MINUTES
SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON
PARKS AND RECREATION
Monday, April 24, 2000
3:00 P.M.
PRESENT: Chair: V. Pinto. Members: B. Spreckman, B. Ryan.
LEGISLATORS: G. Oros, K. Carsky
STAFF: Tara Bernard; Charlotte Ryer
ALSO PRESENT: Dave DeLucia (Parks Dept.); Ingrid Bent (CE’s Ofc.).
Chair Pinto called the meeting to order at 3:15 p.m. The minutes of April 10th were reviewed and amended and, on the motion of Legislator Ryan, seconded by Legislator Spreckman, carried 3-0 and approved as amended.
The Blue Mountain Sportsman’s Center was next for discussion. Chair Pinto referred to the correspondence from Louis M. Russo requesting that Legislator Oros consider the Sportsman’s Club as an added attraction to NY State by proposing various changes to enhance the rifle range and surrounding areas, as well as upgrading the facility in general.
While waiting for Legislator Oros to join the meeting, several issues to be discussed in the near future were updated. The issue of long distance swimming in the Long Island Sound will be discussed in a community meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 23rd, at the Larchmont Village Center, at 7:30 p.m. A letter will be sent to invite the various interested parties, and “shore” officials. Chair noted that he and Legislator Carsky walked along the (north of Scarsdale train station) area of Edgemont footbridge, which had been washed out during the fall. He added that in response, Pipeline Road will be closed only while the bridge is put in place. He also mentioned that he received a call from an Eastchester
resident in regard to dirt and debris in the Bronx River and advised her to forward her concern, in writing, to the Committee. Chair stated that he discussed this issue with Commissioner Sal DeSantis, who assured him that there is (FEMA) money (which will be used to hire a work crew) to start at the County Center and proceed south, to clean up the Bronx River. The Bronx River bicycle trail, Harney Road Bridge and surrounding parkland areas are also being considered for future meetings to discuss alternatives.
In regards to golf issues, Chair Pinto referred to a memo from Legislator Maisano requesting a resolution to restore “Friday” as a regular weekday for golfers. Legislator Maisano stated that there wasn’t enough notice given, and that the issue was not fully investigated. Chair Pinto emphasized that as Parks’ liaison, copies of all changes were reviewed by both the Parks Committee, and each legislator. He noted that there were discussions at the Parks Board and at Parks’ subcommittee meetings regarding renovations and other changes. Chair also noted that the Parks Board voted not to change the rates on “Friday”, if there were to be a change it should have been done during the budget process. During a Parks’ committee meeting, Chair Pinto made a suggestion to look for “promotional Fridays” to reduce the rates periodically. He added that to change the rate on Friday, permanently, would have an impact on the County Budget at this time.
Legislator Oros joined the committee and gave a brief background on Mr. Russo’s letter and expressed that he would like for Mr. Russo to attend a Parks’ committee meeting to clarify the proposed issues for upgrading the Sportsman’s center. Legislator Oros added that the main concern of the residents is that moneys have been set aside to move forward with the proposal. Mr. DeLucia noted that the lead from the spent shells has been a continuing problem on the rifle range. Legislator Oros asked the committee to write a letter in response to Mr. Russo’s concerns and suggestions.
Legislator Ryan mentioned that both his constituents and those of Legislator Swanson, who use Kensico Dam Plaza for walking and other recreational uses, have complained about dogs being walked and allowed to run in the park. Constituents have asked that signs be placed along the pathways reminding dog owners to clean up after their pet. Mr. DeLucia said that signs would be placed in the park.
With no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 4:07 p.m. on the motion of Legislator Spreckman, seconded by Legislator Ryan, with all in favor. The next scheduled meeting is May 8th, at 3:30 p.m.