A proposed countywide 911 addressing system took center stage at the Tompkins County Council of Governments meeting on May 22, 2025, with officials discussing the critical need for a unified approach to emergency services. Mark Stitely, a key figure in the initiative, outlined two essential conditions for the system's success: unanimous support from local municipalities and the ability to rectify existing addressing issues.

The discussion highlighted the challenges posed by inconsistent numbering and duplicate street names across towns, which can hinder emergency response efforts. Several council members expressed their support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of a standardized addressing scheme that would simplify emergency services and improve public safety.

Council member Joel noted that misnumbering has been a persistent issue, complicating navigation for emergency responders. Others echoed this sentiment, sharing personal experiences of misnumbered addresses that have caused delays in emergency situations. The consensus among council members was clear: a countywide addressing system could alleviate these problems and enhance the efficiency of emergency services.

While some concerns were raised about potential resistance from residents regarding address changes, past experiences indicated that most community members recognized the necessity of such adjustments for their safety. The council agreed to further explore the proposal, with plans to engage in more detailed discussions and presentations in the coming months.

As the meeting concluded, the council marked a significant step forward in addressing the complexities of emergency response in Tompkins County, with hopes that a unified addressing system will soon become a reality.