Ramapo, NY - State Investigates Preschool Program

Ramapo, NY - The state is investigating allegations that a preschool program at Yeshiva Mosdos Chofetz Chaim construction site on Grandview Avenue is operating without a child-care license or registration, required under state law.

State inspectors were at the site and are reviewing their findings to determine what to do next, a spokesman for the state's Office of Children and Family Services said, "Every time we receive allegations, we take the strongest possible action that would provide for the safety of children, we will continue to review the findings of our investigation based on the type of care that is provided there.".

South Nyack-based attorney Dennis Lynch, who is representing the developer, said he and his client had not been notified of any investigation. "We believe that their claim, as reported through the media, is completely without merit," he said. "This is a pre-existing grandfathered use, and the state agency has no jurisdiction when a preschool is associated with a religious or educational program. This is not the first time the state agency has acted improperly."
Town Attorney Michael Klein said the town's building inspectors had an appointment to inspect the trailer. If there is an imminent health or safety concern, the town could seek an injunction with the state Supreme Court, he said.
Town Fire Inspector Thomas Buckley said that an electronic alarm connection between the trailer and the county's emergency dispatching unit, required by state law, had not been completed. The town had approved an application for the connection but had not been notified that the system was installed and ready for inspection.