HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-07-25 - Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes REGULAR MEETING
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
VILLAGE HALL, 938 KING STREET
TUESDAY, JULY 25, 2006-7:30 P.M
AGENDA
7:00 p.m. Executive Session- Legal & Personnel Matters
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1) Public hearing on a proposed local law creating Chapter 217, Stormwater
Management, and amending Chapters 118, 121, 209 and 219 of the Village
Code.
2) Amended site plan application for modifications including parking,
pedestrian access, sidewalks, facades and landscaping, as well as a change
in use from medical offices to retail for up to 33,000 square feet, at the Rye
Ridge Shopping Center, Win Ridge realty, LLC.
RESOLUTIONS:
1) Considering adoption of a proposed local law creating Chapter 217,
Stormwater Management, and amending Chapters 118, 121, 209 and 219 of
the Village Code.
2) Considering an amended site plan application for modifications including
parking, pedestrian access, sidewalks, facades and landscaping, as well as a
change in use from medical offices to retail for up to 33,000 square feet, at
the Rye Ridge Shopping Center, Win Ridge realty, LLC.
3) Considering amendments to the R-20 Zoning District.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 1 of 24
4) Considering the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) Notice of
Completion Regarding K&M Realty application for development on
Bowman Avenue, Section 1, Block 22, Lots 213 and 2132.
5) Considering a Payment in Lieu of Taxes Agreement (PILOT) between the
County of Westchester Industrial Development Agency and Reckson
Operating Partnership, L.P.
6) Considering an application to construct new front steps at 1 Talcott Road.
7) Considering permission for a block party on Valley Terrace.
8) Considering appointment to the Advisory Council on Parks and Recreation.
9) Considering appointment to the Planning Board.
10)Considering appointment to the Airport Advisory Council.
I I)Adopting the National Incident Management System (NIMS)
ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
DISCUSSION ITEMS
ACTION ON NON-AGENDA MATTERS SUBJECT TO THE CONSENT
OF THE TRUSTEES PRESENT AT THE MEETING
BOARD Mayor Lawrence Rand
Trustee Michael Brown
Trustee Joan Feinstein
Trustee Patricia Sanders-Romano
Trustee Paul Rosenberg
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 2 of 24
STAFF: Christopher Bradbury, Village Administrator
David Burke, Assistant to the Village Administrator
Edward Beane, Esq., Village Counsel
Victor Carosi, Village Engineer
Marilyn Timpone Mohamed, Village Consultant
Theodore Sabato, Police Chief
Fred Seifert, Public Access Coordinator
Paula Patafio, Meeting Secretary
CONVENE:
Mayor Lawrence Rand called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. He introduced his
family that was visiting from Seattle, Washington, and his son-in-law from New
Jersey, and asked them to lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mayor Rand called for the first public hearing on the agenda:
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1) PUBLIC HEARING ON A PROPOSED LOCAL LAW CREATING
CHAPTER 217, STORMWATER MANAGEMENT, AND
AMENDING CHAPTERS 118, 121, 209 AND 219 OF THE VILLAGE
CODE
Mr. Christopher Bradbury, Village Administrator, began the discussion by
noting that this local law was referred to the Planning Board last year. Since
that time has it gone through several discussions at the Planning Board
level. The Planning Board has now referred the matter back to the Board of
Trustees with its recommendation. At this time the matter was before the
Board of Trustees to schedule a public hearing. Mr. Bradbury noted that
this local law is meant to deal with the management of stormwater, and a
model law was developed by the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation. This local law effects both residential and
commercial properties.
Trustee Paul Rosenberg pointed out that much of the local law was
mandated by New York State. He asked for clarification of what portion of
the local law was specifically written for Rye Brook.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 3 of 24
Mr. Victor Carosi, Village Engineer, addressed the Board. He noted that
there were two phases to this proposed local law: stormwater regulations
and the sizes of the projects that would trigger review. The law will deal
with the recent changes to the site plan review recently adopted by the
Board of Trustees. It was noted that homeowners are required to install
drywells, or some kind of onsite stormwater management in order to ensure
that additional stormwater problems are not created by even a small
addition to a home. This type of proactive work alleviates additional
stormwater from the addition of impervious surfaces from running into the
street or onto a neighbor's property. The larger properties, such as multi-
acre projects, require a comprehensive plan for water quality treatment as
well as quantity of retention.
Trustee Joan Feinstein noted that there was no differentiation between
larger and smaller homes and the thresholds in the law as proposed. A
home in the Byram Ridge area that is a 5,000 to 6,000 square foot home
that constructs a patio still creates a land disturbance. When looking at the
size of the home, the size of the patio is insignificant, however, a 250
square foot land disturbance is the same on any size lot. The goal of this
local law is a wonderful goal, but the Village must take into consideration
the cost and additional time burden placed upon the applicants.
Mr. Carosi stated that the Planning Board had quite a bit of discussion on
the thresholds that would trigger review. Any type of hard-scaping will
result in stormwater runoff. The installation of a small driveway could
result in stormwater runoff, therefore, any measure of stormwater control
that can be provided will have a positive result. Obviously larger projects
require a more comprehensive stormwater management system than a
smaller project, such as an addition of a patio. All projects should be
reviewed, but the level of calculations and the amount of details and
stormwater controls on the site will vary.
Trustee Rosenberg noted that he agreed with the goals of the plan 100
percent however, the cost to homeowners must be considered. This local
law could add approximately $750.00 to $1000.00 to a project. There are
stormwater management laws on the books already that apply to all
projects.
Mayor Lawrence Rand noted that the concept was to capture any project
that could have an effect on stormwater runoff. He pointed out that there
have been relatively small lot developments that have caused large
problems with stormwater runoff within the Village.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 4 of 24
Mr. Bradbury pointed out that there is a provision in the Code for the
Village Engineer to waive the requirements for some projects. The use of
this provision is left to the discretion of the Village Engineer after the
completion of his review.
Mr. Carosi agreed with Mr. Bradbury, and noted that there is some
flexibility. Although unable to give a specific dollar amount, Mr. Carosi
noted there should not be a significant cost to an applicant when supplying
the Village with a stormwater management plan.
Ms. Patricia Sanders-Romano agreed that a 250-foot land disturbance on a
small lot or a large lot is the same amount of land that is being disturbed.
She also noted that the Planning Board had completed an extensive review
and provided the Board of Trustees with its recommendations. She asked
for assurance that the definitions in the local law be consistent with the
definitions in the Village's Code. Mr. Carosi noted that the local law was
borne out of a model law, however, assured the Board that the definitions
specific to this chapter would be reviewed.
Mayor Rand noted that as the Board was requesting a clean up of some of
the definitions it was recommended that the public hearing be left open to
the next Board of Trustees meeting. Mr. Bradbury agreed, and noted that
he would need some clarification from the Board. Mr. Carosi stated that he
would confer with the Village's Building Inspector.
Mr. Ken Heller of Lincoln Avenue addressed the Board. He stated that the
goal was to increase ground water recharge, and protect the residents of
Rye Brook from flooding.
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders-Romano, and seconded by
Trustee Feinstein, the public hearing was adjourned.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 5 of 24
Mayor Rand called for the second public hearing on the agenda:
2) AMENDED SITE PLAN APPLICATION FOR MODIFICATIONS
INCLUDING PARKING, PEDESTRIAN ACCESS, SIDEWALKS,
FACADES AND LANDSCAPING, AS WELL AS A CHANGE IN USE
FROM MEDICAL OFFICES TO RETAIL FOR UP TO 33,000
SQUARE FEET, AT THE RYE RIDGE SHOPPING CENTER, WIN
RIDGE REALTY, LLC.
Mr. Bradbury was called upon to give an update on this matter. He noted
that the application was for an amended site plan at the Rye Ridge
Shopping Center. The application includes parking, landscaping, and the
conversion of medical office space to commercial space. This matter has
been reviewed by the Planning Board and referred back to the Board of
Trustees.
Steven M. Silverberg, Esq., of Silverberg Zalantis LLP, addressed the
Board as legal counsel for the applicant. He began his discussion by noting
that there were two (2) main issues. The first deals with the overall site
plan and questions on handicapped parking spaces. The second deals with
the conversion of medical offices to commercial space. There was a
question of how the number of 33,000 square feet of retail space was
reached. Mr. Silverberg noted that he reviewed the Planning Board
meeting videotape in order to respond to this question. On May 11, 2006
the applicant appeared before the Planning Board on a referral from the
Board of Trustees for the overall site plan review and the conversion of
6,000 square feet of medical use to retail use. There were several meetings
with the Village's planners and the suggestion was to request 33,000 square
feet as the 6,000 number was low. The idea was not to do the conversion in
piece meal. This 33,000 square foot number is actually the square footage
of the first floor of the building. The Planning Board recommended
approval via a resolution, with the condition that if the applicant converted
more than the 6,000 square feet then parking and traffic should be
reviewed. After the Planning Board's meeting, the Village's consultant —
F.P. Clark & Associates — spoke with the applicant's consultants and
engineers and suggested that 33,000 square feet be reviewed.
Mr. Jim Ryan, the applicant's engineer, took the Village's Planners
suggestion and based his review on the conversion of 33,000 square feet
from medical use to retail use. The increase to the square footage of
conversion was a progression. As open spaces are converted from medical
to retail the applicant would need to return before the Board of Trustees.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 6 of 24
Mr. Silverberg noted that there is a mixed use on this site. The parking is
legally non-conforming. This is an existing facility and the applicant is
very limited in what can be done in regard to parking. He pointed out that
the applicant has been before the Village since February and they would
like to start this project. He asked that the Village consider approving the
entire proposal.
Trustee Rosenberg felt that the amount of 33,000 square feet was not
discussed with the Planning Board. Mr. Silverberg noted that this was
before the Planning Board, and they were silent on this issue. This matter
has now been referred to the Village Board.
Mr. James Ryan of John Meyer Consulting addressed the Board. He
reviewed the existing handicapped parking on the site, and noted that the
spaces do not conform with the laws set forth by the ADA. As a designer
and engineer, he reviewed the parking area for the applicant in connection
with handicapped parking and found that there are nine (9) compliant
spaces within the shopping center where there should be 14. The
requirements under Federal Regulations are statistically based. The plan
submitted to the Village adds an additional five (5) handicapped spaces,
bringing the total to 19 handicapped spaces.
Mayor Rand called for questions from the Board and/or comments from
members of the public. Herbert Adler, Esq. addressed the Board. He noted
that this is a non-compliant piece of property. One way it is non-compliant
is insufficient parking spaces. If this Board wishes to grant a dispensation
from the actual parking requirement, it has the discretion to do so.
However, it was Mr. Adler's opinion that the applicant had not supplied the
Village with a proper site plan. It was said that the Board cannot regulate
who the tenants, but it was Mr. Adler's opinion that it does have the power
to do so because it has the power to regulate the parking. When regulating
the parking the Board would also be dealing with traffic and safety issues.
Changing square feet from office use to retail will increase traffic. The
object is to make the owner of the property comply. The Planning Board
did not have before them a proper site plan for the conversion of 33,000
square feet of office/medical use to retail use. Now this matter is before the
Board of Trustees who is charged with the protection of the Code. The
Code sets forth clear direction as to what the parking requirements for this
site are required to be. There are a specific number of parking spaces for a
bank, including cuing spaces for the drive up teller windows. He
questioned whether there was rational prudent grounds for granting
variances in connection with parking for this center. He felt that the plans
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 7 of 24
provided to the Village were insufficient. The applicant should indicate
how many parking spaces are required for each retail use, i.e. the movie
theater requires one parking space for every four seats, plus a number of
spaces for employees. He noted that he had performed a rough calculation
and found that the applicant requires 1400 parking spaces for the
conversion of medical use to retail use.
Mayor Rand reiterated that the property is already non-compliant. Mr.
Adler stated that the matter should be referred back to the Planning Board
for a proper site plan review. He felt that the Planning Board did not want
to piece meal the application, but they did not consider what the 33,000
square foot conversion would actual entail. He respectfully suggested that
this matter be referred back to the Planning Board for an adequate review.
Mr. Adler noted that the extension of Roanoake has an easement which is
not noted on the current plans. In addition the entrance from Ridge Street
is a driveway that exceeds the 15% slope. During a proper site plan review
it will be found that there are many other issues that must be addressed.
Mayor Rand called upon Ms. Marilyn Timpone Mohamed, Village Planner,
to address this matter. Ms. Timpone Mohamed felt that the suggestion
from her office to not piece meal the conversion of office space to retail
space was taken a bit out of context. It was apparent that although the
application was for 6,000 square feet of conversion that there was a
possibility of additional square footage conversion. The suggestion was to
review the impacts of converting the ground floor to retail. The applicant is
requesting the conversion over time so that they would not have to come
back before the Board for each space conversion. A shopping center takes
into consideration the use of a parking space for visits to multiple
establishments. The plan provided is a realistic view of the amount of
traffic and parking. However, there may be additional impacts if a chain
restaurant were to come into one of the areas. This may necessitate the
need for additional parking, and traffic control. The number of parking
spaces is not changing. The demand for parking going from office to retail
changes only slightly, and it basically balances out.
Trustee Feinstein noted that the Village did not know what the use of the
additional square footage will be. Opening a restaurant would cause the
parking to be revisited. The Board of Trustees referred the site plan review
to the Planning Board. The Planning Board's recommendation was very
cautious. They suggested review of hours of operation, noise, and traffic.
The Planning Board is an advisory body to the Board of Trustees for this
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 8 of 24
type of commercial development. She felt that this matter should be sent
back to the Planning Board in connection with the use. She felt that the site
plan for the lower portion of the shopping center required further
discussion. She noted that there have been inquiries by an individual
wishing to open a restaurant in this center.
Mr. Silverberg noted that the conversion being requested is from medical
offices to retail. There is no mention of a restaurant. The fact of the matter
is that this is a legally non-conforming center, and the applicant is not
increasing the non-conformity. There are only so many parking spaces.
The applicant cannot meet current parking requirements. There are only
704 parking spaces in the shopping center. The conversion of the 33,000
square feet could take years. There are 220 parking spaces for the medical
use when 33,000 requires 165 parking spaces. The change to a retail use
lowers the number of parking spaces required. This makes the shopping
center more conforming. The applicant requested that the entire site plan
not be referred back to the Planning Board. The proposal before the Board
of Trustees is an improvement. The addition of several months of review
will have serious impact on the ability of the applicant to do what they plan
on doing — and that is making improvements. He suggested sending back
the usage to the Planning Board for review.
Trustee Rosenberg noted that his concern was an increase in traffic. He
recommended that the Traffic Committee be asked to review this
application. Trustee Feinstein agreed. She asked that the referral be very
clear.
Mr. Silverberg responded that the applicant has been requesting conversion
for retail use. This is not a new request and has been a part of the
application from the start.
Trustee Michael Brown asked for clarification regarding specialty retail.
Ms. Timpone Mohamed noted that there is a retail mix that is used by the
review process that determines parking and traffic impacts. The specialty
retail is more stringent.
Mr. Silverberg noted that Scoops, the retail use one of the converted spaces,
is not a restaurant but rather a specialty retail use.
Mr. Adler stated that he was unsure of whether or not Scoops was or was
not a restaurant. He noted that he disagreed with Mr. Silverberg's comment
that the parking requirements for retail use is less restrictive than office
space. The Plaza Medical Building is more than 75,000 square feet. There
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 9 of 24
is 33,000 square feet on the first floor, 33,000 square feet on the second
floor, and additional office space in the rear where the Radiology is located.
All of the medical office space must be included in the calculation of
parking.
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders-Romano, and seconded by Trustee
Feinstein, the public hearing was closed.
Mr. David Burke, Assistant to the Village Administrator, was called upon
to call the roll:
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
Mayor Rand called for the second resolution on the agenda:
2) CONSIDERING AN AMENDED SITE PLAN APPLICATION FOR
MODIFICATIONS INCLUDING PARKING, PEDESTRIAN ACCESS,
SIDEWALKS, FACADES AND LANDSCAPING, AS WELL AS A
CHANGE IN USE FROM MEDICAL OFFICES TO RETAIL FOR UP
TO 33,000 SQUARE FEET, AT THE RYE RIDGE SHOPPING
CENTER, WIN RIDGE REALTY, LLC.
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING AN AMENDED SITE PLAN APPLICATION FOR
MODIFICATIONS INCLUDING PARKING, PEDESTRIAN
ACCESS, SIDEWALKS, FACADES AND LANDSCAPING, AS
WELL AS A CHANGE IN USE FROM MEDICAL OFFICES TO
RETAIL FOR UP TO 33,000 SQUARE FEET, AT THE RYE RIDGE
SHOPPING CENTER, WIN RIDGE REALTY, LLC
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees is in receipt of applications by
Win Ridge Realty, LLC for approval of an amended site plan for
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 10 of 24
modifications to the parking, pedestrian access, sidewalks and facades, as
well as a change in use from medical offices to retail for up to 33,000
square feet for the Rye Ridge Shopping Center located at the intersection of
South Ridge Street and Bowman Avenue in Section 1, Block 22, Lots 3, 3A
and 4A-A of the Town of Rye Tax Map and located in the C 1-P Zoning
District; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees is the Approval Authority for the
application in accordance with Section 209-1.A(1) of the Village Code; and
WHEREAS, on June 8, 2006 the Planning Board recommended
approval of the amended site plan for modifications including parking,
pedestrian access, sidewalks and facades; and
WHEREAS, the subject application was referred to the Westchester
County Department of Planning; and
WHEREAS, on June 13, 2006 the Board of Trustees opened a
public hearing on the subject application, at which time all persons
interested were given an opportunity to spealc on behalf of or in opposition
to said application and the public hearing was closed on June 27, 2006; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees has reviewed the information
submitted by the applicant in connection with the application and the report
and recommendations of the Village consultants and staff; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees is familiar with the site and all
aspects of the project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of
Rye Brook Board of Trustees determines the proposed change of use and
modifications to the approved site plan to be minor in nature and adopts a
Negative Declaration hereby ending the State Environmental Quality
Review process; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook
Board of Trustees approves the amended site plan modifications, including
parking, pedestrian access, sidewalks and facades; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the subject application for a
change of use shall be referred to the Village Planning Board for a report
and recommendations; and
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 11 of 24
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Applicant is hereby
directed to comply with Section 250-40 of the Village Code regarding
notification.
Trustee Feinstein asked for a few minor corrections to the resolution. Also
incorporated into the resolution was the referral to the Village's Traffic
Commission.
On a motion made by Trustee Rosenberg, and seconded by Trustee
Sanders-Romano, the resolution was adopted as amended.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
Mr. Silverberg asked that communication be made to the Planning Board to
clarify the referral.
Mayor Rand called for the next item on the agenda:
3) CONSIDERING AMENDMENTS TO THE R-20 ZONING
DISTRICT
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING AMENDMENTS TO
THE R-20 ZONING DISTRICT
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees introduced a local law proposing
to amend Chapter 250 of the Village of Rye Brook Village Code regarding
the R-20 Zoning District.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 12 of 24
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of
Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook declares itself Lead Agency for
review of the subject application in accordance with Article 8 of the State
Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 617, and after review
of the EAF and the code amendments, makes a preliminary classification of
the proposed action as Unlisted;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the local law is referred
to the Village of Rye Brook Planning Board for a report and
recommendation and the Board of Trustees requests the Village Planning
Consultant to refer the revised local law to the Westchester County
Planning Department;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees
of the Village of Rye Brook, shall hold a public hearing on September 12,
2006 at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall, 938 King Street, Rye Brook, New
York to consider the proposed local laws.
Trustee Sanders-Romano noted that some of the issues brought up by the
Task Force were not addressed. She felt that the Planning Board should be
given recommendations from the Board of Trustees, i.e. the review of gross
floor area.
Trustee Feinstein hoped that the Planning Board would also review non-
conformities that exist, any increase in non-conformities, and up zoning.
Ms. Timpone Mohamed and Trustee Rosenberg were directed to make
these recommendations. Mr. Bradbury amended the resolution to reflect
the requested changes and suggestions.
On a motion made by Trustee Feinstein, and seconded by Trustee
Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted as amended.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 13 of 24
4) CONSIDERING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
STATEMENT (FEIS) NOTICE OF COMPLETION REGARDING
K&M REALTY APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT ON
BOWMAN AVENUE, SECTION 1, BLOCK 22, LOTS 2B AND 2132
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
(FEIS) NOTICE OF COMPLETION REGARDING A K&M REALTY
APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT ON BOWMAN AVENUE,
SECTION 1, BLOCK 22, LOTS 2B AND 2B2
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook has
received an application from K&M Realty Group, Ltd. (the Applicant) for
Site Plan Approval and Wetlands and Steep Slopes Permits for the
construction of four (4) buildings, one of which would contain a restaurant
and three of which would contain residential dwelling units, and parking
facilities, lighting, landscaping and related site development (hereinafter
referred to as the "Proposed Action"); and
WHEREAS, the Village Board of Trustees determined the Proposed
Action to be a Type 1 Action pursuant to the New York State
Environmental Quality Review Act ("SEQRA"), 6 NYCRR Part 617 and
was designated Lead Agency for review of the action; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board of Trustees, as Lead Agency,
determined that the Proposed Action may include the potential for at least
one significant adverse environmental impact, thus issuing a SEQRA
positive declaration; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board of Trustees received and reviewed a
Draft Environmental Impact Statement ("DEIS") that they determined to be
complete on August 10, 2004; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board of Trustees held a SEQRA public
hearing for review of the DEIS on September 14, 2004, receiving oral and
written comments regarding the DEIS and the Proposed Action during the
Public Hearing and public comment period; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board of Trustees received and reviewed a
Final Environmental Impact Statement ("FEIS"), dated July 2006.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 14 of 24
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of
Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook, as Lead Agency, hereby determines
the FEIS for the Proposed Action, dated July 2006, to be complete and
adequate for circulation to involved and interested agencies and for public
review; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Village Board of Trustees
hereby authorizes the circulation of the FEIS, as noted above, for public
and agency review and comment, and further authorizes that a Notice of
Completion be filed and circulated pursuant to SEQRA; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Village Board of Trustees
hereby schedules a SEQRA public hearing for review of the FEIS and for
review of the site plan on September 12, 2006 at 7:30 p.m., to be held in
Village Hall, located at 938 King Street, Rye Brook, New York; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby
sets a public comment period for written comments regarding the FEIS to
open upon circulation of the FEIS and close on September 19, 2006.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the resolution required additional whereas clauses
to address the SEQRA issues and the fact that the restaurant component has
been removed. Ms. Timpone Mohamed noted that the proposed action has
not been changed, however there is a preferred alternative, and that consists
of residential (10 units) only on the peninsula portion of the property.
On a motion made by Trustee Sanders-Romano, and seconded by Trustee
Brown, the resolution was adopted as amended.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
5) CONSIDERING A PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TAXES AGREEMENT
(PILOT) BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND RECKSON
OPERATING PARTNERSHIP, L.P.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 15 of 24
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING A PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TAXES AGREEMENT
(PILOT) BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND
RECKSON OPERATING PARTNERSHIP, L.P.
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook has received and reviewed a
Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) Agreement between the County of
Westchester Industrial Development Agency and the Reckson Operating
Partnership, L.P.; and
WHEREAS, the agreement requires the consent of the County of
Westchester, the Village of Rye Brook, the Town of Rye, and the Blind Brook
School District.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye
Brook Board of Trustees hereby consents and agrees to the Payment in Lieu of
Taxes (PILOT) Agreement between the County of Westchester Industrial
Development Agency and the Reckson Operating Partnership, L.P; and be it
further
RESOLVED, that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign this
agreement and any related documents on behalf of the Village of Rye Brook to
accomplish the purposes of this resolution.
On a motion made by Trustee Rosenberg, and seconded by Trustee Sanders-
Romano, the resolution was adopted.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 16 of 24
6) CONSIDERING AN APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCT NEW
FRONT STEPS AT 1 TALCOTT ROAD
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING AN APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCT NEW FRONT
STEPS AT 1 TALCOTT ROAD
WHEREAS, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Schwartz, 1 Talcott Road
submitted an exterior building application to the Village of Rye Brook to
construct new front steps for their home in the Talcott Woods Conservation
Subdivision, Section 135.58, Block 1, Lot 39; and
WHEREAS, on July 11, 2006 the Village Board of Trustees
determined the proposed exterior stairway reconstruction to be minor in
nature and with that determination referred the application to the Planning
Board for report and recommendation; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board of Trustees has reviewed the
information submitted by the applicant in connection with the application
and the report and recommendations of the Village Planning Board,
consultants and staff; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board of Trustees is familiar with the site
and all aspects of the project; and
WHEREAS, the Talcott Woods Home Owners Association has
approved the design of the proposed stairway.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of
Rye Brook Board of Trustees determines the proposed exterior stairway
reconstruction to be minor in nature, improving the safety of the stairway
and eliminating the non-conformance of the original stair and approves
construction of the stair and issuance of a Building Permit for 1 Talcott
Road.
There was no discussion on this matter.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 17 of 24
On a motion made by Trustee Feinstein, and seconded by Trustee
Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
7) CONSIDERING PERMISSION FOR A BLOCK PARTY ON
VALLEY TERRACE
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
AUTHORIZING THE 6th ANNUAL
VALLEY TERRACE BLOCK PARTY
RESOLVED, that the use of Valley Terrace between Argyle Road
and Ridge Blvd. for the Valley Terrace Block Party on Saturday, September
9, 2006 (rain date of Sunday, September 10, 2006) is hereby approved with
the terms to be established by the Rye Brook Police Department.
On a motion made by Trustee Feinstein, and seconded by Trustee
Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 18 of 24
8) CONSIDERING APPOINTMENT TO THE ADVISORY COUNCIL
ON PARKS AND RECREATION
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
APPOINTMENT TO ADVISORY COUNCIL ON PARKS AND
RECREATION
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and
Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook, hereby appoints Steven
Epstein of 233 Country Ridge Drive, Rye Brook, New York to the
Advisory Council on Parks and Recreation, to fill the unexpired term of Bill
Laufer, for the term ending April 2008.
On a motion made by Trustee Feinstein, and seconded by Trustee Sanders-
Romano, the resolution was adopted.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
9) CONSIDERING APPOINTMENT TO THE PLANNING BOARD.
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING APPOINTMENT TO THE PLANNING BOARD
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and
Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook, hereby appoints Bill Laufer
of 10 Loch Lane, Rye Brook, New York to the Planning Board, to fill the
unexpired term of Jim Winter, for the term ending April 2011.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 19 of 24
Trustee Rosenberg thanked Mr. James Winter for his years of service to the
Planning Board.
On a motion made by Trustee Rosenberg, and seconded by Trustee
Feinstein the resolution was adopted.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
10)CONSIDERING APPOINTMENT TO THE AIRPORT ADVISORY
COUNCIL
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERING APPOINTMENT TO AIRPORT ADVISORY COUNCIL
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and
Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook, hereby appoints Barbara
Goodstein of 1 Rock Ridge Drive, Rye Brook, New York to the Airport
Advisory Council, to fill a vacancy on the Airport Advisory Council, for the
term ending April, 2009.
On a motion made by Trustee Feinstein, and seconded by Trustee Sanders-
Romano, the resolution was adopted.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 20 of 24
11)ADOPTING THE NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM (NIMS) ON A MOTION MADE BY TRUSTEE
FEINSTEIN, AND SECONDED BY TRUSTEE ROSENBERG, THE
RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED
Mr. Bradbury read the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
ADOPTING THE NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
(NIMS)
WHEREAS, In Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD)-5, the
President directed the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to
develop and administer a National Incident Management System (NIMS),
which would provide a consistent nationwide approach for federal, state, local
and tribal governments to work together more effectively and efficiently to
prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from domestic incidents,
regardless of cause, size or complexity; and
WHEREAS, the collective input and guidance from all federal, state, local
and tribal homeland security partners has been, and will continue to be, vital to
the development, effective implementation and utilization of a comprehensive
NIMS; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary that all federal, state, local, and tribal
emergency management agencies and personnel coordinate their efforts to
effectively and efficiently provide the highest levels of incident management;
and
WHEREAS, to facilitate the most efficient and effective incident
management it is critical that federal, state, local, and tribal organizations
utilize standardized terminology, standardized organizational structures,
uniform personnel qualification standards, uniform standards for planning,
training, and exercising, comprehensive resource management, and designated
incident facilities during emergencies or disasters; and
WHEREAS, the NIMS standardized procedures for managing personnel,
communications, facilities and resources will improve the states ability to
utilize federal funding to enhance local and state agency readiness, maintain
first responder safety, and streamline incident management processes; and
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 21 of 24
WHEREAS, the Incident Command System components of NIMS are
already an integral part of various incident management activities throughout
the state, including all public safety and emergency response organizations
training programs; and
WHEREAS, the National Commission of Terrorist Attacks (9-11
Commission) recommended adoption of a standardized Incident Command
System.
NOW THEREFORE BE IS RESOLVED, that pursuant to the authority
vested in me by the Village of Rye Brook, I do hereby mandate the National
Incident Management System (NIMS) be utilized for all incident management
in the Village of Rye Brook; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that I further proclaim this to take effect
immediately.
Mr. Bradbury noted that this was a serious project, and pointed out that the
Village has been receiving training.
On a motion made by Trustee Feinstein, and seconded by Trustee Brown, the
resolution was adopted.
TRUSTEE BROWN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE FEINSTEIN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANDERS-ROMANO VOTING AYE
MAYOR RAND VOTING AYE
Prior to calling upon the Village's Administrator for his report, Mayor Rand
discussed the matter of the Port Chester Public Library. He began by noting that
this issue has become more emotional than rationale and most people have lost
focus of the facts. The Boards of Trustees of Rye Brook and Port Chester held a
meeting and opened a dialogue between the two (2) Villages. There are no
negotiations, but rather discussions. The Port Chester Board of Trustees has held
several meetings on this matter. It is everyone's hope that a fair and equitable
arrangement can be reached in order to bring the library up to Code. The Trustees
of both Villages must share fiduciary obligations.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 22 of 24
Mayor Rand noted that there is misinformation floating around. The renaming of
the institution is not the most critical issue, bringing the building up to Code is.
However, Rye Brook is being asked to make a substantial financial commitment
and, therefore, it is seeking to have its name added to the name of the library. The
request is fair and prudent especially considering the size of the commitment that
Port Chester is seeking from Rye Brook. A small group of individuals has blurred
the goals and the intent of the discussions. To bring the current Library building
up to Code will require Rye Brook to contribute $600,000. Rye Brook is simply
asking for recognition in the form of adding Rye Brook's name to the name of the
Library. It is now time for decisions to be made. The Village of Rye Brook will
wait for the Village of Port Chester to make their decision.
ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. Bradbury began his report by noting that the ball field was progressing well.
The Grand Opening is scheduled for September 16th and the field will be put to
use prior to this date by the Blind Brook School District who will use the field for
football practice.
Mr. Bradbury noted that during the recent storms the police, public works, and fire
department worked hard. The Highway crew will continue to remove branches
and debris and will keep at it until the streets have been cleaned up. Regarding the
power outages, Mr. Bradbury noted that there were links on the website for
residents who have lost food and are seeking reimbursement from Con Edison.
Residents could be eligible for up to $150.00 without documentation and up to
$350.00 with documentation.
Mr. Bradbury announced that Movie Nights were being scheduled for Friday
nights at Pine Ridge Park. All residents are invited.
Mayor Rand noted that the ball field is a County field. A report will be given at a
future Board of Trustees meeting of how this field will be used. The Village will
do its best to accommodate the various organizations that will seek to use these
fields.
Trustee Feinstein noted that Village trees have fallen during the recent storm. She
asked that these trees be replaced. Mr. Bradbury noted that there is a tree budget,
however, the streetscape and parks will be reviewed.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 23 of 24
Trustee Feinstein commented on the amnesty program. She wanted to make sure
that residents are aware of the program.
Trustee Sanders-Romano noted that while reviewing the past three storms the
problems that resulted were very poorly handled by Con Edison. Con Edison did
not properly prioritize and the response was poor. Con Edison has stated that they
put safety first and that downed wires must be checked first. They say that
assessment takes 24 hours. They deal with municipal emergencies first and then
work with customers. The high-density areas are handled first. The infrastructure
is aging and the poles in the Village are not in the best of shape. A significant fact
that came out recent discussions with Con Edison was that the way only that Con
Edison is made aware of problem is when calls come in. Without this notification
Con Edison has no way of knowing that power is out in any given area. There
should be more priority placed on quick fixes. Individuals with special needs
should make sure that they are listed in Con Edison's database.
It was noted that Con Edison is reimbursing customers for lost food if the outage
was not caused by a tree. The forms are available on the Village's Website or on
ConEd.com. George Lattimer was at this hearing and he alerted the Village that
there will be a public hearing on July 31st to be held at the Westchester
Community College to discuss this matter in depth.
Mayor Rand called for members of the public wishing to address the Board.
There being no one, and no further business before the Board, the meeting was
adjourned at 9:35 p.m.
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 25,2006
Page 24 of 24