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CHPE Project Completion Sparks Debate Over Impact on Rockland Small Businesses

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2 months ago

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A recently circulated video showing New York Gov. Kathy Hochul celebrating the completion of the Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE) transmission line has drawn criticism from some local officials and business advocates who say the project has had a significant impact on small businesses in Rockland County.

Construction related to the CHPE project has taken place in portions of Stony Point, Haverstraw, and Congers over the past two years. Some business owners have reported financial hardships, citing reduced customer access, disruptions caused by roadwork, and prolonged construction activity.

Critics argue that affected businesses received little assistance from New York State despite the challenges associated with the project. The CHPE transmission line is designed to deliver hydroelectric power from Canada to New York City through a state-approved energy infrastructure project.

Supporters of local businesses point to a recent funding agreement secured through the efforts of Congressman Mike Lawler. Under the agreement, CHPE committed $1 million in funding intended to provide relief to businesses impacted by construction activities in Rockland County.

Local leaders are continuing to encourage residents to support businesses in the affected communities as they recover from the economic effects of the project.

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Clarkstown Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl Launches Text Alerts for Tax Bill Updates

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6 days ago

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August 9, 2026

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CLARKSTOWN, NY — Beginning with the new tax season on September 1, the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office will offer residents a new and convenient way to receive updates about their tax bills directly by text message.

Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl announced that residents can opt in to the service by texting “TAXINFO” to 845-644-6899.

Once a resident’s tax bill is ready, those enrolled will receive a text message containing a link. Residents can then enter their property address to view their tax bill and, if they choose, make a payment online.

The new text notification system does not replace traditional mailed tax bills. Residents who sign up for the service will continue to receive their regular tax bill in the mail. The text alerts are intended to provide an additional and more convenient way for residents to know when their bills are available and access their information.

“Residents asked for a simpler way to receive tax bill information, and I’m proud that we were able to make it happen,” Wohl said.

Residents with questions about the new service can contact the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office at 845-639-2010.

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Government

Flock Cameras in Rockland County: Safety Tool or Privacy Concern?

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1 week ago

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August 8, 2026

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Flock cameras have become an increasingly debated topic across the country, including here in Rockland County.

Flock cameras are automated license plate readers used by law enforcement to capture license plates and vehicle characteristics as vehicles pass by. Police can use the information to assist with investigations, including locating stolen vehicles, identifying vehicles associated with wanted suspects, helping find missing people and developing leads following crimes.

One of the cameras pictured is located outside The Shops at Nanuet in Clarkstown. A graphic from the website DeFlock also shows reported camera locations throughout the area.

Supporters say the technology can give police an important investigative tool and help solve crimes more quickly. Critics, however, have raised concerns about privacy and the collection of information about where people drive, even when they are not suspected of committing a crime.

The debate ultimately comes down to a question of public safety versus privacy.

What do you think? Are Flock cameras a valuable tool for law enforcement, or are they an intrusion on your privacy?

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