Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout1987_10_15 Conservation Advisory Commission Minutes 4 #1.1) 0 4 NI .., : RECEIVED NOV 30 Town of Mamaroneck X981 Conservation Advisory Commission 0 PATRICIA A.DiCIOCC�o MAMARONECK Area Code 914 740 West'Bosto MI: Conservation Rm.,Mamaroneck, 1‘T: ' 1II =r< 381-6133 MINUTES A regular meeting of the Conservation Advisory Commission (CAC) was held on Thursday, October 15, 1987, at the Town Center, 740 West Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, N. Y. The meeting commenced at 8:25 P.M. Members Present: Robert Funicello, Acting Chairman Susan Amlicke, Emeritus Charles Bernstein Elinor Fredston Mary Anne Johnson, Emeritus Others Present: Robert Hohberg, Water Monitoring Consultant C. Alan Mason, CZMC Representative Claudia Ng, Town Staff Frederick A. Lewis, Recording Secretary Prior to the opening of the meeting, the question of a quorum was raised since Mrs. Johnson was not a voting member of the Commission. It was decided to await the arrival of another member before commencing the meeting. At 8:25 P.M. , Mr. Funicello was asked to chair the meeting inasmuch as no other members showed up. Administrative Matters Approval of Minutes - Ms. Ng mentioned that the minutes of the July meeting had not yet been approved. Mrs. Johnson said that she did have several issues to raise but did not have her notes with her. Next Meeting - The next meeting was scheduled for Thursday, November 19, 1987 at 8:00 P.M. Public Notice of Meetings - Ms. Ng asked whether the CAC would like to provide public notification of their meetings as done by CZMC. It involved the listing of items to be discussed so that members and the public can be made more aware of the issues that are occurring. Consensus of members was in favor of including the agenda in the notification of meetings and that the format of the agenda should remain the same. Mr. Bernstein questioned when the agenda closes for a meeting and Ms. Ng indicated that matters to be included on the agenda should be presented to her at least a week before the meeting. Mrs. Amlicke suggested to Ms. Ng that she notify the absent members of this deadline. The question was also raised as to why everyone did not receive a meeting notice for this meeting, to which Ms. Ng explained that an error had occurred in the mailing process. CAC Minutes - 10/15/87 Environment Woodchips on Hommocks Field - Ms. Ng advised that this matter was discussed at the previous meeting and although recommendations were suggested, no specific decision or policy was made. The Town Council is requesting a recommendation or decision from CAC. At this point the question of a quorum was again raised, however, the discussion on the woodchips continued. While it was pointed out that the woodchips were unsightly, it was brought out that there was no other area available for storage of them and that they were moved from the parking lot where they were previously stored because of sewer line construction. Mrs. Amlicke questioned the possibility of storing the woodchips behind the court house where there are a couple of acres of land. However, Mrs. Johnson indicated that there were drainage problems in that area. Mr. Funicello advised that at the last meeting, the problem of using the school field for other than school use was discussed and the recommendation made that a policy be established for the use of parkland. However, no decision was made on this. Ms. Ng indicated that she did some research concerning the property status of the area. The school owns a portion of the field and the Town owns the rest but she could not find anything about the dedication of the land as a park. Mrs. Johnson advised that the dedication of the field as a conservation area took place when other areas were also being dedicated. Ms. Ng advised that the area designated as a conservation area is off on the side, past the sea wall. However, she could not find any record of the dedication of the playing field. Further discussion was held on this matter. Mr. Funicello again raised the issue of the Town setting forth a policy which will determine how park and other Town property can be utilized. It was finally agreed by the members that the CAC were not in a position to say whether the storage of the woodchips on the field would cause any environmental problems although they were advised by Mr. Cliff Emanuelson, the previous Town Consultant, that it would not. Further, inasmuch as they are not certain of the property status of the land, it would be difficult for them to say whether the use of the land is appropriate. On the other hand, the woodchips serve a useful purpose and the CAC is aware that the Town must provide a site for the storage in the community or at another appropriate site. Litter Control - Mrs. Amlicke reported that in her discussions with County personnel, great concern was stressed about the littering conditions within the community. Discussion touched on the distribution of the Pennysaver as a litter problem. Mr. Funicello recommended that a strong letter be sent to them. He also brought up the problems of stores with littered sidewalk conditions and recommended that they be cited. Other recommendations made for effective litter control were public education, stiff fines, enforcement, and making police aware of their commitment to the community for enforcing quality of life offenses. Mrs. Johnson cited an area in which litter and garden debris is being dumped and recommended increased fines along with appropriate signs indicating that the area is being monitored. In agreement, Mrs. Amlicke further suggested that dumping of garden debris be allowed at composting sites. However, it was raised that there could be a problem of the wrong type of debris being dumped at these areas. Mrs. Amlicke inquired about the status of the litter law which was submitted to CAC for consideration, to which Ms. Ng replied that the Town Council had not proceeded with it in any way except that they now have requested the Coastal Zone Management Commission to review it. Mrs. Amlicke -2- CAC Minutes - 10/15/87 asked whether the two commissions could have a joint meeting concerning this problem. However, none of the members present would be able to attend the CZMC's meeting on October 27. The decision was made to invite a member of CZMC to the next CAC meeting to discuss this issue. Ms. Ng indicated that in going through some records, she came across a notice to residents which stressed concern about illegal dumping of grass clippings, leaves, garden stuffing, etc. After some recollection and discussion, it was recommended that we try again and send out a new notice. Ms. Ng said that she would work with Bob Komitor on drafting a revised notice and will submit it for review at the next CAC meeting. Mrs. Johnson suggested that it be sent to residents along conservation areas with a request that their help is needed in monitoring these areas. Development Projects Westchester Religious Institute Athletic Field - Mr. Bernstein reported on his meeting with representatives of the Orienta Point Association where he raised the issue of potential overuse of pesticide and fertilizer on the field. He had suggested to them that they send a letter to the Village of Mamaroneck requesting a hearing on the environmental problems. However, Mr. Bernstein advised that it might be better to have CAC write a letter to the school with a copy to the Village of Mamaroneck indicating our concern and requesting the monitoring of the quantity of pesticide and fertilizer to be used. Mr. Bernstein further suggested that they indicate the type of pesticides to be used in order that it may be properly evaluated. The drainage system, Mr. Bernstein explained, is directed straight into the Sound. Mrs. Johnson cited problems of wrongful applications of pesticide which resulted in illnesses. Mr. Funicello suggested that the letter be addressed to the Mamaroneck Village Planning Board instead, with copies to appropriate people, citing the need for registration of pesticide application. It was agreed that Mr. Bernstein will draft the letter for the CAC Chairman to sign and send to the Planning Board Chairman. Water Courses and Water Bodies State Freshwater Wetlands Map - Ms. Ng indicated that the maps were issued and in reviewing it, found that they did not include any areas in the Town of Mamaroneck or in the Village of Larchmont, but did include areas in the Village of Mamaroneck, Rye, New Rochelle, and Scarsdale. Ms. Ng explained that reservoirs were not included because the wetlands were delineated solely by vegetation. Ms. Ng further advised that while few sites were designated as State Freshwater Wetlands in our area, the existing local Freshwater Wetlands and Water Courses Ordinance extends protection to many more areas. Water Management Task Force Forum - Mr. Bernstein reported that he attended a meeting yesterday and that the focus of the meeting was water resources rather than water management. It was reported at the meeting that 85% of water being used by the County of Westchester is New York City water. Therefore, efforts are being made to develop water resources but it is a long term matter. Mr. Bernstein informed the Commission of the publication of two studies concerning the community. He submitted a copy of a report entitled -3- CAC Minutes - 10/15/87 © Comprehensive Stormwater Management Plan - Beaver Swamp Brook Watershed and indicated that there was another study on Mamaroneck Harbor but since there were no copies available for distribution, he had to order it. Larchmont Reservoir Valve Automation - Dr. C. Alan Mason, a member of the Coastal Zone Management Commission, requested CAC's support and endorsement of the automation of the Larchmont Reservoir valve for improving flood control. The approval was given. Ms. Ng was requested to send a memorandum to the Town Council indicating CAC's approval. Water Monitoring - Mr. Robert Hohberg gave an update on his project concerning Guion Creek. He reported that the graphic work has not been completed but he presented his working map for review and explanation of his studies. Mr. Hohberg indicated that there are 20 stations. He initially did road side readings. He did a high tide reading of the Sound in addition to other low and high tide readings. The stations and points of readings were pointed out to the Commission on the map. Mr. Hohberg also submitted count tables in addition to summarizing the work done. Concerns and questions were raised with regard to the high counts near the Continental Manor. There was concern expressed as to whether it would reach out to the Sound and if so, in what concentration. Mr. Hohberg indicated that it eventually would reach the Sound but the concentration would not be high due to dilution. Mrs. Fredston questioned whether the matter had been discussed with Town officials and suggested that it be done in writing. Mr. Funicello suggested a letter be sent to the Mayor and Board of Trustees of the Village of Mamaroneck with copies to other appropriate officials. It was suggested that the information be released to the press after informing Village officials since it may pose as a health threat. The question was made as to a safe count and Mr. Hohberg indicated that a bacterial count of 2400 and over requires the closing of beaches. He further advised that he would provide graphs of his studies by the next meeting. Mr. Hohberg advised that Mr. Altieri, the Town Administrator, requested information from him concerning the reasons for Mr. Hohberg's studies and what his future goals would be. It was agreed that Mr. Hohberg should prepare a proposal for the monitoring of East Creek for the next year and a statement as to the overall goals of his studies, and that CAC will attach a covering statement. Mr. Hohberg indicated that he would present the statement and proposal at the next meeting. Garden Lake Dredging Project - Mr. Hohberg submitted the name of a company, Sorbond, which he indicated can take sludge, reduce the water contents and make it into an acceptable land fill finish. It was given to Ms. Ng to present to the Town Administrator. Federal Flood Damage Prevention Law Revisions - Ms. Ng reported that the model law with the revisions were received a week before its deadline, but that it is still in the Town Attorney's office. The revisions are connected with Federal flood insurance. The Town Council had requested CAC's recommendation since Ms. Ng did not previously submit it to them although it was submitted to several CZMC members for review and consideration. Ms. Ng questioned whether CAC wanted to review the model law considering that it was lengthy and more in the purview of CZMC. CAC agreed to waive jurisdiction to CZMC. -4- ' CAC Minutes - 10/15/87 Solid Waste Disposal Leaf Composting - Rock Ridge Road Site - Ms. Ng reported on a meeting held at the home of Mrs. Amlicke and the recommendation made of using Rock Ridge Road area as a composting site. The Town had referred it to Malcolm Pirnie. It was questioned whether Rock Ridge Road site was dedicated County land or Village of Mamaroneck property, to which Ms. Ng replied that the Mamaroneck Village Board of Trustees had to have determined it to be village property before approving the feasibility study. Local Recycling - Mr. Bernstein opened the discussion by raising the question of the disposal of newspapers by newspaper firms. He indicated a disposal plant in New Jersey, Garden State, in which old newspapers are recycled into new newspaper. The second method of disposal was the restaurant supply companies located in the Bowery section of New York City where newspaper is used to pack the equipment. The matter of finding markets was discussed. Mrs. Amlicke explained that in order to receive a Federal grant, they must have a two year contract. Therefore since Garden State, the Town's present market, would not offer a two year contract, they are exploring other markets. Ms. Ng advised that a telephone survey was conducted of companies listed in the County's "Municipal Recycling Programs -- An Implementation Guide" manual to see what others had to offer. The field was narrowed to two other options beside Garden State. One company in Tarrytown will save on time and labor because of the short travelling distance but they offer less money. Another possible market was in Port Chester which is even ® closer but offered even less money. Garden State offers $30 a ton for newspaper while Tarrytown offers $20 and Port Chester offers $15.00. Discussion was also held on the benefits of separation of mixed paper, but problems may be encountered, such as trying to re-educate residents on such separation. Both Tarrytown and Port Chester will charge a fee for taking mixed paper. The discussion concluded with Ms. Ng indicating that both herself and Mrs. Amlicke will continue their work on the project. County Recycling - Mrs. Amlicke reported that Kurt Aschermann, the County Recycling Coordinator, will soon be leaving his position. Mr. Aschermann had submitted a three year recycling proposal which offers a seven point plan but it has not been approved by the County Executive or Board of Legislature. The seven points covered County Government Plan, Legislative efforts to secure more markets, education and public information, commercial and business companies recycling within own business, municipal support, improving market development in County and State, and providing intermediate centers. Mrs. Amlicke felt that the County is going into competition with municipalities. She further indicated that over $215,000 is appropriated in various County budgets for recycling. Mrs. Amlicke further stated that the Town must zero in on establishing markets and that the Conservation Advisory Commission should approve the hiring of a full time, six days a week worker. She discussed the number of complaints received about the recycling center and indicated that municipal employees are not cooperating in recycling efforts. Mrs. Amlicke also advised that the State wants 50% recycling and concern has been expressed because we do not have a landfill. She closed the discussion by reiterating her concern about the pending departure of Mr. Aschermann. -5- CAC Minutes - 10/15/87 3 OHistoric Preservation Mrs. Fredston advised that the Town has endorsed preservation of the Jay property but the Village of Larchmont has not. Mrs. Fredston suggested that the Commission should request the same from them and she submitted a draft letter to be sent to the Village Mayor and Board of Trustees requesting endorsement of the property. The letter was given to Ms. Ng for processing. New or Other Business Summer Naturalist - Ms. Ng advised that Mr. Leddy had suggested that we submit a budget request for the employment of a Summer Naturalist again this year. She noted that $1,500 has been tentatively allocated for this. Ms. Ng also stated that the previous Summer Naturalist is no longer interested in the job this summer. Mrs. Amlicke suggested the hiring of a student. The question was raised whether the position should be filled this summer and Mrs. Johnson advised that the Naturalist was very well received last summer. It was agreed that the Commission would recommend the inclusion of this position in the budget. New York State Coastmonth - Mrs. Amlicke informed the Commission that October 25, the day scheduled for the coastmonth celebration at the Premium, is the raindate for the Mamaroneck Constitution Parade. Discussion was held on the possibility of rain and the question was raised as to whether there was a raindate for this event. Mrs. Johnson indicated that there was no raindate, that the date was selected because of its coincidence with high tide, and at this time, she was not certain whether the celebration could be held in the rain because of some of the activities involved. Mrs. Johnson outlined some of the scheduled activities and asked for a speaker from the Commission. Mrs. Amlicke volunteered but it was pointed out that she was not a voting member. The other members present indicated that they were unable to make a commitment to speak at the celebration. Mr. Hohberg (who already excused himself from the meeting) was mentioned as a possible speaker. Ms. Ng agreed to discuss it with him and also to discuss the potential integration of Mr. Hohberg's Water Quality Report with Mr. Jack Taylor's (Malcolm Pirnie) presentation of the Premium Feasibility Study. Conference on the Environment for CACs - The Conference which is scheduled for October 23 through October 25 in Albany was discussed. However, none of the Commission members present were able to make a commitment to attend the Conference. It was recommended that Ms. Ng attend the Conference but she also stated that she was unable to do so. Meeting adjourned at 10:05 P.M. -6-