The Rockville Centre Civic Association marked its first anniversary this April, reflecting on a year of growth, community engagement, and local advocacy while outlining goals for the village’s future.
Formed just over a year ago, the organization has quickly established itself as an active voice in village affairs. At its anniversary meeting, board members highlighted both the importance of civic participation and the progress the group has made since its founding.
“The biggest challenge has been getting our messaging out into the community so that way people could understand what our purpose was, where we sort of fit into the fabric of all the other groups in town, and how we were different from those groups,” said Meghan Kearns, president.
Over the past year, the association has formally adopted bylaws, incorporated as a nonprofit organization, and launched a website and social media presence. Membership has grown to more than 60 residents.
“It's clear that there is a certain direction that we are heading in,” Kearns said.
The association has also become increasingly involved in local issues, hosting presentations on historic preservation, energy infrastructure, government transparency, and zoning proposals, while inviting political candidates to speak ahead of elections.
Among its most notable efforts was its involvement in opposing a proposed development at 24 S. Park Ave. The project was ultimately denied by the village’s zoning board.
“Taking the position in opposition to that project, and then providing arguments, doing our own research, looking into the parking situation on our own, so that way, when we went to present to the zoning board, we had all the evidence that we needed to be able to make the strongest arguments that we could,” Kearns said.
Committees within the organization have focused on budgeting, infrastructure, beautification, and historic preservation. Members also pointed to advocacy that contributed to the introduction of a supplemental village budget document aimed at making financial information more accessible to residents.
Community engagement has extended beyond meetings and policy discussions. The group has hosted social events, supported local charities, and participated in neighborhood cleanups and outreach efforts.
“We did start slowly, but now it is nice to see, crossing into our second year, where we do have a minute to think about what goals we want to attain, whether it be for infrastructure, public safety, beautification, we're not just trying to catch up with whatever was happening the year prior,” said Caitlin McEntee, recording secretary.
Looking ahead, leaders said their priorities include increasing membership, strengthening collaboration with local government, and expanding the association’s role in community service.
“I'm trying to gain membership,” said Rich Collett, membership director. “Getting to the young people is a little difficult, but I try to reach out through Facebook. We're reaching out through Instagram, we're sometimes going door to door and now being out in public is really helpful.”
As it enters its second year, the Rockville Centre Civic Association is positioning itself as a growing presence in local civic life, with an emphasis on participation, transparency, and community-driven action.
“It's exciting to see that people really are very passionate about this village,” Kearns said.
