2012 year in review

PAUL FEINER...2012 --a very active year in review

2012 was a very active year for town officials. There were many major and minor accomplishments and issues that were addressed. The following are some of the highlights:

FINANCIAL: for the 2nd consecutive year the Greenburgh Town Board complied with the tax cap which limits tax increases. About 25% of local governments around the state overrode the cap and increased taxes by more than the 2% tax cap levy. We did not! Am proud of the fact that the town received, in 2012 the prestigious AAA bond rating from Moodys and Standard & Poors, a distinction earned by less than 3% of localities in the United States. A triple A bond rating is the highest rating any government can receive!

In 2012 we took some long term steps that will help the town be managed in a fiscally prudent manner in the years ahead. The just ratified teamsters contract requires employees to start contributing towards their health care costs, something that was not required previously. Health care contributions will be required as part of all salary hike negotiations. We reached out to other communities in Westchester and invited them to join Greenburgh and Yonkers and reassess all properties. Reassessment will significantly reduce the certiorari's (successful tax grievances that reduce the revenues the town receives each year). In addition, we will be able to create two separate classes: commercial and residential. If a commercial entity files a certiorari and wins a big tax reduction, only the businesses (not the homeowners) will absorb the loss. The town, joined by other communities, will start the reassessment in 2013. We expect that over half of all parcels in the county will be reassessed and will save significant dollars by partnering with other communities on this initiative

In 2013 we will authorize the purchase of a "one arm bandit" sanitation truck. The truck will need one employee -not three. We will gradually reduce our workforce, via attrition (not layoffs) and become more efficient. The one arm bandit trucks are used around the nation. Another saving: We have retrofitted two trucks (brine trucks). We put the brine on roads before storms, helping the town save overtime during small snow storms. The pre-treated roads do not require plowing and as much attention during small storms. We need to think out of the box to save you dollars.
SPORTS FACILITY ON DOBBS FERRY ROAD - In 2011 the town posted signs at Frank's and invited businesses to submit proposals to the town for the use of the old Frank's nursery. We also publicized the RFP process via the web, newspapers, radio station. We showed the property to a number of people. We received three bids: Game On expressed a desire to lease the property for an indoor sports facility (playing fields). Two others offered to buy the property -the maximum sale price offer received was $1.5 million. The Town Board decided that we liked the sports facility option the best. Revenue for the town. Will help the Golf Range stay in business. We desperately need more playing field space in Westchester. We scheduled a referendum this past November (something not required).. Voters approved a referendum to allow an indoor sports facility (Game on) to be built at the obandoned Frank's nursery by a margin of close to 70%. . Although voters approved the referendum, a competitor to Game On has filed some lawsuits against the town trying to prevent or delay the construction. They indicated that they could tie up the sports facility in court for up to eight years. As a result, we are proceeding with plans to sell the property to Game On instead of leasing the property to them. We will sell for more than $1.5 million. Game On will be responsible for all taxes and will also be responsible for the cleanup. The sale will make the lawsuits moot.

FERNCLIFF MANOR IS TOWN BOARDS WISH FOR WESTHELP SITE--The Town Board has rights to the former WESTHELP property on Knollwood Road for almost twenty more years. Earlier this year we issued an RFP for the use of the WESTHELP FACILITY. Ferncliff Manor, an organization that serves the developmentally disabled community, proposed giving the town $500,000 a year in rent. The 2nd closest bid was $360,000 from an affordable housing developer. The Town Board and I prefer Ferncliff Manor over the other options. The County Executive, Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, State Assemblyman Tom Abinanti, a majority of the County Legislators agree. We need 12 of the 17 Legislators to support our request since Ferncliff wants a long term contract. If The Legislature rejects the application (we need a super majority of Legislators on our side) we will lease the property to an affordable housing developer. Ferncliff has many benefits for the town: a good use (helping the developmentally disabled). Most revenue to the town each year . Ferncliff will require the least amount of services from the town or school district.

LOIS BRONZ CHILDREN'S CENTER OPERATING AT A SURPLUS--Two years ago the Lois Bronz Children's Center was in danger of closing. Now, thanks to excellent management and a hard working and smart board, the center is running at a profit.

HURRICANE RESPONSE During & after Hurricane Sandy our employees worked long and hard trying to help you get your quality of life back. About 40 secondary roads were closed after the storm and had to be re-opened, debris and obstructions removed, streets patrolled to make sure your property was safe, questions responded to and complaints followed up. 9,500 homes were out of power right after the storm.

Town staff responded quickly to requests for help. We provided residents with shelter. The CERT team of volunteers helped staff the emergency shelter at the Theodore Young Community Center. The Greenburgh Library expanded hours -offering residents a chance to relax in a warm environment after the storm. We started a House Angels program (which received national attention). House angels offered their homes to the "powerless". We matched those with power with those without.

NO FLOODING AFTER HURRICANE SANDY - The town did not experience any significant flooding after Hurricane Sandy. Prior to the hurricane (during the past year) the town (working with Elmsford) cleared obstructions from the Saw Mill River and checked drains and removed obstructions. We hope that our proactive initiatives were helpful.

MORE THAN HOUSE ANGELS: OUR TV ANGELS volunteer their time during the year picking up old TV's and dropping them off at the Highway garage. The TV's are heavy--difficult for seniors to do on their own. And, our SNOW ANGELS volunteer their time clearing driveways and walkways of seniors and disabled residents. This is what community is about -- neighbors helping neighbors.

JOB REFERRALS- About 4 years ago I set up a job club, helping the unemployed find employment. A special thank you to the many residents who have advised me of job openings where they work --so I can help your out of work neighbors find employment. Job postings are sent to residents who subscribe to a jobs e list and are posted on www.linkedin.com (greenburgh jobs group) as I learn of the openings

GREENBURGH HEALTH CENTER ALMOST OPEN- The new Greenburgh health center, which will open its new building in the winter, will provide residents with excellent health care. I'm thankful that the center kept their promise to build a sidewalk from their new building to Route 119.

NEW WATER DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD APPOINTED--The Town Board created a new Board-- the water district advisory board to review water rates, short and long term infrastructure needs. We appreciate the oversight! The water district no longer is running at a deficit.

WESTHAB WORKFORCE HOUSING - A new affordable housing apartment complex is being built near the Westchester County Center. The need is great -- during the year many residents have contacted me requesting applications. When they open in the spring of 2013 the families that move in will experience a great quality of life improvement.

STATE REPAVES 119-- Route 119 was repaved from the Tarrytown/Greenburgh line to the White Plains line.

We formed a new disabled advisory committee- headed by Angela Raso. the committee is making recommendations to the town - advising us how to be a more disabled friendly community.

WATERWHEEL AFFORDABLE HOUSING--Thankful that the town, Ardsley and county all worked together so that additional affordable housing could be built in Ardsley on town foreclosed land (the former waterwheel property). Some of the units will be designated for volunteer firefighters, ambulance corp members. Construction should take place in 2013.

BERKELEY STUDENT INTERNS-- Am grateful to the students at Berkeley College who have been devoting their time to the town, helping departments manage their workload at no cost to the taxpayers. Mona Fraitag, co-chair of the Poet's Corner Civic Association, has donated hundreds of hours overseeing this program. She worked with Alan Hochberg, chair of the citizens commission reviewing the budget --looking for ways to help the town save money. We estimate that the student interns have saved taxpayers a million dollars+.

STUDENT NEWS NETWORK--A group of hard working and intelligent students (working with Town Clerk Judith Beville) have started their own student news network, producing news stories and airing them on public access TV. One of our summer student interns, David Schuman, appeared on Jeopardy this year and won a game!

MEMBERS OF THE CITIZEN BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS - We have hundreds of citizen volunteers. Many serve as appointed members of Boards and Commissions. They work long hours and meet frequently. A citizens commission has been meeting throughout the year (day, night, weekends)- helping me review the town budget, offering great ideas. The goal: predictability, stability and good planning.

OUR NEW DISCOVERY ZONE PLAYGROUND AT THE GREENBURGH NATURE CENTER -- The town, working with our dedicated employees and board at the Greenburgh Nature Center, opened up a spectacular new playground. Funding for the playground came from non taxpayer developer escrow funds. The centers new executive director, Margaret Goldberg, has some great ideas --that will take the center to the next level! A new nature center opened in Irvington -- the O'Hara Nature Center (some spectacular trails).

TOWN CORRECTS OUTDATED ZONING MAPS There were some outdated zoning maps around town that needed corrections. We corrected them.

MORE THAN 90 VETERANS HAVE ALREADY TAPED THEIR STORIES FOR LIVING HISTORY INITIATIVE-- A few years ago Steve Wittenberg of Ardsley and Alan Hochberg of Hartsdale started a new initiative: the living history initiative. They have been interviewing veterans of World War II and the Korean conflict. The goal: to make sure that the stories of our veterans (local heroes) are never forgotten). Over 90 living history interviews have been filmed. The United States Library of Congress will be archiving the stories. New interviews have been conducted weekly during 2012.

NEW BUSINESSES--Am thankful everytime a vacant storefront is replaced with a vibrant new business. Captain Lawrence Brewery, H Mart, Acorda and some new restaurants are among the new businesses. Stop & Shop opened their supermarket on 119. Ben's deli is coming soon to Central Ave.

Town loses Fortress Bible appeal--The town had fought the placement of a church on Dobbs Ferry Road because of safety concerns. We lost our appeal of our federal court decision ruling that the town must allow the church to build.

GOVERNOR SIGNS LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING TOWN TO LEASE TENNIS COURTS - In 2012 the town was able to successfully push for state legislation authorizing the town to lease tennis courts to private vendors. More recreation. No cost to the taxpayers. This will be helpful to the town in the years ahead and enable the town to enter into public/private partnerships. We are currently meeting with some possible vendors.

POPHAM ROAD BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION IS ALMOST FINISHED - The Popham Road bridge links Scarsdale to Edgemont. The construction took a few years (this wasn't a town project) and created lots of inconveniences. Am glad that the bridge construction is almost completed! It's a beautiful new bridge that will reduce traffic congestion for motorists driving to Scarsdale from Ardsley Road.

TARRYTOWN NAMED BY FORBES AS ONE OF PRETTIEST TOWNS IN AMERICA! Proud that this village is located within the town.

NYS moved forward with plans to build a new Tappan Zee bridge. I spent some time this year opposing possible toll hikes that could be as high as $14. Seems as if the hikes won't be as high as they were originally projected.

NEW LED LIGHTS - During the past year we tested some LED lights around town. These light poles will save energy and money. We hope to expand the program.

OBJECTED TO HARTSDALE TRAIN STATION HATE AD'S--Objected to ethnic/religious hate ad's being placed at the Hartsdale train station. The MTA agreed to my suggestion to post disclaimers.

SPRAINBROOK NURSERY GOING OUT OF BUSINESS--Sprainbrook Nursery is going out of business. Have been meeting with residents and the owners of the property trying to help them come up with a plan to keep the property special.

Town gets land for $1--We purchased parcel Q from the county (Old Sprain Road) for $1. Land will be kept as open space.

Town Board authorizes settlement of lawsuit with Valhalla School district for $1.1 million to the town.. The Town Board authorized me to executive a stipulation of settlement with the Valhalla School district for $1.1 million dollars (town to receive the money which had been given to the school district as part of the WESTHELP partnership, which courts and the state comptroller found were invalid).

CUMBERLAND FARMS CAN OPEN CONVENIENCE STORE- A 3 year application was approved when the Town Board passed legislation authorizing Cumberland farms to open up a convenience store off of Old Army Road and Central Ave. There was an abandoned gas station at the location for a number of years.

NEW ASSISTED LIVING PROPOSED IN GLENVILLE- An assisted living facility is being proposed in the Glenville woods section of town. Some of their units will be priced at more affordable rents. The Board is currently reviewing the application.

The above are just some of the highlights of 2012. Now you know why I'm never bored with the job. It's always interesting. And there is a variety of issues that are addressed each year. Have a happy new year. Looking forward to hearing from you next year!

PAUL FEINER

sanitation schedule in mail...pool to be repaired at TDYCC

 The 2013 sanitation/recycling schedules should be in the mail today. We will also be posting the schedule on the website: www.greenburghny.com shortly.  I received the following e mail about the indoor pool repairs at the Theodore Young Community Center from Commissioner William Carter.
PAUL FEINER

This letter is to inform you that we anticipate the pool closing at some point during the month of January.  This will be a necessary two-week closure for repairs being made in the pool.  Although we do not know the exact dates these repairs will take place, we would like to give you ample notice until the dates are definite.  It would be ideal for all of the repairs to be completed within a two-week period, however, the process may be prolonged.  It is essential that this issue be addressed immediately to avoid further or even permanent damage to the pool.

The objective of this letter is to also allow you time to prepare for this closing and not pose any inconvenience to our patrons.  It is important for these repairs to be made to allow the proper operation of the pool and to eliminate last minute closures.  A new schedule for all activities, including classes, will also be distributed once the dates have been confirmed. 

Thank you for you cooperation and understanding.  William Carter, Commissioner

county taxes up in greenburgh...down elsewhere. highlights need for reassessment

County taxes will go up slightly for residents of Greenburgh. The following article appeared in rivertownspatch.com today.  This article highlights the need for a county-wide reassessment of properties. In 2013 some communities in Westchester will see a tax hike. Others will see a tax decrease.  Earlier this year Yonkers Mayor MIke Spano and I sent a letter to communities in Westchester inviting them to participate in conducting a reassessment of properties. In  2013 we will announce the communities that have agreed to join us in reassessment. We've been pointing fingers at the county for many years. It's time we take action ourselves and start the process.  The 2013 capital budget, which will be finalized in early 2013, will include funding for reassessment.  The town will save significant dollars by partnering with other communities -conducting reassessment.
PAUL FEINER

Tax Bill to Increase for Town Residents
The county executive's office released estimated changes in the county tax levy by community. Greenburgh’s contribution to the county budget will be 2.10 percent more in 2013.

By Zach Oliva
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The Town of Greenburgh’s contribution to the county tax levy will increase by more than 2 percent in 2013, according to Westchester County Executive who released a municipality-by-municipality breakdown of the county's tax contributions on Dec. 21.
While the recently approved county budget's tax levy is zero, differences in property value assessments from community to community create discrepancies in the amount owed within each municipality.
Greenburgh will pay about 2.10 percent more, while White Plains will enjoy one of the biggest decreases at 6.07 percent, second in the county to Mt. Vernon, where contributions will decrease by 7.67 percent. In total, 15 communities will see their tax levy decrease next year and 10 will see an increase. The biggest increase was in Rye, where contributions will increase by 7.46 percent.
The $1.7 billion county budget has a property tax levy of $548 million in 2013, the same amount as in 2012.
"The county has done its job to hold the line on our county property tax," Astorino said in a statement. "However, every year the county tax levy affects local governments differently."
County taxes account for between 15 and 20 percent of the average property owner's tax bill, about 60 percent of taxes are paid to local schools and approximately 20 percent goes to local government.
Local municipalities receive their tax bills from the county in the spring and handle collection of bills, which are usually due toward the end of April. While the county hands the tax levy down to local governments, it does not determine the exact tax rate handed down to taxpayers.

Municipality
Estimated Change

City of Mt. Vernon
- 7.67 percent

City of New Rochelle
-2.53 percent

City of Peekskill
-2.63 percent

City of Rye
+7.46 percent

City of White Plains
-6.07 percent

City of Yonkers
-3.19 percent

Town of Bedford
+2.51 percent

Town of Cortlandt
+1.60 percent

Town of Eastchester
-0.98 percent

Town of Greenburgh
+2.10 percent

Town of Harrison
+5.73 percent

Town of Lewisboro
-5.56 percent

Town of Mamaroneck
+5.16 percent

Town of Mt. Kisco
-1.54 percent

Town of Mt. Pleasant
+1.22 percent

Town of New Castle
-0.45 percent

Town of North Castle
+3.25 percent

Town of North Salem
+0.90 percent

Town of Ossining
-5.0 percent

Town of Pelham
-2.52 percent

Town of Pound Ridge
+0.83 percent

Town of Rye
-3.74 percent

Town of Scarsdale
+6.33 percent

Town of Somers
-3.18 percent

Town of Yorktown
-2.17 percent

budget approved..teamsters contract settled..ferncliff aprpoved

The Greenburgh Town Board unanimously approved the 2013 budget at a special Town Board meeting this morning. The budget complies with the tax cap –a nice achievement since 25% of government bodies across the state have voted to overrule the tax cap and to raise taxes by more than the cap. The Town Board also settled the contract with the Teamsters from January 1,2009 to December 31,2014. The contract requires employees, for the first time, to pay into health care. In 2009 employees received a zero percent increase. In 2010 Teamsters received a zero percent increase. 2011: 1% plus $500 . 2012: 1.75% increase plus $500. 2013: 1.75% plus $500. 2014: 2.25% plus $400.


The Greenburgh Town Board met with Assemblywoman Amy Paulin today at our Town Board work session to discuss the Ferncliff proposal to lease the WESTHELP property. Assemblywoman Paulin is the chair of an important committee in the Assembly that oversees agencies that deal with Ferncliff.

After our discussion with Assemblywoman Paulin, I have been authorized by all the members of the Greenburgh Town Board to write this letter to the county advising that the Town Board prefers to lease the WESTHELP property to Ferncliff. Asssemblywoman Paulin has had a number of discussions with state agencies that deal with Ferncliff. She advised the Town Board that the state is committed to Ferncliff. They recognize that Ferncliff needs to move. The project is feasible. The state has paid other organizations more than Ferncliff will be reimbursed for. The $500,000 that Ferncliff is offering to give the town each year as a lease payment is within the range of payments they have made. .

The entire Town Board and I are requesting that the Westchester County Board of Legislators schedule a quick vote on the request being made by the town of Greenburgh for permission to lease the WESTHELP property to Ferncliff. We will be scheduling a follow up meeting to discuss the progress of this application at the end of January.

PAUL FEINER

Greenburgh Town Supervisor

WCBS 880 NEWS STORY ABOUT COUNTY NOT RENEWING GUN SHOW CONTRACT

Westchester County Not Renewing Contract For Annual Gun & Knife Show

Greenburgh Supervisor Pressured County Executive Astorino To Make Move

December 17, 2012 6:30 PM

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Twenty seven wooden angles are viewed in a yard down the street from the Sandy Hook School December 16, 2012 in Newtown, Connecticut. (credit: Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

 

 

 

GREENBURGH, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) — After a Westchester County town supervisor called for the annual gun show to be canceled following the Newtown, Conn. school shooting that left 26 teachers and students dead, the county announced it would not be renewing the show’s contract.
In a statement Monday, county officials said, “First and foremost, Westchester County mourns with the nation for the families who lost loved ones in the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. The county stands ready to assist the residents of Newtown, Connecticut in any way it can and specifically has made available its Psychological Response Team, a unit within the Department of Community Mental Health that provides recovery support for the victims of traumatic events.
In the days and weeks ahead, the county will review its own policies and procedures to see if anything can be done to prevent these senseless acts of violence in the future.
With respect to the Sportsmen Firearm and Knife Show at the County Center, there is no signed contract for this event in 2013. The shows in past years were popular and run in a thoroughly professional manner. But at this time as the country grieves the loss of life in Newtown, a contract renewal is not appropriate.
Going forward, the county plans to be fully engaged in the complex and comprehensive conversation of how all Americans can continue to live in an open society while preventing all acts of violence, especially those aimed at our children, and ensuring that those suffering from mental illnesses get the help they need when they most need it.”
The gun and knife show was set to take place at the Westchester County Center in White Plains Feb. 2-3.
The County Center is a government-owned building.
“It’s totally inappropriate to have a gun show in a government building. People have a right to purchase guns but there’s nothing in the Constitution that says that people should purchase guns in a taxpayer-funded building,” Greenburgh town supervisor Paul Feiner told WCBS 880 before the county announced the gun show was canceled.
In a statement, Feiner said: “Thank you, County Executive Rob Astorino for cancelling the gun show. And, thanks to the many residents of Greenburgh and Westchester for joining the effort to stop gun shows at government buildings. It’s my hope that this success will help to generate the momentum that will result in gun control legislation being approved by our nations leaders. Citizens can make a difference.”
Connecticut state police said school gunman Adam Lanza, 20, used a semi-automatic .223 Bushmaster rifle to kill 20 first graders and six teachers and administrators at Sandy Hook Elementary School, before using one of two semi-automatic handguns he was carrying to kill himself as SWAT teams closed in on him.
The annual gun and knife show was to be hosted by North East Gun Shows. According to the company’s website, shows were also planned in Stamford, Conn. and Waterbury, Conn. in early January.
“By allowing guns to be purchased at the county center, they’re sending a message that the county is encouraging people to purchase guns,” said Feiner earlier Monday. “Government should not be assuming the role of encouraging gun sales and encouraging more guns. We should be discouraging people from buying guns.”
According to the WCC’s website, the gun and knife show will have 350 tables with vendors selling military-style weapons, uniforms, ammunition and handguns, among other weaponry.
Police said Lanza was dressed in black tactical assault-style clothing and may have been wearing a bulletproof vest.
The Westchester gun show was canceled following the Columbine High School shooting massacre in 1999.
Do you agree with the county’s decision? Sound off in the comments section below…

congress should provide funding for police in schools

Should school districts hire community police officers to provide protection in their schools?

Proposal that Congress provide funding to school districts that want police protection in schools...

I am writing to our Congressional delegation (Senators Schumer, Gillibrand, Congresswoman Lowey, Engel) asking them to provide funding to school districts that wish to hire school resource officers (police officers assigned to school districts).

The SRO is a community-oriented police officer with the skills to build relationships, solve problems and enforce the law.SROs are assigned to a school community on a long-term basis to provide full police services, including maintaining order on the school campus and reducing the fear of crime within the school community. They also can work with students who are the victims of bullying. A School Resource Officer Program is personalized to the school in which the officer works. The SRO becomes familiar with their schools specific needs as well as being approachable by the students and staff when issues arise. The SRO works with the school administration, staff and students to address situations that may disrupt the schools mission, which includes everything from parking/traffic concerns to criminal offenses occurring on campus. School Resource Officers have the opportunity to educate the school community in crime prevention methods as well as empowering them to help maintain a safe school environment. People who do not understand the School Resource Officer Program believe that the SROs are there just to patrol the halls and arrest students. One of the core components of community policing is to build partnerships and relationships for the purpose of creating safe school environments. On an individual basis, the SRO can improve the relationship between youth and police one child at a time. A teenager who may be facing difficulties can find the SRO to be a caring adult as well as an example of a professional police officer. On a much larger scale the SRO facilitates a partnership between the police department and the school system. In a crisis situation the SRO has the ability to communicate with school administrators and police officials and understand the needs of both entities. In 2001 I sent letters to all the school districts in Greenburgh proposing that the town partner with school districts that wish to fund school resource officers by contributing 50% of the costs of the program. The response was not favorable: resistance from school districts who did not want to hurt the image of the schools by acknowledging a risk that nobody wants to admit (NY TIMES, April 3, 2001). PAUL FEINER Greenburgh Town Supervisor

rally for gun control sunday--gun shows at county center should be banned

NEXT GUN SHOW AT WESTCHESTER COUNTY CENTER: FEBRUARY 2, 2013-- I THINK GUN SHOWS SHOULD BE BANNED AT COUNTY CENTER.... It had been after columbine

RALLY IN DOBBS FERRY TOMORROW EVENING FOR GUN CONTROL 8 PM

"Not One Child More" March – Sunday, December 16 at 8 pm, starting at Waterfront Park in Dobbs Ferry

In support of stronger communities for safe kids: A call to our elected officials for Gun Control Now -- because we cannot let this happen again.

Join us at 8 pm Sunday, December 16 (tomorrow night), for a candlelight vigil and march beginning at Waterfront Park in Dobbs Ferry.

Shine your light and let your voice be heard.

For more information, email Jean Lucasey at jeanluc1213@optonline.net or Gabrielle Mason at gabmason@att.net

The Westchester County Center, a county taxpayer owned building, will be the location for the next gun show on February 2 and 3 2013 --according to north east gun shows.com.
Shortly after the Columbine High School shootings--which took the lives of 14 students and a teacher at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado former County Executive Andrew Spano banned gun shows from the county center--calling gun shows at government buildings "inappropriate".
After County Executive Rob Astorino defeated Mr. Spano - Mr. Astorino revoked the ban and allowed the gun shows to resume at the county center. When the gun shows were reinstated admission was $11- with $1.50 going to the county.
In light of the school shooting which killed 20 children and 7 adults in Sandy Hook, Connecticut on Friday - I am calling on the County Executive and Board of Legislators to ban gun and weapon shows from the county center. Citizens have a right to bear arms and a right to purchase guns from reputable dealers. But, there is nothing in the constitution that requires governments to allow gun sales at government buildings. If north east gun shows.com wants to have a gun show in Westchester - they should contract with a private facility, not a government owned building.
Among the weapons being sold at the gun show: firearms, knives, militaria military style weapons. An article in the June 20,2010 issue of the NY Daily News indicated that some vendors "sold books and magazines with nazi names. At least two sold stickers bearing confederate flags and swastikas." There haven't been additional reports since 2010 of nazi memorabilia being sold at the county center gun shows.
99% of the people who purchase guns at gun shows are honest, decent, law abiding citizens. All we need is one crazy like the school gunman whose family obtains a gun legally and starts shooting innocent people.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor

contested election fairview fire district tuesday

FAIRVIEW FIRE DISTRICT ELECTION TUESDAY FROM 5 PM TO 9 PM AT FIRE HEADQUARTERS

Greenburgh has 3 paid fire districts. Each of the districts are independent of the town. Election day for fire district commissioners is this Tuesday. Two of districts (Greenville and Hartsdale) do not have contested elections. Fred Overing is running unopposed for re-election to the Hartsdale Fire district (which will see a 4.3% tax hike next year). And, Robert Bruckenthal is running unopposed in Greenville (their budget will raise taxes by 3.3%).

The Fairview fire district elections are being held on Tuesday from 5 pm to 9 PM. Voters can vote at either fire headquarters.

I believe that NYS law should be changed. Holding elections for commissioners in mid December (when few people vote) - right before the holidays - discourages voter participation.

The following article is reprinted from greenburgh.dailyvoice.com. Paul feiner

GREENBURGH, N.Y. — Unlike last year, the Fairview Fire District will see a contest in this year's board of commissioners elections, pitting longtime incumbent and board Chair Vikki Simmons against Greenburgh resident Brian Montgomery.
One of five commissioners is elected every five years in each of Greenburgh's three fire districts of Hartsdale, Fairview and Greenville, putting one member in each district up for re-election each year.
Neither Simmons nor Montgomery could be reached for comment.
Elections turnout is generally low — less than 5 percent among eligible voters — for commission elections, but Fairview Fire District Secretary Thalia Mauro said it varies by year.
"It could be up to 200 people some years," Mauro said.
All fire district elections for commissioners will take place Tuesday. For Fairview elections, residents can vote at either the Fairview Fire Headquarters, 19 Rosemont Blvd., or Fairview Fire Station No. 2, 290 Worthington Road, between 5 and 9 p.m.
One main role of the commissioners is establishing the yearly budget and implementing the tax rate. This year, Fairview commissioners approved an $11.7 million budget proposal that would increase the tax rate by 6 percent.
Simmons has been on the Fairview Fire District board for 20 years. In 2010, Simmons was one of nine commissioners to serve on the Fire Department Consolidation and Government Efficiency Commission, formed to examine the feasibility of consolidating Greenburgh's three fire districts. Ultimately, Simmons and other Fairview representatives found consolidation efforts were up to to town residents and the idea was rejected.
Check back with The Greenburgh Daily Voice for more information on Greenburgh fire district elections.

DEC IS DISABLED PARKING ENFORCEMENT MONTH

DECEMBER IS SELECTIVE ENFORCEMENT MONTH FOR DISABLED PARKING SPACES--- DON'T THINK OF ILLEGALLY PARKING YOUR CAR IN A SPOT RESERVED FOR THE DISABLED

The Greenburgh Committee for the Disabled in cooperation Greenburgh Police Department has named December as “Selective Enforcement Month”. For December extra attention is being implemented for the proper use of handicapped parking spaces. Officers are checking for Handicapped Permits along with inspecting vehicles with reguard to parking correctly next to designated handicapped spaces. Angela Raso, Committee Chairperson finds that “many people park over the Handicapped parking lines rendering the spaces useless for handicapped drivers.”

The Committee meets at 1:00pm,every 2^nd Wednesday at Greenburgh Town Hall

For more information call Theodore D. Young Community Center Senior Program at 989-3622

hike saturday...train for employment

SLEEPING BEAUTIES HIKE --- HIKE TAXTER RIDGE PARK IN E IRVINGTON ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8th




You'll never see a leafless tree the same again on this journey! Hike TAXTER RIDGE with our naturalist, and learn how to i.d. various trees and the life of our local winter woodlands.



Saturday, December 8th

1 - 3 PM

Taxter Ridge Preserve is near Mt. Pleasant Lane (off Pine Lane) in Greenburgh. Park in the cul-de-sac near 31Mt. Pleasant Road, off Pine Lane.

Hike Level: Easy

Free!

Register: Grace@westchesterlandtrust.org or

914-241-6346 x-23



Taxter Ridge Preserve covers 200 acres of woods and wetlands and has a lovely trail system. The preserve was acquired by the Town of Greenburgh in 2005.

National Leader in Energy Procurement and Energy & Environmental Reporting



Note: Hike may be cancelled due to extreme weather conditions. Click here for more park info and directions.

Work Readiness Credential

Training Program

At Westchester Community College’s Valhalla Campus

Funded by the New York State Education Department through a Perkins IV (CTEA) Allocation



How can you stand out in the eyes of a prospective employer?





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• Cooperate with others





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Upon completion of the program you will take the certification exams to achieve the Work Readiness Credential.



This course also includes a computer skills component to help you develop or strengthen your knowledge of MS Office by working at your own pace with an instructor/coach.



Classes begin soon at Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla, NY 10595



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For questions or to enroll, please email PDC@sunywcc.edu or call 914 606 7904.

WESTHELP proposals received

The Town Board issued a request for proposals from developers/housing managers for the WESTHELP property. The following is a brief summary of the responses we received today. The Town Board will discuss the proposals tomorrow at 9 AM at the Greenburgh Town Board work session. Our meetings are televised live on public access TV and streamed live on the internet. We have invited our Greenburgh Legislators – Alfreda Williams, Mary Jane Shimsky and Michael Smith to the work session. Ken Jenkins, chair of the Board has also been invited. Although Ferncliff Manor submitted the highest bid to the town, the Greenburgh Legislators had expressed opposition to the Ferncliff proposal in recent months. Each of the following proposals will be posted on the town website –sometime tomorrow, if not sooner.


PAUL FEINER





Ferncliff Manor, Inc.

$500,000 per year to the Town until the year 2031 to operate a residential school for 74 developmentally disabled children. 70% of the children come from families with incomes below $50,000 annually.



Group MRH, LLC & The Richman Group Affordable Housing Organization

$100,000 per year to the Town until the year 2032 to operate an affordable rental housing pursuant to a triple Net sublease agreement with the Town for the remaining 20-year Master Lease term.



HarborView Properties

$125,000 to 165,000 per year to the Town until the year 2032 to operate property as an eighty percent (80%) Market Rate Apartment Rental Community with twenty percent (20%) of Units set aside and designated as ¨Affordable Housing Units.¨



Marathon Development Group

$200,000 initial lease payment and lump sum $2,000,000 at contract closing representing the net present value of 20 year payment streams to the Town until the year 2032 to convert the existing shelter apartments into 80 units of affordable senior housing (55 and older), with a preference for veterans.



Community Housing Innovations

$350,000 per year to the Town until the year 2032 to develop the former WestHELP site for use as affordable housing, primarily for seniors and the existing administration/school building for a community use such as relocation of the Lois Bronz Children’s Center or Ferncliff Manor, Inc.’s. temporary use for a disabled school facility.



WestHAB

$200,000 per year to the Town ($600,000 up front) until the year 2064 to operate affordable housing pursuant to a tri-party lease between WestHAB, the Town and the County using Low Income Housing Tax Credit Equity for 50 years.

my dad inducted into Westchester County Senior Citizens Hall of Fame today!

My father, Phil Feiner (91) will be inducted into the Westchester County Senior Citizens Hall of Fame today. Very proud and pleased. He voluneers at Greenburgh Town Hall, reviewing claim vouchers and making recommendations that have saved the town millions of dollars over the years.

25% of local governments overriding tax cap...greenburgh will not!

According to todays Journal News about 25% of all local governments in NYS have indicated that they may override the tax cap this year. Greenburgh will not! The proposed 2013 budget comes in below the tax cap. This Tuesday the Town Board will review the proposed budget at our work session meeting which begins at 9 AM. The first portion of the meeting will be devoted to reviewing the proposals we will be receiving from developers/affordable housing managers re: lease of WESTHELP property. The WESTHELP lease payments impact the budget. Every $40,000 we receive from WESTHELP translates into a 1% tax reduction in upcoming budgets (A budget impacts both the villages and unincorporated area of Greenburgh). The Board will reconvene at 7:30 PM Tuesday to discuss the budget. Our meetings are televised and streamed live on the web: www.greenburghny.com. PAUL FEINER



from lohud.com:



ALBANY — About 25 percent of New York’s local governments have indicated that they may override the property-tax cap in 2013 — up from 19 percent at this same time last year, state data shows.

Municipal officials said the overrides are the result of a squeeze on their budgets. Some counties, towns and villages are overriding the cap as a precaution to ensure they are not penalized if they accidentally exceed their tax limit.
“Basically, it’s so difficult on how to come to that figure on the tax cap, you almost have to override it to protect yourself as a town,” said Dewey Decker, supervisor of the town of Sanford, Broome County.
About 1,575 taxing entities in New York, including fire districts and libraries, had filed their cap plans with the state Comptroller’s Office as of Thursday, or 58 percent of them. Of those, 387 said they planned an override, Gannett Albany Bureau’s review of the data showed. The governments run on a fiscal year that starts Jan. 1.
Locally, there are eight government entities in Putnam, 17 in Rockland and 33 in Westchester that have indicated they may override the cap on the property-tax levy. That includes Putnam and Rockland county governments but not Westchester County.
In Putnam, four towns — Carmel, Patterson, Philipstown and Southeast — and the Carmel, Kent No. 1 and Philipstown-North Highlands fire districts are seeking to override the cap.
In Rockland, four towns — Clarkstown, Haverstraw, Orangetown and Stony Point — three villages — Airmont, Montebello and Sloatsburg — six fire districts and three libraries have proposed going over the cap.
In Westchester, two cities — New Rochelle and Peekskill — three towns — Bedford, Mount Pleasant and Scarsdale — 24 fire districts, three libraries and one improvement district may override the cap.

Greenburgh Health Center to open soon!

The new Greenburgh Health Center (Knollwood Road) is nearing completion. Furniture should arrive in mid December. And, the center should be open to the public in early 2013. Judith Watson, executive director of the Greenburgh Neighborhood Health Center, gave me a tour of the new building on Friday afternoon. I was very impressed and and pleased with what I saw. The building, which is across from the Greenburgh Library and next to the Social Security offices, is spectacular! Spacious. It's going to be one of the jewels of the town-something we all will be proud of. The center has some exciting initiatives planned for the community, once they open--including a children's play area in the building.

The center is being built with $12 million dollars in stimulus funds from the federal government. Our community was very lucky to receive one of the regions largest stimulus grants from the fed's. The Health Center provides excellent quality comprehensive primary health care services. For information about the Health Center visit www.greenburghhealthcenter.com. The Health Center is independent of the town and county governments and receives funding from the US Department of Health & Human Services. The Greenburgh Health Center is a satellite site of the Mount Vernon Neighborhood Health Center, Inc. The town had to approve plans for the new health center --a vote I'm proud to have cast.

The Center will continue to serve residents of Greenburgh at their current location: 330 Tarrytown Road until they move into their new building.

PAUL FEINER

EDGEMONT COMMUNITY COUNCIL FACEBOOK POST CONTAIN WRONG INFO ABOUT WESTHELP

Robert Bernstein, former head of the ECC, likes to post inaccurate info on the ECC facebook page. Much of the time I ignore the half truths, misrepresentations. Tonights post was so off and wrong, I thought I'd correct it on my blog. Sent this to the head of the ECC.

A short note advising the ECC that your post tonight re: WESTHELP (on the your facebook page) is very inaccurate.



The town intends to lease out the WESTHELP property. We have been showing the property to a number of developers and believe that some of the bids will be acceptable to all parties. It also looks like the town will be able to generate more revenue from WESTHELP than I projected in my proposed 2013 budget! We will finalize our decision (re: who we will rent out the property to) no later than Dec 20th ( probably sooner). We hope to have a lease in place in January.

I had hoped that the County Legislators representing Greenburgh would attend our meeting on Tuesday (or whenever they can meet with us). The goal: to work together. To rent out the property quickly. To compare the tax implications of each proposal received so that we can keep your taxes as low as possible.



I request that you post my comments on your facebook page.

PAUL FEINER

county legislators jenkins, shimsky, williams, smith and county exec invited to meeting with Greenburgh Town Board re: WESTHELP property bids

I have invited county officials to a joint meeting with the town board to discuss the WESTHELP RFP responses the Town Board is receiving. The Town Board will be meeting on Tuesday at 9 AM (meeting is open). We will review the proposals we have received and need to know if the county will support the bids that will generate for the town the maximum revenue and worthwhile public purpose.

---

From: Paul Feiner
Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2012 11:57 PM
To: Shimsky, Mary Jane; Jenkins, Ken; Williams, Alfreda; Smith, Michael; Town Board; Townclerk; Bart J. Talamini; Timothy Lewis; County Executive (WEB); Plunkett, Kevin J.; 'bsmith@blueridgelp.com'; 'drewskifix@aol.com'; 'mayorelmsford@aol.com'; 'hartleyc197@gmail.com'; 'mayorporcino@ardsleyvillage.com'; 'mayor@hastingsgov.org'
Subject: RE: you're invited to work session on Tuesday at 9:00 AM to review WESTHELP proposals -- Board to make decision no later than Dec 20

It's very important that our Greenburgh representatives try to make this meeting. This will be the first item on the agenda. The Town Board and I want to have a lease signed in January and we need to know, before we approve our budget, if the county will allow the town to select a tenant that will give us the maximum rent for the property.
Every $40,000 we receive in rent means that we can lower taxes in the villages and in the A budget by 1%.

We can start the meeting at 9 AM--and you'll be out in less than one hour. The meeting will be televised. I mentioned at the Town Board meeting tonight that the Greenburgh Legislators have been invited to this important meeting.

PAUL

---

From: Shimsky, Mary Jane [mjs2@westchestergov.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2012 10:15 PM
To: Paul Feiner; Jenkins, Ken; Williams, Alfreda; Smith, Michael; Town Board; Townclerk; Bart J. Talamini; Timothy Lewis; County Executive (WEB); Plunkett, Kevin J.; 'bsmith@blueridgelp.com'; 'drewskifix@aol.com'; 'mayorelmsford@aol.com'; 'hartleyc197@gmail.com'; 'mayorporcino@ardsleyvillage.com'; 'mayor@hastingsgov.org'
Subject: Re: you're invited to work session on Tuesday at 9:30 AM to review WESTHELP proposals -- Board to make decision no later than Dec 20

It's the middle of budget season - will see what I can do

From: Paul Feiner [mailto:pfeiner@greenburghny.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2012 10:05 AM Eastern Standard Time
To: Jenkins, Ken; Shimsky, Mary Jane; Williams, Alfreda; Smith, Michael; Town Board ; Townclerk ; Bart J. Talamini ; Timothy Lewis ; County Executive (WEB); Plunkett, Kevin J.; brian smith ; drew fixell ; elmsford mayor ; hartley connett ; mayor porcino ; peter swiderski
Subject: you're invited to work session on Tuesday at 9:30 AM to review WESTHELP proposals -- Board to make decision no later than Dec 20

The Town Board will be receiving proposals for the use of the WESTHELP site on Monday, December 3^rd. We will be posting all the proposals on the town website (www.greenburghny.com) on Tuesday. I would like to invite you to the Town Board work session on Tuesday, December 4^th at 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. The purpose: to review each of the proposals. To analyze the financial implications to the town re: each of the proposals. And to find out if the county has any objections to any of the proposals. If the county is going to veto any of the proposals we need to know the reasons sooner, rather than later.
It is important that we approve one of the proposals quickly. The Town Board will be voting on the 2013 budget by December 20^th and the revenues we will be receiving from the WESTHELP site will impact residents financially. The more revenue we receive—the lower the taxes will be.

I hope you can attend this work session.

PAUL FEINER

meeting Tuesday to preserve Sprainbrook nursery

Sprainbrook nursery has been a community asset for many years. Earlier this year Al Krautter, owner of the property, announced plans to sell the property. His goal: to sell or lease the property - preserving the land as an organic agricultural entity rather than allowing it to be demolished and turned into brick and mortar and stone.



A community meeting is being held at the nursery tomorrow evening (Tuesday, November 27th at 7:30 PM) to exchange ideas -to come up with a plan so that Al Krautter's dream can be turned into realty. The meeting will be held at the Sprainbrook nursery at the Krautter house above the upper garden center.



I hope to see you at this important community meeting. If you know of individuals interested in helping Mr. Krautter and the fans of Sprainbrook nursery preserve this property as an organic agricultural entity - please encourage them to attend the meeting. Let's not wait until it's too late to save the property!

PAUL FEINER

reasons to be thankful in greenburgh

Thanksgiving is a time to think positive and to be grateful for the good things that are happening. During the past year (since last Thanksgiving), our community has been blessed with many things that I think we should be thankful for....

OUR TOWN EMPLOYEES---During & after Hurricane Sandy our employees worked long and hard trying to help you get your quality of life back. Roads that were closed had to be re-opened, debris and obstructions removed, streets patrolled to make sure your property was safe, questions responded to and complaints followed up. Town staff responded quickly to requests for assistance from Con Ed. During the year they try to be as helpful as possible with any matter you have (many department heads come in on Saturday and Sundays and work late in the evening).

NO FLOODING AFTER HURRICANE SANDY - The town did not experience any significant flooding after Hurricane Sandy. Prior to the hurricane (during the past year) the town (working with Elmsford) cleared obstructions from the Saw Mill River and checked drains and removed obstructions. We hope that our proactive initiatives were helpful.

OUR HOUSE ANGELS-- After the hurricane many residents volunteered their homes --providing warm and comfortable shelter for those without power. Many of the house angels did not know their guests --but were kind enough to offer their homes to those who were less fortunate. OUR TV ANGELS volunteer their time during the year picking up old TV's and dropping them off at the Highway garage. The TV's are heavy--difficult for seniors to do on their own. And, our SNOW ANGELS volunteer their time clearing driveways and walkways of seniors and disabled residents. This is what community is about -- neighbors helping neighbors.

JOB REFERRALS- About 4 years ago I set up a job club, helping the unemployed find employment. A special thank you to the many residents who have advised me of job openings where they work --so I can help your out of work neighbors find employment. Job postings are sent to residents who subscribe to a jobs e list and are posted on www.linkedin.com (greenburgh jobs group) as I learn of the openings.

CERT TEAM-- After the hurricane (and whenever we have an emergency) a group of very dedicated volunteers (OUR CERT TEAM) volunteer their time to help out in emergencies. They set up emergency shelters and do what they can to make you comfortable.

GREENBURGH LIBRARY - After the hurricane the Greenburgh Library proved it's value! Many "powerless residents" enjoyed the comfort of the library, the computers, books and friendly staff. The library staff worked with the town to expand library hours for patrons who needed a place to go to during the crisis.

GREENBURGH HEALTH CENTER - The new Greenburgh health center, which will open its new building in the winter, will provide residents with excellent health care. I'm thankful that the center kept their promise to build a sidewalk from their new building to Route 119.

WESTHAB WORKFORCE HOUSING - A new affordable housing apartment complex is being built near the Westchester County Center. The need is great -- during the year many residents have contacted me requesting applications. When they open in the spring of 2013 the families that move in will experience a great quality of life improvement.

WATERWHEEL AFFORDABLE HOUSING--Thankful that the town, Ardsley and county all worked together so that additional affordable housing could be built in Ardsley on town foreclosed land (the former waterwheel property). Some of the units will be designated for volunteer firefighters, ambulance corp members. Construction should take place in 2013.

BERKELEY STUDENT INTERNS-- Am grateful to the students at Berkeley College who have been devoting their time to the town, helping departments manage their workload at no cost to the taxpayers. Mona Fraitag, co-chair of the Poet's Corner Civic Association, has donated hundreds of hours overseeing this program. We estimate that the student interns have saved taxpayers a million dollars+.

STUDENT NEWS NETWORK--A group of hard working and intelligent students (working with Town Clerk Judith Beville) have started their own student news network, producing news stories and airing them on public access TV.

MEMBERS OF THE CITIZEN BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS - We have hundreds of citizen volunteers. Many serve as appointed members of Boards and Commissions. They work long hours and meet frequently. A citizens commission has been meeting throughout the year (day, night, weekends)- helping me review the town budget, offering great ideas. A new water district advisory board is reviewing our internal water operations and will be making recommendations. The goal: predictability, stability and good planning. The water district, which had a deficit in the past, now has a surplus (the surplus will be used for needed infrastructure).

OUR NEW DISCOVERY ZONE PLAYGROUND AT THE GREENBURGH NATURE CENTER -- The town, working with our dedicated employees and board at the Greenburgh Nature Center, opened up a spectacular new playground. Funding for the playground came from non taxpayer developer escrow funds. The centers new executive director, Margaret Goldberg, has some great ideas --that will take the center to the next level! A new nature center opened in Irvington -- the O'Hara Nature Center (some spectacular trails). In difficult economic times the GREENBURGH PARKS, trails and programs are the Theodore Young Community Center are appreciated by many.

90+ VETERANS HAVE ALREADY TAPED THEIR STORIES FOR LIVING HISTORY INITIATIVE-- A few years ago Steve Wittenberg of Ardsley and Alan Hochberg of Hartsdale started a new initiative: the living history initiative. They have been interviewing veterans of World War II and the Korean conflict. The goal: to make sure that the stories of our veterans (local heroes) are never forgotten). Over 90 living history interviews have been filmed. The United States Library of Congress will be archiving the stories.

NEW BUSINESSES--Am thankful everytime a vacant storefront is replaced with a vibrant new business. Captain Lawrence Brewery, H Mart, Acorda and some new restaurants are among the new businesses. Ben's deli is coming soon to Central Ave.

OUR BUDGET COMPLIES WITH THE NYS TAX CAP FOR TWO CONSECUTIVE YEARS! Am thankful that the 2012 and 2013 budget will comply with the NYS tax cap. A number of communities in Westchester and around the state are exceeding the tax cap next year.

GOVERNOR SIGNS LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING TOWN TO LEASE TENNIS COURTS - In 2012 the town was able to successfully push for state legislation authorizing the town to lease tennis courts to private vendors. More recreation. No cost to the taxpayers. This will be helpful to the town in the years ahead and enable the town to enter into public/private partnerships.

POPHAM ROAD BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION IS ALMOST FINISHED - The Popham Road bridge links Scarsdale to Edgemont. The construction took a few years (this wasn't a town project) and created lots of inconveniences. Am glad that the bridge construction is almost completed! It's a beautiful new bridge that will reduce traffic congestion for motorists driving to Scarsdale from Ardsley Road.

TARRYTOWN NAMED BY FORBES AS ONE OF PRETTIEST TOWNS IN AMERICA! Proud that this village is located within the town.

NEW LED LIGHTS - During the past year we tested some LED lights around town. These light poles will save energy and money. We hope to expand the program.

The above are just some of the things that we should be thankful for in Greenburgh. There's much more. Among them-- YOU! A great town is only a great place if it's residents are terrific. Thank you for choosing to make Greenburgh your home.

PAUL FEINER

summary of last nights meeting re: con ed power outages

The following is a summary of last nights meeting as reported in www.greenburgh.dailyvoice.com. I am reaching out to the new commissions the Governor appointed advising them of specific recommendations we're making and will also ask that the NYS Public Service Commission hold hearings in Greenburgh. Am also reaching out to federal, state and county lawmakers--suggesting a joint meeting with the PSC (which oversees Con Ed). Meeting should be held in Westchester.

At the town level - we need to review our existing emergency plans and improve on them. We learned, for example, that it's difficult to communicate with residents when there is no electricity, no phone service. I'm suggesting that we pre- order lawn signs (similar to the signs candidates place around town). These signs could be placed around town in the event of emergencies with important information: location of shelters, places to congregate for more info (if one doesn't have electricity or phones), etc...
PAUL FEINER

from www.greenburgh.dailyvoice.com

Sue Mirialakis, of Greenburgh, said the Public Service Commission is under Con Edison's thumb. To punish Con Edison, the PSC needs to be unseated first, she said.Photo Credit: Samantha Kramer

GREENBURGH, N.Y. - Instead of playing the blame game, Greenburgh residents acknowledged that there are plenty of things citizens can do in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and Con Edison's slow power restorations for the future.
In the new citizens' committee founded by Town Supervisor Paul Feiner, Greenburgh residents offered their suggestions for both short- and long-term plans on how the town should react to the crisis that left some out of power for more than two weeks.
Those attending wrote their suggestions, which Feiner plans to send as a mass letter to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the Public Service Commission and Attorney General Eric Schneiderman.
Many town residents agreed that the long-term goal was to hold Con Edison accountable for their poor performance, while short-term needs included better communication within the town during an emergency.
New Castle Town Supervisor Susan Carpenter was among the roomful of attendees. She said that her town and others in Westchester County were all faced with the same problems.
"We needed more crews, and more crews sooner," Carpenter said. "That was the problem — they weren't there."
Feiner hopes that the collection of letters will urge the PSC to take punishable action against Con Edison.
But some attendees also pointed out that in the meantime, there are things residents can do by themselves. Danielle Goodman of Hastings-on-Hudson pointed out that people can make Con Edison pay directly by filling out Food Spoilage Claims on Con Edison's website.
And for those receiving incorrect estimates on their electric bills, Greenburgh resident Louis Crichlow urged residents to check your meters and call the company with the actual numbers.
"They will have to send a re-adjusted bill," Crichlow said. "That will hit their pocketbooks right away."
Many also agreed that the town needs a unified emergency plan. Some offered suggestions like creating an emergency hotline committee that can provide information during a crisis. Others pressed for more help for the elderly and disabled - neighborhood captains, for example, could be designated to go door to door to check in on those they know will need extra help during a storm.
Feiner said that just as citizens came together for the meeting, he wants to rally other town officials to meet with Con Edison and PSC representatives to make sure someone pays.
"We have to make sure this never happens again," Feiner said. "I think if we work hard, we can make this succeed."

sidewalks at health center constructed sooner than anticipated

ONE LESS CONTROVERSY--SIDEWALK AT GREENBURGH HEALTH CENTER BUILT A FEW YEARS BEFORE SCHEDULE!

Construction of the Greenburgh Neighborhood Health Center (295 Knollwood Road- near the library) is moving along. The 30,000 sq foot building looks like it could open soon. In recent years some residents objected to the health center because they claimed that a permanent sidewalk from the health center to Route 119 would not be built for at least a few years. A temporary walk had been planned until a permanent sidewalk could be built.

Members of the Town Board always pledged that the sidewalk would be built before a permanent certificate of occupancy is issued. It's important because many of the health center's clients come to the center via public transportation. Having a sidewalk is important for mothers in strollers and people in wheelchairs. Knollwood Road is a busy state road.

I am pleased to report that the promises made to the community have been kept. The new sidewalk (not a temporary walk) is currently under construction and should be ready for pedestrian use within days!

A thank you to the Broadview Civic Association for lobbying for the sidewalk and highlighting it's importance. I am thrilled that the new sidewalk will be built before the new health center opens up.

PAUL FEINER

ELECTRONIC WASTE DRIVE FOR HASTINGS HIGH SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT CLUB

Dear Mr Feiner,
> My name is Lydia Lichtiger and I am organizing an electronic waste
> drive for the Hastings High School environmental club.

>
> The Hastings High School Environmental Club will be partnering with
> Per Scholas, a Bronx based not-for-profit organization, to hold an
> electronic recycling drive from 12p.m. to 3p.m. on Saturday December
> 1st at the Farragut Middle School/Hastings High School playground off
> of Hillside Avenue. Per Scholas will responsibly recycle your
> electronics and will use the funds generated from recycling to provide
> technology education, access, training and job placement to low-income
> communities in the Bronx. Come to the drive with a completed tax
> deduction sheet
> . Donations will be
> accepted at the drive to offset a nominal truck fee and to support Per
> Scholas’ anti-poverty work.
> If you would like to learn about the electronic waste crisis,
> e-Stewards (Per Scholas is e-Steward certified), a certification that
> holds electronic recycling companies to the highest standards of
> environmental responsibility and worker protection, explains it here:
> http://e-stewards.org/the-e-waste-crisis/.