Ensuring Compliance at Canine Commons (Dog Park) At the recommendation of the Police Department, Town counsel and B Dog (the resident committee which has supported the park since its inception), we are amending the Town’s law to enable parking enforcement and animal control personnel to issue parking tickets to vehicles at the park which fail to display the permit. A permit is key to safety as it will not be issued absent proof the dog has been vaccinated. In addition the Town has strictly limited the number of out of town permits, and enforcement is necessary to ensure compliance.

The Board will consider extending through December 31 the temporary changes in parking limits (for example to one-half hour for four spaces fronting shops along the Village Green) to allow the Bedford Village Business Association, residents and others to provide feedback on the changes.   While we believe at least some of the changes have been well received, we wish to provide additional time for consideration.

For the Agenda click here

The Town of Bedford plans on three days of site preparation / construction and road paving between Monday November 20, 2017 and Wednesday November 22, 2017 (inclusive). Roads to be paved at this time include:

– The Village Green in Bedford Village (from Pound Ridge Road to Old Post Road.)

–   Baylis Lane

–  Cherry Street (from Route 35 to the Reyburn Road South entry)

–  North St. in Katonah from Edgemont Road to Greenville Road.)

–  Railroad Ave. from Rte 117 entry to #11 Railroad Ave.)

–  Katonah Memorial Park Parking Lot

Commuters could experience temporary disruptions to traffic and access as paving operations commence. Residents are asked to refrain from parking on these streets as paving proceeds. The precise scheduling of work depends upon weather conditions and the proper operation of paving equipment. Therefore, your patience and understanding are appreciated. Keep in mind that it is possible that Rain Events or Equipment Issues may push back the paving schedule into another week.

If you have any further questions regarding this, contact Bedford Public Works Department at 914-666-7669.

click here for the policy and application

click here (please note that the calendar is posted on the Town’s website home page usually before the distribution of the e-news and also posted on the Supervisor’s Facebook page, click here) 

The Town of Bedford and the Veterans Advisory Committee is hosting a donation box for Toys For Tots this year.  New, unwrapped toys can be brought to the drop box located at the Town Hall, 321 Bedford Road, Bedford Hills.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program:

The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.

I am pleased to report that the Open Space proposition passed in Bedford with 62% of votes in favor (2704 votes) (the numbers will be certified by the Board of Elections and we will provide final numbers)

For Bedford election results: click here

For County election results: click here

As you will read in this report, with Bedford 2020 leading the way, our community is making great progress in achieving its climate action goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 20% by 2020 and preserve our natural resources.

Climate action at the local level is more important now than ever before. I am proud to say that our community is a model for just that. Please join me in thanking Bedford 2020 for their leadership and tireless efforts to drive positive change in Bedford, and well beyond.

Included in the report you will find the preliminary budget for 2018.

The Town of Bedford, Bedford 2020 and Energize NY have worked out a deal for residents: get your free or reduced-cost home energy assessment by January 2018, and receive a 10% discount on improvements to make your home more comfortable and to save energy. Energy efficiency improvements also save many homeowners money! Click here for more information.

Just a reminder that there is a vacancy on the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee for a resident of the Bedford Hills Park District.  Send your resume and a cover letter or e-mail to supervisor@bedfordny.gov.

THE CONSERVATION 2017 GREEN AWARDS recognized organizations and individuals who have made a difference in our hamlets by embracing several initiatives they are passionate about.  The organizations recognized were Bedford Hills Live who has been working tirelessly toward the revitalization of  downtown  Bedford Hills; The Westchester Land Trust and Douglass DeCandia coordinates the Farm Growing Program for the Food Bank for Westchester; Fox Lane High School Student s Win Envirothon Hudson Valley Regional Competition, the Envirothon is a national environmental science competition sponsored by Canon U.S.A., the US Forest Service, the Canadian Forestry Association, and the National Association of Conservation Districts – the impressive Fox Lane team consists of Seniors Asha Grossberndt, Dylan Grant, and Natalie Colao, Junior Ethan Gatfield and Sophomore Cerina Karr.  They dedicated hours of preparation in addition to existing school work, sports, and clubs, and have represented our community with dignity and class.  Their passion and commitment to environmental sustainability serves as a model for us all; Ben Antin, Fox Lane High School “The Plastic Bag Project” – his creative concept involved obtaining student signatures (#) in support of a plastic bag ban in Bedford and Mt. Kisco and arranging the preview of a film at the school describing the impact plastic has on our environment, “Bag It” ;  Energize Bedford, the “Energize Bedford” campaign evaluated wasted energy use, level of comfort, costs and green solutions for 200 homes in Bedford, the highest number of assessments in New York state.

Several municipalities in Westchester County and other municipalities throughout the state and the Nation regulate the use of leaf blowers.  The regulations range from seasonal bans to full or partial prohibition.  Concerns regarding leaf blowers, among others, are noise, pollution, dust, spread of plant disease, removal of top soil.  We are considering regulation which would take effect in 2018.  We are evaluating regulations from other communities, but before developing any specific proposal, are soliciting input.  Following the busy Fall season for landscapers, we will meet with them in December to begin a conversation and address concerns, as their livelihood would be affected   As we move ahead, I will be providing updates. Of course, we wish to hear from residents of the Town and businesses who may be affected and will provide ample opportunity for views to be expressed.   Please let us know yours.

Leaf Blower Use – Please Be Considerate

And in the meantime…. please be considerate on the use of leaf blowers – and if you use a landscaper, please ask your landscaper to be considerate as well.   You and, as applicable, your landscaper might consider alternatives to the use of leaf blowing such as mowing over them to create nutritious mulch for your lawn   Please also consider the following:

          * Reduce noise by running blowers at the lowest throttle speed and for the minimum time needed.

            * Run blowers one at a time and do not idle for more than one minute.

            * Consider using electric blowers, which are quieter and less polluting (the price of electric mowers has come down quite a bit and their power has increased)

            * Use rakes or clean-up garden beds by hand.

            * On pavement and driveways, do final clean-up with a broom.

            * Be courteous and don’t blow near people and pets.

            * Avoid blowing debris into neighbors’ yards, the street and towards windows and doors.

You may not be aware that some town officials and departments are on social media. These pages provide valuable information to town residents such as road closures, upcoming special events, board meeting schedules, etc.

Please give our pages a “like” by clicking on the links below:

Town of Bedford Supervisor Chris Burdick: https://www.facebook.com/Town-of-Bedford-Supervisor-Chris-Burdick-274587416028614/

Town of Bedford Town Clerk – NY: https://www.facebook.com/Town-of-Bedford-Town-Clerk-NY-1268319463272349/

Bedford Police Department, New York: https://www.facebook.com/BedfordNY.Police/

2018 is a big year as it represents the ten-year mark of the Town committing to communitywide climate action goals. There is a need and major opportunity in 2018 for the Town to assess how far we’ve come in addressing the measures laid out in the Climate Action Plan; report progress/achievements to the Bedford community, and use this as a platform for establishing new, post-2020 strategic targets.

Bedford 2020 is in a unique position to lead a 2018 greenhouse gas inventory and climate action plan assessment, and to develop a messaging campaign to convey and celebrate the Town’s climate action achievements over the past 10 years to the community:

Click here

MTA Lease for Bedford Hills Train Station    After my negotiations for several months with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, we received in final form a new lease to the train station on terms favorable to the Town.   The lease is for 25 years (rather than 20 as MTA originally proposed); provides a use clause to allow the Town to use the station as it presently is being used for Town and community activities; requires a least payment of $1 per year (waived); and right to convert the lease to a market rate lease in the event of non-municipal use of the station.    The Board authorized me to sign the lease on behalf of the Town.  The next step is approval by the Board of Directors of the MTA.   We’re delighted that we are retaining the station, its parking and its surrounding area for Town and community use.

Proposal for Municipal Parking in Bedford Village   The Town Board is considering acquiring vacant parcels off of Court Road which are owned by the Bedford Presbyterian Church.  The purpose of the acquisition would be for development of municipal parking to serve the hamlet center.   The Town Board approved my request to authorize a Phase II environmental assessment of the parcels as part of our due diligence.  Environmental Planning & Management (EPM) to perform a Phase II environmental assessment following the Phase I assessment recently completed.  The cost is for a not to exceed fee of $14,815.  Comptroller Zambrano advises the Board that there are funds available in the capital project for Bedford Village parking previously established.  The Church has authorized our performing the assessment.   Should the results of the environmental assessment allow for the Town to proceed, we would hold a meeting with the community in Bedford Village for input on the proposal.

Authorization to Re-Issue Request for Proposal for Solar Installations; Bid Requests for Carports at Police Station    This summer the Town had issued a Request for Proposals for solar installations not only in connection with carports for the Police Station, but at the option of any firm submitting a proposal other suitable Town-owned locations.  At the same time we sought bids for the construction of the planned carport for the Police Station, which we wish to provide in the renovation project regardless of whether we proceed with solar panels atop the carport.  There were no proposals submitted nor any bids submitted.   I was advised that it is likely that no proposals were submitted due to uncertainty regarding NYS incentives available to solar developers.  The NYS Public Service Commission on September 14 issued an “Implementation Order” which bears directly upon NYS financial incentives to solar developers.   Some details remain to be settled, which are expected soon.  As such, it appears that if we were to issue the RFP and re-issue the bid requests at the end of September or early October and provide sufficient time for submissions, we may find interest among developers/contractors.   The Board approved authorizing me to proceed.

Phase 2 of KVIS Beautification Plan   The Board approved phase 2 of the superb beautification plan for Katonah Avenue in front of the train station.  The first phase was completed last year with the Town providing park personnel for the plantings and KVIS providing professionally prepared planting plans and $12,000 in plant material.  This covered the area from Edgemont to the stairs to the station.  Phase 2 covers from the fire hydrant to the gazebo.  This will entail from $8,000 to $10,000 in plant material KVIS will donate and over $8,000 in Town furnished labor.  We thank KVIS for making this partnership possible to move ahead with a significant beautification of Katonah Avenue.

Temporary Parking Rule Changes on Village Green, Bedford Village   Crews began construction this past Monday to provide a raised crosswalk.   The project, which may take as much as a month, temporarily takes out of service 10 to 12 parking spaces.   To ease the impact on patrons, customers and businesses, the Town Board adopted a resolution providing temporary changes in the parking rules in the hamlet center, including a reduction in the parking time limit to 30 minutes from 1 hour for eight parking spaces from Court Road towards the entrance to the fire station and an increase from 1 hour to 2 hours for the next three spaces.  It also provides an increase from 1 hour to 2 hours for two spaces in front of the Bedford Playhouse building.   We’re interested in feedback from the community to help us determine whether after the project is completed, we might keep the changes in place.   Our thanks to the Bedford Presbyterian Church for their generosity in allowing the public to use during the course of the construction project parking in the Church lot behind the Church.  We ask the cooperation of business owners and their employees to use such parking or street parking on Court Road (those spaces further toward BVES which do not have a limit).

Bedford 2020 now has compost bins available for Town residents who want to collect organic kitchen waste and take it to the Town Recycling Center.  For $25 you can purchase 2 bins and a roll of compostable bag liners for $5. Click here for a brief instructional video and more information

PLEASE NOTE: PUBLIC WORKS PROJECT IN BEDFORD VILLAGE; TEMPORARY CHANGE IN PARKING RULES

 UPDATE ON THIS YEAR’S I-684 PAVING PROJECT

We’re pleased that the paving of a portion of I-684 running through Bedford (from 172 to Harris Road) is proceeding on schedule and is going well.   As you may know, we are pressing for funding to put in place for paving the remaining Bedford portion in 2018.

A number of residents have reported bear sightings.  “Wow, a bear!” may be our first reaction, but here are some safety tips, click here.  And click here to see a picture of a bear that was taken and shared with us by a resident.

I wish to augment the below information (e-news 8/25) with the following request for motorists:

Sharing the road d with bicyclists

When parked on the street, check for bicyclists approaching from behind you before opening your car door.

Always exercise due care to avoid colliding with any person walking or bicycling.

Always be vigilant when pedestrians are present, especially those with visual or physical impairments.

Bicyclists are fully entitled to use the road and have the right to “take the lane” by positioning themselves at or near the center of the lane when needed to avoid hazards or if the lane is too narrow  to safely travel side by side with motorists.

Pass bicycles only when necessary and safe: pass to the left of the bicycle at a safe distance until safely clear. When in doubt, wait until you can pass at a safe speed. Before making a right turn, let bicyclists clear the intersection. When turning left or entering a roadway, yield to oncoming bicyclists as you would to any vehicle.

 Some of you may have heard of the tragic death earlier this month of a cyclist in Stony Point.  Another was killed yesterday.  We also are concerned about the safety of walkers and pedestrians.  While we implore drivers to observe speed limits and other rules of the road, we also wish to share with you rules and tips for cyclists and pedestrians some of which a Bedford resident compiled and sent to me.

New York State law mandates the following related to cyclists:

Septic pump out – if you haven’t done it within the last five years, the law requires you do so. And, if you have a problem with your system, please check out the Town’s Septic System Repair and Replacement program to deal with failing septic systems. The program allows Bedford property owners in the Croton Watershed (about 85% of the Town’s land area) for a 50% reimbursement of repair/replacement costs. If you have a failing septic system, contact the Planning Department at 666-4434 for further information or visit our website.

FOR WEATHER ALERTS FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

Click here and enter location you would like information about.

HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM SEASON UPON US ~ SOME WEATHER-RELATED TIPS

Hurricanes and Tropical storms can wreak havoc in many ways, with lashing winds, torrential rains, and inundating storm surges.

Prepare for a hurricane by stocking up on food, water, protective clothing, medications, batteries, flashlights, important documents, road maps, and a full tank of gasoline.

As a storm unfolds listen to local authorities on radio or television (battery operated in the event of an outage). Evacuation routes often close as a storm develops. Dedicated professionals and improved technology have made hurricane forecasting more accurate than ever before-but it’s far from precise.

If forced to weather a storm, get inside the most secure building possible and stay away from windows.

Avoid downed wires – they can be live.  Report downed wires to your local utilities.  In the case of an emergency call 911. Click here for more information regarding hurricane and tropical storm preparedness.

The Town will be updating their Electric Vehicle charging stations as they are outdated and will install an additional charging station in Bedford Village Memorial Park. They will also be entering into an agreement with ChargePoint.  The Town appreciates members of the community and Bedford 2020 for supporting the Town’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions.  The Town is grateful for all the work done by Town resident Andrew Kohler toward this effort for the last six months.  The Town also thanks Ellen Calves of Bedford 2020 for the organizations efforts towards reducing carbon emissions and supporting the use of electric vehicles. The charging stations will be serviced by ChargePoint, a global organization dedicated to servicing the chargers.   Comptroller Abraham Zambrano gave the locations of the stations and also gave two price quotes, one for the replacement of the existing five charging stations, and one for the installment of the new one. The total project is budgeted at $100,140. The Town will use $30,000 of an existing 2016 fund earmarked for the repair of the stations and $70,140 out of the general fund for the remainder of the funding. The details of how the Town will charge for the use of the electricity and as well as timed use of the stations are still being worked out as well as parking costs. A profit and loss (PNL) report will be provided by the end of September.

The sidewalk on Court Road will be replaced.  The sidewalk is 30 years old and has deteriorated over time.  The new sidewalk will also be wider. The sidewalk will run from Route 22 to the elementary school. The sidewalk will be replaced with the same brick and concrete pattern that currently exists. The low bidder, Lascon Inc., is familiar with the scope and has provided good references for similar projects. The contract value will be the base bid of $55,150 plus a not to exceed value of $12,750, for a total not to exceed value of $67,900.

The Town will be purchasing 30 cluster replacement recycling and waste receptacles from Kettle Creek Corporation, 18 stainless steel tops for existing Victor Stanley Receptacles and labels for stainless tops.  The existing receptacles are 20 years old and have been durable and have stood the test of time. The total projected expenditure is $52,128.80. Funds are proposed to be drawn the Capital budget ($40,000) line and from the General Fund balance ($12,128.80).

Gateway signs – the signs and poles have been received and the sign company is making up an adapter for the post hole size issue that occurred during fabrication. It is anticipated that the signs will be installed in September.

Traffic Calming

Street Lights – 11 have been ordered and are expected to be delivered by the end of September. DPW plans to replace all of the ones in the brick sidewalk between Court Road and 172, and then several on the Village Green this year. Another 11 +/- have been included in the capital plan for next year, and can be scheduled once the plan is approved

Court Road Sidewalk – Replacement is planned to start by the end of August. DPW will communicate with store owners, the Chamber, and BVHDRC before the work occurs.

Route 22 Sidewalk north of Court Road – likely to be budgeted for and replaced in 2018.

We are pleased that the Police Station project is proceeding well.  As you may know, the project consists of the “gut renovation” of the existing police station building, the construction of a 4300 sq. ft. addition (increasing total square footages to approximately 11,000 sq. ft., updated learning/training facilities, and an updated infrastructure designed to keep the department operating to its fullest potential for years to come The last of the footings were poured on Tuesday, and we expect to be done with the foundation next week.

The Town of Bedford earlier this week was served with a Summons in a Civil Action in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York brought by Fair Housing Justice Center, Inc. and Westchester Residential Opportunities, Inc. alleging that the Town and Blue Mountain Housing Development Corp. are administering the Town’s “middle-income” housing units in a manner which “subjects African American applicants to longer waiting periods for such housing.” Click here for a copy of the Summons. The Town of Bedford is committed to providing and assisting in the provision of affordable and accessible housing for all persons. Similarly the mission of the Blue Mountain Housing Development Corporation is to promote the social welfare, common good and general welfare by enabling and facilitating the creation and preservation of affordable housing in the Town of Bedford. The Town of Bedford recently adopted the Affordable Housing model code provisions. The Town has also actively participated in the provision of affordable and accessible housing within the Town of Bedford by participating in and donating Town property, with respect to the development of the Antioch Church property which will provide 12 affordable affirmatively furthering fair housing units. The Town disputes the claim in the lawsuit that it has violated any provisions of the Fair Housing Act, or that it acts in a discriminatory manner with respect to housing or any other policies. As a result, the Town intends to vigorously defend its rights with respect to this action.

The Board adopted a resolution in support of the plans of Bedford Union Cemetery, a not-for-profit cemetery on Clinton Road in Bedford Hills (near the Rippowam Cisqua campus), to expand.   The Cemetery is running out of space for burial plots and wishes to acquire property adjacent to it in a phased expansion of the existing cemetery. Click here for a copy of the resolution.

To improve safety at the Lawrence Circle in Katonah, the Traffic Safety Committee requested shrub removals at 2 intersections by Lawrence Circle to improve drivers’ line of sight.  Three shrubs were removed and transplanted elsewhere and two shrubs were removed and disposed of.

Additionally, it was requested that minor tree branch trimming be performed as well as pruning back a large shrub for greater sight lines.

I contacted NYPIRG to discuss our displeasure with their canvassing methods. I spoke to Brenden Colling, Statewide Outreach Director. He apologized for any aggressive canvassing methods which residents have encountered, is speaking to their canvassers to let them know that such methods are unacceptable and has provided his direct contact information and invites anyone with an issue or problem to feel free to contact him: (212) 349-6460 x 1180; bcolling@nypirg.org.

Given that it will be delivered to the Town Board while many are on vacation and out of town, I do not consider it appropriate for the Town Board to take action on the recommendations until after Labor Day.   We will post the recommendations and the back-up documents to the Town’s website and give ample advance notice to the community of the date when the matter will be scheduled for Town Board consideration.

Town of Bedford Police Department has received information that residents are being targeted by phone scammers. The caller ID on the calls received by residents show a caller ID identifying the Town of Bedford as the caller. Residents are reminded to not provide any personal information over the phone and to not call numbers provided by the caller. If you receive a call from one of these scammers please hang up. Additional information on phone scams, and what you can do to avoid becoming a victim, can be found on the Federal Trade Commission’s website https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0076-phone-scams. If you believe you have been targeted, please call the police desk to report it: 914-241-3111.

It certainly does seem that nearly every time the lights flicker, the traffic light goes out. For those who did not see my reply to some of the replies. I have contacted NYSEG and the Regional Director of NYS Department of Transportation several times to ask them to address what is a recurring problem. I, too, had thought that deploying police officers to set cones and direct traffic would be a relatively easy solution. However, doing so puts the officers at risk of getting hit by drivers who cannot see them at this very busy intersection. Rather, the Town acts as promptly as possible to provide emergency power to the lights. The Town uses its own generator and deploys it with Department of Public Works employees to power the traffic lights until NYSEG restores power. I should mention that we have our own 24/7 police force so calling police dispatch gets prompt attention. For a longer term solution, I am arranging a meeting with the Regional Director of NYS DOT with this problem high on our list.

EXITING PARKING LOT (DECICCOS)

It was pointed out that cars coming out of DeCicco parking lot on the Arroway side frequently make a left turn, violating the “No Left Turn” sign. There also is concern that tree/vegetation may be blocking the line of sight. We are doing/have done the following:

1. Our Police Department will be ramping up enforcement.

2. We checked and did not find that the tree/vegetation is blocking the line of sign.

3. Public Works Commissioner Kevin Winn is having two new signs installed (7/21) to provide enhanced reliability.

CROSSING OVER FROM COTTAGE PLACE TO VALLEY ROAD

I was asked about addressing the difficulty of crossing over from Cottage to Valley (the crosswalk at New Street not being easily accessible due to the guardrail). We will stripe a 4′ shoulder using a white fog line on Valley between Cottage Place and New St. This would guide cars toward the middle of the road and allow pedestrians and cyclists to carefully use the south side of the road to walk to New Street and cross to the sidewalk.

For information on parking at the Town of Bedford Offices During Police Department Construction click here 

Please click here for the discussion of the Town’s paving policy and the list of roads to be paved in 2017.

BEDFORD 2020 LAUNCHES COMMUNITY COMPOST 

Town of Bedford residents can choose to dispose of their solid organic waste at the Town Recycling Center via Community Compost, a new program brought to you by Bedford 2020 and the Town of Bedford. Community Compost can accept a wide range of materials including meat, dairy, paper towels, teabags, fruits, vegetables and more. Residents can sign up for this program by paying a one-time fee of $25. They will receive training and a compost kit with a small bucket (1.6 gal), perfect for easy kitchen access, and a large bucket (7 gal), with a sealable lid for storage outside the home and transport. Participants will drop-off their organic waste to the Town Recycling Center, located on Railroad Avenue, on Saturdays between 8am and 3:00pm. To learn more about Community Compost or to sign up for the program visit bedford2020.org/communitycompost/ or contact Bedford 2020 at (914) 620-2411. 2017

Phase I Environmental Studies to Be Performed Bedford Village Parking

The Town Board authorized a Phase I environmental review of property off of Court Road owned by The Presbyterian Church which the Town is interested in acquiring for municipal parking.

Open Space

The Town Board will consider a request to authorize a Phase I environmental review of property bounded by Route 172/Route 22, Crush Road and Country Kids Lane for possible acquisition for open space, as recommended by the Open Space Committee.

BEDFORD – A HORSE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY(updated)

Working with real estate brokers and some members of the horse community, we have developed FAQs for owners or prospective purchasers which we hope you’ll find helpful. We’re also looking at possible revisions in the Town Code related to horses to make it easier for owners of horse properties. Please click here for the “Horse Friendly Message,” the FAQ’s link is included in the message.

Several residents have expressed concern about the noise, dust and other impacts created by leaf blowers. You may have seen letters to the editor of the Record Review advocating regulation of blowers. .A number of communities in Westchester County and in New York State have adopted local laws regulating blowers and other power equipment. I would like to approach the matter in a deliberative manner in which all views are considered. We need to listen and weigh all concerns; ranging from those who would ban the use of gas powered leaf blowers to those who want no hand of government in the matter. Bedford 2020 has concerns about the significant emissions from gas powered leaf blowers and the topsoil which it carries away. Residents complain about the noise. On the other hand some homeowners object to the enactment of any local law which deprives them of choice in tending to their landscaping. Many landscapers are opposed to any regulation which adversely affects their livelihood or imposes significant capital outlays for new equipment. Over the next few weeks we’ll be considering the means for a thoughtful and calm discussion with the community, landscapers and other interested parties regarding the matter. I’ll keep you posted.

We’re working with Bedford 2020 at ways to reduce the noise and pollution emanating from leaf blowers, especially gasoline powered blowers. This may begin with recommended “Best Practices” for homeowners explaining how leaf blowers might be avoided altogether – better for your lawn and landscaping, better for the environment and easier on your and your neighbors’ ears.

Please consider your neighbor when you go to work with your lawn mower or weed whacker (or your lawn service uses them). We realize that your busy schedule makes it difficult to find time to get work done on your property. We all try to squeeze in time to do it. But please not too early and not too late. Our Town Code does not permit high noise activities, such as these, before 8 AM or after sunset.

The Town’s financial operations for the year ended December 31, 2016.Click here for the audited financial statements that have been prepared by PKF O’Connor Davies LLC. In addition to the Town’s audited financials, click here for the results of the review of the Town’s Justice Court. Among the highlights are that the Town spent less than the adopted 2016 budget and revenues in most areas were higher than budgeted, resulting in a substantial increase in General Fund balances (over $1.1 million) and in Highway Fund balances (over $400,000). The Town Board adopted a policy last year which states in part “The Town of Bedford finances will be managed so as to maintain balances of the various funds at levels sufficient to mitigate current and future risks, such as revenue shortfalls, unanticipated expenditures, stabilization of tax rates and user fees, protection of the Town’s creditworthiness, and to provide for adequate cash flow needs.” The General Fund balance now is at approximately 35% of 2017 budgeted expenditures and the Highway Fund balance at approximately 20% of 2017 budgeted expenditures. The Town Board believes that such levels are responsible, prudent and not excessive.

NEW FAIR & AFFORDABLE HOME OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES IN WESTCHESTER 

Applications are now being accepted for more than 30 new, fair and affordable homes in Westchester. These homes are single-family properties and condominiums, ranging in size, from one to five bedrooms. All of the homes are in good condition and located in the following communities: Bedford, Buchanan, Cortlandt, Harrison, Lewisboro, Mount Pleasant, North Castle, Pelham Manor, Peekskill, Pound Ridge, Somers, and Yorktown. “The county is pleased to offer these homes at discounted prices to families that want to live in Westchester County, but may not have been able to afford it in the past,” said County Executive Robert P. Astorino. “I urge anyone who is interested to apply to purchase these homes.” Westchester County purchased these homes at market value and is selling them at affordable prices to qualified individuals and families. The price for fair and affordable homes range $125,000 to $300,000. Qualifications for buyers to purchase an affordable home include:

These 30-plus homes are among the 790 units that the county is developing in accordance with the 2009 housing settlement. The settlement permitted the county to satisfy up to 25% of the required 750 units with existing housing. The properties will remain affordable for 50 years. Information on each unit is available on the county’s Homeseeker website at click here,where interested families can view the information, download the application and sign up to receive information on additional properties and open houses. The county’s housing marketing consultant, the Housing Action Council (HAC), is handling the marketing of each unit. Rose Noonan, executive director of the HAC, said the available homes have a number of options for potential buyers, such as proximity to public transportation, amount of yard space, and communities with a pool or near a lake. “There are also the condominiums with amenities and common areas cared for by management companies,” said Noonan. “Each home has its own style ranging from townhomes and flats to raised ranches to Cape Cod style and colonials.” The HAC is a not-for-profit organization that helps the county identify and qualify prospective purchasers. As a member of the New York Mortgage Coalition, the HAC also provides homeownership counseling and assists buyers through the mortgage approval process. The buyers will be selected through a lottery process. Applications will be accepted through April 24, after which public lotteries will be held for each property. Buyers can expect to be in their homes by the end of the year. For additional information about the homes and their communities, contact the HAC at (914) 332-4144 or hac@affordablehomes.org or go to click here.

The Town of Bedford is pleased to announce that in response to requests from members of the community, the Town is providing mobile paper shredder events in 2017:

At the event, a Mobile Shredding Truck will securely destroy documents. The company’s customer service professionals never physically touch your documents so the entire process is “touch-free”. The company can shred paper, paper clips, rubber bands, staples and even the black clips. They cannot shred 3-ring binders, or anything that is non paper (CDs, tapes, DVDs, hard drives, etc…).There will be no charge to residents for the service.

Click here for our projections prepared by our Town Comptroller Abe Zambrano.

2016 ANNUAL REPORT

Please take a few minutes to review our 2016 Annual Report, which summarizes what your Town government did to serve the community in 2016. You’ll find a department by department summary of continuing to provide a high level of service and highlights of improvements made. Click here.

A new program offered by the NY AG’s Office. The program will provide up to $40k to homeowners facing foreclosure due to delinquent mortgage payments, property taxes or maintenance fees. If they qualify, they do not need to pay it back monthly. It is paid back if the homeowner refinances or sells the house over the life of the loan. Westchester Residential Opportunities Inc. (WRO) is designated to process the application from their office. Homeowners can call Veronica Raphael, Director of Foreclosure Prevention to see if they qualify for this program. 914-428-4507 x334 or vraphael@wroinc.org.

Please be advised that during the renovation work at the Police Station, parking at both 425 Cherry Street and 321 Bedford Road will be limited. Please note that starting on Monday, February 6, there will be “Resident Parking Only” for certain spaces in the parking lots. We would also strongly recommend that if you need to visit the Town Offices, you consider doing so on a day other than when the Justice Court is in session. For the Justice Court schedule and other information regarding parking, please click here .

I have been working with Public Works Commissioner Kevin Winn and Police Chief Mel Padilla to address the danger posed with power outages knocking out the traffic lights at the three major intersections in Katonah: Routes 35 and 22, Route 35 and the I-684 overpass and Route 25 and Woodbridge Road. As was recognized in the discussion of the outage, posting officers either to direct traffic or place flares in a multi lane highway with additional turning lanes in dark rainy/icing conditions is extremely dangerous (especially with some careless, heedless drivers disregarding the intersections and basic traffic law). We are exploring other means of addressing the problem. Because there have been previous incidences of power outages at these locations, I have contacted NYSEG to ask what measures NYSEG is taking to “harden” the circuit which power the traffic lights. I have also asked whether there might be a “dual feed” whereby if one circuit goes down, another circuit might pick up the load. It’s not a likelihood, but I still felt I should ask. I also placed a call to the regional office of the NYS Department of Transportation to discuss our concerns, given that the traffic lights are owned by and the responsibility of DOT. Most important is getting the traffic lights back into operation as quickly as possible. Given that FEMA did not grant our post-Sandy request for funding generators, we purchased them ourselves. The generators are portable and may be used in emergency situations throughout town. As such, the generators are not fixed in a given location but are transported from safe storage to where most needed. Commissioner Winn and Chief Padilla are instituting new procedures for mobilizing the generators more quickly. They are confident that doing so should significantly reduce the time that the traffic lights are out.

To report an outage or an electrical emergency, please call us at1.800.572.1131 or go to our Emergency Preparedness web page, “Outage Central,” at click here

You can sign up for Outage Alerts to receive notifications regarding power outages and the estimated restoration time here NYSEG urges customers to stay away from downed power lines – even lines that appear dead can be deadly. NYSEG customers should call 1.800.572.1131 to report downed power lines or other hazardous conditions.

-outages and emergencies You can sign up for text alerts from NYSEG by going to click here and from Con Edison by going to click here. In addition, here is some useful information if you need to contact either NYSEG or Con Edison. Both NYSEG and Con Edison encourage customers with special needs to enroll in special services for them. “NYSEG is committed to providing their customers with safe, reliable energy delivery. They also offer many services for special need customers, including: Special Identification for households where everyone is elderly, blind or disabled. Large print, sight-saver Bills for visually-impaired customers. Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) grants NYSEG’s Energy Assistance Program (EAP) Project SHARE emergency energy assistance program. If you or someone in your household relies on life-sustaining equipment, you should contact NYSEG immediately! How to call NYSEG: Electricity interruptions or emergencies: 1.800.572.1131 (24 hours a day, every day) Customer relations center: 1.800.572.1111 Payment arrangements: 1.888.315.1755 Hearing and speech-impaired: Dial 711 (New York Relay Service)” Message from Con Edison: Customer Central Special Services Safety for Special Customers: It is important that we have a record of everyone who uses electrically operated life-support equipment or has medical hardships so we can contact them in an emergency. To learn more and complete the survey, please visit the link below. You can also let us know by calling 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633). Con Edison customers can enroll for this service by visiting www.conEd.com

I would like to take this opportunity to urge residents to check their smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Warns Customers Not To Fall for Scam Callers Refer Suspicious Calls to Police or 1-800-75CONED NEW YORK- Con Edison is warning customers not to fall for scams in which a caller threatens a service turnoff unless the customer purchases a pre-paid card or arranges for a transfer via MoneyGram to pay a bill. These callers are not from Con Edison and Con Edison does not accept payments of electric or gas bills by pre-paid debit cards, or by MoneyGram or similar transfers. The company has recently seen a spike in reports from customers who were contacted by the scammers. Con Edison believes the scammers are calling customers randomly, not targeting just those who owe back payments. The company has received complaints from residential and business customers. The scammers sometimes even tell the customer about a store near the customer’s home that sells pre-paid cards. The scammer instructs the customer to pay cash to put money on the card and to then provide the number on the card to the person who called. Once the customer provides the scammer with the card number, the scammer steals the money on the card. There have even been reports of these scammers making a Con Edison phone number show up on the customer’s caller ID. With MoneyGram, scammers may ask a customer to provide money from a bank account, credit card or debit card by going online or to a specified location. The money goes into someone else’s bank account or is available for the receiver to pick up in cash. Be alert if anyone asks you by telephone to arrange for pre-paid debit cards or a MoneyGram transfer as payment for your bill, or to send money to an out-of-state address. Never arrange payment or divulge account or personal information, including debit or credit card information, over the telephone, unless you are certain you are speaking to a Con Edison representative. Anyone who feels they may have been a target of an impostor or a payment scam should call their local police department. They may also call Con Edison at 1-800-75CONED. Con Edison’s website, click here, offers a variety of approved and convenient options for bill payment.

Over the last couple of years, I have brought together about quarterly the chiefs of our fire departments and the president of the Katonah Bedford Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps to discuss matters of mutual concern. Results of some of the last couple of meetings was the Town agreeing to assume the expense of a larger monitor and certain other improvements to the OEM center housed on the second floor of the Bedford Hills Fire House. In addition, we have discussed ways to reduce false alarms which result in unnecessary deployment of emergency forces and unnecessary charges to property owners.

TO SIGN-UP FOR NIXLE ALERTS click here

A regular reader of this weekly newsletter asked why I repeat certain posts from week to week. I do so because not everyone reads my newsletter on a weekly basis, much information provided remains relevant and I wish to continue to alert the community about it. In response to the comment, however, you will see that I’ve divided the newsletter into two sections “New Posts” and “Continuing Posts”. Both sections are relevant and, I believe, worthy of review. I wish to thank readers for making suggestions and comments; over the years, I’ve not only changed format but added content based on them (for example, why the flags are flown at half-staff.