Rockland County Planning Federation Annual Dinner

The Rockland Municipal Planning Federation held its annual dinner March 30.

The Distinguished Service Award was given to Joe Caruso. The award is given each year to a person who has shown a commitment to land use and zoning issues, has demonstrated an outstanding performance in the field of land use (planning or zoning), has enhanced the field of planning and/or land use, or has encouraged others involved in the planning process to improve their skills and knowledge and promote effective planning techniques.

Keynote speaker Gordon Wren, Director of the Rockland County Office of Fire & Emergency Services, talked about “Avoiding Peril,” discussing issues that affect emergency response, such as access, illegal conversions, solar panels, etc. The planning board, zoning board of appeals, and zone change approval process must consider emergency response issues; however, understanding what is expected of fire inspectors and boards can be confusing.

PHOTO: Clarkstown Town Supervisor’s Office