HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993-01-26 - Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes AGENDA
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING
JANUARY 26 1993
5:00 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ACTION
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RESOLUTIONS
I. APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH WILLIAM F. POHTS
FOR CABLE FRANCHISE RENEWAL AND FIBER
OPTIC NETWORK CONSULTING SERVICES
2. APPROVING SITE PLAN AND SPECIAL USE
PERMIT FOR UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY
SECTION 1, BLOCK 2, LOT 3AI
3, SETTING PUBLIC HEARING DATE ON
LOCAL LAW #2-1993- AMENDMENT TO ZONING CODE
REGARDING SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING
4. APPROVING FULL STOP SIGN - PINE RIDGE PARK EXIT
5. URGING THE CITY OF WHITE PLAINS NOT TO
LEAVE THE WESTCHESTER LIBRARY SYSTEM
6. SUPPORTING PASSAGE OF STATE LEGISLATION
GRANTING TOWN AND VILLAGE JUSTICES THE
AUTHORITY TO ISSUE CEASE AND DESIST ORDERS
7. SETTING GRIEVANCE DAY - FEBRUARY 16, 1993
8. APPOINTING INSPECTORS OF ELECTION
FOR VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK ELECTION
MARCH 16, 1993
9. APPOINTING RECORDS MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
10. PERSONNEL MATTER
11. CHECK REGISTER
APPROVAL OF MINU'T'ES
12. OCTOBER 13, 1992
13. OCTOBER 27, 1992
14. NOVEMBER 10, 1992
15. NOVEMBER 24, 1992
16. DECEMBER 29, 1992
WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
17. LIEUTENANT JOHN BELTRAMELLO
RE: RETIREMENT
DATED: DECEMBER 29, 1992
18. HELENE M. HANSON
RE: LETTER OF APPRECIATION
DATED: JANUARY 3, 1993
DISCUSSION
19. 1987 PACE MANAGEMENT STUDY UPDATE
20. MEADOWLARK PARK CONDITION - STATUS REPORT
21. STROMBERG/GAMSON SUBDIVISION STATUS REPORT
NEXT MEETING DATES
FEBRUARY 9, 1993 - AGENDA MEETING
FEBRUARY 16, 1993 - GRIEVANCE DAY
FEBRUARY 23, 1993 - REGULAR MEETING
004` �J1
MINUTES dF A REGULAR MEETING
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
VILLAGE OFFICES
90 SOUTH RIDGE STREET
RYE BROOK, NEW YORK
JANUARY 26, 1993
CONVENE MEETING
The Meeting was called to order at 5: 05 p.m. By Mayor Cresenzi in
the Meeting Room and the Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Present were the following members of the Board:
Mayor Salvatore M. Cresenzi
Trustee Michele R. Daly
Trustee Joseph Pellino
Trustee Randy A. Solomon
Trustee Gary J. Zuckerman
Also present were:
Christopher J. Russo, Village Administrator
Lori Ann DeMarco, Asst to Village Administrator
Rocco V. Circosta, Director of Public Works
Kenneth E. Powell, Village Attorney
Joseph Cortese, Village Treasurer
Robert J. Santoro, Chief of Police
Elizabeth Bottali, Secretary to Village Board
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January 26, 1993
RESOLUTIONS
1. APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH WILLIAM F. POHTS
FOR CABLE FRANCHISE RENEWAL AND FIBER
OPTIC NETWORK CONSULTING SERVICES
Trustee Daly stated that this is going to be very helpful to us in
the future because in Mamaroneck, the residents are up in arms over
their cable renewal.
Trustee Zuckerman added that this is an outgrowth basically of the
rejection that we voted on from Northeast Networks for a fiber
optic franchise. There is a strong desire for this Board to make
sure that Rye Brook maintains a good environment for corporations
and residents. We are not only looking to cable and fiber optic
technologies, but other technologies that are competing and
concurring with those technologies such as microwave transmissions
and other technologies that are coming to the floor. We will also
be looking into the correlation of these technologies with updated
computerization in the Village in the future.
Mayor Cresenzi added that various Board members have met Mr. Pohts
and have had brief discussions with him. He has a wealth of
knowledge and it will make it easier for the Board to deal with any
new franchises coming up.
On Motion made by Trustee Pellino, seconded by Trustee Zuckerman,
the following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
AGREEMENT WITH WILLIAM F. POHTS
FOR -CABLE FRANCHISE RENEWAL AND FIBER OPTIC
NETWORK CONSULTING SERVICES
RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook is authorized to enter into
a consulting agreement with William F. Pohts, 224 Denfield Drive,
Alexandria, VA, in the maximum amount of $3 , 500. 00 for technical
and engineering services concerning the development of fiber optic
technology and cable franchise renewal at the rate of $100. 00 per
hour plus disbursements; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to execute and
deliver all documents necessary or appropriate to accomplish the
purposes of this Resolution.
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January 26, 1993
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the name of the Cable TV Commission be
hereby changed to the Advisory Commission on Telecommunications.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
2 . APPROVING SITE PLAN AND SPECIAL USE
PERMIT FOR UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY
SECTION 1, BLOCK 2, LOT 3A1
Attorney Powell stated that the resolution provides for a
maintenance and easement agreement so that United Cerebral Palsy
can connect their sewer pipe to the Village manhole on Lincoln
Avenue.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that the controversy that was discussed at
the last meeting regarding sewer access has been resolved.
Attorney Powell explained that a meeting was held and it was
determined that it would be in the Villages' best interest to
provide for an easement along Lincoln Avenue so as to insure that
the maintenance responsibility would fall on United Cerebral Palsy
who will be required to install and maintain that line at their own
expense up to the Village manhole.
On Motion made by Trustee Daly, seconded by Trustee Solomon, the
following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY
AMENDED SITE PLAN AND SPECIAL PERMIT APPROVAL
SECTION 1, BLOCK 2, LOT 3A1
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook, New
York has reviewed an application submitted by United Cerebral
Palsy, a Not for Profit Corporation having its principal office and
place of business at King Street, Rye Brook, New York, hereinafter
referred to as the applicant, for amended site plan approval and a
special permit for the construction of a 21, 700 square foot
addition to the existing Day Treatment Building together with an
expanded parking/circulation area, a realignment of the site's King
Street entrance, regrading and landscaping, within the property
located at King Street and Lincoln Avenue and Known on the official
tax map of the Village of Rye Brook as Section 1, Block 2 , Lot 3A1;
and
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January 26, 1993
WHEREAS, said application for amended site plan and special permit
approval was submitted to the Village of Rye Brook in April, 1992
by Walter Rooney, agent for the applicant; and
WHEREAS, a site plan entitled: "United Cerebral Palsy of
Westchester Addition to Day Treatment Center" was prepared by
Walter Rooney, AIA dated February 29, 1992 and last revised August
13 , 1992 ; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Board recommended the granting of amended
site plan approval and special permit approval on August 13, 1992
and on September 1, 1992 the Zoning Board of Appeals granted a 40
foot variance in minimum yard dimension and a 40 foot variance for
the parking area near the Northern boundary of the property; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook is of
the opinion that it is in the general interest and common good of
the people of the Village of Rye Brook to approve the site plan of
United Cerebral Palsy and special permit with certain conditions
and stipulations which will be set forth herein.
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves the
accompanying "Notice of Determination of Non-Significance" or
Negative Declaration for the action; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that said application for amended site plan and
special permit approval be and hereby is approved and the Mayor of
the Village of Rye Brook is authorized to endorse said approval
upon copies of all documents, which shall authorize the issuance of
building permits in accordance with this resolution and all
applicable laws, all upon completion of the following modifications
and conditions and also in accordance with the Villages Zoning Law,
its regulations and building code, and that the applicant be so
notified, provided however that this approval shall expire two (2)
years from the date of this resolution if the modifications and
conditions set forth below have not been completed to the
satisfaction of the Village Board of Trustees except as set forth
below, or the applicant has requested and been granted an extension
of this conditional approval in writing:
1. The applicant shall maintain on a continuous basis the
availability of 300 overflow parking spaces at SUNY
at Purchase, substantially as set forth in the November 19,
1992 letter from Mark Albrecht, SUNY at Purchase Director
of Operations, and shall promptly inform the Building
Inspector of any material change in the availability of
such parking spaces, it being recognized that the magnitude
of use under this Resolution is dependent upon the
continuing availability of such parking spaces;
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January 26, 1993
2 . All utilities shall be provided in sizes and amounts and
locations in accordance with accepted engineering
principles, and shall be approved by the Village Building
Inspector;
3. During the period of construction, the applicant shall conform
and comply with the Westchester County Soil and Waste
Conservation Board's "Best Management Practice Manual" for
construction related activities so as the minimize soil
erosion, siltation and other storm drainage parvenus and shall
utilize the services of the Westchester County Soil and Water
Conservation District were appropriate;
4 . The Board of Trustees reserves the right for the Board or it's
designee to make a final field inspection of the site before
issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the proposed
addition. The purpose of this final inspection of the site
before issuance of the certificate of occupancy for the
proposed addition is to review the development and to insure
that the conditions set forth herein and other site plan
details in the interest of safety, convenience and aesthetics
have been satisfactorily completed. The applicant shall
maintain all elements of the approved site plan including
landscaping, in a neat, viable and healthy condition so as to
retain its approved certificate of occupancy;
5. If the applicant fails to comply with any of the site plan and
conditions with respect to maintenance, drainage and
landscaping, the Village Board of Trustees may direct
compliance with the site plan condition to be performed within
twenty (20) days, or, in the event of an emergency, within 24
hours, by an outside independent contractor and the cost of
these services shall become a charge against the land,
enforceable in the same manner as a tax lien; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the site plan shall include therein the
following designation and legend:
"This site plan shall be subject to all
requirements and conditions of the Resolution of
the Village of Rye Brook dated January 26, 1993
and all prior approval resolutions relating to the
premises" ; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the special permit shall be for classrooms
for the training and education of children with cerebral palsy
which is found to be an eleemosynary use; and be it
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January 26, 1993
FURTHER RESOLVED, that pursuant to the Zoning Law the following
findings are made:
1. The use is of such location, size and character that, in
general, it will be in harmony with the appropriate and
orderly development of the district in which it is situated
and will not be detrimental to the orderly development of
adjacent districts.
2 . The location and size of the use, the nature and
intensity of the operations involved in or conducted in
connection with it, is such that it will not cause or
result in:
(i) Dissemination of dust, noise, vibration, excessive
light, odor, smoke, observable or detectable gas or fumes,
or other atmospheric pollutant, or any harmful discharge
of industrial waste materials beyond the boundaries of the
site on which such use is conducted;
(ii) Menace by reason of fire, explosion or other physical
hazard, including radiation;
(iii) Interference with radio or television reception beyond
the immediate site of the building in which such use is
conducted, or scientific testing of devices or instruments
which requires the flying of aircraft over the building in
relationship to activities in the buildings in such a manner
as to cause a public nuisance;
(iv) Unusual traffic congestion on the streets and highways
giving access to the site.
3 . The special permit does not involve an industrial use.
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the developer, its heirs, assigns,
successors, shall be obligated to provide copies of all final site
plans, special permits and subdivision approval resolutions to
every purchaser of this premises or any portion thereof; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to execute and
deliver an easement/maintenance agreement, satisfactory to the
Village Attorney, under which United Cerebral Palsy would, at its
own cost and expense, construct, install, and maintain a sewer line
in Lincoln Avenue right-of-way; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution of final site plan approval
for the construction of the proposed addition shall lapse if the
final site plan amended as set forth in this Resolution has not
been filed in the office of the Village Building Inspector within
six (6) months after the date of this resolution.
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January 26, 1993
Mayor Cresenzi stated that we declared a Negative Declaration. He
questioned if we ever declared ourselves Lead Agency to formulate
that Negative Declaration.
Attorney Powell explained that the Village is the only involved
agency, so it was necessary to go through that process.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
3. SETTING PUBLIC HEARING DATE ON
LOCAL LAW #2-1993- AMENDMENT TO ZONING CODE
REGARDING SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING
On Motion made by Trustee Daly, seconded by Trustee Pellino, the
following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
LOCAL LAW #2 OF 1993 ADDING A NEW SECTION 66-36
TO THE ZONING CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
TO PROVIDE FOR A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE PERMIT FOR
A SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING DEVELOPMENT.
RESOLVED, that a Public Hearing will be held by the Village of Rye
Brook Board of Trustees on Tuesday, February 23 , 1993 at 8 : 00 p.m.
at the Village Offices, 90 South Ridge Street, Rye Brook, NY to
consider the adoption of proposed Local Law #2-1993 adding a new
Section 66-36 to the Zoning Code of the Village of Rye Brook to
provide for a Special Exception Use Permit for A Senior Citizen
Housing Development.
Trustee Solomon questioned if this could wait until we did a
determination on that entire area.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that it is not a rezone, it is a special use
permit so it wouldn't give anyone else the ability to come in and
file for a permit. It would have to go through the Public Hearing
process and it could only be issued by this Board.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that when this is enacted, it could apply
to any future Senior Citizen Special Use Permit exemption should
any other areas be deemed suitable for such a project.
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January 26, 1993
Mayor Cresenzi stated"that Trustee Zuckerman was correct but it is
restricted primarily to the R2-F Section of the Village so that any
project that is built would be convenient to shopping, doctors and
so on.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
4. APPROVING FULL STOP SIGN - PINE RIDGE PARK EXIT
On Motion made by Trustee Pellino, seconded by Trustee Daly, the
following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
FULL STOP SIGN AT PINE RIDGE PARK EXIT
RESOLVED, that Section 240-IIC of the Rye Brook Village Code be
hereby modified to add a Full Stop on the Pine Ridge Park Exit
Driveway at the intersection of Latonia Road; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution be effective upon the
installation of such sign.
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Trustee Pellino questioned if when this is voted on, Administrator
Russo will be officially amending the Vehicle & Traffic Law of the
Village so that this goes into our inventory.
Administrator Russo stated that he would be and we would receive an
insert page.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
5. URGING THE CITY OF WHITE PLAINS NOT TO
LEAVE THE WESTCHESTER LIBRARY SYSTEM
Mayor Cresenzi explained that the White Plains Library is one of
the best libraries in the County and they have opted to withdraw
from the Westchester County Library System.
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January 26, 1993
On Motion made by Trustee Pellino, seconded by Trustee Zuckerman,
the following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
URGING THE CITY OF WHITE PLAINS NOT TO
LEAVE THE WESTCHESTER LIBRARY SYSTEM
WHEREAS, there has been a long history of fruitful cooperation
among the public libraries of the scattered cities, towns,
village's and rural areas of Westchester. The chartering of the
Westchester Library System formalized a variety of goals of service
while preserving the autonomy of these community libraries. The
several large libraries provide a range of quality resources that
benefit residents and non-residents alike; and
WHEREAS, it has been in the public interest that our libraries have
shared services and materials to meet the full educational and
recreational needs of all users. It would be a grave
disappointment if any member library were hesitant about accepting
responsibility for participation in the Westchester Library System;
and
WHEREAS, if one library elected to withdraw from this network of
cooperation, it would undermine the basic philosophy of public
j library service which has provided free and equal access to all
libraries in the county. Unilateral action will impair a pattern
of service which has taken years of effort and good will to
develop; and
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WHEREAS, the White Plains Library is considering charging
individuals throughout the community for library services; and
WHEREAS, if the White Plains Library would withdraw from the
Westchester Library System, it would permit White Plains residents
to use other libraries and deter residents of other communities
from using the White Plains Library.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook
strongly encourages the White Plains Library to continue to be part
of the Westchester Library System; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be sent by the
Village Clerk to the White Plains Library, the Mayor of the City of
White Plains, the members of the White Plains City Council and the
other villages, towns and cities in Westchester County.
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004610
January 26, 1993
Trustee Pellino stated that he hopes White Plains will reconsider
because something like this could really set up a domino effect if
other communities become upset about this situation. We have an
outstanding Library System in the County and White Plains is an
outstanding library.
Trustee Zuckerman pointed out that we have in our packets,
unanimous resolutions from the Village of Mamaroneck and the Town
of Greenburgh also requesting that the White Plains Library not
withdraw from the system.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that there are many non-residents of White
Plains that use their library. This has become burdensome to them
and they want to charge a fee for non-residents to use the library,
which is prohibited by the Westchester County Library System. That
is why they are thinking of doing this.
Mr. Harris stated that the bad thing about that is that White
Plains is filled with daytime residents of Westchester County who
work there and produce business for the City of White Plains and
they, on their lunch hour or at the end of the day go in to use the
service of that library because it is convenient to their office.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
6. SUPPORTING PASSAGE OF STATE LEGISLATION
GRANTING TOWN AND VILLAGE JUSTICES THE
AUTHORITY TO ISSUE CEASE AND DESIST ORDERS
On Motion made by Trustee Zuckerman, seconded by Trustee Solomon,
the following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
SUPPORTING PASSAGE OF STATE LEGISLATION
GRANTING TOWN AND VILLAGE JUSTICES THE
AUTHORITY TO ISSUE CEASE AND DESIST ORDERS
WHEREAS, a bill is expected to be introduced in the State
legislature to amend the Criminal Procedure Law to authorize town
and village justices to issue orders to violators of local laws,
ordinances, rules or regulations requiring such violators to cease
those actions; and
WHEREAS, even though the present procedure of fines is important
and does help, it does not always accomplish its purpose since some
violators pay the fines but do not correct the condition.
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January 26, 1993 0()4:'3 .1 .i.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook favors the proposed
amendment to the Criminal Procedure Law to give village and town
justices cease and desist powers; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village Clerk send copies of this
resolution to our state legislators and neighboring communities.
Attorney Powell explained that the cease and desist order will
essentially give Town and Village Justices the power to issue a
form of injunctive relief which, if violated, could be a contempt
of court. If there is a contempt of court, a contempt proceeding
could be brought and the person could be jailed.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
7. SETTING GRIEVANCE DAY - FEBRUARY 16, 1993
On Motion made by Trustee Daly, seconded by Trustee Zuckerman, the
following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
GRIEVANCE DAY
FEBRUARY 16, 1993
WHEREAS, the tentative Assessment Roll for the Village of Rye Brook
will be completed by the Assessor of the Village of Rye Brook,
County of Westchester on February 1, 1993 ; and
WHEREAS, said Assessment Roll may be seen and examined by any
interested person until the 3rd Tuesday in February (February 16,
1993) at the Assessors Office, Town Rooms, 10 Pearl Street, Port
Chester, New York; and
WHEREAS, persons having objections or grievances against the
assessments must file with the Assessor of the Village of Rye Brook
an application for review not later than the third Tuesday in
February;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
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January 26, 1993 0046
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RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook Board of Assessment Review
will meet on said third Tuesday, February 16, 1993 at the Village
Office, 90 South Ridge Street, Rye Brook, NY between the hours of
6: 00 p.m. and 10: 00 p.m. to consider those applications that have
been filed on or before that date.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
8. APPOINTING INSPECTORS OF ELECTION
FOR VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK ELECTION
MARCH 16, 1993
On Motion made by Trustee Solomon, seconded by Trustee Pellino, the
following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
INSPECTORS OF ELECTION
RESOLVED, that pursuant to Section 15-116 of the Election Law,
there shall be two (2) Inspectors of Election for each Election
District in the Village Election to be held on March 16, 1993 from
7 : 00 A.M. to 9 : 00 P.M. ; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following Chairpersons and Inspectors of
Election are hereby appointed:
#20 Connie Pennucci, Chair 525 Ellendale Ave. PCMS 939-4223
#20 Marie Godano, 16 Jennifer Lane PCMS 937-5010
#21 Vinnie Marcucilli, Chair 180 Fairview Ave. PCMS 939-6853
#21 Beth Bandy 11 Lincoln Ave. PCMS 939-5334
#22 Rita Messina, Chair 808 King St. BBHS 937-1645
#22 Barbara Minnitte 814 King St. BBHS 939-9021
#23 Judy Uhry, Chair 19 Rock Ridge Dr. RSS 937-1295
#23 Gene Reich 11 Winthrop Dr. RSS 937-4298
#26 Jean Mendicino, Chair 81 Hillcrest Ave. PCHS 939-5313
#26 Mildred DiSanto 151 No. Ridge St. PCHS 937-5876
#27 Annette Alimena, Chair 440 No. Ridge St. RSS 937-2595
#27 Charlie Otto 50 Bonwit Road RSS 939-8587
#29 Patricia Pagli, Chair 15 Greenridge Ave. RSS 686-4428
#29 Joseph Nardi 10 Woodland Ave. RSS 939-8164
and be it
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January 26, 1993 0f�r .' ,
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following Alternate Inspectors of
Elections are hereby appointed:
Frances Forti 17 Division St. 939-1807
Josephine Aulenti 127 Ridge St. 939-1191
Antionette O'Neill 2 Tamarack Road 939-7048
Josephine Severi 59 Windsor Road 939-4883
Marion Meyer 71 Bowman Ave. 939-2886
FURTHER RESOLVED, that compensation for each Inspector of Elections
shall be in the sum of Eight ($8) dollars per hour.
By Order of the Board of Trustees
Village of Rye Brook, NY
Salvatore M. Cresenzi, Mayor
Christopher J. Russo, Village Clerk
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
9. APPOINTING RECORDS MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Administrator Russo explained that the appointment of a Records
Management Committee was recommended to us in the State Records
Management Program. We are applying for a grant to do a
feasibility of our paper flow and records management and hope that
this will lead to a future grant. We are looking at State of the
Art technology for our Records Retention and Storage. It will help
our case to have an established group of Village Officials and
officers to review issues that may come up from time to time with
regard to records retention and records storage, and disposition.
On Motion made by Trustee Pellino, seconded by Trustee Daly, the
following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
RECORDS MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook is committed to establish an
efficient program of managing records and information including the
identification and appropriate administration of records with
enduring value; and
WHEREAS, the Village's records management officer can be assisted
in this effort by the guidance of a Records Management Committee to
oversee and help coordinate such efforts and plans according to the
MU-1 Records Retention and Disposition Schedule.
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January 26, 1993 0044 I'
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that a Records Management Committee be hereby established
and that five (5) members be appointed annually in April by the
Board of Trustees; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following Village Officials/Officers be
hereby appointed:
Mayor Salvatore M. Cresenzi
Village Administrator, Christopher J. Russo
Asst to Village Administrator, Lori Ann DeMarco
Deputy Village Treasurer, Diane DiSanto
Police Chief Robert J. Santoro
Trustee Zuckerman questioned who the Village's Records Management
Officer is.
Administrator Russo replied that the Village Clerk is the Records
Management Officer.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned why Administrator Russo was on this
committee if this committee is to help the Records Management
Officer.
Administrator Russo explained that for the purpose of this
committee, it is recommended that the Records Management Officer be
on the Committee.
Trustee Pellino stated that the idea of having this committee is a
good idea and hopefully it will lead to the second phase that
Administrator Russo discussed about leading to a future grant for
state of the art technology, particularly a computer technology.
I recently visited the Village of Tuckahoe which is very well
computerized. It was computer integrated departmentally, meaning
that all departments are all related to each other via computer
technology so that for example, if a person applies for a building
permit and the person has an outstanding parking ticket, that
building permit would not be issued. This should definitely be a
consideration to upgrade our computer system and we should find out
what other municipalities in the area are doing because with the
advent of any computerization, we may want to be flexible enough to
interact with other departments of other Towns and Village's and
perhaps even the County. This is a good idea and it will be a very
complex issue, so good luck to the Committee.
Administrator Russo stated that the Village has received one grant
under this program already to do a Records Inventory, which we have
done. There was a second phase to that Grant process that we were
involved with, with a consortium of communities including Port
Chester, Town of Mamaroneck and the Village of Mamaroneck and the
second phase of that grant was for microfilming longterm records of
duration and one of the luxuries that we do have is that we don't
have 50 - 100 years of records, we only have 10 years and
microfilming is not what you would call a state of the art
technology.
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January 26, 1993 0 C4 3 .1
Administrator Russo added that the State of New York is not state
of the art and that is the last approved legal technology for
longterm storage. He further stated that he could not see the
Village of Rye Brook going any further in that area to start
microfilming longterm records when we don't have an immediate
problem with storage and paper records.
Trustee Pellino questioned if what Administrator Russo was saying
is that if the Village wanted to, they couldn't get into newer
types of technology.
i
Administrator Russo stated that at this moment for permanent
longterm storage, we could not, but that may change by the time we
are ready to make that move.
Trustee Pellino questioned if the State is reviewing this.
Administrator Russo stated that they are well aware of what the
other technologies are, it is just that they haven't approved any
other technologies for longterm or permanent record retention and
storage. The State is a little behind in their technology.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned what the time frame that we need to
maintain paper records is and if it is possible to keep paper
records forever.
Administrator Russo replied that there are certain records that we
must keep forever and others for thirty-five years.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that fortunately, our Village is only ten
years old so we are not nearly at that stage yet but as long as we
keep the paper records we can then go into CD Romm for storage. He
also questioned if this committee would also be involved in
updating the computers. With technology changing as rapidly as it
is, then this is a good first step to set up this committee.
Administrator Russo replied that the committee would be involved in
all issues.
Mr. Harris stated that there are many records over ten years old
from the Town of Rye.
Administrator Russo stated that Mr. Harris was correct and those
records have been reorganized sensibly since the incorporation of
Rye Brook. For example, we inherited tax maps from the Town of Rye
and they were previously kept up manually by cooperation of the
former Town Engineer and Assessor and those maps haven't been kept
up in many years which make it very difficult to discuss even the
most routine Planning or Zoning matter with a resident or someone
considering a purchase.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
15
January 26, 1993(1,
10. PERSONNEL MATTER
Mayor Cresenzi stated that item #10 will be on the agenda of the
February 9, 1993 Meeting.
11. CHECK REGISTER
On Motion made by Trustee Daly, seconded by Trustee Pellino, the
following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
CHECK REGISTER
WHEREAS, the following checks, representing payment for services
rendered, have been submitted to the Treasurer's Office for payment
and have been certified to by the Village Administrator;
On-line Checks: #5908-5973
Payroll Checks: NONE
Environmental: #368
Recreational Trust: NONE
Capital: NONE
Manual Checks: NONE
Birthday Run: NONE
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that this Board hereby approves payment of the above-
mentioned claims and authorizes payment thereof.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
APPROVAL OF MUNUTES
12. OCTOBER 13, 1992
13. OCTOBER 27, 1992
14. NOVEMBER 10, 1992
15. NOVEMBER 24, 1992
16. DECEMBER 29, 1992
Due to a lengthy agenda, the Board of Trustees decided to hold the
minutes over to the February 9, 1993 Agenda Meeting.
16
January 26, 1993 004
WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
17. LIEUTENANT JOHN BELTRAMELLO
RE: RETIREMENT
Mayor Cresenzi stated that Lt. Beltramello has been with the
Department for twenty-seven years, has a fabulous record, is an
extraordinary Police officer and will be missed by this Board and
by the residents of the Community. His last day on the job was
today and he will be finishing up his leave and vacation time. He
wished Lt. Beltramello well now and in the future.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that as long as he has been a member of
this Community he has found Lt. Beltramello to be a fine officer,
a gentlemen and a credit to the force. He requested that the Mayor
review the proper procedures to appoint a new lieutenant so that we
can be informed of what steps need to be taken to fill the
position.
On Motion made by Trustee Pellino, seconded by Trustee Zuckerman,
the following resolution was hereby adopted:
RESOLUTION
RETIREMENT
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Rye Brook do
hereby accept, with regret, the letter of retirement from Police
Lieutenant John Beltramello; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village Board expresses their best
wishes to John for a Happy and Healthy retirement.
TRUSTEE DALY VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE SOLOMON VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR CRESENZI VOTING AYE
18. HELENE M. HANSON
RE: LETTER OF APPRECIATION
DATED: JANUARY 3, 1993
Administrator Russo read the letter which expressed appreciation to
the Police Department, Fire Department and Ambulance Services in
the Village of Rye Brook. Mrs. Hanson acknowledged the roll of
officers Terry Wilson and Steve Goralick, which whom she had the
most contact.
I
Mr. Harris questioned if 911 was in effect.
Trustee Daly stated that 911 was not in effect, however if you dial
911 the operator will pick up and automatically connect the call to
the local jurisdiction.
17
January 26, 1993 OOVI l 8
Trustee Pellino stated that this letter points out the fact that
our Police and all other uniformed services that work for the
Village of Rye Brook are top notch and staffed by outstanding
people. He added that he is very proud of our Police Department in
particular for their actions in this case.
DISCUSSION
19. 1987 PACE MANAGEMENT STUDY UPDATE
Administrator Russo stated that we are in discussions with Dr.
Cupielo, who is Director of the Michaelian Institute at Pace
University to update the study that they had completed during 1986-
1987 with regard to the overall Government structure and
administration in Rye Brook. There are a few areas that we are
discussing with them to include in their proposal to update the
study. In particular, it is an upgrade of our computer system that
they recommended over six years ago. Another specific area is the
operation and relationship between the parks maintenance and
Highway Department operations. Those were specific areas that were
not addressed in the previous study. The Village is looking at
those areas and some other general areas and status of government
operations, but we are in discussions with Pace over making a
proposal to that effect right now and we wanted to inform the
community of that.
Trustee Solomon questioned what other areas were being discussed.
Administrator Russo stated that the specific areas were the
computerization and computer updating and parks maintenance and
Highway Department operation. Whatever other items they pick up
on, they will let us know.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that as discussions take place, other
issues may come up that are related, but the main thing will be to
look at intefnal operations. The first study dealt with
establishing the Village Administratorz's office and now we are
looking to enlarge that study to other areas of operation, such as
parks maintenance, Highway and also to update the computer system
and bring it into the twenty-first century.
Trustee Solomon stated that someone mentioned doing a paperwork
trail study as well. Could Pace do this as well? .
Administrator Russo stated that part of the paper flow is included
with the Records Management Grant. He stated that he did not know
if Pace could do that.
20. MEADOWLARK PARK CONDITION - STATUS REPORT
Mayor Cresenzi stated that at the last meeting of the Board of
Trustees, at the request of Mr. Harris, we have prepared a status
j report to be prepared for this meeting.
18
January 26, 1993 0 04.)l
Administrator Russo stated that he discussed this with Mr. Circosta
and the Parks Superintendent. The Highway Department maintains the
Meadowlark Park area.
Administrator Russo referred to the video tape which was taken on
January 23 , 1993 of the Meadowlark Park area. The video tape
showed that the grass was maintained and it is obvious that it is
maintained all Summer long. It also showed many piles of dog
feces. We do not have a proper survey or map of this property so
it is difficult to determine the exact property lines.
Trustee Pellino questioned if there should be a map available.
Administrator Russo stated that there should be but it is the same
case as the parks at Rye Hills and Harkness. Frederick P. Clark
Associates used a tax map for their Recreation Study done in 1986.
The biggest problem in Meadowlark Park in order of priority, is the
dog feces, as the first ten feet of the park is loaded with it.
The second part of it is that, in accordance with the Risk
Manager's recommendation, we could fence around the stream and
reduce our liability. We could do this immediately without having
any further plans for the park. We should also post a pooper
scooper sign and have the area Policed. The third thing which is
really minor, is on the Meadowlark side there is overgrowth, which
I think, is on Village property.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned if we should have that area surveyed
like we did with Harkness and Rye Hills parks.
Administrator Russo stated that we could get a price on having this
done and then determine the benefit of it. I don't know at this
moment whether or not a good survey of this property exists.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that we should look into this and see if
a survey exists.
Administrator Russo stressed an issue that was brought to his
attention by the Risk Manager, which he discussed with the
Recreation Superintendent. Based on the fact that we have been put
on notice, we may want to consider fencing off that stream area.
Trustee Pellino questioned if we could get a cost estimate for
different types of fencing, such as split rail.
Administrator Russo stated that as long as we put something there
to make it clear that we want people to go around that, a split
rail fence would do it.
Trustee Pellino added that it would be a good idea to post the
Village Ordinance in some manner as to the curbing and
g 5 of do or s g /
the pick up of their droppings.
Administrator Russo agreed.
Trustee Pellino stated that if the high brush along the perimeter
is found to be on the property, we should probably cut it back.
19
January 26, 1993 l�G4G`;2'U
Administrator Russo stated that he considered that to be one of the
i
most minor of the issues.
Trustee Solomon stated that the brush screens a great deal and in
the Spring it is green.
Trustee Pellino added that it could probably use a pruning to make
it shapely and just look generally nicer.
Mr. Harris stated that it might be more handsome, once we establish
where the property line is, to do some light planting of evergreens
that will give screening to the property adjacent and at the same
time approve the aesthetics of the place. We must settle the
encroachment issue and establish where our property ends. Also we
have been made aware by our Risk Manager that there is a liability,
so we have to deal with it. This could easily be justified to come
out of the Recreation Trust Fund.
Trustee Daly stated that we already have the figures for the
fencing from when the park was being looked into last year.
Mr. Circosta stated that the fencing at that time was strictly
related to chain link fencing and to keep esthetics of the
neighborhood, we should look at a different type of fencing which
will provide somewhat of the same safety factors.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that we should contact the residents that
live in that immediate area and get some neighborhood input.
Trustee Pellino stated that he spoke with Administrator Russo about
applying for grants for the purpose of planting trees on Village
property. He questioned if Meadowlark Park would qualify.
Administrator Russo replied no, because there is a formula and we
have applied for the maximum that we were able to apply for and it
also must be in an urban center or down town center.
Trustee Pellino questioned the possibility of plantings near the
new shopping center on South Ridge Street.
Administrator Russo replied that if we get this grant it would be
possible to plant some trees next year, but Meadowlark Park would
definitely not qualify for this program.
Trustee Solomon questioned what it would cost to pipe the area.
Mr. Circosta stated that he has some costs and would get a copy of
that to the Board of Trustees.
Mayor Cresenzi directed Mr. Circosta and the Superintendent of
Recreation & Parks to compile a list of all Village Parks and next
to each park make a notation as to whether or not we have a survey
map on file.
20
January 26, 1993
Trustee Pellino stated that it stands to reason that there would be
a map of that property in the original files from when the
Meadowlark area was developed over twenty years ago.
Mr. Harris stated that there are maps of the surrounding homes,
which should show the lines. There is a list of parks and open
land in three of the editions that we've had of the Annual Report
and also in the Recreation Study. He questioned if the Board
agreed that not doing anything is no longer an option.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that he could not say that. He added that
probably something should be done, but the question is what it is
that should be done.
Trustee Pellino stated that the stream is his biggest concern.
Trustee Solomon stated that whether anything else goes on in that
park he is really concerned about the stream also.
Mr. Harris stated that he is not speaking of putting in a sandbox,
he is talking of Village property and the Village must be
safeguarded against liability and encroachment.
Mr. Circosta stated that he would gather the cost estimates and the
list of park surveys. In most cases, as in this case, we have a
sub-division map on file of the development.
Trustee Solomon questioned if we were to fence in this stream,
would it end our liability if someone gets hurt in that stream.
Attorney Powell stated that it would not end our liability, but we
should really think of this as a safety issue, rather than a
liability issue as we are protecting public safety.
Trustee Solomon finished his thought and stated that with a river
fenced in, there is still more opportunity to get hurt than if we
back fill it in and pipe it out and it is now ground, not any kind
of stream at all.
Attorney Powell stated that you can't fall into a stream that is
filled in so that would end the liability.
21. BROMBERG/GAMSON SUBDIVISION STATUS REPORT
Mr. Circosta stated that at our last meeting we had some comments
regarding some of the activities that have been taking place on
that site. We recently received a letter from another property
owner with regard to tree removal. Mr. Circosta stated that he has
been to the site, and has been comparing the prior surveyor's
topography to what currently exists today to determine what exactly
came down regarding trees. He has also been discussing with the
builder and the owner of the property with regard to the final
plans dealing with the grading of the property, which was also
brought into focus. A final status report is not ready at the
present time.
21
()c)46a.e�:
January 26, 1993
Trustee Solomon questioned how many trees have come down and how
many did they have permits for.
Mr. Circosta restated that a final report is not complete and he
does not have that information available at this time.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned if there are any proposals currently
to take down any additional trees.
Mr. Circosta stated that a tree permit was filed for the removal of
a sixteen inch spruce which sits directly in front of the new house
at the front of the property, and it was denied by the Building
Department. Subsequently, the owner filed an appeal to the Tree
Committee who reviewed the application and they stated that they
did not have a problem with that tree being removed, however, as
part of the removal of that tree they are required to submit a
complete landscape plan of their property. One of the conditions
of the tree permit was that they were looking to add about twenty-
four inches of additional plantings along the southerly property
line to make a screen as part of their planting plan. The plan
will be submitted to the Building Department and it will be
reviewed with our landscape consultant.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned if what the Tree Committee is saying
is that if a tree comes down on Hillandale Road, they are going to
plant trees instead on Loch Lane.
Mr. Circosta stated that what they said is they realize the
aesthetics of the property along the Loch Lane boundary line. The
owner has stated that as part of the screen along the southerly
property line they also plan to have ornamental trees planted on
their front lawn, which would be that area between the new house
and Hillandale Road.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that the tree we are referring to is
sixteen inches in diameter and stands probably fifty or sixty feet
high. The letter from the resident on Hillandale Road urges that
no further trees be removed so my concern is that both Loch Lane
and Hillandale Road residents be taken into account. For the
record, I happen to be one of the Hillandale Road residents as
well. Many trees have come down along Hillandale Road in the past
and the question is replacement of those trees as well. There are
currently two stumps sitting on Hillandale Road and Trustee
j Zuckerman questioned if there will be a replacement for those two
trees, which should not have come down.
Mr. Circosta stated that he would gather all of this information
for the Board for the next meeting.
Trustee Pellino questioned if the sixteen inch pine tree was in the
path or within the building envelope.
Mr. Circosta replied that it is not in the path.
22
I
January 26, 1993�f1( r;�
Trustee Pellino stated that it is not being removed to facilitate
the construction of the house, but it sounds like it is being
removed for convenience sake rather than a necessity.
Mr. Circosta stated that according to their application, to save
that tree would require a large well around the tree because of the
grading on the property and that the well would be in close
proximity to the front entrance of the house which may be a hazard
for them or visitors.
Trustee Pellino stated that perhaps we could get a photograph of
that part of the property where the tree stands.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that there is a set procedure and anyone
wishing to remove a tree has the right to apply for a permit
through the Building Department. It is inspected, the application
is reviewed, there is a field inspection made and the permit is
either granted or denied. If the permit is denied, the resident
then has the right to appeal that decision to the tree committee,
who has the right to determine the outcome, so there is a mechanism
in place. The Tree Committee functions very similar to the Zoning
Board of Appeals where if you wish to put an addition on your home
and it doesn't qualify, the permit is denied and you then appear
before the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that like the Zoning Board of Appeals,
there is no appeal, except to the courts for a decision of the Tree
Committee, but unlike the Zoning Board of Appeals there is no
mechanism to alert adjacent property owners that any kind of a
proceeding is pending. When a large tree is going to come down,
the residents who may be in opposition are not notified and there
is no input. Something needs to be changed in this procedure.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that this is true to a point. The Tree
Committee is made up of a landscape architect, a member of the
Planning Board, who during the sub-division process would have
dealt with the -layout of the trees during the sub-division process
and also a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. The Planning
Board, historically has always been very hard on developers
removing any types of trees so I think a person wanting to remove
a tree has a hard sell.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned what the percentage of applications
that have come before the Tree Committee on a denial by the
Building Department where the Tree Committee has also denied it as
opposed to approving it.
Mr. Circosta replied that he had no percentages available this
evening.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned if the Tree Committee has ever denied
an application.
Mr. Circosta stated that he does not think that the Tree Committee
has ever denied any applications.
23
i f
January 26, 1993
Trustee Solomon stated that we may be better off declining all
permits because at least it will get to the Tree Committee for
their review.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that if we do that, we will really sandbag
the operation of any homeowner in the Village who may want to put
on a small addition, put in a pool or widen their driveway.
Trustee Pellino stated that the real intent of the ordinance is to
reduce the indiscriminate stripping of timber from properties in
this Village. It was born of a number of cases in many communities
where home owners stripped their properties from trees because they
didn't like to rake leaves or whatever the case may have been.
This effected not only the visual impact of the community, but it
also had environmental effects. If people would like to read the
tree ordinance, they would see that trees do serve a purpose other
than looking pretty in the Spring and being a nuisance in the fall.
They absorb a lot of ground water, they filter the air and provide
a habitat for the birds. The intent, therefore is not to overly
restrict or impede a property owner, it is to prevent
indiscriminate stripping of the timber.
Trustee Solomon stated that it seems to him that seventeen trees
that have been cut down and much of that has been rubber stamped.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that whatever the number of trees is, before
statements are made that things are rubber stamped one should
review the applications and get the building envelope and see where
the building is placed.
Trustee Solomon stated that he is not saying that the trees
shouldn't have come down, but we must have a better mechanism to
preserve certain trees, because once they are removed, they are
gone. Planting twenty-four small trees and waiting for them to
grow is not the same thing.
Mayor Cresenzi -stated that we still haven't heard what the decision
of the Tree Committee was. Before someone states that the Building
Department rubber stamps anybody that comes in, you have to look
and see where the house sits on the property. If the tree is
within the building envelope, they are going to come down. Before
we make statements, we should check our facts.
Trustee Solomon stated that Mayor Cresenzi was one hundred percent
correct, many of those trees were in the building envelope, but the
ones that weren't may have inadvertently come down in the process.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that we can't deal with this now, because we
don't have the facts to substantiate anything.
Trustee Solomon stated that we should discuss this at the next
meeting.
24
004.
January 26, 1993
Trustee Zuckerman stated that on one hand we have the interest of
the property owner and on the other hand we have the interests of
the Village and the surrounding residents in maintaining the beauty
of the neighborhood. There is no mechanism to bring the area
residents into the process, we are leaving it to the Tree
Committee, who are qualified and approach this from a certain point
of view, which does not necessarily take into account what the
neighbors may feel about it. When we discuss what should be done,
we should bring in the neighboring property owners and get their
input.
Mr. Circosta stated that any permit that was issued, were permits
that dealt with location of driveways and structures. No permit
was issued for any tree that was out of those bounds. If trees
came down otherwise, then they were taken down in violation.
Trustee Solomon questioned if that building is being built
according to the Code.
Mr. Circosta stated that the drawings that were approved all met
Village Code and Building Code when they were approved. With
regard to actual building, I have spoken to the Builder about
preparing a final grading plan for us because one of the elevations
differs slightly than the elevation that was approved.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that the area of Loch Lane was mentioned
in conjunction with this property. I was at the site this past
weekend and it was soaking wet as usual. He then questioned what
is happening with the stream area.
Administrator Russo stated that we have a proposal that we have
been working on for a couple of years, which would resolve the
flooding and drainage problem in the rear of the homes of Loch Lane
by way of a construction, piping and stream dredging project
proposed by Dolph Rotfeld, our Consulting Engineer. That project
would require a district and the residents of that area to fund it
as it is private property, however, we are working on a possible
alternate method of funding this through developments that are
proposed in the area and we may be able to get this done to the
taxpayers benefit of having a developer pay for it and that is
currently in negotiation. We would be well served by waiting
through that process which may only be a couple more months. We
have had meetings with the developer involved and he has accepted
doing this, we are just working out details of funding for it and
that is where we are now. We have another meeting to deal with
this issue tomorrow morning. It will be in the taxpayer's best
interest to see this process through.
Trustee Solomon questioned if there is any reason we could not know
who that developer is. Residents watching at home may want to put
the pieces together.
25
January 26, 1993
Administrator Russo stated that it might be more than one
developer, and we are not quite sure who it may be.
I wouldn't want to limit ourselves to the current development
proposal in that area as another subdivision may come up that could
participate. I wouldn't want to lock someone in or lock someone
Out.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that he has grave concerns regarding the
environmental problems over there regarding the flooding and there
may be a possibility that part of the problem was caused by dumping
illegal material and thereby raising the level of the water table.
Administrator Russo stated that this issue was thoroughly addressed
by our consulting engineer and if I may suggest, Dolph Rotfeld will
be at our February Meeting to make a report on the Rye Hills
project regarding drainage and improvements in that area. With a
little preparation time, he may be able to explain what the problem
is over in that area.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that we should have a presentation, as the
residents are very concerned.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that there was a meeting held with Mr.
Rotfeld and all the area residents where this issue was discussed.
The filling in and grade change was completely discussed as well as
the whole concept of a special district. Mr. Rotfeld came up with
a few different scenarios for different methods of dealing with the
water with different costs attached to them. The end result of the
meeting was that when the costs were discussed and it was discussed
as a special district because the flooding conditions and the
stream is on the residents properties, when they found out that
they would be charged for it over a ten year period, they chose not
to participate in that method to eliminate the flooding. It may be
a good thing to bring everyone back up to speed.
Trustee Solomon questioned how the Environmental Protection Agency
situation at the Superfund site effects that area.
Trustee Zuckerman mentioned that the Mayor received the latest
transmittal from the United States Environmental Protection Agency
regarding the Superfund site on Hillandale Road, which he requested
be made available to the public. He suggested that we discuss this
at our next meeting. He found that once again, the response of the
Environmental Protection Agency is totally unsatisfactory. They do
confirm, however that the approval of money spent is up to 4 . 47
million dollars and may go even higher and that by the next meeting
we should have a response from Nita Lowey's Office. We are going
to have to start contemplating legal action against the
Environmental Protection Agency to force them into doing what they
are supposed to be doing.
Trustee Solomon stated that he and Trustee Zuckerman have been
approached and being that we have attorney's who specialize in
environmental law here in the Village, they may want to help the
Village without a fee. He questioned if we could do this.
26
January 26, 1993 00482-i
Mayor Cresenzi stated that he did not know if we could use the
residents but he stated that he does want to initiate a legal
action.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that as a resident of Hillandale Road, he
is certainly willing to become a plaintiff in such an action as an
individual let alone as a Trustee. We will not have any problem in
finding residents who have been affected in some way to intervene.
Mayor Cresenzi directed Attorney Powell to give the Board an
opinion as to what Trustee Solomon requested.
Attorney Powell stated that he thought that there might be a
question about our standing to intervene in their court proceedings
or to sue the Environmental Protection Agency.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that it is outrageous how they could get away
with ignoring us. It is not a small issue if it is still not
completed after spending 4 . 4 million dollars.
Trustee Daly stated that in their minds, they think that they are
giving us all the information that we need as they have told us
that information is available at the Public Library.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that we still can't obtain a decent map from
them which shows what was contaminated before they started the
clean-up and what has been cleaned up to date.
Trustee Daly stated that she agreed.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that what is most depressing about the
situation is that the removal efforts have halted and the structure
where the problem seems to have originated and is most contaminated
still remains. In the last several months we have had many heavy
rain storms. If mercury continues to seep from that area into the
ground, how much of the clean-up effort that took place over the
last year has to be repeated and at what cost and over what period
of time.
Trustee Solomon stated that he would like the Mayor's Office to
touch base with Senator Oppenheimer, Assemblyman Tocci and Nita
Lowey's Office to see if they can help us get some answers.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that at our last Board meeting we had a
representative from Nita Lowey's Office and since then,
Administrator Russo has had a meeting with Nita Lowey's staff.
Administrator Russo stated that they physically went out to the
site and we xeroxed every document that we have on file for them.
Today I got a call from her but I missed her call so I will be
following up on that tomorrow. I had told her that we should have
a meeting with the proper authorities of the Environmental
Protection Agency at the very least, we were hoping that she could
contact those proper authorities.
Trustee Pellino questioned if the Environmental Protection Agency
is also ignoring us on paying for the leaves.
27
0ra9
January 26, 1993
Administrator Russo replied no and added that they paid the
contractor directly.
Trustee Pellino stated that all members of the Board should have
received a packet from the Zoning Code Update Committee and added
that they would appreciate any comments that the Board members have
within the next couple of weeks so that we can begin scheduling
Public Hearings on these matters. Hopefully we can discuss this at
the February Agenda Meeting.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned where the process on these proposed
laws are and if they are still subject to revision.
Trustee Pellino stated that they are subject to revision throughout
the Public Hearing process if someone brings up any point, whether
they are from the Board or the Public. Any of these changes should
be capable of being altered.
Attorney Powell stated that these would be recommendations to the
Board of Trustees so it would be within the Board of Trustees
perrogatives to change the law how it sees fit even before putting
it into Public Hearing.
Trustee Pellino stated that these represent seven areas within
current Zoning Code which include the Planned Unit Development
(PUD) Law, a new Sign law to replace the current one, a new
Swimming Pool law to replace the current one, Walls and Fences,
Junked Cars, Commercial Vehicles and R.V. Is and Boats.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned if it would be possible to start to
schedule Public Hearings on this commencing with the February
meeting.
Trustee Solomon questioned if there is any kind of order.
Trustee Pellino stated that they are preparing a priority list.
Among our pri-orities are the PUD provisions, the sign law,
Commercial Vehicle law and then the remaining ones to follow.
Mayor Cresenzi suggested that all members of the Board read these
and get our comments back to Trustee Pellino as soon as possible so
we can start to schedule Public Hearings.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that we must make sure that we give this
to the public for comment a substantial time prior to the Hearings.
Mayor Cresenzi stated that normally when we notice a Public
Hearing, it states that anyone interested may obtain information at
the Village Office. He also added that he agrees with making the
Environmental Protection Agency information available to the
public.
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January 26, 1993 0GC'J'2:
NEXT MEETING DATES
FEBRUARY 91 1993 - AGENDA MEETING
FEBRUARY 16, 1993 - GRIEVANCE DAY
FEBRUARY 23, 1993 - REGULAR MEETING
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Cresenzi adjourned the Meeting at 7 : 00 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elizabeth Bottali
Secretary to Village Board
I
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