Town of Greenburgh - Meeting Schedules

On Mon, Oct 5, 2009 at 1:39 PM, Alan Hochberg <fcgegreenburgh@gmail.com> wrote:

The following summary is based on my memory of the meeting on sept. 29th. Mathew came a little late and we don't have the benefit of his notes on his lap top. If I omit something very relevant we can add that to an amended summary . Summary begins: The meeting was called to discuss one important question. Whether our commission is the appropriate forum to examine the volunteer fire protection districts in Greenburgh. 1- Some individuals felt we should study the fire protection districts because it will ultimately impact the decision of whether consolidation works for the three paid districts.2- It was also felt by some we should examine the contracts between the town of Greenburgh and the villages as it relates to the fire protection districts and to see if the paid districts could bid on these contracts.3- Some of the reasons discussed why we should not study the fire protection districts. 4- The citizens of the paid separate fire districts can vote if they want consolidation the fire protection districts cannot not. Thus it is felt by some that it is important we have representatives from the fire protection districts on the commission. We now have between commissioners and advisers seventeen members this is cumbersome to say the least to add at least 6 more could make our commission unmanageable.6- Since the fire protection districts are made up of volunteers they are different from the paid districts and are connected to village fire departments. Consolidation of fire protection districts is possible whenever two or more districts are adjoining. In such cases the town board can consolidate by majority vote. Our commission was created to examine the feasibility of consolidation of the separate paid fire districts in Greenburgh as a result of a state law passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor allowing these communities to determine their own destiny. In conclusion it was felt by a majority of commissioners that to examine the fire protection districts has merits. Concerned citizens can pursue this examination or the town should certainly examine the fire protection districts when they negotiate the contracts with the villages. It was suggested that when our study is completed which may or may not be in april of 2010 the Town should begin a comprehensive study of consolidation and streamlining of town government with a view towards greater efficiencies. This could allow greater tax savings and possibly improved delivery of Town services to its citizens. If we complete our work in april of 2010 there is plenty of time to study the fire protection districts by the town or individuals and how that would impact our fire consolidation study. Thus before a referendum can be placed on the ballot citizens of Greenburgh would have access to all this information. This is ultimately our goal to have transparency in all issues dealing with fire consolidation. It doesn't matter who collects or studies the issues as long as the public is made aware of the information available. Chairs comments: We had a spirited discussion and all opinions were helpful and enlightening. Our goal should be that we can all learn from each other and respect the other person's view. Ultimately in any public discussion we will disagree and their will be a majority and minority opinion. We collectively are a team as we search for answers to complex issues affecting not only taxpayer dollars but their safety. I would again like to thank everyone for volunteering to serve and assist our community. Sometimes it may appear as a thankless job but the reward we seek is that maybe ordinary citizens like us can make a difference.