Opening and Service Awards

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by recognition of long-serving municipal employees for their dedication:

1. Greg Neilson – Honored with a certificate for 25 years of service in the Department of Public Works (DPW).
2. Michael Foley – Recognized for 30 years of service in the Police Department.
3. Several other employees were also mentioned for their extensive contributions, receiving applause from the attendees.

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Financial Approvals

The board approved several large expenditures for ongoing and planned projects:

1. Abelli Mechanical – HVAC plumbing and supply costs, totaling $82,880.
2. Landscaping Services – Work at the Main Street Train Station Project, including sidewalks and ADA-compliant upgrades, at $54,771.
3. Axon Enterprises – Annual payment of $36,975 for body camera maintenance for the Police Department.
4. 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.

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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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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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

1. 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.
2. 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.

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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.

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Green Policy Task Force and Environmental Updates

The Green Policy Task Force provided updates on ongoing initiatives:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Clean Energy Achievements:
   • The Clean Energy Community Committee secured an additional $250,000 grant, bringing total funding to over $600,000.

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Community Events and Reports

1. 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.
2. Fire Department Inspection:
   • Village officials joined firefighters and local dignitaries in recognizing the department’s service and inspecting the equipment.
3. Bulldog Auction:
   • The event raised over $7,000 to support local initiatives.
4. Upcoming Events:
   • Irvington Theater comedy night on November 9.
   • Halloween band performances on October 31, with 11–12 bands scheduled across five locations.

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Approvals and Administrative Updates

1. 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.
2. Personnel:
   • Jessica Arinella was appointed to the Theater Commission.
   • Janet Kovach resigned from the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee after 16 years of service.
3. Audit:
   • Draft financials for the year were received, with final reports expected by month-end.

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Executive Session

The board entered executive session to discuss a personnel matter.