HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-08-26 - Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes REGULAR/SPECIAL MEETING
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
VILLAGE HALL, 938 KING STREET
TUESDAY,AUGUST 26, 2003 @ 7:30 P.M.
AGENDA
Board of Police Commissioners Meeting @ 6:45 p.m.
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
REPORT
1. ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT ON
ACTIVITIES OF THE BOARD
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. CONSIDERING AMENDING CHAPTER 160 OF THE VILLAGE CODE
TO MODIFY THE APPEAL PROCEDURE FOR RENUMBERING OF
PROPERTIES
2. CONSIDERING TWO PROPOSED LOCAL LAWS TO AMEND
CHAPTER 250, ZONING, TO REGULATE RESIDENTIAL BULK AND
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE COVERAGE
3. CONSIDERING REPEALING CHAPTER A257 OF THE VILLAGE CODE
REGARDING THE LICENSE AND PERMIT FEE SCHEDULE
RESOLUTIONS
1. CONSIDERING AMENDING CHAPTER 160 OF THE VILLAGE CODE
TO MODIFY THE APPEAL PROCEDURE FOR RENUMBERING OF
PROPERTIES
2. CONSIDERING TWO PROPOSED LOCAL LAWS TO AMEND
CHAPTER 250,ZONING, TO REGULATE:
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 1 of 26
a) Building Bulk in Residential Districts and Miscellaneous Minor Editorial
Modifications
b) Impervious Coverage in Residential Districts
3. CONSIDERING REPEALING CHAPTER A257 OF THE VILLAGE CODE
REGARDING THE LICENSE AND PERMIT FEE SCHEDULE
4. SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING DATE TO CONSIDER EXTENDING
THE INTERIM DEVELOPMENT LAW
5. REFERRAL TO PLANNING BOARD TO CONSIDER A LOT MERGER
APPLICATION AT 22 LINCOLN AVENUE
6. REFERRAL TO PLANNING BOARD TO CONSIDER A SITE PLAN
APPLICATION FOR THE INSTALLATION OF A DRIVEWAY AND
PARKING AREA AT 550 WESTCHESTER AVENUE
7. REFERRAL TO PLANNING BOARD AND ADVISORY COUNCIL ON
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION TO CONSIDER A LOCAL LAW
TO AMEND CHAPTER 245, WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES, OF
THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
8. REQUESTING THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN PROPERTIES FROM THE
BLIND BROOK SANITARY SEWER DISTRICT
9. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES:
March 11, 2003, April 8, 2003, April 22, 2003 and May 13, 2003
ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
ACTION ON NON-AGENDA MATTERS SUBJECT TO THE CONSENT OF THE
TRUSTEES PRESENT AT THE MEETING
Next Trustee Meetings: September 9, 2003 and September 23, 2003
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 2 of 26
CONVENE
Mayor Filipowski called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m., by asking everyone to join
him in the Pledge of Allegiance.
BOARD Trustee Robert Harris
Trustee Paul Rosenberg
Trustee Dean Santon
Mayor Francis Filipowski
Excused. Trustee Carol Goodman
STAFF: Christopher Bradbury, Village Administrator
Connie DiSalvo, Assistant to the Village Administrator
Nicholas Ward-Willis, Esq., Village Counsel
Robert Bertolacci, Parks & Recreation Superintendent
Victor Carosi, Village Engineer
Marilyn Timpone Mohamed, Village Planning Consultant
Robert Santoro, Chief of Police
Fred Seifert, Public Access Coordinator
Paula Patafio, Meeting Secretary
Mayor Filipowski welcomed everyone to the meeting. He called for the first item on the
agenda, a report by the Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals.
REPORT
1. ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT ON
ACTIVITIES OF THE BOARD
Mr. Mark Harmon addressed the Board. He noted that the Zoning Board hears
appeals and requests for variances. The majority of the appeals come from
denials applicants have received from the Building Department. By in-large, the
applications are for variances related to setbacks and side/rear/front yard
requirements. Many of the homes in Rye Brook are non-conforming because of
the changes to the Village's Zoning Code that have taken effect over the years.
The Zoning Board also hears applications for subdivisions and the construction of
new home, although much more rare. Decisions are made through interpretation
of the Zoning Code.
At this time, the biggest issue facing the Zoning Board involve the application of
Section 212-4(A)(1) — Installation of sprinkler systems in homes. There are two
particular aspects of this ordinance that are troubling. Mr. Harmon noted that
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August 26, 2003
Page 3 of 26
recently the Zoning Board of Appeals forwarded a letter to the Village
Administrator and Board of Trustees regarding this matter outlining the two
principal problems. The first is an ambiguity in the definition of an alteration or
repair. The section of the Code that is being referred to requires the installation of
a sprinkler system in any existing home where more than 50% of the building
floor area will be subject to alteration or repair. There is no definition of
alteration within the Village Code. The Building Inspector, who has been doing a
terrific job, has been applying the New York State Building Code's definition of
alternations. This means that any work done in a room requires that the entire
floor area of that room be added in determining what is 50% of the home. In
addition, the word repair is confusing. Although homeowners do not need a
building permit to do repairs, if a homeowner is doing repairs to more than 50%
of their home they would be required to install a sprinkler system.
What the Village needs to do is to come up with a greater understanding of what
the intent of the Board of Trustees was at the time it enacted this ordinance. The
definition of alternation must be clarified. For example, if an applicant is
replacing a window in a room, should the entire floor area of that room be
included in the calculation. Does a window being removed require the entire
alteration to be sprinklered? This has been the determining factor in several of the
recent applications that have come before the Zoning Board.
The other major area where there are problems, is that it seems to fall hardest on
the homeowners with the smallest homes. The reason this happens is because
with a 1,000 or 2,000 square foot home, a small addition with the interpretation of
alterations could result in more than 50% of the home being involved. Thus, the
homeowner would be required to install the sprinkler system. However, a home of
3,000 or 4,000 square feet with the same size addition would not require the
homeowner to install the sprinkler system.
The Zoning Board of Appeals has requested a Work Session with the Board of
Trustees to review this matter. Mayor Filipowski and Mr. Bradbury are in the
process of setting up this meeting with the Village's Planning Consultant, Village
Engineer, and Board of Trustees.
Mayor Filipowski thanked Mr. Harmon for his presentation.
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 4 of 26
PUBLIC HEARING
1. CONSIDERING AMENDING CHAPTER 160 OF THE VILLAGE CODE
TO MODIFY THE APPEAL PROCEDURE FOR RENUMBERING OF
PROPERTIES
Mayor Filipowski re-opened this public hearing at 7:45 p.m.
Trustee Rosenberg made a motion to table this issue to another date. He asked for
additional time to review the matter. Trustee Robert Harris seconded the motion.
Mayor Filipowski noted that tabling the item means no discussion on this matter
at this time. He also pointed out that it would take three aye votes to table this
matter.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING NO
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING NO
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING NO
Mayor Filipowski noted that the motion did not pass. He called for comments
from members of the public.
Mr. Ethan Blank of 5 Milestone Road addressed the Board. He addressed the
amendment to the Code, noting that he had forwarded an e-mail to the Board for
their review. He stated that there was a perception that this amendment was being
used to address the circumstances on Milestone Road. The essence of his
concerns surrounded the fact that this was a construction issue. He felt that it was
inappropriate to discuss the matter without the builder, or his
counsel/representative being in attendance. If this amendment passes, then the
entire odd side of the street will have their numbering changed. The builder has
offered to pay responsible expenses in connection with this change. He
questioned whether or not the builder had an enforceable legal obligation. If not,
this would mean that the homeowner would be holding the "expense" bag. He
felt that as a prior act, the Board of Trustees should take the lead and negotiate a
settlement with the builder. This should be done in the issue of fairness. If this is
the builder's mistake, then they should be held responsible.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the builder, Spectrum Skanska, has agreed to accept the
burden of reasonable costs. This agreement is a condition of the approval. In
addition, Mr. Mark Miller, the representative for the builder, has reiterated this
agreement at prior Board of Trustee meetings.
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
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The owner of 7 Reunion Road addressed the Board. He asked that any
renumbering be done in conformance with the Village's Code. This would mean
that his address would be changed to 1 Milestone Road. There were requests that
number include an A or a B,which he was opposed to.
A resident of 11 Milestone Road addressed the Board. His preference for the
number change was I and IA. This would mean that the rest of the residents
would not be inconvenienced. If the block has to be renumbered, then he felt that
it should be the entire block and not just the odd numbers. He also suggested that
starting the numbers at 100 would alleviate the problem of not knowing whether
or not the mail was intended for the old 99 or the new 99.
Howard Oaks of 7 Milestone Road addressed the Board. He requested that Mr.
Bradbury re-read the resolution so that he could be clear of what would result.
Mr. Bradbury noted that this modification would be to the house numbering law
of the Village of Rye Brook. The Director of Public Works/Village Engineer will
consult with the Chief Police, and all emergency services, when re-numbering
homes. Any property owner that objects to the change will have the opportunity
to appeal to the Board of Trustees.
Howard Oaks thanked the Board for reviewing this topic. He noted that one of
the things that has been frustrating for him over the years is that street numbering
is a matter of public safety. It has now been three years, and although attempts
have been made to correct it, the matter remains the same. He noted that he was
in favor of the resolution. The Zoning Board of Appeals, in his opinion, did not
have the training or experience to deal with the safety issue. The
recommendations from the Chief of Police, and the 911 Coordinator, are to
renumber the homes on Milestone Road. He also felt that the builder should
reimburse homeowners for expenses incurred due to the change made at the time
of construction. He hoped that this issue, a matter of public safety, would be
resolved in a timely manner.
Trustee Paul Rosenberg reviewed what made him uncomfortable about some of
the specifics. A broad change is being made to the law, with a specific instance
where this law needs to be applied. He questioned how this was going to affect
the homeowners. He also wanted clarification of how the homeowners would be
compensated by the builder.
Trustee Dean Santon stated that he was troubled by the notion of changing the
Code to enable the Village to deal with the renumbering situation on Milestone
Road. He felt that this matter should be resolved prior to changing the Code. He
also questioned the appeal process. He stated that he would not vote for a law
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 6 of 26
that had the express purpose of overturning a decision made by the Zoning Board
of Appeals.
Trustee Harris noted that by approving this amendment, it puts the wheels in
motion. Voting yes moves this matter forward for the Chief to do what he needs
to do. The best way to get an answer is to start the process.
Mr. Bradbury pointed out that everyone wants to see this issue resolved. This law
is being resolved for this issue, and other issues that may come before the Board.
Mayor Filipowski noted that the Board's intent was to ensure that the expenses
were covered. He deferred to Nicholas Ward-Willis, Esq., Village Counsel. Mr.
Ward-Willis noted that there is a legal obligation for the developer, who has
agreed to reimburse for reasonable expenses.
Mayor Filipowski called for additional comments from the public or members of
the Board. There being none, he asked for a motion to close the public hearing.
On a motion made by Trustee Harris, and seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the
public hearing was closed.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Mayor Filipowski called for item 91 of resolutions.
RESOLUTIONS
1. CONSIDERING AMENDING CHAPTER 160 OF THE VILLAGE
CODE TO MODIFY THE APPEAL PROCEDURE FOR
RENUMBERING OF PROPERTIES
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Harris, and
seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 7 of 26
ADOPTING A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND CHAPTER 160 OF THE VILLAGE
CODE TO MODIFY THE APPEAL PROCEDURE REGARDING
RENUMBERING OF PROPERTIES
WHEREAS, the Village desires to modify the procedure whereby
renumbering of properties may be appealed; and
WHEREAS, a duly noticed public hearing was held on August 26, 2003
at which time all those wishing to be heard were given the opportunity to be heard
and the hearing was closed on August 26, 2003; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook has
complied with the provisions of the New York State Environmental Quality
Review Act and has determined that the adoption of such local law is a "Type IP'
action and, therefore, no further environmental review of the proposed action is
required,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye
Brook Board of Trustees hereby adopts the proposed local law to amend Chapter
160 of the Village Code to modify the appeal procedure regarding renumbering of
properties, which amendments are enacted into law as Local Law # 10-2003; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and the Village Clerk
are authorized to sign all necessary documents to implement the purposes of this
resolution.
Mr. Ethan Blank of Milestone Road felt that other possibilities exist to rectify this
situation on Milestone Road that would not necessitate the renumbering of the
entire street. He, once again, expressed his reluctance to change the numbering.
Mr. Ward-Willis noted that under the new law the Director of Public Works has
the authority to make this decision. Mr. Bradbury reminded the Board that this
change to the law changes the appeal system.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING NO
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 8 of 26
2. CONSIDERING TWO PROPOSED LOCAL LAWS TO AMEND
CHAPTER 250, ZONING TO REGULATE RESIDENTIAL BULK AND
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE COVERAGE
Mayor Filipowski declared the public hearing open.
Ms. Marilyn Timpone Mohamed from Frederick P. Clark Associates
addressed the Board. She noted that two local laws were being considered to
regulate development within Rye Brook. One has to do with the bulk of the
buildings and the other has to do with impervious surface coverage of
residential lots. The Village had concern that large, over scaled residents were
being constructed. They reviewed the situations, and remedies. The
identified the issues that exist. They reviewed existing house within the
Village that set the character for various neighborhoods. The current
regulations have also been reviewed. There is a maximum height of 30' and a
maximum lot coverage for primary buildings, accessory buildings, and decks.
The requirements set by Rye Brook are somewhat less than other surrounding
townships. Ms. Timpone Mohamed noted that other Villages are also
concerned with this issue.
From the analysis of the current regulations and the identified issues,
recommendations have been made. These recommendations fall into specific
areas. There have been modifications to the existing Zoning Code. The
definition of basements has been changed. Several other definitions will be
clarified. Another area reviewed was the way to look at and regulate the bulk
of buildings. Another area reviewed were setbacks. Ratios specific to each
zoning district have been developed. A suggestion was to increase the setback
in the zoning districts. It may be difficult because of the vast difference in
sizes of lots within Rye Brook. Most new buildings have been built at greater
than the minimum setbacks. When changing zoning requirements, a small
change in the requirements may bring a large change on the ground.
It is important to note that these regulations do not design a house, but rather
simply provide an envelope in which someone can design a house. Once an
envelope is set for a lot by using maximum floor area and setback ratios, the
designer of a new house can almost never build the maximum square footage
because of the regulations. The idea is not to make the regulations so
restrictive that it would alter the size house that is the current denominator of
every development.
Three different changes are being proposed to the current zoning law. Also to
be considered is limiting the amount of site development. If a resident wants
a pool, a deck, a garage, a driveway of an appropriate size, it should still be
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 9 of 26
able to be built on a minimum sized lot. This regulation will move a home
back and away from the side lots.
None of the recently built houses have been built to the minimum rear lot
lines. The Village Staff, including the Village Engineer and Building
Inspector, have reviewed the proposed Law. The Building Inspector was
concerned that the height of the building would preclude a certain architecture
style. The Village wants to be able to encourage architectural style and
design, and yet maintain a grasp on the size of the house being built.
Ms. Timpone Mohamed noted that the Planning Board has also reviewed this
matter. They spent a good deal of time reviewing this law. Different
formulas were reviewed. The original analysis and formula is a much more
reasonable first step. These regulations will not deal with new subdivisions.
They will also not hamper architectural design.
Mayor Filipowski thanked Ms. Timpone Mohamed for her presentation. He
called for questions from members of the public. There being none, he turned
to the Board for their comments and questions.
Trustee Harris questioned how impervious surfaces were handled. There are
water problems throughout the Village that must be addressed. Impervious
surfaces impede the water recharge into the ground. He wanted to be sure that
this proposed law would restrict people from paving their entire front yards.
Ms. Timpone Mohamed responded that the regulations being proposed
address maximum impervious surface coverage of the front yard. This was a
major concern for the Village. The calculations are done using lot size, even
though from district to district lot sizes vary tremendously. The percentage of
a front yard that can be paved is calculated in concert with the rest of the law.
If an applicant paves the front yard, then they won't be able to pave in the
rear. Trustee Harris felt that paving in the rear was less intrusive than paving
the front yard.
Mayor Filipowski noted that the whole idea is that less impervious surface
helps everyone.
Trustee Santon agreed. He stated that he felt that substantial paving of rear
yards should also be considered. He also felt that having the ability to pave
40% of a front yard is too much. It was his opinion that the amount of
impervious surface should be reduced, especially in the front yard. His
concern was not how big a structure was, but rather that setbacks have not
been changed. He felt that rear yards impact the neighborhood as well as the
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 10 of 26
quality of life of residents who are adjacent to this rear yard. All residents
must be protected from expansions that might effect their enjoyment of their
own rear yard. He noted that the consensus of the Planning Board was that
although not perfect, this law should be approved. He requested that
increased setbacks be considered. He felt that meaningful changes will come
if the Village evaluates the setbacks.
Ms. Timpone Mohamed noted that a larger parcel allows for a larger house.
During her research she found nothing that suggests that rear yard setbacks are
being built to. The increase in setbacks imposes a problem because there are
lots of varying sizes. Increasing these setbacks could impact a minimum or
oversized lot, as well as irregularly sized lots. Working on setbacks would
require additional study and, at this point, she felt that this study was not
warranted. The imposition of the floor area ratio will make a house smaller
and further away from the property lines. She suggested waiting on making
changes to setbacks to see what the impacts of the proposed amendments
would be.
Mayor Filipowski asked if there was a way to reduce the amount of
impervious in front yards. Mr. Ward-Willis noted that there are time
constraints with regard to making changes to the law. He noted that this was a
public hearing. If changes are made then a second public hearing would have
to be held.
Ms. Timpone Mohamed called the Board's attention to the fact that there is
currently no justification for any additional changes. If an applicant paves
their front yard, there is a possibility that they cannot construct anything in the
rear yard.
Mayor Filipowski turned to Counsel for an opinion on adjourning the matter.
Mr. Ward-Willis expressed his concern regarding having a draft prepared ten
days prior to the September 9th meeting.
Mr. Victor Carosi, Village Engineer, addressed the Board. He noted that the
intent was to assume a standard sized driveway and front walk. These are
necessary impervious surfaces. A percentage that deals with the real world
must be taken into account. The consensus of the Board was that it needed a
little more time to address this matter. Mr. Bradbury suggested placing this
matter on the agenda for the September 23, 2003 meeting.
On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and seconded by Trustee Rosenberg,
the public hearing was closed.
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 11 of 26
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
3. CONSIDERING TWO PROPOSED LOCAL LAWS TO AMEND
CHAPTER 250, ZONING, TO REGULATE:
a) Building Bulk in residential districts and miscellaneous minor editorial
modifications
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and
seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
ADOPTING A LOCAL LAW TO
A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND CHAPTER 250,ZONING, CONCERNING
REGULATION OF BUILDING BULK IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS AND
MISCELLANEOUS MINOR EDITORIAL MODIFICATIONS
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees is considering a local law to amend
Chapter 250, Zoning, of the Code of the Village of Rye Brook to regulate building
bulk in residential zoning districts R2-F, R-5, R-7, R-10, R-12, R-15, R-15A and
R-20 and to edit the Village Code unrelated to building/bulk to correct a reference
error and clarify existing regulations regarding parking and entrances of accessory
uses in the R2-F district; and
WHEREAS, the proposed text amendments are attached to this
resolution, with text to be deleted shown in strikeout and text to be added shown
in double underline; and
WHEREAS, the proposed local law was referred to the Village of Rye
Brook Planning Board, Westchester County Department of Planning, the Towns
of Rye and Greenwich, the Village of Port Chester, the Town/Village of Harrison
and the City of Rye for review and comment; and
WHEREAS, no comments were received from the Westchester County
Department of Planning, the Towns of Rye and Greenwich, the Village of Port
Chester, the Town/Village of Harrison and the City of Rye; and
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 12 of 26
WHEREAS, by resolution dated July 24, 2003, the Village Planning
Board recommended referral of the proposed local law to the Architectural
Review Board for review and comment and adoption of the proposed local law as
revised by the Village Planning Consultant according to their suggestions and
comments; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board is familiar with the proposed local law
and has discussed it on a number of occasions, directing the Village Planning
Consultant to make revisions and modifications; and
WHEREAS, on August 26, 2003 the Village Board held a public hearing
on the subject local law, at which time all persons interested were given an
opportunity to speak on behalf of or in opposition to said Proposed Local Law;
and
WHEREAS, the Village Board after due deliberation, finds it in the best
interest of the Village to adopt such a local law; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board has complied with the provisions of the
New York State Environmental Quality Review Act by determining that adoption
of such Proposed Local Law is an "Unlisted Action" and has prepared a full
Environmental Assessment Form; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board after due deliberation, finds that such
local law will not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village Board of
Trustees hereby adopts a Negative Declaration, for the reasons stated therein,
thereby ending the State Environmental Quality Review process; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby
adopts Local Law 911-2003.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
b) Impervious Coverage in residential districts
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 13 of 26
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and
seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
ADOPTING A LOCAL LAW TO
AMEND CHAPTER 250, ZONING, OF THE CODE
OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK CONCERNING REGULATION OF
IMPERVIOUS COVERAGE IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees is considering a local law to amend
impervious coverage in residential zoning districts R2-F, R-5, R-7, R-10, R-12, R-
15, R-15A and R-20; and
WHEREAS, the proposed text amendments are attached to this
resolution, with text to be deleted shown in strikeout and text to be added shown
in double underline; and
WHEREAS, the proposed local law was referred to the Village of Rye
Brook Planning Board, Westchester County Department of Planning, the Towns
of Rye and Greenwich, the Village of Port Chester, the Town/Village of Harrison
and the City of Rye for review and comment; and
WHEREAS, no comments were received from the Westchester County
Department of Planning, the Towns of Rye and Greenwich, the Village of Port
Chester, the Town/Village of Harrison and the City of Rye; and
WHEREAS, by resolution dated July 24, 2003, the Village Planning
Board recommended adoption of the proposed local law as revised by the Village
Planning Consultant according to their suggestions and comments; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board is familiar with the proposed local law
and has discussed it on a number of occasions, directing the Village Planning
Consultant to make revisions and modifications; and
WHEREAS, on August 26, 2003 the Village Board held a public hearing
on the subject local law, at which time all persons interested were given an
opportunity to speak on behalf of or in opposition to said Proposed Local Law;
and
WHEREAS, the Village Board after due deliberation, finds it in the best
interest of the Village to adopt such a local law; and
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 14 of 26
WHEREAS, the Village Board has complied with the provisions of the
New York State Environmental Quality Review Act by determining that adoption
of such Proposed Local Law is an "Unlisted Action" and has prepared a full
Environmental Assessment Form; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board after due deliberation, finds that such
local law will not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village Board of
Trustees hereby adopts a Negative Declaration, for the reasons stated therein,
thereby ending the State Environmental Quality Review process; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby
adopts Local Law 912- 2003.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING NO
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Mayor Filipowski asked for a Work Session prior to the September 23rd Board of Trustee
meeting. Mr. Bradbury noted that he would be arranging this meeting. The suggested
dates were September 17d' and 23rd
Mayor Filipowski called for the next public hearing:
3. CONSIDERING REPEALING CHAPTER A257 OF THE VILLAGE CODE
REGARDING THE LICENSE AND PERMIT FEE SCHEDULE
Mr. Bradbury summarized this issue for the Board. The fees are noted throughout
the Code. These fees are now proposed to placed on a fee schedule, keeping all
the fees in one place.
Mayor Filipowski called for comments from the members of the public and the
Board of Trustees. There being no comments, he requested a motion to close the
public hearing. On a motion made by Trustee Rosenberg, and seconded by
Trustee Harris, the public hearing was closed.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 15 of 26
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Mayor Filipowski called for the resolution on the above matter.
3. CONSIDERING REPEALING CHAPTER A257 OF THE VILLAGE CODE
REGARDING THE LICENSE AND PERMIT FEE SCHEDULE
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Rosenberg, and
seconded by Trustee Harris, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
ADOPTING A LOCAL LAW TO REPEAL CHAPTER A257 AND AMEND
ALL REFERENCES THERETO IN THE VILLAGE CODE AND ADOPTING A
UNIFORM LICENSE AND PERMIT FEE SCHEDULE
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook has requested that Chapter A257
of the Village Code be replaced by a Uniform License and Permit Fee Schedule to
be kept on file in the Village Clerk's office; and
WHEREAS, a proposed local law was introduced to repeal Chapter
A257, Fees of the Code of the Village of Rye Brook and to amend all references
thereto in Chapters 47, 70, 87, 90, 107, 113, 121, 162, 170, 174, 178, 180, 192,
196, 209, 215, 219, 224, 235, 245, and 250 of the Code of the Village of Rye
Brook and to replace such language with references to the License and Fee
Schedule which is to be kept on file in the Village Clerk's office; and
WHEREAS, a duly noticed public hearing was held at a meeting of the
Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook on August 26, 2003, at which time
all those wishing to be heard on behalf of or in opposition to the proposed local
law, or any part thereof, were given the opportunity to be heard and the hearing
was closed; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook has
complied with the provisions of the New York State Environmental Quality
Review Act and has determined that the adoption of such local law is a "Type II"
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 16 of 26
action and, therefore, no further environmental review of the proposed action is
required; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook after due
deliberation, finds it is in the best interest of the Village to adopt such local law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees of
the Village of Rye Brook hereby adopts the proposed local law to repeal Chapter
A257 of the Code of the Village of Rye Brook and to amend all references thereto
in Chapters 47, 70, 87, 90, 107, 113, 121, 162, 170, 174, 178, 180, 192, 196, 209,
215, 219, 224, 235, 245, and 250 of the Code of the Village of Rye Brook which
amendments are enacted into law as Local Law 913-2003; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the attached License and Permit Fee
Schedule is adopted; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of said License and Fee
Schedule shall be kept on file in the Village Clerk's office; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and the Village Clerk are
authorized to sign all necessary documents to implement the purposes of this
resolution.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
4. SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING DATE TO CONSIDER EXTENDING
THE INTERIM DEVELOPMENT LAW
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and
seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING DATE TO
CONSIDER EXTENDING THE
INTERIM DEVELOPMENT LAW
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 17 of 26
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees adopted Local
Law 95-2002, entitled "Interim Development Law of The Village of Rye Brook",
on August 12, 2002 to regulate for an interim period, the approval of subdivision
plats, project development plans and special use permits in the R-12, R-15 and R-
20 Zoning districts and the Lincoln Avenue corridor; and
WHEREAS, the Interim Development Law took effect upon its filing
with the Secretary of State on September 20, 2002 and, by its terms, would have
expired on March 20, 2003; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees extended the effective date of the
Interim Development Law to July 8, 2003 by Local Law 94-2003 and further
extended the effective date of the law to September 9, 2003 by Local Law 9 8-
2003; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees wishes to further extend the effective
date of the Interim Development Law to December 23, 2003;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees
shall hold a Public Hearing on September 9, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall,
Rye Brook, New York to consider amending the interim development law to
extend its term to December 23, 2003; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this local law shall be referred to
the Village of Rye Brook Planning Board and the Westchester County
Department of Planning.
Trustee Santon questioned whether this matter needed to be referred to the
Planning Board. Mr. Ward-Willis noted that the Planning Board could schedule a
special meeting to review this matter.
Trustee Santon asked what the Village hoped to accomplish by extending the
Moratorium. Mr. Bradbury noted that this extension keeps all options open.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 18 of 26
5. REFERRAL TO PLANNING BOARD TO CONSIDER A LOT MERGER
APPLICATION AT 22 LINCOLN AVENUE
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Rosenberg, and
seconded by Trustee Santon, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
REFERRING THE LOT MERGER APPLICATION OF KENNETH
HELLER, 22 LINCOLN AVENUE, TO THE PLANNING BOARD OF THE
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
WHEREAS, Kenneth Heller is the owner of the premises located at 22 Lincoln
Avenue and has made an application to the Village of Rye Brook pursuant to Section
250-6(A)(2) of the Village Code requesting a lot merger at the subject properties located
at Section 1, Block 12, Lots 1B-2B-1B, 113-213-2 and 1B-2B-2S located in the R-12
Zoning District.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to Section 10a of
Local law. 95-2002, the Interim Development Law, the Village Board, in the exercise of
its absolute legislative discretion, grants a variance from the application of the provisions
of said Local Law for the sole purpose of considering this application; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Village of
Rye Brook declares itself Lead Agency for the review of the subject application for a lot
merger application; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Village of
Rye Brook hereby refers the subject application to the Westchester County Planning
Department, the Village Planning Board and the Planning Consultant of the Village of
Rye Brook for a report and recommendation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the applicant is directed to comply with
Section 250-40 of the Village Code regarding notification, as modified herein, by
reducing the written notification requirement radius to 250 feet and that such written
notification refer to the Planning Board meeting and that in the future a meeting will be
held to discuss this application by the Board of Trustees without reference to a date and
that the sign required by Section 250-40 shall reference both the Planning Board and
Board of Trustees meeting; and
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 19 of 26
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the applicant is directed to deposit the sum
of $2,500.00 with the Village to be used toward professional fees incurred during the
review of this application.
Mayor Filipowski asked Mr. Bradbury to review a request made by the applicant
to reduce the notification distance. Mr. Bradbury noted that the applicant
requested a less requirement from the notification law.
Mr. Ken Heller, of 22 Lincoln Avenue, addressed the Board. The application is a
request a merger of the properties. Since 1946 has been paying taxes on more
property than the survey shows. A mistake was made on the tax maps. The tax
maps reflect 1.968 acres when actually there are only 1.79 acres. The lot merger
would correct the equity of taxes paid since 1946. Mr. Heller noted that there is
no refund due to the applicant. He also noted that he had been holding this matter
because of the Moratorium, but as the Moratorium was extended, he decided to
move forward. At this time he was requesting a reduction in the area of
notification, and clarification of how many times he would have to send out the
notices.
Mr. Ward-Willis suggested that the Board require a single notification for the
Planning Board meeting and the Village Board meeting. Mr. Bradbury suggested
that the notification should be made at the Planning Board level so that any
objections or concerns can be addressed early on. Mr. Bradbury clarified that Mr.
Heller was requesting two waivers: he first was for a 250 foot radius notification,
and the second was for notification only at the Planning Board level. Mr. Heller
noted that he has prepared the signage and it was ready to be installed on the
property.
Trustee Santon noted that the merger of two lots creates a larger lot. There is no
construction proposed. He felt that that the sign notification must be modified for
each and every meeting.
Mayor Filipowski called for the consensus of the Board on this matter. After a
brief discussion, the decision was made to require only one notification, at a
distance of 250', for the Planning Board. No notification will be required for the
Village Board Meeting.
Mr. Ward-Willis modified the resolution to reflect both of the waivers. He noted
that the Planning Board meeting was scheduled for September 18th. It was
suggested that the public hearing be set for the end of September.
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 20 of 26
On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the
resolution was adopted as amended.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
6. REFERRAL TO PLANNING BOARD TO CONSIDER A SITE PLAN
APPLICATION FOR THE INSTALLATION OF A DRIVEWAY AND
PARKING AREA AT 550 WESTCHESTER AVENUE
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Rosenberg, and
seconded by Trustee Santon, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
REFERRING SITE PLAN APPLICATION FOR THE INSTALLATION OF A
DRIVEWAY AND PARKING AREA AT 550 WESTCHESTER AVENUE TO THE
PLANNING BOARD OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
WHEREAS, 550 Realty Corporation has made an application to the
Village to install a driveway and to create 11 new parking spaces to serve the
property at 550 and 548 Westchester Avenue, in the R-2F zoning district,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of
the Village of Rye Brook declares itself Lead Agency for the review of the subject
site plan application; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the
Village of Rye Brook hereby refers the subject application to the Village Planning
Board and the Planning Consultant of the Village of Rye Brook for a report and
recommendation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the applicant is directed to comply
with Section 250-40 of the Village Code regarding notifications; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the applicant deposit the sum of
$4,000 to be used toward professional fees incurred during the review of this
application.
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 21 of 26
Mr. Tom Ahnemann from the firm of J.A. Kirby addressed the Board. He noted
that he was the representative for the applicant. He began his presentation by
noting that Mr. Van der Wateren owns or controls Lots 46 and 49 on Westchester
Avenue, also known as 548-550-552 Westchester Avenue. The proposal before
the Board this evening was to improve parking on site for these two particular
sites. The proposal includes a new curb cut onto Westchester Avenue. Also
proposed is some regrading, and drainage to handle the increase of runoff from
the additional impervious surfaces, reducing the runoff to a net zero runoff. This
is a hardship situation. The smaller lot is currently non-conforming and has no
parking on the site. Mr. Van der Wateren wants to improve safety, and provide
the required on-site parking spaces required by the Village. This parking area will
be constructed of asphalt and turf block, a semi-impervious surface. Six parking
spaces will be provided on 548 Westchester Avenue, which has a two-family
dwelling, by removing a portion of the existing driveway and a concrete slab in
the rear. The applicant intends to connect the driveway to the new proposed
driveway. There will be an easement for the smaller lot, 550-552 Westchester
Avenue, over the larger lot for ingress and egress. New lighting schemes have
been proposed, along with screening. The total site improvements will bring
vehicles off the street. It was noted that this is a non-conforming property within
the Village.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
7. REFERRAL TO THE PLANNING BOARD AND ADVISORY COUNCIL
ON ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION TO CONSIDER A LOCAL
LAW TO AMEND CHAPTER 245, WETLANDS AND WATER COURSES
OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and
seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
REFERRAL TO PLANNING BOARD AND ADVISORY COUNCIL ON
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION ON A
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 22 of 26
LOCAL LAW TO AMEND CHAPTER 245,WETLANDS AND
WATERCOURSES, OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees is considering a local law to amend
Chapter 245, Wetlands and Watercourses, of the Code of the Village of Rye
Brook; and
WHEREAS, the proposed text amendments are attached to this resolution
with text to be deleted shown in strikeout and text to be added shown underlined.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of
the Village of Rye Brook hereby refers the proposed text amendments, as attached
hereto, to the Planning Board and the Advisory Council on Environmental
Conservation for review and comment.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
8. REQUESTING THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN PROPERTIES FROM
THE BLIND BROOK SANITARY SEWER DISTRICT
Mr. Bradbury read the resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Santon, and
seconded by Trustee Rosenberg, the resolution was adopted.
RESOLUTION
REQUESTING THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN PROPERTIES FROM THE
BLIND BROOK SANITARY SEWER DISTRICT
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook supports the removal of certain
properties from the Westchester County Blind Brook Sanitary Sewer District; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook requests that Westchester County
consider these properties for removal from the Blind Brook Sanitary Sewer
District due to their distance from an available sewer line and/or the cost-
prohibitive construction or maintenance costs to connect to the available sewer
line; and
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 23 of 26
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook urges Westchester County to
approve the removal of these properties from this sewer tax burden since the
residents cannot reasonably utilize this municipal service.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye
Brook Board of Trustees hereby urges the Westchester County Board of
Legislators to consider the removal of the following properties from the Blind
Brook Sanitary Sewer District:
Address: Section-Block-Lot(s):
944 King Street 129.60-1-45.0
952 King Street 129.60-1-46.0
(no street 9)King Street 129.60-1-44.0
30 Hillandale Road 130.77-1-10.0
22 Lincoln Avenue 135.65-1-30.0, 31.0 and 32.0
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to
sign all documents necessary or appropriate to accomplish the purposes of this
resolution.
Trustee Santon questioned whether consent has been received from the individual
property owners. Mr. Bradbury stated that consents have been received. He also
noted that there could be other properties that may come up at a later date.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 24 of 26
9. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES: March 11, 2003, April 8, 2003, April
22, 2003, and May 13, 2003
Mayor Filipowski called for a motion to approve, as amended. On a motion made
by Trustee Santon, and seconded by Trustee Harris, the summaries were adopted
as amended.
TRUSTEE GOODMAN ABSENT
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ROSENBERG ABSTAINED
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. Bradbury noted that work is continuing on the Village's Firehouse site. The
contaminated soil has been removed from the property and work is now progressing. The
goals is to construct as much of the building as possible before winter.
He noted that on September 9d' there will be a Memorial Garden Ceremony. He thanked
the Parks Department that has worked very hard on getting this Garden in place, as well
as residents who have made donations. The ceremony will be held at 6:00 p.m.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the report has been submitted on the Hillandale water issues and
the compost sites.
The Village has been working with the Long Island Water Shed on a grant application.
The consultant's study of King Street is underway. The background information is now
being prepared.
Trustee Santon reminded the Board that there was supposed to be an update on the
Zoning Code Compliance issues. Mayor Filipowski suggested that this matter be
scheduled for September 9d'.
Trustee Santon questioned the matter of utility easement issues. He asked that they could
be placed on the agenda for the September 23rd meeting.
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 25 of 26
Mayor Filipowski noted that the next Trustee Meetings were scheduled for September 9,
2003 and September 23, 2003.
This Board has decided to make available to the pubic the confidential memorandum
submitted by the former Legal Committee in connection with the creation of the
coterminous Town/Village dated June 17, 1993. This memorandum was created by the
Rye Brook Legal Committee. Before reaching this decision, discussion took place with
everyone involved and all concurred with this determination. The Village Attorney will
update the memorandum, and it will also be available to the public.
Mayor Filipowski reminded everyone that school starts next week. Ridge Street has
become a speedway. All residents, and people traversing Ridge Street, must slow down.
Many children will be walking to school. He asked that everyone be considerate. In
addition, the police will be out paying close attention to the speeding on this roadway.
Mayor Filipowski called upon members of the public wishing to address the Board.
There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:00
p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Christopher J. Bradbury
Village Administrator/Clerk
Board of Trustee Meeting
August 26, 2003
Page 26 of 26