The Week In Politics: 3/6/2011

Published

March 6, 2011

by Dave Zornow

All the poli-news this week was about cuts: less bus service, lower Medicaid costs and how the Red Cross can help.

Cuts To Intra-County Commute Concern Legislators: Two members of the Rockland Legislature came out against county’s proposed fare hikes and service reductions to deal budget reductions. Both Rockland County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell and Vice Chairman Alden H. Wolfe say the proposed April 1 changes will hurt those who can afford them the least.
On Thursday, Rockland County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef officially proclaimed March 2011 as ‘€˜Red Cross Month’ in Rockland County.
NYS Senator David Carlucci the Independent Democratic Conference called for streamlining the Medicaid system by implementing a new law that is projected to save taxpayers more than $61 million. Carlucci also highlighted his vote to pass legislation to allow adequate time for military ballots to be sent and returned in the event of a special election.
A story last week about Nyack Schools’ 2010 reform of Open Campus/Lunch policies is still drawing comments, possibly related to the upcoming school budget process and trustee elections this Spring.
Rockland County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell and County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef issued a joint press release on Wednesday announcing the adoption of the county’s new comprehensive plan, “Rockland Tomorrow.” The document will serve as a blueprint for municipal planning, zoning and development for the next 10-20 years in Rockland County.