George Oros

The meeting commenced at 1:40 PM.

The first item for discussion was the operating agreement and lease as well as the questions raised from the Board of Legislator’s Consultant Matthew Leeds. Greg Meehan, the County Attorney, discussed both the questions by Mr. Leeds in addition to issues raised by the attorneys hired by the PBC board. The issue of an extension after the initial sixty years was discussed. In order to establish this sixty-year lease there needs to be a permissive referendum and an amendment of the County Charter. However, for this sixty-year lease legislation is required. Mr. Meehan advised that he was awaiting direction from the County Executive before sending appropriate legislation down. Other issues discussed were the "non-compete" clause and the "appropriation" clause.

After discussing most of the questions proposed by Matthew Leed, Leg. Stewart-Cousins requested that the Committee continue discussion of the remaining 16 points at its next meeting. Leg. Stewart-Cousins suggested that Mr. Meehan contact Mr. Leeds. The Committee also agreed to include Mike Wittenberg into the discussions to attain his insight into labor issues of the operating agreement.

Next the Committee discussed the minutes of August 19, 1997. Leg. Swanson moved to approve, seconded by Leg. La Motte. All in favor [4-0].

Next Leg. Stewart-Cousins discussed the recent newspaper article which announced the extension of the EMSA contract. In view of the fact that the decision has already been made, the Committee agreed to delay its meeting with Commissioner Stancari and to review whether they agree with the County’s position.

Next the Committee discussed agenda item number 15, a letter directing the County Attorney to 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. Leg. Stewart-Cousins received a response from the County Attorney which explained the status of the case which is currently awaiting settlement at the federal level. Leg. La Motte moved to receive and file, seconded by Leg. Bronz. All in favor [4-0].

Next Leg. Stewart-Cousins discussed an incident at the Medical Center where a baby was treated for pulmonary and heart problems, and incorrectly had air fed into his circulatory system which resulted in the infant’s death. Leg. Stewart-Cousins will follow up with Commissioner Stolzenberg for information on the case.

In addition to this event at the Medical Center, Leg. Stewart-Cousins asked Ms. Goldstein whether it was true a women was recently admitted with E-Coli. Ms. Goldstein stated that it was true; however, this incident is not related to the recent nationwide E-Coli cases.

Next Leg. Stewart-Cousins asked whether the Health Department had acted on the Committee’s request to revise the notification policy in order to create uniform procedures in the County on public notification of emergencies via the press. Ms. Goldstein did not know whether any changes had taken place up to date. Leg. Stewart-Cousins asked Ms. Goldstein to keep her updated regarding any resolution.

Leg. Bronz moved to adjourn, seconded by Leg. La Motte. The meeting ended at 3:35 PM.