Community Services Board successfully selects new candidate after improved hiring process

A significant milestone was achieved during the Tompkins County Community Services Board meeting on June 3, 2025, as members celebrated the successful selection of a new candidate for a key position. The process was praised for its credibility and fairness, a stark contrast to previous hiring experiences that were described as "messy."

Board members expressed their satisfaction with the thorough and organized approach taken this time, highlighting the collaborative effort that ensured mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities programs were prioritized in discussions with candidates. One member noted, “I feel pretty confident that our issues were dealt with effectively,” emphasizing the importance of community input in the selection process.

While the exact start date for the new candidate remains uncertain, members are eager to receive more information, including the candidate's resume and qualifications. The board is committed to transparency and ensuring that the community is informed about the new hire's background.

In addition to the hiring discussion, the meeting touched on the ongoing search for a new Department of Social Services leader. Members raised concerns about the inclusion of representatives from Tompkins Whole Health in the search committee, recognizing the importance of allied agencies in the process.

As the meeting concluded, the board prepared to enter an executive session to discuss membership matters, signaling ongoing efforts to strengthen the community services framework in Tompkins County. The collaborative spirit and focus on effective communication were clear indicators of the board's commitment to enhancing community services moving forward.