Rockland County Moves Forward with CR Clean Water and Sewer Authority to Improve System Efficiency

By Y.M. Lowy

Rockland County lawmakers met on Monday at the Allison-Parris Office Building in New City to set next year’s sewer fees and discuss major improvements to the county’s aging system. 

They came together to discuss the creation of a new authority. The CR Clean Water and Sewer Authority will take over management of Sewer District No. 1, covering parts of Ramapo, Clarkstown, Spring Valley, and New Square.

If approved by the state legislature, the new authority would take over management of the sewer system. Residents would continue to receive the same services, and staff would remain the same. The main difference would be that the new authority focuses solely on running the sewer system efficiently, with leadership focused entirely on the sewer system and the people who actually use it. Capital projects, like major pumping station upgrades, are expected to be completed as much as 20% faster. That means lower project and borrowing costs, saving money for ratepayers.

Altogether, the county plans to collect more than $14 million from property owners to fund both routine operations and improvements. Clarkstown will cover about $6.2 million, Ramapo $7.8 million, and out-of-district users in Orangetown $59,000. Unlike general taxes, this money can be used only for sewer services—it can’t go toward roads, public safety, or other county programs.

The county is also planning major upgrades to pumping stations that have been in use far longer than expected. The $87.8 million project will replace pumps, motors, pipes, and other equipment at key stations, including Cherry Lane, Pinebrook, and Twin Lakes. The CR Clean Water and Sewer Authority will oversee these upgrades, making them more efficient and ensuring long-term reliability.

This meeting shows the county taking concrete steps to plan for the future and make sure residents know how their money is being used.