Raquel Ventura was born in Corona, Queens and moved to the Town of Haverstraw in March 1989, where she planted deep roots and raised her family. She is the proud mother of four children: Stephanie, Michelle, Angelica, and Anthony.  

Raquel has been a dedicated and active member of the Haverstraw community for over three decades, contributing her time and energy to a variety of civic, educational, and religious organizations. Her community involvement includes serving as a board member of the Haverstraw Ecumenical Project (1995–2000), PTA President for Head Start (1990), Girl Scout leader (1995–1997), and religious education instructor at St. Peter’s School (1993–2000). She is also an engaged member of the Emergency Operations Center, North Rockland Rotary Club, and the Columbiettes.  

Professionally, Raquel worked as a circulation clerk at the Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library from 2003 to 2017, where she provided exceptional service to residents and supported them not only with library resources, but also with her extensive knowledge of the local community and government services.  

Since 1997, Raquel has served in the Haverstraw Town Clerk’s Office, first as Deputy Clerk under Josephine E. Carella and later under Karen L. Bulley. In February 2017, following Mrs. Bulley’s retirement, Raquel was appointed to fulfill the remainder of her term as Town Clerk. She has since continued in this role, proudly serving the residents of Haverstraw with professionalism, compassion, and integrity.  

As Town Clerk, Raquel oversees a wide range of responsibilities, including issuing vital records and various town licenses, performing bilingual marriage ceremonies, and supporting residents with genealogy searches dating back to 1881. Her office also manages departmental billing and provides Notary services to the public. Raquel is deeply committed to maintaining a responsive, efficient, and welcoming Clerk’s Office, and remains honored to serve the people of Haverstraw every day.