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WPCNR PLAYLAND GO ROUND. April 29, 2019: Westchester County Executive George Latimer held a news conference Monday morning going over his reasons for announcing his intentions to terminate the Playland agreement with Standard Amusements negotiated by the Robert Astorino adminisration. Afterwards he answered questions from reporters.
Here is that Reporter Q & A in its entirety:
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WPCNR PLAYLAND GO ROUND. From the Westchester County Department of Communications. April 28, 2019:
Westchester County has notified Standard Amusements’ legal counsel that the County has elected to terminate the agreement with Standard Amusements. This decision comes after an extended review and discussion of the provisions of the agreement made by the prior Administration three years ago, and more recently, after extended negotiations between counsel for the County and Standard Amusements.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said:
“We are unhappy with the way this has all turned out; we never wanted this kind of conflict. However, we are simply not satisfied with what we have been seeing. We wanted to see the energy, excitement and drive in Standard Amusements’ vision for Playland – we didn’t want just a real estate deal.
“This Administration believes in Playland and its future; we are not looking to liquidate the park as a liability, as some feel. We want what is best for Playland – to see it succeed and thrive.
“At the heart of that assessment is whether this arrangement developed three years ago, under different decision makers and that ends County management of the park, will somehow deliver that energy and excitement. After 16 months, we believe this arrangement will not deliver a better tomorrow for Playland.
“The County has been negotiating with Standard Amusements in good faith, seeking to recast our arrangement into a different focus, one where Standard’s professed commitment to the park’s future would be manifest by its ability to help shape a management and marketing commitment, not primarily a capital commitment, followed by management of the park.
“We are unhappy that instead, we have seen leaks of false information to the press; the hiring of a high-priced public relations firm and the hiring of a legal firm committed to defending the company’s corporate interests rather than spending those resources delivering a detailed marketing plan.
“The energy spent by Standard to influence lawmakers to defend their original agreement could have been better spent in a more wide ranging effort to win over those in the community that did not want to see a corporate entity take over a public park facility.
“But, at the core of the County’s election to terminate isn’t emotion – it is the fact that Standard Amusements is in material breach of our contract.
“Standard Amusements has improperly claimed that it invested money in Playland, when in reality that money was not spent on purposes allowed under the agreement. Standard Amusements is wasting taxpayer dollars at the end of the day.”
While the County said ( in the official county statement issued 6:30 PM E.D.T.) has been negotiating in good faith to restructure the agreement, Standard Amusements has been operating with an agenda that led the County to conclude Standard Amusements was not interested in renegotiating the terms of their relationship in a way that makes sense for the County.
The election to terminate is based on Standard Amusements’ failure to cure its various material defaults under the contract that were laid out in the County’s letter to Standard Amusements on December 7, 2018. Those defaults included:
Latimer said: “This agreement has Westchester taxpayers on the hook for $125 million dollars with Standard committed for $27.5 million. My job is to make sure Westchester taxpayers come first.The County’s relationship with Standard Amusements must come to a close. We cannot have confidence in Standard Amusements based on its actions. The company has not proven it has been serious about Playland succeeding.”
While there have been claims by Standard Amusements that the County has been in breach of the contract, the reality is ( the county statement continued) the County has performed under the agreement and done everything it reasonably could.
As the County has explained to Standard Amusements, the company’s interference in the design process and underestimation of the costs of capital improvements, upon which the County relied, directly caused the County not to timely meet its required level of capital investment.
Furthermore, the County has never indicated to Standard Amusements that it intended not to meet its obligations under the contract.
As required under the agreement, the County is giving Standard Amusements 30 days’ written notice. May 28, 2019 has been selected as the date the agreement will terminate in all respects.
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WPCNR SCHOOL DAYS. From the Westchester Putnam Work Force Development Board April 28, 2019:
According to the National Skills Coalition, middle-skills jobs, which require education beyond high school but not a four-year degree, make up the largest part of America’s and New York’s labor market.
Key industries in New York are unable to find enough sufficiently trained workers to fill these jobs. Demand for these jobs is expected to remain strong through 2024 with 45% of openings to be in middle skills.
The Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board will host a high-level learning and panel discussion on Monday, May 20th to address the shortage of middle and soft skills training, as well as illuminate options for mapping out sector specific career paths through stackable credentials as a viable choice for high school students. School board presidents, superintendents, guidance counselors, employers, higher education professionals, and others who work with students are encouraged to attend.
The event is free and will be held at White Plains High School (The Media Space inside the library, 550 North Street, White Plains, NY 10605). Breakfast and registration will take place at 8:30am and the program will run from 9:00am – 10:00am. Online registration is requested (https://career-pathway-breakfast.eventbrite.com).
The May 20th panel will be moderated by Thom Kleiner, Executive Director, Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board, with panelists Dr. Michael Baston, President, Rockland Community College; Dr. Joseph Ricca, Superintendent of Schools, White Plains Public Schools; Dr. LaTasha Hamlett-Carver, Career Center Program Specialist; Teresita B. Wisell, Vice President, Workforce Development and Community Engagement, Westchester Community College; Carolyn Chieco, High School Guidance Counselor and Consultant, Daniel Bonnet, Deputy Executive Director, The Centers for College & Careers at the Guidance Center of Westchester, and Orane Barrett, Chief Executive, Kool Nerd Club.
“We are seeking to clarify the various options that exist for finding and pursuing a career while at the same time gathering information from those who work with students and parents. With the high cost of a 4-year college degree looming large for many families, we want to shed light on the alternatives and encourage students to consider careers they have a passion for and can gain credentials and experience in, without the expense of a traditional four-year college degree,” stated Thom Kleiner.
“At Rockland Community College we are totally committed to providing middle skills programs and stacked credentials through career pathways so that those interested in a career that doesn’t require a four-year degree, can get the training they need and get into the workplace sooner,” stated Dr. Baston. “We want to shift the mindset to one that embraces viable choices and options dependent upon the interests of the individual. No one should feel as though choosing a path that doesn’t require a four-year degree is somehow less significant. Our goal is to show that it is a better choice for many not simply based on cost, but also based on a swifter entrance into the workforce,” added Baston.
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WPCNR THE LETTER TICKER. From the Gedney Association April 27, 2019:
| Dear Neighbors, Please see the letter below that was sent to the Common Council April 25, 2019 with regard to FASNY’s recent announcement to sell a portion of its property. The Gedney Association |
| April 25, 2019 Members of the Common Council White Plains City Hall 255 Main Street White Plains, New York 10601 Re: FASNY Press Release Dear Members of the Common Council: The recent Press Release by the French American School of New York (FASNY) announcing its intention to sell approximately 48 acres of the former Ridgeway Country Club has caused considerable confusion and indignation by many residents in Gedney Farms as well as other adjoining neighborhoods. In announcing its intention to sell a portion of its property, FASNY has contradicted the essence of its earlier assurances that it would not expand beyond the approved campus. During the Common Council’s final deliberations on the FASNY proposal, Councilwoman Hunt-Robinson expressed concerns regarding the development of Parcels B, C and D and the need to consider, if necessary, mitigation of any adverse impacts. This question was entirely appropriate and essential under the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), which mandates consideration of potential development of an entire property. Segmentation or limiting review to only part of a property is prohibited under the law. In response to Councilwoman Hunt-Robinson’s questions, FASNY proposed postponing any additional development on the property. As a result, the Common Council’s approval letter stipulated that, “An application will not be filed to expand the school use on any of the four former Ridgeway Country Club parcels for at least fifteen (15) years from the date FASNY receives a temporary or permanent Certificate of Occupancy for the School”. This clever subterfuge did not go unnoticed by the Gedney Association which cited non-compliance with the SEQRA requirement in its lawsuit challenging the approval. The announcement by FASNY to sell separate parcels clearly demonstrates how the SEQRA requirements were violated during the approval process. Regrettably, the City Administration permitted FASNY to obfuscate their real intentions. In fact, the City Administration was complicit in this deception. For example, FASNY quietly removed the bike trail from Parcel C that previously was so integral to Mayor Roach. Why was this removed other than to enable FASNY to sell this and other parcels for development? FASNY is now attempting to sell three parcels, presumably for development. One of the parcels slated for sale, Parcel D, is directly across from the entrance to the planned school on Hathaway Lane. How would traffic circulation operate here with approximately 1,000 vehicles entering and exiting the school each day? Furthermore, Parcels B and C front on Gedney Esplanade and Heatherbloom Road, two already heavily trafficked streets. Doesn’t this highlight why the FASNY approval should only have been made after careful consideration of other potential development? So where does that leave us? Instead of a carefully planned development of the former golf course we have a hodgepodge plan. Since the approval, traffic on Ridgeway has measurably increased according to City studies. FASNY appears to change its plans weekly. Indeed, its own website suggested it might find a separate alternative location for its “unified” campus. Also, the so-called Conservancy isn’t permanent, in that, if FASNY leaves, the Conservancy disappears. In the meantime, the property continues to be very poorly maintained with fallen trees and beer cans and other refuse littering the property. The City has lost hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxes for what now appears as an investment speculation by FASNY. Is the City Administration assessing the loss of another 48 acres of open space or will it again take a reactive stance? Last November, when reports of FASNY’s plans to sell all or part of the property became widespread, the Gedney Association wrote to the Mayor and Common Council requesting a meeting to discuss the neighborhood’s concerns and objectives for any new alternative development. With the exception of Councilwoman Lecuona, no response has been received from the City Administration. As residents and taxpayers, we would minimally have expected a response. Very truly yours, The Gedney Association Board |
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WPWeek for 4-26 has been posted
The YouTube link is https://youtu.be/EI2BfyfigpU
The whiteplainsweek.com link is http://www.whiteplainsweek.com/
SEE IT AT 7:30 FRIDAYS AND 7 PM MONDAYS COUNTYWIDE ON FIOS CH 45 AND IN WHITE PLAINS ALTICE CH.76 AND ON www.wpcommunitymedia.org
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WPCNR THE POWER STORY. APRIL 25, 2019 UPDATEDL 11:45 PM EDT:
In light of Con Edison announcement of new gas supply arrangements with Tennessee Gas Pipeline, WPCNR asked Con Edison why, if no new pipeline was needed, why not lift the moratorium on new natural gas connections in Westchester, especially since that capacity will be there in 2023, and it most likely will take three to four years to build the 1,600 Westchester projects that got in under the moratorium deadline.
Ann Marie Corbalis, speaking for Con Edison issues this statement:
“Demand for natural gas in New York City and Westchester County has grown significantly in recent years due to conversions of heating systems from oil, as well as economic growth, with developers preferring natural gas in new buildings. The lack of new gas capacity in our region has forced us to stop accepting applications for new firm (uninterruptable service) gas hookups until we have new capacity available. Once that capacity is secure, which is expected by November 2023, Con Edison will lift the current moratorium on new firm gas hookups in Westchester.
Ms. Corbalis referred WPCNR to Tennessee Gas Pipeline. Katherine Hill, a spokesperson for TGP, issued this statement to WPCNR on how TGP can deliver to Con Edison the new natural gas capacity Con Edison requires without building a new pipeline:
“The Tennessee Gas Pipeline project will only involve compression upgrades to facilities on the system upstream of New York. Additionally, the project will require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approval, and state and local approval as necessary.”
WPCNR has for more details on what compression upgrades are
required and what they are.
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WPCNR THE POWER STORY. From County Legislator Benjamin Boykin and Con Edison WITH REACTION from Business Council of Westchester. April 24, 2019
Con Edison said today that it has reached agreement with the owners of an existing natural gas pipeline that serves Con Edison’s facilities in Westchester County for additional natural gas capacity.
Once completed, this reasonable, low-impact solution will provide Con Edison with the natural gas capacity needed to lift the current moratorium on new gas hookups in Westchester County.
The Business Council of Westchester issued this statement, decrying the fact that the moratorium on new gas connections still remains in effect:
“Con Edison’s announcement Wednesday that it has reached an agreement with a gas pipeline company that currently provides natural gas to lower Westchester County to increase the capacity of the line offered a ray of hope for our increasingly energy-starved region.
Unfortunately, this potential increase to the available supply requires its own set of approvals. Con Edison characterized it this way: “The incremental capacity could be placed in service by November 2023.” That’s four and a half years, if the approval goes smoothly, and at least four and a half years more of the moratorium on new gas hookups in most of Westchester.
“We applaud Con Edison for this initiative and other actions the company is exploring to alleviate the crisis. However, the underlying energy shortage remains a serious issue that is already taking a toll and will continue to loom over the region and threaten our economic viability.
“That’s why the BCW back in March formed the BCW Gas Moratorium Task Force, a cross-section of developers, business leaders of small, mid-sized and large companies, as well as planners and affordable housing advocates to propose solutions. New York State and others are calling for a shift to renewable energy sources.
“While this is a laudable goal, the realities are that implementation of virtually any of the technologies now being discussed are not going to be sufficient to meet the region’s energy demand.
“The BCW will be holding an energy conference on May 10 with some of the top leaders in the energy field. In the meanwhile, the BCW Gas Moratorium Task Force will continue to work on assessing the overall situation, working cooperatively with all involved parties to understand and determine the best paths forward.”
The Con Edison news release continues:
“Under the agreement, Tennessee Gas Pipeline would provide the increased natural gas capacity to Con Edison’s distribution system in Westchester by upgrading compression facilities on its system outside of New York State.
These upgrades will enhance the capability of the existing pipelines to transport incremental natural gas supplies for Con Edison. Subject to the necessary approvals, the incremental capacity could be placed in service by November 2023. (Editor’s Note: 4 years from now).
This agreement supports continued economic growth in Westchester by supplementing existing natural gas capacity without the construction of a new pipeline. When combined with Con Edison’s continued efforts to advance renewables and alternative technologies, this approach will provide customers with clean, affordable heating and cooking solutions.
“This project offers a reasonable, sensible approach to allow an orderly transition to the renewable energy future we all desire,” said Tim Cawley, president of Con Edison.
“The solution provides the time needed to improve non-pipeline technology and make it widely available. The additional natural gas capacity will continue to support economic growth in our region, while reducing reliance on heating oil and the need for locally delivered compressed and liquid natural gas.”
Con Edison is continuing to implement the company’s $223 million Smart Solutions program for customers who are interested in alternatives to natural gas, including incentives to electrify heating systems, upgrade HVAC controls, install geothermal heat pumps or weatherize their homes. The increased gas capacity plan allows more time for technologies to advance, and for customer adoption to increase for alternative heating and cooking solutions.
Between the company’s announcement of the moratorium and its start on March 16, Con Edison received 1,600 applications for firm gas service in the moratorium area. Demand for natural gas in New York City and Westchester County has grown significantly in recent years. This has been due to conversions of heating systems from oil, as well as economic growth, with developers preferring natural gas in new buildings.
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The Hudson Gateway REALTOR® Foundation, raised a total of $30,417 at their “Runway for Hope” Fashion Show held on April 4 at Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle. The event featured fashions by Lord & Taylor in Eastchester and were modeled by HGAR Realtors.
Established in 2003 and relaunched in 2013, the Hudson Gateway REALTOR® Foundation has donated thousands of dollars to charities and non-profit organizations serving the housing, hunger, health, happiness, and humane needs of people throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond. Last year, the Foundation donated more than $81,000 to 26 local charities.
“We are so grateful to all who attended this exciting event and to our many sponsors who helped to make the evening possible,” said Maryann Tercasio, President of the Hudson Gateway REALTOR® Foundation. “This funding will allow us to continue to support so many wonderful charitable organizations that make a real difference in the lives of both individuals and families here in the Hudson Valley,” added Bonnie Koff, Chair of the HG Realtor Foundation Fundraising Committee.
The HG REALTOR® Foundation models include: Ed and Justin Albano of Keller Williams NY Realty in White Plains; Carol Aloia of Houlihan Lawrence in White Plains; Carmen Bauman of Green Grass Real Estate Corp. in Bronxville; Anthony Berardi of BHG Rand Realty in New Rochelle; Vikktoria Cooper of Coldwell Banker in Katonah; Justin Cruz of BHG Rand Realty in the Bronx; Virginia Doetsch, Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s Int. Realty in Bronxville; Luis Omar Figueroa in the Bronx; Rich Herska of BHG Rand in Nyack; Ron Garafalo, HGAR President, of John J. Lease Realtors in Middletown; Ari LaFauve of Compass Greater NY, LLC inDobbs Ferry; Nikki McMann of William Raveis-New York LLC in Katonah; Jeliana Melendez of Keller Williams in White Plains: Jennifer Moore of Houlihan Lawrence in White Plains; Leia Rodman of William Raveis Legends Realty in Briarcliff Manor; Evelyn Roman of Compass Greater NY LLC in Dobbs Ferry; Tremaine Selby of Weichert Realtors in Monroe; Al Smith of Coldwell Banker in New Rochelle; Veronica Suarez of Re/Max Distinguished Homes & Properties in Tuckahoe; Crystal Hawkins Syska of Keller Williams in White Plains; Linda Urban of Houlihan Lawrence inBriarcliff Manor; Elaine Voss of Coldwell Banker in Pound Ridge; Jill Ramsey Wilkins of BGH Rand in Goshen, and Suzan Zeolla of Houlihan Lawrence in Briarcliff Manor.