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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013_12_04 Town Board Minutes December 4,2013 TOWN OF MAMARONECK TOWN BOARD AGENDA WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2013 THE TOWN BOARD WILL CONVENE—at 5:00 PM, In Conference Room A to discuss: 1. Continued Discussion— Parking—Washington Square 2. Draft Amendment to Erosion and Sediment Control Law 3. New Business 8:OOPM CALL TO ORDER— COURTROOM SUPERVISOR'S SUMMARY REPORT CITIZEN COMMENTS PUBLIC HEARINGS— #1 Override the Tax Levy Limit Established in General Municipal Law 3-C #2 2014 Preliminary Budget BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS 1. Fire Claims 2. Salary Authorization— Fire Lieutenant 3. Other Fire Department Business AFFAIRS OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK 1. Set Public Hearing—Amendment to Erosion & Sediment Control Law 2. Resolution — East Coast Greenway 3. Budget Amendment— Police Vests 4. Salary Authorization— Recreation 5. Approval of Certiorari 6. Authorization—Settlement of Grievance with Police Department Collective Bargaining Unit APPROVAL OF MINUTES— November 6, 2013 REPORTS OF THE COUNCIL TOWN CLERK'S REPORT NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING — December 18, 2013 Any physically handicapped person needing special assistance in order to attend the meeting should call the Town Administrator's office at 381-7810. 1 December 4,2013 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING AND WORK SESSION OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK HELD ON DECEMBER 4,2013, BEGINNING AT 6:OOPM 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 Phyllis Wittner Councilman Ernest C.Odierna Councilwoman Abby Katz Councilwoman Jaine Elkind Eney ALSO PRESENT: Christina Battalia,Town Clerk Stephen V.Altieri,Town Administrator William Maker,Jr.,Town Attorney CALL TO ORDER-WORK SESSION On motion of Councilwoman Katz,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,the Work Session was unanimously opened at 6:OOPM. ADDED ITEM Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council Councilman Odierna reported that he attended a meeting of the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council.The Governor is promoting regional development councils around the State and the Mid-Hudson Council includes Mamaroneck. The forum included various presenter,two of which were major presenters.There is funding of approximately six to seven million dollars to incentivize companies to develop in areas around colleges to tap into the 'brain power'of these institutions and there surrounding communities. Continued Discussion—Parking—Washington Square The Town Clerk stated that she and Mr. Maker met and discussed the points brought up at the last worksession, specifically they discussed amendments to the parking lots law. Mr. Maker recommends amending the Vine Street Lot 3 extension into its own parking lot. This would allow for the additional six spaces for 24 hour permits, without requiring handicapped parkers with Lot 3 permits to only park on Vine Street. Councilwoman Katz suggested selling additional Daytime permits without actually redoing the meter spaces, noting that Daytime Parkers are allowed to park in the Metered areas anyway with paying the meter fees. Draft Amendment to Erosion and Sediment Control Law The Town Board reviewed a black-lined version of the amendment. Councilwoman Katz asked whether the Town Board is comfortable with the original law, adding that at times residents attending the Planning Board meetings question whether this law is strict enough. Mr. Maker stated that this law is based on the County Model. Supervisor Seligson asked Councilwoman Katz to relay to the Planning Board that if they have comments or concerns about the law to please bring that to the Town Board. Supervisor Seligson stated that the Town's Sediment Control Law is based on the model from the County and in her review and opinion it is quite strong. Setting a Public Hearing for this amendment is on the Regular Agenda for this 2 December 4,2013 evening. Councilwoman Wittner questioned whether there could be better coherence in managing many of the current laws, specifically the Storm Water Management Plan, the Erosion and Sediment Law, the Hazard Mitigation Plan as well as Long Island Sound Watershed Commission, adding that all of these deal with flooding and drainage as well as with FEMA and she would like to see a push to get these more incorporated. Supervisor Seligson added that she agrees that there is overlapping and difficulty with separate entities. Supervisor Seligson stated that the Town is being asked by the East Coast Greenway to put signage along the Town portion of the East Coast Greenway. This is being done all along the East Coast to designate the Greenway route.The Board questioned the look of the sign as it has a bicycle image as well as arrows that the Board feels may be confusing and or misleading to the public.The concern is that the public might think these signs designate an approved bike route.The Board will accept the resolution accepting the Greenway concept but will ask that signs be put up that do not include arrows. ADDED ITEM Boards and Commissions Councilwoman Wittner spoke of the continued vacancies in the Coastal Zone Management Commission and suggests that discussions take place regarding amending how appointments are made to the Coastal Zone Management Commission. Specifically,Councilwoman Wittner is recommending that if one municipality continues for six months without filling a vacancy that the other municipality can appoint a member. The Town Board reviewed a spreadsheet prepared by the Town Clerk showing vacancies and expiring terms for various Boards and Commissions.Supervisor Seligson stated that she had resumes to discuss for potential appointments. On motion of Councilwoman Katz,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,the Board unanimously agreed to enter into an Executive Session to discuss resumes with respect to appointments to Boards and Commissions and discussion of a grievance with the Police Collective Bargaining Unit EXECUTIVE SESSION Appointments to Boards and Commissions, Settlement of Grievance with the Police Collective Bargaining Unit. On motion of Councilwoman Elkind Eney,seconded by Councilman Odierna the Board unanimously agreed to resume the Regular Meeting. NEW BUSINESS Supervisor Seligson stated that the Sustainability Collaborative met with representatives of the Howell Park Association and the Larchmont Gardens'Civic Association (LGCA) last night. The group discussed holding a Charrette with members of these two Associations to move forward in creating a sustainability plan. Supervisor Seligson stated that both these groups are very excited about the plan.The Charrette is planned for either the last Saturday in January or the first Saturday in February. Supervisor Seligson encouraged the Board Members to attend. Supervisor Seligson was contacted by Michael Gotfried is working with the Village of Larchmont on the school tax issue with respect to the Sheldrake Property. He is asking for support from the Town in favor of removing the school tax requirement on this property by the City of New Rochelle. CALL TO ORDER-REGULAR MEETING 3 December 4,2013 The Regular Meeting of the Town Board was called to order by Supervisor Seligson at 8:OOPM,she then pointed out the location of the exits. Supervisor Seligson noted that the Town Board met for a worksession beginning at 6:00 o'clock this evening,adding this is an open meeting that all residents'are welcomed to attend. SUPERVISOR'S SUMMARY REPORT Supervisor Seligson stated that Mr.Altieri and Mr.Siligato have been working furiously at refining the 2014 Budget. The Preliminary Budget will be presented this evening and will need to be adopted by December 20,2013.Supervisor Seligson stated that she walked the Hommocks Conservation Area this morning and it was spectacular.She noted the new bridge and walkways that were rebuilt after Storm Sandy. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this Town treasure. Supervisor Seligson welcomed the Iona College students in the audience this evening. These students are part of the Government and Non-Profit Accounting class that is observing the Town Board Meeting this evening. CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Supervisor Seligson asked if anyone in the audience would like to address the Board,and there was not. PUBLIC HEARING(S) —Override the Tax Levy Limit Established in General Municipal Law 3-C The following Notice of Public Hearing is entered into the record as follows: NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 130 of the Town Law of the State of New York,and pursuant to a resolution of the Mamaroneck Town Board adopted on November 20,2013 a Public Hearing will be held on Wednesday,December 4, 2013 at 8:00 PM or as soon thereafter as is possible at the Town Center,740 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, New York to consider: Purpose: It is the intent of this local law to override the limit on the amount of real property taxes that may be levied by the Town of Mamaroneck pursuant to General Municipal Law§3-c,and to allow the Town Board to adopt a budget for(a)town purposes,(b)fire protection districts and (c)any other special or improvement district governed by the town board for the fiscal year 2014 that requires a real property tax levy in excess of the "tax levy limit" as defined by General Municipal Law§3-c. The full text of this Amendment is stated below and can also be examined and copies obtained at the Town Clerk's office during regular hours, Monday- Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, In June, July and August until 4:00 PM at 740 W. Boston Post Road Mamaroneck, New York PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that at the Public Hearing all persons interested will be given an opportunity to be heard and that all persons are invited to submit written comments at or prior thereto. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK CHRISTINA BATTALIA TOWN CLERK Published: November 27,2013 4 December 4,2013 On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,the Public Hearing was unanimously opened. Supervisor Seligson stated that this is a safety measure in case the Town would like to override the tax cap levy,adding this is not the override.Supervisor Seligson further stated that the Town has taken this precautionary measure the previous two years. Supervisor Seligson then asked if anyone wished to comment on the proposed Local Law. On motion of Councilman Odierna,seconded by Councilwoman Wittner,the Public Hearing was unanimously closed. Local Law No. 8 - 2013 This local law shall be known as the "Override the tax levy limit established in General Municipal Law 3-c" Law BE IT ENACTED by the Town Board of the Town of Mamaroneck Section 1—Purpose: It is the intent of this local law to override the limit on the amount of real property taxes that may be levied by the Town of Mamaroneck pursuant to General Municipal Law § 3-c, and to allow the Town Board to adopt a budget for (a) town purposes, (b) fire protection districts and (c) any other special or improvement district governed by the town board for the fiscal year 2014 that requires a real property tax levy in excess of the "tax levy limit" as defined by General Municipal Law§ 3-c. Section 2-Authority This local law is adopted pursuant to subdivision 5 of General Municipal Law § 3-c, which expressly authorizes the Town Board to override the tax levy limit by the adoption of a local law approved by vote of sixty percent(60%) of the members of the town board. Section 3-Limited Tax Levy Limit Override The Town Board of the Town of Mamaroneck hereby is authorized to adopt a budget for the year 2014 that requires a real property tax levy which exceeds the limit specified in General Municipal Law,§3-c. Section 4—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 this Local Law, which may be implemented without the invalid or unconstitutional provisions. Section 5—Effective Date: This Local Law shall become effective upon filing with the Secretary of State. The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Elkind Eney Aye Katz Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye Seligson Aye PUBLIC HEARING- PRELIMINARY TOWN BUDGET FOR 2014 PRELIMINARY BUDGET TOWN OF MAMARONECK FIRE DISTRICT#1 5 December 4,2013 The following Notice of Public Hearing is entered into the record as follows: PRELIMINARY TOWN BUDGET FOR 2014 PRELIMINARY BUDGET TOWN OF MAMARONECK FIRE DISTRICT#1 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN,that a Public Hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Mamaroneck, New York on Wednesday, December 4,2013 at 8:00 PM in the Court Room of the Town Center,740 West Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, New York to consider the Town's Preliminary Budget and the Fire District Budget for the calendar year commencing January 1,2014 and ending December 31,2014. All citizens are invited to attend and provide the Board with written and oral comments and ask questions concerning the Preliminary Budgets. The Preliminary Budgets can be inspected by the public from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, beginning Monday, December 2,2013 in the Town Clerk's Office,Town Center, 740 West Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, New York.The Budgets may also be viewed on the Town's website www.townofmamaroneck.org PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE,that the proposed salaries of the members of the Town Board are as follows: Supervisor,$37,000;Town Council(4) $6,000 each and the proposed salary for the Town Clerk is$86,100 and the Town Justices(2)$21,000. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK Christina Battalia Town Clerk To be published: November 29,2013 On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,seconded by Councilwoman Katz,the Public hearing was unanimously opened. Additionally Present: Chief Joe Russo Mr.Altieri presented a PowerPoint presentation for the Preliminary Budget. The following submittal letter from the Town Administrator and the Town Comptroller are entered into the record as follows: December 2,2013 Honorable Supervisor Nancy Seligson Members of the Town Board Town of Mamaroneck 2014 Preliminary Town of Mamaroneck Budget We are pleased to submit for review by the community the 2014 Preliminary Budgets for the Town of Mamaroneck and Town of Mamaroneck Fire District#1. Although the budget discussion in this letter will generally present the combined Town budget for all funds we are required by New York State Fire District Law to make separate mention of the Fire District Budget. The Supervisor and Town Board also serve as the Board of Fire Commissioners. The budgets presented here are the subject of a public hearing on December 4,2013. Each budget year presents different challenges for the staff and the Town Board in determining how best to maintain the high level of services provided to the residents of the community at the greatest value. Of course we face those external economic factors faced by governmental agencies,private sector companies, and individual households but in addition we continue to encounter unfunded mandates from both the New York State and Federal Governments. Unfunded mandates are by definition costs imposed by a higher level of government as a result of mandatory programs or regulations are adhered to by the Town. In preparing the 2014 Budget we did see improvements in certain economic indicators that relieved some of the pressures that plagued previous budgets. On the mandate front there have been small improvements in 6 December 4,2013 areas such as pension cost and health care costs. Unfortunately the State and Federal governments continue to avoid action to reduce or remove other substantial mandates that impact our day to day operations. Nor do they offer sources of funding for compliance. In the face of all this however we believe that the budget developed for 2014 is one in which we have accomplished a great deal in addressing the Town's strategic plan goals. We have insured in this budget the Town's continued financial stability by continuing to live within our means and improving upon reserves needed to fund unexpected conditions or funding small capital projects. Healthier reserve funds will also help us maintain high bond ratings. Finally this budget will allow for continued uninterrupted services to our community with a minimal increase in property taxes. This 2014 Town Budget will be the first for which the tax rates will be based upon the new full value property assessments. Later in this letter we will explain the implications of the new assessments upon average property tax bills for Town services. What is evident is that the outcome of the property revaluation is a more equitable apportionment of the Town's tax levy now that all values have been revised to reflect market rates. Going forward the Town is adopting a plan that will insure that never again will property assessment data become outdated and obsolete. The plan will provide for regular reviews of property value trends and periodic revaluations. The Property Tax Cap This will be the third year in which local governments will operate under New York State's tax cap legislation. Chapter 97 of the laws of New York State for 2011 establishes a limit on the annual growth of the property taxes levied by local government. The terminology of this legislation is important because it is not a cap on the change in the level of taxes to be paid by an individual property owner or on the tax rates established in the budget. Rather, this is a cap on the total amount of property taxes that can be raised by local government in the form of a tax levy. The legislation does not consider levels of assessment or other factors that impact the rate at which the tax levy is apportioned in the community. Addendum#1 provides the full details of the property tax cap formula and the calculation of the cap for the Town for 2014. Based upon the states formula the Town's tax levy for 2014 can increase by$445,840 to a total of$22,788,375 or 2%. Proposed for the coming year is a tax levy of$22,994,635 an increase of $652,100 or 2.9%. Included in the legislation is a provision allowing local governments to override the cap through the adoption of legislation passed by 60%of the governing board of that community. Such legislation is under consideration by the Town Board. Because of a small reduction in New York State Pension contribution rates the tax cap formula provides no exemption for pension expenses in 2014. While on one hand the reduction in contribution rates is positive, it does not change the fact that the property tax cap in its current form is generally unsustainable unless the Town wants to consider large scale changes in municipal services. A survey conducted in 2012 appeared to indicate that service cuts were not favored by the community. A realistic tax cap should reflect the realities of municipal service delivery and the true cost of local government including the costs of government mandates, the need to maintain critical infrastructure and costs for state mandated pension and medical insurance costs. In New Jersey these expenses are exempted from local government tax cap requirements. Implications of Property Revaluation Mentioned earlier was the completion of the property revaluation project. The State of New York has certified that the Town's assessment roll represents 100%of market value which was the objective of the project to establish a fair and equitable apportionment of property taxes. Property revaluation is revenue neutral for the Town government. The property tax revenue needed to fund the Town government has no direct relationship to the development of property assessments. There is however a significant change in the presentation of the budget and tax rates. A straight line comparison of tax rates would show a dramatic reduction in tax rates between 2013 and 2014 when comparing rates calculated with fractional assessments versus rates calculated with full value assessments. Addendum#2 is a completely reformatted Comparison of Taxable Value and Assessments table. To provide a more accurate comparison of tax rates between 2013 and 2014, the 2012 assessed values, which were used to establish the 2013 tax rates, have been presented as equalized values using the 2012 equalization rate of 1.74% assigned to the Town by New York State. Using the equalized assessed values the 2013 tax rates have been re-calculated to be more consistent with the presentation of the 2014 tax rates which are based upon the new full market valuation of assessments. As you can see from the table the result is a very modest 1.4% 7 December 4,2013 increase in tax rates applied to unincorporated area residents and a small reduction in the tax rates applied to the two Villages;that being for the General Fund Townwide and Ambulance District. By reconciling the assessments to 100%of market value we have eliminated the confusion of a fractional assessment which is effectively an arbitrary percentage of true market value. When the last reassessment was completed in 1968 the Town established the assessment roll at 45%of market value. Transitioning to a new full value assessment roll changes all of the values. To compare the assessments in 2013 and 2014 for which tax rates would be established the state equalization rate of 1.74%was applied to the 2012 assessments. Again referring to Addendum#2 you will see that overall the Town's total property assessments rose by$369 million an increase of 4.4%. Comparable assessment increases were realized in the other Town funds. Budget Overview The chart on the next page provides a comparative look at the 2013 Adopted Town Budget and the Preliminary Budget proposed for 2014. 2013 2014 Change %Change Adopted Budget Preliminary Budget Appropriations $32,236,882 $33,007,046 $770,164 2.3% Non-Tax Revenue $9,624,347 $9,797,411 $173,064 1.8% Reserve Application $270,000 $215,000 ($55,000) (20%) Property Tax Levy $22,342,535 $22,994,635 $652,100 2.9% The Town Budget is a compilation of nine separate budget funds as required by the State of New York including the budget for Town of Mamaroneck Fire District#1. Part of the reasoning for the different funds is that not all services provided by the Town government are provided to the entire Town. Addendum#3 presents a comparative schedule of the 2013 Adopted and 2014 Preliminary Budgets broken down by fund. Each year the question arises as to how the budget impacts the average property owner. In the past we have established an average property assessment to illustrate the estimated impact of a budget upon an individual property owner's Town property taxes. Prior to the reassessment an average fractional assessment of$20,000 was applied. Now with the completion of the project the average full value assessment is$1,100,000. Therefore in 2014 a property owner living in the Village of Larchmont or Mamaroneck will see a decrease in the average property tax obligation to the Town of Mamaroneck from $539.00 to$517.00. For a property owner in the unincorporated area having the same average assessment there was slight increase in property taxes to the Town from$5,995 to$6,083. Remember that residents of the unincorporated area receive all Town services. Residents of the two villages receive only certain services such as recreation, election services,senior social services, ambulance services and some assessment services. Revenue Discussion Since 2008 we have consistently mentioned the extremely poor performance of non-property tax revenues. Of course the importance of these revenues is to ease increases in property taxes. As we estimated for 2014 we found ourselves conflicted. In the 2013 budget cycle we began to see small evidence of improvement performance in the economy and non-property tax revenues. For 2014 there appears to be a bit more light at the end of the tunnel as some revenue streams showed improved performance over last year. However there is still no clear cut indication that improvements to the economy will continue in for the next several years. Therefore we made the decision to remain conservative in our budget estimates for revenues. The illustration below is a breakdown of all revenues used to fund the Town's operations. Not surprisingly the property tax remains the largest source of revenue providing 70%of the Town's total revenues with the balance of 30%provided by other sources. 8 December 4,2013 Revenue Apportionment Sales Tax 2,068,000 Dept. Income 1,571,261 Recreation 2,272,000 Use of Money 296,250 Permits 350,500 Fines 235,000 Misc. 79,050 Inter-Fund 379,200 State Aid 1,454,500 Federal Aid 601,300 Overall non property tax revenues are expected to increase by$173,000 or 1.8%. On a percentage basis the single largest increase in revenue is for licenses and permits which are expected to increase by 24%or $70,000. One indicator of a stronger economy is an increase in residential construction. Most notably is this year's start of the new 149 unit condominium development known as the Cambium which is scheduled for occupancy in 2015. In addition new single family construction in the Town is on the rise. We are expecting sales tax revenue to increase by$130,000 or 6%in 2014. Interestingly, even during the bad years of revenue performance sales tax revenue remained relatively stable in large part because of high gasoline prices. Now with an improving economy there is greater confidence in sales tax revenue. Revenue from our operating departments for certain Town services will increase by about 5%or$75,000. Departmental income for 2014 will total$1,571,411. Departmental income is derived from the concept that the services supplied for the fees charged are not provided to the entire community. Therefore the departmental revenue funds a portion or all of the costs of these services. The major components of Departmental Income include: Ambulance Charges $860,000 Parking Fees $385,000 Water Revenues $293,311 Town Clerk Fees $ 81000 All Other $ 25,100 Recreation charges for programs and activities will actually decrease in 2014 by about$26,000 to $2,272,000. The decrease is caused exclusively by the expected early closing of the Hammocks Ice Rink in April of 2014 to allow for the renovation of the facility. The decision to shorten the 201312014 season was to better insure re-opening in September for the full 201412015 season. Although there are signs of improvement in the economy, income from interest earnings continues to decline for the Town. New York State law strictly limits the types of investment alternatives for local governments to such things as money markets, certificates of deposit, and instruments of the State and Federal government. At this time none of these alternatives offer high yields. Therefore we are again reducing our expected interest earnings by$10,000 to just$41,250. Another source of revenue from rental income will increase in 2014 from$245,000 to$255,000. The Town receives$2,055,000 in State and Federal Aid contributing roughly 2%of total non-property tax funding. Aid from New York State totals$1,454,500 with the greatest proportion coming from local government's share of the mortgage tax which for 2014 is expected to total$910,000, a$60,000 increase. The Town is also expected to receive$65,000 to help fund road improvements and$140,000 in general aid. For the Community Counseling Center the Town will act as a pass through and receive$330,000 towards the operation of the program. There are then smaller amounts for youth programs and the supplemental meals on wheels program. Federal Aid for the coming year is estimated at$601,000 with the largest portion$535,000 applied to the operation of our Section 8 Housing Voucher Program. The balance of the Federal Aid will help subsidize our senior nutrition program, the majority of our meals on wheels program,senior transportation program and selective traffic enforcement program. The last funding source to be discussed here is the application of surplus funds to the Town Budget. Earlier this year the Town Board adopted a Fund Balance Management Policy. The purpose was to establish goals for sufficient reserves to: 9 December 4,2013 Provide sufficient cash flows for daily financial needs Protect and maintain investment grade bond ratings. Offset economic downturns Fund unanticipated expenditures and events. Applying these goals to the 2014 Town Budget we have recommended the further reduction of the application of surplus. In 2014 we propose applying surplus funds in the amount of$215,000 for all budget funds. This is a decrease of$55,000 from last year and a decrease of$625,000 from the 2012 budget application of surplus. The fund balance policy establishes a benchmark of maintaining a surplus equal to between 15%and 25% of appropriations. We estimate for the end of 2013 our total surplus for all funds should be approximately $8.1million or 22%of appropriations. On a fund by fund basis some of the Town's smaller funds have surpluses below the benchmark which we look forward to improving in the next year. In summary the revenue appears to be on the uptick but we remain guarded in our estimates until such time as we see greater confidence in economic indicators for future years. Expenditure Discussion For the coming year the Town's estimated expenses will be$33,007,046 an increase of$770,000 or 2.3%. Below is an illustration of the major categories of expense as a percentage of all expenses: Under the heading of personnel the Town's total salary expense for the coming year will be$13.2 million an ®Salaries ®Benefits 27� ( increase of 4%. It is important to note here however that 6% the Town has only recently settled two of its three 1°/ ODebt t.Exp collective bargaining agreements dating back two years. p Deb 1% ■Equipment Therefore the change between 2013 and 2014 represents ®Transfers the cumulative impact of the salary adjustments for the two years. The contracts recently settled provide for an average salary adjustment of 2%over a four year period. The contracts settled in this latest round of labor negotiations provide for increases in employee contributions to health insurance for new employees. Also for the first time new employees will contribute to the cost of health insurance in retirement. In terms of total headcount the Town's total full time staff next year will be 125 employees which is a reduction of two positions from 2013 and a total of ten positions since 2010. Cuts in full time positions has resulted in an increase in the time it takes to provide certain services however those changes are of no consequence to overall service delivery. However further cuts in full time personnel will have a more material impact upon service delivery. For 2014 benefit costs have stabilized significantly. Overall our total benefit costs will increase by less than one half a percent. Health insurance costs will actually decrease by$126,180 next year as a result of a decision by the NYSSHIP, the Town's health insurance carrier to self insure for claims. Pension contributions will total$2,738,000 an increase of$70,000 from 2013. This is a result of moderate salary adjustments and a reduction in contribution rates charged by New York State. Worker's compensation costs will increase by $43,000 in 2014 to$562,185. The increase is a result of our loss ratio and the continued impact of a doubling of the indemnity rate which was approved by the New York State. Also our premium rating continues to carry the effects of the tragic death of an employee in 2011. Contractual expenses, those that are incurred each day for government operations will increase by 1%to $8.9 million, an increase of$94,360. This category of expense covers a wide variety of expenses from liability insurance, to energy costs to supplies and outside vendor services. In the category of liability insurance there has been a noticeable hardening of the market which tends to drive up premiums. The Town is fortunate to have an excellent loss experience for liability insurance which limited our increase in premiums to about 6.5%or$21,000. Energy use as measured by units of consumption by and large has decreased within the Town government however unit cost increases have made it difficult dramatically reduce overall expenditures. However for 2014 our total energy costs will decrease by$3,200 to$805,000. An anticipated energy service contract in 2014 will help to further reduce both energy consumption and costs. The Town through its purchasing procedures and operations has consistently held changes in contractual expenses to a minimum. 10 December 4,2013 Debt expenses for the principle and interest payments by the Town will total$1,861,330 a decrease cf just over$36,000 from last year. The Town's total outstanding debt including principle and interest is $21.8million. As a percentage of total expenses, the Town's debt payments for 2014 are just 6%of total appropriations. Generally a good debt expense benchmark is 10%of total appropriations. The Town is well under this benchmark. The discussion of debt expense leads to the capital projects planned for next year. In considering the capital plan the Town evaluated its entire infrastructure,facilities and equipment. The table below provides a detail of the financing of the plan: Total Expenditures $6,692,0001 Budget Approp. $286,000 Existing Capital Funds $60,000 Transfer Water District $110,000 Insurance/FEMA $100,000 Funding Required Bond $6,136,000 Financing The largest component of the plan is$3.9million of needed energy services projects to reduce energy consumption and replace obsolete equipment at the Hammocks Ice Rink, Town Center Building, and Fire Headquarters building. In addition the plan is to replace the Town's street light inventory with new LED lighting. Energy Service Agreements have become popular in that the goal is to finance all or a portion of the capital investment with the energy consumption savings. At this time the Town is evaluating proposals submitted back in September. The plan is to award a contract in January of 2014. Other Capital Improvements planned for 2014 include: Equipment Replacements $ 749,000 Other Building Improvements 299,000 Highway Improvements 753,000 Sanitary Sewer Improvements 35,000 Storm Water Drainage Improvements 60,000 Recreation Facilities 653,000 Water System Improvements 110,000 Technology&Other Equipment 133,000 Total $2,792,000 For 2014 the Town Budget appropriations for capital projects has increased by$110,000. This offers flexibility for the Town going forward. Included in this additional appropriation are a series of smaller projects for which borrowing funds are not worthwhile. Going forward into 2015 the Town has the option of reducing capital projects and removing the appropriations should other expenses increase or leave the appropriation in place to fund other projects and avoid further debt. Conclusion This completes our presentation of the 2014 Preliminary Town of Mamaroneck Budget. It is a responsible and resourceful budget that capitalizes on improving conditions that have previously burdened the Town's budget. The proposed budget provides an excellent value to the property owners by continuing all services at a reasonable cost. At the beginning of this letter we pointed to the accomplishments of this budget and they are worth pointing out again. The 2014 Town of Mamaroneck Budget the following: Financial Stability Growth in Reserve Funds Flexibility in Future Budgets Invests in Needed Infrastructure Improvements 1 Comprises$3,900,00 estimated for Energy Services Projects and $2,792,000 for all categories of other Town capital projects. 11 December 4,2013 We want to thank the Supervisor and Town Board for their work and input on this budget. Many thanks also must go to the Town Department heads and staff for their work as well. We are fortunate to have assembled a staff whose expertise is invaluable in the delivery of services and preparation of the annual budget. Sincerely, Stephen V.Altieri Anthony S.Siligato Town Administrator/Budget Officer Comptroller/Director of Finance Supervisor Seligson thanked Mr.Altieri and Mr.Siligato for their enormous amount of hard work. The Town is on much stronger ground then it was last year. Supervisor Seligson noted that with a 2.9%increase the Town is still able to restore surplus to more comfortable and acceptable levels,adding this is a very responsible budget. On motion of Councilwoman Elkind Eney,seconded by Councilwoman Wittner,the Public Hearing was unanimously adjourned until December 18,2013. BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS The Meeting was called to order by Commissioner Seligson,and then on motion of Commissioner Wittner, seconded by Commissioner Elkind Eney,the Board of Fire Commissioners was unanimously declared open. Present were the following Members of the Commission: Commissioner: Nancy Seligson Commissioner: Phyllis Wittner Commissioner: Ernest C. Odierna Commissioner: Abby Katz Commissioner: Jaine Elkind Eney 1. FIRE CLAIMS Chief Russo being in attendance was able to answer a number of questions regarding the Claims listed on the report. On motion of Commissioner Wittner,seconded by Commissioner Elkind Eney,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: AAA Emergency Supply Scott Pak Refill and Repair 185.32 Altech Electronics, Inc. Command Post Radio 3000.00 Amazon.Com Office&Hallway Mail Box 144.11 Amazon.Com Batteries 132.58 Amazon.Com Bedding-Sheets and Pillows 261.16 Grainger Leak Detector Bottles&Fluid 74.58 New England Uniform Co. Game Job Shirts for Volunteers 3009.00 Russo,Joseph Fire Studio Software 960.00 T C D Cellular Communications Weathertech Floor Mats-New Fire Chief Car- Fleet#317 159.90 Verizon Phone Service 11/10-12/9/13 337.46 Villa Maria Pizza Explorer Drill 11/6/13,VMFD Bleeker Ave. Fire 11/16/13 161.04 Total: 8425.15 12 December 4,2013 The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Commissioner Elkind Eney Aye Commissioner Katz Aye Commissioner Odierna Aye Commissioner Wittner Aye Commissioner Seligson Aye 2. Other Fire Department Business Commissioner Wittner read the Fire Report for the Month of February as submitted by Chief Russo as follows: November 2013 ALARM TYPE NUMBER Generals 27 Minors 26 Stills 3 Out of Town (Mutual Aid) 3 EMS 55 Drills 4 TOTAL 118 Total number of personnel responding: 862 Total time working: 52 hours and 15 minutes Chief Russo was asked to explain the difference in alarm types referenced in the Fire Report,of which he did. 3. Salary Authorization Chief Russo explained that within the Fire Department Budget there is designation for three Lieutenants. Currently the Department only has two.Authorization is before the Commission to promote Terrence Clarke to that position. In Chief Russo's letter to the Commission dated December 3,2013 he recommends Mr.Clarke's promotion. Councilwoman Wittner noted how highly respected Mr.Clarke is within the Department. On motion of Commissioner Wittner,seconded by Commissioner Katz,it was RESOLVED,that the Board of Fire Commissioners'does hereby promote Terrance Clarke to the position of Fire Lieutenant effective December 31, 2013 at an annual salary of$99,653.00. The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Elkind Eney Aye Katz Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye Seligson Aye 13 December 4,2013 4. Chief's Report Chief Russo reported that the Fire Department prepared and delivered 57 Thanksgiving meals to 157 families.This was a joint effort by the Town and Village Departments' by 36 of its members.At the January Town Board Meeting we will invite Lieutenant Clark to take his Oath and the Board will have an opportunity to meet Mr.Clarke's family.The Annual Toy Drive will culminate on December 15,with a Skate with Santa at the Hommocks Ice Rink. There being no further business to come before the Commission,on motion of Commissioner Katz, seconded by Commissioner Elkind Eney,the Commission unanimously adjourned and the Town Board reconvened. AFFAIRS OF THE TOWN 7. Set Public Hearing—Amendment to Erosion &Sediment Control Law Supervisor Seligson noted the efforts of Elizabeth Paul, the Town's Environmental Planner,for her work on this law and its amendment. Supervisor Seligson stated that this is largely a technical amendment to the previous Local Law. On motion of Councilman Odierna,seconded by Councilwoman Wittner,it was unanimously RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby set the date for a Public Hearing on an Amendment to Erosion &Sediment Control Law for December 18,2013 at 8:OOPM in the Court Room of the Town Center,and BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED,that the Town Clerk is hereby authorized to publish the notice of said hearing in a newspaper appointed as an official newspaper,and that said Notice, be posted. 8. Resolution—East Coast Greenway On motion of Councilman Odierna, seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney, the following was unanimously approved, WHEREAS, the East Coast Greenway is a proposed3,000 , shared-use pathway that will pass through Westchester County to connect cities, towns and villages along the eastern seaboard from Calais, Maine, to Key West, Florida; and WHEREAS, New York is one of 15 states and the District of Columbia through which the Greenway runs; and WHEREAS, the Greenway, considered the "urban equivalent of the Appalachian Trail," will pass through sites showcasing the nation's industrial, historic, and cultural diversity; and WHEREAS, the Greenway will spur the building of a network of pedestrian and bicycling greenways through New York, a goal encouraged by the New York Department of Transportation and other agencies; and 14 December 4,2013 WHEREAS, the Greenway will serve bicyclists, walkers, equestrians, the physically challenged and other non-motorized users, both local residents and long-distance travelers; and WHEREAS, the Greenway, by providing a largely off-road route separated from vehicular traffic, will encourage people of all ages to be outdoors more, improving their health and physical fitness while enjoying their playing fields, parks and nature preserves; and WHEREAS, the Greenway, by offering tourists and shoppers access to cultural and historical sites, will bring economic benefits to municipalities and businesses along the route. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Supervisor and Town Board of the Town of Mamaroneck, New York, hereby endorses the concept of the East Coast Greenway and its passage through the Town of Mamaroneck, and encourages our neighboring cities, towns and villages to do the same; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the East Coast Greenway, the Governor of the State of New York, the New York State Department of Transportation, the Westchester County Department of Transportation, the Village of Port Chester, the City of Rye, the Town of Harrison, the Village of Pelham Manor, the Village of Mamaroneck, the City of New Rochelle and the Village of Larchmont. 9. Budget Amendment—Police Vests On motion of Councilman Odierna,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,it was RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve the budget amendment and transfer of funds for the replacement of 23 bullet proof vests for the Police Department,with fifty percent of the expenditure coming from a U.S. Department of Justice Grant as outlined by the Town Comptroller as follows: BUDGET AMENDMENT- INCREASE 2013 PART TOWN FUND BUDGET TOWN BOARD 12/4/2013 MEETING PART TOWN FUND(FUND B): INCREASE BUDGET: REV B.0000.5995 APPROPRIATED FUND BALANCE $ 9,580.00 REV B.0000.4305 FEDERAL GRANT-U.S. D.O.J.(BPV) PROGRAM $ 9,580.00 EXP B.3120.2127 BULLET PROOF VESTS $ 19,160.00 * REPRESENTS ANTICIPATED USAGE OF PART TOWN FUND UNRESERVED FUND BALANCE& FEDERAL GRANT FROM U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE TO FUND PURCHASE OF 23 BODY ARMOR (BULLET PROOF VESTS)FOR POLICE DEPT. The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Elkind Eney Aye Katz Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye Seligson Aye 15 December 4,2013 10. Salary Authorization—Recreation On motion of Councilwoman Elkind Eney,seconded by Councilwoman Wittner,it was RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve of the following salary authorizations as approved in the 2013 Town Budget as follows: ATTACHMENT A The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Elkind Eney Aye Katz Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye Seligson Aye 11. Approval of Certiorari On motion of Councilwoman Katz,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: Harbor view Condominium 680 West Boston Post Road Block: 916 Lot: 1.01-1.61 Town of Mamaroneck/Village of Mamaroneck Year Assessment Amount of Reduction Reduced Assessment 2008 $200,000 $33,960 $166,040 2010 $200,000 $13,895 $188,955 2011 $200,000 $ 9,108 $193,742 2012 $202,850 $20,143 $182,707 The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Elkind Eney Aye Katz Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye Seligson Aye 12. Authorization—Settlement of Grievance with Police Department Collective Bargaining Unit On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,it was RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve the Grievance Settlement between the Town of Mamaroneck and Gerald McCarthy and authorizes payment to Mr. McCarthy in the amount of $12,500. The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: 16 December 4,2013 Elkind Eney Aye Katz Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye Seligson Aye APPROVAL OF MINUTES—November 6, 2013 On motion of Councilwoman Elkind Eney,seconded by Councilwoman Wittner,it was unanimously RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve the Board Minutes from the meeting of November 6,2013. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS None REPORT OF COUNCIL Councilwoman Elkind Eney did not have any liaison assignment meetings of which to report, but had a number of community events to announce. Councilwoman Katz thanked everyone for all the support she received after the passing of her mother,she was touched by the community outreach.Councilwoman Katz stated that at the Planning Board meeting she attended the Durham Road Subdivision was approved. On Sunday Councilwoman Katz attended the Tree Lighting at the Chabad,adding that donated cans were used to create the Menorah. Councilwoman Wittner stated that she won't repeat all of her comments from tonight's Worksession, but would like to encourage residents interested in serving on a Land Use Board,or are particularly interested in our Coastal Zone Management Commission to consider attending monthly meetings of the Coastal Zone Management Commission. Councilman Odierna noted his attendance at the Turkey Trot the previous Sunday.On November 26`" he attended the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council meeting and gave the Town Board a full report during this evening's Worksession,adding that this organization is looking to fund economic development with an emphasis on green projects. Supervisor Seligson reported that the Sustainability Collaborative met last night and that they are working to create a sustainability plan.Their goal is to hold workshops in the end of January or early February. Supervisor Seligson thanked those who have volunteered. Leaf pickup will continue through the end of December. Councilwoman Katz added a congratulations to the Hommocks School Orchestra for a fine performance. ADJOURNMENT On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 10 PM Submitted by Christina Battalia,Town Clerk 17 December 4,2013 MOTION SECOND M 2 a- E O. > > w Lo to CL C) tR (D TS U ,9 0 CL P CL 0 O E () N N N N (N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N W 0 C? 9 9 9 9 9 C? 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 C, 0 0 . w w w w 0 M M w w co M w -0 0 M w M M w C6 C6 C6 0 w w 0 "o 0 0 w w . . . . . . . . . co m o co LL. 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