Key Discussions and Resolutions:
Opening Proceedings:
- The meeting was called to order, with all legislators present except Douglas J. Jobson.
- Legislator Will J. Kennelly led the Pledge of Allegiance and invocation.
- The minutes of previous meetings (December 3, 19, and 30, 2024) were adopted.
Chairman’s Remarks (Jay Hood, Jr.):
- Expressed well wishes for Legislator Jobson’s wife, who was hospitalized.
- Acknowledged that much of the legislative debate happens in caucus meetings, ensuring smooth official proceedings.
Comments from Legislators:
- Itamar J. Yeger:
- Spoke on the hostage exchange between Israel and Palestine, criticizing the nature of the exchange.
- Condemned former President Trump’s pardons of individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot, particularly one who attacked a police officer.
- Dana G. Stilley:
- Honored the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing his activism beyond his “I Have a Dream” speech.
- Jesse M. Malowitz:
- Expressed concern over antisemitic symbols worn by Capitol rioters.
- Shared a story of a heroic Israeli man who rescued people on October 7 before being killed.
- Lon M. Hofstein:
- Criticized partisan discussions, calling for unity in local governance instead of national political debates.
- Alden H. Wolfe:
- Rejected Hofstein’s suggestion to avoid national issues, arguing that legislators have the right to speak out on all matters.
- Toney L. Earl:
- Commended efforts to help a homeless man in the district find shelter.
- Aron B. Wieder:
- Highlighted the efficiency of committee meetings, which ensure smooth, full legislative sessions.
- Will J. Kennelly:
- We requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Barbara Wanamaker, mother of the Clarkstown Chief of Police.
Major Resolutions Approved:
- Funding & Budget Approvals:
- $6.9 million and $9.9 million for mental health services.
- $3.7 million bond for open space acquisition.
- $3 million bond for countywide computer replacements.
- $500,000 for fabrication and installation of aluminum handrails.
- $400,000 contract for paratransit bus maintenance.
- $162,000 for disinfecting public transportation vehicles.
- $207,193 grant from the New York State Department of Health for the Expanded Partner Services Program.
- $391,250 grant for the Adolescent Tobacco Use Prevention Act.
- $132,351 grant for the Shelter Arrears Eviction Prevention Program.
- $124,102 grant from FEMA for emergency management preparedness.
- Property Sales & Approvals:
- Approved the sale of two tax-delinquent properties in Sloatsburg for $55,051.99.
- Additional Purchases:
- $287,815 for uniforms and emergency services supplies.
- $181,740 contract extension for a second amendment to an existing service agreement.
Public Participation:
- Anne Nissen spoke on protecting the immigrant community.
- Matthew Brennan raised concerns about Rockland County owing him money from a court case.
The meeting concluded with unanimous approvals on various financial and community projects.
Mathew Alvarez joined Rockland Daily News as a reporter in March 2020, but he’s no stranger to Rockland County. He grew up in New City and graduated from Ball State’s College of Communication, Information, and Media.