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Ramapo Supervisor Candidates Debate Town's Future

RAMAPO, N.Y. -- Both Bill Weber and Michael Specht want to help restore Ramapo's reputation.

Michael Specht and Bill Weber.

Michael Specht and Bill Weber.

Photo Credit: File

The two supervisor candidates debated Wednesday at Rockland Community College. Weber is running on the New Direction for Ramapo slate while Specht is running on a Democratic line.

Longtime supervisor Christopher St. Lawrence was ousted in May after being convicted of federal securities and wire fraud and conspiracy.

Specht and Weber both agreed Ramapo's reputation is in tatters following St. Lawrence's conviction. Specht said Ramapo should not look back, but look forward, while Weber said Specht represents Ramapo's corruption past, according to LoHud.

Weber accused Specht and his slate of turning a blind eye to the establishment of Ramapo schools without town approvals, while Specht vowed to increase code enforcement and said he worked to close down dangerous building and schools according to LoHud.

Both said the town master zoning plan needs to be updated, according to LoHud.

Both spoke about updating the town master zoning plan and not supporting any zone changes on property until the plan is approved by the Town Board.

The divide between the Orthodox community and other residents is the biggest problem in Ramapo, Specht said. He said it was based on misunderstandings, ignorance, and hatred, according to LoHud.

Weber said he supports a ward system while Specht opposes it, according to LoHud. Neither candidate has held elected office.

To view the LoHud story, click here.

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