Public Hearing Set For New Village Laws, Construction Permit Granted

Garden City’s village board discussed the following topics at its June 21 meeting. 

Public Hearing Dates Set by Board

The board set a public hearing date – July 19 at 8 p.m. – to discuss three proposed local laws. One would amend Chapter 57 of the village code to allow alternate members to serve on the Architectural Design Review Board. Another would increase maximum fines for zoning violations by amending Chapter 200, Article XV, Section 200-87 (B), titled, “Enforcement; Penalties for Offenses.”

The last proposed adoption would amend Chapter 1, Article II, Section 1-12 of the code, “Penalties for Offenses,” to also increase maximum penalties. 

The codes will be available on the village Web site.

Permit for 301 Franklin Avenue

Since the village already approved the 54-unit condominium complex to be built at 301 Franklin Ave., the developer returned for permission to construct a temporary sales office and model unit on the property. 

Kevin Walsh, representative for the site, said one change to the original proposal was moving the model to the north side of the site based on a recommendation from the construction crew. 

“This will help us market simultaneously as we build,” said Walsh, who added that the 1,440 square-unit model will mimic the exact apartments being constructed.  

While the board seemed content with the proposal, Mayor Don Brudie inquired about the plans for the model when it was no longer needed. “When the usefulness for the model is complete, what will you do? Take it down?” he asked. When Walsh replied that the unit would be removed, Brudie suggested an alternate plan. 

“Wouldn’t it be nicer to donate it to the village for senior use?” he inquired. Both the construction representatives and Walsh agreed to keep the suggestion in mind. 

The board also expressed concerns about fire and sanitary issues in regards to the model. According to representatives, the model will have temporary water and power sources to comply with codes and will be equipped with fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. 

After some further discussion, the board approved the proposal with seven votes in favor (Trustee DeMaro removed himself from the discussion) but only for one year with an option to renew.

Recreation Report

Kevin Ocker, chairman of Cultural and Recreational Affairs, reported that residents are enjoying the new pool facility. Since its re-opening two weeks ago, membership enrollments have gone up. 

“About 76 percent of families with kids are members,” he stated, and membership is up by about 35 families compared to this time last year. 

 Approximately 40 new couples have enrolled too.

Ocker also reported on the trees in the village, saying that Hurricane Irene took down about 130 last year and 123 others have been removed under the village’s tree removal contract. The village planted 297 new trees, 10 of which were donated, to offset the loss.

The roller rink re-design is also underway in the village, Ocker added.

Fire Report

Fire Chief Charles Cavarra warned residents of potential fire hazards around the home during the summer months, especially during heat waves, including electrical wirings and barbecues.

The next village board meeting will be the July 19 public hearing on the proposed local laws. It will take place at 8 p.m. inside Village Hall.