SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON PARKS & RECREATION

MINUTES

MAY 13, 2002

MEMBERS:  MOSIELLO, SPRECKMAN, ALVARADO

LEGISLATORS:  WISHNIE, KAPLOWITZ

STAFF:  ETTERE, NEGLIA & BOLAND

OTHERS:  JOE MONTALTO (PLAYLAND); BILL RANDOLPH (CE OFFICE); KEITH EDDINGS (JOURNAL NEWS); EDNA SUSSMAN (NYLCV)

The meeting was called to order at 1:10 p.m.

Legislator Wishnie (Chair, Committee on Budget & Appropriations) referred Capital Project RPO35 to the Special Committee on Parks & Recreation and asked that the Committee discuss and review the request.  RPO35 is a request for bonding authorization in the amount of $250K to finance development of a comprehensive master plan for Playland Park and the Edith Read Nature Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in the City of Rye. 

Joe Montalto (Director, Playland) informed the Members that developing a Master Plan is a project that has been contemplated for a long time by all involved (Playland, the Administration and BOL).

Legislator Kaplowitz articulated some concerns which included satisfying the SEQR as it states, “…. solicit input on the park from its staff and maintenance personnel, patrons, advisory boards, and operators of similar facilities…”  Therefore, he requested that the Administration solicit such input before the BOL approves the request.

A lengthy discussion was held.  Legislator Mosiello suggested that the Special Committee on Parks & Recreation hold public hearings to solicit such input.  Mr. Montalto had no objections but asked that the hearings be held as soon as possible.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:59 p.m.