Skyliners Play The Pond in New York City, Contribute to Marines Toys for Tots

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WPCNR RINKSIDE. December 6, 2007: The Skyliners, the  Westchester, NY, NJ and Conneticut’s Junior Synchronized Skating Eastern Champions debuted their short and long competition programs to shivering skating fans at The Pond in Bryant Park last night, in an exhibition skate with Georgian Pairs Skaters Isbella Tobias and Otar Japaridze and  members of the Ice Theater of New York, after contributing to the Marines annual Toys for Tots



The Skyliners Reach for the Sky at Bryant Park’s “Pond” last night.





The Skyliners Introduce the Show to Proud Mary, Kicking high in sync! Next Stop, Radio City Music Hall.


Skating to “Proud Mary” and a Queen medley, the girls, aged 14 to 19 from the tri-state area smoothly negotiated elaborate ladders, lines, wheels, intersections and spread eagles on a crisp windy night to the delight of the crowd. The exhibition was paired with the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots program, at which the girls donated twenty Skyliner Bears for needy children.



`The team, sponsored by the Windy Hill Skating Club in Greenwich and The Skating Club of New York and managed by Larry Rosen of the Athlete’s Foot in White Plains, is gearing up for the Junior World Qualifier Competition in Fraser , Michigan outside metropolitan Detroit  January 11 to 13. The team has also been chosen by United States Figure Skating to represent the U.S.A. competing in the Zagreb Snowflakes Competition in Croatia in March.


5 Skate into College Programs


Five Skyliners from last year’s Junior  Eastern Regional Championship Team have won slots on collegiate Synchronized Skating Team programs, two at Miami University,  two at The University of Michigan and one at Syracuse University. A member of this year’s team will attend the University of Wisconsin where she also plans to synchro skate.


For more on The Skyliners, go to www.skylinerssynchro.com.




The Skyliners set the tone for the show with their introductory performance to Proud  Mary, setting the stage for a performance by  Yuna Makayasu, the 12 year old 2008 Middle Atlantic Juvenile Figure Skating Champion. Ms. Makayasu is coached by Skyliners Coach, Josh Babb.



Aidan Daley-Hynes, Suzanne McDonald and Tyrrell Gene of  the Ice Theater troop skated to “Heart” 


 



 


Next to perform were the marvelous new pairs couple, skating together just 8 months,  the former New York City Ballet dancer, 16 year old Isabella Tobias and 19 year old Otar Japaridze.


Isabella Tobias and Otar Japaridze are international ice dancers representing the Republic of Georgia.  Their partnership began in April 2007.   For the 2007- 2008 season they will compete on the Junior Grand Prix Circuit in Germany and Great Britain, and at the Junior World Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria.  They train 5 hours a day, 6 days a week, in Princeton, New Jersey. 


Their coaches are two-time Olympic Champion Evgeny Platov and five-time National Champion and Olympian Judy Blumberg.  Isabella, 16, lives in Manhattan.  She attended George Balanchine’s School of American Ballet for 7 years and performed with the New York City Ballet.  With her previous skating partner she was a medalist at the United States Junior National Championships.  Otar, 19, is from Tbilisi, Georgia.  He relocated to the United States in April 2007 and lives in Princeton, NJ.  With his previous skating partner he competed at the Junior World Championships in 2006 and 2007.



 


 



The Skyliners end Proud Mary with their signature move…the Spread Eagle Wheel.



The Skyliners Say Good Night. Today that had to be seventeen-something and back in class again.


 


 


 


 


 

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Housing Authority to Float $8 Million in Bonds for Armory Plaza SeniorApts Reno

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WPCNR CITY CIRCUIT. By John F. Bailey. December 5, 2007: The White Plains Housing Authority is planning to issue $8 Million in municipal bonds for an extensive renovation of the Armory Plaza Senior Center and apartments.  A public hearing on the proposed bond issue will be held December 18 at the Planning Board at 7 PM.


The bonds will be used according to a legal notice for “renovation of the Residential Units and the Senior Center.”



Related Apartment Preservation of New York, the owners of the 52-unit complex, for which the City of White Plains pays $264,000 a year to rent the space (in a deal just agreed to in October, 2006), will use the bonds to pay for the alterations, according to Mack Carter, Executive Director of the White Plains Housing Authority. It is not clear at this time when the renovations are planned, what it involved and whether seniors would have to be temporarily relocated from the building. WPCNR has contacted the city and the Related Apartment Preservation press office for details.


The Related Apartment Preservation organization signed an agreement with the city in October of 2006 where the city pays $264,000 annually to rent the senior center until 2015, with 2% increase in 2016 to $269,280) through 2026, and to 2036 if the 10 year extension is agreed upon. 


At the time this rent was agreed to, there was no mention that the apartments or the senior center needed any renovations or was in any way, inadequate. 

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DHS Issues Statement on the No-Match Injunction Appeal

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WPCNR POLICE GAZETTE.. From the Department of Homeland Security. December 5, 2007: Yesterday the U.S. Justice Department filed an appeal on behalf of the Department of Homeland Security seeking to lift an injunction preventing the DHS “No-Match” rule from going into effect in California. The injunction was granted based on a suit by the American Civil Liberties Union. Michael Chertoff, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security issued this statement today explaining the effects of the “No-Match” law:

Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Justice filed an appeal on behalf of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on the injunction against the No-Match Rule in San Francisco, Calif.


 I believe that the No-Match Rule is a major step forward in preventing employment of illegal migrants. Contrary to the ACLU’s incorrect statements, the rule is not harmful to legal workers. DHS is not abandoning it.



Employers receive a No-Match letter from the Social Security Administration when an employee’s name does not match the social security number it has on file. Sometimes there is an innocent explanation for this discrepancy, such as a clerical error. But sometimes the discrepancy reflects the fact that the employee in question is an illegal alien. When employers receive such No-Match letters, they are on notice that the employees in question may not be authorized to work.  


Under our No-Match Rule, no employer should terminate an employee based upon a no-match letter alone. But no employer should ignore such a letter or the discrepancy it reveals. The No-Match Rule gives employers and employees 90 days – a full three months – to correct the discrepancy.  



If the mismatch is a clerical error, that is a good opportunity to correct the mistake. When the mismatch shows fraud, however, appropriate steps should be taken. Businesses that follow the procedures in the rule will have a safe harbor from enforcement action.  Those that ignore no-match letters place themselves at obvious risk and invite suspicion that they are knowingly employing workers who are here illegally.  


Far from abandoning the No-Match Rule, we are pressing ahead by taking the district court’s order to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. At the same time, we will soon issue a supplement to the rule that specifically addresses the three grounds on which the district court based its injunction. By pursuing these two paths simultaneously, my aim is to get a resolution as quickly as possible so we can move the No-Match Rule forward and provide honest employers with the guidance they need.



The ACLU’s lawsuit has put this vital protection on hold. That is bad for immigration enforcement and bad for America’s law-abiding employers and their legal workers. The only real beneficiaries of the ACLU’s strategy are employers who would rather close their eyes to cheap and profitable illegal labor than obey the laws of our country. 

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The School District’s 2007 to 2012 Strategic Plan

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WPCNR FOR THE RECORD. From White Plains City School District. December 4, 2007:  As a service to our thousands of readers worldwide, WPCNR herewith publishes in its entirety, the Strategic Plan adopted for the next decade by the White Plains City School District Board of Education.


The report begins with a statement of the District’s Core Values and Mission Statement, followed by Strategic Objectives to be achieved by the year 2012.  When originally commissioned the plan was described as being devised to guide district policy for the next decade.


On the page reporting the Strategic Objectives there is a section entitled List of Results which as far as WPCNR can tell is what will have been achieved after the School District has attempted to meet the Strategic Objectives.


Following the Strategic Objectives are a set of 5 Strategies to achieve the Strategic Objectives, followed by the List of Results expected to be achieved by those Strategic Objectives.


Herewith, the Strategic Plan as adopted by the Board of Education Monday evening.


Core Values


We believe that:


·         All people have intrinsic value


·         Celebrating and embraching diversity enrich life


·         All people can learn, grow and contribute


·         Every choice matters, and that people are responsible for their choices


·         Respect, honesty and trust empower


·         When people serve the community, both the individuals and the community benefit


·         High expectations promote high achievement



 


 


 


 


MISSION


 


The mission of the White Plains City School District is to educate and inspire all students, while nurturing their dreams, so they learn continually, think critically, pursue their aspirations and contribute to a diverse and dynamic world.



 


 


Strategic Objectives


 


By 2012:


 


* All students will achieve challenging district standards of literacy across all disciplines.


* All students will continually choose to explore and enrich communities.


*  All students will choose to apply their knowledge and skills to solve problems meaningful to them.


 


List of Results (By 2012)


 


1.       All staff, students and parents understand the strategic objectives, rubrics, processes for assessing student growth and their role in the process.


2.       Rubrics relevant to all student levels have been developed.


3.       Processes for collecting evidence and assessing student performance, using the rubrics, are being piloted.


4.       Processes for gathering/collecting student performance data, in areas not assessed through current state assessments, are in place and being used.


5.       Systems are being used to gather, manage, analyze and share relevant student performance data for use by faculty, administrators, students and parents.


6.       The data collected are being used throughout the school District to support student progress and achieve the strategic objectives.



 


STRATEGIES


 


Strategy 1


 


We will take the steps necessary to:


 


Gain the understanding and commitment of all employees to achieve our strategic objectives and mission


 


List of Results


 


1.       Every employee understands the vision, goals and implications of the mission and strategic objective.


2.       A climate that builds trust and supports risk-taking is developed.


3.       Employees’ ideas and concerns are valued in the decision making process.


4.       The district has established a culture that celebrates programs and people achieving the strategic objectives and mission.


5.       Employees are encouraged in their efforts to achieve the strategic objectives and mission.



 


Strategy 2


 


We will take the steps necessary to:


 


Align new and existing resources, both internal and external, to accomplish our strategic objectives and mission


 


List of Results


 


1.       A systematic process is in place that assures all programs and projects are mission reflective and cost effective.


2.       An evaluation/feedback system is in place that measures how effectively and efficiently resources are used.


3.       A systematic process is in place that identifies, attracts recruits, motivates, evaluates, and retains the people needed to support the mission and strategic objectives.


4.       A budget process is in place that assures that resource allocations are mission aligned.


5.       A systematic process is in place that assures we develop and maximize community resources to support the mission and strategic objectives.


6.       A systematic process is in place that assures the district has the fiscal resources needed to support the mission and strategic objectives.


7.       A systematic process is in place that assures the district has the capital resources and major equipment needed to support the mission and strategic objectives.



 


Strategy 3


 


We will take the steps necessary to:


 


Align and develop curriculum to achieve our strategic objectives and mission


 


List of Results


 


1.       As the foundation for all learning, at least 90% of all students are reading on grade level by the end of 2nd grade and are maintaining or exceeding grade level thereafter. As our success rate increases, so will our goal.


2.       A systematic process is developed that analyzes and uses student demographic and performance data to inform and influence program curricular, and instructional decisions and reporting.


3.       Best practices of differentiated instruction (DI) are continually implemented to enable all students to achieve the strategic objectives so that each child will reach proficiency level in all content areas.


4.       School, classroom practices, and environments reflect principles that promote students’ motivation and love of learning.


5.       In all disciplines, curriculum maps ensure alignment with state standards and integrate technology, problem solving and global awareness to the strategic objectives.


6.       School and classroom practices and environments reflect principles that promote community building to achieve the strategic objectives.



 


Strategy 4


 


We will take the steps necessary to:


 


Develop and capitalize on leadership capacity within the system at all levels to sustain commitment to our strategic objectives and mission


 


List of Results


 


1.       All district administrators are proficient in the essential characteristics of effective leadership.


2.       All staff members, parents, community members, and students are encouraged and supported in assuming and sharing leadership roles that contribute to the achievement of the district’s mission and strategic objectives (i.e., “institutionalize” distributive leadership).


3.       There is a pool of skilled leaders from within who have successfully completed a district-specific, meaningful and comprehensive internship experience.


4.       The district has developed cooperative relationships with college and university graduate educational administration programs that have internships designed to support the strategic plan and district initiatives.


5.       The district has established a plan for a regional leadership academy for teachers and administrators in cooperation with other school districts and universities.*


 


 


·         Postpone until results 1 through 4 are achieved.



 


Strategy 5


 


We will take the steps necessary to:


 


Develop an open and ongoing communication process that results in all stakeholders believing in the value of a White Plains City School District education and actively participating in reaching our strategic objectives and mission


 


List of Results


 


1.       The district uses a coordinated and integrated approach to disseminate general and newsworthy information in order to educate all stakeholders.


2.       The district creates opportunities to engage stakeholders in an open exchange of ideas.


3.       Communication with stakeholders effectively reflects a multicultural and diverse community.


4.       Community members are working in systematic ways to support students’ achievement of the strategic objectives.



 



 


STRATEGIC DELIMITERS


 


We will not:


 


Adopt any new program or service unless it is:


 


·         Consistent with and contributes to our mission;


·         Accompanied by an analysis of the resources and the staff development needed for its effectiveness;


·         Accompanied by a plan to assess its ongoing effectiveness.



 

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Contributions Sought for 208 West Post Road Fire Victims

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WPCNR CITY HALL CIRCUIT. From  Melissa Lopez, The Mayor’s Office. (Edited) December 4, 2007:  Mayor Joseph Delfino announced today the City of White Plains, the American Red Cross and Centro Hispano have joined together to coordinate and deliver services to families who lost their homes in the fire which occurred at 208 West Post Road Friday November 30.


If you are interested in helping these families with donations, including clothing, gift cards for food, clothing or household supplies, they are being accepted at Centro Hispano, 340 S. Lexington Avenue, White Plains. Phone is 289-0500.  Meal vouchers have been provided by the White Plains Samaha Family  McDonald’s Restaurants and the Subway Restaurants in the city.  Peniche Restaurant on Main Street furnished meals Tuesday evening.


You may also contact the White Plains Planning Department at 914-422-1304 or the Red Cross at 914-946-6500.


The fire which began shortly after midnight forced the evacuation of all residents and resulted in the complete destruction of te multifamily building. With the help of White Plains Fire and Police Departments, the Red Cross, and the White Plains School District, residents were provided with emergency shelter at Post Road School for Friday night. Since Saturday, the displaced families, which include 17 children, have been staying at area hotels supported by the Red Cross, or with friends and family.


The Mayor has directed City staff to reach out immediately to the community and identify and coordinate services for these families. Red Cross emergency response staff, City representatives from the Planning Department and Service Office, and volunteers are providing intake and referral service at St. Bernard’s Church Chapel Hall, 346 S. Lexington Avenue, where Centro Hispano is located. Services include assistance in locating both temporary and permanent housing. Clothing collected from the community is being distributed to the families at the Chapel Hall.


Food and clothing vouchers have been provided by the Red Cross. Dinner Tuesday evening was provided at Chapel Hall by Chef Anthony Goncalkves, the owner of Peniche Restaurant on Main Street. Meal Vouchers have also been provided by the Samaha Family at their local McDonalds Restaurants, and by Subway at its local restaurants.


Mayor Delfino, speaking at last night’s Common Council meeting, which was not telecast due to the shutdown of City Hall due to flooding, said, “During this season of the year, it is especially important that we reach out to those among us who are in the greatest need. In one brief night these families lost everything. We must all reach out to them to help them reestablish their lives. Many children lived in this building, many of them attend our schools. I cannot thank the Red Cross or Centro Hispano enough for all that they are doing, and ask that all residents of White Plains help n whatever small way they can.”

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Paying for Escalating School Budget Not Considered in “Approved” Strategic Plan

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WPCNR SCHOOL DAYS. By John F. Bailey. December 4, 2007: The Board of Education last night voted unanimously to accept a 10 Year Strategic Plan developed by  committees of citizens and school district personnel over the last year under the guidance of Transformation Systems.


However, WPCNR has learned the plan does not present specific steps, initiatives, or budget targets  to assure the funding of the district budget over the next decade which will surpass the $200 Million Dollar level in 2009-2010 and is on track at the present rate of expansion to exceed $330 Million by 2017-2018.



The Board of Education addressing the throng, made up mostly of Strategic Plan Core Committee members, prior to adopting the Plan unanimously Monday night.


The major objective announced at the meeting was to have all students reading at grade level by the end of second grade by 2012, and that no new programs would be considered unless they fit in with the Core Values and Strategic Objectives of the District. It was also said by President of the Board of Education Donna McLaughlin that existing programs would be examined closely and eliminated if they could not be justified as fitting in with the objectives.


 Superintendent of Schools Timothy Connors  told WPCNR “those steps (to assure funding) have not been developed yet.”


The Strategic Plan presented at a quasi celebration of the completion of the plan and presentation meeting.  When Marc Pollitzer,  and Lou Petralia two of three citizens to ask questions about the plan (on city participation, and financing, respectively) raised the issue of financing details, Superintendent  Connors said that those steps would be implemented when the Board was presented with strategic plan financial Strategies and the Action Committee responsible for that segment of the plan would present steps to do so.


The “Means Steps”  which were developed by Action Committees for the various strategies were developed by the Action Committee and have not been made public with the presentation of the plan.


WPCNR in routine follow-up asked the Superintendent Wednesday what some of the Means Steps were for the various strategies to see how the district would implement the stragtegies.


The Superintendent forwarded several lists of “Means Steps” to implement the strategies.


When asked what the Means Steps that the district would take to “Align new and existing resources, both internal and external, to accomplish our strategic objectives and mission,” and to develop “a systematic process in place that assures the district has the fiscal resources to support the mission and strategic objectives  and that the district has the capital resources,” to support the mission and strategic objectives,” The Superintendent told WPCNR “those steps (to assure fiscal and capital resources) had not been developed yet.”


The Superintendent told the meeting last night that on January 14 he would present the Board of Education the first portions of the Strategic Plan that he believed should be implemented first. The Superintendent also told Mr. Pollitzer that strategies could be specific due to the changing conditions of when any specific strategy or objective of the plan was selected to be that specific year’s goal.


The Strategic Plan process cost the district $70,000, and by estimate of Theresa Niss who coordinated the project took some 3,644 person hours( 455-1/2 days, 15 months of work) on the part of all persons participated.

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City Hall Back In Operation. Internet, E-Mails Out. Hot Water Line Culprit.

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WPCNR CITY HALL CIRCUIT. By John F. Bailey. December 4, 2007: City Department of Public Works employees worked around the clock into the wee hours of this morning to bring City Hall back on line after a leak in the City Hall hot water line flooded the building’s sub basement, according to Melissa Lopez, City Hall spokesperson this morning.



City Hall yesterday was closed due to a hot water line break in its basement. City workers cobbling together parts and equipment from various sources replaced parts of the heating system, and all electrical panels to bring the Grand Old Dame on 255 Main Street back into action today in 24 hours.


Ms. Lopez reported that as of  9 this morning City Hall had heat and electricity and telephone service, but that internet and e-mail was still not working. All departments were back in operation. Lopez said that Deputy Commissioner of Public Works, Rick Hope said that as of 11 A.M. yesterday morning that if you had told him they would have city hall operational by this morning, he would not have thought it possible. Hope said that he was so impressed by the way all city personnel worked together around the clock to bring City Hall back on line, restoring heat and power within 24 hours after the flooding was discovered at 8 AM yesterday.


As of 11 A.M., Ms. Lopez said City Hall was operating on one boiler which Hope said was sufficient to heat the building.


Lopez said Commissioner of Public Works Joseph Nicoletti had isolated the pipe which failed, tracing it to the hot water line within city hall  under the first floor, which filled the sub-basement containing the city’s boilers and electrical vault. The malfunctioning pipe was not the fire hydrant “spur” it appeared to be at first inspections yesterday. Lopez said the hot water line would be replaced Saturday, and a cost could not be put on the costs to do so. Lopez also reported the Commissioner of Public Works would be making a complete survey of the city hall piping infrastructure after the hot water line is replaced.

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To get Back in the U.S.A. You Must Show Proof of Citizenship as of Jan 31

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WPCNR ON THE ROAD. Special to WPCNR From Department of Homeland Security. December 2, 1007: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of State (DOS) remind the traveling public that as of Jan. 31, 2008, all adult travelers will be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, and proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, when entering the United States through land and sea ports of entry. DHS will be issuing a notice in the Federal Register formally announcing the change.


This change is a necessary step to prepare travelers and ease the transition to the future requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). WHTI proposes to establish documentation requirements for travelers entering the United States who were previously exempt, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, and Bermuda. As recommended by the 9/11 Commission, Congress enacted WHTI in the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. WHTI will result in both enhanced security and increased facilitation across the border once implemented. During this transition, DHS and the Department of State are working diligently to minimize the impact on legitimate trade and travel. 


Currently, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may accept oral declarations of citizenship from U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry into the United States through a land or sea border. However, as of January 31, 2008:



  • Oral declarations of citizenship alone will no longer be accepted
  • U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 19 and older will need to present a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate
  • Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate
  • Passports and trusted traveler program cards – NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST – will continue to be accepted for cross-border travel

All existing nonimmigrant visa and passport requirements will remain in effect and will not be altered by this change.



DOS reminds the public that the current turnaround time for a passport is four to six weeks, so Americans planning international travel may wish to apply now. For information on obtaining a U.S. Passport visit www.travel.state.gov or call 1-877-487-2778. Specific documentation requirements for land, sea and air travel may be found at www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/vacation/ready_set_go/. To learn more about NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST, visit www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/trusted_traveler/.


 

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Nicoletti: Hopeful Heat, Juice Back on at City Hall Tomorrow.

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WPCNR CITY HALL CIRCUIT. By John F. Bailey. December 3, 2007: Commissioner of Public Works Joseph Nicoletti told WPCNR shortly before 5 PM tonight that he expected to get City Hall heated and electrified by Tuesday morning.



City Engineers reparing boiler  as of 5 P.M in the sub-basement where some 40,000 gallons of water (by WPCNR estimate) had flooded the area over the weekend.



At 5 PM Nicoletti told WPCNR repairs were being made to one of the boilers, bringing in spare parts “from every place” and from Fire Station 7. He said they only needed one to get heat flowing back into the building. The Commissioner said the electric panels were being replaced  one by one, (having all been submerged under 8 feet of water by a main break “over the weekend.”) 


The Commissioner said he has not isolated the source of the leak, but after investigation, he said,  it appears to be coming from a fire hydrant “spur” on Main Street in front of City Hall. However, the Commissioner is not sure of that at this time, but that is where the problem seems to have developed.


Inside City Hall as of 5 PM there were no lights and no heat. Emergency lights were being lit by mobile generators, stringing powerlines into the building.



Arrangements for this evening’s Common Council Meeting were in place at the White Plains Public Library at 7:30 PM. There will be no Citizens to Be Heard segment. No television is available until the videotape on Wednesday at 7 on Government Access, Channel 75

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1/4% Sales Tax Increase Passed. New Shopping Center Opp Bloomies Referred Out

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WPCNR COMMON COUNCIL CHRONICLE-EXAMINER. December 3, 2007 UPDATED 11:45 PM: The Common Council voted unanimously tonight to ask the State Legislature to enact a 1/4% increase in the White Plains Sales Tax raising it to 8- 1/8%. This, according to Council President Rita Malmud, is a compromise negotitated with the city by Assemblyman Adam Bradley with the Mayor. Previously the Mayor had sought a 1/2% increase in the sales tax which had been delayed until Assemblyman Bradley had received financial backgrounding as to whether there was really a need for it. Malmud said she expected the 1/4% to pass unanimously and the Mayor was behind the 1/4% increase. The increase will possibly raise an additional $5 Million in sales tax for the city, bring 2008-2009 collections to the $50 Million plus level.  Assemblyman Bradley was said by the Mayor to be open to asking for an additional 1/4% if the city should need it in the future.  Only Assemblyman Bradley was allowed to speak on the issue from the audience. (See letter to the editor, above, which details the strange process by which the sales tax increase was passed.)


The Avalon Bay apartments were approved for a 14 unit increase in the number of apartments they are planning to build.



In another intriguing development plans were referred to departments for The Venue a 15 store plus restaurant shopping center at 120 Bloomingdale Road, across the way from Bloomingdale’s department store. It is described as a 46,000 square foot retail development to go on the parking lot of the former Nestle building (currently the offices of the New York State Department of Labor). The site is shown above, across from the entrance of Bloomingdale’s, looking West. The shopping center would be built on the parking lot.




























PLEDGE TO THE FLAG:                 Hon. Glen Hockley


INVOCATION:                                  Rev. Melanie Miller
                                              Church in the Highlands


ROLL CALL:                                       City Clerk


EMPLOYEE                                          Nick Puja
OF THE MONTH:                 Senior Code Enforcement Officer
                                             Department of Building


PUBLIC HEARINGS:


1.       Public Hearing in relation to an application submitted by 169 White Plains Rest. Inc., d/b/a The Porter House, for a Special Permit for Cabaret Use at 169 Mamaroneck Avenue.


2.                 Communications from     Commissioner of Building


3.                                                            Design Review Board


4.                                                            Commissioner of Planning


5.                                                            Planning Board


6.                                                            Commissioner of Public Safety


7.                                                            Commissioner of Public Works


8.                                                            Commissioner of Traffic


9.                                                            Traffic Commission


10.                                                          Environmental Officer


11.               Environmental Findings Resolution


12.               Resolution of the Common Council of the City of White Plains approving the application submitted on behalf of 169 White Plains Rest. Inc., for a Special Permit to operate a cabaret at The Porter House, located at 169 Mamaroneck Avenue (Section 125.84, Block 6, Lot 11.1 and 12.1) subject to certain conditions contained herein.


13.     Public Hearing in relation to an application submitted by DR & RD Inc., d/b/a Brazen Fox, for a Special Permit for Cabaret Use at 175 – 179 Mamaroneck Avenue.


14.               Communications from     Commissioner of Building


15.                                                          Design Review Board


16.                                                          Commissioner of Planning


17.                                                          Planning Board


18.                                                          Commissioner of Public Safety


19.                                                          Commissioner of Public Works


20.                                                          Commissioner of Traffic


21.                                                          Traffic Commission


22.                                                          Commissioner of Parking


23.                                                          Environmental Officer


24.               Environmental Findings Resolution


25.               Resolution of the Common Council of the City of White Plains approving the application submitted on behalf of DR & RD Inc., for a Special Permit to operate a cabaret at the Brazen Fox Restaurant, Bar and Catering, located at 175-179 Mamaroneck Avenue (Section 125.84, Block 6, Lot 10) subject to certain conditions contained herein.


SECOND READING
ORDINANCE:


26.     Ordinance authorizing the Corporation Counsel to enter into an agreement retaining the services of the law firm of Andrew S. Roffe, P.C., as Special Counsel for the period November 15, 2007 through November 14, 2008.


FIRST READING
ORDINANCES:


27.     Communication from Special Counsel in relation to the settlement of tax review proceedings.


28.               Ordinance authorizing the settlement of certain tax review proceedings.


29.     Communication from Chairman, Capital Projects Board, in relation to Capital Project No. C5301, Hybrid Aerial Bucket Truck.


30.               Ordinance of the Common Council of the City of White Plains to amend the Capital Projects Fund by establishing Capital Project No. C5301, Hybrid Aerial Bucket Truck.


31.               Bond Ordinance authorizing the issuance of $110,000 bonds of the City of White Plains, Westchester County, New York, to pay part of the $168,000 estimated maximum cost of purchase of a diesel/electric hybrid aerial bucket truck for use by the Department of Public Works, in and for said City.


32.     Communication from Commissioner of Public Works in relation to proposed amendments to the White Plains Municipal Code the first repealing Chapter 7-7 and adding a new Chapter 7-7 entitled, “Prohibition of Illicit Discharges, Activities and Connections to the City of White Plains’ Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System”, and the second adding a new Chapter 3-6 entitled, “Storm Water Management and Erosion and Sediment Control.”


33.               First Reading Ordinance of the Common Council of the City of White Plains repealing Chapter 7-7 of the Municipal Code of the City of White Plains and adding a new Chapter 7-7 of the Municipal Code of the City of White Plains entitled, “Prohibition of Illicit Discharges, Activities and Connections to the City of White Plains’ Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System.(MS4)”


34.               First Reading Ordinance of the Common Council of the City of White Plains amending the Municipal Code of the City of White Plains to add a new Chapter 3-6, entitled, “Storm Water Management and Erosion and Sediment Control.”


35.     Communication from Commissioner of Public Works in relation to a request submitted by White Plains Downtown Business Improvement District for closure of certain public streets and appropriate parking restrictions on December 31, 2007 to 2:00 a.m. on January 1, 2008 for the Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration.


36.               Ordinance of the Common Council of the City of White Plains authorizing the closure of certain portions of public streets and appropriate parking restrictions on December 31, 2007 and January 1, 2008, for the City’s downtown New Year’s Eve Spectacular sponsored by the White Plains Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) and granting permission to the BID to cause the launching of fireworks from the upper level of the City-owned Galleria East Municipal Parking Garage in conjunction with same.


37.     Communication from Commissioner of Public Safety in relation to a proposed amendment to Chapter IV of Section 4-15-71 of Chapter 4-15 of the Municipal Code, Taxicabs, in reference to a Temporary Surcharge.


38.               Ordinance amending Article IV of Sections 4-15-71 of Chapter 4-15 of the White Plains Municipal Code, Taxicabs, with respect to Temporary Surcharge.


39.     Communication from Commissioner of Public Safety in relation to an amendment to the General Fund Budget to reflect a Buckle Up New York Grant in the amount of $20,708 from the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, Department of Motor Vehicles.


40.               Ordinance authorizing an amendment to the 2007 – 2008 General Fund Budget in order to reflect a Buckle Up New York Grant in the amount of $20,708 from the State of New York Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, Department of Motor Vehicles.


41.     Communication from Commissioner of Public Safety in relation to a donation of $19,200 from the Fenway Charitable Foundation which funds will be used to purchase emergency defibrillators for the Police Bureau and rechargeable hand-lights for the Fire Bureau.


42.               Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into an agreement, on behalf of the City of White Plains Department of Public Safety, with the Fenway Charitable Foundation, accepting a donation in the amount of $19,200 to be used to purchase certain equipment for the Police and Fire Departments.


43.     Communication from Commissioner of Recreation and Parks in relation to an amendment to the General Fund Budget to reflect an award in the amount of $2,987 from AAA Transportation through Westchester County Department of Senior Program and Services which will pay for the senior citizens bus transportation service.


44.               Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to direct the Budget Director to amend the 2007-2008 General Fund Budget in order to reflect an award in the amount of $2,987 on behalf of the City of White Plains Department of Recreation and Parks Senior Citizens Program.


45.     Communication from Director, Youth Bureau, in relation to a grant from the White Plains Exchange Club in the amount of $300 to provide Junior USTA membership for youth in the Tennis Program.


46.               Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to accept on behalf of the City of White Plains Youth Bureau, a grant from the White Plains Exchange Club, in the amount of $300 to provide Junior USTA membership for youth in the Tennis Program.


47.     Communication from Director Youth Bureau, in relation to a grant from Commerce Bank in the amount of $500 in support of the After School Tennis Program.


48.               Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to accept, on behalf of the City of White Plains Youth Bureau, a grant from Commerce Bank, in the amount of $500 to cover costs associated with the After School Tennis Program.


49.     Communication from Director, Youth Bureau, in relation to a contract with the Child Care Council of Westchester, Inc., in order to receive an award in the amount of $550 to be used to develop a troop of poets and spoken word artists through the Youth Bureau After School Programs.


50.               Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract with the Child Care Council of Westchester, Inc., in order to receive an award in the amount of $550 to be used to develop a troop of poets and spoken word artists through the Youth Bureau After School activities.


51.     Communication from Director, Youth Bureau, in relation to a grant from the White Plains Housing Authority in the amount of $2,400 to be used to support the Youth At Risk Program.


52.               Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to accept, on behalf of the City of White Plains Youth Bureau, a grant from the White Plains Housing Authority, in the amount of $2,400 to be used to support the Youth Bureau’s Youth At Risk.


53.     Communication from Commissioner of Parking in relation to the 2007 Holiday Free Parking Promotion scheduled from Monday, December 17 through Monday, December 24, 2007.


54.               Ordinance of the Common Council of the City of White Plains authorizing Free Parking during a portion of the Holiday Season at downtown on-street parking meters.


55.     Communication from Chairman, Traffic Commission, in relation to proposed amendments to the Traffic Ordinance at various locations around the City.


56.               Ordinance amending the Traffic Ordinance of the City of White Plains in relation to No Parking, No Standing at Anytime, Traffic Control Signals, Overnight Flashing of Intersection Traffic Control Signals – Under Computer Control, Right Lane Must Turn Right, and Left Turn Must Turn Left.


RESOLUTIONS:


57.     Communication from Corporation Counsel in relation to an application submitted on behalf of Fenway Golf Club for an amendment to a previously approved site plan and Special Use Permit to allow for the construction of two paddle tennis courts at 342 – 408 Old Mamaroneck Road.


58.               Resolution of the Common Council of the City of White Plains scheduling a public hearing for January 7, 2008 in relation to the application submitted on behalf of Fenway Golf Club for an amendment to an existing Special Permit and site plan to allow for the construction of two new paddle tennis courts.


59.     Communication from the Mayor in relation to certification of a Home Rule Request for enactment of legislation supporting a one-quarter (1/4) of one percent (1%) increase in the City’s Sales Tax Rate.


60.               Resolution of the Common Council of the City of White Plains authorizing the certification of a Home Rule Request seeking enactment of State legislation to amend the Tax law in relation to authorizing the City of White Plains to impose an additional one-quarter (1/4) of one percent (1%) Sales and Compensating Use Tax.


61.    Resolution of the Common Council of the City of White Plains authorizing a Certification of a Home Rule Request seeking enactment of State legislation to amend the Tax Law in relation to authorizing the City of White Plains to impose an additional increase of one-half (½) of one percent (1%) Sales and Compensating Use Tax.


62.     Communication from the City Clerk transmitting a request from LC White Plains LLC, requesting a proposed amendment to a previously approved site plan to permit development of 23 affordable rental units in the Air Rights Building above the City Center Municipal Garage.


63.               Environmental Findings Resolution issued under the State Environmental Quality Review Act, Environmental Conservation Law Section 8-0101 et. seq. (SEQR), regarding an amendment to the previously amended site plan approved by the Common Council on September 20, 2001 and August 4, 2003, for the project known as the City Center to permit development of 23 affordable rental units in the Air Rights Building above the City Center Municipal Garage.


64.               Resolution of the Common Council of the City of White Plains approving the application submitted on behalf of LC White Plains, LLC (“Applicant”) for an amendment to the previously amended site plan originally approved by the Common Council on September 20, 2001, and subsequently amended thereto, for the project known as the City Center, including an amendment adopted August 4, 2003, relating to the initial approval for the portion of the City Center “Development Site” known as the “Air Rights Building” which had permitted the construction of approximately 60,000 square feet of retail space in two (2) levels on the northerly portion of the top of the City Center Municipal Garage and the construction of a deck over the remainder of the top parking level to be improved with, inter alia, a swimming pool and outdoor recreational amenities, to now permit construction of twenty-three (23) “affordable” residential apartments on residential two (2) levels in the first retail roof level of the “Air Rights Building”, totaling approximately 26,400 square feet within the existing envelopment of the “Air Rights Building.”


65.     Communication from Commissioner of Building in relation to an application submitted by AvalonBay at Rockledge for an amendment to a previously approved site plan to construct a residential rental building at 27 – 29 Barker Avenue, and asking that the site plan be amended to add open space and an increase of fourteen dwelling units.


66.               Communications from        Design Review Board


67.                                                          Commission of Planning


68.                                                          Planning Board


69.                                                          Commissioner of Public Safety


70.                                                          Commissioner of Public Works


71.                                                          Commissioner of Traffic


72.                                                          Traffic Commission


73.                                                          Environmental Officer


 


74.               Environmental Findings Resolution


75.               Resolution of the Common Council of the City of White Plains approving the application submitted on behalf of AvalonBay Communities Inc., (“Applicant”) for an amendment to an existing site plan for a multi-family residential rental building to be located at 27 – 29 Barker Avenue (Section 125.59, Block 9, Lot 1) to: (1) incorporate an approximately 5,000 sq. ft. adjoining lot into the site; (2) to permit 14 additional dwelling units to increase the total number of dwelling units from 393 to 407 units; and (3) to permit minor modification to the design of the roof dormer windows of the townhouse buildings to accommodate the additional studio units without an increase in the height or footprint of the building.


ITEMS FOR
REFERRAL:


76.     Communication from Commissioner of Building in relation to an application submitted by CorePlus Properties LLC and CPP Bloomingdale, LLC, for the construction of a mixed use development to be known as The Venue on Bloomingdale Road, and consisting of 42,000 sq. ft. of retail space, 6,000 sq. ft. of restaurant space with outdoor dining and 334 new parking spaces on two levels above the retail center and restaurant


77.     Communication from Commissioner of Building in relation to a site plan application submitted on behalf of LCOR 55 Bank Street LLC, for construction of a residential project at 55 Bank Street consisting of two 280 ft. towers with 536 rental apartments, approximately 7,740 sq. ft of retail space at grade, 28,500 sq. ft. of office space, and 686 parking spaces below grade, to jointly serve the residents, retail customers and commuter needs associated with the premises.


78.     Communication from Commissioner of Building in relation to a revised site plan application submitted by LC White Plains LLC, for a proposed eight (8) story affordable housing building at 240 Main Street


ITEMS FOR
INFORMATION:


79.     Communication from Commissioner of Finance transmitting the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2007.


80.     Communication from Commissioner of Finance transmitting the Interim Financial Report for the first quarter ending September 30, 2007.


81.     Communication from Commissioner of Finance transmitting the First Quarter Capital Projects Status Report ending September 30, 2007.




























Common Council Contacts



























Hon. Joseph M. Delfino, Mayor  jdelfino@ci.white-plains.ny.us



Hon. Rita Z. Malmud, Council President
 7 Seymour Place 10605
 914.946.0642
 rmalmud@ci.white-plains.ny.us



Hon. Benjamin Boykin 
 78 Midchester Avenue
 White Plains, NY 10606 
 914.328.7808
 benboy78@aol.com



Hon. Glen Hockley
 25 Linda Avenue
 White Plains, NY 10605
 914.629.0892
 sharisong@aol.com



Hon. Arnold Bernstein  
 10 Stewart Place Apt 5AW
 White Plains, NY  10601
 914.997.1665
 asbernstein1@optonline.net 



Hon. Thomas M. Roach
 18 Garretson Road
 White Plains, NY 10604
 914.946.8325
 troach@thomasmroach.com



Hon. Dennis J. Power
 7 Doyer Avenue
 White Plains, NY 10605
 914-906-0270
 djpower@verizon.net

  







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