HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-06-10 - Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes REGULAR MEETING
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
VILLAGE HALL, 938 KING STREET
TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2008-7:30 P.M.
AGENDA
7:00 PM— Executive Session— Litigation and Personnel
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
REPORT:
(1) Report by Assessor on assessment notices and their impact
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
(1) Public Hearing on an application for a Special Use permit and site plan
approvals for St. Mary's Cemetery, South Ridge and High Streets
RESOLUTIONS:
(1) Considering an appointment to the Advisory Council on Parks and Recreation
(2) Considering the submission of comments by the Village of Rye Brook Board
of Trustees as an involved agency to the Village of Port Chester regarding a
development adjacent to Sylvan Road
(3) Considering the repayment of taxes to the Town of Rye
(4) Considering the endorsement of a grant application to the United States
Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services for the
2008 COPS — Save our Schools Grant Program
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 1
(5) Considering a budget modification— Shade Trees
(6) Considering authorizing a renewal of a Westchester County Department
Health food service permit application to operate a food service establishment
at the AJP Community Center
(7) Considering entering into a revocable permit agreement with SUNY Purchase
for use of certain facilities by the Village Recreation Department
(8) Approving the appointment of the City of Rye's community representative to
the Emergency Medical Services Committee (EMSC)
(9) Approval of Minutes: March 11, 2008; April 8, 2008; May 13, 2008
ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
DISCUSSION ITEMS
(1) Review of ongoing curbside yard waste compliance matters
(2) Alleged 2-family use at 8 Berkley Drive in R-15 zoning district
(3) Review of Chapter 160-4 (numbering of properties) of the code
ACTION ON NON-AGENDA MATTERS SUBJECT TO THE CONSENT OF THE
TRUSTEES PRESENT AT THE MEETING
THE NEXT TRUSTEES MEETINGS: June 24 and July 8, 2008
BOARD: Mayor Joan L. Feinstein
Trustee Michael S. Brown
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano
Trustee Dean P. Santon
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 2
STAFF: Christopher J. Bradbury, Village Administrator
David Burke, Assistant to the Village Administrator
Gregory Austin, Police Chief
Edward Beane, Village Counsel
Victor Carosi, Village Engineer
Fred Seifert, Public Access Coordinator
Paula Patafio, Secretary
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein called the June 10, 2008 regular meeting of the Board of
Trustees to order at 7:30 p.m. beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance.
REPORT:
1) REPORT BY ASSESSOR ON ASSESSMENT NOTICES AND THEIR
IMPACT
Mr. Mitchell Markowitz, Tax Assessor, addressed the Board. He began his report
by noting that the notices that were recently mailed to all residents were required
by law. The notices were mailed out the end of May to every property owner in
the Town of Rye who experienced a change in assessment proposed for 2008.
Nearly every one-family homeowner received a reduction in their assessed value
proposed for 2008. The homeowners that did work on their property were
imposed an increase in assessment. The Homestead Class in Rye Brook
experienced an overall decrease in the class of 2 '/2%. The Non-Homestead Class
was assessed a flat 2007-2008 assessment roll. That is both good and bad news
for homeowners. It means that the price of homes has declined slightly but the
commercial values have gone up. The fact that assessments declined 2 /z% does
not mean that taxes will decline 2 /z%. The amount of taxes that are paid are
highly dependent upon the budgets to be approved during the coming year by the
school districts, County, Village, and Town.
Mr. Markowitz noted that there are approximately 3387 parcels in Rye Brook
subject to taxation. That represents tax bills and the number of people or entities
who are paying 100% of property tax. It is essentially the same number as last
year, and it has not changed much in the past several years. He noted that the
2008 assessment notice reflects the property value as of July 2007.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 3
Mayor Joan Feinstein stated that if anyone wants to contest their assessment the
deadline is June 17th. This deadline is set by State law.
Mr. Markowitz noted that anyone who believes that their assessment is incorrect
should file an application and provide evidence of why they believe that the
evidence is incorrect. Forms are available in the Town of Rye Assessment Office
or the State's website. If you miss this deadline then it is too late to contest. All
determinations will be made on or before September 15th. Anyone that files a
grievance will receive written notification of the decision regarding their appeal.
Public Hearings will be held at 10 Pearl Street.
Mayor Feinstein noted that the impact of the reduction is very little. The tax rate
is immaterial in these situations because the assessed valuations go down and the
tax rates go up. Mr. Bradbury noted that the levy is the best indicator because it
shows the spending and the municipal budget.
Trustee Paul Rosenberg noted that taxpayers that want to be heard must show up
at the public hearing. There is a sign in sheet but there is no way to predict how
long you will be at the hearing before you are heard. The people who show up in
person go before the Board and make a presentation. The people who hand in
their applications are discussed at a public hearing.
Mayor Feinstein thanked Mr. Markowitz for the presentation.
Mayor Feinstein called for the first item under Public Hearings on the agenda:
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1) PUBLIC HEARING ON AN APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL USE
PERMIT AND SITE PLAN APPROVALS FOR ST. MARY'S CEMETERY,
SOUTH RIDGE AND HIGH STREETS
Mayor Feinstein noted the intent was to continue the public hearing this evening,
however, the Board has received a letter from the applicant requesting an
adjournment until the next meeting scheduled for June 24th. Since Trustee Patricia
Sanders Romano would not be able to attend that meeting as she would be on
vacation, she requested that the public hearing be scheduled for July 8th. It was
noted that Trustee Sanders Romano has been involved with this application since
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 4
2003. With the permission of the Board, Mayor Feinstein called for a motion to
set the public hearing.
On a motion made by Trustee Rosenberg, and seconded by Trustee Sanders
Romano, the public hearing for the St. Mary's Cemetery Application was
scheduled for July 8, 2008.
Mr. David Burke, Assistant to the Village Administrator, called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
Mayor Feinstein called for the first resolution on the agenda:
RESOLUTIONS:
(1) CONSIDERING AN APPOINTMENT TO THE ADVISORY COUNCIL
ON PARKS AND RECREATION
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING APPOINTMENTS TO THE ADVISORY COUNCIL ON PARKS
AND RECREATION
RESOLVED, that Glenn Brettschneider of 53 Winding Wood Road, Rye
Brook, New York is hereby appointed to the Advisory Council on Parks and
Recreation to fill the unexpired term of Cliff Shaw, whose term shall expire
April, 2009.
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee Santon,
the resolution was adopted.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 5
Trustee Rosenberg thanked Cliff Shaw of the Advisory Council on Parks and
Recreation for his many years of service to the Village. He noted that Mr. Shaw
really spent a lot of time working on the Village's recreation program over the
years and he really has made a large contribution.
Mayor Feinstein stated that in March residents are asked to come forward and
volunteer for Village Boards and Councils. The appointments are made in April
of each year for positions that have opened up on the various boards and councils.
Participation by community members is encouraged.
Mayor Feinstein asked that Mr. Burke call the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
2) CONSIDERING THE SUBMISSION OF COMMENTS BY THE VILLAGE
OF RYE BROOK BOARD OF TRUSTEES AS AN INVOLVED AGENCY
TO THE VILLAGE OF PORT CHESTER REGARDING A
DEVELOPMENT ADJACENT TO SYLVAN ROAD
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING THE SUBMISSION OF COMMENTS BY THE VILLAGE OF
RYE BROOK BOARD OF TRUSTEES AS AN INVOLVED AGENCY TO THE
VILLAGE OF PORT CHESTER REGARDING A DEVELOPMENT ADJACENT
TO SYLVAN ROAD
WHEREAS, the Village of Port Chester Planning Commission, as the lead
agency, is currently considering a subdivision application for a three (3) lot
subdivision and site plan for properties predominately located in the Village of
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 6
Port Chester and adjacent to Sylvan Road and Candy Lane in the Village of Rye
Brook; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook is an involved agency under the
State Environmental Quality Review Act ("SEQRA") because it will have final
approval authority over certain permits with respect to the subdivision; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees, as an involved
agency, has reviewed a preliminary plan of the subdivision and has some
questions and concerns that it wishes to express to the Village of Port Chester
Planning Commission, including:
• the proposed driveway and utility connections onto Sylvan Road and the
associated impacts related thereto;
• the proposed tree removal associated with the subdivision application and
how the proposed development will be mitigated by a landscape plan;
• the storm water impacts of the proposed development in the Village of Rye
Brook;
• the impacts to the Village of Rye Brook associated with the erosion and
sediment control plans;
• the proposed construction access to the site and how it may impact the
Village of Rye Brook, including how construction access may be regulated;
• the disturbance and maintenance of the paper street areas; and
• the inappropriate use of a property number for proposed lot number 1.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook
Board of Trustees hereby authorizes the Mayor of the Village of Rye Brook to
send a letter to the Village of PC Planning Commission summarizing the questions
and concerns presented by the Board as an involved agency with respect to this
subdivision application on the Board's behalf.
On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the
resolution was adopted.
Trustee Sanders Romano noted this construction could potentially impact the area.
She asked that the construction plan be made available for review and that the
Board of Trustees have the ability to make comments and give input on this plan.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 7
Mr. Bradbury noted that the items for review also include construction vehicle
access, erosion and sediment control, and traffic. Trustee Sanders Romano noted
that she would like to see where the construction debris was being removed to,
where the staging of equipment would take place, hours of operation, etc.
Trustee Dean Santon questioned what right-of-way disturbance meant. He noted
that the municipal boundary cuts through the Sylvan Road paper Street. Sylvan
Road in Port Chester and Sylvan Road in Rye Brook do not connect. It is
separated by a densely wooded property. He asked for clarification.
Mayor Feinstein stated that Rye Brook has always taken the position that it would
not allow the paper street to be opened. Port Chester was advised of this position
over a year ago.
Trustee Santon felt that Rye Brook should not grant permission for a curb cut. He
felt that there were several underlying lot and parcel issues that should be focused
on. He noted that it is not clear what portion of this property is in Rye Brook. The
plans show a slight triangular shaped parcel in Rye Brook; however, this sliver of
land is not a tax lot. He also noted that one of the lots was illegally subdivided.
The Rye Brook parcel of land being marketed is owned and controlled by the
Estate of Douglas Hallengren. His wife does not have the right to sell and the
estate is not party to the application. He reiterated that there are a number of
fundamental legal issues that needed to be sifted through. The residents on Sylvan
Road in Rye Brook and in the Candy Lane, Argyle and the Windsor Road area
will be affected by this subdivision and all of these residents should be notified of
the application.
Mayor Feinstein responded that a copy of the letter sent to Port Chester can be
sent to the Rye Brook residents. She also agreed with Trustee Santon that
clarification of what property is located in Rye Brook is needed.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the issue of a curb cut has not come before the Village
yet. He also noted that the village staff has reviewed the plans, and it is looking
for more information on the utilities that will be brought to the parcels — these
utilities include electricity, cable, water, etc. In terms of tree removal, the village
has not received a landscape plan. Additional storm water mitigation detail is
being sought, particularly in the rear of the property.
Mr. Bradbury noted that mitigation must be proposed by the applicant as part of
the process. Storm water impacts and erosion and sediment control must be
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 8
reviewed. Construction access will come from Argyle and Sylvan in Port Chester,
however, Rye Brook needs to know who will be regulating and watching over this
traffic. Rye Brook also needs to know what disturbance will result in the area of
the paper street and who will be responsible for maintaining this area. The
applicant has been notified that there has been inappropriate use of a Rye Brook
property number.
Trustee Santon noted that the subdivision map for Ridge Manor is the one that has
been used to identify the subject parcels. Clearly the adjacent 6 Sylvan Road has
property both in Port Chester and Rye Brook. A fundamental issue to be
addressed is whether or not any of the land that is part of this subdivision is
actually located in Rye Brook. A few square feet does not rise to the level of a
curb cut. He also noted that Rye Brook should not have the burden of services
when Rye Brook would not get the benefits of taxes.
Mayor Feinstein noted that owning land in Rye Brook gives the property owner
the ability to choose the school district.
Mayor Feinstein opened up the floor for discussion. A Toni Janeczko of 35
Argyle Road questioned how things would move along for this project. She noted
that there is an existing retaining wall and she questioned what would happen to it.
It was noted that this resident's property is adjacent to the lots that are the subject
of the subdivision. She also noted that there are a lot of children in this area and
the additional traffic could pose a safety hazard for these children. She felt that
additional stops signs should be installed. Mrs. Janeczko noted that she sent a
letter to Port Chester expressing her concerns.
Trustee Santon clarified that the 35 Argyle Road property that has the retaining
wall is at the Village of Port Chester right-of-way. He felt that no one would
remove the retaining wall and allow the property to spill out into the right-of-way.
This land was commonly owned for six decades and the Sylvan Road portions
were the rear yards of the Haines Boulevard properties. These parcels were
needed to meet setbacks. Trustee Santon also noted that Haines Boulevard is the
more logical street for ingress and egress.
The next Port Chester Planning Commission meeting will be held on June 30 .
Mr. Bradbury noted that a certified resolution and a copy of the letter will be sent
to the Village of Port Chester. Trustee Rosenberg noted that a letter regarding the
unauthorized use of a Rye Brook street address (i.e. 11 Sylvan Road) has been sent
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 9
to the real estate agent and developer last week, but the Village has not heard back
from them yet.
Edward Beane, Esq., Village Attorney, noted that the real estate broker and
developer have been put on notice to cease using the 11 Sylvan Road address. He
would follow up on a response.
Mr. Burke called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
3) CONSIDERING THE REPAYMENT OF TAXES TO THE TOWN OF RYE
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING REPAYMENT OF TAXES TO THE TOWN OF RYE
RESOLVED, that payment be made to the Town of Rye as reimbursement
for overpayment of 2004/2005 taxes to make whole in the amount of$27,875.05;
and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following budget modification be
approved in fiscal year 2007/2008.
FROM TO AMOUNT
101.1990.424 101.1930.439 $ 27,875.05
(Contingency) (Judgments & Claims)
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 10
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee Brown,
the resolution was adopted.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the Town has to guarantee the taxes for the Village. The
Village was overpaid for the 2004/2005 year. This was verified, and the funds
will now be paid back.
Mr. Burke called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
4) CONSIDERING THE ENDORSEMENT OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO
THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE OFFICE OF
COMMUNITY ORIENTED POLICING SERVICES FOR THE 2008 COPS
— SAVE OUR SCHOOLS GRANT PROGRAM
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING THE ENDORSEMENT OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE OFFICE OF COMMUNITY
ORIENTED POLICING SERVICES FOR THE 2008 COPS — SAVE OUR
SCHOOLS GRANT PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Justice Office of Community
Oriented Policing Services has secured funding for the COPS Secure Our Schools
(SOS) 2008 Grant Program; and
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 11
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook in conjunction with the Blind Brook
Union Free School District and the Port Chester Union Free School District desire
to apply for funding; and
WHEREAS, these three entities desire to submit an application for the
purchase of software in order to give the Rye Brook Police Department the ability
to connect to the in-house video surveillance systems at the Ponterio-Ridge Street
School, Blind Brook Middle/High School, Port Chester Senior High School and
the Port Chester Middle School; and
WHEREAS, the COPS program will pay up to 50% of an approved
application with a 50% local match.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook
Board of Trustees hereby approves the application to the United States
Department of Justice for funding assistance in providing software for in-house
surveillance systems; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, the Mayor, Administrator and Police Chief are
hereby authorized to take all appropriate steps to submit the application for
funding for a total project cost of $8,000 with the Village of Rye Brook portion
being approximately $1,300.
On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and seconded by Trustee Sanders Romano,
the resolution was adopted.
Mayor Feinstein noted that if the grant is successful then there will be time for
additional comments about this project.
Chief Gregory Austin, Police Chief, stated that there have been situations during
school that required the assistance of a police officer. This grant will provide real-
time viewing. The surveillance cameras are on now for both school districts, and
both districts are in favor of this program.
Mr. Burke called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 12
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
5) CONSIDERING A BUDGET MODIFICATION— SHADE TREES
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
BUDGET MODIFICATION— SHADE TREES
RESOLVED, that the following budget modifications as of May 31, 2008
be hereby approved:
FROM TO AMOUNT
101.7000.510 101.2200.156 $ 1,125
(Estimated Revenue) (Inspection Fees)
101.7000.552 101.3120.444 $18,500
(Appropriation Expense) (Shade Trees -
Trees/Shrubs)
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee Brown,
the resolution was approved.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the transfers move funds in between accounts.
Mr. Victor Carosi, Village Engineer, addressed the Board. He noted that the
bottom line was that over the past couple of months his department has been
establishing the right trees for the right places. Thirty-five trees will be planted
throughout the Village. These trees include seven or eight different tree varieties
such as Sugar Maple, some Oaks, Lindens, Sycamore and Elms. The idea is to
mix up the different types of trees throughout the Village. It is a little later in the
season, but there is still a good opportunity to complete these plantings.
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 13
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
6) CONSIDERING AUTHORIZING A RENEWAL OF A WESTCHESTER
COUNTY DEPARTMENT HEALTH FOOD SERVICE PERMIT
APPLICATION TO OPERATE A FOOD SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT AT
THE AJP COMMUNITY CENTER
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDER AUTHORIZING THE RENEWAL OF A WESTCHESTER
COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FOOD SERVICE PERMIT
APPLICATION TO OPERATE A FOOD SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT AT
THE ANTHONY J. POSILLIPO COMMUNITY CENTER
WHEREAS, the Westchester County Department of Health Sanitary Code
requires that a food service permit be obtained from the Department of Health to
operate a food service establishment; and
WHEREAS, the Anthony J. Posillipo Community Center serves and
operates a food service establishment and would like to renew their application for
such permit in order to comply with all rules and regulations of the Westchester
County Department of Health.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye
Brook Board of Trustees hereby authorizes the Senior Citizen Coordinator to
apply for a renewal of a food service permit for the Anthony J. Posillipo
Community Center and to execute and deliver to the Westchester County
Department of Health, for and on behalf of the Village, a renewal application for a
permit to operate a food service establishment and to execute and deliver any and
all additional documents which may be appropriate or desirable in connection
therewith.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 14
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee
Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
There was no discussion on this matter.
Mr. Burke called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
7) CONSIDERING ENTERING INTO A REVOCABLE PERMIT
AGREEMENT WITH SUNY PURCHASE FOR USE OF CERTAIN
FACILITIES BY THE VILLAGE RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDER ENTERING INTO A REVOCABLE PERMIT AGREEMENT WITH
SUNY PURCHASE FOR THE USE OF CERTAIN FACILITIES BY THE
VILLAGE RECREATION DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook, a municipal corporation, desires to
use certain swimming pool facilities of the Division of Physical Education,
Recreation & Athletics of Purchase College, State University of New York
(hereinafter "Purchase College") from July 8, 2008 to August 31, 2008; and
WHEREAS, Purchase College will grant the Village of Rye Brook
Recreation Department, a revocable permit for the use of its swimming pool
facilities, which include certain swimming lanes, locker rooms and bathrooms; in
exchange for a fee of Five Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty Dollars and Zero Cents
($5,760.00), which is based on a rental fee of One Hundred Twenty Dollars and
Zero Cents ($120.00)per hour.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 15
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye
Brook Board of Trustees authorizes the Village to enter into a Revocable Permit
Agreement with Purchase College for the use of its pool facilities; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook is
authorized to pay Purchase College in accordance with the terms and agreements
specified in the Revocable Permit Agreement; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Administrator are
hereby authorized to sign all necessary documents to implement the Revocable
Permit Agreement.
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee
Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
Mr. Burke called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
8) APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF THE CITY OF RYE'S
COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVE TO THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL
SERVICES COMMITTEE (EMSC)
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution:
RESOLUTION
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF THE CITY OF RYE'S COMMUNITY
REPRESENTATIVE TO THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
COMMITTEE (EMSC)
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 16
WHEREAS, the inter-municipal agreement, between the Village Rye
Brook, City of Rye and Village of Port Chester, for emergency medical services
provides for an Emergency Medical Services Committee; and
WHEREAS, the City of Rye has approved the nomination of Barbara
Berte to the Committee as their Community Representative.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye
Brook hereby approves the appointment of Barbara Berte as the Community
Representative to the Emergency Medical Services Committee (EMSC) for the
City of Rye.
There was no discussion on this matter Mayor Feinstein noted that it was self-
explanatory.
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee Brown,
the resolution was adopted.
Mr. Burke called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
9) APPROVAL OF MINUTES: March 11, 2008; April 8, 2008; May 13, 2008
Mayor Feinstein called for comments on the above-referenced summaries.
Trustee Santon noted that he did not have a chance to read the April 8t" and May
13th summaries. He asked that the approval of these two summaries be postponed.
Mayor Feinstein called for a motion to adopt the March 11, 2008 summary.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 17
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee
Rosenberg, the summary was adopted.
Mr. Burke called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon abstained
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
Mayor Feinstein called for a motion to adjourn the April 8th and May 13th
summaries to the next Board of Trustees meeting.
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee
Rosenberg, the summary was adopted.
Mr. Burke called the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
Mayor Feinstein called upon Mr. Bradbury for his report:
ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. Bradbury reminded everyone that the Rye Brook Birthday celebration was scheduled
for Saturday, June 14th. Everyone is invited to come and join the festivities.
Mr. Bradbury noted that Con Edison, overall, has been doing very well. Rye had many
outages over the past few days, which were a result from the heat. There is a big storm
coming in this evening and he hoped that there would be no outages as a result.
Work continues on the Village's Comprehensive Plan. The Village's staff, consultants,
and Boards have dedicated many hours to this project.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 18
Mr. Bradbury noted that special meetings were held on tax assessments, with an
upcoming meeting scheduled for Monday morning.
It was noted that the local law regarding the Library should be passed through the NYS
Assembly this week with the assistance of George Latimer. Mr. Latimer is very
optimistic that the law will be adopted. Mr. Latimer and Suzi Oppenheimer have worked
hard on the Village's behalf to get this local law passed, and the Village is grateful to
them for all of their hard work.
Mayor Feinstein noted that the Board has received the financial statements for the EMS.
These statements are in very good shape. There have been several funds raisers and the
proceeds go directly to the EMS.
Mayor Feinstein called upon Trustee Santon to address the discussion items.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
(1) REVIEW OF ONGOING CURBSIDE YARD WASTE COMPLIANCE
MATTERS
Trustee Santon began the discussion by commenting that the Village's police
department has been doing a great job. He noted that the real problem,
particularly with yard waste, is being caused by the landscapers. The brown
paper bags are put out at all different times of the week — they are put out in
the street — and when they are left out for any length of time they disintegrate
and the waste falls out into the street. Trash and green waste should be not
placed curbside until Tuesday night at 6:00 p.m. When the waste is put out on
Wednesday afternoon it means that this garbage stays out for a week. It was
noted that 156 warnings have been issued to 142 different addresses; 17
violations were given to repeat offenders. Trustee Santon felt that something
should be done about the landscapers who are creating the problem. He stated
that the Village needs to be more effective in educating these landscapers
which, in turn, will reduce the amount of time that the police need to deal with
this.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 19
Mayor Feinstein noted that the violations were issued over an eight week
period. She noted that this issue needs to be highlighted a little more and more
resident education is needed. She felt that it was the residents' responsibility
to inform their landscapers.
Trustee Santon noted that the larger landscapers take the waste away in their
trucks. The smaller landscapers do not have a place to put the waste. The
Village needs to find out who the landscapers are and educate them on the
Village's laws and regulations. He felt that the Village should contact the
residents who received the warnings and get the name of the landscapers from
them.
Mayor Feinstein suggested a letter be attached to the warnings so that the
homeowners could inform their landscapers.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the Landscapers Association can be contacted again.
A list of regulations can be given to the homeowners for them to be given to
the landscapers. Trustee Santon felt that the landscapers should be targeted.
He also noted that the Landscapers Association was previously contacted and
nothing came of it. Mayor Feinstein felt that the residents are paying for the
service and they should be the ones to inform their contractors. Edward Beane,
Esq. noted that the residents have responsibilities.
Mayor Feinstein stated that letters can be sent out to the landscapers to educate
them. She noted that compliance has gotten better over the years.
Trustee Rosenberg agreed and noted that a form letter attached to the violation
is a good idea. The Village's rules and regulations should be laid out.
Trustee Sanders Romano felt that perhaps a card with pick-up days should be
handed out — something a bit less verbose with the rules and regulations
clearly written out.
Trustee Brown felt that a system where you receive three strikes could be put
into place. When the third strike is received, then the landscaper is fined.
Trustee Rosenberg noted that a lot of people do not like seeing the bags sitting
curbside. This is not what the Village's police department should be doing —
wasting time handing out violations for trash. Time should not be taken away
from their normal duties.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 20
Chief Austin noted sometimes the officers notice these violations when they
are on patrol, and other times they receive calls from residents. The warnings
have been working. Some people get confused when there is a Holiday during
the week. Chief Austin noted that this is not a priority. Mayor Feinstein
thanked the Chief and the Officers for being so vigilant.
Mayor Feinstein noted that out of 3387 parcels in Rye Brook only 17 residents
have been issued more than one violation. She noted that having this type of a
dialogue at the meeting is another way to help educate homeowners on this
issue.
Trustee Brown suggested using email to advise the residents of the rules
regarding curbside waste. He suggested that the Village consider this for the
upcoming year.
Mr. Bradbury stated that his office would look into this matter.
(2) ALLEGED 2-FAMILY USE AT 8 BERKLEY DRIVE IN R-15 ZONING
DISTRICT
Trustee Santon noted that while he was abroad there was a renovation project
at 8 Berkley Drive, a home located in an R-15 single-family residential district.
The property was given a Certificate of Occupancy in 1972, three weeks
before a real estate closing, to create a two-family occupancy. The C.O. stated
that this was a non-conforming use that existed prior to 1954. This was odd
because the Building Inspector in 1972 could not know what existed before
1954. The reality was that this two-family use did not pre-exist that date. The
building was an accessory building for a large estate and it was never a two-
family house. Two couples bought the property in January, 1960 from the
developer who bought the 64 acre tract in May, 1959. The sub-division map
for that area did not come into effect for another two years. Trustee Santon
noted that there are two-family zones within Rye Brook and 8 Berkley Drive is
not located in one of them. Now a two-family home exists in a zone that does
not allow two-family homes. He felt that if the C.O. was issued improperly it
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 21
should be dealt with. A C.O. was issued in 1972 with no permit, no scope of
work, and no application. He stated that this matter is very suspect and bogus.
Trustee Santon noted that there is an existing condition map of the
unincorporated portion of the Town of Rye, which is now Rye Brook, that was
prepared in 1930. There is a key that identifies every structure. Every
structure was inventoried and the uses were identified. He noted that the C.O.
from 1972 was issued with no basis. Trustee Santon asked that the Village
Attorney review this matter because in his opinion the 8 Berkley property is an
illegal, non-conforming use.
Mayor Feinstein noted that there were legal consideration two years ago when
a discussion took place with legal counsel. Her personal opinion was that to
go back and re-visit this may not bring the results that Trustee Santon hoped
for. She felt that this would be a waste of time and Village resources.
Trustee Santon noted that the documents in his position directly refutes the
Certificate of Occupancy. This was an illegal subdivision, no permits were
taken out, and a bogus Certificate of Occupancy was issued. He felt that this
matter did warrant a review. The other residents along Berkley Drive deserve
to have their quality of life protected. Something should be done about this
now.
Edward Beane, Esq., Village Counsel, noted that even if the Village assumed
that the permit is bogus and the Village started an action, it would mean going
to court, spending time, spending money and ultimately it will be the judge's
decision. He noted that the Law of Waiver still exists. Mr. Beane noted that
the Village Attorney stands ready to follow the Village Board's directive.
Mayor Feinstein noted that a determination was made and she asked for the
consensus of the Board regarding whether or not this matter should be
revisited. She stated that in her opinion it should not.
Trustee Santon noted that this was an illegal use, and he felt that it warranted
additional review. He noted that he would be happy to review the minutes of
the Executive Session from two years ago when this matter was addressed.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 22
Mayor Feinstein called for the final discussion item on the agenda:
(3) REVIEW OF CHAPTER 160-4 (NUMBERING OF PROPERTIES) OF
THE CODE
Trustee Santon noted that basically the question of how a property owner
could help him/herself to a street number is what brought this matter up for
discussion. He noted that the only person who can assign a house number is
the Village's Director of Public Works. 8 Berkley Drive is one parcel and is
only entitled to one house number and a developer cannot just go ahead and
number homes that they developed. He pointed out that the developer for
Berkley Drive and Sylvan Road is the same developer, and he is once again
helping himself to street numbers. Trustee Santon noted that this section of the
Village's Code needs to be reviewed.
Mr. Bradbury noted that he has given the Board his recommendation. The
numbering of homes is a safety issue and the clear numbering of homes is
important to emergency services. The Code could be modified so that multi-
family homes can receive separate numbers and/or letters.
Mayor Feinstein noted that there are quite a few streets within the Village with
two-family homes. Some homes have A's and B's or '/2's on them. She
directed the Administrator to review this matter.
Mayor Feinstein noted that the next Board of Trustee meetings were scheduled for
June 24 and July 8, 2008. There being no further business before the Board, and no
members of the public wishing to address the Board, she asked for a motion to adjourn
the meeting.
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders Romano, and seconded by Trustee Brown, the
meeting was adjourned.
Mayor Feinstein called upon Mr. Burke to call the roll:
Trustee Michael S. Brown Voting Aye
Trustee Patricia Sanders Romano Voting Aye
Trustee Paul S. Rosenberg Voting Aye
Trustee Dean P. Santon Voting Aye
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 23
Mayor Joan L. Feinstein Voting Aye
The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 a p.m.
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 10,2008
Page 24