Rockland County to Hire Housing Coordinator Following Second Annual Housing Forum

Rockland County is hiring a housing coordinator to lead all affordable housing initiatives the administration plans to pursue following the second Rockland County Housing Forum, which took place on Friday, April 19.

The event included major stakeholders, such as developers, lenders, county departments, and others, who sat down to strategize how to overcome Rockland's housing challenges.

"We have aging populations who can't afford to downsize, young families who can't afford to upgrade, and skyrocketing unaffordable rents for those in between," says County Executive Day. "It's these hurdles that bring us all here so we – the stakeholders – can determine the best way to address the complex housing hurdles this County is facing."

The event showcased findings of the County's first-ever comprehensive community and affordable housing needs assessment. Some findings include:

• Nearly 60% of homes in Rockland are single-family detached homes averaging at $700,000.
• The median household income in Rockland is $100,000, which only qualifies for a $260,000 mortgage.
• A housing deficit of 4200 units for those making under $60,000. (includes essential workers, including teachers, first responders, retail workers, and government employees)
• More than 40% of Rocklanders spend 30% or more of their household income on housing, leaving little extra for all other purchases or emergencies.

"Housing affordability, stability, and quality are critical to increasing economic mobility and improving a community's overall well-being," said Community Development Director Alexandra S. Obremski. "I am grateful for the administration's focus on remedying this significant issue for the future and sustainability of Rockland County."