Westchester County

The meeting focused on the draft planning board report for the 2021 Capital Projects requests, specifically reviewing the 2022 capital budget requests. Discussions included the overall five-year capital planning process timeline, clarification on the definition of expended versus obligated funds for 396 appropriated projects, and an analysis of projects that have seen little to no expenditure. The board reviewed capital budget requests for Public Works and Transportation, including ongoing infrastructure repairs at the White Plains campus and the need for new equipment such as a plow truck. The process for the 2022 budget presentation to the Capital Projects Committee and the Board of Legislators in the fall was outlined.

Westchester County outlines its strategic vision to establish the Hudson Valley as 'Quantum Valley,' fostering next-generation innovation, AI, and quantum technology, supported by initiatives like the Converge Conference. The county also emphasizes its commitment to preserving and celebrating its historical legacy through the 'Revolutionary Westchester 250' commemoration, while continuously engaging the community through diverse recreational and cultural programs within its parks system.

The meeting, called to order, included the reading of the Secretary report from the Planning Department and the minutes from the previous week's meeting. Key agenda items added and approved included authorizing an agreement with Sharing Community Incorporated to operate a shelter for homeless single males from January 1, 2018, through June 30, 2018, for an amount not exceeding $567,392. A second authorization was passed for an agreement with the same entity to operate a transitional residence for homeless single men and women (Travers house) for the same period, not to exceed $303,772. Following these additions, items 1 through 35 were approved as a group.

The special meeting convened to review a referral for a proposed warehouse and delivery station building on 211 Saw Mill River Road (Route 9A) in Mount Pleasant, requiring site plan approval. Key discussion points included the project details: a 153,000 square foot facility, 89% warehouse space, functioning as a delivery station involving semi-trailer unloading overnight and daytime deliveries by vans. The board reviewed site plan specifics, including significant underground parking (587 van spaces), traffic flow analysis, and the proposed new intersection design on Route 9A. Concerns were raised regarding the SEQUR process, particularly the lack of cumulative impact analysis including the nearby North 60 development, site-specific issues such as the discrepancy between planned van spaces and expected daily usage, technological advancements, vehicle servicing, and pedestrian/transit access, noting disagreement with the applicant's stance on crosswalk necessity. Stormwater management, heavily reliant on subsurface devices discharging near a known flood-prone area (Saw Mill River Parkway), also required attention. Intermunicipal impacts related to traffic volumes in neighboring municipalities and workforce housing shortages, given the proposed wages ($15/hour), were discussed extensively.

The meeting commenced with a statement confirming adherence to Governor Cuomo's Executive Order 202.1 regarding meeting conduct. The board proceeded to review and file the secret review prepared by the planning department and the minutes from the previous week's meeting. A significant action was the approval of agenda items 1 through 38, moved and seconded by board members. Following this main resolution, the board adjourned.