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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026_06_02 Town Board Minutes p(< �47 Town of Mamaroneck Town Board Minutes 0 1" o Tuesday, June 2, 2026, Conference Room A, _ j n Second Floor, Town Center 5:00PM FOUNDED 1661 PRESENT: Jaine Elkind Eney, Town Supervisor Jeffery L. King, Councilmember Robin Nichinsky, Councilmember Darren Moss, Councilmember Andrew Regenstreich, Councilmember ALSO PRESENT: Allison May, Town Clerk Meredith S. Robson, Town Administrator William Maker Jr., Town Attorney Tracy Yogman, Town Comptroller Robert P. Wasp, Town Engineer 5:00 PM THE TOWN BOARD WORK SESSION CALL TO ORDER The Work Session of the Town Board was called to order by Town Supervisor Jaine Elkind Eney. Moved by Councilmember Moss, seconded by Councilmember Regenstreich, the Town Board unanimously opened the Work Session at 5:02 p.m. Carried WORK SESSION ITEMS 1. Request for Executive Session Moved by Councilmember Moss, seconded by Councilmember Regenstreich, the Town Board agreed to enter Executive Session to discuss the employment history of a particular person or persons. Carried Moved by Councilmember King, seconded by Councilmember Regenstreich, the Town Board unanimously agreed to adjourn Executive Session and resume the Work Session. Carried 2. Discussion - Debt Management Policy Town Administrator Meredith Robson reviewed the proposed Debt Management Policy and explained that the policy formalizes many of the financial management practices already utilized by the Town. Discussion focused on establishing a consistent framework for evaluating future borrowing, managing debt obligations, and supporting long-term capital planning. Councilmember King noted that many of the policy's provisions reflect practices the Town already follows and expressed support for formalizing those procedures in a written policy. Town Board June 2, 2026 3. OUT OF ORDER: Discussion - Reschedule Public Hearing - Proposed Local Law - "Setback Requirements for Air-Conditioning Systems" Administrator Robson reviewed a request to reschedule the public hearing on the proposed local law addressing setback requirements for residential central air- conditioning systems. Town Attorney William Maker Jr. explained that the proposal would reduce the required side and rear yard setback to five feet in recognition of advancements in modern equipment and reduced noise levels. Discussion focused on establishing a new hearing date and providing additional time for public review and consideration. 4. OUT OF ORDER: Discussion - Storm Water Maintenance Agreement - Bonnie Briar Country Club - 808 Weaver St. Town Attorney William Maker Jr. reviewed the proposed Storm Water Maintenance Agreement associated with improvements at Bonnie Briar Country Club, 808 Weaver Street. Town Attorney Maker explained that the agreement requires the continued inspection, maintenance, repair, and replacement of stormwater management facilities installed as part of the approved project. Discussion focused on ensuring that maintenance obligations remain with Bonnie Briar Country Club and future property owners in perpetuity. Town Engineer Robert Wasp and the Town Administrator provided additional information regarding the operation and enforcement provisions contained within the agreement. 5. OUT OF ORDER: Discussion - Adoption of Negative Declaration - 2026 Storm Sewer Improvements Town Attorney Maker reviewed the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) process associated with the proposed 2026 Storm Sewer Improvements project. Town Attorney Maker explained the distinctions between Type I, Type II, and Unlisted actions and reviewed the basis for the proposed Negative Declaration. Discussion focused on the replacement of existing stormwater infrastructure within established drainage corridors, the installation of larger and more efficient pipes, and the associated sediment and erosion control measures that will be implemented during construction. The Town Engineer provided additional technical information regarding the project scope and drainage improvements. Following discussion, the consensus of the Board was to advance the Negative Declaration for consideration during the Regular Meeting. Councilmember Nichinsky joined the meeting at 5:15 p.m. 6. Discussion - Budget Committee Report Town Administrator Robson and Town Comptroller Yogman continued reviewing with the Town Board the recommendations submitted by the Town's Budget Committee. Discussion focused on opportunities to strengthen the budget development process, improve long-term financial planning, increase public awareness of Town finances and operations, and identify efficiencies within municipal services. A significant portion of the discussion centered on budgeting practices and the Budget Committee's recommendation regarding zero-based budgeting. Councilmember Nichinsky asked about the feasibility of implementing such an approach. Administrator Robson explained that staff have been exploring a program-based budgeting model rather than a traditional zero-based budgeting system. Comptroller Yogman noted that a true zero-based budget would require departments to evaluate every service and expenditure annually and would be difficult to implement within the Town's existing budget calendar and staffing resources. Comptroller Yogman explained that staff are exploring ways to evaluate major programs and services on a more detailed basis to better understand costs and operational efficiencies. Town Board June 2, 2026 The Board also discussed the Budget Committee's recommendation regarding a zero- percent tax levy increase. Administrator Robson and Comptroller Yogman noted that contractual obligations, employee benefits, inflationary pressures, and infrastructure needs make such a goal challenging without reducing service levels. Discussion focused on balancing affordability for taxpayers with the Town's responsibility to maintain services, facilities, and infrastructure. Discussion focused extensively on recreation-related revenues and expenses, particularly the operation of the Hommocks Park pool. Supervisor Elkind Eney noted ongoing discussions with the Mamaroneck Union Free School District regarding costs associated with operating the facility and expressed a desire for a clearer understanding of those expenses. Administrator Robson explained that staff have also discussed identifying and reviewing the various services and facilities shared between the Town and School District, including sanitation, recreation facilities, athletic fields, and other operational responsibilities. Members of the Board discussed opportunities for improved coordination and information sharing between the two entities. The Board reviewed recommendations related to increasing non-tax revenues, strengthening grant tracking and reporting, and expanding public engagement efforts. Administrator Robson acknowledged that additional opportunities exist to improve communication regarding Town projects, finances, and initiatives through the Town website, digital engagement tools, and other outreach methods. Councilmember Regenstreich suggested exploring internship opportunities and other methods of expanding communications capacity as resources permit. Discussion also addressed recommendations related to volunteer initiatives and community partnerships. Members discussed the development of "Friends of" organizations and project-based volunteer opportunities as methods of encouraging greater community involvement and support for Town programs and facilities. Additional discussion focused on operational efficiencies, staffing, technology, and performance measurement. The Town Administrator reviewed recent improvements to financial and operational systems, including continued implementation of Munis, OpenGov, grant management software, and other technology initiatives designed to improve efficiency and reporting capabilities. Members of the Board also discussed staffing challenges, succession planning, vehicle inventory management, and opportunities for continuous process improvement. The Board further reviewed recommendations concerning shared services and regional cooperation. The group noted that the Town currently participates in several successful shared service arrangements, including assessment and ambulance services, while acknowledging that opportunities for future collaboration should continue to be explored where practical and beneficial. Comptroller Yogman also discussed future financial planning considerations, including capital needs associated with Town facilities and infrastructure. Discussion highlighted the importance of continuing to evaluate long-term operating and capital costs while maintaining fiscal stability. The Board expressed appreciation to the members of the Budget Committee for their time, effort, and thoughtful recommendations. The Board agreed that many of the recommendations warrant further consideration as part of future budget development and long-range financial planning efforts and encouraged the Budget Committee to continue providing guidance on matters that may assist the Town Board in its decision-making process. 7. Discussion - Town Board Regular Meeting Schedule Town Administrator Robson presented a proposal regarding the Town Board's regular meeting schedule. Town Administrator Robson explained that establishing the Town Board June 2, 2026 schedule in advance assists staff with planning, preparation of agenda materials, legal notice requirements, and coordination of public hearings and other time-sensitive matters. Members of the Town Board discussed July 15th and August 19th for the proposed Town Board meeting schedule, as well as administrative and operational considerations associated with future meetings. The Board expressed support for maintaining a predictable meeting schedule that promotes efficient administration of Town business while providing adequate notice to residents and stakeholders. 8. Updates Supervisor Jaine Elkind Eney and Councilmember Darren Moss reported on a recent meeting regarding the Town's proposed 250th Anniversary Garden and Time Capsule project. Discussion focused on potential locations, including the Weaver Street and Palmer Avenue area and Memorial Park. Members discussed site visibility, available space, access to water, proximity to existing memorials, and the long-term suitability of the locations for both the garden and time capsule. Supervisor Elkind Eney reminded the Board that Grievance Day would take place on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. Councilmember King announced the upcoming Drain Talents event scheduled for June 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. in the Hommocks Community Room. Supervisor Elkind Eney reported that three vehicles had been struck overnight on Murray Avenue and noted concerns regarding traffic and roadway safety in the area. Administrator Robson provided a brief update regarding the proposed intermunicipal agreement related to sanitation services and reported that discussions continue to move forward. Administrator Robson reported that negotiations continue regarding the proposed LiveBarn agreement. Town staff and counsel have exchanged revisions with the vendor, and agreement has reportedly been reached on most proposed changes. LiveBarn has requested a four-year contract term, and additional revisions will be forwarded for further review. Town Administrator Robson reminded the Board of the Special Meeting scheduled for June 10, 2026, to discuss Town Board goals and objectives. Councilmember King reported that he had contacted the organizer of the Rye/Port Chester Half Marathon and anticipates meeting with Recreation Superintendent Heidi O'Shea to discuss the event and potential opportunities. Administrator Robson noted that a similar event in Sleepy Hollow is administered by an outside organization. Councilmember Nichinsky reported that the Zoning Board, along with Building Inspector Richard Polcari, has expressed interest in moving toward a fully electronic zoning and permitting process and discussed the potential benefits of increased digital recordkeeping and application management. Members of the Board noted the upcoming Fireman's Parade scheduled for July 1, 2026. 9. Changes to Regular Meeting Agenda Set summer meeting schedule date(s) for July 15th and August 19th. Discussion included the need to include the annual School Tax Warrant for approval on the August 19th agenda. Town Board June 2, 2026 8:00 PM TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING The Town Board meeting convened in the Courtroom located on the second floor of the Town Center. The public was able to view the meeting on their cable set-top boxes — Optimum 75/76/77 or Verizon Fios 34/35/36 -- or online at LMCMedia.org. CALL TO ORDER The Regular Meeting of the Town Board was called to order by Town Supervisor Elkind Eney at 8:08 p.m. The Town Supervisor noted that the Town Board met for a Work Session beginning at 5:00 p.m. this evening, which was open to the public. SUPERVISOR'S REPORT Welcome to the June 2, 2026, meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Mamaroneck. The Town Board met today for a Work Session in Conference Room A starting at 5:00 pm, which was open to the Public. On May 20th, I attended the 9th Annual Hudson Valley Affordable Housing Summit, "Reframing Affordability: Creating a More Inclusive Affordable Housing Agenda," in White Plains on May 20th. It was a half-day program that brought together municipal leaders, planners, legal experts, and housing advocates to explore innovative zoning practices, housing development strategies, and policy reforms that support more equitable, sustainable, and inclusive housing solutions across the Hudson Valley. The workshop offered valuable perspectives and ideas that are relevant to the Town of Mamaroneck's future planning efforts. From May 21 through May 25, members of the Town Board and I were honored to attend ceremonies in Town hosted by the VFW Post 1156 and American Legion Posts 90 and 347, an important and wonderful way to pay our respects to the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation. We were also privileged to participate in the Memorial Day Parade. The Town of Mamaroneck/Village of Larchmont Memorial Day Parade is a longstanding tradition that encourages community engagement while paying tribute to our nation's heroes. Coming up: On Friday, June 19th, all Town offices and the Maxwell Avenue Recycling Center will be closed for the Juneteenth holiday, and there will be no sanitation collection. Though the building will be closed, on the Juneteenth holiday, the Town Board, members of REALM, local clergy, and elected officials will celebrate the installation and unveiling of an extraordinary monument recognizing the enslaved Africans of Larchmont/Mamaroneck. This will take place just outside of Town Center. We hope you will join us on the back patio (just up from Boston Post Road). There will be a program with speakers and a Q&A, as well as refreshments. RESIDENT COMMENTS Supervisor Elkind Eney asked if anyone wished to address the Town Board. No one came forward. BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS 1. Call to Order Commissioner Elkind Eney called the Meeting to order, then on motion of Commissioner King, and seconded by Commissioner Nichinsky, the Board of Fire Commissioners was unanimously declared open. Town Board June 2, 2026 Present were the following Members of the Fire Commission: Commissioner: Jaine Elkind Eney Commissioner: Jeffery L. King Commissioner: Robin Nichinsky Commissioner: Darren Moss Commissioner: Andrew Regenstreich Carried 2. OUT OF ORDER: Fire Report Commissioner Elkind Eney read the Fire Report for the Month of May 2026, as follows: ALARM TYPE NUMBER Fire 68 Stills 2 Out of Town (Mutual Aid) 0 EMS 3 Drills 7 TOTAL 80 Total number of personnel responding: 949 Total time working: 44 hours and 18 minutes. See Attachment A. 3. Fire Claims Moved by Commissioner Moss, seconded by Commissioner Nichinsky, it was RESOLVED that the Board of Fire Commissioners hereby approves the attached list of fire claims, for the period ending May 20, 2026, in the amount $3,293.51. Carried 4. Other Fire Department Business Moved by Commissioner King, seconded by Commissioner Regenstreich There being no further business to come before the Fire Commission, on motion of Commissioner King, seconded by Commissioner Regenstreich, the Fire Commission unanimously adjourned and the Town Board reconvened. Carried AFFAIRS OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK 1. Consideration - Salary Authorization for Senior Recreation Leader Administrator Robson presented a recommendation to appoint Michelle Ballantyne to the position of Senior Recreation Leader. Town Administrator Robson explained that the position became vacant following a staff departure and noted that Ms. Ballantyne has been employed by the Town since 2012, serving in various seasonal and part- time capacities before being appointed to a full-time position at the Hommocks Park Ice Rink in 2019. Town Administrator Robson highlighted Ms. Ballantyne's strong performance, dedication, and institutional knowledge, noting that she had performed exceptionally well in her current role and would be a strong fit for the new position. Town Board June 2, 2026 Moved by Councilmember King, seconded by Councilmember Nichinsky, it was RESOLVED that the Town Board hereby authorizes the appointment of Michelle Ballantyne to Senior Recreation Leader at an annual salary of$81,576.00, effective June 3, 2026. Carried 2. Consideration - Debt Management Policy Town Administrator Robson presented the proposed Debt Management Policy and explained that the policy would provide a framework for evaluating and managing Town debt and financing future capital projects. Town Administrator Robson noted that the policy had been developed following extensive review of practices utilized by other municipalities and in consultation with the Town's financial advisors. Discussion highlighted prior Town Board discussions regarding the policy, including input received from the Town's financial advisors and members of the Budget Committee. Supervisor Elkind Eney noted that the policy represented sound financial management and thanked staff for their efforts in developing the document. Councilmember Darren Moss also expressed appreciation to Town Administrator Robson and Town Comptroller Tracy Yogman for their work in preparing a comprehensive policy that would be understandable and useful to future Boards. Following discussion, the Town Board adopted the Debt Management Policy to guide the issuance and management of Town debt. Moved by Councilmember Moss, seconded by Councilmember King, it was RESOLVED that the Town Board hereby adopts the attached Debt Management Policy to guide the issuance and management of all Town debt. Carried 3. Consideration - Town Board Regular Meeting Schedule Supervisor Elkind Eney noted that, while the Town Board typically meets on the first and third Wednesdays of each month, only one meeting is generally held during July and August. The Town Supervisor emphasized that the reduced meeting schedule would not preclude the Board from holding additional work sessions as needed. Moved by Councilmember Regenstreich, seconded by Councilmember King, it was RESOLVED that the Town Board hereby sets the following Town Board Regular summer meeting schedule dates for July 15 and August 19, 2026. Carried 4. Consideration to Set a Public Hearing - Proposed Local Law - "Setback Requirements for Air-Conditioning Systems" Town Attorney Maker reviewed the proposed local law addressing setback requirements for central air-conditioning systems. The Town Attorney explained that a significant number of applications before the Zoning Board of Appeals involve requests for relief from existing setback requirements for air-conditioning units, noting that 23 of the 80 variance applications received in 2025 involved such requests. Town Attorney Maker explained that the proposed local law would establish a five-foot setback requirement for central air-conditioning units rather than requiring compliance with the underlying zoning district setbacks. Attorney Maker further reported that the Planning Board had reviewed the proposal and recommended an additional provision related to equipment efficiency standards, but that the Building Department had determined such a requirement would be difficult to administer and enforce consistently. Councilmember Nichinsky expressed support for the proposal, describing it as a common-sense measure that reflects modern technology and aligns with the goals of the Town's Comprehensive Plan. Supervisor Elkind Eney noted that the Zoning Board Town Board June 2, 2026 of Appeals routinely grants these requests and stated that the proposal would reduce unnecessary applications and administrative burdens on residents. Moved by Councilmember Nichinsky, seconded by Councilmember King, it was RESOLVED that the Town Board hereby re-schedules the public hearing for "Setback Requirements for Air-Conditioning Systems" for the June 16, 2026 Town Board meeting. Carried 5. Consideration - Acceptance of Donation for the Senior Center Supervisor Elkind Eney reported that the Woman's Club of Larchmont Philanthropy Committee had once again generously offered a donation to support Senior Center programming. Moved by Councilmember King, seconded by Councilmember Nichinsky, it was RESOLVED that the Town Board hereby accepts the generous donation of $900.00 from the Woman's Club of Larchmont Philanthropy Committee to be used for the Town Senior Center programming. Carried 6. Consideration - Storm Water Maintenance Agreement - Bonnie Briar Country Club - 808 Weaver St. Town Attorney Maker reviewed the proposed Storm Water Maintenance Agreement between the Town and Bonnie Briar Country Club. Attorney Maker explained that improvements to the Club's driving range, golf, and tennis facilities had triggered stormwater management requirements and necessitated a formal agreement governing the maintenance of the associated stormwater facilities. Town Attorney Maker added that the agreement requires Bonnie Briar Country Club to maintain the stormwater management system in accordance with approved plans and authorizes the Town to inspect the facilities to ensure continued compliance. Attorney Maker further noted that the agreement provides the Town with the authority to undertake necessary repairs if the facilities are not properly maintained and to recover associated costs from the property owner. The Board noted a minor amendment to be made to the agreement clarifying that maintenance obligations would continue in perpetuity with Bonnie Briar Country Club and future property owners. Moved by Councilmember King, seconded by Councilmember Moss, it was RESOLVED that the Town Board hereby approves the agreement between the Town of Mamaroneck and Bonnie Briar Country Club/808 Weaver Street for the monitoring and maintenance of the on-site stormwater management system and hereby authorizes the Town Administrator to execute the agreement and any related documents necessary to carry out its implementation. Carried 7. Consideration - Adoption of Negative Declaration - 2026 Storm Sewer Improvements Town Attorney Maker reviewed the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) process for the proposed 2026 Storm Sewer Improvements project. Attorney Maker explained that the project involves replacing existing storm sewer infrastructure in substantially the same locations and would not alter drainage patterns, collection areas, or receiving points. The Town Attorney reported that Westchester County, as an involved agency, had declined to seek lead agency status, allowing the Town to proceed with the environmental review. Town Board June 2, 2026 Town Attorney Maker added that the proposed improvements would replace aging infrastructure with larger and more efficient pipes while maintaining the existing drainage system. Attorney Maker also noted that appropriate erosion and sediment control measures would be implemented where work is performed within or adjacent to watercourses. Councilmember King expressed support for the project, noting that the improvements would enhance the performance and reliability of the Town's stormwater infrastructure. Moved by Councilmember King, seconded by Councilmember Moss, it was RESOLVED that the Town Board adopts the Negative Declaration which states that the 2026 Storm Sewer Improvements will not have a significant environmental impact within the meaning of the State Environmental Quality Review Act. Carried REPORTS OF THE COUNCIL Councilmember King • Reminded residents of the Recreation Department's upcoming summer programming, including the annual Movies in the Park series and Music in the Park concerts at Memorial Park. • Encouraged residents to participate in the programs and thanked the Recreation Department for its continued efforts to provide family-friendly community events throughout the summer. • Remarked on the approaching end of the school year and concluded by wishing success to the New York Knicks in their upcoming playoff game. Councilmember Nichinsky • Reflected on her participation in the Memorial Day Parade and several Memorial Day observances throughout the community, noting the importance of honoring veterans and preserving the memory of those who served and sacrificed for the country. • Expressed appreciation for the organizations and volunteers who continue to organize and maintain these meaningful traditions. Councilmember Moss • Congratulated Mamaroneck High School athletic programs on their recent successes, noting that the baseball team had won its sectional championship and that several other teams were competing in sectional and regional championship events. • Commended the student-athletes, coaches, and families for their accomplishments and expressed pride in the community's strong athletic programs. Councilmember Regenstreich • Reported on his participation in Mamaroneck High School's Junior Career Expo, where he joined the Town Administrator, Town Clerk, Town Comptroller, and other Town representatives in speaking with students about careers in public service and local government. Praised the students for their thoughtful questions, enthusiasm, and engagement, noting that the experience reinforced the importance of investing in future generations and encouraging civic involvement. TOWN CLERK'S REPORT Town Clerk Allison May reminded residents that early voting for the upcoming election would begin on June 13, 2026, and continue through June 21, 2026. Clerk May reviewed the available voting hours and encouraged residents to take advantage of the opportunity to vote early. Town Board June 2, 2026 The Clerk also announced that the Town Clerk's Office had received a grant from the Public Employees Risk Management Association (PERMA) to support workplace safety initiatives. The Clerk explained that the grant would be used to purchase a rolling safety ladder and lift cart to assist staff with safely accessing and transporting archival records and storage boxes. Clerk May thanked PERMA for its support and commitment to workplace safety. TOWN ATTORNEY'S REPORT Town Attorney Maker reflected on the upcoming anniversary of D-Day, noting its significance as a turning point in World War II and one of the most important military operations in modern history. Attorney Maker encouraged residents to remember and honor the sacrifices made by those who participated in the liberation of Western Europe and the broader effort to defend freedom during the war. Councilmember Regenstreich added that his grandfather had participated in the campaign immediately following D-Day and expressed appreciation for all veterans who served during that period. ADJOURNMENT Prior to adjournment, Supervisor Jaine Elkind Eney requested that the meeting be closed in memory of Bert Corwin, a Vietnam War veteran and longtime resident of the Town of Mamaroneck. Supervisor Elkind Eney reflected on Mr. Corwin's many years of service to veterans and the community, including his decade-long leadership as Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1156. She noted his dedication to organizing Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances and his commitment to supporting local veterans. Supervisor Elkind Eney further recognized Mr. Corwin's instrumental role in facilitating the Town's acquisition of the former VFW building for use as the Town's Senior Center. She noted that his efforts helped preserve space for veterans while enabling the Town to create a modern senior center that now serves residents throughout the community. She also highlighted Mr. Corwin's decision to donate the proceeds from the sale of the building to an organization supporting disabled veterans, describing the gesture as a final example of his generosity and devotion to those who served. Supervisor Elkind Eney stated that Mr. Corwin's contributions to veterans and the broader community would continue to benefit the Town for generations to come. On behalf of the Town Board, Supervisor Elkind Eney extended condolences to Mr. Corwin's wife, Deirdre, and to his family, noting that he would be greatly missed by the entire Town of Mamaroneck community. Moved by Councilmember King, seconded by Councilmember Moss, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 8:47 p.m. Carried NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING - Tuesday, June 16, 2026 Respectfully submitted by Allison May, Town Clerk Town Board June 2, 2026 Attachment A TOWN OF MAMARONECK FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFICE OF THE �� Headquarters CHIEF 205 WEAVER STREET LARCH MONT,NEW YORK 10538 WEAVER 834-2100 EMERGENCY 834-2101-NON EMERGENCY —�� 834-2438 CHIEF'S OFFICE STREET 834-0922-FAX WWW.TMFD.ORG girniFo To: Board of Fire Commissioners From: Chief Alexander Rapp Date: June 01,2026 Re: Fire Report for the Month of May 2026 The following report outlines response to calls made during the month of May 2026. It summarizes the nature,the number of personnel responding and the total time spent. Alarm Type Number Fire 68 Stills 2 Out of Town(Mutual Aid) 0 EMS 3 Drills 7 TOTAL 80 Total number of personnel responding: 949 Total time working: 44 hours and 18 minutes Respect 1 Submitte Chief Alexander Rapp