Public Meetings - North Salem, New York

The Town of North Salem Zoning Board of Appeals met on May 8, 2025 at 7:30 PM to hear three applications: two special permit ownership transfers and one area variance. All applications were approved with conditions. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting were approved by unanimous vote. - The next meeting date was set for June 12, 2025. Announcements - BA25-03 (Wheelhouse Group, LLC, 577 Grant Road) was adjourned at the applicant's request. Public Comments & Testimony - BA25-10 – 212 Hunt Lane: Neighbor Carol Hughes (216 Hunt Lane) expressed concern about manure management based on prior negative experiences with the previous owner. She requested a clear plan for regular manure removal to prevent odor and fly problems. Discussion Items - BA25-10 – Z Ranch NY, LLC (212 Hunt Lane): Applicant Rebecca Fagan (assistant and power of attorney) requested a special permit to transfer ownership of an existing permit (BA19-37) for keeping up to two horses for personal use on approximately 2 acres in an R-1 district. No changes to the prior permit were proposed. Ms. Fagan stated they would use a 4-yard lidded dumpster, emptied every other week, and employ fly predators. Board member Rick recommended installing smoke detectors in the barn. The board discussed the location of the dumpster and the applicant confirmed a survey showing it set back from the property line. The public hearing was closed and a resolution was prepared. - BA25-11 – Paul & Kayla D'Agostino (2 Orchard Drive): The applicants requested area variances of 49 ft (rear yard) for a 17kW generator and 46 ft for a 120-gallon propane tank on a non-conforming corner lot in the Peach Gardens Cooperative. The required rear yard setback is 50 ft. They explained that the proposed location (between the house and shed) minimizes noise impact on neighbors and is approved by the cooperative. Board members found no feasible less-intrusive alternative and noted the property predates the zoning code. A suggestion was made to set generator self-tests between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM on weekdays to avoid disturbing neighbors. - BA25-12 – Cedar Fox, LLC (1 Lost Pond Lane): Representative Lance Cothman requested a special permit to transfer ownership of BA22-25 for keeping up to eight horses for personal use on approximately 15.4 acres in an R-4 district. Two fewer horses than previously permitted would be kept. The board noted that three full-time staff reside on-site and horses are present only in summer. No adverse neighborhood effects were identified. Key Outcomes - BA25-10: Motion to grant the special permit with the condition that smoke detectors be installed in the barn. Unanimously approved (Rick, Emily, Zinga, Chair). - BA25-11: Motion to grant the area variances. Unanimously approved (Emily, Zinga, Rick, Chair). The board recommended scheduling generator self-tests on weekdays between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. - BA25-12: Motion to grant the special permit. Unanimously approved (Rick, Emily, Zinga, Chair).

The North Salem Planning Board convened on May 7, 2025, at 7:30 PM in a hybrid format. The board reviewed several subdivision and site plan applications, a work session on proposed short-term rental regulations, and an update on small cell legislation. The meeting included a consent calendar, discussions on multiple properties, and a work session that resulted in a motion to refer the short-term rental code to the town board. Consent Calendar - Financial Report (April 2025): Motion to accept, seconded, all in favor (unanimous). - Minutes of April 9, 2025, and April 16, 2025: Motion to accept, seconded, no discussion, all in favor (unanimous). - Motion to enter Executive Session: Resolved to go into executive session at the end of the meeting to discuss legal matters. Motion made, seconded, all in favor. Discussion Items Hawley Woods (396-404 Hawley Rd.) - Representatives Alan Pilch (ALP Engineering) and Peter Gregory (DTS) presented. They stated that most comments from planning consultant (MDRA) and town engineer (Hahn) had been addressed, with remaining issues being minor plat items or legal language. Pilch proposed meeting in person with attorneys to resolve legal document language. The board agreed to have applicant’s attorney coordinate with the town attorney. Peter Gregory noted they need to approach the health department and DEC; the DEC requires some form of preliminary approval from the board. The board indicated they would work toward preliminary approval once legal issues are resolved. The applicant will provide updated survey and revised plat sheets (only changed sheets) along with legal documents. - Key Outcome: The board directed the applicant to have its attorney contact the town attorney to set up a meeting to resolve legal issues. A complete submission with revised legal documents and updated plats is expected before the next meeting. Fischer (6 Cottage Ln.) - Rob Woss (WASP Engineering) and Rich Vale (architect) presented a resubmittal. They added stormwater management changes (eliminating direct pipe discharge to lagoon) and are awaiting an updated topographic survey. They need a survey to obtain a ZBA referral. Discussion included a construction operations plan requiring co-op approval for storing materials on common ground; Chris Harrigan (co-op board member) stated permission had only been granted for the projects, not for material storage. Stormwater design concerns were raised regarding soil mottling and potential failure. The board requested a written response addressing those concerns and alternative practices. - Key Outcome: The board deferred the application pending a complete submission that includes the survey, co-op approval for material storage, and a detailed response to the engineer’s comments. The applicant was advised not to submit until the survey is ready. Watson (10 Cottage Ln.) - Rob Woss again presented for this similar house reconstruction project. Design changes were incorporated, but they are also waiting for a topographic survey. Stormwater net increase is about 150 square feet (15-20%). The applicant also intends to replace the seawall. The board reiterated the need for a complete submission. - Key Outcome: The application will be continued subject to receipt of the survey and a complete submission; the applicant was told to stay in touch regarding possible inclusion on a light June agenda. McGing (113 Mills Rd.) - Andy Chung (AC Engineering) presented. The project involves non-compliant stormwater and grading. The design redirects stormwater to stay on the property. The neighbor’s attorney was present; legal discussions regarding off-site restoration are ongoing. The board asked for a more robust monitoring plan. Regarding tree mitigation: five trees were removed on the property, and Chung proposed planting five trees (dogwoods and serviceberries) at the front of the property in the level spreader area. The board indicated that the proposed landscaping for the level spreaders is not considered mitigation for the removed trees; the loss of trees on the neighbor’s property must also be addressed by the attorneys. The board expects a resolution between parties. - Key Outcome: The applicant will provide a complete response to all consultant comments, including a maintenance plan and monitoring language. The board wants to see resolution of the off-site disturbance through attorney negotiations before final approval. Work Session: Short-Term Rentals - The board reviewed a revised draft of the short-term rental (STR) code, incorporating prior comments. New input from the town attorney (Lisa) was received that afternoon. Key points: Clarify that permit revocation requires due process (hearing); refer to penalty section. Inspection language in the draft should tie inspections to the permit process (initial and renewal) rather than allowing 24-hour notice entry; the board will consult with the building inspector on existing inspection authority. The penalty section remains under the general zoning code. The board agreed to incorporate these minor revisions and then refer the STR code to the town board. - Motion: To refer the amended short-term rental ordinance (based on Lisa’s comments) to the town board for their consideration. Motion made, seconded, all in favor. Small Cell Legislation - The chair noted that a previous draft by Will was circulated but not fully reviewed. The board will re-circulate the draft and solicit feedback from members and possibly from industry contacts (e.g., Gary Jacoby). They acknowledged that small cell installations are appearing in other Westchester communities (Scarsdale, Rye, White Plains) and may move along Route 22. The board aims to stay ahead of the curve. Key Outcomes - Hawley Woods: Legal meeting to be set; preliminary approval targeted after resolution. - Fischer & Watson: Deferred pending complete submissions with survey and co-op approvals. - McGing: Continued; requires attorney resolution on neighbor issues and a more detailed stormwater and tree mitigation plan. - Short-Term Rentals: Motion passed to refer the revised draft to the town board after incorporating attorney comments. - Site Visit: A site visit for Hawley Woods (Sun Valley Drive area) scheduled for May 12, 2025 at 6:00 PM (backup May 16, 2025 at 1:00 PM). - Executive Session: The board entered executive session at the end of the meeting to discuss legal matters, then adjourned.

The North Salem Town Board held a special work session on April 29, 2025, at 6:00 PM to discuss the status of the Delancey Hall renovations. The meeting centered on the structural issues discovered during exploratory work, the significant expansion of the project scope beyond the original painting contract, and the financial and legal implications for the Town. Discussion Items - Structural and Siding Assessment: Philip from Plan B and Bob Gabalski assessed the west side of the building. The original header beam is rotted, and modern studs are carrying the structural load. The siding was deemed in poor condition and not historically valuable. Contractor Billy noted the siding contains lead paint, which requires expensive abatement. - Window Renovation Options: A quote of approximately $130,000 was discussed for full window restoration ($109,000 for sashes, $20,500 for exterior work). Board Member Peter expressed strong opposition to the cost, advocating for a less expensive 20-year maintenance approach over a 50-year solution. Catherine emphasized that stopping water ingress is critical. - Bidding and Legal Requirements: Town Attorney Roland advised that the project has deviated too far from the original painting bid and must legally go out for a new public bid under state law. - Scope and Budget Control: The board discussed a shift to using cost-effective materials, such as dense glass sheathing (green board) for the vapor barrier instead of plywood, a suggestion made by the building inspector and endorsed by Billy. Peter stressed the board's obligation to taxpayers to control costs. - Contractor's Position and Project Direction: Billy requested immediate direction from the board. He offered to continue stripping all lead-painted siding from three sides of the building to fully expose the structure for engineering assessment. He raised specific concerns about demobilization, billing reconciliation, liability, and bonding requirements for closing out the current contract. Key Outcomes - Single Directive to Consultants: The board agreed to hold a conference call the next morning (April 30) with Bob Gabalski and Plan B to give a single, specific directive for the project scope and lifespan (e.g., a 20-year solution without window removal) to produce final specifications. - Siding Removal to Proceed: The board plans to authorize the removal of siding from all three sides under the existing time-and-materials change order to allow for complete structural assessment, pending legal confirmation from the Town Attorney. - Contractor Reconciliation: Billy was directed to submit a complete billing summary for work to date. The board will coordinate with the Town Attorney on a formal contract close-out addressing liability and bonding. - New Public Bid Preparation: Final engineering specifications (Plan B) and siding specifications (Bob Gabalski) will be prepared based on the board's direction to form the basis for a new competitive bid.

The Town Board of North Salem met in person and via Zoom on April 22, 2025. The meeting opened with a 6 p.m. executive session for planning board interviews and personnel matters; the regular meeting resumed at approximately 7:14 p.m. The board approved minutes, set Croton Falls parking rates, extended two Application Processing Restrictive Law (APRL) waivers, authorized water-district repairs, approved tax refunds and a cemetery plot buyback, amended a vehicle purchase resolution, and discussed Delancey Hall renovation assessments. Executive Session - The board unanimously approved entering executive session for board interviews and personnel matters before reconvening the regular meeting. Approval of Minutes - Minutes from the March 11, 2025 regular meeting/worksession, the March 25, 2025 public hearing, and the March 25, 2025 regular meeting/worksession were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Croton Falls Parking Rates: The board reviewed the proposed 2025 rate schedule, noting that the $800 commuter rate has not been raised in 20 years and that the town pays New York City one-third of gross parking fees. The $100 business-owner rate and $350 town-resident rate were considered reasonable. They also discussed adding time-limited signage (for example, 3-hour parking) near the green space, and a new parking meter/app was reported working after an initial issue. The board revised the schedule header to 2025 Croton Falls Parking Rates effective July 1, 2025; the agenda had listed 2024 Croton Falls Parking Rates. - Candlewood Park Water District Equipment: The board discussed two needed repairs: $3,960 for radio controls for two wells (after a storm fried the original controls; reservoir capacity is 70,000 gallons and the district had roughly $45,000 fund balance), and $17,380 for two 4-inch insertion valves because existing gate valves no longer work and a leak could drain the reservoir before shutdown. The vendor is the only maker of these valves; residents had not yet been notified, but the superintendent planned to inform them. - Delancey Hall Renovations: The board discussed an upcoming visual assessment and probe work by Bob Gabowski and engineers, including pulling siding at identified problem areas: between two second-story windows, below a window outside Andrea's office, and along the west side sill. The assessment will inform the level of intervention needed (for example, quick fix, 20-, 50-, or 100-year fix), maintenance advice, water-barrier/drip-plane details, and window options. The timing is tied to the 250th anniversary deadline. Key Outcomes - Approved the 2025 Croton Falls parking rate schedule effective July 1, 2025, including $100 business-owner, $350 town-resident, and $800 commuter rates (unanimous). - Approved a three-month extension of the APRL waiver for Martin Monaghan and Catherine McGinn, 113 Mills Road, originally granted July 26, 2022, until July 24, 2025 (unanimous). - Approved a three-month extension of the APRL waiver for Dawn Bossey, 2 Brookside Lane, originally granted October 24, 2023, until July 24, 2025 (unanimous). - Authorized release of planning board escrow to Susan Morth for 324 Hardscrabble Road in the amount of $861.30, as approved by the Planning Board on April 9, 2025 (unanimous). - Authorized $17,380 to Jack Farrelly Company for two 4-inch insertion valves for the Candlewood Park Water District, per quote dated February 10, 2025 (unanimous). - Authorized $3,960 to Water Services Inc to supply and install radio controls for two wells in the Candlewood Park Water District, per quote dated March 19, 2025 (unanimous). - Authorized tax refunds totaling $6,618.25 to Mocray Acquisition One LLC, payable to Herman Katz LLP, for Section 10 Block 1735 Lot 180 ($3,251.72) and Lot 181 ($3,366.53) for the 2021-2022 tax years (unanimous). - Authorized buyback of Peach Pond Cemetery plot 5, section 3 from Arthur Wilkes for $350 (unanimous). - Amended Resolution 335-24 to authorize purchase of a Freightliner cab and chassis for $164,534, charged to budget 020.535130.205, per quote dated April 3, 2025 (unanimous). Note: the agenda listed the vendor as Tracey Road Equipment, Inc., while the transcript identifies the vendor as Deal Truck World New York Freightliner. - Approved the March 11, 2025 regular meeting/worksession minutes, the March 25, 2025 public hearing minutes, and the March 25, 2025 regular meeting/worksession minutes (unanimous).

The North Salem Planning Board held a work session on April 16, 2025, to continue refining draft regulations for short-term rentals. The board reviewed the April 3rd draft line-by-line, incorporating feedback from the Town Board meeting and legal research. Key topics included definitions, operational standards, enforcement mechanisms, and coordination with existing codes. The board reached several consensus decisions and tasked Planning Board member Will with incorporating changes for a final review at the May 7th regular meeting, after which the proposal will be forwarded to the Town Board for a public hearing. Discussion Items - Deletion of Unused Terms: The board agreed to delete references to boarding houses, rooming houses, fraternity houses, and inner lodges from the code, as these uses are not defined or permitted anywhere in North Salem. The consensus was to remove them to avoid confusion. (Consensus to delete) - Short-Term Rental Definition: The board simplified the definition to "any portion of real property rented, leased, or otherwise assigned for occupancy by transient guests for a period of less than 30 consecutive days." The parenthetical clause regarding "no consecutive rental agreements" was removed, as it was considered unnecessary and ambiguous. (Consensus to simplify) - Hosted vs. Unhosted Rentals: The board discussed requiring a responsible person on site for unhosted rentals (where no owner is present) but deferred the specific language to later sections of the code under operational standards. (Deferred) - Comprehensive Plan Conformance: The board emphasized that the regulations must align with the Comprehensive Plan, which prioritizes protecting residential character and rural nature. Member Cynthia noted the plan mentions "residential community" over 100 times. The purpose section will be strengthened to reflect this alignment. (Directive to blend in stronger language) - Special Use Permit and Ownership: The board confirmed that the short-term rental permit would run with the owner and require a two-year ownership period. For LLCs or corporations, the applicant must designate an individual who holds ownership interest and will occupy the premises, similar to accessory apartment provisions. The board also directed Will to add similar language to the accessory apartment code for consistency. (Consensus to include ownership requirement) - Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and Campers: The board revised Section G3 to state that RVs, campers, and similar vehicles are not allowed as sleeping quarters for short-term rental guests. Such vehicles may be present only if incidental to the stay and parked in conformance with existing code §250-34 (which prohibits parking in front yards and requires screening). This addresses Town Board concerns about guests traveling with RVs. (Revised language agreed upon) - Minimum Stay Requirement: The board debated whether to impose a minimum stay (e.g., 2–3 nights). While some members saw it as reducing turnover and potential nuisance, others noted enforcement difficulties and the existing 13-weekend cap. Ultimately, the board opted not to recommend a minimum at this time, leaving the decision to the Town Board. (No recommendation) - Inspection and Permit Revocation: The board discussed the building inspector’s authority to revoke a special use permit for violations. Current code allows revocation of certificates of occupancy for specific circumstances (change of use) but not directly for special permits. The board asked counsel (Lisa) to review whether additional revocation provisions are needed, including due process requirements. (Referred to counsel) - Guest Register and Fourth Amendment Concerns: The board noted that requiring a guest register to be turned over upon request could raise Fourth Amendment issues if automatic fines are imposed. They agreed to tie the register requirement to fire safety inspections and ensure due process (e.g., reasonable notice) before any penalty is applied. The current language was considered acceptable for now pending further review. (Acknowledged, no change) - Fees: The board noted that fees for special permits and inspections are already established outside the zoning code. They will ensure the fee schedule includes new items if necessary, coordinating with Town Administrator Jim Doohick. (Deferred to administrative action) Key Outcomes - Consensus on Draft Revisions: The board agreed to delete unused terms, simplify the short-term rental definition, require owner designation for LLCs, revise RV provisions, and strengthen comprehensive plan conformance language. - Next Steps: Planning Board member Will will incorporate all agreed changes into a revised draft and present it to the board at the May 7, 2025 regular meeting. The board expects to finalize the proposal at that meeting and forward it to the Town Board for their first regular meeting in May. - Site Inspection Scheduled: The board scheduled a site inspection for the Little Mountain property (1 Little Mountain Road) with Will from Hahn Engineering to assess driveway and steep slope issues. The application was held over to the May meeting. - Continued Research: The board will review further legal research from counsel on inspection procedures and permit revocation, and will monitor any public comments submitted to the Town Board.

The North Salem Zoning Board of Appeals met on April 10, 2025, at 7:30 PM via in-person and Zoom. The meeting was called to order, the next meeting date was set for May 8, 2025, and the minutes from March 13, 2025, were approved. One held-over item (BA25-03, Wheelhouse Group) was adjourned at the request of the applicant's attorney. Two public hearings were conducted: BA25-08 (Smick) and BA25-09 (Gillis), both resulting in unanimous votes to grant the requested variances. Discussion Items - BA25-08 – Joseph & Lisa Beth Smick, 88 Blackberry Ridge Road: The applicant sought four area variances to construct a 6 ft x 6 ft two-story addition on the north side of the existing residence to house a residential wheelchair lift. The requested variances were: front yard setback (30 ft required, 17 ft proposed), building coverage (10% permitted, 15.56% proposed), development coverage (25% permitted, 27.2% proposed), and floor area ratio (0.2 permitted, 0.246 proposed). The architect Richard Vale presented the plans, noting that the placement minimized impact and integrated well with the existing structure. The Bloomside Cooperative had approved the application. Board members expressed no concerns, noting the variances were not substantial and the benefit to the applicant outweighed any detriment. - BA25-09 – David & Lori Gillis, 31 Lakeside Drive: The applicant requested seven area variances to demolish an existing cottage and construct a new four-bedroom single-family residence. Variances included front yard (35 ft required, 14 ft proposed), combined side yards (20/50 ft required, 5/14 ft proposed), side yards for A/C condenser and propane tank, building coverage (10% permitted, 33.8% proposed), development coverage (20% permitted, 54.3% proposed), and floor area ratio (0.2 permitted, 0.59 proposed). Architect Richard Vale explained the proposal includes a two-story house with walkout basement, new retaining walls, and off-street parking. The Bloomside Cooperative approved the plan contingent on a groundwater retention system (a buried culvert to collect roof leaders and sheet flow). Board members noted the lot is narrow and the existing cottage is uninhabitable; variances were seen as substantial but necessary given the lot's under-conformity. Compliance with the dark sky policy was required. No generator was proposed, and if added later, would require a separate variance. Key Outcomes - BA25-08 (Smick): Motion to grant all four variances was made, seconded, and passed unanimously (3 ayes: Emily, Cindy, Chair). - BA25-09 (Gillis): Motion to grant all seven variances was made, seconded, and passed unanimously (3 ayes: Emily, Cindy, Chair). The motion noted the approval is contingent on the groundwater retention system as designed, and compliance will be enforced by the building inspector when issuing the building permit. - The meeting was adjourned after the hearings.

The Town of North Salem Planning Board met on April 9, 2025, at 7:30 PM both in person and via Zoom. The meeting included pre-application discussions, routine approvals, and wetland permit reviews for properties on Reed Road, Cottage Lane, and Bloomer Road. Key actions included granting extensions for AT&T Mobility and Gilport Development Corp., acknowledging the withdrawal of the Morth subdivision project with escrow release, and discussing stormwater management and variance needs for two residential redevelopments on Cottage Lane. Consent Calendar - Grant Road LLC Public Hearing: Carried over to the May 7, 2025 meeting. - AT&T Mobility Extension: Approved a 90-day extension of previous approvals from April 7, 2025 to July 7, 2025. - Gilport Development Corp. Extension: Approved the 14th 90-day extension of final subdivision plat approval from April 28, 2025 to July 28, 2025, along with a corresponding wetland approval extension to July 28, 2025. - Morth Project Withdrawal & Escrow Release: Acknowledged withdrawal of the Morth subdivision project and approved release of planning board escrow in the amount of $861.30. - Financial Report: Approved the March 2025 financial report. - Minutes: Approved the minutes from the March 5, 2025 meeting. Discussion Items - Reed Road Group Pre-Application (Reed Road): Represented by Adam Fibert of Insight Engineering, the applicant proposed a lot line adjustment among three existing lots (Parcels A 130 acres, B 6 acres, C 23 acres) to create three large estate lots (Lot 1 86 acres, Lot 2 50 acres, Lot 3 26 acres). A fourth lot (73 acres, partly in Southeast) would contribute a triangle to Lot 1. Access via a private road or common driveway off Reed Road was debated; the board noted that a common driveway could not be built until a building permit is issued. The board emphasized steep slopes (1000–1200 ft driveway), fire access, and asked the applicant to consider conservation easements and no further subdivision. A site visit was agreed upon. The applicant will revise and return for formal application. - Verizon Wireless Renewal (101 Bloomer Road): Verizon seeks renewal of its conditional use permit. MDRA’s memo requested updated documents; Verizon’s representative stated they will respond with revisions. The board noted that a new CECRA EAF is not required since no changes are proposed, but documentation should clarify. - Fischer (6 Cottage Lane): Presented by engineer Rob Wasp and architect Rich Vale. A complete demolition and reconstruction of a small home on a 1,400 sq ft lot near Peach Lake. Proposed elevated house on piers (first floor elevation 4.5 ft higher), with impervious increase of only 71 sq ft. Stormwater management via an underground Coltech chamber collecting 277 sq ft of roof runoff; remaining roof runoff would drain to grass and toward the lake. The board raised concerns about fire code compliance (distance to neighbor 2 ft), high groundwater limiting infiltration, and the need for variances. The application will be referred to the Board of Appeals after the next submission and engineering review. - Watson (10 Cottage Lane): Also presented by Rob Wasp and architect Chris Harrigan. Similar reconstruction with a larger footprint increase (impervious +145 sq ft). Proposed Coltech chamber in front yard, elevated house, and overflow pipe to lagoon (board suggested removing or modifying). Off-site parking available. The board noted similar variance needs and fire code issues. The application will follow the same process as Fischer, with referral to the Board of Appeals after next submission. - Short Term Rentals Work Session: The board discussed progress on a draft local law. After receiving town board feedback (stating the board is on the right course) and comments from Lisa, the board deferred detailed discussion to the next meeting (April 16, 2025, if possible, else May 7, 2025). Members were asked to review comments from March 9 and March 30 drafts and consider adding the PO district to allow bed-and-breakfast uses. Key Outcomes - Votes: All consent calendar items (AT&T, Gilport, Morth, financial report, minutes) were approved unanimously. - Reed Road Group: Will return with revised plans; site visit to be arranged. - Fischer & Watson: Next submissions will be reviewed by the planner and engineer, then referred to the Board of Appeals for variances. - Verizon Wireless: Will submit updated documents as requested. - Short Term Rentals: Deferred to the April 16 work session; final draft to be sent to the building inspector and town board.

The Town Board met in person and via Zoom on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. After a 6:00 pm executive session, the board convened the regular meeting/worksession at 7:30 pm at Town Meeting Hall, 66 June Road. The board discussed major policy and infrastructure items and adopted a series of resolutions, nearly all by unanimous voice vote. Executive Session - The board voted unanimously to enter executive session for board interviews, legal advice of counsel, and contracts. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Coch, a resident of Cotswold Drive, asked which person would be the point of contact during the DeLancey Hall assessment; the board confirmed Catherine Daniels. - Mr. Sweeney, participating remotely, asked about an existing Airbnb on Bogtown Road and whether it would be allowed under the proposed short-term rental rules. He expressed concern about enforcement, parties, garbage, and the ability to hold owners accountable for renter behavior. Board members and counsel responded that the permit could be revoked based on incident reports and that owners would need to comply with occupancy, parking, and registration requirements. Discussion Items - DeLancey Hall Renovations: The board reviewed the deteriorating condition of DeLancey Hall, including a rotten center post and sills, and approved a proposal from Lothrup Associates Architects D.P.C. to assess the exterior siding, trim, doors, and windows at a cost not to exceed $9,500. The report is intended to guide repairs and preserve the historic integrity of the building. - MS-4 Compliance: George Palmer of Hahn Engineering reviewed the new five-year NYS DEC MS4 permit, which became effective January 3, 2024. The town is a heightened MS4 in the East Hudson watershed. The draft 2025 Stormwater Management Plan will be posted for a 30-day public comment period. The discussion covered the six minimum measures, record keeping, inspections, septic pump-out data, and the cost of stormwater compliance. Supervisor Lucas said the state should press New York City to address the financial burden on watershed towns. - Short-Term Rentals: The Planning Board presented a preliminary draft amendment to Chapter 250 of the zoning code. The proposed approach is to regulate short-term rentals rather than prohibit them, requiring a two-year owner residency before applying, a special use permit tied to the person, permit terms, safety inspections, a rental period of fewer than 30 consecutive days, and no more than 90 rental days per calendar year. Board members generally supported the approach but asked for a clearer definition and discussed enforcement, RV and ATV restrictions, minimum-stay feasibility, and permit revocability. The Planning Board will continue refining the draft. - Croton Falls Sewer District EAF: The board discussed the draft environmental assessment form Part 1 for the Croton Falls Sewer District and its connection to a WIA/CWSRF grant application. After extended discussion, the board agreed to amend the language to describe stage one as the business district sewer installation and stage two as the extension of the district to residences, and to remove the words 'are failing' from a recital about septic systems and cesspools. The board then approved the amended EAF and declared itself lead agency. - Electric Vehicle Purchase: Supervisor Lucas reported that the town has $15,000 from NYSERDA to apply toward an electric vehicle. The Building Department has requested a second vehicle, and the supervisor will obtain pricing and return with options. - Solar RFP – Highway Garage: The board discussed the draft RFP for a rooftop solar installation on the Highway Garage. Funding includes $175,000 from NYSERTA, $100,000 from a Crest grant, and $130,000 from the investment tax credit. The proposed array is about 150 kilowatts and is expected to offset power use at the Highway Garage, Town Hall, and Community Center. The RFP is being finalized with Sustainable Westchester and will go out to bid shortly. - North Salem Town Annex Roof: The board discussed roof conditions at the Town Annex after shingles were lost. Bids will be solicited and brought back to the board. - Credit Card Policy: Councilman Martin Aronchek presented a revised credit card policy incorporating state Comptroller standards. The policy was adopted by the board. Consent Calendar The following routine approvals and actions were taken by unanimous voice vote unless otherwise noted: - Approved town bills totaling $272,490.18 and highway bills totaling $525.72. - Approved minutes from the February 11, 2025 and February 25, 2025 meetings, with minor grammatical corrections. - Accepted the March 2025 monthly reports from the Building Inspector, Highway Department, Planning Board, Police Department, Receiver of Taxes, Recreation, Supervisor, and Town Clerk. - Accepted the resignation of office assistant Audrey Wilson, effective March 26, 2025. - Acknowledged the resignation of Steve Rankel from the Conservation Advisory Council, effective April 9, 2025, and appointed him as ex-officio member through December 31, 2025. - Appointed Christopher S. Beehan as part-time police officer at $46.23 per hour, effective May 1, 2025, with a probationary period of not less than 12 weeks and not more than 52 weeks. - Appointed Jinx Remsen as seasonal office assistant at $22.38 per hour from April 9 through July 29, 2025. - Appointed Jack Newman as a volunteer intern in the Building Department from April 9 through June 30, 2025. - Appointed Gabriel Rias as volunteer leader of the 2025 men’s soccer league. - Reappointed Marjorie Subalak and Richard Stewart to the Architectural Review Board for terms expiring April 14, 2028. - Reappointed Skip Floor as an ad hoc member of the Recreation Advisory Committee for a term expiring April 24, 2028. - Reappointed Anthony Navarro to the Town Housing Board for a term expiring April 14, 2028, and appointed him as chair. - Approved a $8,494 budget modification for court office furnishings from a New York State Unified Court System grant. - Authorized Maureen Kennedy to attend the Hudson Valley Affordable Housing Summit on May 15, 2025, at a cost of $65. - Released a $1,000 bond to Fabiola Menzini for a driveway opening permit at 17 Sun Valley Drive. - Adopted the North Salem Credit Card Policy. - Authorized the supervisor to sign the Beyond the Gravestone agreement for June Cemetery headstone repair. - Authorized the supervisor to sign an amended intermunicipal agreement with Westchester County for the $125,000 CDBG-funded Croton Falls Community Green Space improvements. - Authorized the supervisor to sign a 15-year Metropolitan Regional Radio System access agreement with the MTA. - Authorized the supervisor to sign the Westchester County Parks permit for Camp Hemlock for June 1 through September 1. - Authorized the supervisor to sign the Sustainable Westchester MOU related to the Community Choice Aggregation program. - Authorized the supervisor to sign 14 recreation programming service agreements. - Approved the North Salem Artisanal Farmers Market special events permit for the Croton Falls Commuter Park. - Supported the Peach Lake Environmental Coalition’s submission of environmental permit packages for treatment of up to 70 acres of Peach Lake with ProcellaCOR to control Eurasian watermilfoil. Key Outcomes - The board approved the DeLancey Hall assessment agreement with Lothrup Associates at a cost not to exceed $9,500. - The board adopted the credit card policy and authorized the supervisor to execute multiple agreements, including the Beyond the Gravestone headstone repair, Westchester County, MTA, Camp Hemlock, Sustainable Westchester, and recreation programming agreements. - The board declared itself lead agency for the Croton Falls Sewer District and approved the amended EAF Part 1 for circulation to involved agencies. - The MS4 draft Stormwater Management Plan is to be posted for 30 days of public comment before finalization. - The short-term rental draft will be revised by the Planning Board and brought back for further review. - The supervisor will seek electric vehicle pricing and bids for the Town Annex roof; the solar RFP will proceed to bid.

The Town Board met on March 25, 2025, starting at 7:00 PM (after an executive session at 6:00 PM) to hold a public hearing on a proposed alarms local law, discuss Delancey Hall renovations, and approve several routine resolutions. All resolutions were passed unanimously. Public Hearing: Local Law on Alarms - The public hearing was opened to consider adding Chapter 27 (Alarms) to the Town Code. Fire district members indicated they needed more time to gauge interest. Resident and State Trooper David Miranda expressed concerns about enforcement and the creation of a public license list, which could be exploited. The hearing was adjourned to a future date pending a formal resolution from the Croton Falls Fire District. Worksession: Delancey Hall Renovations - The Capital Planning Committee recommended a comprehensive architectural assessment by Lothrop Associates (proposal $9,500) and structural engineering by Plan B Engineering (approx. $5,000–$6,000). Discussion centered on the need for a long-term plan (20- to 50-year options) rather than piecemeal repairs. Town Historian Susie Thompson and committee member Bob Koch supported a full evaluation. Architect Steve Laraca suggested adding insulation and weather barriers to the scope. The board agreed to have the Capital Planning Committee review the proposal before the next meeting on April 8, 2025. Consent Calendar / Resolutions - Reappoint Assessor: Karen Futea was reappointed for a six-year term (October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2031). - Authorize Receiver of Taxes to Attend Training: Karen Roach was authorized to attend the Annual Training Seminar in Lake George, June 8–11, 2025, at a cost not to exceed $1,077. - Release Guarantee Bond: A $20,000 bond was released for work completed at 461 Route 22. - Award Highway Bids: The 2025 bids for highway materials and services were awarded. - Sign EAP Agreement: The supervisor was authorized to sign an Employee Assistance Program agreement with Westchester County for 2025–2029, costing $1,312.50 for 2025. - Croton Falls Sewer District Lead Agency: Discussion on the Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) was led by Councilwoman Cynthia, who raised multiple corrections regarding scope, parcel lists, and opt-out options. The board will refine the EAF and resubmit grant applications by July 2025. - Authorize Piano Tuning: $250 was authorized to tune and repair the Steinway Grand Piano at the Community Center. - Recreation Programming Agreement: A music program with instructor Emily Bindiger was approved, cost paid by participants. Key Outcomes - The public hearing on the alarms law was adjourned to a future date. - The Delancey Hall project will proceed with a comprehensive assessment after the Capital Planning Committee reviews the proposals. - All listed resolutions were adopted unanimously. - The Croton Falls Sewer District planning will continue with revised EAF and needs assessments.