In a recent legislative meeting, the Cayuga County Legislature addressed the urgent need for alternative office space following the discovery of vermiculite contamination in the county office building. The building has been vacated as environmental consultants conduct necessary tests and assessments in compliance with state regulations. The abatement process is expected to take up to two years, prompting the legislature to seek immediate solutions to continue public services.

To facilitate this, the operations team, comprising the legislative chair, county manager, and operations officer, conducted a thorough analysis of potential properties. They proposed leasing the entire premises at 63 Genesee Street, Auburn, for $29,005 per month, with plans to house the Department of Social Services, county treasurer's office, finance department, and other essential services.

The estimated cost to outfit the new space is projected at $1.1 million, with the county's net expense expected to be approximately $587,500 for 2024 after state and federal reimbursements. The legislature has authorized the chair to finalize the lease agreement and necessary arrangements to ensure the new office space is ready for occupancy. This decision underscores the county's commitment to maintaining public service continuity while addressing health and safety concerns related to the contamination.