HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-01-14 - Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes SPECIAL MEETING/AGENDA MEETING
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
VILLAGE HALL, 938 KING STREET
TUESDAY,JANUARY 14, 2003 — 7:30 P.M.
AGENDA
REPORTS
1. PRESENTATION ON FINAL FIRE HOUSE DESIGN FROM FIRE HOUSE
CONSTRUCTION CHAIRMAN
RESOLUTIONS
1. REFERRING SAMMARTINO/PIRRO SUBDIVISION APPLICATION AT 225
BETSY BROWN ROAD TO THE PLANNING BOARD OF THE VILLAGE OF
RYE BROOK
2. SETTING DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER CON EDISON'S
APPLICATION FOR A VARIANCE FROM THE MORATORIUM
3. DESIGNATING POLLING LOCATIONS AND HOURS FOR THE 2003
VILLAGE ELECTION ON MARCH 18, 2003
4. ENCOURAGING ADOPTION BY NEW YORK STATE OF THE
COLLATERAL SOURCE BILL TO PERMIT COLLATERAL SOURCES TO
OFFSET DAMAGE AWARDS FOR FUTURE COSTS OR EXPENSES IN
ACTIONS AGAINST PUBLIC EMPLOYERS
5. CONSIDERING THE ADOPTION OF:
Miscellaneous Zoning Code Amendments
Notification Zoning Code Amendments
6. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES:
October 8, 2002
October 22, 2002
November 12, 2002
November 26, 2002
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 1 of 17
REPORT:
1. STATUS UPDATE FROM PLANNING CONSULTANT ON ALL ZONING
CODE AMENDMENTS RELATED TO THE MORATORIUM
DISCUSSION OF AGENDA ITEMS SUGGESTED BY MEMBERS OF THE
VILLAGE BOARD
No Items Received
DISCUSSION OF AGENDA ITEMS SUGGESTED BY MEMBERS OF THE
PUBLIC
Next Trustee Meetings: January 28, 2003 and February 11, 2003
CONVENE
Mayor Filipowski called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance
followed.
BOARD Trustee Donald Degling
Trustee Carol Goodman
Trustee Robert Harris
Trustee Dean Santon
Mayor Francis Filipowski
STAFF: Christopher Bradbury, Village Administrator
Connie DiSalvo, Assistant to the Village Administrator
Nicholas Ward-Willis, Esq., Village Counsel
David Stolman, Village Planning Consultant
Marilyn Timpone-Mohamed, Village Planning Consultant
Victor Carosi, Village Engineer
Robert Santoro, Police Chief
Mayor Filipowski welcomed everyone to the first meeting for the Village of Rye Brook's
Board of Trustees for 2003. He began the meeting by noting that the first presentation
would be made by the Fire House Committee, Chaired by Former Trustee Lawrence
Rand.
Mr. Rand began his presentation by noting that the last update given to the Village Board
was during the Summer of 2002. The budget for this project was approximately 3.1
million dollars and the goal was to get it completed on time. The Fire House Committee
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 2 of 17
is hopeful that the project will be completed by the end of 2003. A preliminary plan and
budget were approved and plans to demolish the building next to the Village Hall were
put into place. At this time the construction budget estimate has been submitted to the
Village Board. The budget includes improvements that were made during the
construction design. These improvements were made with the input of the Village's
professionals, the Fire Departments of both Port Chester and Rye Brook, and the EMS.
He thanked the Mayor and the Board for their foresight in structuring this Fire House
Construction Committee by appointing members from various committees to this
committee. This enabled everyone to be up-to-date on the project as it went through the
process. Mr. Rand hoped that the Village would move ahead with this project as quickly
as possible. He noted that the funding for the project has been previously approved by
the Board. At this time the project is ready to go out to bid. If everything goes as
planned, the Village may be looking at a ground breaking for either March or April.
Mayor Filipowski thanked the Committee for its hard work. He turned to the Board for
questions and comments. Trustee Degling questioned fees for an elevator stop to the
basement. Mr. Bradbury noted that when reviewing the plan in an attempt to locate cost
savings, the elevator stop was listed as a bid alternate. However, the items on this bid
alternate list have been deemed necessary and will not be deducted. It is the Village's
preference to keep these items in the bid and move forward.
Trustee Degling referred to the meeting and training room and the restrooms. He felt that
the restroom design should be changed to include facilities for more than one individual
at a time. The representative for Sullivan Architecture noted that the original intent of the
meeting room was primarily to support the Fire Department. A single fixture restroom is
adequate for that purpose. The only way to modify these restrooms would be to make
substantial changes that would increase the building size. He noted that there are
additional restrooms on the second floor that can be used if needed. A suggestion was
made to increase the size of the men's room only, which could be accomplished by
deleting a storage closet. However, Mr. Bradbury noted that the Village was following
the rules of the ADA and the New York State Building Code, which calls for similar if
not identical facilities for both genders.
Trustee Santon asked if there would be one contractor or several. The response was that
currently seven or eight contractors are being considered in accordance with the Wicks
Law. Trustee Santon wanted to make sure that all consulting/engineering fees were
included in the budget. Mr. Bradbury noted that there were consultants that were
currently working on the site design and traffic light. He also noted that the traffic light
that will be installed is funded separately from this budget. Trustee Santon recommended
that the Village obtain a proposal from the consulting engineer (Dolph Rotfeld
Associates) with a specific fee amount, rather than simply working on a T & M basis off
the 1995 general contract, so that the Village knows the cost. Trustee Santon questioned
how the amount of money for furnishing and equipment was derived. The response was
that the consultants reviewed similar projects from other municipalities, and discussed
this matter with Village Staff. This new facility will need new furniture and computers.
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 3 of 17
This amount is an estimate. Depending upon the furniture or equipment, consultants or
Village Staff will be responsible for choosing what will be purchased.
Mr. Rand thanked everyone for their time, and the Committee for their very hard work.
Mayor Filipowski noted that County Legislator Martin Rogowsky had requested a few
moments of the Board's time. Legislator Rogowsky gave the Board an update on the
Deicing Facility at Westchester County Airport. He noted that the environmental
problem that has been identified has not yet been addressed. The County is now going
back to the existing facility in an attempt to see how it can be upgraded using new
technology. New devices that can take the material directly into the catch basins are
being reviewed. If this feasibility study is successful, the County will move forward on
that project. He stated that the large tanks are off the table, which is good news for the
community.
Legislator Rogowsky also noted that the County Budget might affect Rye Brook over the
next several months. The budget has been passed, and sales tax revenues have been
included even though the sales tax was not passed by the State Legislature. With the
sales tax revenues in the budget, the County property tax for Rye Brook will still be
approximately 2-'/2%. If the sales tax is approved in the next few weeks it would mean
approximately $170,000 for this year and approximately another $115,000 for the school
district. These numbers depend upon business over the year, but these are the project
numbers. 75% of the sales tax will go to the County, and 25% will be split 50/50. If the
sales tax is not received, then the Village will be looking at an approximate 17-'/2%
property tax increase. Legislator Rogowsky thanked the Board for their time.
Mayor Filipowski called for the first item on the agenda under Resolutions:
1. REFERRING SAMMARTINO/PIRRO SUBDIVISION APPLICATION AT
225 BETSY BROWN ROAD TO THE PLANNING BOARD OF THE
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
Mr. Bradbury read the Resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Degling and
seconded by Trustee Goodman the following Resolution was adopted:
RESOLUTION
REFERRING SAMMARTINO/PIRRO
SUBDIVISION APPROVAL
225 BETSY BROWN ROAD TO THE
PLANNING BOARD OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 4 of 17
WHEREAS, the Village has received an application from Arthur V.
Sammartino and Denise Pirro (the "Applicant") for merger of two existing,
adjacent, commonly-owned parcels of land into one parcel; and
WHEREAS, the subject parcels, together, are ±0.38 acres in size, located
on the north side of Betsy Brown Road approximately 60 feet east of the
intersection of Knollwood Drive, within the R-10 Residential Zoning District, in
the Village of Rye Brook, and are shown as Tax Lot Section 1, Block 6, Lots
25A.6 and 25A.7 on the tax assessors maps; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook has adopted a moratorium on
certain land use approvals (Local Law 5-2002) that does not apply to the subject
lots located on Betsy Brown Road in accordance with Section 3 of the Law;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye
Brook Board of Trustees determines that the Project is an Unlisted Action and
declares its intent to act as Lead Agency for the Project, in accordance with the
State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the subject application is referred
to the Village Planning Board for a report and recommendation at its February 13,
2003 meeting or any other date as scheduled by the Planning Board; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Applicant shall deposit two
thousand dollars ($2,000) into the Village's professional fees/environmental
review fund, and such additional sums as may be requested, to defray the cost of
review of this application; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Applicant shall notify all
neighboring property owners in the Village of Rye Brook within 250 feet of the
property line of the subject site of the Planning Board Meeting. Notifications
shall be sent no sooner than 15 days and no later than 10 days before said
meeting. Notifications shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested,
and shall include a brief description of the application and the meeting date and
time. Proof of mailing shall be submitted to the Village by the end of the business
day the Thursday before the meeting and shall include a map of the site and
surrounding area with an identifying code (typically owner name, street address,
or tax ID), a list of the property owners, and the certified mail receipts. The
applicant should also submit, at the meeting, any return receipts received as of the
date of the meeting.
Mayor Filipowski called upon the applicant. Lawrence Engle, Esq., attorney for
the applicant, addressed the Board. He noted that there were no plans for
construction at this point. He stated that his client was prepared to deposit the
funds for the consultant fees, however, as this was a merger of two lots which
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 5 of 17
were commonly owned he asked if the applicant could receive a refund of any
monies not used. Mr. Bradbury stated that this could be accomplished.
Mr. Engle noted that a portion of the property is within 500' of the Village line.
He asked if the Village of Port Chester needed to be notified of this application.
Mr. Nicholas Ward-Willis stated that the current law does not have a provision
regarding notification. The decision is left to the Board of Trustees, at its
discretion. He noted that on the agenda for this meeting was consideration of
adopting amendments to the Notification Zoning Code, however this law would
not affect this application if it was approved prior to that. It was the consensus of
the Board that notification within 250' of the subject property was sufficient.
Trustee Santon asked for clarification about the requirement to notify the Village
of Port Chester. Mr. Ward-Willis responded that Port Chester should be notified
when a Public Hearing is scheduled.
Trustee Santon felt that this was an application for a lot merger and not a
subdivision. Mr. Engle noted that there are two parcels that are commonly
owned, and this is a merger. Mr. Stolman noted that this application was for a re-
subdivision. A re-subdivision is subject to the same procedures, rules and
regulations applicable to a subdivision. The purpose of this application is not to
create a new building lot. The first lot covers land on both sides of the Brook and
the second lot has a corner cut off by the Brook. They are both rectangular lots.
Mr. Engle stated that before the applicants invested any money with an architect
they wanted to be sure that there were no problems with merging the lots. When
they are prepared to do the construction, a review will be done. Mr. Ward-Willis
stated that if the applicant is successful in obtaining the re-subdivision they then
need only go to the Building Department for a Building Permit. There would be a
review, but no need for approvals as the addition would be conforming.
There being no further comments, Ms. DiSalvo called the role:
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE GOODMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Mayor Filipowski called for the next item on the agenda:
2. SETTING DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER CON
EDISON'S APPLICATION FOR A VARIANCE FROM THE
MORATORIUM
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 6 of 17
Mr. Bradbury read the Resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Degling and
seconded by Trustee Goodman the following Resolution was adopted:
RESOLUTION
SETTING DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING
TO CONSIDER CON EDISON'S APPLICATION
FOR A VARIANCE FROM THE MORATORIUM
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees shall hold a public hearing on
January 28, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall, 938 King Street, Rye Brook,
New York to consider Con Edison's application for a variance from the
moratorium for site plan approval for certain improvements located in the public
right of way on Lincoln Avenue and Sunset Drive in connection with Con
Edison's proposal to install an underground gas regulator station.
Mr. Arthur Ng, representative for Con Edison, addressed the Board. He stated
that the applicant was willing to work with the Village on the installation of this
gas regulator station. He stated that Con Edison was proposing the installation of
this station in response to complaints from the neighbors. The problems in this
area originally surfaced in January of 2000. Con Edison researched the problems
and found that the solution would be this regulator station. The only structure
above ground is the gauge pump. The electrical connection is shown on the plans,
and there is conduit from the pole, which will run underground. This regulator
acts like a transformer, cutting down the gas flow to a manageable level.
Trustee Santon asked how this application satisfies the standards for a variance
from the Moratorium. Mayor Filipowski noted that this matter was explained the
first time it was before the Board. The regulator station will offer relief to the
residents of the area. Mr. Ward-Willis felt that it was appropriate for this matter
to be reviewed and explained at the Public Hearing. He pointed out that the
purpose of this Resolution was simply to set a Public Hearing.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE GOODMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
3. DESIGNATING POLLING LOCATIONS AND HOURS FOR THE 2003
VILLAGE ELECTION ON MARCH 18, 2003
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 7 of 17
Mr. Bradbury read the Resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Santon and
seconded by Trustee Degling the following Resolution was adopted:
RESOLUTION
DESIGNATING POLLING LOCATIONS AND HOURS FOR THE 2003
VILLAGE ELECTION ON MARCH 18, 2003
RESOLVED, that voting machines owned by the Town of Rye shall be
used at the next Village Election to be held Tuesday, March 18, 2003; and be it
further
RESOLVED, that if said voting machines are not available, the use of
paper ballots is hereby authorized; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the polls in each of the nine Election Districts in the
Village of Rye Brook shall be opened at 7:00 AM in the morning and remain
open until 9:00 PM in the evening of said day; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the polling places be hereby designated for the
respective Election Districts as follows:
Election District#20-Port Chester Middle School-Bowman Avenue(Main Lobby)
Election District#21-Port Chester Middle School-Bowman Avenue(Main Lobby)
Election District 922-Blind Brook High School-King Street(Main Lobby)
Election District 923-Ridge Street School-North Ridge Street(Gymnasium)
Election District 926-Port Chester Senior High School-Neuton Avenue(Main Lobby)
Election District#27-Ridge Street School-North Ridge Street(Gymnasium)
Election District#29-Ridge Street School-North Ridge Street(Gymnasium)
Election District#30-Blind Brook High School-King Street(Main Lobby)
Election District#31-Ridge Street School-North Ridge Street(Gymnasium)
Trustee Goodman noted that a request has been made to move the machine in
District 931 from the Ridge Street School to the Meeting House in Bellefair. Mr.
Bradbury stated that this move will be made in time for the next election and
notification of the move will be sent out to the residents.
Ms. Di Salvo called the role:
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE GOODMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 8 of 17
4. ENCOURAGING ADOPTION BY NEW YORK STATE OF THE
COLLATERAL SOURCE BILL TO PERMIT COLLATERAL SOURCES
TO OFFSET DAMAGE AWARDS FOR FUTURE COSTS OR EXPENSES
IN ACTIONS AGAINST PUBLIC EMPLOYERS
Mr. Bradbury read the Resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Degling and
seconded by Trustee Goodman the following resolution was adopted:
RESOLUTION
ENCOURAGING ADOPTION BY NEW YORK STATE
OF THE COLLATERAL SOURCE BILL TO PERMIT
COLLATERAL SOURCES TO OFFSET DAMAGE
AWARDS FOR FUTURE COSTS OR EXPENSES IN ACTIONS
AGAINST PUBLIC EMPLOYERS
WHEREAS,the present Section 4545 of the Civil Practice Law and Rules
("CPLR") of the State of New York permit awards for future lost earnings to be
reduced by the amount of collateral sources, such as disability pensions,
insurance, etc., thus preventing a plaintiff from receiving a double recovery for
the same loss; and
WHEREAS, in a recent Court of Appeals decision, Iazzetti v. The City of
New York, 94 N.Y.2d 183 (1999)the Court of Appeals held that CPLR § 4545 (c)
applies to all employers except public employers; and
WHEREAS, legislation was introduced in the 2002 legislative year in the
New York State Senate as Senate Bill 2979-A and will be reintroduced in the
Senate in the upcoming 2003 legislative session; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of Senate legislation 2979-A is to eliminate an
anomaly in the treatment of collateral sources and tort actions among public and
private employers and prevent double recoveries by plaintiff against a public
employer.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye
Brook hereby supports S. 2979-A to amend CPLR § 4545 regarding treatment of
collateral sources in personal injury lawsuits, and as reintroduced in the 2003
legislative session, as the enactment of this legislation would provide public
employers the same treatment as presently provided to private employers and
would significantly reduce costs to municipalities and, consequently, tax payers in
New York State; and
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 9 of 17
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to send a
copy of this resolution to the Governor of the State of New York, the Senate
Majority Leader, the Speaker of the New York State Assembly and the Village of
Rye Brook's State Senator and Assembly Members and encourages them to
support, endorse and work for the enactment of this important legislation.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE GOODMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
5. CONSIDERING THE ADOPTION OF:
Miscellaneous Zoning Code Amendments
Notification Zoning Code Amendments
Mr. Bradbury read the first Resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Santon and
seconded by Trustee Degling the following resolution was adopted:
RESOLUTION
ADOPTING MISCELLANEOUS ZONING CODE AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the Rye Brook Village Board of Trustees is currently
entertaining the adoption of a local law to amend miscellaneous sections of the
Village Code; and
WHEREAS, the genesis of this local law was the need to correct
duplications, contradictions and other items; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board requested that Frederick P. Clark
Associates, Inc., the Village's planning consultants, analyze the Village's existing
development regulations for this purpose; and
WHEREAS, Clark Associates made recommendations regarding Code
amendments which correct duplications, contradictions and other items; and
WHEREAS, said recommendations are contained in the subject local law;
and
WHEREAS, the subject local law addresses time limit for planning board
action, establishment of zoning districts, general supplementary regulations
pertaining to lots and special permits; and
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 10 of 17
WHEREAS, the subject local law was referred to the Westchester County
Department of Planning in accordance with Sections 239-1 and m of the New
York State General Municipal Law; and
WHEREAS, the Westchester County Department of Planning (WCDP)
responded to this referral by correspondence dated December 6, 2002 in which
the WCDP commented on the proposed local law; and
WHEREAS, on November 26, 2002 the Village Board held a public
hearing on the subject local law, at which time all persons interested were given
an opportunity to be heard; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board is familiar with the proposed local law
and has discussed it on a number of occasions; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board has referred the subject local law to the
Village Planning Board for its review and opinion; and
WHEREAS, by correspondence dated October 17, 2002, the Planning
Board recommended adoption of the proposed amendments.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village Board of
Trustees hereby adopts the Negative Declaration prepared by Frederick P. Clark
Associates, Inc., 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 91-2003.
Mr. Ward-Willis made a minor correction. The Resolution was adopted as
amended.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE GOODMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Mr. Bradbury read the second Resolution. On a motion made by Trustee Santon
and seconded by Trustee Degling the following resolution was adopted:
RESOLUTION
ADOPTING NOTIFICATION ZONING CODE AMENDMENTS
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 11 of 17
WHEREAS, the Rye Brook Village Board of Trustees is currently
entertaining the adoption of a local law which would amend the Village Code
pertaining to notification requirements in connection with the review and approval
of site plans, subdivisions, wetland permits and special use permits; and
WHEREAS, the genesis of this local law was the need to improve and
expand upon the existing notification requirements in the Village Code; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board requested that Frederick P. Clark
Associates, Inc., the Village's planning consultants, analyze the Village's existing
development regulations for this purpose; and
WHEREAS, Clark Associates made recommendations regarding Code
amendments which improve and expand upon the existing notification
requirements; and
WHEREAS, said recommendations are contained in the subject local law;
and
WHEREAS, the subject local law addresses notification requirements in
the areas of public notice signs, mail notification, newspaper publication, notice to
adjoining municipalities and the County, public hearings and modification of
notification requirements; and
WHEREAS, the subject local law was referred to the Westchester County
Department of Planning in accordance with Sections 239-1 and m of the New
York State General Municipal Law; and
WHEREAS, the Westchester County Department of Planning (WCDP)
responded to this referral by correspondence dated December 4, 2002 in which
the WCDP commented on County notification and modification requirements;
and
WHEREAS, on November 26, 2002 the Village Board held a public
hearing on the subject local law, at which time all persons interested were given
an opportunity to be heard; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board is familiar with the proposed local law
and has discussed it on a number of occasions; and
WHEREAS, the Village Board has referred the subject local law to the
Village Planning Board for its review and opinion; and
WHEREAS, by correspondence dated October 17, 2002, the Planning
Board recommended adoption of the proposed amendments
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 12 of 17
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village Board of
Trustees hereby adopts Local Law 2-2003.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE GOODMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
6. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES:
October 8, 2002
October 22, 2002
November 12, 2002
November 26, 2002
Mayor Filipowski asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Trustee Santon
stated that he had not had a chance to finish reading through the minutes, and
asked that the November minutes be adjourned to the next meeting. The Board
agreed.
On a motion made by Trustee Degling, and seconded by Trustee Santon, the
minutes for October 8, 2002 and October 22, 2002 were accepted.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE GOODMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE HARRIS NO VOTE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
REPORT:
1. STATUS UPDATE FROM PLANNING CONSULTANT ON ALL ZONING
CODE AMENDMENTS RELATED TO THE MORATORIUM
Marilyn Timpone-Mohamed, an associate at Frederick P. Clark, addressed the
Board. She noted that this project started months ago by her predecessor, Mr.
David Kvinge. She reviewed the items, and provided a status report on the
progress of preparation of the amendments to the Village Code. She began with
the Bulk Regulations, noting that research has been started. Field visits were
made and informal discussions have taken place with some of the Board members
and Village Staff. Suggestions were made to step back from the original idea of
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 13 of 17
sweeping change to the Code and instead concentrating more on development of
FAR requirements and an implementation plan. The issue of the ability of the
Village to enforce more elaborate bulk regulations is one of the issues guiding this
change.
The next item to be reviewed was impervious surfaces. Proposed amendments
and resolutions have been drafted, however, this item and bulk regulations tie in
together. Marilyn pointed out that Public Notification has been dealt with, and
completed. These amendments cover Phase I.
Moving on to Phase II, Marilyn discussed steep slopes. The draft legislation was
referred back to the Board of Trustees by the Planning Board. They asked that the
wording be reviewed.
The research on wetlands and water courses has been completed. It was felt that a
revision of the replacement ratios section needed to be accomplished. This will
incorporate the functional quality level of the wetlands and the modifier to those
replacement ratios.
Floodplains regulations have also been researched, and the existing regulations
have been reviewed. The regulations are consistent with model regulations
reviewed. The Village's Attorney has suggested some revisions that are now
being reviewed.
Stormwater management research has been completed. At this time F.P. Clark is
reviewing the existing code and drafting amendments. In addition, the tree
ordinance is also being reviewed.
The review of erosion and sediment control has also been completed. At this time
the existing code is being reviewed, and amendments are being drafted.
Marilyn moved on to Phase III, noting that the scope of quick fixes has been
changed somewhat. The need for a formal questionnaire and report to go over
small errors, inconsistencies, omissions, typographic mistakes, and contradictions
in the Code are being questioned. She pointed out that miscellaneous
amendments was dealt with earlier in this meeting.
Mayor Filipowski felt that steep slopes needed to be reviewed as quickly as
possible. Mr. Stolman noted that some amendments are tied to others. Until the
residential bulk regulations are worked out, the consultants cannot work on
impervious surfaces. With respect to the amendments on steep slopes, the
Planning Board has requested additional work. The revisions should be
completed in fairly short order. He noted that a memorandum was submitted to
the Village Board in September of 2002, with a bar chart. At this time the
amendments are approximately three weeks behind, but the consultants are trying
to catch up.
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 14 of 17
Trustee Santon felt that the Village was in dire need of these amendments. Many
applicants particularly in connection with special use permits have been coming
in and paving large areas thus increasing the amount of impervious surfaces. The
Village cannot afford to wait for the Bulk Standards to be reviewed before the
other amendments are made. He expressed his concern regarding the timeline,
and stated that he had hoped that much more would have been accomplished by
now.
Trustee Goodman felt that the Moratorium could be extended by a month to make
sure that everyone was comfortable with the amendments. Mr. Stolman noted
that there are a variety of different ways to regulate bulk. They are now honing in
on a way that is reasonable, is perfectly adequate to regulate bulk, and is not
terribly difficult to administer.
Mr. Stolman stated that the amendments could give the Village a standard
regarding impervious surface, but with respect to giving all of the impervious
surface standards the consultants are looking at a sliding scale made up of
different percentages. In the interim they will come up with an amendment
regarding impervious surfaces in the front yard. The consultants are also very
concerned with how things are progressing within the Moratorium. Work on
steep slopes and wetlands is proceeding as quickly as possible.
Trustee Santon asked for an updated bar graph. He also questioned how work on
the study of a Recreation Zone for large tracts of land such as the Blind Brook
Club and Crawford Park was proceeding. Mr. Stolman noted that this area of the
Code was also being explored.
Mayor Filipowski asked Mr. Bradbury to review the agenda for the next meeting. Mr.
Bradbury noted that the Board voted upon the Public Hearing for the variance for the
Moratorium for Con Edison at this meeting. A Resolution on this matter will be placed
on the agenda for the next meeting. Bellefair has made a request to enforce the traffic
regulations on their private streets as well as their public streets. A Local Law is being
drafted regarding this matter, and a Public Hearing will be scheduled at the next meeting.
The appointment of election inspectorsc will be addressed at the next meeting. Any
amendments for the Moratorium will also be placed on the agenda along with some sewer
and drainage easements for the proposed Fire House.
Mr. Bradbury noted that the Capital Improvements Plan has been submitted. He
suggested a Work Session to review this plan and then placing this matter on the
February 18, 2003 agenda. He also pointed out that there are several applications before
the Planning Board, and as those are referred back to the Board of Trustees they will be
placed on the agenda.
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
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Trustee Santon asked where the Village stood on the awaited proposal from Nextel for a
cell tower on Village property. He also questioned the status of the Red Roof Farm
matters. Mr. Bradbury noted that Nextel is preparing a proposal to be submitted to the
Village, as are a few other cell providers. As soon as these proposals are received they
will be forwarded to the Board.
Mr. Bradbury stated that he would provide an update on Red Roof Farm at the next
meeting. At that time he will provide a summary of issues, i.e. the drainage issues. Mr.
Carosi and Mr. Dolph Rotfeld are preparing plans to address the drainage issues.
Mayor Filipowski turned to comments from the public. Mr. Ken Heller of Lincoln
Avenue addressed the Board. He stated that the original Moratorium was to cover the
Lincoln Avenue sector. He noted that there are a number of very large parcels and it is to
the betterment of the Village if these large parcels can be retained and protected through
conservation easements for any re-evaluation that might be coming in the future. The re-
evaluation may force property owners to consider subdivision for financial need. He felt
that preservation needs to be placed on the top of the agenda when working on the
Moratorium.
Mr. Heller noted that there was a period of time recently when there was no electricity to
a portion of the Village due to a storm. Knollwood Drive was blocked off and he felt that
it was important for the Village to check in with residents when there was a situation of
this type. When streets are blocked off people should be alerted and aid offered wherever
it is needed, especially to the senior citizens. Mayor Filipowski stated that the streets
were not blocked off during this incident, and that there was police presence on the scene.
Chief Santoro stated that there were power wires down and the electricity needed to be
shut down completely before any clean up and repair work could be done. There were
police units on site, and there were extra patrols with marked police cars throughout the
area. The Fire Department and Ambulance Corp were aware of the problems in the area.
At this time the Police Department is looking into notification programs. Trustee
Goodman stated that if a resident was feeling vulnerable or trapped they could called the
Police Department for assistance. Chief Santoro agreed, and noted that the police are
around 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Trustee Santon noted that there was a
program in which the Village was working with the Red Cross for disaster training. He
asked where this program stood. Chief Santoro stated that this type of situation could be
handled without Red Cross' assistance. Red Cross' assistance comes in during events
where a significant number of people need to be moved, i.e.: a hurricane. Mr. Bradbury
noted that Ms. DiSalvo is coordinating the program and will be doing an update on this
matter for the Board at a subsequent meeting.
Mayor Filipowski asked that residents read and save the most recent Village newsletter.
Recycling program information for the year has been included in the newsletter.
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
Page 16 of 17
Chief Santoro was asked for a presentation on the recent situation with police cars
exploding on impact. Chief Santoro noted that the Village has always done everything
they could, beginning with making sure that nothing is floating around in the trunk. The
cars have all been inspected. He noted that the recent incidents in the news have all
occurred during high speed impacts.
Mayor Filipowski noted that the Village received many calls about leaves, snowfalls, and
Christmas Tree pickups. Mr. Victor Carosi, Village Engineer, provided an update on the
work that the Department of Public Works has been doing. He pointed out that the
Village is still picking up debris from the December 250' storm. The Fall Leaf program is
normally finished on or about the 150' of December, however, this year the Village is still
out there picking up leaves. The late leaf fall and early snowfall, coupled with a
snowstorm that brought down many tree branches, means that the Village is still out there
picking up leaves and almost finished. The traditional leaf blowers cannot be used at this
time of year. The Public Works Department is going street-by-street, neighborhood-by-
neighborhood, picking up debris. The Parks Department and Public Works Department
have been working together on debris removal.
Mayor Filipowski noted that the next Board of Trustee meetings are scheduled for
January 28, 2003 and February 11, 2003
Mayor Filipowski asked for a motion for an Executive Session on Red Roof Farm and
Personnel. On a motion made by Trustee Goodman, and seconded by Trustee Degling,
an Executive Session was scheduled.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE GOODMAN VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE HARRIS VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SANTON VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Christopher J. Bradbury
Village Clerk
Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
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Board of Trustees
January 14,2003
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