The Greenburgh Town Board broke all records last night -- our meeting ended at 2:04 AM. We started the meeting at 7:15 PM. A number of tenants who reside at 90 & 100 Manhattan Ave, 33 Oak Street attended the Town Board to express concern about a proposal to convey the apartments from the current owners to Fairview Housing development Fund Company.
Tenants are concerned that the proposal could result in substantial rent hikes for some of the tenants. They also expressed concern that the proposal relies on enhanced vouchers keeping apartments for some tenants affordable. However, there are no guarantees that the enhanced voucher program will be continued by the federal government.If the program is discontinued those who had vouchers could see significant rent hikes. We are trying to figure out ways to protect tenants who live in affordable housing from having to face significant rent hikes - which could force them out of their homes. We also want to make sure that the landlord can't evict tenants without cause.
The Town Board met with the applicant, tenants, and agreed to continue negotiating the terms of an agreement. A special meeting has been called for Tuesday at 8 PM. We will be asking tenants to meet and provide the Town Board with their recommendations prior to our vote.
I am pleased that the tenants are being consulted --and are partnering with the Town Board in the decision making process. One tenant indicated that he is so worried about the proposal "that he is losing sleep." It's important that tenants impacted by the proposal see government as their friend - and that they recognize that we're not going to give special treatment to a for profit making business unless it's advantageous to the tenants.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
UPDATE: TAX BREAK PROPOSAL FOR MANHATTAN AVE
The Town Board met on Tuesday evening from about 7 PM to midnight to discuss the proposed tax breaks for the owners of 33 Oak Street, 90 Manhattan Ave, 100 Manhattan Ave. These buildings provide some Greenburgh tenants with affordable housing. We met with representatives of the Fairview Housing Development Fund Company and Oak Street housing. Tenant representatives also attended the meeting.
I am requesting that the Town Board not vote on the tax break proposal tonight. Among issues discussed at the meeting are the following:
1) Some tenants are concerned that if the agreement is approved their rents could double within a year. There should be a longer phase in period.
2) Before approving any tax break proposal there should be an inventory of the building-- an independent assessment of the condition of the building, what repairs/renovations have to be completed.
3) Tenants should be given a voice in determining what repairs will be completed in their buildings.
4) The potential owners of the building claim that most of the residents won't see their rents double because they will be eligible for vouchers. What happens if the voucher program is discontinued by the federal government --or significantly cut? Will the building become unaffordable.
Before tax breaks are given we should do our due diligence and address these concerns.
I am requesting that the Town Board not vote on the tax break proposal tonight. Among issues discussed at the meeting are the following:
1) Some tenants are concerned that if the agreement is approved their rents could double within a year. There should be a longer phase in period.
2) Before approving any tax break proposal there should be an inventory of the building-- an independent assessment of the condition of the building, what repairs/renovations have to be completed.
3) Tenants should be given a voice in determining what repairs will be completed in their buildings.
4) The potential owners of the building claim that most of the residents won't see their rents double because they will be eligible for vouchers. What happens if the voucher program is discontinued by the federal government --or significantly cut? Will the building become unaffordable.
Before tax breaks are given we should do our due diligence and address these concerns.
FORMER PRESIDENT OF NYS ASSESSORS ASSOCIATION NAMED TOWN ASSESSOR
Edye Beth McCarthy, former President of the NY State Assessor's Association, will be Greenburgh's next Town Assessor. Mrs. McCarthy, who also served as President of the Westchester County Assessor's Association, has been the City Assessor of White Plains since 1999. SHe previously served as Rye City Assessor. She also worked as Assistant Village Assessor for Hastings on Hudson and Pleasantville. She has a Master of Science -Real Estate Degree from NYC. We welcome her to our town. We are lucky to have her work for us -- since she has so much experience in the field and is highly regarded throughout the state. Special thanks to Interim Assessor Dan Whittemore who has worked for the town as our Real Property Appraiser since 1986. He was responsible for a smooth transition after Gerry Iagallo resigned as Assessor this summer.
Monday, November 06, 2006
East Hartsdale Ave to have mini library in 2007
This winter the Greenburgh library will close it's doors for about 2 years. Construction of a new library will start. The Town Board voted to set up mini satellite library locations around the town. Among locations: The Town Hall & the multipurpose center, Veteran Town Park.
I have called for additional library satellite locations so that services can continue to be offered to library patrons. I am very pleased that the Greenburgh Library announced today that a mini branch of the Library will be located in Hartsdale sometime in January. Through courtesy of the Parking Authority, a 40 foot trailer would be located adjacent to the lower level of the Parking Garage "A". Patrons would access the trailer via the alley between Harry's and the Bank of NY or drive into the garage.
The rent is cheap - about $1 a square foot. The parking authority will absorb the cost of electrical hook up (AC, heat and lights) and service. The mini branch will be larger than the cybermobile, hold more books and will be open t hroughout the day including weekends. The cybermobile will not make the stop at the train station thus freeing up more hours for expanded stops.
Thanks to Stephanie Kavourias of the Parking Authority for her help in coming up with the idea. Your suggestions regarding the library during the 2 year construction period are welcome and appreciated.
I have called for additional library satellite locations so that services can continue to be offered to library patrons. I am very pleased that the Greenburgh Library announced today that a mini branch of the Library will be located in Hartsdale sometime in January. Through courtesy of the Parking Authority, a 40 foot trailer would be located adjacent to the lower level of the Parking Garage "A". Patrons would access the trailer via the alley between Harry's and the Bank of NY or drive into the garage.
The rent is cheap - about $1 a square foot. The parking authority will absorb the cost of electrical hook up (AC, heat and lights) and service. The mini branch will be larger than the cybermobile, hold more books and will be open t hroughout the day including weekends. The cybermobile will not make the stop at the train station thus freeing up more hours for expanded stops.
Thanks to Stephanie Kavourias of the Parking Authority for her help in coming up with the idea. Your suggestions regarding the library during the 2 year construction period are welcome and appreciated.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
STILL THE TORTOISE--I ran in the marathon in 5 hours, 18 seconds, coming in 29,684 out of 38,000
Over the years I have participated in many long distance charity bike rides. I've ridden from northern Westchester to Vermont and from Hartsdale to Washington DC. I almost always finish at the back of the pack. I have been given the name "THE TORTOISE" to highlight the fact that I'm slow but finish the event.
Today I tried the NY Marathon for the first time. In fact, this was the first time I ever ran more than 13.2 miles. I completed the race in 5 hours and 18 seconds. This will never appear in my resume! I finished 29,684 out of 38,648.
My brother in law - Michael Trenk - who persuaded me to give the race a try did much better. He came in 1032 out of 38,000 - completing the race in 3hours, two minutes and 51 seconds. He was about two minutes behind Lance Armstrong.
I also was a bit of klutz during the race. Close to the Central Park finish line - I missed a step and fell. I received some cuts. Fortunately, I have an excuse for my slow run so I don't feel that bad. I was not injured.
The race was a tremendous experience - a true life highlight. Participants enjoy the diversity of NYC -- we ran 26.2 miles through every borough in NYC. There was music from different neighborhood groups throughout the race. And, tremendous cheering from the spectactors throughout the run. I met runners from all over the world - from Japan, Latin America, Europe. I even spoke to a blind Japanese runner from Tokyo who was holding someone's hand while he ran. There were amputees running, a numer of disabled marathon runners. It was a great event. I encourage everyone who has a chance to participate in the run next year to do so.
Today I tried the NY Marathon for the first time. In fact, this was the first time I ever ran more than 13.2 miles. I completed the race in 5 hours and 18 seconds. This will never appear in my resume! I finished 29,684 out of 38,648.
My brother in law - Michael Trenk - who persuaded me to give the race a try did much better. He came in 1032 out of 38,000 - completing the race in 3hours, two minutes and 51 seconds. He was about two minutes behind Lance Armstrong.
I also was a bit of klutz during the race. Close to the Central Park finish line - I missed a step and fell. I received some cuts. Fortunately, I have an excuse for my slow run so I don't feel that bad. I was not injured.
The race was a tremendous experience - a true life highlight. Participants enjoy the diversity of NYC -- we ran 26.2 miles through every borough in NYC. There was music from different neighborhood groups throughout the race. And, tremendous cheering from the spectactors throughout the run. I met runners from all over the world - from Japan, Latin America, Europe. I even spoke to a blind Japanese runner from Tokyo who was holding someone's hand while he ran. There were amputees running, a numer of disabled marathon runners. It was a great event. I encourage everyone who has a chance to participate in the run next year to do so.
Friday, November 03, 2006
WHEN I RUN IN THE NYMARATHON SUNDAY I WILL BE WEARING A NO WHERE TO RUN -CLOSE DOWN INDIAN POINT TEE SHIRT
I'm all excited! This Sunday I will be running in my first NYC Marathon. Actually, this will be the first time I will run more than a half marathon. I ran the Westchester half marathon in about 2 hours and one minute.
I will be wearing a NO WHERE TO RUN -CLOSE DOWN INDIAN POINT TEE SHIRT when I run. During the race I hope to chat with other runners about the need to close down Indian Point. There won't be any place to run to if there is an Indian Point meltdown or terrorist attack.
I will be wearing a NO WHERE TO RUN -CLOSE DOWN INDIAN POINT TEE SHIRT when I run. During the race I hope to chat with other runners about the need to close down Indian Point. There won't be any place to run to if there is an Indian Point meltdown or terrorist attack.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
PLANNING BOARD RECOMMENDS THAT TOWN BD INCREASE FUNDING FOR COMPREHENSIVE PLAN STUDY
TO: Greenburgh Town Board
FROM: Greenburgh Planning Board
DATE: November 2, 2006
SUBJECT: Comprehensive Plan Update
The members of the Town of Greenburgh Planning Board strongly request the Town Board to fully fund a Comprehensive Plan Update in the 2007 Budget in order to provide a framework for future development in Greenburgh. The vote was taken at the Board’s November 1, 2006 meeting with all seven members present. Six voted in favor and one abstained.
The Planning Commissioner has recommended the amount of $300,000 be added to the Budget in order to implement a thorough and useful Comprehensive Plan Update. In the opinion of the Planning Board this amount is on target. The amount of $50,000 that was added to the Budget will not achieve the goal of producing a useful document that will provide the framework for a code revision and assist the Town’s Land Use Boards in their future decision making. The Planning Board does not wish to invest its time to participate in a process that will not achieve the desired end result.
The update should address all areas referenced in Section 272-a (3) of New York State Town Law including the identification of the goals, objectives, principles, guidelines, policies, standards, devices and instruments for the immediate and long-range protection, enhancement, growth and development of the town located outside the limits of any incorporated village or city, including land use, resource protection, public services and public infrastructure;
To this end, the Planning Board recommends that the Town Board add the amount of $250,000 to the $50,000 put in the 2007 Budget for a total of $300,000 as recommended by the Planning Commissioner and appoint a Comprehensive Plan Implementation Committee to initiate the process.
CC: CAC
Zoning Board of Appeals
FROM: Greenburgh Planning Board
DATE: November 2, 2006
SUBJECT: Comprehensive Plan Update
The members of the Town of Greenburgh Planning Board strongly request the Town Board to fully fund a Comprehensive Plan Update in the 2007 Budget in order to provide a framework for future development in Greenburgh. The vote was taken at the Board’s November 1, 2006 meeting with all seven members present. Six voted in favor and one abstained.
The Planning Commissioner has recommended the amount of $300,000 be added to the Budget in order to implement a thorough and useful Comprehensive Plan Update. In the opinion of the Planning Board this amount is on target. The amount of $50,000 that was added to the Budget will not achieve the goal of producing a useful document that will provide the framework for a code revision and assist the Town’s Land Use Boards in their future decision making. The Planning Board does not wish to invest its time to participate in a process that will not achieve the desired end result.
The update should address all areas referenced in Section 272-a (3) of New York State Town Law including the identification of the goals, objectives, principles, guidelines, policies, standards, devices and instruments for the immediate and long-range protection, enhancement, growth and development of the town located outside the limits of any incorporated village or city, including land use, resource protection, public services and public infrastructure;
To this end, the Planning Board recommends that the Town Board add the amount of $250,000 to the $50,000 put in the 2007 Budget for a total of $300,000 as recommended by the Planning Commissioner and appoint a Comprehensive Plan Implementation Committee to initiate the process.
CC: CAC
Zoning Board of Appeals
INTERESTING GREENBURGH FACTS #4 BUILDING PERMITS, INSPECTIONS, VIOLATIONS
As part of our 2007 budget discussion the following report is presented for your review regarding our building department. This is the 4th in a series. Previous reports were posted for the police, recreation dept, assessors office.
Building Dept
PERMITS issued 1735 in 2006 compared to 1,507 in 2003 (January through September) 1779 in 2005
New single family residences: 11 in 2006 compared to 14 in 2003 11 in 2005
Residential additions/alterations 209 in 2006 compared to 229 in 2003 197 in 2005
Commercial additions/alterations 102 in 2006 compared to 70 in 2003 77 in 2005
Plumbing permits 305 in 2006 to 286 in 2003 313 in 2005
Electrical Permits 430 in 2006 to 446 in 2003 524 in 2005
HVAC permits 72 compared to 85 in 2003 88 in 2005
Elevator permits 161 compared to 91 in 2003 1157 in 2005
Other permits (sign, tent, tank, etc..) 445 compared to 286 in 2003 412 in 2005
Inspections:
1,845 in 2006…1,970 in 2005…1956 in 2004 and 2,615 in 2003
Violations/summonses
Notice of violations issued
404 in 206…623 in 2005..780 in 2004…272 in 2003
Summonses issued 288 in 2006…106 in 2005…134 in 2004
Complaints answered 217 in 2006 (not available for 2003-2005)
PAUL FEINER
Building Dept
PERMITS issued 1735 in 2006 compared to 1,507 in 2003 (January through September) 1779 in 2005
New single family residences: 11 in 2006 compared to 14 in 2003 11 in 2005
Residential additions/alterations 209 in 2006 compared to 229 in 2003 197 in 2005
Commercial additions/alterations 102 in 2006 compared to 70 in 2003 77 in 2005
Plumbing permits 305 in 2006 to 286 in 2003 313 in 2005
Electrical Permits 430 in 2006 to 446 in 2003 524 in 2005
HVAC permits 72 compared to 85 in 2003 88 in 2005
Elevator permits 161 compared to 91 in 2003 1157 in 2005
Other permits (sign, tent, tank, etc..) 445 compared to 286 in 2003 412 in 2005
Inspections:
1,845 in 2006…1,970 in 2005…1956 in 2004 and 2,615 in 2003
Violations/summonses
Notice of violations issued
404 in 206…623 in 2005..780 in 2004…272 in 2003
Summonses issued 288 in 2006…106 in 2005…134 in 2004
Complaints answered 217 in 2006 (not available for 2003-2005)
PAUL FEINER
HARTSDALE FIREFIGHTER WHO IS PARALYZED BELOW NECK IS HOME!
Earlier this summer I cycled from Hartsdale to Washington DC to raise funds for Lorraine Valentini, a Hartsdale resident and former volunteer firefighter. Lorraine fell off her bicycle on memorial day, 2005, injured her spinal cord resulting in paralysis below the neck. Over a dozen of us cycled to DC. We met with Senators Clinton & Schumer, Congresswoman Lowey and leaders of organizations promoting stem cell research. We raised over $40,000 for Lorraine.
Some good news --- Lorraine is back home! She is still paralyzed below the neck. For more information about Lorraine please visit the web site: www.teamlorraine.org.
Contributions to help offset some of the medical costs are still being accepted and are appreciated. Contributions can be dropped off at my office and should be made payable to National Transplant Assistance Fund.
Some good news --- Lorraine is back home! She is still paralyzed below the neck. For more information about Lorraine please visit the web site: www.teamlorraine.org.
Contributions to help offset some of the medical costs are still being accepted and are appreciated. Contributions can be dropped off at my office and should be made payable to National Transplant Assistance Fund.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT GREENBURGH--#3 ...REAL ESTATE VALUES
This is the 3rd in a series of interesting facts about Greenburgh. In recent days I posted info about the police dept and parks & recreation dept. on this site.
Special thanks to Acting Assessor Daniel Whittemore for providing me with this info…
*Assessors office responsible for assessment of 28,150 parcels.
13,650 parcels in the villages…14,497 parcels in unincorporated Greenburgh
REAL ESTATE VALUES
Village gross worth: 11.5 BILLION DOLLARS
Unincorporated Greenburgh worth: 13.5 BILLION DOLLARS
Total Gross worth: 25 BILLION DOLLARS
Total Taxable Worth: Greenburgh 20 BILLION DOLLARS
Compare to White Plains: 8.5 BILLION DOLLARS…Compare to Yonkers: 16 BILLION DOLLARS
2,430 veterans received veterans exemptions
3,400 seniors receive STAR exemptions
In 2006 858 grievances filed—total =850
164 residential, 624 commercial, 25 condominium, 45 cooperative
In 2005 there were 773 grievances
126 residential, 562 commercial, 32 condominium and 53 cooperative.
Hope you find the above info as interesting as I found it. PAUL FEINER
Special thanks to Acting Assessor Daniel Whittemore for providing me with this info…
*Assessors office responsible for assessment of 28,150 parcels.
13,650 parcels in the villages…14,497 parcels in unincorporated Greenburgh
REAL ESTATE VALUES
Village gross worth: 11.5 BILLION DOLLARS
Unincorporated Greenburgh worth: 13.5 BILLION DOLLARS
Total Gross worth: 25 BILLION DOLLARS
Total Taxable Worth: Greenburgh 20 BILLION DOLLARS
Compare to White Plains: 8.5 BILLION DOLLARS…Compare to Yonkers: 16 BILLION DOLLARS
2,430 veterans received veterans exemptions
3,400 seniors receive STAR exemptions
In 2006 858 grievances filed—total =850
164 residential, 624 commercial, 25 condominium, 45 cooperative
In 2005 there were 773 grievances
126 residential, 562 commercial, 32 condominium and 53 cooperative.
Hope you find the above info as interesting as I found it. PAUL FEINER
GREENBURGH LIBRARY BIDS ARE WITHIN BUDGET
Bids for the Greenburgh Public Library expansion were opened today at Town Hall. The contracts that were bid on were: general construction; HVAC-Mechanical; plumbing; electric. The bids seem to be within the $20 million library budget. The next steps: we will review the bid documents, review qualifications of those who bid on the job; review the proposed contracts with the attorney and then make a recommendation to the Town Board. It does not appear that there will be any need to reject the bids or require the architect to modify his proposed expansion plans so that the construction can stay within budget.
I have asked the Commissioner to post the bids on our web site –which should take place within a few days (www.greenburghny.com –under forms).
PAUL FEINER
I have asked the Commissioner to post the bids on our web site –which should take place within a few days (www.greenburghny.com –under forms).
PAUL FEINER
Fairview Manhattan Apartments
SHOULD THE TOWN APPROVE TAX BREAKS FOR FAIRVIEW MANHATTAN APARTMENTS? AN ALTERNATIVE PROPOSAL FROM THE ATTORNEY FOR TENANTS WHO OBJECT TO THE BREAKS:
Serge Joseph, the attorney representing the tenants of Fairview Manhattan Apartments . In short, the attorney for the tenants offers several recommendations:
1. That the Town require the current owner or Marathon to retain an independent and licensed engineer to undertake a physical condition survey of the subject premises and to supply the Town Board and the tenants with a copy of any report generated therefrom. (This recommendation suggests that proposed rent increases are unsupported the rehabilitation that is contemplated).
2. That in the event the “enhanced Section 8” voucher program is de-funded, and preservation vouchers are unavailable, that the proposed new higher rents not be sought by Marathon Development. (This recommendation may be agreed to and supported by Marathon Development).
3. That the Town require Marathon Development to afford financial protection to tenants whose rents would increase because they are not eligible for preservation vouchers. (I do not think this recommendation is one that the tenants believe will be seriously considered).
Several Alternative Proposals are also offered by the tenants..
Alternative 1. Permit Marathon Development to purchase Fairview Manhattan pursuant to the Private Housing Finance Law but limit rent increases to those deemed reasonable by HUD after application based upon needed capital improvements and renovations in the building, as opposed to the current proposed increases of $1,050 for a one bedroom apartment; $1,260 for a two bedroom apartment; and; $1,460 for a three bedroom apartment.
Alternative 2. Allow the Tax Pilot and regulation of Fairview Manhattan under the Private Housing Finance Law to expire in 2009 and allow the Development to become subject to the EmergencyTenants Protection Act of 1974 (“ETPA”), which regulates housing not subject to the Private Housing Finance Law and allows an owner to apply for rent increases based upon (a) lease renewals (b) major capital improvements and (c) hardship.
Alternative 3. Allow the tenants at Fairview Manhattan the option of purchasing the Development and preserving it as affordable rentals or converting it into Affordable cooperatives or condominiums.
Tim Lewis
Serge Joseph, the attorney representing the tenants of Fairview Manhattan Apartments . In short, the attorney for the tenants offers several recommendations:
1. That the Town require the current owner or Marathon to retain an independent and licensed engineer to undertake a physical condition survey of the subject premises and to supply the Town Board and the tenants with a copy of any report generated therefrom. (This recommendation suggests that proposed rent increases are unsupported the rehabilitation that is contemplated).
2. That in the event the “enhanced Section 8” voucher program is de-funded, and preservation vouchers are unavailable, that the proposed new higher rents not be sought by Marathon Development. (This recommendation may be agreed to and supported by Marathon Development).
3. That the Town require Marathon Development to afford financial protection to tenants whose rents would increase because they are not eligible for preservation vouchers. (I do not think this recommendation is one that the tenants believe will be seriously considered).
Several Alternative Proposals are also offered by the tenants..
Alternative 1. Permit Marathon Development to purchase Fairview Manhattan pursuant to the Private Housing Finance Law but limit rent increases to those deemed reasonable by HUD after application based upon needed capital improvements and renovations in the building, as opposed to the current proposed increases of $1,050 for a one bedroom apartment; $1,260 for a two bedroom apartment; and; $1,460 for a three bedroom apartment.
Alternative 2. Allow the Tax Pilot and regulation of Fairview Manhattan under the Private Housing Finance Law to expire in 2009 and allow the Development to become subject to the EmergencyTenants Protection Act of 1974 (“ETPA”), which regulates housing not subject to the Private Housing Finance Law and allows an owner to apply for rent increases based upon (a) lease renewals (b) major capital improvements and (c) hardship.
Alternative 3. Allow the tenants at Fairview Manhattan the option of purchasing the Development and preserving it as affordable rentals or converting it into Affordable cooperatives or condominiums.
Tim Lewis
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Halloween police patrol-should there be organized halloween block parties and teen activities?
Tonight, for the 15th consecutive year, the Police Chief, John Kapica, and I patrolled the streets of Greenburgh on Halloween night. When I first assumed my job as Town Supervisor halloween was one of the most feared evenings of the year. Lots of mischief, vandalism, problems. People were concerned . Chief Kapica responded to the concerns by devoting substantial police resources to Halloween. Police are asked to work overtime. Prior to Halloween we reach out to the schools advising them that we will not tolerate illegal activity.
For 15 years the chief and I have toured the streets of Greenburgh --we stop by at homes that had experienced vandalism in years past. We check up on these homes --hoping to leave residents with the impression that the town wants to make sure that the problems they experienced in years past will not happen again.
Tonight - we conducted our tour and "housecall visits". The biggest problem we had was in Edgemont. Some kids placed fire crackers around a house under construction. There were large groups of kids off of Longview in Edgemont. A suggestion was made that I think deserves some consideration: Since hundreds of kids walk the streets of Longview each halloween - maybe the town should close the street on Halloween night and have an organized block party on Longview. Maybe, there should be some organized halloween parties on halloween. What do you think?
For 15 years the chief and I have toured the streets of Greenburgh --we stop by at homes that had experienced vandalism in years past. We check up on these homes --hoping to leave residents with the impression that the town wants to make sure that the problems they experienced in years past will not happen again.
Tonight - we conducted our tour and "housecall visits". The biggest problem we had was in Edgemont. Some kids placed fire crackers around a house under construction. There were large groups of kids off of Longview in Edgemont. A suggestion was made that I think deserves some consideration: Since hundreds of kids walk the streets of Longview each halloween - maybe the town should close the street on Halloween night and have an organized block party on Longview. Maybe, there should be some organized halloween parties on halloween. What do you think?
October: Miscellaneous
The purpose of this Miscellaneous topic is to discuss any town related issues you feel are important. Please post any issues you wish to discuss in the comments section of this post. Thanks!
Why are tax rates different in the "A" budget and "B" budget?
Yesterday I released my proposed 2007 budget which is posted in the forms section of the town web site: www.greenburghny.com. The budget calls for a 9.20% decrease in the A budget (impacting village residents and unincorporated Greenburgh residents) and a 1% tax increase in the B budget which only impacts unincorporated Greenburgh residents.
Why are the taxes of village residents going down and the taxes of unincorporated Greenburgh residents going up --even if it is only a 1% increase?
These are two different budgets. The budget for unincorporated Greenburgh is $57,354,008 and the A budget is much smaller: $14,679,237. We maintain a healthy fund balance in both budgets -- but have a much stronger fund balance in the "A" budget --enabling us to reduce taxes. We have used more fund balance this year than in past years to offset the costs of running services and to keep taxes lower than they normally would be.
Because the "A" budget is so small (the average village resident will be paying less than $100 a year to the town) the addition of one program could see the percentage tax increase increase substantially. In 2003/4 and 2004/5 there were large percentage increases in the "A" budget -- my recollection is that the village taxes went up by 70% or more. For example, when we initiated special recreation programs for village residents who have disabled children (the program became a town-wide program) village taxes went up substantially.
I am urging the Town Board to approve a fund balance policy which will guide future Town Boards re: fund balance issues. I believe that it is important that we be able to maintain a healthy fund balance -- this is a major reason why the town's bond rating increases have gone up 3 times during my administration. I also believe that residents desire predictability and stability, not surprises that could result in double digit tax increases.
Why are the taxes of village residents going down and the taxes of unincorporated Greenburgh residents going up --even if it is only a 1% increase?
These are two different budgets. The budget for unincorporated Greenburgh is $57,354,008 and the A budget is much smaller: $14,679,237. We maintain a healthy fund balance in both budgets -- but have a much stronger fund balance in the "A" budget --enabling us to reduce taxes. We have used more fund balance this year than in past years to offset the costs of running services and to keep taxes lower than they normally would be.
Because the "A" budget is so small (the average village resident will be paying less than $100 a year to the town) the addition of one program could see the percentage tax increase increase substantially. In 2003/4 and 2004/5 there were large percentage increases in the "A" budget -- my recollection is that the village taxes went up by 70% or more. For example, when we initiated special recreation programs for village residents who have disabled children (the program became a town-wide program) village taxes went up substantially.
I am urging the Town Board to approve a fund balance policy which will guide future Town Boards re: fund balance issues. I believe that it is important that we be able to maintain a healthy fund balance -- this is a major reason why the town's bond rating increases have gone up 3 times during my administration. I also believe that residents desire predictability and stability, not surprises that could result in double digit tax increases.
Monday, October 30, 2006
INTERESTING INFO ABOUT THE POLICE DEPT
I will be releasing my proposed budget later today. I anticipate a tax hike of under 1% for 2007. Between now and the middle of December the Town Board will be reviewing the budget. I will post facts about different departments on this web site so you will have a better appreciation of the town. Last week I provided readers with info about the Parks and Recreation Dept. Today: the Police Dept.
DURING 2005
* 6,158 calls for medical assistance.
* 3,555 responses in unincorporated Greenburgh. 2,603 from the six incorporated villages.
* 920 serious offenses investigated by the police. The lowest number in more than 30 years.
* 36,139 calls for service – the highest ever.
* 1,632 arrests. 6,634 uniform traffic tickets. 5,121 parking summonses.
* Creation of first ever town/village marine unit. A 21’ Zodiac, Center Console Inflatable Boat was secured and eleven officers initially received maritime law enforcement training. In its first abbreviated year of service, the team logged more than 500 patrol hours, resulting in numerous vessel inspections being conducted and summonses issued. The unit also effected an arrest for Boating While Intoxicated, recovered a stolen vessel and investigated successfully a hit and run boating accident.
* The Drug & Alcohol Task Force, comprised of town and village police officers, effected 351 arrests, 95 of which were for felony offenses in 2005. 86 arrests occurred in unincorporated Greenburgh. 215 in the villages.
* The Task Force, since its inception, has seized 622 pounds of marijuana and hashish; 75 grams of PCP; 2453 grams of powder Cocaine and Crack; 324 ounces of GHB; 1,107 bags of Heroin; 512 Ecstasy pills; 50, 10 ml bottles of ketamine; 2.5 ounces of Crystal Methamphetamine as well as a variety of prescription pills, steroids and other drugs and alcohol with a street value of over $2,100,000.
* Over $100,000 in stolen cash and property recovered. 12 handguns and 9 rifles recovered.
* Cash and other tangible assets seized, which includes 18 motor vehicles, totals over $6,000,000.
* Child Safety Seat Inspection Station examined more than 1,400 child safety seats during 2005 – nearly twice the number of any other station in the state.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
DURING 2005
* 6,158 calls for medical assistance.
* 3,555 responses in unincorporated Greenburgh. 2,603 from the six incorporated villages.
* 920 serious offenses investigated by the police. The lowest number in more than 30 years.
* 36,139 calls for service – the highest ever.
* 1,632 arrests. 6,634 uniform traffic tickets. 5,121 parking summonses.
* Creation of first ever town/village marine unit. A 21’ Zodiac, Center Console Inflatable Boat was secured and eleven officers initially received maritime law enforcement training. In its first abbreviated year of service, the team logged more than 500 patrol hours, resulting in numerous vessel inspections being conducted and summonses issued. The unit also effected an arrest for Boating While Intoxicated, recovered a stolen vessel and investigated successfully a hit and run boating accident.
* The Drug & Alcohol Task Force, comprised of town and village police officers, effected 351 arrests, 95 of which were for felony offenses in 2005. 86 arrests occurred in unincorporated Greenburgh. 215 in the villages.
* The Task Force, since its inception, has seized 622 pounds of marijuana and hashish; 75 grams of PCP; 2453 grams of powder Cocaine and Crack; 324 ounces of GHB; 1,107 bags of Heroin; 512 Ecstasy pills; 50, 10 ml bottles of ketamine; 2.5 ounces of Crystal Methamphetamine as well as a variety of prescription pills, steroids and other drugs and alcohol with a street value of over $2,100,000.
* Over $100,000 in stolen cash and property recovered. 12 handguns and 9 rifles recovered.
* Cash and other tangible assets seized, which includes 18 motor vehicles, totals over $6,000,000.
* Child Safety Seat Inspection Station examined more than 1,400 child safety seats during 2005 – nearly twice the number of any other station in the state.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Westchester Library System to poll member libraries on Elmsford/Ardsley contract
An article in todays Journal News (www.lohud.com) reports that the Westchester Library System has decided to poll all the member libraries before deciding what actions, if any, will be taken regarding the Elmsford/Ardsley library contract. Earlier this fall Elmsford pulled out of the Greenburgh library (Greenburgh will lose over $250,000 a year)and entered into a contract with Ardsley which offered the same card at a reduced price. Critics suggest that this action could have county-wide ramifications. Under the current WLS guidelines anyone in Westchester who holds a library card anywhere can use any library in the system. Will communities throughout Westchester enter into bidding wars for library contracts at inexpensive rates? Will smaller communities close down their libraries and enter into much less expensive contracts with a library that offers them a cheap card? This is not about Ardsley/Greenburgh/Elmsford. This issue has county-wide and library system ramifications. The WLS hopes to issue a decision before the end of the year.
ON ANOTHER NOTE-- the town will be opening up bids for the library expansion project on Tuesday.
ON ANOTHER NOTE-- the town will be opening up bids for the library expansion project on Tuesday.
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Carvel's first store to close on Central Ave
An article in this Sunday's NY TIMES (October 29)-Westchester Region section reports that the nation's first Carvel store, located on Central Ave, Hartsdale has been sold. The store opened in 1936. Should the town take any action so that future generations will remember the role this store had on history?
Friday, October 27, 2006
Should the town cooperate with Ardsley in building affordable housing for village/town employees, volunteer firefighters, ambulance corp members?
The Greenburgh Town Board unanimously agreed to take the waterwheel property, located in Ardsley, off the foreclosure auction sale this past Tuesday. This was done at the request of the Village of Ardsley.
I have been working with the Mayor of Ardsley and with other Ardsley community leaders on a proposal to turn foreclosed property into affordable housing for volunteers (firefighters, ambulance corp members), police, teachers.
There is an affordable housing shortage in Westchester. In the blog comments (listed in misc) some people have pointed out that it is becoming more difficult to attract and retain volunteer firefighters. One blogger indicated that it is possible that without affordable housing for volunteers - Ardsley may eventually become a paid fire dept, resulting in major tax hikes. THe reason: Ardsley is too expensive a place to live for many young families. I support turning foreclosed property into affordable housing. I appreciate the fact that the members of the Town Council stopped the sale of the property and expressed a willingness to talk to Ardsley officials about the proposal to build affordable housing on the land.
Should the town be in the business of selling the property to the bidder who will provide taxpayers with the maximum dollars? Or, should we work with Ardsley officials and help our volunteer fire dept stay in business by building affordable housing for their members.
I have been working with the Mayor of Ardsley and with other Ardsley community leaders on a proposal to turn foreclosed property into affordable housing for volunteers (firefighters, ambulance corp members), police, teachers.
There is an affordable housing shortage in Westchester. In the blog comments (listed in misc) some people have pointed out that it is becoming more difficult to attract and retain volunteer firefighters. One blogger indicated that it is possible that without affordable housing for volunteers - Ardsley may eventually become a paid fire dept, resulting in major tax hikes. THe reason: Ardsley is too expensive a place to live for many young families. I support turning foreclosed property into affordable housing. I appreciate the fact that the members of the Town Council stopped the sale of the property and expressed a willingness to talk to Ardsley officials about the proposal to build affordable housing on the land.
Should the town be in the business of selling the property to the bidder who will provide taxpayers with the maximum dollars? Or, should we work with Ardsley officials and help our volunteer fire dept stay in business by building affordable housing for their members.
SAT PREPARATION CAMP and BizCamp
I will be releasing my proposed budget for 2007 on Monday. Among the initiatives will be a new SAT/college preparation camp during the last 3 weeks of the summer and a BizCamp for six weeks.
The SAT/college preparation camp will provide high school students with a grade free course to prepare for the verbal and math portions of the SAT. The course is designed to provide information about the current format of the SAT and to instruct students in test taking techniques to help them realize their full potential.
The college prep component of the camp will teach students how to get into college and will provide instruction on all parts of the college admissions process. There will be tutoring on preparing for college admissions essays; college admissions guidance; which schools to apply to; how the process works; funding and financing their education and mock interviews.
Some communities around the nation have offered students the opportunity to enroll in BizCamps. The proposed budget includes funding for Greenburgh's first BizCamp. They will learn how to think critically about businesses. They will develop a business plan that brings the learning to the practical. Students will also have the chance to earn money on some of their busienss ideas through trading games and exercises.
This camp will work with the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship. We are working in cooperation with Westchester Community College for the SAT/college prep program.
Tution for the SAT camp will be $450. Campers who meet certain income criteria will be eligible for full tuition. The BizCamp tuition will be $600, with 10 students eligible for full or partial tuition, based on income.
The SAT/college preparation camp will provide high school students with a grade free course to prepare for the verbal and math portions of the SAT. The course is designed to provide information about the current format of the SAT and to instruct students in test taking techniques to help them realize their full potential.
The college prep component of the camp will teach students how to get into college and will provide instruction on all parts of the college admissions process. There will be tutoring on preparing for college admissions essays; college admissions guidance; which schools to apply to; how the process works; funding and financing their education and mock interviews.
Some communities around the nation have offered students the opportunity to enroll in BizCamps. The proposed budget includes funding for Greenburgh's first BizCamp. They will learn how to think critically about businesses. They will develop a business plan that brings the learning to the practical. Students will also have the chance to earn money on some of their busienss ideas through trading games and exercises.
This camp will work with the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship. We are working in cooperation with Westchester Community College for the SAT/college prep program.
Tution for the SAT camp will be $450. Campers who meet certain income criteria will be eligible for full tuition. The BizCamp tuition will be $600, with 10 students eligible for full or partial tuition, based on income.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)