The Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors organized a highly-informative and well-attended event called “Rockland County Day” on July 17 at the Nyack Seaport. The program marked the beginning of a series of initiatives focusing on key market areas served by the association.
The event brought together various stakeholders, including Realtors, local politicians, economic development officials, and community groups, to engage in discussions and gain insights into the happenings in and around Rockland County. One of the major topics discussed was the recent damage caused by torrential rains and flash flooding, prompting County Executive Ed Day, State Sen. Bill Weber (R-C-38th District), and State Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski (D-96th District) to update attendees on road closures and openings. They also highlighted Gov. Kathy Hochul’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from President Biden, potentially making Rockland County eligible for FEMA assistance.
The event’s panel, led by HGAR Director of Government Affairs Alex Roithmayr, delved into the contentious issue of the housing crisis and Gov. Hochul’s “New York Housing Compact” plan. The plan aimed to build 800,000 new homes statewide but faced criticism from lawmakers on both sides for bypassing local home rule. The panelists acknowledged the need for more affordable housing but expressed reservations about the plan’s development goals and penalties for non-compliance, which would override local authorities’ decisions.
Rockland County Executive Ed Day was among the speakers opposing the compact, emphasizing the importance of incentives for development and preserving local control in any housing plan.
