HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012_09_19 Town Board Minutes September 19,2012
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING AND WORK SESSION OF THE TOWN BOARD OF
THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK HELD ON SEPTEMBER 19,2012, BEGINNING AT S:OOPM
IN CONFERENCE ROOM D AND CONTINUING AT 8:00 PM IN CONFERENCE ROMM C 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 Wittner,the Work Session was unanimously
opened at S:OOPM.
Councilwoman Katz asked Mr. Maker to reiterate the Town's policy with respect to making public, resumes
of individuals seeking an appointment by the Town Board. Mr. Maker stated that it has been the policy of
this Board that resumes are not made public for individuals discussed by the Town Board for appointments.
Mr. Maker stated that once an appointment is made the resume,excluding information of a personal
nature,would be available to the public.
Preliminary Evaluation of Survey Results
Additionally present: Betty DiMaria,ARAS Consulting
Supervisor Seligson asked the Board Members to react to the results of the Survey. Betty DiMaria went
through her Results Report in detail. Of note was the large number of written comments from the
responders; Ms. DiMaria stated how unusual this was. The Board would like a public presentation at the
October 3rd Town Board Meeting. Mr. Maker stated that at this time the Board may consider these
interagency documents, adding once it is completed by Ms. DiMaria it will be on the Town's web site. The
Board would like the results up on the web by the October 3rd Town Board Meeting. Supervisor Seligson
gave the Board an assignment to return to the October 3rd Town Board Meeting with the top three
priorities from the Survey results.
Shelter Agreement—New Rochelle Humane Society
As the Agreement is presented it is for the Town of Mamaroneck and the Village of Larchmont. The fee will
be $10,000 for the Town and $7,000 for the Village of Larchmont. By Combining the Agreement (s) both
municipalities will save significantly. Final approval from the Village of Larchmont is still pending. Mr.
Altieri stated that if the Village chooses not to participate in a joint agreement,the Town will move forward
on its own with an Agreement with the New Rochelle Humane Society.
Town Environmental Initiatives Report
Additionally present: Syrette Dym,Town Environmental Consultant
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September 19,2012
Ms. Dym presented to the Town Board her Report of the Town of Mamaroneck Energy and Sustainability
Initiatives. Four categories were presented in which the Town has initiatives, these included Buildings,
Infrastructure, Policies, and Fleet. Supervisor Seligson stated how important it is for the Town to establish a
baseline,adding this report does just that.
Update—Property Arrears
Mr. Maker explained that the Tax Arrears Letters that were recently sent from the Comptroller's Office
have been very effective, adding quite a bit of funds have been generated. Mr. Maker then explained the
REM Tax Lien Foreclosure Process in which the Town may initiate proceedings to foreclose on a property in
arrears. Mr. Maker explained that although he is qualified to do such proceedings, it would not be the
most efficient way. Therefore, Mr. Maker is recommending he interview alternative firms to handle this.
Mr. Maker clarified that the Town does not sell tax liens.
CALL TO ORDER
The Regular Meeting of the Town Board was called to order by Supervisor Seligson at 8:15 PM; she then
pointed out the location of the exits.
SUPERVISOR'S SUMMARY REPORT
Supervisor Seligson stated that the Town's Strategic Planning Consultant, Betty DiMaria, has compiled the
Town's Survey Results into a Preliminary Report.Supervisor Seligson stated that there is quite a lot of very
interesting material that will be helpful in taking some short term actions with respect to the 2013 Budget,
as well as for medium and long term strategic planning. Currently the data is still very raw and will be
compiled for the public more completely. The Town will have the survey material,explanation and
summary at the public presentation by Ms. DiMaria at the October 3rd Town Board Meeting. Supervisor
Seligson stated how grateful she is to the Town and Village Emergency Responders who created such a
meaningful and moving 911 Ceremony; a special thank you goes to those first responders who spoke so
eloquently at the Ceremony.The Town is actively involved in the Budget process;the Town Administrator,
Department Heads and Town Board are fully immersed.The Town is analyzing the Budget,every revenue
and expense are being scrutinized,the Tax Cap is being discussed as well as how best to move forward.
Supervisor Seligson encouraged every resident to sign up for email notifications from the Town,
emphasizing that this is the easiest, most efficient and effective means of sharing information.
CITIZEN'S COMMENTS
NONE
INFORMAL- PUBLIC HEARING
As a way of introduction,Supervisor Seligson explained that several years ago the Rye YMCA received a
Grant from the Federal program Activate America. The Activate American program is an effort to address
the obesity crisis in the country by encouraging Americans to become more physically active.The City of
Rye invited surrounding Municipalities to come together to learn about this Federal program,specifically,
and one of its components,the Complete Streets Initiative.An additional grant was received and used to
hire the Capstone Group,from the NYU Graduate School to help the municipalities of the Town of
Mamaroneck,the Village of Mamaroneck,the Village of Larchmont and the City of Rye find ways to
implement this program. The Capstone Group was helping the municipalities learn more about Complete
Streets Policy which is to make our Streets integrated for all users, pedestrians, bicycles and cars,and find a
way to implement it. Supervisor Seligson stated that a current example of a Complete Streets
implementation in the Town would be the modifications that were made at the intersection of Myrtle Blvd
and North Chatsworth Avenue including the median and phased lights.
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September 19,2012
Supervisor Seligson continued stating that the Capstone Group presented the Complete Streets Program to
the Town Board,the Traffic Committee as well as the Safe Routes to School Committee. During discussions
and meetings,Central School and Murray Avenue School were identified for Complete Streets
implementation projects.
Supervisor Seligson introduced Kim Larsen a member of the Safe Routes to School since it began in 2008.
Ms. Larsen began by explaining how the group came to identify these two locations.
The following residents addressed the Town Board:
Tom McGuire,6 Garit Lane
Robert and Cathy Bennett, 1 Garit Lane
Perry D'Alba,3 Garit Lane
The neighbors agreed that something should be done; safety is certainly an issue in this area.The neighbors
did however, have a number of issues they thought the Town Board should be aware of,consider and
address. Mr. McGuire questioned why it might not be best to install a traffic light at the entrance to
Central School. Mr.Altieri responded that this was looked at but it was determined to be unfeasible due to
the close proximity to the existing traffic light at Weaver Street and Palmer Avenue. The Bennett's' noted
that there are storm water issues at the corner of Garit Lane and Palmer Avenue that need to be addressed
prior to any bump outs being created. Mr. McGuire thinks the addition of sidewalks should be
reconsidered.The issue of not being able to exit Garit Road due to traffic congestion is a continuous
problem that could be exacerbated by the addition of bump outs. Mr. Perry thought bump outs could also
make turning onto Garit Lane from Palmer Avenue going westbound.
The residents'thought it would be a good idea to put up temporary modifications to the area to mimic the
permanent changes and prepare people for what is to come.The residents also noted that signage around
the schools is unreadable due to overgrown foliage and often confusing.
Supervisor Seligson stated that these concerns will be brought to the Town Engineer and the Traffic
Committee for their consideration,and thanked the residents for coming out tonight and giving this
important feedback. Supervisor Seligson noted that there is a general agreement to move forward with
making this a safer area that will work for everyone and encouraged any other neighbors with comments
to please contact the Supervisor.
On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,it was
RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby authorize the Town
Administrator,or his Designee,to complete the Grant Application for the
Complete Streets Program.
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Aye
Wittner Aye
Seligson Aye
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.
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September 19,2012
Present were the following Members of the Commission:
Commissioner: Nancy Seligson
Commissioner: Phyllis Witmer
Commissioner: Ernest C. Odierna
Commissioner: Abby Katz
Commissioner: Jaine Elkind Eney
1. FIRE CLAIMS
On motion of Commissioner Elkind Eney,seconded by Commissioner Wittner,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 Globe NFPA Fire Boots for H.Duell $325.00
AAA Emergency Supply Scott Pak Regulator Repair/Maintenance 153.41
Atlantic Westchester Washed All Condensers&Recharged A/C Units 79.00
Brewer Propane Exchange 45.98
Cablevision Cable Service 8/23-9/22/12 143.99
Chris Pallett Reimb. For EMT Course 12/15/11 700.00
Cleaning Systems Bleach,Orange Hand Cleaner&Trash Liners 130.34
Cleaning Systems Paper Towels&Garbage Can Liners 85.55
Con Edison Gas Service-7/30/12-8/28/12 150.17
ESS if Westchester Repair and Pager Cleaning 65.00
Foley Hardware Weed Killer and Keys 13.21
G&K Service Building Cleaning Supplies 101.85
Grayrock Memorial& Florist P. Rossi Memorial Arrangement 106.00
Home Fair Camera Batteries 15.00
Poland Springs Water Delivery 7/16-8/18/12 74.97
R&L Consulting VGA Cable,Monitor Setup, NSProtect Secure License 436.16
R&L Consulting License for Symantec Mail Security for Exchange 160.00
Ricoh Copier Service 8/22-9/21/12 204.35
Sound Shore Contracting Electrical Repairs at Fire House 540.00
Town of Mamaroneck PFFA Life Ins. Premium for June 2012 188.65
Town of Mamaroneck PFFA Life Ins. Premium for August 2012 282.96
United Communications Corp. Minitor Flat Rate Repair&Backup 353.46
Verizon Wireless Cell Service 7/27-8/26/12 247.10
Villa Maria Pizza Food for Explorer Drill-8/24/12 50.68
Westech Elevator Sept Maintenance 175.00
Total: $4,827.83
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
There being no further business to come before the Commission,on motion of Commissioner Elkind Eney,
seconded by Commissioner Wittner,the Commission unanimously adjourned and the Town Board
reconvened.
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September 19,2012
AFFAIRS OF THE TOWN
1. Set Public Hearing—Bond Resolution,Water District No. 1
Mr.Altieri explained that authorization is being sought for the Town of Mamaroneck to approve Bonding in
the amount of$325,000 for repairs to the thirty inch water main from Shaft#22 as well as compliance and
safety improvements to a number of water storage tanks. The Town Board this evening is being asked to
set a Public Hearing for this bonding.
On motion of Councilwoman Elkind Eney,seconded by Councilwoman Katz,it was unanimously
RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby set the date for a Public
Hearing on the Increase and Improvement of the Facilities of the Town of Mamaroneck
Water District No. 1,for October 3,2012 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.
2. Authorization—Budget Transfer, Highway Department
On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,it was
RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve the
transfer of funds from Account DB5110.4234-Curbs into Account
DB5110.4232-Road Patching in the amount of $3,000.00,and from Account
DB5110.4233—Sidewalks into Account DB5110.4232 Road Patching in the
amount of$2,000,for road repairs in the Bonnie Briar Section of the Town.
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Aye
Wittner Aye
Seligson Aye
3. Authorization—Cellular Phone Policy
On motion of Councilwoman Elkind Eney,seconded by Councilwoman Wittner,the following was approved
WHEREAS,the Town finds that there are a tier of employees in the Town that while
conducting Town business are frequently out of the office and/or require mobile
communication capability to effectively complete their tasks,and whose
responsibilities do not require them to have 24/7 access.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve providing
$360.00 per year allowance to the following six Town Employees:
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September 19,2012
Hommocks Ice Rink Manager
Recreation Supervisor(Youth Camps and Rink Programs)
Hommocks Pool Manager
Director of Community Services(Member of Emergency Management
Committee)
Senior Center Director
Maintenance Person—Recreation
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Aye
Wittner Aye
Seligson Aye
4. Salary Authorization
Ambulance District
On motion of Councilwoman Katz,seconded by Councilman Odierna,it was
RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve the
appointment of the following Paramedics effective August 30,2012:
Robert Rizzo-Probationary Rate$28.21
Jared Pennella-Probationary Rate$28.21
Denis McLane—Full Rate$29.79
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Aye
Wittner Aye
Seligson Aye
Recreation
On motion of Councilman Odierna,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,it was
RESOLVED,that as provided for in the 2012 Town Budget the Mamaroneck Town
Board does hereby authorize the payment of salary to the following:
Youth Programs—Effective 9/24/12—6/28/13
Kathleen Flynn Cooking Instructor $45/per class
Kathleen Reale Tiny Tot Time Instructor $45/per class
Claire Widman Art Instructor $65/per class
Emily Romeo Dance Instructor $40/per class
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Aye
Wittner Aye
Seligson Aye
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September 19,2012
5. Authorization—In Rem Tax Proceeding
On motion of Councilman Odierna,seconded by Councilwoman Elkind Eney,the following was approved,
WHEREAS,the Town has the right to foreclose upon the unpaid taxes which have
remained liens for two years or more.
NOW THERFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby authorize the Town
Attorney,William Maker to interview possible law firms to represent the Town
in tax lien foreclosures, present such findings and make a recommendation to
the Town Board for consideration.
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Aye
Wittner Aye
Seligson Aye
6. Approval of Certiorari
On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,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:
Thousandaire Inc.
198 Rockland Avenue
Block: 911 Lot: 265
Town of Mamaroneck/Village of Mamaroneck
Year Assessment Amount of Reduction Reduced Assessment
2009 $11,400 $3,050 $8,350
2010 $11,400 $1,825 $9,575
2011 $9,000 $-0- $9,000
2012 $9,000 $-0- $9,000
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Aye
Wittner Aye
Seligson Aye
Rockwave Inc.
529 Rockland Avenue
Block: 826 Lot: 214
Town of Mamaroneck/Village of Mamaroneck
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September 19,2012
Year Assessment Amount of Reduction Reduced Assessment
2009 $15,100 $7,950 $7,150
2010 $15,100 $7,225 $7,875
2011 $9,500 $1,575 $7,925
2012 $9,500 $2,025 $7,475
The above resolution was put to a roll call vote:
Elkind Eney Aye
Katz Aye
Odierna Aye
Wittner Aye
Seligson Aye
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,seconded by Councilwoman Katz,it was
unanimously
RESOLVED,that the Mamaroneck Town Board does hereby approve
the Board Minutes from the meeting of September 5, 2012.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
None
REPORT OF COUNCIL
Councilman Odierna noted his recent trip to Canada,adding he has nothing to report as Liaison.
Councilman Odierna stated that when he's traveling he loves to make note of roadways and crossings so he
can bring this knowledge and perspective back to the Town.
Councilwoman Wittner also had no meetings to report due to the holidays.Councilwoman Wittner did
attend the First Annual Fire Department and EMS BBQ, noting what an unbelievable group of people our
Emergency Personnel are.
Councilwoman Katz attended the League of Women Voters Breakfast,at which Supervisor Seligson and
Larchmont Village Mayor Anne McAndrews spoke.Councilwoman Katz also attended the Summit Meeting
at which the president of Westchester Community Collage gave a very good talk to the Community.
Councilwoman Katz attended the Planning Board Meeting where discussion took place on a proposed sub-
division on Weaver Street.Councilwoman Katz attended the 911 Ceremony.
Councilwoman Elkind Eney attended the Recreation Commission Meeting,adding the news from
Recreation is the Fall/Winter Brochure is out. The Hommocks Ice Rink will open on September 301";
residents can visit the Ice Rink's web site at www.hommocksicerink.org.Councilwoman Elkind Eney
attended the Board of Architectural Review Meeting where they approved the design of the new
Walgreens;this project was a long time coming, but exciting.Councilwoman Elkind Eney attended the
Library Board Meeting,at which they discussed the successful Summer Programming. Tomorrow
Councilwoman Elkind Eney will attend a Continuing Education Legal Seminar on Ethics,given by none other
than our beloved Town Attorney Bill Maker. Councilwoman Elkind Eney then announced a number of
Community events throughout the Town.
ADJOURNMENT
Supervisor Seligson closed the Meeting in memory of Anna Pergola, mother of Village Trustee Toni Pergola
Ryan and mother-in-law of former Supervisor Paul Ryan. Ms. Pergola was a beloved member of the Senior
Center,a caring and giving person whom people characterized as lovely inside and out. Our condolences
go out to her family. Councilwoman Wittner noted the passing of the Village of Larchmont resident Shirley
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September 19,2012
Bovard. Ms. Bovard was a local artist who made her mark volunteering.Councilwoman Wittner noted how
sad it was to see another friend pass.
Supervisor Seligson announced that tomorrow,September 201"at 3:30 in Conference Room A,the Town
Board is holding an additional meeting to continue their discussion of the Zoning Amendment with respect
to Residential Zoning in the Business and Service Business Zones.The Town Board felt additional time was
needed to discuss this important topic and is encouraging residents to attend.
On motion of Councilwoman Wittner,seconded by Councilwoman Katz,the Meeting was unanimously
adjourned at 9:45 PM
Submitted by
Christina Battalia,Town Clerk
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