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minutes 29 pages

Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson, NY, held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in the Georgianna Grant Meeting Room at the Stanley Kellerhouse Municipal Building, Van Wyck Street, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520. 1. Motion to enter into an Executive Session at 6:35pm to discuss matters of personnel involving specific individuals and the proposed acquisition, sale or lease of real property" was made by Trustee Simon. Motion was seconded by Trustee Nicholson and approved with a 5-0 vote. 2. Motion was made by Trustee Simon to close the Executive Session at 6:56pm. Motion was seconded by Trustee Politi and approved with a 5-0 vote. 3. Mayor Pugh called the meeting to order at 7:00pm and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. 4. APPROVAL OF VOUCHERS Trustee Simon made a motion to approve the following Fiscal Year Vouchers, Claims numbered 24254278-24254453. The Motion was seconded by Trustee Nicholson and approved with a 5-0 Vote. $419,236.56 Water Fund $40,425.13 Sewer Fund $2,417.64 Capital Fund $46,985.59 5. PUBLIC HEARINGS: a. Motion to open a Public Hearing on the 2025-2026 Village Budget was made by Trustee Simon. Motion was seconded by Trustee Politi and approved with a 5-0 vote. Village Treasurer Tucker presented the 2025-2026 Village Budget; to view the Power Point presentation, you may click onto the following link: Village Attorney Joshua B. Subin Trustee Politi Village Treasurer Daniel Tucker Trustee Slippen Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 https://play.champds.com/ATT/crotononhudsonny/2025- 03/803e446b0f6dbfd901906de4cec209df3169a7d5.pdf To view the proposed 2025-26 detailed Budget, you may click onto the following link: https://www.crotononhudson-ny.gov/village-treasurer/pages/proposed- budget-fiscal-year-2025-2026 Village Manager Healy explained that the Tax Base Growth Factor is the number that is calculated through the State through a complex formula, but as we see new construction we should expect that number to rise slowly over the next couple of years and hopefully that will factor into allowing the Levy Limit to increase. Village Manager Healy also explained that the exclusions are primarily related to Retirement System expenses related to pensions and these are excluded from being calculated in the Levy Limit. Trustee Simon explained that by using our Fund Balance we are comfortably within the margin recommended by generally accepted accounting practices. Mayor Pugh stated that with the exception of the 20/21 and 21/22 Budgets the Village has returned funds back to the Fund Balance. COMMENTS: Michael Mamone, 19 Young Avenue, Croton on Hudson, stated that it was unnecessary to repave Oneida and Olcott Avenues, opposes plans to repave Cleveland Drive, does not feel that we need a Deputy Treasurer, believes that the Gouveia property is fine the way it is and objects to spending any funds on that property, and expressed his concerns that in the future we will be losing funding from the State and Federal government. Ed Riely, 110 Truesdale Drive, Croton on Hudson, thanked Treasurer Tucker for his service and wished him well on his new job, commended the Village Board on the 25/26 Budget, the Board and Administration have done a good job with our finances and debt reduction, asked where the income from the solar panels are reflected in the Budget, recommended not moving the Recreation Department to Gouveia, Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 objects to the sale of Village property and emphasized that this should be put up for a referendum. There being no further comments to come before the Board, a motion to close the Public Hearing was made by Trustee Simon. Motion was seconded by Trustee Nicholson and approved with a 5-0 vote. COMMENTS: Village Manager Healy advised that the Solar Canopy Revenue is included in the Non-Tax Revenues, it is budgeted at $485,759 which is the full amount that was agreed upon, and we have been receiving payments monthly since December. Mayor Pugh stated that the Village is not using the sale of Village property to balance the Budget, we are either adding it to the Reserves or to fund a Capital Program to avoid borrowing. Mayor Pugh emphasized that by selling Village property we put that property back on the Tax Roll which adds to our tax base. Village Attorney Stubin advised that the sale of Village property does not require a Referendum. b. Motion to open a Public Hearing on Local Law Introductory No. 3 of 2025 to amend Chapter 116, Environmental Review, of the Village Code to update the list of additional Type II actions was made by Trustee Simon. Motion was seconded by Trustee Politi and approved with a 5-0 vote. Village Attorney Stubin stated that under New York State Law, any act is reviewed under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), and Type II lists are areas where no further compliance is needed, the Village is allowed to amend their own list, and we are taking areas that do not affect the environment and including them in our Type II list, the balance of the Local Law is just reshuffling pre- existing Type II lists into one consolidated list so that it is easier to find when you are looking at the Code. Gary Eisinger, 210 Cleveland Drive, Croton on Hudson, stated that he believes there is an error in the law and believes that the Village Board should be greater than 4,000 square feet, and the Planning Board should be given smaller projects of less than 4,000 square feet. Mr. March 26, 2025 Eisinger stated that he thought the intent was that the Village was going to retain Special Permitting for larger projects and the Planning Board would review smaller projects. Mayor Pugh stated that this Local Law is not about reassigning Special Permits to the Planning Board, but rather what is considered a Type II Action for SEQRA purposes, the Village Board has Special Permit authority and the Planning Board has Site Plan Approval authority and this will have to be updated if we reassign some of that responsibility to the Planning Board. 6. LWRP Consistency Review and EAF Part II Review for Local Law Introductory No. 3 of 2025 amending Chapter 116, Environmental Review of the Village Code to update the list of additional Type II Action. No, or small impact may occur Moderate to large impact may occur 1. Will the proposed action create a material conflict with an adopted land use plan or zoning Regulations? √ 2. Will the proposed action result in a change in the use or intensity of use of land? √ 3. Will the proposed action impair the character or quality of the existing community? √ 4. Will the proposed action have an impact on the environmental characteristics that caused the establishment of a Critical Environmental Area (CEA)? √ 5. Will the proposed action result in an adverse change in the existing level of traffic or affect existing infrastructure for mass transit, biking or walkway? . √ 6. Will the proposed action cause an increase in the use of energy and it fails to incorporate reasonably available energy conservation or renewable energy opportunities? √ 7. Will the proposed action impact existing: √ √ 8. Will the proposed action impair the character or quality of important historic, archaeological, architectural or aesthetic resources? √ Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 9. Will the proposed action result in an adverse change to natural resources (e.g., wetlands, waterbodies, groundwater, air quality, flora and fauna)? √ 10. Will the proposed action result in an increase in the potential for erosion, flooding or drainage problems? √ 11. Will the proposed action create a hazard to environmental resources or human health? √ 7. Yes/No Consistent Yes/No Applicable Yes/No Consistent Yes/No Comments Restore, revitalize, and redevelop deteriorated and underutilized waterfront areas for commercial, industrial, cultural, recreational and other compatible uses. No 1A Encourage integrated development of Village property to assure fulfillment of requirements relating to parking and accessory uses of Metro-North train station, while facilitating public access to the bay area and recreational use. No 1B Encourage restoration of deteriorating structures related to railroad use and assure appropriate maintenance and screening to reduce visual impact. No 1C Encourage the appropriate re-use of the old sewage treatment plant site at the intersection of Route 9A and Municipal Place. No Facilitate the siting of water dependent uses and facilities on or adjacent to coastal waters. No 2A Encourage water-enhanced commercial uses where such uses complement water dependent uses and do not result in displacement of such uses. No Further develop the State’s existing major ports of Albany, Buffalo, New York, Ogdensburg and Oswego as centers of commerce and industry, and encourage the siting, in these port areas, including those under the jurisdiction of State public authorities, of land use and development which is essential to, or in support of, waterborne transportation of cargo and people. No Strengthen the economic base of smaller harbor areas by encouraging the development and enhancement of those traditional uses and activities which have No Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 provided such areas with their unique maritime identity. essential to such development are adequate. No 5A When feasible, development within the Village should be directed within the current service area of existing water and sewer facilities or in close proximity to areas where distribution lines currently exist. No Expedite permit procedures in order to facilitate the siting of development activities at suitable locations Yes Yes Yes Yes Board Concurred 6A To expedite permit procedures, the Village shall coordinate all relevant local laws into a development package for applicants and/or make all local laws available to applicants proposing development activities. No FISH & WILDLIFE POLICIES Significant coastal fish and wildlife habitats will be protected, preserved, and, where practical, restored so as to maintain their viability as habitats. No 7A The quality of the Croton River and Bay Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitat and Haverstraw Bay Significant Fish and Wildlife Habitat shall be protected and improved for conservation, economic, aesthetic, recreational, and other public uses and values. Its resources shall be protected from the threat of pollution, misuse, and mismanagement. No 7B Materials that can degrade water quality and degrade or destroy the ecological system of the Croton River and Bay Significant Fish and Wildlife Habitat and the Haverstraw Bay Significant Fish and Wildlife Habitat shall not be disposed of or allowed to drain in, or on land within, the area of influence in the significant fish and wildlife habitats. No 7C Storage of materials that can degrade water quality and degrade or destroy the ecological system of the Croton River and Bay Significant Fish and Wildlife Habitat or Haverstraw Bay Significant Fish and Wildlife Habitat shall not be permitted within the area of influence of the habitat unless best available technology is used to prevent adverse impacts to the habitat. No 7D Restoration of degraded ecological elements of the Croton River and Bay and Haverstraw Bay Significant Fish and No Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 Wildlife Habitats and shorelands shall be included in any programs for cleanup of any adjacent toxic and hazardous waste site 7E Runoff from public and private parking lots and from storm sewer overflows shall be effectively managed so as to prevent oil, grease, and other contaminants from polluting surface and ground water and impact to the significant fish and wildlife habitats. No 7F Construction activity of any kind must not cause a measurable increase in erosion or flooding at the site of such activity, or impact other locations. activity in the Croton River and Hudson River spawning areas shall be timed so that spawning of anadromous fish species and shellfish will not be adversely affected. No 7G Construction activity of any kind must not cause significant degradation of water quality or impact identified significant fish and wildlife habitats. No 7H Habitat-related policies identified in the Indian Brook-Croton Gorge Watershed Conservation Action Plan will be considered in actions proposed for these areas (see Appendix C). No Protect fish and wildlife resources in the coastal area from the introduction of hazardous waste and other pollutants which bio-accumulate in the food chain, or which cause significant sub-lethal or lethal effects on those resources. No Expand recreational use of fish and wildlife resources in coastal areas by increasing access to existing resources, supplementing existing stocks, and developing new. No 9A Ensure continued recreational use and public access to the rivers through Village owned land adjacent to the railroad parking lot, at Croton Point Park, at Senasqua and Croton Landing Parks, along the Croton River, and at the Croton Yacht Club. Efforts should be made to increase opportunities for public access and enjoyment in these areas. No 9B Encourage passive recreational enjoyment of the wildlife in the designated significant fish and wildlife habitats, on the Audubon Society sanctuaries, Jane Lytle Arboretum, Gouveia Park and on other public or private lands within the Village where wildlife habitats are located, as well as the protection of such resources. No Further develop commercial finfish, No Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 shellfish and crustacean resources in the coastal area by encouraging the construction of new, or improvement of existing onshore commercial fishing facilities, increasing marketing of the State's seafood products, maintaining adequate stocks and expanding aquaculture facilities. Buildings and other structures will be sited in the coastal area so as to minimize damage to property and the endangering of human lives caused by flooding and erosion. No Activities or development in the coastal area will be undertaken so as to minimize damage to natural resources and property from flooding and erosion by protecting natural protective features including beaches, dunes, barrier islands and bluffs. No 12A Every effort should be made to protect Croton Point, a natural protective barrier to Croton Bay from activities or development that would increase erosion of or flooding of the point. No The construction or reconstruction of erosion protection structures shall be undertaken only if they have a reasonable probability of controlling erosion for at least thirty years as demonstrated in design and construction standards and/or assured maintenance or replacement programs. No Activities and development, including the construction or reconstruction of erosion protection structures, shall be undertaken so that there will be no measurable increase in erosion or flooding at the site of such activities or development, or at other locations. No Mining, excavation or dredging in coastal waters shall not significantly interfere with the natural coastal processes which supply beach materials to land adjacent to such waters and shall be undertaken in a manner which will not cause an increase in erosion of such land. No Public funds shall only be used for erosion protective structures where necessary to protect human life, and new development which requires a location within or adjacent to an erosion hazard area to be able to function, or existing development; and only where the public benefits outweigh the long term monetary and No Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 other costs including the potential for increasing erosion and adverse effects on natural protective features. Non-structural measures to minimize damage to natural resources and property from flooding and erosion shall be used whenever possible. No 17A Efforts to control erosion along the rivers and on the steep slopes inland shall be of a non-structural nature, wherever possible, to minimize the visual impact of structural measures. No To safeguard the vital economic, social and environmental interests of the State and of its citizens, proposed major actions in the coastal area must give full consideration to those interests, and to the safeguards which the State has established to protect valuable coastal resource areas No PUBLIC ACCESS POLICIES Protect, maintain, and increase the level and types of access to public water- related recreation resources and facilities No 19A Encourage the linkage of open space from upland areas to and along the Hudson and Croton Rivers in the form of a trail or walkway system. No 19B Increase public access to areas that offer physical and visual connections to the Hudson River or Croton River and Bay. No 19C Encourage the improvement of public transportation, when feasible, where water dependent and water-enhanced recreation activities are located. No 19D Improve and maintain access to Croton River and Bay at the Village-owned Echo Canoe Launch south of the Village parking lots at the Croton-Harmon Station No Access to the publicly owned foreshore and to lands immediately adjacent to the foreshore or the water's edge that are publicly owned shall be provided and it should be provided in a manner compatible with adjoining uses. related recreation resources and facilities. No Water dependent and water enhanced recreation will be encouraged and facilitated and will be given priority over non-water related uses along the coast. No 21A Boating and fishing activities should be encouraged provided that they do not restrict other water-related recreational opportunities and are undertaken in a manner compatible with existing water- No Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 dependent uses. Development when located adjacent to the shore will provide for water-related recreation whenever such use is compatible with reasonably anticipated demand for such activities and is compatible with the primary purpose of the development. No HISTORIC AND SCENIC QUALITY POLICIES Protect, enhance and restore structures, districts, areas or sites that are of significance in the history, architecture, archaeology or culture of the State, its communities, or the Nation. No Prevent impairment of scenic resources of statewide significance. (The nearest scenic area of statewide significance (SASS) is the Bear Mountain Park subunit of the Hudson Highlands SASS which is north of the Village) No Protect, restore or enhance natural and man-made resources which are not identified as being of statewide significance, but which contribute to the overall scenic quality of the coastal area. No 25A Establish and protect identified public viewsheds of the Hudson River, including but not limited to the public views of the Hudson River from the western shoreline of the Village, and of the Croton River and Gorge. No ENERGY AND ICE MANAGEMENT POLICIES No Conserve and protect agricultural lands in the State’s coastal area. No Decisions on the siting and construction of major energy facilities in the coastal area will be based on public energy needs, compatibility of such facilities with the environment, and the facility's need for a shorefront location. No Ice management practices shall not interfere with the production of hydroelectric power, damage significant coastal fish and wildlife and their habitats, or increase shoreline erosion or flooding.. No The development of offshore uses and resources, including renewable energy resources, shall accommodate New York’s long-standing ocean and Great Lakes industries, such as commercial and recreational fishing and maritime commerce, and the ecological functions of No Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 habitats important to New York. Municipal, industrial, and commercial discharge of pollutants, including but not limited to, toxic and hazardous substances, into coastal waters will conform to State and National water quality standards. No 30A Existing rail services and transportation- related facilities shall not dispose of any regulated materials in coastal waters until all such regulated materials have been tested by the State for conformance with water quality standards. No State coastal area policies and management objectives of approved local waterfront revitalization programs will be considered while reviewing coastal water classifications and while modifying water quality standards; however, those waters already overburdened with contaminants will be recognized as being a development constraint. No Encourage the use of alternative or innovative sanitary waste systems in small communities where the costs of conventional facilities are unreasonably high, given the size of the existing tax base of these communities. No Best Management Practices will be used to ensure the control of stormwater runoff and combined sewer overflows draining into coastal waters. No 33A The flow of stormwater discharge shall be controlled to limit the flow of pollutants from street, and parking areas, etc. directly into the rivers and water bodies. No Discharge of waste materials into coastal waters from vessels subject to State jurisdiction will be limited so as to protect significant fish and wildlife habitats, recreational areas and water supply areas.. No 34A Moored structures or marine vessels shall not discharge ballast water or other releases into the waterway. No Dredging and filling in coastal waters and disposal of dredged material will be undertaken in a manner that meets existing State permit requirements, and protects significant fish and wildlife habitats, scenic resources, natural protective features, important agricultural lands, and wetlands. No Activities related to the shipment and storage of petroleum and other hazardous No Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 materials will be conducted in a manner that will prevent or at least minimize spills into coastal waters; all practicable efforts will be undertaken to expedite the cleanup of such discharges; and restitution for damages will be required when these spills occur. Best management practices will be utilized to minimize the non-point discharge of excess nutrients, organics and eroded soils into coastal waters. No 37A Control of the development of hilltops and steep slopes should be exerted in order to prevent erosion and minimize runoff and flooding from new construction. No The quality and quantity of surface water and ground water supplies will be conserved and protected, particularly where such waters constitute the primary or sole source of water supply. No The transport, storage, treatment and disposal of solid waste, particularly hazardous waste, within coastal areas will be conducted in such a manner so as to protect groundwater and surface water supplies, significant fish and wildlife habitats, recreation areas, important agricultural lands and scenic resources. No Effluent discharged from major steam electric generating and industrial facilities into coastal waters will not be unduly injurious to fish and wildlife and shall conform to State water quality standards.. No Land use or development in the coastal area will not cause national or State air quality standards to be violated. No Coastal management policies will be considered if the State reclassifies land areas pursuant to the prevention of significant deterioration regulations of the Federal Clean Air Act. No Land use or development in the coastal area must not cause the generation of significant amounts of acid rain precursors: nitrates and sulfates. No WETLAND POLICY Preserve and protect tidal and freshwater wetlands and preserve the benefits derived from these areas. No 44A Wetlands, water bodies and watercourses shall be protected by preventing damage from erosion or siltation, minimizing disturbance, preserving natural habitats and protecting against flood and pollution. No Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 8. RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS SUBMITTED BY EMAIL - none. 9. PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS Gary Eisinger, 210 Cleveland Drive, Croton on Hudson, asked for a clarification of the “Data Sheet” that was sent out regarding moving the Assessing functions to the Town of Cortlandt, when he looked at the numbers it appeared that the Tax Levy was being reduced by $132,000. Michael Mamone, 19 Young Avenue, Croton on Hudson, stated that he does not understand why we need to have two Treasurers and does not support moving the Assessing functions to the Town of Cortlandt and wants to keep it local. Ed Riely, 110 Truesdale Drive, Croton on Hudson, stated that the selection process for Maple Commons should have been open to the public, the Tree Law should apply to the Village as well as the State of New York and every other public entity that runs through the Village of Croton, Con-Edison is a publicly regulated utility and everything they do has to pass some State Regulator, we should have kept nuclear power which is the greenest power other than water power. Resolution Approving the Consent Agenda On motion by Trustee Simon and seconded by Trustee Nicholson the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson approved the Consent Agenda. Motion was approved with a 5-0 vote. 10.CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Email from Nancy W. Perry, Ph.D., Executive Director of the New York Planning Federation, announcing Adam Decker and Nance Shatzkin as recipients of the 2024 Levine Community Service Award. 03/ce9703ea744bac083566cf7e63d3d0af7315dda0.pdf 2. Email from Christine Drago, Croton-Harmon School District Athletic Director, requesting permission to hang banners for senior softball players at Firefighters Memorial Field. March 26, 2025 https://play.champds.com/ATT/crotononhudsonny/2025- 03/5dd256a24c5c1ad893faec593283e47316ca4883.pdf 3. Letter from Village Treasurer Daniel Tucker submitting his resignation, effective at the close of business on April 4, 2025. 03/ac3a978e8919e46c12270d55c2fe557d5f262174.pdf 4. Letter from the Justice Court Assistance Program announcing that the Village has been awarded a grant in the amount of $2,442.56 for a replacement metal detector. 03/0afb7c26f8d9c6b2614459a196109f7c387db6c3.pdf 5. Letter from Paul Rush, Deputy Commissioner, Bureau of Water Supply for New York City, regarding the Hydrilla Treatment Project at the New Croton Reservoir. 03/94f33fd165eab482e796aa719c2f9c27bed42623.pdf 6. Letter from the Arbor Day Foundation certifying the Village of Croton- on-Hudson as a 2024 Tree City USA. 03/3ae5ed5fff04397ca1b1e2a028348b428af0c9f1.pdf 7. Invitation to the Town of Cortlandt National Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony, which is to take place on March 29, 2025, at noon at the Harmon Firehouse. 03/2ecf86849604e32983f39d20a86f4d1de89b3749.pdf b. RESOLUTIONS: Resolution #56-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON and seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. March 26, 2025 WHEREAS the Volunteer Fire Department Length of Service Award Program was approved by referendum in 2003, and WHEREAS Article 11-A of the New York State General Municipal Law requires that the list of Fire Department members indicate those who earned a year of service credit during the calendar year, those that did not earn a year of credit, and those who waived participation must be certified under oath by the Fire Department, and WHEREAS once certified, this list must be approved by the Village Board and posted for 30 days, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village Board of Trustees hereby approves the list for 2024 and authorizes its posting for 30 days. Resolution #57-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS the Village Board of Trustees issued a special permit to WBP Development LLC for the construction of a 100-unit multifamily development at 1 Croton Point Avenue on December 18, 2024, and WHEREAS WBP Development LLC has continued to develop their plans as they go before the Village Planning Board for site plan approval, and WHEREAS WBP Development LLC has now filed an application with the Westchester County Dept. of Health in order to connect to the sanitary sewer main under Croton Point Avenue, and WHEREAS Westchester County is requiring the Village to sign off on the application as the present landowner of the parcel, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village Board of Trustees hereby authorize the Village Manager to execute the letter of authorization for the Westchester County Dept. of Health and any future paperwork related to this application. Resolution #58-2025 Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS the Croton-Harmon Union-Free School District has advised the Village that its school buildings, the customary location for the Recreation Department’s Summer Day Camp program, will not be available this summer for use, and WHEREAS Holy Name of Mary Church, located at 114 Grand Street, has agreed to grant a license for the use of their premises for the Village's summer day camp program for the period beginning July 1, 2025, through August 8, 2025, for a total payment of $5,800, and WHEREAS Holy Name of Mary has provided a license agreement delineating the terms and conditions, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village Board Trustees hereby authorizes the Village Manager to execute the license agreement with Holy Name of Mary Church for use of their premises for the Village’s summer day camp program. Resolution #59-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS the Village of Croton-on-Hudson desires to provide preventive, rehabilitative, and treatment services to its employees through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and WHEREAS Westchester County, through its Department of Community Mental Health, offers an EAP under the provisions of Articles 25 and 41 of the New York State Mental Hygiene Law, which includes various support services such as program consultation, staff development, program administration, maintenance, and client evaluation and referral, and WHEREAS on June 26, 2024, the Village Board adopted Resolution 138-2024 to join the Westchester County EAP through December 31, 2024, and WHEREAS Westchester County has provided a new intermunicipal agreement continuing the EAP through December 31, 2029, and Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 WHEREAS the total cost of these services is calculated based on the number of employees, resulting in a fee of $45 per employee per year, prorated for the year 2025 to $37.50 per employee, totaling $2,737.50 for the year 2025, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village Manager is hereby authorized to sign the intermunicipal agreement with Westchester County for the provision of Employee Assistance Program services for the period starting March 10, 2025, and ending on December 31, 2029. Resolution #60-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS the Croton Business Council is desirous of holding a “Wild West Hoedown” festival, an event which expects to have attendance of two thousand attendees, on a Village street, specifically Grand Street between Old Post Road South and Mount Airy Road, and WHEREAS the Village of Croton-on-Hudson has provided the Croton Business Council with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that delineates the respective rights and obligations of the parties and defines their relationship for the “Wild West Hoedown” event, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village Board of Trustees hereby authorizes the Village Manager to execute the Memorandum of Understanding with the Croton Business Council related to the “Wild West Hoedown” event. Resolution #61-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS the Village of Croton-on-Hudson has an intermunicipal agreement with the Town of Cortlandt for organic recycling, and WHEREAS the Town of Cortlandt invoices the Village quarterly for said services, and WHEREAS the fees are anticipated to exceed the Fiscal Year 2025 adopted budget in the amount of $1,931.72, Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Village Treasurer is hereby authorized to make the following budget transfer in the 2024-2025 General Fund budget: Increase: A8090.4000-Recycling Contractual $1,931.72 Decrease: A1990.4000-Contingency Contractual $1,931.72 c. Approval of Minutes Motion to approve the minutes, as amended, of the Regular Meeting held on March 12, 2025, was made by Trustee Simon. The motion was seconded by Trustee Politi and approved with a 5-0 vote. Motion to approve the minutes of the Work Session held on March 19, 2025, was made by Trustee Simon. The motion was seconded by Trustee Politi and approved with a 5-0 vote. 11.PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS: Resolution #62-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE NICHOLSON, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS the Village Board of Trustees is considering the adoption of Local Law Introductory No. 14 of 2024, a local law to add Chapter 8, Assessments, Real Property Tax, to the Code of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson to consolidate the Village’s assessment unit with the Town of Cortlandt, and WHEREAS New York State law authorizes villages to consolidate their assessment status and have towns provide this service, and WHEREAS the Village of Croton-on-Hudson has been discussing this possibility since at least 2012, and WHEREAS consolidating the Village’s Assessment Roll with the Town would provide a financial savings to the Village and provide residents with one assessed valuation for the entirety of their tax bill, as opposed to the current system of one valuation for Village taxes and one valuation for town/county/school taxes, and Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 WHEREAS the Village previously held a Public Hearing on Local Law Introductory No. 14 of 2024 on November 20, 2024, and WHEREAS a second Public Hearing was opened and closed on March 12, 2025, and WHEREAS, the Village Board had additional discussion on this local law at their work session on March 19, 2025, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village Board of Trustees hereby adopts Local Law Introductory No. 14 of 2024 to add Chapter 8, Assessments, Real Property Tax, to the Code of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson to consolidate the Village’s assessment unit with the Town of Cortlandt, which upon adoption will become Local Law No. 5 of 2025. Village Manager Healy read his memo addressing comments and concerns that have taken place since the public hearing: During the Village’s Grievance Day held last month, four residential grievances were received. The Board of Assessment Review agreed with one of the grievances and approved a reduction. During the Town’s last Grievance Day in June 2024, 17 residential grievances were received from Village residents (more than four times as many). The Town Board of Assessment Review denied all the residential grievances it received. Eight of the 17 grievances filed small claims assessment review (SCAR) cases; six saw no change and two received reductions. I have performed spot checks on 20 properties and compared the property cards in the Village and the property cards in the Town. It appears that two of those 20 properties had a field inspection conducted by the Town which had raised its value. An additional three of those 20 properties appear to have been raised based off real estate listings (e.g., a “virtual” field inspection). This virtual inspection, much like a field inspection, would compare the property card to the photos posted on the listing to see if there are things such as more bathrooms, a finished basement, etc. The foot traffic to the Village Assessor’s office is low. During the busy months (November, December and January), the office sees about 10 in-person visits. During the other nine months of the year, in-person visits drop to about two per month. Should the Village Board adopt this local law and consolidate assessment functions, the Village plans to do an extensive outreach campaign to all property owners who will potentially see their taxes raised. This outreach will include a letter by U.S. Mail, emails, a dedicated page on the Village website, social media postings and an ad in the Gazette. Finally, the Town Assessor and I have tentatively scheduled an additional webinar for April 29 at 7 p.m. for Village residents to ask questions about the Town’s Grievance Day procedures and other questions they may have about the assessment process. Should the Village Board adopt this local law, registration information for the webinar will be shared through the regular Village communication channels. March 26, 2025 Trustee Simon stated that we have learned that disparities between the Town Assessment and the Village Assessment are based on judgments made decades ago and sometimes through a forensic process we can derive the reasons for these differences but sometimes we cannot, we also found that once these distinctions between Assessments are made, they are rarely unmade and for many years Tom Waitkins was the Assessor for both the Town of Cortlandt and the Village of Croton and he was not able to reconcile these differences in the years that he had the power to do so, some people who live in comparable homes may pay widely different property tax rates because one home may be newer than another. Trustee Simon stated that he is inclined to support shared services when it makes sense, right now seventy-five percent of everyone’s tax bill is for Town, County, School, and Library, the Town Assessor’s office is properly staffed with professionals that work there Monday through Friday, as opposed to our Village Assessor who is only available one day a week. Trustee Simon stated that we will have a massive outreach to everyone on how the consolidation process will work, the Town or Cortlandt will participate with an online Webinar on April 29th, we are also working with the Town to allow residents to pay their taxes in two increments if they wish to do so, and if there are other initiatives to take that will ease the transition the Board will consider those as well. Trustee Nicholson stated that when we discussed this back in December she indicated that we needed to be as transparent as possible to the public and she believes we have done an excellent job of that, we have given everyone a comprehensive list of the numbers, we have hosted webinars and communicated with the public. Trustee Nicholson stated that what we have here are situations that may have happened decades ago and as the Village Manager was doing his research, he unearthed several challenges. Trustee Nicholson stated that it is very unfortunate to those that will see their taxes rise, but this is a time that we have to make a hard decision and do what is right for the majority of the Village. Trustee Nicholson stated that she believes we will get better service from the Town of Cortlandt and hopefully we will not see these discrepancies in the future. Trustee Politi stated that her taxes will rise significantly, but believes that at the end of the day, this is the fairest way to do it, you cannot compare a one day a week Assessor to a team of full-time staff doing this work. Trustee Slippen stated that she had some concerns about this from the beginning, partly because roughly half of our residents will be experiencing an increase in the taxes they are currently paying, and partly because she had a challenging time contacting the Town Assessor, but we have been able to get a lot of the answers Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 that we needed, all Village residents will be able to pay their taxes twice a year and we are hopeful that this reduces the burden somewhat, as a Trustee she did not love the idea of sitting as the “Board of Assessment Review”, in the Town of Cortlandt there is a Board that has expertise in real estate and other relevant areas who will be making these decisions on Grievance Day, the Town of Cortlandt has agreed to make a space for a Village resident to sit on that Board so we will some representation from Croton. Trustee Slippen stated that this is a fully staffed office with knowledgeable people who will serve the residents better. Mayor Pugh thanked his colleagues for their thoughtful comments this evening and their constructive contributions throughout this process, we have uncovered some important pieces of information and we are pleased that we were able to negotiate a partial payment system and based on comments by the Board, there is a reason why seventy percent of Villages in New York State have merged their Assessing functions with their Towns, the Village is currently paying more for worse service, paying more for a system that is consistently not catching improvements and therefore not assessing properties fairly, and worst of all, setting up a ton of perverse incentives to not file for permits or close out permits all of which are in violation of the health and safety of our community, we should be encouraging compliance with the laws whenever possible rather than rewarding evasions. Village Attorney Subin stated that the following are grounds in which someone can grieve their property taxes: Unequal assessment, where a property is assessed at a higher rate than other properties in the area; excessive assessment, indicating a valuation higher than the property’s true market value, Unlawful assessment, where a property is taxed based on incorrect or illegal criteria, and misclassification, which occurs when a property is wrongly categorized under a tax class that leads to a higher tax burden. Village Attorney Subin explained the “three-year freeze”, if someone wins on their challenge, over the next three years the property would not be able to be increased past that assessment. Village Manager Healy advised that this law is subject to a Permissive Referendum and the number of required signatures are based off the number of voters that were on the Rolls at the last Village General Election, we had 5,900 registered voters at that time and for a Petition to be successful, it would need 1,180 signatures. Mayor Pugh stated that residents have plenty of time to prepare to grieve their taxes because the Town’s Tentative Roll is published on June 1st, we are also having Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 an information session well in advance so residents can familiarize themselves with the Town’s system of Assessment. Resolution 63-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE NICHOLSON, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS on March 14, 2025, Village Treasurer Daniel Tucker submitted his letter of resignation to the Village Board of Trustees effective April 4, 2025, and WHEREAS Deputy Village Treasurer Genette Toone has served in that position since 2005, and has proven herself to be knowledgeable in the field of governmental accounting, generally, and the policies and procedures of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, specifically, and WHEREAS the Village Board of Trustees desires to promote Ms. Toone to the position of Village Treasurer effective April 5, 2025, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: that the Village Board of Trustees hereby appoints Genette Toone to the position of Village Treasurer effective April 5, 2025, at an annual salary of $131,027. Resolution #64-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS on March 14, 2025, Village Treasurer Daniel Tucker submitted his letter of resignation to the Village Board of Trustees effective April 4, 2025, and WHEREAS the Village Board of Trustees has appointed Deputy Village Treasurer Genette Toone to the position of Village Treasurer effective April 5, 2025, and WHEREAS Rachel Sibrizzi is currently in the competitive class title of Deputy Village Treasurer for the Village, and WHEREAS the Village Board of Trustees desires to appoint Ms. Sibrizzi to the exempt class title of Deputy Village Treasurer, Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village Board of Trustees hereby appoints Rachel Sibrizzi to the position of Deputy Village Treasurer (exempt) effective April 5, 2025, at an annual salary of $97,560. Village Manager Healy emphasized that the head count for the Finance Department is not changing only some of the titles, our Auditors have made it extremely clear of the importance of the separation of duties and we are following those guidelines. Trustee Simon reminded everyone that the Treasurer’s office manages a $23 million-dollar operating budget, as well as a Capital Plan and the management of our debt and the New York State Comptroller, Tom DiNapoli, emphasizes that municipalities must make sure that they have the appropriate staff to do this job and he believes if we ever put forth a proposal to not have a Deputy Treasurer, the State, County and our Auditors would be very concerned and he is very glad that we are properly staffed for our needs Resolution #65-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS the Village of Croton-on-Hudson has introduced the practice of establishing Annual Legislative Priorities to streamline responses to legislative proposals affecting the Village and optimize the allocation of limited advocacy resources, and WHEREAS a document outlining the Village’s Legislative Program and Project Priorities for 2025 has been drafted, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village of Croton-on-Hudson adopts and approves the 2025 Legislative Program and Project Priorities attached and incorporated herein by this reference, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Village Clerk is hereby directed to send this resolution and legislative packet to the federal, state and county legislators representing the Village of Croton-on-Hudson. March 26, 2025 As requested by Trustee Slippen, the Board went over the Legislative Priorities document. To hear the discussion, you may log onto the following. https://play.champds.com/crotononhudsonny/event/1030 (section 154.07). Resolution #66-2025 On motion of TRUSTEE SIMON, seconded by TRUSTEE POLITI, the following resolution was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on- Hudson, New York with a 5-0 vote. WHEREAS the Village of Croton-on-Hudson purchased the property at 435 Yorktown Road to serve as the Village’s Department of Public Works garage in 2017, and WHEREAS the building has been serviced by an oil-fired boiler, and WHEREAS the Village Board of Trustees previously approved a capital project to replace the oil tank for the boiler at the garage, and WHEREAS other necessary work at the garage facility delayed the replacement project, and WHEREAS the boiler at the garage has experienced significant issues this winter, including a backfiring incident on January 5, 2025, which required a response from area fire departments, and WHEREAS on March 21, 2025, the boiler stopped working completely and has not been fully operable since that time, and WHEREAS DPW has received a price estimate for the replacement of the oil-fired boiler with a propane-fueled boiler in the amount of $125,500, and WHEREAS General Municipal Law Section 103(4) allows for the Village Board to let a contract without public bidding where necessary due to a public emergency arising out of an unforeseen occurrence or condition, and WHEREAS the Superintendent of Public Works has recommended that the Village proceed with this work on an emergency basis, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Village Board hereby declares the replacement of the boiler at the Department of Public Works garage to be an emergency, and Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Village Manager is authorized to accept the proposal from HVAC Now, Inc., of Poughkeepsie, New York, in the amount of $125,500 to complete this work, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Village Treasurer is authorized to transfer $8,514.05 from A1990.4000 (Contingency) and $8,514.05 from T94002 (Escrow – Community Solar) to A1640.2000, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that this work will be charged as follows: H1640.2000.18344 (Update Oil Tank): $102,795.86 A1640.2000 (Garage – Equipment): $17,028.10 F8397.2000 (Water Capital Projects - Equipment) $4,086.75 G8997.2000 (Sewers – Equipment): $1,589.29 12.PUBLIC COMMENT – NON-AGENDA ITEMS: Hunter Szkodzinski, Life Scout, Troop 28, stated that he is working on his final Merit Badge to reach Eagle Scout, his project is “Citizenship in the Community” that requires him to ask questions to an elected official that are important to the community. Mr. Szkodzinski stated that listening to comments made this evening, it appears that Zoning seems to be an important issue for Croton, as liaisons to the Planning Board, Mr. Szkodzinski directed questions to Trustee Simon and Trustee Nicholson asking them to briefly explain the Village’s Zoning policy, specifically in the last few years and how it differs from before. Mr. Szkodzinski stated that it appears that some residents are concerned about development and asked how these concerns are taken into consideration, and how young people can get their opinions known on these issues. Trustee Simon stated that Zoning is one of the most important functions that any local government has, and we have used zoning as a way to help the Village adapt for the future, and we have asked ourselves what the Village will be like in the years ahead and what are those opportunities. Trustee Simon referred to the recent Maple Commons project, how that was essentially an abandoned and unused piece of property that became public land in the 1990’s and once the Village took hold of that land, it took about ten years to begin the process, and as various options were analyzed, one of the strong possibilities became multi-family housing which required a Zoning change. Trustee Simon stated that we are now dealing with a piece of Village owned property at 1 Croton Point Avenue that was once used as an overflow Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 parking lot for train station parking. The Village is looking at a Transit Oriented Development (TOD), and research has found that building housing opportunities closer to your transportation resources will benefit the entire community, we subsequently hired outside Planners to work with us who ultimately recommended some Zoning changes that would accommodate additional housing. Trustee Nicholson, in response to Mr. Szkodzinski’s questions on how young adults can get involved, stated that we have opportunities on our Police Advisory Council, and Conservation Advisory Committee for students, she additionally suggested getting involved in the Student Faculty Congress at Croton High School. Trustee Nicholson stated that Zoning is a very long process, there are a lot of laws that come from the State that dictate and prescribe the steps we need to go through, and before we make any changes our Planning Board, Zoning Board, and Water Control Commission are involved, as well as feedback from the community and decisions are made in a very thoughtful prescribed way. Trustee Nicholson gave an overview of the Gateway District and how that came to pass. Trustee Politi advised that at our recent IDEA Committee meeting a couple of High School students were in attendance, and encouraged Mr. Szkodzinski, if he is interested in getting more involved with Village government, the IDEA Committee would be a great committee to be involved in. Trustee Slippen advised that there is a huge push in the Town of Cortlandt to get High School students involved and they have created a Youth Task Force with student representatives from Lakeland High School, Hendrick Hudson High School and Croton High School and encouraged him to reach out to the Town Board. To hear additional comments made by the Trustees in response to Mr. Szkodzinski’s questions, you may log onto the Village Website as follows and click on Reports: https://play.champds.com/crotononhudsonny/event/1030 (section 2.4419). Gary Eisinger, 210 Cleveland Drive, Croton on Hudson, stated that he is concerned about the $500,000 that is being taken out of the Gouveia endowment, and suggested that we wait until the grant comes through. Mr. Eisinger stated that he still believes that the height of the proposed building at 1 Croton Point Avenue is too high and would like the Board and developer to reconsider the size. March 26, 2025 Ed Riely, 110 Truesdale Drive, Croton on Hudson, believes that consolidating the Assessing function was not investigated thoroughly and he is concerned that the Village will lose all of its authority since the Assessor is an employee of the Town, he also believes that any of the savings are going to be used to hire additional staff that will be making more inspections. Mr. Riely addressed issues pertaining to abortion, to hear Mr. Riely’s comments you may log onto the Village’s website, and view comments under public comments on non-agenda issues. , Michael Mamone, 19 Young Avenue, Croton on Hudson, stated that the County is requiring more electric charging stations on the LOT A property, and asked if they should require a Fire Suppression System to deal with the massive fire potential, objects to renaming Gouveia Park, as well as putting on a second story, asked that the dog ordinance be enforced, and requested that a Residential Parking Permit System be instituted on Young, Benedict and Oneida Avenues so residents can park in front of their homes. 13.REPORTS: Trustee Slippen advised that this past Friday a ceremony was held re-naming the Gouveia house for past Trustee Ann Gallelli who was a visionary not only on this project but on many other projects in Croton and is pleased that we were able to honor her this way. Trustee Slippen emphasized that the building on the Gouveia property already has a second floor, but it is not ADA compliant and we want all residents of Croton to be able to use this facility. Trustee Slippen stated that she is saddened and extremely concerned about the negative comments that are being made on Facebook regarding our new residents at Maple Commons. Trustee Slippen thanked Treasurer Tucker for his service to Croton, he will be missed and wished him well on his new job. Trustee Politi thanked the School District, Neighbors Link, the IDEA Committee, Black Cow and our Police Department for a very robust meeting discussing immigration and diversity issues, the IDEA Committee held a meeting this past Friday planning for their June activities, expressed her concerns about some of the comments on Facebook regarding our new residents at Maple Commons, and hopes that those posting these inaccurate comments take into consideration all the young children and families that are living there. Trustee Politi addressed the comments made regarding abortion and may be heard by logging onto the meeting under Reports: https://play.champds.com/crotononhudsonny/event/1030 (section 2:44.19) March 26, 2025 Trustee Nicholson stated that it was a pleasure working with Treasurer Tucker and wished him the best of luck in his new job, thanked the Croton Police Department for their Public Service Address to the community and she is very sad that there has been some negative remarks made of our Police Department in response to the their Public Service Address, the Recreation Advisory Committee held a walk-through at Duck Pond, this Saturday a Vietnam Memorial ceremony will be held at Harmon Engine at 12pm and encouraged everyone to check the Croton calendar for upcoming events. Trustee Simon advised that our train station solar array project was highlighted at the March 13th Municipal Officials meeting, March 15th a ribbon cutting was held for Croton Children and Family Counseling, March 17 he and the Mayor attended the Boy Scout Arrow of Light Ceremony, March 19th sat in on a call with Congressman Michael Lawler and was pleased to hear that Congressman Lawler is in support of “Energy Tax Credits”, March 20th the Bicycle Pedestrian Committee met and talked about sidewalk gaps, March 21st Shoprite awarded several employees with the Hunger Fighting award for their involvement with fighting hunger initiatives, March 22nd the Bennett Conservatory of Music celebrated its 75th anniversary, last night he attended the Fire Council meeting with Village Manager Healy where we gave them an overview of our Budget, on April 26th Drug Take Back Day will be held, congratulated Nance Shatzkin and Adam Decker on receiving the Levine Community Service Award from the New York Planning Federation, and congratulated Village Treasurer Dan Tucker on his new job. Village Attorney Subin stated that as the Village Attorney for the Village of Briarcliff Manor the Village of Briarcliff Manor has nothing on their agenda to take back the Assessing function, he also emphasized that he does not believe the Town of Cortlandt is going to go to one hundred percent assessing anytime soon and if that were ever the case in the future, the Village Board could reevaluate their options. Mayor Pugh stated that the speculation regarding the tenants at Maple Commons is truly unfortunate, the individuals that were arrested were not residents of Maple Commons and he hopes that this is an opportunity for self-reflection and mutual respect. Mayor Pugh stated that it is very useful for everyone to look at the Capital Plan Narrative for Gouveia Park and reminded everyone that the building is already two stories, the endowment can only be used for the Gouveia property, and these funds are going to be used for the installation of utilities, connection to the sanitary sewer, Village Board of Trustees March 26, 2025 improvements to the parking area and drainage. Mayor Pugh addressed comments made about instituting a Residential Parking Permit System on Young Avenue; the Village did obtain approval for Young Avenue, but through an extensive survey they found that residents living in the southern half of Young Avenue were not in favor and did not support this initiative. Mayor Pugh added that every house in that particular area has off-street parking, so the horrible situation that is being shared at these meetings is not the perception of the majority of the residents on that street. Mayor Pugh stated that it was a pleasure working with Treasurer Tucker, this Tentative Budget is a real triumph with the lowest tax increase proposed compared to other comparable Villages as well as continuing to reduce our debt, which is a real accomplishment. Village Manager Healy stated that we have a very expansive repaving plan for our streets, they are reviewed by our professional Engineer who makes those decisions and he will continue to rely on the expertise of our professional staff . There being no further comments to come before the Board, a motion to close the meeting was made by Trustee Politi. Motion was seconded by Trustee Nicholson and approved with a 5-0 vote. Meeting adjourned at 10:36pm.