HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017_10_18 Town Board Minutes
October 18, 2017
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING AND WORK SESSION OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE
TOWN OF MAMARONECK HELD ON OCTOBER 18, 2017, BEGINNING AT 5:00PM IN
CONFERENCE ROOM A AND CONTINUING AT 8:00 PM IN THE COURT ROOM OF THE TOWN
CENTER, 740 W. BOSTON POST ROAD, MAMARONECK, NEW YORK
PRESENT: Supervisor Nancy Seligson
Councilwoman Abby Katz
Councilwoman Jaine Elkind Eney
Councilman Thomas A. Murphy
ABSENT: Councilman Ernest C. Odierna
ALSO PRESENT: Christina Battalia, Town Clerk
Stephen V. Altieri, Town Administrator
Connie Green O’Donnell, Assistant Town Administrator
William Maker, Jr., Town Attorney
CALL TO ORDER - WORK SESSION
On motion of Councilwoman Elkind Eney, seconded by Councilwoman Katz, the Work Session was unanimously
opened at 5:00PM.
Review of 2017 Projects/Initiatives
Supervisor Seligson asked the Town Board Members for their feedback with respect to ongoing projects and
initiatives they would like to see prioritized. Some of the items noted were:
Upgrade to the Town Center entranceway and bathrooms
Finishing details of the Town Center Parking Lot
Weaver Street sidewalk
Modifying the Town’s electronic notifications
Overview – 2018 Tentative Budget
Additionally Present: Town Comptroller, Tony Siligato
The Town Board received the Tentative Budget, and reviewed the Town Administrator’s Transmittal Letter in detail.
It was noted that the Tentative Budget is within the tax cap levy by approximately $40,000, coming in at a 2.45%
increase.
The Town Board discussed the high credit card fees being paid by the Town for handling credit card transactions at
the Town Center. The fees can be reduced if credit cards are only taken on line, and not in person at the Town
Center. The Town Board would like to make the change to only accepting credit charge transactions on-line,
effective January 1, 2018.
ADDED ITEM
Supervisor Seligson reported on the recent Town Village School Meeting, noting that Dr. Shaps again discussed the
school districts desperation dealing with the added enrollment. Supervisor Seligson distributed a PowerPoint
presentation distribute by the school district.
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The date for Councilman Odierna’s retirement party was discussed and tentatively set for December 12.
Supervisor Seligson stated that she and Mr. Altieri were contacted by Eric Lewis and Matt Sullivan of LMC-TV to
discuss and receive advice on the recent findings that there is an underground oil tank and asbestos at the Fire
House. Findings show that the oil tank has leaked. Neither of these issues have been included in the proposed
budget for the project. LMC-TV’s Board of Directors are holding a meeting this evening to discuss and assess these
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issues. Supervisor Seligson noted that they also discussed moving to the Town Center’s 3 floor and what would be
needed to renovate the space for such a move. The Board noted that the grant funds being received would go
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directly to the Village of Mamaroneck, therefore the municipality will be the contractor and must go out to public
bidding and if the project exceeds the 1.5million estimate, it will need to go by the WICS law.
Discussion – Parking Occupancy Survey – Washington Square Neighborhood
The Town Board reviewed the updated proposal from BFJ Planning to complete a study of parking occupancy in the
Washington Square Area (WSA). The Board had asked for some modifications of the first proposal with respect to
the particular days and times the occupancy counts were to take place. Supervisor Seligson stated that she received
correspondence from Mr. Cuccia, a resident of the Carleton House in WSA , requesting the Town Board not
authorize a study, and any proposal being considered be discussed with residents’ from the various buildings in the
area. The Board discussed the purpose of a study, whether there were other benefits besides just the application
from Gjokos. The Board discussed the purpose of whether to move forward with the study. Supervisor Seligson
believes understanding the parking situation would be helpful for the discussion moving forward. Additionally, the
Board requested a mid-week day be added to the occupancy study. Mr. Altieri also suggested the Town Board
review studies and documents used to inform them to pass the zoning amendment that created the residential
component to the Business and Service Business Districts. Councilwoman Katz noted that the proposal did not
include the changes in days and times that were requested by the Board at the last meeting. Mr. Altieri will come
back to the Board at the November meeting with the changes discussed.
NYSERDA Clean Energy Community Grant
Supervisor Seligson noted that the Sustainability Collaborative chose the hybrid senior bus and the thermostats as
their top choses for the grant submission. Mr. Altieri had previously noted that the Town mechanic, Mike Pinto has
received feedback regarding hybrid bus vehicles that has not been positive. In discussing the various options, it was
noted that building upgrades at the Town Center was not a viable option since many upgrades have already been
done. The grant required a reduction in greenhouse gasses. It was noted that the hybrid senior bus would have the
greatest visibility in the community. The Town Board would still like to consider a project that involves a Town
Building. Mr. Altieri will revisit the hybrid bus with Mike Pinto, and the Town will revisit a new boiler at the VFW
and Town Center air conditioning units, as preferences to the hybrid bus.
On motion of Councilman Murphy, seconded by Councilwoman Katz, the Board unanimously agreed to enter into
an Executive Session to discuss salaries for non-union and management personnel.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Salaries for Non-Union and Management Personnel
On motion of Councilwoman Elkind Eney, seconded by Councilwoman Katz, the Board unanimously agreed to
resume the Regular Meeting.
CALL TO ORDER - REGULAR MEETING
The Regular Meeting of the Town Board was called to order by Supervisor Seligson at 8:15 PM, she then pointed out
the location of the exits.
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Supervisor Seligson noted that the Town Board met for a worksession beginning at 5:00 o’clock this evening, adding
this is an open meeting that all residents’ are welcomed to attend.
SUPERVISOR’S SUMMARY REPORT
The Town held its first annual Food Truck festival last Saturday in Memorial Park It was attended by
thousands of people. Not only were there 6 food trucks, but the Fire, Police, Ambulance and Recreation
Departments offered activities and information. There was live music, a pumpkin patch, a fire smoke
demonstration, and police cars and ambulances to explore. We will review the event to see how to
improve it for next year. Thank you to all the Town Departments that participated in planning and
carryout the event – especially the recreation and fire departments.
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October 18, 2017
The Town Board received and had an initial review of the 2018 preliminary budget this evening during
work session. The budget meeting calendar is on the Town website and all the meetings are open to the
public.
I had the honor of addressing Murray Avenue School second graders this past week as they made their
annual trip to the Town Center to learn about their community. They met with the Clerk’s office, fire,
police and ambulance departments. I also had the honor of talking about out drinking water supply
system on the Community Summit panel this week. The audience heard from WJWW and the Larchmont
water Dept.
The Town hosted the quarterly TVS (Town, Village, School) meeting yesterday where the chief elected
officials and managers of the communities, school superintendents and school board president meet to
share information and updates. For over a year, Dr. Bob Shaps, the Mamaroneck Schools Superintendent,
has been reporting on the enrollment challenges in the Mamaroneck School District. They have had and
continue to have a large and entirely unpredicted increase in enrollment throughout the district. This
leads to space limitations and budget constraints. The school board and staff are working to reach out to
the community to explain the issue and engage residents in a discussion of how to respond. They plan to
form task forces and hold public meetings. Please go to their website if you’re interested to participate.
I plan to send my bi-annual newsletter to Town residents in about two weeks. Please be on the lookout
for it. You can sign up for my monthly e-newsletter by going onto the Town website and clicking on the
“how do I” button.
Finally, Councilwoman Elkind Eney and I attended the tour and ribbon cutting ceremony for the new
athletic facilities at MHS. It was impressive to see the improvements and modern facilities now available
to high school students.
CITIZEN’S COMMENTS
Supervisor Seligson asked if anyone in the audience would like to address the Board, and there was not.
BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
The Meeting was called to order by Commissioner Seligson, and then on motion of Commissioner Elkind Eney,
seconded by Commissioner Abby Katz, the Board of Fire Commissioners was unanimously declared open.
Present were the following Members of the Commission:
Commissioner: Nancy Seligson
Commissioner: Abby Katz
Commissioner: Jaine Elkind Eney
Commissioner: Thomas A. Murphy
Absent was the following Member of the Commission:
Commissioner: Ernest Odierna
1. FIRE CLAIMS
On motion of Commissioner Elkind Eney, seconded by Commissioner Murphy, it was
RESOLVED that this Commission hereby authorizes payment of the following Fire
Department Claims as approved by the Fire Chief and audited by the Comptroller’s
Office:
VENDOR DESCRIPTION AMOUNT
AAA Emergency Supply Co. Calibration gas, 5" Storz to 4" NST, Structural Boots, Fire Ext. repair $881.35
AAA Emergency Supply Co. Scott Pak repair 255.09
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AT & T Mobility Wireless Service 8/12/17 - 9/11/17 362.25
Amazon.Com Display Port to HD Cable 21.98
Bigam, Shawn 3 pairs Vertex Original pants from Galls 61.14
Bound Tree Medical, Inc. Medical supplies, batteries, scopes, gloves 152.00
Bound Tree Medical, Inc. Medical supplies, batteries, scopes, gloves 188.00
Brewer Hardware Enamel Paint, Fasteners & clips 21.78
Brewer Hardware Building supplies 62.30
CIT Finance LLC Xerox Copier contract 9/21/17 277.89
Cablevision Cable services for 9/23/17 - 10/22/17 212.70
Con Edison Fire HQ Gas service 8/28-9/27/17 69.63
Goosetown Communication Magnetic Mic Conversion Kit, Mic Muff w/o-ring 227.65
Goosetown Communication Radio cables for new E36 & L19, Radio install for new E36 2554.25
Grainger Facial tissues and ear muffs 98.46
Home Depot Paint & supplies for Gym, Dewalt drill set for workbench 355.82
Ink It Up Volunteer T-Shirts 506.25
New England Uniform Service pins and badges 824.00
NFPA Fire Prevention material 529.95
Ready Refresh Rental for Water Coolers at FD HQ 8/19-9/18/17 114.96
Sound Shore Pest Control Exterminating services on 9/26/17 65.00
Superior Backflow Testing Tested backflow prevention device for fire system 160.00
Town of Mam'k Fire Dept. New seat cushion for bench 215.50
Town of Mam'k Fire Dept. Career Staff uniform pants 152.82
Town of Mam'k PFF Life Insurance Premium for Career Staff of 12 for the mo. of Sept. 2017 188.64
UniFirst Corporation Cleaning supplies for building 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29/17 291.00
UniFirst Corporation Cleaning supplies for building 10/6/17 129.30
United Overhead Door Corp. Repair and labor for overhead door 676.60
Verizon Fire HQ service 9/10 -10/9/17 238.54
Villa Maria Pizza Food for Fast Drill 9/25/17, Department Drill 9/21/17 146.99
Villa Maria Pizza Food for New Member/Explorer Drill 10/4/17 46.77
Waterway Long Island Fire Equipment Testing: Fire Hose, Aerial Test (ladder 19), etc. 5705.66
WJWW 205 Weaver ST Charges 8/25-9/24/17 136.91
WJWW Water Charges 9/30 - 12/31/17 100.00
Westech Elevator Services Maintenance for month of October 2017 175.00
0.00
Total: $16206.18
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Commissioner Murphy Aye
Commissioner Elkind Eney Aye
Commissioner Katz Aye
Commissioner Odierna Absent
Commissioner Seligson Aye
There being no further business to come before the Commission, on motion of Commissioner Elkind Eney, seconded
by Commissioner Abby Katz, the Commission unanimously adjourned and the Town Board reconvened.
AFFAIRS OF THE TOWN
1.Submission of the 2018 Tentative Budget
Mr. Altieri read from his Budget Transmittal Letter entered into the record as follows:
October 18, 2017
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Honorable Supervisor Nancy Seligson
Honorable Members of the Town Board
Honorable Christina Battalia – Town Clerk
RE: SUBMISSION OF THE 2018 TENTATIVE BUDGET FOR THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK
We are pleased to submit for review by the Supervisor, Town Board and members of the community the 2018
Tentative Budget for the Town of Mamaroneck. This first version of the Town Budget represents the financial plan
prepared by the Budget Officer, Comptroller and executive staff. This budget is predicated on the continuation of
the all-inclusive menu of services provided by the Town government to the community. The services provided
maintain the safety and enhances the quality of life in the Town. While our service audience is primarily the
unincorporated Town, there are a number of services provided to residents of the Village of Larchmont and Village
of Mamaroneck.
The Town enters this budget season at a time when the government is experiencing remarkable financial strength.
Our excellent financial condition is evidenced by the Town’s continued Aaa bond rating from Moody’s Investor’s
Service and the New York State Comptroller’s ranking of the Town with regard to fiscal stress. The State
Comptroller has placed the Town in the category of “no designation” which means there are no factors in our
financial operations or statements that would indicate the Town being in fiscal stress.
Another reason for our strong position is our approach to budgeting and financial management. Our conservative
approach for estimating revenues and expenses avoids large year to year fluctuations in our budgets. Thus resulting
in relatively stable tax rates and tax levies. This approach has also allowed us to maintain ample fund balances for
the unexpected.
Our goal each year is to present a budget that finances municipal services at the greatest value possible to the
community. Not unlike any other organization, the Town is impacted by external factors such as interest rate
fluctuations, price changes for goods and services and other economic factors. Specific to the Town of Mamaroneck
our real estate market remains strong and property values continue to rise which is a good sign for the immediate
future. As the Town’s financial road map, the budget serves as a tool for the Town Board to consider alternative
policies regarding municipal services. It also serves to provide the community a better understanding of the Town’s
many services and how the services are financed.
The Property Tax Cap
Attachment #1 is the Town’s tax cap worksheet for 2018. Based upon the formula provided by New York State, the
Town’s tax levy cap is 2.63% or a maximum tax levy increase of $658,270. The Town’s Tentative Budget for 2018 is
tax cap compliant with a total tax levy increase of $614,589; an increase of 2.45%. While targeting the tax cap may
be a worthy goal, the Town must each year consider the realities of meeting the established tax cap and the
implications to the municipal services provided to the residents. However we are pleased that for 2018 the staff
was able to formulate a tax cap compliant budget.
Budget Overview
The table below provides a comparative schedule of the 2017 Adopted Budget and 2018 Tentative Budget.
2017 Adopted 2018 Tentative Change % Change
Budget Budget
Appropriations $37,783,291 $39,104,313 $1,321,022 3.5%
Non-Tax Revenue
$11,583,938 $12,060,668 $476,730 4.1%
Reserve Application
$1,211,397 $1,441,100 $229,703 19%
Property Tax Levy
$24,987,956 $25,602,545 $614,589 2.45%
Attachment #2 is a detailed summary of the appropriations, revenues, surplus application and tax levy for each of
the nine Town Budget Funds.
Property Tax Impact of 2018 Tentative Budget
In 2017 we marked the fourth year since the original property revaluation was completed. Under the original
property revaluation plan submitted to New York State, the Town, every four years was to conduct a complete
review and revaluation of all properties. This insures the integrity of the assessment roll and that it continues to
represent 100% of market value. This past year the Town experienced a very active and positive real estate market
as sales of homes increased. Between 2017 and 2018 the Town’s total taxable value rose by $296 million to $9.8
billion. The average value of a home in the Town rose from $1.22 million to $1.25 million. As you review the
budget please note that total taxable valuations for each of the Town’s budgetary funds will differ due to the
different application of various exemptions as dictated by New York State.
Certainly individual residential assessments will differ between the Towns unincorporated area and the Villages of
Larchmont and Mamaroneck. The schedule below illustrates the property tax impact based upon the average
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assessment for the entire Town. Individual property tax impacts will of course differ depending upon whether a
residential parcel’s assessment is above or below the average. The property tax rates are always expressed per one
thousand dollars of assessment.
Impact Upon Unincorporated Area Properties
2017 2018 Change % change
Property Tax Rate $5.47 $5.38 ($0.09) (1.6%)
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Town Property Taxes $6,678 $6,751 $73 1%
Impact Upon Properties in the Villages of Mamaroneck and Larchmont
2017 2018 Change % Change
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Property Tax Rate $0.47 $0.46 -0- -0-
Town Property Taxes $573 $577 $4.00 < 1%
It is important to remind both the Board and the community that the large difference in the amount of property
taxes paid by an Unincorporated Area property owner versus a Village property owner is a function of the services
delivered to each section of the community. Unincorporated area property owners receive all Town government
services including Sanitation, Snow removal, Leaf collection, other Highway Department Services, Police and Fire
Department services as well as services provided to the Villages. Residents of the Village receive a select menu of
services from the Town including Recreation Services, Ambulance Services, School and County Tax Collection,
Property Assessment Services and those services provided to our Senior Citizens.
Revenue Discussion
An important component of the Town’s budget are the non-property tax revenues received from various fees and
charges. In 2018 we are estimating that total non-property tax revenues will be $12,060,668; an increase of
$476,730 or 4.1% over last year. Again, we want to reiterate that we remain conservative in our estimating of non-
property tax revenues. This is important due to the level of unpredictability for several categories of revenues. We
have mentioned in the past that revenue streams for mortgage tax, sales tax and interest income can change
dramatically from year to year. Therefore we use past experience and leading indicators to guide us in our revenue
recommendations.
Although the property tax remains the Town’s primary funding source we have developed a platform to use fees
and charges to fund some municipal services.
This is part of a growing trend to finance certain municipal services either in large part or entirely from user fees
thus giving property owners some control over their expenses for municipal services.
Referring to attachment #2, the budget summary schedule, you will note that in the Sewer District Fund and Water
District Fund there is no property tax levy. The expenses of the two districts are funded entirely from user fees.
Sewer District fees were implemented three years ago while Water District fees have been in place for some time.
The same model is applied to our Recreation Programs and our Ambulance Services. Fees for our Recreation
Department programs and activities finance 97% of the department’s operating expenses. In the Ambulance
District, fees subsidize 60% of the expenses for providing ambulance service.
The pie chart below illustrates the various categories of revenues received by the Town and expresses them as a
percentage of the total all revenues to the Town including the tax levy.
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Assumes average property assessment of $1,221,000 in 2017 and $1,255,000 million for 2018.
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The tax rate for village properties is the sum of the Townwide and Ambulance District tax rates.
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On the next page we have created a table comparing 2017 and 2018 revenues in the major categories as provided
for the in the Town Budget.
Revenue Type 2017 2018 Change
Property Taxes $24,987,956 $25,602,957 $614,589
Surplus $1,211,397 $1,441,100 $229,703
Interfund Transfers $356,000 $347,000 ($9,000)
Intergovt Revenues $218,000 $218,000 -0-
Other Taxes 3 $2,307,000 $2,337,000 $30,000
Department Income 4 $2,011,848 $2,047,483 $35,635
Recreation Fees $2,560,000 $2,654,000 $94,000
Use of Money $271,100 $266,100 ($5,000)
Licenses & Permits $513,250 $591,250 $78,000
Fines $307,000 $305,000 ($2,000)
State Aid 5 $1,903,725 $2,148,725 $245,000
Federal Aid 6 $738,365 $667,740 ($70,625)
Individual revenues that are worth noting in the discussion of the 2018 Town Budget are the following:
Other Taxes- Sales Tax: The Town is estimating that sales tax revenue will increase by $30,000 to
$1,730,000. Sales tax revenue earned by the Town is a per capita distribution based upon sales tax
revenues throughout Westchester County except for the major cities. A major driver for sales tax is the sale
of gasoline so with prices fluctuating widely, we are estimating a modest increase in this revenue
Recreation Fees: Fees for our recreation programs are expected to increase by $94,000 to $2,654,000. The
two programs that account for most of the increase in Recreation Fees is the summer playground camp
programs and house league hockey. Parents have been interested in an extended playground program for
children. In 2018 each of the camp programs will be extended by one hour. With the expected increase in
expenses, fees for the programs have also been increased.
Licenses and Permits: Our estimates for this source of revenue is $591,000 for 2018; an increase of $78,000.
The Town’s Building Department has been particularly busy over the past two years and we predict that
trend will continue.
State Aid-Mortgage Tax: The very active real estate market in the Town over the last year has boosted the
Town’s share of the State mortgage tax. Confidence in this source of revenue is high for this year so we
have increased the estimated revenue from $1.3million to $1.5million for 2018.
Other State Aid: There have been no initiatives in Albany to increase aid to local governments other than
through some categorical grants. Therefore we have proposed no increases for Per Capita Aid or
Consolidated Highway Improvement Funding (CHIPS). Therefore estimates for 2018 remain unchanged. Per
Capita Aid is proposed at $140,000 and CHIPS funding at $85,000.
Federal Aid: Aid programs for senior citizens remain intact for 2018 however there have been a series of
reductions in administrative fees reimbursed to our Section 8 Housing Voucher Program. Fees for
administrative reimbursement are calculated on a per voucher basis. Currently the Town is receiving $77.00
per voucher for administrative expenses. This is a decrease from the previous reimbursement rate which
was $86.00 per voucher. As a result of decrease in the reimbursement rate we have reduced our expected
Federal aid for the Section 8 Program from $669,000 to $600,000.
Application of Surplus Funds
The application of surplus for 2018 is proposed to increase by $229,000 to $1,441,100. The Town’s surplus position
varies between each of the budget funds however our overall surplus is approximately 40% of appropriations. This
amount is in compliance with the Town’s surplus recovery policy.
Surplus funds serve a variety of purposes including help with cash flow during tax collection periods and for
unexpected events and expenditures. Surplus funds can also be a good source of funding for non-recurring projects
without having to issue debt. For 2018 $596,100 or 41% of surplus application is proposed for a variety of smaller
capital projects which will be detailed later as part of the expenditure discussion.
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Other taxes includes: Late tax payment penalties, Gross Receipts tax, and Sales tax
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Department income includes: Ambulance Charges, sewer rent, water revenue, planning fees, and other department fees,
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State Aid includes: Mortgage tax, Per Capita State Aid, and other smaller aid programs for Town services
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Federal Aid includes funding for the Section 8 Housing Program and programs for senior citizen services
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Expenditure Discussion
The 2018 Tentative Budget proposes total appropriations of $39,104,313, an increase of $1.3 million or 3.5% over
2017. The rate of increase for appropriations for 2018 has been reduced to about 50% of the rate of increase for
2017 even in light of several large line item expense increases. As we stated earlier the budget as proposed
continues all of the Town’s current services. Below is a chart that illustrates the appropriations budget by the
individual budget funds and districts.
On the next page, the pie chart illustrates the budget in the framework of each of the Town’s budget funds. The
Townwide Budget and Ambulance District comprise approximately 35% of the Town Budget and are levied upon the
entire Town including the two villages. The balance of the budget, 65%, is levied upon just the unincorporated area
of the Town. The budget levied upon the unincorporated area includes all essential services including Police and
Fire Protection, Public Works Services and Sanitation Services.
In the public sector expenditures are driven primarily by personnel costs and employee benefit costs. For the most
part these costs are based upon contractual obligations between the Town and its employee bargaining units.
Other expenditure obligations include the day to day expenditures for goods and services known as contractual
expenses and the debt obligations for major capital expenditures.
Below we have prepared a schedule of the major categories of expense and a comparison of the changes between
2017 and estimates for 2018. This schedule is based upon the entire Town Budget.
Expense Type 2017 2018 Change % change
Salaries $14,446,682 $14,920,959 $474,277 3.3%
Equipment $203,070 $230,650 $27,580 13.6%
Contractual
$9,824,474 $10,177,282 $352,808 3.6%
Expenses
Employee Benefits $9,470,095 $9,852,920 $382,825 4%
Debt Service $3,179,708 $3,161,902 ($17,806) (<1%)%
Inter-fund Transfers $629,762 $731,100 $101,338 16%
Personnel/Staffing
The 2018 budget includes expenses for 128 full time positions for all departments and activities. This represents a
reduction of one full time position from 2017. As the Town enters 2018 collective bargaining agreements are in
place for all three bargaining units.
The total salary adjustment listed in the chart above actually represents a two year adjustment for more than half
of the Town’s unionized employees. At the time the 2017 budget was prepared, the Town was in negotiations with
the CSEA and Professional Firefighters bargaining units. Therefore the salaries for the employees in these units
listed in the 2017 budget were actual 2016 salaries. In 2018 the Town’s total salary expense for full and part time
personnel will be $14.9million and increase of 3.28% or $474,000.
Earlier in this letter we spoke of enhancements to our playground camp programs with the introduction of an
extended day program. As a result our salary expense for part time camp staff was increased to enable the Town to
staff the program. Where possible we are utilizing part time personnel in an attempt to reduce our overall
employee benefit costs.
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Equipment
This category of expense includes the purchase of small equipment, uniforms and accessories needed for the
operational departments. In 2018 we propose an increase of over $27,000 in this category with total expenditures
of $230,650. The reasons for the large increase are due to the needed replacement of protective vests for our
Police Officers. The vests have a limited life and must be replaced at regular intervals. In addition there are
uniform replacements for both the Police and Fire Departments that will be implemented in 2018.
Contractual Expenses
Contractual expenses for 2018 are expected to increase by $352,000 to $10.1million. These expenses form the basis
for the purchase of goods and services needed by the operating departments on a daily basis. Some of the more
noteworthy expenditures in this category include:
All energy and utility costs including vehicle fuels
All expenses associated with repairs to our vehicle fleet
All service contracts for maintenance of Town equipment, two way radios and other operating equipment
Consultant services provided for IT services, and consultants for Planning and Zoning Board and general
consulting to the Town on special projects.
All expenses for legal fees and legal retainer agreements.
All building repair and maintenance expenses
Funds estimated for judgements and claims against the Town not covered by insurance. Certiorari claims
are paid from this category.
During our work sessions with individual departments we will discuss in more detail the changes in contractual
expenses. There are expenses however that impact all departments and those changes are worth mentioning here.
Energy and Fuel Expenses: Although the reduction is smaller than in previous years, our energy and fuel expenses
are expected to decrease from $638,000 to $631,000 in 2018. In 2015 our total energy expenses were $740,000.
While we have implemented many energy savings measures, the nature of a municipal operation does not always
lend itself to savings. Depending upon the severity of winter weather, some of our facilities will operate evenings,
weekends and holidays. Severe weather also increases our vehicle fuel consumption. In addition our Police
Headquarters and Fire Headquarters operate on a 24/7 basis.
In the coming year we look to incorporate electric vehicles into our fleet operations which will allow for the
replacement of older less efficient vehicles.
Consultant Services/IT Support: Virtually all of our operations now include some form of computer technology to
better service the community. Most of our payment transactions can now be accomplished online through our
website. Residents can now register on line for many of our Recreation Programs. We have moved aggressively to
computerize our record management system to provide faster access to Town data. These and many other
technology advances however require software and server maintenance.
In 2018 our Computer Software Maintenance and Support Expense will increase by $70,000 to $211,000. IT security
has become another important component of our technology activities as well as periodic updates to our servers
and networks. In 2018 we estimate that $146,000 will be expended for outside computer systems support.
Liability Insurance: The Town has been fortunate to have experienced reasonably low insurance losses over the last
two years. However with increased claims payments in the insurance industry from natural disasters and decreases
in investment yields the insurance market has hardened a bit. For 2018 our property and liability insurance expense
will rise by 3.5% to $394,000.
Employee Benefits
Between 2016 and 2017 the Town’s employee benefit costs rose by 12.2% or just over $1million. For 2018 the
estimated increase for all employee benefits is 4% or $382,000. Our total employee benefit expense will be
$9.8million.
The increase in benefit costs is led by a 9% increase in health insurance costs and an expected 30% increase in
Medicare Part B reimbursement expenses. Our dollar amount expenses will be$4.6million for health insurance and
$221,000 for Medicare reimbursements.
Pension costs for the Town will actually decrease by a small amount in 2018. Worker’s Compensation expenses
which have been very high for the Town due to serious injuries will level off a bit in 2018. Overall the Town’s
worker’s compensation expense will be $1.1million
Debt Service
As of January 1, 2018 the Town will have a total of $37.1 million of outstanding debt. The Town’s annual debt
service expense for 2018 will be $3.19million a reduction of approximately $18,000 from 2017. In order to spread
the impact of the debt service over multiple years, a bond issue in the amount of $5.9million has been deferred to
February of 2018. By deferring the bond issue to 2018 and incurring the first debt payment in 2019, the Town can
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take advantage of a $328,000 reduction in our annual debt payments in 2019 thus producing a more level annual
debt payment plan. The proposed bond issue would finance the following projects some of which are complete:
Bond Amount
2017 Road Resurfacing $ 775,000*
2017 Highway Vehicles 385,000**
Pryor Manor Bridge 103,500
Town Center Improvements 227,500
Highway Garage Improvements 72,500
LVAC Parking Lot Improvements 41,500*
Sanitation Vehicle 170,500
Water System Improvements 1,125,225
Sewer System Improvements 3,000,000
Total $5,900,725
* Denotes Completed Project
** Denotes Partially Completed Project
Any additional capital projects approved by the Town Board for 2018 that require the borrowing of funds will be
added to the above listing and included in the bond issue.
Capital Projects
The Town Board will receive a separate report regarding all of the proposed capital projects for 2018. Earlier we
commented that a prudent use of the Town’s surplus funds is for smaller capital projects. The use of the surplus
funds reduces the need for additional borrowing.
Therefore following that concept we have included in the Tentative Budget $681,000 in smaller capital projects for
your consideration.
The capital projects proposed in the budget are as follows:
Technology Improvements $195,000
Fire District- Technology Improvements 110,000
Improvements- Hommocks Ice Rink Concession 40,000
Replacement of Tent/Canopy- Summer Camps 30,000
Roof Replacement-Memorial Park Restroom Bldg. 12,500
Replacement – Two Police Vehicles 75,000
Road Resurfacing- Appropriation of CHIPS Funding 85,000
Replacement- Highway Vehicle 30,000
Ambulance District Vehicle Replacement 40,000
Town Center-Exit Door, Kitchen, HVAC Controls 50,000
LVAC Building Improvements 6,300
Ambulance District Toughbook Replacement 4,500
Computer Replacement-Mamk. Emergency Squad 2,800
Total $681,100
Conclusion
This concludes the submission of the 2018 Tentative Town of Mamaroneck Budget. A series of public work sessions
will now be held with the Town Board and staff to review various features of the budget document. It will also be a
time for the Town Board to consider revisions and changes in accordance with any service changes that may be
discussed.
We are pleased to submit a budget that is compliant with the New York State Property Tax Cap, yet continues to
provide the high level of service expected by the community.
We want to close by thanking the Town Department Heads and staff that were involved in preparing this budget.
The Town is fortunate to have on staff professionals that have great expertise in their fields. Their expertise is
critical not only during the budget process but throughout the year.
Sincerely,
Stephen V. Altieri Anthony S. Siligato
Town Administrator/Budget Officer Comptroller/Director of Finance
It was noted that the budget as presented is tax cap compliant. The budget will be available on the Town’s website
tomorrow. The upcoming budget sessions were announced by Supervisor Seligson who noted that they are open to
the public.
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October 18, 2017
2.Salary Authorization – Highway Department
On motion of Councilman Murphy, seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney, it was
RESOLVED, that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby appoint Joseph Alimena to the full-time
position of Motor Equipment Operator with the Highway Department, at an annual salary of
$56,461, effective, no later than, October 31, 2017.
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Murphy Aye
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Absent
Seligson Aye
3. Authorization – Parking Occupancy Study – Washington Square Neighborhood
DEFERRED
4. Consideration of Certiorari
On motion of Councilman Murphy, seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney, it was
RESOLVED, that the Town Board hereby authorizes the settlement of the following tax
certiorari on the following terms:
Patsy & Theresa Giacomo
636 Fifth Avenue
Section/Block/Lot: 1-11-32
Town of Mamaroneck
Year Assessment Amount of Reduction Reduced Assessment
2011 $ 29,200 $ 10,800 $ 18,400
2012 $ 29,200 $ 11,800 $ 17,400
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Murphy Aye
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Absent
Seligson Aye
On motion of Councilman Murphy, seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney, it was
RESOLVED, that the Town Board hereby authorizes the settlement of the following tax
certiorari on the following terms:
Exchequer LLC
553 Palmer Avenue
Section/Block/Lot: 9-3-9
Town of Mamaroneck/Village of Mamaroneck
Year Assessment Amount of Reduction Reduced Assessment
2013 $725,000 $25,000 $700,000
2014 $725,000 $25,000 $700,000
2015 $725,000 $25,000 $700,000
2016 $725,000 $ -0- $725,000
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October 18, 2017
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Murphy Aye
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Absent
Seligson Aye
5. Amend 2018 Budget Calendar
On motion of Councilman Murphy, seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney, it was
th
RESOLVED, that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby cancel the Budget meetings of October 25
thth
and November 20, and adds to the Budget Calendar a meeting on Tuesday, November 28 from 5:00 to
8:00 pm, at the VFW.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
None
REPORT OF COUNCIL
The Town Board Members reported on their various activities and meetings since the last Town Board Meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Councilman Murphy, seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney, the meeting was unanimously
adjourned at 9:00 PM
________________________________
Submitted by
Christina Battalia, Town Clerk
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