Vote: June 24th
Iris Packman County Legislature - District 3
"Together, we can build a more just, sustainable, and thriving Tompkins County—where every family has a home, every worker has a future, and every voice is heard."
Iris Packman
In the media
Livable, Sustainable Housing for All
Ithaca and Tompkins County face a growing housing crisis, with rising property taxes, a significant population of unhoused residents, and limited housing stock affecting the number of affordable, quality places to live within Ithaca and Tompkins County. As a homeowner feeling the pinch of climbing property taxes, and a former tenant familiar with the challenges of renting in Ithaca, Iris knows full-well how hard this crisis impacts working families. Iris is dedicated to advancing policies that ensure equitable taxation, prevent displacement of residents, and support sustainable, green development that gives back to the community. By working with local and state leaders, she aims to create housing solutions that make Tompkins County livable for everyone.
Education Advocacy
As a graduate of ICSD schools and a parent of children in the District, Iris is deeply invested in quality, inclusive public education. Her work on the board of the Ithaca Children’s Garden has supported tens of thousands of children and families accessing nature-based education, and her advocacy during the COVID-19 pandemic brought much-needed support to our local elementary schools so that all children could continue learning together in a safe environment. A graduate of Ithaca High School, Iris knows how special our district is, and is dedicated to supporting our schools through equitable taxation policies at the local and state levels.
Economic Development and Innovation
Understanding the importance of a robust local economy, Iris has championed initiatives that support job creation and investment in local communities. Iris's strategic vision aims to balance economic growth with the preservation of our community's unique character. Developments like SouthWorks are important for creating economic activity, and we must balance both their benefits to the local economy and their impact on the community as we invest in these types of projects.
Climate and Clean Energy
Iris believes that bold climate action and clean energy investments are essential for a sustainable and resilient Tompkins County. She supports expanding renewable energy initiatives, improving energy efficiency in homes and businesses, and ensuring climate policies create high-quality jobs while prioritizing equity. By working with local, state, and national leaders, Iris is dedicated to accelerating the County’s transition to a green economy and protecting our communities from the impacts of climate change, while ensuring that the investments we make benefit our own residents.