MINUTES: New Rochelle City Council Meeting 5/9/23

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (May 13, 2023) — The New Rochelle City Council met on Tuesday, May 9, 2023. The meeting was open to the public and streamed live on the city’s website

Committee of the Whole Meeting

The COW began with presentations from the superintendent of schools and the architects of the transit center redesign project.

City School District of New Rochelle

Corey W. Reynolds, Ed.D., who will succeed Jonathan P. Raymond as the superintendent of schools on July 1, 2023, was introduced to the City Council by New Rochelle Schools Superintendent Jonathan P. Raymond. Dr. Reynolds said he looked forward to a partnership with the city that would benefit students and families.

Mr. Raymond then reviewed the proposed school budget for 2023-2024, which included a 2.5 percent increase in spending and a 1.9 percent increase in tax levy. He highlighted some of the achievements and challenges of the district, such as the expansion of Columbus School, the flood mitigation at Barnard School, the vocational opportunities for students and the changing demographics.

The council members expressed their appreciation and compliments to Mr. Raymond and Dr. Reynolds, and asked questions about various aspects of the budget and the district’s programs and plans.

FX Collaborative

The second presentation was from Jack Robbins and John Schuyler of FX Collaborative, the architects hired by the city to redesign the transit center. They explained the objectives and issues of the project, which aimed to improve the signage, access and entrances of the facility, as well as to create a more welcoming and attractive public space.

They showed some preliminary sketches and renderings of their ideas.

New Rochelle Unveils Plans for Transit Center Redesign

The council members gave their feedback and suggestions on the design concepts, and asked about the timeline, budget and feasibility of the project.

Resolutions Approved

New Deputy Commissioner of Development Position

The council unanimously approved the creation of a new Deputy Commissioner position within the Department of Development. The council adopted the ordinance creating a new Deputy Commissioner position within the Department of Development and amending the 2023 budget accordingly. The new position will assist the Commissioner of Development in overseeing and managing the department’s functions and projects, such as planning, zoning, building, housing, economic development and environmental sustainability.

The council had previously discussed the new position in an executive session. The salary and qualifications for the position were not disclosed.

Train Station/Transit Center Redesign

The council also accepted the bid and authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with FX Collaborative, a design firm based in New York City, for the redesign of the New Rochelle Train Station/Transit Center. The firm was selected through a request for proposals process (RFP-NR-5508) that attracted 11 submissions.

The redesign project aims to transform the train station and its surrounding area into a modern and attractive transit hub that will serve as a gateway to the city and enhance its connectivity and mobility. The project will include improvements to the station’s architecture, accessibility, amenities, security and sustainability.

The cost and timeline of the project were not disclosed.

Local Sales Tax

The council also adopted a resolution authorizing a home rule request for the extension of the local sales and compensating use tax until December 31, 2026. The tax rate is currently 8.375 percent, which includes 4 percent state tax, 3 percent county tax and 1.375 percent city tax. The city tax generates about $40 million in revenue annually for the city.

Annual Stormwater Report 2022

The council also moved a resolution authorizing the City Manager to approve the annual stormwater report for year 2022 to the consent agenda. The report details the city’s compliance with the state’s stormwater management regulations and its efforts to reduce stormwater pollution and runoff. The report will be submitted to the state Department of Environmental Conservation by June 1, 2023.

Beechmont Plaque Reinstallation

The council adopted an ordinance accepting the bid of Peduto Construction Corp., a company based in New Rochelle, for the Beechmont plaque reinstallation project. The project involves restoring and reinstalling a historic plaque that commemorates the founding of Beechmont, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city.

The plaque was originally installed in 1911 at the intersection of North Avenue and Beechmont Drive, but was removed in 2019 due to road construction. The project will relocate the plaque to a more visible and accessible location at the entrance of Beechmont Lake Park.

The project will cost $25,000, which will be appropriated from the city’s capital budget.

Parking Regulation Changes

The council held two ordinances for parking regulation changes on Ashland Street and Beattie Lane. The ordinances were proposed to address the parking needs of residents and visitors in those areas.

The first ordinance would amend Section 312-83 of the city code to prohibit parking at all times on both sides of Ashland Street, from North Avenue to Union Avenue. The second ordinance would amend Section 312-91 of the city code to designate a handicapped parking space in front of 41 Beattie Lane.

The council decided to hold the ordinances until the next meeting on May 16, 2023, to allow for further review and discussion. Council Member Albert A. Tarantino Jr., who represents District 2 where both streets are located, asked questions about the survey process and the feedback from the neighbors regarding the proposed changes.

He also noted that any handicapped parking space is not exclusive to any individual, but accessible to anyone who has a valid permit. He said that it is customary to consult with the district council member before proposing any changes in their district.

Wilfredo Melendez, Commissioner of Public Works, said that his department followed the required process and that the neighbors were in agreement with the proposed changes. He said that his department would work with Council Member Tarantino to address any concerns or issues.

Ward Acres Park Grant Application

The council adopted a resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Long Island Sound Futures Fund to implement a resilience and adaptation plan for Ward Acres Park and to provide matching funds therefor.

Ward Acres Park is a 62-acre park located in the northwestern part of the city. It features trails, woodlands, wetlands, meadows and a community garden. The park is also home to various wildlife species, including birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians.

The grant application seeks to obtain funds to develop and implement a plan that will enhance the park’s ecological functions and resilience to climate change impacts, such as flooding, erosion and invasive species. The plan will also aim to improve public access, education and stewardship of the park.

Vincent Parise, Commissioner of Parks and Recreation, explained that the city was encouraged to submit the grant application at this time without additional cost to the city. He said that the grant amount is $100,000, with a 50 percent match requirement from the city. He said that the city will use existing funds from its capital budget and in-kind services from its staff and volunteers to meet the match requirement.

The grant application deadline is June 30, 2023. The grant awards will be announced in November 2023.

Consent Agenda

The consent agenda is a list of items that are considered routine and non-controversial by the council and are voted on as a package without discussion. The council will vote on the consent agenda at the next meeting on May 16, 2023.

The council moved the following resolutions to the consent agenda:

• A resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute agreements relative to hydrodynamic storm separator manholes to be located within the public right-of-way. The manholes are devices that remove pollutants from stormwater runoff before it enters the sewer system or water bodies.
• A resolution accepting the lowest dollar bid from Bib Services Corp. for the 2023 sidewalk improvements at various locations funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). The CDBG is a federal program that provides funds for housing and community development projects that benefit low- and moderate-income residents.
• A resolution accepting the lowest dollar bid from Laura Li Industries, LLC. for the citywide paving improvements for year 2023. The paving contract includes a list of streets that will be resurfaced or reconstructed as part of the city’s infrastructure maintenance program.
• A resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with Access Equestrian, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides therapeutic riding and horsemanship programs for people with disabilities and special needs. The contract is for a summer equestrian vocational program for special needs youth aged 14 to 21. The program will offer the youth an opportunity to learn about horse care, grooming, feeding, tack and equipment, barn management and safety. The program will also help the youth develop life skills, such as communication, teamwork, responsibility and confidence. The program will run for six weeks from July 10 to August 18, 2023, at the Twin Lakes Farm in Eastchester. The program will serve 12 youth per week, for a total of 72 youth. The cost of the program is $36,000, which will be funded by the city’s Youth Bureau. Kathleen E. Gill, Esq., City Manager, and Kelly Johnson, Executive Director of the Youth Bureau, explained that the new program is available for special needs youth who are interested in equestrian activities and careers. They said that the program will provide a unique and enriching experience for the youth and complement the existing summer programs offered by the city.
  

Mayor Bramson left the meeting

Mayor Bramson announced his absence for the RLM at 7:00 pm due to a family obligation before the council went into an executive session to discuss one matter of property and one matter of real estate. He said that Council Member Albert A. Tarantino Jr., Deputy Mayor, would preside at the meeting.

Council Members Lopez, Tarantino, Ramos Herbert, Hyden, Kaye, Fried, and Mayor Bramson unanimously moved and seconded the motion to go into executive session and approved it.

The COW meeting adjourned at 4:15 PM.

The council meeting resumed at 6:45 P.M. with Deputy Mayor Tarantino in charge. The agenda included public hearings on eminent domain proceedings, discussion items on electric scooters and tax amnesty program, CBTH, and resolutions on various city affairs.

Discussion Items

Electric Scooters

The discussion was requested by Council Member Albert A. Tarantino Jr.

Council Member Tarantino said he observed and received complaints about scooters being left in the middle of walkways, rolling down hills, and driving in the wrong direction on one-way streets. He said he was concerned about the liability and nuisance issues caused by the scooters, and suggested that safety measures should be in place.

Adam Salgado, Deputy City Manager/Commissioner of Development, explained that there are accountability mechanisms in the software of the scooters. He said that the owners of the scooters, Veo Ride, can track and relocate the scooters if they are improperly parked or abandoned. He also said that Veo Ride can issue fines or suspend users who violate the rules.

However, he acknowledged that reorganization is needed to address the problems. He said that Veo Ride is working on improving its customer service and communication with the city.

Council Member Martha Lopez spoke of scooters being illegally used by underage individuals on Union and Washington Avenues. She said she witnessed some near-accidents involving scooters and pedestrians.

Robert Gazzola, Police Commissioner, said that enforcing the scooter rules is a difficult situation with limited resources. He said that the city’s liability is a concern, and that education programs are needed to inform the public about the proper use of scooters.

It was agreed that Deputy City Manager Salgado would communicate with Veo Ride to discuss problem solving.

Tax Amnesty Program

The City of New Rochelle also reported on the progress of its Tax Amnesty Program. The program allows property owners who owe back taxes to pay them without interest or penalties.

Edward Ritter, Commissioner of Finance, said that the program has helped 187 families and collected more than $1.2 million in back taxes. He also said that more than $300,000 in interest and penalties has been forgiven.

The program will end on June 30, 2023.

Public Hearings

The City of New Rochelle held two public hearings, to discuss the proposed initiation of eminent domain proceedings for two properties in the city. The hearings were presided over by Deputy Mayor Albert A. Tarantino Jr., who filled in for Mayor Noam Bramson who had a family obligation.

Eminent Domain Procedure Law

Eminent domain is the power of the government to take private property for public use, with just compensation to the property owners. In New York State, the Eminent Domain Procedure Law (EDPL) outlines the steps necessary for a governmental entity to condemn any part of private real property through the power of eminent domain².

The EDPL requires the governmental agency to undergo an extensive engineering process, which includes planning and design phases, before acquiring any property. The agency must also hold a public hearing to determine the need and location of the public project prior to acquisition². The agency must also offer and negotiate with the property owners, and provide them with an opportunity to challenge the acquisition in court².

Acquisition Site at 625 North Avenue

The first public hearing was about the proposed acquisition of a site at 625 North Avenue (Section 3, Block 998, Lots 17, 19 and 23) for public use. The site consists of three parcels of land totaling about 0.6 acres, located at the corner of North Avenue and Garden Street. The site is currently occupied by a gas station, a car wash and a vacant lot.

The City of New Rochelle plans to acquire the site for the purpose of constructing a mixed-use development that would include affordable housing units, retail space and parking facilities. The project is part of the city’s downtown revitalization plan that aims to create more housing options, economic opportunities and public amenities for the residents.

The city was represented by Jonathan D. Kraut, Esq., an attorney from Purchase, New York. He explained the rationale and benefits of the project, and presented an appraisal report that estimated the fair market value of the site at $2.4 million.

Three speakers opposed the acquisition: Thomas Terminelle, Anthony Marciano and Philip J. Patouhas. They are all owners or operators of businesses on or near the site. They argued that the project would cause them financial hardship, disrupt their livelihoods and reduce their property values. They also questioned the public use and necessity of the project, and challenged the validity and accuracy of the appraisal report.

Acquisition Site at 662 Main Street

The second public hearing was about the proposed acquisition of a site at 662 Main Street (Section 2, Block 460, Lot 46) for public use. The site consists of one parcel of land totaling about 0.1 acres, located at the corner of Main Street and Echo Avenue. The site is currently occupied by a two-story commercial building.

The City of New Rochelle plans to acquire the site for the purpose of constructing a public park that would serve as a gateway to the downtown area. The park would feature landscaping, seating areas and public art. The project is also part of the city’s downtown revitalization plan that aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal and quality of life in the city.

The city was represented by Jonathan D. Kraut, Esq., who also represented the city in the first hearing. He explained the rationale and benefits of the project, and presented an appraisal report that estimated the fair market value of the site at $1 million.

No speakers opposed or supported the acquisition.

Next Steps

The public hearings were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts will be part of the minutes of the meeting. The proposed legislation for initiating eminent domain proceedings was ordered held until further notice.

Written comments relative to both public hearings may be submitted prior to the Committee of the Whole Session on Tuesday, July 11, 2023.

Citizens to be Heard

The City Council opened the floor for Citizens to be Heard, where anyone can sign up to speak for up to three minutes on any topic of their choice. However, only one citizen speaker showed up at the meeting.

Marybeth Sullivan, a resident of Mamaroneck Avenue in White Plains, spoke about her concerns over the proposed acquisition of a site at 625 North Avenue by the city for a mixed-use development project. She said that she owns a property near the site and that she fears the project would negatively affect her property value and quality of life.

She also questioned the public use and necessity of the project, and challenged the validity and accuracy of the appraisal report that estimated the fair market value of the site at $2.4 million. She urged the council to reconsider the project and to listen to the voices of the property owners and businesses affected by it.

The council did not respond to Sullivan’s comments or ask her any questions. Deputy Mayor Tarantino thanked her for her input and said that the council would take it into consideration.

As no other speakers signed up for the citizens to be heard section, the council then proceeded to adjourn the meeting at 7:30 P.M., after a brief discussion on some resolutions on city affairs.

Upcoming Meetings

The council also announced the dates of its upcoming meetings:

• May regular legislative meeting: Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at 6:15 P.M.
• June committee of the whole session: Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 3:45 P.M.
• June regular legislative meeting: Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at 6:15 P.M.
  

Source: Conversation with Bing, 5/13/2023 and Minutes from City Council meetings on 5/9/23.