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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999_10_20 Town Board Regular Minutes TOWN OF MAMARONECK TOWN BOARD AGENDA REGULAR MEETING -Wednesday, October 20, 1999 - Town Center Court Room - 8:15 PM THE TOWN BOARD WILL CONVENE at 6:45 PM into a Work Session to discuss the possible sale of land and at 7:30 PM convene into an Executive Session to discuss personnel. CONVENE REGULAR MEETING RECESS INTO WORK SESSION CONVENE EXECUTIVE SESSION RECESS WORK SESSION RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING CALL TO ATTENTION - Location of Exits PUBLIC HEARINGS -Town of Mamaroneck Public Housing Agency Five Year Plan - No Parking Here to Corner- Bryson Street and Murray Avenue, - Colonial Avenue and Murray Avenue AFFAIRS OF THE TOWN 1. Submission of 2000 Tentative Town Budget 2. Appointment - Cable Television Board of Control 3. Authorization - Consulting Agreement- Engineering Services 4. Authorization - Consulting Agreement-Appraisal Services 5. Salary Authorization - Recreation PROCLAMATIONS - UNITED NATIONS WEEK - SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION WEEK APPROVAL OF MINUTES - June 16, 1999 - July 14, 1999 ORAL COMMUNICATIONS WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS SUPERVISOR REPORTS REPORTS OF THE COUNCIL Next regularly scheduled meetings - November 3, 1999 - November 17, 1999 Any physically handicapped person needing special assistance in order to attend the meeting should call the Town Administrator's office at 381-7810. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK AND THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS HELD ON OCTOBER 20, 1999 AT 8:15 PM IN THE COURT ROOM OF THE TOWN CENTER, 740 W. BOSTON POST ROAD, MAMARONECK, NEW YORK PRESENT: Supervisor Paul A. Ryan Councilwoman Valerie M. O'Keeffe Councilwoman Phyllis Wittner Councilwoman Judith A. Myers ALSO PRESENT: Patricia A. DiCioccio, Town Clerk Stephen V. Altieri, Town Administrator Charlene Indelicato, Town Attorney ABSENT: Councilman Barry Weprin CONVENE EXECUTIVE SESSION The Board convened into a Work Session at 6:45 PM in Conference Room A of the Town Center to discuss the possible sale of land and into an Executive Session 7:30 PM to discuss personnel. On motion duly made and seconded the Board adjourned to the Court Room. CALL TO ORDER The regular meeting of the Town Board was called to order by Supervisor Ryan at 8:30 PM, who then pointed out the location of exits. PUBLIC HEARINGS -Town of Mamaroneck Public Housing Agency Five Year Plan - No Parking Here to Corner- Bryson Street and Murray Avenue, Colonial Avenue and Murray Avenue PUBLIC HEARING -Town of Mamaroneck Public Housing Agency Five Year Plan On motion of Councilwoman Wittner, seconded by Councilwoman Myers, the hearing was declared open. TOWN OF MAMARONECK PUBLIC HOUSING AGENCY FIVE YEAR PLAN The following notice was placed into the record: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that a Public Hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Mamaroneck on October 20, 1999, at 8:15 PM or as soon thereafter as is possible, in the Court Room of the Town Center, 740 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, New York to consider adoption of the following Local Law: The purpose of the Hearing is to review the PHA One-Year Plan and Five-Year Plan and submit the approved plans to the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development before December 1, 1999. October 20, 1999 The full text of this Local Law may be examined and copies obtained at the Town Clerk's Office, during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM or until 4:00 PM during June, July and August) at 740 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, New York. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that at said Public Hearing all persons interested will be given an opportunity to be heard and that all persons are invited to submit written comments prior thereto. The Supervisor introduced Kathy Kopa, the Director of Community Services and Public Housing. Mrs. Kopa said this hearing was necessary to comply with Federal law, which requires a plan be outlined for both one year and five years. The first step taken to begin building the foundation for the Town of Mamaroneck Public Housing Agency Five-Year Plan and One- Year Plan was to take a survey of all the Section 8 Program participants. Each family was asked five questions: 1. Has this Agency treated you efficiently, ethically and professionally? 2. Have your housing problems been handled quickly? 3. Has our staff been courteous and helpful? 4. Have you been discriminated against by this Agency in any manner? Without exception, the answers were YES to 1, 2 and 3; NO to 4. 5. Since joining the Section 8 Program , how has the quality of your life improved? She said that some of the responses to question 5, representing a broad range of age, income, and education, should be heard, as they speak volumes on the value and success of this rental assistance program : "The Section 8 Program has turned my life around 100%. Thank you". (50 year old single mother) "After undergoing my second hip replacement,without Section 8 things would be very grim. Everyone in the office has been helpful and understanding, I can't thank you enough...a truly professional operation. Thanks"., (65 year old male) "We feel safe and very peaceful." Husband &Wife "I am so deeply grateful for this program . Having a small income is tough, but at least I have a place to live! The staff at the office has been just wonderful to me and I do not like to think where I would be without this Program ." (45 year old single mother) "I am grateful this program exists for single moms trying to move forward. Section 8 has been a blessing to me and my children." (single mother of two) 90% of the elderly on our program ...I've been able to live independently. I have less worry and peace of mind. Mrs. Kopa said that she had given each of the Town Board members a copy of the Public Housing Agency one and five year plan for review and comment and should there be any changes they must be submitted by the end of November. The public comments can be included with the submission which must be completed by December 1, 1999. In response to a question, she said that there were 260 families receiving assistance from this program . Supervisor Ryan commented that because our area is considered affluent, most people think there is no need for a program such as this, which is not true. Mrs. Kopa has been able to point many people in the right direction when they come to her for help, she has phenomenal network of resources. Someone asked if there is any help for homeowners. Mrs. Kopa replied there are programs such as reverse mortgages that are very helpful. Councilwoman O'Keeffe asked how a landlord becomes 9 li i e ble for Section 8. 2 October 20, 1999 Mrs. Kopa answered it was much easier now than when the program began, we presently have 186 landlord participants in the Town and Villages. Councilwoman Winner stated the program was well-run, everyone is left with there dignity, and Mrs. Kopa did a fabulous job. The Supervisor explained that the actual approval for the document will be voted on at the next meeting and asked that the Administrator put it on the agenda for the first meeting in November. He then thanked Mrs. Kopa. On motion of Councilwoman Myers, seconded by Councilwoman O'Keeffe, the hearing was declared closed. PUBLIC HEARING - No Parking Here to Corner- Bryson Street and Murray Avenue, Colonial Avenue and Murray Avenue The following notice was placed into the record: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that a Public Hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Mamaroneck on October 20, 1999, at 8:15 PM or as soon thereafter as is possible, in the Court Room of the Town Center, 740 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, New York to consider adoption of the following Local Law: The purpose of the Local Law to establish a No Parking; No Standing, No Stopping Zone at the intersection of Bryson Street and Murray Avenue and Colonial Avenue and Murray Avenue. The full text of this Local Law may be examined and copies obtained at the Town Clerk's Office, during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM or until 4:00 PM during June, July and August) at 740 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, New York. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that at said Public Hearing all persons interested will be given an opportunity to be heard and that all persons are invited to submit written comments prior thereto. On motion of Councilwoman O'Keeffe, seconded by Councilwoman Winner, the hearing was declared open. The Administrator said this change was recommended by the Traffic Committee to provide better visibility at that intersection. Councilwoman O'Keeffe said she had made a visit to the intersection and the recommended change to the intersection make sense. Councilwoman Myers stated if the Town wants to encourage more children to walk to school, we have to make it safer, and this amendment would provide more visibility. Councilwoman O'Keeffe said we should also urge, and teach the children to cross where the school crossing guard is stationed. On motion of Councilwoman Winner, seconded by Councilwoman O'Keeffe, the hearing was declared closed. Warren Goodman, 96 No. Chatsworth, applauded the law, he said especially since he has a five year old daughter who is attending kindergarten. On motion of Councilwoman Winner, seconded by Councilwoman O'Keeffe, the following Local Law was unanimously adopted: 3 October 20, 1999 LOCAL LAW# 7 - 1999 This Local Law shall be known as "No Parking, No Standing, No Stopping Zone" at the intersection of Bryson Street and Murray Avenue and Colonial Avenue and Murray Avenue. Section 1 - Purpose: To establish a No Parking, No Stopping, No Standing Zone at the intersections of Bryson Street and Murray Avenue and Colonial Avenue and Murray Avenue. Section 2 -Sign to be Erected: Appropriate signs shall be erected at the above locations. Section 3 -Severability: Should any provision of this Local Law be declared invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such declaration of unconstitutionality or invalidity shall not affect any other provisions of the Local Law which may be implemented without the invalid or unconstitutional provision. Section 4 - Effective Date: This Local Law shall take effect immediately. Councilwoman O'Keeffe said that she had received complaints from the Washington Square area regarding the parking for one hour restriction between the hours of 8 AM to 11 AM not being enforced. The Town Administrator said he would look into it. Supervisor Ryan said that he had attended a Larchmont Senior luncheon where he had heard many complaints that voting at the fire house on Weaver Street was inconvenient and hard for many of them to reach. He said he had spoken to Carmine DeLuca about making the bus available for a two hour period on election day. Councilwoman O'Keeffe questioned the fairness of having the senior bus do this. The Town Clerk said that anyone needing a ride should call her office and they will be provided with the telephone numbers of party representatives who make themselves available to drive. It was decided to look further at this matter. The Proclamation was Taken Out of Order of the Regular Agenda PROCLAMATION - UNITED NATIONS WEEK The Supervisor said that the Town was flying the new United Nations Flag this week outside of the Town Center thanks to Lee Bloom who had obtained it for us. He then introduced Lee Bloom who was here to accept the Proclamation. Mr. Bloom thanked him and the Board members, who he said have always been receptive in proclaiming this week in recognition of the work done by the United Nations. The need to have this wonderful organization recognized is being felt throughout the world. This organization has the ability to reach objectives necessary to keep world balance. The federal government has been criticizing them and not seeing the importance of their function. Nita Lowy is an exception, she speaks up and rounds up support for the UN. He said our government is one billion dollars in arrears on the dues, so he was especially grateful for the Town's willingness to continue to issue this Proclamation. The Supervisor then read the Proclamation into the record. 4 October 20, 1999 PROCLAMATION UNITED NATIONS WEEK WHEREAS, the United Nations was established on October 24, 1945, and the anniversary of its founding is observed each October; and WHEREAS, 1999 has been designated as the International Year of Older Persons by the United Nations General Assembly; and WHEREAS, one out of every ten persons is now 60 years of age or above; and by 2150 one out of every three persons will be 60 years of age or above; and WHEREAS, The United Nations Principles for Older Persons address the independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment and dignity of older persons; and WHEREAS, if the United Nations is to continue its important work in the advancement of human rights, the protection of the environment, preventing and resolving conflict, and promoting humane and democratic values, it must have the wholehearted support of both the American people and the United States government; and WHEREAS, the annual observance of the founding of the United Nations provides an opportunity for public recognition of the importance of the United Nations for all of us. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Paul A. Ryan,Supervisor of the Town of Mamaroneck and the Town Board members hereby proclaim the week of October 24th to October 31, 1999 as UNITED NATIONS WEEK IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Town of Mamaroneck to be affixed this 20th day of October 1999. Councilwoman Myers asked Mr. Bloom whether UNICEF was still being collected during Halloween. Mr. Bloom said they-were and last year's collection in our area was $9,326.00, the largest ever collected. And in response to another question, he said the UN cards are also still being sold at CVS, Straus' and at The Corner Store. AFFAIRS OF THE TOWN 1. Submission of 2000 Tentative Town Budget Mr. Altieri outlined the proposed Town Budget for year 2000 as follows: The Town of Mamaroneck budget for the year 2000 will be the first Town budget in the new millenium. There has been a great deal of hype connected with the new millenium that might lead local government officials to rush to make significant changes in services and operations. While there will be changes in how local governments conduct business, the mission is essentially the same. Experience tells us that residents have high expectations for basic essential services provided by the Town government. A new millenium does not change that expectation. Thus, the tentative Town Budget for 2000 continues the tradition of delivering high levels of service to the community. Each year the task is to develop a budget that provides the resources needed for services at a value to the residents. In this budget all current services are continued in their current form. Some programs are recommended for expansion and new initiatives are also proposed. The following initiatives are proposed for 2000: 5 October 20, 1999 • -Expansion of the current ice rink season • Development of an interactive website • Emphasis on upkeep and protection of our parks and conservation areas • Allow the use of credit cards for Town permit fees • Expansion of recycling effort to include organic waste Each of these initiatives will be discussed in this report and during our worksessions. Overview of 2000 Town Budget Appropriations Revenues Tax Levy Townwide $6,141,050 $4,367,625 $1,773,425 Part Town $6,554,155 $1,692,900 $4,861,255 Highway Fund/ $6,699,58 $1,033,350 $5,666,235 Districts Townwide $649,200 $395,000 $254,200 Ambulance District Debt Service Fund $68,000 $68,000 Totals $20,111,990 $7,556,875 $12,555,115 When compared with 1999, the total appropriations have risen by $698,760 or 3.5%. It is important to note however that$304,000 of the increase is attributed to a three-year salary adjustment for the Police Department. The collective bargaining agreement between the Town and its police officers expired December 31, 1997. A settlement was reached in the middle of 1999. Police Department salaries reflected in the 1999 budget are actually 1997 salaries. Salaries appropriated in the 2000 budget are actual salaries for the coming year. Therefore allowing for this adjustment the true increase in expenditures proposed for 2000 is $395,000 or 2% above 1999 levels. How does this budget affect the level of taxes paid by our residents? A resident property owner with an average assessment of$20,000 in the Unincorporated Area that receives all government services will receive a $68.00 increase in their total Town tax bill. An average resident tax bill in the Unincorporated Area will rise from $3,272 to $3,340. The 2% increase is the first since January of 1998. Residents of the Villages of Mamaroneck and Larchmont that receive select Town services will see a reduction in their Town tax bill. The average tax for Townwide services including Ambulance service will drop from $272 to $260 in 2000. Increases in Townwide property assessments and statutory requirements for the appropriations of certain revenues along with cost controls caused the decrease in the tax rates charged to the Villages. Expenditure Review Real increases in expenditures are up 2% for 2000. Increases resulted from a variety of factors. First there has been price inflation for certain goods and services. For instance recent oil price increases have caused us to maintain or increase budget expenditures for fuel and petroleum products. The single largest expenditure of the Town is for salaries and benefits. Collective bargaining agreements for office, highway department and-paid firefighters will expire in December 1999. The salary schedule in the budget for these employees reflect 1999 salaries. Although allowances have been made in the budget for salary adjustments the actual change is unknown. An adjustment has been made for the new collective bargaining agreement with the Town Police Officers. As noted earlier the prior contract expired in December of 1997. The new agreement with the police was reached in mid-1999. Therefore the appropriation adjustment reflects three budget years of police salaries. There are two other budget items that should be mentioned in connection with personnel costs. You will find in the budget that there are significant decreases in appropriations for 6 October 20, 1999 contributions to the New York State Retirement System. The 1999 budget carries an appropriation of$572,500 for retirement contributions. In 2000 the appropriation has been reduced to $415,500, a reduction of$157,000. Strong investment income earned by the State Retirement System has allowed for a dramatic rate reduction. Future rate projections have not been offered by the State, however, representatives of the State Comptroller's office believe the current trend in rate reductions will last for the next year or two. We should expect that at some point when the economy changes retirement contribution rates will again go up. Generally our other employee benefits cost will remain stable over the next year. The 2000 Town Budget contains a proposal to increase,the total personnel by one position. An additional position in the Highway Department is proposed for maintenance of our parks and planting areas. Further explanation of this proposal is provided later in the report. Technology plays an increasing role in the operation of the Town government. Admittedly the Town has taken a very conservative and deliberate approach to the introduction of technology into our operation. Being at the leading edge of technology is sometimes a costly venture that does not necessarily improve service to our residents. The 2000 Town budget does include several technology initiatives that will improve service to our residents. In 1999, the Town completed the construction of an internal network that will link all Town departments and will serve as our pipeline to the internet. Appropriations in the 2000 budget include funds for the design and implementation of an interactive web site. The site will allow residents to obtain information on the Town government and eventually conduct minor transactions. The capital budget includes appropriations for new hardware and software for the Police Department, Town Clerk's Office, Engineering Department and Highway Department. In the Police Department, the current software that processes records and communications in the department will be upgraded. The Town Clerk has requested funding for software specifically designed for the operations of a municipal clerk's office. With this software access to records will be improved as well as the processing of licenses and permits. A digital camera and plotter are proposed for the Engineering Department to compliment the existing design software currently in use. The equipment will be used to improve our design capabilities for infrastructure improvements and replacements. Using the digital camera will allow us to catalogue in our computers the many photographs taken of existing conditions of our infrastructure. These photographs will be used to assist with decisions on sidewalk, curb, and road improvements. Also in the area of technology we plan the purchase of credit card swipe machines. The swipe machines will be used for verifying the validity of.Recreation ID cards for entry to our recreation facilities. More importantly we will introduce the use of credit cards for payment of fees and charges. As a starting point, the credit card payment alternative will be implemented in the Recreation Department and Building Department. It may also be possible to expand the use of credit cards to the Town Clerk and Town Court. In addition to the items mentioned here ten computers will be purchased as part of our ongoing replacement program. The total expected cost for our technology initiatives is $90,000. The following is a brief summary by budget account of other budget highlights: A1440 -Town Attorney In this budget we have increased the professional services budget for outside counsel by $20,000 to $75,000. Predicting litigation is difficult. We do know for certain that fees for counsel to negotiate and/defend certiorari proceedings will be necessary. The Town has also retained special counsel to assist with our review of the proposed IKEA project in the City of New Rochelle. Fees paid for our special labor counsel are charged to this account. A1450 - Elections This budget has been increased by approximately$14,000 for the year 2000. In 2000 we can expect primaries by both major parties and it is a presidential election year. Additional expenditures for election inspectors and technicians will be necessary. A16801131680- Central Data Processing 7 October 20, 1999. These budget accounts include all appropriations for the operation and maintenance of our computer systems. You will note for the first time a salary appropriation in both of these accounts. A recommendation is made in this budget to hire a part time computer technician to serve one day a week in the Town office. Maintenance of the internal network management of the web site and internet connection requires a higher level of oversight. In addition, individual departments encounter problems from time to time that will be better served by an on site computer technician. The total appropriation for this position is $23,000. A7020 - General Recreation With many more dual income families in our community there appears to be a need to expand our times for residents to sign up for permits and programs. Therefore we are proposing to increase our overtime appropriation in this budget from $7,500 to $8,500. In addition to our current Wednesday evening hours, we plan to add some Saturdays and additional weeknights especially during the busy summer and fall seasons. An appropriation of$12,000 has been included for the maintenance and upkeep of the new Hommocks Field that will reopen in the spring of 2000. Our plan is to contract out the maintenance to an outside contractor. The contract would also include the maintenance of the lawn and plantings at the Hommocks Pool. An additional cost would be incurred for the pool component of the contract. One-third of the cost for the maintenance of the Hommocks Field will be reimbursed by the school district in accordance with the original agreement regarding the Hommocks complex. A7150 -Special Recreation Facility This budget is for appropriations in connection with the maintenance and upkeep of the Environmental Resource Center(Monroe School). During this year the Town Recreation department again ran its successful playground program for 110 children. In conjunction with our playground program the LIFE Center ran an afternoon ecology camp. The LIFE Center has sponsored several fairs and events at the reservoir and at the Resource Center. LIFE Center's administrative offices are also housed in the building. The 2000 Budget includes $8,000 for upgrading the bathrooms in the building and also to change some of the playground equipment. Day to day maintenance cost is estimated at to be $17,200 in 2000. A7265- Hommocks Pool This past summer the Recreation Department discovered that the market for trained lifeguards was limited. As a result we were forced to close the pool on two afternoons due to a shortage of lifeguards. In the 2000 budget the only major increase in expense is for salaries for lifeguards. Under this proposal the salary line would be increased by $19,000. Hourly wage rates would be closer to $12.00/per hour as opposed to $8.00 per hour in 1999. A7265- Hommocks Ice Rink Over the last three years we have faced increased competition by the construction of at least four new rinks in Westchester County. To maintain our competitive edge, the 2000 budget includes a proposal to extend the ice rink season from the end of April through the end of June. Spring hockey leagues and figure skating programs have become popular and there is a strong demand for ice. Projections for increased revenues have been included in the budget and are expected to cover the additional operating cost. The extended season will increase salary costs for rink staff. Additional costs for operating supplies are also expected. We have not projected an increase in the appropriation for electric utilities. The energy saving ceiling installed earlier this year appears to have been a wise decision. Our electric savings are now approximately $400 to $800 per month. Therefore we believe the current appropriation will be sufficient in 2000. Also in 2000 we expect to assume full control of the facility during the summer months. It would appear that the Rollerdome operation would not continue next year. The net result is that the Town will have more flexibility for programming in the summer months. The flooring that was provided by the Rollerdome operators can be used for our camp program s, summer soccer camp, and for roller blading. We have budgeted $5,000 for the cost of installing and removing the sport court flooring each year. A8510 - Community Beautification 8 October 20, 1999 This budget is primarily for the funding of costs related to the maintenance of our conservation areas including all plantings. A major project included in this budget is the surveying of the conservation properties. To the best of our knowledge, these properties have not been surveyed in over 50 years. As a result the Town no longer knows the actual property lines. There are over 50 acres of dedicated conservation property in the Town. The 2000 budget includes an appropriation of$25,000 to survey approximately half of the properties. A second phase of the project in 2001 would complete the survey of the conservation properties. New surveys of the properties would provide up to date mapping for determining property lines and planning improvements. B3120- Police Department An explanation has previously been provided regarding the salary adjustment in the budget. Overtime continues to be a problem for the department. Changes in the contract that go into effect January 1, 2000 should modify the need for overtime hours for training and coverage for illnesses and injuries. At this time two officers remain out on long-term disability leave. B8020- Planning Board This budget generally includes the expenses for the operations of the Planning Board. Historically expenses for planning studies have also been included here. Remember that as a result of the Myrtle Boulevard/Madison Ave. Study the Board wished to pursue a more detailed study of parking in this area. Also the Town has retained a planning firm to assist in the review of the proposed IKEA Project. An appropriation of$34,000 has been included for these projects. DB6110 - Highway Department In this budget are the appropriations for all Highway Department operations. Previous mention was made of the proposal to add one additional person in the department for the park crew. There has been a great emphasis on the upkeep of the parks, planting areas, and islands maintained by the Highway Department. In the mid 1980's, a formal Parks Department was disbanded as a cost savings measure. With the renewed emphasis, the recommendation is to again establish the department with its own working foreman. The crew would be increased from three to four. With the exception of emergency conditions, their sole responsibility would be the maintenance of parks. Additional costs for the new foreman are $40,000. The Highway Department is responsible for the maintenance of virtually all of the Town's equipment. In the machinery budget an appropriation of$17,000 has been included for new repair shop equipment. New automobile and truck engines are now electronically controlled. Diagnosing engine problems requires the use of newly created computer equipment and software. Purchase of this necessary equipment will cost $10,000. A wheel-balancing machine will be purchased for$5,000. The balance of the appropriation will be used for replacements of other shop equipment. Also in the machinery budget you will note that the line item for diesel fuel has been increased from $6,000 to $40,000. The large increase is not due to an expected increase in diesel fuel costs but rather a change in the accounting and charge back of diesel fuel. Previously, the Larchmont Sanitation Commission owned the diesel fuel tank, purchased the diesel fuel, and charged back the Town for fuel used by Town vehicles. The required replacement of the fuel tanks now places the ownership of the tanks with the Town. This arrangement reverses the procedure and the Town will bill back the Commission for fuel usage. Corresponding revenue has been budgeted for fuel used by the Commission. SF3410 - Fire District The day to day expenses of the district have not changed dramatically. Increases are largely attributable to the appropriation of the cost of the volunteer service award program ($68,000). A portion of the increase was offset by the reduction in the contribution to the New York State Retirement System for the paid fire staff. The Fire District must continue to pay its share of the disability retirement of one the Town firefighters. Each year the amount is adjusted by the retirement system. In 2000, the payment will be $34,000. During 1999, the Town initiated a pilot program to have paid fire staff respond to emergency medical calls. In November an evaluation of the program will be presented to the Board. The purpose will be 9 October 20, 1999 to consider extending the program. If the Fire Department continues this program a defibrillator will be required. At this time the department is using a loaner unit. Estimated cost for the machine is $6,000. Capital Projects There are a number of projects proposed in this budget. A detail of the projects will be provided in a separate report to the Town Board. Debt Service Currently the Town's total outstanding indebtedness for long term bonds is $16,714,918 for principle and interest expense. Additionally there is $300,000 outstanding for short-term bond anticipation notes. For both long and short-term debt, the Town's appropriated debt payments for 2000 are $1,944,595. Our total indebtedness will drop by $58,000 in 2000. With the exception of the Water District Fund, debt obligations have decreased over the last two years. In the Water District, the recent increase in debt has been attributable to the water filtration project and water system improvement projects. In the last several months the Board has authorized the issuance of$424,000 in new debt to cover engineering costs associated with the design and operation of the mandated filtration plant. Typically the Town attempts to time equipment purchases and public works projects to maintain a reasonably level debt service expense. Projects proposed in the 2000 Capital Budget would require the issuance of new debt. Depending upon the timing of the projects, the impact of the debt would not be realized until at least the year 2001. Revenue Review Overall non-property tax revenues estimated for the 2000 Budget are $7,556,875. This is an increase of$537,550 over 1999 revenues. The Town will experience a first in 2000. Assessments in the Townwide Fund and ambulance District will rise for the first time in eleven years. Increases in assessments are largely due to the completion of the Regatta and Avalon housing developments in the Village of Mamaroneck. Construction activity in the unincorporated Town and Village of Larchmont has been exclusively single family homes. The increase in assessments contributed to our ability to lower the Townwide and Ambulance District tax rates. Assessments for the part-town and special district funds continue to decrease. The rate of decrease is less than in prior years. The strong economy has driven revenues such as sales tax and mortgage tax. As a result our estimates for sales tax revenue in 2000 have been increased to $890,000, an increase of $15,000. Mortgage tax estimates have been increased by $50,000 to $625,000. As a general rule the level of revenue from these sources is reflective of the strength or weakness in the economy. Expected investment income has not been increased in the 2000 budget. In 1998 investment rates averaged between 5.16 and 5.66 percent. In 1999, however the average range of rates decreased to between 4.8 and 5.23 percent. While we expect to exceed our 1999 interest income estimates the trend of investment rates leads us to be more conservative in 2000. Total investment income in 2000 is expected to be $425,000. Recreation program and facility revenues are expected to increase by slightly more than $100,000 in 2000. The largest component of the increase is the expected revenue from the expanded ice rink season. Spring hockey programs have become extremely popular at other rinks in Westchester. Based upon our estimates we expect revenue from spring hockey leagues and spring figure skating programs to be $70,000. Revenue estimates for other programs have not been changed significantly. This is due to the fact that we have seen revenues plateau in the last year. With close to 1,000 children participating in our programs the Town may now be reaching the maximum number of residents interested in our programs. Program fees have not been increased in two years. If the policy of the Town Board and Recreation Commission continues to be 100% fee subsidy of select programs, fee increases may be in order. 10 October 20, 1999 In the Ambulance District revenue estimates for Ambulance call charges have been increased by $35,000. The total revenue from Ambulance charges is expected to be $315,000. Our estimates are based upon the number of expected calls and the improvements in our revenue recovery procedures. The District continues to follow a soft revenue recovery policy that insures the provision of emergency medical care to all that need it. Changes in reimbursement policies among health care insurer effects the District directly. Medicare is expected to set a fiat rate of reimbursement for Ambulance service in 2000. Although we do not operate with a profit motive; the reimbursement will presumably cover our cost of operations. Another category of revenues to note is for the Water District. Revenue estimates in the district have been increased by $85,000. Increased revenue has allowed for the elimination of the District tax rate that was necessary in 1999. Revenues from the sale of water have traditionally funded all expenses in the Water District. In 1999 water charges were not sufficient to fund all of the new debt in the District. The water rate increase authorized in 1998 did not impact the budget until now. Expected costs for the Water District will be high in the next several years if the Westchester Joint Water Works is forced to construct a filtration plant. Consideration should be given to initiating small water rate increases now to avoid large increases in the future. The last category of revenues to be presented here is the application of surplus funds. Surpluses only become available to the Town as a result of unexpectedly low expenditures or revenues in excess of estimates. Mild winters, a strong economy, and low inflation have created surpluses for the Town government. In this budget, $1.2 million of surplus has been applied for all funds. The increase is $200,000 over last year. Our ability to apply surplus is contingent upon the aforementioned factors. Surplus funds are used to support cash flow deficiencies that occur at the beginning of each year. Although our fiscal year begins in January, the collection of Town taxes does not occur until April. Cash is needed during the first quarter to cover the costs of operations. Also there are large fluctuations in the level of uncollected school, county, and town property taxes that must be absorbed into our cash flows. This concludes the supplemental report to the tentative budget. During the next six weeks work sessions will be held with department heads and staff to review the budget in more detail. The staff is prepared to provide any additional information that you need to review the budget. 2. Appointment- Planning Board - This item was held over - Cable Television Board of Control Supervisor Ryan explained that a communication was received from Mike Blau, who is the Administrator of the Cable TV Board of Control regarding the expiration of the term for Alexandra Leclere. He said he had spoken to her and she has agreed to be reappointed to another two year term. On motion of Councilwoman Wittner, seconded by Councilwoman Myers, it was unanimously, RESOLVED, that the Town Board does hereby reappoint Alexandra Leclere, Town of Mamaroneck as a member of the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Cable TV Board of Control Advisory Committee to serve a term of office of 2 years, effective immediately and terminating on November 30, 2001. 3. Authorization -Consulting Agreement- Engineering Services Fuel Tank Replacement Project 11 October 20, 1999 The Town Administrator said that gasoline mixed with groundwater was discovered at the site of the fuel tank replacement project now underway at the Maxwell Ave. yard. Tests of the groundwater reveal that a large proportion of the gasoline is old, which was evidenced by the fact that there are signs of lead in the gasoline and most of the benzene is evaporated from the fuel. Leaded gasoline was discontinued in 1977. Representatives from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation have been at the site and observed the conditions. On their directive, we have taken the preliminary step of installing three monitoring wells. These wells will allow us to remove contaminated groundwater and conduct periodic tests of the water. A letter from the DEC confirms their findings and directs the Town to submit a groundwater investigation plan by November 1, 1999. He said a proposal was received from Emcon Engineering to prepare the groundwater investigation plan and to conduct the required tests of the groundwater. The purpose would be to determine the extent of the contamination and the way to correct the problem. He said Emcon is well versed in this area, and familiar with DEC regulations on oil spills and groundwater contamination. Their proposal allows for the work to prepare the report and remediation plan at a cost of$5,000. There would be additional expenses for water testing, drilling, and preparation of a map of the contaminated area, which is estimated to be $6,500. The additional costs would not be incurred until the DEC reviewed the groundwater investigation and remediation plan. He then requested authorization to execute the contract. Councilwoman Myers asked if bids had been received for this matter. Mr. Altieri replied bids were not necessary for consulting agreements, but in addition, the Town needed to move quickly. On motion of Councilwoman O'Keeffe, seconded by Councilwoman Wittner, it was unanimously, RESOLVED, that the Town Board does hereby approve the agreement between the Town and Emcon Engineering to prepare the groundwater investigation plan and conduct the required tests of the groundwater at a cost of$5,000; and BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the Town Administrator is hereby authorized to execute said agreement on behalf of the Town. 4. Authorization -Appraisal Consultant Certiorari Matters Mr. Altieri said there are three pending certiorari that will involve rather significant tax refunds should the property owners be successful in their applications. There were two proposals submitted giving the fee for preliminary appraisals. He recommended the Town retain American Property Counselors to conduct the appraisals for these matters to determine the validity of the property owner's applications. They quoted a total cost of $9,500 for the appraisal of the three properties; Lane Appraisals' quote was $14,600. The applications have been filed by Orienta Beach Club, Palmer Terrace Coop Apartments and Hampshire Country Club. Supervisor Ryan asked if the Village of Mamaroneck had been contacted since only 10% of the property actually was in-the Town. The Administrator said that typically we don't. On motion of Councilwoman Wittner, seconded by Councilwoman Myers, it was unanimously, RESOLVED, that the Town Board does hereby approve the agreement between the Town and American Property Counselors to prepare preliminary appraisals of Orienta 12 October 20, 1999 Beach Club, Palmer Terrace and Hampshire Country Club at a total cost of$9,500; and BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the Town Administrator is hereby authorized to execute said agreement on behalf of the Town. 5. Salary Authorization - Recreation On motion of Councilwoman Wittner, seconded by Councilwoman O'Keeffe, it was unanimously, RESOLVED, that as provided for in the 1999 Town Budget that the Town Board does hereby authorize the payment of salary to the following: Noelle Chmelecki, Alternate Key Attendant, Hommocks Pool, $5/hour, effective 10/15/99. APPROVAL OF MINUTES On motion of Councilwoman Myers, seconded by Councilwoman O'Keeffe, it was unanimously RESOLVED, that the Town Board does hereby approve the Board minutes from the meeting of June 16, 1999 and July 14, 1999, as amended. The Supervisor read the following proclamation: PROCLAMATION SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION WEEK WHEREAS, the members of New York's local school boards are an invaluable resource as local decision-makers; they respond to the respective needs of their communities, serving the interests of schoolchildren and preparing them for the future; and WHEREAS, the men and women serving the people of the Empire State as members of school boards devote many hours of service to public education and continually strive for improvement, quality and progress in education; and WHEREAS, members of local boards of education throughout New York State merit recognition and commendation for their dedicated service to the people and children of our State; it is fitting to support this annual celebration. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Paul A. Ryan, Supervisor of the Town of Mamaroneck and the Town Board members hereby proclaim the week of October 25 through October 29, 1999 to be SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION WEEK. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Town of Mamaroneck to be affixed this 20th day of October 1999. 13 October 20, 1999 Added Item Parking Meters - Lot No. 1 The Supervisor explained that the Town Clerk had contacted him regarding the issue of parking,meters in the commuter parking lot. The time frame for parking is 12 hours beginning at 7:00 AM to 3:00 AM , which is problematic for those commuters who need to go in earlier. So a commuter who parks at 6:00 AM and puts in money for twelve hours can get a ticket for parking. The Town Clerk is proposing that we change the signage to reflect that the hours be from 6:00 AM to 3:00 AM , and that to stay those hours you must pay for 12 hours. The cost of replacing meters would cost over$2,000, and since so few people actually use the lot after those hours, it would not make sense to purchase new meters. Following discussion, on motion of Councilwoman O'Keeffe, seconded by Councilwoman Myers, it was unanimously, RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Mamaroneck does hereby extend the hours of operation of parking lot number 1, from 7:00 AM to 3:00 AM to 6:00 AM to 3:00 AM; and BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the maximum number of hours necessary to pay for meter parking be 12 hours. SUPERVISOR REPORTS Supervisor Ryan said the final appeal on Bonnie Briar has come before the Court in Albany. He had spoken to the attorney today who said the final disposition should be received by Thanksgiving. He said that this was the last meeting before General Elections therefore he urged everyone to vote, and anyone needing information or help should contact the Town Clerk at 381-7870. Councilwoman O'Keeffe reminded residents of both Villages that they were eligible to vote in this election. REPORTS OF COUNCIL Councilwoman Myers said she had spoken with representatives from Metro North, and had received a call from Senator Oppenheimer's office regarding need for strong support of the MTA budget. She commented on the number of resumes that the Board had received from residents since the newsletter went out, who were willing to serve on Boards and committees. Councilwoman O'Keeffe asked what the residency requirements were for serving on Boards and Committees. There was then a discussion on whether Village residents could serve on certain committees. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Betty Miller, President of the Larchmont Gardens Civic Association passed out copies of the association's newsletter and called attention to the top which outlined the procedures for separating recyclables. She asked for the dates of the budget meetings and was given the dates. She invited everyone to the next association meeting to be held at the Weaver Street Firehouse. Ms. Miller asked about Christmas lights around the duck pond. 14 October 20, 1999 Supervisor Ryan said he would need assurance that decorations had no religious theme to them. Ernie Odierna asked about the scoping session held regarding the Ikea project. He was told that they had outlined that nothing beyond one quarter of a mile would be affected by the project, which is pure nonsense. Councilwoman Wittner said that the scoping document was issued by New Rochelle, not by IKEA. Supervisor Ryan said the meeting was to look at submissions done so far and to hear comments on those documents. The attorney representing the Town had attended the meeting, and this was only round one. The Town has hired legal counsel to review traffic, environmental, and many other issues on this project, he will look at air, visual, noise, ground and water pollution as a start. He said he was impressed by our and the Village of Larchmont attorneys, they were polite, and knowledgeable, but voiced serious concerns. We do have a say in this and will be vigilant to ensure protection of our residents' rights as we did with Bonnie Briar and we do have a history of winning. Councilwoman O'Keeffe said she was astounded when she heard that they projected 4.5% of the traffic will go onto local streets. The percentage is too low, as traffic will be coming from White Plains, Harrison, from the Hutchinson River Parkway to Weaver or they will go onto Pine Brook. They are proposing 1600 parking spaces and a 600 car garage on 16 acres, and they have not even counted the truck traffic which will be generated. There then was a long discussion on the potential impacts of the project. ADJOURNMENT The Supervisor said that the next scheduled meetings would be held on November 3 and November 17. On motion duly made and seconded the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 PM . Submitted by Patricia A. DiCioccio, Town Clerk UClerkserverlserverlDocuments\M I N UTES\99m i nffl10-20-99x.doc 15