NICE WORK TOM ABINANTI--THANK YOU FOR BEING A GREAT ADVOCATE FOR GREENBURGH~ Assemblyman Tom Abinanti delivers for Greenburgh. I am very pleased to report that the NYS Assembly approved the proposed law that would allow the town to lease our tennis courts to a private operator. The town could generate $3 million in revenue during the 15 year lease.
The proposed state legislation now has to be voted on by the NYS Senate. I spoke with State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins a short time ago. She is working hard to persuade her colleagues in the Senate to approve the local law before the Senate recesses on Thursday.
We are very grateful to Assemblyman Abinanti for being an effective advocate for our community --and for working so hard to help the town generate significant revenue from the private sector.
PAUL FEINER
-----Original Message-----
From: Joanne Sold [mailto:soldj@assembly.state.ny.us]
Sent: Tuesday, June 19, 2012 12:55 PM
Subject: RE: Greenburgh tennis bill passed Assembly today
Nice work Tom!!!!
The New York State Legislature is expected to decide this week whether or not to grant the town of Greenburgh permission to lease the tennis courts at Anthony Veteran park to a private operator and to place a tennis bubble at the courts during months when the courts are not used by the public.
If the legislation is approved the town will generate as much as $3 million in revenue during the 15 year lease. In addition, residents who love tennis will have access to tennis facilities during months when the tennis courts are currently not being used. Improvements to the tennis courts will be made by the private company -saving the taxpayers substantial dollars that would have to be spent on infrastructure improvements. Since the courts are located in unincorporated Greenburgh there will be no financial impact to the villages.
The Greenburgh Town Board has made this proposal our top legislative initiative for 2012. State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins has introduced legislation in the State Senate and State Assemblyman Tom Abinanti has introduced the same proposed law before the State Assembly.
Members of the Town Board have been in constant communication with both lawmakers and we have encouraged our representatives to take advantage of the considerable respect they have among their colleagues and to use their legislative skills to help the town obtain permission to place the bubble at the courts.
The State Senate and State Assembly will adjourn the session at the end of the week. If the proposed law is not approved by both houses before the legislature adjourns, the town will have to wait until 2013 to have the proposal considered again. The wait will cost taxpayers six figures in lost revenue.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Monday, June 18, 2012
popham road bridge update
POPHAM ROAD BRIDGE STAGE 3 DEMOLITION
The Village of Scarsdale has announced the Popham Road Bridge Stage 3 demolition is scheduled to commence Monday night, June 18, 2012 and continue until the end of July 2012. For safety reasons the demolition work is required to be performed at night between the hours of 9:00 pm and 5:00 am. The demolition work entails removing the last section (middle section) of the existing bridge which includes the concrete deck, concrete abutments, concrete footings and structural steel. The concrete will be removed with the use of drills, jack hammers and backhoes. The noise level will vary in intensity depending on the type of demolition being performed. The Village has directed the contractor, whenever possible, to perform the noisiest work at the beginning part of the night. Stage 3 is the last bridge construction stage while Stage 4 includes finishing punch list and administrative items. The Popham Road Bridge construction is anticipated to be finished by the end of December 2012 with punch list and administration items completed by February 2013.
The Village of Scarsdale has announced the Popham Road Bridge Stage 3 demolition is scheduled to commence Monday night, June 18, 2012 and continue until the end of July 2012. For safety reasons the demolition work is required to be performed at night between the hours of 9:00 pm and 5:00 am. The demolition work entails removing the last section (middle section) of the existing bridge which includes the concrete deck, concrete abutments, concrete footings and structural steel. The concrete will be removed with the use of drills, jack hammers and backhoes. The noise level will vary in intensity depending on the type of demolition being performed. The Village has directed the contractor, whenever possible, to perform the noisiest work at the beginning part of the night. Stage 3 is the last bridge construction stage while Stage 4 includes finishing punch list and administrative items. The Popham Road Bridge construction is anticipated to be finished by the end of December 2012 with punch list and administration items completed by February 2013.
Sunday, June 17, 2012
NYS Legislature to vote on tennis bubble proposal this week
The New York State Legislature is expected to decide this week whether or not to grant the town of Greenburgh permission to lease the tennis courts at Anthony Veteran park to a private operator and to place a tennis bubble at the courts during months when the courts are not used by the public.
If the legislation is approved the town will generate as much as $3 million in revenue during the 15 year lease. In addition, residents who love tennis will have access to tennis facilities during months when the tennis courts are currently not being used. Improvements to the tennis courts will be made by the private company -saving the taxpayers substantial dollars that would have to be spent on infrastructure improvements. Since the courts are located in unincorporated Greenburgh there will be no financial impact to the villages.
The Greenburgh Town Board has made this proposal our top legislative initiative for 2012. State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins has introduced legislation in the State Senate and State Assemblyman Tom Abinanti has introduced the same proposed law before the State Assembly.
Members of the Town Board have been in constant communication with both lawmakers and we have encouraged our representatives to take advantage of the considerable respect they have among their colleagues and to use their legislative skills to help the town obtain permission to place the bubble at the courts.
The State Senate and State Assembly will adjourn the session at the end of the week. If the proposed law is not approved by both houses before the legislature adjourns, the town will have to wait until 2013 to have the proposal considered again. The wait will cost taxpayers six figures in lost revenue.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
If the legislation is approved the town will generate as much as $3 million in revenue during the 15 year lease. In addition, residents who love tennis will have access to tennis facilities during months when the tennis courts are currently not being used. Improvements to the tennis courts will be made by the private company -saving the taxpayers substantial dollars that would have to be spent on infrastructure improvements. Since the courts are located in unincorporated Greenburgh there will be no financial impact to the villages.
The Greenburgh Town Board has made this proposal our top legislative initiative for 2012. State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins has introduced legislation in the State Senate and State Assemblyman Tom Abinanti has introduced the same proposed law before the State Assembly.
Members of the Town Board have been in constant communication with both lawmakers and we have encouraged our representatives to take advantage of the considerable respect they have among their colleagues and to use their legislative skills to help the town obtain permission to place the bubble at the courts.
The State Senate and State Assembly will adjourn the session at the end of the week. If the proposed law is not approved by both houses before the legislature adjourns, the town will have to wait until 2013 to have the proposal considered again. The wait will cost taxpayers six figures in lost revenue.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
Thursday, June 14, 2012
9a bypass pushed
Congresswoman Nita Lowey, local officials and representatives of the business community are all pushing for an immediate reauthorization of federal transportation programs which will expire on June 30th without action by the United States Congress. The House of Representatives is currently operating on its ninth extension since the law expired on September 30, 2009.
The extension of this law is very important to the town of Greenburgh. One of goals: to obtain federal funding for a major road construction project that could reduce traffic congestion on 9A. The 9A bypass project has been targetted as a necessary road improvement for many years. The bypass would reduce traffic on 9A (near Sam's Club and the multiplex movie theater). A new road would be built. Jobs would be created during the construction project. And residents, businesses would notice a significant improvement in their quality of life --especially during rush hour when 9A could resemble a parking lot, with lots of traffic tie ups!
The 9A bypass proposal has had the support of state, county and local officials for years. It's been a priority project. The reason nothing has happened: lack of money. If the federal transportation act is approved we will stand a good chance of turning our dream of a 9A bypass into a reality.
The extension of this law is very important to the town of Greenburgh. One of goals: to obtain federal funding for a major road construction project that could reduce traffic congestion on 9A. The 9A bypass project has been targetted as a necessary road improvement for many years. The bypass would reduce traffic on 9A (near Sam's Club and the multiplex movie theater). A new road would be built. Jobs would be created during the construction project. And residents, businesses would notice a significant improvement in their quality of life --especially during rush hour when 9A could resemble a parking lot, with lots of traffic tie ups!
The 9A bypass proposal has had the support of state, county and local officials for years. It's been a priority project. The reason nothing has happened: lack of money. If the federal transportation act is approved we will stand a good chance of turning our dream of a 9A bypass into a reality.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
jazz concert begin tomorrow...joint reassessment...game on proposed meeting july 18..
Link: jazzforumarts.org
Download Jazz Forum Arts 2012 brochure
Free Parking at Metro North train station during concerts. (Rain Location: Embassy Community Center, 60 Palisade St.)
Wednesday, June 13
T.J. Tomlin Dixieland All-Stars
T.J. is the son of legendary songwriter Pinky Tomlin and has been in the music industry for over 40 years, performing with Bobby Hackett, Les Brown, Al Hirt and many others.
T.J. was the drummer for the U.S. Navy Show Band in Washington, D.C. from 1966-1968, as well as for the U.S. Navy Jazz Band at the Naval Station, San Diego, CA from 1968-1970. While living in San Diego, T.J. was the musical contractor for the prestigious Hotel de Coronado and the San Diego Sports Arena from 1970-1974.
T.J. returned to New York in 1975, where he worked with many different Club Date offices, as well as with his own Trio, Quartet, Dixieland Band, Swing Band, Big Band and Club Date Band. T.J. and his groups supported Broadway theater productions and major performers at the Nanuet and Darien Dinner Theaters.
T.J. Tomlin Dixieland All-Stars were featured by Jazz Forum Arts for many years, aboard N.Y. Waterways ferries in our Hudson River Music Fest. Enjoy them here on land at beautiful Waterfront Park in Dobbs Ferry as they kick-off our 13th season
The City of Yonkers and Town of Greenburgh have decided conduct a joint reassessment of all properties. We anticipate that we will save substantial dollars. Interns from Berkeley College, paid for with a federal grant, will be working the Assessor’s office – entering data into the computer which will be used for the reassessment. We expect to save about $50,000 a year – thanks to this initiative.
Save the date: community outreach meeting to discuss Game on sports bubble proposed lease at Frank’s nursery on Dobbs Ferry. Wednesday, JULY 18 at 7 PM. Raindate: July 19th. Meeting will be on site. The draft lease should be posted on the town website sometime next week.
The NY State Legislature will make a decision on the town’s proposal to lease our tennis courts to use during off season months (tennis bubble) sometime next week. State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins and Assemblyman Tom Abinanti have introduced this important state legislation before their legislative bodies.
PAUL FEINER
Monday, June 11, 2012
WCBS NEWS 88 PROFILE OF MY FATHER--WHO HAS SAVED THE TOWN MILLIONS
Stories From Main Street: Checking Greenburgh’s Budget Is All In The Family
June 11, 2012 9:27 AM
Share this 7View Comments
Share CBS Local with your friends. Add us to your Timeline.More Activity
Facebook Activity What's this?
Add to Timeline - What's ThisClick "Add to Timeline" to publish
what you read to FacebookSee what your friends have read
on CBS Local sitesUse "Remove" or "Turn off" to
disable at any time
Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner (file / credit: Judith Ebenstein / Town of Greenburgh)
Filed under
Heard On 1010 WINS, WCBS, WFAN, Local, News, NY News, Radio.com - News, Syndicated Local, Syndication, Watch + Listen
Related tags
Greenburgh, Paul Feiner, Phil Feiner, Sean Adams, stories from main street, Westchester County GREENBURGH, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) - Imagine your father coming in and checking up on you at work. That’s what is happening in one Westchester County town, WCBS 880′s Sean Adams reported.
WCBS 880′s Sean Adams On The Story
Phil Feiner goes through Greenburgh‘s finances with a fine tooth comb.
“It’s nickels and dimes, but it adds up,” he told Adams.
Is he a comptroller or an auditor?
“No title,” he said. “Just a volunteer.”
But he’s not just any volunteer. Phil Feiner is the 91-year-old father of Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner.
Stories from Main Street – Photo: Evan Bindelglass / WCBS 880
RELATED: More Stories From Main Street
“I’ve been in office now 21 years and I welcome the fact that my father could be my biggest critic,” Paul Feiner said.
The elder Feiner is retired. He worked in accounting and in the family’s ash can business in the Bronx.
Once a week, he sifts through invoices.
“It’s very simple. Because there’s so much waste in government, the way I look at it, when I look at an invoice, it’s a personal thing,” Phil Feiner said. “I don’t believe in throwing out a dollar. I believe in a fair shake. I don’t believe in taking advantage of anybody.”
He discovered the town wasn’t submitting claims for ambulance runs.
“And as a result of that, they received $1 million a year for Medicare,” he said.
He said that when the library needed a new roof, “They forwarded a bond issue for $300,000. I said ‘That’s ridiculous.’ and they had two good estimates. I said yes to the third estimate and they came up with a $25,000 job, and they saved $275,000.”
“It’s a great service and the town has saved a substantial amount of money – millions of dollars – thanks to my father’s volunteer efforts over the years,” Paul Feiner said.
The fruit didn’t fall far from the Feiner tree.
The supervisor prides himself on being cost-conscious and finally creative and Greenburgh has a Triple-A bond rating.
But at the end of the day, father knows best.
“Somebody said to me, ‘We should send Feiner to Washington.’ and they weren’t talking about me. They were talking about my father,” said Paul Feiner. “I also want government to be run as tight as possible and as efficiently as possible and I feel that having somebody like my father reassures the public that their dollars are being spent efficiently.”
The elder Feiner said he is very proud of his son.
“If my father ran against me, I’d probably vote for him,” said the younger Feiner.
What do you think of this story? Sound off in the comments section below.
June 11, 2012 9:27 AM
Share this 7View Comments
Share CBS Local with your friends. Add us to your Timeline.More Activity
Facebook Activity What's this?
Add to Timeline - What's ThisClick "Add to Timeline" to publish
what you read to FacebookSee what your friends have read
on CBS Local sitesUse "Remove" or "Turn off" to
disable at any time
Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner (file / credit: Judith Ebenstein / Town of Greenburgh)
Filed under
Heard On 1010 WINS, WCBS, WFAN, Local, News, NY News, Radio.com - News, Syndicated Local, Syndication, Watch + Listen
Related tags
Greenburgh, Paul Feiner, Phil Feiner, Sean Adams, stories from main street, Westchester County GREENBURGH, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) - Imagine your father coming in and checking up on you at work. That’s what is happening in one Westchester County town, WCBS 880′s Sean Adams reported.
WCBS 880′s Sean Adams On The Story
Phil Feiner goes through Greenburgh‘s finances with a fine tooth comb.
“It’s nickels and dimes, but it adds up,” he told Adams.
Is he a comptroller or an auditor?
“No title,” he said. “Just a volunteer.”
But he’s not just any volunteer. Phil Feiner is the 91-year-old father of Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner.
Stories from Main Street – Photo: Evan Bindelglass / WCBS 880
RELATED: More Stories From Main Street
“I’ve been in office now 21 years and I welcome the fact that my father could be my biggest critic,” Paul Feiner said.
The elder Feiner is retired. He worked in accounting and in the family’s ash can business in the Bronx.
Once a week, he sifts through invoices.
“It’s very simple. Because there’s so much waste in government, the way I look at it, when I look at an invoice, it’s a personal thing,” Phil Feiner said. “I don’t believe in throwing out a dollar. I believe in a fair shake. I don’t believe in taking advantage of anybody.”
He discovered the town wasn’t submitting claims for ambulance runs.
“And as a result of that, they received $1 million a year for Medicare,” he said.
He said that when the library needed a new roof, “They forwarded a bond issue for $300,000. I said ‘That’s ridiculous.’ and they had two good estimates. I said yes to the third estimate and they came up with a $25,000 job, and they saved $275,000.”
“It’s a great service and the town has saved a substantial amount of money – millions of dollars – thanks to my father’s volunteer efforts over the years,” Paul Feiner said.
The fruit didn’t fall far from the Feiner tree.
The supervisor prides himself on being cost-conscious and finally creative and Greenburgh has a Triple-A bond rating.
But at the end of the day, father knows best.
“Somebody said to me, ‘We should send Feiner to Washington.’ and they weren’t talking about me. They were talking about my father,” said Paul Feiner. “I also want government to be run as tight as possible and as efficiently as possible and I feel that having somebody like my father reassures the public that their dollars are being spent efficiently.”
The elder Feiner said he is very proud of his son.
“If my father ran against me, I’d probably vote for him,” said the younger Feiner.
What do you think of this story? Sound off in the comments section below.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
THESE ARE CONCERNS RAISED BY RESIDENTS AT POOL TODAY
During the summer I conduct frequent community outreach meetings with constituents at the AF Veteran Town Pool to solicit feedback from residents. Unlike other constituent outreach meetings ( our next meeting is being held Tuesday evening at 8 PM with residents of E Irvington), I approach constituents (not the other way around) and ask them how we can make Greenburgh a better place.
I was pleased with the response I received during my two hours at the pool today. These were some of the concerns/suggestions/comments raised. There were very few major complaints or concerns -- most of the comments dealt with quality of life matters. And most people seem happy with town services and the responsiveness of town staff to complaints.
I have been conducting these outreach meetings at the pool for over 20 years. I will try to be back at the pool next weekend for more constituent feedback! The following is an outline of some of the issues people raised when I chatted with them.
** MORE SHADE AT THE POOL REQUESTED -- A few people suggested that we have more shaded areas at the pool to protect residents who are concerned about excessive sun. One resident even suggested that if the town spends money to address this concern - that pool patrons have the option to pay more to reserve that location during their day at the pool.
** SENIOR DISCOUNTS--Some residents complained that Cablevision doesn't offer seniors a discount on cable TV services.
** VOLUNTEERING--Two residents offered to volunteer and serve on a committee.
** TENNIS BUBBLE--A number of residents expressed support for the proposed tennis bubble. The NY State Senate and Assembly will decide (within the next two weeks before the state legislative session ends) if they will grant the town permission to lease the tennis courts at AF Veteran park to a private operator. If permission is granted, the town will generate a few million dollars over the 15 year lease in revenue and tennis lovers would have access to tennis during winter months. During the spring/ summer/early fall months the courts go back to the town.
I was pleasantly surprised at the interest and significant support this proposal has.
** E HARTSDALE AVE (4 CORNERS)--CARS DRIVE ON WRONG SIDE OF ROAD--Some constituents complained about safety on E Hartsdale Ave. Some drivers heading towards Central Ave don't like to wait near the 4 corners and quickly drive on the wrong side of the road (to avoid the wait) --creating safety concerns. I will share this concern with the police chief.
** OBJECTING TO PROPOSED TRAFFIC LIGHT IN FRONT OF SOLOMON SCHECTER--Two constituents objected to the proposed traffic light in front of Solomon Schecter. That proposal is on hold -after members of the community expressed concern. Solomon Schecter has been responsive to the community and is listening to their concerns.
** TAPPAN ZEE PARK--A few people mentioned that they liked the proposal I have been working on---to turn the old TZ bridge into a park once the new bridge is built.
** WIFI at the park--Some residents are enjoying the WIFI at AF Veteran park. We just started offering free WIFI this year. A suggestion was made: to put a sign at the entrance to the park advising residents of the new service. (not everyone reads these e mail alerts).
** BIKE RACKS ON BUSES--I've been pushing for bike racks on buses for many years. For some reason, in the past the suggestion did not get much of a public reaction. Today-when I was at the pool - a few people told me that they think it's a great idea. During the past week I received a number of calls/e mails from constituents who also were very enthusiastic.
** A complaint about a home that is not maintained. Will contact the building inspector to determine if there is a violation. Another constituent requested sidewalks near her home in Hartsdale. Some traffic (speeding on local roads) complaints. A few people were upset that we opened the pool on Monday after Memorial Day (not on Saturday). I explained the reason: budget cuts. In years past the pool was not very crowded on Saturday and Sunday (Memorial Day weekend).
Feel free to contact me anytime. My cell: 438-1343. My office: 993 -1545.
PAUL FEINER
I was pleased with the response I received during my two hours at the pool today. These were some of the concerns/suggestions/comments raised. There were very few major complaints or concerns -- most of the comments dealt with quality of life matters. And most people seem happy with town services and the responsiveness of town staff to complaints.
I have been conducting these outreach meetings at the pool for over 20 years. I will try to be back at the pool next weekend for more constituent feedback! The following is an outline of some of the issues people raised when I chatted with them.
** MORE SHADE AT THE POOL REQUESTED -- A few people suggested that we have more shaded areas at the pool to protect residents who are concerned about excessive sun. One resident even suggested that if the town spends money to address this concern - that pool patrons have the option to pay more to reserve that location during their day at the pool.
** SENIOR DISCOUNTS--Some residents complained that Cablevision doesn't offer seniors a discount on cable TV services.
** VOLUNTEERING--Two residents offered to volunteer and serve on a committee.
** TENNIS BUBBLE--A number of residents expressed support for the proposed tennis bubble. The NY State Senate and Assembly will decide (within the next two weeks before the state legislative session ends) if they will grant the town permission to lease the tennis courts at AF Veteran park to a private operator. If permission is granted, the town will generate a few million dollars over the 15 year lease in revenue and tennis lovers would have access to tennis during winter months. During the spring/ summer/early fall months the courts go back to the town.
I was pleasantly surprised at the interest and significant support this proposal has.
** E HARTSDALE AVE (4 CORNERS)--CARS DRIVE ON WRONG SIDE OF ROAD--Some constituents complained about safety on E Hartsdale Ave. Some drivers heading towards Central Ave don't like to wait near the 4 corners and quickly drive on the wrong side of the road (to avoid the wait) --creating safety concerns. I will share this concern with the police chief.
** OBJECTING TO PROPOSED TRAFFIC LIGHT IN FRONT OF SOLOMON SCHECTER--Two constituents objected to the proposed traffic light in front of Solomon Schecter. That proposal is on hold -after members of the community expressed concern. Solomon Schecter has been responsive to the community and is listening to their concerns.
** TAPPAN ZEE PARK--A few people mentioned that they liked the proposal I have been working on---to turn the old TZ bridge into a park once the new bridge is built.
** WIFI at the park--Some residents are enjoying the WIFI at AF Veteran park. We just started offering free WIFI this year. A suggestion was made: to put a sign at the entrance to the park advising residents of the new service. (not everyone reads these e mail alerts).
** BIKE RACKS ON BUSES--I've been pushing for bike racks on buses for many years. For some reason, in the past the suggestion did not get much of a public reaction. Today-when I was at the pool - a few people told me that they think it's a great idea. During the past week I received a number of calls/e mails from constituents who also were very enthusiastic.
** A complaint about a home that is not maintained. Will contact the building inspector to determine if there is a violation. Another constituent requested sidewalks near her home in Hartsdale. Some traffic (speeding on local roads) complaints. A few people were upset that we opened the pool on Monday after Memorial Day (not on Saturday). I explained the reason: budget cuts. In years past the pool was not very crowded on Saturday and Sunday (Memorial Day weekend).
Feel free to contact me anytime. My cell: 438-1343. My office: 993 -1545.
PAUL FEINER
Thursday, June 07, 2012
LOIS BRONZ CHILDRENS CENTER OPERATING AT SURPLUS
A year and a half ago the Lois Bronz Children’s Center, was in jeopardy of closing. I participated in some strategy sessions with the center leadership and attended a session with representatives of Congress, our State Legislators, potential donors and civic leaders at the Madame Walker estate in Irvington–strategizing on approaches that needed to be taken to save the center. We all felt that closing the center was unthinkable!
Dr. Michael Rush, the director of the center, met with me earlier this week and gave me some good news. The center is now operating at a surplus and is not in any danger of closing. This is great news for our community. The center provides outstanding child care services to the community. And, was one of the first child care facilities of its kind in our county. This is the report I just received from Dr. Rush:
PAUL FEINER
Lois Bronz Children’s Center
“A Good Reason to Celebrate”
As you may recall during the 2010-11 school year there were several staff layoffs and the Center was in jeopardy of closing due to financial instability. The community set forth on a campaign to ensure that the Lois Bronz Children’s Center (LBCC) remains open and continue to provide valuable services. Letter writing campaigns, fund raising luncheons, brainstorming sessions, and a complete restructuring of the administrative facet within the Center have helped to strengthen our finances and viability.
Although the Center closed a classroom in the 2010-11 school year, we have since been able to rehire displaced staff and boast a healthy enrollment. Our Special Needs Program was full to capacity by mid-year and we have several more children enrolled this summer as compared to last year. Westchester Districts continue to make referrals to our program since we are no longer in jeopardy of closing.
With our new Administrative restructuring, cash flow management team, and monetary donations from the community and supporting businesses, we are pleased to announce that our center is now fully operating at a surplus and will continue to operate efficiently. We have come together to put our “Children First” and will continue to provide a safe and nurturing educational experience for our children and families for years to come. Even in these difficult economic times, enrollment has risen and many classrooms have waiting lists for this upcoming school year. We have integrated a new interactive and creative curriculum to encompass a love of reading, math and science to help prepare our children for Kindergarten and beyond. The Board of Directors along with the administrative team adopted the “Genius Child Project” which promises to meet the individual needs of every child. We welcome 6-week-olds to 12-year-olds and will provide an array of activities like gymnastics, swimming, tennis, artist in residence and trips to enhance the educational hands on experiences for our children.
We truly appreciate the support that the community and our families continue to give as we help our children grow intellectually, physically, emotionally, culturally and socially. We have an open door policy and welcome visitors to tour our facility and see the faces of our future leaders.
If you would like more information about our center, please feel free to contact Dr. Michael Rush or Jennifer Johnson at 914-761-6134. This is “You, Me and LBCC” working together!
Dr. Michael Rush, the director of the center, met with me earlier this week and gave me some good news. The center is now operating at a surplus and is not in any danger of closing. This is great news for our community. The center provides outstanding child care services to the community. And, was one of the first child care facilities of its kind in our county. This is the report I just received from Dr. Rush:
PAUL FEINER
Lois Bronz Children’s Center
“A Good Reason to Celebrate”
As you may recall during the 2010-11 school year there were several staff layoffs and the Center was in jeopardy of closing due to financial instability. The community set forth on a campaign to ensure that the Lois Bronz Children’s Center (LBCC) remains open and continue to provide valuable services. Letter writing campaigns, fund raising luncheons, brainstorming sessions, and a complete restructuring of the administrative facet within the Center have helped to strengthen our finances and viability.
Although the Center closed a classroom in the 2010-11 school year, we have since been able to rehire displaced staff and boast a healthy enrollment. Our Special Needs Program was full to capacity by mid-year and we have several more children enrolled this summer as compared to last year. Westchester Districts continue to make referrals to our program since we are no longer in jeopardy of closing.
With our new Administrative restructuring, cash flow management team, and monetary donations from the community and supporting businesses, we are pleased to announce that our center is now fully operating at a surplus and will continue to operate efficiently. We have come together to put our “Children First” and will continue to provide a safe and nurturing educational experience for our children and families for years to come. Even in these difficult economic times, enrollment has risen and many classrooms have waiting lists for this upcoming school year. We have integrated a new interactive and creative curriculum to encompass a love of reading, math and science to help prepare our children for Kindergarten and beyond. The Board of Directors along with the administrative team adopted the “Genius Child Project” which promises to meet the individual needs of every child. We welcome 6-week-olds to 12-year-olds and will provide an array of activities like gymnastics, swimming, tennis, artist in residence and trips to enhance the educational hands on experiences for our children.
We truly appreciate the support that the community and our families continue to give as we help our children grow intellectually, physically, emotionally, culturally and socially. We have an open door policy and welcome visitors to tour our facility and see the faces of our future leaders.
If you would like more information about our center, please feel free to contact Dr. Michael Rush or Jennifer Johnson at 914-761-6134. This is “You, Me and LBCC” working together!
Tuesday, June 05, 2012
e hartsdale ave concerts..compost bins/rain barrels
EAST HARTSDALE FARMER’S MARKET CONCERTS THIS SUMMER
The Hartsdale farmer’s market is open on E Hartsdale Ave (DeSanti Plaza)! Town Clerk Judith Beville is organizing free outdoor concerts. Musicians are donating their time. This is the tentative schedule of the concerts. If you are a musician and would like to perform please advise the Town Clerk, Judith Beville by calling her at 993 1504 or e mail her at townclerk@greenburghny.com. I hope you will enjoy the concert series and support our local merchants. The concert last Saturday was cancelled due to the bad weather. Please be advised that all our musicians are volunteering their time to the concert series –providing you with great entertainment at no cost to the taxpayers.
June 9th - 11:30 – 12:30: Steve Scholle - Jazz
June 16th: 10:00 – 11:00 and 11:30 – 12:30: Remedy – Contemporary
June 23rd: 11:30 – 12:30: Bill Galanin – Guitar
June 30th: Open – Still seeking musicians
July 7th: 11:30 – 12:30: Di Morgan - Guitar
July 14th: 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30: Igneous Lagond Music
School
July 21st: 10:00-11:00 and 11:30- 12:30: Remedy
July 28th: 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30: Solar Punch – Jazz, R&B
Aug. 4th : 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30: Deuces Child
Aug. 11th: 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30: Remedy
Compost bins & rain barrels at great prices—limited time
*** Save money ***
*** Save water and/or save on fertilizer ***
*** Help the environment ***
*** Help keep down your water bills and local taxes ***
Spring is upon us here in the Hudson Valley, which means it’s a great time to start composting and collecting rainwater for your garden!
Groundwork Hudson Valley and Southern Westchester Energy Action Consortium (SWEAC) want to help by sponsoring a Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Sale. Last year, over 150 local residents purchased quality compost bins and rain barrels at very deep discounts. If you don’t have a rain barrel or compost bin, this is the time to order one!
This is a limited-time opportunity to purchase high-quality compost bins and rain barrels at near-wholesale prices:
Earth Machine Compost Bin $55 (regularly retails for $145)
Systern Rain Barrel $75 (regularly retails for $125)
reserve by June 6 for pickup June 9 at the Greenburgh Nature Center
Compost
By composting your kitchen and yard waste you will be helping to keep up to 650 lbs of waste per household out of the waste stream per year, thus helping to save municipal hauling costs, minimizing waste and creating a great (free!) fertilizer for your garden!
Water
Clean water is becoming an increasingly scarce resource, especially with the hot summers and recent significant increase in the price of municipal water. As we use more and more water to keep our gardens irrigated, it makes perfect sense to use what nature gives us for free—rainwater free from chlorine and water treatment chemicals to keep our flower beds, container garden and lawns lush during hot spells. Amazingly, a single summer shower can fill up a 55 gallon barrel with rain water your plants will love, instead of causing flooding and river pollution. Why not save some for a sunny day?
Pre-ordering is by June 6 for pickup June 9th in Greenburgh (see below for other locations).
Pre-order either online at http://compostbinandrainbarrel2012.eventbrite.com/ or by emailing Lynn Oliva at lynn@groundworkhv.org (indicate which products you are reserving and which location/time you will pick up). Products must be pre-ordered by by June 6th for pick-up on June 9th.
The sale will be held rain or shine and payment is due at the time of pick-up by cash or check only at the following locations and times:
Saturday, June 9th at the Eastchester Town Hall parking lot, 40 Mill Rd., Eastchester (9:00 am to 11:30 am) and at Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd. Scarsdale (1:00 pm to 4 pm).
The compost bins can process up to 650 pounds of household waste a year and will improve soil for garden plants.
The rain barrels, made of 50% recycled plastic materials, hold up to 55 gallons of rainwater which can be used directly in garden watering.
Happy spring!
PAUL FEINER
Sunday, June 03, 2012
11 private garden tours in hastings next weekend
ONE REASON WHY YOU CAN ENJOY A SUMMER VACATION AT HOME NEXT WEEKEND...
The Friends of the Hastings-on-Hudson Public Library present “Hastings by the Yard,” an exclusive tour of eleven private gardens, the weekend of June 9 and 10, from 1 to 5 PM each day, rain or shine.
The beautiful gardens featured in this tour are distinctive examples of a wide array of styles: formal and informal, woodland and meadow, flower and shrub, vegetable and fruit. For example, the tour will include
Native plant gardens that demonstrate the versatility of wildflowers, shrubs and trees of the Northeast;
Cottage gardens filled with old-fashioned roses and modern cultivars, lush with fragrance and color;
Kitchen gardens overflowing with herbs, leafy greens and heirloom tomatoes;
A beekeeper’s garden humming with bee balm, holly and lavender.
Several gardens offer spectacular views of the Hudson River, framed by venerable trees. Notable water features include a three-level swimming pool with cascading waterfalls and an infinity edge. Plant collections range from groupings of dwarf conifers and hardy cacti to ferns and peonies.
“The gardens in all their variety reveal the inspired results that a keen eye, a green thumb and dedication can produce in a home landscape,” says landscape designer Becca Mudge, curator of “Hastings by the Yard.”
Garden owners will be present during the tour to answer visitors’ questions.
Tickets are on sale at the Hastings Public Library, 7 Maple Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. Prices: $20 (advance), $25 (days of tour), $10 (youth, ages 12-18). Tickets are valid for both days. For information or to order tickets, call the Library at 914-478-3307 or visit www.hastingslibrary.org. A free shuttle bus, which begins at the Zinsser Commuter Parking Lot, will make a continuous circle to all locations during tour hours. Note: Parking at the gardens is very limited in most locations.
“Hastings by the Yard: A Tour of Inspired Village Gardens” is sponsored by The Friends of the Hastings Public Library. All proceeds will be used for the enhancement and maintenance of the landscape around the Library.
The village of Hastings on Hudson is one of the most charming villages within Greenburgh. If you enjoy looking at beautiful gardens and great landscaping - this tour is for you.
The Friends of the Hastings-on-Hudson Public Library present “Hastings by the Yard,” an exclusive tour of eleven private gardens, the weekend of June 9 and 10, from 1 to 5 PM each day, rain or shine.
The beautiful gardens featured in this tour are distinctive examples of a wide array of styles: formal and informal, woodland and meadow, flower and shrub, vegetable and fruit. For example, the tour will include
Native plant gardens that demonstrate the versatility of wildflowers, shrubs and trees of the Northeast;
Cottage gardens filled with old-fashioned roses and modern cultivars, lush with fragrance and color;
Kitchen gardens overflowing with herbs, leafy greens and heirloom tomatoes;
A beekeeper’s garden humming with bee balm, holly and lavender.
Several gardens offer spectacular views of the Hudson River, framed by venerable trees. Notable water features include a three-level swimming pool with cascading waterfalls and an infinity edge. Plant collections range from groupings of dwarf conifers and hardy cacti to ferns and peonies.
“The gardens in all their variety reveal the inspired results that a keen eye, a green thumb and dedication can produce in a home landscape,” says landscape designer Becca Mudge, curator of “Hastings by the Yard.”
Garden owners will be present during the tour to answer visitors’ questions.
Tickets are on sale at the Hastings Public Library, 7 Maple Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. Prices: $20 (advance), $25 (days of tour), $10 (youth, ages 12-18). Tickets are valid for both days. For information or to order tickets, call the Library at 914-478-3307 or visit www.hastingslibrary.org. A free shuttle bus, which begins at the Zinsser Commuter Parking Lot, will make a continuous circle to all locations during tour hours. Note: Parking at the gardens is very limited in most locations.
“Hastings by the Yard: A Tour of Inspired Village Gardens” is sponsored by The Friends of the Hastings Public Library. All proceeds will be used for the enhancement and maintenance of the landscape around the Library.
The village of Hastings on Hudson is one of the most charming villages within Greenburgh. If you enjoy looking at beautiful gardens and great landscaping - this tour is for you.
Saturday, June 02, 2012
EDGEMONT YOUTH LACROSSE IS TERRIFIC
I am impressed! Attended the 2nd annual Edgemont Youth Lacrosse Jamboree. The event was held this morning at the Edgemont High School. Even though it was raining the games were not cancelled. The youth athletes had lots of fun. And, the parents who watched their kids smiled--even though it was raining for the early portion of the games.
Hats off to the coaches for their dedication and hard work. First game began at 8:30 AM and continued all morning. Each game runs for about 25 minutes, with a 20 minute break between games to cool off (although the rain cooled everyone off anyway). The teams also had a 25 minute workout with the trainers from High IMpact Lacrosse--they are working on face off skills among others.
Competitng teams:
Edgemont
Bronxville
Dobbs Ferry
Irvington
Scarsdale
If you have a child --Edgemont Youth Lacrosse is a great program. I recommend it highly.
Hats off to the coaches for their dedication and hard work. First game began at 8:30 AM and continued all morning. Each game runs for about 25 minutes, with a 20 minute break between games to cool off (although the rain cooled everyone off anyway). The teams also had a 25 minute workout with the trainers from High IMpact Lacrosse--they are working on face off skills among others.
Competitng teams:
Edgemont
Bronxville
Dobbs Ferry
Irvington
Scarsdale
If you have a child --Edgemont Youth Lacrosse is a great program. I recommend it highly.
Friday, May 25, 2012
pool opens...bd endorses tennis bubble...zoning map corrections. more notice to public re: antennas
POOL OPENS AT AF VETERAN PARK ON MONDAY, MEMORIAL DAY
The Westchester County Board of Health inspected the new pool liner and other minor renovations made at AF Veteran park pool this morning and authorized the pool to open on Monday, Memorial Day from 10 AM to 5:45 PM. The Town pool is located on Heatherdell Road.
TOWN BOARD ENDORSES TENNIS BUBBLE LEGISLATION AT AF VETERAN PARK
The Greenburgh Town Board approved a resolution endorsing proposed state legislation that will be introduced by State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins and Assemblyman tom Abinanti that would accomplish the goal of leasing the tennis facilities at AF Veteran park for commercial use with costs associated with the tennis facilities and revenues generated from the lease being applied to unincorporated Greenburgh. The town expects to generate significant revenue from the lease. And- residents will have access to more tennis during winter months when the facilities are not used or open.
ZONING MAP CORRECTION
The Town Board approved a resolution referring possible amendments to the zoning map to the Planning Board for a report and recommendation. There are errors in some of the maps. And, all the errors (some are decades old) need to be corrected.
MORE NOTIFICATION RE: FUTURE ANTENNA LOCATIONS
We referred amendments proposed by the Edgemont Community Council pertaining to the town’s antenna law (to require more notification to residents) to the Planning Board and Antenna Review Board for recommendations.
Paul Feiner
Popham Road bridge to be closed
POPHAM ROAD BRIDGE LANE CLOSURE
In conjunction with the Popham Road Bridge Replacement Project, the eastbound Popham Road Bridge travel lane will be closed to vehicular traffic commencing on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 12:00 a.m. and will remain closed for a 2 week period. The lane closure is necessary to allow Verizon to station their equipment over their manholes and splice the new Verizon cables that run under the new portion of the Popham Road Bridge structure. This work must be completed prior to the final phase of the bridge construction which will commence immediately thereafter. Eastbound Popham Road Bridge vehicular traffic will be detoured south on Garth Road east to Harney Road and north on Scarsdale Avenue back to Popham Road.
Thank you and we appreciate your cooperation during this temporary inconvenience.
In conjunction with the Popham Road Bridge Replacement Project, the eastbound Popham Road Bridge travel lane will be closed to vehicular traffic commencing on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 12:00 a.m. and will remain closed for a 2 week period. The lane closure is necessary to allow Verizon to station their equipment over their manholes and splice the new Verizon cables that run under the new portion of the Popham Road Bridge structure. This work must be completed prior to the final phase of the bridge construction which will commence immediately thereafter. Eastbound Popham Road Bridge vehicular traffic will be detoured south on Garth Road east to Harney Road and north on Scarsdale Avenue back to Popham Road.
Thank you and we appreciate your cooperation during this temporary inconvenience.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
80 interviews to be aired on public access TV
During the Memorial Day weekend over 80 interviews with different veterans who reside in Greenburgh and who have participated in the Greenburgh Living History initiative will be aired on Greenburgh TV (channels 75 and 76 -cablevision and 34 and 35 FIOS).
Every week, during the past three years, Alan Hochberg (with the production assistance of Ardsley Vietnam Veteran Steve Wittenberg) has been interviewing veterans of World War II and the Korean conflict.
Each of the interviews lasts approximately half an hour. The interviews will be aired non stop from Friday night through Monday evening. This is the first year that some Korean veterans will have their interviews broadcast on local TV. Sadly, some of the veterans who were interviewed during the past few years have passed away. These interviews will help the community never forget their contributions.
To commemorate the role our Greenburgh heroes have had in defending democracy, the town of Greenburgh has broadcast the Living History interviews non stop every Memorial Day and Veteran's Day weekends for three years. We want to make sure that the community does not forget the contributions of our veterans and we hope that children will be inspired by the stories the veterans tell of their heroic accomplishments.
We are planning to organize a bus trip with veterans to Washington DC to meet with our Congressional delegation and to hand deliver to officials at the Library of Congress copies of the interviews --to be archived at the Library of Congress.
Veterans who are interested in being interviewed are invited to e mail Alan Hochberg at ahochberg@greenburghny.com or Paul Feiner at pfeiner@greenburghny.com if you would like to be interviewed for our living history initiative. A special thank you to George Malone, our cable TV coordinator for his efforts producing and editing the interviews. Clips of scenes from the wars can be seen during the interviews.
Veterans of World War II receive priority if they are interested in being interviewed. Korean conflict veterans are currently being interviewed. Interviews take place weekly.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
Every week, during the past three years, Alan Hochberg (with the production assistance of Ardsley Vietnam Veteran Steve Wittenberg) has been interviewing veterans of World War II and the Korean conflict.
Each of the interviews lasts approximately half an hour. The interviews will be aired non stop from Friday night through Monday evening. This is the first year that some Korean veterans will have their interviews broadcast on local TV. Sadly, some of the veterans who were interviewed during the past few years have passed away. These interviews will help the community never forget their contributions.
To commemorate the role our Greenburgh heroes have had in defending democracy, the town of Greenburgh has broadcast the Living History interviews non stop every Memorial Day and Veteran's Day weekends for three years. We want to make sure that the community does not forget the contributions of our veterans and we hope that children will be inspired by the stories the veterans tell of their heroic accomplishments.
We are planning to organize a bus trip with veterans to Washington DC to meet with our Congressional delegation and to hand deliver to officials at the Library of Congress copies of the interviews --to be archived at the Library of Congress.
Veterans who are interested in being interviewed are invited to e mail Alan Hochberg at ahochberg@greenburghny.com or Paul Feiner at pfeiner@greenburghny.com if you would like to be interviewed for our living history initiative. A special thank you to George Malone, our cable TV coordinator for his efforts producing and editing the interviews. Clips of scenes from the wars can be seen during the interviews.
Veterans of World War II receive priority if they are interested in being interviewed. Korean conflict veterans are currently being interviewed. Interviews take place weekly.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
My 91 year old father featured in Westchester Business Journal for cutting waste
Ash can maker keeps watch on government waste by John Golden
Phil Feiner, left, with his son Paul outside Greenburgh Town Hall.
Phil Feiner carries a cane on his regular weekday visits to Greenburgh Town Hall. It’s a walking aid, a concession to the impairments of a 91-year-old body. The cane is not used to enforce or defend his authority in the offices of government, though some department chiefs at times might be inclined to use it on him. Phil Feiner has no official authority there, though he’s left his mark on how the town goes about its business.
“I want to eliminate the waste in government,” he declared during an afternoon stop at the office of his son and personal chauffeur, Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner. “That’s the only thing.”
A 50-year Scarsdale resident, Phil Feiner has been doing his thing as Greenburgh’s self-appointed fiscal watchdog throughout his son’s long tenure as supervisor. “As a volunteer I’ve been trying to help Greenburgh and Paul’s administration for 21 years,” he said.
At 70, he retired from his family’s business in the Bronx, the Tip Top Ash Can Co., an enterprise born in the coal-burning city in 1915 that finally succumbed to plastics. There he “got to learn everything” about running a small business, which comes with “all kinds of problems” that also can beset municipal managers, he said. Before following his father and brother into garbage can manufacturing, the graduate of St. John’s University worked as an accountant “at accounting firms, large and small.” That too was useful training and experience for his post-retirement mission in Greenburgh.
“In government, there’s a tremendous amount of waste,” he said. “There are no checks and balances, people are very sloppy. Federal government has the problem; local governments have the same problem.”
According to his son, who also drives his unpaid adviser to his daily workouts at a fitness club, “He comes in once or twice a week looking at vouchers and double-checking to make sure that the town is not wasting money. It’s like an inspector general.”
The sharp-eyed retiree checks for required signatures on invoices. He has recommended more timely payments to vendors. Before Phil complained about the lax practice, the town’s gas and oil deliveries were not metered.
“Most of it is really psychological,” he said. In the offices he visits to scrutinize vouchers, “They all know what I’m doing.”
“At the beginning, I used to spend two to three days” a week at Town Hall, Phil said. “I used to go to the departments all over and uncover a lot of these things.”
Among those things, Phil discovered the town police department’s emergency medical service was not billing insurance companies for its ambulance runs. As he suggested, the police chief did away with that largesse. “Now we get about $1 million a year” in reimbursements, he said.
Then there was the town’s printing broker. Phil thought the town’s printing costs were too high and shopped around. He found a printer in Yonkers “at one-third the price of what they paid before,” he said. “They use him still,” and the town’s savings have reached six figures.
There was the roof replacement project at the town library, for which contractors’ estimates came in at about $300,000. The former manager at Tip Top Ash Can thought that was awfully steep for a roof.
“I had experience because I had a facility in the Bronx,” he said. “I went through this. I located somebody, they did it for $25,000. We had a $275,000 savings.”
There was that $300 monthly invoice from the town’s exterminator that bugged Phil. He checked around in the pest-control trade and got another quote of $50. “They use the same people and it’s still $50 today,” he said.
A few weeks ago, Phil saw a voucher for $105,000 in emergency repairs to a broken water main. He insisted that the charges be itemized.
His son the supervisor realized his father was on to something: “We should be doing spot checks after the work is done to see if a potential competitor would be charging the same thing for the same service.
“He comes up with really great ideas. In the past year or so, the suggestions my father has brought to my attention have been the best – one great idea after another. The recommendations really have been getting better.”
“I really feel like no government and no business is perfect,” Paul Feiner said. “I think it’s really important to have independent eyes and ears.”
“I admire my son, what he’s doing,” said the vigilant accountant. “Most politicians, there’s plus and minus. If he wasn’t an honest politician, I wouldn’t spend my time. I’d go down to Florida and take it easy.”
“A lot of people, I’m sure, would be happy if my father went to Florida,” said the supervisor. “They’d probably have a victory party. They might even buy the condo” far from Greenburgh Town Hall
Phil Feiner, left, with his son Paul outside Greenburgh Town Hall.
Phil Feiner carries a cane on his regular weekday visits to Greenburgh Town Hall. It’s a walking aid, a concession to the impairments of a 91-year-old body. The cane is not used to enforce or defend his authority in the offices of government, though some department chiefs at times might be inclined to use it on him. Phil Feiner has no official authority there, though he’s left his mark on how the town goes about its business.
“I want to eliminate the waste in government,” he declared during an afternoon stop at the office of his son and personal chauffeur, Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner. “That’s the only thing.”
A 50-year Scarsdale resident, Phil Feiner has been doing his thing as Greenburgh’s self-appointed fiscal watchdog throughout his son’s long tenure as supervisor. “As a volunteer I’ve been trying to help Greenburgh and Paul’s administration for 21 years,” he said.
At 70, he retired from his family’s business in the Bronx, the Tip Top Ash Can Co., an enterprise born in the coal-burning city in 1915 that finally succumbed to plastics. There he “got to learn everything” about running a small business, which comes with “all kinds of problems” that also can beset municipal managers, he said. Before following his father and brother into garbage can manufacturing, the graduate of St. John’s University worked as an accountant “at accounting firms, large and small.” That too was useful training and experience for his post-retirement mission in Greenburgh.
“In government, there’s a tremendous amount of waste,” he said. “There are no checks and balances, people are very sloppy. Federal government has the problem; local governments have the same problem.”
According to his son, who also drives his unpaid adviser to his daily workouts at a fitness club, “He comes in once or twice a week looking at vouchers and double-checking to make sure that the town is not wasting money. It’s like an inspector general.”
The sharp-eyed retiree checks for required signatures on invoices. He has recommended more timely payments to vendors. Before Phil complained about the lax practice, the town’s gas and oil deliveries were not metered.
“Most of it is really psychological,” he said. In the offices he visits to scrutinize vouchers, “They all know what I’m doing.”
“At the beginning, I used to spend two to three days” a week at Town Hall, Phil said. “I used to go to the departments all over and uncover a lot of these things.”
Among those things, Phil discovered the town police department’s emergency medical service was not billing insurance companies for its ambulance runs. As he suggested, the police chief did away with that largesse. “Now we get about $1 million a year” in reimbursements, he said.
Then there was the town’s printing broker. Phil thought the town’s printing costs were too high and shopped around. He found a printer in Yonkers “at one-third the price of what they paid before,” he said. “They use him still,” and the town’s savings have reached six figures.
There was the roof replacement project at the town library, for which contractors’ estimates came in at about $300,000. The former manager at Tip Top Ash Can thought that was awfully steep for a roof.
“I had experience because I had a facility in the Bronx,” he said. “I went through this. I located somebody, they did it for $25,000. We had a $275,000 savings.”
There was that $300 monthly invoice from the town’s exterminator that bugged Phil. He checked around in the pest-control trade and got another quote of $50. “They use the same people and it’s still $50 today,” he said.
A few weeks ago, Phil saw a voucher for $105,000 in emergency repairs to a broken water main. He insisted that the charges be itemized.
His son the supervisor realized his father was on to something: “We should be doing spot checks after the work is done to see if a potential competitor would be charging the same thing for the same service.
“He comes up with really great ideas. In the past year or so, the suggestions my father has brought to my attention have been the best – one great idea after another. The recommendations really have been getting better.”
“I really feel like no government and no business is perfect,” Paul Feiner said. “I think it’s really important to have independent eyes and ears.”
“I admire my son, what he’s doing,” said the vigilant accountant. “Most politicians, there’s plus and minus. If he wasn’t an honest politician, I wouldn’t spend my time. I’d go down to Florida and take it easy.”
“A lot of people, I’m sure, would be happy if my father went to Florida,” said the supervisor. “They’d probably have a victory party. They might even buy the condo” far from Greenburgh Town Hall
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
how much could WESTHELP generate in revenue to town for affordable housing?
From: Bob Miller [mailto:Bob.Miller@westhab.org]
Sent: Thursday, May 10, 2012 2:42 PM
To: Paul Feiner
Subject: WestHELP Greenburgh site
Dear Supervisor Feiner,
With your approval, Westhab conducted a preliminary analysis to determine the feasibility of converting the referenced site into affordable housing for low and moderate income families. We undertook this analysis for the purpose of providing you and the Town Board with an option that would expand the supply of affordable housing for working families in Greenburgh, and hopefully be amenable to the County under the terms of the Town's master lease.
Our proposal would be to sublet the property for a minimum of 30 years, a term that would be required by NYS Homes and Community Renewal, to whom we would apply for renovation funding. This would require an extension of the Town's master lease with Westchester County.
We would join two single units side by side to create a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments that would rent to eligible families earning between 30-75% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Rents would range from approximately $835-$1650, depending on unit size and family income range. We anticipate that approximately 55-60 units would be created (a more detailed architectural analysis will determine the exact number).
We also believe that we could generate a total payment to the Town of approximately $200,000 a year, with an amount to be determined paid during the construction period. If we are able to lease some of the available common space (such as to a provider of pre-school child care), that number would increase.
Before we incur the substantial cost of further studies, including detailed architectural and engineering analyses, I would appreciate having a reading from both the Town Board and the County as to their interest in this preliminary concept.
Respectfully,
Bob Miller
President
Westhab, Inc
MORE INACCURATE STATEMENTS ABOUT TOWN FROM ECC
The Edgemont Community Council has a facebook page that constantly distorts the truth about the town. Many of these inaccurate posts are written by Robert Bernstein,former head of the ECC. The following is in response to the inaccurate statements made below. The ECC does not provide me with the ability to post comments on their page. I know they read my blog so I am taking the liberty of responding.
From: Timothy Lewis
Sent: Wednesday, May 23, 2012 9:27 AM
To: Paul Feiner; Town Board
Subject: RE: fyi...from facebook page re: Ferncliff
It is simply not true that the 108 units on the former WestHELP site could generate $1,000 a month in rent. In fact, the Greenburgh Housing Authority’s proposed use of the property for seniors would generate, at most, $550 to $625 per month based upon Housing Authority studies that most seniors in the area do not have incomes in excess of $25,000 and the Housing Authority would only be able to charge renters a maximum of 30% of that $25,000 income or $625. Housing Authority representatives probably understand the financial dynamics better than anyone because affordable housing is what they do.
In addition, the 108 units must be renovated or rehabilitated before occupancy by anyone to make the units ADA compliant for seniors or for anyone else. Who is going to provide the money for these renovations?
Tim
From: Paul Feiner
Sent: Tuesday, May 22, 2012 11:21 PM
To: Town Board; Timothy Lewis
Subject: fyi...from facebook page re: Ferncliff (written by bernsein)
The Edgemont Community Council, Inc.
1. 3 hours ago
TOWN'S FERNCLIFF PROPOSAL FOR WESTHELP REPORTEDLY ENDORSED BY COUNTY EXECUTIVE
Town Attorney Tim Lewis said today that County Executive Rob Astorino was in favor of the Town's proposal to demolish the 108 units of affordable housing at the former WestHELP facility on the campus of Westchester Community College and replace it with a long-term ground lease to allow Ferncliff Manor, a private for-p...rofit school for developmentally disabled children to build a new residential school and facility.
Mr. Lewis said at today's Town Board work session that a revised lease for Ferncliff would be released as early as next week by the county executive. The lease would then have to be approved by the Westchester County Board of Legislators.
Ken Jenkins, the chair of the county board, and two of Greenburgh's county legislators, MaryJane Shimsky and Alfreda Williams, have said the Democratic majority on the county board would reject any proposal to demolish the existing housing at the site.
The county is required under the terms of a federal housing settlement not to impede affordable housing anywhere in the county.
Support for a proposal to demolish 108 units of affordable housing in an area that has historically been opposed for allegedly racially exclusionary reasons to having affordable housing there in the first place was thought to be something the county executive would not publicly embrace, particularly now when a federal district judge has found that Mr. Astorino had violated the terms of that settlement agreement.
However, Mr. Astorino's chief spokesman is the former head of the Mayfair Knollwood Civic Association which for years was involved in the effort to stop the housing from being built -- and sought to incorporate as its own village until the NAACP intervened and then town supervisor Tony Veteran refused to certify the incorporation petition on grounds the village was being formed for the purpose of excluding African Americans. Mr. Feiner has for decades aligned himself with the Mayfair Knollwood Civic Association.
There has thus far been no formal announcement of support for the Town's Ferncliff proposal from the County Executive's office.
But if the town attorney's comments are true, Mr. Astorino's support means the property will likely remain vacant for the foreseeable future and the Town will not therefore see any rental income from the former WestHELP property any time soon.
The 108 efficiency apartments at WestHELP were once the Town's largest revenue producing asset except for property taxes. WestHELP was paying the Town $1.2 million a year under a ten-year lease that expired in September 2011.
Mr. Feiner was twice offered an extension of the lease in March and September 2008 for another 10-year period, but did not respond to the county's offer because he wanted a substantial portion of the money to go to the Valhalla School District, which would have been illegal. The state comptroller had ruled in 2007 that Mr. Feiner's agreement to give the Vahalla School District up to $6.5 million of the rental revenue from WestHELP was unlawful.
The property will now remain vacant for the foreseeable future, producing no money for the Town. Under the Town's lease with the county, and pursuant to a county law adopted back in 1990, the Town may only use the property for low and moderate income housing. As long as the Ferncliff proposal is still alive, the Town has made clear that it will keep the apartments vacant.
At the same time, the Town continues to insist that using the 108 efficiency apartments for low and moderate income housing will generate far less income to the Town than it would receive if Ferncliff were to get a long-term lease for the property.
However, a spokesman for HUD, each unit would have a market rent of about $1000 a month, which means that every month the Town keeps the units vacant, the Town is losing at least $100,000 a month. Mr. Feiner disputes this assessment, claiming the most the Town could get is around $200,000 a year. However, the Town has never held an RFP for the property making clear that it would have to be used for low and moderate income housing. Therefore, the Town has no documentation to substantiate Mr. Feiner's assertion.
In the meantime, there is no assurance that Ferncliff would generate much, if any, rent to the Town, since it would be depending on state aid to finance the demolition of the 108 apartments and build a new facility at the site. In addition, under the terms of the proposed lease, rent would likely not be paid until construction is completed and the amount that Ferncliff could afford to pay is determined.
From: Timothy Lewis
Sent: Wednesday, May 23, 2012 9:27 AM
To: Paul Feiner; Town Board
Subject: RE: fyi...from facebook page re: Ferncliff
It is simply not true that the 108 units on the former WestHELP site could generate $1,000 a month in rent. In fact, the Greenburgh Housing Authority’s proposed use of the property for seniors would generate, at most, $550 to $625 per month based upon Housing Authority studies that most seniors in the area do not have incomes in excess of $25,000 and the Housing Authority would only be able to charge renters a maximum of 30% of that $25,000 income or $625. Housing Authority representatives probably understand the financial dynamics better than anyone because affordable housing is what they do.
In addition, the 108 units must be renovated or rehabilitated before occupancy by anyone to make the units ADA compliant for seniors or for anyone else. Who is going to provide the money for these renovations?
Tim
From: Paul Feiner
Sent: Tuesday, May 22, 2012 11:21 PM
To: Town Board; Timothy Lewis
Subject: fyi...from facebook page re: Ferncliff (written by bernsein)
The Edgemont Community Council, Inc.
1. 3 hours ago
TOWN'S FERNCLIFF PROPOSAL FOR WESTHELP REPORTEDLY ENDORSED BY COUNTY EXECUTIVE
Town Attorney Tim Lewis said today that County Executive Rob Astorino was in favor of the Town's proposal to demolish the 108 units of affordable housing at the former WestHELP facility on the campus of Westchester Community College and replace it with a long-term ground lease to allow Ferncliff Manor, a private for-p...rofit school for developmentally disabled children to build a new residential school and facility.
Mr. Lewis said at today's Town Board work session that a revised lease for Ferncliff would be released as early as next week by the county executive. The lease would then have to be approved by the Westchester County Board of Legislators.
Ken Jenkins, the chair of the county board, and two of Greenburgh's county legislators, MaryJane Shimsky and Alfreda Williams, have said the Democratic majority on the county board would reject any proposal to demolish the existing housing at the site.
The county is required under the terms of a federal housing settlement not to impede affordable housing anywhere in the county.
Support for a proposal to demolish 108 units of affordable housing in an area that has historically been opposed for allegedly racially exclusionary reasons to having affordable housing there in the first place was thought to be something the county executive would not publicly embrace, particularly now when a federal district judge has found that Mr. Astorino had violated the terms of that settlement agreement.
However, Mr. Astorino's chief spokesman is the former head of the Mayfair Knollwood Civic Association which for years was involved in the effort to stop the housing from being built -- and sought to incorporate as its own village until the NAACP intervened and then town supervisor Tony Veteran refused to certify the incorporation petition on grounds the village was being formed for the purpose of excluding African Americans. Mr. Feiner has for decades aligned himself with the Mayfair Knollwood Civic Association.
There has thus far been no formal announcement of support for the Town's Ferncliff proposal from the County Executive's office.
But if the town attorney's comments are true, Mr. Astorino's support means the property will likely remain vacant for the foreseeable future and the Town will not therefore see any rental income from the former WestHELP property any time soon.
The 108 efficiency apartments at WestHELP were once the Town's largest revenue producing asset except for property taxes. WestHELP was paying the Town $1.2 million a year under a ten-year lease that expired in September 2011.
Mr. Feiner was twice offered an extension of the lease in March and September 2008 for another 10-year period, but did not respond to the county's offer because he wanted a substantial portion of the money to go to the Valhalla School District, which would have been illegal. The state comptroller had ruled in 2007 that Mr. Feiner's agreement to give the Vahalla School District up to $6.5 million of the rental revenue from WestHELP was unlawful.
The property will now remain vacant for the foreseeable future, producing no money for the Town. Under the Town's lease with the county, and pursuant to a county law adopted back in 1990, the Town may only use the property for low and moderate income housing. As long as the Ferncliff proposal is still alive, the Town has made clear that it will keep the apartments vacant.
At the same time, the Town continues to insist that using the 108 efficiency apartments for low and moderate income housing will generate far less income to the Town than it would receive if Ferncliff were to get a long-term lease for the property.
However, a spokesman for HUD, each unit would have a market rent of about $1000 a month, which means that every month the Town keeps the units vacant, the Town is losing at least $100,000 a month. Mr. Feiner disputes this assessment, claiming the most the Town could get is around $200,000 a year. However, the Town has never held an RFP for the property making clear that it would have to be used for low and moderate income housing. Therefore, the Town has no documentation to substantiate Mr. Feiner's assertion.
In the meantime, there is no assurance that Ferncliff would generate much, if any, rent to the Town, since it would be depending on state aid to finance the demolition of the 108 apartments and build a new facility at the site. In addition, under the terms of the proposed lease, rent would likely not be paid until construction is completed and the amount that Ferncliff could afford to pay is determined.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
edgemont greenburgh news on facebook
If you're interested in reading news about positive things that are happening in Edgemont --check out Edgemont Greenburgh news on facebook
Monday, May 21, 2012
new legislation submitted re: tennis bubble at AF Veteran park
Assemblyman Tom Abinanti sent me the revised proposed law that would enable the town to lease our tennis courts at AF Veteran Town Park to a private company that would construct a temporary tennis bubble over the courts . The bubble will generate significant revenue for the town and will provide tennis lovers with the opportunity to enjoy tennis during off season months –when the courts are currently vacant. The following proposed law, which needs to be approved by the Senate and Assembly and signed into law by the Governor, incorporates some changes that were suggested by residents of the town in recent weeks. The Town Board will discuss at our work session tomorrow. The State Legislature is expected to adjourn for the year in late June so we are giving this priority attention.
PAUL FEINER
(Authorizes the town of Greenburgh,
county of Westchester to lease
certain park lands for tennis uses)
--------
Twn Greenburgh parkland lease
AN ACT
to authorize the town of Greenburgh,
county of Westchester to lease
certain park lands for tennis uses
The_People_of__the__State__of__New
York,___represented__in__Senate__and
Assembly,_do_enact_as_follows:
05/21/12 2 15742-09-2
1 Section 1. Notwithstanding the provisions of chapter 891 of the laws
2 of 1982 to the contrary, the town of Greenburgh acting by and through
3 its town board is hereby authorized and empowered to lease at fair
4 market value and upon such other terms and conditions as determined by
5 such board consistent with sections four and five of this act the lands
6 and improvements described in section three of this act for up to 30
7 years for the operation of seasonal tennis facilities.
8 § 2. The authorization provided in section one of this act shall be
9 effective only upon the condition that notwithstanding any other
10 provision of law to the contrary, the town of Greenburgh dedicate all
11 proceeds of such lease for the capital improvement of existing town park
12 and recreational facilities and/or for the acquisition of additional
13 town park and recreational facilities for the residents of the town of
14 Greenburgh that reside outside of any incorporated village in such town.
15 § 3. The lands and improvements referred to in section one of this act
16 which may be leased consist of tennis facilities and other appurtenances
17 related to the use of such tennis facilities located in the Anthony F.
18 Veteran Park in the town of Greenburgh, county of Westchester, state of
19 New York, the park being more particularly described as follows:
20 ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and
21 improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of
22 Greenburgh, County of Westchester and State of New York, and being more
23 particularly bounded and described as follows:
24 BEGINNING at a point on the northerly line of the Sprain Brook Park-
25 way, where the same is intersected by the northeasterly boundary line of
26 land now or formerly of Robert Stephen Anthony as acquired by a deed
27 from John Canning, Jr., dated September 9th, 1952, recorded in Office of
28 the County Clerk of Westchester County, Division of Land Records, on
05/21/12 3 15742-09-2
1 September 10th, 1952, in Liber 5134 of conveyances, page 115, said point
2 of BEGINNING being distant North 43° 57' 40" East 272.43 feet from a
3 monument at the intersection of the southeasterly corner of said lands
4 so conveyed by the aforementioned deed with the northeasterly side of
5 Heatherdell Road; thence running along the last mentioned northeasterly
6 boundary line of Anthony, North 46° 02' 20" West 344.66 feet to a point;
7 thence running North 49° 20' 10" East 551.65 feet and North 17° 14' 40"
8 East 1005.00 feet to a corner in said land; thence running South 80° 25'
9 50" East 899.49 feet to the northerly line of Sprain Brook Parkway;
10 thence running along said lands the following courses and distances:
11 South 16° 58' 39" East 49.00 feet, South 43° 57' 57" West 734.75 feet,
12 South 61° 17' 40" West 135.00 feet and South 43° 57' 40" West 1067.57
13 feet to the point or place of BEGINNING, containing 20.46 acres more or
14 less.
15 TOGETHER with and subject to an easement in common with others over
16 the existing driveway running from Heatherdell Road through premises and
17 premises adjoining as set forth in Liber 3929 of conveyances, page 165,
18 and utility easements as recorded in the Book of Conveyances in Liber
19 5389, Page 204, and in Liber 5950, page 320.
20 ALSO known on the Official Tax Map of the Town of Greenburgh as Volume
21 8, Sheet 4, Parcel 4B, and of the Village of Ardsley as Sheet 1, Parcel
22 37B.
23 § 4. Should the leased park lands described in sections one and three
24 of this act cease to be used for the purposes described therein, the
25 lease shall terminate and those lands shall revert to the town of Green-
26 burgh consistent with its prior public park and recreational purposes.
27 § 5. Such leased park land and improvements described in sections one
28 and three of this act shall be made available to the general public on
05/21/12 4 15742-09-2
1 an equitable basis. Where availability of such public facilities is
2 limited, the use of such facilities must be determined by a written
3 policy, developed, posted and administered by the lessee in conjunction
4 with the town of Greenburgh.
5 § 6. The provisions of this act shall not affect any rights or deed
6 restrictions pursuant to the terms, conditions, and provisions of the
7 deed conveying interest in the park land described in this act to the
8 town of Greenburgh.
9 § 7. This act shall take effect immediately.
PAUL FEINER
(Authorizes the town of Greenburgh,
county of Westchester to lease
certain park lands for tennis uses)
--------
Twn Greenburgh parkland lease
AN ACT
to authorize the town of Greenburgh,
county of Westchester to lease
certain park lands for tennis uses
The_People_of__the__State__of__New
York,___represented__in__Senate__and
Assembly,_do_enact_as_follows:
05/21/12 2 15742-09-2
1 Section 1. Notwithstanding the provisions of chapter 891 of the laws
2 of 1982 to the contrary, the town of Greenburgh acting by and through
3 its town board is hereby authorized and empowered to lease at fair
4 market value and upon such other terms and conditions as determined by
5 such board consistent with sections four and five of this act the lands
6 and improvements described in section three of this act for up to 30
7 years for the operation of seasonal tennis facilities.
8 § 2. The authorization provided in section one of this act shall be
9 effective only upon the condition that notwithstanding any other
10 provision of law to the contrary, the town of Greenburgh dedicate all
11 proceeds of such lease for the capital improvement of existing town park
12 and recreational facilities and/or for the acquisition of additional
13 town park and recreational facilities for the residents of the town of
14 Greenburgh that reside outside of any incorporated village in such town.
15 § 3. The lands and improvements referred to in section one of this act
16 which may be leased consist of tennis facilities and other appurtenances
17 related to the use of such tennis facilities located in the Anthony F.
18 Veteran Park in the town of Greenburgh, county of Westchester, state of
19 New York, the park being more particularly described as follows:
20 ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and
21 improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of
22 Greenburgh, County of Westchester and State of New York, and being more
23 particularly bounded and described as follows:
24 BEGINNING at a point on the northerly line of the Sprain Brook Park-
25 way, where the same is intersected by the northeasterly boundary line of
26 land now or formerly of Robert Stephen Anthony as acquired by a deed
27 from John Canning, Jr., dated September 9th, 1952, recorded in Office of
28 the County Clerk of Westchester County, Division of Land Records, on
05/21/12 3 15742-09-2
1 September 10th, 1952, in Liber 5134 of conveyances, page 115, said point
2 of BEGINNING being distant North 43° 57' 40" East 272.43 feet from a
3 monument at the intersection of the southeasterly corner of said lands
4 so conveyed by the aforementioned deed with the northeasterly side of
5 Heatherdell Road; thence running along the last mentioned northeasterly
6 boundary line of Anthony, North 46° 02' 20" West 344.66 feet to a point;
7 thence running North 49° 20' 10" East 551.65 feet and North 17° 14' 40"
8 East 1005.00 feet to a corner in said land; thence running South 80° 25'
9 50" East 899.49 feet to the northerly line of Sprain Brook Parkway;
10 thence running along said lands the following courses and distances:
11 South 16° 58' 39" East 49.00 feet, South 43° 57' 57" West 734.75 feet,
12 South 61° 17' 40" West 135.00 feet and South 43° 57' 40" West 1067.57
13 feet to the point or place of BEGINNING, containing 20.46 acres more or
14 less.
15 TOGETHER with and subject to an easement in common with others over
16 the existing driveway running from Heatherdell Road through premises and
17 premises adjoining as set forth in Liber 3929 of conveyances, page 165,
18 and utility easements as recorded in the Book of Conveyances in Liber
19 5389, Page 204, and in Liber 5950, page 320.
20 ALSO known on the Official Tax Map of the Town of Greenburgh as Volume
21 8, Sheet 4, Parcel 4B, and of the Village of Ardsley as Sheet 1, Parcel
22 37B.
23 § 4. Should the leased park lands described in sections one and three
24 of this act cease to be used for the purposes described therein, the
25 lease shall terminate and those lands shall revert to the town of Green-
26 burgh consistent with its prior public park and recreational purposes.
27 § 5. Such leased park land and improvements described in sections one
28 and three of this act shall be made available to the general public on
05/21/12 4 15742-09-2
1 an equitable basis. Where availability of such public facilities is
2 limited, the use of such facilities must be determined by a written
3 policy, developed, posted and administered by the lessee in conjunction
4 with the town of Greenburgh.
5 § 6. The provisions of this act shall not affect any rights or deed
6 restrictions pursuant to the terms, conditions, and provisions of the
7 deed conveying interest in the park land described in this act to the
8 town of Greenburgh.
9 § 7. This act shall take effect immediately.
Friday, May 18, 2012
use accelerated bridge construction techniques
When Westchester County builds the new Crane Road bridge on the Bronx River Parkway (work on that bridge is starting within weeks) and the Ashford Ave bridge (work expected to start in 2015) they should consider using accelerated bridge construction techniques - a collection of technologies and methods that received attention by the NY Times in April of this year under the headline "Did Someone Order an Instant Bridge?".
This accelerated bridge construction can cut months and possibly years off the bridge construction process. Massachusetts is currently taking advantage of this process.
Last year the state of Massachusetts replaced 14 bridges on interstate 93 over 10 weekends. In contrast, the Popham Road bridge that links Edgemont to Scarsdale has been under construction for over two years and is still not finished! Its a year behind schedule.
Westchester County recently announced that reconstruction of the Crane Road Bridge on the Bronx River Parkway will take 34 months to be completed. In about a year both the northbound and southbound exits off the Bronx River Parkway onto Crane Road will be closed and remain closed for two years.
Westchester County recently announced that work on the Ashford Ave bridge could start in 2015 and be completed in the winter of 2017. This is the best case scenerio--assuming that all goes well - no cost overruns and no delays. Almost every bridge project has delays and overruns.
It's my hope that county officials will explore the new bridge construction technology and determine if new bridges can be built quicker. There is no need to inconvenience motorists.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
This accelerated bridge construction can cut months and possibly years off the bridge construction process. Massachusetts is currently taking advantage of this process.
Last year the state of Massachusetts replaced 14 bridges on interstate 93 over 10 weekends. In contrast, the Popham Road bridge that links Edgemont to Scarsdale has been under construction for over two years and is still not finished! Its a year behind schedule.
Westchester County recently announced that reconstruction of the Crane Road Bridge on the Bronx River Parkway will take 34 months to be completed. In about a year both the northbound and southbound exits off the Bronx River Parkway onto Crane Road will be closed and remain closed for two years.
Westchester County recently announced that work on the Ashford Ave bridge could start in 2015 and be completed in the winter of 2017. This is the best case scenerio--assuming that all goes well - no cost overruns and no delays. Almost every bridge project has delays and overruns.
It's my hope that county officials will explore the new bridge construction technology and determine if new bridges can be built quicker. There is no need to inconvenience motorists.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)