Government

President Trump Visits Rockland County: Historic Event Draws National Attention

Published

2 weeks ago

May 21, 2026

President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Rockland County on Friday in what is expected to be one of the most significant political events in the Hudson Valley this year. The appearance marks the first visit by a sitting U.S. president to Rockland County since President Gerald Ford visited the area in 1976.

Trump is expected to appear alongside Congressman Mike Lawler during an official White House-style event focused on affordability, taxes, and economic policy. According to multiple reports, the event will take place at Rockland Community College and could attract thousands of supporters, local residents, media members, and protesters.

A major topic of discussion is expected to be the State and Local Tax deduction, commonly known as the SALT cap. Trump and Lawler are expected to highlight efforts to raise the deduction limit from $10,000 to $40,000 — an issue with strong political importance in suburban New York communities where property taxes remain high.

The visit also underscores the growing national attention on New York’s 17th Congressional District, one of the most competitive swing districts in the country ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Political analysts say Lawler’s reelection campaign is being closely watched as Republicans attempt to maintain control of the House of Representatives.

Local officials are warning residents to expect significant traffic disruptions and heightened security throughout the area during the president’s visit. Roads surrounding the venue may face temporary closures as Secret Service and local law enforcement coordinate security operations.

Trump’s appearance in Rockland County comes amid a busy week of public events for the president, including a commencement address at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut.

For many residents, the visit represents a historic moment for Rockland County and highlights the region’s growing importance in national politics. Supporters view the event as a major opportunity to energize Republican voters in the Hudson Valley, while critics are expected to organize demonstrations nearby.

The event is expected to draw widespread regional and national media coverage as political attention increasingly turns toward the 2026 election season.

Government

Rockland County Promotes Native Plants and Water-Smart Landscaping

Published

4 days ago

June 3, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Water Advisory Council is encouraging residents to embrace water-smart landscaping practices that conserve water and support environmental health.

Officials recommend reducing nonfunctional lawn areas and replacing them with native plants, drought-tolerant landscaping, rain gardens, bioswales, and rain barrels. These practices help reduce water consumption, manage stormwater runoff, improve groundwater recharge, and increase resilience to climate change.

According to the Council, water demand in Rockland County rises from an average of 30 million gallons per day to as much as 45 million gallons per day during the warmer months, placing additional strain on local water supplies.

Residents are encouraged to consider native plants such as Creeping Phlox, Foamflower ‘Elizabeth Oliver,’ and Jacob’s Ladder, which require less watering once established and are well-suited to local conditions.

Examples of successful rain gardens featuring native plants can be found at Orangeburg Library, Bowline Point Park, Kennedy Dells County Park, and Piermont Library.

By replacing sections of lawn with native plants and incorporating features that manage rainwater naturally, residents can play a direct role in protecting Rockland County’s water resources.

The initiative is part of the county’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable landscaping and encourage participation in the national “Less Lawn More Life” movement.

Government

Rockland Conservation & Service Corps Stream Team Helps Prevent Flooding and Protect Waterways

Published

4 days ago

June 3, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Members of the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps are helping protect local communities through their work with the Rockland County Drainage Agency, inspecting and assessing streams throughout Rockland County.

The Corps’ Stream Team identifies obstructions such as fallen trees, debris, and sediment buildup that can restrict water flow and contribute to flooding during heavy storms. Members also document illicit discharges, erosion issues, and areas in need of sediment remediation.

The information collected helps county officials address potential problems before they become larger environmental or public safety concerns.

In addition to reducing flood risks, the Stream Team’s work supports water quality and helps maintain healthy ecosystems throughout the county. By monitoring local waterways and identifying issues early, the team plays an important role in protecting Rockland County’s natural resources and strengthening community resilience.

Officials say the partnership highlights the importance of proactive environmental stewardship and ongoing efforts to keep Rockland County’s streams healthy, safe, and flowing properly.