Board of Trustees

Village of Scarsdale Jane E. Veron, Mayor Robert Cole Interim Village Manager Sameer Ahuja Justin K. Arest Office of the Village Manager Karen L. Brew Scarsdale, New York 10583 Lena Crandall 914-722-1110 Jonathan Lewis Fax: 914-722-1119 Randall B. Whitestone www.scarsdale.com Village Board Limited Agenda July 27, 2021 Village Board Meeting – 8:30 AM – Trustees Room (All Limited Agenda Meetings are held in person only – no Zoom) Roll Call ______________________ Pledge of Allegiance ______________________ Minutes  Village Board Meeting of July 13, 2021 ______________________ Bills  Deputy Mayor Arest ______________________ Future Meeting Schedule Tuesday, August 10, 2021  5:00 PM– Village Board Work Session ______________________  7:30 PM – Village Board Regular Meeting ______________________ Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 288 THREE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED SEVENTY-EIGHTH REGULAR MEETING Video Conference Rutherford Hall & Via Zoom(Hybrid) July 13, 2021 A Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Village of Scarsdale was held on Tuesday, July 13, 2021 in Rutherford Hall and via video conference (Zoom) at 7:30 p.m. Present were Mayor Veron and Trustees Ahuja, Arest, Brew, Lewis, and Whitestone. Also present were Interim Village Manager Cole, Assistant Village Manager Richards, Village Attorney Pozin, Village Treasurer Scaglione, Deputy Village Clerk Regazzi, and Assistant to the Village Manager Katzin. ******** Minutes The minutes of the Board of Trustees Regular Meeting of Tuesday, June 22, 2021 were approved on a motion entered by Trustee Whitestone, seconded by Trustee Brew, and carried unanimously. ******** Bills & Payroll Trustee Ahuja reported that he had audited the Abstract of Claims dated July 13, 2021 in the amount of $909,163.17 which included $43,889.47 in Library Claims previously audited by a Trustee of the Library Board. Upon motion duly made by Trustee Ahuja and seconded by Trustee Whitestone, the following resolution was adopted unanimously: RESOLVED, that the Abstract of Claims dated July 13, 2021, in the amount of $909,163.17 is hereby approved. Trustee Ahuja further reported that he had examined the payment of bills made in advance of a Board of Trustees audit totaling $2,608,098.80 which were found to be in order and he moved that such payments be ratified. Upon motion duly made by Trustee Ahuja and seconded by Trustee Whitestone, the following resolution was adopted unanimously: Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 289 RESOLVED, that payment of claims made in advance of a Board of Trustees audit totaling $2,608,098.20 is hereby ratified. ******** Mayors Comments Mayor Veron acknowledged the work of Interim Village Manager Robert Cold and Assistant to the Village Manager Aylone Katzin in putting together the Village Board’s first hybrid meeting – an in person meeting that is also being conducted via zoom. Mayor Veron made the following comments: “Welcome everyone! I’m thrilled that we’re back in person. While these many, many months have been exceedingly difficult and heartbreaking for everyone - our staff, our residents, our friends, and our families - they have also brought out the very best in us. We saw countless examples of Scarsdale stepping up to combat COVID and its impacts and of our strong community pulling together to support one another. During the process, we’ve learned a lot about ourselves and are applying some of those lessons tonight. We now all know that it’s possible to stay connected without being physically present. In fact, technology can afford broader engagement. This evening we have employed a hybrid model with residents zooming in to participate in our meeting to complement those physically present. We also have Trustees engaging from remote locations as they had made plans not anticipating the return of in-person meetings. Right now, we’re in transition mode while we await new equipment to make audio and video that much better. So please bear with us and help us on this journey. Our dedicated and innovative Village staff have come up with a temporary solution that should get us close to what we will need. No doubt we will encounter challenges along the way, but I am confident that our community will be forgiving as we try new things. Before I get into more content I want to ensure that the public is aware of how this board manages important matters. We have implemented a new process. Before an important matter will appear on the board agenda, it will have been discussed in a work session. Work sessions are just that, a place where the Board, staff, and public work together to discuss and vet an issue. I expect these sessions to have healthy and rigorous debate with ample opportunity for community and staff engagement. The goal is to avoid surprises, to bring the best thinking to bear to solve a problem, and to produce an outcome that incorporates diversity of thought, opinion and analysis. For the rest of the summer, the work sessions will precede the Village Board meeting and will begin at 5 pm. Tonight I have updates on our Strategic and Financial Planning Process and specifically remarks on the Quality of Life Pillar, the Land Use and Economic Development Pillar and the Village Manager Special Assignment. Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 290 Strategic and Financial Planning For those of you who have been following the Board’s activities during our zoom meetings or have been reading the Mayor’s letters, you will be familiar with our strategic and financial planning framework. The Board has identified four Pillars and four Enablers of government and is working toward setting short, medium and long term priorities to advance our goals in each. To that end, the Board has been building a comprehensive list of initiatives, has been speaking with staff, and has been listening to public input. We convened in a work session earlier this evening to report on our progress. By early fall, we expect to have assessed the many initiatives that support our Pillars and Enablers of Government, considering their potential impacts and associated costs as well as the resources required. We will use this analysis to set priorities for the next 1-2 years, 3-5 years and 5-10 year out. Quality of Life Pillar Our Quality of Life pillar encapsulates all that makes it easier and more pleasant to live in Scarsdale. On the agenda tonight is a resolution that advances ADA compliance at Scarsdale’s Metro North station. The plan is to build an elevator that makes train travel more accessible. The plan also provides more spaces for motor bikes, bicycles and cars? We are just at the very beginning stages and look forward to this improvement. Land Use and Economic Development Pillar In just a few moments we will open a public hearing on the proposed changes to land use code. To offer context, over 15 years ago, a SNAP subcommittee along with other community groups, land use boards, and village representatives developed draft FAR legislation to address complaints about bulky houses and the risk to neighborhood character. Ultimately, these efforts led to the FAR code change. Over time, many residents have called for stricter requirements and have asked that the Village reexamine the FAR legislation yet again and consider other regulatory tools. This issue is never easy as we regularly struggle to find the right balance between individual property rights and public good. We also know that Scarsdale’s charm is its diversity of neighborhoods and finding a solution that is good for all can be complex. Pre pandemic, Land Use Board Chairs formed a working group to examine multiple reports and recommendations made over many years that they felt would have helped Scarsdale move closer to the collective desired outcome. The Village Board referred this working group’s proposal to the Planning Board in early 2021, and the Planning Board deliberated for many months and made the recommendation to the Village Board that is on the agenda this evening. We look forward to the public hearing. We will listen and absorb, and we will not vote on the matter this evening. I expect that this item will be back on the agenda in early August. I will conclude my comments with an update on the Village Manager Search. Village Manager Search Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 291 Last Friday, July 9, was Village Manager Steve Pappalardo’s last day at Village Hall. It was an emotional moment as Steve was cheered by Village staff, residents, family and friends, honoring his 30 plus years of service to our community. Without missing a beat, Interim Village Manager Rob Cole took the helm this Monday and is pressing forward on all Village priorities. Thank you, IVM Cole for a seamless transition. The Board continues the robust and thorough Village Manager Search. Since engaging GovHR and lead consultant Joellen Cademartori this past February, the Board has progressed steadily through a number of milestones and touch points including a community survey and stakeholder interviews that helped produce a detailed job description. After extensive outreach, the Village received 56 applications, and Joellen dove into the candidates’ details, reviewing resumes, checking backgrounds, talking to contacts, and examining public information. Ultimately, we were able to narrow the field to 14 qualified applicants, and after lengthy deliberation, we forwarded seven to the semifinals. Late last month, the Board, GovHR and Head of Human Resources, Ms. Angela Sapienza, conducted comprehensive interviews with the semifinalists over two days. We anticipate holding finalist interviews later this month and hope to update the community soon. To date, we have devoted well over 300 hours to the Village Manager search. I will now turn the meeting over to Interim Village Manager Cole for his report.” ******** Village Manager Interim Village Manager Robert Cole presented the following Manager’s Report: “Pool RFP On July 01, the Municipal Pool Complex Market Study and Existing Conditions Survey RFP was advertised for bids. Advertising included direct distribution to several qualified firms, publication on the Scarsdale Inquirer, and posting to BidNet, the New York State web-based procurement portal. An on-site walk-through with prospective vendors is scheduled this week and bids are due on Friday, July 30. Following contract award, the study schedule will be developed. As with the Village Center Transportation Safety, Mobility, and Complete Streets Study, the Pool Complex Market Study and Existing Conditions Survey will include substantial public outreach and engagement. Village Center Transportation Safety, Mobility, and Complete Streets Study RFP Planning staff are presently preparing a draft RFP and expect to circulate it for review by the end of July. From a timing perspective, we hope to have engaged a qualified firm by late summer and anticipate the study getting underway in fall 2021. Smoke Testing Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 292 To address the incidence of excess rainwater and groundwater entering into the Village’s sanitary sewer system, a problem known as infill and infiltration, the Village has undertaken a multi-year study to identify and then remedy any deficiencies encountered. One of the tools we use in this effort is smoke testing. Beginning on approximately July 19, between the hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, the next round of smoke testing will focus on the following neighborhoods: - East Heathcote - Secor Farms - West Quaker Ridge - Colonial Acres - West Quaker Ridge - Murray Hill Middle Heathcote (southeast section) - Quaker Ridge Golf Club The testing will last for several weeks. As testing progresses from one street to another, properties in the area being tested will receive direct notification, including an FAQ and cell phone contact information for field testing personnel in the area. The crews will travel in red work vans and carry proper identification. In addition, the Village will be issuing a press release this week detailing the relevant information, as well. Please note that Village press releases are available for viewing on scarsdale.com, as well as by subscription – to subscribe, visit scarsdale.com and click the Notify Me icon, being sure to select the two subscription options with gold stars. Then, be sure to respond to the confirmation emails you will receive for each subscription request. To benefit those unable to review the press release later this week, there are a few more insights that I would like to share regarding the smoke testing program. As added background, smoke testing involves releasing a non-toxic and non-staining smoke into several manholes, which then travels through the sewer system and helps to identify locations requiring remediation or repair. During testing, smoke may be observed discharging from a variety of locations, such as residential roof vents, building foundations, catch basins, sewer clean-outs, downspouts, or even seeping from the ground. Traces of this smoke entering any home in the testing area is likely an indication that sanitary sewer gases and odors have also been entering the home; such gasses and odors can be unpleasant to the occupants and under certain circumstances, may be unhealthy. Thus, smoke testing is not only necessary to improve the efficiency and regulatory compliance of Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 293 our sewer system, but also benefits property owners by helping to identify conditions requiring their attention. Again, residents living in the area where smoke testing is occurring each day will receive direct notification of the testing, as well as directions on what to do and how to report any smoke detected inside one’s home or observed elsewhere -- the smoke is non- toxic and non-staining. For additional information, please contact the Village Engineering Department at (914) 722-1106 or by email at engineering@scarsdale.com.” ******** Public Hearing Trustee Arest introduced the Public Hearing being held this evening to consider a local law to amend Chapter 310 entitled “Zoning”, Chapter 77 entitled “Planning Board”, and Chapter 251 entitled “Site Plan Review”. Trustee Arest reiterated that there is no intent to vote on this law this evening and that the public hearing will be adjourned at the end of public comment. The intention is to have further discussion about this as a Board either at a work session or as the mayor suggested, potentially back on the agenda next month. Trustee Arest reviewed the five recommendations that were incorporated into the proposed local law. He stated that the first is to reduce the maximum permitted roof height from 35 feet to 32 feet; the second is to reduce the side yard setback bonus by 30%; the third is to eliminate the requirement that any home addition must be to the rear of the home; in order to utilize the side yard bonus; the fourth is to clarify the Village Code to specify that the garage credit applies to the square footage of the floor level of the garage where cars are parked, excluding space on upper floors; and the fifth is to require Planning Board site plan approval for single family residential projects involving more than 15,000 square feet of gross floor area, eliminating review through a special use permit from the Board of Appeals. Trustee Arest then opened the public hearing to public comment. However, before taking comments from the public, Village Planner Greg Cutler spoke regarding the contents and the impact of the proposed legislation. He noted that the Planning Board had been studying this for some time, and that they feel this proposed law addresses the issue of gradual change over time for developers. Jeffrey Watiker, 8 Wynmor Road, Board of Appeals Chair, and member of the Review Committee stated that if there are questions about how this legislation is supposed to work or what the reasoning or thought was behind it, or even the purpose of how they got where they are today, he is available for any questions. Mr. Watiker also reviewed the five recommendations that are integrated in the proposed legislation. Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 294 Brian Nottage, 26 Lockwood Road, stated that he had sent a letter to the Board of Trustees concerning the proposed legislation. He stated that if the side yard setback bonus were reduced, he would have not been able to construct the addition that they did. He stated that he thought this legislation was targeting something specific by doing something very general. If the issue is that new homes are too big, there should be a law that the targets new homes. He did not think that there is a large issue of additions being built in the rear of homes that are bulk issues. He stated that he felt the Village needs to do more and he would like to see something more targeted. Existing homeowners should not be penalized as tear downs will always be more efficient on a square foot basis than trying to renovate an existing home. Mayor Veron then asked Mr. Watiker to expound on the study that the Planning Board has done on this proposed legislation. Mr. Watiker explained that originally, this was a proposal that came from the Planning Board after they and worked some time with it with the Village staff and with consultants. They held a series of meetings. The Planning Board amended their proposal largely along the SNAP proposal – adjustments were made. He stated that there was a feeling that homes were too big or the neighborhoods felt crowded. The idea was to try to do things that were implementable, but also easy to understand and that were targeted also to the issue. With respect to the height, most new homes actually come in under the 35-foot height maximum. He stated that the height restriction doesn't really put a lot of limits on people who might want to do expansions. Mr. Watiker stated that the proposed legislation also targets new construction and teardowns, because you can tear down the house and then rebuild it slightly back from the setback line. Therefore, it was specifically targeted to adjust the bonus. If you have the ability to get the bonus, which is perhaps not a small one, you can put the room in the front as long as you still meet the setback line. He also then discussed the garage credit in the proposed amendments. Mayor Veron thanked Mr. Watiker for sharing the amount of detail encompassing the work that the Review Committee did on the proposed legislation. Trustee Arest stated that regarding the definition of bulk, he had discussed this in the past with former Village Planner Marrinan and noted that this could become a very subjective conversation and doubted if anyone could objectively define bulk. He stated that he appreciates that this review has moved forward and lauded Jeff Watiker and Dan Steinberg for their work on these recommendations – these are two people at the top of the list for this work. Trustee Arest questioned whether they could have been a little more creative and gone outside the box to try to define what bulk is. He asked Mr. Watiker if this was a lost opportunity; some have said in the past that an incremental approach is appropriate Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 295 Mr. Watiker stated that he likes to at least stay focused on the tools they have for the problem at hand, so if the houses are too big and too tall, they have the height requirement they can cut down, and a rule specifically designed to measure to keep the home smaller. He stated that if you change the setback rules, that is going to knock 80% of the homes into nonconformity because, at least in Edgewood, for example, every house has built right up to the limit. Having homes built back from the setback has not been a problem in the Village; all the houses are already built back from the setback, because they want the bonus. He stated that changing the setbacks, and there are hundreds of houses, perhaps thousands of houses that go right up to the line, is going to create a lot of nonconformity. Village Planner Cutler stated that the opportunities will remain whether this proposed legislation is implemented or not. Options are still available, and it is really a policy decision. He stated that he is happy to support the Board in their endeavors in doing the research and looking at the impacts of alternative approaches to reducing bulk. However, he does think that the work that has been done on this legislation has been very thorough. Mayor Veron recollected when she was on the Planning Board, they did query all neighboring municipalities and they looked at the techniques that they used and the Planning Board went through them pretty comprehensively. They also talked about contextual zoning at that time and understood all of the complexities and difficulties from a practical perspective. Trustee Arest expressed his appreciation to Mayor Veron for pointing out that there was a very thorough analysis of neighboring municipalities, however, one of the things he noticed is that, many of them use FAR differently than we do. It’s more of a design tool on how to apportion the square footage after the setbacks have been evaluated and adjusted. Mr. Nottage stated that Mr. Watiker’s comments were very helpful in pointing out that the original plan sounds like it could have been very, very problematic, and this was moderating, and he believed that is helpful. He stated that he thinks that there is work that needs to be done. He asked if there is any legal reason why this cannot address specifically new homes versus existing homes and is there any reason that you cannot give existing homes some sort of bonus that a new home doesn't get. Trustee Whitestone commented that the system seems to balance the interests of homeowners and developers well, so he feels that there is targeting going on here and that there is specificity, to the recommendations. Therefore, he would be reluctant to reopen this too much. It’s not ideal, if you have to go back three years from now, but he stated that balancing all those considerations, it makes sense to consider what the Board has before them at this time, or when they’re ready to vote, which sounds like it could be in the near future. Trustee Lewis agreed with Trustee Whitestone, noting that a lot of work has been done on this and he respects all the work that has gone into it; the time of the volunteers and Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 296 stated that he didn’t feel comfortable second guessing their work at this moment or asking them to rethink if they could have done it better. Trustee Lewis stated that he thinks they have done an excellent job. Trustee Arest stated that he disagreed, in the sense that he thought they could always do things better, however, he does not disagree with Trustee Whitestone at all. He stated that a resident made some interesting points which should be considered. He stated that he has no intent to vote against this, but felt that it is important to ask these questions, because those questions do have an impact on this into the future. At this time Trustee Arest requested a motion to adjourn the public hearing to the Village Board regular meeting of August 10, 2021; so moved by Trustee Lewis, seconded by Trustee Brew and carried unanimously. Mayor Veron suggested to the Trustees that between now and the next Board meeting of August 10th, it would be helpful if they could look at Mr. Nottage’s letter and understand the implications he is articulating so that they can at least take the whole purpose of having a public hearing and not voting the same night to be able to incorporate what they learn. Mayor Veron thanked the community for their involvement and thanked the land use boards and their leaders, who have worked so hard on this for quite some time. She also thanked the Village’s new planner, Greg Cutler. ******** Public Comment Mayor Veron opened public comment at this time, noting that there is a five-minute limit on comments, and Assistant to the Village Manager Katzin will indicate the clock on the screen when the speaker’s time is running low. Alissa Baum, President, Scarsdale League of Women Voters, stated that she wasn't able to attend the former Village Managers last meeting and wanted to offer the a few words of tribute into the record. The League would like to extend it’s sincere appreciation and thanks to Stephen Pappalardo for his more than 30 years of service to the Village of Scarsdale. The League, as a frequent attendee to Village Board meetings over the course of his tenure, has seen what an important asset he has been to the Village. He has worked tirelessly for the community, displaying a thorough command of the issues relevant to the Village, both in terms of his fiscal acumen and knowledge of the many facets of the local governments. They have valued his ability to discuss and explain a variety of topics to Village officials and residents alike, treating all with respect and kindness. She stated that she is sure that he never imagined that in his final year, he would have to navigate Village operations Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 297 during the unprecedented and challenging time of the COVID pandemic. His knowledge, expertise and calm helped the Village government make decisions to successfully weather the storm. The League Board is grateful for his service and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors. Susan Douglass, Vice President, Scarsdale Forum, stated that the Forum wishes to recognize Stephen Pappalardo for his several decades of distinguished and outstanding service to the community. He has worked tirelessly to support Scarsdale Village government and provided excellent management abilities in the operation of services. She further stated that Steve has shown a commendable ability to carry out his duties and responsibilities with consideration of the views of elected officials, residents, and civic organizations. The Scarsdale Forum congratulates Steve on a job well done. The Forum extends their best wishes to him on his retirement as Village Manager. Mayor Veron thanked Ms. Douglass and the entirety of the Scarsdale Forum community. Susan Douglass, next spoke in her capacity, noting that she sent a letter to the Board about the topic of the leaf vacuuming. This is an important topic for the entire Village, and the expense of this service was the topic of an earlier work session of the Board this afternoon. However, she stated that there are also many other important aspects of the topic, which includes public health and safety, the noise and quality of life, and all those issues which have been extensively debated. She stated that she knows that the Board is going to obtain the input from the Landscape and others who work in the field. Ms. Douglass stated that while walking her dog, she sees many gas-powered leaf blowers and no enforcement. The issue of the noise and the health and safety of the community is important. She stated that many of the landscapers working in Hartsdale and Yonkers and other towns where leaf vacuuming is not permitted, already have the equipment needed. She stated that there is little hardship for them to just extend their reach into the Village. As there were no further comments, the public comment portion of the meeting was closed at this time by Mayor Veron. ******** Trustee Liaison Reports Trustee Arest reported as liaison to the Library, stating that “The Library is thrilled that The Summer Reading Game is underway with over 100 registrants to date. Children are encouraged to continue to sign-up and earn points by reading, completing missions online, participating in events and taking a story-walk. Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 298 There are several events coming up this month, both in person and virtual, allowing for something for everyone:  The Lily Garden: Book Launch Party Featuring Scarsdale's own Barbara Josselsohn - Thursday, July 15 at 5:30 pm.  Virtual - Tuesday, July 20th, 2021, The Scarsdale Writers' Center Presents: Love -- In All Its Forms, A monthly gathering when the writers from the library’s critique group program and other local authors present their short essays, poetry or book excerpts, all revolving around a theme.  Virtual - Books You May Have Missed Book Club: The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescott, Wednesday, July 28th, 2021, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm.  And not virtual, an Outdoor Movie Night: The Princess Bride - Wednesday, July 21st, 2021, 8:30pm - 10:00 pm. Community members can register for all programs at ScarsdaleLibrary.org.” Trustee Arest stated that he wanted to remind the community, noting that the Interim Village Manager also plans to send out a tweet and will try to send out on Facebook as well, that the first payment for Village taxes is due on August 1st. Residents have the option to pay in two equal installments, but also have the option to pay their entire Village tax in one payment by August 1st. He noted that the new tax bill and the directions that are included is an incredible improvement from previous bills; he hoped that the community has had an opportunity to look at it and appreciate it. ******** Trustee Lewis report that the July 4th event they had three Trustees representing a variety of pillars and enablers; himself, Trustee Whitestone and Trustee Brew, all present at the July 4th event, and although he does have comments, he expects Trustee Whitestone and Trustee Brew to add in some comment from different perspectives to demonstrate that they can matrix on any subject. Trustee Lewis stated that the Arthur Manor Neighborhood Association was extraordinary, they held a wonderful event. The children was so happy; it was a glimmer of sunshine cutting through the clouds of the pandemic - the clouds are parting. The neighborhood got together. He stated that great neighbors such as Matt Martin and Tegan Lee are showing them the way out and the spirit of Arthur Manor was really wonderful to behold. ******** Trustee Whitestone agreed with Trustee Lewis that the July 4th Celebration held by the Arthur Manor Neighborhood Association was a wonderful event. The weather was great and there were more than 100 people present including children. There were decorated floats and bicycles. He stated that this is a wonderful tradition going back to the Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 299 founding of Davis Park in 1930, which is right in the middle of Arthur Manor -- it was a great day – because people weren't able to have such festivities last year, it meant that much more. Trustee Whitestone stated that he was honored to join his fellow Trustees. ******** Trustee Brew added to the comments of Trustees Lewis and Whitestone regarding the Arthur Manor July 4th celebration, stating that there were outstanding historic speeches from her fellow Trustees, and a neat sense of history from a number of the families who were there with their children. Those parents had grown up their and participated as children, and now their children were participating. It was a feeling of community, history and celebration; it was a lot of fun. ******** Mayor Veron thanked Trustees Brew, Lewis and Whitestone for their collaborative report on the Arthur Manor July 4th celebration. Mayor Veron stated that there was a lovely gathering at Crossway to honor Rippy Philips. She stated that there is now a field named in his honor to acknowledge the years and years of his devotion to football and Scarsdale. She stated that it was a beautiful event and there were generations of families there who have contributed so enormously to our community. She stated that it was one of those moments where you feel so lucky to live here, surrounded by volunteers who give so much to make the world a better place, and specifically to help our youngsters become really wonderful people. ******** Trustee Arest Trustee Arest introduced the following resolution regarding an Easement Agreement for the Metro-North Scarsdale Station Project. He stated that additional language that was added that specifically references the plans and creates a new exhibit for a list of those plans to make it clear what the responsibilities of Metro North are and what the Village’s expectations are in exchange for the easement. Trustee Arest noted that there are some renderings attached to this item. These are not the actual plans, but just the rendering that had previously been submitted when Metro North presented this project. He stated that this is an important project because it will give ADA accessibility on that side of the track. This is part of a two-phase project; the first phase is part of the current capital plan, which will be the elevator. Metro North will be relocating the existing motorcycle scooter parking to a new location. He noted that this was great work done by the Village Manager’s office, working in cooperation with the County and other municipalities. He stated that the actual amendment to the IMA is not done just yet, but Village staff and Westchester Count has already spoken about getting this done. The Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 300 Village will replace the motorcycle/scooter parking spaces on land that is theirs, but in order to do this, the access path is on County land and the Village needs their permission to use that piece. Trustee Arest noted that phase 2 will include heated platforms, a canopy featuring historic stations, and LED lighting – part of the 2529 Capital Plan and hopefully that will happen. He stated that this is a very important project that they are very supportive of and the reason for it is because this the elevator shaft will be going on our property and Metro North is requesting three temporary easements for construction and a permanent easement for the actual elevator shaft. Trustee Arest stated that he appreciated the work of the Interim Manager and Village Attorney insuring that the easement agreement protects the Village to the greatest extent possible. Upon motion entered by Trustee Arest, and seconded by Trustee Lewis, the following resolution regarding Authorization to Execute an Easement Agreement for the Metro North Scarsdale Station Project was approved as amended by the vote indicated below: WHEREAS, the Village of Scarsdale is the fee owner of real property designated on the Tax Map of the Village of Scarsdale as Section 2, Block 6, Lots 2, 3 and 500 (collectively, the “Property”), near the Metro-North Scarsdale Station in the Village of Scarsdale, County of Westchester, State of New York; and WHEREAS in combination with other improvements described in the attached staff memorandum, Metro-North proposes to construct a new elevator tower on the west side of the pedestrian overpass for the Scarsdale Station, as depicted in plans heretofore submitted to and reviewed by the Village (the “Project”) necessitating a permanent easement to support associated equipment and ADA-compliant ingress and egress pathways, as well as three temporary easements for construction of the Project; and WHEREAS, the proposed elevator tower will enhance rail transit access for persons of all ages and abilities, an important goal embedded within the Quality of Life Pillar of the Village’s Strategic and Financial Plan; and WHEREAS, Metro-North has requested from the Village of Scarsdale three temporary easements and a permanent easement for the construction and future maintenance of the Project, said easements being located upon the Property and being more particularly described in the proposed easement agreement annexed to and made a part of this resolution; and Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 301 WHEREAS, it is in Scarsdale’s best interest to support Metro-North’s project objectives and staff have negotiated the said annexed easement agreement; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the Village Manager is herein authorized to execute the said easement agreement in substantially the same form as attached hereto, and to undertake any administrative acts as may be necessary in furtherance thereof. AYES NAYS ABSENT Trustee Ahuja None Trustee Crandall Trustee Arest Trustee Brew Trustee Lewis Trustee Whitestone Mayor Veron Before voting, Trustee Whitestone stated that the only point he wanted to make is that as has been discussed with the Interim Village Manager, in the past, Metro North has not had a great ‘track record’ of designing updates to the facilities with the commuters in mind. He stated that he is excited about getting this elevator and the ADA compliance in place and supports the Village easement agreement. However, Metro North has other plans in their next capital plan that and he would like to make sure the Village keeps a close eye on this because the last time they made platform improvements approximately 15 years ago, it was done with some disregard for how people actually use the facility. Mayor Veron thanked Trustee Whitestone for his comments, stating that it is important to have his statement on the record. ******** Trustee Brew Upon motion entered by Trustee Brew, and seconded by Trustee Arest, the following resolution regarding an Appointment to the Library Board was approved by a unanimous vote: WHEREAS, Trustees of the Scarsdale Public Library are appointed to a five- year term by the Village Board of Trustees; and WHEREAS, Deb Morel was appointed by the Village Board of Trustees to serve as Library Trustee for a five-year term ending April 03, 2023, but has submitted a letter of resignation effective June 15, 2021; and Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 302 WHEREAS, Robert Jeremiah, 100 Greenacres Avenue, has submitted an application expressing interest in a Library Board appointment and the Personnel Working Group within the Strategic and Financial Planning Framework, recommends to the Village Board that he be appointed to fill the unexpired term of Ms. Morel; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, that the Village Board of Trustees hereby appoints Robert Jeremiah, of 100 Greenacres Avenue, Scarsdale, to the Library Board to fill the unexpired term of Ms. Morel, ending April 03, 2023, or until such time as a successor is appointed. Trustee Arest noted that Ms. Morel’s move from Scarsdale is not only a loss for the Library Board, but a loss to Scarsdale as well. Mayor Veron agreed that Ms. Morel gave invaluable service to the Library Board and added that Mr. Jeremiah has offered to lend his experience to the Village and ******** Trustee Lewis Upon motion entered by Trustee Lewis, and seconded by Trustee Arest, the following resolution regarding Authorization to an Intermunicipal Agreement with Westchester County for Prisoner Transportation Services was approved by the vote indicated below: WHEREAS, the Village has been party to a longstanding intermunicipal shared services agreement with the County of Westchester, whereby, the Scarsdale Police Department has provided prisoner transportation services to the Westchester County Jail to and from Scarsdale Municipal Court advancing Scarsdale Court operational efficiencies; and WHEREAS, Westchester County recently proffered a new successor Intermunicipal Agreement for Prisoner Transportation Services for a two-year term, commencing January 1, 2021, and ending December 31, 2022; and WHEREAS, in accordance with the terms of the Agreement, Westchester County will reimburse the Village of Scarsdale for prisoner transportation and related services as per the Agreement’s Appendix A rate schedule; attached hereto and made a part hereof; and WHEREAS, in view of reduced overall costs associated with prisoner transportation, as well as improved local control of the Scarsdale Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 303 Municipal Court schedule, the Scarsdale Chief of Police recommends approval of the proposed Agreement; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the Village Board of Trustees hereby authorizes the Village Manager to execute, in substantially the same form as attached hereto, an Intermunicipal Agreement with Westchester County for the provision of reimbursed prisoner transportation services on the County’s behalf; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Village Manager is hereby authorized to undertake any administrative acts required under the terms of the agreement. AYES NAYS ABSENT Trustee Ahuja None Trustee Crandall Trustee Arest Trustee Brew Trustee Lewis Trustee Whitestone Mayor Veron ******** Trustee Whitestone In introducing the following resolution, Trustee Whitestone stated that the community suffered a great loss in early June, when Tanya Dutta passed away after a battle with cancer. Dr. Dutta was in her mid-40’s; her husband is a graduate of Scarsdale High School. Both her parents and her husband’s parents still live in Quaker Ridge. Besides her husband, Dr. Neville Barnji, she leaves behind two children in 4th and 6th grade. Dr. Dutta had a wonderful reputation as a renowned cardiologist and wonderful resident of Scarsdale. Trustee Whitestone stated that this resolution is about the acceptance of the gift of a bench at the library pond in memory of Dr. Tanya Dutta. Upon motion entered by Trustee Whitestone, and seconded by Trustee Crandall, the following resolution regarding Acceptance of a Gift – Library Pond Bench in Memory of Dr. Tanya Dutta was approved by a unanimous vote: WHEREAS, Dr. Tanya Dutta, renowned cardiologist at Westchester Medical Center and 11-year resident of West Quaker Ridge, passed away at the young age of 45 on May 31, 2021, after a two-year battle with cancer; and WHEREAS, Dr. Dutta touched many Scarsdale residents both professionally and personally with her compassion and brilliance; and Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 304 WHEREAS, friends and family of Dr. Dutta are desirous of gifting $1,615 to the Village of Scarsdale for the dedication of a new bench in her honor, to be placed in the Audrey Hochberg Preserve at the Library Pond; and WHEREAS, the Library Pond venue best reflects Dr. Dutta’s lifelong passion for reading and learning, and is the appropriate setting for her family and friends to remember her; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Village of Scarsdale Administrative Policy #106 – “Gifts to the Village of Scarsdale”, acceptance of any gift valued at $500 or greater must be approved by the Village Board of Trustees; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the Village Board of Trustees hereby accepts the gift of $1,615 for the purchase installation, and dedication of a new bench in memory of Scarsdale resident Dr. Tanya Dutta; and be it further RESOLVED, that the plaque for the bench, to be purchased and ordered separately by the donors, will herein include the following inscription: “In Loving Memory of Dr. Tanya Dutta. March 3, 1976 – May 31, 2021. Forever In Our Hearts”; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Village Board of Trustees hereby extends their thanks and appreciation to the friends and family of Dr. Tanya Dutta for their generous gift to the community. ******** Written Communications Village Clerk Conkling reported that six (6) communications have been received since the last regular Board of Trustees meeting. All of these written communications may be viewed on the Village’s website at www.scarsdale.com under Written Correspondence.  An anonymous communication regarding the gas-powered leaf blower ban.  An email from Robert Berg, 17 Black Birch Lane, concerning Special Telecommunications Counsel for Cellular Carrier Lease agreements.  An email from Kay Eisenman regarding leaf mulching.  A letter from the Friends of the Scarsdale Parks concerning restoration efforts at Boniface Circle and the existing blue spruce tree.  A letter from the Friends of the Westchester Band announcing a concert series to be held at Chase Park beginning in July. Village Board of Trustees Meeting 07/13/2021 305  An email from Susan Levine concerning the Scarsdale Pool Complex. ******** There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 9:19 P.M. by a motion entered by Trustee Ahuja, seconded by Trustee Brew, and carried by a unanimous vote. Respectfully submitted, Donna M. Conkling Village Clerk