Rockland County Master Plan Draft Released to Public

As reported on the Rockland News livestream on Monday 3/23/26, Rockland County residents are being asked to weigh in on a draft comprehensive plan that could help shape county policy for years to come, while local officials, businesses and community groups are also marking a week filled with public safety developments, school sports achievements, new public events and the launch of a county-focused jobs website.

The updates span government planning, a criminal case in Nyack, the closing days of a longtime Pearl River brewery, recognition for a local pizzeria, championship news from area schools and several upcoming spring events.

County Opens Review Period for Envision Rockland Plan

Rockland County has released its Envision Rockland draft comprehensive plan and opened a public review period for a document that could influence county decisions for decades. The plan follows a lengthy public process and addresses major issues including housing, transportation, infrastructure, economic development and environmental protection.

County officials said the plan is intended to guide long-term decision-making, not replace local zoning. Residents can review the draft through April 22 at EnvisionRocklands.com. Another public meeting on the plan is scheduled for March 25.

For residents, municipalities and civic groups, the review period provides a formal chance to comment on how future growth, development and public investment should be managed across Rockland County.

Haverstraw Man Charged After Nyack Library Altercation

A 19-year-old Haverstraw man has been charged following an altercation reported earlier this month inside the Nyack Library. Orangetown police said Dylan N. Lopez was arrested March 17 after an investigation into a March 13 incident at the library on North Broadway.

He faces charges including second-degree assault, attempted second-degree assault and first-degree menacing. Police said the victim suffered head injuries, while library officials said the injury initially reported to staff appeared minor and involved a facial abrasion.

Lopez was arraigned in Nyack Justice Court and remanded to the Rockland County jail. As in all criminal cases, the charges are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Defiant Brewing Prepares for Final Weekend in Pearl River

Defiant Brewing Company in Pearl River is preparing to close at the end of March, bringing to a close a run described on the livestream as lasting about 18 to 21 years. Its final weekend is set for March 27 through March 29.

Founder and brewmaster Neil Aeser opened Defiant in 2005 after years of building breweries for other companies. Over time, the brewery became known for its rotating lineup of house-brewed beers and for its place in the social life of Pearl River.

For many local residents, the closing represents the loss of a longstanding neighborhood gathering place and a familiar name in Rockland County’s small business community.

Pearl River Pizza Continues to Grow as a Community Business

Pearl River Pizza, located at 137 North Middletown Road, was highlighted on the livestream as a local business that has built its identity around pizza, catering and a welcoming atmosphere.

Manager Frank, a North Rockland native, was described as having about 30 years of experience in the pizza business. The shop was presented as being rooted in dedication, consistency and making customers feel at home. The livestream also said the business now has three locations in Rockland County.

The restaurant was described as more than a place to eat, with an emphasis on serving as a gathering place for students, teachers and families.

Spring Valley Plans Annual Easter Egg Hunt

The Village of Spring Valley is inviting families to its annual Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 4, at Memorial Park. The free event will run from 1 to 4 p.m. at 1 Veterans Drive.

Village officials said the event is designed as a family-friendly afternoon of Easter egg hunting, community connection and local activities. Businesses, nonprofit groups and community organizations are also being invited to host informational activity tables, with no vendor fee. Officials said the event will be canceled if it rains.

Albertus Magnus and Suffern Add to Rockland’s Sports Success

Albertus Magnus High School’s girls basketball team won another New York State title, defeating Aquinas Institute 72-50 in the Class AAA state final at Hudson Valley Community College. The victory secured the Falcons’ third straight state championship.

According to the livestream, Albertus Magnus built a double-digit lead by halftime and widened the margin in the second half with balanced scoring, strong defense and transition play. The championship followed an overtime semifinal win over Shaker.

The livestream also noted that Suffern’s boys hockey team won its third straight championship, adding another state-level achievement for Rockland County school athletics.

Nyack Restaurant to Launch Monthly Jazz Series

A new monthly live music series is coming to Nyack, with jazz taking center stage at Maura’s Kitchen on South Broadway. Organizers said the new Jazz for All series will debut Friday, April 10, and continue on the second Friday of each month.

The opening concert is scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. and is being launched by Eric DeVito Music. The series is intended to offer residents and visitors an accessible live music experience in an intimate setting, with a focus on Latin American jazz styles. Reservations for the launch event can be made through the restaurant’s website.

Rockland News Launches Local Jobs Website

The livestream also announced the launch of RocklandJobs.org, a new website intended to connect local residents with employment opportunities in the county. According to the report, several jobs had already been posted, including openings connected to Bear Mountain, Montefiore Nyack and home care agencies.

The site is aimed at strengthening local workforce connections and giving both job seekers and employers another platform focused specifically on Rockland County. The livestream also referenced an existing Facebook group of about 15,000 people tied to the broader effort.

Work Smart New York Bootcamp Returns This Spring

Another item highlighted on the livestream was the return of Work Smart New York, a business bootcamp scheduled for the end of April. Organizers said the program is designed to help business owners become more effective and efficient, and that this year’s programming will include a focus on artificial intelligence.

The event marks the return of a program that had been on hiatus and is aimed at supporting local business development and workforce training.