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"No one should feel like they are being bullied and pressured into selling their home," said state Sen. David Carlucci.
"We are attempting to address the issue of aggressive solicitation in Rockland County by working with the Department of State and bringing them in to use what they have in their toolbox to address this issue. The state can make the determinations necessary to remedy this situation."
At a Friday news conference, Carlucci was joined by Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee, Orangetown Deputy Supervisor Allan Ryff, Orangetown Town Clerk Charlotte Madigan and CUPON leaders Hilda Moscovik and Mike Miller in calling for this hearing.
CUPON stands for Citizens United to Protect Our Neighborhoods.
In past meetings with legislators, DOS has promised a public hearing, but no meeting has occurred, and no time frame has been given.
Carlucci and Jaffee said their officers have received reports from numerous community members about individuals stopping by their homes -- sometimes two or three times a day -- asking if they would like to sell their property, sometimes in an aggressive manner.
Both legislators have submitted batches of documents that the DOS requested, including resident complaints, and they say there has been little response from the state.
Leadership from CUPON brought a portfolio with many different mailings and evidence of aggressive and possibly illegal solicitation, reported by residents. The legislators and CUPON thanked members of the community for their reporting and ask that others come forward as well, to provide evidence and have the strongest public hearing possible.
"Sen. Carlucci and Assemblymember Jaffee's leadership on this issue is a perfect example of government doing their job and addressing issues that matter to the community," said Orangetown Deputy Supervisor, Allan Ryff.
"I have seen these aggressive tactics being used firsthand," Miller said. "I have been approached and multiple individuals in my neighborhood have also experienced these awful tactics. Their intimidation and aggressive solicitation is forcing families that have lived in the community for years to sell their property, this is not right and needs to be addressed."
"Normal solicitation is completely acceptable, however, what is occurring in Rockland County is unacceptable," said Jaffee. "Members of the community are being intimidated by solicitors and that is why we are calling on the Department of State to hold a public hearing to decide what will be the best solution to this problem."
For more info on CUPON, visit its Facebook page.
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