AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMITTEE BEING FORMED...SUGGESTIONS ENCOURAGED

The Greenburgh Town Board is moving forward --creating an affordable housing committee. Last year the Town Board approved a resolution authorizing the committee to be formed but no appointments were made. That should change --soon!

Suggestion are welcome? Last night I was at a meeting in Hastings. Hastings Trustee Peter Swiderski discussed his views on the topic yesterday. In Hastings there is a requirement (similar to Greenburgh) that 10% of multifamily housing that is built be affordable. He proposes that the percentage increase to 15%. What do you think?

Other suggestions that have been made in the past include --retrofitting old homes and turning these existing homes into affordable housing. Another proposal: foreclosed property should be designated for affordable housing. A third suggestion made by a blogger on this blog a few months ago: Create a fund. Developers who purchase land owned by the town (foreclosed property) would be required to put funds in an account. The funds would be used to help volunteer firefighters, municipal workers purchase housing in a community. Perhaps --anytime a developer builds commercial or multifamily developments, a contribution towards an affordable housing account could be required --to help volunteer firefighters, municipal workers and others move into affordable units.Other suggestions: the county/state could provide localities that build affordable housing units additional grants for schools/open space.

The purpose of this blog is not to endorse or oppose any of the above suggestions --just to encourage more people to think about the problem and to help us come up with good, creative ideas.

January: Miscellaneous

The purpose of this Miscellaneous topic is to discuss any town related issues you feel are important. Please post any issues you wish to discuss in the comments section of this post. Thanks!

TOWN TO ISSUE TICKETS TO THOSE PARKING IN DISABLED PARKING SPOTS AT TOWN HALL

The Greenburgh Town Board decided at our work session meeting today to increase the number of disabled parking spots at Town Hall (satellite library). We expect to adopt a local law in February authorizing the police to issue tickets to those who park at the spots without a valid disabled parking permit.
The Board also agreed to reserve short term parking (30 minutes or less) spots at the locations closest to Town Hall. This will encourage more people to visit the library - especially senior citizens who might be reluctant to walk from the back of the parking lot to the Town Hall.

TOWN WINS LAWSUIT RE HAMPSHIRE MANAGEMENT-QUALITY OF LIFE

Good news for the town and residents of the Colony in Hartsdale! Judge Robert DiBella dismissed Hampshire Management's Article 78 petition and upheld the Town Board's April 6, 2006 Amended site plan approval requiring Hampshire Management to relocate a Knox lock, chains and an electrical transformer to a location approved on the approved 2003 amended site plan. This was a major quality of life issue for some residents of the Colony in Hartsdale. I am very pleased with the decision. Want a copy of the decision? e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com
PAUL FEINER

LIBRARY CONTRACT UPDATE...PARKING SUGGESTION

The Town Attorney has provided me with an update on the status of the library construction contracts. Copies of the standard contract, as modified by our construction law attorney, will be e mailed to those interested in looking at the contract. Later on in the week I will receive addenda approved by the construction law attorney (one of which is the PLA) and a list of drawings and specifications from each contractor. E mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com if you'd like the contract sent to you before I sign the documents.
Each of the prime contractors, which include general construction, mechanical, plumbing, electrical and geothermal driilling services, are at various stages of compiling the requisite contract documents and having them executed. All have been informed that time is of the essence. We have encouraged them to sign the documents and forwarded to the town by the end of the business day on Friday.

PARKING SUGGESTION--RESERVE SPOTS FOR LIBRARY PATRONS, PARENTS WITH SMALL CHILDREN, DISABLED AT FRONT OF PARKING AREA
Many library patrons have complained about the lack of parking at the front of Town Hall - now that the satellite library has moved to Town Hall. Some people are frustrated because they have to park at the back of the lot.
I am suggesting that the Town dedicate more spots for library patrons closer to the Town Hall. My proposal: The first section of our parking area should be reserved for the disabled/senior citizens. We should have dedicated spots reserved at the front of the building for those people who plan to spend a half hour or less at Town Hall - to visit the library or town departments. We might even want to have a designated area up front for parents with small children.
The library is known for it's reputation: customer service. Addressing the parking problems is important.

HASTINGS ON HUDSON REPLACING METERS WITH PAY STATIONS

Hastings on Hudson has replaced pay stations at Boulanger Plaza parking lot. The old, mechanical meters have been placed with more pleasing pay stations. Pay stations are replacing meters at locations in White Plains, New York City and other locations around the region. Some initial problems are being worked out in Hastings.
I mention this because last week we started having a dialogue about E Hartsdale Ave parking meters. Should Hartsdale follow Hastings lead?

CITIZEN SUGGESTION OF THE DAY: DAVID SLOANE--10 MINUTE FREE PARKING ON EAST HARTSDALE AVE

Hartsdale resident David Sloane has the citizen suggestion of the day: He proposes 10 minutes of free parking on East Hartsdale Ave. Mr. Sloane reports that Yonkers offers shoppers this convenience in their downtown business area. 10 minutes of free parking would offer people a chance to stop quickly at a store on E Hartsdale Ave. Merchants would benefit. The street would benefit. And, people would be more inclined to consider our E Hartsdale Ave businesses as places to shop at. Meters can be programmed to provide cars with 10 minutes of free parking. I like this idea!

library contract still hasn't been given to me to review

A number of people have asked to see the contracts with the library construction. I was advised earlier this week that I would have the contracts by the end of the week. I have still not seen the documents or been presented with contracts to sign so have not been able to sign the documents as of this moment. Furthermore, when I do get the contract, I would like to review the document and will do so promptly. Even though we have retained a lawyer who specializes in construction contracts to advise us : the language in the contract, there may be issues he is unaware of. Past history has shown that it would be irresponsible not to allow members of the community to also take a look at the contract before it is signed. If you are interested in being advised when I am given copies of the contracts to review, please let me know and I will immediately get back to you.
Again, I want to make it clear that as of this writing I have not been given any library construction contracts to review or sign. I also want to emphasize that my review will be done quickly because I do not want to delay the project. I just want to make sure that we are exposing the town to unnecesary and unanticipated problems/costs.

SATELLITE LIBRARY NEEDS CHAIRS, READING AREA- --LIBRARY STAFF DOING A TERRIFIC JOB

The library staff is working very hard. I'm impressed with their dedication and hard work - trying to make the satellite library at Town Hall work.
There is one big problem, however. Inadequate space for people to read, relax.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION: The STAR office at Greenburgh Town Hall is moving to the Assessor's office. The STAR office is located down the hall from the satellite library and is a nice size room. I think this room would make an excellent reading room for the library. We can place comfortable chairs/tables in the room. This room can be the satellite periodical section -with magazines, newspapers.
I am asking the Town Board to consider dedicating this room to the library for a reading room. What do you think? The library should be a place for people to come to for relaxation purposes. We might even be able to put some computers in the room and make it WIFI accessible.

Residents Ask Town Bd to Re-Negotiate WESTHELP partnership

At last night's Town Board meeting a number of residents asked the Town Board to renegotiate the WESTHELP partnership with Mayfair Knollwood residents and the Valhalla school district. The NY State Comptroller's office has advised the Town Board that the partnership can continue--provided that the Town Board is willing to re-negotiate the terms. WESTHELP can legally give funds to the Valhalla school district.
The residents who spoke at last nights Town Board meeting stated that the Town Board had approved an agreement with the Mayfair Knollwood community a few years back. The community agreed to support the continued operation of a large homeless facility in their back yard. The town/county/WESTHELP agreed to give the Valhalla school district $650,000 a year in return.
Members of the Town Board who voted for the WESTHELP partnership were Steve Bass, Diana Juettner, Eddie Mae Barnes myself and former councilperson Timmy Weinberg.
The issue --as I see it is this--can residents trust promises made by elected officials?
The town must comply with state law. The state comptroller's office provided us with a means to continue the partnership----legally.

OOPS--wrong web site: FIXEHAPARKING.COM

The web site I listed below should read FIXEHAPARKING.COM

new citizen web site created to promote residential parking on e hartsdale ave

A group of citizens have started a new web site: www.fixhaparking.com. The goal: Address a growing problem for residents of East Hartsdale Ave---the lack of parking on the avenue. East Hartdale Ave is attracting many younger families -- who have two cars. The problem will get worst, unless we come up with some creative suggestions. A committee is being formed to develop short term and long term suggestions. Your thoughts are welcome.

CITIZEN IDEA OF THE DAY: CHANGE MACHINE ON E HARTSDALE AVE FOR PARKERS

I was speaking to Susan Hansel, a resident of E Hartsdale Ave today. She came up with a great suggestion: The parking authority should place change machines on the avenue for parkers. I have received a bunch of parking tickets over the years because I didn't have change on me. Others have had similar experiences.Merchants don't like to give people change if they are not buying anything from them. This suggestion could help people avoid parking tickets because a change machine would be just around the corner.

SATELLITE LIBRARY OPEN AT TOWN HALL

The satellite library at Greenburgh Town Hall is open to the public. The cafeteria on the ground floor of Town Hall has been converted into a library. On the 2nd floor there is a children's library. Part of the lobby is also being used.
I continue to hope that an additional satellite library location will be found for East Hartsdale Ave and/or the Greenburgh Nature Center.
Please visit our new satellite library (other satellite locations are at the Theodore Young Community Center and at the Multipurpose Center, AF Veteran Town Park.

On another matter...the town received the $450,000 check from Yonkers to reimburse the town for our legal costs re: Ridge Hill lawsuit. We settled the case earlier this month (along with Ardsley and Hastings). In addition, the town, Ardsley & Hastings will receive $5 million to enhance road/intersections within the town.

SAVE THE DATE: 2/15 meeting with con ed 7:30 --let's take proactive steps to reduce potential for power outages

Save the date: Last year there were a number of power outages in Greenburgh. Some homeowners had power outages 4, 5 or 6 times. I have scheduled a meeting with Con Ed officials for Feb 15th at 7:30 PM at the Greenville School in Edgemont. The purpose: to discuss proactive steps that can be taken by Con Ed and the town to reduce the potential for future outages.
This meeting is not going to be a meeting where we point fingers at each other - the goal of the meeting is to look ahead, to take action steps so we can avoid a repeat of the problems of 2006.
If your neighborhood had numerous outages last year please advise. My e mail is pfeiner@greenburghny.com.

CENTRAL AVE MORATORIUM ON RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT-SHOULD IT EXCLUDE ADULT RESIDENCES..STUDIO OR ONE BEDROOM APTS?

Readers of this blog might want to read todays Journal News (Business section). An article, which is on their web site (www.lohud.com)--Vasectomy Housing.
School districts in New Jersey are experiencing similar problems to the concerns articuled by Edgemont residents -- high taxes. Residential developments mean more students to educate and more expenses for school districts.
A number of New Jersey communities have approved zoning restrictions allowing for age restrictions on residential developments. Housing can only be built for seniors. Other communities restrict housing to studio apartments, one bedroom apartments. This enables school districts to expand the tax base without the expense of higher enrollment in the schools.
The question: If the Town Board proceeds with a moratorium on residential development should we exempt senior citizen housing or studio apartments from the moratorium? A moratorium on development is not a permanent ban on development. Commercial development will generate more taxes but it will also generate much more traffic, which also has been a concern of many people.
I am asking this question hoping that we can have a dialogue and a disussion about this important issue. I am open minded on this topic.

SENATOR COUSINS ENLISTS HIGH RANKING STATE OFFICIALS TO HELP SAVE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL AT DOBBS FERRY

I joined Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins, other officials and the Minority Leader of the NY State Senate, Malcolm Smith on a bus tour of St John's Riverside Hospital & the Community Hospital of Dobbs Ferry. Senator Cousins deserves credit for encouraging high ranking NYS officials to tour the Community Hospital. If they see the hospital in person it is more likely that the hospital will be saved.
Senator Smith seemed supportive of Senator Cousins efforts. This was an important day for the efforts to save the hospital. On the bus we discussed the fact that there are 296 jobs at the community hospital at Dobbs Ferry. If the hospital closes the largest breast cancer program in Westchester (serving 6,000 patients) will also close. 9,000 emergency room patients will now travel 15-30 minutes further (longer in rush hours) resulting in lost lives. Regional emergency rooms, which are already overburdened and have waits of 3-5 hours will have an increase in wait time. The hospital is actually PROFIT MAKING. Why should the state close down a profit making hospital? This hospital is the fastest growing health care facility in the region. The hospital is also the most efficient and lowest cost facility in the region.
Senator Cousins indicated that she will work hard to save the hospital and that she is in constant communication with high level appointed and elected officials. With her help I think we stand a reasonable chance of being successful! Her approach: Inviting state officials to visit the hospital is the way to go.

OSSINING JUST APPROVED LEGISLATION REGULATING TREE REMOVAL AND PROTECTING AGAINST CLEAR CUTTING OF TREES

The village of Ossining, according to OSSINING.COM has adopted legislation regulating tree removal and the protection against clear cutting of trees. More than a few years ago the Greenburgh Town Board asked the Conservation Advisory Council to recommend tree legislation that would provide residents with the same protections. This was done after trees were cleared from a large property in Edgemont.The CAC spent hundreds of hours analyzing the law and made recommendations. A public hearing was held, some people did not like the law. What happened? Nothing. No vote. The proposal is gathering dust.
Should the Town Board vote on the law?
Should the Town Board approved a modified law if no vote will be cast?
Should the modified law have a sunset provision (meaning that the compromise legislation will die at the end of a year or two and have to be re-voted on). If this would be done we could include a provision that the CAC evaluate the new law and provide us with recommendations at the end of the year as to whether additional modifications would be worthwhile.
What do you think?
What kind of tree protection law would you support?

Implement state comptroller's recommendations re: A & B budgets

Last week the State Comptroller's office presented the Town Board with a report regarding the A & B budget allocations. The report included recommendations re: allocation of funds in the A & B budget. I am requesting that the Town Board implement the recommendations of the state comptroller's office before the 2007 tax bills are sent out. The Town Board should make the appropriate modifications in the budget within the next few weeks to comply with the State Comptroller's report.

LIBRARY UPDATE: GEOTHERMAL

Robert Reninger, chair of the Broadview Civic Association, and others have asked about the status of geothermal wells at the new Greenburgh Library. He and others want to know if there is an application on file with the DEC. We received a response from Sal Coco (our architect). Mr. Coco advises that "NY state will not accept the application until we have approval from NYC. The architect for the library is setting up a meeting with NYC to review their concerns. Once the NY City concerns are addressed we will file with NYS."

LIBRARY UPDATE: GEOTHERMAL

Robert Reninger, chair of the Broadview Civic Association, and others have asked about the status of geothermal wells at the new Greenburgh Library. He and others want to know if there is an application on file with the DEC. We received a response from Sal Coco (our architect). Mr. Coco advises that "NY state will not accept the application until we have approval from NYC. The architect for the library is setting up a meeting with NYC to review their concerns. Once the NY City concerns are addressed we will file with NYS."

county holding project briefing on reconstruction/replacement of crane road viaduct

In over a year the county will be reconstructing/replacing the Crane Road viaduct --(Bronx River Parkway over the Bronx River and Metro North Railroad at Crane Road) in the village of Scarsdale and Greenburgh. The county is holding a briefing for public officials and their representatives on Tuesday, January 23rd from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM at the Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave, White Plains, NY Meeting Room A. This meeting is being held before public outreach and involvement will take place.
I feel strongly that the community should be kept informed of developments regarding this project. If civic leaders from Edgemont are interested in attending as my representative, please advise.
The project will impact residents who live on Lynwood and Sherwood in Edgemont because much of the work will take place in the evening. Concerns: Noise, lighting, traffic issues during construction.

A LOOK AT OUR SATELLITE LIBRARY AT TOWN HALL...

I just took a walk around Town Hall -looking at the two satellite library locations at our Town Hall building. On the 2nd floor we will have a children's library. On the bottom floor there is a general purpose satellite library. I'm impressed at the good job the library staff is doing with the space they have been given. Although the space is small the books seem to be placed at the satellite locations in a well organized manner. The staff is utilizing the space in a professional manner. If we find more locations/space for satellite libraries that would be fantastic!

INTERESTING OUTDOOR FITNESS & RECREATION IDEA

I was reading a back issue of Parks & Recreation Magazine a few weeks ago and cut out some interesting product ideas that I think could enhance our recreation programs. Would appreciate your thoughts:
Some communities around the nation have outdoor fitness machines at their parks. These outdoor fitness equipment machines are effective for all age groups and are designed for effective prevention and therapy for all muscles. They can be placed at playgrounds or at other locations within a park.
Another interesting article highlights playground equipment for the "tween" age group. It's a new concept in play designed to thrill 7-14 year olds. The Rock Climb N Slide provides, for example, the popular activities fo rock climbing and slides into one unique challenging design. Currently, our playgrounds are designed for younger kids.
I am sharing the magazine clips with members of the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board and Commissioner. I would be happy to send you copies of the clippings if you are interested.
We have a great recreation department. These ideas could make our recreation offerings even more exciting!

job opening---free electronic hospital bed offered--

I received an e mail from Robert Freedman (RFreedman@mkirealtors.com) advising me that he has full/part time jobs available. His firm manages luxury cooperative and condo buildings throughout the NY metropolitan area. Currently these buildings are located on the upper eastside and downtown areas of Manhattan and are looking to hire mature, doorpersons, concierge staff and porters for various time slots. If you know of anyone who is looking for a position with union benefits -Local 32BJ please advise. He also has summer jobs for students--the average take home pay is about $600 a week.
Another constituent contacted me--his mother passed away. He has a motorized, electronic hospital bed he is willing to donate. If interested in obtaining this bed please e mail Richwagner242536@aol.com

IF YOU WANT TO SHARE INFO RE:JOB OPENINGS, AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES, ETC.. THAT COULD BE HELPFUL TO GREENBURGH RESIDENTS PLEASE E MAIL ME AND I'LL POST ON THIS BLOG SITE. MY GOAL: NEIGHBORS SHOULD HELP NEIGHBORS.

CITIZEN SUGGESTION: CLEAN UP LITTER: POST LICENSE PLATS ON WWW.LITTERBUTT.COM

Litter is frequently thrown on Greenburgh roads by passing drivers. Merrill Cassell, a resident of Greenburgh, sent me an e mail advising of a web site: www.litterButt.com. This web site posts license plates of littering drivers. Mr.Cassell advises that this is one approach that can help keep Greenburgh streets clean. Mr. Cassell also suggests that the town consider raising fines for street litter and place large signs at key locations advising that there are heavy penalties for littering in the streets. It is difficult to catch offfenders, but fines and notices are a good deterrence.
We send out our crews to remove litter from some key locations --within hours the litter returns.
Another suggestion: place camera's at key locations --maybe that would act as a deterrent.
What are your thoughts?

AN ANNUAL TRADITION-SERIOUS CRIME LOWEST IN HISTORY. CRIME KEEPS GOING DOWN...DOWN...DOWN...

It seems like the police chief makes the same announcement every year --or almost every year. Serious crime keeps going down in Greenburgh. Today the chief issued another announcement: serious crime in 2006 is the lowest in recorded history. We haven't hit bottom yet!
Calls to the police department were up, serious crime is down. We should all be thankful that our police dept does such a great job protecting us.

library closed while construction begins..satellite libraries open on 1/24...SUGGESTION: ANOTHER SATELLITE AT EAST HARTSDALE AVE AND NATURE CENTER

The Greenburgh Library has closed its doors so that construction can start on the new 20 million library expansion that was approved in 2005 by the voters. 3 satellite libraries will open on 1/24--two rooms will be used by the library at our Town Hall; a room at the multipurpose center, AF Veteran Park will be converted into a satellite library. And the young adult collection will be placed at the Theodore Young Community Center.
I am suggesting that the town look hard to find another one or two locations: East Hartsdale Ave and the Greenburgh Nature Center are my choices, because both are destination locations for many residents.
Greenburgh residents deserve a functioning library during the 2 year construction project --additional library satellites will provide residents with the services we expect to receive from Greenburgh.

CENTRAL AVE RESIDENTIAL MORATORIUM UPDATE: HEARING ON JAN 24

The Town Board unanimously voted to schedule a hearing on the proposed moratorium on residential development on Central Ave for Wednesday, January 24th at 7:15 PM at Town Hall. The moratorium will not be approved on the 24th --the proposal first has to be discussed by the town's Planning Board. I anticipate that a moratorium will be approved in the near future. Edgemont leaders have expressed concern about the impact additional residential development on Central Ave will have on the Edgemont school district. Commercial development generates more revenue for the school district and no additional school children.

MONDAY IS MARTIN LUTHER KINGS BIRTHDAY-SUGGESTION: COUNTY BUSES SHOULD DEDICATE FIRST ROW IN HONOR OF ROSA PARKS

A few weeks ago I visited my in laws in Florida. I rode the Miami bus line. The buses in Miami designate a first row seat in honor of Rosa Parks. A sticker honoring Rosa Parks is placed on the seat. Rosa Parks stood for freedom. Her acts of protect jump started the civil rights movement. In 1955 she was ordered to give up her seat to a white person. She refused to move out of her front of the bus seat. Her decision led to the disintegration of segregation.
I am urging the Westchester County government & Liberty bus lines to follow the lead of Miami transit and to place stickers honoring Rosa Parks on the front row of all buses. Hopefully, these stickers will motivate others to also have the courage to fight for equal rights and an end to all forms of discrimination.

State Comptroller's report on web re: WESTHELP

The State Comptroller's opinion regarding the WESTHELP partnership has been released and can be read on the town web site: www.greenburghny.com. The draft report, which had been leaked to the media against the wishes of the comptroller's office, had contained some inaccurate information and comments. The inaccuracies have been corrected in the final report. The comptroller's report does not say that WESTHELP cannot pass money to the Valhalla school district -- they recommend that the pass through be set up differently, without the town being used as a pass along. I believe that it is important for the town to re-negotiate the agreement that members of the Town Board (Steve Bass, Diana Juettner, Eddie Mae Barnes & I) had previously voted for. HELP USA has agreed to participate in any re-negotiations.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A SENATOR LOSES AN ELECTION- GRANTS AWARDED ARE TAKEN BACK

I just received a disturbing call from Kim Conklin of the the NYS Department of State. $125,000 that had previously been awarded to the town by Senator Nick Spano in 2006 was withdrawn. We had received a pre-election day grant from the Senator for a generator and a program at the Theodore Young Community Center. All grants given to local governments and non profits by the Senator in 2006 have been withdrawn.
This is politics at its worst. Grants should not be tied to politics or campaigns. Once a grant is announced and awarded the promises made should be kept.
The check was in the mail -- until Senator Spano lost his re-election bid to Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins. I will be reaching out to Senator Cousins and will ask for her assistance regarding those two important grant awards. We relied on the promise.
We desperately need to reform Albany! This is disgusting!

16 acres of parkland in E Irvington could be dedicated

A few years ago the Unification Church donated 16 acres of land to the town. The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board has approved a resolution urging the Town Board to dedicate the land as parkland. At the Town Board meeting on January 24th the Board will be asked to vote on a resolution I intend to introduce dedicating 16 acres along Taxter Road as parkland. The intent was always to use the property as open space.

RIDGE HILL LAWSUIT SETTLED- TOWN TO BE REIMBURSED FOR LEGAL/CONSULTANT FEES

The Greenburgh Town Board joined Yonkers, Ardsley & Hastings in voting to settle the Ridge Hill lawsuit. Yonkers will reimburse Greenburgh $450,000 as reimbursement for legal/consultant costs incurred with fighting the project. Yonkers will make available to Ardsley, Greenburgh and Hastings $5 million to be used for road improvements. A task force will be created to explore the feasibility of direct access from the Sprain.
I would have preferred density reduction. We were told that our chances of winning a lawsuit were slim. We were also advised that if we had pursued litigation we would be spending another $300,000+ or more on legal fees. Does it make sense to spend $800,000 on legal fees for a losing battle? Now, we're getting reimbursed for our legal costs - and getting 5 million for traffic improvements. I also hope that the task force will result in more regional planning/dialogue between Yonkers and Greenburgh.

69 Performance based goals announced

I have released 69 performance based goals today. The goals will be posted on the town web site: www.greenburghny.com. Every year, since 1999, I have voluntarily placed $5000 of my salary in an escrow account. At the end of the year the Board evaluates my performance, based on implementation of goals. I return part of the salary back to the taxpayers.
The New York Times last year wrote an editorial stating that the "concept of performance base pay feels right. It respects the voters' desire for accountability in spending and provides a useful reminder of promises made, kept, broken or deferred." Last year I returned to the taxpayers $1,029.41. I achieved 79.41% of the goals.
This years goals are very ambitious and exciting. Among goals: Updating GIS...saving the community hospital at Dobbs Ferry...starting an SAT summer camp...conducting an actuarial review to determine the cost of projected post employment benefits, other than pension benefits, as required by GASB...holding meetings with Con Ed and residents who have experienced frequent power outages...courthouse funding..improving security at Hartsdale Parking...addressing parking needs for E Hartsdale Ave residents...increasing the number of farmers at the farmers market...improving leaf collection...oversight of the library...landscaping Webb Field...a children's garden at Hartsbrook Park & Preserve..installation generator at Town Hall...etc.

A or B--State Comptroller's Office issues opinion on budget allocations

The Office of the NY State Comptroller has sent me an opinion concerning allocation of funds re: A & B budget. Should the villages and unincorporated Greenburgh receive income from rent, interest on investments or should only unincorporated Greenburgh receive the income...who should be charged for various services (such as costs related to broadcasting of Town Board meetings)? The entire town or just unincorporated Greenburgh?
If you would like a copy of the entire report e mailed to you please e mail: pfeiner@greenburghny.com.

REMINDER: Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins will hold her swearing in ceremony on Wednesday, January 10th at 7 PM. A reception will be held at 6:15 PM. Please wish the Senator good luck!

WHY A MORATORIUM ON RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT MAKES SENSE FOR CENTRAL AVE

Mark Stellato, Commissioner of Planning, has presented the Town Board with a memo highlighting the need for a moratorium on development on Central Ave. Some reasons...

***The portion of Central Ave served by the Edgemont school district includes 909 apartments in various multifamily dwellings, representing 32% of total residential component of the school district, and a 60% increase in the number of residential units from the time the plan was developed.

***In the last 15 years the district's enrollment has increased from 1,355 to 1,923 - an increase in 42%. The increase in school population has required the need for additional educational facilities not contemplated when the plan was first developed and the zoning enacted.

***The increase in school district enrollment has exceeded even the districts demographic reports prepared in preparation for its capital project to expand the facilities. For example, elementary enrollment - expected tor each a high of 928 in 2003, now stands at 1,005. Class sizes have been growing at all grades, overcrowding is becoming an issue.

***THe Edgemont school district undertook a capital improvement program which expanded facilities at all 3 schools. Upon completion, these facilities were immediately at full capacity.

The town is currently revisiting its zoning code. A moratorium on development in the Central AVe mixed use impact district will enable the town to fully study the matter and make recommendations re: zoning changes.

The Town Board will meet this Wednesday evening. It's my hope that a hearing on the proposed moratorium can be scheduled quickly--hopefully at our next meeting in 2 weeks.

SHOULD THE TOWN BD PURSUE A TOWN SIDEWALK POLICY OR SIDEWALK DISTRICT?

Last spring the Town Board unanimously approved a resolution directing me to submit a proposed sidewalk policy to the Town Board by September. I complied with the request and submitted a proposal to the Board. So far - no action. I hope that the Town Board will hold a public hearing on the proposal in 2007 and adopt a modified sidewalk policy. One of the goals that I am considering proposing on Wednesday is for the town to pursue the creation of a sidewalk district for unincorporated Greenburgh. This proposal, if implemented, will enable the town to build new sidewalks around town. The district will be the entire unincorporated Greenburgh. Any thoughts?

MOMENTUM BUILDING FOR ACQUISISTION OF OPEN SPACE IN EDGEMONT- CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL ENDORSES ACQUISITION

Momentum is building for the acquisition of Dromore Road property as open space. The CAC voted to recommend to the town that every effort be made to assist the Greenburgh Nature Center in acquiring the Dromore Road property. While small this parcel is a link between two larger open spaces, the Nature Center and Edgemont High School campus. When the town established its open space plan, the importance to local fauna of connecting open space was recognized as an element in identifying land to be acquired. The CAC also pointed out that the land would provide direct access from the Edgemont High School to the Nature Center. The high school and the nature center run joint programs.
Earlier this week Legislator Tom Abinanti expressed interest in working to persuade county officials to share in the expense of this acquisition. A number of Edgemont residents have also contacted me supporting this open space acquisition.

LIBRARY EMPLOYEE SUGGESTION...IN EVENT THAT SATELLITE LIBRARIES DO NOT GENERATE TRAFFIC, TRANSFER SOME STAFF TO OTHER DEPTS

The Greenburgh Library will be closing soon and will be moving to satellite libraries. Most of the books, video's, etc.. will be in storage during the next two years. The new satellite locations (2 small rooms at Town Hall, a room at the multipurpose center) are much smaller than the old library.
The Library Board and Town Board made a decision to keep our full time staff employed. The employees do an outstanding job and we don't want to lose them. When we open up the new library in about 2 years we want to have outstanding, trained and dedicated librarians and staff serving you.
I have suggested additional satellite locations (E Hartsdale Ave/Nature Center). In the event that the satellite library locations do not generate much traffic and use I propose that the staff be assigned, temporarily, to other town departments.
We must make sure that employees who receive a pay check are actually working.

library closing for construction January 14th

The Greenburgh Library will close for construction on January 14th. The temporary satellite libraries at Town Hall and at the Multipurpose Center, Veteran Town Park, will open on January 24th at 9 AM. I continue to believe that the satellite library locations are inadequate (very small space) and that we need to rent space elsewhere. Over 70% of the books will be placed in storage during the construction, I have been told. In the past, I have suggested that we consider opening up satellite locations on East Hartsdale Ave and at the Greenburgh Nature Center.
During the construction of the library I will be asking for periodic accountings re: how many people are using the satellite libraries...the number of books being taken out from the satellite libraries. I believe that library patrons deserve a functioning library during the next two years -when construction is taking place. We should aggressively pursue additional space.

UNFUNDED LIABILITIES: COULD BE COSTLY

One of the goals I will be announcing on Wednesday is the following: conducting an actuarial review to determine the cost of projected postemployment benefits, other than pension benefits, as required by the GASB (Governmental Accounting Standards Board).
Thousands of government bodies and school districts around the nation have been promising generous medical benefits to millions of employees. Yet, virtually none of these governments keep track of the mounting price tag. The usual practice: budget for health care a year at a time, and to leave the rest for the future.
As an article in the NY Times (12/11/2005) indicated, "off the government balance sheets- out of sight and out of mind - these obligations have been ballooning as health care costs have spiraled and as the baby boom generation has approached retirement."
The GASB will soon require governments and school districts to report this to the taxpayers. This could be very costly to the town. It will be costly to every school, fire district, municipality. Localities will have a few decades to pay off the unfunded liabilities. Nationally, it is estimated that the total will be one trillion dollars.
I am pleased that we are taking an important step to address this problem. I also believe that the Town Board MUST ADOPT A FUND BALANCE POLICY in 2007. This past year the Town Board was able to cut taxes by relying on fund balance.

YOU'LL BE ABLE TO WATCH LENO AND LETTERMAN INSTEAD OF THE TOWN BOARD--MEETINGS OF TOWN BD TO END BY 11:15 pm

I have asked the Town Board to agree to a Board rules change. All meetings of the Town Board should end no later than 11:15 PM, unless there is unanimous consent to extend the time. Public comments should close by 11 PM. Department heads who are currently required to attend all Town Board meetings should be able to leave and go home to their families after 10:45 PM.
When members of the Board vote on important laws - we should all be awake and concentrating.

PUBLIC HEARING REQUESTED ON CENTRAL AVE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT MORATORIUM

In recent months Edgemont civic associations have requested a moratorium on residential development along the Central Ave corridor. The concern: Residential development will have more of an impact on the school district than commercial development. During a moratorium a study of the Central Ave corridor would take place. At the conclusion of the study a determination would be made whether a zoning change should be approved.
I believe that the Town Board should schedule a public hearing on this requested moratorium and have placed the item on the agenda for next Wednesday, January 10th at 7:00 PM. I am requesting the Town Board to direct the Town Attorney/Commissioner of Planning to draft a resolution and to schedule the hearing within 30 days.
Some people do not support the moratorium. Holding a public hearing on this matter will provide all residents of Edgemont and Greenburgh with the opportunity to express their views.

FACT: WHY COMMON HOUSEHOLD BATTERIES ARE NOT RECYCLED...

I frequently receive calls regarding household batteries - why they are not recycled. According to the Public Works department "in 1992 an international standard was implemented requiring manufacturers to produce common household non rechargeable batteries with a significantly lower mercury content. According to the NYS Dept of Environmental Conservation, most household batteries can be disposed of safely in the trash."
Those wishing to learn more about recycling or about the disposal of other batteries as well as other chemical disposal information are invited to e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com or dpw@greenburghny.com.
The recent sanitation schedule that the town sent out has some interesting info about recycling.

LEGISLATOR ABINANTI URGES COUNTY TO ASSIST TOWN PROTECT PROPERTY NEAR NATURE CENTER

County Legislator Tom Abinanti is calling on the county to assist the town and Greenburgh Nature Center in acquiring additional land near the Greenburgh Nature Center as open space. A developer is proposing to build on the property-which now links the nature center and Edgemont High School's northern playing fields. The protection of this property, according to Legislator Abinanti, is "essential to protecting the wildlife habitats in the area."
The acquisition of this property as open space depends on a partnership with the county & state governments and private donors. The support of Legislator Abinanti is significant. In the past we have worked cooperatively acquiring Hartsbrook Preserve off of Ridge Road, Hartsdale; Glenville Woods near Tarrytown and Taxter Ridge park in E Irvington.

LIVE STREAMING OF TOWN BOARD MEETINGS SUGGESTED

Governor Eliot Spitzer signed an order on DAY 1 requiring "all state agencies and public authorities to develop plans by July 1 to stream all meetings subject to the open meetings law on the internet."
I am renewing my request to the Town Board that meetings of the Town Board be streamed live on the internet. Currently, our meetings are streamed on the town web site: www.greenburghny.com. However, the meetings are not live. Only residents who have cable TV can watch our meetings live. Those who don't subscribe to cable or who are out of town are at a disadavantage. They can't call in during meetings, participate in Dial Democracy, express themselves at public hearings if they are out of town.
Streaming Town Board meetings live on the internet is an important open government initiative that will make it easier for people to participate in government.

ILLUMINATED ROAD SIGNS - does it make sense in Greenburgh?

My in laws reside in the Lake Worth section of Florida. Some of the road signs are lit up in the night -- making it easier for drivers (especially the elderly or those with poor vision) to see the road signage.
Do you think illuminated signs could increase safety on our roads? Drivers would be less likely to hesitate at intersections - trying to read a sign. Illuminated signs are also helpful to those not familiar with our roads. If the town decides to experiment with illuminated road signs where do you think they should be placed?

Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins to be sworn into office at first meeting of the Town Board- January 10th

Our newly elected State Senator, Andrea Stewart Cousins, will hold a ceremonial swearing in ceremony at the first Greenburgh Town Board meeting of the year -Wednesday, January 10th at 7 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall. A brief reception, sponsored by Westchester Federal Credit Union, will follow. The Senator will also highlight some of her goals for the year. Please give her a warm Greenburgh welcome and offer her the best of luck as she begins her term.