Nyack Residents Demand Solutions for Downtown Homelessness Crisis

NYACK, N.Y. — A packed Nyack Village Hall meeting on Monday night highlighted growing concerns among residents and business owners about homelessness and panhandling in the downtown area. The village hosted the gathering to share ongoing efforts and gather community feedback on addressing the issue.

“This is a serious problem, and it’s affecting businesses all over town,” said Marianne Olive, owner of Olive's, a local business. Village officials, including Mayor Joseph Rand, outlined measures already in place, such as a curfew and collaboration with police and social services. “We want a downtown that people feel safe in,” Rand said. “We’ve been working to bring services to these individuals, offering better options than sleeping out in the cold.”

According to Rand, the increase in panhandling began two years ago, while the rise in people sleeping in public spaces started last year. He noted some progress, including the hiring of a code enforcement officer to patrol the streets and the removal of certain benches in the downtown area. However, residents and business owners argue that more needs to be done.

“Maybe they’re not in the park in the center square, but now they’re going to the parking lot because people parking there are being targeted. It’s dangerous,” Olive added. Suggestions from the community included increasing police presence and providing more resources to assist those in need.

Nick Loconsole, owner of Turiello’s Pizza, emphasized the broader impact of resolving the issue. “It’ll bring more families downtown and help Nyack become the place we all want it to be,” he said. Village officials pledged to continue working with business owners and the community to find sustainable solutions.