The Rockland County Legislature is required by law to redraw the legislative districts in Rockland to reflect the population changes that have occurred in the last 10 years. The objective is to create districts of equal populations that have common interests and characteristics.

Twenty years ago, Chestnut Ridge was split into two legislative districts, combining the village with Pearl River and Monsey-Wesley Hills.　　Ten years ago, we were split into three districts.　 The rationale being that when we needed anything from the county, we would have three people to represent us. However, since the Chestnut Ridge portions of these districts were so small, its voting strength was diluted, and its representatives did not need the support of Chestnut Ridge’s voters in order to be elected.

Two and a half years ago, when the village needed its three representatives, only one was there for us.　 Of the other two, one voted against interest of Chestnut Ridge and the other was not available.　 As a result, the County passed the Flow Control Law that put the village’s transfer station out of business and resulted in a 10% tax increase for our residents. It didn’t matter to the representative that voted against our interest, that the transfer station was in his district. He did not have to answer to the voters in Chestnut Ridge because we were only a small portion on his district, and he could be elected without our votes.

Now that it is time to redistrict again, all the plans under consideration will divide Chestnut Ridge into two districts; continuing the practice of disenfranchising our voters. This is unacceptable. Our Village needs to remain whole so that our voice can be heard on Election Day and every day that the County Legislature is considering actions that affect our residents.

We have a population of approximately 8,000 people. We recognize that we must be combined to make a district of approximately 18,300 people. Our first choice would be to combine with the Village of Airmont. They are similar to us in population, demographics and we share common interests and characteristics. Our second choice would be to combine with our contiguous neighbor in Orangetown. They too would fit well with Chestnut Ridge.

Most importantly, we will not accept being divided and conquered as in the past. Our residents are active voters and expect that their votes will be meaningful. Just last month, we had over 500 votes cast in an uncontested village election. Our residents care less whether we are represented by a Democrat or a Republican, as long as we can determine who represents us.

We understand that the committee is involved in a difficult task. We will be happy to meet with it and workout an acceptable solution.

Trustee Howard Cohen
Village of Chestnut Ridge