HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-07-25 - Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes AGENDA
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
VILLAGE HALL, 938 KING STREET
TUESDAY, JULY 25, 2000-- 7:30 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ACTION:
PRESENTATION:
1. ALLAN BADER, VILLAGE'S RISK MANAGER
RE: OVERVIEW OF RYE BROOK INSURANCE PROGRAM
PUBLIC HEARING:
1. RECKSON EXECUTIVE PARK PHASE III
RESOLUTIONS:
L CONSIDERING THE ADOPTION OF THE VILLAGE OF
RYE BROOK AIRPORT ADVISORY COUNCIL
CHARTER
2. CONSIDERING THE APPROVAL OF A COLLECTIVE
BARGAINING AGREEMENT WITH THE PROFESSIONAL
FIREFIGHTERS MUTUAL AID ASSOCIATION LOCAL 4041,
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIREFIGHTERS
AFL-CIO, CLC
3. PERSONNEL MATTERS
4. APPOINTMENT OF A POLICE OFFICER
5. YEAR END BUDGET MODIFICATIONS
E
6. CONSIDERING THE APPROVAL OF AN AGREEMENT FOR
ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES WITH ROGER CARLSEN
7. TRUSTEE REQUESTED ITEM:
CONSIDERING THE ENDORSEMENT OF "THE PLEDGE"
FOR COMMUNITIES FOR SAFER GUNS COALITION
REPORT:
1. MAYOR'S MESSAGE
RE: VARIOUS VILLAGE MATTERS
NEXT TRUSTEES MEETING
AUGUST S, 2000 and AUGUST 22, 2000
Village Hall is fully accessible to the handicapped.
Those who need special arrangements should contact the Village Administrator's Office
ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE OF A MEETING at(914) 939-1121.
MINUTES OF A MEETING
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOD BOARD TRUSTEES
VILLAGE HALL, 938 KING STREET
RYE BROOK,NEW YORK
TUESDAY, JULY 25, 2000 -- 7:30 P.M.
CONVENE MEETING:
The Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m, by Mayor Francis Filipowski in the Meeting Room,
and Mr. Christopher Russo, Village Administrator led the Pledge of Allegiance.
The following members of the Board of Trustees were present:
Mayor Francis L. Filipowski
Trustee Donald E. Degling
Trustee Jody H. Brackman
Trustee Roger Herman
Trustee Lawrence Rand
Village Staff attending the meeting were:
Village Administrator, Christopher Russo
Village Attorney, Kenneth E. Powell
Village Planning Consultant, Christian Miller
Village Treasurer, Diane DiSanto
Police Chief, Robert Santoro
Building Inspector, Bill Gerety
Superintendent of Parks and Recreation, Thomas Hroncich
Meeting Secretary, Paula Patafio
Mayor Filipowski began the meeting with a variation to the agenda by calling for item #4 under
Resolutions,
Mr. Christopher Russo, Village Administrator, read the Resolution.
4. APPOINTMENT OF A POLICE OFFICER.
RESOLUTION
APPOINTMENT OF POLICE OFFICER
RESOLVED, that Scott J. Smith, of 49 Twelfth Street, Carle Place,New York, is hereby
appointed to the position of Police Officer with the Village of Rye Brook, contingent
upon a letter of resignation effective August 8, 2000 from his current position as a Police
Officer for the New York State Parks Police, and subject to the Civil Service procedures
of the State of New York; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the annual salary for the position is $31,790 with an
effective start date of August 9, 2000, and a probationary period of twenty-six weeks.
On a motion made by Trustee Rand, and seconded by Trustee Degling, Mr. Russo read
the role:
Trustee Brackman Voting Aye
Trustee Degling Voting Aye
Trustee Herman Voting Aye
Trustee Rand Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski Voting Aye
Chief Robert Santoro noted that Mr. Smith, the newest police officer, was not in
attendance at this evening's meeting because he was working. However, Mr, John Cerny,
who joined the Village on July 3, 2000 was in attendance. He was introduced to the
Mayor and the Board of Trustees. Mayor Filipowski welcomed Officer Cerny on behalf
of the Board, and the Village of Rye Brook.
Chief Santoro noted that Officer Smith is looking forward to attending the next Board of
Trustees meeting.
Mayor Filipowski then returned to the agenda and called for the first item under Presentations,
PRESENTATION:
1. ALLAN BADER, VILLAGE'S RISK MANAGER
RE: OVERVIEW OF RYE BROOK INSURANCE PROGRAM
Mr. Allan Bader addressed the Board. He provided an overview of the Village's
insurance program. Mr. Bader noted that the current program has been in effect for a
number of years and it has provided the Village with a stable, long-term, cost effective
program. It is state of the art and contains all of the modern coverages. There are three
major components of the risk management program; insurance, loss control engineering,
and claims management. Mr. Bader noted that the Village purchases five major
categories of insurance. The commercial package, public officials' liability, police
officials' liability, law enforcement officials' liability, and workman's compensation.
The commercial package provides coverage for all of the Village's assets and has a$1000
deductible. This package also provides general liability coverage, which covers
negligence for any Village operation, as well as automobile liability coverage. The
public officials' liability provides coverage for public officials acting in their official
capacity. Any claims that are brought for wrongful acts are covered by this insurance
program. The next program is law enforcement liability insurance which protects the
Village against any wrongful acts committed by police officers. Workman'
compensation provides coverage for all Village employees who are hurt on the job.
The second major component of the risk management program is the loss control
program. This is the aspect whereby all Village operations are inspected for proper
operation, to make sure that there are no safety hazards or problems. Safety audits and
training programs are coordinated through monthly safety meetings. The insurance
carriers provide engineering support and they inspect all of the facilities, playgrounds, etc.
to make sure that the Village is up-to-date with regard to safety issues,
The third major component of the risk management program is the claims management
aspect. As soon as a complaint is received by the Village it is reviewed. If covered, the
insurance company will pay for legal assistance in defense of the claims.
In 1995 insurance premiums were costing the Village approximately $236,000.
Presently, the costs for the same coverages are $138,000.
Trustee Rand asked Mr. Bader for the name of the insurance carrier, Mr, Bader stated
that it is Coregis Insurance Company.
Mayor Filipowski thanked Mr, Bader for his presentation. He then moved to the Public Hearing
portion of the agenda:
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. RECKSON EXECUTIVE PARK PHASE III.
Mr, Daniel D. Tartaglia, of DelBello, Donnellan, Weingarten & Tartaglia, LLP, addressed
the Board as representative of the applicant. He noted that the applicant would be
presenting an abridged version of the application. He also noted that this application by
Reckson Operating Partnership is a continuation of an approval that was received in
1998. This third and final phase of the Royal Executive Park was approved for 360,000
square feet of Class A office space. He stated that this application, which reduces the
amount of office space and number of parking spaces from what was originally
approved, is something of which Reckson is proud.
Mr. Tartaglia noted that on June 27`h the Village Board designated itself lead agency
under SEQRA. Subsequent to that meeting the Reckson organization, Mr. Michael
Divney and Mr. Tartaglia met with the homeowners association of Doral Greens to
discuss the entire application, They are now aware of exactly what is being proposed.
Additionally, each and every affected Belle Fair resident was sent a hand-delivered letter
in which they were invited to a meeting at Reckson's office in the Executive Park. One
resident attended this meeting and he was given a presentation of what was planned. On
July 11', by unanimous approval of the Zoning Board of Appeals, the applicant received
area variances under section 250-27G2 of the Rye Brook Zoning Code to permit an
increase in the maximum height of the proposed building, measured from the average
grade at the building entrance from the 50'that is permitted to 54.75' that is proposed.
They also received a variance from section 250-6CIB of the Zoning ordinance allowing
the maximum height of the building parapet wall above the permitted 5' to the 13.5'
proposed height. On July 13'h, Rye Brook's Planning Board, subject to certain conditions,
recommended that the Board of Trustees approve this application.
Mr. Tartaglia noted that the property is currently known as the Reckson Executive Park
and it is located at 1100 King Street in Rye Brook. The site consists of approximately
31.56 acres and is located on the Westerly side of King Street in the Village of Rye
Brook. It is bordered on the West by SUNY Purchase, on the North by the residential
development known as Belle Fair in Rye Brook, and on the South by Doral Greens. The
site is located in an OB-1 Campus Office Building District. The application, together with
a corresponding application for an amended site plan approval, is for the third phase of
the office park development, formally known as Royal Executive Park.
Phases I and II, which are currently in existence, were constructed in the 1980's. Phase I
consists of approximately 270,000 square feet of office space, in three separate buildings,
and was approved in 1980. An additional 90,000 square feet of space and one additional
building was approved as part of Phase I, but was never constructed. Phase II,which
received subdivision and site plan approval in 1983 and 1984, respectively, consists of
270,000 square feet of office space in three additional, separate buildings for a total
constructed development of approximately 540,000 square feet. Phase III was subdivided
from Phase II in 1986, and site plan approval for construction of 345,000 square feet, in
three separate buildings, was originally granted in March of 1990. That was an
application of Royal Executive Park. In March of 1995, because it had not yet been
constructed, Phase III received an extension of approvals for an additional five year
period (March of 2000). Subsequent to that time,the Reckson organization acquired the
site from Royal Executive Park and, in September of 1998, they obtained an amended site
plan approval to construct two buildings totaling 360,000 square feet.
The applicant is now proposing amendments to the September 1998 approval. Mr.
Tartaglia turned the presentation over to Mr. John Collins, Traffic Consultant and
Engineer. Mr. Collins went through the design of the traffic improvements which have
been proposed for the entrance way.
He presented an aerial view of the previously approved 360,000 square feet of office
space and two other boards which depicted the 360,000 square feet and the single
building plan now before the Board. He noted that the 360,000 square foot building had a
detailed review process, a detailed traffic study and specific recommendations as it relates
to the intersection, level of service and the driveway for the office park. Since the square
footage has been reduced, and the traffic volume has been also reduced, the current study
was completed looking at the driveway at King Street as it relates to the types of
improvements required. The current plan calls for all of the improvements from the
original plan, with the exception of the double left turn lane. This application includes a
southbound right turn lane, installation of signal, and utilization of the existing left turn
lane, as it currently exists. It has been found that the traffic generated from the current
site is well within the ranges indicated in the ITE Booklet. The applicant utilized site
specific information, Their conclusion was that the additional 280,000 square feet of
development could be supported by the current plans. The level of service is quite
adequate.
Trustee Rand questioned whether or not it should be enforced that the applicant add the
proposed second turn lane. Mr. Collins felt that based upon the existing 540,000 square
feet of office space that it was not necessary. An escrow fund was discussed but it is
problematic because it is difficult to decide how much to escrow. Mr. Miller stated that
from their perspective this project does significantly reduce the potential amount of traffic
that could be generated as compared to the previous plan. However, the current
application also proposes slightly less mitigation. They concur with the applicant's
assumptions in terms of the methodology and trip generation rates that they have used,
however, the Village's consultants would like to take a wait and see approach. If the trip
generation rate that has been assumed tends to be a little too conservative, then Mr. Miller
suggested relying on actual experience. So they are recommending that the
improvements be set aside. This recommendation was made to the Planning Board. Mr.
Miller summarized the Planning Board's recommendation in a memorandum to the Board
of Trustees dated July 21, 2000. In a subsequent discussion with the Planning Board
chairman, Mr. Richard Lubkin, it was felt that the condition regarding this improvement
was not captured. So this evening the Village Board has been provided with a follow up
memorandum. The office of Frederick P. Clark will prepare something for the Board's
review that is a condition that will be fairly discrete, understandable, and not subject to a
lot of variation in interpretation. This will give the Village Board some discretion to
enact this improvement in the event that it is needed.
Mr. Miller noted that the Board of Trustees and the Village of Rye Brook do not control
the road at this intersection. It is controlled by the New York State Department of
Transportation and the Town of Greenwich. The securing of the approvals is the
responsibility of the applicant.
The presentation was turned over to Mr. J. Michael Divney, P.E,, AICP, of Divney, Tung
& Schwalbe, Mr. Divney noted that as the result of the changing economics in the
Westchester County office market, Reckson now proposes amendments to that September
1998 approval, and has filed an application for an amended site plan approval with the
Village Board. The applicant has found that the market is not receptive to the two
building plan,but is much more responsive to a smaller building that would allow a
tenant to expand in the future. Buildings today are designed for corporate use. Special
requirements, such as air conditioning and communication equipment, require the
distances between floors be somewhat larger than traditionally experienced. The
applicant feels that in examining the proposed construction, combining the two buildings
into one is the best solution, This new plan consolidates the two approved buildings into
one building, This reduces the total floor area from the approved 360,000 square feet to
280,000 square feet, The proposed plan further reduces the number of proposed parking
spaces on the site, as well impervious surface coverage. Storm water runoff and traffic is
reduced, as are the visual impacts of the plan. No changes are proposed to the previously
approved water quality and water retention design that was part of the September 1998
approval. Since the proposed plan proposes the construction of an additional story to
accommodate the 280,000 square feet of the building, the plan required the granting of
two area variances from the Zoning Board of Appeals which, as Mr. Tartaglia stated
earlier, have been granted.
Mr. Divney outlined the specifics of the changes that have been proposed to the
application. He presented an aerial photograph, along with several site plans. The aerial
photograph depicted the approved application with two buildings that represents 360,000
square feet and approximately 1400 parking spaces. Phase I and II each contain three
office buildings each (a total of six). The current proposal combines the two approved
buildings, 360,000 square feet, reducing the square footage by 80,000 square feet. The
single building will be compact and moved further away from the adjacent property line
(on both sides). Additionally, it results in a reduced number of parking spaces. Mr.
Divney presented illustrations which compared both plans.
A plan, with an overlay, illustrated for the Board shows haw the building was brought in.
In compliance with requests made by the Planning Board at a previous meeting, Mr.
Divney presented additional illustrations. He noted that the face of the building facing
the perimeter has been greatly reduced as a result of the change. The reduction of
parking, and impervious area, reduces the storm water runoff and the traffic as well. The
reduction in the size of the building improves the site and the character of the area. There
is no change, as this property had always been zoned for an office use. The applicant has
an approved plan for 360,000 square feet which they now refer to as the alternate plan.
Their preference is to construct a single 280,000 square foot building which will offer
tenants that come in an opportunity to expand. It will also provide a more efficient
design. In order to accommodate the single building, an additional story is required and
thus the two area variances become necessary.
Mr. Divney stated that the applicant has looked closely at traffic. As previously noted,
the applicant's traffic consultant, John Collins, submitted a traffic study to the Board and
to the Village' consultants. This study indicated that by reducing the building to 280,000
square feet the intersection of the main drive and King Street with a left turn lane and a
new right turn lane coming from the North, and a new traffic signal, could accommodate
the traffic volume from the reduced size building. Comments were received from
Westchester County regarding bus circulation within the site. Currently Westchester
County Buses come into the parking area, dropping off and picking up employees. They
are working with the County to have the busing system available for the new building as
well. Additionally, they have different ride sharing programs for car-pooling and shuttles
that bring employees back and forth from the train station. The applicant has had
conversations with the Department of Transportation regarding this intersection and they
have reviewed the plans.
Mr. Divney compared both buildings and both site plans. He noted that in response to a
request made by Mr. Lubkin, Chairman of the Planning Board, section lines were drawn
to show the line of site from both the Belle Fair side and the Doral Greens side. The
consultant chose the homes that appeared to be the closest to the site and cross section
views were created in order to illustrate the changes in the building setbacks. The site
lines were drawn from the first and second floor of the homes in order to identify the
distances involved and the view angles that might be exposed as people are viewing the
property in this revised configuration. In the case of the view from Doral Greens, the
building is setback from the present 765 feet to 1000 feet from the nearest home. On the
Belle Fair side, the building is set back from 604 feet to 685 feet. As a result of the larger
setbacks, and the changes in the orientation of the building, there has been a significant
reduction in the amount of building that is seen by the neighbors. In the case of the Belle
Fair property there is an additional 100-foot setback created because of the parking being
moved further away from the property line. In the case of the Doral side, there is an
additional 200-foot setback. Therefore, both the building and parking have been moved a
significant distance away from both property lines. Additionally, there will be landscape
screening between the properties.
A third illustration presented showed a view from the closest home in each residential
development and assesses what the view angle might be in terms of how much building
face is exposed from that home, It was noted that with the new application the view
angle has been reduced by approximately one-third of the building in view. The roof
screen, which is the subject of the second area variance, was chosen to screen the
mechanical equipment. As the screen in certain portions of the building is coterminous
with the parapet, it qualifies as the parapet in those cases. This results in the screen being
roughly 9 feet in height above the roof where a 5-foot parapet is permitted. In effect, it is
4' above where the parapet normally would be. As part of the other area variance is to
increase the height of the building by 4,5 feet, the total increase in the height of the
parapet over the permitted height is actually 8.5 feet, That is the basis of the second
variance.
The applicant feels that, in both cases, the variances requested are minimal in nature
because of the extensive setbacks that are reduced as a result of the single building plan.
There is a dramatic reduction of building face that is visible to the neighbors on the other
side. The environment is significantly enhanced because there are over 300 fewer parking
spaces, much less paving, and much less disturbance. The physical environment is
enhanced by building a smaller project, It is important to note that the top of roof screen
of the proposed building will actually be below the height of the other buildings that are
on the site now. It is 20 feet below the buildings located on the northerly property line,
on the Belle Fair side.
It is very important to note that all of the storm water quality facilities, the basin, and the
treatment facilities will remain as originally planned. The approved plan reduced storm
water flow 76% of the pre-existing flow. That means that not only did they avoid an
increase in flow, but they were able to reduce it 24%below the pre-existing condition,
Another important aspect of the site plan approval, and the amendments that are being
proposed, is that the building itself comes inward on the property and it preservers more
open space along the edges of the property. This provides additional green buffer. On
the Southeast side, facing the golf course, the additional green space results in the parking
moving further away from the property line. On the Belle Fair side, an additional area
will be left green as the parking is cut back. The effect of the change is as follows:
reduced floor area, reduced parking, reduced impervious area, and an increase to the
setback along the perimeter. Green space has been added all around, the parking has been
compressed, and the two buildings have been combined into a single structure. A
side-by-side comparison helped to provide an illustration of the benefits. In order to
accomplish all of this, one story has been added to the building. The buildings have gone
from two three-story buildings to one four-story building. Additionally, there is a
mechanical screen which screens all of the mechanical equipment located on the roof.
Mayor Filipowski felt that there was one issue that needed clarification. That was the
second turn lane, if required. Mr. Miller noted that it would be correct to state that the
plan was going to be subject to review by other agencies.
Mayor Filipowski asked what mechanism could be used to guarantee that the 250'buffer
between Doral Green and this project would never be encroached upon. The same should
hold true for the Belle Fair side. Mr. Miller stated that when looking at this from a
SEQRA perspective, the environmental review law, the determination that this Board
made just a few years ago regarding the adverse impact of this project was that the Board
said that it would not have an adverse impact and at that time it was for a larger project,
which was closer to the property lines. Therefore, the Board may have to explain why
and differentiate the issues that may have changed since then. This statement is from a
purely environmental review standard. Mayor Filipowski asked if, with regard to
environmental laws, there is a precedent that has been set. Mr. Miller noted that in his
review of the prior resolution for approval of this application, similar language was a
condition of that resolution. The Village was to have the authority to retain inspectors.
That was primarily limited to the wetlands implementation and the storm water retention
basins, which are the primary areas of concern. One of the conditions was that the
applicant was to pay, into a Village escrow account, the amount determined appropriate
by the Village's Engineer to retain consultants and other persormel to evaluate and inspect
the appropriateness, quality, and progressiveness of the implementation of the sediment
erosion control plan, utility plan, and wetland mitigation plan as shown on the approved
drawings. In essence that concept is embodied in the prior approval.
Mr. Divney noted that the current approval has a condition that the site shall be open for
inspection at anytime by the approval authorities, advisory counsel, environmental
conservation, Village Engineer or their designated representatives.
Mayor Filipowski asked if any member of the public had questions that they would like
raised. Mr. Dean Santon of Hillandale Road addressed the Board. He felt that the Board
should not take a wait and see approach, but suggested that they require the second left
turn lane now. He also asked if Greenwich was in opposition of this second turn lane.
Mr. Divney stated that no application has been made to the Town of Greenwich in
connection with this application and, therefore, Greenwich has not expressed an opinion
for or against it. The earlier application was filed with Greenwich and at that time the
double left turn was approved.
Joanne Hendrick of Winding Wood Road addressed the Board. She asked how much
taller the new proposed building was versus the approved one. Mr. Divney stated that it
was one story taller.
Mr. Tartaglia asked that the Board keep a few things in mind when considering the issue
of the second left turn lane. The size of the project has been reduced considerably. There
has been discussion concerning the second turn lane being in the road that is in the State
of Connecticut. He cited the Home Depot vs. The City of Rye, he noted that the Village
of Port Chester had required certain traffic improvements within the City of Rye, If the
actual stacking is higher then their consultant's estimates, Reckson has no problem
making a good faith effort of making application to the Town of Greenwich to try and
obtain the approval. To ask for an escrow or a bond to be posted in connection with a
hypothetical situation is not permitted under New York State law. He asked that the
Board make their environmental determination at this evening's meeting.
Mr. Bob Richardson, Director of the King Merritt, addressed the Board. He asked if there
would be a written comment period. He was told that this was the public hearing and
there was no period of time in which written comments must be submitted. He asked if
the application was foreclosing any further development of the property. The response
was that it did not. He asked how much more could be built on the property, to which the
Mayor responded 80,000 square feet. The applicant has the right to build this 80,000
square feet. Mr. Richardson asked if there was a possibility of creating a rear entrance
onto Lincoln Avenue. He noted that there was a provision for the fire department, and
emergency services, to have rear access. Mr. Richardson stated that he, and his
neighbors,will be facing an increase of 1100 cars coming through the area. Mr. Divney
stated that this would be through the SUNY property and additionally they would have to
go through the Blind Brook wetlands. There was a plan many years ago for that type of
facility. The emergency access is a primary issue. The applicant believes that the
anticipated traffic from this project has always been considered.
Mr. Miller pointed out that the traffic study that was prepared not only anticipated the
traffic from this property, but also within the corridor including future development of the
Brunswick School and other projects.
Mr. Santon noted that the Brunswick School will be opening in September. He asked that
the applicant be required to do another traffic study once the School is open. He asked if
the second driveway for the emergency vehicles will be paved. Mr. Divney stated that it
will be stabilized so that fire trucks can travel over it without difficulty.
On a motion made by Trustee Brackman and seconded by Trustee Rand, the public
hearing was closed.
Mr. Russo read the role:
Trustee Brackman Voting Aye
Trustee Degling Voting Aye
Trustee Herman Voting Aye
Trustee Rand Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski asked for a brief recess,
RESOLUTIONS:
Upon their return, Mayor Filipowski noted that items # 1 and#2 were Tabled.
1. CONSIDERING THE ADOPTION OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
AIRPORT ADVISORY COUNCIL CHARTER.
2. CONSIDERING THE APPROVAL OF A COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
AGREEMENT WITH THE PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS MUTUAL AID
ASSOCIATION LOCAL, 4041, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
FIREFIGHTERS AFL-CIO, CLC.
These items will be heard at the August 8'meeting. On a motion made by Trustee
Brackman, and seconded by Trustee Degling, items #1 and.#2 were tabled.
Mr. Russo read-the role:
Trustee Brackman Voting Aye
Trustee Degling Voting Aye
Trustee Herman Voting Aye
Trustee Rand Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski Voting Aye
3. PERSONNEL MATTERS.
Mr, Powell read the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION
AUTHORIZING EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
WITH VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR
RESOLVED, the Village of Rye Brook, is authorized to enter into an employment
agreement with.Christopher J. Bradbury of 3355 Poplar Street, Yorktown, New York to
serve as Village Administrator of the Village of Rye Brook effective August 21, 2000;
and it is further
RESOLVED,that the Mayor is authorized to execute and deliver all documents
necessary or appropriate to accomplish the purposes of this Resolution.
On a motion made by Trustee Brackman, and seconded by Trustee Degling, Mr. Russo
read the role;
Trustee Brackman Voting Aye
Trustee Degling Voting Aye
Trustee Herman Voting Aye
Trustee Rand Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski noted that the Village received approximately 30 applications from
around the country. They evaluated their experience and capabilities, and with that they
found Mr. Christopher Bradbury to be a very capable person with exceptional experience.
He will be in attendance at the August 8u'meeting. He will begin work on August 21,
2000.
5. YEAR END BUDGET MODIFICATIONS.
Mr. Russo summarized the Resolution;
RESOLUTION
1999/2000 YEAR END
BUDGET MODIFICATIONS
FROM TO AMOUNT
101.1010.468 101.1230.110 $ 683.17
(Board of Trustees—WCVOA) (Administrator—
Dept. Head Regular Pay)
101.1010.469 101.1325.110 $ 2,316.83
(Board of Trustees—WCVOA) (Treasurer's Office—
Dept. Head Regular Pa
101.1010.469 1011325.110 $ 2,773.02
(Board of Trustees—Misc.) (Treasurer's Office—
Dept. Head Regular Pay)
101.1010.469 101.1325.110 $ 1,004.49
(Board of Trustees—Misc.) (Treasurer's Office—
De t. Head Regular Pa
101.1010.411 101.1325.110 500.00
Board of Trustees - (Treasurer's Office—
Office Supplies) Dept. Head Regular Pay)
101.1010.454 101.1325.110 402.05
(Board of Trustees - LI reasurer's Office-
Travel/Conference) Dept. Head RegularPay)
101.1010.499 1011325.140 $1,000.00
(Board of Trustees- (Treasurer's Office—
Contractual) Deputy Treasurer
101.1010199 101.1325.140 $1,924.02
ff illage Clerk—Temp & Treasurer's Office—
Summer Interns) Deputy Treasurer)
101.7140.120 101.1325.199 $15,365.28
(Recreation--Recreation Leader) (Treasurer's Office—
Part-time/Intern/
Vacation Pay)
1011620.110 101.1325.199 $10,737.92
[Village Offices—Asst. to (Treasurer's Office
Villa e Administrator) Part-time/Intern/
Vacation Pay)
101.1620.160 101.1325.199 $ 3,800.63
(Village Offices—Caretakers) (Treasurer's Office—
Part-time/Intern/
Vacation Pay)
101.1620.170 101.1325.199 $ 3,041.25
illage Offices - Treasurer's Office—
Adm.'s Secretary) Part-time/Intern/
_ Vacation Pay)
FROM TO AMOUNT
101.1410.462 101.1325.454 1,397.38
(Village Clerk- (Treasurer's Office—
Legal Advertising) Travel/Conference)
101.1410.199 101.1325.469 $ 1,045.6
(Village Clerk—Temp & (Treasurer's Office—
Summer Interns) Misc.
101.1410.199 101.1325.477 $ 1,618.69
(Village Clerk—Temp & (Treasurer's Office—
Summer Interns) Audit Fee
101.1620.431 101.1325.4477 $13,268.19
(Village Offices—Utilities) (Treasurer's Office—
Audit Fee)
101.1410.485 101.1325.477 $ 2,215.00
(Village Clerk- (Treasurer's Office—
Vital Statistics Fees) Audit Fee
101.1620.210 101.1325.477 $ 2,048.12
(Village Offices- (Treasurer's Office—
Office Equipment) Audit Fee)
101.1620.189 101.1420.458 $ 1,940.16
(Village Offices—Overtime) (Village Attorney—
S.upplemental Services)
101.1620.199 101.1420.458 $ 2,044.94
(Village Offices—Te mp& (Village Attorney-
Summer Interns) Supplemental Services)
101.1620.170 101.1420.458 3,308.69
(Village Offices - (Village Attorney—
Adm.'s Secretary) Supplemental Services)
101.1620.230 101.1420.458 $ 11000.00
(Village Offices= (Village Attorney-
Maintenance Equipment) Supplemental Services
101.1410.499 101.1420.458 $ 181.41
(Village Clerk- (Village Attorney—
Contractual) Sujplemental ,,Services)
FROM TO AMOUNT
101.1910.422 101.1640.110 $ 983.26
(Unallocated Insurances (C,entraI Garage---
Dept. Head Regular Pay)
101.1910.422 101.1640.445 $ 9,916.44
(Unallocated Insurance) (Central Garage--
Repairs)
101.1910.422 101.3120.160 $35,680.48
(Unallocated Insurances (Police Dept.
Patrolman)
101.5142.199 101.5110.170 $ 2,730.91
(Snow Removal- (Highway Maint.--
Overtime/Temp Help) Laborer/Asst. Mechanic)
101.5142.199 101.5110.189 $_ 746.29
(Snow Removal- (Highway Maint.--
Overtime/Temp Help) Overtime
101.5142.199 101.5110.199 434.00
(Snow Removal- (Highway„Maint. —
Overtime/Tent Help) Temp & Summer Interns)
101.5142.199 101.5110.411 $ 68.50
LSnow Removal - (Highway Maint.--
Overtime/Tem Help) Office Supplies)
101.5142.199 101.5110.420 $ 132.00
(Snow Removal- Highway Maint.^
Overtime/Temp Help) Catch Basins)
101.1910.422 101.6772.499 $ 11,826.39
(Unallocated_Insurance) (Human Services--
Contractual)
101.1995.426 101.9730.101 $ 7,803.60
(Bonding Expenses) (BAN Interest)
101.1995.426 1019730.100 $ 3,432.00
(Bonding Expenses) (BAN Principal)
101.1990.424 101.9730.100 6,798.00
(Contingency) (BAN Principal
FROM TO AMOUNT
101.3410.160 101.9730.100 $34,770.00
{Fire Protection - (BAN Principal
Firefighter)
This Resolution balances out the budget from last year.
On a motion made by Trustee Herman, and seconded by Trustee Brackman....
Mr. Russo read the role:
Trustee Brackman Voting Aye
Trustee Degling Voting Aye
Trustee Herman Voting Aye
Trustee Rand Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski Voting Aye
Mr. Dean Santon addressed the Board with comments relating to Tax Certiorari. He asked
how the Board accounts for adjustments made to the Budget with regard to Tax Certiorari?
He felt that the public should know what the economics are, The Mayor noted that when
these adjustments happen the public is notified. Reckson has a court ordered tax refund for
school and Village taxes,but they have not received it. Mr. Santon felt that real estate taxes
should be discussed before the project is built. Mr, Russo noted that any agreement that the
Village enters into with Reckson would come before the Board for approval. There would
either be a payment of the Tax Certiorari or an agreement whereby the Village would avoid
a tax payback.
6. CONSIDERING THE APPROVAL OF AN AGREEMENT FOR ARCHITECTURALI
SERVICES WITH ROGER CARLSEN.
Mr, Russo read the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION
APPROVING CONSULTANT CONTRACT
ROGER L. CARLSEN
ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook is authorized to enter into an agreement with
Roger L. Carlsen, 291 Lee Avenue, Yonkers, New York for the provision of architectural
services in connection with a proposed new maintenance and equipment garage at 122
North Ridge Street in the amount of$8,250.00; and it is fiirther
RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to execute and deliver all documents necessary
or desirable to accomplish the purposes of this Resolution.
On a motion made by Trustee Rand, and seconded by Trustee Degling,...
Mayor Filipowski asked Mr. Russo to explain the amount of money in the Resolution,
Mr. Russo stated that there is a$1,500 difference in the amount to be paid and the Village
will receive a credit. The full amount of the agreement is the lesser amount. This
Resolution pertains to a garage that will be constructed in Crawford Park.
Mayor Filipowski stated that in cooperation with the Town of Rye they are worldng out a
swap of facilities for the garage that is to be built at Crawford and the garage on West
William Street.
Mr. Russo read the role:
Trustee Brackman Voting Aye
Trustee DegIing Voting Aye
Trustee Herman Voting Aye
Trustee Rand Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski Voting Aye
7. TRUSTEE REQUESTED ITEM: CONSIDERING THE ENDORSEMENT OF "THE
PLEDGE"FOR COMMUNITIES FOR SAFER GUNS COALITION.
Mr. Russo read the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION
ADOPTING THE PLEDGE
OF THE COMMUNITIES FOR
SAFER GUNS COALITION
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook hereby adopts "The
Pledge"of the Communities for Safer Guns Coalition which support as a criterion for
firearm purchasing whether the company from which firearms are purchased has agreed
to adhere to a new code of responsible conduct providing for safer gun designs and a
distribution systems that makes it harder for guns to get into the hands of criminals and
children.
On a motion made by Trustee Herman, and seconded by Trustee Brackman,..
Trustee Brackman noted that there has been a ground swell of support for gun reform in
the last year or so. The"Communities for Safer Guns" Coalition has been started, They
have been sending information all around the country and cities and towns all over have
agreed to enter into the pledge. This pledge makes the manufacture and distribution of
guns more responsible. Copies of a letter from Senator Chuck Schumer is available to
anyone wishing to read it.
Mayor Filipowski then moved to the Report portion of the meeting.
REPORT:
1. MAYOR'S MESSAGE
RE: VARIOUS VILLAGE MATTERS.
Mayor Filipowski gave an update regarding the property along the Hutchinson River
Parkway at Ridge Street. The Village is looking to acquire this land. The Village must
prepare a baseline map set to standards,which must be acceptable to the County.
Additionally, Michael Gallenti, the traffic planner from Frederick P. Clark, is involved
with the Department of Transportation to set up tax maps which will help the experts
work with this property. If the Village is to obtain this State property, then we need the
County's approval because if the State finds that the land along a highway is surplus then
the land reverts back to the County. The Village Attorney, Mr. Powell, has been working
with the Planning Department of the County to have the County sign off on the property.
Then he can go back to New York State for final approval, An Executive Review Group
in Albany is responsible for the final approval.
There are a few things going on with the King Street interchange at the Hutch. There is a
meeting scheduled at Village Hall for August 15t'' at 10;00 a.m. The New York State
Department of Transportation and the Connecticut Department of Transportation will be
there to discuss ways to help traffic flow through the King Street area. On the agenda
there will be a recommendation that they consider restricting all left hand turns on the
Hutch/Merritt Parks on the exits onto King Street. The northbound exit from the Hutch
would have a no left hand turn. Additionally, the two exits on the other side of King
Street, which begin in Connecticut, but once on King Street are in New York, are being
considered for no left hand turns. Part of this motivation is caused by a new effort of the
County Executive Task Force, who are bringing both states to the table for discussions.
Regarding the Crown Castle cell tower proposal with the DOT the Village has been
following up with them on the subject. A lot of information has been gathered by New
York State but it has not yet been turned over to the Village. There will be a walk
through of the property and as soon as the information is received from the State then the
Board of Trustees will pass this information on to its residents.
Mayor Filipowski noted that the Village recently hired two firefighters. One dropped out
of the academy training, so the Village is looking for a second candidate. Mr. Russo will
be following up with the County over the next several days in order to accomplish
securing a second firefighter.
The Village is looking forward to reviewing a draft agreement from the City of Rye for a
proposed Traffic light on the corner of High Street and Ridge Street.
Mosquito spraying will take place in Rye Brook, It was canceled for this past week. The
spraying will be done by truck over the ground, There will be no aerial spraying this year.
When the spraying is taking place residents should close their windows and turn off their
air conditioners.
Mayor Filipowski asked for an executive session on personnel to be held after the
meeting. He noted that this was the last meeting for Mr. Christopher Russo, On behalf of
the Board, the Mayor wished Mr. Russo well.
Former Trustee Toe Pellino extended his thanks to Mr. Russo for all of his efforts on
behalf of the Village. He wished him the best of luck and offered his personal
appreciation for the fantastic job that Mr. Russo has done over the years.
Ken Heller of 22 Lincoln Avenue addressed the Board. He expressed his concern
regarding no left turns from the Hutch onto King Street, It is his belief that this will cause
traffic problems as it limits a way to get to Port Chester. He noted that Ridge Street is not
stackable and this will create traffic back-ups. He felt that no left hand turns will develop
another problem which will need to be addressed.
Mr. Ben Miloro of Hillcrest Avenue addressed the gun issue. He noted that New York
State has the strictest gun laws around, There is an investigation process--by the local
police, the State police and the FBI. Mr. Miloro commented on an issue regarding the
airport that was discussed at a previous meeting. He stated that the lights that were
discussed are approach lights and they save lives.
Mr. Miloro noted that the house next to the Village Hall has become costly as there is a
lot of work that-needs to be done. Mayor Filipowski stated that the Village has a
consultant that is overseeing the work on the building, The consultant is looking into the
costs and when that information is available the Board will share it with the residents.
Mr. Dean Santon of Hillandale Road addressed the Board, again, He thanked the Mayor
for his reports on the status of projects within the Village. He asked if the meeting on
August 1St"with the DOT of Connecticut and New York could also include a discussion
regarding signalization at that interchange,
Trustee Degling noted that the meeting on August 15"will be a meeting for the
subcommittee on Traffic and Transportation of the joint task force of the County of
Westchester and the Town of Greenwich. It has now been expanded to include CONN
DOT and the New York DOT, There will be public meetings with interested parties.
These meetings have been working at a grass roots level and working upward. This is the
most effective way of finding out the facts and what can be done. Then the public will be
invited to participate when answers are available. The meeting scheduled for the 15 I is
not a public meeting,
Mr. Santon continued. He asked for information about the cell tower and where the
Village is with their efforts for getting a cell tower on the Village Hall cite, It was his
understanding that this cell tower could produce $50,000-$100,000 amlually in rental
fees. He felt that the Village should pursue this more actively rather than let the State put
a cell tower in a heavily populated area. Another comment was regarding the sports
dome which has been proposed for the Port Chester Junior High School, He asked what
the Village was doing to deal with this issue.
Mayor Filipowski noted that as information is available it will be released to the
residents.
Mr. Christopher Adams, Esq, Of Metricom Inc., 218 Middlesex Street in Harrison, New
Jersey, addressed the Board. He noted that his company has made a proposal to install
boxes on utility poles. From these boxes they will be able to provide wireless Internet
access to the residents, This proposal has been placed before the Telecommunications
Committee, but they have had this proposal since March and he has not received any
communication from them, He asked for assistance with this matter. Mayor Filipowski
responded that he will have the Chairman of the Telecommunication Committee call him.
Mr. Russo will also follow up on this. Mr. Adams stated that he appeared at a June 1st
meeting in order to speak to someone and at that time he was informed that the Village
was reviewing several proposals for DSL carriers to come in and access the right of way,
Metricom's proposal is not as complicated, it is non-intrusive and it generates revenue.
Trustee Rand offered his best wishes to Mr. Russo. He congratulated him on a job well
done and wished him the best of luck in his future endeavors,
Trustee Herman noted that Mr. Russo has helped many people over the years and that he
will be missed. He thanked him for his assistance and wished him good luck.
Trustee Herman noted that the Tree Reforestation Committee has plans that are before
Frederick P. Clark for review. They are hoping to have a meeting next week.
Trustee Brackman stated that Mr. Russo has been extremely helpful to her over the years.
He is an incredibly knowledgeable person who will be sorely missed by the community.
Trustee Degling stated that the Mr. Russo has been a great leader, He bid him farewell
and wished him luck.
Mayor Filipowski noted that Mr. Russo has worked with three different mayors. He has
been an amazing Village Administrator for the Village of Rye Brook. He knows how to
do things and who to call. He will be missed. He thanked him for his service and for his
work on securing a new administrator to continue his work. He thanked Mr. Russo on
behalf of the Board and all of the residents of Rye Brook.
Mr. Russo thanked everyone for their kind comments. He will miss Rye Brook and
thanked the Board and the residents, He wished Mr, Christopher Bradbury well.
Mayor Filipowski noted that the next Trustee Meetings will be held on August 8" and
August 22"'. He asked for a motion for an Executive Session to be held after the
meeting, On a motion made by Trustee Brackman and seconded by Trustee Herman, Mr.
Russo read the role;
Trustee Brackman Voting Aye
Trustee Degling Voting Aye
Trustee Herman Voting Aye
Trustee Rand Voting Aye
Mayor Filipowski Voting Aye
There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:15.
Respectfully submitted,
Christopher J. Russo
Village Clerk