Data shows that from 1996-2021, the Hudson Valley region lost a net total of 146,763 people to out migration, which calculates out to 5% of the Hudson Valley’s population.
Elected officials, seeking to appease vocal constituents, frequently uphold restrictive zoning laws that favor single-family residences over more diverse housing options.
In 2023, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection investigated 617 complaints and returned $66,000 to homeowners.
Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne announced the appointment of Barbara Barosa as the new Commissioner of the Department of Planning, Development, and Public Transportation. The appointment comes as a result of an extensive search to find the ideal candidate to lead this critical department, which plays a vital role in shaping the future of our community.
County Executive Byrne expressed his confidence in Barosa’s capabilities, stating, “Barbara Barosa’s extensive experience and proven track record in the field of planning and development make her the ideal choice to lead the Department of Planning, Development, and Public Transportation. I have every confidence that she will continue to drive our community’s growth and ensure responsible development in Putnam County.”
Barosa has been a dedicated member of the Putnam County Planning, Development, and Public Transportation Department since 2013, where she began as a Senior Planner and eventually was promoted to the role of Principal Planner. Her career in public service includes prior roles as Director of Planning for the Town of Somers, and work as a Planner with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP).
“I am deeply honored to take on the role of Commissioner for our Planning Department,” said Barosa. “I am committed to continue working tirelessly to foster responsible development and sustainable transportation solutions in Putnam County. I look forward to collaborating with our local communities and dedicated staff to build a vibrant, prosperous future for our region.”
Barosa was appointed by County Executive Byrne after a competitive interview process was conducted by a selection committee that included Legislator Toni Addonizio, Legislator Greg Ellner, Deputy County Executive Jim Burpoe, Director of Personnel Paul Eldridge, Deputy Director of Personnel Adrienne Iasoni, and Director of Purchasing John Tully.
Among her more notable accomplishments has been her instrumental role in assisting the Village of Brewster in its revitalization efforts. Barosa steps into her new position, taking the reins from John Tully, who has been serving admirably in a dual capacity, managing both the Purchasing Department and the Planning Department while the Byrne administration identified the right candidate for this role.
Today, she is affiliated with Coldwell Banker in Katonah as an Associate Broker and is an Independent Certified Coach.
The Anne Freyvogel Hanna Legacy Award is named after Anne F. Hanna, who co-founded Howard Hanna Real Estate Services with Howard Hanna Jr. in 1957.
Real estate coach Brian Buffini provided practical advice on how agents can thrive in challenging conditions and use change as a lever for growth, drawing on his extensive experience in training over three million professionals in 37 countries.
Swarthout is one of 111 leaders across the United States, and the third in New York State, who have devoted their careers to the land title industry and earned their designation.
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