Opening and Service Awards
The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by recognition of long-serving municipal employees for their dedication:
- Greg Neilson – Honored with a certificate for 25 years of service in the Department of Public Works (DPW).
- Michael Foley – Recognized for 30 years of service in the Police Department.
- Several other employees were also mentioned for their extensive contributions, receiving applause from the attendees.
Financial Approvals
The board approved several large expenditures for ongoing and planned projects:
- Abelli Mechanical – HVAC plumbing and supply costs, totaling $82,880.
- Landscaping Services – Work at the Main Street Train Station Project, including sidewalks and ADA-compliant upgrades, at $54,771.
- Axon Enterprises – Annual payment of $36,975 for body camera maintenance for the Police Department.
- New Police Vehicles – Purchase of two Ford Explorer SUVs at $92,927.
The board acknowledged the significance of these expenses in improving community facilities and ensuring operational efficiency.
Facilities Planning Committee Presentation
The Facilities Planning Committee delivered a detailed update on its work to address infrastructure needs through a long-term capital improvement strategy.
Presentation Highlights
- Committee Scope and Goals:
- The committee is focused on assessing and addressing gaps in current municipal facilities.
- Their efforts aim to prioritize improvements for emergency services (fire, police), DPW, and potential affordable housing projects.
- Comprehensive Needs Analysis:
- Previous studies have been uneven, with detailed reports on the firehouse (7 studies) but no formal analysis of DPW or police needs.
- The committee emphasized the importance of hiring professional consultants for architectural, engineering, and feasibility studies.
- Proposed Outcomes:
- Develop a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that guides decision-making for the next 5–10 years.
- Identify viable sites from a list of 23 potential properties for future municipal or community use.
Board Discussion and Feedback
- Board members stressed the urgent need for a new firehouse and police department upgrades, urging fast-tracking of those priorities.
- Concerns about the six-month timeline and estimated $300,000–$500,000 consultant costs were raised.
- Suggestions included narrowing the list of 23 sites and aligning with existing housing committee efforts to streamline the process.
- The committee offered to assist in drafting a request for proposals (RFP) and engaging with prospective consultants.
Development Proposal for 76 North Broadway
Varma Development presented plans for a mixed-use redevelopment project on the property, requesting additional coverage and floor area bonuses in exchange for public benefits.
Project Overview
- Proposed Development:
- Two new residential buildings and a preserved historic house on the site.
- 57 rental units, including:
- 6 affordable housing units (fair and affordable).
- 5 moderate-income units.
- An early childhood education center for children aged six weeks to five years.
- Public Benefits Offered:
- Retention of the historic mansion on-site, with costly upgrades to make it habitable and accessible.
- A public park and internal sidewalk for Strawberry Lane residents and potential public use.
- Installation of a crosswalk across Broadway, pending NYS Department of Transportation (DOT) approval.
Board and Public Feedback
- Several trustees questioned the sufficiency of the proposed public benefits, expressing greater interest in additional affordable and workforce housing rather than a small park.
- Concerns were raised about the feasibility of the crosswalk, especially since DOT approval is uncertain.
- Public comments echoed skepticism about the accessibility and usefulness of the proposed park, particularly given safety and traffic challenges on Broadway.
Correspondence and Public Input
Affordable Housing and Parks
- Numerous letters and comments were received supporting:
- Expanded affordable housing initiatives.
- Allowing leashed dogs in Mathiessen Park under clear rules.
Opposition to 76 North Broadway Proposal
- Residents of Strawberry Lane and nearby areas raised issues including:
- Limited public benefit from the park.
- Safety risks associated with the proposed crosswalk.
- Concerns about high coverage percentages relative to other multifamily developments in the village.
Green Policy Task Force and Environmental Updates
The Green Policy Task Force provided updates on ongoing initiatives:
- Sustainability Efforts:
- Irvington Farmers Market engagement highlighted a growing call for curbside food scrap pickup.
- Discussions are underway about encouraging or mandating compostable packaging for local businesses.
- Climate Change and Biodiversity:
- Recent grant funding is being used to promote native plantings and remove invasive species.
- The next Climate Talk on November 6 will focus on toxins in home environments.
- Clean Energy Achievements:
- The Clean Energy Community Committee secured an additional $250,000 grant, bringing total funding to over $600,000.
Community Events and Reports
- Root Fest:
- Despite rain, the event was deemed a success, with strong attendance, food, and entertainment.
- A follow-up meeting will assess successes and areas for improvement.
- Fire Department Inspection:
- Village officials joined firefighters and local dignitaries in recognizing the department’s service and inspecting the equipment.
- Bulldog Auction:
- The event raised over $7,000 to support local initiatives.
- Upcoming Events:
- Irvington Theater comedy night on November 9.
- Halloween band performances on October 31, with 11–12 bands scheduled across five locations.
Approvals and Administrative Updates
- Contracts:
- An agreement with Greenburgh for sewer services was renewed.
- Intermunicipal agreements with the Irvington Union Free School District and DPW were approved.
- Arborist services were added to an existing contract.
- Personnel:
- Jessica Arinella was appointed to the Theater Commission.
- Janet Kovach resigned from the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee after 16 years of service.
- Audit:
- Draft financials for the year were received, with final reports expected by month-end.
Executive Session
The board entered executive session to discuss a personnel matter.