For Immediate Release February 11th, 2026
New City, NY – Town of Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Town Board are pleased to announce the creation of the Town of Clarkstown Greenway Commission. The new Commission was approved unanimously at the February 10th Town Board meeting.
The Greenway Commission will serve the purpose of advising town government on protecting and conserving land, open space, and natural, historic, cultural, and recreational resources. The Commission will be composed of five members who will serve on a volunteer basis with no compensation.
The Greenway Commission is empowered to immediately develop innovative measures, particularly in regards to conserving open space.
Recent developments which complement this commission’s creation include the Town’s partnership with the Orange County Land Trust which is now operating in Rockland County in preserving natural landscapes and resources.
The Greenway Commission will also play a crucial role in helping shape the future of the historic Storms Tavern property in Valley Cottage, guiding its preservation and potential public use in a manner that reflects community concerns in addition to safeguarding the site’s historic and cultural significance following the Town’s acquisition.The input of local residents, environmental organizations, and civic associations will be amplified through an officially designated body committed to the task of preserving land.
The commission will assist in evaluating proposed projects, reinforcing the Town’s vision statement outlined in its Comprehensive Plan of being “focused on the future”, with its balanced commitment to smart, responsible development while also protecting woodlands, recreational and historical sites which define Clarkstown’s semi-rural and suburban character.
Supervisor George Hoehmann stated, “The Clarkstown Town Board remains firmly committed to responsible land and natural resource conservation, and the creation of the Greenway Commission represents a significant step forward in advancing what has long been a hallmark of my administration. The commission is empowered and charged with immediately developing additional innovative measures to conserve open space and I look forward to seeing their proposals.”
Councilman Jon Valentino stated, “As your Ward 1 Councilman, I remain committed to preserving open space and fostering a strong, collaborative partnership with our newly appointed Greenway Commission. This commission will provide an important forum for community input as we work together to uphold the character of our Town.”
Councilman Mike Graziano stated, “Storms Tavern in Valley Cottage is a real connection to Clarkstown’s history, and preserving it honors the generations who came before us. Tilcon donated the property to the Town in 2025. I’m proud that our Town is taking steps to protect this landmark, and I’m excited to see the Greenway Commission help guide its future in a way that reflects both its historical significance and the community’s vision.”
DRAFT Councilman Don Franchino stated, “Our open spaces and historic landmarks are irreplaceable, and we have a responsibility to preserve them for future generations. By creating the Greenway Commission, we can manage growth responsibly and ensure our Town’s character and natural beauty remain intact.”
Councilman Bob Axelrod added, “I am proud that our Town has taken this important step in creating the Greenway Commission dedicated to protecting our open spaces and historic properties. This commission will play a key role in safeguarding our natural and historic assets that make our Town so special.”