Richard Wishnie

The meeting commenced at 2:00 PM.

The first item for discussion was the Oxford Health Center. The Oxford Health Center was unable to give its tour on Wednesday, July 2, 1997. The Committee agreed that since Oxford is no longer a part of the social services agency there is no need to tour the facilities. Leg. Stewart-Cousins, however, did suggest a visit those facilities that the County is currently employing. Leg. Stewart-Cousins will inquire with Commissioner Glass who the County does the most business with. JoAnn Month stated that Healthsource is the largest county provider. The Committee agreed to contact Georgeanne Chapin of Healthsource.

Next the Committee discussed the minutes of May 6, 1997. Leg. La Motte moved to approve, seconded by Leg. Stewart-Cousins. All in favor [2-0] (Leg. Bronz and Leg. Swanson out for vote).

Next the Committee discussed the minutes of May 13, 1997. Leg. La Motte moved to approve, seconded by Leg. Stewart-Cousins. All in favor [2-0] (Leg. Bronz and Leg. Swanson out for vote).

Next the Committee discussed parking at the WCMC. The Committee agreed to discuss this issue further with Leg. Swanson at its next meeting.

Next the Committee discussed Lyme Disease and County park signage. The Committee will send a second request letter to Commissioner DeSantis regarding the lack of signage findings from the Action League for Lyme.

Next the Committee discussed agenda item #6, the increase in number of alarms at the Grasslands reservation that have been answered by the Valhalla Fire Department. Leg. Stewart-Cousins mentioned that a meeting has not yet taken place between the respective parties; however, she did speak with Kevin Spiegel who stated that an appointment had been set-up. The Committee will contact Deputy Commissioner Spiegel before next week’s meeting for a report on what the resolution is. Leg. La Motte moved to receive and file, seconded by Leg. Stewart-Cousins. All in favor [3-0] (Leg. Swanson out for vote).

Next the Committee discussed Agenda item # 13, a letter by the DeGiacomo family regarding an extremely large increase in rent. The DeGiacomo’s appealed their rent increase with the Commissioner. The Commissioner offered Mr. and Mrs. DeGiacomo help in attaining a two bedroom apartment on the premises. Mr. & Mrs. DeGiacomo have not contacted the Committee since this counteroffer was made. Leg. Bronz moved to receive and file, seconded by Leg. Stewart-Cousins. All in favor [3-0] (Leg Swanson out for vote).

Next the Committee discussed agenda item 15, a request that the County Attorney join 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 requested an update from Aldo Vitagliano. Mr. Vitagliano stated that there was additional litigation commencing; however, it is Mr. Vacco’s office who can comment on this litigation. The Committee questioned whether

they should contact Mr. Vacco directly. Mr. Vitagliano believes that the proper procedure is to contact Marilyn Slaatten. The Committee agreed to send a second request notice to Marilyn Slaatten.

Next the Committee discussed the Operating Agreement. Leg. Stewart-Cousins asked the Committee members to familiarize themselves with the Agreement. The Committee will invite Greg Meehan on July 15, 1997, to commence discussions. In addition, the Committee will invite all legislators to express any concerns or improvements they may have on this agreement.

Next the Committee discussed EMSA. Leg. Stewart-Cousins stated that there is a letter going to Marilyn Slaatten from Robert Darcy, the chairman of Public Safety, and the Health and Medical Center Committee requesting an update before Ms. Slaatten attends the joint meeting on July 14, 1997 @ 11:00 am.

Leg. La Motte moved to adjourn, seconded by Leg. Bronz. The meeting ended at 2:45 PM.