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But delivering his speech at the mall wasn't just to bring the government to the people, it also gave Day a chance to show off the success he says the county has undergone during his five years in office.
"Coming here to the Palisades Center was not done by accident,” said Day. “Critical to the success of this county is that we continue to focus on economic development and this shopping and entertainment center is one of the keys to that success."
The Palisades Center generated $21.4 million in property taxes during 2018 and $23.5 million in sales tax revenue. They also collaborated with 75 not-for-profits to hold over 560 events.
The center is currently proposing an internal enhancement, the use of space that already exists and adding parking to remain competitive. The improvements would bring more money in property taxes to Clarkstown and more sales tax revenue to the County.
In addition the Palisades, Day also mentioned a number of businesses expanding or in the process of opening across Rockland including; RK Pharma in Pearl River, Caribbean Food Delights in Tappan, the GARNER Historic District in West Haverstraw, Java Love Coffee in Suffern, the NYC Football Club in Orangeburg, and the Valley Rock Inn in Sloatsburg.
A highlight of the address included a kudos to the positive work done by the 1,700 employees of Rockland County government. Highlighting the dedication and long hours worked by staff in the Department of Health during the ongoing measles outbreak.
“As we move through our 19th week of this measles outbreak, the number of investigations performed, clinics held, vaccines given and hours worked are significant. And your hard work has not gone unnoticed,” said Day.
Commissioner of Health Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert, Director of the Center for Community Health Dr. Maria Cecilia Mosquera and Maria Souto from Communicable Disease, who all played a critical role in the measles outbreak response, were presented with Awards of Appreciation.
County Executive Day concluded the Address with a call to action for all to become involved in their community.
"It is time to get involved. Meet your neighbors, attend a school board meeting, volunteer at a not-for-profit, run for office. Raise your voice when you see something wrong in government and actively applaud and support efforts and officials that do the right thing. Because when we come together and work together there is nothing we cannot accomplish. Let us prove to everyone what I already know, that Rockland is the greatest county in the State of New York.”
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