COMMITTEE ON BUDGET AND APPROPRIATIONS

MINUTES

JUNE 1421, 1999

 

 

 

ATTENDANCE:

 

B & A MEMBERS:         Wishnie, Abinanti, Carsky, LaMotte, Kaplowitz, Mosiello,

Stewart-Cousins, Stewart-Cousins, Swanson, Young, Young

 

OTHERS:                       Budget Dept.:  Leslie Bennett, Dianne KearneyVanadia;  CBAC:  George Hosey, Barbara Hosey;  C.E.’s Office: Bill RandolphBill RandolphSymra Brandon, Michael Goodstein, David Meyers;  DEF:  Commissioner Landi;  , Ralph Butler;  DOT:  Commissioner Church;  Planning:  Fran McLaughlin, Joe Adelman;  PRC:  Commissioner DeSantis, Paul ReitanoLaw Dept.:  Stacey Dolgin-Kmetz, Daniella Infield;  BOL: Barbara Dodds, Robert Boland, Chris Chang, Tina Seckerson

 

Chairman Wishnie called the meeting to order at 10:10 12 a.m.

 

DISCUSSION:  (There is a cassette tape on file for more detailed information)

 

MINUTES:

 

On motion of Legislator CarskyKaplowitz, seconded by Legislator KaplowitzSwanson, the motion to approve the Minutes of June 714, 1999 was carried by a vote of 689-0.

 

 

 

GAISMAN PROPERTY:

 

·       Archdiocese needs to close on this property by the end of the month.

·       The legal description of the Gaisman Estate, provided by the Trust for Public Land, contained approximately 1/3 of an acre of encroachments by adjoining property owners onto the approximately 123-acre parcel.  This legislation would provide for removal of the 4 encroachments, which create a legal impediment to the transfer of title to the Estate to the State, the Town and the County.

·       The Committee expressed concern with regard to encroachments on County properties.  A letter will be sent to Sal Carrera, Director of Real Estate noting the Committee’s concern and inquiring as to whether inspections of County property with regard to encroachments are being performed.

·       Committee requested a map and a list of the owners of the encroachments.

 

On motion of Legislator Carsky, seconded by Legislator Kaplowitz, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 8-0 with Legislators Stewart-Cousins, Mosiello, LaMotte, Swanson and Young signing “Without Prejudice”.

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On motion of Legislator Carsky, seconded by Legislator Kaplowitz, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 8-0vote of 9-0 with Legislators Stewart-Cousins, Mosiello, LaMotte, Swanson and Young signing “Without Prejudice”.

 

Legislator Carsky suggested that a letter be sent to the County Attorney, from the Committee, requesting that the County beging theprocess tof doing surveys of County properties.  She noted that currently the County does not have good surveys, for title purposes, of the BRPR.  Mr. Wishnie stated that he will also seek County Planning Board input.

FILING OF COUNTY’s COUNTY’S REPORT WITH THE OFFICE OF THE STATE COMPRTROLLER:

 

Commissioner Pucillo explained that the report being electronically transmitted today.  They did not meet the 5/31 deadline due to the County’s Y2K conversion of its financial system.  The County’s financial system is now Y2K compliant.

The financial report will be printed and finalized by end of month.  They are currently writing footnotes.

 

MORTGAGE TAX RECIPTESRECEIPTS:

 

 

Commissioner Pucillo explained that for the first time they are electronically wiring checksthe beginning June 15th.  By law must be transmitted by June 15th.

Amount of mortgage tax receipts are sSlightly up from previous year due to increase in property values.

 

On motion of Legislator Kaplowitz, seconded by Legislator Swanson, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of


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On motion of Legislator Kaplowitz, seconded by Legislator Swanson, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 6-0.

 

 

III.  BOND ACTS:  (Note:  All bond acts have been reviewed, in detail, by 

         sub-committees)

 

 

1.  Bond Act:   Authorizing the issuance of $900,000 in bonds – Air Conditioning Equipment Replacement and Chloroflouro Carbons.  (7/20/98)

 

This Bond Act has been superseded by Bond Act #3 (B0038)

 

Bond Act:  (RGIP2):  Authorizing the issuance of $400,000 in bonds – Park Wide Comfort Station Rehabilitation.  (5/25/99)

 

Mrs. LaMotte began by informing the Committee that the reason for some of the smaller amounts (i.e. $100,000) is due to 10% for design phases. 

Mr. Kaplowitz informed the Committee that there is no per unit cost on a smaller bond than a larger bond.

Dianne Vanadia informed the Committee that oftentimes a project’s deign has to be at a certain point before a SEQR review can be completed.

This bonding legislation is required to finance the cost of recreational area improvements at Tibbetts Brook Park and Ridge Road Park as part of a project to rehabilitate comfort stations.  Commissioner DeSantis stressed that they intend to rehab all of the parks comfort stations but had to prioritize which ones had to be done first based on current condition as well as park usage.

 

On motion of Legislator Kaplowitz, seconded by Legislator Mosiello, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 6-0 with Legislator Swanson signing “Without Prejudice”.

 

Bond Act:  (B0021):  Authorizing the issuance of $2,200,000 in bonds – Michaelian Office Building Modernization.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (B0038):  Authorizing the issuance of $1,900,000 in bonds – Air Conditioning Equipment Replacement and Chloroflouro Carbons, DPW Locations.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (B0045):  Authorizing the issuance of $88,000 in bonds – Putnam Right-of-Way/South County Trailway Improvements.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (RB02D):  Authorizing the issuance of $360,000 in bonds, Bronx River Parkway over Bronx River, North of Leewood Drive – Yonkers and Eastchester.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (RB02E):  Authorizing the issuance of $240,000 in bonds – Bronx River Parkway over Bronx River, South of Leewood Drive, Yonkers and Eastchester.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (RB011):  Authorizing the issuance of $500,000 in bonds – Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains/Harrison/Mamaroneck.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (RB012):  Authorizing the issuance of $600,000 in bonds – Westchester Avenue, East and Westbound, between White Plains Avenue and Purchase Street.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (RB025):  Authorizing the issuance of $200,000 in bonds – Tuckahoe Road, Yonkers.  (5/25/99)

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Bond Act:  (RGIP2):  Authorizing the issuance of $400,000 in bonds – Park Wide Comfort Station Rehabilitation.  (5/25/99)

 

Mrs. LaMottee began by informed the Committee that the resaon for some of the smaller amounts (i.e. $100,000) is due to 10% for design phases. 

Mr. Kaplowitz informed the Committee that

 

 

 

 

Bond Act:  (RGC05):  Authorizing the issuance of $125,000 in bonds – Mohansic Golf Course Rehabilitation, Tees/Greens.  (5/25/99)

This bonding legislation is required to finance the cost of preparation of surveys, preliminary and detailed plans, specifications and estimates necessary for planning tees, greens and fairways rehabilitation at the Mohansic Golf Course.

The $8 million cost estimate for the total project is being reduced as they continue to evaluate thecurrent facility and project.  So far it has been reduced down to $5 million and may be reduced further.  Committee will be kept apprised.

 

 

 

$8 million number is being reduced as they continue to evaluate the project,.  Continue to investiagte current facility.  Reduced down to $5 million.  May be a further reduction.  Committee will bne kept apprised.

 

 

Bond Act:  (RGC12):  Authorizing the issuance of $1,100,000 in bonds – Dunwoodie Golf Course Parking Improvements.  (5/25/99)

 

The Commissioner stated that the eE.  This bonding legislation will finance the cost of recreational area improvements, including realignment and reorganization of the entrance area and main parking lot.

 will be provided.

Bond Act:  (RMAC1):  Authorizing the issuance of $100,000 in bonds – V.E. Macy Park Improvements.  (5/25/99)

 

This project will implement the Woodlands South County Family Recreation Center development plan.  It involves the conversion of the former “Cantina” restaurant at the Woodlands Lake portion of V.E. Macy Park into an all-around recreation center.This plan is for the site to serve as an all-around recreation center, focusing on the new South County Trailway.

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Previous bonding legislation in the amount of $150,000was approved by Act 21-1998 for the dredging/rehabilitation of Woodlands Lake.  Additional bonding legislation for $100,000 is necessary to accomplish design of the remaining project components.

 

On motion of Legislator Mosiello, seconded by Legislator Kaplowitz, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 6-0.

 

 

Bond Act:  (RPA01):  Authorizing the issuance of $150,000 in bonds – General Infrastructure Program – Pathways and Trails.  (5/25/99)

 

To finance the cost of the preparation of surveys, preliminary and detailed plans, specifications and estimates necessary for planning improvements to the Bronx River Reservation Pathway System, including design of a resurfacing, widening and site improvements of the existing Bronx River Reservation System from Bronxville to Kensico Dam Plaza.

The Commissioner explained that the $150,000 is intended to accomplish design of the $1.8 million Bronx River project.  The departments of PRC and Planning are also applying for T-21 money.

 

On motion of Legislator Carsky, seconded by Legislator LaMotte, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 6-0.

 

Bond Act:  (RP23B):  Authorizing the issuance of $450,000 in bonds – Colonnade Rehabilitation.  (5/25/99)

 

To finance the cost of the preparation of surveys, preliminary and detailed plans, specifications and estimates necessary for planning the rehabilitation of the colonnades at Playland Amusement Park.

Previous bonding legislation in the amount of $100,000 was approved by Act 24-1998 for this project.  The Commissioner explained that after reviewit was determined that the cost of design is estimated at $550,000 rather than $100,000.The Committee questioned the increase in cost and the Commissioner stated that it is a complicated and multi-faceted project and the ultimate cost of the project has gone up.

 

On motion of Legislator Wishnie, seconded by Legislator LaMotte, the motion toapprove this item was carried by a vote of 5-0 (Legislator Swanson out for vote).

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1.  Bond Act:  (B0038):  Authorizing the issuance of $900,000 in bonds – Air Conditioning Equipment Replacement and Chloroflouro Carbons.  (7/20/98)

 

This Act is superseded by Bond Act III, 3 and therefore will be removed fromthe agenda.

 

20.  Bond Act:  (SY038)  Authorizing the issuance of $8,800,000 in bonds – Yonkers Joint Treatment Plant – Engine Replacement and Blower Reconditioning.  (5/25/99)

 

The Committee was requested, via (6/8/99) memo from Budget Director Kate Tooherto postpone consideration of this legislation due to an increase in project cost, requiring a 2000 capital appropriation.  The legislation will be amended upon adoption of the 2000 capital budget.

 

Bond Act:  (RZD003): Authorizing the issuance of $550,000 in bonds – Sprout Brook Ash Disposal Phase IV.  (5/25/99)

 

To finance the cost of preparation of surveys, preliminary and detailed plans, specifications and estimates necessary for planning the opening of Cell 4 at the Sprout Brook Ash Disposal Facility, including the fourth phase for ash disposal for a project to allow the continued use of the County’s Sprout Brook facility for the disposal of clean ash.

Phase III of the Sprout Brook Ash Disposal facility is approaching capacity.  It will be necessary to open Phase IV to continue the County’s current practice of disposing of clean ash.

The alternative to disposing of clean ash at Sprout Brook would be to transport it to locations outside the County at greater expense.

The ultimate cost of this project is estimated at $9.5 million.

Several Legislators stated that they would like to speak to Legislator Oros who represents this area before voting the matter out.  Chairman Wishnie suggested voting it out of Committee and holding it over if Legislator Oros has any unanswered concerns with regard to the project.

 

On motion of Legislator Carsky, seconded by Legislator Wishnie, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 6-0 with Legislators Kaplowitz, LaMotte, Swanson, Carsky and Mosiello signing “without Prejudice”.

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Bond Act:  (T001K):  Authorizing the issuance of $3,920,000 in bonds – Bus Acquisition FTA14.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (RZD003S0S75):  Authorizing the issuance of $550,000 in bonds – Sprout Brook Ash Disposal Phase IV.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act Amendment:  (S0S75)  Authorizing the issuance of $1,600,000 in bonds – Pump Station Rehabilitation Program – Ossining Sanitary Sewer District.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (SY038)  Authorizing the issuance of $8,800,000 in bonds – Yonkers Joint Treatment Plant – Engine Replacement and Blower Reconditioning.  (5/25/99)

 

Bond Act:  (RD008):  Authorizing the issuance of $1,250,000 in bonds to finance the work necessary to utilize Croton Point Landfill Gas as fuel to generate electrical power to serve Croton Point Park, the pump stations for the Croton Point Landfill leachate collection system and fuel for boilers at nearby Metro-North Facilities.  (5/25/99)

To finance a project for improvements to pump stations serving the Ossining Sanitary Sewer District.

This project includes normal necessary replacement and rehabilitation and the improvement of the efficiency of the pumping station byreducing energy and work force costs.

 

On motion of Legislator Wishnie, seconded by Legislator Kaplowitz, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 6-0.

 

A&C CALENDAR:

 

The Committee reviewed the June 17th A&C Calendar.  Answers to questions pending back-up information.

 

WCC BUDGET:

 

Mr. Boland informed the Committee that August 2nd is the last day for additions to the WCC Budget.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

 

There being no further items for discussion, on motion of Legislator Kaplowitz, seconded by Legislator Swanson, the meeting was adjourned at 11:10 a.m.

 

III.       BOND ACTS:

 

5.              Bond Act:  (RB02D):  Authorizing the issuance of $360,000 in bonds, Bronx River Parkway over Bronx River, North of Leewood Drive – Yonkers and Eastchester.  (5/25/99)

 

·       Commissioner Landi assured the Committee that repaving and bridge rehabilitation will be coordinated.  Paving will be completed up until point where bridges are to be rehabilitated and will continue after bridge work is completed.  The roads will be maintained in a safe condition while bridge work is being done.

·       A bridge that is rated under 5 starts to see deterioration; under 4 means serious structural deterioration.

·       Legislator Carsky asked what repercussions there would be if this project was postponed for a year.  Commissioner Landi stated that they are following a five year program trying to take care of the bridges in a methodical way and they feel it is time for this bridge to be done.

 

On motion of Legislator Young, seconded by Legislator LaMotte, the motion to to approve this item was carried by a vote of 9-0. with Legislator Carsky signing “Without Prejudice.”

 

6.              Bond Act:  (RB02E):  Authorizing the issuance of $240,000 in bonds – Bronx River Parkway over Bronx River, South of Leewood Drive, Yonkers and Eastchester.  (5/25/99)

 

On motion of Legislator Young, seconded by Legislator LaMotte, the motion to to approve this item was carried by a vote of 9-0 with Legislator Carsky signing “Without Prejudice”..

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7.              Bond Act:  (RB011):  Authorizing the issuance of $500,000 in bonds – Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains/Harrison/Mamaroneck.  (5/25/99)

 

·       Total project cost:  $5.6 million. 

·       This is required to finance the cost of preparation of surveys, preliminary and detailed plans, specifications and estimates necessary for planning partial reconstruction of approximately 4.52 miles of roadway at Mamaroneck Avenue, in the City of White Plains, Town of Harrison and Village of Mamaroneck.  After reciptreceipt of federal and state funding the total cost of this project to the County will be $500,000.

 

 

On motion of Legislator LaMotte, seconded by Legislator Mosiello, the motion to to approve this item was carried by a vote of 9-0.

 

8.              Bond Act:  (RB012):  Authorizing the issuance of $600,000 in bonds – Westchester Avenue, East and Westbound, between White Plains Avenue and Purchase Street.  (5/25/99)

 

·       This is required to finance the cost of preparation of surveys, preliminary and detailed plans, specifications and estimates necessary for planning partial reconstruction of approximately 6.14 miles of roadway at Westchester Avenue (east and west) between White Plains Avenue and Purchase Street.

·       Work to be accomplished includes wearing surface, drainage, lighting improvements as required, and rehabilitation of traffic control devices.

·       Work is proposed between North Street and Purchase Street on the eastbound side, and between the Interstate-287 ramp at White Plains Avenue and Purchase Street on the westbound side.

·       Commissioner Landi reported that they are seeking butTrying, but have not yet received any state or federal money for this project.

·       FThis is strictly for design, construction funding will be in 2002

·       Legislator LaMotte expressed her concern with regard to doing large projects, such as this one, in small segments.  She stressed the importance of the County and State working together to coordinateefforts with regard to rehabilitating roadways, especially entrance and exit ramps.

 

 

On motion of Legislator KaaplowitzKaplowitz, seconded by Legislator LaMotte, the motion to to approve this item was carried by a vote of 9-0.

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9.              Bond Act:  (RB025):  Authorizing the issuance of $200,000 in bonds – Tuckahoe Road, Yonkers.  (5/25/99)

 

·       Required to finance the cost of surveys, preliminary and detailed plans, specifications and estimates necessary for planning partial reconstruction of Tuckahoe Road in theCity of Yonkers, including surface milling, repaving, and drainage work.  The area of proposed work extends from I-87 to Central Park Avenue and from Cross Street to Parkview Avenue.

·       Legislator Mosiello stated that during preliminary meetings of the sub-committee he had expressed concern that thisproject might include widening of the road.  Commissioner Landi assured the Committee that this project is just for surface and curb workand does not include widening of the road.

·       In addition to the County’s share, $730,000 in state and federal aid will be used to fund this project.

 

 

 

On motion of Legislator Wishnie, seconded by Legislator LaMotte, the motion to to approve this item was carried by a vote of 9-0.

 

 

 

 

 

2.              Bond Act:  (B0021):  Authorizing the issuance of $2,200,000 in bonds –

Michaelian Office Building Modernization.  (5/25/99)

 

·       Required to finance the cost of partial reconstruction of the 2nd, 3rd, and 7th floors of MOBI.  It will include design and construction funds for the 7th floor and 2nd floor (not including computer room) and design funds for the 3rd floor and 2nd floor computer rooms.

·       Work to be done includes:  installation of new suspended ceilings, HVAC modifications, carpeting, and wiring for computers.

·       This project is a continuation of the phasing of rehabilitation work in MOBI.  Ultimate cost of this project is $9.2 million.

·       Legislator Swanson inquired as to rehabilitation/modernization plans for the 8th floor.  The Commissioner stated that they are following a schedule and there are no plans at this time for work on the 8th floor.  Mrs. Swanson asked what factors are taken into consideration when determining the schedule.  Mr. Boland reminded the Committee that the 2000 Capital Budget could be amended to include work on the 8th floor.

·       Legislator Abinanti asked if there was a schematic of space allocation for MOBI showing where everyone is today and where we are going.  Legislator Swanson reminded the Committee that a space allocation had already been requested from Mr. Carerra and has yet to be received.

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On motion of Legislator Swanson, seconded by Legislator Abinanti, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 8-0vote of 9-0.

 

 

 

 

 

3.              Bond Act:  (B0038):  Authorizing the issuance of $1,900,000 in bonds – Air Conditioning Equipment Replacement and Chloroflouro Carbons, DPW Locations.  (5/25/99)

 

·       Commissioner Landi explained that this is pPart of an ongoing project to comply with Clean Air Act.

·       This funding includes replacement and/or modification of air conditioning systems at various locations, including the replacement of 1 walk-in refrigeration unit in the Penitentiary Kitchen, Penitentiary E Block, Jail, Mt. Kisco District Office Building and Mt. Vernon District Office Building.

·       The cost for replacing 1 refrigeration unit at the Penitentiary is $150,000-$200,000.  The Department of Corrections currently uses the refrigeration in the Penitentiary Kitchen, and will continue to do so, due to lack of storage in Jail facility.  There is nNo rromroom in the new Jail facility for more refrigeration units.

·       Mr.Legislator  Kaplowitz exoressedexpressed his concern with regard to spending this amount of money not knowing thethe future of the Penitentiary facility.  Commissioner Landi assured the Committee that this facility was remain.  There are plans to replace the housing units only as well as construct a new laundry facility in the Pen kitchen area. 

·       The Commissioner informed the Committee that there are plans to hire consultants to study what we should be building including preliminary designs and cost estimates.

·       The Committee requested a breakdown of costs for the rehabilitation of the Mt. Vernon D.O.

·       Committee inquired as to whether this will finalize the County’s rehabilitation efforts to comply with the requirements of the Clean Air Act.  The Commissioner replied that it will not.  In fact, he informed the Committee that a future appropriation request ($3 million) will be coming for DPW facilities alone to comply with the Clean Air Act.

·       Legislator Kaplowitz asked if we can expect more stringent requirements to come before the completion of rehab work.  The Commissioner replied that with regard to equipment they do not expect more stringent requirements.

 

On motion of Legislator LaMotte, seconded by Legislator Stewart-Cousins, the motion to approve this item was carried by a vote of 8-0vote of 9-0.

 

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4.              Bond Act:  (B0045):  Authorizing the issuance of $88,000 in bonds – Putnam Right-of-Way/South County Trailway Improvements.  (5/25/99)

 

·       Dianne Vanadia, referencing a memo from Budget Director Kate Carrano, stated that an operating budget amendment with regard to this project will be submitted.  The project will be funded cash to capital.  The Committee asked if the project is funded with cash will the Board still receive the environmental piece.  Mrs. Vanadia will check on it.