MEMBERS: Chair: M. Kaplowitz. Members: U. LaMotte, V. Pinto, J. Maisano.

Staff: Barbara Dodds, Bob Hoch, Charlotte Ryer - Secretary.

ALSO PRESENT: Maureen Morgan, Gudrun LeLash, Ann M. Cohen (FCWC); Dorothy Rinaldo (LWV); Bill Randolph (CE’s ofc.); Jo Brill (LWV).

The meeting was called to order by Chair Kaplowitz at 3:10 p.m., and the meeting began with a review of general business. Marion Rose sent a letter of thanks in regard to the Proclamation she received from the BOL in her honor, particularly thanking the Environment Committee. The schedule for the Legislators’ "parks tour" on June 23^rd was reviewed next with the list of visiting sites. Chair Kaplowitz then read correspondence from the NYS/DEP regarding the Croton Watershed schedule of upcoming meetings and their locations and also, a news release from Columbia Gas (dated 06/03) announcing the revised construction plan of the Millennium Pipeline for in-service in the year 2000. (Copies were made and distributed to each ENV Committee member.)

Next, Chair introduced the guest speakers from the Federated Conservationists of Westchester County, Gudrun LeLash and Maureen Morgan to discuss transportation issues. Ms. Morgan announced that the I-287 Task Force held their first meeting today in New York City and made reference to yesterday’s Gannett Editorial regarding this issue. Ms. Morgan also noted that she wrote a relating article in the Westchester Business Journal, then announced the "Building a Rail Line on I-287 Conference" to be held Wednesday, June 17^th at Marymount College in Tarrytown, while stressing the importance of this conference and Legislator attendance. It was also mentioned that Planning Commissioner Joyce Lannert is a member

of the (I-287) advisory committee and proposes to improve the intersection connecting I-87 to I-287. Ms. Morgan also emphasized that there is a lack of communication between the DOT and Region 8. Legislator LaMotte requested a list of the I-287 Task Force members. Chair Kaplowitz requested that Ms. Morgan forward any material and information pertaining to the issue of light-rail, and especially with a focus on environment interests, to the Environment Committee. Legislator Pinto suggested that perhaps an evening workshop could be formed to discuss these issues and to receive information and pertinent data. Ms. Cohen asked how the I-287 Task Force envisioned the finished work route. Ms. Morgan responded that a "fly-over" (over-pass) is being considered for a smoother traffic flow at the I-95 and I-287 intersection. Legislator LaMotte questioned the "bottleneck" situation on I-287 and its air pollution impact in Westchester County, and also how to obtain statistics.

Ms. Morgan had to leave at approximately 3:35 p.m., and Gudrun LeLash responded to Legislator LaMotte’s inquiry suggesting that the Planning Department be contacted to obtain the traffic related studies. Chair suggested inviting Metro North/MTA officials to a future meeting to further discuss transportation issues. Legislator LaMotte suggested to bring up issue in the next Committee of the Whole meeting.

Ms. LeLash spoke of concerns regarding the Long Island Sound - Inflow and Infiltration (I&I). Legislator Pinto commented that these issues are being handled by the subcommittee which will have their full report prepared for September. Regarding the Airport subcommittee, their report should emphasize environmental development and feedback. Legislator LaMotte expressed that the Airport Executive Lounge should be reconsidered as it gave the Airport a user-friendly atmosphere.

Ms. LeLash also noted that the Bronx River Parkway will be celebrating its 75^th Anniversary next month.

Legislator Maisano emphasized that Committee on the Environment should vote on the Long Island Sound I&I.

With no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m., on the motion of Legislator Pinto, seconded by Legislator LaMotte.