Heather Krakowski

The board discussed budget transfers for senior nutrition, establishing a capital project for a comprehensive plan, and awarding a Request for Proposal for consulting services for the comprehensive plan update. They also discussed the election of new members to the Harry Howard Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, Mellor Engine and Hose Company No. 3, and Reliance Engine and Hose Company No. 1. Additional discussions included a budget amendment for the Building Department, an intermunicipal agreement with Westchester County for the Sexual Risk Avoidance Program, and a request for financial assistance for the 2025 Columbus Day parade. The board also discussed a request to hold the Annual MOM's Family Fun Run and a request for a procession from John Bosco.

The Board of Trustees of the Village of Port Chester will hold a public hearing to consider the advisability of adopting a Local Law, which would amend the Code of the Village of Port Chester by establishing a new Chapter 62, "Veterans Advisory Commission."

The Task Force reviewed progress on a housing survey and discussed distribution methods. A draft housing policy report was presented, emphasizing the importance of updating Port Chester's Comprehensive Plan. The group analyzed demographic and housing data, fair housing considerations, and policy recommendations for addressing affordable housing needs. Discussions also covered regulatory alignment, the impact of federal fair housing regulations, Port Chester's demographics and housing trends, and a review of housing policy and recommendations.

The meeting focused on planning public engagement sessions and a public survey to gather community input on housing. Strategies discussed included distributing flyers, utilizing social media, and partnering with local organizations. The task force explored the potential expansion of housing vouchers in Port Chester and the need for updating the Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS). Refinements to the housing survey were discussed, emphasizing concise, multiple-choice questions. The task force also considered locations for distributing survey flyers and holding public meetings, including the Port Chester Senior Center.

The meeting centered on a discussion about Good Cause Eviction, a law passed by the New York State Legislature that allows localities to opt in, providing tenants with protections against eviction and excessive rental increases. The discussion included potential ways for localities to modify the law, such as adjusting thresholds for luxury housing and small landlord exemptions. The task force reviewed tenant protections, exceptions to Good Cause Eviction, reasons for eviction, and local relevance, including eviction statistics in Port Chester. The meeting also touched on landlord arguments against Good Cause Eviction, potential legal challenges, enforcement mechanisms, and the typical timeline for evictions.