MINUTES
SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON PARKS,
3:30 P.M.
PRESENT: Chair: V. Pinto. Members: B. Spreckman; B. Ryan;
G. Latimer.
LEGISLATORS: L. Bronz; K. Carsky; U. LaMotte.
STAFF: Tara Bernard; Charlotte Ryer
ALSO PRESENT: Joseph Montalto (Playland); Norma Drummond, Paul Gisondo (Plng. Dept.); Bill Randolph, Ingrid Bent (CE’s Ofc.); Bickford Henchey (Playland Citz. Ice Rink Imprv.); Marc Nelson (Nelson Ice Devel.); Larry Wilson (WC/Parks Board).
Chair Pinto called the meeting to order at 3:35 p.m. He noted that he received correspondence from Legislator Ursula LaMotte, with regard to the Chairman of the Bedford Planning Board, requesting to discuss the possibility of establishing a walkway/bike path from northeast Katonah, to the downtown area.
Paul Gisondo began the discussion, noting that Route 22 (the abandoned railway in Katonah) is slated for expansion and improvement to develop the path. He proceeded with his presentation while showing a map of about 250-miles of existing trails, proposed trails and bicycle routes along roadways. Mr. Gisondo expressed that these trails should have connections or accommodations to facilitate north-south and east-west connections, between parks, hamlets and centers. He added, that the subject of the correspondence to Legislator LaMotte was to construct a pathway (about 1,000-ft. long) on the north side of Jay Street, which is a County road.
Chair Pinto questioned if capital projects or parks funds are available for the project. Norma Drummond noted that the Town has
made a commitment to use some of its cash toward the project, after the various existing projects have been bided, there may be available CDBG funds left to add to the existing moneys for project completions. After reviewing a map of the area, Legislator LaMotte questioned the status of the original right-of-way idea, noting that the original route is an old roadway with a right-of-way. This would make a safer and more attractive pedestrian walkway than the proposed plan.
Next, Chair Pinto introduced Marc Nelson to discuss ice rink development and improvements. Mr. Nelson gave a brief background and description of his more than 50-years of experience as a general consultant and independent contractor to the ice skating industry
The minutes of April 24th were reviewed and amended and, on the motion of Legislator Ryan, seconded by Legislator Spreckman, carried 3-0 and approved as amended.
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.