The meeting commenced at 1:50 PM.

The first item for discussion was agenda item 6, a copy of Leg. Swanson’s 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. Ken Hoffarth began the discussion by emphasizing how committed the volunteers are to the Grasslands reservation, even when there is no benefit to them. Mr. Hoffarth stated that there has been an increased in calls which is causing an indifference with his staff. In the past, there was a fire inspector who was a "point of contact" for them. This fire inspector would provide all keys for gates and elevators, clear the streets of all vehicles for the fire trucks, etc. Now that this job has been turned over to the Private Guard Service they no longer have this point of contact. The Private Guard Service is not trained in fire-safety, the streets are filled with cars, and there is a communication problem which increases when the guards are

nervous. The lack of a "point of contact" and the increase in false alarms creates an indifference among the volunteers. Leg. Swanson noted that when she recently visited she attempted to address the "parking issue" and the guard was unable to help her and unable to call an administrator. In addition to this concern, the fire department is concerned about the future the Medical Center when it turns into a Private Benefit Corporation. Commissioner Spiegel stated that the reason for the increase in fire alarms is that there are more and more devises that are added to protect the hospital. The Commissioner stated that there needs to be more open communication between the volunteer fire-fighters and the hospital. Commissioner Spiegel assured the Fire Department and the Committee that he will call a meeting this week and open communication will exist to ameliorate the problems.

Next Leg. Stewart-Cousins asked Commissioner Spiegel to discuss the rent increases. Commissioner Spiegel stated that the reasoning behind the rent increase is that there is a need for more revenue. Leg. Stewart-Cousins explained the situation of the Digiacomo family. Commissioner Spiegel stated that the increases were based on section 8 numbers. Leg. Stewart-Cousins requested back-up information on these numbers. The Commissioner agreed to forward same. Leg. Stewart-Cousins asked the Commissioner to discuss the appeal’s process. Commissioner Spiegel stated there were two ways: (1) through the court system; and (2) appealing to the Commissioner of the Hospital. Also, Leg. Stewart-Cousins questioned the "mail" system at the Medical Center. The Commissioner stated that since WCMC is under a "Dormitory Policy" the mail will not be distributed by the post office. Lastly, Leg. Stewart-Cousins discussed handicapped parking. Recently, a constituent called complaining that

the handicapped parking has been removed. The Commissioner stated that 5 new handicapped spots have been added to the building known as the "Oval". Leg. Swanson requested that a copy of the letter from Ralph Butler be forwarded to her.

Leg. Swanson moved to adjourn, seconded by Leg. Stewart-Cousins. the meeting ended at 2:40 PM.