Connect with us

Government

Town of Clarkstown Supervisor Hoehmann Issues Emergency Order on NYC Migrant Bus Rerouting

Published

on

NEW CITY, NY – Town of Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann today issued a town wide emergency executive order in response to the Mayor of New York City’s executive order rerouting migrant buses.

Mayor Eric Adams has announced a new city emergency order, modeled after one used in Chicago, that intends to reroute buses carrying migrants who entered the country illegally away from New York City. Since this policy was enacted in Chicago earlier this month, Chicago’s suburbs have been overwhelmed with unannounced bus loads of migrants being dropped off. Creating safety and security hazards for impacted communities, who were unprepared and ill-equipped to handle these migrant bus arrivals.

In order to prevent Mayor Adam’s bus rerouting from overwhelming Clarkstown Supervisor Hoehmann’s emergency executive order will prevent charter bus companies and any chartered vehicle from making unannounced migrant drop offs at any location within the Town of Clarkstown or face penalties of $750 per person illegally dropped off plus impoundment of vehicle with related costs and fines.

The timing of Mayor Adam’s order could not have been worse for NYC suburbs. A historic sized migrant caravan is expected to cross the US/Mexican border this holiday weekend, with the potential to multiply the amount of migrants being bused to New York. Local governments and first responders have not been given time to prepare nor have the resources to respond to the overwhelming needs of hundreds or thousands of unannounced migrants.

This emergency order will be effective initially for 30 days with the plan for formal town board legislative action to make the order permanent in the New Year.

This action follows Supervisor Hoehmann’s unprecedented code enforcement actions to prevent illegal housing conversions and rentals to migrants as well as preventing NYC from housing migrants in Clarkstown hotels.

Supervisor George Hoehmann stated, “Clarkstown will not allow Mayor Eric Adams to potentially reroute countless numbers of migrant buses to our communities. We do not have the resources nor the ability to process even a single busload of unannounced migrants. My emergency executive order takes effect immediately. The town will vigorously enforce this order. All charter bus companies are on notice you cannot reroute unannounced migrant buses within Clarkstown’s borders. I will continue to ensure a whole-of-government approach to protect our communities in Clarktown. I urge all residents, if you see something, say something. You are our eyes and ears on the ground. If you see suspicious buses or vehicles, call the town immediately.”

Town Attorney Kevin Conway stated, “Supervisor Hoehmann using his emergency executive authority has issued this order for the safety and welfare of all residents of Clarkstown. Charter bus companies or any entity found violating this order will be subject to immediate penalties and enforcement. The town of Clarkstown is unable to safely handle and manage any rerouted migrant buses.”

If you see something, say something. In emergency situations call 9-1-1. Non-emergency calls can be placed to the general dispatch number for the CPD at 845-639-5800.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Government

Report Litterbugs in Rockland County Through Keep Rockland Beautiful Program

Published

on

Littering is illegal and can result in fines for those who commit the offense. Some litterbugs simply need to be informed and reminded that littering — whether deliberate or unintentional — can end with a personal commitment to stop.

The Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program encourages the public to report people who litter in an effort to help make Rockland County’s roadways cleaner. The program provides every individual with an opportunity to be an active participant in reducing litter.

If you see someone littering from their car, or trash blowing out from the back of a truck, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office will send the vehicle owner a warning letter based on your report to Keep Rockland Beautiful.

To report a litterbug, visit: Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program

Continue Reading

Government

Senate Approves Bill Expanding SPCA Fingerprinting Access

Published

on

A bipartisan bill sponsored by Pete Harckham aimed at helping SPCAs across New York more effectively investigate and prosecute animal cruelty cases has passed the State Senate unanimously.

The legislation, S.1664, would authorize SPCA officers statewide to access the same live scan fingerprinting system currently used by law enforcement agencies following an arrest. Supporters say the measure would streamline arrest processing, improve officer efficiency, and help prevent suspects from avoiding prosecution.

At present, many SPCA officers in New York must rely on outside law enforcement agencies to process fingerprints after making an arrest, often causing delays.

“SPCA officers must have the tools and resources they need to protect defenseless animals from cruelty and neglect and the public at large from serial abusers,” Harckham said in a statement. “With access to live scan fingerprinting, officers can quickly determine whether a suspect has a history of abuse or is wanted for other crimes.”

Harckham said the legislation was inspired by conversations with officers from the Putnam County SPCA, who reported that delays in fingerprint processing sometimes allowed suspects with outstanding warrants to remain free longer than necessary.

Chief Ken Ross of the Putnam County SPCA praised the bill’s passage, noting the connection between animal cruelty and other violent crimes.

“Animal cruelty crimes are especially disturbing because they target the most vulnerable,” Ross said. “These offenses are often linked to other forms of violence, including child abuse and domestic violence.”

According to supporters of the legislation, animal cruelty cases have increased across New York since the COVID-19 pandemic. SPCAs cite rising living costs, behavioral health challenges, and the expiration of eviction protections as contributing factors.

Data from Humane Society International indicates that 85% of individuals arrested for animal cruelty have prior arrests, many involving felony offenses. The organization also reports significant overlap between domestic violence and animal abuse cases.

If enacted into law, the bill would expand investigative capabilities for SPCAs statewide and strengthen coordination between animal welfare agencies and law enforcement officials.

Continue Reading

Trending