MINUTES
SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON
PARKS AND RECREATION
Monday, March 13, 2000
3:30 P.M.
PRESENT: Chair: V. Pinto. Members: B. Ryan, B. Spreckman.
STAFF: Charlotte Ryer
ALSO PRESENT: Ingrid Bent (CE’s Ofc.); Ann Cohen (CWCWC); Irene Saltzurg (Friends/Marshlands); Michael Bochnik (Hudson River Audubon Soc.).
Chair called the meeting to order at 3:05 p.m. The Committee Blueprint was adopted as amended, with recognition by Chair Pinto that Playland had been added. The motion was moved by Legislator Spreckman, seconded by Legislator Ryan, and carried 3-0. Chair also noted that the three field committee meetings should be established by the end of March or early April, as to when and where they are to be held. It was also noted that inquiries for a facility for the safe use of ATV’s and skateboards has recently been expressed by County residents. Chair Pinto stated that, at this time, there is no planned action by the Park’s Board, but the Committee will bring the issue to their attention.
The minutes of February 28th were reviewed and moved on the motion of Legislator Spreckman, seconded by Legislator Ryan, and carried 3-0.
Next, the Committee discussed and updated the status of Merritt Hill and the proposed site for the Revolutionary War battlefield landmark sign. Legislator Ryan noted that, the area is recognized by the State and County as a historic site. A West Harrison resident, Dr. Alex Funicello, has personally paid for a sign, explaining the history of Merritt Hill, that he wishes to donate to the County. The paperwork is being processed for the County BOL to accept the sign as a gift.
MINUTES
Chair Pinto noted that this issue is held over until next week, pending an agreement of action from the Parks Department.
A proposal to locate a boat launch at Playland was discussed next. Legislator Ryan stated that the County’s Capital Budget includes money for the study and planning of a boat launch at Playland Park. Study is scheduled for 4-5 years down the road. He explained that County residents have expressed to several Board members, the need for the County to provide boaters with additional access to the Long Island Sound and that Playland Park could be such a site. Mr. Ryan asked that the Commissioner of Parks and staff be asked to attend our next meeting to discuss this proposal.
Chair noted that the Parks budget has not grown in 20 years, and more money has been requested for additional employee assistance. He also expressed that he will advise on the schedule of the Parks Board local meetings, so local residents have the opportunity to attend.
Next for discussion is the County Park known as Scout Field. Chair noted that this park is located on three county properties, Yonkers, Bronxville and Mount Vernon. The IMA has been entered for the County to continue the operation and maintenance of the facility, with a five-year option to renew at the sole discretion of the County. After a brief discussion, the IMA was accepted and moved on the motion of Legislator Ryan, seconded by Legislator Spreckman, and carried 3-0. Chair Pinto noted that all County IMA lease agreements are being changed to a license agreement. The Committee also reviewed the Oscawana Park lease agreement, and agreed to accept as a license agreement, which was moved on the motion of Legislator Spreckman, seconded by Legislator Ryan, and carried 3-0.
MINUTES
The upcoming meeting schedule was reviewed next, and appears on the Parks agenda at the bottom of the last page.
With no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 4:05 p.m.