Ramapo public meetings in 2022

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board unanimously adopted a series of resolutions appointing town officials for 2022, including the Town Clerk, Town Attorney, Receiver of Taxes, and various board chairs. It also approved the 2022 salary schedule for all town personnel and authorized the Supervisor to negotiate employment agreements with non-union employees. The meeting was largely administrative, with no public hearings or zoning changes.

• Appointed Sharon M. Osherovitz as Town Clerk/Registrar of Vital Statistics for 2022-2023
• Appointed Itamar Yeger, Esq. as Town Attorney for 2022
• Appointed Melinda Mallia as Justice Court Clerk at $147,500 annual salary
• Adopted 2022 Salary Schedule for all town employees
• Retained MJ Engineering and Land Surveying, PC for municipal engineering services in 2022

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board will hold a public hearing on a proposed local law to grant real-property tax exemptions to qualifying volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The board will also consider settlements in tax certiorari and personal-injury claims, adopt tax rates, and approve purchases and budget amendments for emergency services.

• Public hearing on Introductory Local Law: Real Property Tax Exemption for Qualifying Volunteer Firefighters and Volunteer Ambulance Service Workers
• Settlement of Tax Certiorari: Polnoya Homes, LLC
• Settlement of Claim: Julia Schiller v. Town of Ramapo
• Settlement of Claim: Yaakov Bayer
• Approval to Purchase Ambulance

The Ramapo Town Board approved the Conceptual Development Special Permit for Watchtower's proposed Audio/Video Production Center at 155 Sterling Mine Road, including an Additional Building Height Plan allowing up to 75 feet, and authorized tree clearing prior to site plan approval. The board also adopted the 2023 tax rates, settled several claims, and approved budget amendments and personnel appointments.

• Approved Watchtower CDSP with Additional Building Height Plan (3-0, 2 absent)
• Authorized tree clearing on Watchtower site with conditions (3-0, 2 absent)
• Adopted 2023 town tax rates (unanimous)
• Settled Polnoya Homes tax certiorari (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Settled Julia Schiller personal injury claim for $100,000 (unanimous)
• Settled Yaakov Bayer sewer backup claim for $699.02 (unanimous)
• Accepted easements for Bluefield Extension Subdivision (unanimous)
• Amended 2022 budget for DWI, JTTF, FBI, STEP grants (unanimous)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board will hold a public hearing and vote on a conceptual development special permit for the Watchtower property, including a proposed additional height plan and tree clearing. The board will also set public hearings on a new filming rights law and revisions to police officer residency requirements. Numerous routine items include settlements, agreements, bids, and appointments.

• Public hearing and approval of Watchtower Conceptual Development Special Permit and Plan with additional height and tree clearing
• Set public hearing for Introductory Local Law on filming rights and requirements
• Set public hearing for revisions to Town Code Article VI on police officer residency
• Settlements of claims and tax certiorari cases (Yoseph Meth, James Tambini, 475 Beacon Partners, Sima Halpern)
• Agreements with multiple fire districts and villages for 2023 services

The Town Board tabled the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society's Conceptual Development Special Permit application to the December 28, 2022 meeting, citing the need for more time to review the MJ Engineering report and the GML review. The Board also set public hearings for January 25, 2023 on a proposed filming rights local law and proposed revisions to police officer residency requirements. Numerous routine resolutions were adopted, including 2023 agreements for fire protection, highway maintenance, and snow removal services.

• Tabled Watchtower CDSP application to Dec. 28, 2022 (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Jan. 25, 2023 on filming rights local law (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Jan. 25, 2023 on police officer residency revisions (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 fire protection agreements with multiple villages/districts (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 highway maintenance and snow removal agreements with 7 villages (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 contracts with not-for-profit agencies totaling over $500,000 (unanimous)
• Appropriated $2,296,198.21 in federal COVID recovery funds (unanimous)
• Approved $6,203.80 settlement for sewer backup claim (unanimous)

Town Board

The Town Board is meeting to adopt the 2023 budget for the Town of Ramapo. The agenda also includes approving a PILOT agreement for 59 Owner LLC/25 Route 59 LLC and reviewing change orders for local projects.

• Adoption of 2023 Town of Ramapo Budget
• Approval of PILOT terms for 59 Owner LLC/25 Route 59 LLC
• Change order for Weldler Park Playground
• Change order for Ralph Boulevard Drainage Collapse Project

The Town Board approved the amended 2023 Preliminary Budget, which includes a tax levy of $88.3 million. The budget results in no tax increase for Unincorporated Ramapo and full-service villages, and tax decreases for the Villages of Suffern and Spring Valley.

• Adopted 2023 Preliminary Budget as amended (Unanimous)
• Approved 15-year PILOT agreement for office building at 33 Route 59 (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order No. 2 for Weldler Park Playground, increasing total cost to $846,788.15 (4-0)
• Approved Change Order No. 1 for Ralph Boulevard Drainage Collapse Project, increasing total cost to $216,800 (4-1)
• Accepted minutes from November 9, 2022 regular meeting (4-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board will close the public hearing on the 2023 preliminary budget and vote on several zoning and land-use actions, including a new MU-3 zoning district and rezoning of lands from RSH to MU-3. The board will also adopt SEQRA findings for the Watchtower Audio/Video Production Center and set a public hearing for a conceptual development special permit application.

• Close 2023 Preliminary Budget public hearing
• Adopt SEQRA Lead Agency Findings Statement for Watchtower Audio/Video Production Center
• Amend 2004 Comprehensive Plan, Town Zoning Law, and Zoning Map
• Establish new MU-3 Zoning District and rezone lands from RSH to MU-3
• Set public hearing for Conceptual Development Special Permit Application

The Town Board approved amendments to the 2004 Comprehensive Plan and the town zoning law to create a new MU-3 district at 155 Sterling Mine Road, facilitating the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society's proposed audio/video production center. The board also adopted a SEQRA findings statement for the project and scheduled a December 14 public hearing regarding a conceptual development special permit. Additionally, the board authorized various personnel and administrative contracts.

• Adopted SEQRA findings for Watchtower project (3-1)
• Amended Comprehensive Plan for Watchtower property (3-1)
• Adopted Local Law 7 of 2022 creating MU-3 zoning district (3-1)
• Scheduled Dec 14 public hearing for conceptual development special permit (3-1)
• Authorized ejectment proceedings against MFB Equestrian LLC (4-0)
• Established one part-time deputy building inspector position (4-0)
• Established six part-time crossing guard positions (4-0)
• Approved $7,040/month IT support contract with Elevated Computing (4-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings to close agreements for several fire protection districts for 2023, and will consider adopting a local law amending certain real property tax exemptions. The board will also discuss the Watchtower draft finding statement and updated zoning and comprehensive plan amendments, and set a public hearing for the 2023 preliminary budget. Other items include accepting bids, budget amendments, and settlements.

• Close public hearings for 2023 agreements with Park Crest, Johnsontown Road, and Ramapo Fire Protection Districts No. 1-5
• Adopt local law amending certain real property tax exemptions
• Set public hearing for Preliminary Budget Year 2023
• Watchtower discussion: draft finding statement, updated zoning and comprehensive plan amendments
• Acceptance of proposal for town-wide traffic study: MJ Engineering

The Ramapo Town Board unanimously adopted Local Law No. 6 of 2022, which amends the senior citizen and persons with disabilities real property tax exemptions by adding new income-based exemption schedules effective July 1, 2022. The board also closed public hearings on 2023 fire protection district agreements, set a public hearing on the 2023 preliminary budget, and approved a $235,000 town-wide traffic study proposal from MJ Engineering.

• Adopted Local Law No. 6 of 2022 amending senior and disability tax exemptions (unanimous)
• Closed public hearings on 2023 fire protection agreements for Park Crest, Johnsontown Road, and Ramapo Fire Districts No. 1-5 (unanimous)
• Set public hearing on 2023 preliminary budget for November 9, 2022 (unanimous)
• Accepted $235,000 proposal for town-wide traffic study from MJ Engineering (4-0, Weissmandl abstained)
• Accepted $2,595.81 settlement for damage to town vehicle (unanimous)
• Settled James Tambini's claim for $2,425.86 (unanimous)
• Authorized defense in multiple tax certiorari proceedings (unanimous)
• Rejected dedication of roads and easements in Country Squire Estates (unanimous)

Ramapo Local Development Corporation

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation is meeting to accept the minutes from its June 8, 2022 meeting and to adopt its budget for the year 2023. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Acceptance of minutes from June 8, 2022 meeting
• Adoption of RLDC budget for 2023

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a special meeting to present the tentative budget. The agenda includes the pledge of allegiance, the budget presentation, and adjournment, with no other business listed.

• Presentation of the tentative budget

The Ramapo Town Board held a special meeting where Deputy Town Clerk Maureen Pehush presented the Town of Ramapo Tentative Budget for Fiscal Year ending December 31, 2023. No other substantive decisions were made before the meeting was adjourned.

• Presented the Town of Ramapo Tentative Budget for Fiscal Year ending December 31, 2023
• Adjourned the special meeting (Adopted 4-0)

Town Board

The Town Board will hold a public hearing and vote on amendments to real property tax exemptions for seniors and persons with disabilities. The meeting also includes setting hearings for several 2023 fire protection district agreements and reviewing legal settlements.

• Amendment to real property tax exemptions for seniors and persons with disabilities
• 2023 fire protection district agreements for Park Crest, Johnsontown Road, and Ramapo Districts 1-5
• Settlement of claims for Erwin Herbst, Uri Bayer, and Airmont Plaza Associates
• Change order for GameTime-Weldler Park Playground
• Installation of traffic control signs on Neil Road

The Town Board approved a settlement for a sewer backup claim and authorized a cost increase for the Weldler Park playground. The board also scheduled several public hearings for 2023 fire protection district agreements and a real property tax exemption amendment.

• Approved $26,000 settlement for Erwin Herbst sewer backup claim (Unanimous)
• Approved $103,640 change order for Weldler Park playground, increasing total to $761,664.15 (4-0)
• Authorized settlement of tax certiorari for Uri Bayer (Unanimous)
• Authorized settlement of tax certiorari for Airmont Plaza Associates (Unanimous)
• Authorized installation of 'No Parking Any Time' signs on Neil Road (Unanimous)
• Authorized application for Justice Court Assistance Program Grant up to $30,000 (Unanimous)
• Expressed favorable opinion for amended liquor license for Mt. Ivy All American Diner (Unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearings for Oct 26, 2022, regarding fire protection districts and tax exemptions (Unanimous)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding its regular meeting on September 14, 2022, to address a range of administrative and financial items. Key actions include settling two tax certiorari lawsuits, accepting a bid for fencing work, and authorizing police training. The board will also discuss a fuel surcharge waiver for ambulance corps and consider an intermunicipal agreement for dog control services.

• Settlement of pending tax certiorari litigation
• Settlement of tax certiorari: Qing Zhang and Cheng Qian
• Acceptance of bid: Various fencing work within the Town of Ramapo
• Authorization to re-bid: purchase of motor oil, anti-freeze, hydraulic oil & transmission fluid
• Intermunicipal agreement - dog control services

The Town Board authorized funding to correct transcription errors in the 2022 annual budgets for six town fire districts. The board also approved several police training trips, two new office aide appointments, and a fencing contract.

• Approved funding for 2022 budget shortfalls for six Town Fire Districts (Unanimous)
• Authorized settlement of tax certiorari litigation for Congregation Vien of Monsey (Unanimous)
• Authorized settlement of tax certiorari for Qing Zhang and Cheng Qian (Unanimous)
• Approved up to $10,000 for 4 officers to attend a seminar in Florida (Unanimous)
• Approved up to $4,600 for 7 officers to attend a symposium in Albany (Unanimous)
• Accepted fencing bid from Yaboo Fence Co., Inc. (Unanimous)
• Appointed Yves Levy as Office Services Aide (Yiddish Speaking) at $46,704 salary (Unanimous)
• Appointed Carsen Debrock as Office Services Aide at $44,481 salary (Unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved site development permits for retail, residential, and utility projects, including a PFAS compliance well. The board issued negative SEQR declarations for several projects and referred two applications to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Approved site permit for 41-79 Route 59 retail/medical project (6-0-0)
• Approved revised site plan for Hearthstone Village at 146 Route 59 (6-0-0)
• Issued Negative Declaration and referred 211-217 N Pascack Road school to ZBA (6-0-0)
• Approved site permit for Zichron Menachem Religious Campus at 281 Route 306 (6-0-0)
• Approved site permit for Suez PFAS Compliance wells at 141 College Road (6-0-0)
• Issued Negative Declaration and referred Davis Sport Shop at 120 Route 17 to ZBA (6-0-0)
• Declared Lead Agency for 4 Dolson Road minor subdivision SEQR review (6-0-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board will hold a public hearing on a proposed local law amending real property tax exemptions for seniors and persons with disabilities. The board will also consider accepting easements, settling tax certiorari cases, approving police training and grants, and other routine matters.

• Public hearing on amendment to real property tax exemptions for seniors and persons with disabilities
• Acceptance of easements at 4 and 14 Fern Drive and 53-55 Carlton Road
• Settlements of tax certiorari for Beth Medrash Ohr Chaim, Inc. and Qing Zhang and Cheng Qian
• Authorization for three detectives to attend background investigation course
• Approval of liquor license for La Parrilla Huerto Inc. d/b/a Mt. Ivy All American Diner

The Town Board authorized funding for emergency ambulance services and approved several police-related expenditures and grants. The Board also scheduled a public hearing for a local law regarding real property tax exemptions for seniors and persons with disabilities.

• Scheduled public hearing for Sept 28, 2022, on real property tax exemption amendments (Unanimous)
• Authorized up to $275,000 for additional ambulance services from William Paul Faist and Spring Hill Community Ambulance Corps (Unanimous)
• Approved $140,000 proposal from Hush Electrical Contracting for license plate reader electrical work (Unanimous)
• Accepted $34,884 and $11,424 grants from NYS Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee for police services (Unanimous)
• Approved lease-to-buy of Canon scanner/printer/copier for $20,349.09 (Unanimous)
• Appointed Meg Cave as Real Property Data Collector II at $51,491 annually (Unanimous)
• Appointed Phillip Campbell, Samantha Gabriel, and Vincent Obojkovits as Police Officers (Unanimous)
• Expressed favorable opinion for liquor license for La Parrilla Huerto Inc. d/b/a Mt. Ivy All American Diner (Unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved site development permits for a community center, a house of worship, and a school dormitory. Several other school projects were issued negative declarations and referred to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Approved Site Development Permit for Community Outreach Center at 21 & 31 Remsen Avenue (5-0-0)
• Approved Amended Site Development and Special Use Permits for Binyan Torah School and Dormitory at 65 Dykstra Way East (5-0-0)
• Approved Site Development Permit for Congregation Tfilah L’Dovid at 68 Carlton Road (5-0-0)
• Approved Site Development Permit for two curb cuts at 7 Miele Road (5-0-0)
• Granted Sketch Plat for 18 Suffern Place subdivision with conditions (5-0-0)
• Issued Negative Declaration and referred Talmud Torah Bnei Zion at 230-232 Viola Road to ZBA (5-0-0)
• Issued Negative Declaration and referred Congregation Yeshuos Moshe Viznitz School at 177-181 Viola Road to ZBA (5-0-0)
• Granted 90-day extensions for 34 Ellish Parkway and 29-33 Vincent Road subdivisions (5-0-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public participation, followed by several action items. Key items include a resolution to override a county GML letter regarding the Northeast Comprehensive Plan, a presentation on the Watchtower comprehensive and zoning amendment, and various approvals for personnel, purchasing, and service agreements.

• Override Resolution Pursuant to General Municipal Law §239-m for Northeast Comprehensive Plan
• Settlement of claim: Eileen Greenstein
• Appoint Office Services Aide
• Acceptance of proposal: Storage Tank Liability - Lebaum
• Acceptance of proposals: Remsen Avenue Concrete Curb and Sidewalk Project

The Town Board approved reports to override Rockland County's recommendations regarding the Northeast Ramapo Development Plan and related zoning changes. The Board also approved several professional service contracts and a legal settlement.

• Approved override of Rockland County recommendations for Northeast Ramapo development (Unanimous)
• Approved $6,190.21 settlement for Eileen Greenstein sewer backup claim (Unanimous)
• Appointed Klaire Debrock as probationary Office Services Aide at $44,481 annual salary (Unanimous)
• Accepted $1,225 storage tank liability insurance proposal from Lebaum Company, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved $56,710 in professional service contracts to Atzl, Nasher & Zigler, P.C. for Remsen Avenue curb and sidewalk plans (Unanimous)
• Authorized officials to lead funding discussions for additional ambulance services (Unanimous)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is meeting to discuss several items, including a public hearing on a petition from Watchtower, an agreement with Cornell Cooperative Extension for stormwater education, police officer nominations and appointments, and a bid for a pedestrian safety improvement project. The board will also consider settling a claim against David Columbia and accepting a justice court audit.

• Public hearing on petition of Watchtower
• Agreement with Cornell Cooperative Extension Rockland County for stormwater education 2022-2023
• Nominate and appoint temporary police officers
• Establish and appoint litigation assistant position
• Acceptance of bid for Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project

The Town Board accepted a bid for a pedestrian safety improvement project and approved several personnel appointments. The Board also authorized a storm water education agreement and settled a police vehicle damage claim.

• Approved $1,196,353.00 bid from Paladino Concrete Creations, Corp. for Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project (Unanimous)
• Approved $7,300.00 agreement with Cornell Cooperative Extension for storm water education (Unanimous)
• Accepted $4,982.82 settlement from Progressive Insurance for police vehicle damage (4-1)
• Nominated Philip Campbell, Samantha Gabriel, and Vincent Obojkovits as Police Officers (Unanimous)
• Appointed Samantha Gabriel and Vincent Obojkovits as Temporary Police Officers at $54,552 annually (Unanimous)
• Established full-time Litigation Assistant position and appointed Dori Kaplan at $74,116 annually (Unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on Watchtower petition; written comments accepted until August 10, 2022 (Unanimous)
• Accepted Justice Court audit for year ending December 31, 2021 (Unanimous)

Planning Board

The Board approved site development permits for a school expansion at 415 Viola Road and curb cuts for residential projects on Decatur Avenue and Fred Eller Drive. An amended permit was granted for a house of worship at 2 Langeries Drive. Several other applications were classified for environmental review or requested extensions.

• Approved Site Development Permit for 114 Decatur Ave curb cuts (5-0)
• Approved Site Development Permit for 7 Fred Eller Drive curb cuts (5-0)
• Approved Site Development Permit for United Talmudical Academy of Monsey at 415 Viola Road (5-0)
• Approved Amended Site Development Permit for Congregation Tzemach Tzedek Monsey at 2 Langeries Drive (5-0)
• Issued Negative Declaration for 109 NYS Route 59 retail project (5-0)
• Approved 90-day extension for Pascack Ridge Subdivision (5-0)
• Classified 62-64 Bates Drive as Unlisted SEQR Action (5-0)
• Classified 21 Orchard Street as Minor Subdivision and Unlisted Action (4-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is meeting to consider adopting a comprehensive plan amendment and local laws establishing a Commercial Corridor Zoning District and a Flex-Overlay Planned Unit Development Zone for Northeast Ramapo, following a SEQRA findings statement. The board will also accept several easements, approve the purchase of license plate readers, and act on various personnel and purchasing items.

• Adopt SEQRA findings and comprehensive plan amendment for Northeast Ramapo Development Plan
• Adopt Local Law establishing Commercial Corridor Zoning District in Northeast Ramapo
• Adopt Local Law creating Flex-Overlay Planned Unit Development Zone in Northeast Ramapo
• Accept easements at 244 Viola Road, Montebello Crossing, and 4 Crown LLC
• Purchase and installation of license plate readers

The Town Board unanimously adopted a SEQRA Findings Statement, a Comprehensive Plan Amendment, and two local laws (Local Law No. 4 of 2022 creating a Commercial Corridor Zoning District and Local Law No. 5 of 2022 creating a Flex-Overlay Planned Unit Development Zone) for the Northeast Ramapo Development Plan. It also approved a new collective bargaining agreement with the Ramapo Police Benevolent Association retroactive to January 1, 2020, through December 31, 2022, with one abstention. Other actions included accepting a $1,219,323.28 proposal for 100 license plate readers, extending an ice cream truck license, and various personnel and purchasing items. Public speakers opposed the sale of town property at 679 New Hempstead Road, but no resolution on that sale appears in these minutes.

• Adopted SEQRA Findings Statement for Northeast Ramapo Development Plan (5-0)
• Adopted Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Northeast Ramapo (5-0)
• Adopted Local Law No. 4 of 2022: Commercial Corridor Zoning District (5-0)
• Adopted Local Law No. 5 of 2022: Flex-Overlay Planned Unit Development Zone (5-0)
• Approved collective bargaining agreement with Ramapo PBA, retroactive Jan 1, 2020 to Dec 31, 2022 (4-0, Charles abstained)
• Accepted NDI Technologies proposal for 100 license plate readers, not to exceed $1,219,323.28 (5-0)
• Accepted drainage easement at 244 Viola Road (4-1, Weissmandl nay)
• Accepted sanitary sewer easement for Montebello Crossing (4-1, Weissmandl nay)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public participation, minutes approval, and several action items. The most consequential items are the adoption of a comprehensive plan amendment and two local laws that would create new zoning districts for Northeast Ramapo, including a flex-overlay planned unit development zone and a commercial corridor district. The board will also accept an easement at 244 Viola Road and renew a workers' compensation administrator contract.

• Acceptance of easement at 244 Viola Road
• Adoption of SEQRA findings for Northeast Ramapo Development Plan
• Adoption of Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Northeast Ramapo
• Local Law to create Flex-Overlay Planned Unit Development Zone in Northeast Ramapo
• Local Law to establish Commercial Corridor Zoning District in Northeast Ramapo

Planning Board

The Planning Board granted a Site Development Permit for a local house of worship with a rabbi's residence at 19 Briarwood Lane, overriding the Rockland County Planning Department's disapproval and multiple comments. The board also classified several applications under SEQRA and referred one to the Zoning Board of Appeals. A retail project at 41-79 Route 59 was adjourned to August 30, and a subdivision at 50 Park Lane was classified as an Unlisted Action. No action was taken on the Yeshiva Ketana addition beyond SEQRA classification and referral.

• Approved Site Development Permit for 19 Briarwood Lane house of worship (5-0)
• Overrode Rockland County Planning Department disapproval and comments 1,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,11,15,17,18,21.1 for 19 Briarwood Lane
• Adjourned 41-79 Route 59 retail site plan to August 30 meeting (4-1)
• Classified Yeshiva Ketana of Monsey addition as Type II SEQR action (5-0)
• Referred Yeshiva Ketana of Monsey application to Zoning Board of Appeals (5-0)
• Classified Davis Sport Shop addition as Unlisted SEQR action and requested Lead Agency status (4-0)
• Classified 211-217 N Pascack Road school as Unlisted SEQR action and requested Lead Agency status (5-0)
• Classified 50 Park Lane subdivision as Unlisted SEQR action and requested Lead Agency status (5-0)

Town Board

The Town Board will hold a public hearing regarding a petition from Watchtower. The meeting also includes discussions on sewer line upgrades at 211 Saddle River Road and various legal and financial matters.

• Public Hearing: Petition of Watchtower
• Authorization to pay for upgraded 8” sewer line and manholes at 211 Saddle River Road
• Acceptance of easement for 34 Ellish Parkway Subdivision
• Approval of software licensing agreement with PROS Real Property Software Solutions
• Renaming of road to Phil Tisi Way

The Ramapo Town Board voted unanimously to adjourn the continued public hearing on the Watchtower petition for draft comprehensive plan and zoning amendments to July 27, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. The Board also approved a $157,700 contract with Cioffi Services to replace about 350 linear feet of collapsed drainage pipe on Ralph Blvd that caused a large sink hole, work filed for FEMA reimbursement after Hurricane Ida. Other actions included a tax certiorari settlement lowering assessments for Executive Associates North II, LLC, retaining two expert appraisers for the Connectivity Systems litigation, and accepting the 2021 audited financial statements, which showed a General Fund operating surplus of $1,763,491.00.

• Adjourned Watchtower comprehensive plan and zoning public hearing to July 27, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved $157,700 contract with Cioffi Services for Ralph Blvd drainage collapse repair (unanimous)
• Approved tax certiorari settlement for Executive Associates North II, LLC, reducing assessments for 2018/19-2021/22 (unanimous)
• Amended Resolution 2022-229 to retain Bob Sterling MAI as appraiser, not to exceed $7,500 plus $200/hour (unanimous)
• Amended Resolution 2022-230 to retain Josefina V. Tranfa-Abboud, Ph.D. of Analytical Economics Associates, not to exceed $7,500 (unanimous)
• Accepted 2021 audited financial statements from Bonadio Group (unanimous)
• Accepted easement for 34 Ellish Parkway Subdivision (unanimous)
• Renamed Palisades Credit Union Park Drive to Phil Tisi Way (unanimous)

Ramapo Local Development Corporation

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation is holding a scheduled meeting to accept the minutes from its May 25, 2022 meeting and to accept its audited financial statements for the years ending December 31, 2021 and 2020. The agenda is largely procedural, with no substantive policy or project decisions listed.

• Acceptance of minutes from May 25, 2022 meeting
• Acceptance of audited financial statements for 2021 and 2020

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation board accepted the minutes of its May 25, 2022 meeting and voted unanimously to accept the final audited financial statements for the years ending December 31, 2021 and 2020, prepared by Bonadio Group. The board also voted unanimously to rename Palisades Credit Union Park Drive, the interior roadway at the stadium facility near Fireman's Memorial Drive, as Phil Tisi Way in recognition of Phil Tisi's 30 years of service to Town of Ramapo residents. The meeting was adjourned at 8:17 P.M. in honor of Phil Tisi.

• Accepted May 25, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0, Wanounou abstained)
• Accepted final audited financial statements for years ending Dec 31, 2021 and 2020 (unanimous)
• Renamed Palisades Credit Union Park Drive to Phil Tisi Way (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:17 P.M. in honor of Phil Tisi (unanimous)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with several action items, including settling two tax certiorari cases, authorizing a retroactive tax exemption application, amending a local law on consultant fee reimbursement, establishing and appointing a new maintenance mechanic position, and authorizing an injunction action against 10 Cedar Lane LLC. The agenda also includes routine items like accepting minutes, a donation, and a scholarship award.

• Settlement of tax certiorari: Valleyside Gardens LLC
• Settlement of tax certiorari: Two-Sixty-Seven Cherry Lane Realty
• Amend Local Law Designation: Reimbursement of Consultant Fees
• Authorization to Commence Injunction Action: 10 Cedar Lane LLC
• Establish and appoint Assistant Building Maintenance Mechanic

The Town Board approved several tax certiorari settlements and authorized legal action against a property owner for building code violations. The Board also established a new maintenance position and approved a student scholarship for Camp Scuffy.

• Authorized injunction against 10 Cedar Lane LLC for safety and building code violations (Unanimous)
• Settled tax certiorari for Valleyside Gardens LLC, correcting 2020/21 assessment to $707,200 (Unanimous)
• Settled tax certiorari for Two-Sixty-Seven Cherry Lane Realty for 2018-2022 (Unanimous)
• Agreed to grant retroactive tax exemptions for Spring Valley Church of the Nazarene if state legislation passes (Unanimous)
• Established Assistant Building Maintenance Mechanic position and appointed Carlos Estrada (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,600 scholarship for a Montebello Elementary School student to attend Camp Scuffy (Unanimous)
• Authorized acceptance of $200 donation from Fredi and Frank Alessio for training (Unanimous)
• Amended Local Law No. 4-2022 to be known as Local Law No. 3-2022 (Unanimous)

Ramapo Local Development Corporation

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation is meeting to accept minutes from its May 11, 2022 meeting and to consider a proposal for Directors & Officers Liability Insurance. No other substantive actions are listed.

• Acceptance of minutes from May 11, 2022 meeting
• Proposal for Directors & Officers Liability Insurance

The Board of Directors approved a proposal for Directors' and Officers' Liability Insurance for a total cost of $19,978.56. The board also formally accepted the minutes from their previous meeting held on May 11, 2022.

• Accepted May 11, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved $19,978.56 liability insurance proposal (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:26 P.M. (4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a Special Use Permit and Site Development Permit for the Bnei Yakov Yosef of Monsey school at 203-205 West Maple Avenue. The Board also approved a Site Development Permit for a synagogue at 106 Bates Drive. Several other applications, including a school at 89-91 Route 59 and a synagogue at 62-64 Bates Drive, were discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved Bnei Yakov Yosef school Special Use Permit (5-0)
• Approved Bnei Yakov Yosef school Site Development Permit (5-0)
• Overrode Rockland County Planning Dept. disapproval for Bnei Yakov Yosef (5-0)
• Approved Congregation Adas Chasidim Site Development Permit (4-1)
• Issued Negative Declaration for Yeshiva Shefa Chaim (4-0)
• Referred Yeshiva Shefa Chaim to Zoning Board of Appeals (4-0)
• Initiated coordinated SEQR review for Monsey Center LLC (5-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a public hearing on a proposed local law to reimburse consultant fees, and will consider several contracts, appointments, and property matters. The agenda includes accepting an easement, approving a PILOT agreement for TRHV, LLC, and replacing field turf at the Joseph T. St. Lawrence Center. It also covers personnel appointments, training authorizations, and the sale of property on New Hempstead Road.

• Public hearing on Introductory Local Law: Reimbursement of Consultant Fees
• Acceptance of easement at 16 Ronald Drive
• Approval of PILOT agreement for TRHV, LLC
• Replace field turf at Joseph T. St. Lawrence Center
• Sale of property on New Hempstead Road

The Town Board adopted Local Law No. 4 of 2022, which repeals and replaces Chapter 122 of the Town Code to require applicants for zoning, land use and other reviews to reimburse the Town for consultant fees, with escrow accounts and Town Board audit of vouchers. The Board also agreed to sell 21.59 acres at 679 New Hempstead Road to the Village of New Hempstead for $1,350,000, subject to a permissive referendum, and adopted a negative declaration under SEQR. It approved a PILOT agreement for The Ranch Hudson Valley project, conditioned on approval by other taxing jurisdictions, and authorized several contracts, including $473,482 plus $19,656 for turf replacement at the Joseph T. St. Lawrence Center and $63,509 for a transit van. All resolutions passed unanimously; public speakers raised questions on the PILOT, the van purchase, a helipad, the property sale and an incident involving police.

• Adopted Local Law No. 4 of 2022 on Reimbursement of Consultant Fees (unanimous)
• Agreed to sell 679 New Hempstead Road (21.59 acres) to Village of New Hempstead for $1,350,000, subject to permissive referendum (unanimous)
• Adopted negative declaration under SEQR for the 679 New Hempstead Road sale (unanimous)
• Approved PILOT agreement terms for TRHV, LLC / The Ranch Hudson Valley, conditioned on other taxing jurisdictions (unanimous)
• Accepted $473,482 turf replacement proposal plus $19,656 logo inlay at Joseph T. St. Lawrence Center (unanimous)
• Accepted $63,509 bid from HBA & MFL NY LLC for a new or used transit van (unanimous)
• Retained F.J. Rella and Company, LLC for SCAR defense at $50/hour, not to exceed $40,000 (unanimous)
• Amended 2022 budget to add $5,000 DWI overtime funds from Rockland County (unanimous)

Ramapo Local Development Corporation

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation is meeting to accept the minutes from its March 9, 2022 meeting and to accept a license agreement with the County of Rockland for the Youthfest event. The meeting is scheduled for May 11, 2022, in person and via Zoom.

• Acceptance of minutes from March 9, 2022 meeting
• Acceptance of license agreement with County of Rockland for Youthfest

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation board voted unanimously to grant the County of Rockland a license to use Clover Stadium facilities for the Rockland County Youth Bureau's Youthfest on Sunday, June 12, 2022, 6 AM to 8 PM, with a rain date of June 26, 2022. The board also accepted the minutes of its March 9, 2022 meeting and adjourned at 8:34 P.M. All actions were adopted by unanimous roll-call votes of the five directors present.

• Approved license agreement letting County of Rockland use Clover Stadium for Youthfest on June 12, 2022 (rain date June 26), 6 AM-8 PM (5-0)
• Authorized RLDC President to sign the license agreement with the County (5-0)
• Accepted the minutes of the March 9, 2022 scheduled meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned the May 11, 2022 meeting at 8:34 P.M. (5-0)

Planning Board

The Board granted final subdivision approval for a lot line adjustment at 8-10 Francis Place. It also approved a sketch plat and issued a negative declaration for a proposed subdivision at 64 Saddle River Road, referring the matter to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Approved Final Subdivision Plat for lot line change at 8-10 Francis Place (6-0-0)
• Overrode Rockland County Planning Department's disapproval for 8-10 Francis Place
• Declared Planning Board as Lead Agency for 64 Saddle River Road (6-0-0)
• Issued SEQR Negative Declaration for 64 Saddle River Road (6-0-0)
• Granted Sketch Plat Approval for 64 Saddle River Road (6-0-0)
• Referred 64 Saddle River Road application to ZBA for variances (6-0-0)
• Adjourned Bnei Yakov Yosef application to May 24, 2022 (5-0-0)
• Accepted April 26, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is meeting to conduct a public hearing on a petition from Watchtower, set a hearing on a local law for consultant fee reimbursement, and consider various settlements, budget amendments, bids, and personnel appointments. The agenda includes multiple settlement approvals and routine administrative items.

• Public hearing on petition of Watchtower
• Settlement of claims: Eliezer Schmelczer v. Town of Ramapo; Philip Ephraim Salb v. Town of Ramapo
• Settlement of tax cert: 35 Ostereh Boulevard
• Adopt SEQR Negative Declaration for Ramapo River Bank Erosion Mitigation
• Sale of surplus property: New Hempstead Road

The Town Board authorized the sale of 21.59 acres on New Hempstead Road to the Village of New Hempstead for $1,350,000. Additionally, the Board approved $658,024.15 for a new playground at Welder Park and accepted a $88,499 bid for improvements at the Saddle River Pool. Several personnel appointments and police training authorizations were also finalized.

• Sold 21.59 acres on New Hempstead Road for $1.35M (4-0)
• Approved $658,024.15 for Welder Park playground (4-0)
• Accepted $88,499 bid for Saddle River Pool fence and landscaping (4-0)
• Appointed Veronica Phillips as Assistant Town Attorney (4-0)
• Authorized $35,000 contract for JTS Bubble HVAC work (4-0)
• Adjourned Watchtower petition public hearing to June 8 (4-0)
• Set May 11 public hearing for consultant fee reimbursement law (4-0)
• Amended 2022 budget to include $17,822.15 in grant funding (4-0)

Planning Board

The Board approved a site development permit for a water treatment facility and a house of worship. It also granted final plat approvals for two subdivisions and a preliminary/final plat for a major realty subdivision, overriding several county objections.

• Approved Special Use and Site Development Permits for Monsey Well 31A at 10 Glen Drive (6-0-0)
• Approved Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plat for Bluefield Extension at 122-130 Union Rd (6-0-0)
• Approved Final Subdivision Plat for 4 Crown Road (6-0-0)
• Approved Site Development Permit for Ateres Rosh Kolbesov at 17 Roberts Road (6-0-1)
• Granted 90-day extension for Pascack Ridge Subdivision (6-0-0)
• Granted second 90-day extension for 19 Old Nyack Turnpike Subdivision (6-0-0)

Planning Board

The Ramapo Planning Board approved site development permits and environmental determinations for several applications on April 5, 2022. The board granted site plan approval and overrode county planning comments for the Eckerson Well #71 water upgrade, approved a site permit and curb cut for 71 Remsen Avenue, issued a negative declaration and parking waiver for the Monsey Hub project, and adjourned two other matters.

• Adjourned Bnei Yakov Yosef of Monsey application to May 10, 2022 (5-0)
• Adjourned Monsey Well 31A application to April 26, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved SEQR Type II action and site development permit for 71 Remsen Avenue (5-0)
• Approved Eckerson Well #71 site development permit and overrode Rockland County Planning Department comments 1, 4, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 (5-0)
• Recommended applicant 18 Suffern Place LLC meet with neighbors and return with plan updates
• Issued SEQR Negative Declaration and approved a parking space waiver for Monsey Hub at 48-62 & 72 Route 59 (4-0)
• Referred Monsey Hub application to the Zoning Board of Appeals with favorable recommendation (4-0)
• Postponed approval of March 22, 2022 meeting minutes

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a public hearing on the Northeast Ramapo Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement (FGEIS), comprehensive plan amendments, and proposed zoning amendments. The board will also consider several routine items, including easement acceptances, a tax certiorari settlement, and personnel appointments.

• Public hearing on Northeast Ramapo FGEIS, comprehensive plan amendments, and zoning amendments
• Acceptance of easement at 16 Cedar Lane
• Acceptance of easements at 3 Lane Street
• Settlement of tax certiorari with Suffern Partners LLC
• Approval of agreement with Village of Spring Valley for Summer Camp 2022

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved site development permits for curb cuts and water system upgrades. It also granted an amended final subdivision for 7 Lane Street and referred two other projects to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Approved site development permit for curb cuts at 12 Schettig Court (7-0-0)
• Approved site development permit for curb cuts at 30 Westside Avenue (7-0-0)
• Approved amended Final Subdivision for 7 Lane Street, overriding Rockland County Planning Department disapproval (7-0-0)
• Approved site development permit for Monsey Well 30 water treatment and tank replacement (7-0-0)
• Referred Mikvah addition at 90 Forshay Road to ZBA with favorable recommendation (7-0-0)
• Approved Sketch Plat and referred 158-160 West Eckerson Road subdivision to ZBA (7-0-0)
• Adjourned 16 Smolley Drive subdivision to May 10, 2022 (7-0-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a special meeting with a single public hearing on a petition from Watchtower. No other business is listed, and the meeting is expected to adjourn after the hearing.

• Public hearing on petition of Watchtower

The Town Board held a continued public hearing on the Petition of Watchtower: Draft Comprehensive Plan & Zoning Amendments, taking comments from residents and the applicant's representatives. The Board voted 4-1 to adjourn the public hearing to April 27, 2022 at 7:00 P.M., with Councilwoman Charles opposed. The Board stated it will discuss the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) at its next meeting on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. No decision was made on the FEIS or the zoning amendments themselves.

• Adjourned the Watchtower public hearing to April 27, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. (4-1, Charles opposed)
• Adjourned the special Town Board meeting at 7:42 P.M. (unanimous)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board adopted the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Watchtower project with a 45-foot height limit and special permit provisions. The Board also accepted property easements, settled tax certiorari and a damage claim, approved a summer camp agreement with Spring Valley, and made several personnel appointments.

• Adopted Watchtower project FEIS with 45-foot height limit and special permit provisions (3-2)
• Accepted 5-foot shade tree easement for 16 Cedar Lane (Unanimous)
• Accepted shade tree and stormwater easements for 3 Lane Street (Unanimous)
• Authorized tax certiorari settlement for Suffern Partners LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved agreement with Village of Spring Valley for 2022 summer camp space (Unanimous)
• Settled damage claim with Baruch Rosenfeld for $2,086.22 (Unanimous)
• Appointed Meg Cave as Office Services Aide at $44,481 annual salary (Unanimous)
• Approved naming private street at 28 Eckerson Lane subdivision 'Smile Way' (Unanimous)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a special virtual meeting to conduct a public hearing on the Northeast Ramapo Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement (FGEIS), comprehensive plan amendments, and proposed zoning amendments. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda includes only the hearing and adjournment.

• Public hearing on Northeast Ramapo FGEIS
• Comprehensive plan amendments
• Proposed zoning amendments

The Town Board held a public hearing to gather comments on the Northeast Ramapo Development Plan, Comprehensive Plan amendments, and proposed zoning amendments. The Board voted to postpone the hearing and extend the deadline for written public comments.

• Adjourned public hearing on Northeast Ramapo Development Plan to March 23, 2022 (4-0)
• Extended written comment period to March 28, 2022 (4-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with a full agenda of personnel actions, including promotions and appointments in the police department, and several contracts and settlements. The board will also vote on relief funds for Ukraine and various purchasing and insurance proposals.

• Promotion of three police officers to sergeant and appointment of two police officers
• Settlement of claim in Town of Ramapo v. Tornheim and Needleman
• Acceptance of easements and dedications at 35 College Road, 67 College Road, and 183 Maple Avenue
• Approval of relief funds for citizens of Ukraine
• Acceptance of proposal: Bonadio Group as auditors for 2021-2023

The Ramapo Town Board approved a budget transfer of up to $20,000 from contingency reserve to support local nonprofits aiding Ukraine relief, and appointed three police officers to sergeant at $154,289 each. The board also approved contracts with 40 not-for-profit agencies for 2022 totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars, accepted a $817,478.54 property insurance package, and authorized a $245,296 payment to the Ramapo Volunteer Ambulance Corps for past services. All resolutions passed unanimously except two items where Councilman Weissmandl abstained.

• Approved up to $20,000 from contingency reserve for Ukraine relief via local nonprofits (5-0)
• Promoted Sheila Samora, Lawrence Cooperstein, Michael Carbone to Police Sergeant at $154,289 each (5-0)
• Appointed Christopher Dodrill and Matthew Peragine as probationary Police Officers at $54,086 (5-0)
• Approved contracts with 40 not-for-profit agencies for 2022 community, youth, and senior services (5-0)
• Accepted $817,478.54 property insurance proposal from Lebaum Company (5-0)
• Authorized $245,296 payment to Ramapo Volunteer Ambulance Corps for July 2021–January 2022 services (5-0)
• Approved $50,000 cap for Metropolitan Valuation Services tax appraisals (5-0)
• Appointed two Paralegal Specialists at $65,719 each; Weissmandl abstained (4-0)

Ramapo Local Development Corporation

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation is meeting to consider a settlement agreement regarding the 2021 stadium lease with NY Boulders and a resolution to rename the stadium. The board will also accept minutes from the October 13, 2021 meeting.

• 2021 Stadium Lease Settlement - NY Boulders
• Memorializing Resolution: Renaming of Stadium
• Acceptance of minutes from October 13, 2021

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation board accepted a $118,013 payment as full and final settlement of the NY Boulders' 2021 stadium lease, and accepted in-kind services (events, catering, tickets) as settlement of the 2020 lease. The board also acknowledged the stadium's renaming to Clover Stadium under a naming rights partnership with Fiserv, and adopted the minutes of its October 13, 2021 meeting. All items passed; the meeting adjourned at 8:20 P.M.

• Accepted $118,013 as full and final settlement of NY Boulders' 2021 lease (4-0, Wanounou abstained)
• Accepted in-kind services as settlement of NY Boulders' 2020 lease (4-0, Wanounou abstained)
• Acknowledged stadium name change to Clover Stadium (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of October 13, 2021 meeting (3-0, Wanounou and Weissmandl abstained)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:20 P.M. (unanimous)

Planning Board

The board approved a special use permit and site development permit for a 19,000 sq ft girls' school at 607 Route 306, overriding Rockland County Planning Department disapproval and several comments. It also issued a negative SEQR declaration and referred Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael's proposed school and dormitory at 48-52 Carlton Road to the Zoning Board of Appeals. A site development permit was approved for a local house of worship at 5 South Remsen Street, and for a water treatment building at Pomona Well No. 37 & 38. The board reaffirmed a 2019 SEQR negative declaration and approved an amended subdivision and site plan for Shoppers Haven at 27 Orchard Street.

• Approved special use permit for Congregation Pe'er Bais Yaakov school at 607 Route 306 (5-0-0)
• Approved site development permit for Congregation Pe'er Bais Yaakov school at 607 Route 306 (5-0-0)
• Issued SEQR negative declaration for Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael school and dormitory at 48-52 Carlton Road (5-0-0)
• Referred Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael application to Zoning Board of Appeals with favorable recommendation (5-0-0)
• Issued SEQR negative declaration for 5 South Remsen Street house of worship (5-0-0)
• Referred 5 South Remsen Street application to Zoning Board of Appeals without comment (5-0-0)
• Approved site development permit for Pomona Well No. 37 & 38 PFAS compliance at 12 Camp Hill Road (5-0-0)
• Reaffirmed SEQR negative declaration of October 29, 2019 for Shoppers Haven (6-0-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings and decisions on the Watchtower comprehensive plan and zoning amendments, including acceptance of the Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement (FGEIS). The board will also consider tax certiorari settlements, easement dedications, budget amendments, police training authorizations, and various agreements and bids.

• Close public hearing on Watchtower draft comprehensive plan and zoning amendments
• Acceptance of FGEIS and setting public hearing on plan and zoning amendments
• Settlement of tax certiorari for 14 Grove LLC and for Jacob and Gittel Lefkowitz
• Acceptance of easements and dedications at 489 West Central Avenue, 77/79/85 Hillside Avenue, and 6 Cucolo Lane
• Amendment to 2022 budget for Sneden Place DARE donation

The Ramapo Town Board voted unanimously to accept the Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement (FGEIS) for the Northeast Ramapo Development Plan and to schedule a public hearing on the FGEIS, Comprehensive Plan Amendments and proposed Zoning Amendments for March 15, 2022. The board also adjourned the public hearing on the Watchtower petition to March 21, 2022 (the minutes state 'March 21, 2021', likely a typo). Other actions included approving tax certiorari settlements, easement acceptances, engineering and appraisal contracts, police training, and a budget amendment for a DARE donation. Councilman Yehuda Weissmandl was absent for most votes.

• Accepted FGEIS for Northeast Ramapo Development Plan and scheduled public hearing for March 15, 2022 (unanimous)
• Adjourned Watchtower public hearing to March 21, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved settlement of tax certiorari for 14 Grove LLC (unanimous)
• Approved settlement of tax certiorari for Jacob and Gittel Lefkowitz (unanimous)
• Accepted easement and dedication for 489 West Central Avenue (unanimous)
• Accepted easement and dedication for 77, 79, and 85 Hillside Avenue (unanimous)
• Accepted easement and dedication for 6 Cucolo Lane (unanimous)
• Approved $12,000 appraisal of Good Samaritan Hospital by Appraisal Economics (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Ramapo Planning Board adopted minutes from its February 8 meeting and took up several applications. It adopted a draft report on the Watchtower audio/video production center for further review, approved a 90-day subdivision extension for Shoppers Haven, and classified several school and development applications under SEQR, including a negative declaration for the Mercaz Hatorah school and dormitory. The board also opened and closed public hearings on multiple applications and referred several to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Adopted minutes from February 8, 2022 meeting (5-0)
• Adopted draft report on Watchtower audio/video production center for further review (5-0)
• Approved 90-day extension of Shoppers Haven subdivision (6-0)
• Classified Saddle River Park Subdivision as Unlisted action, requested lead agency status (6-0)
• Classified Yeshiva Shaarei Arazim site development/special use as Unlisted action, requested lead agency status (6-0)
• Classified Talmud Torah Bnei Zion site development/special use as Unlisted action, requested lead agency status (6-0)
• Issued negative declaration for Mercaz Hatorah of Belle Harbor school/dormitory (6-0)
• Referred Mercaz Hatorah application to ZBA without comments (6-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with several action items, including closing a public hearing and adopting a local law to opt out of a tax exemption. The board will also consider contracts for third-party administration, ambulance billing, and appraisal services, as well as personnel appointments and a bid rejection.

• Adopt Local Law: Opt Out of the Exemption From Taxation
• Acceptance of Proposal: Third Party Administrator – L.G. Boucher - 2022
• Authorization to Terminate Contract with 'CHS' and Amend Contract with 'UB': Ambulance Billing
• Rejection of Bid: Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project
• Appoint Senior Clerk and Police Radio Dispatcher (CAD)

The Town Board adopted a local law to opt out of real property tax exemptions for certain energy systems, including solar and wind. The Board also approved several contracts for insurance administration, legal assessment services, and park facility design. Additionally, the Board authorized eviction proceedings for two tenants at the Ramapo Equestrian Center.

• Adopted Local Law No. 2 of 2022 regarding energy system tax exemptions (5-0)
• Approved $38,400 insurance administration contract with L.G. Boucher (5-0)
• Approved assessment advisory services contract up to $34,999 (5-0)
• Approved $80,000 in safety and crime prevention program funding (5-0)
• Terminated ambulance billing contract with CHS and amended contract with UB (5-0)
• Authorized eviction proceedings for Ramapo Equestrian Center tenants (5-0)
• Appointed new Senior Clerk and Police Radio Dispatcher (5-0)
• Rejected bid for Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project (5-0)

Planning Board

The Ramapo Planning Board held a regular meeting on February 8, 2022, where it classified multiple actions under SEQRA, issued negative declarations, and referred applications to the Zoning Board of Appeals. The Board classified the 18 Suffern Place and Avon Gardens East projects as unlisted actions and initiated coordinated reviews, while also approving negative declarations and ZBA referrals for Congregation Zwehill of Monsey, Congregation Avnei Choshen, and 4 Caville Drive. Additionally, the public hearing for the 16 Smolley Drive subdivision was adjourned to March 22, 2022.

• Classified 18 Suffern Place Subdivision as an unlisted action, requested lead agency status, and initiated coordinated review (4-0-0)
• Classified Avon Gardens East Site Development Permit as an unlisted action, requested lead agency status, and initiated coordinated review (4-0-0)
• Adjourned public hearing for 16 Smolley Drive Subdivision to March 22, 2022 (4-0-0)
• Issued SEQR Negative Declaration for Congregation Zwehill of Monsey Site Development and Special Use Permit (4-0-0)
• Referred Congregation Zwehill of Monsey application to the ZBA with a favorable opinion (4-0-0)
• Issued SEQR Negative Declaration for Congregation Avnei Choshen Site Development Permit (4-0-0)
• Referred Congregation Avnei Choshen application to the ZBA with requirement to return to CDRC first (4-0-0)
• Issued SEQR Negative Declaration and referred 4 Caville Drive Local House of Worship application to the ZBA without comments (4-0-0)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with several public hearings and votes. Key actions include closing a public hearing on a zone change for 31 Remsen Avenue in Monsey, adopting a negative declaration, and voting on a local law to change the zoning from R-15a to CS. The board will also set a public hearing on opting out of a tax exemption, settle a lawsuit, and approve various appointments and purchases.

• Zone change for 31 Remsen Avenue, Monsey (Tax ID 56.10-2-222) from R-15a to CS
• Adopt SEQR Negative Declaration for Community Outreach Center petition
• Set public hearing on proposed local law to opt out of tax exemption
• Settlement of lawsuit: Rechy Stein
• Purchase and financing of three multi-use vehicles

The Town Board adopted Local Law No. 1-2022, rezoning 31 Remsen Avenue in Monsey from R-15A to Community Shopping (CS) to let Community Outreach Inc expand next to its existing 21 Remsen Avenue site. The Board issued a SEQRA negative declaration for the rezoning and voted to override four Rockland County Planning review comments. The Board also adjourned the Watchtower comprehensive plan and zoning amendment public hearing to February 23, 2022, and introduced a local law to add a new MU-3 zoning district. All resolutions passed unanimously.

• Adopted Local Law No. 1-2022 rezoning 31 Remsen Avenue, Monsey (Tax ID 56.10-2-21) from R-15A to Community Shopping (CS) (5-0)
• Issued SEQRA negative declaration for the 31 Remsen Avenue rezoning (5-0)
• Overrode Rockland County Planning GML review comments 1, 2, 3 and 7 on the 31 Remsen Avenue rezoning (5-0)
• Rescinded Resolution 2022-73 and re-adopted the rezoning as Resolution 2022-75 (5-0)
• Adjourned the Watchtower draft comprehensive plan and zoning amendment public hearing to February 23, 2022 (5-0)
• Introduced a local law adding a new MU-3 zoning district and amending the use table, bulk regulations and zoning map (5-0)
• Settled the Rechy Stein personal injury lawsuit for $3,000 (5-0)
• Amended Resolution 2021-532 to correct 2022 ambulance service fees: Hatzolah $2,500,000; Spring Hill $2,200,000; Faist $645,050; New Square $960,000 (5-0)

Town Board

The Town Board met to conduct an organizational meeting for the 2022 calendar year. The session focused on appointing various town officials, chairpersons for boards, and accepting professional service proposals.

• Appointed Sharon M. Osherovitz as Town Clerk and Registrar of Vital Statistics
• Appointed Itamar Yeger, Esq. as Town Attorney
• Appointed Melinda Mallia as Justice Court Clerk at an annual salary of $147,500
• Appointed Charlene Weaver as Zoning Board of Appeals Chairperson
• Appointed Sylvain Klein as Planning Board Chairperson

The Town Board appointed various municipal officers, legal counsel, and consultants for the 2022 calendar year. The board also adopted the 2022 salary schedule and designated official depositories and newspapers.

• Appointed Sharon M. Osherovitz as Town Clerk and Registrar of Vital Statistics (Unanimous)
• Appointed Itamar Yeger, Esq. as Town Attorney (Unanimous)
• Appointed Melinda Mallia as Justice Court Clerk at $147,500 annually (Unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Salary Schedule for union and non-union employees (Unanimous)
• Retained Abrams Fensterman for municipal law services not to exceed $35,000 (Unanimous)
• Retained Alpha Rises Digital, LLC for digital marketing at $9,000 per month (Unanimous)
• Authorized Town Supervisor to use Town vehicle 24/7 (4-0)
• Designated The Journal News as the official newspaper for 2022 (Unanimous)

Town Board

The Ramapo Town Board is holding a regular meeting with several administrative and personnel actions. Key items include closing the public hearing on a zone change petition for the Community Outreach Center, approving various agreements and settlements, and making appointments and nominations. The meeting also includes setting 2022 rates for town police during traffic control.

• Close public hearing on zone change petition of Community Outreach Center
• Retain outside counsel Janice Gittelman for traffic prosecution and other legal matters
• Settlement of tax certiorari: Congregation Birchos Yosef
• Intermunicipal agreement with Village of Wesley Hills for snow plowing (2022)
• Set 2022 rates for town police during traffic control

The Ramapo Town Board approved a 2022 agreement with Rockland Paramedic Services, Inc. for emergency medical services at a fee of $2,200,000, and retained Janice Gittelman, Esq. for traffic prosecution and other legal matters at $200 per hour, capped at $35,000 per year. The Board also approved sewer maintenance services for the Village of Pomona at $30.745 per sewer unit and snow plowing for the Village of Wesley Hills at $1,975.00 per plowing. A public hearing on a petition to rezone 31 Remsen Avenue, Monsey from R-15A to Community Shopping was adjourned to January 26, 2022. The Board accepted prior meeting minutes, made several personnel appointments, and adjourned in memory of Harry Reid, Gary Lipton, Esq., and the victims of a Bronx apartment fire.

• Approved 2022 EMS agreement with Rockland Paramedic Services, Inc. at $2,200,000 (unanimous)
• Retained Janice Gittelman, Esq. for traffic prosecution at $200/hour, max $35,000/year (unanimous)
• Approved sewer maintenance agreement with Village of Pomona at $30.745 per sewer unit (unanimous)
• Approved snow plowing agreement with Village of Wesley Hills at $1,975.00 per plowing (unanimous)
• Adjourned public hearing on rezoning 31 Remsen Avenue, Monsey to January 26, 2022 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of Nov 18, Dec 8, Dec 22, and Dec 29, 2021 meetings (various votes)
• Appointed Harry Grossman as Director of Automated Systems, effective Jan 13, 2022 (unanimous)
• Appointed Charles Martucci as Shop Supervisor at $120,728 annual salary (unanimous)

Town Board

The Town Board will conduct an organizational meeting to appoint various town officials and board chairpersons for 2022. The meeting also includes the acceptance of multiple consultant proposals and the setting of the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Appointment of Town Clerk/Registrar of Vital Statistics, Sharon M. Osherovitz
• Appointment of Town Attorney, Itamar Yeger, Esq.
• Appointment of Zoning Board of Appeals Chairperson, Charlene Weaver
• Appointment of Planning Board Chairperson, Sylvain Klein
• Acceptance of various consultant proposals for engineering, legal, and assessment services