ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — Rockland County Executive Ed Day has announced the appointment of Kiersten Noel Jackson as the county’s new Director of Community Relations, succeeding Myrnia Bass-Hargrove, who retired in the fall of 2026.

Jackson, a lifelong Rockland County resident, takes on the new leadership role after serving for two years as a Confidential Assistant in the Rockland County Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Film.

As Director of Community Relations, Jackson will serve as a key liaison between Rockland County government, nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and residents. Her responsibilities will include responding to community concerns, helping residents access county services, and working with local organizations to address issues affecting Rockland County communities.

“I am proud to announce Kiersten Noel Jackson will join our Community Relations efforts and continue strengthening the relationship between County government and our residents. I am confident that her experience and qualifications, and recent graduation from our County Emerging Leaders Program, will help her excel in this role and drive Rockland forward,” said County Executive Ed Day.

During her time with the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Film, Jackson managed a variety of administrative and operational responsibilities, including tracking departmental budgets and expenditures, developing action plans, reviewing departmental procedures, overseeing grant opportunities, and preparing official correspondence and reports for county and state agencies.

Jackson also serves as Rockland County’s Policy and Compliance Coordinator for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). In that position, she oversees compliance with federal, state, and county requirements, manages grant applications, and coordinates with community organizations, government departments, elected officials, and state and federal representatives.

Her appointment follows her recent graduation from Rockland County’s Emerging Leaders Program, an initiative focused on developing leadership skills among county employees.

In her new position, Jackson will also work directly with county departments to identify and address community needs, strengthen partnerships with nonprofit organizations, and help improve the delivery of essential services to residents.

“Taking on this new role is an exciting next step. As a lifelong Rockland resident, I’m eager to contribute to the County’s ongoing efforts to grow our economy and expand opportunities for all,” said Jackson. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team and community partners to create lasting impact.”

The Director of Community Relations plays an important role in connecting residents with county government, assisting nonprofit service providers, and ensuring community concerns are communicated to the appropriate departments.

Jackson succeeds Myrnia Bass-Hargrove, who retired after serving in the position, and will now help lead Rockland County’s efforts to strengthen community engagement and improve access to government resources.

With winter approaching and heating costs putting pressure on household budgets, Rockland County residents will be able to apply for financial assistance through the 2026–2027 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

The Rockland County Department of Social Services announced that applications for Regular HEAP benefits will open Monday, November 2, 2026. The federally funded program helps eligible low-income households pay their home heating bills.

Residents do not need to have a heating emergency or receive a utility shutoff notice to apply. County officials are encouraging eligible households to submit applications early.

“With high heating costs putting pressure on household budgets, HEAP can help eligible low-income households, including older adults, people with disabilities, and families with young children, keep their heat on and stay warm this winter,” said Pat Frawley, Rockland County Commissioner of Social Services.

How Much Heating Assistance Is Available?

For the 2026–2027 heating season, base Regular HEAP benefits for eligible households that pay directly for heating include:

• $400 for households using natural gas or electricity.
• $990 for households using oil or propane.

Additional benefits may be available depending on household income and whether the household includes a child under age six, an adult 60 or older, or someone with a disability.

Both homeowners and renters may qualify, including some residents whose heating costs are included in their rent. Benefits are generally paid directly to the household’s heating supplier.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility and benefit amounts depend on:

• Household income and family size.
• The type of heating fuel used.
• Whether the household includes a young child, older adult or person with a disability.

Households with active Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance (TA) cases may not need to file a separate Regular HEAP application.

How to Apply

Starting November 2, residents can apply through the following options:

• Online: myBenefits.ny.gov
• In person or by mail: Rockland County Department of Social Services, 50 Sanatorium Road, Building L, Pomona, NY 10970.
• By phone: Call 845-364-3486 to see if you qualify for a telephone application.
• By email: RocklandHEAP@dfa.state.ny.us
• By fax: 845-364-3130.

Residents applying by mail, email, fax or in person must submit a completed and signed application along with the required supporting documents.

Emergency Heating Assistance Begins in January

Additional assistance will become available January 4, 2027, when Emergency HEAP opens for eligible households facing a heating crisis, such as a utility shutoff or a shortage of heating fuel.

Emergency applications cannot be submitted online through myBenefits. Residents must contact the HEAP Unit for assistance.

Homeowners may also qualify for help repairing or replacing heating equipment through the Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement program, as well as assistance through the Clean and Tune program. Both programs opened October 1, 2026.

Where to Get More Information

For questions about eligibility, applications or available heating assistance, contact the Rockland County HEAP Unit:

• Phone: 845-364-3486
• Email: RocklandHEAP@dfa.state.ny.us
• Fax: 845-364-3130

HEAP benefits are subject to available funding. Residents are encouraged to apply early.