WHITE PLAINS CITIZENETREPORTER SETS RECORD VISITS FOR YEAR 7,017,658 VISITS! 2,098,003 VISITORS MADE 6 VISITS A DAY EVERY DAY. 63,330 UNIQUE VISITORS MADE 133,730 VISITS IN DECEMBER. WPCNR AVERAGED 17,284 VISITORS A WEEK, VISITING 31,270 TIMES.

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THE PLAYLAND OPENING AND MORE

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WPCNR WHITE PLAINS LAW JOURNAL. by John F. Bailey. UPDATED HIGH NOON WITH DECISION TRANSCRIPT July 1, 2021:

In decision handed down by the Appellate Court, Second Department , the City of White Plains has been denied the right to use the tool of eminent domain to acquire the rest of East Post Road to Lexington Avenue and the corner property on Lexington and East Post Road, one of the property owners whose property reports.

The owner of one of the properties threatened with eminent domain take over said the court denied the city for three reasons, one reason for the denial the court deciced, he said was

1.) the city relied on a twenty-five year old description of the properties as a “blighted area” and it is not.

2.) There was no reason given for taking the properties.

3.) A city must be specific in saying what the city intends to do with the properties should they be acquired.

Gabriel Arango, one of the owners of the property filed the suit. More information to come.

The owner explaining the decision to WPCNR said that the White Plains Hospital had purcased the dental property on the corner of Lexington Ave and West Post Road, which had, the source said been part of the eminent domain, city targets.

The source said the city had already puchased the Firestone and pharmacy parcels on West Post Road. However he had no idea what the city would do with them now. It was the property owner’s impression that “the hospital got what it wanted, and now is not interested in the properties whose owners won the suit in yesterday’s decision.

The partial transcript of the Appellate Court Second Department Decision, Gabe Realty Corp. vs. City of White Plains Urban Renewal Agency:

“This Court will not act as a mere “rubber stamp[ ]” to approve findings of blight where the condemning authority has failed to provide evidence to support its findings (Yonkers Community Dev. Agency v Morris, 37 NY2d at 485). Here, the agency’s “bare pleading” (id. at 484) of substandard conditions did not satisfy its obligation to respond to a challenge to its finding of blight by presenting “an adequate basis” for its conclusion (id. at 486; see Matter of Jackson v New York State Urban Dev. Corp., 67 NY2d at 425).

Where a condemning authority does not demonstrate that property is substandard for the purpose of urban renewal, the authority must identify some public purpose other than the purported remediation of blight (see Yonkers Community Dev. Agency v Morris, 37 NY2d at 482). While a condemning authority may select virtually any project which “contributes to the health, safety, general welfare, convenience, or prosperity of the community” (Matter of River St. Realty Corp. v City of New Rochelle, 181 AD3d at 678; see Matter of City of New York v Yonkers Indus. Dev. Agency, 170 AD3d at 1004), this broad discretion does not relieve the authority from selecting a particular project and, where demanded by the property owner, submitting that project to judicial scrutiny.

The effect of condemnation of property upon the surrounding community “depends on the use to which the property is put, and without knowing the use,” a condemning authority cannot reasonably conclude that the taking will serve a public use, benefit, or purpose (Daniels v Area Plan Commn. of Allen County, 306 F3d 445, 465 [7th Cir]). A mere potential future public benefit is not sufficient to satisfy the requirement that property be taken only for public benefit (see Cincinnati v Vester, 281 US 439, 448; Daniels v Area Plan Commn. of Allen County, 306 F3d at [*3]466). We agree with the Federal Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit that the existence of a “public use” must be determined at the time of the taking since the requirement of public use would otherwise be rendered meaningless by bringing “speculative future public benefits” which might never be realized within its scope (Daniels v Area Plan Commn. of Allen County, 306 F3d at 466; see generally Yonkers Community Dev. Agency v Morris, 37 NY2d at 484-486). This is consistent with the purpose of EDPL article 2 of ensuring that a condemnor “‘does not acquire property without having made a reasoned determination that the condemnation will serve a valid public purpose'” (Matter of National Fuel Gas Supply Corp. v Schueckler, 35 NY3d at 303, quoting Matter of Jackson v New York State Urban Dev. Corp., 67 NY2d at 417-418; see Matter of River St. Realty Corp. v City of New Rochelle, 181 AD3d at 677). Likewise, although the agency completed a full SEQRA Environmental Assessment Form, it failed to identify the relevant areas of environmental concern and take a hard look at them (see Matter of River St. Realty Corp. v City of New Rochelle, 181 AD3d at 679).

The petitioners are entitled to be reimbursed for attorneys’ fees and costs pursuant to EDPL 702(B) (see Hargett v Town of Ticonderoga, 13 NY3d 325).

The agency’s remaining contention is without merit.

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WPCNR VALLEY LIFE. Special to WPCNR. June 30, 2021:

Peekskill City officials joined with Ginsburg Development Companies Tuesday to celebrate the official Grand Opening of The Abbey Inn & Spa, one year delayed., the Gateway to the Hudson Highlands which is enjoying a post-pandemic surge of bookings for summer weddings and events.

The 42-room boutique hotel opened at the beginning of the pandemic in early 2020 and it was unable to hold a public reception. The Grand Opening celebrated the hotel’s first year and its designation as the #3 top new hotel of 2020 in the United States by USA Today’s 10 Best.

“The pandemic represented an existential threat for many hotels with an established clientele, so opening a new hotel during this health emergency was a worst-case scenario,” said Martin Ginsburg, Founder of Ginsburg Development Companies, the developer of the Abbey Inn & Spa.

“Despite the immense challenges, the public recognized The Abbey Inn & Spa’s exceptional quality and immediately embraced our facility. Even during the severe lockdowns of 2020, the Abbey Inn & Spa experienced remarkable patronage from clients seeking luxurious mental-health breaks from quarantines in small apartments and homes.”

“I want to congratulate Martin Ginsburg and his team for making it through the most challenging year of the pandemic and keeping to his vision to bring the best Inn and Spa in the Hudson Valley to the great City of Peekskill. The Abbey stands at the gateway to the Hudson Highlands and it is a major attraction in the continued revitalization of our city to create special places for residents and tourists alike,” said Peekskill Mayor André Rainey.

Nestled high atop historic Fort Hill in Peekskill, New York, the Abbey Inn & Spa is set within a space as striking as its surroundings: The former convent of the Episcopal Sisters of Saint Mary’s, now beautifully repurposed with luxury accommodations and amenities including Apropos, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, a serene spa and fitness area, and stunning meeting, event, and gathering spaces both indoors and outdoors overlooking the Hudson River.

Managed by Hay Creek Hotels, The Abbey Inn &Spa features a design that is distinctly contemporary with a universal feel, preserving the aged granite and brick exteriors of the former convent, while reconfiguring interior spaces and transforming two chapels—one sizable, the other monumental—into meeting and event spaces that are nothing short of spectacular.

“Despite the challenges with the pandemic past and present, we have been able to provide the highest level of quality and service to our guests. Everyone on staff did whatever it took to delight and surprise our guests with great success. I am so proud. We look forward to the next chapter in this beautiful resort’s history,” said George Soderberg, Senior Vice President, Hay Creek Hotels, the manager of The Abbey Inn & Spa.

The Abbey Inn & Spa has nearly 40 weddings booked between now and the end of the year. Corporate events are picking up as well.

The Abbey Inn & Spa occupies former convent buildings once inhabited between 1872 and 1963 by the Community of St. Mary—said to be the oldest Episcopal religious community in the U.S. The hotel is adjacent to Fort Hill Park and its 52 wooded acres, scene of a historic three-day Revolutionary War battle in the late 1700s. Today, the area is laid out with luscious trails for leisurely walks through the trees.

Guests arriving at The Abbey Inn & Spa are welcomed into a handsome lobby with arched-window views of the Hudson River, and access to an enclosed wrap around porch decked out with rocking chairs to enjoy the breathtaking sights. Artwork fills the public spaces of the hotel, including a 47-photograph permanent exhibit in the corridors by Peekskill photographer Joseph Squillante that takes visitors on a journey along the Hudson River from its source in the Adirondacks to New York Harbor.

The hotel offers 3 Luxury Suites, 6 Suites, 21 Premier King Rooms, and 12 Superior Rooms. Many rooms have entirely unique design, with distinctive ceilings shaped by the convent’s original roof and/or window casements. All are styled in soothing tones of cream and brown, with contemporary furniture and furnishings, luxurious amenities and much more.

Inspired by the bounty of the Hudson Valley, The Abbey Inn & Spa’s signature dining concept, Apropos, combines chef-driven cuisine with breathtaking views of the Hudson River—offering the perfect seasonal respite for locals and visitors alike. Helmed by Executive Chef John Paidas, this elevated, contemporary-American eatery features Mediterranean-influenced and locally sourced ingredients, punctuated by warm hospitality in an elevated yet approachable setting.

A mix of comfortable booths and chairs around natural wood tables fill the dining room and four-season porch, with art and design complementing the restaurant’s connection to its imbedded sense of place. The stylish, zinc-topped bar across the hall—The Apropos Bar—also serves as a gathering place for guests and locals to enjoy small plates and beverages from the creative cocktail and mocktail program, wine from the comprehensive 200-bottle wine list, or selections from the impressive local beer program.

The Abbey Inn Spa is a sanctuary that invites guests and locals to experience a higher level of luxury and renewal. Designed to create a lifestyle and atmosphere that embraces the nature, purity, and freshness of the region, guests can indulge in a variety of high-end offerings including four tranquil treatment rooms, intimate relaxation lounge, his and hers saunas and a vast array of wellness-enhancing services. 

The Spa offers Microdermabrasion and the latest platform, Oxygeneo, for antiaging and rejuvenation. In addition, guests can also enjoy access to an on-site Fitness Center; featuring a bubbling whirlpool, cardio equipment, and more — designed in keeping with the original architecture.

The Abbey Inn & Spa is generously arrayed for meetings, celebrations and gatherings of all types, with 3,166 square feet of interior event space. Blending elements of historic charm with stunning contemporary furnishings, highlights of the meetings and event spaces include the Highlands Ballroom—a beautifully restored former chapel, the Cellar Tasting Room, and the awe-inspiring former convent chapel—the Cornerstone Meeting Room—which is donned with original calligraphic murals.

Easily accessible to New York City, Peekskill can be accessed via rail on Metro North, one hour north of the city. Conveniently located between the Westchester County Airport (25-miles by car) and Stewart International Airport (24-miles), the city is situated amidst a vibrant waterfront, including Riverfront Green Park with sculptures, a playground, and assorted dining options and theatres.

For more information on The Abbey Inn & Spa or to make reservations, please contact 914.736.1200, or visit www.theabbeyinn.com.

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Celebrate the Spirit of 1776

Sense the life of a patriot as you explore the White Plains Heritage Trail, which guides you along 24 historic sites in an 11-mile loop through White Plains, West Harrison and North Castle and enjoy White Plains historic walking loops which highlight White Plains’ rich history.  These trails are a great way to get your exercise while learning of the important role White Plains had in the founding of our nation. 

Historical Sites include:  

The White Plains County Court House, located on South Broadway, was the site of the Provincial Assembly of the Colony of New York. The Assembly approved the Declaration of Independence on July 9 1776,  and changed its name to the Convention of the Representatives of the State of New York. On July 11, Judge John Thomas of Purchase read the Declaration aloud from the courthouse steps.   Since this was the first time New York was called a state and the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed in New York, White Plains became known as “The Birthplace of the State of New York.

The Battle of White Plains Park located at Whitney and Battle Avenues  is the site of The Battle of White Plains.  The Battle of White Plains was part of the greater struggle for New York in 1776.  Directed by General Howe, British and Hessian troops drove the Continental army off Chatterton Hill, but they did not pursue them or take on the main line of Washington’s army, which was spread across White Plains.  Over the next few days, while Howe waited for reinforcements and then for the ground to dry from a heavy rainstorm, Washington withdrew from Purdy Hill to Mount Misery and Miller Hill in North Castle. The rocky terrain and swamps there made a second successful attack by the British impossible.  Howe and his forces returned to New York City, and Washington’s army crossed the Hudson at Peekskill. They would be victorious at Trenton and Princeton in the following weeks.

It is believed General Washington utilized the Jacob Purdy House from October 23 to 31, 1776 as his headquarters for the Battle of White Plains and then moved to North Castle. He returned to Purdy House in the summer of 1778. The house was moved to its current location at 60 Park Avenue in 1973 to avoid demolition. By 1989 it was fully restored.

The Captain John Falconer House was on the Village Street, what is now present-day Main Street east of Broadway. British soldiers headquartered there after Washington’s withdrawal to North Castle in 1776. Falconer House was also the Frenchman Duc de Lauzun’s headquarters in 1781.  His troops, known as “Lauzun’s Legion,” camped on Battle Hill before marching onto the last major land battle of the war, the Siege of Yorktown, Virginia.

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WPCNR COUNTY CLARION-LEDGER From Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Benjamin Boykin. June 30, 2021:

On Monday night, the Board of Legislators approved a measure to require co-op boards to provide written notice of a reason for rejection when a prospective buyer’s application is declined. 

Under the measure, the reason for rejection must be included when the co-op files notice of a rejection with the County’s Human Rights Commission.

The legislation passed Monday by a vote of 15-2.The measure is similar to one that has been in effect in Suffolk County since 2009.The new provision does not change any of the reasons that co-op boards may legally reject buyers. Co-ops have wide-ranging discretion in choosing who to approve and why. Applicants can be rejected for anything from financial reasons to the belief that the applicant would be a bad neighbor.

However, under fair housing laws, applicants cannot be rejected on the basis of race, familial status, national origin, religion, disability, or sex.The requirement to provide a reason for rejection will allow the County’s Human Rights Commission to better identify any pattern of illegal discrimination if it occurs.

The Human Right Commission will prepare a form that co-ops will have to use for the notification.

The new legislation also requires co-ops to inform prospective buyers of their co-op’s minimum financial requirements or financial preferences before home seekers file an application, and requires fair housing training for co-op board members.

The law will go into effect August 1, 2021.Please forward this E-News to family and friends who may be interested in this information.

en Español

Queridos amigos y vecinos,El lunes por la noche, la Junta de Legisladores aprobó una medida para exigir a las juntas de cooperativas que proporcionen un aviso por escrito de la razón del rechazo cuando se rechaza la solicitud de un posible comprador. Según la medida, el motivo del rechazo debe incluirse cuando la cooperativa presente un aviso de rechazo ante la Comisión de Derechos Humanos del Condado. La legislación fue aprobada el lunes por una votación de 15-2.La medida es similar a una que ha estado en efecto en el condado de Suffolk desde 2009.La nueva disposición no cambia ninguna de las razones por las que las juntas de cooperativas pueden rechazar legalmente a los compradores.Las cooperativas tienen una amplia discreción para elegir a quién aprobar y por qué. Los solicitantes pueden ser rechazados por cualquier motivo, desde razones financieras hasta la creencia de que el solicitante sería un mal vecino. Sin embargo, según las leyes de vivienda justa, los solicitantes no pueden ser rechazados por motivos de raza, estado familiar, origen nacional, religión, discapacidad o sexo.El requisito de proporcionar una razón para el rechazo permitirá a la Comisión de Derechos Humanos del Condado identificar mejor cualquier patrón de discriminación ilegal si ocurre. La Comisión de Derechos Humanos preparará un formulario que las cooperativas deberán utilizar para la notificación.La nueva legislación también requiere que las cooperativas informen a los posibles compradores sobre los requisitos financieros mínimos o las preferencias financieras de su cooperativa antes de que los solicitantes de vivienda presenten una solicitud, y requiere capacitación en vivienda justa para los miembros de la junta de la cooperativa.La ley entrará en efecto el 1 de agosto de 2021.Envíe estas noticias electrónicas a familiares y amigos que puedan estar interesados ​​en esta información.Atentamente,