PIERMONT – After 10 years of allowing a 3 1/2 -mile fundraiser race for free, village officials are looking to charge about $2,000 to
a non-profit police group that raises money for families in need. The Rockland County Police Emerald Society’s race this year is dedicated to the family of Ramapo Police Officer Chris Hudak, whose wife, Michelle, died in January giving birth to their fifth child. The society’s lawyer, Brian Nugent, said yesterday that the village could not legally charge for police protection and highway services. Emerald Society members plan to attend a Piermont Board of Trustees meeting tonight in Village Hall to protest the plan. “Piermont threw us a big curveball this year,” society president Ed Stoker said. “We’re hoping they will reconsider their decision. We’re right legally, not just morally.” “A lot of taxpayer money is used for the overtime police and DPW (Department of Public Works) services,” he said yesterday. “The big question is: Should taxpayer money really be used for that in these tough economic times – whether they’re a charitable organization or a non-charitable one.” Devan said he was unsure if the board would make a decision on the matter today.
“We’re going to listen to all of the evidence,” he said. “It may be too soon to proceed.”