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm, though the office is closed for lunch 12-1 pm. 

During the months of July and August we are only open until 4 pm, with the lunch hour being the same.

2. How do I pay Restitution?

You may pay in person, online, or via telephone.

When paying in person, acceptable forms of payment are cash (exact amount ONLY), money order, cashier's/bank check, and credit/debit cards. Personal checks are NOT accepted. Individuals making payment via credit/debit card must present photo identification which matches the name on the credit/debit card being offered for payment.

Restitution payments may also be made via Government Payment Services (now called AllPaid) by visiting the GovPayNow page or by calling 888-604-7888.

Individuals paying online or via telephone will need to provide their first and last name, date of birth, credit/debit card information, and the Pay Location Code (a000ox).

Government Payments Services/AllPaid charges a service fee for debit and credit card payments made through any of their access points.

3. What is the difference between probation and parole?

Probation is a sentence or disposition imposed by a criminal court or family court. In general, probationers are released in the community without serving a period of local incarceration, although in certain circumstances they may be sentenced to both imprisonment (local) and probation; the sentence of incarceration shall be a condition of and run concurrently with a sentence of probation. Probation is a county function in New York State, although in New York City, the probation department is run by the City government. The Division of Probation and Correctional Alternatives (OPCA) provides regulatory oversight and funding to local probation departments.

Parole is a portion of a correctional sentence served in the community following a term of incarceration in state prison. For offenders serving an "indeterminate" sentence, the NYS Board of Parole makes decisions whether an eligible state inmate is granted or denied parole. Offenders sentenced to a "determinate" prison term generally are released after serving 6/7 of their sentence. The period of supervised release following incarceration for such offenders is known as "Post-Release Supervision." Parole or Post-Release Supervision is intended to assist offenders in returning to society. These offenders are supervised in the community by parole officers, who are state officials employed by the NYS Division of Parole.

4. What is the contact information for Parole?

Syracuse Belt Area Office

Bureau Chief Rigby

333 East Washington Street

Syracuse, NY 13202

Phone: 315-428-4093

Fax: 585-327-2802

5. Where do I pay mandatory surcharges, crime victim assistance fees, and DNA fees?

Cayuga County Treasurer's Office

160 Genesee Street

5th Floor

Auburn, NY 13021

Phone: 315-253-1211

treasurer@cayugacounty.us

6. How do I apply for a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities?

You may contact your attorney or Probation Officer (if you are currently on Probation). For more information, please visit the New York State Unified Court System's website: Collateral Consequences Basics | NY CourtHelp (nycourts.gov)

7. Where can I find the Sex Offender Registry?

Search The Official New York State Sex Offender Registry - NY DCJS

8. Are Sex Offenders allowed to be around minors?

If a registered Sex Offender has designations ("restrictions"), this will be listed on the Official New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS)' website: Search The Official New York State Sex Offender Registry - NY DCJS

9. What do I do if I think someone is on probation and I think they're committing or have committed a crime?

If you believe that someone has committed or is committing a crime, we would recommend you call 911. If you then wish to report a crime or concerning behavior to a person's Probation Officer, you may do so by contacting that person's Probation Officer. If you do not know who their probation officer is, you may call our main number at 315-253-1246 and someone will direct you.

10. How can I send a document to the Probation Department?

You may email documents to probationdocuments@cayugacounty.us.

You may also fax documents to us at 315-253-1417.

Lastly, you may mail us paperwork at 152-154 Genesee Street Auburn, NY 13021.

11. My child received an appearance ticket. What do I do?

If your child has been issued an appearance ticket by an arresting agency in Cayuga County (Auburn Police Department, Cayuga County Sheriff's Office, or New York State Police), this department will also get a copy of the appearance ticket. 

Please follow the instructions on the appearance ticket. If it says to await contact by the Probation Department, but it feels like it's too long and you haven't heard from us, you may call our main number at 315-253-1246 and ask to speak with the Juvenile Probation Officer, or in their stead, the Juvenile Probation Officer Supervisor. *If your address, phone number, or custodial guardian of the child changes in the meantime, please contact the Probation Department immediately to keep us up to date.

Please note that it is not uncommon for a week or two to pass between when your child receives the appearance ticket and when we receive our copy and are able to open a case in our system. 

▼

Sheriff's Office - Jail & Inmate

Show All Answers

1. How can I talk with an inmate?

Inmates in our facility are currently allowed to receive letters, make collect calls, and receive visitation. The facility does not take messages for inmates.

2. How do I call an inmate?

Inmates are not allowed to receive calls. They may only make collect calls after the booking process. All telephone calls may be recorded.

3. How do I send mail to an inmate?

Mail can be sent by addressing the correspondence to the inmate with their number (if known). An example:
John Doe #000000
7445 County House Road
Auburn, NY 13021

4. How do I email an inmate?

Inmates are allowed to purchase emails from commissary. You cannot initiate an email to an inmate, however you can respond to their emails. All emails may be read.

5. How do I visit an inmate?

There are two ways to visit an inmate, scheduling and walk-ins. Scheduling is the preferred method and those who schedule a visit are given preference.

6. How do I schedule a visit?

Call 315-253-2911 on Mondays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a visit.  Arrive 15 minutes prior to visit.

7. How do I conduct a walk-in visit?

Arrive at the facility 30 minutes prior to a visitation. If room is available, you will be permitted in.

8. What are the rules of visitation?

• Arrive 15 minutes prior to a visit
• Present valid Identification upon arrival
• Wear proper attire (No hoodies, halter tops, or short shorts). For further information, contact the facility at 315-253-2911
• A brief hug and a closed mouth kiss at the beginning and end of the visit
• Passing of items is not permitted during a visit
• No profanity or loud conversation
• All directions given by staff will be followed
• All visitors must be at least 18 years of age or be accompanied by a legal guardian
• A visit may be cancelled without notice
• A visit may be terminated at any time
• A visitor may have their visitation privileges revoked

9. How do I bail someone out of Jail?

Bailing someone out can be done in person or online.

In Person

• At the jail you will be asked for your photo identification, name, address, employer / occupation, phone number and form of payment
• Cash, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover or a combination of cash and credit is accepted
• If paying by credit card you will be charged a non-refundable service fee through GovPayNet who handles the credit card transition
• Only the card holder may use the credit / debit card, no lending of cards will be allowed

Online

• If bailing someone out online, visit GovPayNet
• You will need the inmate’s criminal history number, bail amount, date of birth, court or judge, and pay location code (6079). You can obtain this information by calling the facility at 315-253-2911

10. How do I give money to an inmate?

Inmates are not permitted to have cash. You may send money to an inmate in the form of a money order made out to them and sent in the mail. There is a money kiosk in our lobby to deposit money into an inmate commissary account, for a small fee.

11. How do I notify someone about medical or mental health concerns for an inmate?

Medical Concerns

Medical concerns can be addressed to the medical office at 315-253-3061.

Mental Health Concerns

Mental health concerns can be addressed to the mental health office at 315-253-1028.

Important Note

Medical and mental health staff cannot discuss medical diagnosis or treatment plans. They can only listen to your concerns, they cannot give out information.

12. How do I notify someone about other concerns for an inmate?

You may call 315-253-3002 to speak with a shift supervisor.

13. How do I notify someone about an inmate being sexually assaulted?

You may call 315-253-1562 to speak with a Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) Coordinator.

14. How do I file a complaint against an inmate?

You may call 315-253-3002 to speak with a shift supervisor.

15. How do I schedule to provide a DNA sample by court order?

Call 315-253-1602 to schedule an appointment between the hours of 6 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

16. What does the Inmate Work Crew do?

The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office is proud to have the opportunity to provide the services of four Inmate Work Crews; three working throughout the week, one on the weekends.

Program Goals

Supervised by a staff of Custody Officers, crews of qualifying inmates perform various improvement and clean-up projects to the local municipalities and not-for-profit organizations within Cayuga County. It was the intent of the Sheriff’s Office to provide this program to make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live and to help reduce the cost of operating government.

The program additionally allows for participating inmates to pay something back to the community, showcase their talents and instill in them a feeling of self-worth that will hopefully remain with them upon their release and lead to their becoming productive, law-abiding citizens.

▼

Sheriff's Office - Pistol Permits

Show All Answers

1. How do I schedule an appointment with the Identification Officer when I have completed my application paperwork?

We prefer that you schedule an appointment online.  Appointments are scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays and they fill up fast.  Click the link below and fill in the pertinent information in an open appointment slot.  Please do not schedule and appointment if you are not sure that you are going to be able to keep it.  Read your application instructions carefully and ensure that all paperwork is completed properly and that you have all the things necessary to proceed.  If you arrive without everything that you need or if your paperwork is not filled out properly, you will be rescheduled.

Pistol Permit Appointments:  https://cayugasheriff.setmore.com/

If you have difficulty with this process you can call Identification Officer Bacon at 315-253-4148 or Identification Officer Leszczynski at (315) 294-8151 for assistance.

2. What is the basic criteria for applying for a permit?

You must:

• Be at least 21 years of age.
• Reside in Cayuga County.
• Provide proof of residency by submitting a valid New York State driver’s license.
• Pass a background check, the purpose of which is to ensure all paperwork is properly completed and whether all criteria submitted is met as specified in New York State Penal Law 400. The background check includes a criminal record check by the State of New York, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office, other law enforcement agencies, and the Department of Mental Health.
• Submit two non-refundable processing fees to cover the costs associated with fingerprinting, photographs, and background checks (fees are listed in section four).
• Have successfully completed an approved handgun safety course and submit an original certificate prior to the issuance of a permit.

Important Note

A hunter safety or comparable course is not acceptable.

3. Can a pistol permit application be mailed or faxed to me?

We are unable to mail or fax applications as they must be completed on an original New York State form. If you would like an application you may print one off on our "Forms" tab or pick one up at the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Sheriff's Office is located at:

7445 County House Road
Auburn, NY 13021

4. How do I apply for a permit?

• Obtain an application packet and, carefully following the instructions on the cover sheet, fully complete the application.
• Have the application notarized prior to submitting your application.
• Provide a valid New York State driver’s license or military photo identification.
• Submit processing fees.
• Submit an original accepted handgun safety certificate.
• Application processing is conducted only by appointment by calling the Identification Section at 315-253-4148 or (315) 294-8151. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
• A set of fingerprint and photographs will be taken at the time your application is submitted.

5. What are the required fees of a new permit application?

Two separate fees are required at the time the application is submitted:

• A $10 fee payable only by either cash or money order made out to the Cayuga County Sheriff. This fee covers the fingerprinting, photography and processing of the application.
• A $91.50 fee made payable by money order to the Cayuga County Sheriff to cover fees required by the Division of Criminal Justice Services and Federal Bureau of Investigation for criminal record background checks.

Important Note

No personal checks will be accepted.

6. What types of criminal arrest / offenses must I disclose?

• You must disclose all arrests for offenses of the law, even if the charges were dismissed or the criminal record was sealed. This includes Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) charges, with the exception of minor traffic infractions.
• Failure to disclose any criminal offense will disqualify the application and may lead to criminal charges.

7. How long will my permit remain valid?

Your permit is valid until suspended or revoked by the issuing court.

8. How often do I have to re-certify my Pistol/Revolver permit?

Concealed carry permits outside of NYS and Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties will need to be recertified with the New York State Police three years after issuance, and then every three years thereafter. For more FAQ, please visit the NYS Police website below:

https://troopers.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2022/08/nysp-recertification-faqs8.22.pdf

9. How do I obtain a duplicate permit should mine be lost or destroyed?

You may obtain a duplicate permit by filing a duplicate request form at the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Sheriff's Office is located at:
7445 County House Road
Auburn, NY 13021

Fees

The fees for obtaining a duplicate permit are $5 cash or money order payable to the Cayuga County Sheriff.

10. How long does the permit process take?

The process can take as long as 6 months after all requirements are met. Please be patient.  The Identification Officer is working diligently to complete your investigation. Fielding calls whose only purpose is to ask the status of the investigation just slows the process down for everyone.  Please do not call to inquire about the status of your permit until a minimum of 4 months has passed.

NOTE:  Due to restrictions put on the court system as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the process could take several months longer than usual.  Please be patient.

11. How can I obtain a handgun safety certificate?

BASIC HANDGUN SAFETY COURSE

Handgun safety is a primary concern of the Sheriff’s Office in screening prospective applicants and a handgun safety course is required prior to application processing.  ONLY a certificate issued by any of the Certified Instructors listed below will be accepted. 

16 Hour Approved Concealed Carry Course

•    Matt Mallory: 315-567-9268 ~ www.PSandEd.com

•    Firearms Training of WNY: James Emmick ~ ftwny.com ~ 716-903-2558

•    On Target Firearms: Brian Bannerman ~ 585-545-4988   www.ontargetfirearmsrochester.com     

      Email:  ontargetfirearmsny@gmail.com

•    Buck Stephens: 800-506-6994 ~ info@defenseinstructors.com

•    Rochester Personal Defense, LLC: David Jenkins ~ 585-406-6758 ~ www.safeinrochester.com

•    Concealed Coalition:  800-805-2238 ~ info@concealedcoalition.com ~ www.concealedcoalition.com

4 Hour Approved Basic Course

•    Chauncey Bennett dba CCB Training: 607-345-0054 ~ chauncey37@hotmail.com

•    CNY Police Academy (OCC): 315-498-6046 ~ www.sunyocc.edu

•    Kevin Dix: 315-695-1209 or 315-592-8724

•    Stephen Morgan: 607-351-8666 ~ nyst5005@twcny.rr.com or www.patriotfirearmtraining.com

•    JD Sporting: John Drapikowski ~ 315-727-7534 ~ www.jdsporting.com

•    Laura Purdy: Lepurdy@syr.edu ~ 315-857-8465

**Any individual who seeks to obtain a concealed carry license for a pistol or revolver will be required to take the 16-hour classroom and 2-hour live-fire firearm safety training course. This will be required for concealed carry licenses issued on or after September 1, 2022.

Local licensing officers have the discretion to determine whether a portion or all of the firearms training requirement is satisfied for those applicants who completed a firearm safety course in the previous 5 years prior to September 1, 2022**

NO ONLINE OR VIRTUAL TRAINING COURSES WILL BE ACCEPTED

12. What types of pistol permits can I apply for?

Generally there are three types of pistol permits:

• Carry Concealed: without regard to employment or place of possession
  • By any person when “proper cause” exists for the issuance thereof according to Article 400 of the NYS Penal Law
    
    Or
    
    
  • To carry with listed restrictions
• Possess On Premise:
  • Have and possess in a dwelling by a homeowner only
    
    Or
    
    
  • Have and possess in one place of business by a merchant or storekeeper ONLY
• Carry Concealed / Employment with regard to employment

Proper Cause Form

Those applicants applying for a Carry Concealed Pistol License must be able to demonstrate a special need for the issuance thereof by completing the required “proper cause” supplemental form. No permit will be issued without the form.

Sportsman Restriction

Those applicants who are granted a pistol license for the purpose of sportsman activities such as hunting, target shooting, competitions, hiking, camping, collecting, etc, will be issued a Sportsman Restriction on their license. This restriction allows you to carry the handgun while engaged in those activities.  The handgun must be transported unloaded and separated from the ammunition while traveling to and from the allowed activity (example:  Handgun in trunk and ammunition in glove box).  The handgun should not be in the passenger compartment of the vehicle unless it is in a locked container designed for that purpose.

Possess on Premise

Those applicants who desire a Possess on Premise License must understand that this is not a carry license and restricts the possession of the handgun(s) to the dwelling address or place of business address as listed on the application. If this address should change, the application process will begin again with all fees applicable.

Permit for Job

Those applicants wishing a carry concealed permit for their jobs must have a letter from their employer stating that they require the individual to carry during the performance of his/her duties. The restrictions on the license will appear as Employment.

13. Where is my permit / license valid?

According to New York State (NYS) Penal Law Article 400: "Any license issued pursuant to this section shall be valid notwithstanding the provisions of any local law or ordinance. No license shall be transferable to any other person or premises. A license to carry or possess a pistol or revolver, not otherwise limited as to place or time of possession, shall be effective throughout the state, except that the same shall not be valid within the City of New York unless a special permit granting validity is issued by the police commissioner of that city."

14. What happens if I change my address?

• If you change addresses within Cayuga County, you must visit the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office during normal business hours to amend your permit.
• If you move outside of Cayuga County or move into Cayuga County from another county, it is required that you transfer your permit to your new county of residency by visiting the Sheriff’s Office that originally issued your permit (unless you still work in Cayuga County).

15. How do I find Article 400.00 Licensing and other provisions relating to firearms?

Article 400.00 of the New York State Penal Law may be found at your local library, bookstore or online.

16. What is the cost of filing an amendment form or completing a transfer?

• The cost of filing an amendment, whether to change addresses, add a handgun to a permit or delete a handgun from a permit is $5.
• The cost of transferring your permit is a $10 fee; $5 for the amendment and $5 for the transfer 

17. How do I obtain a coupon to pick up a handgun I just purchased?

Coupons to possess handguns are only issued upon proper filing of a New York State (NYS) amendment form with the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office, thus completing the registration process of your handgun.

18. Is there a contact number should I have additional questions?

Please feel free to contact the Identification Officer Bacon at 315-253-4148 or Identification Officer Leszczynski at (315) 294-8151.  Please do not call for the sole purpose of inquiring about the status of your application until at least 4 months has passed.

19. 19. What are the recent changes to New York State Firearms Laws?

Please review the information in the link below to learn more about how to obtain a firearm license, including new requirements for an in-person interview, firearm safety training, and additional resources for hunters, gun owners, and retailers.

https://troopers.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2022/08/new-gun-law-faq-8-27-22-final-1.pdf


Additional information can be found at:

New York State Police's Firearm Website &
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's Website

▼

Social Services - Foster Care

Show All Answers

1. How old do you have to be to become a foster parent?

You must be 21 years old in order to become a foster parent.

2. Do you have to be married in order to become foster parents?

No, you do not have to be married. We work with single parents, same-sex couples, engaged couples, life-long couples, as well as married couples.  

3. What are the steps to becoming a foster parent?

1. Contact a homefinder (253-1396 or 253-1190). (No fees involved.)

2. Meet with a homefinder. (No fees involved.)

3. Take the mandatory foster parenting (MAPP/GPS II) classes. (No fees involved.)

4. Complete necessary paperwork and clearances. (There are no fees involved, with the exception of needing an up-to-date physical and Tuberculin Test. You are responsible for these.)

5. Complete a home inspection (There no fees involved to have the home inspection. If changes must be made to your home, you are responsible for those changes. A majority of the home inspection is fire safety-related.)

4. Is foster parenting a right?

No, foster parenting is not a right. There are times when the agency decides not to follow through with certifying a potential foster parent(s). This may be because clearances come back with concerns, a home does not meet agency standards, or it is         mutually agreed that foster parenting is not right for the potential foster parent at this time in his/her life. This does not necessarily happen often, and if there are concerns, we ask that the potential foster parent is honest from the beginning, as the agency will always be honest as well.  

5. What resources are available to foster parents?

Every child in care comes with a caseworker. The caseworker is a means of support for the child and his/her family, as well as the foster parents. Foster parents are also designated a homefinder, who certifies them and stays with them once they are a foster parent. A homefinder is strictly a support for the foster parent. They help to answer questions, are always willing to lend an ear, and provide trainings to help foster parents stay up-to-date on agency information. Trainings are also meant to educate foster parents on ways of helping the children in their home. Foster parents receive a monthly stipend, and support with counseling and/or services the child may need.  

6. Are foster parents responsible for medical coverage of children in care?

No. Children in care are covered under Medicaid or some other form of insurance

7. Do foster parents receive financial support?

Yes. When a child is placed in their home, foster parents receive a daily rate for the child and are paid on a monthly basis. There is also help with clothing.  

8. What does Cayuga County look for in a foster parent?

lthough becoming a foster parent can be a process, the agency works closely with potential foster parents in order to learn about their personal life and home life. In  return, the agency staff remains “an open book,” and answers any questions the potential foster parents may have. It is our hope that foster parents will have a caring, nurturing nature, with the ability to care for children, as if they were their own. We also look for people who have the ability to empathize with birth parents, and are willing to help birth parents in working to get their children back into their home.  

9. Does Cayuga County have children in need of adoption?

At times, there are children in need of adoption. However, quite often, if a child is living in a foster home and becomes freed for adoption, their foster family will make the   educated decision to adopt him/her. Many parents begin as foster parents, and  transition to foster/adoptive parents. This does not mean you have to be willing to adopt once you become a foster parent. The agency has parents who decide solely to foster, some choose to become foster/adoptive, meaning they are open to both fostering and adopting, and then there are some parents who choose solely to be adoptive parents. The agency can help you with this decision when the time is necessary.

10. Is there a high need for foster parents?

Yes. Unfortunately, there are many children in care, or who can potentially come into care at any moment. Homefinders do their best to match children to the right family. The agency is also in need of foster parents who are able to take in sibling groups (as we try to keep siblings together if possible), teenagers, and children with behavioral needs. The majority of our children entering care have mild to moderate needs.  

11. I still have questions, who can I contact?

You can always contact a homefinder to learn more. Homefinders are happy to answer any questions you may have, and are always willing to meet with you in person if you prefer. (Homefinder contact info: 253-1396 or 253-1190).  

▼

Temporary Assistance

Show All Answers

1. I missed a scheduled appointment (orientation, recertification, job search, etc). What should I do?

Contact your worker as soon as you realize you have missed the appointment. We may be able to reschedule you. If there was a reason you missed the appointment, bring proof if you have it. If you cannot contact your worker, you may want to come to the 3rd floor and speak to someone. We can get the information to your worker. This could mean the difference between your case continuing or your case being denied or closed.

2. My case was denied. Now what?

You should come to the 3rd floor to reapply as soon as possible. In some cases, you will not have to file another application. If the case was denied because you did not bring in documentation, bring the requested paperwork with you. Safety Net cases will have a new 45-day wait regardless of whether they must submit a new application or not.

3. My situation has changed. What should I do?

You must report changes to your worker within 10 calendar days. Failure to do so may result in over grant or possible criminal penalties up to and including jail time. If you would be entitled to more benefits because of the change, you may not receive it without notifying your worker that there has been a change in your circumstance.

4. I can’t get the documentation that my worker requested. What should I do?

You should notify the worker who requested the documentation as soon as possible and ask for their assistance to get the documentation or see if there is another type of proof that will be sufficient.

5. I lost my benefit card or my card is not working. How can I get a replacement?

You may come to the 3rd floor to request a replacement card, which will be mailed from Albany. We can issue a temporary benefit card, called a vault card, which will allow the cardholder to access any benefits that are available. PHOTO ID IS REQUIRED.

You may also ask your worker to mail a new permanent card. Please make sure you give the worker your current mailing address. If you need a temporary card but are not able to come get it yourself, you may give permission for someone else to come pick up a vault card. You must call and notify your worker of this permission AND you must send a written permission note, signed and dated, allowing the other person to pick up the card for you. That person will need to show photo ID to pick up your card.

6. I cannot reach my worker by phone. What should I do?

If you are reporting a change to your worker, leave the information on the voicemail. The worker may not need to talk to you. If the worker needs more information, they will send you correspondence through the mail. If the worker can make the change without documentation, the change will be made and you will receive a notice of decision in the mail. Make sure you are speaking slowly and clearly when leaving messages and leave a phone number so the worker can get back to you if necessary. If you have your case number leave that on your message. If you do not know your case number, leave the spelling of your last name and your date of birth or social security number so we can look you up. You may also go to the "Submit Forms Online" section to send your worker a question or to report changes.

7. How can I check my benefits?

You may call the number on the back of your benefit card to check your EBT balance on your SNAP and Temporary Assistance/Cash account, check your transaction History, change your PIN and  report card lost or damaged. You may go to My Benefits NY to do all of those things and you can also check your potential eligibility for certain benefits. You may also recertify your open SNAP and Temporary Assistance cases. (You must still be interviewed to continue receiving benefits at recertification). You must create an account at My Benefits NY to access account information. 

▼

Towns & Villages - Ira

Show All Answers

1. Where do I vote?

For the presidential primaries, the location for all voters will be at:

Town of Ira Municipal Building
2487 West Main Street
Cato, NY 13033

Questions

All questions should be directed to the Cayuga County Board of Elections at 315-253-1285.

2. Is this polling place accessible to the handicapped?

Yes, the Municipal Building is handicap accessible.

3. Where can I get a voter's registration form?

To obtain a voter's registration form, you can:

• Call the Cayuga County Board of Elections at 315-253-1285
• Download and print a registration form (PDF)
• Visit the New York State Board of Elections to register online

4. How do I sign up for the School Relief Tax (STAR) credit program?

The School Tax Relief (STAR) Credit Program is now administered by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. To register for the Basic/Enhanced STAR credit, you must go online or register by phone at 518-457-2036 on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

5. Where do I bring my trash and recyclables?

Yearly Permits are available from Town Clerk. Trash and recyclables can be taken to the Town Barn every Saturday between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.

▼

Towns & Villages - Sterling - Assessment

Show All Answers

1. I heard that the STAR Program is changing, is that true?

Yes. There are no more Basic STAR exemptions being issued. Instead new home owners are directed to register for the STAR Credit Program.

2. When does my exemption form need to be submitted (Agricultural, Veteran's, Senior Citizen's, STAR, Disability)?

The exemption filing deadline is March 1st of each year. This means that the Town of Sterling Assessment Office must receive the completed form and any required supporting information by March 1st.

3. When is grievance day?

Grievance Day is always the 4th Tuesday in May for the Town of Sterling and you must make an appointment. The hours can change from year to year depending on the availability of the Board of Assessment Review members.

Appointments

If you plan on grieving we encourage you to contact the assessment office at 315-947-6262, ext. 24 or 315-947-6262, ext. 25 to make an appointment for grievance day.

4. Why did the Assessor raise my taxes?

The Assessor cannot and does not raise or lower your taxes. The assessor can only assess the value of your home.

Taxes

Taxes are impacted by the Village, Town, County and School budgets. If you feel your taxes are too high, you should be speaking with your village board members, your town board members, your county legislature and your school board members.

5. I never received my STAR Credit Check, whom can I call?

Your local assessor cannot help in this instance. Please call the STAR Hotline at 518-457-2036.

6. What is the difference between the Tax Freeze Check and the STAR Credit Check?

Property Tax Freeze Credit

The Property Tax Freeze Credit is a two-year tax relief program that reimburses qualifying New York State homeowners for increases in local property taxes on their primary residences. In order for the credit to be available to the homeowners in a local taxing jurisdiction, the jurisdiction must comply with the New York State Property Tax Cap and, after the first year, must also have an approved Efficiency Plan. Review the Property Tax Freeze Credit Fact Sheet (PDF).

School Tax Assessment Relief (STAR)

STAR stands for School Tax Assessment Relief. Eligible new homeowners will receive their STAR savings in the form of a rebate check. The check will be in the same amount as the exemption savings would have been had you received the exemption on your school tax bill (the old STAR Program). If you own your home, it’s your primary residence, and your income is $500,000 or less, you’re eligible for the Basic STAR credit.

In addition, if you’re 65 or older with an income of $86,000 or less, you may be eligible for the Enhanced STAR credit. Once you register for the STAR Credit check, you don’t need to register again.

7. How can I find out if I should have received a Tax Freeze Check?

Visit Property Tax Relief or call the Property Tax Freeze Hotline at 518-453-8146.

8. When is the best time to talk to the Assessor about the assessment on my property?

The Assessor welcomes your questions anytime. The assessment process is meant to be a collaborative effort between property owners and the assessor. Information regarding your house or property is helpful for the assessor to make a fair and equitable assessment. This can include:

• Appraisals
• Information regarding the correct inventory, such as:
  • Bathrooms
  • Bedrooms
  • Garages
  • Porches
  • Sheds
  • And more
• MLS listings
• Pictures
• Purchase offers
• Sale information
• Anything else that you may deem important for the assessor to know about your property

9. If I don't agree with my assessment, is going to Grievance the only way I can do anything about it?

No, the best thing to do is to make an appointment to talk to the assessor before May 1st (tentative roll date). You will need to provide supporting evidence as to why you don't agree with your assessment.

File a Grievance

If after you have met with the assessor, you cannot come to an agreement, then your next step would be to file a Grievance with the Board of Assessment Review.

▼

Towns & Villages - Sterling - Code Enforcement

Show All Answers

1. I live out in the country, can I burn my garbage?

According to the new Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Regulations, no one can burn household garbage no matter where you live. Please review the regulation (PDF).

2. Do I need a permit to put up a fence or a swimming pool?

You do not need a Building Permit to put up a fence, however the Sterling Land Use Regulations state that there is a 2 foot set back to allow for mowing. A swimming pool that is less than 24 inches in height does not require a Building Permit.

3. What do I do when my construction project is finished?

Please call the Code Enforcement Office at 315-947-6245 to schedule a Final Inspection.

4. I want to build or purchase a small storage shed, what is required?

Storage sheds under 144 square feet in area do not require a Building Permit, however small sheds must still be placed according to the required setbacks (see Town of Sterling Zoning Law). Storage sheds greater than 144 square feet require an approved Building Permit. As a minimum, provide construction plans and placement details; refer to the Building Permit Application for a full list of requirements.

5. My neighbor has a bunch of old cars and junk in his yard, what can I do and how do I remain anonymous?

The Code Enforcement Office (CEO) investigates all written complaints and sends the appropriate violation letters to the offending property owner. The complaint is completely anonymous, your name will not be included on any paperwork. To fill out a complaint form, either visit the Code Enforcement Office or print a complaint form from the website, complete and mail to the CEO.

6. I want to replace my old single wide mobile home with a newer one, is there a minimum age requirement?

No, however the Town of Sterling Land Use Regulations states that single wide mobile homes may only be placed in a permitted Mobile Home Community.

7. I'm having vinyl siding and new windows installed, do I need to get a Building Permit?

Yes, and your contractor must provide proof of Workers Compensation Insurance per New York State Law.

▼

VetVan Transportation Information

Show All Answers

1. What is the VetVan?

The VetVan is a small bus operated by the Cayuga County Veterans Service, which provides transportation service for veterans of Cayuga County to and from the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Syracuse for medical appointments. The VetVan seats 12 and holds 2 wheelchairs. It is equipped with a wheelchair lift.

2. Who is eligible?

Cayuga County Veterans are entitled to VetVan service. Family members or aides are also permitted to ride along to assist the veteran if space is available. Priority will be given to veterans.

3. Where will I be picked up?

Veterans will be picked up and returned to their residence.

4. How do I get VetVan service?

You can make reservations 24 hours to 30 days in advance by calling the Veterans Office at 315-253-1281. All appointments must be made through the Veterans Office. Do not call the driver or depend on the driver to put you on the schedule.

5. What hours is the VetVan available?

Since it is a group service, please make your appointments between 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The VetVan runs Monday through Thursday serving the Auburn area. No transportation on Friday or County Holidays. Transport is available South of Auburn Mondays & Wednesdays and North of Auburn Tuesdays & Thursdays. 

6. How much does it cost?

There is no charge for the service. It is provided to our veterans by the Cayuga County Legislature.

7. When will I be picked up?

The driver will call the evening before to confirm your appointment with an approximate pick-up time. Be sure to confirm with the driver to ensure your pick-up. Because we have many patients to pick up, please be ready fifteen minutes before the scheduled time in case the van is early.

The van will not be able to wait for passengers. Pick-up time is only an estimate. Please be patient and you will be picked up. If for some reason the van service is canceled, you will be called.

Riders needing help from their home to the VetVan must be responsible for providing a capable person to assist the veteran. Drivers can help veterans on and off the VetVan but are not required to do lifting that would be a risk to either the driver or the veteran.

8. What other information should I know about the VetVan?

For your safety, all veterans will be required to use seat belts. For health reasons, no smoking is permitted on the VetVan.

Help us keep your VetVan clean, please throw all trash in the basket provided. The VetVan returns after all the appointments are completed.