Public Meetings - North Salem, New York

The Town of North Salem Planning Board held a regular meeting on March 4, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The board opened a public hearing for a three-lot subdivision (Hawley Woods), considered two AT&T wireless facility applications, approved the February financial report and prior meeting minutes, and received an overview of administrative permits from the planning consultant. A work session scheduled for March 18 was cancelled; the next regular meeting is April 1, 2026. Consent Calendar - Financial Report – February 2026: Motion to approve carried unanimously. - Minutes – February 4, 2026: Motion to approve carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Hawley Woods (396-404 Hawley Rd): Four residents offered comments or questions during the public hearing: - Christina Trees (406 Hawley Rd) expressed concerns about stormwater runoff, the proximity of a proposed septic field to her well, and potential blasting on steep, rocky terrain. - Kurt Jennon (408 Hawley Rd) questioned wildlife surveys, the extent of tree removal, blasting, sewage expansion areas, and existing drainage issues on Hawley Rd. - Mark Sallas (299 Post Rd, via Zoom) asked how close the nearest lot would be to his property. - Mike Cuyos (303 Post Rd) raised concerns about runoff from ledge, interference with existing wells, and septic failure risks. Residents requested more detailed information on topography, tree removal, and blasting. The board kept the public hearing open for future input. Discussion Items - Hawley Woods Subdivision (Public Hearing): Alan Pills (ALP Engineering) presented the applicant's proposal for a 48.44-acre vacant parcel off Hawley Road. Plans call for a three-lot single-family subdivision with a 16-foot wide private driveway (with 2-ft pervious shoulders) from Hawley Road only; no access from Post Road. Lot sizes are approximately 9, 14.5, and 24.75 acres. Each lot will have a well, on-site septic absorption system, and a 10,000-gallon fire suppression tank. Preliminary subdivision approval was granted in 2016. A stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) has been approved by the New York City DEP (valid through December 23, 2030). The driveway design (replacing an earlier road proposal) reduces cut/fill and disturbance. Required permits include final subdivision approval, wetlands permit, stormwater/erosion control, street opening, building permits, DEC approval, and Westchester County Health Department septic permits. Board members discussed building envelopes (disturbance limited to light areas on plan), setbacks, and the need for a homeowners' association for shared driveway maintenance. No decisions were made; the hearing remains open. - AT&T Wireless – 73 Crosby Rd: Marty McGee (Hour Smith Development) represented New Cingular Wireless/AT&T. The proposal involves swapping existing antennas and some ground equipment; no digging or ground disturbance is planned. The board reviewed memos from MDRA (planning consultant) and Hahn (town engineer). Key issues included: - An updated removal bond of $30,000 has been ordered. - The board requested a defined lease area on site plans. The applicant noted he cannot obtain lease information from other carriers on the tower and will ask the tower owner (American Tower) for a comprehensive ground lease plan. - A locked gate on the access road: the North Salem Ambulance Corps does not have a key, creating an emergency access concern. The applicant will investigate whether AT&T's lock is involved and work toward a common lock/key arrangement. - Labeling corrections needed (e.g., road name, RF report reference). The application was deferred pending submission of additional information. - AT&T Mobility – 101 Bloomer Rd: The same representative addressed a renewal of a conditional use/site plan approval. No changes are proposed. The board noted that as-built plans are needed to verify antenna heights; current plans have discrepancies. Mylars must be updated. The board also noted that Verizon Wireless (co-located on the same tower) needs to renew its approval concurrently. The applicant agreed to correct heights and provide updated mylars. The matter was continued. - Administrative Permits Overview: Planning Consultant Will Agresta (MDRA) explained the difference between ministerial (non-discretionary) permits handled by the building inspector vs. discretionary permits requiring board review. Examples from the town's wetlands ordinance were used, which categorizes permits into very minor (administrative), minor (wetland inspector), and major (planning board) based on specific criteria. The discussion aimed to guide the Conservation Advisory Council (CAC) as it develops a tree ordinance, considering factors like number of trees, ground disturbance, and impact severity. The board emphasized that administrative permits allow limited mitigation and do not involve SEQRA or public hearings. Key Outcomes - The public hearing for Hawley Woods was opened and continued to the April 1, 2026 meeting for additional applicant responses and public input. - AT&T applications at 73 Crosby Rd and 101 Bloomer Rd were deferred; applicants must provide updated removal bond, improvements to site plans (lease area, as-built data), resolutions regarding the gate lock, and corrected heights/mylars. - The February 2026 financial report and minutes of February 4, 2026 were approved unanimously. - The March 18 work session was cancelled; the CAC will present at the April 1 regular meeting. - The board reminded members of the annual training requirement (4 hours) and available courses.

The North Salem Town Board met in person and via Zoom on March 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM for a special meeting. The sole agenda item was a resolution to award a contract for purchase and installation of eight high-efficiency heat pumps in three town buildings. After reviewing five bids and an independent technical assessment, the board awarded the contract to HVAC Specialist, Inc. at a price not to exceed $169,485. Discussion: Award of Heat Pump Bid - The board reviewed bids of $169,485, $192,000, $195,000, $265,000, and $920,000. A board member said the $195,000 bid was incomplete and described the $920,000 bid as unserious, while three bids were considered credible. - The board member reported checking references; the references were favorable, though one reference was still not reached. The low bidder was slow to respond in part because the signatory, Cliff, was on his honeymoon in Hawaii; after a certified letter was sent, the company provided the requested information. - The board obtained independent review from Larry Nisman of Phoenix Mechanical for roughly $75 an hour. Over two to three hours, Nisman called the $192,000 bid the best-written bid but said the bids were good. The board member noted Mitsubishi HyperHeat units are considered strong units that heat to lower outdoor temperatures. - The selected bidder's owner said his company is switching to Mitsubishi because Daikin acquired retail companies and is selling less expensive products, and that Mitsubishi is more focused on heat pumps. The bidder has Mitsubishi certification and is in the process of obtaining elite certification. - Project scope discussed: two new units at Lancey Hall to replace old AC units; two small Mitsubishi units in the basement vault for temperature and humidity control; replacement and relocation of two heat pumps from under the roof edge to improve performance and avoid ice; and an additional mini-split for hallways. The work totals eight heat pumps across three town buildings. - Funding: the town has grant funding for geothermal heat pumps; the grant administrator said funds can be moved to the regular heat pump work, but that transfer had not yet been completed. - A board member said that if funding becomes available, a change order might add replacement of two additional units at Lobdell at an estimated cost of roughly $40,000. Key Outcomes - The board passed a motion authorizing the award of the bid to HVAC Specialist, Inc. for the purchase and installation of eight high-efficiency heat pumps for three town buildings, as written, with the price not to exceed $169,485. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote with no stated opposition. - The board then voted to adjourn; the meeting ended.

The North Salem Town Board held its Regular Meeting/Worksession on February 24, 2026, in person and via Zoom. The agenda listed both 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. start times; the transcript opens with the meeting being called to order. The board approved previous meeting minutes and a series of resolutions, then held worksession discussions on gas-powered leaf blowers, pickleball, the records management grant, the heat pump bid, and the police chief's request to hire an officer. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the December 16, 2025 Public Hearing Continuation (2026 Preliminary Town Budget) and December 16, 2025 Special Meeting/Worksession were accepted as delivered after corrections. - Re-appointed Supervisor Warren Lucas, Councilman Brent Alasana, and Historian Susie Thompson to the Records Advisory Board for terms expiring March 15, 2028. - Authorized an hourly longevity bonus of 46 cents for Highway MEO Victor Ganela, effective March 1, 2026, after completing 10 consecutive years of full-time town service. - Authorized the Supervisor to seek bids for labor, materials, and equipment needed to install interior plumbing and a PFAS removal system at the Sunset Ridge Water District treatment/pump building at 1 Ridgeway, per the attached bid document. - Authorized an $875 expense to General Code to codify and supplement 2025 legislation and print three hard copies of the supplemental code pages. - Authorized the Supervisor to sign Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation Intermunicipal Agreement 25-934-M for snow and ice removal on county roads for October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2030. The Supervisor indicated he might delay signing for a few days until insurance responsibility is clarified after a county-road guardrail strike. - From the floor, the board approved a $923 expenditure for FortiClient software on the town's routers, after noting it was needed to address AI-related vulnerabilities and that delaying could increase the price. Public Comments & Testimony - Virginia, speaking from the CAC, said Westchester County is considering a summer ban on gas-powered leaf blowers and the CAC recommends North Salem support the ban if asked. She cited noise and emissions concerns but placed the strongest emphasis on biodiversity: powerful blowers remove leaves that provide habitat for insects, which in turn support birds and the broader food chain. She personally favored public education over legislation, clarifying that was her own view rather than the CAC's position. - Kurt Golden, a local landscaping business owner, voiced concerns about a ban. He said his transition to electric equipment has required about 132 batteries per day for a four-person crew, two generators, roughly 100 batteries on hand, and a $50,000 investment, and that the generators produce more noise and emissions. He recommended a more structured noise ordinance, stronger enforcement and public education first, and asked whether the town would exempt itself from any ban and buy its own electric equipment. He also noted enforcement challenges involving agricultural exemptions. Discussion Items Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers - Board members observed that North Salem currently has no gas leaf-blower restrictions, while many Westchester municipalities have partial or near-full bans: partial bans include Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Greenburgh, New Castle, and New Rochelle; near-full bans include Bedford, Bronxville, Irvington, Larchmont, Mamaroneck, Rye Brook, Scarsdale, and Yonkers. - The town spends approximately $50,000 per year collecting leaves and has no good disposal site; several members expressed interest in encouraging mulching, leaving leaves on site, and public education rather than continued curbside pickup. - The board agreed the topic involves multiple sub-issues—noise, emissions, biodiversity, lawn maintenance, disposal, and enforcement—and was not ready to send a vague referral to the Planning Board. Possible next steps included a public education video with the school district, work by CAC/CSC, and direct discussion with landscapers. Pickleball - The board revisited the Recreation Committee's recommendation of 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Saturday, for pickleball. Some players wanted later hours, but the committee's recommendation was described as already accounting for player input and homeowner concerns. - Members discussed accepting the recommendation for the spring and reassessing in summer; one member suggested possible summer evening hours, such as 5-7 p.m., because courts are about 100 feet from nearby houses. - No vote was taken, but the board planned to place the decision on the next meeting agenda so it could be implemented before spring play begins. Records Management Grant - The Town Clerk said a records management grant application is due April 1, with grants up to $75,000, and requires a defined storage location and detailed project plan. - The vault can fit roughly 130 additional boxes after re-shelving, but existing shelving is non-standard (36- and 48-inch shelves instead of 42-inch), wasting space. The board agreed to include standard shelving, temperature/humidity controls, a dehumidifier, and selected digitization (about $400 per box) in the application. - The Town Clerk expressed concern that a distinctive box containing roughly 1,800 handwritten historical documents was not where she expected it in the vault, though it may have been moved. - The board directed the Town Clerk to proceed with the grant application. Heat Pump Bid - The town has a $286,000 grant for heat pump work. Three bids were received; the low bid was about $169,000 and the next bid about $192,000. An outside review by Larry Nisman of Phoenix found one bid not valid and stressed using a certified Mitsubishi installer. - The low bidder had not yet supplied references; the Supervisor sent a certified letter and a follow-up email that day. No bid was awarded. The project may also include replacing some AC units with heat pumps through a change order. Police Chief Request to Hire New Police Officer - Police Chief Tom requested one additional officer to increase headcount and cover shifts. Board members voiced support and did not object; the chief was expected to proceed, with possible Civil Service position-count steps. - The board also discussed the state's $35,000 earnings cap for retired officers collecting pensions, which makes rehiring retired officers difficult. A proposed increase to $50,000 was described as stalled in the Assembly, with State Comptroller DiNapoli cited as an obstacle. A board member suggested contacting the Comptroller's office. Key Outcomes - All formal agenda resolutions, plus the $923 router-software expenditure added from the floor, were approved with all in favor. - No leaf-blower legislation was adopted; the board will continue public education and refine options before considering a referral to the Planning Board. - Pickleball hours remain undecided; the board plans to decide at its next meeting, likely by adopting the 9 a.m.-noon recommendation for the spring. - The Town Clerk was directed to apply for the records management grant by April 1, including vault shelving, climate controls, and digitization. - The heat pump bid was not awarded; references are still being obtained from the low bidder. - The police chief's request to hire one officer was supported; follow-up on the state retirement-earnings cap is planned.

The Town of North Salem Board of Appeals met on February 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM in person and via Zoom. The board set the next meeting for March 12, 2026; it heard four area variance applications and held one application to the March meeting. The transcript opens mid-meeting. No meeting minutes were available, and the agenda listed acceptance of the October 9, 2025, November 13, 2025, and December 11, 2025 minutes. Consent Calendar - According to the agenda, minutes from October 9, 2025, November 13, 2025, and December 11, 2025 were listed for acceptance; the transcript does not capture that item. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the public hearings; each hearing was closed after the board confirmed no public comments. - For BA26-04, applicant representative Kellyn Cantrell reported that neighbor Mr. Schwartz had raised objections but, after discussing the proposal, was satisfied that the retaining wall would be at grade on his side. Mr. Schwartz's letter was placed in the record. Discussion Items BA26-01 - Cynthia Vance-Abrams, 235 Mills Road (listed on the agenda as a held-over hearing) - Request: Area variance for a gate with 6 ft.-3 in. stone pillars within the required front yard, a pillar-height variance of 2 ft.-3 in. where 4 ft. is allowed and 6 ft.-3 in. is proposed. - The applicant's representative said the gate is set back 72 ft. from the road, fits the property and neighborhood aesthetics, and would not hinder the public. The board confirmed no pillar lights are proposed; solar lights will be placed up the driveway. A board member noted uneven deer-fence posts; the representative said that section was not constructed by them and had been brought to the owner's attention. The speaker box is about 54-55 ft. from the road, so vehicles can pull off the road to use it. - Board action: Approved unanimously. BA26-02 - Peter Vincent, 11 Locust Road - Request: Area variance to expand the first floor off the southeast corner of the house on approximately 0.16 acres in an R-1 district. Variances sought: front yard setback of 8 ft. where 30 ft. is required (28 ft. existing; 22 ft. proposed); building coverage of 13.4% where 10% is permitted (21.4% existing; 23.4% proposed); and development coverage of 3.3% where 25% is permitted (26% existing; 28.3% proposed). - Representative Richard Vale described a small porch addition and a mud-room extension pulled forward about 8-9 ft., with a new central foyer. The board reviewed a letter from the Vale's Grove cooperative and observed that the work does not go closer to neighbors, does not reduce off-street parking, and blends architecturally. The applicant agreed to full-cutoff outdoor lighting. - Board action: Approved unanimously. BA26-03 - William Dall, 25 Bonnieview Street - Note: The agenda lists the applicant as William Dall; the transcript refers to William Dahl. - Request: Area variance to construct new decks within required side yards on approximately 0.26 acres in an R-1/2 district. Variances sought: combined side yard of 11 ft./30 ft. where 15 ft./40 ft. is required (4 ft./16.5 ft. existing; 4 ft./10 ft. proposed); building coverage of 7.7% where 10% is permitted (12.3% existing; 17.7% proposed); and development coverage of 4.3% where 25% is permitted (24.3% existing; 29.3% proposed). - Representative Richard Vale said the house has existing decks on the west and south sides but no lake-facing deck; the proposal connects decks around the house, replaces railings with cable rail, and follows dark-sky lighting. The new lake-facing deck is about 10 ft. deep with connector/catwalk sections. - Board action: Approved unanimously. BA26-04 - Jerry Simon, 31 Whittier Hills Drive - Request: Area variance to decrease the rear yard setback on approximately 3.5 acres in an R-1 district to construct a wall on the rear yard side of a proposed Gunite in-ground pool. Variance sought: 33 ft. where 50 ft. is required; 89.7 ft. existing; 17 ft. proposed. - Representative Kellyn Cantrell said the home, completed in 2003, sits far to the rear; the front yard contains septic and tank, and a well and steep slopes restrict placement. The retaining wall will be at grade on the rear neighbor's side and about 4.5 ft. high on the applicant's side at its peak. The proposal includes a code-compliant pool barrier/fence, a small patio, three drywells for excess impervious surface, and a trench drain. No lighting is proposed except the pool light. The closest neighboring house is about 175 ft. away; the rear neighbor (Mr. Schwartz) is roughly 2,000 ft. away on a hillside. No trees will be removed. - Board action: Approved unanimously. BA26-05 - Barbara Gatfield, 685 Titicus Road - Request: Area variance to install a gate in the required front yard in an R-4 district, a gate and pillar height variance of 2 ft. where 4 ft. is allowed and 6 ft. is proposed. - Held over: Board staff reported the public hearing notice was not published in the newspaper due to a publication error. The applicant was notified and agreed to wait for the March meeting; the notice will be republished. No decision was made. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved BA26-01, BA26-02, BA26-03, and BA26-04. - BA26-05 was held over to March 12, 2026 because the public hearing notice was not published. - The board set its next meeting for March 12, 2026 and adjourned.

The Town of North Salem Town Board convened on February 10, 2026, for a Regular Meeting and Worksession. The meeting began with an Executive Session for legal advice and contracts. Following the executive session, the Board returned to public session to conduct a full agenda of approvals, presentations, and policy discussions. Consent Calendar - Minutes & Reports: Minutes from the December 2, 2025 Special Meeting, December 9, 2025 Public Hearings (Budget and Water Rates), and the December 9, 2025 Regular Meeting were approved. Monthly departmental reports for January 2026 (Building, Highway, Planning Board, Police, Receiver of Taxes, Recreation, Supervisor, Town Clerk) were accepted as delivered. - Financials: Town bills totaling $218,845.69 and Highway bills totaling $346,953.51 were ordered paid. The Supervisor noted the Highway bill included a significant expense for a new bucket truck. A PODS storage bill for $423.74 was approved for payment, though the Supervisor noted the standard monthly rate is $378 and will reconcile the difference. - Appointments & Resignations: Alina Zach was appointed to the Town Housing Board (term expiring April 14, 2028). Adam Siegel was appointed to the Recreation Advisory Committee (term expiring April 24, 2028). Brandy Murphy Keenan was appointed Co-Chair of the Recreation Advisory Committee through December 31, 2026. The Board acknowledged the resignation of Peter Rosetto from the Architectural Review Board. - Personnel: A third-step salary increase was authorized for Highway employee Justin Conley, raising his hourly wage to $44.54 per hour, effective February 15, 2026, as recommended by the Highway Superintendent. - Tax Refunds: Tax refunds were approved for Peter Schultz ($5,722.92), Richard Vail ($494.96), and Francis Toote ($4,032.93). - Equipment & Services: An expense of $1,000 was authorized for McGrath & Company for an updated appraisal of the Front Street parking lot to satisfy state grant requirements. An expense of $2,546 was authorized for Comairco for repair parts for the sewer aeration system at Peach Lake. The Supervisor was authorized to sign the New York State Department of Health Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program agreement, updating the town's defibrillator inventory to include units in police vehicles. The Highway Department's request to establish a Facebook page, managed by the Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent, was approved under the town's existing social media policy. - Bid Authorization: The Supervisor was authorized to seek bids for interior gypsum repair at Delancey Hall (Resolution 15). Public Comments & Testimony - Susie: A resident speaking via Zoom (with camera off) urged the Board to ensure that hardwood floors are preserved or installed throughout Delancey Hall during the renovation. She argued for the historical integrity of the building, stating that given the significant investment, the Board should "do it right" and assess the condition of the floors beneath the current carpeting before finalizing flooring decisions. Discussion Items - MS4 Stormwater Management Program Update: William Angiolillo of Hahn Engineering presented the draft MS4 Annual Report and Stormwater Management Program Plan update. He highlighted new DEC requirements for municipal facilities inventories, post-construction stormwater practices inventories, and expanded outfall monitoring. Board members Catherine and the Supervisor raised concerns about erosion from dirt roads not being included in the plan and the impact of high phosphorus levels (200 µg/L permitted vs. 20 µg/L recommended) from the Speedy's permit on Peach Lake. Mr. Angiolillo explained that adding items to specific DEC lists triggers mandatory inspection requirements. The Town Board directed staff and the engineer to strategically incorporate dirt roads and the Peach Lake watershed issues into the plan. - Croton Falls Plan Adoption & Implementation: The Board passed a resolution adopting the Croton Falls Plan as a supplement to the 2011 Comprehensive Plan, including a SEQR Negative Declaration. Board member Roland advised that the plan is a living document and can be amended in the future (e.g., if sewers are introduced), but any amendment would require a public hearing, a SEQR process, and must maintain zoning consistency to avoid spot zoning challenges. - Delancey Hall Renovation & Heating Strategy: A comprehensive discussion was held on the interior repair scope, heating systems, and project sequencing. The Board debated whether to bundle drywall, painting, and flooring into one bid but decided to keep bids separate to avoid delays caused by subcontractor dependencies. The most critical issue was the lack of heat; the current oil boiler requires the tank to be moved for siding work, and temporary heating is not permitted. The Board leaned toward installing new heat pump systems first to seal the building envelope and provide stable heat for interior trades. The Supervisor reviewed three heat pump bids, with two considered competitive, and is verifying the bidders' Diamond Elite certification (which provides extended warranties) and references. A grant is available to cover the cost of the heat pumps. Propane backup was discussed but deprioritized due to calibration and maintenance concerns. Key Outcomes - Adopted: Croton Falls Plan Supplement to the 2011 Comprehensive Plan via a SEQR Negative Declaration. - Appointed: Alina Zach to the Housing Board; Adam Siegel and Brandy Murphy Keenan to the Recreation Advisory Committee. - Directed: Town staff and Hahn Engineering to incorporate dirt road inventories and Peach Lake watershed concerns into the MS4 Stormwater Plan before the April 1, 2026 submission deadline. - Authorized: Supervisor to seek bids for Delancey Hall interior gypsum work. Bids for painting and flooring will be managed separately. - Deferred: Resolution 10 (Authorizing Engineering Services with Kleinschmidt Associates) was tabled pending resolution of school district participation and DEP meeting logistics. - Heating Plan: Board directed the Supervisor to continue evaluating heat pump bids and prepare a recommendation for formal contract award at a future meeting. - Tax Refunds Approved: Three refunds totaling $10,249.81.

The North Salem Planning Board held a brief regular meeting on February 4, 2026, via Zoom and in person. Key actions included carrying over a public hearing, granting a subdivision extension, and approving routine financial reports and minutes. Public Hearings - Grant Road LLC (658 Grant Road): The public hearing for the preliminary subdivision was carried over to the March 4, 2026 meeting without discussion. Consent Calendar - Financial Report: The January 2026 financial report was approved unanimously. - Minutes: The minutes from the January 7 and January 21, 2026 meetings were approved unanimously, with a minor typographical correction noted. Discussion Items - APC Group (4 Hardscrabble Rd.) Extension: The board approved a 90-day extension of the preliminary subdivision plat approval from February 6 to May 7, 2026, upon written request from Tim Allen. Allen reported that the health department is ready to sign the final plat, and final approval is expected soon. The motion passed unanimously. - Future Meetings: The board discussed that the February 18 work session would likely not be needed because the town board had adopted short-term rental regulations and the Croton Falls plan without further changes. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 4, 2026. The Conservation Advisory Council (CAC) has not yet returned revisions to the tree ordinance, so that item may appear on the March agenda. Key Outcomes - Grant Road LLC public hearing continued to March 4, 2026. - APC Group extension granted unanimously (vote: 3 ayes). - January financial report and January 7 & 21 minutes approved. - February 18 work session effectively cancelled; next meeting March 4.

The Town of North Salem Town Board met in person and via Zoom on January 27, 2026, at Town Meeting Hall, 66 June Road. The session opened with a 6:30 p.m. executive session to interview prospective committee/board candidates and to receive legal advice on contracts, followed by a 7:00 p.m. public hearing and regular meeting/worksession. The board adopted a volunteer firefighter/ambulance worker tax exemption local law, adopted Local Law No. 2-2026 on short-term rentals, approved a SEQR negative declaration, made personnel and volunteer appointments, and discussed the proposed Croton Falls Sewer District. Public Hearing on Tax Exemption Local Law - The board read the public hearing notice for a local law amending Chapter 208 (Taxation) to add Section 208.17, extending the real property tax exemption authorized by Section 466-a of the Real Property Tax Law, as enacted by Chapter 670 of the Laws of 2022, to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers serving neighboring cities, villages, towns, counties, or school districts, provided they meet Article 6 criteria. - No public comments were submitted or read into the record. Board members spoke in favor, saying the exemption is well worth it and would save eligible volunteers hundreds of dollars; one member noted that a neighboring municipality is doing the same thing. - The board adopted the law unanimously. The agenda listed this item as Local Law No. 2-2026, but because it was adopted first, the board numbered it Local Law No. 1-2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing on the tax exemption local law, and no written comments were reported. Short-Term Rental Local Law and SEQR - The board first approved a SEQR negative declaration, determining non-significance for Local Law No. 2-2026, which amends Chapter 250 (Zoning) to permit and regulate short-term rentals of certain dwellings. The agenda had labeled this as Local Law No. 1-2026, but the board renumbered it to No. 2-2026 after the tax law was adopted first. - Board members praised the Planning Board and Lisa for the comprehensive drafting process, describing the resulting law as a model for other jurisdictions. After adoption, a board member asked Lisa to confirm whether the law must be filed with the Westchester County Planning Department in addition to the state; she said she would find out. Croton Falls Sewer District Update and Veolia Payment - Supervisor Warren gave an update on the proposed Croton Falls Sewer District. The total project cost was estimated at $16.262 million including contingency; a third-party construction review said $14.9 million, subject to change. Funding discussed included $8 million on hand, $526,000 already spent, $6.8 million in county QIP funding, and $1.25 million expected in pending federal/Senate legislation after an earlier grant was pulled back. - Han Engineering survey data showed 34 stage-one properties and 75 stage-two properties, for 109 total properties. Response rates were 94% for stage one, 84% for stage two, and 87% overall; 75% were interested in connecting, 8% (nine properties) were not interested, 3% were unsure, and 13% did not respond. - Annual maintenance costs were estimated at $58,000 overall. Residential costs were projected around $400–$500 per year, while business costs could be higher; one business was noted as using about 10% of the water district's usage. - Board member Sandya asked whether Han Engineering had completed a parcel-by-parcel needs assessment and whether the district boundary could be adjusted. Supervisor Warren said the needs assessment was not finished and Han had so far provided only interest responses. He added that most lots in the proposed district are sub-sized with no septic expansion areas. - A board member asked for a timeline. Supervisor Warren said district creation would take several months, comparing it to Peach Lake, followed by bidding and construction of the pump station and sewer line, with testing before hookups. - A board member expressed caution about spending additional money before pending federal funding was secured, noting the town had already spent tens of thousands of dollars. Supervisor Warren disagreed, saying he needed to pay Veolia $6,000 for the engineering review to get final written numbers and obtain commitments from property owners. The board then authorized the $6,000 payment to Veolia Sewer New York Inc.; one board member voted no, preferring to wait until funding was in place. Personnel Appointment - The board appointed Judith Schumacher as a part-time senior account clerk in the Finance Department at an hourly rate of $40, effective February 17, 2026, for up to 16 hours per week, subject to a probationary period of not less than 12 weeks and not more than 52 weeks. The supervisor said her references gave glowing reports and that she is familiar with NISHIP and other payroll requirements. The start date was delayed to allow time for computer, phone, and desk setup. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the November 18, 2025 regular meeting/worksession; the November 25, 2025 public hearings on the Stephen Road stop sign, Croton Falls Water District improvements, and tax cap override; and the November 25, 2025 regular meeting/worksession, as corrected. - Acknowledged the resignation of Planning Board member Nicholas Sands Hotis, effective January 15, 2026, with term ending December 31, 2026; board members thanked him for his volunteer service. - Appointed Karen Roach as a volunteer in the Tax Receiver's office through December 31, 2026, which also provides insurance coverage; she has been helping new Tax Receiver Carol DeLose. - Granted a three-month extension, to April 24, 2026, of the APRL waiver originally granted October 4, 2023 to Dawn Bossey (listed as Bossi on the agenda) for 2 Brookside Lane, violation number 2307, so the application can proceed before the Planning Board. - Approved a filming license for Above Average Productions, LLC for various dates through March 30, 2026, per the application dated January 23, 2026; the production is a video podcast on private property and the police chief has been involved. - Authorized the Supervisor to sign a three-year alarm monitoring agreement with All-Time Security Corp. for the highway garage at a monthly fee of $35, payable annually. Titus Dam Engineering Contract Deferred - The board did not act on Resolution 11 authorizing engineering services with Kleinschmidt Associates PA, PC for review of the Titus Dam. The contract was discussed in executive session and is approximately $156,000. An advisor named Roland advised the board to hold off until the next meeting, and board members received email replies from Pat on contractual questions. The item was deferred to the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Adopted Local Law No. 1-2026 extending the volunteer firefighter and ambulance worker tax exemption, and Local Law No. 2-2026 permitting and regulating short-term rentals, after an approved SEQR negative declaration. - Approved the appointment of Judith Schumacher to the Finance Department and Karen Roach as a volunteer in the Tax Receiver's office. - Authorized the $6,000 Veolia Sewer New York Inc. payment for the Croton Falls Sewer District engineering review, with one dissenting vote. - Deferred the Kleinschmidt Associates Titus Dam engineering contract to the next meeting. - Approved minutes, the Planning Board resignation acknowledgment, the APRL waiver extension, the filming license, and the alarm monitoring agreement. - Convened an executive session for candidate interviews and legal advice on contracts.

North Salem Planning Board Meeting - January 21, 2026\n\nThe North Salem Planning Board convened on January 21, 2026 for a regular meeting and work session. The Board unanimously approved two AT&T telecommunications extension requests, conducted a detailed review of a controversial restoration plan and boardwalk proposal at 2 Brookside Lane involving wetland and conservation easement violations, and discussed a draft tree ordinance revision with the Conservation Advisory Council (CAC) to create a streamlined administrative permit process for minor tree removals.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- AT&T Extensions: The Board unanimously approved two 90-day extensions without discussion.\n - 39 Delancey Rd. (New Cingular Wireless / AT&T): Extension granted from February 1, 2026 to May 4, 2026.\n - 40 Sun Valley Dr. (AT&T Mobility Corp.): Extension granted from December 7, 2025 to March 9, 2026.\n\n Discussion Items\n\n Bossi Restoration Plan and Permit (2 Brookside Ln.)\n- Project Representative (Jerry Barrett): Presented the third revision of a landscape restoration plan for the Richard and Dawn Bossi property. The plan addresses the unauthorized clearing of approximately 71 trees and the creation of a path through a wetland and conservation easement to Peach Lake. The proposal includes a 170-foot polymodular floating boardwalk system, a future floating dock, and native plantings.\n- Board Member Chris: Expressed significant opposition, stating the proposal appears to "reward bad behavior" given the clear violation of the conservation easement and a subdivision covenant (paragraph 3D) that prohibits private trails or paths to the lake. Chris emphasized the structure may legally trigger a resubdivision involving all lot owners.\n- Board Member Emily: Found the entire premise of the allowance "challenging" and a "strange allowance" to make.\n- Chair: Remained undecided but focused on technical restoration, preferring a true red maple swamp canopy restoration over an open meadow transition. The Chair noted the town board will likely have ultimate authority.\n- Board Member Holly: Raised technical concerns about the lateral stability of the unanchored boardwalk, requesting anchor posts to prevent additional wetland disturbance.\n- Technical Directives:\n - The Board directed the applicant to add galvanized steel anchor posts, increase wetland tree plantings (red maples) for true canopy restoration, respond to all outstanding MDRA consultant comments from July 2025, and immediately consult with the NYS DEC and Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) regarding required permits for the boardwalk and dock.\n\n Tree Ordinance Revision Work Session with CAC\n- CAC Representatives (Rob and Holly): Presented a working draft proposing an administrative permit for minor tree removals handled by the Building Inspector, reserving larger applications for the Planning Board.\n- Proposed Administrative Thresholds: The CAC suggested the admin permit apply to removals on properties of 2 acres or less (5 or more trees), properties greater than 2 acres (3 or more trees per acre), or removal of any single regulated tree (36 inches DBH or greater).\n- Board Feedback: The Board generally supported the concept but stressed:\n - Disturbance Factor: The threshold must consider the level of ground disturbance (stump removal, heavy equipment), not just the raw tree count. A logical maximum tree count is required.\n - Exclusions: The Board recommended tightening the building permit exclusion to the "minimum necessary development envelope," narrowing the farming exclusion to activities "directly in conjunction" with farm operations, and requiring invasive species removal to follow Best Management Practices (BMPs).\n - Fines and Tree Fund: The Board strongly opposed creating a municipal tree fund, preferring increased fines instead. It supported raising the individual maximum fine from $1,200 but questioned the legal basis for a double standard between individuals and corporations.\n - Next Steps: The CAC will revise the draft to incorporate the Board's feedback (specifically on disturbance factors and tighter quantity thresholds) and submit it via email for further review before a future meeting.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- AT&T Extensions: Approved unanimously.\n- Bossi Restoration Plan: No decision was reached. The applicant must complete several major action items (ACOE/DEC consultation, revised planting plan, boardwalk anchoring plan, response to MDRA comments) before the next review. The Chair and Board Member Will will confer with Town Attorney Roland Baroni to determine if a resubdivision is legally required.\n- Tree Ordinance: The CAC will revise its draft, focusing on low-disturbance, small-quantity thresholds. The Planning Board and Town Attorney will review the next iteration.\n- Next Meetings: The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for February 4, 2026. The next Work Session is scheduled for February 18, 2026.

The North Salem Town Board met in person at Town Meeting Hall, 66 June Road, and via Zoom on January 13, 2026. The agenda listed both 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm start times. The board entered executive session, reconvened, approved several resolutions, accepted minutes and reports, and discussed parking enforcement, UV water treatment equipment, and Town Hall's water meter. No public comments were made. Executive Session - The board unanimously approved a resolution to enter executive session to discuss personnel – particular persons. - The board later voted to reconvene the regular meeting. Resolutions - To Pay Town Bills: Approved abstract 1, claims 1 through 83, totaling $208,108.55. - To Pay Highway Bills: Approved claims 84 through 121, totaling $97,088.11. - Schoolhouse Theatre Foundation Refund: Approved a $221.01 refund to Schoolhouse Theatre Foundation, Inc., representing return of a $250 security deposit less damages, as recommended in a January 6, 2026 letter from the Recreation Superintendent. - Recreation Programs Refund: Approved a $620 refund to Joan Sheeran, 19 Cornell Drive, Goldens Bridge, NY. - Parking Enforcement Agreement: Approved authorization for the Supervisor to sign the agreement with Fundamental Business Service, Inc. (FBSINC) for parking enforcement and case management services, and to sign the accompanying DMV portal application. The motion was amended to change 'assist the court' to 'assist the town.' During discussion, the board noted the contract gives FBSINC 30% of violations beginning 31 days from issuance. Police write roughly 15 tickets per week, mostly $30 at the commuter parking lot, so the total weekly value is about $600; board members viewed the financial impact of holding back an additional 30 days as small and preferred sending tickets to FBS quickly to maximize deterrent value. - Tundra Contracting Payment: Approved payment of $200,124.20 to Tundra Contracting Group, Inc. for payment application 4 under a July 10, 2025 contract, after receiving required Department of Labor prevailing wage paperwork. The supervisor noted replacement windows are expected in about 10-12 days, around January 23. - Croton Falls Parking Permit Refund: Approved a $308 partial refund to D. Pack, Pondi and Day, 18 Dixon Lake Drive, Mahopac, NY 10541, for 2025-26 Croton Falls parking permit 88. - Salary Amendment: Approved amending Resolution 01-26 to set Dave Scanlan's 2026 salary rate at $36.12 per hour, reflecting a 3% increase. - Showmobile Application: Approved authorization for Town Historian Susie Thompson to apply to Westchester County for the Showmobile mobile stage for the June 20, 2026 North Salem Celebrates 1776/250th anniversary event. The $2,000 county stage cost is intended to be fully covered by fundraising, not town funds. Minutes & Reports - Approved minutes as delivered: October 28, 2025 public hearing on Sunset Ridge Water District Improvements; October 28, 2025 regular meeting/worksession; November 4, 2025 continued public hearing; November 4, 2025 special meeting; and November 18, 2025 special meeting. - Approved December 2025 monthly reports as delivered from the Building Inspector, Facilities Manager, Highway Department, Planning Board, Police Department, Receiver of Taxes, Recreation, Supervisor, and Town Clerk. Discussion Items - Croton Falls Water District UV Germicidal Lights: The supervisor explained that the county requires new UV lights when an additional well is added. Two lights are needed, costing about $4,200 each, with a second for redundancy. Current UV bulbs burn out every few weeks at about $300 per set, possibly due to power spikes, grounding, or voltage fluctuations. The supervisor is considering a continuously-on UPS unit ($300) and a spike tracker ($400), and may order one UV light at this time, which is less than the two recommended by VRI. - North Salem Town Hall Water System New Meter: The Town Hall water meter stopped working and registered only 3 gallons per day last month. The supervisor said a replacement will likely cost under $1,000 and will be ordered. Key Outcomes - All listed resolutions were approved unanimously, plus the added Showmobile authorization. - Minutes and December 2025 reports were accepted unanimously. - The parking enforcement motion was amended to change 'court' to 'town' and approved as written. - Next steps include ordering the Town Hall water meter, finalizing the UV light decision after discussions with VRI, and submitting the Showmobile application.