KEEP GREENBURGH CLEAN MEETING TODAY

The first meeting of our keep greenburgh clean committee will be held tonight at 8:15 PM at the supervisor's conference room, town hall. We will be organizing an adopt a highway program, and will be developing a plan of action to keep greenburgh clean.

GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY--WEEK OF MAY 21 post your comments

Please post your comments about issues concerning our town.
TUESDAY- WORK SESSION 3:30 Discussion--Con Ed tree cutting

Wednesday- TOWN BD MEETING Decision: Tax breaks for volunteer firefighters, ambulance corp members

Proposed resolution - study of causes E Hartsdale Ave flooding

LARGE TURNOUT AT HASTINGS MEETING RE: CON ED AND CLEAR CUTTING OF TREES

Most of the seats at the Hastings Village Hall meeting room were taken up Sunday afternoon at a community meeting to discuss Con Ed's plans to cut trees. Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins, Legislator Tom Abinanti, Assemblyman Richard Brodsky's office, Hastings Trustees Danielle Goodman and Diggitt McLaughlin expressed their thoughts on this important quality of life issue.
The consensus: Con Ed needs to cut trees to prevent power outages. But-- there should be some oversight. Local governments should be able to retain the services of an independent arborist who could help make sure that trees that are not in danger of falling on power lines and disrupting service are not cut.
Cut trees contribute to flooding problems and erosion.
I have asked the Town Board to schedule a work session discussion of this issue for THIS TUESDAY AT 3:30 PM AT TOWN HALL. You are invited to attend.

ABINANTI PRESSES FAA TO CONDUCT HEARINGS IN WESTCHESTER TO CHANGE FLIGHT PATHS

County Legislator Tom Abinanti should be praised for calling on the Federal Aviation administration to conduct hearings in Westchester County on its proposed plans to change airplane flight paths in and out of metropolitan area airports.
Hearings were held in Stamford, CT and in Queens. Westchester residents did not have sufficient opportunity to comment on the Preferred Alternative Redesign plan, which will have a significant environmental impact on Westchester. There should also be an extension of the comment period.
I'm planning to join Legislator Abinanti in writing to Steven Kelley, FAA-NAR, c/o Michael Merrill, 12005 Sunrise Valley Road, Reston, VA 21091. It would be appreciated if readers of this blog would send similar letters.

GOOD NEWS FROM COUNTY- COUNTY TO DONATE VAN TO TOWN FOR LIBRARY

I received some good news from the county. I had contacted the county asking for a donation - of a van to help the library during the construction. I received some good news yesterday. They will process the request and will donate a van (or vans) to the library during the month of June. This will help the library provide more efficient service to patrons during the construction process.

STARBUCKS WANTS TO LEASE SPACE ON CENTRAL AVE CURRENTLY OCCUPIED BY ABANDONED GASETERIA

Starbucks wants to develop a 1700 sq foot facility on Central Ave, on the site occupied by the owner of the abandoned Gaseteria, just south of the 4 corners. They claim that no variances are required. They are seeking a meeting with the Planning Board to discuss. This could eliminate an undesirable eyesore on Central Ave. It's my hope that some of the vacant stores/businesses on the avenue will be leased in the near future.
Yesteray I spoke to commercial realtors. The avenue continues to be a desirable location --there is lots of active interest in the other vacant spaces.

DOES ANYONE USE NEW CROSSWALK ON E HARTSDALE AVE?

A new crosswalk, that took weeks to build on E Hartsdale Ave, has been installed. I have been getting mixed reactions. Am curious: Does any pedestrian use the new crosswalk? Has the crosswalk had any positive impact on pedestrian safety? So far- reports indicate that very few people use it.
This feedback will help determine whether the concept should be considered elsewhere.

BAGELS & MORE NEEDS PRO BONO ARCHITECT

Bagels & More needs a pro bono architect. This business is located on E Hartsdale Ave. The business lost thousands of dollars due to flooding. They want to re-open. If you are an architect and are willing to help, it would be appreciated.
Their phone: 261-5065. Their e mail: phisyks@hotmail.com
Please help a business in need of help.

LIA'S RESTAURANT TO RE-OPEN A WEEK FROM TODAY

I was in touch with the owner of Lia's Restaurant today. Good news! Lia's Restaurant, located on E Hartsdale Ave, is scheduled to re-open a week from today.

MEETING AT HASTINGS TRAIN STATION 3 PM SUNDAY TO ADDRESS CON ED TREE CLEARING

There will be a public forum on Sunday, May 20th at 3 PM at the Hastings Train Station near the Con Ed substation to discuss the Con Ed clear cutting taking place all over Greenburgh and the villages. Con Ed has been embarking on a drastic program of tree cutting and removal affecting all trees growing within the following parameters, 10 feet along the sides or underneath distribution power lines; 15 feet from the top of said power lines. Con Ed has NYS authority to override any municipality veto in this matter and can cut down whole trees or part of trees without permission whatever they deem appropriate. They claim they are doing this to lessen the possibilities of future power outages.
Removing or destroying trees can result in more flooding (which is already a problem) because each tree drinks up hundreds of gallons of water daily. Drastic tree cutting will may cause trees that are trimmed to die.
WE ADVOCATE---each municipality should be able to retain the services of our own registered arborists to be paid for by Con Ed to ensure that only trees that are in danger of falling or causing power outages are cut. The health of the trees to be trimmed should be protected. Con Ed should also consider flooding impacts prior to cutting trees. Faith Evans is chair of the committee.

WEEK OF MAY 14--GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY

Please feel free to post comments about town issues on this blog.

SHOULD GREENBURGH RENT VACANT SPACE ON EAST HARTSDALE AVE FOR A TEMPORARY LIBRARY?
SHOULD THE TOWN BD AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS TO CONDUCT AN INDEPENDENT STUDY TO DETERMINE THE CAUSES OF THE RECENT FLOOD AND TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS?

I THINK THE ANSWER IS YES TO BOTH.
REMINDER--TUESDAY MEETING 8 PM TOWN HALL E HARTSDALE AVE FLOODING

GOOD NEWS---HARRY'S OF HARTSDALE GRAND REOPENING JUNE 1

MEETING TUESDAY NIGHT TO DISCUSS E HARTSDALE AVE FLOODING...BD TO BE ASKED TO VOTE ON RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING STUDY AT NEXT TWN BD MEETING: MAY 23

There will be an important community meeting this Tuesday evening at 8 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall to discuss the flooding on E Hartsdale Ave. Short term and long term action steps will be discussed that could reduce the possibilities of a repeat of the recent flood disaster. At the meeting of the Greenburgh Town Board on May 23rd I will introduce a resolution calling on the Board to authorize the initiation of an independent study to determine the reasons for the flood and to come up with recommendations. I plan to actively pursue the suggestion to place a temporary library on E Hartsdale Ave -- a proposal that so far has received widespread support from businesses and residents of E Hartsdale Ave.
We need to analyze the reasons why the stores suffered so much damage. What were the causes? There may be a number of reasons why we experienced the flood. We need to give this the highest priority attention. 2 stores opened last week, Lia's and Harry's Restaurants are expected to open within the next two weeks. We need to act now. If we experience another storm we can have a repeat incident unless we take steps to reduce the possibilities.

BIG TOP OPENS ON E HARTSDALE...SUGGESTION: SATELLITE LIBRARY ON E HARTSDALE AVE

Some more good news... Big Top is open on East Hartsdale Ave. It's a great toy store that deserves your business. Big Top, like the other stores on E Hartsdale Ave, has been out of business for almost a month because of the flood. Earlier today I reported that the Liquor store is also reopening. Unfortunately, not all the stores are reopening. This week we learned that HSBC bank is closing the Hartsdale branch. Some of the other businesses are facing enormous financial difficulties. I have a suggestion: the town should rent the vacant space on the avenue and turn the space into a satellite library (while the new library is being constructed). This will help stop the bleeding on the avenue -- will generate more street traffic on the avenue. The existing businesses will benefit because of the additional activity on the street.
In the past vacant storefronts have remained vacant for a long time--a few years. The street needs the town's help.
I welcome your thoughts as to what action steps the town can take to help the existing businesses succeed.

HARTSDALE WINES AND LIQUORS RE-OPENS -WAS CLOSED FOR ALMOST A MONTH DUE TO FLOOD

Hartsdale Wines and Liquors re-opens tomorrow at 10 AM. The store, located at 218 E Hartsdale Ave, Hartsdale (723-3535), lost tens of thousands of dollars in inventory. The business was closed for almost a month--due to the flood. Please stop by and thank owner Robert Troy for working so hard to keep his store in Hartsdale. He needs the help & business of the community.
We need to work hard to help the merchants on E Hartsdale Ave survive. The town also needs to hire an independent consultant to review what happened and to make recommendations so that we can reduce the possibilities of that another disaster will ever happen again.
the e mail of Hartsdale Wines & Linquors is HARTSDALELIQUOR@OPTONLINE.NET

TRITON SIGNS LETTER- 3 MONTHS FREE; GEOTHERMAL PLANS HAVEN'T BEEN FINALIZED...OUTDOOR PATIO FURNITURE AT LIBRARY IS HERE!

Triton has finally provided the Town Board with a written confirmation to credit three months of preconstruction time for the library. This preconstruction credit timeframe shall begin at the scheduled end of Triton's contract with the town, December, 2007 and continue to February, 2008.
At last nights Town Board meeting representatives of Triton indicated that plans re: geothermal technology have not been finalized.
The outdoor patio furniture at the temporary library is available for library patrons to enjoy. Enjoy the views of the pond at Town Hall and read a book outside!

DOG PARK COMING TO E RUMBROOK PARK IN 2007

The Greenburgh Town Board approved a $6,318,000 capital budget at tonights Town Board meeting. Among the projects receiving funding is the E Rumbrook Park. The park was developed in the late 1970s on a former landfill to meet the community's need for more athletic fields and multipurpose courts. The only significant rehabilitaiton was to the lower baseball field in 1990 that has held up for over 17 years. The rest of the facility is over 30 years old. The ehabilitation will last for at least 30 years. This park is one of the most heavily used outdoor active recreation facilities in the town's park system. The $487,000 in improvements at the park include a dog park, a parking area & drop off/turnaround improvements and entrance plaza rehabilitation and landscaping.
Many residents have pushed for a dog park for a few years. This will be Greenburgh's only dog park. The park should open in 2007.

WANTED; PRO BONO ATTY TO HELP SET UP FOUNDATION TO HONOR GREENBURGH RESIDENT MURDERED

Gisela Marin resides in Tarrytown. On August 26 her daughter, Jessica Santos, died in a horrible tragedy. She was going to start her sophomore year at the University of New Haven, pursuing a degree in criminal investigation. She became an innocent victim of a heinous crime-- a drive by shooting in Yonkers. Her mother, Gisela Marin is establishing a foundation in her daughter's name (the Jessica N. Santos Foundation) which will primarily be for scholarships and educational funding. She has done the process of incorporating the foundation as a non profit and she has her tax ID number but is looking for an attorney who would be willing to look into the 501c3 for tax exempt purposes.
If you are an attorney and are willing to help please e mail GMarin@above.net or e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com. The foundation will hold its first fundraising event on July 22nd, 2007--what would have been Jessica's 20th birthday.
For more information please visit the web site:
www.rememberingjessica.com

GREENBURGH NY SHOULD HELP GREENSBURG, KS

A number of residents have expressed interest in having Greenburgh residents help the victims of the tornado in Greensburg, KS. You should visit the site: www.redcross.org.
If you are interested in learning of other opportunities to help, please advise me by e mailing me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com. If you would like to help organize a community outreach effort, please advise.

WEEK OF MAY 7th GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY

Post your comments. Express your views.
Attend our new residents reception-------this Wednesday, May 9th 6 PM to 7:15
(hosted by Westchester Federal Credit Union)
Attend the Town Board meeting this Wednesday May 9th at 7:15 PM
County Shred mobile coming to Greenburgh Wednesday--noon to 2 PM Town Park

visit the blog: www.thesidewalkproject.blogspot.com. Track the progress of the safety issues on Chatterton Parkway

SHOULD THE TOWN BAN GAS POWERED LEAF BLOWERS FROM JUNE TO THE FALL

Gas powered leaf blowers create lots of noise. This is a quality of life concern for many. Yonkers and Scarsdale have tougher laws concerning leaf blowers. A constituent advised me that Yonkers recently banned leaf blowers beginning June 1st. Should Greenburgh follow their lead?

OUTDOOR PATIO FURNITURE DONATED TO TEMPORARY LIBRARY OVERLOOKING POND AT TOWN HALL

Yesterday I posted a request for a donation of outdoor furniture on the town e mail distribution system and on our web. I am very grateful to James Guerra and Pamela Guerra Franklin for their generosity and immediate resonse. They will be donating outdoor furniture to the town. This will make our temporary library a real destination point. The library is located at Greenburgh Town Hall. The patio overlooks a beautiful pond.
You'll be able to visit the library, read a book overlooking the pond. You'll feel like you're on vacation!
Thank you James and Pamela for your generosity! They are being named citizens of the month, in recognition of their donation.

THE SIDEWALK PROJECT--VISIT THE NEW BLOG. www.thesidewalkproject.blogspot.com

3 DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED GROUP HOME RESIDENTS WHO RESIDE ON CHATTERTON PARKWAY.
EACH HAS A JOB. CHATTERTON PARKWAY HAS NO SIDEWALK. IT'S A VERY DANGEROUS STREET FOR ANYONE TO WALK ON.
THE 3 GROUP HOME RESIDENTS CIRCULATED A PETITION REQUESTING A SIDEWALK.
THE NY TIMES WROTE A PAGE ONE REGIONAL STORY ABOUT THEIR REQUEST.
3 HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS TRYING TO ENHANCE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY FOR THE THREE GROUP HOME RESIDENTS.Their names: Jana Trenk, Carolyn Schepes, Erin Bracken.
THEY ARE PUSHING FOR A SIDEWALK TO BE BUILT AT THIS LOCATION. THIS IS THEIR SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT FOR THE NEXT MONTH AND A HALF.
THERE ARE OBSTACLES.
THE STUDENTS HAVE CREATED A BLOG HIGHLIGHTING THEIR EXPERIENCES PROMOTING TRAFFIC SAFETY.
CHECK THE BLOG OUT DAILY.
WWW.THESIDEWALKPROJECT.BLOGSPOT.COM

TWN BD SETS HEARING FOR MAY 23RD on volunteer fire and ambulance corp exemptions

The Greenburgh Town Board unanimously voted to set a public hearing for May 23rd at 7:15 PM to provide tax exemptions for members of volunteer fire depts and ambulance companies.
The exemption amount: 10% exemptions on the town portion of the town tax and on special districts (water, fire and park). Example of exemption for volunteers for town tax purposes: For those who have an average assessed value of $15,000 --a village resident will save about $10.32. For volunteers who reside in the unincorporated section of Greenburgh - the average exemption will be $181.13.
Volunteers must be active members of a volunteer fire/ambulance dept for at least 5 years.

NEW FERRY SERVICE FROM YONKERS TO NYC-- I TRIED IN 1985

I want to congratulate City of Yonkers officials and NY Water Taxi for successfully introducing the new Yonkers commtuer ferry service to NYC. The service began today. For a free ride e mail info @nywatertaxi.com and a pass during the month of May will be sent to you.
This is very exciting. In 1985, shortly after I was elected to the Westchester County Board of Legislators, I initiated a lobbying effort trying to get a ferry service started to NYC from the Hudson River communities. We received a very positive response from commuters and organized two free trial ferry rides from the river communities into Manhattan. The Reporter Dispatch (now the Journal News) ran a front page article on July 12, 1985: HUDSON RIVER FERRY TO MANHATTAN- WESTCHESTER LAWMAKER SAYS PUBLIC DEMANDS HIGH SPEED SERVICE.
There was substantial interest from commuters. However, the service never got off the ground. The problems: lack of commuter parking in the river villages. Others expresesd concern that a ferry service would generate additional local vehicular traffic from out of town residents who would like to take commuter ferry service into Manhattan and would need to park their cars at ferry parking locations.
This is an exciting day for Westchester. Commuters have another option. The quality of the commute will be enhanced.
This has been a dream ---having commuter ferry service. The initiation of the service highlights the fact that lawmakers should never get discouraged. Good initiatives take time!

TUESDAY MAY 15TH 8 pm meeting--long term/short term Mitigation: E HARTSDALE AVE FLOODING

You are invited to attend a meeting on May 15th at 8 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall to discuss long term/short term mitigation efforts to the E Hartsdale Ave flooding problems. We're going to discuss various options/approaches.
I am very pleased with the help we have been getting from other public officials. Yesterday I spent some time with Congresswoman Nita Lowey who toured the avenue with me. Last week State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins and I met with merchants on E Hartsdale Ave & with business owners in N Elmsford who also were flooded out. County Legislator Tom Abinanti has also walked the avenue, meeting with merchants. The County Executive, Andrew Spano, is hosting a meeting for businesses that were flooded out at Greenburgh Town Hall tomorrow (Wednesday) from 1-3.
Now the hard work must take place-- coming up with a plan. Thank you for the good ideas that have been suggested so far.

TOWN BD TO DECIDE ON TUESDAY EVENING IF VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE CORP MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE TAX BREAKS, ALONG WITH FIREFIGHTERS

The Greenburgh Town Board will decide on Tuesday, May 1st if volunteer ambulance corp members-along with firefighters-will be eligible for tax breaks, authorized by the NY State Legislature. The special meeting will take place at 7:15 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall. I support providing the volunteer ambulance corp members with the same tax breaks as volunteer firefighters. A public hearing will be scheduled for the 4th Wednesday of May at 7:15 PM.

GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY WEEK OF APRIL 30, 2007 POST YOUR COMMENTS

Post your comments and participate in our converation about issues pertaining to the town of Greenburgh.

SOME E HARTSDALE MERCHANTS ANGRY THAT CONTRACTORS BEING TICKETED ON E HARTSDALE AVE

Some E Hartsdale Ave merchants contacted me this weekend - angry that contractors working for merchants on E Hartsdale Ave (who were flooded out) have been ticketed. These tickets increase the costs of the repairs/renovations. I intend to reach out to the Parking Authority and will recommend that contractors who are helping the merchants reopen be exempt from parking fees during the coming weeks.
We need to do everything possible to assist the merchants re-open.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9TH-NEW RESIDENTS RECEPTION...COMING THIS SUMMER: MOVIES AT THE PARKS

New residents are invited to the annual new residents reception on Wednesday, May 9th from 6 PM to 7:15 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall. Westchester Federal Credit Union (which has offices at Greenburgh Town Hall) is sponsoring the reception. Enjoy tasty sandwiches and interact with town officials and neighbors. This is an opportunity to learn more about your town government. Please RSVP to pfeiner@greenburghny.com if you join us.
We're in the process of planning summer outdoor movies at various parks. Assistant Commissioner of Parks James Robinson is taking a leadership role organizing this exciting new initiative.

HATS OFF TO NIKKI CODDINGTON-EXCELLENT GREEN FAIR

I spent over two hours at the green fair organized by Nikki Coddington, our energy conservation coordinator. An excellent turnout...an excellent job! Visited the terrific exhibits dealing with saving energy at home and in transportation, renewable energy, green buildings, etc...
Nikki deserves our thanks for her hard work and dedication. The fair motivated me to work harder to try pushing for additional initiatives so we can make Greenburgh a model for other communities when it comes to saving energy.
For info about our energy conservation efforts call Nikki at 993 1649.

GREEN LIVING ENERGY CONSERVATION FAIR TOMORROW -SATURDAY

THe town will hold a free Green Living Fair on Saturday April 28 from 10 am to 2 pm at Greenburgh Town Hall. The purpose of the Green Living Fair is to provide the public with information on saving energy at home and in transportation, renewable energy, green building, sustainable food and other choices for sustainable living that will help reduce global warming and preserve a livable plant. For info contact Energy Conservation coordinator Nikki Coddington at 993-1649.

FEMA AWARD DOES NOT GO FAR ENOUGH -BUSINESSES SHOULD GET GRANTS, NOT LOANS

President Bush has signed a declaration awarding Westchester FEMA assistance. Flood victims are eligible for up to $28,000 to address flood damage. However, businesses are only eligible for low interest loans.
Many businesses (including those on E Hartsdale Ave) lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. They have been out of business for over a week-- some will be out for months. Grants may help them stay in business. If they only receive loans they may be forced to close shop.
I hope FEMA offers businesses the same assistance as residents.
For info about FEMA call 1800-621-3362 or register on line at www.fema.gov

TOWN BD TO SET HEARING FOR MAY 23RD TO PROIVDE EXEMPTIONS FOR VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS

The Greenburgh Town Board will vote tonight to set a public hearing for Wednesday, May 23rd at 7:15 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall to consider a local law to provide exemptions for members of volunteer fire depts.
I support the legislation which was authorized by the State Legislature and signed into law by the Governor granting localities the ability to offer such exemptions. The volunteer fire depts save the taxpayers millions of dollars. The volunteers risk their lives for our community and are on call round the clock.

PRESIDENT SIGNS DISASTER DECLARATION-RESIDENTS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR FLOOD RELIEF

President Bush signed a disaster declaration which will enable federal financial assistance to be given to businesses and homeowners that suffered losses as a result of the recent flood! This is great news. Senator Clinton's office called me within the past hour advising me of this. I will keep residents/businesses informed of the steps that need to be taken to qualify for financial help.

THE NEXT STEPS: SOLVING E HARTSDALE AVE FLOODING LONG TERM

Al Regula, Commissioner of Public Works, has presented the Town Board with a report detailing long term solutions to the extensive damage and flood related problems along East Hartsdale Ave.
There is a stream located behind and under the properties on the west side of the avenue. The stream serves to provide storm water drainage for the adjacent properties, as well as upstream areas. As is the case with many other problematic watercourses in the town, this stream is located almost exclusively on private properties and does not have any easement on the part of the town. It is highly likely that floating debris, generated by stormflows, once again contributed to the most recent drainage backup.
The town has the ability to create a drainage district for the watershed area tributary to this drainage system. The formation of such a district has been accomplished in the past. District formation would allow the cost for any engineering and analysis, as well as the cost for any improvements of the subject drainage system, to be borne by the district and funded by member property owners. The creation of such a drainage district would require legislative action by both the town as well as the approval of the state.
The commissioner has prepared a draft RFP for professional services for watershed analysis and engineering studies. These tasks would be initially required to determine what improvements, if any, are feasible for the drainage facilities located in the E Hartdale Ave area.
I believe this must be given the highest priority attention. We can't afford another major flood.

WELCOME HOME 170 EAST HARTSDALE AVE, CHASE BANK

Residents of 170 E Hartsdale Ave have returned home, after a week of homelessness due to flooding. Chase Bank is now open for business on E Hartsdale Ave. Progress is slowly being made.

LET'S PLAN A BIG SUMMER JAZZ CONCERT SERIES TO JUMP START E HARTSDALE AVE - PLANNING MEETING TUESDAY

Greenburgh is going to have a giant party to welcome the merchants back to E Hartsdale Ave!
Flooding might have caused some setbacks. But- the flooding problems won't prevent us from working overtime to help our merchants stay in business.
A planning meeting will be held this Tuesday (tomorrow) at 6:15 PM at UniStar's new offices on E Hartsdale Ave (near the Hartsdale Train Station).
Mark Morganelli of Jazzforumarts is working to hold a series of outdoor summer concerts.
We're going to dance in the streets of E Hartsdale Ave when the businesses are back serving our community!

ARISTOCRAT DRYCLEANERS OF 212 E HARTSDALE AVE, HAS FREE DELIVERY!

Aristocrats Drycleaners, 212 E Hartsdale Ave experienced flooding. They can't operate from their existing store. But...they are utilizing the facilities of another location for their business. They provide full service for drycleaning, laundry and tailoring and are doing business as usual.
Please help them stay in business. Call them at 723-1008. This is a very difficult time for all the businesses that were flooded out and are temporarily closed.

GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY WEEK OF APRIL 26 POST YOUR COMMENTS

Please post your comments about town issues.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK COMING UP....
UPDATES ON E HARTSDALE AVE FLOODING
REQUEST TO WAIVE PERMIT FEES
ANALYSIS- CAUSES OF EAST HARTSDALE AVE FLOODING, RECOMMENDATIONS---THIS WILL EITHER BE DONE IN HOUSE OR WE WILL RETAIN AN OUTSIDE CONSULTANT (DISCUSSION AT WORK SESSION)
BRIEFING TZ BRIDGE WEDNESDAY NIGHT 7:15 PM
UPDATE LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION--GEOTHERMAL
GREEN ENERGY CONSERVATION FAIR SATURDAY 10 AM to 2 PM
E HARTSDALE AVE JAZZ CONCERT PLANNING MEETING TUESDAY 6:15 PM, UNISTAR OFFICES ON E HARTSDALE AVE

REQUESTING TOWN BD DISCUSS E HARTSDALE AVE FLOODING TUESDAY AT WORK SESSION

I have requested that the Town Board discuss the following at Tuesday's work session.
1) Waiving all flood related building permits.
2) Completing an analysis of the causes of the flood & recommendations re: action steps to be taken so that we can prevent another major flood on E Hartsdale Ave.
I want to give this the highest priority attention. We should move forward quickly on implementing any recommendations to prevent a repeat of what happened during last weeks storm.

E HARTSDALE AVE FLOOD UPDATE: CON ED SEPARATING EACH BUSINESS LINES TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR BUSINESSES TO OPEN UP

I received a call from Sandy Miller of Con Ed this morning. Con Ed has completed their environmental clean up. They have taken action to make it easier for each of the businesses to open up. None of the businesses will be dependent on the other businesses. Con Ed will not require each of the businesses to be ready to open up before they turn on the power. Each storefront can receive Con Ed power individually. This is helpful.

WELCOME HOME 180 EAST HARTSDALE AVE!

WELCOME HOME 180 EAST HARTSDALE AVE RESIDENTS....I just received a call from our Building Department advising me that the residents of 180 E HARTSDALE AVE can move back home. The residents have been homeless since Sunday night when they were evacuated as a result of the flooding on E Hartsdale Ave.
I'm asking the Commissioner of Public Works to present the town with a report and recommendations analyzing the cause of the problem on E Hartsdale Ave. Most important of all-- we need recommendations so that we can make sure that this kind of significant flooding never happens again.
Residents of 170 E Hartsdale Ave will most likely be able to move back home on Monday or Tuesday.
Mobil gas station has re-opened. So has the drug store. Some of the other stores will be reopening in less than 2 weeks. The restaurants and food establishments could take longer.

POSSIBLE ENVIRoNMENTAL PROBLEM TO DELAY RE-OCCUPANCY ON E HARTSDALE AVE

Just got off the phone with Sandy Miller of Con Ed. She advises that there are possible environmental problems in the Con Ed manpoles. Con Ed is doing tests. They have retained the services of an environmental contractor to clean up the manholes - immediately, as warrnated..
This will delay the re-occupancy of 180 & 170 E Hartsdale Ave. She now believes that people may be able to move back tomorrow. However, each unit owner has to have an individual inspection completed at thier home.
It's very aggravating.
The drug store on East Hartsdale Ave has re-opened.

TZ BRIDGE UPDATE AT TOWN BD MEETING

Representatives of the state will provide Town Board members with a briefing on Tappan Zee bridge options at our meeting this coming Wednesday at7:00 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall. The state is reviewing options that could lead to a new bridge. We welcome your input and suggestions.

E HARTSDALE AVE --WAIVE PERMIT FEES, DEVELOP PLAN OF ACTION SO FLOODING WON'T OCCUR AGAIN

County Legislator Tom Abinanti, State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins assistant Yolanda Robinson - and I spent time meeting with most of the businesses that were temporarily closed down on E Hartsdale Ave, due to the flooding.
The stores are all closed because of flooding damage. We're going to provide them with assistance completing forms for grants/loans. In addition, I will be meeting with store owners daily, trying to help them cut through red tape. I am requesting the Town Board to waive all building fees for flood victims. I have asked the Commissioner of Public Works and Town Engineer to provide the Town Board with an analysis as to what caused the flooding and what actions could and should be taken in the near future to reduce the potential for future problems.
We are looking for volunteer attorneys, contractors, architects, engineers who can provide pro bono assistance to the merchants. Please contact me if you would like to help out. pfeiner@greenburghny.com

WHAT SHOULD THE TOWN DO TO HELP MERCHANTS ON E HARTSDALE AVE WHO WERE FLOODED AND TEMPORARILY OUT OF BUSINESS?

I would like to invite you to provide me and other town officials with your thoughts re: how we can help merchants on E Hartsdale Ave.
As you all know, we experienced a horrible flood this past week. About half the businesses in the downtown area of Hartsdale (E Hartsdale Ave) experienced flooding and have been closed -- temporarily. Some could be out for days or weeks. Many did not have flood insurance and lost tens of thousands of dollars.
The county is seeking financial help from Washington & Albany to help those who experienced flooding. I spoke to high level county officials yesterday. However... that could take time. I'm working with the county to make sure that those who suffered financial losses receive the maximum dollars and help possible.
I am also planning to reach out to the Business Council of Westchester and other business advocacy groups seeking advice. I'm assigning student interns to research models that have been used by other communities around the nation --to help businesses that have experienced flood related problems.
I know that bloggers are full of ideas. Your suggestions are welcome and will be followed up.

SHELL WITHDRAWS APPLICATION FOR HYDROGEN STATION IN EDGEMONT

Shell has decided to withdraw their application before the town Planning Board regarding Shell Hydrogen's proposal to install a hydrogen fueling station and visitor's center at the existing Shell service station at 1000 Central Park Ave. Shell indicated that several changes have taken place within the transportation industry.
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicle technology has advanced rapidly. More fuel cell vehicles are expected to be on our roads sooner than expected. The proposed Central Ave facility in Greenburgh was not capable of accomodating the number of vehicles the company now anticipates needing to serve. Many vehicle manufacturers are planning to begin operating their vehicles with hydrogen stored at higher pressure than that proposed for the project. To accomodate these changes Shell would have needed to amend their application to reflect industry requirements for increased storage and dispensing at higher pressures.
Shell is breaking ground on a project in partnership with White Plains. Last year the Greenburgh Nature Center sponsored an interesting forum on hydrogen vehicles.

HELP FAMILY OF GREENBURGH RESIDENT STU COHEN (OFFICER WHO LOST HIS LIFE PROTECTING US) BY ATTENDING FUNDRAISER

Please save the date: Sunday 4/29/07...4 PM to ? ...The thirty Turtle Bar, 201 E Post Road, White Plains
Senior Investigator Stu Cohen of the Westchester County DA's Narcotic Initiative contracted a severe and mysterious illness after conducting a narcotic search warrant in Greenburgh. This search warrant was into a house that was actually a mill where large quantities of heroin were prepared, packaged and distributed. Within days Stu began to experience headaches and abdominal pains. Stu lapsed into a coma and passed away last week.
He leaves behind his wife and 2 small children (ages 4 & 6). Stu resided in Greenburgh. He was a Hastings volunteer firefighter, was active in the community.
Want to make a donation: Send your contribution to WCDAI PBA, PO Box 326, White Plains, NY 10602. A minimum donation of $25 is requested at the door. There will be a DJ,live band, 50/50 raffle, T shirts, food and drink.
You can also stop by and drop off your check made payable to WCDAI PBA at my office- Greenburgh Town Hall. I will hand deliver the checks when I attend the function on April 29th.

WEEK OF APRIL 16 GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY--POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT TOWN ISSUES

Please feel free to post your comments about town issues. Your input is appreciated.

UPDATE: FLOODING

180 & 170 E Hartsdale Ave were evacuated last night. We opened up the multipurpose center at Veteran Park for the residents but all of apartment residents chose to stay at friends homes or at the Marriott. So, we closed down the emergency shelter at 2 AM. There is flooding in the basement of 160 E Hartsdale Ave but the building was not evacuated. Stores on E Hartsdale Ave have flooding problems - many will not open today (possibly longer). The following streets are either closed or partially closed: Beaver Hill, Warehouse, Saw Mill River Road, part of S Central Ave, Old Tarrytown Road (between Hillside and Manhattan), parts of Jackson, Old Sprain, Lawrence, Fairview Park.
Thanks to the fire depts for pumping out basements that were flooded and to the highway dept and police depts for their hard work.

180 EAST HARTSDALE AVE RESIDENTS EVACUATED...ROADS CLOSED DUE TO FLOODING

About 6 residents of 180 East Hartsdale Ave are being evacuated to the multipurpose center at AF Veteran Town Park due to flooding. Central Ave is closed from the 4 corners to South Washington Ave. Jackson is closed at Old Jackson, Nepperhan Ave in North Elmsford is also closed. 9A in the area of Warehouse Lane is closed. Babbitt Court is flooded. Stores on E Hartsdale Ave have experienced flooding in their basements --it's possible that some or all of the stores could be closed due to flooding. The flooding around town is pretty extreme.
About a year ago I requested the town to start placing emergency generators in town owned buildings. Tonights evacuation highlights the need for buildings to have generators in them --so they could be used for evacuations when there are emergencies, power outages, floods. This is the first time that a town building is being used for emergency shelter, to the best of my knowledge. The town hall will be retrofitted this year for an emergency generator.

update on garbage/debri on roads...

I received an e mail from Al Regula, Commissioner of Public Works today (Sunday). I appreciate the fact that the commissioner is out working today and took the time to respond to concerns about litter on state roads.
"Section 60 of the Highway law provides that the town, after being petitioned by residents whose property abuts a state highway, can contract for the removal of filth and refuse from the state highway and that the cost for such work shall be assessed upon the property abutting." I hope that the Town Board will discuss the garbage/debri issue at upcoming meetings and will give this the highest priority attention. I also hope that the Board will be receptive to give the Commissioner additional resources, as requested, so we can do a great job keeping Greenburgh clean.
In addition...I will ask the police chief to provide members of the public and the Town Board with an update re: number of tickets issued to people who are littering. I will also ask the Police Chief to direct police officers to step up efforts to ticket those who throw garbage on roads.
This is an important quality of life issue.

GARBAGE SHOULD BE CLEANED UP ON ROAD RIGHT OF WAY

I have been in communication with town and state officials regarding the need to clean up the garbage, litter, debri along roads. The town has a crew working to clean up litter along town roads. Last week I was advised that the state is responsible for cleaning debri off of state roads (Saw Mill River Road, Dobbs Ferry Road, 119, Central Ave, etc..). A blogger posted a comment on one of my blogs indicating that state law requires the work to be done by the town, not the state --which is contrary to past practices. I have written to the commissioner of public works and town atty and have asked them to research the law. If the blogger is correct, I will ask the town board to authorize additional expenditures so that the work could be complete as soon as possible. We should address the litter problem frequently during the year.
Keeping the town clean and green must be given high priority attention.

STORM INFO...

The town is working - trying to be proactive. We want to address the anticipated storm (the weather service is predicting a storm on Sunday). We are clearing drains, basins, obstructions, brooks. Obviously, we won't be able to prevent flooding. But, we're trying to minimize the problem.
If you have a problem the phone number of the highway garage is 693 8121. My home phone is 478-1219. My cell phone is 438-1343. Please feel free to call me at home (till midnight) if you have a storm related problem. I'll be in touch with Con Ed, Verizon, the various town departments during the storm.

MAJOR BIOMED GROUNDBREAKING FOR REGENERON

Regeneron is a biopharmaceutical company that develops drug candidates for the treatment of cancer, eye and other diseases. The company employs more than 450 people.
Today I spoke at a groundbreaking ceremony. BioMed Realty Trust and Regeneron will build a new 360,000 square foot, $145 million facility -- a world class lab and office complex that will be a new corporate headquarters and research development facility for Regeneron.
We worked very hard to discourage Regeneron from leaving Greenburgh & Westchester. Other states tried to persuade the company to relocate.

REQUESTING TOWN TO PURCHASE OUTDOOR FURNITURE FOR LIBRARY..UPDATE ON TRITON LETTER

I am requesting the town to purchase outdoor furniture for the temporary library. We have a beautiful patio overlooking a pond at town hall. If we place outdoor furniture at the patio it will make a beautiful reading area for library patrons. I have spoken to the acting director of the library. She indicated that the library does not have funds in their budget for this appropriation. I would be pleased to use town funds/not library funds for this since the furniture can be used by non library patrons (employees and residents as well as library patrons.
ON ANOTHER MATTER-- over a month ago TRITON promised to provide us with a written document promising to provide the town with 3 months of free services because of the delays in the library construction. Despite their verbal agreement we still have not received their written letter. I am asking for follow up.

TOWN BD RENAMES WEBB PARK FOR RICHARD PRESSER

The Greenburgh Town Board unanimously voted to rename Webb Park in honor and in memory of Richard Presser who led the efforts to acquire Webb Park, the Gaisman Estate (now called Harts Brook). Richard also assisted in the efforts to acquire Glenville and Taxter Ridge. He was instrumental in pushing for the open space referendum that was approved by Greenburgh voters in 1997. Greenburgh was the first town in NY to have an open space referendum. The park will be dedicated as the Richard Presser Park & Webb Field in June. The town will also be enhancing the park -thanks to a $97,000 grant received from the federal government (Congresswoman Nita Lowey).

ONE FREE TREE FROM POWER AUTHORITY FOR EVERY TREE ORDERED

The NY Power Authority has a tree power program. The program is designed to help government customers improve the environment. The NYPA is offering to sell the town two kinds of trees - and will offer one free tree for every tree we purchase. For larger trees -buy one and get one at half price.
I am urging the Town to purchase trees from the NY Power Authority. For copies of the letter that I received from the NYS Power Authority please e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com

CON ED TO REPLANT TREES CUT ON TOWN PROPERTY

Con Ed has agreed to plant small trees to replace trees cut on town property. Con Ed is involved in a tree cutting program in our area to help reduce the possibility of future power outages. Trees cut on town property will be replaced with smaller growing trees. Trees cut on non town property will not be replaced. For copies of their e mail to me please visit the town web site: www.greenburghny.com or e mail pfeiner@greenburghny.com

GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY- WEEK OF APRIL 9 - POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT TOWN ISSUES

Please feel free to post your comments about town issues here. Dan from Hartsdale advises that some sitemeters can record time/addresses of bloggers. I do not have a sitemeter.

FORMER HOMELESS SHELTER MAY BECOME AFFORDABLE HOUSING

A former homeless shelter on 119 (near the county center) that closed down about a year ago may become affordable housing. WETHAB is pursuing plans to tear down the old homeless shelter and replace the 61 unit shelter with 43 apartments for working families. Rents will range from $800 a month for a studio to $1300 a month for 2 bedrooms. Income requirements: $47,950 to about $76,720.
I have already conferred with the head of the local civic association and intend to meet with additional residents in the Fulton Park neighborhood in the coming weeks. My personal feeling is that affordable housing for working people is a good use for this location. The application has not been submitted as of yet.

TOWN BD HAS TILL NEXT WEEK TO RESPOND TO STATE COMPTROLLERS REPORT REGARDING WESTHELP

The Greenburgh Town Board has till the middle of next week to respond to the State comptroller's report regarding the WESTHELP partnership. The comptroller gave the Town Board 90 days to respond to the report. Among options included in the comptrollers report---renegotiating the WESTHELP partnership agreement. I believe that the Town Board should renegotiate the agreement and that promises made should be kept, provided (of course) that they comply with state law. The State Comptroller's office provided all the Town Board members with an option that would enable the WESTHELP partnership to continue.
I urge the Town Board to comply with the State Comptroller's request that a response be submitted within 90 days (next week).

FUEL EFFICIENT VEHICLES--PLAN OF ACTION PROPOSED

The Greenburgh Town Board met in work session today. We discussed developing a plan to purchase fuel efficient vehicles as part of our fleet. I believe that the town should take the lead on this important energy conservation measure and support a plan to phase in the purchase of only energy efficient vehicles (such as hybrid vehicles). Thank you Nikki Coddington, energy conservation coordinator, for your hard work promoting energy conservation!

SAVE THE DATE: SHRED MOBILE COMING TO GREENBURGH MAY 9

SAVE THE DATE: The Westchester County shred mobile will be coming to Greenburgh on May 9 (Wed) from 12-2 PM at AF Veteran Park, Ardsley. The shred mobile is available to help residents destroy unwanted personal papers and documents with personal identifying information. This is a way to help you avoid identity theft. THis is for residents only--not for businesses, schools, government or municipal offices. Each resident may bring a maximum of 2 file boxes, appproximately 10 inches by 12 inches by 15 incres in size. All paper must be freed of clips, bindings, folders and files. No bound or hardcover ledger books area allowed.
You could shred pre approved credit card applications, old credit card bills, receipts, bank statements, old tax returns or any other documents containing your name, address and other identifying info.

NEW RESIDENTS RECEPTION WILL BE HELD AT TOWN HALL on WEDNESDAY, MAY 9th from 6 PM to 7:15 PM.

GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY-WEEK OF APRIL 2--POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT TOWN ISSUES

Please feel free to post your comments about town issues. Dan from Hartsdale advises that sitemeters can be obtained by bloggers and these sitemeters may be able to record the time and addresses of bloggers. I do not have a sitemeter.

GEOTHERMAL CONTRACT NOT SIGNED BY CONTRACTORS FOR LIBRARY...TAXPAYERS SHOULD NOT HAVE TO ABSORB COSTS OF DELAYS

The taxpayers of Greenburgh should not have to absorb the costs of delays for the library construction project. The bid projects for the five construction areas of the library project went out last fall. The Town Board awarded the contracts in mid December. The contractor who received the award for geothermal (one of the five contracts) still has not signed the contract.
Changes in the contract have been made since the contract was awarded. No permits are now required by the state. I have explained the changes to subscribers of the e list (www.greenburghny.com).
I have asked our outside contracts attorney for an opinion as to whether the bidder is bound by any time limit to execute the contract or be removed which could mean that the next lowest bidder would be chosen. I have also asked if the entire well contract must be offered for rebidding to all interested parties.
I feel that the responsibility for causing these changes lies with the architect and TRITON and that any delays and costs regarding the construction of the library should not be charged against the project but to those parties who bear the responsibility.
I also have expressed concern publicly that our construction team should not have sent out the bid package before they finalized their plans and that it was premature to send any contracts out for bidding until such time as they knew that the primary supply component of the HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) had at least passed the required hurdle.
The Town Board has a legal responsibility to oversee the construction of the project. It's important that the architect, contractors, construction team recognize the fact that their work will be monitored.

MEETING HELD WITH 50 CIVIC LEADERS AND RESIDENTS TO DISCUSS STOP & SHOP PROPOSAL

About 50 civic leaders and residents from E Irvington & the Tarrytown neighborhoods attended a meeting last night to discuss a possible proposal to place a Stop & Shop on 119 (near the new Sheraton Hotel on the Tarrytown border). This was a pre-application meeting. I believe that citizens should be briefed on land use applications BEFORE applications are submitted.
We had a good exchange of ideas. The developer & Stop & Shop will be presenting an application for a re-zone to the Town Board in the coming weeks. Rezoning property is totally discretionary on the part of the Town Board.
If you are interested in being kept informed of the status of this application please e mail pfeiner@greenburghny.com.

SHOULD A TENNIS BUBBLE BE PLACED AT RUMBROOK PARK?

The Town Board has not taken any action on the proposal to award a private contract to company to place a bubble over the tennis courts at AF Veteran town park. The Board has been reviewing the proposed bubble for a few years. The town was offered substantial rental income every year. A private company had also offered to build a club house for tennis players (at no cost to the town) and to renovate our tennis courts.
The problem: A & B budget disputes--caused by the litigation (Edgemont resident vs. villages).
Another option was suggested today by a citizen: that we issue an RFP to place a bubble over the tennis courts at East Rumbrook Park (a federally funded park). This would generate much less revenue for the town since it is a smaller facility. However- it's an option with different issues. What do you think?

WARNING FROM DAN FROM HARTSDALE..ANONYMOUS POSTS MAY NOT BE ANONYMOUS

Dan from Hartsdale posted a comment on the blog commentary (Ardsley sidewalks). He mentions that anyone who has a blogspot site can install a sitemeter that records the URL and time of anyone who clicks on the site. For example, if a blogger logs on to the site from a law firm one can find that out. He mentions anonymous may not be anonymous.
I will post this warning on each week.

JAZZ ON EAST HARTSDALE AVE!

Cab Calloway used to live in Greenburgh. We're going to bring quality jazz back to Greenburgh with a new jazz concert series on East Hartsdale Ave. Mark Morganelli of Jazz Forum Arts and I met with UniStar Federal Credit Union. The Credit Union will sponsor the concerts. We're hoping to organize a summer jazz concert series this summer - possibly 8 Saturdays in July and August (during the farmer's market).
We're going to have a planning meeting on Thursday, April 24th at 6:15 at the new UniStar store front on East Hartsdale Ave.
If you are interested in getting involved in helping us organize the concert series please advise. E mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com

TOWN BD SEEMS COMMITTED TO ADDRESSING ARDSLEY ROAD SIDEWALK SNOW ISSUE BEFORE NEXT WINTER

A meeting last night of residents of Edgemont and town officials produced some positive signs that the town might address the Ardsley Road sidewalk and snow removal problem. Members of the Town Board promised to address the issue before next years snow season.
I have been calling on the Town Board to have the town assume responsbility of snow removal on Ardsley Road sidewalks for a few years. It's a very dangerous situation- pedestrians walk up and down the road when the sidewalks are not cleared of snow.
I suggest that we issue an RFP to landscapers/contractors to determine what the costs will be of snow removal on the sidewalk.

GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY- week of March 26th--POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT TOWN ISSUES

(Please feel free to post your comments about town issues on this blog. Your input is appreciated.

LIBRARY UPDATE: GEOTHERMAL CONTRACTOR STILL HAS NOT SIGNED CONTRACT

In December the Town Board awarded a contract to 5 separate library contractors for the library construction. One of the contracts was for geothermal technology. As of today that contract has not been signed by the contractor. I have asked that the public be provided with an update at Wednesday's Town Board meeting.

EDGEMONT NEIGHBORHOOD GETS TREE CLEARING FROM CON ED - CON ED TO MEET WITH ME THIS COMING WEEK --I BELIEVE SMALLER TREES SHOULD REPLACE TREES

I received a report that Con Ed has cleared trees behind the Mount Joy transformer. About 20 trees (all of the trees looked hardy and robust) were cut.A residential neighborhood now looks like Central Ave road front property.
I feel that Con Ed should replant trees that have been cut with smaller growing trees. Con Ed is being proactive --cutting down trees to minimize the possibility of future power outages. The significant tree clearing program that is taking place in Greenburgh and around the region is changing the character of neighborhoods and may also cause other environmental concerns: drainage, erosion, etc..
I will be meeting with Con Ed representatives this coming week to discuss. I would appreciate being notified of other tree clearing that is taking place around the town.

PROPOSED BUDGET TO ADDRESS CRIME/THEFTS AT HARTSDALE PARKING GARAGE

My proposed capital budget includes $15,500 for a Thermal Imaging Camera to be used in finding victims that are in collapsed buildings or to locate a suspect or hostage in a building during a tactical operation. Also, to find victims at accident scenes in heavily wooded areas.
My proposed budget also funds a camera that will allow remote access via broadband wireless applications to install a camera for surveillance in high crime areas. The cost: $17,000. This can be used to reduce thefts and vandalism at the Hartsdale parking garage.

GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM UPGRADED IN PROPOSED CAPITAL BUDGET--VERY EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES

I am releasing my proposed capital budget for 2007 today.Among the highlights of the $5,548,000 budget is a $103,500 requested appropriation to upgrade the GIS system (Geographical Information System). The town wants to be on the cutting edge of technology. This new system will enable the town and village residents to have the ability to share data significantly reducing the dupliation of town and village services and enhance the functionality of digital communications between all departments within the town and villages. Example: the assessment dept currently obtains the information via hard copy. The Assessor's office inputs the information from the village permits into a spreadsheet as does the villages when issuance of a building permit. Currently, there is no connection of information between town departments: the police need information from the Public Works dept and was unable to get the information digitally. Therefore, it had to be recreated. Other advantages: As the assessor assesses property it's imperative that ownership information be consistent between the villages and the town. This will enable that to occur. Most important this will expand the connection the town and villages with regard to emergency services. Example: mutual assistance, ambulance, fire and police.

SUGGESTION: TOWN SHOULD RETAIN TRAFFIC/PARKING CONSULTANT TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EAST HARTSDALE

Residents of East Hartsdale Ave have a parking problem. A group of dedicated volunteers have formed a committee and have a great web site: www.fixhartsdaleparking.com. They're working to come up with recommendations as to how we can address this problem.
My suggestion: The town should retain the services of a professional parking/traffic consultant who can help us analyze the problem and come up with recommendations/options.
East Hartdale Ave is getting younger. More young families, with more than one car, are moving here. The parking problem will get worst, not better - unless we address this concern.

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE MEETINGS SHOULD BE TELEVISED

The Town Board recently appointed members of a Comprehensive Land Use Planning Committee to review land use issues and to help oversee the comprehensive plan that is being drafted. I am urging the committee to televise their meetings and to provide residents with the opportunity to phone in (dial democracy) during portions of their meetings.
I am also asking the Town Board to stream Town Board meetings live on the internet - so that residents who are out of town during Town Board meetings can watch meetings and call in live.
It's important that our government be open.

TREE PLANTING PROGRAM DESIRED..

Every day, when I go to work, I pass tree cutters - cutting down trees along roads. Lots of trees all over Greenburgh are coming down.
I'm asking our parks dept and CAC board to help develop a tree replanting program so we can keep the green in Greenburgh. Some of the trees that are planted should be smaller -- so they won't grow to impact Con Ed wires. Your suggestions as to the kinds of trees we should plant would be appreciated.

WEEK OF MARCH 19 GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY--COMMENT ON TOWN ISSUES

Please comment on town issues. Your input is always appreciated - especially when it's issue oriented, not name calling!

PATHMARK TO BE ACQUIRED BY A & P SUPERMARKET-LESS COMPETITION

Pathmark supermarkets will be purchased by the A & P supermarket chain, according to the Westchester County Business Journal. The A & P supermarket chain has 3 supermarkets within unincorporated Greenburgh. The Pathmark acquisition by the A & P means less competition. Pathmark is located on Central Ave in Hartsdale. The A & P supermarkets are located on Central Ave, Route 119 (off of Dobbs Ferry Road) and on Knollwood Road. There are 2 other supermarket companies offering service to residents in our area: DeCicco's in Ardsley and Stop and Shop in Dobbs Ferry and Tarrytown.

FAIRVIEW FIRE DEPT OWED $100,000 BY TOWN BD

The Town Board was planning to vote to release $100,000 to the Fairview Fire Department two Board meetings ago. Councilman Steve Bass, acting at the request of Bob Bernstein, held over the proposed resolution. Under the rules of the Board any member of the Board has the ability to hold over any resolution until the next Town Board meeting. At the last meeting the $100,000 contractual obligation to the Fairview Fire Dept grant was not on the agenda. I am requesting that the Board vote on the $100,000 grant at our next Town Board meeting.
No taxpayer dollars are involved. The funds are from WESTHELP. The State Comptroller's office did not express any objections with this aspect of the WESTHELP partnership.

TOWN ISSUES SUMMONS TO THOSE WHO DON'T CLEAR SIDEWALKS

On February 22 the town issued 54 summonses to property owners who had neglected to clear their walkways of snow pursuant to the town code. They were required to pay a $175 fine.
Total summonses issued on 2/22: 54
Guilty pleas and $175 fine 20
Adjournments granted by court 28
Cases dismissed 6
I continue to believe that our current policy is not working. I believe that the Town Board should amend the law. The town should assume the responsibility of clearing sidewalks of snow when the sidewalks connect to train stations, schools, bus stops. This issue: safety of pedestrians. Many residents of Edgemont, for example, walk up and down the very dangerous Ardsley Road when sidewalks are not cleared of snow.
The Town Council will be presenting the community with a new sidewalk policy at our March 28th Town Board meeting. There will be a discussion of the issues at that time.

Twn Bd doesn't want to release work session agendas to public on Friday before work session- compromise suggestion offered

At the Town Board work session yesterday I suggested that the Board release the agendas of the work sessions to the public on the Friday before the Tuesday work session to give residents who want to attend meetings adequate notice as to what will be discussed at the work session - and at what time. This will enable the residents who want to attend work sessions (because of interest re: certain issues) to plan their day. The Board did not like the idea. At tonights Town Board meeting I will offer a compromise resolution: that agendas of work session be posted on the web site no later than 9AM on the day of the work session. I'd prefer more notice-- this compromise, at the minimum, is a start.
The Board asked me to temporarily table the proposal I made to put all resolutions on the web before Town Board meetings. I will bring this matter up again.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS BEING MADE

Last year I proposed the formation of a Greenburgh Affordable Housing Committee to explore additional affordable housing opportunties. The Town Board approved the creation of an affordable housing committee. At tonights Town Board meeting the Town Board will appoint members to the committee. I look forward to working with the committee on this important issue.
LAST WEEK Mayor Jay Leon of Ardsley appeared before the Greenburgh Town Board to discuss the future of the waterwheel property. The property was acquired by the town as a result of a foreclosure action. Mayor Leon suggested that the Ardsley Affordable Housing Committee and Greenburgh Affordable Housing Committee meet to consider the possibility of creating some affordable housing units at the foreclosed property. I support Mayor Leon's initiative.

CON ED CLEAR CUTTING TREES, REPLACEMENTS WANTED

Con Ed has begun to clear many trees throughout the area - a follow up to the power outages that took place last year. The tree cutting may be a necessary action to help reduce the possibility of future massive power outages.
The clear cutting of trees at different locations is creating an eyesore and possible safety concerns. For example, on Ridge Road, north of Heatherdell, virtually all of the trees have been cut down along the Sprain. The character of the community is being impacted--negatively. Greenburgh is losing the green in our name.
A section of the Bronx River Parkway, north of the county center has also seen trees clear cutted.
There are safety issues. On Ridge Road the trees provided a little protection for cars in the unfortunate event that they skidded off the road so they would not fall several stories onto the Sprain. I suggest that smaller trees/bushes be planted at this location and have been asked by constituents to look into the possibility of placing a guard rail or fence behind it so drivers and passengers won't fall off the edge onto the Sprain.
I suggest that if a tree is cut that a tree be replaced with another smaller planting so we can keep the green in our community.

GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY- TALK ABOUT YOUR TOWN RELATED CONCERNS! PARTICIPATE IN THE DISCUSSION--WEEK OF MARCH 12

Feel free to post your comments or concerns about town issues on this blog. Your opinion is appreciated!

NY TIMES FEATURES CHATTERTON PARKWAY GROUP HOME RESIDENTS ON PAGE ONE OF REGIONAL ISSUE- GROUP HOME LIVING, PETITION FOR SIDEWALKS HIGHLIGHTED

Today's issue of the New York Times (region) has a page one feature about the 3 group home residents of Chatterton Parkway who attended the most recent Town Board meeting and presented Board members with a petition calling for sidewalks on Chatterton Parkway. The article also can be read on the web site: www.nytimes.com (region). There is a very interesting video slide show on the web site. This slide show will provide you with more insight on the lives of the group home residents.
I am very pleased that the Town Board will hold a public discussion on sidewalk policy on Wednesday, March 28 at 7:15 PM.

SHOULD DISCUSS OF A & B BUDGET ISSUES BE HELD BEHIND CLOSED DOORS?

The Greenburgh Town Board held an executive session last Tuesday to discuss the Town Comptroller's draft report on the A & B budget allocations. The Board will also be discussing the draft report this coming Tuesday - at our next work session. I was asked not to release the draft report and am complying with the request.
The more I reflect on the matter the more troubled I am about discussing this important matter behind closed doors. This is a budget transfer issue ( a follow up to a state comptrollers letter). We are not in litigation regarding the issues contained in the letter. I do not believe that this matter can be discussed behind closed doors. I have asked for an opinion from the committee on open government.
I will urge the Board to open up our work session discussion to the public this Tuesday and also will urge the Board to release the draft report. We should also invite representatives of unincorporated Greenburgh civic associations and village officials to the meeting --and should invite their participation (questions/comments).

TOWN BD WORK SESSIONS SHOULD BE TELEVISED

I plan to renew a request to the Town Board that I made over a year ago to televise Town Board work sessions. In addition, I will ask the Town Board to extend dial democracy to Town Board work sessions so that residents who can't attend can call in - live when important issues are discussed.
Finally -- I will urge the Board to stream (live on the web) all Town Board work sessions and Town Board meetings. Residents currently have the ability to watch old meetings of the Town Board on the web. The meetings are not aired live. If Town Board work sessions would be televised live on the web and streamed live - it will enable people who work in the city or elsewhere to watch the meeting on the internet and to participate - away from home, if there is an important issue.
Open government is important. Citizens must be provided with the opportunity to become full partners in the decision making processes of their government.

6th grader named citizen of month for raising funds for K-9 bullet proof vest

Jackson Davis is a 6th grader at Bailey School. He was devastated after he read a story about a brave Police K-9 that was shot in the line of duty. The dog died. Jackson spent the entire day thinking about ways that this devastation could be prevented. He came up with an idea: protect a paw. Buy a K-9 a bulletproof vest.
Jackson spoke to his principal- Marge Jones - and they called Detective Papovitch from the Greenburgh Police K 9 unit. Jackson began a fundraising initiative which has raised hundreds of dollars for a bulletproof vest.
The Town Board will be honoring Jackson at our next Town Board meeting - this coming Wednesday at 7:15 PM at Town Hall. Jackson will also be named citizen of the month. His mom, Dana Davis, was citizen of the month in 1999. She is an advocate for the disabled and is currently a member of the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. This is the first mother/son citizen of the month team in Greenburgh history!
Interested in helping Jackson?
E mail him at protectapaw@aol.com

TOWN BD WORK SESSION AGENDAS SHOULD BE RELEASED TO PUBLIC ON FRIDAY BEFORE TUESDAY WORK SESSIONS

The Greenburgh Town Board releases the agendas of the work sessions that are held on Tuesday afternoons a few hours before the work session begins. Many issues are discussed each week during the work sessions. Residents who are interested in specific issues are not provided with adequate advance information about the agendas. The lack of notice discourages public participation.
At next weeks Town Board meeting I will introduce a resolution calling on the Board to release tentative work session agendas the Friday before the Tuesday work session meeting. This will provide the public with the ability to make plans if they are interested in an agenda topic. I also hope the Board will provide the public with the chance to talk at each work session. It's the people's government!

PUBLIC PROHIBITED FROM SPEAKING AT TODAYS WORK SESSION--A STEP BACKWARDS FOR OPEN GOVERNMENT

The Greenburgh Town Board held a work session regarding the library on Tuesday afternoon. We heard from our construction lawyer, TRITON (library construction manager), our architects. HOWEVER-- the Board (to my dismay) did not provide residents with the opportunity to ask questions. I've been attending Greenburgh Town Board meetings since my student days at college. This is the first time, in my memory, that the public is being shut out of the process. Residents have always been provided the opportunity to speak at the informal work session meetings.
The Town Attorney advised me that I was required to sign the library construction contracts. I signed the contracts. Some residents, in attendance, had questions about the library construction modifications that were made after the contracts were awarded to the bidders in December. They should have had the opportunity to speak out and ask their questions.
Democracy works best when people have the opportunity to partner in the decision making processes.
Let's make Greenburgh the most open government again!

Ardsley Road sidewalks continued---# of accidents

Sgt. Maguire of the Greenburgh Police ran an accident report involving pedestrians and vehicles on Ardsley Road from 1988 to the present. There were five accidents in 19 years. Checking for injuries such as slip and fall is more difficult because of the way ambulance calls are entered. However, on 2/14/2007 there was a report of a broken leg.
I continue to believe that the current policy is not working -- and am very concerned everytime I observe a pedestrian walking up or down Ardsley Road to the Scarsdale train station --especially after a snow or ice storm.

INDIAN POINT IS NOT FINED FOR LEAKS, VIOLATIONS

I spoke at a forum sponsored by Clearwater and Pace University this weekend. Among the issues discussed was the fact that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission can fine Entergy ( Indian Point) up to $110,000 a day per violation for leaks and other violations. Since 1998 the NRC has not imposed any fines on Indian Point for leaks. Many people are concerned that Indian Point has been leaking radioactive water from multiple sources, which has created several lakes or plumes of contaminated groundwater under the plant.
The failure of the NRC to impose fines against Entergy for violations provides the company with little incentive to correct the problems at the nuclear power plant. There have been many shutdowns at Indian Point. There have also been many other violations -- impacting our safety. I am urging our congressional delegation to pressure the NRC to start imposing fines.

WEEK OF MARCH 5 GREENBURGH DEMOCRACY...POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT TOWN ISSUES...

Please post your comments about town issues.

THE PUBLIC HAS A RIGHT TO KNOW...LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION COMPARISONS WANTED

The public has a right to know what is happening with the library construction. I am planning to request that a comparison be made: total construction project costs today vs. anticipated costs of the library pre-referendum. What is missing from the 5 contracts that was originally promised? The public should be able to read an itemized list of changes that have been made so far re: project. In addition, we should compare the architects and engineers fees (pre referendum estimates) to 2007 estimates. TRITON will be earning $20,000 a month for their services after November, 2007. They originally expected the library to be complete by November, 2007. However, there have been significant delays. Can we re-negotiate the $20,000 a month fee? If the town did not cause all the delays why should we be punished? TRITON and the architect are now proposing a cheaper geothermal system. Why didn't they think of this originally?
The Board is meeting at a work session this Tuesday at 3:30 PM.

Town Board to discuss outstanding library issues at 3:30 on Tuesday

The Greenburgh Town Board will meet on Tuesday at 3:30 PM to discuss outstanding library construction issues. The Town Attorney has invited our construction lawyer, architect and TRITON to attend the meeting. I would like as much of the meeting to be open to the public as possible. This is the people's library. I feel that the public should be kept informed of the reasons for the delays as well as updated on the status of the library construction efforts.
I intend to propose a resolution at the next Town Board meeting - a week from Wednesday - authorizing the library to use the auditorium at Town Hall as a reading room area, when others are not using the room. The current satellite library at Town Hall needs a comfortable reading area --where people can read magazines, newspapers, books. I would support giving the library any vacant space at Town Hall for a reading area.

MARCH 22 FLOOD MEETING

I am holding planning to hold a meeting on March 22nd at 3 PM at Greenburgh Town Hall to develop a plan of action re: flood control initiatives. I will invite federal, state, county representatives to the meeting.
We've had some successes in the past. A few years ago we obtained a federal grant to uplift some homes on Babbitt Court and place them on stilts. Early on in my career I worked with former US Congressman Ben Gilman on a flood control initiative in downtown Ardsley. The US Army Corp of Engineers funded the initiative.
If you experienced flooding during todays storm please e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com
Any flood control initiative will require federal, state and local cooperation. Among neighborhoods that experienced flooding today were Central Ave and neighborhoods around the Bronx River corridor.

PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS SHOULD BE PLACED ON WEB SITE BEFORE TOWN BD MEETINGS

Last night the Town Board received some criticism for not sharing resolutions with the public before Town Board meetings. I intend to propose a resolution at the next Town Board meeting directing that all resolutions be placed on our web site prior to the Town Board meeting. I suggest that the resolutions be placed on the agenda the Friday before a Wednesday Board meeting -when the tentative agenda is released. If modifications are made later on the modified version of the resolution could be placed on the agenda after the Town Board work session.
We need to make Greenburgh a more open government....