Wednesday, October 31, 2007
ENTIRE PROPOSED BUDGET ON WEB
The entire proposed 2008 budget is on the web site: www.greenburghny.com
PATROLLING THE STREETS OF GREENBURGH WITH POLICE CHIEF ON HALLOWEEN, 2007
This halloween evening I spent some of my time driving around town with Police Chief Kapica. We've been patrolling the streets of Greenburgh for 16 years on Halloween night-- monitoring the police calls (there were over 60 calls to the police department) and checking up on problem areas.
The town assigned 31 police, 6 auxiliary officers to patrol unincorporated Greenburgh on Halloween. 11 officers were on overtime. The approximate overtime cost: $4,000.
It was a busy evening. The good news: no significant reports of property damage as of 11:30 PM. We did experience some incidents of halloween pranks/mischief. I stopped by and spoke to a couple who experienced the typical shaving cream/egg problems some people expect on Halloween. The police caught some students who were involved in the incident and required them to clean up the mess they caused. Good, solomon like punishment! There were some fights among students. The police put a stop to the fighting. A few students were taken into police headquarters.
Although it was a busy night, Halloween, 2007 was mild compared to 16 or 17 years ago when cars were vandalized and when there was significant property damage. I feel that providing the police with the funding they require to adequately patrol the town is money well spent.
The town assigned 31 police, 6 auxiliary officers to patrol unincorporated Greenburgh on Halloween. 11 officers were on overtime. The approximate overtime cost: $4,000.
It was a busy evening. The good news: no significant reports of property damage as of 11:30 PM. We did experience some incidents of halloween pranks/mischief. I stopped by and spoke to a couple who experienced the typical shaving cream/egg problems some people expect on Halloween. The police caught some students who were involved in the incident and required them to clean up the mess they caused. Good, solomon like punishment! There were some fights among students. The police put a stop to the fighting. A few students were taken into police headquarters.
Although it was a busy night, Halloween, 2007 was mild compared to 16 or 17 years ago when cars were vandalized and when there was significant property damage. I feel that providing the police with the funding they require to adequately patrol the town is money well spent.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
BOARDS DECISION IN 2005 AND 2006 TO DRAMATICALLY CUT FUND BALANCE LEADS TO BIG TAX HIKE...I DIFFERED WITH LAST YEARS POLICY
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU CUT THE FUND BALANCE BY 7 MILLION DOLLARS IN TWO YEARS…HAVE TWO CONSECUTIVE ZERO PERCENT TAX INCREASES (IN 2006 & IN 2007)…INCREASE CAPITAL EXPENDITURES…ARE INVOLVED IN THE LARGEST CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IN TOWN HISTORY?
THE 2008 PROPOSED BUDGET WAS RELEASED TODAY. UNFORTUNATELY, THERE IS A TAX HIKE. THE AVERAGE RESIDENT OF UNINCORPORATED GREENBURGH WILL SEE THEIR 2008 TAXES GO UP BY $413.02 IN 2009.
THE MAJOR REASON FOR THE BIG JUMP IN TAXES IN 2008 IS BECAUSE THE TOWN BOARD REDUCED THE FUND BALANCE (SURPLUS) BY OVER 7 MILLION IN TWO YEARS. During my tenure as Town Supervisor we built up a very healthy fund balance. All the members of the Board have been tapping into the fund balance to reduce the impact on taxes over the years. During the past two years there was a dramatic change in the use of fund balance. The other Board members wanted to give people back the bulk of the fund balance over a two year period. There were two zero percent tax hikes. At the same time, the Board members increased spending. I differed with the Board members. I favored gradual tax hikes and proposed that the Board not dip into the fund balance by the extent they did. I feel that people want predictability and stability, not dramatic swings in the tax rate. The entire transcripts of the 2007 budget vote and discussion are posted on the town web site: www.greenburghny.com. (look under forms—miscelleneous). You can read the exchange of opinions between the Board members and me re: fund balance policy in its entirety.
THE 2008 BUDGET WAS FILED WITH THE TOWN CLERK TODAY. THE BUDGET MESSAGE WILL BE POSTED IN ITS ENTIRETY ON THE TOWN WEB SITE TOMORROW AND THE ENTIRE BUDGET WILL BE POSTED ON THE WEB SITE (WWW.GREENBURGHNY.COM) LATER THIS WEEK. I am willing to meet with any resident to discuss the budget with you and to solicit your feedback. I cut $2 million from the department budget requests. Could I have cut more? Should the Board cut more funds from the budget? If we do, it will impact services. What services/programs should be cut, if any?
The following are excerpts from my comments of December 19, 2006 objecting to the drastic sudden fund balance cuts…
STATE OF NEW YORK
TOWN OF GREENBURGH
x-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------x
Decision Before The Town Board
Of Greenburgh, New York, in Connection
With the Adoption of the 2007 Budget
x-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------x
December 19, 2006 Greenburgh Town Hall
4:40 p.m. 177 Hillside Avenue
Greenburgh, New York
BOARD MEMBERS:
Supervisor Paul Feiner
Councilwoman Eddie Mae Barnes
Councilman Steven Bass
Councilwoman Diana Juettner
Councilman Francis X. Sheehan
STAFF MEMBERS:
Town Attorney Timothy W. Lewis
Town Clerk Alfreda Williams
REPORTED BY: Lori Ann Schirripa
Official Court Reporter
QUOTES FROM 12-19-06 BUDGET HEARING BY SUPERVISOR FEINER
ENTIRE TRANSCRIPT ON TOWN WEB SITE: www.greenburghny.com (see forms—miscelleneous)
PAGE 10
Obviously the Board is able to reduce taxes by cutting into the fund balance. And in the B budget you cut into the fund balance by about $750,000. Cutting into the fund balance surplus is not really a right answer and a wrong answer. It’s a policy decision. The question is, do we use up our fund balance now and provide residents with a very slight tax cut or would it be more fiscally prudent to have a very small tax increase this year and hopefully be able to keep tax increases very low during the next few years rather than have fluctuations and tax rates as we have seen at the county level and other levels of government.
I remember a couple years ago the County Executive and the County Board of Legislatures for three or four years, consecutive years, they had zero percent tax increases one after another. And then it was followed by a whopping whopper. I think it was over a 20 percent, you know, tax hike. And people were unprepared and it caused a lot of aggravation. And my concern is that if we would eat up into our fund balance and we have a faith based budget, as Elliot Spitzer says, he uses a term space base, where you’re relying on a lot to luck that sooner or later there will be a tax, you know, bigger tax increase.
PAGE 11
And I think people want predictability and stability. But again right now we do have the surplus. And by voting for a tax - - very small tax cut now, you know we have to let people know that there is a good chance that in the next few years there will be a tax increase. And, you know, the question is when are people going to pay for it.
SUPERVISOR FEINER: There is no public comments, but I have the right to say anything I want. So, I am going to be reading a statement, which I said - - I don’t tell you what you could say. You can’t tell me what I can say. This is part of my comments because, you know, I want it on the record, because I want the record to show the concerns, to highlight the concern in terms of the unfunded liability issues.
He indicates first Mayor Bloomberg recently announced, and he said last two or three months if my memory is correct, that rather than expand new or existing programs and reduce taxes, he as recommending that three billion of the city’s recently discovered surpluses be earmarked to begin to address the City of New York’s problem.
PAGE 13
There is other expenses. We haven’t paid yet the bulk of the library. There are other expenses. As I indicated, the borrowing for the bulk - - for a good chunk of the library construction, that’s a $20,000,000, you know, bond that was approved by the voters. It’s going to come due with the 2008 budget. So that’s, you know, before you even start, there is an additional expense that people are paying for the library. And then that’s 2008. And then the following year we’re going to have to start paying not only for the library, which we’re doing, but also the unfunded liability issues. And that’s assuming, that means we have additional, you know, expenses that we don’t have, you know, right now.
PAGE 14
So, my feeling is that it’s going to be very, very difficult in the future to avoid a zero percent tax increase or tax reductions. In fact, the fact that we’re eating into the fund balance by more than I had hoped, I predict, you know, there could be, you know, bigger tax increases than people would want. It’s going to be harder for people to predict. But again when you look at this budget right now, if you take this budget and you say, is this budget fine for 2007, you know, I can vote for it. It’s acceptable. It’s just, I would have preferred being a little bit more fiscally conservative. And I also would like to avoid the fluctuations.
PAGE 19
SUPERVISOR FEINER: Well, all I could say is that time will tell. You know, if we do have fluctuations in future tax increases, as I think we will, because, you know, I do not believe we’ll be able to maintain the zero percent tax increases, then, you know, remember what I warned and suggested. I believe that most people - - nobody wants to pay taxes. Nobody wants taxes to increase. But I think that most people in the Town would prefer very small incremental, you know, tax increases. They want predictability. I think they want stability. And although my fund balance policy is a proposal, I do feel that it’s only a proposal. It was ever adopted by the Town Board. In fact, to the best of my knowledge, the Town Board, you know, has
PAGE 20
As I said before, we do have the unfunded liabilities. We know that’s an additional cost that we’re going to have to pay for beginning in 2009. We have the library. You know, that’s additional costs we’re going to have to pay for next year. You know, we know that costs keep going up, salaries keep getting increased. We have some additional union negotiations that will have to be, you know, finalized. And I’m sure there will be increases in union, you know, wages.
So, the bottom line is, there are going to be tax increases, you know, in the future. Again, it’s pay now or pay later. And again, how much do you pay later. Would people prefer, you know, a one or two percent increase every year of would they prefer a small dip in the taxes now and then a substantial increase next year or two or three years from now.
THE 2008 PROPOSED BUDGET WAS RELEASED TODAY. UNFORTUNATELY, THERE IS A TAX HIKE. THE AVERAGE RESIDENT OF UNINCORPORATED GREENBURGH WILL SEE THEIR 2008 TAXES GO UP BY $413.02 IN 2009.
THE MAJOR REASON FOR THE BIG JUMP IN TAXES IN 2008 IS BECAUSE THE TOWN BOARD REDUCED THE FUND BALANCE (SURPLUS) BY OVER 7 MILLION IN TWO YEARS. During my tenure as Town Supervisor we built up a very healthy fund balance. All the members of the Board have been tapping into the fund balance to reduce the impact on taxes over the years. During the past two years there was a dramatic change in the use of fund balance. The other Board members wanted to give people back the bulk of the fund balance over a two year period. There were two zero percent tax hikes. At the same time, the Board members increased spending. I differed with the Board members. I favored gradual tax hikes and proposed that the Board not dip into the fund balance by the extent they did. I feel that people want predictability and stability, not dramatic swings in the tax rate. The entire transcripts of the 2007 budget vote and discussion are posted on the town web site: www.greenburghny.com. (look under forms—miscelleneous). You can read the exchange of opinions between the Board members and me re: fund balance policy in its entirety.
THE 2008 BUDGET WAS FILED WITH THE TOWN CLERK TODAY. THE BUDGET MESSAGE WILL BE POSTED IN ITS ENTIRETY ON THE TOWN WEB SITE TOMORROW AND THE ENTIRE BUDGET WILL BE POSTED ON THE WEB SITE (WWW.GREENBURGHNY.COM) LATER THIS WEEK. I am willing to meet with any resident to discuss the budget with you and to solicit your feedback. I cut $2 million from the department budget requests. Could I have cut more? Should the Board cut more funds from the budget? If we do, it will impact services. What services/programs should be cut, if any?
The following are excerpts from my comments of December 19, 2006 objecting to the drastic sudden fund balance cuts…
STATE OF NEW YORK
TOWN OF GREENBURGH
x-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------x
Decision Before The Town Board
Of Greenburgh, New York, in Connection
With the Adoption of the 2007 Budget
x-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------x
December 19, 2006 Greenburgh Town Hall
4:40 p.m. 177 Hillside Avenue
Greenburgh, New York
BOARD MEMBERS:
Supervisor Paul Feiner
Councilwoman Eddie Mae Barnes
Councilman Steven Bass
Councilwoman Diana Juettner
Councilman Francis X. Sheehan
STAFF MEMBERS:
Town Attorney Timothy W. Lewis
Town Clerk Alfreda Williams
REPORTED BY: Lori Ann Schirripa
Official Court Reporter
QUOTES FROM 12-19-06 BUDGET HEARING BY SUPERVISOR FEINER
ENTIRE TRANSCRIPT ON TOWN WEB SITE: www.greenburghny.com (see forms—miscelleneous)
PAGE 10
Obviously the Board is able to reduce taxes by cutting into the fund balance. And in the B budget you cut into the fund balance by about $750,000. Cutting into the fund balance surplus is not really a right answer and a wrong answer. It’s a policy decision. The question is, do we use up our fund balance now and provide residents with a very slight tax cut or would it be more fiscally prudent to have a very small tax increase this year and hopefully be able to keep tax increases very low during the next few years rather than have fluctuations and tax rates as we have seen at the county level and other levels of government.
I remember a couple years ago the County Executive and the County Board of Legislatures for three or four years, consecutive years, they had zero percent tax increases one after another. And then it was followed by a whopping whopper. I think it was over a 20 percent, you know, tax hike. And people were unprepared and it caused a lot of aggravation. And my concern is that if we would eat up into our fund balance and we have a faith based budget, as Elliot Spitzer says, he uses a term space base, where you’re relying on a lot to luck that sooner or later there will be a tax, you know, bigger tax increase.
PAGE 11
And I think people want predictability and stability. But again right now we do have the surplus. And by voting for a tax - - very small tax cut now, you know we have to let people know that there is a good chance that in the next few years there will be a tax increase. And, you know, the question is when are people going to pay for it.
SUPERVISOR FEINER: There is no public comments, but I have the right to say anything I want. So, I am going to be reading a statement, which I said - - I don’t tell you what you could say. You can’t tell me what I can say. This is part of my comments because, you know, I want it on the record, because I want the record to show the concerns, to highlight the concern in terms of the unfunded liability issues.
He indicates first Mayor Bloomberg recently announced, and he said last two or three months if my memory is correct, that rather than expand new or existing programs and reduce taxes, he as recommending that three billion of the city’s recently discovered surpluses be earmarked to begin to address the City of New York’s problem.
PAGE 13
There is other expenses. We haven’t paid yet the bulk of the library. There are other expenses. As I indicated, the borrowing for the bulk - - for a good chunk of the library construction, that’s a $20,000,000, you know, bond that was approved by the voters. It’s going to come due with the 2008 budget. So that’s, you know, before you even start, there is an additional expense that people are paying for the library. And then that’s 2008. And then the following year we’re going to have to start paying not only for the library, which we’re doing, but also the unfunded liability issues. And that’s assuming, that means we have additional, you know, expenses that we don’t have, you know, right now.
PAGE 14
So, my feeling is that it’s going to be very, very difficult in the future to avoid a zero percent tax increase or tax reductions. In fact, the fact that we’re eating into the fund balance by more than I had hoped, I predict, you know, there could be, you know, bigger tax increases than people would want. It’s going to be harder for people to predict. But again when you look at this budget right now, if you take this budget and you say, is this budget fine for 2007, you know, I can vote for it. It’s acceptable. It’s just, I would have preferred being a little bit more fiscally conservative. And I also would like to avoid the fluctuations.
PAGE 19
SUPERVISOR FEINER: Well, all I could say is that time will tell. You know, if we do have fluctuations in future tax increases, as I think we will, because, you know, I do not believe we’ll be able to maintain the zero percent tax increases, then, you know, remember what I warned and suggested. I believe that most people - - nobody wants to pay taxes. Nobody wants taxes to increase. But I think that most people in the Town would prefer very small incremental, you know, tax increases. They want predictability. I think they want stability. And although my fund balance policy is a proposal, I do feel that it’s only a proposal. It was ever adopted by the Town Board. In fact, to the best of my knowledge, the Town Board, you know, has
PAGE 20
As I said before, we do have the unfunded liabilities. We know that’s an additional cost that we’re going to have to pay for beginning in 2009. We have the library. You know, that’s additional costs we’re going to have to pay for next year. You know, we know that costs keep going up, salaries keep getting increased. We have some additional union negotiations that will have to be, you know, finalized. And I’m sure there will be increases in union, you know, wages.
So, the bottom line is, there are going to be tax increases, you know, in the future. Again, it’s pay now or pay later. And again, how much do you pay later. Would people prefer, you know, a one or two percent increase every year of would they prefer a small dip in the taxes now and then a substantial increase next year or two or three years from now.
Monday, October 29, 2007
$405,000 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CONTAINS WORK THAT SHOULD BE DONE IN HOUSE, AT SIGNIFICANT SAVINGS TO TAXPAYERS
I spent some time reviewing the $405,000 comprehensive plan contract that the Town Board wants me to sign. I am currently reviewing the terms of the contract and have some initial concerns. The big concern: wasting taxpayer dollars unnecessarily.
The contract includes initial costs that could be done in house – not by expensive, outside consultants. In the coming months taxpayers will be asked to pay for a survey, survey analysis plan, mailing lists, survey tabulations, analysis and presentation, outreach. These costs are expensive: $19,500 for community meetings, public participation, issue formulation and communication: $35,000; data collection: $34,410; data analysis: $61,440.
I am convinced that each of the above outreach initiatives could be done by our capable town staff, at significant savings to the taxpayers. We don’t need to hire a consultant to help us determine what people are thinking. If we are going to hire a consultant we should use the consultant to help us with technical matters—work town staff cannot do in house.
We have a difficult budget coming up – with a significant tax hike. This is the time to prioritize spending. I hope that the Town Board will reconsider their decision to hire a consultant to complete a comprehensive plan and suggest that the contract be reviewed, modified and that the costs of the proposed plan be decreased.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
The contract includes initial costs that could be done in house – not by expensive, outside consultants. In the coming months taxpayers will be asked to pay for a survey, survey analysis plan, mailing lists, survey tabulations, analysis and presentation, outreach. These costs are expensive: $19,500 for community meetings, public participation, issue formulation and communication: $35,000; data collection: $34,410; data analysis: $61,440.
I am convinced that each of the above outreach initiatives could be done by our capable town staff, at significant savings to the taxpayers. We don’t need to hire a consultant to help us determine what people are thinking. If we are going to hire a consultant we should use the consultant to help us with technical matters—work town staff cannot do in house.
We have a difficult budget coming up – with a significant tax hike. This is the time to prioritize spending. I hope that the Town Board will reconsider their decision to hire a consultant to complete a comprehensive plan and suggest that the contract be reviewed, modified and that the costs of the proposed plan be decreased.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
WEEK OF OCT 29 POST YOUR COMMENTS GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY
Post your comments
Greenburgh Democracy
MEETING TONIGHT EDGEMONT HIGH WITH POLICE CHIEF 8 PM
PROPOSED 2008 BUDGET RELEASED TOMORROW
HALLOWEEN this week-- police will be patrolling streets
Greenburgh Democracy
MEETING TONIGHT EDGEMONT HIGH WITH POLICE CHIEF 8 PM
PROPOSED 2008 BUDGET RELEASED TOMORROW
HALLOWEEN this week-- police will be patrolling streets
Sunday, October 28, 2007
SHOULD CAMERAS BE INSTALLED AT INTERSECTIONS TO GENERATE REVENUE? AND, INCREASE SAFETY?
IDEAS: I will start posting initiatives that are taking place around the country on this blog. The purpose: to encourage people to discuss new ideas...
Red-light cameras installed at 50 intersections throughout the city have generated more than $6 million for the city since the program was launched last fall, Houston Police Chief Harold Hurtt said. Almost $1 million will go toward police equipment upgrades and safety programs aimed at troubled youth, and another $635,000 will be spent on replacing aging video cameras in patrol cars.
MORE: Houston Chronicle
Predicting increased road safety and as much as $10 million per year in revenue from violators, Miami city commissioners tentatively endorse the idea of installing red-light cameras at traffic intersections.
MORE: Miami Herald
Red-light cameras installed at 50 intersections throughout the city have generated more than $6 million for the city since the program was launched last fall, Houston Police Chief Harold Hurtt said. Almost $1 million will go toward police equipment upgrades and safety programs aimed at troubled youth, and another $635,000 will be spent on replacing aging video cameras in patrol cars.
MORE: Houston Chronicle
Predicting increased road safety and as much as $10 million per year in revenue from violators, Miami city commissioners tentatively endorse the idea of installing red-light cameras at traffic intersections.
MORE: Miami Herald
Saturday, October 27, 2007
FROM LEAGUE OF CONSERVATION VOTERS--NRC: SLEEPING SECURITY GUARD AT INDIAN POINT NOT SECURITY LAPSE
A Nuclear Regulatory Commission report released this week concludes that a security guard found sleeping on the job at Indian Point over the summer was not a significant security lapse.
According to the Journal News, the NRC concluded that the Aug. 26 incident, in which an on-site inspector needed nearly two minutes to awaken the guard, merited a green rating, the NRC's grade for "very low safety significance." The agency will, however, include the incident in the NRC's upcoming performance assessment for the nuclear power plan.
Entergy spokesman Jim Steets said the guard resigned after initially being put on administrative leave. But a spokesman for Riverkeeper, Phillip Musegaas, said after the incident that he "would reiterate our concern that Indian Point is a poorly run facility. We have continuing concerns about security and about guards being overworked at the plant."
According to the Journal News, the NRC concluded that the Aug. 26 incident, in which an on-site inspector needed nearly two minutes to awaken the guard, merited a green rating, the NRC's grade for "very low safety significance." The agency will, however, include the incident in the NRC's upcoming performance assessment for the nuclear power plan.
Entergy spokesman Jim Steets said the guard resigned after initially being put on administrative leave. But a spokesman for Riverkeeper, Phillip Musegaas, said after the incident that he "would reiterate our concern that Indian Point is a poorly run facility. We have continuing concerns about security and about guards being overworked at the plant."
Thursday, October 25, 2007
I VOTED NO ON THE $405,000 STUDY, BD VOTED YES DAYS BEFORE BUDGET PROCESS BEGINS
When the 2008 proposed budget is released on Tuesday there will be a tax hike. The Town Board will have some options: Cut services to reduce the tax hike or maintain services. They have another option: increase the costs of government by adding more programs/initiatives to the budget.
On Wednesday the Greenburgh Town Board (over my objections) voted to approve a $405,000 comprehensive plan study. I tried to make a point: the decision whether the study takes place in 2008 should be deferred until the 2008 budget process is completed (by law a budget must be approved by December 20th). The issue is simple: PRIORITIES. What are our priorities in 2008? A comprehensive plan? Police, sanitation, leaf collection, recreation? What do we have funds for in 2008? What can't we afford to pay for?
By locking the town into a contract days before the 2008 budget process begins - the Board reduced our options. $200,000 of the comprehensive plan was funded in 2007 but never spent. If the money is not spent in 2007 the funds could be used to reduce the size of any tax hike or the dollars could be used to enhance services.
I also objected to the fact that the Board approved the $405,000 study without first reviewing the contract with the consultant. I was first shown the contract with the consultant ON THURSDAY, after the vote took place. How can the Board approve a contract before reading it? Before I sign any document I will review the terms and conditions of the contract to make sure that your interests are being protected.
Another concern: there is an election for town offices in less than 2 weeks. This years elections are contested. I feel that those who are elected in November should be making the decision re: terms, costs, benchmarks, hiring re: comprehensive plan. No harm to have had a short delay - until after the new Board is elected. Another reason to have delayed the vote...
I believe that $405,000 is alot of money to pay for a study.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
On Wednesday the Greenburgh Town Board (over my objections) voted to approve a $405,000 comprehensive plan study. I tried to make a point: the decision whether the study takes place in 2008 should be deferred until the 2008 budget process is completed (by law a budget must be approved by December 20th). The issue is simple: PRIORITIES. What are our priorities in 2008? A comprehensive plan? Police, sanitation, leaf collection, recreation? What do we have funds for in 2008? What can't we afford to pay for?
By locking the town into a contract days before the 2008 budget process begins - the Board reduced our options. $200,000 of the comprehensive plan was funded in 2007 but never spent. If the money is not spent in 2007 the funds could be used to reduce the size of any tax hike or the dollars could be used to enhance services.
I also objected to the fact that the Board approved the $405,000 study without first reviewing the contract with the consultant. I was first shown the contract with the consultant ON THURSDAY, after the vote took place. How can the Board approve a contract before reading it? Before I sign any document I will review the terms and conditions of the contract to make sure that your interests are being protected.
Another concern: there is an election for town offices in less than 2 weeks. This years elections are contested. I feel that those who are elected in November should be making the decision re: terms, costs, benchmarks, hiring re: comprehensive plan. No harm to have had a short delay - until after the new Board is elected. Another reason to have delayed the vote...
I believe that $405,000 is alot of money to pay for a study.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
TOWN TO TURN FORECLOSED PROPERTY INTO AFFORDABLE HOUSING
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALE OF TOWN-OWNED
PROPERTY AT 770 SAW MILL RIVER ROAD
TO SHELTERING THE HOMELESS IS OUR
RESPONSIBILITY (SHORE)
WHEREAS, the Town Board recognizes the importance of providing adequate and affordable housing for residents and employees of the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board finds that Sheltering the Homeless is Our Responsibility (SHORE), an all-volunteer, interfaith organization, helps increase housing opportunities for families and individuals in need; and
WHEREAS, SHORE has created the Ardsley Housing Development Fund Company, a not-for-profit corporation pursuant to Article 11 of the Private Housing Finance Law and Section 402 of the Not-For-Profit-Corporation Law and presented a proposal to develop Town-owned property located at 770 Saw Mill River Road by demolishing an existing derelict structure and erecting two affordable residential units thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has previously authorized SHORE to make application to the Village of Ardsley for any land use approvals it may require in connection with the proposed development; and
WHEREAS, SHORE has received the necessary approvals from the Village of Ardsley to erect such units; and
WHEREAS, SHORE has now made an offer to purchase the property for the sum of $39,331.85, payable to the Town of Greenburgh, and $14,155.51, payable to the Village of Ardsley, said sums representing the amount of outstanding taxes owed to said municipalities, less penalties and interest thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board seeks to ensure that the subject property is always used to provide affordable housing by filing a Declaration of Restrictive Covenants with the Westchester County Division of Land Records; permitting the Town to terminate the conveyance and to re-enter and re-take possession and title of the property should the Town determine, after a public hearing, that the property is being occupied by households in violation of the affordable housing guidelines of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development;
WHEREAS, in view of the salutary purpose of the project and in consideration of the amounts already advanced by SHORE to obtain the necessary land use approvals for this project, the Town Board has decided, after conducting a public hearing, to accept said offer;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Greenburgh hereby authorizes the Town Supervisor to execute a Contract of Sale of 770 Saw Mill River Road to SHORE for the sum of $53,487.36, and to execute any documents necessary to effectuate such transfer.
Draft Submitted: October 23, 2007 (1:28 p.m.)
PROPERTY AT 770 SAW MILL RIVER ROAD
TO SHELTERING THE HOMELESS IS OUR
RESPONSIBILITY (SHORE)
WHEREAS, the Town Board recognizes the importance of providing adequate and affordable housing for residents and employees of the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board finds that Sheltering the Homeless is Our Responsibility (SHORE), an all-volunteer, interfaith organization, helps increase housing opportunities for families and individuals in need; and
WHEREAS, SHORE has created the Ardsley Housing Development Fund Company, a not-for-profit corporation pursuant to Article 11 of the Private Housing Finance Law and Section 402 of the Not-For-Profit-Corporation Law and presented a proposal to develop Town-owned property located at 770 Saw Mill River Road by demolishing an existing derelict structure and erecting two affordable residential units thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has previously authorized SHORE to make application to the Village of Ardsley for any land use approvals it may require in connection with the proposed development; and
WHEREAS, SHORE has received the necessary approvals from the Village of Ardsley to erect such units; and
WHEREAS, SHORE has now made an offer to purchase the property for the sum of $39,331.85, payable to the Town of Greenburgh, and $14,155.51, payable to the Village of Ardsley, said sums representing the amount of outstanding taxes owed to said municipalities, less penalties and interest thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board seeks to ensure that the subject property is always used to provide affordable housing by filing a Declaration of Restrictive Covenants with the Westchester County Division of Land Records; permitting the Town to terminate the conveyance and to re-enter and re-take possession and title of the property should the Town determine, after a public hearing, that the property is being occupied by households in violation of the affordable housing guidelines of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development;
WHEREAS, in view of the salutary purpose of the project and in consideration of the amounts already advanced by SHORE to obtain the necessary land use approvals for this project, the Town Board has decided, after conducting a public hearing, to accept said offer;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Greenburgh hereby authorizes the Town Supervisor to execute a Contract of Sale of 770 Saw Mill River Road to SHORE for the sum of $53,487.36, and to execute any documents necessary to effectuate such transfer.
Draft Submitted: October 23, 2007 (1:28 p.m.)
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
GUEST COMMENTARY: KARL BERTRAND--COALITION FOR HOMELESS TO PROTEST ON OCT 25 FROM 12-2 MAIN STREET FOUNTAINS
Karl Bertrand of Greenburgh asked me to post the following commentary on this blog about a new county policy that could result in tragedies. A rally is being held this Thursday from 12-2 at the Main Street Fountains in White Plains.
In August Westchester closed White Plains’ only drop-in shelter. It stopped transferring the overflow from that shelter to other shelters. It forbid shelters from accepting people unless they met all the county’s strict shelter eligibility requirements: i.e. keeping all appointments, having all documents, attending all required treatment, regularly meeting shelter curfews, turning over all but $45/month of their income from work or SSI to reimburse the county for its shelter costs, etc. Literally overnight the county’s safety net system of drop-in shelters went from serving 130+ people nightly in multiple sites across Westchester to having just 40 drop-in beds, with those located only in Yonkers. The county’s plan was simple: follow all our rules or wander the streets, urinate on our buildings, and sleep wherever you can hide.
The county proposes to replace the shelters with a series of “warming centers”. These centers, more accurately described as “folding chair centers”, will offer only folding chairs instead of cots. The county has told providers that they should not replace the folding chairs with cots or beds, even if there were stacks of empty beds lying unused in the next room. It seems the county wants to punish the homeless for not complying with all requirements by in effect ensuring they can never sleep.
Have you ever had a good night’s sleep in a folding chair? Can you imagine trying to sleep in a chair for a week, a month, or an entire winter? Picture how you would feel and act if you were forced to go for weeks without sleep. Now imagine that condition forced on someone who is old, confused, brain damaged, senile, or off their meds. Westchester’s new homeless sleep deprivation policy is bad social policy and it is morally wrong.
There are other problems with the folding chair centers. They will be open only at night, and only from November to May. The idea is that these hours of operation will keep people from freezing on the streets. That is simple-minded. People obviously don’t just freeze when it’s dark. Again, this decision is inhumane, immoral, and wrong-headed social policy.
Winter is coming. These decisions make it more likely that people will die of exposure this winter as they wander looking for places to hide and sleep. That is not hyperbole. In 1989 three homeless people died of exposure in Westchester, prompting residents to carry three empty coffins to a candlelight vigil at the county office building. We can’t let that happen again, not by dismantling the effective safety net we’ve painstakingly constructed over the last 18 years, not here in Westchester, one of America’s richest counties, and not here in our home.
For more information, email the Westchester Homeless Advocacy Response Network (WHARN) at wharn@optonline.net.
In August Westchester closed White Plains’ only drop-in shelter. It stopped transferring the overflow from that shelter to other shelters. It forbid shelters from accepting people unless they met all the county’s strict shelter eligibility requirements: i.e. keeping all appointments, having all documents, attending all required treatment, regularly meeting shelter curfews, turning over all but $45/month of their income from work or SSI to reimburse the county for its shelter costs, etc. Literally overnight the county’s safety net system of drop-in shelters went from serving 130+ people nightly in multiple sites across Westchester to having just 40 drop-in beds, with those located only in Yonkers. The county’s plan was simple: follow all our rules or wander the streets, urinate on our buildings, and sleep wherever you can hide.
The county proposes to replace the shelters with a series of “warming centers”. These centers, more accurately described as “folding chair centers”, will offer only folding chairs instead of cots. The county has told providers that they should not replace the folding chairs with cots or beds, even if there were stacks of empty beds lying unused in the next room. It seems the county wants to punish the homeless for not complying with all requirements by in effect ensuring they can never sleep.
Have you ever had a good night’s sleep in a folding chair? Can you imagine trying to sleep in a chair for a week, a month, or an entire winter? Picture how you would feel and act if you were forced to go for weeks without sleep. Now imagine that condition forced on someone who is old, confused, brain damaged, senile, or off their meds. Westchester’s new homeless sleep deprivation policy is bad social policy and it is morally wrong.
There are other problems with the folding chair centers. They will be open only at night, and only from November to May. The idea is that these hours of operation will keep people from freezing on the streets. That is simple-minded. People obviously don’t just freeze when it’s dark. Again, this decision is inhumane, immoral, and wrong-headed social policy.
Winter is coming. These decisions make it more likely that people will die of exposure this winter as they wander looking for places to hide and sleep. That is not hyperbole. In 1989 three homeless people died of exposure in Westchester, prompting residents to carry three empty coffins to a candlelight vigil at the county office building. We can’t let that happen again, not by dismantling the effective safety net we’ve painstakingly constructed over the last 18 years, not here in Westchester, one of America’s richest counties, and not here in our home.
For more information, email the Westchester Homeless Advocacy Response Network (WHARN) at wharn@optonline.net.
Monday, October 22, 2007
GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY week of October 22 Please post comments
Feel free to post comments about any issues of concern on this blog.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
HALLOWEEN SPOOKTOBER FEST A BIG SUCCESS
Congratulations to the Parks & Recreation Dept for doing a terrific job. The halloween spooktober fest at HartsBrook was a great success. Hundreds of adults, children enjoyed the day time event and the evening haunted house and hay ride. This was one of the best programs I have seen the dept organize. Hat's off to the entire dept.
Friday, October 19, 2007
SHOULD TOWN SPEND COMMIT TO OVER $400,000 FOR COMPREHENSIVE PLAN BEFORE BUDGET PROCESS BEGINS?
The Greenburgh Town Board may vote on hiring a $400,000 + consultant to conduct a comprehensive plan this Wednesday night at the Town Board meeting.
I have some concerns.
1) I believe that we should hold off on the selection of a consultant until after the November elections - when the new members of the Town Board will be elected. Those who are elected in November should make the decision as to who they want to hire. And, when the study should begin. A comprehensive plan will take a few years to complete.
2) The Town Board should not make significant financial commitments before the 2008 budget is discussed and reviewed. The 2008 budget must be proposed by October 30th. Readers of this blog understand that taxes will go up in 2008. It won't be a small tax hike (fund balance was depleted by the Town Council last year-against my warnings; library expansion/increased debt & certiorari's). There should be a community discussion: Should the study start now or should the study be deferred? Should funding come from the capital budget,reducing the impact of the 2008 tax hike or be part of the 2008 operating budget? Is this the time for long range planning or do we need to focus more attention of fiscal discipline?
I have some concerns.
1) I believe that we should hold off on the selection of a consultant until after the November elections - when the new members of the Town Board will be elected. Those who are elected in November should make the decision as to who they want to hire. And, when the study should begin. A comprehensive plan will take a few years to complete.
2) The Town Board should not make significant financial commitments before the 2008 budget is discussed and reviewed. The 2008 budget must be proposed by October 30th. Readers of this blog understand that taxes will go up in 2008. It won't be a small tax hike (fund balance was depleted by the Town Council last year-against my warnings; library expansion/increased debt & certiorari's). There should be a community discussion: Should the study start now or should the study be deferred? Should funding come from the capital budget,reducing the impact of the 2008 tax hike or be part of the 2008 operating budget? Is this the time for long range planning or do we need to focus more attention of fiscal discipline?
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Tappan Zee bridge guest commentary from former Tarrytown Trustee
Why No Tunnels?
The State Department of Transportation (the lead agency for the Tappan Zee Bridge project) has refused to consider a tunnel alternative and this could be a serious and costly mistake.
In an era when tunnels are being built around the world instead of bridges, it is difficult to understand the reluctance of the D.O.T. to consider this option either as a replacement for the bridge or simply as a supplement to the current crossing. Tunnels similar in length to this span are being built in other parts of the world in less time than it takes to build a bridge and for less money
The Tappan Zee Bridge is now undergoing a replacement of the causeway decking at an estimated cost of approximately $150 million. If past experience is any guide to the future, the final cost could be a great deal more. Commuters will most likely have to pay for this rehabilitation with increased tolls.
This money could be down the drain if the Thruway and the D.O.T. go through with their plans to demolish this bridge and replace it with one that could be twice the width. A replacement bridge is projected to cost $14.5 billion. But that estimate is several years old. In current dollars, it could be considerably more. This figure also does not include either the money now being spent for the deck replacement or the cost of demolishing the existing bridge.
In the N.Y. State agencies’ Alternative Analysis Report of 2006, eleven reasons were cited for eliminating a tunnel option. Experts have challenged these reasons. For example, five of the arguments used for discarding tunnels are based on a comparison between a bridge and a tunnel. The question is, how can any comparison be made until there is a basic bridge design showing realistic foundations? Thus far these designs have not been put forth. Advances in modern tunneling technology suggest that there is ample evidence to dispute the remaining six objections
Tunneling is not a foreign concept to the D.O.T. During a Stakeholders Advisory Working Group meeting, tunnels were proposed for a possible commuter rail because of the varying elevations in Rockland and Westchester Counties. These varying grades are too difficult for rail to negotiate at surface level. However, no consideration was given to a tunnel under the Hudson that could be used to accommodate trucks and some form of mass transportation.
Removing trucks from the bridge could extend the life of a rehabilitated bridge by many years. Tunnels also offer the opportunity to scrub truck exhaust pollutants before they’re released into the air. This is a major consideration as our region’s air quality has been out of compliance with federal clean air standards for years. Further, the removal of trucks and mass transportation from the bridge would help cars cross the bridge more quickly and safely allowing more room for anticipated future increases in automobile volume.
So what’s stopping the D.O.T. from even considering a tunnel across the Hudson? Why won’t the department allow a tunnel alternative to go through the mandated environmental review process? It’s a question that begs a proper response.
Concerned Citizens for Responsible Development is committed to finding an unbiased and balanced answer to the traffic needs in this corridor. What is needed is a solution that respects the property and health of the residents of Rockland and Westchester and is realistically attainable.
We plan to present to the public regular reports about the status of the Tappan Zee Bridge project as they become available. In addition, we will be reviewing various aspects of this endeavor as they relate to air quality, land use, funding and environmental considerations.
Concerned Citizens for Responsible Development
George Sherman, President, Rockland Branch
845-358-8364
Sherwood Chorost, President, Westchester Branch
914-524-0002
“Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
The State Department of Transportation (the lead agency for the Tappan Zee Bridge project) has refused to consider a tunnel alternative and this could be a serious and costly mistake.
In an era when tunnels are being built around the world instead of bridges, it is difficult to understand the reluctance of the D.O.T. to consider this option either as a replacement for the bridge or simply as a supplement to the current crossing. Tunnels similar in length to this span are being built in other parts of the world in less time than it takes to build a bridge and for less money
The Tappan Zee Bridge is now undergoing a replacement of the causeway decking at an estimated cost of approximately $150 million. If past experience is any guide to the future, the final cost could be a great deal more. Commuters will most likely have to pay for this rehabilitation with increased tolls.
This money could be down the drain if the Thruway and the D.O.T. go through with their plans to demolish this bridge and replace it with one that could be twice the width. A replacement bridge is projected to cost $14.5 billion. But that estimate is several years old. In current dollars, it could be considerably more. This figure also does not include either the money now being spent for the deck replacement or the cost of demolishing the existing bridge.
In the N.Y. State agencies’ Alternative Analysis Report of 2006, eleven reasons were cited for eliminating a tunnel option. Experts have challenged these reasons. For example, five of the arguments used for discarding tunnels are based on a comparison between a bridge and a tunnel. The question is, how can any comparison be made until there is a basic bridge design showing realistic foundations? Thus far these designs have not been put forth. Advances in modern tunneling technology suggest that there is ample evidence to dispute the remaining six objections
Tunneling is not a foreign concept to the D.O.T. During a Stakeholders Advisory Working Group meeting, tunnels were proposed for a possible commuter rail because of the varying elevations in Rockland and Westchester Counties. These varying grades are too difficult for rail to negotiate at surface level. However, no consideration was given to a tunnel under the Hudson that could be used to accommodate trucks and some form of mass transportation.
Removing trucks from the bridge could extend the life of a rehabilitated bridge by many years. Tunnels also offer the opportunity to scrub truck exhaust pollutants before they’re released into the air. This is a major consideration as our region’s air quality has been out of compliance with federal clean air standards for years. Further, the removal of trucks and mass transportation from the bridge would help cars cross the bridge more quickly and safely allowing more room for anticipated future increases in automobile volume.
So what’s stopping the D.O.T. from even considering a tunnel across the Hudson? Why won’t the department allow a tunnel alternative to go through the mandated environmental review process? It’s a question that begs a proper response.
Concerned Citizens for Responsible Development is committed to finding an unbiased and balanced answer to the traffic needs in this corridor. What is needed is a solution that respects the property and health of the residents of Rockland and Westchester and is realistically attainable.
We plan to present to the public regular reports about the status of the Tappan Zee Bridge project as they become available. In addition, we will be reviewing various aspects of this endeavor as they relate to air quality, land use, funding and environmental considerations.
Concerned Citizens for Responsible Development
George Sherman, President, Rockland Branch
845-358-8364
Sherwood Chorost, President, Westchester Branch
914-524-0002
“Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
Monday, October 15, 2007
SENATOR SCHUMER VISITS HIGHWAY GARAGE
I joined United States Senator Charles Schumer at a news conference this morning at the Greenburgh Highway garage. The Senator announced an effort to help local governments obtain federal funding to upgrade and maintain local sewer infrastructure. Municipalities in Westchester are suffering from aging sewer systems. The Senator announced a proposal to increase federal funding to help modernize the state’s deteriorating sewerage infrastructure. Federal help for improving sewer systems is currently at an all time low. This leaves towns and cities across Westchester County, which tend to get hit by severe storm flooding, hard pressed to protect residential property and bodies of water from overflow due to inadequate sewerage. There have been instances around the region where sewage spilled into local waterways and homeowners’ properties. The Senator feels that the federal government should work with local and state governments to maintain first rate water treatment systems. In May, a four foot sewer main in Yonkers broke, spilling millions of gallons of raw sewage into the Hudson River and forcing the nearby wetlands to soak up the majority of the mess. The main was built in the 1930s.
I am very pleased that the Senator is seeking to help local governments address this problem. Without federal help, the costly price of replacing sewers will become a major strain on local budgets
I am very pleased that the Senator is seeking to help local governments address this problem. Without federal help, the costly price of replacing sewers will become a major strain on local budgets
WEEK OF OCTOBER 15 GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY..PLEASE POST YOUR COMMENTS
Please post your comments about Greenburgh issues.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
SHOULD THE LIBRARY BE INDEPENDENT OF THE TOWN AND TOWN POLITICS?
The new Greenburgh library will open to the public in the fall of 2008 (possibly earlier). This is the time to consider taking the library out of politics --creating a library district. A library district is approved by the voters. The voters elect the Library Board. The budget of the library is approved by the voters annually. The district would be independent of town government and town officials..
DEFINITION:
As defined by the New York State Library’s Division of Library Development, a public library district is a public library that has a process for (a) publicly electing its trustees; (b) securing a substantial portion (60 percent or greater) of its operating revenue through a public budget vote; and (c) ensuring financial accountability through an annual financial review or audit. School District Public Libraries and Special Legislative District Public Libraries are the most common types of public library districts.
DEFINITION:
As defined by the New York State Library’s Division of Library Development, a public library district is a public library that has a process for (a) publicly electing its trustees; (b) securing a substantial portion (60 percent or greater) of its operating revenue through a public budget vote; and (c) ensuring financial accountability through an annual financial review or audit. School District Public Libraries and Special Legislative District Public Libraries are the most common types of public library districts.
Friday, October 12, 2007
SUGGESTION: FREE LIBRARY PARKING FOR RESIDENTS, PARKING FEES FOR NON RESIDENTS
White Plains recently increased parking fees at the White Plains library. When the Greenburgh library opens many White Plains residents and people from around the county might want to use our new library. The Greenburgh library, which is being paid for by Greenburgh residents ($20 million) will be a county asset, not only a Greenburgh asset.
A suggestion: Greenburgh residents should get a free parking pass to use the library. Meters should also be placed at the parking spots. Non residents should put coins in the meter -equivalent to municipal rates elsewhere.
A suggestion: Greenburgh residents should get a free parking pass to use the library. Meters should also be placed at the parking spots. Non residents should put coins in the meter -equivalent to municipal rates elsewhere.
BAKERY OPENS ON E HARTSDALE AVE
The bakery has opened on E Hartsdale Ave, leaving 3 stores vacant. The bakery closed after the spring flood. Welcome back!
WISE PROGRAM NEEDS DONATIONS
Dianne Rivera, a community activist, advised me that a group of parents are working with the WISE program at the Greenburgh school district. They are seeking donations of computers, printers, TV, VCR, DVD, small refrigerators and vacuum cleaner (to decorate the WISE room at Woodlands). If you would like to help the parents help the WISE program, please contact Dianne Rivera at 422-0999.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
KOLESAR APPROVED...ETHICS LAW FIRM ON HOLD
I was authorized by the Town Board to hire Mike Kolesar to help me prepare the budget. His rate: $75 an hour. Maximum: $5,000. Mr. Kolesar has been a critic of previous budgets. I'm looking for an additional set of eyes to help me keep taxes as low as possible.
The Town Board did not vote on the proposal to hire a $325 an hour lawyer (with criminal defense background, not ethics law background) to represent the Ethics Board. A number of people objected to the hiring. It's my hope that the Ethics Board will withdraw this proposal. If an Ethics lawyer is needed then the Ethics Board should retain the services of a lawyer who specializes in the field.
Tonights meeting ended around midnight. We also honored employees who have worked for the town for 25,30+ years.
The Town Board did not vote on the proposal to hire a $325 an hour lawyer (with criminal defense background, not ethics law background) to represent the Ethics Board. A number of people objected to the hiring. It's my hope that the Ethics Board will withdraw this proposal. If an Ethics lawyer is needed then the Ethics Board should retain the services of a lawyer who specializes in the field.
Tonights meeting ended around midnight. We also honored employees who have worked for the town for 25,30+ years.
Monday, October 08, 2007
SAFETY CLASS FOR SENIORS ON WED OCT 10
THE TOWN OF GREENBURGH POLICE DEPARTMENT
COMMUNITY AFFAIRS UNIT
188 TARRYTOWN ROAD, WHITE PLAINS, NY 10607
PRESENTS:
“YOUR BEST PROTECTION IS AWARENESS”
A SAFETY CLASS FOR SENIORS
HOSTED BY:
ANGELA DELEON, PEOPLE’S UNITED BANK
P.O. ED DEVITO, TOWN OF GREENBURGH POLICE DEPARTMENT
GEORGE CONIGLIO, THEODORE YOUNG COMMUNITY CENTER
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10TH 2007 @ 12:00
THEODORE D. YOUNG COMMUNITY CENTER
32 MANHATTAN AVENUE
TOPICS TO BE DISCUSSED INCLUDE:
CARRYING A PURSE OR WALLET
DON’T FLASH YOUR CASH
USING AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINES
HOME, SAFE HOME
IN YOUR CAR
CASINO SAFETY
PHONE SCAMS
MAIL SCAMS
NO RESERVATION NEEDED.
For more information call (914) 989-3622 or (914) 682-5391
COMMUNITY AFFAIRS UNIT
188 TARRYTOWN ROAD, WHITE PLAINS, NY 10607
PRESENTS:
“YOUR BEST PROTECTION IS AWARENESS”
A SAFETY CLASS FOR SENIORS
HOSTED BY:
ANGELA DELEON, PEOPLE’S UNITED BANK
P.O. ED DEVITO, TOWN OF GREENBURGH POLICE DEPARTMENT
GEORGE CONIGLIO, THEODORE YOUNG COMMUNITY CENTER
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10TH 2007 @ 12:00
THEODORE D. YOUNG COMMUNITY CENTER
32 MANHATTAN AVENUE
TOPICS TO BE DISCUSSED INCLUDE:
CARRYING A PURSE OR WALLET
DON’T FLASH YOUR CASH
USING AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINES
HOME, SAFE HOME
IN YOUR CAR
CASINO SAFETY
PHONE SCAMS
MAIL SCAMS
NO RESERVATION NEEDED.
For more information call (914) 989-3622 or (914) 682-5391
$325 AN HOUR DEFENSE LAWYER? WHY I'M VOTING NO.
The Greenburgh Town Board is scheduled to vote on Wednesday on a resolution to hire a lawyer at $325 an hour to represent the Ethics Board. I plan to vote no.
The attorney the Board members want to hire has a resume that does not concentrate on ethics. His web site does not even mention ethics as an area he or his firm is involved in.
The attorney is a brilliant defense lawyer who has represented, among others, the following individuals:
• El Sayyid Nosair, a criminal defendant who was involved in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Nosair was convicted as part of the trial of the Blind Sheik Omar Abdel Rahman and received life plus 15 years for the World Trade Center bombing conspiracy.
• Anthony Pirro (brother of Al)
• Robert Chambers (the preppy murderer)
I do not understand what relevancy a criminal defense lawyer has to an Ethics Board. Why hire an attorney who does not specialize in ethics?
I believe that the work should be handled in house – by the members of the Board. If there are extraordinary circumstances the Board should consult the Town Board on a case by case basis. There are other lawyers who specialize in ethics who might charge less and have the qualifications needed. The Ethics Board members advised the Board they may need an investigator. If that is the case, can’t we hire a non lawyer at reduced rates? We have many qualified citizens who are willing to donate their time to the town. Other volunteer boards have not retained outside counsel to help them.
We have a very difficult budget coming up (residents will start paying for the library expansion this year, the fund balance was cut by the Town Board last year). Discretionary spending by the Town Board must be reviewed carefully. This is another example of the Board’s increase in discretionary spending that will negatively impact the tax rate.
BOARD MEETING: THIS WEDNESDAY
7:15 PM
GREENBURGH TOWN HALL
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
The attorney the Board members want to hire has a resume that does not concentrate on ethics. His web site does not even mention ethics as an area he or his firm is involved in.
The attorney is a brilliant defense lawyer who has represented, among others, the following individuals:
• El Sayyid Nosair, a criminal defendant who was involved in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Nosair was convicted as part of the trial of the Blind Sheik Omar Abdel Rahman and received life plus 15 years for the World Trade Center bombing conspiracy.
• Anthony Pirro (brother of Al)
• Robert Chambers (the preppy murderer)
I do not understand what relevancy a criminal defense lawyer has to an Ethics Board. Why hire an attorney who does not specialize in ethics?
I believe that the work should be handled in house – by the members of the Board. If there are extraordinary circumstances the Board should consult the Town Board on a case by case basis. There are other lawyers who specialize in ethics who might charge less and have the qualifications needed. The Ethics Board members advised the Board they may need an investigator. If that is the case, can’t we hire a non lawyer at reduced rates? We have many qualified citizens who are willing to donate their time to the town. Other volunteer boards have not retained outside counsel to help them.
We have a very difficult budget coming up (residents will start paying for the library expansion this year, the fund balance was cut by the Town Board last year). Discretionary spending by the Town Board must be reviewed carefully. This is another example of the Board’s increase in discretionary spending that will negatively impact the tax rate.
BOARD MEETING: THIS WEDNESDAY
7:15 PM
GREENBURGH TOWN HALL
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY- WEEK OF OCTOBER 8 - POST YOUR COMMENTS
Please feel free to post your comments about town issues.
Town Board meeting this Wednesday
We will be honoring employees who have served the town for 25 years or more.
This is Jim Heslop's last week as Comptroller. I have asked the Town Board to authorize me to retain the services of accountant Mike Kolesar at a rate of $75 an hour for up to $5000 to help me prepare the budget. Mr. Kolesar is familiar with the budget, has been critical of aspects of the budget in the past. I think he could be helpful in identifying additional cost cutting initiatives. The 2008 budget is going to be a difficult budget. This is the year taxpayers will start paying for the $20 million library expansion.
Town Board meeting this Wednesday
We will be honoring employees who have served the town for 25 years or more.
This is Jim Heslop's last week as Comptroller. I have asked the Town Board to authorize me to retain the services of accountant Mike Kolesar at a rate of $75 an hour for up to $5000 to help me prepare the budget. Mr. Kolesar is familiar with the budget, has been critical of aspects of the budget in the past. I think he could be helpful in identifying additional cost cutting initiatives. The 2008 budget is going to be a difficult budget. This is the year taxpayers will start paying for the $20 million library expansion.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
SAVE THE FARM AT POETS CORNER! PROPERTY OWNER NOW WANTS IT SAVED, NOT DEVELOPED!
Great news! About 7 years ago the owner of Westchester Greenhouse Farms advised the town that he was planning to sell his farm to a developer. The farm is located at the corner of West Hartsdale Ave and Secor Road. It’s a Greenburgh landmark – a spectacular property that enhances the quality of life for many – especially residents of Poets Corner.
I met with Joe Chiocchi, the owner of the farm today, and received some great news. He has changed his mind. He wants to preserve the property and protect the land as a farm. His children are interested in running the farm in the future. Mr. Chiocchi is currently in court to stop an old development contract. I always objected to the proposal to develop this property – development of this parcel of land would have changed the character of the community. To say I’m delighted is an understatement!
How can you help? Petitions are being circulated to protect the property. You can sign a petition at the farm (hundreds signed the petition today—the first day the petitions were circulated) or you can e mail me a brief note stating that you support the preservation of the farm –a unique community asset. My e mail is pfeiner@greenburghny.com.
The farm on Secor and West Hartsdale Ave is one of the town’s great assets. Let’s make sure it is preserved for many years to come.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
I met with Joe Chiocchi, the owner of the farm today, and received some great news. He has changed his mind. He wants to preserve the property and protect the land as a farm. His children are interested in running the farm in the future. Mr. Chiocchi is currently in court to stop an old development contract. I always objected to the proposal to develop this property – development of this parcel of land would have changed the character of the community. To say I’m delighted is an understatement!
How can you help? Petitions are being circulated to protect the property. You can sign a petition at the farm (hundreds signed the petition today—the first day the petitions were circulated) or you can e mail me a brief note stating that you support the preservation of the farm –a unique community asset. My e mail is pfeiner@greenburghny.com.
The farm on Secor and West Hartsdale Ave is one of the town’s great assets. Let’s make sure it is preserved for many years to come.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
Friday, October 05, 2007
WE'RE HONORING EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE SERVED TOWN FOR 25 YEARS OR MORE...
We will be honoring the following town employees who have served the town for 25 years or more at our next Town Board meeting: Wednesday, October 10th at 7:15 PM. The meeting will be held at Town Hall. Each of the honorees will receive a beautiful engraved clock with their name on it. We appreciate their dedication, hard work and service to the community.
Honoring Town of Greenburgh Employees who have served the Town for 25 Years or more;
Robert Ficker, John A. Kapica, Gregory Manco, Eugene W. Daley, John J. Herighty, Jr.,
Albert Regula III, Michael DiMichele, Keith Collins, Paul Wittman, Angelo Nanna, John D. Cristello, Charles Noe, Raymond Frazier, Vincent Logiudice, John T. Murphy, George A. Weisner,
Robert W. Errico, Hopeton White, Joseph J. Daley, Michael Moccia, Jr., Joseph J. DeCarlo,
John Cole, Tamela Riley, Scott Wittens, James Robinson, Michael W. Corbett, Antonio Spagnuolo, Stephen Meszaros, Hugh F. Gallagher, Kenneth Armstrong, Carmen L. Rivera, Kenneth Fields, Alexander Reid, Jr., Valerie Whitehead, Thomas Sansone, Doris Floyd, Kenneth Roe, Robert Whiting, David Fitzgerald, Harold G. Young, Mary Slamin, Ray Petrucci, Earl Wilson, Peter Gillies,
Gerard Tenner, Warren Stephens, Douglas Stockheimer, Cynthia Diane Carver, Donald T. Leone, Theodore Dowie, Mary N. Shelton, Michael Trollinger, Louis J. Ballas, Jr.
THE COUNTY IS HOLDING A MEETING ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 RE: RECONSTRUCTION/REPLACEMENT OF THE CRANE ROAD VIADUCT BRONX RIVER PARKWAY OVER THE BRONX RIVER AND METRO NORTH AT THE COUNTY CENTER. THE MEETING STARTS AT 7: pm.
Paul Feiner
Honoring Town of Greenburgh Employees who have served the Town for 25 Years or more;
Robert Ficker, John A. Kapica, Gregory Manco, Eugene W. Daley, John J. Herighty, Jr.,
Albert Regula III, Michael DiMichele, Keith Collins, Paul Wittman, Angelo Nanna, John D. Cristello, Charles Noe, Raymond Frazier, Vincent Logiudice, John T. Murphy, George A. Weisner,
Robert W. Errico, Hopeton White, Joseph J. Daley, Michael Moccia, Jr., Joseph J. DeCarlo,
John Cole, Tamela Riley, Scott Wittens, James Robinson, Michael W. Corbett, Antonio Spagnuolo, Stephen Meszaros, Hugh F. Gallagher, Kenneth Armstrong, Carmen L. Rivera, Kenneth Fields, Alexander Reid, Jr., Valerie Whitehead, Thomas Sansone, Doris Floyd, Kenneth Roe, Robert Whiting, David Fitzgerald, Harold G. Young, Mary Slamin, Ray Petrucci, Earl Wilson, Peter Gillies,
Gerard Tenner, Warren Stephens, Douglas Stockheimer, Cynthia Diane Carver, Donald T. Leone, Theodore Dowie, Mary N. Shelton, Michael Trollinger, Louis J. Ballas, Jr.
THE COUNTY IS HOLDING A MEETING ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 RE: RECONSTRUCTION/REPLACEMENT OF THE CRANE ROAD VIADUCT BRONX RIVER PARKWAY OVER THE BRONX RIVER AND METRO NORTH AT THE COUNTY CENTER. THE MEETING STARTS AT 7: pm.
Paul Feiner
Thursday, October 04, 2007
HALLOWEEN IDEA----CLOSE LONGVIEW AVE FOR BLOCK PARTY IN EDGEMONT
Over the years there has been lots of mischief of Longview Ave during halloween. The police have stepped up the presence by increasing patrols. A suggestion has been made to close the street, have a neighborhood block party which would encourage family fun and discourage mischief. What do you think?
Are there any other streets where we could do the same thing?
Are there any other streets where we could do the same thing?
Monday, October 01, 2007
HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL CLEAN UP DAY FRIDAY/SATURDAY...SHRED MOBILE AVAILABLE..VETERAN TOWN PARK
The county is planning to bring the household chemical clean up day to Greenburgh this Friday and Saturday, October 5th and 6th. Bring household chemicals and other hazardous wastes to Veteran park this Friday from 1 to 3 PM. On Saturday, you can bring the chemicals/waste to the park from 9 AM to 3 PM.
Residents can bring properly labeled household chemicals such as antifreeze, brake fluid, gasoline, kerosene, metal polishes, pesticides and herbicides, septic tank and swimming pool cleaners and wood preservatives to the park. Cell phones, computer monitors and TVs also contain high levels of toxic chemicals. Proper disposal of these items at Household Chemical Days will enable us to keep these types of harmful toxins out of the waste stream.
The Shred mobile will also be available for Westchester residents at the 2007 chemical clean up days. The shred mobile is available to residents to shred confidential papers. Paper generated by businesses is not acceptable at these events. Each resident may bring a maximum of 4 file boxes. All paper must be freed of clips, bindings, folders and files. No bound or hardcover ledger books are allowed.
PAUL FEINER
Residents can bring properly labeled household chemicals such as antifreeze, brake fluid, gasoline, kerosene, metal polishes, pesticides and herbicides, septic tank and swimming pool cleaners and wood preservatives to the park. Cell phones, computer monitors and TVs also contain high levels of toxic chemicals. Proper disposal of these items at Household Chemical Days will enable us to keep these types of harmful toxins out of the waste stream.
The Shred mobile will also be available for Westchester residents at the 2007 chemical clean up days. The shred mobile is available to residents to shred confidential papers. Paper generated by businesses is not acceptable at these events. Each resident may bring a maximum of 4 file boxes. All paper must be freed of clips, bindings, folders and files. No bound or hardcover ledger books are allowed.
PAUL FEINER
GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY-POST YOUR COMMENTS- WEEK OF OCTOBER 1
Please post your comments on any town issues.
BUDGET PREPARATION
Town Bd to be asked to hire accountant for up to $5000 to help Supervisor prepare budget and keep taxes down. VOTE ON TUESDAY
BUDGET PREPARATION
Town Bd to be asked to hire accountant for up to $5000 to help Supervisor prepare budget and keep taxes down. VOTE ON TUESDAY
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