MINUTES

COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT

FEBRUARY 11, 1997

PRESENT: Chair Carsky, Leg. Latimer

ALSO PRESENT: Comm. Petrocelli, Ms. Wiernik,

Mr. Hosey, Mr. Yoegel and Mrs.

Keating

ITEMS DISCUSSED:

Chair Carsky called the meeting to order at 2:40 P.M. Mrs. Carsky informed the committee that she received a letter from Comm. John Cahill regarding fishing in Long Island Sound and will circulate a copy to all committee members.

Comm. Petrocelli was in to discuss the Clean Air Act. He explained how this came about. This process began five years ago. The State chose to delegate the trip reduction program to the Counties and the State DOT issued regulations regarding the Employee Commute Options Program.

In general, feed-back from the business community was very good. The Westchester County Association was very active in having businesses with over 100 employees participate in the program.

The State has now repealed the legislation regarding Employee Commute Options. The County Attorney should be consulted to discuss if the Clean Air Act can remain in effect without the Employee Commute Options portion.

The Commissioner stated, knowing that this was coming about, in January of 1996, the DOT began developing a voluntary program. The Commissioner has secured Federal Funding for the Smart Commute Program. There will be a statewide registration on a voluntary basis.

Leg. Latimer asked the Comm. if we track the Federal Law and Comm. Petrocelli stated that they did not because it changed in mid-stream.

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The DOT has stopped collecting fees and suggested that we talk with the County Attorney to make sure we can do this.

The Comm. stated that this does not affect the ozone level and the sate is legally responsible to comply with the Clean Air Act. The reduction in the particulate matter and ozone levels must be picked up elsewhere.

This is a critical public health issue. Comments must be make by February 18. The Health Department and the Planning Department will be submitting comments.

The Commissioner also stated that he has been requested by several corporation to institute busing from the Rye Railroad Station to the many businesses along Westchester Avenue.

Ms. Wiernik asked if the Smart Commute Program was the same and the Commissioner stated that 100 companies have signed up. She also asked if natural gas was an option and he said not at this time.

Chair Carsky asked the Commissioner about ISTEA and he stated, in general, some states are getting more aid back for mass transit. The Commissioner stated that he would get Chair Carsky information before the end of the week.

Leg. Latimer requested a copy of Chapter 595 and wanted to read the law before any action is taken.

Leg. Latimer updated the Committee regarding the Read Sanctuary. He is awaiting a reply from Ms. Hastings.

Chair Carsky asked Mrs. Keating to check with Comm. DeSantis on the public hearing he is setting up on the Master Plan.

On motion of Leg. Latimer, seconded by Chair Carsky, the meeting adjourned at 3:30 P.M.