Steven Gottlieb, chairman of the Rock Hill Volunteer Fire District, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to state Sen. Peter Oberacker, Assemblywoman Paula Kay, county legislator Terry Bernardo, Town of Thompson Supervisor Scott Mace and Village of Monticello resident Chelsea Raponi for providing letters of support for the district’s Rock Hill Emergency Shelter and Operations Center project.

“The support from our community leaders and residents is invaluable,” said Gottlieb. “These letters demonstrate the strong backing for a project that will enhance public safety and emergency preparedness in Rock Hill, while ensuring responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources.” 

The Emergency Shelter and Operations Center is designed to replace the current firehouse, providing a modern, hurricane-grade facility for emergency response, evacuation coordination and disaster preparedness. The project also has the support of Eric Abramson, director of the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, who has provided guidance and endorsement to the district.

To fund this vital project without placing additional financial burden on local taxpayers, the Rock Hill Fire District has submitted grant applications to Congressman Josh Riley, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and Sen. Chuck Schumer. These requests aim to secure federal and state funding for the construction and operation of the emergency shelter and operations center, ensuring the safety and resilience of the community during emergencies.

“We are proud to work alongside local leaders, residents, and state and federal partners to make this critical facility a reality,  Gottlieb said. “The safety of our residents remains our top priority, and this project is a significant step toward ensuring that our community is prepared for any emergency.”

Rock Hill Volunteer Fire District
Rock Hill, NY