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OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD

Record of Proceedings

Yorktown Town Board Meeting - January 17, 2024: Memorial for Supervisor Thomas P. Diana and Routine Business

Town Board — Wednesday, January 17, 2024

BodyYorktown, New York

SessionTown Board

DateWednesday, January 17, 2024

StatusFILED

Video Record

0:00 / 1:22:59

Transcript — VerbatimClick a timed line to jump · ⧉ to share it

0:04

Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the uh January 17th, 2024 board meeting.

0:11

Can we all uh please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance?

0:21

And uh Mr.

0:22

Grasso, would you lead us, please?

0:30

And the Republic of which one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.

0:40

Okay.

0:41

Uh we're going to come back to our moment of silence.

0:46

Uh, but I would like to start with a prayer.

0:48

Um who became a very good friend with our supervisor over the years, uh, Rabbi Heber.

0:55

Could you please join us?

1:08

Good evening.

1:11

I was asked to say a few words about the supervisor.

1:16

And is with a heavy heart that we pay tribute to a remarkable individual, our beloved town supervisor Tom Diana.

1:28

Tom was not just a public servant, he was an incredible family man and a great friend to so many.

1:36

As we reflect on Tom's legacy, let us remember the countless hours spent working tirelessly for the well-being of our community.

1:46

Though we mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant, let us also celebrate the incredible mark Tom has left on our hearts and our town.

1:56

His vibrant spirit of kindness and authenticity was a gift to all who knew him.

2:02

His energy filled the room.

2:05

His smile was contagious, and his laugh infectious.

2:10

As we bid farewell and we pay tribute to Tom, let us commit ourselves to continuing the work that he so passionately began.

2:22

On a personal note, over the years, I got to know Tom well.

2:29

His respect for all faiths and religions was apparent, and he always wanted to know what the Torah, what the Bible says about a given topic.

2:40

His support of Israel and the Jewish community and all communities was steadfast.

2:47

We recently celebrated Hanukkah with Tom right here at Town Hall, as well as in the community, Yorktown Community Center.

2:55

He always looked forward to using the tall blowtorch to light the big outdoor menorah at the Jack DeVito Field.

3:04

It turned out that the menorah lighting was held indoors this year due to a rainstorm.

3:10

After the menorah lighting, he joked and he said, Rabbi, last year, Hanukkah, I was not yet supervisor, so I didn't get a chance to use that blowtorch.

3:22

And this year, it was indoors, so again I didn't get a chance to use it.

3:27

Please, he said, make sure to give me the blowtorch next year.

3:34

Sorry, Tommy.

3:36

I guess it wasn't meant to be.

3:46

At the event, Tommy got to personally thank each of his family members and friends for everything they did for him, and to express how much they mean to him.

3:58

It is not too often that someone gets to personally express these sentiments just a few short days before their passing.

4:05

After the inauguration ceremony, Tommy texted me that he didn't get a chance to talk to me at the event, but he wanted to thank me for the prayer.

4:14

That was my last correspondence with him.

4:18

Tom's sudden passing came as a huge shock to all of us.

4:22

It reminds me of the words of our sages.

4:26

Sages tell us one should repent a day before their passing.

4:33

Of course, the obvious question is that we don't know when that day is.

4:38

But that is exactly the point.

4:40

The sages teach us to live each day as if it is our last.

4:46

If there is something good we could accomplish today, we should not push it off until tomorrow.

4:51

And if there is something we need to correct or to ask forgiveness for, or to give forgive others for, if it can be done today, we should seize the opportunity and not leave it for tomorrow.

5:00

If it can be done today, we should seize the opportunity and not leave it for tomorrow.

5:04

Tommy lived a full life.

5:06

He loved life.

5:08

And was excited to serve.

5:10

He was passionate about his job and was so looking forward to serving this community in 2024.

5:16

There's a lot we can learn from him.

5:29

Thank you, Mr.

5:30

Tom Diana, for your selfless service, your unwavering dedication, and the enduring impact you've made on our beloved town.

5:39

We will remember you always.

5:45

Amen.

5:49

Thank you, Rabbi.

5:50

We're going to go before our moment of silence.

5:52

We're going to do a presentation to Tommy.

5:55

I would you could you could sit at this point, please.

5:59

I would like to thank uh our clerk Diana Quast and the man behind the curtain, Tom Siangelo, for helping put this together.

6:06

And uh actually, if we could dim the lights, that would be great.

6:13

Assembly first.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting

Veterans Affairs████████████████████20%

Holocaust Remembrance█████████████████17%

Historic Preservation███████████████15%

Procedural██████████████14%

Public Hearings████████████12%

Public Safety███████7%

Affordable Housing█████5%

Water And Wastewater Management████4%

Youth Programs██2%

Summary of Proceedings

Yorktown Town Board Meeting - January 17, 2024

The Town Board of Yorktown convened on January 17, 2024, at 7:30 PM in the Spadaccia Meeting Room, following a 6:30 PM executive session. The meeting was dominated by tributes to recently deceased Town Supervisor Thomas P. Diana, who passed away suddenly on January 5, 2024, just four days after being sworn in for his first full term. The Board also conducted routine personnel appointments, approved numerous resolutions, and postponed a public hearing to January 30, 2024.

Memorial Tribute to Supervisor Thomas P. Diana

The meeting opened with a prayer and tribute from Rabbi Heber, who recounted personal memories of Supervisor Diana's dedication to the community and his interfaith outreach.
Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg and Assemblyman Matt Slater presented a legislative resolution (Assembly Resolution #764) commemorating the life of Thomas V. Diana, highlighting his service as a police officer, small business owner, and third-generation Yorktown resident. Assemblyman Slater noted the all-inclusive playground at Granite Knolls as a key accomplishment.
Senator Pete Harkham presented a Senate resolution mourning the death of Thomas P. Diana, emphasizing his work on substance use prevention and youth recreation. Senator Harkham remarked, "It's not about D or R, this is about the humanity."
Senator James Skoufis also delivered a tribute, recalling Diana's law enforcement career and his joy as Town Supervisor.
Deputy Supervisor Edward Lachterman read a Town of Yorktown proclamation honoring Diana, detailing his life, service, and family. A moment of silence was observed.
Board members, including Councilman Sergio Esposito, Councilwoman Luciana Howitt, Councilman Patrick Murphy, Highway Superintendent Dave Paganelli, and Town Attorney Adam Rodriguez, shared personal stories and memories.
Public comments from community members (Matt Slater, Cindy Smith, John Campavasso, Jim Recupero, Ken Bell, Jay Gossak, Paul Martin, and others) echoed themes of Diana's generosity, humor, and willingness to help—whether fixing boilers, supporting youth, or solving town problems.
The empty chair at the meeting was noted as a tribute, following the tradition of the Sons of the American Legion.

Proclamation – Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Deputy Supervisor Lachterman read a proclamation recognizing January 15, 2024, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, encouraging residents to act for the betterment of the community.

Poet Laureate

John McMullen, the Town Poet Laureate, read two poems: one written after the January 2, 2024 meeting (celebrating Diana's swearing-in) and one written on January 17, 2024, reflecting on the tragedy and the need to continue work.

Consent Calendar (Routine Approvals)

Personnel Appointments:
- Antonio Cambareri appointed Lead Maintenance Mechanic (Automotive) in Central Garage, effective January 18, 2024, at $89,166.00 annually (CSEA Group 15, Step 4), with a 12-week probation.
- Amy Swan appointed Assistant Curator at the Yorktown Museum, effective February 5, 2024, at $56,642.00 annually (CSEA Group 7, Step 1), contingent on drug test, with 12–52 week probation.
- Tracey Kuzemczak granted permanent status as Personnel Manager, effective January 1, 2024.
- Paul Vasillo appointed Provisional Distribution Superintendent in the Water Department, effective January 18, 2024, at $148,958.00 annually.
- Jeff Dahke appointed Provisional Assistant Distribution Superintendent in the Water Department, effective January 18, 2024, at $97,091.00 annually (CSEA Group 16, Step 5).
- Both provisional appointments added a clause that probationary time adheres to civil service law updated September 2023.
Advertisements: Authorized Town Clerk to notice a Town Board meeting on January 30, 2024; a public hearing on the Underhill Farm Landmark Application for January 30, 2024; bids for chemicals, grit & screenings removal, program brochures, camp buses, and RFP for Town Attorney and General Municipal Legal Services (bids due between February 5 and February 12, 2024).

Discussion Items

Public Hearing: The public hearing on the Underhill Farm Landmark Application (submitted by the Yorktown Heritage Preservation Commission) was postponed to January 30, 2024, due to scheduling conflicts.
Resolutions (all passed):
- Assessor's Office: Authorized agreements with Valuation Plus, Inc. for appraisal services (not to exceed $7,500) and Diamond McCarthy LLP for litigation services in the Washington Prime bankruptcy proceeding.
- Building and Maintenance: Purchased a used 2018 Chevy Tahoe from Westchester Auto Exchange for $41,187.00, with a budget transfer from General Fund A.1002 to Vehicles A.1630.210.
- Clerk's Office: Authorized amended agreements with Northwind Kennels (increased fees: boarding $40, rabies $40, spay/neuter $125) and SPCA Westchester for feral cat TNR program (increased fee: spay/neuter including rabies $60). Renewed AAA Carting & Rubbish Removal, Inc. commercial garbage license for 2024.
- Comptroller: Budget transfer of $34,306.60 from SR.9000.810 Medical and SR.9000.811 NYSLRS to SR.8160.425 Outside Contractor for 2023 garbage services. Authorized payment of unused vacation time to John Winter ($513.02) and Jenna Belcastro ($6,628.29) upon separation.
- Community Housing Board: Authorized Maura Gregory to attend the New York State Housing Summit on January 26–27, 2024, at the University of Albany, with $171.09 from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (TE75) for registration and hotel.
- Engineering: Extended the sludge & grease removal contract with Fred A. Cook, Jr., Inc. for two years through February 8, 2026. Approved release of erosion control bonds of $500 each for work at 330 Heather Court (Marc Sussman) and Landmark Court (Lisa Purcell & Eugene Vanderbeek).
- John C. Hart Memorial Library: Authorized an additional $5,503.34 expenditure under temporary agreement with Robert Half Agency, with a budget transfer of $7,692.62 from Salaries (L7410.101) to Professional Services (L7410.490). Authorized continued sole-source purchase of audiobook and large print titles from Blackstone Publishing. Authorized budget transfer of $50,000 from Library Fund Balance (L.1002) to Building Maintenance SAM Grant (L7410.416.103) for LED lighting replacement and new circulation desk.
- Highway Department: Extended the stone, gravel, and concrete materials bid for one year, January 1–December 31, 2024.
- Mohegan Lake Improvement District: Awarded aquatic pesticide treatment proposal to Limnology Information and Freshwater Ecology, Inc. for $47,400 (lowest of three proposals; others were $67,305 and $77,050).
- Parks and Recreation: Authorized agreement with Site Design Consultants for up to $5,000 for on-call engineering services at Granite Knolls Sports Complex (December 1, 2022 – December 31, 2023).
- Planning: Extended the special permit for 7-Eleven existing store with fueling remodel (Resolution #509) until November 21, 2024, with no modifications. Authorized legal review of documents for the Colangelo Subdivision/Featherbed Properties, Inc. at Jacob Road, up to $2,750, paid by applicant.
- Police: Approved two officers to attend a C-Pass School Safety Training Conference in Saratoga Springs, February 18–20, 2024, with three overnight stays.
- Water Department: Authorized purchase of two 2024 Ford F350 Super Cab pickups via Westchester County contract for $113,945.60, with a budget transfer of $13,945.60 from Water Vehicle Maintenance (SW.8340.0420.000) to Equipment, Vehicle (SW.8340.0201.0002).
Amend Organizational Resolutions (passed):
- Authorized Supervisor/Deputy Supervisor to pay regular bi-weekly salaries without prior audit.
- Directed submission of fiscal report to State Comptroller and Town Clerk within 120 days after fiscal year close.
- Authorized application to NYS Division of Youth for a Recreation and Youth Service Grant ($5,000).
- Designated Deputy Supervisor Edward Lachterman as voting delegate to the Association of Towns Meeting, February 2024.
- Authorized blanket authority for Supervisor/Deputy Supervisor to sign contracts up to $12,500, not to exceed $50,000 per calendar year, until amended.
New Resolution – PLUS 1 ADU Program:
- The Board authorized the Deputy Supervisor to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with Habitat for Humanity of New York City and Westchester and the Housing Action Council to support their application for funding from the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation for the PLUS 1 ADU program. This program provides up to approximately $100,000 per home for renovations to create or improve accessory dwelling units (ADUs) for low- and middle-income homeowners (earning up to 100% of area median income). No changes to existing zoning regulations are required.

Key Outcomes

All five personnel appointments were approved unanimously.
All resolutions listed under Discussion Items were passed unanimously by voice vote, with no opposition noted.
The public hearing on the Underhill Farm Landmark Application was postponed to January 30, 2024.
The Board adopted the PLUS 1 ADU program participation resolution.
The meeting was adjourned with a final tribute to Supervisor Diana. The Board expressed continued support for the Diana family.

Meeting Transcript

Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the uh January 17th, 2024 board meeting. Can we all uh please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance? And uh Mr. Grasso, would you lead us, please? And the Republic of which one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Okay. Uh we're going to come back to our moment of silence. Uh, but I would like to start with a prayer. Um who became a very good friend with our supervisor over the years, uh, Rabbi Heber. Could you please join us? Good evening. I was asked to say a few words about the supervisor. And is with a heavy heart that we pay tribute to a remarkable individual, our beloved town supervisor Tom Diana. Tom was not just a public servant, he was an incredible family man and a great friend to so many. As we reflect on Tom's legacy, let us remember the countless hours spent working tirelessly for the well-being of our community. Though we mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant, let us also celebrate the incredible mark Tom has left on our hearts and our town. His vibrant spirit of kindness and authenticity was a gift to all who knew him. His energy filled the room. His smile was contagious, and his laugh infectious. As we bid farewell and we pay tribute to Tom, let us commit ourselves to continuing the work that he so passionately began. On a personal note, over the years, I got to know Tom well. His respect for all faiths and religions was apparent, and he always wanted to know what the Torah, what the Bible says about a given topic. His support of Israel and the Jewish community and all communities was steadfast. We recently celebrated Hanukkah with Tom right here at Town Hall, as well as in the community, Yorktown Community Center. He always looked forward to using the tall blowtorch to light the big outdoor menorah at the Jack DeVito Field. It turned out that the menorah lighting was held indoors this year due to a rainstorm. After the menorah lighting, he joked and he said, Rabbi, last year, Hanukkah, I was not yet supervisor, so I didn't get a chance to use that blowtorch. And this year, it was indoors, so again I didn't get a chance to use it. Please, he said, make sure to give me the blowtorch next year. Sorry, Tommy. I guess it wasn't meant to be. At the event, Tommy got to personally thank each of his family members and friends for everything they did for him, and to express how much they mean to him. It is not too often that someone gets to personally express these sentiments just a few short days before their passing. After the inauguration ceremony, Tommy texted me that he didn't get a chance to talk to me at the event, but he wanted to thank me for the prayer. That was my last correspondence with him. Tom's sudden passing came as a huge shock to all of us. It reminds me of the words of our sages. Sages tell us one should repent a day before their passing. Of course, the obvious question is that we don't know when that day is. But that is exactly the point. The sages teach us to live each day as if it is our last. If there is something good we could accomplish today, we should not push it off until tomorrow. And if there is something we need to correct or to ask forgiveness for, or to give forgive others for, if it can be done today, we should seize the opportunity and not leave it for tomorrow. If it can be done today, we should seize the opportunity and not leave it for tomorrow. Tommy lived a full life. He loved life. And was excited to serve. He was passionate about his job and was so looking forward to serving this community in 2024. There's a lot we can learn from him. Thank you, Mr.

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