HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-04-28 - Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes AGENDA
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
VILLAGE HALL, 938 KING STREET
TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 1998—7:30 P.M.
(6:30 P.m. — Scoping Session on Summerfield Suites Hotels Proposal)
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ACTION:
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. PROPOSED AGREEMENT TO MODIFY AND TERMINATE THE
CONTRACT WITH RURAL/METRO FIRE DEPARTMENT INC.
RESOLUTIONS:
2. VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK 1998-1999 BUDGET.
3. REFERRAL TO THE PLANNING BOARD OF A SITE PLAN AND
SPECIAL USE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR RYE RIDGE
CINEMA AT 1 RYE RIDGE PLAZA (S. 1, BL. 22, LOT 3).
4. CONSIDERING OPPOSING NEW YORK STATE'S EXEMPTING
SALES TAXES ON CLOTHING PURCHASES LESS THAN $100.
5. CONSIDERING AUTHORIZING AN EXTENSION OF THE
SUBDIVISION APPROVAL OF HILLANDALE ASSOCIATES
APPLICATION FOR 24 HILLANDALE ROAD.
6. CONSIDERING APPROVAL OF THE TRAYNER GROUP
APPLICATION TO OPERATE A RISK MANAGEMENT
BUSINESS AT 66 BOWMAN AVENUE.
7. ESTABLISHING FIRE SERVICE WITH THE VILLAGE OF PORT
CHESTER ON A TEMPORARY BASIS.
8. CHECK REGISTERS.
REPORT:
9. NYS AMENDMENTS TO THE VETERAN'S TAX EXEMPTION.
10. STATUS - SALES OFFICE (a) BELLE FAIR DEV. (HIGH POINT).
MINUTES:
11. OCTOBER 14, 1997 MEETING.
12. OCTOBER 30, 1997 MEETING.
13. DECEMBER 2, 1997 MEETING.
14. DECEMBER 16, 1997 MEETING.
15. MARCH 2, 1998 SPECIAL MEETING.
16. APRIL 21, 1998 SPECIAL MEETING.
NEXT TRUSTEES MEETING DATES:
MAY 12, 1998 and MAY 26, 1998
1
006710
MINUTES OF A MEETING
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK BOARD OF TRUSTEES
VILLAGE HALL 938 KING STREET
RYE BROOK, NEW YORK
(6:30 p.m. Scoping Session
Summerfield Suites Hotels Project)
APRIL 28, 1998 7:30 p.m.
CONVENE MEETING
The Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Mayor Filipowski in the Meeting Room and the Pledge
of Allegiance followed.
The following members of the Board of Trustees were present:
Mayor Francis L. Filipowski
Trustee Donald E. Degling
Trustee Joseph Pellino
Trustee Eugene R. Strum
Trustee Gary J. Zuckerman
Village staff attending the meeting were:
Village Administrator Christopher J. Russo
Village Attorney Kenneth E. Powell
Assistant to the Administrator Richard C. Slingerland
Planning Consultant Christian K. Miller, AICP
Village Engineer, Victor Carosi, P.E.
Village Police Chief, Robert Santoro
Village Fire Chief, Martin Drexelius
Village Treasurer, Joseph Cortese
Secretary to the Village Administrator Janet Skrobola
Mayor Filipowski opened the meeting. He asked speakers from the audience to limit themselves to three
minutes to allow everyone an opportunity to speak and to permit the meeting to end at a reasonable hour.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. PROPOSED AGREEMENT TO MODIFY AND TERMINATE THE CONTRACT WITH
RURAL/METRO FIRE DEPARTMENT INC.:
The Village Administrator spoke briefly about the termination agreement with Rural/Metro but deferred
to the Village Attorney, Kenneth Powell. He explained that the agreement as modified provides for the
termination of Rye Brook's contract with Rural/Metro. He then read a summary of the provisions of this
agreement. Mayor Filipowski then asked for comments. Trustee Zuckerman spoke about making a
decision to terminate our contract with Rural/Metro and move forward with the process. There are two
ways to go; either with a simple notice of termination or with an agreement such as this one with terms
and conditions. With this termination agreement we will be relinquishing the right to sue, but lawsuits are
1
i
April 28, 1998
costly, lengthy and no one wants to go through that. The advantage of such an agreement is that it gives
Rye Brook time to plan and an opportunity to employ the current Rural/Metro firefighters and increase
staffing levels. We can receive pre-plans without cost and we will be able to buy Rural/Metro's
equipment and assume the lease. This is the most prudent way to do it.
The Mayor then asked for comments from the public. (It was noted that more seats were needed for the
public and that attendance probably exceeded the occupancy capacity for this building.) The Mayor
asked the Board if the date for termination with Rural/Metro could be changed from September 30, 1998
to October 31, 1998. Trustee Zuckerman stated that this date had been negotiated with Rural/Metro and
asked their counsel, Karen Taddeo to respond. She stated that she was trying to contact the appropriate
people from Rural/Metro who could make such a decision. Trustee Zuckerman then asked, "If we close
this hearing with the September 30"' date, can we change the date if Rural/Metro agrees or must we hold
another public hearing?" Kenneth Powell responded that he felt the date could be changed with
Rural/Metro's consent.
On the motion of Trustee Zuckerman, seconded by Trustee Pellino, the Board voted unanimously to
close the public hearing with the option to put this matter on the agenda for either May 12, or May 26,
1998, depending on the date accepted by Rural/Metro as the date for termination of the contract.
2. VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK 1998-1999 BUDGET:
Village Administrator Chris Russo read the resolution with the adjustments made from the proposed
budget. Trustee Strum spoke regarding the large tax increase. Trustee Pellino also stated that he found
this budget painful, but with current events including the sales tax exemption and tax certioraris he felt we
are forced to make difficult choices in order to maintain services. He stated that Rye Brook has an
excellent police department, fire department, recreation department and a highway department second to
none. Trustee Zuckerman echoed these sentiments and noted that we tend to lump all taxes together and
say they are too high. He noted that he was reluctant to approve a large increase, but was also reluctant
to cut services, since, "We are getting the most services for the least amount of money." Trustee Degling
stated that he looked very hard to cut costs where we possible. He stated, "We cannot be irresponsible."
The Mayor asked for comments from the public. George D'atino had a question about the reduction of
patrol officers and wanted clarification. Mr. Russo noted that, in fact, there is an increase of one officer
from last year's budget.
Trustee Zuckerman explained about the increase in officers to replace those on disability who continue to
get paid. By replacing them, we reduce the need for officers on overtime to fill the vacancies, which is
more expensive. He noted that the Village had hired two additional officers and the retirement of one on
disability had been approved by the State. We had also created a Sergeant line. Bill Aughavin spoke
about the police situation and stated that there should be no reduction in the number of patrolmen, as we
will continue to have people out sick or injured and we need to provide coverage. He continued on that
reducing the police department staff leaves us exposed to injury or death and that the Board should
reconsider its position. Trustee Zuckerman responded to the reduction in the number of police vehicles
and stated that there would be two new vehicles in next year's budget. Andy Wells wanted to know what
is allocated for fire services and whether we would acquire the fire equipment.
2
006712
April 28, 1998
On the motion of Trustee Pellino, seconded by Trustee Zuckerman, the following resolution was
approved:
RESOLUTION
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
1998-1999 BUDGET
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees met on the 14th day of April, 1998, pursuant to the Notice of
Public Hearing regarding the Proposed 1998-1999 Budget, and has heard all persons desiring to be heard
thereon.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY
RESOLVED, that the Tentative Budget as hereinafter set forth and amended by the Board of
Trustees, is hereby adopted this 28th day of April, 1998 and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the amounts listed therein for payment of principal and interest on
indebtedness, and that maintenance account charges be paid, and that the salaries, wages, benefits and
other terms and conditions of employment for all employees, including those not represented by a
bargaining unit, shall be paid such salaries and benefits as has been determined by the Board of Trustees.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE STRUM VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
3. REFERRAL TO THE PLANNING BOARD OF A SITE PLAN AND SPECIAL USE
PERMIT APPLICATION FOR RYE RIDGE CINEMA AT 1 RYE RIDGE PLAZA (S. 1,
BL. 22, LOT 3):
The Village Administrator read the resolution and questions arose from the Trustees as to any increase in
the seating capacity of the cinema with the increase from two to four screens. it was stated that the total
number of seats would not change. Discussion followed as to the contents of the current permit for
seating. Trustee Strum questioned the parking allocation for employees and theater-goers and whether
there would be any problems during emergencies. The Village Engineer, Victor Carosi stated that the
theater would be completely renovated and the total seating capacity would remain the same. He also
stated that as far as the parking and any problems with ingress and egress, the Building Superintendent
would continue his review to make sure the applicants are in compliance.
Trustee Zuckerman questioned whether the parking lot allowed for 550 spaces and whether they are in
compliance now. Victor Carosi reiterated that we are in agreement for total number of seats. Christian
Miller of F.P. Clark stated that his firm would look into the issue. Trustee Zuckerman asked if the
renovations would include sprinklers and was told yes. Trustee Degling, a consultant for the cinema on
other issues, stated that he would not comment and would be abstaining from the vote. The Mayor asked
3
J
i
April 28, 1998
for any public comments and Brian Ackerman, one of the owners spoke and stated that the total seating
would remain at 550 seats.
On the motion of Trustee Strum, seconded by Trustee Pellino the following resolution was adopted:
RESOLUTION
REFERRING THE APPLICATION BY
ACKERMAN-TOLCHIN CINEMAS
TO THE PLANNING BOARD TO AMEND
THE EXISTING SPECIAL PERMIT AND SITE PLAN
FOR THE RYE RIDGE CINEMA
(SEC. 1, BL. 22, LOT 3)
RESOLVED, that the application by the Tolchin Cinemas to amend the existing special permit
and site plan with respect to the property located at Rye Ridge Shopping Center on South Ridge Street in
Rye Brook(Section 1, Block 22, Lot 3) with regard to Rye Ridge Cinema is referred to the Planning
Board for a report and recommendation; and it is
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the applicant shall make a deposit into the professional fees /
environmental review fund in the sum of$1,500 and such additional sums as may be requested to defray
the costs of review for this application.
TRUSTEE DEGLING ABSTAIN
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE STRUM VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
4. CONSIDERING_OPPOSING NEW YORK STATE'S EXEMPTING SALES TAXES ON
CLOTHING PURCHASES LESS THAN $100:
The Village Administrator read the resolution and Trustee Strum stated his opposition to this resolution
since sales tax is not deductible from federal and state income taxes, and is a regressive tax. He stated it
would impact mostly on low income families. Trustee Pellino disagreed with Trustee Strum and felt it
was wrong of the State to impose a mandate on all municipalities by exempting clothing under $100. He
also felt this left a smaller pool of money available to municipalities in addition to the fact that the State
had steadily reduced aid to municipalities, which hurts our property owners and seniors. Trustee Pellino
felt that the State is abandoning municipalities. Trustee Zuckerman agreed with Trustee Pellino and felt
that if the state proposed this exemption for next year we would be looking at a higher property taxes.
On the motion of Trustee Pellino, seconded by Trustee Degling, the following resolution was adopted as
amended:
4
006"n
April 28, 1998
RESOLUTION
PRESERVATION OF SALES TAX
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees previously supported the Village's
receipt of revenue from the Westchester County Property Tax Stabilization Act which distributed a
portion of sales taxes to the cities towns and villages in Westchester County; and
WHEREAS, the elimination of this revenue source by the New York State Legislature would
cause a shortfall in revenues and an increase in property taxes in the Village of Rye Brook.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees expresses its opposition to Westchester County
participating in the sales tax exemption on clothing costing less than $100 unless New York State
provides revenue sharing which would hold harmless Westchester County and the many municipalities in
the county for the lost sales tax revenue.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE STRUM VOTING NAY
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
5. CONSIDERING AUTHORIZING AN EXTENSION OF THE SUBDIVISION
APPROVAL OF HILLANDALE ASSOC. APPLICATION FOR 24 HILLANDALE RD.:
The Village Administrator read the resolution. Edward Beane, Esq. of Keane& Beane stepped forward
as legal counsel for the applicants Hillandale Associates and asked for a 90 day extension on the
subdivision approval due to an Article 78 proceeding filed by neighbors. He felt the matter would have
been resolved before the 180 day period ran out, but the court action put all progress on hold and there
had been a number of adjournments. Now the court would not decide before the end of the 180 days;
therefore, they would need the extension.
The Village Attorney agreed, but stated that the period to fulfill their obligation is suspended while
litigation is ongoing and therefore an extension is not needed. Mr. Beane asked that a letter be sent from
the Village recognizing the stay until the Article 78 is complete.
As the motion of Trustee Zuckerman was not seconded, there was no further action on this resolution.
6. CONSIDERING APPROVAL OF THE TRAYNER GROUP APPLICATION TO
OPERATE A RISK MANAGEMENT BUSINESS AT 66 BOWMAN AVENUE:
The Village Administrator read the resolution. Mayor Filipowski asked what the total number of parking
spaces would be and Christian Miller responded there would be 9. In response to a question as to
number of employees, William Giacomo, attorney for the applicant, stated there would be 7 employees.
5
006710
April 28, 1998
On the motion of Trustee Strum, seconded by Trustee Pellino the following resolution was adopted:
RESOLUTION
TRAYNER GROUP LTD
66 BOWMAN AVENUE
APPROVAL OF SPECIAL PERMIT
RISK MANAGEMENT BUSINESS
(Section 1, Block 23, Lot 3)
WHEREAS, on or about November 18, 1997, Trayner Group Ltd., c/o Sarah Anne Trayner, 701
Westchester Avenue, White Plains, New York made an application under Village Code Section 250-
25(C)(3) for a special permit to use a dwelling located as professional office space, to wit: a risk
management business; and
WHEREAS, the property is located in an R2F zoning district, upon approximately .41 acres
(17,847 square feet) of property, also known and shown as Section 1, Block 23, Lot 3 on Village tax
assessment maps; and
WHEREAS,the application was referred to the Village's Planning Board for a report and
recommendation, and the Planning Board at its February 12, 1998 meeting recommended approval of the
application; and
WHEREAS, on March 24, 1998 and April 14, 1998 the Board of Trustees conducted a public
hearing on the application upon due notice; and
WHEREAS, the application consists of the following plans:
Site plan, the Trayner Group Ltd., 66 Bowman Avenue, Rye Brook, New York, prepared
by Contadino Associates AIA, 436 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob, Ct. 06807, consisting
of 4 sheets, Aland A2 last revised January 28, 1998, A3 last revised October 7, 1997,
and A4 last revised November 14, 1997; and
Site Plan, prepared for Trayner Group Ltd., 66 Bowman Avenue, Rye Brook, New York,
prepared by J.A. Kirby Company, Surveyors, Port Chester, New York (Edward J
Crothers) dated October 3, 1997 (one sheet); and
WHEREAS, the use will comply with the requirements for a special permit in a residential
district under Section 250-6(H) of the Zoning Law, and
WHEREAS, based on a review of the environmental assessment form, consideration of the
nature of the use, the recommendations received, the record, and other information available to it,
including the evidence received at the public hearing, the Village Board finds that the action is an unlisted
action under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) which will not have a significant
adverse impact on the environment, and, therefore, a draft environmental impact statement will not be
prepared.
6
I
006716
April 28, 1998
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the application for a special permit is granted, subject to the following
conditions:
1. This special permit is for a risk management business only. Any change of use to a different
professional use, in whole or in part, shall require an amendment to this special permit.
2. The maximum number of persons who may be employed in the risk management business at
this location shall be 7 persons.
3. In accordance with the Village of Rye Brook Code, Section 212-4, the applicant will have 7
years from the effective date of the Sprinkler Law to install an approved fire sprinkler system.
7. ESTABLISHING FIRE SERVICE WITH THE VILLAGE OF PORT CHESTER ON A
TEMPORARY BASIS:
Village Administrator Christopher Russo stated that the original resolution had been withdrawn and had
been substituted with a new, amended resolution. In this resolution a committee would be set up
consisting of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Village Administrator who are to submit a report by June 15,
1998 with various alternatives for fire services in the Village of Rye Brook.
Trustee Zuckerman stated that the report would move us forward toward a replacement for Rural/Metro
in the most effective way possible. Trustee Pellino noted that the amended resolution confirms the intent
of several of the Board members at the previous meeting, and with support for this resolution all parties
can calm down and get back to the business of settling this matter. He congratulated the Mayor for
listening and keeping the dialogue going. Trustee Degling stated his support for the resolution, as it
would allow the Village to terminate the contract with Rural/Metro at some point and replace it with a
viable alternative. Negotiations and discussions will allow us to come up with a cost effective means of
fire protection. Trustee Strum stated that we will take every opportunity to provide better fire services.
He hoped that an agreement could be reached. Trustee Zuckerman stated that our main concern should
be safety and he saw no alternative to needing a response team of four men, 2 in and 2 out, at a fire
scene, per OSHA's minimum standards for the number of firefighters required to fight a fire.
Mayor Filipowski then asked for public comments, and a number of people asked to speak.
Bert Slonim, a resident of Rye Brook since 1982, felt discussion with Port Chester is responsible but
should proceed with caution. He urged the Trustees to look at the report commissioned by the Port
Chester Village Board, which critiqued the Port Chester Fire Department. He read excerpts from the
report and stated that the criticisms noted in the report should be looked at closely. He stated that the
Professional Firefighters Association of Port Chester filed a complaint with the NYS Department of
Labor about unsafe conditions. He also commented on an article in last week's Westmore Nems which
noted that a fire on South Ridge Street took 16 minutes to reach by volunteers and professionals. He
stated, "Rye Brook needs assurances that these deficiencies will be addressed in a satisfactory manner."
7
i
006717
April 28, 1998
Trustee Degling responded that in an October 1997 report these issues had been addressed as per Chief
Barnes's response. He felt that with an appropriate effort we may be able to address these concerns and
reach a solution.
Bill Rosa, 15 Edgewood Drive, spoke about the constraints with only 2 '/2 months to come up with
alternatives. He suggested the board designate an outside facilitator to deal with the two factions. Beth
Singer of Lawridge Drive commended the Board and wanted to know if there would be a public hearing
to discuss a cos-benefit analysis. Mayor Filipowski responded that the committee would discuss cost,
specifically the $500,000 per annum figure, and would verify that deficiencies would be addressed as
Chief Barnes stated. We could then report back to the public with a comparison and cost estimate for
each alternative.
Randy Solomon spoke about the Rockinghorse Trail fire. He was disturbed that the contentiousness had
been going on for so long and felt that if the name-calling would not stop, then all the discussions with
Port Chester would not go anywhere. He felt there should be a benefit to both communities and that the
demographics had changed dramatically. He urged the Trustees to approach this as a partnership.
Peter Rader, 80 Valley Terrace stated that it was nice to see Port Chester firefighters here, including all
three chiefs. Equal control of all expenditures is involved in a partnership for fire services. Other
communities around do not include any paid firefighters. Perhaps we could offer our paid firefighter
services to some surrounding departments to offset costs. That is an option to explore since this Board
stated it was open to explore all options.
Andy Wells commended the Board and stated that fire service reaches into every other aspect of village
life. He felt this is a difficult decision whether to reach out to our neighbors or go it alone. He stated
that there are many ways to achieve our goal, a municipal department is one way but there are a variety
of alternatives and we should take as much time as necessary. He then produced a chart which outlined
the costs to the village based on $50,000 per man. He also felt there would be a tax increase of 12% to
finance our own department with 24 men as opposed to a 4% savings if we go to Port Chester at a cost
of$500,000 per annum.
Bill Aughavin questioned Mr. Wells's figures, in particular the $500,000 per annum amount and asked if
the Port Chester Mayor had agreed to this figure. Mayor Filipowski responded that this still needed to be
negotiated.
Paul Cregan, a Port Chester firefighter and Rye Brook resident, spoke next and stated that any delay in
Rural/Metro's departure puts the Village of Rye Brook at risk. He found it valid to keep staff on board,
but stated that we have to move on soon. He also stated that the short term agreement proposed by
Mayor Filipowski leaves the village protected and offers time for cool heads to prevail.
Ronald Rettner spoke next and stated that this is a very volatile issue, and that this is the first time our
community has been politically divided. He stated that safety was paramount, but that in order to be cost
effective we could save money by doing the proper study, and this was a golden opportunity to resolve
this issue. He commented, "I know Gene Strum is very familiar with numbers; I know that he is very
rational... and wise, and I think he is right that Port Chester must be held to a higher standard." He also
commented, "I think that Mr. Pellino is correct in having some distrust for Port Chester. There is a valid
8
00671
April 28, 1998
basis for it." Mr. Rettner felt that Port Chester was willing to work with us as they are looking for new
beginnings. He further felt there was a fresh wind and a new attitude on the part of Port Chester officials,
that they want to work with Rye Brook and realize they have made mistakes in the past. He produced
charts depicting what the costs could be and estimated how Rye Brook's village taxes would be
impacted. He stated we need the most cost effective proposal and not a large tax increase just to say we
are going it alone. Mr. Rettner stated that he had spoken to two Port Chester Trustees and that the
$500,000 figure is real. He concluded by saying that he would have appealed to Trustee Zuckerman, but
he didn't think that it was necessary.
Trustee Zuckerman responded that the Rye Brook Trustees are currently discussing the resolution and
approving it does not obligate us to anything. He wanted to make Mr. Rettner aware that he was the one
who had recommended this resolution. He questioned the source of Mr. Rettner's figures, stating that he
thought they were largely incorrect. He asked if when Mr. Rettner discussed these figures with Port
Chester whether he was acting on behalf of the Board. Mr. Rettner replied that he spoke to a Trustee he
knows personally and that he was not acting as the Mayor's agent. Trustee Zuckerman continued that
Rural/Metro had put forth the proper model for the village even if though its methodology had not
succeeded and he resented the implication that they had done a terrible job. The Village of Rye Brook is
second only to White Plains in training. Port Chester knows this and they have begun to make changes.
He further stated that Rye Brook should not interfere with Port Chester and try to determine what is
good for Port Chester, and vice versa. "Their fire department is designed for the Village of Port Chester,
not Rye Brook." He cited a statement made by Chief Barnes in the Port Chester report. He clarified
that this is not a public hearing, but only the designation of a negotiating committee and now is not the
time or place to discuss these issues.
Mr. Rettner asked to reply and stated that hiring Rural/Metro was a hasty action and we cannot afford
another one. As far as the figures he put forth, he stated that they were based on Port Chester's
numbers. He stated he was not looking to create a political football but he had spoken with Port Chester
trustees who had given him permission to discuss this publicly. He concluded by stating that he was
concerned about cost and taxes and all of us should be.
Dr. Walter Niles responded that since these people vote for the trustees they have every right to get up
and make comments without being chastised. He stated further that since they have every right to be
heard. Lawrence Engle responded to Dr. Niles that residents elect the Board of Trustees to negotiate for
us. He felt the Board's first job is to guarantee safety and that should also be the committee's priority.
Beth Singer spoke again and asked for clarification regarding the amount in the budget for fire services,
as well as the figure to be negotiated with Port Chester. She felt that if Port Chester was offered more
money, Rye Brook would get better service. Andy Wells spoke again and vouched for the accuracy of
Ron Rettner's figures. Paul Cregan again stated that there is plenty of talent in the Village of Rye Brook.
He felt discussions should not be in the newspapers and that any questions from the committee could be
handled by the Port Chester Fire Department. Bill Aughavin asked if all alternatives could be looked at
simultaneously. Trustee Pellino stated that no decision had been made, and that the Trustees were
looking simply to open a dialogue with the Village of Port Chester to share this service.
On the motion of Trustee Zuckerman, seconded by Trustee Pellino, the following resolution was adopted
as amended:
9
April 28, 1998
RESOLUTION
ESTABLISHING A COMMITTEE
TO NEGOTIATE PORT CHESTER
REGARDING FIRE SERVICE MATTERS
WHEREAS, since it appears that the contractual relationship between Rural/Metro and the
Village of Rye Brook will shortly be terminated; and
WHEREAS, Rural/Metro will continue to provide effective fire protection service until
approximately September 30, 1998; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook is in need of effective fire protection services in place and
instead of Rural/Metro; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook chooses to examine all alternatives, including a renewed
relationship with the Village of Port Chester as well as a Rye Brook Municipal Fire Department.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees hereby establishes a committee to
consist of the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor and the Village Administrator to immediately commence
negotiations with the Village of Port Chester on the following fire protection matters:
a. mutually agreeable service standards;
b. the construction and staffing of firehouses in Rye Brook and Port Chester;
c. alternative systems to manage fire services; and
d. an equitable financial arrangement between the two communities.
AND BE IT
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Committee is to report back to this Board no later than June
15, 1998 regarding any progress made with regard to the matters set forth above.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE STRUM VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
8. CHECK REGISTERS:
On the motion of Trustee Strum, seconded by Trustee Degling, the following resolution was hereby
adopted:
10
00674,)U
April 28, 1998
RESOLUTION
CHECK REGISTER
WHEREAS, the following checks, representing payment for services rendered, have been
submitted to the Treasurer's Office and Budget Officer for payment:
On-Line Checks 18507 - 18582
Payroll 25702 - 25795
Pre Paid 18216, 18350, 18501, 18503-18505
Capital 2807
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees after audit hereby approves payment of the above-
mentioned claims and authorizes payment thereof.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE STRUM VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
9. NYS AMENDMENTS TO THE VETERAN'S TAX EXEMPTION:
After discussion it was noted that the local laws had already been updated and required no further action.
10. STATUS - SALES OFFICE (a BELLEFAIR DEVELOPMENT (HIGH POINT):
Village Engineer Victor Carosi reported on the temporary sales facility at the High Point property (a.k.a.
the Bellefair development) and stated that a report had been submitted to his office at 4:30 today by the
traffic engineer for the project. This reports estimate the number of vehicles visiting the site to be 40
visitors on a week day and 60 on a weekend day, with the peak on the weekend during sales hours. It
was felt this would not cause an undue traffic burden, and the building would be removed upon
completion of the project. After further discussion no further action was taken.
MINUTES:
11. OCTOBER 14, 1997 MEETING
12. OCTOBER 30, 1997 MEETING
13. DECEMBER 2, 1997 MEETING
14. DECEMBER 16, 1997 MEETING(as amended)
15. MARCH 2, 1998 SPECIAL MEETING
16. APRIL 21, 1998 SPECIAL MEETING
Trustee Zuckerman asked for a correction in the spelling of Mr. Degling's name and his address in the
Minutes of December 16, 1997. On the motion by Trustee Strum, seconded by Trustee Zuckerman the
11
006"/21
April 28, 1998
minutes were adopted with the amendment noted above.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE STRUM VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI ABSTAINING ON ITEMS 11 - 15.
VOTING AYE ON ITEM 16.
ADDENDUM. DECLARING MAY 10-16, 1998 POLICE WEEK IN RYE BROOK:
Police Chief Robert Santoro asked for a resolution honoring Police Week, May 10-16, 1998. He stated
there would be an open house and a memorial at Hawthorne Park on May 10, 1998.
On the motion of Trustee Strum, seconded by Trustee Pellino the resolution was introduced onto the
agenda and adopted as introduced:
RESOLUTION
DECLARING MAY 10 - 16, 1998
POLICE WEEK IN RYE BROOK
WHEREAS, the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees wishes to participate in the National
Police Week Program, which will serve as a reminder to every citizen in the community of the public
service rendered by all branches of law enforcement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees hereby declares the week of May
10 - 16 as Police Week in-the Village of Rye Brook, with an Open House at Police Headquarters on
Sunday May 10 and Peace Officers' Memorial Day on Friday, May 15, 1998.
TRUSTEE DEGLING VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE PELLINO VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE STRUM VOTING AYE
TRUSTEE ZUCKERMAN VOTING AYE
MAYOR FILIPOWSKI VOTING AYE
Mayor Filipowski stated that the next Board Meetings would be May 12, and May 26, 1998. He then
asked if there was any further business.
Resident Peter Pitocco came up to commend the Board and Mayor and asked that we allow the
committee members to do their job with the pressure off.
Trustee Pellino asked if we are advising residents about the STAR application deadline and the Village
Administrator responded that this notice is on the Bulletin Board.
12
i
April 28, 1998
Ben Meloro spoke about road work done on Irenhyl and Hillcrest and said that the road needs to be
inspected, as it is concave and the road repair company did a poor job.
There being no further business a motion to adjourn the meeting was called by Trustee Strum, seconded
by Trustee Pellino, and the Trustees unanimously agreed to adjourn the meeting at 9:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Christop J. Russo, Village Administmtar
13