Clarkstown votes in new Council Member and Town Justice

During the Tuesday 13 meeting of the Clarkstown Board, Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Town Board voted to fill two vacant slots in Clarkstown’s leadership. Darren Epstein was voted in as Town Justice, filling the vacancy created by Judge Ascher’s appointment as a County Court Judge, while  Jon Valentino was appointed to fill the vacancy of the late Councilman Mark Woods. Epstein is a long-time New City based attorney who most recently served as a Deputy Town Attorney for Clarkstown. Valentino is a retired NYPD Lieutenant and is currently employed as a funeral director at Higgins in New City. 

Supervisor Geroge Hoehmann expressed enthusiasm for both appointees in a statement shared with the RCT.

 “Darren has served the Town ably as Deputy Town Attorney and has a well respected local private law practice. The Town Board and I wish him the best as he begins his new role in service to our residents for the remainder of Judge Ascher’s term.

“Jon is a true public servant and I am proud to put him forward as the next Town Councilmember, the Town Board and I look forward to working with him as we continue to make Clarkstown a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Judge Darren Epstein stated, “I thank Supervisor Hoehmann and the Town Board for their confidence in appointing me as Judge for the Town of Clarkstown. I look forward to using my legal experience to benefit the residents of our great town as your newest Judge.”

Judge Epstein and his family are longtime residents of Rockland County and operated a long-term local family business. He served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Bronx before entering private practice. He previously served as a pro-bono attorney for 9-11 families. Epstein graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park and earned his JD from University of Baltimore School of Law.  

Councilman Valentino expressed a similar sentiment at his own appointment. 

“I am honored for the opportunity to serve the people of Clarkstown as Councilman and continue my commitment to community service,” said Councilman Valentino.  “I understand I have big shoes to fill. Councilman Mark Woods was a giant in our community and I promise to continue his legacy and work on projects he was spearheading during his tenure.  Thank you to Supervisor Hoehmann and the Town Board for appointing me and I look forward to working together.” 

Councilman Valentino served in various roles during his time with the NYPD, from Patrol to Sergeant to Lieutenant.  He has been a funeral director locally for the last 11 years.   Jon is an active community leader involved with several organizations throughout the years including: Rockland County Shields, New City Little League, New City Rams, and Knights of Columbus.  He is a graduate of Brooklyn College and American Academy of McAllister Institute New York.