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

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9 months ago

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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 Legislators Call on Congress to Protect Medicaid Funding Amid Proposed Cuts

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2 hours ago

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April 4, 2025

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Rockland County Legislators unanimously passed a resolution urging Congress to protect Medicaid funding, which is crucial for many vulnerable residents, including seniors, low-income families, and individuals with disabilities. Legislator Dana G. Stilley introduced the resolution, emphasizing that nearly 150,000 county residents rely on Medicaid for essential services. The resolution comes in response to a proposed federal budget that includes $800 billion in cuts to Medicaid. These cuts could severely impact local nonprofits that provide care for individuals with disabilities. Stilley urged action, saying that the lives of those dependent on Medicaid cannot be disregarded in budget decisions.

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Government

Rockland Health Department Is Offering Free Rabies Shots For Cats, Dogs and Ferrets April 27th

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22 hours ago

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April 3, 2025

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The Rockland County Department of Health announces free rabies vaccinations for cats, dogs, and ferrets belonging to Rockland residents on Sunday, April 27th, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm at 50 Sanatorium Road, Building A in Pomona. 

To get a free rabies shot, please be sure:

  • Your dog, cat, or ferret must be healthy
  • Your pet needs to be at least 4 months of age
  • Your dog must be on a leash
  • Your cat or ferret must be on a leash or in a carrier

Appointments are required for each animal.  To make an appointment or for more information, visit http://rcklnd.us/rabiesvax or call 845-364-2656. Please check Facebook.com/rocklandgov for weather-related cancellations before arrival. The shots are free, however, a $5 donation per animal will help defray costs. Please bring exact cash or check payable to Commissioner of Finance. Please arrive 15 minutes before your pet’s scheduled appointment time.

New York State law requires that all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Owners can be fined up to $250 if they fail to get their pets vaccinated and keep them up to date. All animal bites and animals suspected of having rabies must be reported to the Rockland County Health Department at (845) 364-2656.  After hours, callers should contact the Rockland Sheriff’s Office at (845) 364-8600.

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