HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-05-08 - Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes May S, 2001
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
VILLAGE BALL, 938 KING STREET
TUESDAY,MAY 8, 2001 -- 7:30 P.M.
AGENDA
PRESENTATION:
1. Advisory Council on Parks and Recreation Update on Teen Center
RESOLUTIONS:
1. Declaring May 13-19, 2001 Police Week in Rye Brook
2. Awarding Contract#01-01 King Street Sidewalk Improvements
3. Authorizing Reduction of the Bellefair Performance Bond
4. Adopting Record Keeping Procedures for the Village of Rye Brook's Boards, Councils,
Committees, Commissions and Task Forces
5. Hiring Land Surveyor to Survey and Stake Various Village-Owned Properties
DISCUSSIONS:
1. Follow-up on Various Environmental and Parkland Issues
2. Status of Fire Service
3. House Renumbering on Reunion Road/Milestone Road in Bellefair
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May 8, 2001
CONVENE;
The meeting of the Board of Trustees was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Mayor Filipowski, and the
Pledge of Allegiance followed.
PRESENT: Mayor Francis L. Filipowski
Trustee Jody H. Brackman
Trustee Donald Degling
Trustee Dean Santon
Trustee Lawrence A. Rand
STAFF: Christopher Bradbury, Village Administrator
Ingrid Bent, Assistant to the Village Administrator
Kenneth Powell, Village Attorney
David H. Stolman, AICP, PP, Village Consultant
David S. Kvinge, RLA, AICP, Village Consultant
Chief Robert Santoro, Police Chief
Victor Carosi, Village Engineer
William Gerety, Building Inspector
Robert Bertolacci, Acting Superintendent of Recreation
Paula Patafio, Meeting Secretary
Mayor Filipowski opened the meeting with a moment of silence for Rose "Bunny" Niles and Joe
Gasparino, who past away this week. They will both be remembered for their many years .of
service to the Village of Rye Brook.
At this time Mayor Filipowski called for a presentation by Mr. Daniel F. Leary, from the firm of
Cuddy & Feder & Worby LLP, who represents Sprint. He noted that the Planning Board and
Board of Trustees held_a joint meeting on Saturday, May 5, 2 00 1, at which time they viewed a
mock-up of the antenna at 900 King Street — the Atrium Building. The applicant is now prepared
to make a presentation in order to clarify some questions that were raised at the May 5`,meeting,
Mr. Daniel F. Leary addressed the Board. He reported that a mock-up visual test was conducted
on the rooftop of 900 King Street at, or about, 12:00 noon on Friday May 9th. On Monday, when
the mock-up was removed, by virtue of a directive from Mayor Francis Filipowski, the Building
Inspector was asked to check the accuracy of the height. It was discovered that the mock-up was
17' above the rooftop of the penthouse. The proposed height is actually 19.6' and, therefore, a
discrepancy of approximately 2 112' was noted. The applicant apologized for the error, which
stemmed from a miscalculation of the height of the penthouse by the contractor.
Mr. William Gerety, Building Inspector, reiterated Mr. Leary's statements. He noted that when the
mock-up was being removed the height of the unit was measured and it was found to be only
approximately 1610" -- just shy of 17'. He agreed that the error was a result of the contractor
having a problem with the dimensions of the penthouse roof. They had calculated that the roof of
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May 8, 2001
the penthouse was at 10' above the roof of the building, when it was actually 14'. The applicant and
the Village Board were notified that the mock-up was 2 %Z' shorter than the actual unit will be.
Other than this error, Mr. Gerety noted that the mock-up did clearly represent the actual unit.
Mayor Filipowski asked if any member of the public wished to address the Board. Mrs. Dee Dee
Mitchell of Ivy Hill Lane in the Arbors addressed the Board. She noted that her main concern was
that the Planned Unit Development (PUD) currently has a requirement that building heights be no
more than 35', or two floors. If the Village allows Sprint to place its antenna on this roof it will
violate the PUD. It will set a precedent and if other wireless companies make similar requests the
Village will not be able to turn them down. She also expressed a concern regarding emissions.
Mr. Ken Powell, Village Attorney, stated that the Planning Board was currently reviewing these
issues. Mayor Filipowski assured Mrs. Mitchell that Mr. Rich Lubkin and the Planning Board are
aware of these issues. They will continue their review at their next meeting on Thursday, May 10,
2001.
Trustee Santon stated that Mrs. Mitchell brought this issue up at the December 14, 2000 meeting of
the Planning Board. In addition, F.P. Clark & Associates are also aware of the concerns and
questions surrounding the PUD. Mr, Leary stated that the applicant has stated its position on this
issue in a memorandum to the Planning Board.
Mayor Filipowski returned to the agenda and called for first item under Presentations.
1. ADVISORY COUNCIL ON PARKS AND RECREATION UPDATE ON TEEN
CENTER
Mr. John Magliano, 2 Meadowlark Road, addressed the Board on behalf of the Advisory
Council on Parks and Recreation. He gave a brief presentation on the building located at
940 King Street and stated that the original intention when purchasing this building was to
utilize it as a Teen Center. Around the Fall of 2000 the Council began research into the best
use for the building, An architect was brought in to measure the square footage, present
alternatives for the building's use, and calculate costs with regard to bringing the building
up to Code. The architect reported that the building has 1500 square feet on the first floor
and 1350 square feet on the second floor, but noted that many of the rooms are very small
which makes it difficult to use them, If the building was brought up to Code the maximum
number of people who could be in the building at any one time would be 75. The cost to
bring the building up to Code would be approximately$350,000. The next idea would be to
try and design something from scratch-- something that would meet the needs of the entire
community. The Council was informed that the cost to knock the building down would be
approximately$75,000.
The Council has had several other meetings to discuss what a community center would look
like. The new building could include a gymnasium; a great room, with a large screened TV
and a computer room. Also discussed was moving the Recreation Department into the
community center. The Advisory Council on Parks and Recreation would like permission
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May 8, 2001
to move forward, hire an architect, and continue its research, The Council needs to
ultimately find out how much it would cost to build, to maintain, and the approximate
revenue for the Village. It estimated that the fees for an architect would be in the $8,000-
$10,000 range.
Mayor Filipowski asked if the Council could project what size the footprint of the building
should be, the height of the building, and the number of parking spaces that would be
required. Mr. Magliano stated that the Council has not gotten that far. In addition, it is
still looking at other properties that are owned by the Village. Mayor Filipowski agreed that
a feasibility study should be completed.
Trustee Lawrence Rand asked if the Council could provide the Board with alternative uses
for the building, Mr. Magliano noted that at this time this community center is very High on
its list.
Trustee Dean Santon stated that he did attend the Council's last meeting, He felt that before
the Village spends $8,000 to $10,000 a work session should be held in order to give the
residents an opportunity to let the Board know what they want.
Trustee Donald Degling noted that the lot located at 940 King Street is an L shaped lot
which includes a small piece -- 50'x 240' --that would make a very good parking area.
Trustee Jody Brackman noted that she has been supporting this project from the beginning.
There is a strong desire in the Village for a community center. It is unfortunate that the
house next door can not work. She also stated that more work sessions would definitely be
a good idea, and supported going forward.
Mayor Filipowski thanked Mr. Magliano for his presentation. He then moved to the
Resolution portion of the agenda.
1. DECLARING MAY 13-19, 2001 POLICE WEEK IN RYE BROOK
Mr. Bradbury read the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION
DECLARING MAY 13 - 19, 2001
POLICE WEEK IN RYE BROOK
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees wishes to participate in the
National Police Week Program, which will serve as a reminder to every citizen in the community
of the public service rendered by all branches of law enforcement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
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May 8, 2001
RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees hereby declares the week of
May 13-19 as Police Week in the Village of Rye Brook, with an Open House, VIN Etching
Program, and Watch Your Car Program at Police Headquarters on May 19, and Peace Officers
Memorial Day on Tuesday, May 15, 2001.
On a motion made by Trustee Degling, and seconded by Trustee Brackman, the Resolution was
adopted.
TRUSTEE BRACKMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE RAND VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Mayor Filipowski stated that the Police Department will have an Open House on May 19, 2001
from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and the Vehicle Identification Number Etching Program will be
conducted at that time. If any resident is interested, they can call 939-8320 to schedule an
appointment.
2.. AWARDING CONTRACT #01-01 KING STREET SIDWEALK IMPROVEMENTS
Mh Bradbury read the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION
AWARDING CONTRACT #01-01
KING STREET SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENTS
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook has solicited bids for contract # 01-01 "King Street
Sidewalk Improvements," and
WHEREAS, a public notice was duly advertised in an official newspaper of the Village of
Rye Brook on March 27`h, 2001, and
WHEREAS, at 10:00 a.m. E.S.T,, Thursday, April 12, 2001, all five (5) bids received were
opened as summarized below, and
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May 8, 2001
BIDDER BID AMOUNT BID BOND
1, N.Picco &Sons Contracting Co. $127,000.00 Yes
2. Peter J. Landi, Inc. $ 1413025.00 Yes
3. John Barreto Construction Corp. $145,105.00 Yes
4. Vincent Rusciano Construction Co. $193,385.25 Yes
5, DiMarino Brothers Contracting,Inc. Bid Incomplete Yes
WHEREAS, upon reviewing the bids, the Village Engineer and Consulting Engineer,
Dolph Rotfeld Engineering, P.C. have determined that the lowest responsible bidder meeting the
requirements of the contract documents is N. Picco & Sons Contracting Company, Inc. for the total
bid price of$127,000.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that contract #01-01 "King Street Sidewalk Improvements" is hereby
awarded to N. Picco & Sons Contracting Company, Inc. for the total bid price of$127,000; and be
it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is hereby authorized to execute and deliver all
documents necessary or appropriate to accomplish the purposes of this resolution.
Victor Carosi, Village Engineer, was asked how he went about choosing a contractor. He
explained that a job is placed out for bids and the bidders are required to include a list of references.
The Village then takes the two lowest bidders and does a reference check on them. He noted that
he had spoken with a number of people and developed a comfort level with the work of N. Picco &
Sons Contracting Company, Inc. He also noted that N Picco & Sons is currently working with
other municipalities in the area. Trustee Rand noted that this is a local contractor, working out of
Mamaroneck,
On a motion made by Trustee Brackman, and seconded by Trustee Degling, the Resolution was
adopted.
TRUSTEE BRACKIVIAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE RAND VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
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May 8, 2001
3. AUTHORIZING REDUCTION OF THE BELLEFAIR PERFORMANCE BOND
Mr, Bradbury read the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION
AUTHORIZING REDUCTION OF THE BELLEFAIR
PERFORMANCE BOND
WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees approved the form and sufficiency of the Bellefair
Home and Land Company performance Bond on June 23, 1998 in the amount of nine million, nine
hundred and five thousand, two hundred and thirty dollars ($9,905,230) guaranteeing the
infrastructure improvements,required by the Highpoint Village (now BelleFair)Resolution; and
WHEREAS, on November 14th, 2000 the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees pursuant
to a request by the developer, Spectrum-Skanska USA, in accordance with §219-22 B(2) approved
a reduction of Seven million, five hundred fifty three thousand, nine hundred twenty two dollars
and fifty cents ($7,553,922.50) representing a reduction of approximately 75% of the original
performance bond amount to a value of two million, three hundred fifty one thousand, three
hundred and seven dollars and fifty cents ($2,351,307.50), recognizing the completion of a majority
of the infrastructure improvements required by the approved construction documents, and
WHEREAS, approximately 94% of the required site improvements, in accordance with the
approved construction documents, have now been completed to the satisfaction of the Village
Engineer.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, the Board of Trustees, in accordance with §219-22 B(2) of the Village Code,
approves a reduction in the amount of One million six hundred and one thousand, three hundred
seven dollars and fifty cents ($1,601,307.50), representing a reduction to approximately 17% of the
current bond amount to a value of seven hundred fifty thousand dollars ($750,000).
Trustee Santon requested that Victor Carosi give a brief presentation on how the amount was
arrived at. Mr. Carosi noted that all developers are required to post a performance bond
guaranteeing public infrastructure improvements which cover the public roadways, water main,
sanitary sewers and storm drain system to make the development of the homes adequate and proper
from the health and safety perspective. The dollar amount is developed based upon the original
plan. Throughout the construction process as items are completed they are monitored. The Village
works with the developer and consultants. At this time this project is very close to completion,
with some minor items left, which include some outstanding sidewalks, one cul de sac that requires
asphalt, and some minor landscaping which needs to be replaced. Also considered was some minor
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May 8, 2001.
clean up work and some erosion problems which have crossed over into Greenwich. The value of
work that is remaining is covered by the amount, $750,000.
Trustee Santon questioned whether or not the bond includes damage done to Village roadways
during the construction phase. Victor felt that the bond money would cover these repairs. In
addition, the repair work is covered by the original Resolution for the Bellefair site.
Mr, Bradbury noted that the Senior Living Facility portion of the project is not covered by this
bond. There will be a performance bond in place once this project starts as this facility is no longer
owned by the Bellefair developer.
Mr. Carosi also stated that the Village is working with Greenwich's Consulting Engineer in an
attempt to discover how sediment is migrating off the Bellefair site and which pathway it is taking
to find its way into Greenwich. Some areas have been identified and researched as to how the
sediment is being transported. The bond is enough to cover any remediation which may be
necessary.
A resident from the Town of Greenwich, asked that the erosion problem be addressed in depth
before the bond is reduced. He noted that the developer has attempted to seed the area, however,
the seed washes down at the first rainfall and the erosion continues. The performance bond should
remain at the highest level to ensure the attention of the developers. He noted that this issue was
brought to the developer's attention over a year ago and will now be addressed at the joint
Westchester/Connecticut Task Force. He asked that the Board hold sufficient amount of money to
ensure attention by the developer. Greenwich's Town Engineer is available to assist Rye Brook.
Victor noted that the Village and the developer are working with Greenwich, specifically Mr.
Michael Chambers. He reminded the Board that it has the final say as it is the body which will
accept the full project. The developer is very much willing to move forward.
Mr. John McGuyver, a resident of King Merritt Acres, addressed the Board. His wife, Carol
McGuyver, has been working on this project since September. Documentation has been presented
both in writing and in the form of photographs. At this time the residents of King Merritt Acres do
not feel that a response has been afforded to them. They are grateful for the involvement of the
wetlands engineers from Greenwich,
Mayor Filipowski noted that the Village is aware of this issue and it is working to see where this
sediment is coming from. It will continue working on this issue to the satisfaction of the residents
and the Town of Greenwich.
Trustee Santon felt that taking away the financial incentive would make the remedy very costly for
Rye Brook. He expressed his opinion that this money should not be released.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the developer requested a much higher reduction and it was the Village's
opinion that$750,000 was a sufficient amount of money to hold,
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May 8, 2001
On a motion made by Trustee Rand, and seconded by Trustee Brackman, the Resolution was
approved.
TRUSTEE BRACKMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE RAND VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING NO
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
4. ADOPTING RECORD KEEPING PROCEDURES FOR THE VILLAGE OF RYE
BROOK'S BOARDS, COUNCILS, COMMITTEES, COMISSIONS AND TASK
FORCES
Mr, Bradbury read the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION
ADOPTING RECORD KEEPING PROCEDURES FOR THE VILLAGE OF RYE
BROOK'S BOARDS,COUNCILS, COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS AND TASK
FORCES
WHEREAS, the Village Board seeks to continually improve the communication among the
Boards, Councils,Commissions,Committees,Task Forces,the Board of Trustee and the public, and
WHEREAS, this resolution is not intended to relieve any Board, Council, Commission,
Committee or Task Force of any applicable requirements of the Freedom of Information Law or the
Open Meetings Law.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that in addition to any requirements of law other established proceedings
adopted by the Village Board, all volunteer Boards, Council, Commissions, Committees and Task
Forces must submit, at minimum, in writing, the following information to the Village Administrator
within two (2) weeks of any meeting:
a) the time, date and location of the meeting,
b) a record of member attendance,
c) minutes of the meeting
d) a record of any actions taken and the individual members' vote on such action; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village Administrator shall distribute such records to
the Village Board and make such information which is not confidential under law available for
public inspection, including whenever possible on the Village's Website; and be it
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May 8, 2001
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village Administrator shall arrange for the Chairpersons
of each Board, Council, Commission, Committee and Task Force to receive a copy of this
resolution, as well as the existing procedures previously adopted by the Board of Trustees.
Trustee Santon asked for clarification of minutes versus records. Mr. Bradbury noted that many of
the Boards and Commissions do not have a secretary available to attend the meetings. The
intention of the Resolution was to ensure that the Board of Trustees is presented with a record in
order to be kept informed on all issues throughout the Village.
Trustee Rand noted that this issue carne up several months ago. The Board of Trustees is looking
to keep the lines of communication open among the different Boards and Task Forces. This effort
will also help the Village Administrator in that he will have a record of what took place at each
meeting.
On a motion made by Trustee Brackman, and seconded by Trustee Degling, the Resolution was
adopted.
TRUSTEE BRACKMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE RAND VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
S. HIRING LAND SURVEYOR TO SURVEY AND STAKE VARIOUS VILLAGE-
OWNED PROPERTIES
Mr. Bradbury read the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION
HIRING LAND SURVEYOR TO SURVEY AND STAKE
VARIOUS VILLAGE-OWNED PROPERTIES
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees desires to protect various parcels
of Village-owned property intended for parkland, recreational or municipal use from and against
encroachments thereon, and
WHEREAS, said Board of Trustees desires to evaluate the potential use, development,
implementation or preservation of these various properties, and
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May 8, 2001
WHEREAS, it has been brought to the attention of the Board of Trustees that there are
believed to be encroachments on certain of these Village-owned properties, including, but not
limited to Elm Hill Park,Rich Manor Parr Meadowlark Park and the contiguous parcel known as
tax lot 1-6-20A, and the approximate 1.45-acre parkland with frontage onto the westerly side.of
Roanoke Avenue that shall hereby be identified as "Chester Terrace Park ' (part of the lands of the
1924 subdivision known as Chester Terrace), and
WHEREAS, as an example, a survey dated 11/15/94 as prepared by 1,,'-ulhanek&Plan Land
Surveyors, P.C. on behalf of the Village of Rye Brook identifies various fencing encroachments
upon the lands of Elm Hill Park and that said survey needs to be updated and more detailed as to
any other form of encroachments as the Village of Rye Brook intends to implement this parkland
for recreational use and access to the adjacent Crawford Park.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook is authorized to hire one or more land
surveyors duly licensed in the State of New York to survey the above mentioned properties (and
any other parcels of Village-owned property) and then (i) prepare a detailed survey map for each
property that shall show any existing encroachments and (ii) furnish and install stakes (including
permanent stone/concrete markers at all congers) along all perimeters of such properties so as to
permit the future installation of fencing along these boundaries; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village Administrator shall ensure that the above-
mentioned survey, survey map preparation and staking work be completed no later than July 15,
2001.
On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and seconded by Trustee Rand, the Resolution was opened
for discussion.
Trustee Santon noted that he placed this item on the agenda. He felt that the encroachments by
residents needed to be addressed. In addition there are environmental issues that are the result of
dumping along the banks of the Blind Brook. The survey is the first step that should be taken in
order to protect the wetlands buffer, and becoming familiar with the boundaries.
Although he agreed that having a survey of the Village's properties is a good idea, Trustee Rand
questioned whether or not this was the appropriate time to retain the services of a surveyor. He
noted that the cost factor needs to be considered. Trustee Degling agreed with Trustee Rand,
stating that surveys are very expensive. He noted that there are maps and surveys of certain
properties which are already available. He also stated that the residents adjacent to many of the
parks have their own surveys and deeds which show property lines. He felt that obtaining copies of
these surveys would save the Village many thousands of dollars. If a dispute should arise, then a
survey would be appropriate.
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May 8, 2001
Trustee Brackrrman felt that having Village property surveyed is a good idea. However, she felt that
this project should be given to the Open Space Committee to do preliminary work before any
monies are spent.
Mayor Filipowski also commented that the Building Department is available to look at the
properties in question. Mr. Bradbury stated that Elm Hill Park will be looked at next year, after
June 1, 2002.
Mr. Carosi responded, noting that there are two-different issues involved with this Resolution. The
first is that the Village does have -- on paper— surveys, however, the only people licensed to stake
out the property are the surveyors. Everyone can estimate the property lines by using the surveys
that are available but, from a legal standpoint, actual stakes should be considered.
Mr. Ben Miloro of Hillcrest Avenue addressed the Board. He questioned why the Village would
consider spending the money to survey the property if nothing is scheduled to be developed on
these properties at this time.
Trustee Santon reiterated that, in his opinion, these surveys were required. One main issue that he
felt needed to be resolved was the environmental impact at Rich Manor Park. There is
encroachment on this park property and he felt that the burden of proof was on the Village.
TRUSTEE BRACKMAN VOTING NO
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING NO
TRUSTEE RAND VOTING NO
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING NO
Mayor Filipowski called for a three-minute recess.
Upon their return, Mayor Filipowski called for the Discussion portion of the meeting,
DISCUSSIONS:
1. FOLLOW-UP ON VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL AND PARKLAND ISSUES
Trustee Santon began the discussion. He noted that at the last meeting he requested that the
Environmental Council be empowered to walk the parkland and other Village properties
along Blind Brook in order to evaluate the environmental impacts.
He felt that Rich Manor Park is one park that definitely needs to be evaluated. The wetland
buffers need to be reclaimed. He also noted that the residents of Hidden Falls have
complained about an environmental change in Price's Pond. He suggested that Westchester
County be asked to come in and investigate the silt build-up in Price's Pond. Another piece
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May 8, 2001
of property that Trustee Santon discussed was a piece adjacent to the Rye Ridge Shopping
Center. He noted that there is a revereter clause in connection to this property and if the
Village does not do something now the ownership of the property will revert to the owner of
the shopping center and will be turned into a 34 car parking lot,
Mayor Filipowski pointed out that this item was put on for discussion only, and not for
resolution. He noted that Mr, Ken Powell, Village Attorney, did respond to this issue via a
memo to the Board. It was felt that the Village's Code Enforcement Officer could deal with
any violations that have taken place.
Trustee Brackman stated that Mr. Ron Doscher of the State should be invited to a Village
meeting and asked to take a look at Price's Pond. She felt that an expert should be brought
in to look at these issues. She also felt that the Code Enforcement Officer should look into
these issues, and the Environmental Council should also be involved. Mr. Bradbury agreed
that there were wetlands issues involved and stated that he would arrange for a meeting
between Mr. Doscher and the Village's staff. Trustee Degling agreed that in the case of
dumping the Code Enforcement Officer should be dispatched. He also noted that the
County did the renovation work at Rich Manor Park and, therefore, it should come back and
report on the work that was done and whether it accomplished what they had hoped it
would. If it didn't then there is an issue that needs to be resolved.
Trustee Degling noted that with regard to the Hidden Falls issues, an engineer was brought
in and a report was presented. The report essentially agreed that there were problems but,
as the east branch is underground, the engineer stated that tracing the source of sediment
would be a tricky job. No definite answer was given.
Trustee Santon noted that Mr, Joseph Martogoiesc, Regional Water Engineer for the New
York State Department of Environmental Conservation, has offered to help.
The item on the agenda for discussion was called before the Board,
2. STATUS OF FIRE SERVICE
Trustee Santon noted that a year ago, in May of 2000, the Village of Rye Brook entered into
a new fire service agreement with the Village of Port Chester. The Agreement states that
the Fire Chief will come in once a year and make a presentation. He also suggested that the
Advisory Board be asked to make a presentation.
Mr. Bradbury stated that he was a member of the Advisory Board and noted the Board has a
meeting scheduled for next week. It has discussed issues regarding training, improving
training, communication, rules and procedures, the budget, and equipment needs,
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May S, 2001
Trustee Rand agreed that it would be a good idea to have an update from the Chief. The
topic covered should relate to service and the coordination of service between Port Chester
and Rye Brook. Mr. Bradbury stated that he will make the request.
Trustee Santon asked for an explanation of how the Fire Protection Board advises the
Village on matters before it. Mr. Bradbury noted that the Board started its meetings in
2001, and generally meets every month or month and a half. It does not keep minutes. This
is a very productive group that reviews issues concerning the fire status.
Trustee Santon also stated that in the Agreement it states that the Fire Chief will provide a
monthly written report to Rye Brook. He asked if such reports existed. Mr, Bradbury
stated that he would look into this issue.
Mayor Filipowski called for the last item on the agenda.
3. BELLEFAIR RENUMBERING ON REUNION ROADIMILESTONE ROAD IN
BELLEFAIR
A problem with the house numbers of Reunion and Milestone Road was brought before the
Board. It was noted that at the intersection of Reunion Road and Milestone Road the
original plans showed a curb cut for a driveway exiting onto Reunion Road. Subsequently
there was a change made and the driveway for S and 7 Reunion Road was made a shared
driveway which exits to Milestone Road. Many residents have experienced problems
ranging from delivery trucks not being able to locate them and missing service calls because
the servicemen are confused by the numbers. Police Chief Robert Santoro is aware of this
problem.
Chief Santoro noted that in order to correct the problem Units 3 through 17 would have to
be changed. This would be the safest way to deal with this problem. Unfortunately, this
solution would be an inconvenience to the residents who have already had their licenses and
registrations changed to their new addresses, as well as mail forwarded, deeds have been
printed, mortgages have been issued, and checks and letterheads printed up.
Mr. Howard Oaks of 7 Milestone Road stated that his car broke down and tow truck driver
couldn't find the house because he went to the other 7. Their telephone repairman had the
same problem, as did the company delivering their furniture, However, these problems pale
in comparison when you consider that police and ambulance services, in the case of an
emergency, would have the same problem, Another resident agreed with Mr. Oaks. She
noted that renumbering the Units would be a second choice and the residents would prefer
that the developer move the driveway to the original position.
Ms. Betty Oaks of Milestone Road addressed the Board. She noted that the street sign is
wrong as it now reads Milestone Court. She asked that it be corrected as all of the
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May 8, 2001
homeowners' deeds and mortgages list this street as Milestone Road. This adds to the
confusion.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the driveway was moved as it was more natural to have the
driveway where it is now located. Mr. Carosi stated that at this time no decision has been
made. The Village Staff and Village Counsel will look into this issue and will discuss it
with the developer.
Mayor Filipowski reminded everyone that the next Trustee Meetings will be held on May 22, 2001
and June 12, 2001, He requested a motion for an Executive Session on personnel to be held
directly after the meeting. On a motion made by Trustee Brackman, and seconded by Trustee
Degling, an Executive Session was scheduled.
Mr. Robert Bertolacci, Acting Superintendent of Recreation,was thanked by Mayor Filipowski and
the Board for the very successful Opening Day Parade and all his hard work preparing for baseball
season.
Mrs. Bellantoni of North Ridge Street addressed the Board. She stated that she recently learned
that the State was working on plans to make Ridge Street into a three-lane roadway, beginning at
the new Bridge and continuing to King Street---which would create a 50' right of way. She felt that
a stacking lane, which will be in the middle, would really be a suicide lane because of the speed
with which the cars traverse Ridge and King Streets: She stated that this lane will have a horrific
impact on the community and on the school. She also pointed out that there is definitely an
environmental issue here as in order to widen this road trees will, once again, need to be removed.
She asked why this modification was being considered.
Mayor Filipowski noted that the only area that the Village has spoken to the County about was
widening the roadway at the school, Mr, Bradbury noted that Rye Brook does not own Ridge
Street, however, there have been discussions about the Village taking the roadway, under the right
conditions.
Mrs. Bellantoni pointed out that the County has already created a plan—and it is for more than just
the area surrounding the school. Mayor Filipowski responded that no formal request has been
made to the County. He also noted that there was not enough money available to make Ridge
Street a three-lane road. The only discussions that the Village has had with the County was adding
a turn lane at the school and to accomplish this the school will have to give up some of its property.
Any work on Ridge Street must come before the Village Board and discussions need to take place
with residents and the school district. Mr. Bradbury noted that he had recently seen the map that
Mrs. Bellantoni presented to the Board, and at that time it was made clear to the County that
although there is interest in helping the traffic near the school the Village was not requesting any
additional work. The County is proposing other improvements on Ridge Street in order to begin to
negotiate Rye Brook taking over Ridge Street. Mayor Filipowski assured Mrs. Bellantoni that
before any improvements are approved there will be a Public Hearing because in order to approve
this type of work there must be a contract.
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May 8, 2001
Mayor Filipowski also noted that at this time resurfacing the roads from Ding Street to Meadowlark
has been approved, along with sidewalk work. Mr. Carosi, Village Engineer, stated that his
department has not seen the blueprint that Mrs. Bellantoni presented to the Board. Mr. Bradbury
will be sending a letter to the County asking for clarification on this issue.
Trustee Brackman asked to bring up a few points. She suggested that the Village consider
dedicating a garden — a Rose Garden — in memory of Rose `Bunny" Niles for all of her wort-, on
behalf of the Village.
Trustee Brackman announced that the Blind Brook High School PTA has created a Substance
Abuse Task Force. She asked that the Village support the efforts of this committee.
A number of people have approached Trustee Brackman requesting that the Village hold activities
for the children in 10°i, 11'k' and 12'Y' grades. She also announced that the Band Concert for Blind
Brook High School is scheduled for May 31't and the Elementary School is scheduled for May 15a'.
She also reminded the public that there is a Blood Drive scheduled at the High School on May 0.
Trustee Santon asked for the status on the Blind Brook/Rye Union Free School District Easement
Agreement which would allow a gas line to be installed on Harkness Park property. Mayor
Filipowski noted that a competent review from counsel has been completed and work is
proceeding.
There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully Submitted,
Christopher J. rad
Village Administrator/Clerk
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