COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
MEMBERS: Stewart-Cousins, Chair, Oros, Ryan, Bronz, Abinanti and Rogowsky
BOL: Steve Bass, Ann Giordano, Mike Kaplowitz, Vito Pinto, Ursula LaMotte, Susan Swanson
GUESTS: Liz Salvi (Law), Charlene Indelicato (Law), Andrew Neuman (CEO), Stacey Dolgin-Kmetz (Law), Kathleen Carrano (Budget), Lawrence Schwartz (CEO), William Randolph (CEO), Kathleen Carrano (Budget),
Chairwoman, Andrea Stewart-Cousins called the meeting to order at 12:06 p.m. to continue the prior week’s discussion on the possibility of amending Local Law 283.301 of the Laws of Westchester County to permit itemizing costs contained in the County’s Tax Bill.
The Chair advised that the County Attorney’s office had brought in a written legal opinion and entertained questions including whether Westchester County has the authority to require certain language to be included in the tax bill.
Chairwoman Stewart-Cousins later welcomed Joann Vasi, Westchester County Receiver of Taxes, Virginia Bulzachelli, District Director from Lewisboro, and Karen Roach. The three presented a letter to the Board of Legislators of their concerns with regard to the proposed amendment to § 283.301 of the Westchester County Charter. Concerns included formatting and a possible need to increase the size of local tax bills.
The committee revisited questions on the necessity of itemization while some members suggested itemization be enclosed in the bill if done at all. Discussions also included the cost of itemizing and the accuracy of some projected costs slated to be itemized.
Larry Schwartz advised that the County Executive had a meeting pending with the Executive Committee of the Westchester County Receiver of Taxes Association where he will discuss proposed changes.
Chair Stewart-Cousins suggested that the legislation be commented upon by the public and entertained a motion by Leg. Rogowsky and seconded by Leg. Ryan to set a public hearing.
All in favor: 5-1 (Oros Opposed)
The next item of discussion was Predatory Lending legislation.
There were concerns raised that a new state law might already cover our proposed legislation. If, indeed, our legislation was unique, it was agreed that it should reiterate what the State has already passed. The County Attorney’s office will return with the comparisons and create inclusive language in our pending legislation.
Chairwoman Stewart-Cousins accepted a motion to adjourn by Leg. Abinanti seconded by Leg. Bronz.
Meeting was adjourned at 1:32 pm