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OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD

Record of Proceedings

Yorktown Town Board Work Session – August 12, 2025

Town Board — Tuesday, August 12, 2025

BodyYorktown, New York

SessionTown Board

DateTuesday, August 12, 2025

StatusFILED

Video Record

0:00 / 2:43:32

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

0:05

Good evening all and welcome to the uh town town board work session of August 12th, 2025.

0:11

If we could all rise for the fledged allegiance, Howard, why don't you leave us today?

0:23

And to the Republic for which it stands.

0:27

Underground individual liberal liberty and justice for all.

0:32

And if we could uh remain standing for a moment of silence, uh we just uh passed uh our Purple Heart Veteran Day this past Thursday uh as we remember those and honor those who uh received the Purple Heart for being wounded or killed in action uh and and pray for all of our military and all of our first responsors that are out there uh keeping us safe every day.

1:00

Thank you.

1:08

So we have introductions on here for some reason, so we'll go through them.

1:13

Good evening, Diana Kwas, town clerk.

1:15

Good evening, Luciana Howitt, Councilwoman.

1:18

And Supervisor Red Lacterman.

1:20

Sir Joe Esposito, Deputy Supervisor.

1:22

Good evening, Patrick Murphy, town council.

1:25

Susan Siegel, councilwoman.

1:27

Adam Rodriguez, town attorney.

1:32

Okay.

1:32

Uh so Susan had asked me to update uh the town on two things that we have been looking at.

1:38

Uh one is the solar law, and uh we have been looking at a rewrite and maybe reintroducing the law in September with some changes.

1:48

Uh so that is uh being looked at from some changes that were spoken about during uh the whole process, and uh uh our attorney's been working with uh the people that have had those questions to try to get them filled up.

2:04

Can you explain?

2:05

Uh I'm sorry, I the first I'm hearing you say rewrite the law, which means are we gonna take any action on the law that's pending that we had the public hearing on the ban, or you or is there a decision to reject that and rewrite the law?

2:21

I don't know.

2:21

If we end up with it with a suitable law, it's it's some changes in it, uh, we would end up walking away from the other one and resubmit one.

2:31

So will if the September 2nd meeting, which is our next meeting, will there be at least a decision whether we are rejecting the ban?

2:39

I think that's the issue that that's pending, and I think people keep asking me what what's happening.

2:43

So and I don't know.

2:45

Right.

2:45

Well, the question the question the question is between a a ban and a ban with a grandfather.

2:52

And uh there are some council members who spoke up uh interested in that.

2:57

There are some that were on the fence, some against.

3:01

That would be me.

3:02

Yes.

3:03

But if there but there are some questions about uh for uh being against uh there were some changes that were looked at that may make a site selection uh suitable, and and there are two sites out there, uh both of them with some uh some really good pros from the uh aspect of visibility uh and being secluded, and then uh you know if if it works where we could have that, we will look into it.

3:37

But it might be that we end up just voting on the other one and bringing it down, but you know, I'd honestly uh uh as I've sort of done throughout my uh tenure for these past two years.

3:50

I believe we explore the questions, explore all the options, and this came up.

3:57

And if someone asked for more time to work with our attorney, uh that is where we should go.

4:03

And I've been asked to to let let the attorney answer some questions, look at the law, see if there's something that could work.

4:11

So I will go that route.

4:13

All right.

4:13

Well, if if the board decides, if the majority of the board decides to vote against the ban, with with or without grandfathering.

4:22

If again, I have no idea what the consensus is on the board, and then if you're going to look at writing a new law or revising the existing law, then I would ask that you also consider the um floating zone the float and zone option, which which which selects which selects parcels if they are appropriate and meet the guidelines that the town is considering.

4:52

But first we have to decide on the ban because we can't talk about revising.

4:56

But it doesn't make sense to vote on the ban uh right now if there's going to be a way to go forward.

5:03

So we're gonna we're gonna look to see if there's a way to go forward or not with the projects that are online.

5:08

If not, then we can just that are online, meaning the work, the two that the grandma.

5:13

Two that are in the pipe, yes.

5:14

Correct.

5:15

So we will or whatever they are and we will allow the process to work through that everyone is satisfied because I don't want people making a vote while they have uninsured unanswered questions.

5:26

We just had conversation like that upstairs uh where someone wants time to go through things.

5:32

And I think we could also consider the the criteria that we all spoke about, especially if we look at a floating, you know.

5:38

Float the criteria could be incorporated into the floating zone concept and that allows us to select parcels that meet this criteria that we are concerned about on a case-by-case basis as opposed to the outright ban, which is sort of a compromise that I that I selected.

5:53

Like I like I said, I'm in favor of uh of solar on rooftops.

5:58

We just approved something at uh uh Lowe's uh pretty pretty significant solar uh up there.

6:04

I'm all for that project, but in our residential neighborhoods, I'm against it.

6:09

Uh just speaking of solar, just another update again because I could ask these questions.

6:13

What's the status of the town's RFP revised RFP for solar uh and rooftops in town buildings that's kind of pending?

6:20

We uh I I do know uh although I didn't reply to her yet that Sarah Wilson was in contact with Leo.

6:27

Uh we have to get uh NOM on it, but we've asked them to prepare uh prepare an RFP as we spoke about.

6:35

Can we get that ready by by September 2nd?

6:37

I if I were preparing it, I could guarantee a time, but I'd I will see what we get from Leo and from uh and from NOME as their their the spear point on this.

6:49

Okay, thank you.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting

Zoning Regulations██████████████████████22%

Water And Wastewater Management██████████10%

Affordable Housing██████████10%

Grant Funding████████8%

Public Safety███████7%

Community Engagement███████7%

Public Hearings████4%

Stormwater Management████4%

Parks and Recreation████4%

Summary of Proceedings

Yorktown Town Board Work Session – August 12, 2025

The Town Board held a work session on August 12, 2025, covering updates on pending solar and development projects, a comprehensive grant consulting review, public presentations on a proposed bottle/can redemption center and a multifamily rezoning, and board discussion on recreation fee reform. Multiple resolutions were approved at the end of the meeting.

Public Comments & Testimony

Bottle and Can Redemption Center (Cash for Cans): Rich Saltner (property owner of 3711 Crom Pond Road) and Sunjee Basel (prospective operator) presented a proposal to open a redemption center that accepts empty deposit bottles and cans, paying 5 cents each. They stated no outside storage, operating hours 9:30 am–6 pm, seven days a week. Councilmembers raised concerns about tractor‑trailer access and backing onto Route 202. The board expressed interest but indicated a zoning code amendment and site‑plan review would be needed. The applicant noted that most pickups use box trucks, with tractor‑trailers only a few times per month. Supervisor and council agreed to work with the town attorney on draft language.

Discussion Items

Solar Law Update: Supervisor reported that the town is exploring a rewrite of the solar law, possibly reintroducing it in September with changes, instead of proceeding with the current ban. Councilwoman Siegel asked for clarity on whether the board will vote on the pending ban; Supervisor stated they would first examine whether a suitable law can be crafted that accommodates two existing projects with grandfathering. The board agreed to let the attorney review questions.
Navajo Fields Development: Supervisor said the applicant requested additional time to respond to comments from the Planning Department and DOT. The item will be placed on the September 2 meeting without fail.
Trout Spawning Brook Bridge: Dave (Highway Superintendent) reported that Con Edison is moving an 8‑inch high‑pressure gas line; the contractor will move a water line. Bridge installation will now be slid into place rather than craned, due to a 90‑foot crane clearance issue. Work must be completed by end of September. The speed‑limit sign had been removed for recharging and was reinstalled the next day.
Grant Consultant Review (Jay Grosso, G&G Municipal Consultants): Grosso presented a 12‑month summary of 15 grant applications. Awards included: Mid‑Hudson Greenway grant for Veteran Circle renovations; a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative (New York Forward) application received an interview (re‑applying); all three U.S. Senators/Congressman submitted the town’s sewer infrastructure request to the appropriations committee ($10 million from Lawler, $2.5 million each from Schumer and Gillibrand). Pending applications included Congressional FY26 appropriations, DRI, State and Municipal Aid, and BRICS for a community facility. Discouraged: WQIP for the lake, Gary Sinise Foundation drone grant, and Norfolk Southern railroad grant. The board requested that all grant applications be shared with the full board before submission.
3850 Foothill Street – Rezoning to Multifamily (20 units): Peter Ska (architect/engineer for applicant) presented a proposal to rezone the R‑140 (1‑acre single‑family) parcel to allow 20 townhouse‑style apartments (two‑bedroom, market‑rate) with 10% affordable units. He argued that the multifamily option would reduce impervious area, preserve more open space, provide sewer connection (versus septic), and generate less traffic and school costs. Councilwoman Siegel expressed reluctance, stating that while she strongly supports multifamily housing, she does not believe the site is appropriate. Other members noted concerns about building on slopes and traffic on Foothill Street (a cut‑through to the Taconic). The board voted to refer the application to department heads for review.
436 East Main Street – SWIP and Tree Permit: Applicant Tom presented a proposal to build a 4‑bedroom home on a 1.13‑acre lot, using the existing stone foundation for stormwater detention. 23 trees would be removed (11 invasive) and 23 replanted. Council raised flooding concerns on East Main Street; the applicant offered to reduce peak flow by 25% over current conditions. The board referred the application out.
Battery Energy Storage Use Variance (3666 Old Yorktown Road): The board received a Zoning Board of Appeals referral. The applicant seeks a use variance for a battery storage facility, which is not a permitted use. Council discussed proximity to the Taconic Parkway and concerns from the Lake Mohegan Fire Department about vapor hazards and mutual aid resource strain. The majority expressed opposition, noting the board had previously voted (4‑1) to ban such facilities. A draft letter of opposition will be prepared.
Recreation Fee Reform: Councilwoman Siegel proposed a resolution to create a joint committee to review and update the town’s recreation fee, which has not changed since 1990. She stated that despite her memos and requests, no progress had been made over the past year. Supervisor Lochman and Councilwoman Howitt countered that work is already underway with the planning board, recreation commission, and town attorney, and a code amendment is anticipated by September. The resolution was not placed on the agenda; no vote was taken. The discussion was contentious.

Key Outcomes

Referrals Approved:
- 3850 Foothill Street rezoning referred for department head review (motion, second, all in favor).
- 436 East Main Street SWIP/tree permit referred out (motion, second, all in favor).
Appointment: Michael Warden appointed to the Climate Smart Community Task Force (motion, second, all in favor).
Resolutions Approved (en bloc):
- Authorized transmission of Title VI and LEP plan to NYSDOT for continued grant eligibility.
- Extended bid for annual maintenance of electric work on town buildings.
- Released erosion control bonds ($1,500 to Little Sorrento Inc.; $500 to Ehrenberg CMSS Design and Development Inc.).
- Authorized budget transfer for remedial services from oil tank removal ($272,760 from general fund to highway for paving of parks and commuter lots).
- Authorized execution of PERMA grant for DPW zone kit ($2,500).
- Appointed Janie Bessera as Motor Equipment Operator (Highway) and Donald Hooper as Parks Groundskeeper.
- Authorized intermunicipal agreement and license/hold‑harmless renewal with Yorktown Central School District.
- Promoted Allison Egan to Librarian III.
- Authorized scrap or auction of two dump trucks (2010 Mack and 2000 Mack RD6).
- Authorized budget transfers for Water Department materials and supplies.
Adjournment: Motion carried.

Meeting Transcript

Good evening all and welcome to the uh town town board work session of August 12th, 2025. If we could all rise for the fledged allegiance, Howard, why don't you leave us today? And to the Republic for which it stands. Underground individual liberal liberty and justice for all. And if we could uh remain standing for a moment of silence, uh we just uh passed uh our Purple Heart Veteran Day this past Thursday uh as we remember those and honor those who uh received the Purple Heart for being wounded or killed in action uh and and pray for all of our military and all of our first responsors that are out there uh keeping us safe every day. Thank you. So we have introductions on here for some reason, so we'll go through them. Good evening, Diana Kwas, town clerk. Good evening, Luciana Howitt, Councilwoman. And Supervisor Red Lacterman. Sir Joe Esposito, Deputy Supervisor. Good evening, Patrick Murphy, town council. Susan Siegel, councilwoman. Adam Rodriguez, town attorney. Okay. Uh so Susan had asked me to update uh the town on two things that we have been looking at. Uh one is the solar law, and uh we have been looking at a rewrite and maybe reintroducing the law in September with some changes. Uh so that is uh being looked at from some changes that were spoken about during uh the whole process, and uh uh our attorney's been working with uh the people that have had those questions to try to get them filled up. Can you explain? Uh I'm sorry, I the first I'm hearing you say rewrite the law, which means are we gonna take any action on the law that's pending that we had the public hearing on the ban, or you or is there a decision to reject that and rewrite the law? I don't know. If we end up with it with a suitable law, it's it's some changes in it, uh, we would end up walking away from the other one and resubmit one. So will if the September 2nd meeting, which is our next meeting, will there be at least a decision whether we are rejecting the ban? I think that's the issue that that's pending, and I think people keep asking me what what's happening. So and I don't know. Right. Well, the question the question the question is between a a ban and a ban with a grandfather. And uh there are some council members who spoke up uh interested in that. There are some that were on the fence, some against. That would be me. Yes. But if there but there are some questions about uh for uh being against uh there were some changes that were looked at that may make a site selection uh suitable, and and there are two sites out there, uh both of them with some uh some really good pros from the uh aspect of visibility uh and being secluded, and then uh you know if if it works where we could have that, we will look into it. But it might be that we end up just voting on the other one and bringing it down, but you know, I'd honestly uh uh as I've sort of done throughout my uh tenure for these past two years. I believe we explore the questions, explore all the options, and this came up. And if someone asked for more time to work with our attorney, uh that is where we should go. And I've been asked to to let let the attorney answer some questions, look at the law, see if there's something that could work. So I will go that route. All right. Well, if if the board decides, if the majority of the board decides to vote against the ban, with with or without grandfathering. If again, I have no idea what the consensus is on the board, and then if you're going to look at writing a new law or revising the existing law, then I would ask that you also consider the um floating zone the float and zone option, which which which selects which selects parcels if they are appropriate and meet the guidelines that the town is considering. But first we have to decide on the ban because we can't talk about revising. But it doesn't make sense to vote on the ban uh right now if there's going to be a way to go forward. So we're gonna we're gonna look to see if there's a way to go forward or not with the projects that are online. If not, then we can just that are online, meaning the work, the two that the grandma. Two that are in the pipe, yes. Correct. So we will or whatever they are and we will allow the process to work through that everyone is satisfied because I don't want people making a vote while they have uninsured unanswered questions. We just had conversation like that upstairs uh where someone wants time to go through things. And I think we could also consider the the criteria that we all spoke about, especially if we look at a floating, you know. Float the criteria could be incorporated into the floating zone concept and that allows us to select parcels that meet this criteria that we are concerned about on a case-by-case basis as opposed to the outright ban, which is sort of a compromise that I that I selected.

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