Yesterday's Lower Hudson Journal News carried a very long investigative report titled
Ramapo Nears Breaking Point, documenting the dislocations and conflict created by "chaotic, high-density sprawl" in a Rockland County, New York town that has seen explosive growth of its ultra-Orthodox, primarily Hasidic, Jewish community. Here are a few excerpts from the report on the town of Ramapo:
While unprecedented population growth and a clash of cultures — complete with accusations of favoritism, anti-Semitism, racism and corruption — are symptoms of the changes, the Ramapo story is really one of loose zoning, lax enforcement of fire and building codes, and largely unchecked, out-of-control development....
Often, unchecked expansion is marked by dubious construction methods and materials, such as housing additions made of plywood. Extensions and even new structures are frequently built toward the back of lots, with no street access for emergency vehicles or municipal records of what’s actually there....
Rockland County had the state's highest population percentage increase in 2014.... While demand for housing keeps developers busy — and property values high — the town’s tax base has been eroded by an ever-growing number of tax-exempt yeshivas and synagogues, among other factors.....
The fast and loose nature of Ramapo development receives tacit approval from local officials who critics say rubber-stamp permits and ignore code enforcement. Often, those officials receive campaign contributions from developers.
Surrounding communities in Rockland County are taking legal steps to control development in order to avoid becoming "the next Ramapo."
