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Rockland County Warns Residents Of Crooked Contractors Family Scammed Out Of $90 K

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In a recent scheme, a Rockland County family was scammed out of $90,000 by a contractor who promised to renovate their yard while the family was away on vacation but never did and has since disappeared. So far this year, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection indicates families have been scammed out of over $200,000.

Unfortunately, these types of scams are common with an estimated 1 in 10 people falling victim to Home Improvement Contracting Scams. 

“These individuals can often be hard to catch, and the money stolen harder to reclaim, which is why I stress to our families that prevention is key,” said County Executive Ed Day. “A little amount of due diligence will go a long way to protecting yourself from falling victim.”

Office of Consumer Protection Director Kim Von Ronn urges families to always:

  • Steer clear of unsolicited contractors
  • Get a written contract
  • Never pay until job is complete
  • And utilize a licensed contractor

“The benefits of contracting with a licensed vendor/contractor ensures a few things but first and foremost that the contractor is insured,” explained Director Von Ronn. “Without appropriate and adequate insurance coverage, if the contractor or their employee gets injured when working on a home, the homeowner can be responsible for damage or injury.”

Once you decide on a contractor, keep in mind:

  • Every home improvement project over $250 requires a written contract. 
  • A down payment shall not exceed $1,000 or 15% of the contract price, whichever is less. Exceptions to this must be stated within the written contract and agreed upon.

If a conflict arises between the consumer and business, Consumer Protection can assist with the dispute and mediation process.

Complaints regarding terrible workmanship from unlicensed vendors or an unlicensed vendor scamming a consumer out of money for an uncompleted job can also be investigated by our Office of Consumer Protection resulting in bringing the responsible party to Criminal Court. The Office of Consumer Protection also can impound vehicles in these scenarios thanks to Rockland County Local Law Chapter 286-21(H) which was sponsored by County Executive Ed Day during his time serving in the Rockland County Legislature.

In 2023, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection investigated 617 complaints and returned $66,000 to homeowners.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact their Office of Consumer Protection at (845) 364-3901 or by email at [email protected].

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Rockland County Offers Free Mosquito Dunks® and Mosquito-Eating Minnows to Residents

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Protect your home and community from mosquitoes this spring and summer!

The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) is offering free mosquito control products to residents, including Mosquito Dunks® and fathead minnows, to help reduce the mosquito population and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.


Mosquito Dunks® – Available by Appointment

What they are: Small, floating “donuts” that release safe bacteria to kill mosquito larvae in standing water.

Who can get them: Rockland County residents for use in unused swimming pools, spas, and other water-holding containers.

How to get them:

  • Pick-up location: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, 50 Sanatorium Road, Building D, Pomona, NY

  • By appointment only – Reserve in advance by calling 845-364-3173 or emailing [email protected]

  • Required: Download and complete the order form from the Mosquito Control Program webpage and bring it with you to your scheduled pickup.


🐟 Fathead Minnows – One-Day Giveaway Event

What they are: Small fish that eat mosquito larvae—up to 200 larvae per day!

Event Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, Building D, 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona, NY
Important: Minnows must be released only within Rockland County

How to reserve:

  • Register online via the Mosquito Control Program webpage, or

  • Call 845-364-3173
    Note: The event date and time are subject to change. Signs will be posted to guide attendees to the correct location.


For more information, visit the Rockland County Health Department Mosquito Control Program webpage.

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988: Three Numbers That Can Change a Life

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The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is here for anyone feeling overwhelmed, sad, stressed, or in a mental health crisis. It’s free, private, and available 24/7.

What happens when you contact 988?

  • You’ll talk with a trained counselor who listens and cares.

  • They’ll help you feel supported and work through what you’re going through.

  • You can call, text, or chat—whatever feels best for you.

988 is for everyone.

  • You don’t have to be in a serious emergency.

  • You can reach out for yourself or if you’re worried about a friend or family member.

Sharing 988 can save lives.
Let’s help more people know that support is just three numbers away.
You’re not alone—and no one else has to be either.

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