I’m so glad you’re here! I’m Iris Packman, a lifelong Ithaca resident, labor lawyer, and advocate for high-quality green jobs. I’m dedicated to making Tompkins County a livable, sustainable, and equitable place for all, and excited for the opportunity to represent South Hill and Belle Sherman on the County Legislature.

My Ithaca Roots

I was lucky enough to grow up in Ithaca, where I attended Ithaca City schools from Kindergarten through 12th grade, and am grateful to be raising my children here. I’ve lived in more than 15 places throughout Tompkins County, and know firsthand the importance of having safe, affordable housing at every income level. Now a homeowner in Belle Sherman, I’ve experienced the dual challenges of rising property taxes and increased need for government services to keep our community healthy and flourishing.

My Work

I studied labor law and union organizing at Cornell’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations. After Cornell, I worked as a strategic campaigner for an international labor union and as a shop steward for my staff union, where my passion for advocacy and justice grew. Inspired by this work, I attended the University of Maryland School of Law, where I worked for two years as a student attorney in the immigration clinic, and graduated magna cum laude. I’m admitted to practice law in three jurisdictions, with extensive experience as in-house counsel for national labor organizations. My legal practice has centered on advocating for high-quality, family-sustaining jobs through state and local policy. Today, I’m a faculty member at Cornell, where I focus on advancing policy at the intersection of clean energy and labor.

My Vision

My work with the City of Ithaca’s Sustainability and Climate Justice Commission has been deeply rewarding, allowing me to champion transformative initiatives like the Green New Deal and Justice50. These experiences have strengthened my belief in the importance of bold, actionable solutions to combat the twin crises of climate change and affordable housing.

I’m dedicated to partnering with local, state, and federal leaders to address issues that matter most to Tompkins County residents, from creating a sustainable future to tackling rising inflation and protecting public education. My mission is to ensure working families have an experienced advocate who understands the challenges of raising children, securing affordable housing, and navigating systemic barriers. I’m proud of my track record of working across party lines to solve complex issues and create meaningful change.

My Community

As a parent of children in the Ithaca City School District, I’m passionate about quality and inclusive education. I serve as vice president of the board of directors for the Ithaca Children’s Garden and worked on the Ithaca Elementary Outdoor Gear Project, where I helped children access their human right to nature. When I’m not working, you can find me running Ithaca’s beautiful trails and parks with my husband, Alex, our two children, and our dog.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me! I’m deeply committed to serving South Hill, Belle Sherman, and the broader Tompkins County community. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for all.