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Standard & Poor’s Upgrades Outlook of Clarkstown’s Finances to “Stable” As Town’s “AA” Bond Rating Is Reaffirmed Once Again

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NEW CITY, NY – Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann announced that the ratings agency Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) reaffirmed the Town’s “AA” bond rating while upgrading the Town’s financial outlook from negative to stable.

In positively revising its outlook, S&P cited Clarkstown’s “track record of consistent, fact-based budgeting, which has translated to an improvement in overall financial performance” as well as the Town’s “growing commercial and residential development”, which they view as the foundation of Clarkstown’s “very strong “economy. S&P noted and emphasized “the positive operating trends over the past two years,” “ongoing expenditure control on a line-item basis combined with prior reforms that generated ongoing expenditure savings” and “a strong recovery in economically sensitive revenues, including sales and mortgage taxes” that “underpin the improvement in its financial position, despite the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

S&P’s review of Clarkstown’s finances comes in advance of the Town’s issuance of $12 million in General Obligation public improvement serial bonds and the refunding of $7.9 million in bonds, the proceeds of which will produce budgetary savings for the Town’s taxpayers.

“Standard & Poor’s optimistic outlook of the Town’s finances and economic conditions is great news for Clarkstown taxpayers.  After many years of consistent deficit spending, we were able to right the ship with structural reforms that produced three years in a row of surplus, a feat that hasn’t been achieved in decades,” said Supervisor George Hoehmann, adding:

“This strong bond rating enables the Town to secure low interest rates to finance infrastructure projects that enhance the quality of life for Clarkstown residents and businesses.”

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Update: Rockland County YouthFest Returns March 29 at RCC

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Rockland County will host its annual YouthFest on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rockland Community College.

The free, family-friendly event is one of the largest community gatherings in the county, bringing together more than 150 local agencies, organizations, and service providers focused on youth and family programs.

YouthFest offers a wide range of activities, including interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, performances, and hands-on experiences for children and teens. Families can also enjoy entertainment, games, and attractions throughout the day while learning about resources available across Rockland County.

The event is held in conjunction with Rockland County Government Day, giving residents an opportunity to connect with county departments and learn more about public services and programs.

Organized by the Rockland County Youth Bureau, YouthFest draws thousands of attendees each year and serves as a one-stop destination for families seeking information, support services, and recreational opportunities.

                                  Admission is free and open to the public.

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Frozen Toilet During Extreme Cold? What Homeowners Should and Shouldn’t Do

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With freezing temperatures expected across Rockland County, Fire and Emergency Services is reminding residents to take steps to prevent frozen and burst pipes, which can cause significant property damage and even lead to fires.

Officials recommend allowing faucets to drip slightly, especially overnight, to keep water moving through pipes. Residents should also open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.

Fire and Emergency Services advises keeping homes heated to at least 55 degrees, even when away, and insulating exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Residents are warned never to use open flames or unsafe heating devices to thaw frozen pipes.

If a pipe does freeze, officials recommend using a hair dryer or warm air to thaw it safely. Torches or other open-flame methods should never be used. A frozen toilet is inconvenient, but rushing the fix can turn a minor problem into major damage. Slow, careful warming is the safest solution, and professional help should be sought if the issue persists.

In the event of a burst pipe or water emergency, residents are urged to shut off the water immediately and contact emergency services or a licensed professional if needed.

Officials remind residents to stay warm, stay safe, and take preventative steps to protect their homes during extreme cold weather.

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