Opening:

• The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Announcements:

1. Upcoming Events:
   • Election Day: Voting takes place tomorrow. Residents were reminded to verify their polling locations on the Westchester County Board of Elections website, with a link also included in the recent mayor’s letter.
   • Veterans Day Ceremony: Scheduled for Monday, November 11, at 10:45 AM at Memorial Plaza on Main Street. This annual event honors local veterans and their contributions.
   • Peter Oley Turkey Trot: The traditional community run will be held on Sunday, November 24, at 2 PM, starting at Dow’s Lane School.
2. Theater Project Update:
   • An additional $25,000 payment was approved for Pacific Trans Global Construction Corp as part of the HVAC project for the theater. Officials noted the payment was for past work and anticipated the project’s conclusion in the near future.
3. Public Hearing Announcement:
   • A hearing to discuss the renewal of the Octagon House’s special permit (Resolution 2019-38) for adaptive reuse as a historic building was scheduled for November 18, 2024, at 7 PM in Village Hall. This hearing invites public input on continuing the property’s special use.

Acknowledgments:

• Halloween Event Success:
  • The village was commended for a well-coordinated Halloween celebration. The police and public works departments were praised for managing safety, traffic, and crowd control effectively. Parking restrictions and officer presence ensured smooth operations.
  • Bands performed at various locations, attracting residents and visitors. Despite minor issues such as discarded shaving cream cans, the event was lauded as a fun and lively success.

Correspondence:

1. Dogs in Parks:
   • A resident expressed support for on-leash dogs in Matthiessen Park, reinforcing earlier public sentiment. Officials confirmed that final preparations, including signage and waste bag stations, were underway, with updates expected at the next meeting.
2. Scout Troop Tour:
   • A thank-you letter highlighted the village’s recent hosting of a local Scout troop. The tour included a first look at the refurbished theater, discussions with a female police officer, and insights into government functions. The letter praised the village staff for their dedication and community-focused work.
3. Leaf Blower Challenges:
   • A resident raised concerns about the difficulties of using electric leaf blowers on large properties. While some adjustments may be needed, officials noted that the Green Policy Task Force would present findings on the transition away from gas-powered blowers before any policy changes are considered.
4. Traffic Safety:
   • Multiple letters highlighted safety concerns at the intersection of Ardsley Avenue East and Broadway following a recent accident caused by a car running a stop sign. Although the intersection falls under state jurisdiction, the village plans to collaborate with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the police chief to explore potential safety improvements.

Resolutions Passed:

1. Consent Agenda:
   • Routine budget transfers and modifications were approved. Officials discussed tracking variances between actual and budgeted amounts, with assurances that detailed reports are available internally and shared monthly with department heads.
2. Appointments:
   • Architectural Review Board: Carnet Mossberg was moved from an alternate to a full member position, with a term expiring in December 2027. Recruitment efforts for additional alternates will continue.
   • Enslaved African Memorial Project Committee:
     • A new committee was formally established to oversee the design and construction of a park at South Buckout Street and Station Road, which will feature a memorial to enslaved African Americans.
     • Appointed members include Sarah Cox, Teresa Foster, and others, with terms expiring in December 2025.
3. Probation Adjustment:
   • Police Sergeant Anthony Cadora’s probationary period was ended six weeks early to facilitate the transfer of a new officer. This procedural step was necessary to comply with civil service rules regarding contingent positions.

Reports:

1. Tree Preservation:
   • Residents were encouraged to water street trees due to ongoing drought conditions, as young and newly planted trees remain vulnerable despite seasonal leaf drop. A few buckets of water weekly can help ensure their survival through the winter.
2. Recreation Updates:
   • Registration for winter programs is now open, with offerings including youth basketball, art classes, holiday Lego workshops, and adult dance. A marionette performance is scheduled for November 23.
   • Senior citizens can register for the annual Thanksgiving luncheon on November 21.
   • The Nature Center is engaging students in ecological research projects and recently partnered with Eagle Scouts for park drainage and cleanup efforts.
3. Theater Updates:
   • The October 26 theater open house drew a steady stream of visitors, including State Assemblymember Mary Jane Shimsky. Attendees were impressed by the theater’s renovations and HVAC upgrades.
   • The theater’s grand opening event is scheduled for November 9, featuring a comedy show with nationally recognized performers. Tickets are selling quickly.
4. DPW Activities:
   • The department prepared for winter by installing salt spreaders on vehicles. Other projects included completing tree pit installations, assisting with Halloween setups, and supporting the Eagle Scout cleanup project at Marshall Pond.
5. FEMA Grant Information:
   • A new FEMA grant program is available for residents who suffered damage during Hurricane Ida. Details on eligibility, including income limits, will be shared soon.
6. Financial Audit:
   • The village’s final financial statements were completed. The auditors will present their findings at the December 16 board meeting.

Public Comment:

• No comments were received from attendees.

Executive Session:

• The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss two personnel matters.