Mayor’s Messages
June 10, 2026
At last night's village board meeting the board and I presented two 5th Grade students with the NYS Trooper Robert V. Conklin Award. These two students were selected by their teachers for demonstrating good citizenship, respect for others and a desire to learn throughout the school year. Congratulations to Quinn and Xavier for receiving this award. The Village of Sloatsburg wishes both of you continued success as you move up to middle school and know you will continue to make Sloatsburg proud through all that you accomplish!
June 9, 2026
On Sunday, June 7th, myself and Trustee Bitterman attended the Rockland District Awards Dinner for Scouting America. During the ceremony, the Village of Sloatsburg was honored with the Community Eagle Support Award in recognition of our continued support of Scouting throughout the Hudson Valley.
The evening also celebrated the achievements of two dedicated Sloatsburg scouting leaders. Anika McCarter received the District Achievement Award, while her husband, Sean McCarter, was presented with the Service to Youth Award.
Congratulations to all of the award recipients on these well-deserved honors. The Village of Sloatsburg is proud to support scouting at all levels and greatly appreciates the positive impact scouts, their leaders and volunteers have on our community.
June 8, 2026
On Friday, June 5th, Sloatsburg Elementary School held its annual Olympic Day, bringing together students, families, staff, and community members for a day filled with fun, teamwork, and friendly competition.
The Ramapo Valley Rotary once again generously provided shirts for all participating students and volunteered their time to help ensure the event was well staffed and ran smoothly. I was also in attendance to enjoy the exciting day of outdoor activities and cheer on the students.
Throughout the day, students demonstrated outstanding teamwork, sportsmanship, and individual achievement while participating in a variety of events and challenges.
Thank you to all the families who came out to support and encourage their children, to Principal Rodriguez and the entire Suffern Central SD Sloatsburg Elementary staff for organizing another successful Olympic Day, and to the Ramapo Valley Rotary for their continued support of this wonderful end-of-year tradition.
June 1, 2026
On Thursday, May 28th, myself and Trustee Bitterman participated in Suffern Central's Night of Excellence, where we had the honor of presenting four scholarships to graduating seniors from Sloatsburg attending Suffern High School. The Chief Joseph Miele Scholarship was awarded to Vincent Valente in recognition of his leadership, integrity, and concern for others. Marissa Goodman and Dylan Kaplan were each awarded the Sloatsburg Constitutional Civics Scholar Award for their outstanding knowledge of constitutional law and the operations of the U.S. Supreme Court. Both students demonstrated a deep appreciation for the United States Constitution and excelled in oral argument. Ava Camilleri received the NYS Trooper Robert V. Conklin Award for exemplifying citizenship, leadership, athleticism, and a commitment to serving others and the community.
Congratulations to all four seniors on their remarkable achievements. The Village of Sloatsburg and I wish each of you continued success as you celebrate your graduation and embark on the next chapter of your lives. Continue to make Sloatsburg proud through all that you accomplish!
May 29, 2026
On May 27th, myself, Trustee Donnelly and Village Clerk-Treasurer Peters, joined the Sloatsburg Seniors at their weekly meeting to present certificates to all members who have joined the ranks of the "90's Club". Recently the Sloatsburg Seniors decided to recognize all members who have reached, or surpassed, the age of 90 with a special luncheon. The Village proudly recognizes and celebrates a lifetime of memories, wisdom, and contributions these seniors have made to our community. Their remarkable journey is an inspiration to all who know them. Congratulations to all the newest members of the 90's Club!
May 26, 2026
Over the weekend various Memorial Day activities were on the agenda for the residents of Sloatsburg. On Friday, May 22nd the Sloatsburg Scouts replaced the worn and tattered flags in the Sloatsburg Veteran Cemetery.
On Monday, May 25th, The Village of Sloatsburg, in conjunction with Sloatsburg American Legion Post 1643 held the annual Memorial Day Program. Although the weather did not permit for our usual parade the ceremony still took place inside the Municipal Hall. Myself, Deputy Mayor Bonkoski, Trustees Donnelly, Bitterman & McDonagh would like to send a special thank you to Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht, Town of Ramapo Clerk Donna Silberman, Village of Hillburn Mayor Tursi, Deputy Mayor Tarantino & Trustees, Senator Bill Weber's representive Jane Kunzweiler, and Town of Ramapo Police Department & Chief Daniel Hyman for their presence at the ceremony. Along with the dignitaries in attendance we would like to thank all those that came out to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, the Suffern High School Marching Band, Girl Scouts Service Unit 406, Scouts of America Pack 2146, the Sloatsburg Fire Department, and The Ladies Auxiliary of the Sloatsburg Fire Department, as well as all the residents that attended the ceremony despite the weather.
The American Legion performed a gun salute for our fallen heroes, while John Guerrera acted as Grand Marshal. As I said at the conclusion of my speech, “As we lay wreaths, fly our flags, and observe moments of silence, let us carry forward the memory of those we have lost and let their legacy live in us.”
May 26, 2026
St. Joan of Arc - Our Lady of Mount Carmel, held their annual fundraiser carnival this past weekend. Although the weather did not fully cooperate, there were still several days that allowed the community to come out and enjoy the festivities. I attended the carnival, along with many members of the Village Board and Village staff.
The Town of Ramapo Police Department was on site each day and evening the carnival was open to help ensure the safety of all attendees and keep operations running smoothly.
Thank you to the countless volunteers whose hard work and dedication make this annual event possible each year. The carnival continues to be a beloved community tradition and an unofficial kickoff to summer that so many residents look forward to attending.
May 18, 2026
Over the weekend, the Sloatsburg Library held its Village-wide Garage Sale. Trustee Bitterman, Ramapo Catskill Library System CFO Stephen Hoefer and I were all in attendance. This annual fundraiser helps support the Sloatsburg Public Library and the many wonderful programs and services it provides to the community.
Friends of Harmony Hall ~ Jacob Sloat House also had a particularly busy weekend. On Saturday, May 16th, they hosted their Colonial Day REV250 event, where participants were able to step back in time and experience history in a meaningful and interactive way. The event featured traditional crafts and games, music, storytelling, legends, and hands-on activities, creating a wonderful opportunity for the past to come alive through play. Then on Sunday, May 17th, Myself and Trustees Bitterman & McDonagh were in attendance as Harmony Hall was among the recipients of the 2026 Historic Preservation Merit Awards. This recognition reflects the tremendous dedication and devotion of the many individuals who have volunteered their time and efforts to help preserve the Jacob Sloat House and its important place in the history of the Village of Sloatsburg.
May 15, 2026
Last night, May 14th, I took part in the Leadership Rockland program. The program engages and challenges participants to examine issues and seek solutions through interactive discussions and activities with leading experts. I was invited to be a guest speaker at the program to discuss how I became involved in government. The "Government, Politics & Public Policy" interactive discussion dove into county politics, and participants got to meet myself along with other elected officials at the county, town, and village levels, along with political party leadership and activists. If you would like to find out more about the Leadership Rockland program please visit their website https://www.leadershiprockland.org/
May 13, 2026
Last night, at the May 12th Village Board Meeting, the Board and I recognized the winners of the Spring Coloring Contest. The winning artwork, along with all contest entries, are currently on display at Village Hall. Be sure to keep an eye out for our Summer Coloring & Photo Contest coming next month!
The Board also proudly recognized Anahis “Ana” Gomez for becoming the first female firefighter in the history of the Village of Sloatsburg. The Village thanks Ana for her commitment to serving the community, just as her father, Ex-Chief Aniello Vacchiano, has done for more than 30 years.
Ana has paved the way for future generations, and we wish her the very best as she begins her service to the residents of Sloatsburg.
The Sloatsburg Fire Department is made up entirely of dedicated volunteers. If you are interested in joining Ana and the rest of the department, weekly drill nights are held every Wednesday at 7PM, and new recruits are always welcome!
May 8, 2026
Yesterday, May 7th, was a busy and exciting day in Sloatsburg for Suffern Central SD students in both 2nd and 3rd grade.
2nd grade students from Sloatsburg Elementary School participated in an Environmental Day of Education at the Sloatsburg Community Fields. This hands-on experience gave students the opportunity to release brown trout that they raised through the “Trout in the Classroom” program into the Nakoma Brook, which runs behind the Community Fields. Representatives from the Rockland County Division of Environmental Resources, Rockland County Parks Department, Rockland County Youth Bureau, and Veolia were all on hand, making the event a true community collaboration focused on environmental stewardship and education.
While the 2nd graders were learning about the environment, 3rd grade students from Montebello Elementary School completed their project based learning unit on Sloatsburg History accompanied by Trustee Bitterman and Village Historian Mayor Wright. The group visited several historic landmarks throughout the Village discussing the important role each location played in the history of both Sloatsburg and America. Students ended their tour at the site of the old Glenwood Hotel, now known as Character's Bar and Restaurant where they each received a History Certification from myself and the Sloatsburg Historical Society. Make sure to visit the Mill Street Pavilion where you can scan one of the QR Codes to view photos and hear the history of each location in the students own words.
Thank you to all of the incredible teachers, volunteers, and community partners who helped make these special Sloatsburg educational experiences possible for some of our youngest residents.
May 5, 2026
Thank you to all the families that participated in our Spring Coloring and Photo Contest! Our home page photo has been updated to reflect our photo winner and all coloring entries are displayed as you enter Village Hall. We loved the creativity and had a difficult time choosing just one winner from each age group! Winners have all been contacted and will be recognized at the May 12th Village Board meeting where they will receive a small prize and certificate from myself and the board. Keep an eye out for our Summer Coloring and Photo Contest next month!
May 4, 2026
Over the weekend myself, Trustees Bitterman and McDonagh, had the pleasure of visiting Sloatsburg’s oldest resident, Winifred “Winnie” Smith. Winnie celebrated her 102nd birthday surrounded by many of her family members at her home here in Sloatsburg.
We all extend our sincerest wishes to Ms. Smith for a very happy birthday and continued health and happiness!
May 4, 2026
On Saturday, May 2nd, Characters bar and restaurant celebrated their 20th Anniversary. Myself, Trustees Bitterman and Donnelly, and Village Historian Mayor Wright presented owner Jenny Kirby with a certificate of congratulations from the Village for their two decades of dedicated service to our community. I also presented a certificate from Assemblyman Karl Brabenec recognizing Characters as being more than a restaurant. It’s been a gathering place and a cornerstone of the community. Characters continued commitment to excellence, along with their generosity and support through countless donations and community involvement, has made a lasting impact on the residents of Sloatsburg. Their contributions have helped strengthen the spirit of our village and exemplify what it truly means to give back. Many members of the Village staff, countless residents and elected officials from surrounding villages and towns came out to celebrate this milestone with the Characters staff. The Village of Sloatsburg extends our sincere appreciation for all Characters has done—and continues to do—for our community. Wishing you continued success for many years to come!
April 21, 2026
Friday, April 17th, Trustee Bitterman and I attended a Bingo Night hosted by Habitat for Humanity of Rockland at the Thiells Fire Department. Habitat for Humanity works to build safe, affordable homes for local families right here in our community. Their current project in West Haverstraw brings them one step closer to providing stable housing for our neighbors, with fundraisers like this playing a vital role in that progress.
Habitat for Humanity of Rockland County is a volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to creating safe, decent, and affordable housing for families throughout our community. To find out more about ways you can help, click the link. https://habitatrockland.org/
April 14, 2026
If you frequent Jessies Bagels you may have noticed some big changes happening recently. The Last Stop at Jessie’s is officially open to the public and I stopped in to congratulate the owners and staff on their new venture. Jessie's has been a beloved morning staple in our community for so many years. Their dedication, friendly service, and great food make them a daily tradition for countless residents. The Village of Sloatsburg wishes them all the best as they begin this exciting new chapter as The Last Stop!
April 7, 2026
On Saturday, April 4th, the Easter Bunny made a special stop in Sloatsburg, bringing plenty of smiles to local children. I was joined by Trustees Bonkoski, Donnelly and Bitterman as well as Rockland County Legislature Doug Jobson, as families gathered for a fun-filled morning. Children from preschool through 5th grade enjoyed an exciting egg hunt, tested their luck with the Easter jar guesses, and searched high and low for the coveted golden eggs. A big thank you to the Town of Ramapo Police Department for helping keep everyone safe and for taking a few moments to snap photos with the Easter Bunny. Congratulations to all of our golden egg and jar guessing winners! We loved seeing so many families out enjoying the spring weather! Wishing everyone a Happy Easter and a joyful Passover to all who celebrated.
April 2, 2026
The Village of Sloatsburg was honored to welcome Suffern Central SD High School senior Joshua McIntosh to Village Hall yesterday, April 1st, as part of New York State’s My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) initiative—a statewide program dedicated to closing opportunity gaps and empowering young men to reach their full potential.
Joshua, who was selected for his leadership, service, and commitment to his community, spent the morning shadowing me after riding his bike to Village Hall. During his visit, he met with several Village employees, learning about their roles, career paths, and how education has shaped their professional journeys.
As Commissioner of Education Betty A. Rosa shared during the MBK Symposium in Albany last spring when Joshua began the program, “These remarkable young men represent the promise of tomorrow… their leadership will shape a more just and inclusive future for us all.”
It has truly been a pleasure to be Joshua’s mentor. Everyone here at Village Hall wishes him the very best in his future endeavors—wherever they may lead.
March 25, 2026
Yesterday evening, March 24th, the Village of Suffern hosted a celebratory parade honoring Suffern Central SD winter athletes. Myself and Trustee Donnelly were in attendance as student-athletes from Ice Hockey, Track and Field, Basketball, Swimming, and Gymnastics were recognized for their achievements.
The Sloatsburg Fire Department proudly joined in the festivities, giving athletes the unforgettable experience of riding atop fire trucks down Lafayette Avenue to the cheers and applause of an enthusiastic crowd.
This special evening was a testament not only to the dedication and hard work of the athletes, but also to the unwavering support of their families, who play such an important role in their success.
Congratulations to all of the athletes and their families on a fantastic season!
March 23, 2026
Over the weekend, Pearl River hosted its 62nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This year’s Grand Marshal, Patrick Withers, led the celebration. I proudly participated alongside numerous local elected officials, as well as thousands of participants and spectators who lined the streets in celebration. Village Trustee Donnelly attended with his grandchildren, and I took a moment to stop for a quick photo with them while making my way down Central Avenue. The Pearl River St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the second-largest in New York State.
March 16, 2026
On Sunday, February 22, I attended the annual gala hosted by the Rockland Negro Scholarship Fund. The event recognizes outstanding community leaders whose courage, leadership, and steadfast commitment strengthen the fabric of the community—creating spaces where culture is celebrated, voices are uplifted, and opportunities are expanded.
I was joined by fellow elected officials, including Rep. Mike Lawler, Rockland County Legislature Aney Paul, Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht, Town of Ramapo Deputy Supervisor Brendel Logan-Charles, and Village of Spring Valley Mayor Schenley Vital, along with members of their staffs and distinguished guests.
Congratulations to all of the honorees on receiving this well-deserved and prestigious recognition for their service and impact within the community.
March 11, 2026
At last night's Village Board meeting the board and I recognized the Sloatsburg Fire Department, as well as High School Student Brendan McCaffery.
We presented Chief Swanson and his department with a certificate of dedicated service for their extraordinary dedication, courage, and service in responding to and battling the fire at the Sterling Carting facility on March 2, 2026. Their tireless efforts over more than thirteen hours in extreme conditions helped protect the Village of Sloatsburg and its residents. We thank the entire department for their commitment, professionalism, and bravery, embodying the very best of volunteer service.
We also presented Brendan McCaffery with a certificate of congratulations on being named the recipient of the 2025 Irish Heritage Student Athlete Award for the New York Metro Region by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and being recognized for his achievements as a high school baseball player with Irish heritage.
Congratulations to all who were recognized last night!
March 3, 2026
On Monday, March 2 at approximately 2:00pm, a large fire broke out at the Sterling Carting building located on Sterling Mine Road. The fire burned from 2:00pm until around 3:00am. Alongside our own Sloatsburg Fire Department, multiple neighboring departments responded to assist in battling the massive blaze. Our volunteer firefighters remained on scene for over 12 hours, working tirelessly in the elements to bring the fire under control.
While the fire has been extinguished, residents may notice a lingering haze and odor throughout the day.
The Village of Sloatsburg extends our extreme gratitude to Chief Swanson and his entire department for a job exceptionally well done. We also sincerely thank all assisting departments and organizations that responded to the scene, as well as those who stood by at the Sloatsburg Fire House to ensure our entire village remained protected throughout the duration of the Sterling Carting call. We are incredibly proud and grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of these volunteers in keeping our community safe.
Hillburn Volunteer Fire Department; Suffern Volunteer Hose Co. #1; Suffern Hook & Ladder Co. #1; Monsey Fire Dept.; Tallman Volunteer Fire Department; New City Fire Engine Co. No. 1; Thiells Fire Department; South Spring Valley Fire Department; Mahwah Res1cue; Tuxedo Park Fire Dept. Co. #1; Ramapo Fire Coordinators; Spring Hill Community Ambulance Corps; Town of Ramapo Police Department; Ladies Auxiliary of the Sloatsburg Fire Department
February 25, 2026
Our Department of Public Works continues to work diligently on snow removal efforts throughout the Village. Crews are clearing roadways, widening lanes, addressing intersections, and managing snowbanks to keep our streets as safe and passable as possible.
While we are expecting slightly warmer temperatures this weekend — which hopefully will help melt some of the existing snow — the forecast is calling for additional snow showers early next week with the potential for several more inches of accumulation.
We kindly remind residents to:
Move vehicles off the street when possible to assist plows.
Keep fire hydrants accessible.
Use caution around large snow piles, as visibility may be limited.
Most importantly, please remember to check in on elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance during these cold stretches. A quick phone call or helping hand can make a big difference to a neighbor in need.
Thank you for your continued patience and cooperation as our crews work around the clock to keep our community safe. Stay warm and stay safe.
February 24, 2026
The Village of Sloatsburg would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to our incredible DPW crews for their around-the-clock efforts during the most recent snow bomb cyclone storm.
To put this winter into perspective — the average snowfall for our area is approximately 12 inches for the entire snow season. In just four short weeks, we have experienced two massive snowstorms, each dumping more snow than our typical total for an entire winter. That is an extraordinary amount of snowfall in a very short period of time.
Because of this, residents will notice that snow piles are significantly higher than what we are accustomed to seeing in our area. The sheer volume of snow has made removal and storage much more challenging than during a typical season. In addition, the severe cold front between the two major storms prevented much of the snow from melting before the second storm arrived, compounding the accumulation and clean-up efforts.
Our DPW crews have been working extended shifts and putting in extremely long hours to keep roads clear and safe. They are continuing snow removal and widening operations and have a running list of areas that need to be readdressed. High-traffic roads and main thoroughfares may take priority over dead-end streets and lower-volume areas, but please be assured — all locations remain on the list and will be addressed.
We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as this work continues. Our crews are doing everything they can to keep up with these historic conditions while also ensuring they get the rest necessary to perform their jobs safely.
Thank you to our dedicated DPW team for your hard work, professionalism, and commitment to keeping Sloatsburg safe.
February 11, 2026
At last night’s Village Board meeting, the Board of Trustees and I proudly recognized several individuals for their outstanding service to our community.
Superintendent Szklany and the entire Department of Public Works were presented with Certificates of Dedicated Service in appreciation of their tireless, around-the-clock efforts during last month’s State of Emergency snowstorm. Their commitment and hard work ensured the safety and well-being of our Village residents during challenging conditions.
We also recognized members of the Planning and Zoning Boards on their recertification in Rockland County, reaffirming their continued dedication to land use, planning, and zoning matters that shape and strengthen our community.
In addition, we extend our sincere thanks to the officers of the Town of Ramapo Police Department for their consistent presence at our Village Board meetings and for being active, supportive members of our community each and every day.
Congratulations to all who were recognized last night—your service and dedication do not go unnoticed.
February 9, 2026
Over the weekend, we were proud to host our Community Winter Blanket Giveaway. Despite the cold temperatures, residents stopped by to warm up, chat, and spend time with myself, Village Trustees Bonkoski, Bitterman, and Donnelly, along with members of the Village Clerk’s Office and DPW. It was a lovely morning filled with community spirit—warming both hands and hearts.
If you were unable to attend, a limited number of blankets are still available for Sloatsburg residents. Please stop by the Village Clerk's Office and speak to someone during regular business hours this week while supplies last to receive a blanket.
January 27, 2026
As this winter storm continues, I ask all residents to please stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary. Our Department of Public Works crews have been working throughout the day and night to keep roads, parking lots, and walkways cleared and safe following the significant snowfall across the village. I’ve also been riding along with our DPW teams to personally check road conditions and ensure our residents are doing well.
At the same time, our first responders are out in these challenging conditions responding to calls and keeping our community safe. Clear roadways are essential so they can reach emergencies quickly and safely. Your cooperation truly makes a difference. If there is a fire hydrant on or near your property, please take a moment—when it is safe to do so—to clear it of snow to assist the Sloatsburg Fire Department.
Residents are reminded not to plow, shovel, or deposit snow or ice into public roadways. This creates serious safety hazards, interferes with snow removal operations, and may result in a ticket. We also understand how frustrating it can be when a plow unintentionally blocks a driveway. Unfortunately, during active snow removal—especially with the volume of snow we received—this is sometimes unavoidable as crews push snow toward the curb to keep roads passable. Each resident remains responsible for clearing their own driveway.
I want to thank everyone for their patience, understanding, and cooperation as crews continue working around the clock. Please stay home if you can, stay safe, and know that your support helps protect our entire community during this storm.
January 23, 2026
Last night, January 22, our community witnessed an incredible show of teamwork and dedication during a devastating house fire on Post Road. We are deeply grateful to the firefighters who responded quickly and worked tirelessly for hours under intense conditions to bring the fire under control. I was on scene along with the Sloatsburg Fire Department.
A heartfelt thank you to the fire departments from Sloatsburg, Hillburn, Suffern, Tallman, Monsey, Spring Valley, Hillcrest, Tuxedo, and Mahwah, NJ, as well as Town of Ramapo Police Department and Spring Hill Community Ambulance Corps, for their professionalism and cooperation during this second-alarm incident. Special thanks to the Monsey Fire Department RAC Unit for supporting crews and the effected family on scene with food and drinks throughout the extended operation.
While we are thankful that no injuries were reported, our thoughts are with the family who lost their home. We wish them strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
January 23, 2026
On Saturday, January 17, I attended the Tuxedo Fire District Installation Dinner honoring Chief Jones. The Tuxedo Fire District is comprised of three fire departments working collaboratively to provide fire protection services to the Town of Tuxedo and surrounding communities.
In attendance were Chief Swanson and Second Assistant Chief Bonkoski of the Sloatsburg Fire Department. Also pictured with myself and Chief Jones are former Chief Christian of the Sterling Forest Fire Company and Town of Tuxedo Supervisor McMillen.
Congratulations to outgoing Chief Jones on his exemplary years of service, and best wishes to all newly appointed officers as they begin their new roles.
January 21, 2026
This past Saturday and Sunday, I did a ride along with the Sloatsburg Department of Public Works as they worked around the clock to ensure village roads were safe for both residents and passersby. During winter storms, the Village deploys five plow trucks at any given time, along with a sidewalk plow to keep walkways clear. During inclement weather, crews are on the roads as conditions require. If you must travel while snow is actively falling, please drive slowly and use caution. With more snow on the way, please remember that there is NO street parking from November 1 through April 15, between 10p.m. and 8a.m., throughout the Village of Sloatsburg. Your cooperation allows Public Works to clear our streets more efficiently and safely. Stay safe and warm, Sloatsburg.
