Valerie Goldstein (WCHD), Karen DeGiacomo and Paul DeGiacomo (Constituents)

The meeting commenced at 1:45 PM.

The first item for discussion was agenda item 13, a letter regarding an extremely large increase in rent at the Westchester County Medical Center. Mr. and Mrs. DeGiacomo, the authors of the letter, were present and explained their problem to the Committee. After some discussion, the Committee agreed that another letter will be forwarded requesting:

1. Clarification on the discounts for "non-primary" and "non- essential"

2. What are the implications of the absence of a signed lease not signed?

3. Can tenants challenge the rent increase?

4. What is the policy on the "discount"?

5. How do these landlord/tenant policies compare with State policies? and Should the Medical Center should follow the State policies?

In addition to this letter, the Committee will send a second letter to Mr. Fox at APCOA regarding the parking rates. The Committee will request if special parking arrangements could be made for people who live there.

Next the Committee discussed the minutes of March 11, 1997. Leg. Swanson moved to approve, seconded by Leg. Bronz. All in favor [4-0].

Next the Committee discussed the minutes of March 25, 1997. Leg. La Motte moved to approve, seconded by leg. Swanson. All in favor [4-0].

Next the Committee discussed agenda item 1, a letter from the President of the Association of Fire Districts for Westchester County regarding the possible effect that the change in Governance at the Medical Center will have on the Enrico "Hank" Longo Burn Center. Leg. La Motte stated that there is some concern that the Medical Center may close this burn center. Leg. Swanson noted that this is the only burn center from here to Albany, and for this reason it may need County support to remain open. The Committee will discuss the burn center with the Commissioner and forward a letter stating the Committee’s request they the "mission" of the burn center be continued, and to inquire as to what the intentions of the new board are.

Next the Committee discussed agenda item 2, a letter from the Executive Director of the American Lyme Disease Foundation, Inc. requesting an opportunity to meet with members of the Board to discuss the issue of tick-borne diseases in Westchester. The Committee agreed to invite the American Lyme Disease Foundation to a Committee meeting.

Next the Committee discussed agenda item 3, a letter from a County resident regarding the safe disposal of needles and syringes. The Committee agreed to invite Ms. Ann Perron to join the Committee at the end of this month.

Next the Committee discussed agenda item 5, a letter from a constituent regarding a health risk that exists at a school bus stop. Leg. Swanson stated that she has already addressed this issue and the Board of Health has assured her that they have done all they can to help the situation. Leg. Bronz moved to receive and file, seconded by Leg. Swanson. All in favor [4-0].

Next, the Committee discussed agenda item 6, a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of the Westchester County Medical Center regarding the increase in number of alarms at the Grasslands reservation that have been answered by the Valhalla Fire Department. The Committee has had previous discussions on this issue and they believe that a meeting with Kevin Spiegel would be appropriate. The Committee will invite the fire departments as well.

Next the Committee discussed agenda item 7, a letter from the Supervisor of the Town of North Salem regarding privatizing the Westchester County Medical Center. Leg. La Motte stated that she would speak with Sy Globerman on this matter. Leg. Bronz moved to receive and file, seconded by Leg. Swanson. All in favor [4-0].

Next, the Committee discussed agenda item 8, a letter from the Westchester Coalition regarding the relationship between the Westchester County Department of Health and County providers of pre-school services to children with disabilities. Leg. La Motte suggested maintaining an open file on this item.

Finally, the Committee discussed agenda item 15, the possibility of joining Erie County in the prosecution of a lawsuit against the Tobacco Companies to recover damages on behalf of the people of the County of Westchester. The Committee will inquire whether Leg. Stewart-Cousins letter has been replied to. Once the reply is received a meeting with the Legislation Committee will be arranged.

Leg. Swanson moved to adjourned, seconded by Leg. Bronz. The meeting ended at 2:45 PM.