HAVERSTRAW, NY — Town of Haverstraw Supervisor Howard Phillips appeared recently on the Rockland News podcast to address a wide range of topics—from defending Rockland Green’s operations to commenting on a recent police incident during the United Latin Festival, as well as highlighting a host of community events scheduled for the weekend.
Rockland Green Lawsuit Status, and Response to Recent Article
Phillips strongly defended Rockland Green (Rockland County Solid Waste Management Authority), emphasizing its bipartisan governance and its evolution into one of the state’s most sophisticated waste management systems. “Rockland Green has been one of the most successful government agencies in my entire 40-year career,” said Phillips.
He cited the authority’s extensive recycling programs, household hazardous waste disposal, electronics recycling, and organic waste composting as evidence of its progress. While acknowledging rising costs—from landfill tipping fees significantly increasing by the ton—Phillips maintained that collective bargaining power keeps rates manageable for municipalities.
In response to a recent critical article that was pointed at Rockland Green, Phillips highlighted what he termed ethical conflicts, pointing out that the journalist’s husband was a former shelter director who was dismissed for mismanagement, including a failure to report the deaths of over 30 cats due to disease.
Phillips clarified in response to the article’s criticism of misuse of funds, Rockland Green cannot use solid waste funds for animal management due to legal constraints with bond covenants. “The public should know these funds must remain separate,” said Rockland Green’s Director of Finance Jeremy Goldstein.
Haverstraw Police Incident Under Investigation
Addressing the recent controversy stemming from the Latin Festival, Phillips confirmed that the Haverstraw Police Department is investigating an incident in which a decorated officer appeared to use force while dispersing a crowd. While the officer is currently on administrative leave, Phillips stressed that additional video evidence may provide a fuller context. “The video makes it look bad,” he acknowledged, but added that crowd control measures were necessary due to blocked sidewalks and heightened tensions. He added that some people near the cops were spitting at the officers and refusing requests for them to disperse.
Phillips assured residents that a fair and thorough investigation is underway and emphasized that officers had been on duty for nearly 16 hours that day. “None of this would’ve happened if people had simply complied with police requests,” he added.
Upcoming Events Celebrate Community Spirit
Despite recent tensions, Phillips encouraged residents to enjoy several upcoming events in Haverstraw:
- Thursday, August 7 at 7:30 p.m. – Disco Teks perform at Bowline Park’s open-air concert series, complete with food concessions and a public dance floor.
- Friday, August 8 at 8:30 p.m. – Movie Under the Stars presents “Moana 2” at Bowline Park. Attendees should bring blankets and enjoy complimentary popcorn and refreshments.
- Saturday, August 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – The 15th Annual Town of Haverstraw Air Show will feature remote-controlled aircraft, free food, music, and interactive exhibits for children.
Phillips concluded the interview with a hopeful note: “We’re building something the residents of Rockland County can be proud of. And as always, we invite everyone to come out, enjoy, and take part in the community.”
The full podcast episode will be available tomorrow on AM Rockland.
For more information on Rockland Green programs and upcoming events, visit rocklandgreen.com.