Larry J. Tomasso

The Board of Trustees issued a statement regarding recent events in Minnesota and elsewhere, affirming their commitment to protecting the community and organizing a joint meeting with neighboring villages and advocacy organizations to address concerns related to immigration enforcement. The Youth Advocate introduced herself and detailed planned programs at the Community Center. Key actions included approving the minutes of the January 20, 2026 meeting, receiving the Treasurer's report on uncollected taxes, and approving the February 2, 2026 Abstract Report covering General Fund, Trust & Agency Fund, Capital Fund, and Sewer Fund claims. Old Business resulted in the unanimous approval, as amended, of a resolution granting site plan approval for converting 690 Saw Mill River Road into a childcare facility, subject to numerous conditions regarding safety, parking, and enrollment limits. New Business included the unanimous determination that stormwater improvements in the area bounded by Powderhorn Road, Heatherdell Road, Chimney Pot Road, and Beacon Hill Road would not have an adverse environmental impact, resulting in a Negative Declaration under SEQRA. The Board also scheduled a public hearing for February 17, 2026, to consider a resolution to override the property tax levy limit for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. Finally, a resolution petitioning the U.S. Government to end ICE and CBP abuses, citing concerns over tactics and constitutional rights violations, was passed.

The meeting included the continuation of three separate public hearings: one regarding a proposed addition to a residential building at 766 Saw Mill River Road, another concerning Pebbles to Peaks, LLC. at 690 Saw Mill River Road, and a third regarding the amendment to Chapter 112, Fire Prevention, Article VI of the Village Code concerning "Sprinkler Systems." Key discussions in the regular session involved approving the January 20, 2026 Abstract Report, which included fund approvals totaling over $915,000. Department reports included updates on the recent snow storm, the DPW Solar Project, and EV Charging Station installation progress, as well as reminders for residents regarding overnight parking permits, alarm permits, and the second installment of school tax due February 2nd. The Board approved the resolution to amend Chapter 112 regarding sprinkler system requirements and granted site plan approval with environmental non-significance determination for the development at 766 Saw Mill River Road, subject to several conditions. New business included approving permission for the Westchester Muslim Center to construct a Crescent Moon display in Legion Park, appointing two individuals to the Traffic, Parking, Pedestrian, Cycling & Safety Advisory Committee, and approving the annual certification of the Volunteer Fire Fighter Service Award List for 2025. The meeting concluded with adjournment to an executive session for personnel matters.

This document presents the first draft of the Village of Arsley's Natural Resource Inventory. It functions as a foundational document intended to guide future planning, foster sustainable development, and enhance climate resilience by comprehensively cataloging the community's natural and cultural resources. The inventory is structured into two main sections: the built environment, encompassing land use, zoning, infrastructure, cultural sites, utilities, and roadways; and the natural environment, covering parks, recreation, terrain, hydrology, flora, fauna, and future threats posed by climate change. Key priorities include integrating green infrastructure to mitigate flooding and heat island effects, preserving historical sites, and promoting clean mobility.

The meeting covered several key areas of focus for the organization. Announcements included congratulating the Mayor, updating progress toward the Climate Smart Communities Silver Certification, and noting the near completion of the Natural Resources Inventory. The group is planning to align efforts with the Village priorities and is resuming efforts to support a Westchester County seasonal ban on gas leaf blowers. Budget planning for 2026/2027, with major expenses anticipated for Ardsley Pollinator Day and garden signage, is underway. Updates on Village activities noted major upcoming projects involving native plants in public spaces, including Addyman Square, Saw Mill River Road streetscape, and Silliman Park. Under the Strategic Pillars, discussions included planning for winter seeding and the April Ardsley Pollinator Day giveaway, scheduling vine lopping events at Macy Park and The South County Trailway, and addressing invasive vines on Village property. Educational topics included signage prioritization for public gardens and investigating certification as a Bee City USA. The schedule for upcoming educational events through April was reviewed.

The Regular Meeting included a public hearing regarding a proposed addition to a residential building at 766 Saw Mill River Road, which was adjourned and continued to the next meeting pending environmental review conclusion. Another public hearing concerning Pebbles to Peaks, LLC was also continued. Key departmental reports highlighted successful management of recent snow and ice events, provided updates on the DPW solar project and EV charging stations installation, and announced the arrival of the Village's first fully electric pickup truck. The Board approved the January 5, 2026 Abstract Report for claims totaling $220,945.50 across various funds. New business involved scheduling a public hearing to amend Chapter 112 of the Village Code regarding 'Sprinkler Systems' definitions and requirements, and the unanimous appointment of Lara Ramos to the Library Board of Trustees. Correspondence addressed concerns from a resident regarding e-bikes and scooters.