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“2% County Property Tax Cut Proposed” By Rockland County Executive Ed Day

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1 year ago

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I recently unveiled my proposed 2024 $870 million budget at the Robert Yeager Health Complex in New City Monday, which includes a 2% County Property Tax cut.

This proposed cut comes on the heels of zero County property tax increases two years in a row and is a huge leap from the double-digit tax increases from years past.

The reprieve is attributed to the County of Rockland recovering from a $138 million deficit in 2014 to a surplus resulting from conservative budgeting, responsible economic growth, and hard work of county employees.

Our economic turnaround is nothing short of miraculous. I thank our dedicated employees for staying true to our commitment to conservative spending which is enabling us to absorb costs while still providing reprieve for our residents in a responsible and balanced manner.

The 2024 Proposed Budget includes:

  • 2% County Property Tax Cut.
  • Increasing amounts available for patriotic observances from $1250 to $3000.
  • $1million for additional positions to strengthen our Department of Social Services, seeing increasing demand. 
  • Another $1.5 million for college tuition assistance for volunteer fire fighters and emergency medical services.
  • An additional 10% in possible funding increases to nonprofit contract agencies and 224 agencies.

We have come a long way in Rockland, but I promise you this administration will not rest nor stop trying to do everything possible for the people of this county. We will continue the prudent and protective practices that have gotten us this far and work hard to preserve our County for future generations.

Budget Timeline:

  • By October 1 – County Executive must submit Proposed Budget to County Legislature.
  • By November 20 (tentative) – County Legislature must hold a public hearing on the Proposed Budget.
  • By December 7 (tentative) – County Legislature will vote to adopt the Budget. If the Legislature takes no action by December 7, the budget is deemed adopted. If the Legislature amends the proposed budget; it goes to the County Executive for review; he has five working days after receipt of the amended version to veto. He has line-item veto power.
  • By December 20 – County Legislature must override, or the amended version with any vetoes becomes the budget. It takes a two-thirds vote per veto item to override that veto (Two-thirds is 12 votes).

 

This is a weekly column by Rockland County Executive Ed Day

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Government

Rockland County Honors Marine Corps Veteran Elizabeth Rubio with 2025 Freedom Award

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4 days ago

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March 26, 2025

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County Executive Ed Day and Director Susan Branam of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency recognized a female veteran with the Freedom Award Monday, an annual County honor made to female veterans for outstanding service to our nation.

“Acknowledging those who have worked and sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy is crucial, particularly women whose contributions to building and protecting our country have long been overlooked.” said County Executive Ed Day.

The 2025 Freedom Award was presented to Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Veteran Elizabeth “Lisa” Rubio. Rubio, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served honorably from 2011 to 2019, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Throughout her career, she held key roles across multiple commands, including Marine Corps Recruiting Command and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command. A dedicated leader, she supported multinational training exercises, mentored recruits, and earned multiple commendations, including two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals.

After her military service, Lisa continued her commitment to others as a Veterans Service Officer in the County of Rockland, securing $12 million in benefits for local veterans and surviving spouses. Now pursuing a law degree, she remains devoted to advocacy and service.

“I am so proud to present this award to Lisa who not only has been a trailblazer as a female Marine, but a dedicated Veteran Service Officer, and now is completing her first year in law school. I have no doubt that she will continue to do well and serve as an inspiration to future generations,” said Veterans Service Agency Director, Susan Branam.

“We thank Lisa for her bravery and continued commitment to our residents. We are proud to list your name among the women recipients of the Rockland County Freedom Award in years past,” concluded County Executive Ed Day.

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Community

DEC Issues Safety Tips As Coyote Activity Increases During Breeding Season

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4 days ago

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March 26, 2025

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Coyotes are especially active during their breeding season, which typically runs from January to March, as they mate and prepare dens for their upcoming pups. During this time, they are more territorial, which can increase the chances of conflicts with people and pets.

To reduce these risks, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) offers several recommendations: Avoid feeding coyotes and do not leave food outside, including pet food and garbage. Always feed pets indoors and secure trash and compost piles to prevent attracting coyotes. Be firm if you see a coyote—make yourself appear larger and make noise to scare it away.  Supervise pets when they are outside, particularly at dusk and night, as small pets are most vulnerable. Install a sturdy fence that is at least four feet tall and extends six inches underground to deter coyotes. Clear brush and tall grass from around your home to eliminate hiding spots for coyotes. Encourage neighbors to follow these tips to ensure the community works together to prevent conflicts.

If a coyote is exhibiting bold behaviors and shows little or no fear of people, contact your Regional Wildlife Office or, in emergency situations, the local police department. Visit the DEC website for more information on coyotes and preventing conflicts with coyotes.

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