Sonja Brown & Kevin Morgan assume office as our new Greenburgh Town Board members tonight at midnight. And, Judith Beville will be the new Town Clerk. Three swearing in ceremonies are being held: Thursday, January 3 9:15 AM at Bailey School (Hillside Ave); Friday, January 4th at 9:15 AM at the NY School for the Deaf (Knollwood Road) and on Wednesday January 9th at 7:30 PM at the first meeting of the Greenburgh Town Board, Town Hall. Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner will also be sworn into office at the same times.
OPEN GOVERNMENT
Supervisor Feiner, Councilmembers-elect Sonja Brown, Kevin Morgan & Judith Beville announced some major open government initiatives:
1) Work sessions will be televised by the Town Board.
2) Work sessions will be streamed live on the internet so people can watch the work sessions if they are unable to get to Town Hall.
3) The Town Board meetings will be streamed live on the internet.
4) All agendas of work sessions will be posted 24 hours in advance of work session meetings. In the past agendas were not posted until the mid morning of the afternoon work session.
5) The public will have two opportunities to speak at each meeting—at the beginning of each Town Board meeting and at the end of the meeting. Meetings of the Town Board will start at 7:30 PM. From 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM residents will have the chance to speak on any town topic for up to 3 minutes. Residents can sign up in advance of the meeting by contacting the Town Clerks office and will be told how many other speakers previously signed up to speak. Residents can also sign up at the Board meeting. This will enable people to schedule themselves appropriately. Those who wish to speak on topics will not have to wait till the end of the meeting to express their views on issues. At the end of the meeting (after the Town Board votes on legislative initiatives) the public will have a chance to speak again – for up to five minutes.
6) All meetings of the Town Board will end no later than 11 PM.
7) Written minutes of Town Board meetings will also be posted on the town web site. In the past written minutes of the Board meetings were not posted on the web site, making it difficult for residents to review records of past meetings.
FINANCIAL INITIATIVES
1) By March 1st a plan must be presented to the Town Board by the Supervisor regarding posting detailed spending summaries by department on the town web site. We want all spending to be open and transparent.
2) Department heads will no longer be authorized to hire part time/full time staff without consulting members of the Town Board. Before any hiring takes place the department head will be asked to justify the position, advise the Board of the ramifications of keeping positions vacant longer. This new initiative will enable the Board to control and monitor spending and hiring.
TOWN BOARD TO HOLD WORK SESSION (EXECUTIVE SESSION) TO DISCUSS PERSONNEL MATTERS ON Wednesday evening, January 2nd from 7:15 PM to approximately 8:15 PM.
Paul Feiner
Monday, December 31, 2007
TODAY'S JOURNAL NEWS RE: work FOR TAXES editorial
Working off taxes
(Original publication: December 31, 2007)
Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner is a man with no shortage of bold ideas: Remember the town dating service, his problem-solver mobile, his annual salary give-back when he doesn't accomplish a year's worth of goals? But having big ideas is one thing. Turning them into workable public policy is another.
This time Feiner, who was recently elected to a ninth term in office, has decided to take on one of the most vexing issues in the Lower Hudson Valley, property taxes.
Understanding that senior citizens on a fixed income are among the hardest hit by Westchester's ever-increasing property-tax burden, Feiner has proposed letting those 60 years and older work off part of their town tax bill. Under the plan, seniors could work in Town Hall and other municipal departments for $7 an hour, and earn up to $700. Feiner has set aside $12,500 in the 2008 budget to give the program a trial run this spring with about 25 seniors.
It is clear that seniors need some relief, and we applaud Feiner for the attempt. In addition, the proposal may have beneficial side effects, including the structure that a part-time job can provide to those who may find the days of retirement too long to fill and too isolating to enjoy.
But make no mistake, in a region where property taxes on even a modest house can hover in the stratosphere, the relief by the tax work-off program will be minimal at best, and, as always, the devil is in the details. Feiner has said that he would lobby the state Legislature and Congress to be able to work out some kind of work-for-taxes swap, instead of giving seniors a paycheck that would be subject to income-tax deductions. Massachusetts offers a state income-tax exemption for its work-for-taxes program; perhaps something similar could be worked out in the Empire State.
Still, the savings from a part-time gig with the town, however well-intentioned and loaded with ancillary benefits the proposal might be, won't go far enough toward solving the high-tax dilemma that property owners of all ages face in the Lower Hudson Valley. For that, Feiner and other municipal officials must hold the line on local spending. And elected officials throughout the region simply must look to consolidation of services, municipalities and school districts to reduce the property tax burden driving people, especially seniors, away.
(Original publication: December 31, 2007)
Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner is a man with no shortage of bold ideas: Remember the town dating service, his problem-solver mobile, his annual salary give-back when he doesn't accomplish a year's worth of goals? But having big ideas is one thing. Turning them into workable public policy is another.
This time Feiner, who was recently elected to a ninth term in office, has decided to take on one of the most vexing issues in the Lower Hudson Valley, property taxes.
Understanding that senior citizens on a fixed income are among the hardest hit by Westchester's ever-increasing property-tax burden, Feiner has proposed letting those 60 years and older work off part of their town tax bill. Under the plan, seniors could work in Town Hall and other municipal departments for $7 an hour, and earn up to $700. Feiner has set aside $12,500 in the 2008 budget to give the program a trial run this spring with about 25 seniors.
It is clear that seniors need some relief, and we applaud Feiner for the attempt. In addition, the proposal may have beneficial side effects, including the structure that a part-time job can provide to those who may find the days of retirement too long to fill and too isolating to enjoy.
But make no mistake, in a region where property taxes on even a modest house can hover in the stratosphere, the relief by the tax work-off program will be minimal at best, and, as always, the devil is in the details. Feiner has said that he would lobby the state Legislature and Congress to be able to work out some kind of work-for-taxes swap, instead of giving seniors a paycheck that would be subject to income-tax deductions. Massachusetts offers a state income-tax exemption for its work-for-taxes program; perhaps something similar could be worked out in the Empire State.
Still, the savings from a part-time gig with the town, however well-intentioned and loaded with ancillary benefits the proposal might be, won't go far enough toward solving the high-tax dilemma that property owners of all ages face in the Lower Hudson Valley. For that, Feiner and other municipal officials must hold the line on local spending. And elected officials throughout the region simply must look to consolidation of services, municipalities and school districts to reduce the property tax burden driving people, especially seniors, away.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
WORK FOR TAXES CONCEPT ALMOST BECAME LAW IN NYS
-----Original Message-----
From: Paul Arfin [mailto:igstrats@optonline.net]
Sent: Friday, December 14, 2007 9:02 PM
To: Paul Feiner
Subject: Senior Property Tax Workoff Program
Two years ago, I introduced Assemblyman Steve Englebright, the then-chair of the Assembly Aging Committee to the Massachusetts Sr. Property Tax Workoff Program. He loved it. I drafted the bill which was then refined by the legislative experts. Englebright then secured the support of Senator Martin Golden to the measure. In that session, the legislation was brought to the Ways and Means Committee where some NYC folks objected to some of the terms. Last year, those objections were allayed with the result that the legislation passed both houses and placed on the Governor’s desk for signature.
The Governor didn’t sign the bill, not because he didn’t support it, but because it was many bills that got lost in the pile at the end of the session when the Big issues were stalemated.
I would be happy to work with you to make sure the bill is re-entered and signed in the new session.
Paul Arfin
Intergenerational Strategies
From: Paul Arfin [mailto:igstrats@optonline.net]
Sent: Friday, December 14, 2007 9:02 PM
To: Paul Feiner
Subject: Senior Property Tax Workoff Program
Two years ago, I introduced Assemblyman Steve Englebright, the then-chair of the Assembly Aging Committee to the Massachusetts Sr. Property Tax Workoff Program. He loved it. I drafted the bill which was then refined by the legislative experts. Englebright then secured the support of Senator Martin Golden to the measure. In that session, the legislation was brought to the Ways and Means Committee where some NYC folks objected to some of the terms. Last year, those objections were allayed with the result that the legislation passed both houses and placed on the Governor’s desk for signature.
The Governor didn’t sign the bill, not because he didn’t support it, but because it was many bills that got lost in the pile at the end of the session when the Big issues were stalemated.
I would be happy to work with you to make sure the bill is re-entered and signed in the new session.
Paul Arfin
Intergenerational Strategies
VACANCY ON LIBRARY BOARD
I received a letter from the President of the Library Board advising that there will be a vacancy on the Library Board. Ginger Grant, a member of the Library Board, is resigning. The Town Board is required, by law, to make the appointment which will expire in December, 2011. If you are interested in being considered please e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com and cc townboard@greenburghny.com.
This Board is important. Unlike other Boards – the Library Board is semi independent. The Town Board approves a budget for the library. The library has the ability to shift funds without obtaining approval by the Town Board. For example—we can fund the cybermobile. The Library Board could then cut the cybermobile and use the funds that we identified for the cybermobile for any other purpose they choose. The library claims it is “an independent autonomous and education corporation charted by the Board of Regents” and does not have to answer to the Town Board once it receives a budget.
Last week the Library Board decided to eliminate the cybermobile and to close the library on Sunday’s. I strongly object to these cuts. They are not necessary. I feel that many of the library purchases could/should be deferred until AFTER the new library opens. Construction will not be completed until at least October, 2008. I am interested in knowing how potential candidates for this vacancy feel about both the cybermobile and Sunday hours.
I would also be interested to know Library Board candidates views on creating an independent Library District. An independent library district would have their annual budgets approved by the voters each year. And, Library Board members would be elected by the people.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
This Board is important. Unlike other Boards – the Library Board is semi independent. The Town Board approves a budget for the library. The library has the ability to shift funds without obtaining approval by the Town Board. For example—we can fund the cybermobile. The Library Board could then cut the cybermobile and use the funds that we identified for the cybermobile for any other purpose they choose. The library claims it is “an independent autonomous and education corporation charted by the Board of Regents” and does not have to answer to the Town Board once it receives a budget.
Last week the Library Board decided to eliminate the cybermobile and to close the library on Sunday’s. I strongly object to these cuts. They are not necessary. I feel that many of the library purchases could/should be deferred until AFTER the new library opens. Construction will not be completed until at least October, 2008. I am interested in knowing how potential candidates for this vacancy feel about both the cybermobile and Sunday hours.
I would also be interested to know Library Board candidates views on creating an independent Library District. An independent library district would have their annual budgets approved by the voters each year. And, Library Board members would be elected by the people.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
THIS IS WHAT A CONCORD, NH NEWSPAPER HAS TO SAY ABOUT THE WORK FOR TAXES PROPOSAL
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Concord Monitor December 29. 2007 12:25AM
Forget, for a moment, the holiday bills due next month. Reflect instead on the senior citizens who struggle year after year with property taxes that threaten to erase Social Security and pension incomes, deplete their savings and force them to move out of the homes where they raised their families and became valued members of the community.
Officials in a high-tax suburb of New York City are pondering a plan that would provide relief by letting seniors pay property tax bills by working as crossing guards, library assistants and after-school tutors, and perhaps even providing advice from their professional backgrounds as accountants and lawyers - all for $7 an hour.
The proposal by Greenburgh, New York's supervisor, Paul Feiner, has sparked considerable interest. Seniors and their advocates imagine filling idle hours with productive work, whittling down their financial burdens, and staying in familiar surroundings. Says Feiner, "People shouldn't have to sell their house, move away to a place with less taxes, leave behind their family and friends."
Greenburgh wouldn't be the first to initiate such a plan. Boulder County, Colo. has had a program in place for two decades and it's proven so popular that there are now 250 applicants for fewer than 100 positions. Communities in Massachusetts and South Carolina also offer a sort of property tax workfare. And it's not so hard to imagine public officials in New Hampshire and Vermont proposing a similar plan to help long-time residents stay in homes even as land values and tax bills soar.
But wait a minute. While the property tax workfare plan has some promising elements (and not just for seniors; what town wouldn't love to have a retired New York lawyer providing advice for seven bucks an hour?), it wouldn't deliver much financial relief. Property tax bills in Westchester County, where Greenburgh is located, can easily top $10,000 a year (a figure that's not hard to imagine in some Upper Valley towns). But the workfare program would allow the seniors who get in to reduce that debt by only about $500.
Some in Greenburgh suspect a political smokescreen. The supervisor, who is elected, floated the idea as officials were mulling a property tax increase of nearly 20 percent for residents in some parts of town. According to The New York Times, one town councilman, Steve Bass, accuses Feiner of using the proposal "to distract from the main problem."
Whatever its problems and political calculations, the idea has some merit. First, it recognizes the importance of a community doing something to help its eldest residents stay in their homes. And by exploring the idea of employing them in public roles, it reinforces the value of keeping seniors connected with their neighbors in ways that enrich young and old.
But the effort can't stop there. The key to providing real property tax relief is to shift the burden of paying for schools and other public services away from the property tax and onto levies tied to residents' ability to pay. If local residents and officials also use some of their energies to bring about such reforms on the state level, that $7-an-hour idea might end up being worth a whole lot more.
Concord Monitor December 29. 2007 12:25AM
Forget, for a moment, the holiday bills due next month. Reflect instead on the senior citizens who struggle year after year with property taxes that threaten to erase Social Security and pension incomes, deplete their savings and force them to move out of the homes where they raised their families and became valued members of the community.
Officials in a high-tax suburb of New York City are pondering a plan that would provide relief by letting seniors pay property tax bills by working as crossing guards, library assistants and after-school tutors, and perhaps even providing advice from their professional backgrounds as accountants and lawyers - all for $7 an hour.
The proposal by Greenburgh, New York's supervisor, Paul Feiner, has sparked considerable interest. Seniors and their advocates imagine filling idle hours with productive work, whittling down their financial burdens, and staying in familiar surroundings. Says Feiner, "People shouldn't have to sell their house, move away to a place with less taxes, leave behind their family and friends."
Greenburgh wouldn't be the first to initiate such a plan. Boulder County, Colo. has had a program in place for two decades and it's proven so popular that there are now 250 applicants for fewer than 100 positions. Communities in Massachusetts and South Carolina also offer a sort of property tax workfare. And it's not so hard to imagine public officials in New Hampshire and Vermont proposing a similar plan to help long-time residents stay in homes even as land values and tax bills soar.
But wait a minute. While the property tax workfare plan has some promising elements (and not just for seniors; what town wouldn't love to have a retired New York lawyer providing advice for seven bucks an hour?), it wouldn't deliver much financial relief. Property tax bills in Westchester County, where Greenburgh is located, can easily top $10,000 a year (a figure that's not hard to imagine in some Upper Valley towns). But the workfare program would allow the seniors who get in to reduce that debt by only about $500.
Some in Greenburgh suspect a political smokescreen. The supervisor, who is elected, floated the idea as officials were mulling a property tax increase of nearly 20 percent for residents in some parts of town. According to The New York Times, one town councilman, Steve Bass, accuses Feiner of using the proposal "to distract from the main problem."
Whatever its problems and political calculations, the idea has some merit. First, it recognizes the importance of a community doing something to help its eldest residents stay in their homes. And by exploring the idea of employing them in public roles, it reinforces the value of keeping seniors connected with their neighbors in ways that enrich young and old.
But the effort can't stop there. The key to providing real property tax relief is to shift the burden of paying for schools and other public services away from the property tax and onto levies tied to residents' ability to pay. If local residents and officials also use some of their energies to bring about such reforms on the state level, that $7-an-hour idea might end up being worth a whole lot more.
Friday, December 28, 2007
SHOULD LIBRARY BD HAVE PROVIDED PUBLIC WITH ADVANCE NOTICE RE: CLOSING CYBERBOOKMOBILE AND SUNDAY HOURS?
YESTERDAY THE LIBRARY BOARD ANNOUNCED PLANS TO CURTAIL THE POPULAR CYBERBOOKMOBILE AND LIBRARY SUNDAY HOURS. THERE WAS NO PUBLIC NOTICE GIVEN IN ADVANCE OF ANY DECISION THAT THIS MATTER WAS GOING TO BE DISCUSSED BY THE LIBRARY BOARD. I AM REQUESTING THE TOWN ATTORNEY TO PROVIDE MEMBERS OF THE TOWN BOARD WITH AN OPINION AS TO WHETHER THE LIBRARY BOARD VIOLATED THE NY STATE OPEN MEETINGS LAW OR ANY OTHER LAWS. I AM SURE THAT IF THE PUBLIC HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN THAT THIS WAS UNDER CONSIDERATION THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN A LARGE TURNOUT. I AM ALSO CONFIDENT THAT THE PUBLIC WOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO HELP THE LIBRARY BOARD MAKE BETTER DECISIONS AS TO WHAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN CUT.
NY STATE LAW AUTHORIZES THE LIBRARY BOARD TO SHIFT DOLLARS WITHOUT APPROVAL FROM THE TOWN BOARD. I FEEL THAT SINCE THE TOWN BOARD DOES NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO APPROVE LINE ITEMS IN THE BUDGET THAT THE LIBRARY SHOULD BECOME A SEPARATE LIBRARY DISTRICT.
I ALSO BELIEVE THAT LIBRARY BOARD MEMBERS SHOULD BE ELECTED BY THE PEOPLE AND THAT THE BUDGET SHOULD BE APPROVED BY THE VOTERS---THIS IS WHAT IS DONE IN MANY OTHER NY LOCALITIES.
THE ELIMINATION OF THE CYBERBOOKMOBILE AND SUNDAY HOURS BY THE LIBRARY BOARD WAS TOTALLY UNNECESSARY. THE LIBRARY COULD AND SHOULD DEFER SOME SPENDING AND PURCHASES UNTIL AFTER THE NEW LIBRARY OPENS UP.
NY STATE LAW AUTHORIZES THE LIBRARY BOARD TO SHIFT DOLLARS WITHOUT APPROVAL FROM THE TOWN BOARD. I FEEL THAT SINCE THE TOWN BOARD DOES NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO APPROVE LINE ITEMS IN THE BUDGET THAT THE LIBRARY SHOULD BECOME A SEPARATE LIBRARY DISTRICT.
I ALSO BELIEVE THAT LIBRARY BOARD MEMBERS SHOULD BE ELECTED BY THE PEOPLE AND THAT THE BUDGET SHOULD BE APPROVED BY THE VOTERS---THIS IS WHAT IS DONE IN MANY OTHER NY LOCALITIES.
THE ELIMINATION OF THE CYBERBOOKMOBILE AND SUNDAY HOURS BY THE LIBRARY BOARD WAS TOTALLY UNNECESSARY. THE LIBRARY COULD AND SHOULD DEFER SOME SPENDING AND PURCHASES UNTIL AFTER THE NEW LIBRARY OPENS UP.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
LIBRARY BD CUTS CYBER BOOK MOBILE-- I THINK DIFFERENT CUTS COULD HAVE BEEN MADE
THE LIBRARY IS SORT OF INDEPENDENT FROM THE TOWN. THE TOWN BOARD APPOINTS LIBRARY BOARD MEMBERS. THE TOWN BOARD APPROVES A BUDGET FOR THE LIBRARY. HOWEVER--THE LIBRARY BOARD HAS THE AUTHORITY, UNDER NY STATE LAW, TO SHIFT LINE ITEMS IN THE BUDGET WITHOUT CONSULTING THE TOWN BOARD. THEY HAVE TO LIVE WITH THE TOTAL BUDGET THAT THE BOARD GIVES THEM.
TODAY, THE LIBRARY BOARD DECIDED TO ELIMINATE THE CYBER-BOOKMOBILE. THEY ALSO ANNOUNCED PLANS TO CUT LIBRARY SERVICES ON SUNDAY.
THE LIBRARY BOARD IS WRONG. THE NEW LIBRARY WILL NOT BE FINISHED UNTIL OCTOBER. MUCH OF THE LIBRARY BOOKS, VIDEO'S, ETC.. ARE CURRENTLY IN STORAGE (OVER 70%). THE LIBRARY COULD DEFER ADDITIONAL SPENDING UNTIL AFTER THE NEW LIBRARY OPENS.
IF THE LIBRARY WOULD DEFER SOME PURCHASES UNTIL AFTER THE NEW LIBRARY OPENS THERE WOULD BE NO NEED TO CUT THE CYBER-BOOK MOBILE OR TO CUT LIBRARY SERVICES ON SUNDAY.
I HAVE ALSO CALLED ON THE LIBRARY TO BECOME A SEPARATE AND INDEPENDENT LIBRARY DISTRICT. AN INDEPENDENT LIBRARY DISTRICT WOULD PRESENT THEIR PROPOSED BUDGET TO THE VOTERS EACH YEAR INSTEAD OF TO THE TOWN BOARD. AN INDEPENDENT LIBRARY BOARD WOULD ALSO BE ELECTED BY THE PEOPLE.
TODAY, THE LIBRARY BOARD DECIDED TO ELIMINATE THE CYBER-BOOKMOBILE. THEY ALSO ANNOUNCED PLANS TO CUT LIBRARY SERVICES ON SUNDAY.
THE LIBRARY BOARD IS WRONG. THE NEW LIBRARY WILL NOT BE FINISHED UNTIL OCTOBER. MUCH OF THE LIBRARY BOOKS, VIDEO'S, ETC.. ARE CURRENTLY IN STORAGE (OVER 70%). THE LIBRARY COULD DEFER ADDITIONAL SPENDING UNTIL AFTER THE NEW LIBRARY OPENS.
IF THE LIBRARY WOULD DEFER SOME PURCHASES UNTIL AFTER THE NEW LIBRARY OPENS THERE WOULD BE NO NEED TO CUT THE CYBER-BOOK MOBILE OR TO CUT LIBRARY SERVICES ON SUNDAY.
I HAVE ALSO CALLED ON THE LIBRARY TO BECOME A SEPARATE AND INDEPENDENT LIBRARY DISTRICT. AN INDEPENDENT LIBRARY DISTRICT WOULD PRESENT THEIR PROPOSED BUDGET TO THE VOTERS EACH YEAR INSTEAD OF TO THE TOWN BOARD. AN INDEPENDENT LIBRARY BOARD WOULD ALSO BE ELECTED BY THE PEOPLE.
EDGEMONT'S JUDY DORROS FEATURED ON ABC TV WORLD NEWS RE: WORK FOR TAXES
THE PROPOSED WORK FOR TAXES PROGRAM for Greenburgh has been receiving national attention in recent days. Judy Dorros, an Edgemont resident, was featured on ABC TV World news this evening. The work for taxes initiative provides seniors with the opportunity to work off part of their taxes by doing community service work. Over one hundred communities around the nation (including Boston and Boulder) already offer seniors this option.
I received an e mail from a resident of Suffolk County advising me that the NY State Legislature approved the concept during the final days of the Pataki administration (approved by the Assembly & Senate) but the Governor neglected to sign the law authorizing tax credits. Some elected officials from around the state have contacted me during the past few days expressing interest in joining a coalition to push for legislation to be approved in 2008.
I received an e mail from a resident of Suffolk County advising me that the NY State Legislature approved the concept during the final days of the Pataki administration (approved by the Assembly & Senate) but the Governor neglected to sign the law authorizing tax credits. Some elected officials from around the state have contacted me during the past few days expressing interest in joining a coalition to push for legislation to be approved in 2008.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
TOWN BD VOTES APPROVES BUDGET--TAX HIKES REDUCED SLIGHTLY
The Greenburgh Town Board approved the 2008 budget by a vote of 3-2 on Wednesday night. Voting for the budget: Supervisor Paul Feiner, Council members Francis Sheehan, Diana Juettner. Voting against the budget: Council members Steve Bass, Eddie Mae Barnes.
The proposed tax hike of 23% for residents of unincorporated Greenburgh was decreased to 19.4%. The town has an A budget (which is paid for by residents of unincorporated Greenburgh and the villages). There will be a 34.4% TAX REDUCTION IN THAT BUDGET. The A budget is very small –there have been major shifts in percentages in the past. Some years there have been big tax hikes –other years tax cuts. The percentages are big. The dollar amount is very small.
HOW DOES THIS TAX HIKE IMPACT YOU FINANCIALLY?
A property owner in unincorporated Greenburgh will see an increase of $348.66 equating to $2140.82 based upon a 15,000 dollar assessed value. REMEMBER: The town portion of your taxes is less than 20% of your entire tax bill.
A property owner in the villages will see a decrease of $31.93 in their tax bill. The average resident of a village will be paying the town $60.83 (sixty dollars and eighty three cents) based upon a $15,000 assessed value. The town provides very few services to the villages –villages have their own municipal governments.
NO ONE WHO VOTED FOR THE 2008 BUDGET IS HAPPY ---WHAT SHOULD BE DONE IN THE FUTURE?
1) We need to rely less on fund balance. The goal: Revenues should be closer to expenses.
2) We need to conduct a very comprehensive analysis & management review of all departments. A citizens budget committee and management review committee will be formed in early January to help oversee this review. The first meeting: Thursday, January 10th at 7:15 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall. We need to be open to new ideas re: restructuring the way government operates. I am very pleased that the town and Village of Dobbs Ferry have signed on to a study on sharing some police services.
3) Our budget needs to be more transparent. I believe that much more info about spending and programs should be posted on our web site. Comprehensive information about every program (costs, number of participants, revenues) should also be released to the public and posted on the web site.
4) Before we fund new programs – we should find equivalent cuts to offset the additional costs.
5) We need to look for ways to increase revenues. I am planning to schedule a land use summit on Tuesday January 15th at 7:30 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall.
6) We will aggressively seek additional grants to keep taxes down.
7) We had two consecutive zero percent tax hikes in unincorporated Greenburgh (2006 and 2007). Voters want stability and predictability. In retrospect, we should have had gradual tax hikes each year rather than two years of no tax hikes.
The proposed tax hike of 23% for residents of unincorporated Greenburgh was decreased to 19.4%. The town has an A budget (which is paid for by residents of unincorporated Greenburgh and the villages). There will be a 34.4% TAX REDUCTION IN THAT BUDGET. The A budget is very small –there have been major shifts in percentages in the past. Some years there have been big tax hikes –other years tax cuts. The percentages are big. The dollar amount is very small.
HOW DOES THIS TAX HIKE IMPACT YOU FINANCIALLY?
A property owner in unincorporated Greenburgh will see an increase of $348.66 equating to $2140.82 based upon a 15,000 dollar assessed value. REMEMBER: The town portion of your taxes is less than 20% of your entire tax bill.
A property owner in the villages will see a decrease of $31.93 in their tax bill. The average resident of a village will be paying the town $60.83 (sixty dollars and eighty three cents) based upon a $15,000 assessed value. The town provides very few services to the villages –villages have their own municipal governments.
NO ONE WHO VOTED FOR THE 2008 BUDGET IS HAPPY ---WHAT SHOULD BE DONE IN THE FUTURE?
1) We need to rely less on fund balance. The goal: Revenues should be closer to expenses.
2) We need to conduct a very comprehensive analysis & management review of all departments. A citizens budget committee and management review committee will be formed in early January to help oversee this review. The first meeting: Thursday, January 10th at 7:15 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall. We need to be open to new ideas re: restructuring the way government operates. I am very pleased that the town and Village of Dobbs Ferry have signed on to a study on sharing some police services.
3) Our budget needs to be more transparent. I believe that much more info about spending and programs should be posted on our web site. Comprehensive information about every program (costs, number of participants, revenues) should also be released to the public and posted on the web site.
4) Before we fund new programs – we should find equivalent cuts to offset the additional costs.
5) We need to look for ways to increase revenues. I am planning to schedule a land use summit on Tuesday January 15th at 7:30 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall.
6) We will aggressively seek additional grants to keep taxes down.
7) We had two consecutive zero percent tax hikes in unincorporated Greenburgh (2006 and 2007). Voters want stability and predictability. In retrospect, we should have had gradual tax hikes each year rather than two years of no tax hikes.
SWEARING IN CEREMONIES..BUDGET COMMITTEE
The new members of the Town Board (Sonja Brown, Kevin Morgan and Town Clerk Judith Beville and I) will begin our new terms of office with two swearing in ceremonies at local schools: Bailey School ( Thursday, January 3rd at 9:15 AM), NY School for the Deaf (Friday, January 4th at 9:15 AM). The first Town Board meeting of 2008 will take place on Wednesday January 9th at 7:30 PM.
The first meeting of the citizens budget/management committee will take place on Thursday evening, January 10 at 7:15 PM at Town Hall. If you have management/budget experience and would like to get involved in the budget/management committee please e mail me your resume: pfeiner@greenburghny.com
The first meeting of the citizens budget/management committee will take place on Thursday evening, January 10 at 7:15 PM at Town Hall. If you have management/budget experience and would like to get involved in the budget/management committee please e mail me your resume: pfeiner@greenburghny.com
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
MEETING ON JANUARY 14TH TO DISCUSS E HARTSDALE AVE PARKING
THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE AFFECTED BY PARKING RULES ON EAST HARTSDALE AVENUE. At a meeting of the Town Board held on Monday, December 17, the Board acted to rescind the Snow Parking regulations that they adopted for East Hartsdale Avenue on November 28. The action was taken in response to requests from the Chief of Police and Commissioner of Public Works who indicated that the law both endangered the public safety and hindered snow removal operations. During two comparatively insignificant events occurring on December 13 and December 16, vehicles that remained parked on the street long after Snow Emergencies had been declared, hampered snow removal operations. Addressing this required the assignment of substantial police resources, taking them away from other public safety duties within the township. The Snow Parking regulations that previously applied to East Hartsdale Avenue have been reinstituted. These prohibit the parking of vehicles December 1 through March 15 from 1:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. The new signs have already been removed and notices advising of the change will be distributed to retailers and residential buildings along the avenue. Press releases to the Journal News and Scarsdale Inquirer are also being prepared and warnings will be placed on cars parked on the avenue during the overnight hours through Sunday, December 23, after which enforcement of the 1:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. ban will begin. The Police department is inviting interested parties to a meeting scheduled for Monday, January 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Oporto Restaurant, 187 East Hartsdale Avenue to further discuss this matter and solicit additional opinions as to what can be done to address the parking situation on East Hartsdale Avenue.
Chief John Kapica
Chief John Kapica
FEINER GIVES BACK $1376 of SALARY-- MET 50 OF 69 GOALS
Every year, since 1999, Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner has released goals at the beginning of the year. He voluntarily places $5000 of his salary in an escrow account. At the end of the year the Town Board evaluates his performance, based on implementation of goals. Feiner returns part of his salary to the taxpayers. On January 1, 2006 the NEW YORK TIMES wrote an editorial. They said 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.” The Greenburgh Town Board voted on Tuesday, December 18th to direct Supervisor Feiner to give back $1376 and to keep $3,623. Feiner reached 50 out of the 69 goals. Last year Feiner gave back $1,029.41.
A summary of the goals is posted below. Goals 6, 7, 10, 11, 21, 24, 30, 32, 37, 40, 50, 51, 53, 56, 57, 58, 62, 64, 66 were not achieved. This year, for the first time, Feiner did not receive partial credits for reaching any of the goals.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
1. Appoint members of the Affordable Housing Committee that the Town Board established last year. Done – appointments made at March 14th Town Board meeting
ASSESSOR
2. Move the STAR office into the actual Assessment Department in order for better utilization of space DONE
3. Update GIS to facilitate better usage between departments and the public. Approved in capital budget DONE
ATTORNEY
4. Have all departments utilize standard documentation retention and email retention policy DONE
5. Reduce the use of outside counsel DONE
6. Finalize policy of subdivision by deed NOT DONE
7.Increase fines for construction work without permits NOT DONE
BUILDING
8. Scan historic permits into database. DONE
9. Post and update court dispositions on website. DONE
CABLE TV
10. Approve franchise agreement with cablevision not done
COMMUNITY CENTER OUTREACH
11. Start SAT preparation summer camp for students not done
12. Initiate at least one new program to prepare young people to meet challenges of adolescence and young adulthood. Also, initiate a new program for entire family. The program could include family fun night, game night, movie or leisure trips DONE Programs included Yaffa cultural arts program; Black History Celebration: When the Village Comes Together; Community Super Sunday; Intergenerational Celebration;
13. Upgrade internal communications– provide Board with memo indicating how this was done. done (10/03)
COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
14. Save Community Hospital at Dobbs Ferry – work with State lawmakers, hospital administrators & community on plan so hospital will not close down at end of 2007. Hospital will not close at end of 2007. Agreement with state being finalized DONE
COMPTROLLER/FINANCES
15. Conduct an actuarial review to determine the cost of projected post employment benefits, other than pension benefits, as required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No 45. Board hired firm to commence study Feb 28 DONE
16. Review policies for computer and Internet usage DONE
17. Approve fund balance policy DONE 12/17
CON ED
18. Hold meeting with representatives of Con Ed and residents who have experienced frequent power outages. Work with Con Ed to develop proactive measures to help reduce possibility of future outages on streets that have experienced outages. Meeting held – Feb 15 DONE
COURT
19. Obtain funding to keep drug court operational. court will stay operational. Funding secured. Received call from Congresswoman Lowey’s office advising that federal dollars will be given to the court
20. Designate additional funds in fund balance for courthouse expansion Town Board, on Feb 27th, directed comptroller to designate a million dollars in fund balance for court house expansion DONE
EAST HARTSDALE AVE. PARKING
21. Improve security at Hartsdale parking – parking garage, pipeline using updated technology. Internet camera funded not done (camera funded,but not obtained)
22. Formally appoint committee to review parking needs for East Hartsdale Ave residents. Develop preliminary recommendations as to next steps town should take to address parking. committee formed. Committee organized candidates forum. Public hearing held- re: lifting overnight parking ban. Bd experimented with a new parking law. The law was not successful and was repealed. Meeting to come up with additional suggestions scheduled for January. DONE
EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION
23. Recognize employees of the town who have worked for the town for 20 years, 30 years. Long time employees received clocks. DONE
ENERGY CONSERVATION
24. Approve energy conservation policy for commercial development NO I MADE A PROPOSAL TO THE BOARD LAST DECEMBER, AND MET WITH THE PLANNING BOARD IN FEBRUARY TO DISCUSS OPTIONS. IN FOLLOWING UP WITH THE PLANNING BOARD, WAS TOLD THAT THE DESIRE WAS TO INCORPORATE THIS ISSUE INTO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN THAT WILL BE DEVELOPED.] not done
25. Hold public educational event about climate change action HELD GREEN LIVING FAIR AND HAVE ONGOING LOBBY DISPLAY ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION DONE
26. Hold event on energy efficiency for businesses, focusing on Central Ave. area . ORGANIZED, COSPONSORED AND PARTICIPATED IN AN EVENT WITH THE
BUILDING & REALTY INSTITUTE ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY FOR MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS;
MANY OF THOSE ATTENDING OWN OR MANAGE BUILDINGS IN GREENBURGH. DONE
27. Develop a clean transportation plan for town vehicles to include expanding the town’s use of alternative fuel vehicles in its fleet, diesel emissions reductions and vehicle idling reduction in compliance with applicable statute HAVE BEEN WORKING ON PLAN, WILL COMPLETE BY END OF YEAR. WE HAVE ALSO AGREED TO PARTICIPATE IN NYPA'S GREEN ZONES PROGRAM FOR CLEAN-ENERGY OFF-ROAD VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT IN OUR PARKS. Done
28. Implement program to introduce ride sharing and commuter choice options to the public as well as town employees (in order to reduce VMTs, Vehicle Miles Traveled) HELD "COMMUTER TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES INFORMATION" EVENT IN JANUARY.
THIS WEEK WE PROPOSE (PENDING BOARD APPROVAL) TO ANNOUNCE OUR CAMPAIGN TO
PROMOTE RIDE-SHARING THROUGH NURIDE. IN ADDITION, METROPOOL WAS AN EXHIBITOR AT OUR GREEN LIVING FAIR IN APRIL, AND NEXT WEEK I WILL BE TAPING AN INTERVIEW WITH THE CEO OF METROPOOL TO AIR ON THE GREENBURGH CABLE "ENERGY SHOW." Done
FARMERS MARKET
29. Increase the number of farmer’s participating in the farmer’s market on East Hartsdale Avenue. DONE
GREENBURGH NATURE CENTER
30. Present Town Board with options (including acquisition of property/conservation overlay zones/compromise) to protect Greenburgh Nature Center from development that can have a negative impact on wildlife/habitats/eco system. Reach out to state/county/private individuals to determine if a partnership can be established regarding possible acquisition of property not done
LEAF COLLECTION- PUBLIC WORKS
31. Provide additional resources to leaf collection – including additional overtime to employees. Additional overtime authorized for leaf collection. Done - equipment
32. Prepare RFP – investigate use of outside contractors to assist town in collection of leaves Not done
LIBRARY
33. DemolishOld Town Hall. Provide public with periodic updates at Town Board meetings. Stay within budget. demolished old town hall. Periodic updates DONE
34. Work with library on satellite library services(East Hartsdale Ave., Greenburgh Nature Center) if requested by library board. Worked with library on satellite library services. Outdoor furniture donated Town Hall. DONE
35. Present public with quarterly usage reports – indicating how many books taken out of each of the satellite locations Greenburgh Public Library Circulation Statistics January - November 2007 .) Circulation - all Month locations Jan-07 6,553 Feb-07 17,684 Mar-07 22,176 Apr-07 May-07 21,165 Jun-07 24,042 Jul-07 27,643 Aug-07 27,336 Sep-07 22,263 Oct-07 24,171 Nov-07 23,217 TOTAL 216,250 Done
PARKS
36. Landscape and improve park: Webb Field –with funds obtained from federal government. Bid will be awarded at Town Board Meeting 9/26/07. Work will be completed by years end. DONE
37. Build Dog Park,East Rumbrook Park, as part of the Phase II East Rumbrook Park Improvement Project. Funding has been approved and bid documents are being developed. Bid should take place in 2008. Not done.
38. Assist the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Westchester County in developing a children’s garden program at the Hart’s Brook Park & Preserve. Done.
39. Create a new Halloween-Fall Festival special event at the Hart’s Brook Park & Preserve that will utilize the facilities to include a hayride, entertainment and games. Event took place on October 20th. Done.
40. Go out to bid and complete construction of the first phase of for the Travis Hill Park Improvement Project Finalizing bid documents, and hope to go out to bid by the end of 2007. Not done.
41. Re-shingle the restroom roofs at the Anthony Veteran Pool complex. Done
42. Complete entrance beautification for Washington Ave. Park. Done
43. Increase shading at the Massaro Park and Anthony Veteran Park Pool complex. Done.
44. Finalize trail design and complete the building of trails for the Taxter Ridge Park Preserve. Done
45. Organize and host a local Hershey Track and Field Development meet for Greenburgh residents ages 7-14. This track meet will be held in conjunction with the National Recreation and Park Association. Co-sponsorship will also be sought with other village recreation departments in Greenburgh. DONE held on June 9.
46. In addition to the outdoor movie shown at the annual Celebrate Greenburgh Day at Veteran Park, show two other outdoor movies during the summer in other town owned neighborhood parks. Done.
POLICE: CERT TEAM
47. Assist CERT team with efforts to promote program. Publish color brochures. DONE
48. Place a prominent display in the Town Hall lobby encouraging volunteers. DONE
POLICE
49. Complete procedures for and implementation of a credit card bail program that will expedite the release of defendant from police custody. DONE
50. Completion of the federal requirements to make the town compliant with the National Incident Management System (NIMS). Not done.
51. Implementation of pilot project using broadband technology to remotely monitor an area where specific offenses have taken place. funding approved checkmaple camera remotely--camera has not been acquired Not done
PUBLIC WORKS
52. Install generator at Town Hall. generator installed Done
53. Conduct feasibility review: regarding illuminating some signs on key roads. Work with state officials to review feasibility of placing illuminated signs on Central Ave, 119 and 9A. Not done.
PURCHASING
54. Prepare an assessment, which shall be retained as a document (3 ring binders) available to management of products and use practices that will reduce or minimize the risks of harmful effects to employees, custodial workers, visitors and other building occupants and to the environment. DONE
QUALITY OF LIFE
55. Town Board should vote on tree law legislation. approved law concerning tree cutting/ Con Ed Done
56. Present to Town Board proposed abandoned homes legislation Not done
57. Approve moratorium on residential development on Central Avenue. Not done.
58. Hold public hearing on modified sidewalk policy. Not done.
59. Hold meeting with federal/state/county officials re: flood control along Bronx River. Meeting held. Done
RIDGE HILL
60. Appoint members of Direct Access Task Force – Ridge Hill Committee. Provide periodic updates to public regarding status of direct access. Ridge Hill appointees named at Town Board meeting Feb 28 DONE
TAPPAN ZEE BRIDGE
61. Select consultant to assist in reviewing TZ bridge options. vince ferrandino selected to conduct TZ bridge study Done.
TOWN BOARD
62. All meetings of Town Board should end no later than 11:15 PM, unless there is unanimous consent. Not done.
VILLAGES
63. Appoint Joint Task Force consisting of Ardsley/Greenburgh representatives to determine future of waterwheel property. Develop plans for affordable housing at the site for volunteer firefighters, municipal employees. Task Force appointed. Done.
64. Dispose of property at 27 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry. Work with Dobbs Ferry officials. Not done.
65. Incorporate recommendations of State Comptroller re: A & B budget. Continue to have dialogue with village/unincorporated leaders regarding A & B budget issues. Done.
WESTHELP
66. Review state comptroller’s opinion, renegotiate agreement with neighborhood so that intent of WESTHELP partnership agreement previously approved by the Town Board can continue. Not done.
HISTORIAN
67. Assist Greenburgh Library in making its local history collection available to the public during its stay as a satellite libraryat Town Hall. The collection will be located in the town historian’s office. New programs and exhibits to be initiated. The collection has been in the historian's office during 2007, and access has been available to the public either by request at the Library Reference Desk or by contacting the Town Historian for an appointment. The library staff and the historian have also been partnering in efforts to further the conservation and preservation of the collection. Steps have been taken to initiate new programs and exhibits. Done
68. Participate in on going planning stages of Hudson Fulton Champlain celebration scheduled for 2009. Explore town’s role as an original river town. The Town Historian attended an earlier presentation on the celebration by Barbara Fratianni, Deputy Executive Director of the Commission, at which she encouraged communities to participate and plan their own local events. The Greenburgh Greenway Committee (GGC) partnered with the Village of Ardsley and its Greenway Committee and the SAR on a Heritage New York grant project involving the Old Road to Dobbs Ferry. In October of this year six W3R Revolutionary War Heritage Trail markers were installed along the route, four in Ardsley and two in Greenburgh on the Odell House property. A dedication ceremony is planned for some time in the first half of 2008 at the Odell House, which could also be advertised as an H-F-C Quadricentennial event. Work on our other Washington - Rochambeau Greenway grant project will also continue to focus on the importance of the Philipsburg Encampment in 1781, which extended from White Plains through Greenburgh to the Hudson River at Dobbs Ferry..... We should continue to work with the villages on our early history since Greenburgh has always been a river town. We should also continue to work on our Greenway trails that have been proposed to connect to the villages on the Hudson. I also recommend that we should make another attempt to partner in some way with the Historic Rivertowns of Westchester and increase unincorporated Greenburgh's involvement in heritage tourism. Done
69. Work to preserve the town’s important historical buildings and sites, which have been investigated and compiled in a reconnaissance level historic resource survey.
The Town Historian serves as a liaison to the Historic Preservation and Landmark Board (HLPB). Throughout the year, I have been attending the monthly meetings of the HLPB and have worked along with members of the Board, including making field trips, when possible, to visit those buildings and sites that are being considered for their historic value and possible landmark status....As Co-Chairman of the Greenburgh Greenway Committee, I've continued to work on projects involving the preservation of the Odell House (Rochambeau's Headquarters) and the recognition of other important sites of the historic Philipsburg Encampment. Done.
A summary of the goals is posted below. Goals 6, 7, 10, 11, 21, 24, 30, 32, 37, 40, 50, 51, 53, 56, 57, 58, 62, 64, 66 were not achieved. This year, for the first time, Feiner did not receive partial credits for reaching any of the goals.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
1. Appoint members of the Affordable Housing Committee that the Town Board established last year. Done – appointments made at March 14th Town Board meeting
ASSESSOR
2. Move the STAR office into the actual Assessment Department in order for better utilization of space DONE
3. Update GIS to facilitate better usage between departments and the public. Approved in capital budget DONE
ATTORNEY
4. Have all departments utilize standard documentation retention and email retention policy DONE
5. Reduce the use of outside counsel DONE
6. Finalize policy of subdivision by deed NOT DONE
7.Increase fines for construction work without permits NOT DONE
BUILDING
8. Scan historic permits into database. DONE
9. Post and update court dispositions on website. DONE
CABLE TV
10. Approve franchise agreement with cablevision not done
COMMUNITY CENTER OUTREACH
11. Start SAT preparation summer camp for students not done
12. Initiate at least one new program to prepare young people to meet challenges of adolescence and young adulthood. Also, initiate a new program for entire family. The program could include family fun night, game night, movie or leisure trips DONE Programs included Yaffa cultural arts program; Black History Celebration: When the Village Comes Together; Community Super Sunday; Intergenerational Celebration;
13. Upgrade internal communications– provide Board with memo indicating how this was done. done (10/03)
COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
14. Save Community Hospital at Dobbs Ferry – work with State lawmakers, hospital administrators & community on plan so hospital will not close down at end of 2007. Hospital will not close at end of 2007. Agreement with state being finalized DONE
COMPTROLLER/FINANCES
15. Conduct an actuarial review to determine the cost of projected post employment benefits, other than pension benefits, as required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No 45. Board hired firm to commence study Feb 28 DONE
16. Review policies for computer and Internet usage DONE
17. Approve fund balance policy DONE 12/17
CON ED
18. Hold meeting with representatives of Con Ed and residents who have experienced frequent power outages. Work with Con Ed to develop proactive measures to help reduce possibility of future outages on streets that have experienced outages. Meeting held – Feb 15 DONE
COURT
19. Obtain funding to keep drug court operational. court will stay operational. Funding secured. Received call from Congresswoman Lowey’s office advising that federal dollars will be given to the court
20. Designate additional funds in fund balance for courthouse expansion Town Board, on Feb 27th, directed comptroller to designate a million dollars in fund balance for court house expansion DONE
EAST HARTSDALE AVE. PARKING
21. Improve security at Hartsdale parking – parking garage, pipeline using updated technology. Internet camera funded not done (camera funded,but not obtained)
22. Formally appoint committee to review parking needs for East Hartsdale Ave residents. Develop preliminary recommendations as to next steps town should take to address parking. committee formed. Committee organized candidates forum. Public hearing held- re: lifting overnight parking ban. Bd experimented with a new parking law. The law was not successful and was repealed. Meeting to come up with additional suggestions scheduled for January. DONE
EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION
23. Recognize employees of the town who have worked for the town for 20 years, 30 years. Long time employees received clocks. DONE
ENERGY CONSERVATION
24. Approve energy conservation policy for commercial development NO I MADE A PROPOSAL TO THE BOARD LAST DECEMBER, AND MET WITH THE PLANNING BOARD IN FEBRUARY TO DISCUSS OPTIONS. IN FOLLOWING UP WITH THE PLANNING BOARD, WAS TOLD THAT THE DESIRE WAS TO INCORPORATE THIS ISSUE INTO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN THAT WILL BE DEVELOPED.] not done
25. Hold public educational event about climate change action HELD GREEN LIVING FAIR AND HAVE ONGOING LOBBY DISPLAY ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION DONE
26. Hold event on energy efficiency for businesses, focusing on Central Ave. area . ORGANIZED, COSPONSORED AND PARTICIPATED IN AN EVENT WITH THE
BUILDING & REALTY INSTITUTE ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY FOR MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS;
MANY OF THOSE ATTENDING OWN OR MANAGE BUILDINGS IN GREENBURGH. DONE
27. Develop a clean transportation plan for town vehicles to include expanding the town’s use of alternative fuel vehicles in its fleet, diesel emissions reductions and vehicle idling reduction in compliance with applicable statute HAVE BEEN WORKING ON PLAN, WILL COMPLETE BY END OF YEAR. WE HAVE ALSO AGREED TO PARTICIPATE IN NYPA'S GREEN ZONES PROGRAM FOR CLEAN-ENERGY OFF-ROAD VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT IN OUR PARKS. Done
28. Implement program to introduce ride sharing and commuter choice options to the public as well as town employees (in order to reduce VMTs, Vehicle Miles Traveled) HELD "COMMUTER TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES INFORMATION" EVENT IN JANUARY.
THIS WEEK WE PROPOSE (PENDING BOARD APPROVAL) TO ANNOUNCE OUR CAMPAIGN TO
PROMOTE RIDE-SHARING THROUGH NURIDE. IN ADDITION, METROPOOL WAS AN EXHIBITOR AT OUR GREEN LIVING FAIR IN APRIL, AND NEXT WEEK I WILL BE TAPING AN INTERVIEW WITH THE CEO OF METROPOOL TO AIR ON THE GREENBURGH CABLE "ENERGY SHOW." Done
FARMERS MARKET
29. Increase the number of farmer’s participating in the farmer’s market on East Hartsdale Avenue. DONE
GREENBURGH NATURE CENTER
30. Present Town Board with options (including acquisition of property/conservation overlay zones/compromise) to protect Greenburgh Nature Center from development that can have a negative impact on wildlife/habitats/eco system. Reach out to state/county/private individuals to determine if a partnership can be established regarding possible acquisition of property not done
LEAF COLLECTION- PUBLIC WORKS
31. Provide additional resources to leaf collection – including additional overtime to employees. Additional overtime authorized for leaf collection. Done - equipment
32. Prepare RFP – investigate use of outside contractors to assist town in collection of leaves Not done
LIBRARY
33. DemolishOld Town Hall. Provide public with periodic updates at Town Board meetings. Stay within budget. demolished old town hall. Periodic updates DONE
34. Work with library on satellite library services(East Hartsdale Ave., Greenburgh Nature Center) if requested by library board. Worked with library on satellite library services. Outdoor furniture donated Town Hall. DONE
35. Present public with quarterly usage reports – indicating how many books taken out of each of the satellite locations Greenburgh Public Library Circulation Statistics January - November 2007 .) Circulation - all Month locations Jan-07 6,553 Feb-07 17,684 Mar-07 22,176 Apr-07 May-07 21,165 Jun-07 24,042 Jul-07 27,643 Aug-07 27,336 Sep-07 22,263 Oct-07 24,171 Nov-07 23,217 TOTAL 216,250 Done
PARKS
36. Landscape and improve park: Webb Field –with funds obtained from federal government. Bid will be awarded at Town Board Meeting 9/26/07. Work will be completed by years end. DONE
37. Build Dog Park,East Rumbrook Park, as part of the Phase II East Rumbrook Park Improvement Project. Funding has been approved and bid documents are being developed. Bid should take place in 2008. Not done.
38. Assist the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Westchester County in developing a children’s garden program at the Hart’s Brook Park & Preserve. Done.
39. Create a new Halloween-Fall Festival special event at the Hart’s Brook Park & Preserve that will utilize the facilities to include a hayride, entertainment and games. Event took place on October 20th. Done.
40. Go out to bid and complete construction of the first phase of for the Travis Hill Park Improvement Project Finalizing bid documents, and hope to go out to bid by the end of 2007. Not done.
41. Re-shingle the restroom roofs at the Anthony Veteran Pool complex. Done
42. Complete entrance beautification for Washington Ave. Park. Done
43. Increase shading at the Massaro Park and Anthony Veteran Park Pool complex. Done.
44. Finalize trail design and complete the building of trails for the Taxter Ridge Park Preserve. Done
45. Organize and host a local Hershey Track and Field Development meet for Greenburgh residents ages 7-14. This track meet will be held in conjunction with the National Recreation and Park Association. Co-sponsorship will also be sought with other village recreation departments in Greenburgh. DONE held on June 9.
46. In addition to the outdoor movie shown at the annual Celebrate Greenburgh Day at Veteran Park, show two other outdoor movies during the summer in other town owned neighborhood parks. Done.
POLICE: CERT TEAM
47. Assist CERT team with efforts to promote program. Publish color brochures. DONE
48. Place a prominent display in the Town Hall lobby encouraging volunteers. DONE
POLICE
49. Complete procedures for and implementation of a credit card bail program that will expedite the release of defendant from police custody. DONE
50. Completion of the federal requirements to make the town compliant with the National Incident Management System (NIMS). Not done.
51. Implementation of pilot project using broadband technology to remotely monitor an area where specific offenses have taken place. funding approved checkmaple camera remotely--camera has not been acquired Not done
PUBLIC WORKS
52. Install generator at Town Hall. generator installed Done
53. Conduct feasibility review: regarding illuminating some signs on key roads. Work with state officials to review feasibility of placing illuminated signs on Central Ave, 119 and 9A. Not done.
PURCHASING
54. Prepare an assessment, which shall be retained as a document (3 ring binders) available to management of products and use practices that will reduce or minimize the risks of harmful effects to employees, custodial workers, visitors and other building occupants and to the environment. DONE
QUALITY OF LIFE
55. Town Board should vote on tree law legislation. approved law concerning tree cutting/ Con Ed Done
56. Present to Town Board proposed abandoned homes legislation Not done
57. Approve moratorium on residential development on Central Avenue. Not done.
58. Hold public hearing on modified sidewalk policy. Not done.
59. Hold meeting with federal/state/county officials re: flood control along Bronx River. Meeting held. Done
RIDGE HILL
60. Appoint members of Direct Access Task Force – Ridge Hill Committee. Provide periodic updates to public regarding status of direct access. Ridge Hill appointees named at Town Board meeting Feb 28 DONE
TAPPAN ZEE BRIDGE
61. Select consultant to assist in reviewing TZ bridge options. vince ferrandino selected to conduct TZ bridge study Done.
TOWN BOARD
62. All meetings of Town Board should end no later than 11:15 PM, unless there is unanimous consent. Not done.
VILLAGES
63. Appoint Joint Task Force consisting of Ardsley/Greenburgh representatives to determine future of waterwheel property. Develop plans for affordable housing at the site for volunteer firefighters, municipal employees. Task Force appointed. Done.
64. Dispose of property at 27 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry. Work with Dobbs Ferry officials. Not done.
65. Incorporate recommendations of State Comptroller re: A & B budget. Continue to have dialogue with village/unincorporated leaders regarding A & B budget issues. Done.
WESTHELP
66. Review state comptroller’s opinion, renegotiate agreement with neighborhood so that intent of WESTHELP partnership agreement previously approved by the Town Board can continue. Not done.
HISTORIAN
67. Assist Greenburgh Library in making its local history collection available to the public during its stay as a satellite libraryat Town Hall. The collection will be located in the town historian’s office. New programs and exhibits to be initiated. The collection has been in the historian's office during 2007, and access has been available to the public either by request at the Library Reference Desk or by contacting the Town Historian for an appointment. The library staff and the historian have also been partnering in efforts to further the conservation and preservation of the collection. Steps have been taken to initiate new programs and exhibits. Done
68. Participate in on going planning stages of Hudson Fulton Champlain celebration scheduled for 2009. Explore town’s role as an original river town. The Town Historian attended an earlier presentation on the celebration by Barbara Fratianni, Deputy Executive Director of the Commission, at which she encouraged communities to participate and plan their own local events. The Greenburgh Greenway Committee (GGC) partnered with the Village of Ardsley and its Greenway Committee and the SAR on a Heritage New York grant project involving the Old Road to Dobbs Ferry. In October of this year six W3R Revolutionary War Heritage Trail markers were installed along the route, four in Ardsley and two in Greenburgh on the Odell House property. A dedication ceremony is planned for some time in the first half of 2008 at the Odell House, which could also be advertised as an H-F-C Quadricentennial event. Work on our other Washington - Rochambeau Greenway grant project will also continue to focus on the importance of the Philipsburg Encampment in 1781, which extended from White Plains through Greenburgh to the Hudson River at Dobbs Ferry..... We should continue to work with the villages on our early history since Greenburgh has always been a river town. We should also continue to work on our Greenway trails that have been proposed to connect to the villages on the Hudson. I also recommend that we should make another attempt to partner in some way with the Historic Rivertowns of Westchester and increase unincorporated Greenburgh's involvement in heritage tourism. Done
69. Work to preserve the town’s important historical buildings and sites, which have been investigated and compiled in a reconnaissance level historic resource survey.
The Town Historian serves as a liaison to the Historic Preservation and Landmark Board (HLPB). Throughout the year, I have been attending the monthly meetings of the HLPB and have worked along with members of the Board, including making field trips, when possible, to visit those buildings and sites that are being considered for their historic value and possible landmark status....As Co-Chairman of the Greenburgh Greenway Committee, I've continued to work on projects involving the preservation of the Odell House (Rochambeau's Headquarters) and the recognition of other important sites of the historic Philipsburg Encampment. Done.
Monday, December 17, 2007
GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY WEEK OF DEC 17 POST YOUR COMMENTS
Please feel free to post your comments about town issues.
BUDGET VOTE THIS WEEK---TONIGHT OR TOMORROW
DID YOU KNOW...that when it snows on a Sunday that employees receive double time? Weeknight and Saturday snow storms: employees who are called for duty receive time and a half. Similar to other labor contracts in communities around the state. Yesterdays storm was not the only Sunday storm.
BUDGET VOTE THIS WEEK---TONIGHT OR TOMORROW
DID YOU KNOW...that when it snows on a Sunday that employees receive double time? Weeknight and Saturday snow storms: employees who are called for duty receive time and a half. Similar to other labor contracts in communities around the state. Yesterdays storm was not the only Sunday storm.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
SHOULD VOTERS HAVE THE RIGHT TO VOTE ON TOWN/County BUDGETS?
New York State law provides for an annual school budget vote. Voters give a thumbs up or down on budgets each year. When school budgets are voted down an austerity budget is approved.
Should NYS law be amended to provide voters with the opportunity to vote on municipal/county budgets each year? There would be more public involvement in the process.
Over the years I have advocated initiative and referendum procedures---I feel that voters should have the right to propose laws, place them on the ballot (after a significant number of signatures are collected) and overrule municipal, county & state officials. What do you think?
Should NYS law be amended to provide voters with the opportunity to vote on municipal/county budgets each year? There would be more public involvement in the process.
Over the years I have advocated initiative and referendum procedures---I feel that voters should have the right to propose laws, place them on the ballot (after a significant number of signatures are collected) and overrule municipal, county & state officials. What do you think?
Thursday, December 13, 2007
HELP A GREENBURGH RESIDENT FROM FAIRVIEW ATTEND INTERNATIONAL SCHOLAR LAUREATE PROGRAM
Jody-Ann Knight, a Greenburgh resident who wants to be an Oral-Surgeon needs your financial help. She was recently nominated to represent her university and community at the Australia Interntional Scholar Laureate Program. She needs to raise funds to attend. Please contribute to her efforts and help this young, dedicated Greenburgh resident achieve her goals and become a future leader in the medical profession.
PAUL FEINER
Dear Mr. Feiner:
My name is Jody-Ann Knight and I am an African–American in my sophomore year at Stony Brook University in Long Island. Recently, I have been nominated to represent my university and community at the Australia International Scholar Laureate Program.
The Australia Medical Program brings exceptional college and university students from around the country to an experiential program. I have taken the liberty to enclose a sample of our itinerary for your review. As you can see, this will be a powerful experience, enabling me to interact with many prominent men and women whom most of us only read about in the news.
Attending the program will enable me to develop my leadership skills and reach my career goals of becoming an Oral-Surgeon. I am majoring in Biology/Pre-dentistry and plan to graduate in 2010. I maintain a 3.8 GPA and in fact am on the National Deans List. I am very adamant in giving back to my community which is why not only am I an active participant to the Residential Safety Program (RSP) at my university but I am also a volunteer at the Westchester Medical Center.
Now imagine if you had been given this opportunity for a life changing experience when you were in
college and were unable to participate for lack of funds. That is why I am writing you today.
My participation in the Australia Medical Program depends on whether I am able to raise $5000 in sponsorships. The program tuition is $5120 and in addition are my travel expenses of $1000. Through my family and personal savings I have already raised $1200.
I am hoping that you will be able to assist me with part of these costs. I have also contacted T-Mobile, JP Morgan Chase, Oprah Winfrey, K-mart and Sears Holding Inc with similar fund-raising requests. My tuition payments must be met no later than January 15, 2007.
Your support for my sponsorship request would be greatly appreciated. I have enclosed background materials on the ISLP program to answer your questions and help you make your decision. Please contact me at (914)434-7112 or ISLP at (800)778-0164 for any further information.
Sincerely
Jody-Ann Knight
�
PAUL FEINER
Dear Mr. Feiner:
My name is Jody-Ann Knight and I am an African–American in my sophomore year at Stony Brook University in Long Island. Recently, I have been nominated to represent my university and community at the Australia International Scholar Laureate Program.
The Australia Medical Program brings exceptional college and university students from around the country to an experiential program. I have taken the liberty to enclose a sample of our itinerary for your review. As you can see, this will be a powerful experience, enabling me to interact with many prominent men and women whom most of us only read about in the news.
Attending the program will enable me to develop my leadership skills and reach my career goals of becoming an Oral-Surgeon. I am majoring in Biology/Pre-dentistry and plan to graduate in 2010. I maintain a 3.8 GPA and in fact am on the National Deans List. I am very adamant in giving back to my community which is why not only am I an active participant to the Residential Safety Program (RSP) at my university but I am also a volunteer at the Westchester Medical Center.
Now imagine if you had been given this opportunity for a life changing experience when you were in
college and were unable to participate for lack of funds. That is why I am writing you today.
My participation in the Australia Medical Program depends on whether I am able to raise $5000 in sponsorships. The program tuition is $5120 and in addition are my travel expenses of $1000. Through my family and personal savings I have already raised $1200.
I am hoping that you will be able to assist me with part of these costs. I have also contacted T-Mobile, JP Morgan Chase, Oprah Winfrey, K-mart and Sears Holding Inc with similar fund-raising requests. My tuition payments must be met no later than January 15, 2007.
Your support for my sponsorship request would be greatly appreciated. I have enclosed background materials on the ISLP program to answer your questions and help you make your decision. Please contact me at (914)434-7112 or ISLP at (800)778-0164 for any further information.
Sincerely
Jody-Ann Knight
�
SNOW ANGEL VOLUNTEERS WANTED...
16 years ago I formed a group: snow angels. Snow angels volunteer their time helping senior citizens and disabled residents who are on fixed incomes clear snow from their driveways. We need additional volunteers. Snow angels can either volunteer their time – helping seniors/disabled residents who are on fixed incomes for free… Or, they can be assigned to residents who can afford to pay for the service.
If you would like to join the snow angel program please contact me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com. Please provide me with your phone number, part of the town that you are willing to go to to shovel out a senior citizen and if you are willing to donate your services or if you expect reimbursement.
IF YOU ARE A SENIOR CITIZEN/DISABLED RESIDENT – and need help with snow removal, please e mail me and I’ll try to match you with a snow angel. During the day I can also be reached at 993-1545. My cell phone is 438-1343 and my home phone is 478-1219. I carry a shovel in the back of my car and participate in the program as a volunteer.
Paul Feiner
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
If you would like to join the snow angel program please contact me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com. Please provide me with your phone number, part of the town that you are willing to go to to shovel out a senior citizen and if you are willing to donate your services or if you expect reimbursement.
IF YOU ARE A SENIOR CITIZEN/DISABLED RESIDENT – and need help with snow removal, please e mail me and I’ll try to match you with a snow angel. During the day I can also be reached at 993-1545. My cell phone is 438-1343 and my home phone is 478-1219. I carry a shovel in the back of my car and participate in the program as a volunteer.
Paul Feiner
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
DEC 19-- PLANNING BD HEARING ON DEMOLITION OF CARVEL PROPERTY, CONSTRUCTION OF NEW BUILDING
DECEMBER 19 PLANNING BOARD HEARING ON DEMOLITION OF CARVEL PROPERTY, NEW BUILDING
Case No. PB 07-08 Fuji Mountain Corp., 95 Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY – Site Plan, Special Permit and Town Planning Board Slopes Permit
A public hearing to review a proposed site plan, special permit and Town Planning Board steep slopes application by Fuji Mountain Corp., which consists of the demolition of the existing building and the proposed construction of a single story 6,300 sq. ft. retail and restaurant building with forty-nine (49) parking spaces. The property is situated on the west side of Central Park Avenue approximately 320 feet from the intersection of South Washington Avenue. The proposed floor area consists of 4,800 sq. ft. of retail space and a 1,500 sq. ft. restaurant. The applicant is proposing the disturbance of approximately 5,039 sq. ft. of area classified as 15-25% slope (STEEP SLOPE), approximately 16,085 sq. ft. of area classified as 25-35% slope (VERY STEEP SLOPE) and approximately 2,697 sq. ft. of area classified as greater than 35% slope (EXCESSIVELY STEEP SLOPE). The subject site is located at in the Central Avenue (CA) Mixed Use Impact Zoning District. The property is designated on the tax map of the Town of Greenburgh as Volume 8, Section 30, Sheet 23, Block 8231, Lots 6,33,34.
Case No. PB 07-08 Fuji Mountain Corp., 95 Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY – Site Plan, Special Permit and Town Planning Board Slopes Permit
A public hearing to review a proposed site plan, special permit and Town Planning Board steep slopes application by Fuji Mountain Corp., which consists of the demolition of the existing building and the proposed construction of a single story 6,300 sq. ft. retail and restaurant building with forty-nine (49) parking spaces. The property is situated on the west side of Central Park Avenue approximately 320 feet from the intersection of South Washington Avenue. The proposed floor area consists of 4,800 sq. ft. of retail space and a 1,500 sq. ft. restaurant. The applicant is proposing the disturbance of approximately 5,039 sq. ft. of area classified as 15-25% slope (STEEP SLOPE), approximately 16,085 sq. ft. of area classified as 25-35% slope (VERY STEEP SLOPE) and approximately 2,697 sq. ft. of area classified as greater than 35% slope (EXCESSIVELY STEEP SLOPE). The subject site is located at in the Central Avenue (CA) Mixed Use Impact Zoning District. The property is designated on the tax map of the Town of Greenburgh as Volume 8, Section 30, Sheet 23, Block 8231, Lots 6,33,34.
Monday, December 10, 2007
OVER 40 UNITS OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING VACANT FOR FOUR PLUS YEARS AT GREENBURGH HOUSING AUTHORITY SITES
The Greenburgh Town Board took a tour of Greenburgh Housing Authority sites on Sunday. The Housing Authority is independent of the the Town Board. However, the Town Board appoints commissioners.
We were advised that over 40 units of affordable housing have been left vacant for over 4 years. The Housing Authority had planned to renovate the units. Unfortunately, there were many, many delays. Over 20 units of affordable housing are currently vacant. This is sad. We have an affordable housing shortage. Leaving so many units vacant COST THE HOUSING AUTHORITY HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN LOST REVENUE. people who desperately need housing were unable to move to Greenburgh.
The Board will be discussing other housing related problems and issues on
TUESDAY, DEC 11
3:45 PM
Greenburgh Town Hall
We were advised that over 40 units of affordable housing have been left vacant for over 4 years. The Housing Authority had planned to renovate the units. Unfortunately, there were many, many delays. Over 20 units of affordable housing are currently vacant. This is sad. We have an affordable housing shortage. Leaving so many units vacant COST THE HOUSING AUTHORITY HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN LOST REVENUE. people who desperately need housing were unable to move to Greenburgh.
The Board will be discussing other housing related problems and issues on
TUESDAY, DEC 11
3:45 PM
Greenburgh Town Hall
BOSTON, AUGUSTA, BOULDER LET SENIORS WORK OFF TAXES--SHOULDN'T GREENBURGH DO SAME?
Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner will ask the Town Board to authorize the town to create a program that exists around the nation to let seniors work off their property tax increases by doing volunteer work for the town. Feiner will propose that in 2008 the town offer the program to up to 25 seniors, “If the program works we will expand it in future years.”
“Tax increases are forcing seniors to move out of their homes. This is very sad. The work off property tax program will enable seniors to stay in our community. In most communities around the nation seniors receive about $7- an hour and are able to work off up to $500-$700 of their taxes by performing a variety of programs: helping the library, coaching, bookkeeping, receptionists, tutoring. I am asking department heads to help identify possible opportunities.
Feiner said that he will lobby the NYS Legislature and US Congress to change existing law so that work for taxes programs can be income tax free. Feiner said that he hopes that Westchester County will also adopt the program.
A COPY OF THE BOULDER COUNTY WORK OFF PROGRAM FOLLOWS
A COPY OF A NEWS ARTICLE THAT APPEARED IN THE BOSTON GLOBE ALSO FOLLOWS
SENIOR TAX WORK-OFF PROGRAM
The Boulder County Commissioners have authorized the continuation of the Senior Tax Work-Off Program which began in 1986. This program is for people 60 years or older who own property in Boulder County and live at the location where the taxes are due.
Through this program, homeowners can be reimbursed for the County portion of their taxes, by working up to the number of hours that equals the amount of the County portion of taxes. The limit of reimbursement is now $700.00, at the wage of $7.00 an hour, as a temporary County employee. The Commissioners’ office pays half of the salary and the department the other half. The Senior receives a payroll check for the hours worked. The Social Security Tax (FICA)and PERA (Public Employee Retirement Association) are deducted. You can download an application or for an application and more information, please contact:
Carrie Haverfield, Coordinator
Phone 303-441-1688
chaverfield@co.boulder.co.us
PO Box 471
Boulder, CO 80306
Will work for tax break
In barter, seniors and towns swap labor for lower property tab
By Jenn Abelson, Globe Staff | January 9, 2005
Frank Bocchino retired years ago, but the 72-year-old now earns minimum wage as an assistant at a Braintree elementary school.
Bocchino never sees a paycheck because the money -- $6.75 an hour to check in library books, help students with math problems, and other jobs -- is deducted from his property tax bill.
For Bocchino, known as ''Mr. B." to his fourth-grade students, the deal is just right. It helps shave off about $750 from his annual $3,500 tax bill.
''I try to take advantage of every place I can get even $10," Bocchino said. ''Living on a fixed income, my money stays stable but my taxes and other expenses go up. It's ridiculous."
Bocchino is one of a growing number of senior citizens in communities south of Boston who are reducing their tax burden by working for their towns.
As real estate taxes soar along with other living expenses, senior citizens -- even those with healthy pensions -- say it is increasingly difficult to afford life in the suburbs. But many elders, for reasons both emotional and practical, refuse to sell their homes, some of which have skyrocketed in value over the past several years.
At least 20 communities south of Boston have adopted programs that allow senior citizens to swap service to the town for tax abatements. Town officials say they get help they could not otherwise afford, and seniors get a tax break that makes living a little easier. It is also cheaper for the town in the long run, in many cases, to keep senior citizens as residents because they require fewer services -- such as schools -- than a new family with young children, town officials say.
''These programs are getting more popular and catching on across the state," said Emmett H. Schmarsow, program manager for the Massachusetts Council on Aging, which operates under the Executive Office of Elder Affairs. ''The town receives valuable services and the elder gets financial help, which allows them to remain in their homes. It's good for seniors. It's good for the community."
The programs vary in each town, though most offer senior citizens the opportunity to work off between $500 and $750 of their annual property tax bills. Many municipalities, including Canton and Quincy, limit the number of participants and have lengthy waiting lists.
In Milton, which launched a similar program this year, 31 people applied for the 15 available spots. Some of the jobs include town greeters who sit at the entrance of Town Hall and help guide visitors to their destination.
''This year is the first time I've seen people who I previously thought were pretty comfortable coming forward saying it's harder and harder to make ends meet," said Mary Ann Sullivan, director of Milton's Council on Aging. ''If you're a poor elder, there are many programs, such as fuel assistance, to help out. But if you're caught in the middle, like many in Milton, it's very difficult."
So elders -- some who retired a decade ago -- are reentering the work force as custodians, teacher's aides, and bookkeepers. They may not be experts in their new field, but the senior citizens are eager to learn, town officials say.
Hedy Michelson has lived for 50 years in the Walpole home she and her husband built, and, like many senior citizens, has thought more than once about selling the house.
The 75-year-old lives alone and has a huge garden to tend on her 1-acre property, for which the couple paid ''a pittance" five decades ago, she said. But Michelson still thinks keeping the house is cheaper than renting, and defrays her taxes by working for Walpole's Board of Health, entering cesspool pumping records into the department's database.
''You think about downsizing and selling your house. Everyone thinks about it," said Bocchino, who has lived with his wife in the same Braintree home for 35 years. ''But with condos and monthly fees, I'm not sure I'd be gaining anything."
Many senior citizens do not understand the true value of their homes, according to Daniel Sullivan, an information services manager at South Shore Elder Services.
Although more elders are turning to reverse mortgages to tap into the equity in their homes, many are still apprehensive about the process.
''They fear they might lose their home and wind up in a nursing facility," Sullivan said.
This can result in situations where senior citizens are living in homes worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, with the mortgage paid off, but are working as a town custodian to help pay the taxes, he said.
Aside from tax work-off programs, more senior citizens are tapping into the state's ''circuit breaker" program, which provides income tax credits to seniors who meet certain income, age, and property value eligibility limits. In some towns south of Boston, the number of seniors filing for these tax credits more than tripled between 2002 and 2003.
Officials in several area communities said they hope to expand their tax work-off programs by allowing more seniors to participate and a larger reduction on their tax bills.
In some municipalities with long waiting lists, officials said they have let more elders join the program because it was too hard to turn them away.
''The need is there," said Thomas F. Clasby, director of Quincy's Council on Aging. ''It's just not realistic to say that senior citizens are financially secure simply because they bought houses a long time ago and they are now worth astronomical amounts of money. It's a difficult time for seniors especially."
“Tax increases are forcing seniors to move out of their homes. This is very sad. The work off property tax program will enable seniors to stay in our community. In most communities around the nation seniors receive about $7- an hour and are able to work off up to $500-$700 of their taxes by performing a variety of programs: helping the library, coaching, bookkeeping, receptionists, tutoring. I am asking department heads to help identify possible opportunities.
Feiner said that he will lobby the NYS Legislature and US Congress to change existing law so that work for taxes programs can be income tax free. Feiner said that he hopes that Westchester County will also adopt the program.
A COPY OF THE BOULDER COUNTY WORK OFF PROGRAM FOLLOWS
A COPY OF A NEWS ARTICLE THAT APPEARED IN THE BOSTON GLOBE ALSO FOLLOWS
SENIOR TAX WORK-OFF PROGRAM
The Boulder County Commissioners have authorized the continuation of the Senior Tax Work-Off Program which began in 1986. This program is for people 60 years or older who own property in Boulder County and live at the location where the taxes are due.
Through this program, homeowners can be reimbursed for the County portion of their taxes, by working up to the number of hours that equals the amount of the County portion of taxes. The limit of reimbursement is now $700.00, at the wage of $7.00 an hour, as a temporary County employee. The Commissioners’ office pays half of the salary and the department the other half. The Senior receives a payroll check for the hours worked. The Social Security Tax (FICA)and PERA (Public Employee Retirement Association) are deducted. You can download an application or for an application and more information, please contact:
Carrie Haverfield, Coordinator
Phone 303-441-1688
chaverfield@co.boulder.co.us
PO Box 471
Boulder, CO 80306
Will work for tax break
In barter, seniors and towns swap labor for lower property tab
By Jenn Abelson, Globe Staff | January 9, 2005
Frank Bocchino retired years ago, but the 72-year-old now earns minimum wage as an assistant at a Braintree elementary school.
Bocchino never sees a paycheck because the money -- $6.75 an hour to check in library books, help students with math problems, and other jobs -- is deducted from his property tax bill.
For Bocchino, known as ''Mr. B." to his fourth-grade students, the deal is just right. It helps shave off about $750 from his annual $3,500 tax bill.
''I try to take advantage of every place I can get even $10," Bocchino said. ''Living on a fixed income, my money stays stable but my taxes and other expenses go up. It's ridiculous."
Bocchino is one of a growing number of senior citizens in communities south of Boston who are reducing their tax burden by working for their towns.
As real estate taxes soar along with other living expenses, senior citizens -- even those with healthy pensions -- say it is increasingly difficult to afford life in the suburbs. But many elders, for reasons both emotional and practical, refuse to sell their homes, some of which have skyrocketed in value over the past several years.
At least 20 communities south of Boston have adopted programs that allow senior citizens to swap service to the town for tax abatements. Town officials say they get help they could not otherwise afford, and seniors get a tax break that makes living a little easier. It is also cheaper for the town in the long run, in many cases, to keep senior citizens as residents because they require fewer services -- such as schools -- than a new family with young children, town officials say.
''These programs are getting more popular and catching on across the state," said Emmett H. Schmarsow, program manager for the Massachusetts Council on Aging, which operates under the Executive Office of Elder Affairs. ''The town receives valuable services and the elder gets financial help, which allows them to remain in their homes. It's good for seniors. It's good for the community."
The programs vary in each town, though most offer senior citizens the opportunity to work off between $500 and $750 of their annual property tax bills. Many municipalities, including Canton and Quincy, limit the number of participants and have lengthy waiting lists.
In Milton, which launched a similar program this year, 31 people applied for the 15 available spots. Some of the jobs include town greeters who sit at the entrance of Town Hall and help guide visitors to their destination.
''This year is the first time I've seen people who I previously thought were pretty comfortable coming forward saying it's harder and harder to make ends meet," said Mary Ann Sullivan, director of Milton's Council on Aging. ''If you're a poor elder, there are many programs, such as fuel assistance, to help out. But if you're caught in the middle, like many in Milton, it's very difficult."
So elders -- some who retired a decade ago -- are reentering the work force as custodians, teacher's aides, and bookkeepers. They may not be experts in their new field, but the senior citizens are eager to learn, town officials say.
Hedy Michelson has lived for 50 years in the Walpole home she and her husband built, and, like many senior citizens, has thought more than once about selling the house.
The 75-year-old lives alone and has a huge garden to tend on her 1-acre property, for which the couple paid ''a pittance" five decades ago, she said. But Michelson still thinks keeping the house is cheaper than renting, and defrays her taxes by working for Walpole's Board of Health, entering cesspool pumping records into the department's database.
''You think about downsizing and selling your house. Everyone thinks about it," said Bocchino, who has lived with his wife in the same Braintree home for 35 years. ''But with condos and monthly fees, I'm not sure I'd be gaining anything."
Many senior citizens do not understand the true value of their homes, according to Daniel Sullivan, an information services manager at South Shore Elder Services.
Although more elders are turning to reverse mortgages to tap into the equity in their homes, many are still apprehensive about the process.
''They fear they might lose their home and wind up in a nursing facility," Sullivan said.
This can result in situations where senior citizens are living in homes worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, with the mortgage paid off, but are working as a town custodian to help pay the taxes, he said.
Aside from tax work-off programs, more senior citizens are tapping into the state's ''circuit breaker" program, which provides income tax credits to seniors who meet certain income, age, and property value eligibility limits. In some towns south of Boston, the number of seniors filing for these tax credits more than tripled between 2002 and 2003.
Officials in several area communities said they hope to expand their tax work-off programs by allowing more seniors to participate and a larger reduction on their tax bills.
In some municipalities with long waiting lists, officials said they have let more elders join the program because it was too hard to turn them away.
''The need is there," said Thomas F. Clasby, director of Quincy's Council on Aging. ''It's just not realistic to say that senior citizens are financially secure simply because they bought houses a long time ago and they are now worth astronomical amounts of money. It's a difficult time for seniors especially."
GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY--WEEK OF DEC 10...POST YOUR COMMENTS
Please post your comments about town issues.
Town Board work session Tuesday 3:45 PM
GREENBURGH HOUSING AUTHORITY
BUDGET DISCUSSION-- AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSED BUDGET
WEDNESDAY: TOWN BOARD MEETING 7:15 PM
Town Board work session Tuesday 3:45 PM
GREENBURGH HOUSING AUTHORITY
BUDGET DISCUSSION-- AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSED BUDGET
WEDNESDAY: TOWN BOARD MEETING 7:15 PM
Sunday, December 09, 2007
AFFORDABLE HOUSING TARGETTED ON FORECLOSED PROPERTY IN ARDSLEY, DOBBS FERRY
The Town Board is planning to vote on a resolution this Wednesday that will move the town forward re: a proposal to turn foreclosed properties at the waterwheel (Ardsley) and 27 Main Street (Dobbs Ferry) into affordable housing opportunities. The town will be receiving back taxes on the waterwheel & 27 Main Street properties. In addition, a developer has offered the town one million for the waterwheel property. It's possible that additional revenue can be obtained before we finalize the transfer of property. A formal RFP will be issued to potential developers.
Friday, December 07, 2007
JOIN US AT AN IMPORTANT EVENT SATURDAY FOR THE MENINGITIS FOUNDATION
Hastings on Hudson, NY – After the loss of his wonderful daughter Toyami Clark Paynter to Meningitis, Tom Clark has been on a mission. On Saturday, December 8th, 2007, Clark will host a Kick-Off event for the Meningitis Foundation of America at Blu Restaurant, located at 100 River Street in Hastings-On-Hudson from 3pm to 5pm.
Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, great company and a beautiful sunset while supporting a worthy cause. The event is $50.00 per person and will include a Silent Auction and 50/50 Raffle. All proceeds will be donated to The Meningitis Foundation of America.
“As a father, it is my obligation to host this event in honor of Toyami, who was taken at such an early age. She will continue to touch and help others through events such as this. I urge people to join us on December 8th to celebrate Toyami’s legacy and save lives,” said Clark.
Meningococcal disease (including meningitis) is a rare but potentially fatal illness that can strike at any time. About 3000 people in the United States get this disease each year, and 1 in 10 of them die from it. Research has shown that teens and young adults are at increased risk.
Visit the websites: www.meningitisfoundationofamerica.org and www.fightmeningitis.com
The Meningitis Foundation of America is a 501c (3); Your donations are 100% tax deductible. Pre-paid RSVP’s must reach us by Wednesday, December 5, 2007; or pay at the event. For more information please call Symra Brandon at (914) 423-9075.
Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, great company and a beautiful sunset while supporting a worthy cause. The event is $50.00 per person and will include a Silent Auction and 50/50 Raffle. All proceeds will be donated to The Meningitis Foundation of America.
“As a father, it is my obligation to host this event in honor of Toyami, who was taken at such an early age. She will continue to touch and help others through events such as this. I urge people to join us on December 8th to celebrate Toyami’s legacy and save lives,” said Clark.
Meningococcal disease (including meningitis) is a rare but potentially fatal illness that can strike at any time. About 3000 people in the United States get this disease each year, and 1 in 10 of them die from it. Research has shown that teens and young adults are at increased risk.
Visit the websites: www.meningitisfoundationofamerica.org and www.fightmeningitis.com
The Meningitis Foundation of America is a 501c (3); Your donations are 100% tax deductible. Pre-paid RSVP’s must reach us by Wednesday, December 5, 2007; or pay at the event. For more information please call Symra Brandon at (914) 423-9075.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
WFAS RADIO NEWS--FROM NORTHEAST RADIO WATCH
Phil Chonigman, a member of the CAC, shared this information about WFAS radio. The question: What do they mean: WFAS completes its move closer to NYC with a sale likely to follow?
NorthEast Radio Watch (http://www.fybush.com/nerw.html) is reporting -
"There were holiday-time layoffs downstate, as well, at Cumulus' WFAS-FM (103.9 Bronxville) and WFAS (1230 White Plains), as budget cuts claimed the jobs of news director Pam Pusso, afternoon news anchor Jim Cleefield and AM 1230 morning host Chris Clarke. Bob Barnum will move from afternoons to mornings on the AM side of the building, with automation taking care of afternoons. (How long, we wonder, until WFAS-FM completes its move closer to New York City, with a sale likely to follow?)"
NorthEast Radio Watch (http://www.fybush.com/nerw.html) is reporting -
"There were holiday-time layoffs downstate, as well, at Cumulus' WFAS-FM (103.9 Bronxville) and WFAS (1230 White Plains), as budget cuts claimed the jobs of news director Pam Pusso, afternoon news anchor Jim Cleefield and AM 1230 morning host Chris Clarke. Bob Barnum will move from afternoons to mornings on the AM side of the building, with automation taking care of afternoons. (How long, we wonder, until WFAS-FM completes its move closer to New York City, with a sale likely to follow?)"
NEW SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS IN GREENBURGH
Greenburgh schools tap Southern Westchester BOCES chief as new superintendent
By REBECCA BAKER
THE JOURNAL NEWS
(Original publication: December 6, 2007)
WHITE PLAINS - Ron Smalls has a lot of work ahead of him when he becomes superintendent of Greenburgh Central 7 schools next month.
The Spring Valley resident will grapple with the district's racial and ethnic achievement gap, an exodus of middle-class students after elementary school, and an erosion of public confidence that led to back-to-back budget failures this year.
But Smalls, the schools chief at the Southern Westchester Board of Cooperative Educational Services, welcomes the challenge.
"I see challenges as opportunity - opportunities to make a difference in the lives of a lot of children," he said. "This is a place where I saw there was a need."
The Board of Education hired the 61-year-old veteran school administrator on Tuesday night, approving a contract with a $225,000 annual salary and an additional $50,000 in benefits starting Jan. 2.
Smalls will meet the public at 8 p.m. Dec. 17 in the Woodlands High School cafeteria.
Sidney Freund, a retired Dobbs Ferry superintendent now serving as interim superintendent, will stay until Jan. 18 to help Smalls make the transition.
By REBECCA BAKER
THE JOURNAL NEWS
(Original publication: December 6, 2007)
WHITE PLAINS - Ron Smalls has a lot of work ahead of him when he becomes superintendent of Greenburgh Central 7 schools next month.
The Spring Valley resident will grapple with the district's racial and ethnic achievement gap, an exodus of middle-class students after elementary school, and an erosion of public confidence that led to back-to-back budget failures this year.
But Smalls, the schools chief at the Southern Westchester Board of Cooperative Educational Services, welcomes the challenge.
"I see challenges as opportunity - opportunities to make a difference in the lives of a lot of children," he said. "This is a place where I saw there was a need."
The Board of Education hired the 61-year-old veteran school administrator on Tuesday night, approving a contract with a $225,000 annual salary and an additional $50,000 in benefits starting Jan. 2.
Smalls will meet the public at 8 p.m. Dec. 17 in the Woodlands High School cafeteria.
Sidney Freund, a retired Dobbs Ferry superintendent now serving as interim superintendent, will stay until Jan. 18 to help Smalls make the transition.
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
GREENBURGH HOUSING AUTHORITY SITE VISITS THIS SUNDAY AT 3 PM
entire Town Board and I will be conducting site visits of the Greenburgh housing authority apartments this Sunday from 3-5:30 PM. A bus will leave Greenburgh Town Hall on Sunday, December 9th at 3 PM. Members of the Town Board (Eddie Mae Barnes, Steve Bass, Diana Juettner, Francis Sheehan, Councilwoman-elect Sonja Brown, Councilman-elect Kevin Morgan, Paul Feiner) will meet with tenants, listen to their concerns. Members of the Greenburgh Housing Authority will be joining members of the Town Board on this tour. County officials and representatives of HUD have also been invited.
If you would like to take the bus tour please e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com
Greenburgh has 3 developments with 176 apartments. Tarrytown has 1 development with 15 apartments. Elmsford has 1 development with 25 apartments. Hartsdale has 1 development with 15 apartments. 3 developments are for seniors only: 2 seniors-only buildings exist within mixed-population developments. GHA has more than 50 apartments designated for seniors only. There also are 6 retrofitted apartments for families of persons who are mobility impaired.
PAUL FEINER
If you would like to take the bus tour please e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com
Greenburgh has 3 developments with 176 apartments. Tarrytown has 1 development with 15 apartments. Elmsford has 1 development with 25 apartments. Hartsdale has 1 development with 15 apartments. 3 developments are for seniors only: 2 seniors-only buildings exist within mixed-population developments. GHA has more than 50 apartments designated for seniors only. There also are 6 retrofitted apartments for families of persons who are mobility impaired.
PAUL FEINER
Sunday, December 02, 2007
THIS IS THE KIND OF BUDGET SPENDING TRANSPARENCY I'D LIKE TO SEE IN GREENBURGH...
EYEING A STATE'S SPENDING ONLINE If a resident, reporter, vendor, government watchdog or even a state employee wants to know how Texas spent $74.5 billion last year, it's as easy as looking it up online. The state comptroller's office launched a new database, Where the Money Goes, that details spending by all state agencies and institutions of higher education. The new tool lets users search state expenditures by agency, payee, spending category and purchasing classification, and gives transaction details that include amounts and dates, name of the agency making the payment and name of the payee. The database is automatically updated at the end of every day, and also features best practices for government purchases, a glossary of terms and a spotlight on government savings. The site encourages visitors to submit best practices, and hopes the transparency will lead to new efforts to curb spending and improve government efficiency. Texas' site joins similar efforts in Kansas, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Hawaii and Missouri.
from GOVERNING MAGAZINE
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from GOVERNING MAGAZINE
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TOXIC WASTE UNDER TZ BRIDGE IN TARRYTOWN
Thruway facing $75,000 in daily fines for illegal toxic storage UNDER TZ BRIDGE
By GREG CLARY
THE JOURNAL NEWS
(ALBANY - More than 80 barrels of hazardous waste improperly stored under the Tappan Zee Bridge could cost the New York State Thruway $75,000 a day in fines.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation and the Thruway met Tuesday to discuss the illegal storage, discovered in the fall of 2006, according to documents obtained by The Journal News.
Some of the 81 barrels, standing yards from the Hudson River, had been stored for years, one more than four years, despite state regulations that required that they not remain there more than 90 days, the DEC documents allege.
The environmental policing agency was alerted to the cache by an anonymous tipster, and sent a hazardous-waste inspector to the site Oct. 12 of last year.
The 55-gallon drums containing paint thinner, paint, asphalt and other hazardous materials were in "poor condition" and improperly stacked near the northbound side of the three-mile span on the Westchester side, the DEC said when the barrels were discovered.
By GREG CLARY
THE JOURNAL NEWS
(ALBANY - More than 80 barrels of hazardous waste improperly stored under the Tappan Zee Bridge could cost the New York State Thruway $75,000 a day in fines.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation and the Thruway met Tuesday to discuss the illegal storage, discovered in the fall of 2006, according to documents obtained by The Journal News.
Some of the 81 barrels, standing yards from the Hudson River, had been stored for years, one more than four years, despite state regulations that required that they not remain there more than 90 days, the DEC documents allege.
The environmental policing agency was alerted to the cache by an anonymous tipster, and sent a hazardous-waste inspector to the site Oct. 12 of last year.
The 55-gallon drums containing paint thinner, paint, asphalt and other hazardous materials were in "poor condition" and improperly stacked near the northbound side of the three-mile span on the Westchester side, the DEC said when the barrels were discovered.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
SHOULD THE DARE PROGRAM BE DISCONTINUED?
Yesterday, Police Chief Kapica suggested that one of the cuts that could be made would be to eliminate the DARE program. Some studies have found that DARE is not very effective. What do you think? Should this be one of the cuts the Town Board makes?
Police boss says no to DARE in Long Island's Suffolk County
The Associated Press
November 30, 2007
Suffolk County's police department is dropping DARE, the widespread school
anti-drug program that has faced questions about its effectiveness, the
police commissioner said.
Commissioner Richard Dormer said Thursday he aimed to replace DARE with
another drug-prevention program, but some local lawmakers objected to the
idea.
With the change, set to take effect in January, the large Long Island
county's police force will join a series of school districts and law
enforcement agencies that have abandoned the program, formally known as Drug
Abuse Resistance Education. Schools and police forces work together to offer
it.
After nearly 20 years in Suffolk County, DARE isn't working, Dormer told
local lawmakers Thursday. The program's 26 police officers teach fifth- and
seventh-graders about the dangers of drugs, spending an hour a week in a
given classroom for 10 weeks.
Students 'are tuning us out, and that's why we haven't reduced drug use in
our society,' Dormer told the County Legislature's Public Safety Committee.
Instead of DARE, Dormer wants to add police participation to HealthSmart, a
general health and safety program now taught in various school districts. He
plans to assign 10 of the current DARE officers to the new program.
Three Republican lawmakers said students would be shortchanged by Dormer's
plan.
'Please tell me how less is better,' said Legislator Lynne Nowick, of St.
James.
Launched in Los Angeles in 1983, DARE is offered in 75 percent of the
nation's school districts, according to the organization.
But a 2003 U.S. Government Accountability Office analysis of several studies
concluded DARE had 'no statistically significant long-term effect on
preventing illicit drug use.'
The national DARE organization disputes the studies and says the program has
changed to become more effective. DARE representatives did not immediately
return a telephone message left early Friday at their Inglewood, Calif.,
headquarters.
Suffolk County, on eastern Long Island, has a population estimated at more
than 1.4 million.
Police boss says no to DARE in Long Island's Suffolk County
The Associated Press
November 30, 2007
Suffolk County's police department is dropping DARE, the widespread school
anti-drug program that has faced questions about its effectiveness, the
police commissioner said.
Commissioner Richard Dormer said Thursday he aimed to replace DARE with
another drug-prevention program, but some local lawmakers objected to the
idea.
With the change, set to take effect in January, the large Long Island
county's police force will join a series of school districts and law
enforcement agencies that have abandoned the program, formally known as Drug
Abuse Resistance Education. Schools and police forces work together to offer
it.
After nearly 20 years in Suffolk County, DARE isn't working, Dormer told
local lawmakers Thursday. The program's 26 police officers teach fifth- and
seventh-graders about the dangers of drugs, spending an hour a week in a
given classroom for 10 weeks.
Students 'are tuning us out, and that's why we haven't reduced drug use in
our society,' Dormer told the County Legislature's Public Safety Committee.
Instead of DARE, Dormer wants to add police participation to HealthSmart, a
general health and safety program now taught in various school districts. He
plans to assign 10 of the current DARE officers to the new program.
Three Republican lawmakers said students would be shortchanged by Dormer's
plan.
'Please tell me how less is better,' said Legislator Lynne Nowick, of St.
James.
Launched in Los Angeles in 1983, DARE is offered in 75 percent of the
nation's school districts, according to the organization.
But a 2003 U.S. Government Accountability Office analysis of several studies
concluded DARE had 'no statistically significant long-term effect on
preventing illicit drug use.'
The national DARE organization disputes the studies and says the program has
changed to become more effective. DARE representatives did not immediately
return a telephone message left early Friday at their Inglewood, Calif.,
headquarters.
Suffolk County, on eastern Long Island, has a population estimated at more
than 1.4 million.
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