As per Clarkstown officials, a genuine house of horrors is adorned with only one Halloween decoration outside.
The single-family home, which has been illegally subdivided and converted into single-room occupancies, is currently home to approximately 25 people. All rooms, including the attic, are occupied.
Following a tragic incident that took place in March, where a fire caused the death of five people in an illegally subdivided home in Spring Valley, Rockland County has taken several measures to ensure that such incidents do not happen again. As a part of these measures, the county has carried out several inspections to identify any other illegally subdivided properties that pose a threat to the safety of the residents.
Clarkstown Town Supervisor, George Hoehmann, raises important questions regarding the safety and logistics of rescuing people in emergency situations. He queries how first responders gain access to rescue individuals and how they safely exit the premises. Additionally, he highlights the responsibility of landlords in ensuring the safety of their tenants during emergency situations.
Across suburban communities in the county, there are small, subdivided homes that are commonly referred to as “flophouses.” These illegal dwellings have become even more prevalent in New York City due to the recent migrant crisis, which has caused a significant surge in the demand for housing. As a result, the number of such dwellings has multiplied in the city.
The leaders within the community are once again urging the government at the federal level for guidance and support in managing the ongoing crisis.
According to Rockland County Executive, Ed Day, the issue at hand is quite significant and will require a lot of effort to address. He acknowledges the dangers involved, which can affect residents, firefighters, and everyone else involved in providing assistance. Therefore, he emphasizes the importance of handling it at its core to ensure that it is effectively resolved.
In an effort to prevent motels from being used as shelters for asylum seekers who are being transported from New York City, the county has taken legal action.
According to recent reports, Clarkstown is taking a stand against management companies that are taking advantage of the current crisis by operating illegal conversions. Specifically, they have identified First Choice Management in Spring Valley as a prime culprit, responsible for managing numerous locations in Clarkstown as well as over 300 in Rockland County. Lawmakers are determined to put a stop to this unethical practice and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
According to officials, a few individuals were given medical attention for injuries sustained during an incident, while a handful of individuals have reportedly lost their lives. Janice Yu provides the most recent updates on the situation.
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