Rockland County Legislators appoint leadership for 2025

The Rockland County Legislature began its first assembly of the new year by selecting a chair person and filling other offices in preparation for 2025; every appointment was passed unanimously. 

Legislator Jay Hood Jr. was reelected for his fourth year as Chairperson, and was nominated by Legislator Tony Earle. Earle stated “Over the past three years, Legislator Hood has exemplified leadership, dedication and a commitment for the betterment of our community. As a devoted family man, husband and father of two sons, he brings the values of care and responsibility to his work, qualities that resonate deeply with all of us.”

 Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh administered Hood’s Oath of Office. Hood thanked his colleagues for voting for him, and detailed his priorities for the coming year. 

A few of the goals highlighted included the beginning of a $30 million capital project to install sidewalks in every legislative district in Rockland to help improve pedestrian safety.“…every district is going to get at least one sidewalk, probably more” stated Hood. 

Hood mentioned bolstering funding for the food insecurity program, and honing in on the crisis of affordable housing within the county. A “mortgage tax holiday” was proposed for first time homebuyers purchasing a home under $500,000, as well as providing help for first time renters who struggle with financing a security deposit and first month’s rent. Hood stated that the Legislators have been in talks about paying for the security deposit that would then be passed on to the next tenants to help ease the financial burden of moving into a new place. 

Hood also thanked the hard work of the non-profits in Rockland County and stated that this past year the Legislature granted more money to the non-profits to assist in their service to Rocklanders. 

Vice Chairperson Dr. Aney Paul was unanimously reelected to her role, and was sworn in by the Honorable Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh with her daughter holding the Bible. In a few words shared following her oath, Paul thanked her fellow legislators, her late husband, and her daughters. Paul shared a quote from Mahatma Gandhi, stating “‘You must be the change you wish to see in the world’. This is a reminder that each of us has the power to create positive changes in our own lives and in our communities.” This quote was especially poignant, as Legislator Hood recognized Paul and Legislator Earle for their work towards installing a Peace Garden outside of the courthouse that will feature a statue of Mahatma Gandhi and MLK Jr.

Legislator Philip Soskin affirmed his role as Second-Vice chair. Laurence O’Toole swore in as Clerk to the Legislature, appointing Mary Widmer as Deputy Clerk. Widmer has served as Deputy Clerk since January of 2001. Majority Leader is Alden H. Wolfe with Aron Weider as Deputy, and Minority Leader is Lon Hofstein with Ray Sheridan as Deputy.