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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007_12_19 Town Board Minutes DECEMBER 19, 2007 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK HELD ON DECEMBER 19, 2007 AT 8:15 PM IN THE COURT ROOM OF THE TOWN, 740 W. BOSTON POST ROAD, MAMARONECK, NEW YORK PRESENT: Supervisor Valerie M. O'Keeffe Councilwoman Phyllis Wittner Councilman Ernest C. Odierna Councilwoman Nancy Seligson Councilman David J. Fishman ALSO PRESENT: Christina Battalia, Town Clerk Stephen V. Altieri, Town Administrator William Maker, Jr., Town Attorney Cindy Atiencia, Deputy Town Clerk WORK SESSION Traffic Committee The Board reported the resignation of David Lobl as a member and Chairman of the Traffic Committee. Zoning Board of Appeals The Board discussed the need to fill the vacancy in the Alternate position on the Zoning Board. The issues and difficulty in filling this position being noted as: Are they required to attend all meetings? If they fill an absence of a regular Member at a particular meeting, are they then required to step down at subsequent meetings at which same the matter is addressed? Mr. Maker noted, Town Law states an Alternate must step down once the regular Member is present at the following meeting. The Board agreed further discussion was warranted. Report of Meeting — Dr. Paul Fried, Superintendent of Schools. Supervisor O'Keeffe notified the Board of her meeting with the Dr. Fried, concerning the drop-off situation at Central School. Historically residents have utilized the Trader Joe's parking lot as a drop off-site for the school. Trader Joe's is concerned about the dangerous situation this is creating and has decided to lock an entrance gate from their parking lot which leads to the school grounds. Supervisor O'Keeffe stressed this as both a school and private property owner issue, but added that Town residents are being affected and the Town Board should be aware. She distributed a letter Dr. Fried would be sending to Central School parents and guardians. Dental Plan Mr. Altieri explained, the Town received a renewal notice from Genworth, the Town's current dental provider, representing a $40.00 per month increase in the cost of each (individual) contract. This represents an annual increase of$55,000. The Town has gone out to bid for a new provider, approaching seven insurance companies with requests to match existing benefits. Guardian Insurance Company was the sole responder. Mr. Altieri explained that a meeting has been held with Town employees to explain the change in providers. Board and Commissions The Board discussed various vacancies that exist and the appointments that need to be made at the upcoming organizational meeting. Joint Meeting with the Village of Larchmont The Board discussed the items that should be on the Agenda for the upcoming meeting. They include the Train Station Tunnel, Hommocks Drain Pipe, Assessment, 1 DECEMBER 19, 2007 Reservoir, Coordination of Traffic Lights, Kayak Launch Sites, Shared Services. The meeting is tentatively set for January 31, 2008. The Board discussed hiring a facilitator for this meeting. Summit Meeting Councilman Odierna reported on the last Summit Meeting attended by both the Village of Larchmont, Mamaroneck, and the Town of Mamaroneck; the topic was shared services. Habitat for Humanity Supervisor O'Keeffe reported she met with Habitat for Humanity representatives. She shared with them the Board's concerns regarding water and drainage at this site. Habitat for Humanity will meet with the Village of Mamaroneck's engineer, review the issues and report back to the Town Board. Meeting with Traffic Committee The Board reviewed the agenda for the meeting with the Traffic Committee, and then relocated to the Senior Center for the Traffic Committee Meeting. The Traffic Meeting was called to order and the following attendees were as follows: MEMBERS OF THE TRAFFIC COMMITTEE Doris Kobrin Shaw, Acting Chair Camille Odierna Nancy Angiulo Michael Harrington Donald Sutherland TOWN BOARD MEMBERS Supervisor Valerie M. O'Keeffe Councilwoman Phyllis Wittner Councilman Ernest C. Odierna Councilwoman Nancy Seligson Councilman David J. Fishman ALSO PRESENT Christina Battalia, Town Clerk Stephen V. Altieri, Town Administrator William Maker, Jr., Town Attorney Cindy Atiencia, Deputy Town Clerk Phillip Cimino, PSC Engineering The purpose of the joint meeting was to discuss the intersection of Myrtle Blvd. and No. Chatsworth Avenue. Mr. Altieri gave a brief history of the intersection, beginning with the reengineering that took place in the 1980's. In 2002, the Town received a Grant through Representative Nita Lowey's Office from the New York State Department of Transportation to improve pedestrian safety at this intersection. Studies were conducted, and among the many recommendations was the installation of a median. Mr. Phillip Cimino, PSE Engineering, was introduced by Mr. Altieri. Mr. Altieri noted that Mr. Cimino is the Town's engineering consultant for this project. Mr. Cimino noted the 1980 renovations solved some problems and created others; specifically the continued safety for pedestrian. Two options were available, either creating a non-conflicting path for pedestrians, or creating simultaneous/concurrent movement of pedestrians and cars; the non-conflicting option was chosen. Since the completion of the work at the intersection two problems occurred, one was the closing of the Weaver Street Bridge, and then subsequently the pipe repair taking place by Con Edison that destroyed the traffic loops. During each of these disruptions, adjustments have been made to try and curtail their effects on traffic flow. Effectively, these issues have created a situation in which the intended operation of this intersection has yet to be established. It was also noted that the initial traffic study was done three years ago-traffic is now heavier. 2 DECEMBER 19, 2007 Supervisor O'Keeffe asked Mr. Cimino to explain why the no turn on red was put in place. Mr. Cimino noted it was due to serious concerns for pedestrian safety. Sam Orans, 1 Sackets Drive, suggested installing a no turn on red `arrow', that would be synchronized with the pedestrian walk sign. This would enable cars to turn right on red if no pedestrians were crossing. Carol Aloise, 101 Myrtle Blvd., has particular concerns about additional traffic along Myrtle Blvd. She sees a relationship between the new intersection timings and the added traffic; especially truck traffic. Mr. Joe McElhinney, Judson Street, suggested cutting back the sidewalk on No. Chatsworth leading to the Myrtle Blvd, effectively helping cars position themselves more effectively into the right turn only lane. Lt. Mike Cindrich, spoke of the difficulty in policing this intersection. The Board further discussed other issues and possible solutions, including returning the left turn from Myrtle Blvd. to No. Chatsworth, the timing of the intersection as well as the timing for Con Edison's repairing of the `loops'. Councilman Fishman suggested putting a statement on the web-site informing residents of what is being done. The Board would continue to look at options, including cutting back the sidewalk, installing a no turn on red `arrow ', but stressed the need to evaluate the intersection once the loops are repaired by Con Edison and functioning properly. Mr. Cimino would prepare a list of what was discussed and a press release would be issued. CALL TO ORDER The regular meeting of the Town Board was called to order by Supervisor O'Keeffe at 8:25 PM she then pointed out the location of exits. Supervisor O'Keeffe notified the public of the meeting the Town Board attended with the Traffic Committee prior to this evening regular meeting. The Board discussed the intersection at Myrtle Blvd. and No. Chatsworth. They discussed the problems that are occurring, emphasizing the issues involving Con Edison. The Town's engineering consultant, Mr. Phillip Cimino, was in attendance to discuss changes that could be made. PRESENTATION — Daniela Rabino— Conservation Education Program — Ranomafana National Park Ms. Rabino a Junior at Skidmore College, addressed the Board regarding a community outreach program she is working on in Madagascar. She discussed the Mission, current efforts and persons involved in this effort. She hoped the Board might have suggestions for additional funding. Ideas were exchanged and the Board thanked Ms. Rabino for her presentation. BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS The meeting was called to order by Commissioner O'Keeffe and on motion of Commissioner Wittner, seconded by Commissioner Seligson, the Board of Fire Commissioners was unanimously declared open. 3 DECEMBER 19, 2007 Present were the following members of the Commission: Commissioner: Valerie M. O'Keeffe Commissioner: Phyllis Wittner Commissioner: Ernest C. Odierna Commissioner: Nancy Seligson Commissioner: David J. Fishman 1. FIRE CLAIMS Commissioner Wittner presented fire claims for authorization of payment, thereafter on Commissioner Wittner's motion, seconded by Commissioner Odierna, 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: 911 Wear $ 840.00 AAA Emergency Supply Co. Inc. $ 995.63 AAA Emergency Supply Co. Inc. $ 351.04 AAA Emergency Supply Co. Inc. $ 288.90 AAA Emergency Supply Co. Inc. $ 198.05 AAA Emergency Supply Co. Inc. $ 95.00 AAA Emergency Supply Co. Inc. $ 54.00 Avaya $ 51.89 Cleaning Systems $ 796.16 Corsi Tire $ 205.95 G & K Services $ 64.00 Joseph Russo $ 750.00 Ken Jones Plumbing $ 230.00 MRP Lawrence Marketing $1,797.47 Noah Goldberg $ 116.81 Pitt Stop Auto Parts $ 38.25 Proftech $ 191.69 Technical Electronics $ 90.00 TMFD Local 898 $ 29.99 Tri-City Auto Parts $ 221.28 Verizon $ 361.61 Verizon Wireless $ 12.56 Westchester Elevator $ 196.35 Winzer Corp. $ 51.30 Total: $ 8,027.93 The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Fishman Aye Seligson Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye O'Keeffe Aye 2. Other Fire Department Business Commissioner Wittner announced the new Fire Department's Officers for 2008, as received by the Town Clerk from the Fire Council as follows: 4 DECEMBER 19, 2007 Chief of Department David Commender 1St Deputy Chief Sean McCarthy 2"d Deputy Chief Brendan Collins Department Secretary Joseph Russo Financial Secretary David Cremins Treasurer David Maisel Surgeon Dr. Peter Kingham Chaplin Fr. Brian McWeeney Sergeant At Arms Matthew Peloso Attorney At Law Theodore Hecht Engine 36 Captain Michael Liverzani Lieutenant Shaun Hughes Engine 37 Captain Joseph Mirabella Lieutenant Dennis Tortorella Engine 51 Captain Joseph Russo Lieutenant Noah Goldberg Ladder 19 Captain Michael Acocella Lieutenant David Maisel On motion of Commissioner Fishman, seconded by Commissioner Wittner, it was RESOLVED, that the Board of Fire Commissioners does hereby certify and approve the Fire Department Officers for 2008, as presented by the Fire Council. The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Fishman Aye Seligson Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye O'Keeffe Aye Supervisor O'Keeffe thanked Chief Matthew Peloso for his service as Chief, adding what a superior job he has done. The Commission thanked all the Fire Fighter's and their families, for their commitment and for the sacrifices they all make. The swearing in ceremony for the Fire Department will take place on January 25tH There being no further business to come before the Commission, on motion of Commissioner Wittner, seconded by Commissioner Seligson, the Commission unanimously adjourned. AFFAIRS OF THE TOWN 1. Adoption —2008 Town Budget On motion of Councilwoman Seligson, seconded by Councilwoman Wittner, the following was approved, WHEREAS, on October 17, 2007, the Budget Officer submitted to the Town Clerk and the Town Board the Tentative Budget for 2008, and WHEREAS, on October 25, November 9, November 14, and November 20 the Town Board held public work sessions to consider amendments and changes to the Tentative Budget, and 5 DECEMBER 19, 2007 WHEREAS, on December 6, the Town Board held a Public Hearing and approved the Preliminary Budget for 2008. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board does hereby convert the 2008 Preliminary Budget, as amended, to the 2008 Final Operating Budget for the Town of Mamaroneck, and hereby adopts it. The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Fishman Aye Seligson Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye O'Keeffe Aye Complete 2008 Budget - ATTACHMENT A 2. Authorization — Extension of Concession Agreement— Hommocks Ice Rink On motion of Councilman Odierna, seconded by Councilman Fishman, it was RESOLVED, that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve the License Agreement between the Town of Mamaroneck and Slap Shot Cafe, Inc. ("Licensee") whereby for a fee of$16,000.00, from June 1, 2008-May 31, 2009, $16,400, from June 1, 2009- May 31, 2010 and $16,800, from June 1, 2010-May 31, 2011, plus other consideration, the Licensee will operate a food concession stand at the Hommocks Ice Rink/Pool in the Town of Mamaroneck. The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Fishman Aye Seligson Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye O'Keeffe Aye 3. Authorization — Dental Insurance Plan On motion of Councilwoman Seligson, seconded by Councilman Odierna, the following was approved, WHEREAS, the Town's current Dental Insurance provider Genworth is proposing an increase in premiums of$40.00 per month per(individual) contract, representing an annual increase of$55,000, and WHEREAS, the Town has gone out to bid for a new carrier to eleven insurance companies, with a request to match Genworth's benefits at an affordable price, with Guardian being the only responder. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board does hereby approve changing the Town's dental insurance provider to Guardian Insurance Company, beginning January 1, 2008. 6 DECEMBER 19, 2007 The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Fishman Aye Seligson Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye O'Keeffe Aye 4. Salary Authorization - Recreation RECREATION On motion of Councilman Odierna, seconded by Councilman Fishman, it was RESOLVED, that as provided for in the 2007 Town Budget the Town Board does hereby authorize the payment of salary to the following: Rachel Chess, Lifeguard, Hommocks Pool, $8.25/hour, effective retroactive to 12/16/07 Tiffany Contreras, Lifeguard, Hommocks Pool, $9.25/hour, effective retroactive to 12/16/07 Kathleen Corsetti, Lifeguard, Hommocks Pool, $9.25/hour, effective retroactive to 12/16/07 Brett Moeller, Lifeguard, Early Morning Swim Program, $30/session, Lifeguard, Hommocks Pool, $11.25/hour effective retroactive to 12/16/07 Sarah Monaghan, Lifeguard, Hommocks Pool, $8.50/hour, effective retroactive to 12/9/07 Zoe Morvay, Lifeguard, Hommocks Pool, $8.25/hour, effective retroactive to 12/16/07 Meredith Naughton, Lifeguard, Hommocks Pool, $9.75/hour, effective retroactive to 12/16/07 The above resolution was put to a roll call vote: Fishman Aye Seligson Aye Odierna Aye Wittner Aye O'Keeffe Aye APPROVAL OF MINUTES November 20, 2007 (resubmission) December 6, 2007 November 20, 2007 On motion of Councilwoman Wittner, seconded by Councilman Odierna, it was unanimously RESOLVED, that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve the Board minutes from the meeting of November 20, 2007. December 6, 2007 On motion of Councilwoman Wittner, seconded by Councilman Fishman, it was unanimously RESOLVED, that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve the Board minutes from the meeting of December 6, 2007. 7 DECEMBER 19, 2007 ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Barbara Spiridon, Larchmont Gardens' Civic Association, thanked the Board for the Town's help with the Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 8; it was another successful event. Ms. Spiridon informed the Board that the Larchmont Gardens' Civic Association, will begin looking into and studying further, noise and air pollution as well as size of new construction. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS Councilman Odierna read a letter from Ruth Campanelli, in which she questioned the timing of the work being done on the train station stairwell. Mr. Altieri responded, the engineers reviewed and determined the stairwell was a dangerous situation, and should be closed immediately. Mr. Altieri added that bids have gone out. The Board noted that with the closing of the stairwell, residents would need to go through the tunnel. The Board stressed the immediacy of addressing the condition of the tunnel with the Village of Larchmont. Councilman Odierna noted correspondence from Brian Lobel. Supervisor O'Keeffe, noted she had not yet received it. SUPERVISOR'S REPORT REPORT OF COUNCIL Councilman Odierna noted the many Ice Rink functions and welcomed residents to look at the Rink's web-site for details. He attended the Human Rights Commission Meeting, at which Mark Orfinger, Principal of Mamaroneck High School spoke. The Commission is preparing for their upcoming Martin Luther King, Jr., event on January 9th, noting the Honorees will be John Farris and Mariana Boneo. He thanked Supervisor O'Keeffe for coordinating the stop in the Town, by Wreaths Across America. Councilwoman Seligson and Councilwoman Wittner both noted the wonderful holiday gathering the Town had, especially noting the wonderful camaraderie among the Town employees. Councilwoman Seligson noted the Planning Board meeting was rescheduled. Councilman Fishman announced the approval by the New York State Public Service Commission of the Verizon Franchise Agreement. He also noted that our Cable TV Board of Control, is currently reviewing an agreement from Cablevision. Supervisor O'Keeffe noted that at the next Town Board Meeting, newly elected officials will be sworn in and a reception will precede the swearing in at 7:4513M. ADJOURNMENT On motion of Supervisor O'Keeffe, seconded by Councilman Fishman the Town Board unanimously approved reconvening into a Work Session at 10:30PM. Supervisor O'Keeffe closed the meeting in memory of John Rodriguez. Mr. Rodriguez the owner of Tony's Nursery, passed away last week. Mr. Rodriguez was very active in our community - our sympathy goes out to his wife and family. WORK SESSION (RECONVENED) Mr. Altieri explained to the Board, that during the last snow fall and subsequent snow removal, several mailboxes were damaged. He noted that these mailboxes are actually not properly placed as they are too close to the curb line. He would like the Board to establish a policy for their replacement. The Board agreed to replace the damaged mailboxes, but would place them out of the Town right-of-way. 8 DECEMBER 19, 2007 On motion of Councilman Odierna, seconded by Councilwoman Seligson, the Board unanimously agreed to enter into Executive Session to discuss an employee hiring. EXECUTIVE SESSION Discussion of employee hiring Submitted by Christina Battalia, Town Clerk 9