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Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

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Team New Castle Profiles

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(All bios here were supplied to Inside Chappaqua)

Rob Greenstein
Rob Greenstein

Town Supervisor Rob Greenstein

Rob has lived in Chappaqua with his wife, Cindy, and their three children for ten years. His children attend Seven Bridges Middle school. Rob is a trial attorney at the law firm Greenstein & Milbauer, LLP in New York City. He founded this law firm in 1995, two years out of law school. Rob also currently serves on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association. Rob ran for Town Board in 2011 on his own party line, Transparency in Government. During that election, he ran on a platform of the revitalization of New Castle’s downtown business districts and the need for a Chamber of Commerce. Rob formed the Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce in 2012. His work with the Chamber of Commerce demonstrates his commitment to the community, and willingness to fight for small business owners. Rob graduated from SUNY Binghamton in 1989 and from New York Law School (full scholarship) in 1993.  Email: rgreenstein@town.new-castle.ny.us

Lisa Katz
Lisa Katz

Deputy Supervisor Lisa Katz

Lisa has lived in Chappaqua with her husband, Steven and their two children for eight years. Her daughter, Arden, attends Bell Middle School, and her son, Spencer, attends Grafflin Elementary school.  Lisa is an attorney at the Law Offices of Lisa S. Katz, PLLC in Mount Kisco, where she focuses on estate planning, elder law and corporate law.  Lisa founded this law firm in 2011, after having worked both at prestigious New York City law firms and in-house at multi-national corporations, representing clients in all manner of business transactions, corporate compliance and SEC matters.  Lisa firmly believes in educating the community on important issues, and will bring common sense and practicality to the Town Board.  Lisa has been actively involved with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society as well as with Gilda’s Club.  Lisa graduated from both the College of Arts and Sciences and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1991 and from Fordham Law School in 1994.
Email: lkatz@town.new-castle.ny.us

Adam Brodsky
Adam Brodsky

Councilman Adam Brodsky

Adam has lived in Chappaqua with his wife, Cathy, and their four children for nine years.  His children attend Westorchard Elementary school and Seven Bridges Middle school. Adam is an attorney, serving as Director of Commercial Properties and General Counsel for Buckingham Trading Partners, Inc., a family-owned real estate company with a portfolio of shopping centers, apartment buildings and office properties, including commercial property in Chappaqua. Adam has worked as a real estate attorney with the firm of Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver and Jacobsen and was Director of Development and General Counsel for Gateway Colocation, a company offering services to telecom and internet service providers. Adam currently serves as Public Member of the Board of Directors of the Chappaqua Volunteer Ambulance Corp. and is a former member of the Muhlenberg College Board of Trustees. He has a vast knowledge of business negotiation and cost cutting. Adam has lived his entire life in Northern Westchester. He will bring his breadth of experience in the private sector to the Town at this critical time. Adam graduated from Muhlenberg College, B.A. and from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, J.D. with honors.  Email: abrodsky@town.new-castle.ny.us

And more Familiar Faces at Town Hall…

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Jason Chapin
Jason Chapin

Councilman Jason Chapin

Jason has lived in New Castle with his wife, Chrissy, and their three children since 1997. Their children attend Greeley high school and the Bell middle school. Jason is a program manager at The WorkPlace, a not-for-profit organization, and he manages a statewide program that helps people facing foreclosure increase their income and keep their home.

Jason has spent the past 20 years in job training while working for CUNY, SUNY and The WorkPlace. In addition, he serves on the board of the Child Care Council of Westchester and The Harry Chapin Foundation. Jason is a Deacon at The First Congregation Church of Chappaqua and a former coach for his kids’ baseball, soccer and basketball teams. Jason graduated with a B.A. from Colgate University and an M.B.A. from Fordham University. Jason previously served on the Town Board from 2000 to 2003. His major accomplishments during his first term include supporting renovations to the Community Center, Senior Center, Art Center, Town Hall and the train station.

He was also behind adding athletic fields at Gedney Park and Amsterdam and building the skate park. And, he helped pave the way for sidewalks along Rt. 133 in Millwood and Rt. 120 in Chappaqua and purchasing and preserving more than 200 acres of open space.

Jason was elected to a second term in 2011 and has focused his efforts on attracting more businesses to the Town to broaden the commercial tax base and making the Chappaqua and Millwood hamlets more merchant- and shopper-friendly. He has also concentrated on budget issues ranging from collecting outstanding taxes to increasing the reserve fund to maintaining the Town’s triple A bond rating to minimizing tax increases and staying within the tax cap.

Jason is committed to working closely with the new board members and expects to spend most of his time working on the Master Plan update, major land use projects, completing the sewer project for Yeshiva, Riverwoods and Random Farms, managing the  Town’s finances and maintaining the overall high quality programs and services that residents enjoy. Email: jchapin@town.new-castle.ny.us

Elise K. Mottel
Elise K. Mottel

Councilwoman Elise K. Mottel

Elise has lived in New Castle with her husband Mark and their two children for over 20 years. Both their children graduated from Horace Greeley High School. A partner at Seiden & Schein, P.C., a boutique real estate law firm based in Manhattan, Elise specializes in the representation of developers in a wide range of real estate transactions, principally in New York City, including the development and financing of affordable housing and mixed use projects, condominium and cooperative development, and acquisitions, sales and leasing.

Elise graduated with a B.A. in American Studies from Brandeis University and a J.D. from Hofstra University School of Law.

Elise has served on the New Castle Town Board for 10 years (January 1, 2004 to the present) and served as Deputy Town Supervisor from 2008 through 2013. She has focused on the revitalization of downtown Chappaqua, resulting in renovations at the train station, the South Greeley parking lot, the 120 bridge, the Gazebo, new crossings, sidewalks and other improvements. In Millwood, she supported improvements such as the 9-11 memorial, sidewalks and lighting, two new ball fields at Amsterdam Park and the new Gedney Park path.

Throughout her term, Elise concentrated on fiscal responsibility, insuring that  the Town maintained its Triple A bond rating, staying within the property tax cap and minimizing tax increases while maintaining a high level of services, and on shared services with other municipalities (i.e., the Millwood Water Treatment Plant which is shared with Pleasantville) and the School district.

Elise is committed to working with the entire Town Board and staff to maintain the Town’s Triple A bond rating, increase the reserve fund and keep taxes within the property tax cap. She intends to lend her expertise to Town Hall and residents on a host of critical matters including the Master Plan update, completion of the sewer project along Route 100, and affordable housing.

Elise will continue her efforts to make New Castle a sustainable and “green” community, encouraging the use of “clean pass” cars, LED lighting, recycling, energy efficiency and “green buildings” and reducing our carbon footprint. Her priority is to improve communications from Town Hall, and she is excited about many of the new ideas proposed by Rob, Lisa and Adam to communicate with and engage New Castle residents. Email: ekmottel@town.new-castle.ny.us

New Castle Democratic Candidates: What’s on the Horizon?

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(L-R): Mike, Penny and John
(L-R): Mike, Penny and John.
Dana Stein-Dince Photo

After an unprecedented and contentious town election, Inside Chappaqua magazine caught up with the Democratic New Castle Town Board slate to find out their plans in 2014.

Former Town Board member John Buckley, an Associate Broker in Real Estate at the Douglas Elliman Chappaqua office, continues to help people find their dream home-and sell theirs too. He remains committed to community service too.  “Having volunteered for 14 years, I plan to return to the Chappaqua Fire Department as a first responder.” Buckley is currently a member of the New Castle Community Media Center (NCCMC) Board of Directors and that of the Rotary of Chappaqua.  With many years of experience on the New Castle Town Board, Buckley is committed to helping the new Town Board members in any way he can. “I want what’s best for the town and my door is always open to them.”

Mike Wolfensohn, who also has served on the New Castle Town Board in the past, doesn’t let grass grow under his feet. He is among a group of residents who have started the Millwood Community Garden at the location of the former Millwood Swim Club. “During the campaign last fall when we went door to door, neighbors in the community asked about doing something on that property so I approached Town Hall.”

Wolfensohn is a member of the Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Club Of Northern Westchester and is involved with the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in lower Manhattan. “The museum opens this spring and I have been given a wonderful opportunity to be in the inaugural group of docents.” Wolfensohn wishes the new Town Board well. “It’s great what they are trying to do.”

Penny Paderewski, in response to an inquiry from Inside Chappaqua, stated that she was unavailable to comment at this time.   – Ronni Diamondstein

Also Representing New Castle

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Melani Lust Photography
Michael Kaplowitz. Melani Lust Photography

County Legislator and Chairman of the Board Michael Kaplowitz

Mike is an independent Democrat, fiscal conservative and small business owner. He has lived in Somers with his wife Jayne and their two daughters since 1989.  Michael has represented the 4th District (Yorktown, New Castle and Somers) since 1998.

Chairman Kaplowitz previously served as Vice-Chairman of the Board and Chair of the Budget & Appropriations Committee.  On January 6th, 2014, Michael was elected as Chairman of the Board.  Mike has already delivered on his promise to ensure that each of the 17 members of the county board will hold a leadership position or committee chair for maximizing bipartisanship and legislative cooperation.

Mike played a critical role in the passage of the historic, bipartisan 2013 budget. Throughout his career in public service, Chairman Kaplowitz has earned a reputation as a Legislator who works diligently to foster an atmosphere of collegiality with all of his colleagues.  During that time, Mike found and eliminated millions of dollars in wasteful government spending.

Mike Kaplowitz is a long-time environmentalist and immediate past chair of the County Legislature’s Environment & Energy Committee.  Throughout his 16 years on the Board of Legislators, Mike has helped preserve over 11,000 acres of open space in Westchester.

Mike co-authored the Smoke-Free Workplace Act and led the legislative effort to keep the sewage fairness issue on the front burner for years, recently winning the long battle on behalf of Yeshiva, Riverwoods and Random Farms homeowners in New Castle. This victory will stop the current flow of partially-treated sewage from entering our drinking water.

Mike Kaplowitz has a long history of involvement in a wide variety of community and civic organizations, including the Volunteer Center, the March of Dimes Walk America, the American Red Cross and the Partnership Fund for Aging Services. Visit www.westchesterlegislators.com, or call, 914 995-2848.

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David Buchwald

State Assemblyman 
David Buchwald

David was elected to the Assembly in November 2012, and has passed seven bills in his first legislative session. He received a perfect score from the Environmental Advocates of New York, brought over $17 million in transportation and infrastructure improvements to his district, significantly increased state aid to local schools (including an 18.5% increase for the Chappaqua Central School District), and hosted Assemblyman on Your Corner events as well as a Small Business Forum to deepen the connection with his constituents.

Prior to joining the State Assembly, David worked in the tax department of the law firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, where he represented both business and pro bono clients in need of tax advice.

At the same time, he was a member of the White Plains Common Council where, for three years, he represented 57,000 residents of the City of White Plains. In that role, David was an advocate for the environment, senior citizens, and enhanced budget scrutiny. He also served as Chairman of the White Plains Traffic Commission.

After graduating from Yale University, where he received a B.S. in Physics, David worked for three years at the Manhattan offices of NERA, an economics research firm headquartered in White Plains. David then went on to receive a J.D., cum laude, from Harvard Law School and a Masters of Public Policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government.

In addition, David has been on the Board of Trustees of the White Plains Historical Society and served as Chairman of the Metro-North Railroad Commuter Council (MNRCC), an oversight and advisory body that seeks to improve the railroad’s services and responsiveness to the needs of riders. David grew up in Westchester and has lived in White Plains for twelve years, where he currently resides with his fiancée, Lara.

“Assemblyman on your Corner”
“I want to make sure it’s as easy as possible for folks to discuss their concerns, ask questions and work with me to solve problems related to State government,” David stated about this series. “One of the great joys of my job is hearing your opinions and helping people navigate state agencies on matters ranging from housing and growing businesses to taxes and the DMV.” The district David serves includes the towns of Bedford, Harrison, Lewisboro, Mt. Kisco, New Castle, North Castle, North Salem, Pound Ridge and the city of White Plains. Any resident can communicate their questions or concerns by emailing buchwaldd@assembly.state.ny.us or calling 914 244-4450.

“An Angel to the Town” Town Justice Douglas Kraus

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Residing Town Justice Douglas Kraus introducing Congresswoman Nita Lowey at January’s Town Hall Swearing in ceremony. Photo Carolyn Simpson
Residing Town Justice Douglas Kraus introducing Congresswoman Nita Lowey at January’s Town Hall Swearing in ceremony. Photo Carolyn Simpson

Normally, it would be hard to imagine how a corporate lawyer, working umpteen hours a week, would find time to volunteer. When the subject in question is Douglas Kraus, it is perfectly understandable. This is a man who possesses limitless energy and places a high value on public service.

When Gray Williams mentioned his finding that Kraus is “an angel to the town,” this reporter’s interest was piqued. How could it be that this town was so blessed yet few knew they were living among such a generous spirit? During the nearly 20 years that he has served as Town Justice, Kraus has donated his salary to projects designed to enhance the life of its residents, preserve historical venues and beautify the town.

In choosing where to donate the funds, Kraus often turns to his wife Alice for guidance. When she served on the recreation commission in the 90s, Alice mentioned the need for a playground at Gedney Park. Today, this spot continues to attract many a restless youngster and caregiver. Other contributions have funded the pocket park (nestled in between the row of storefronts including Sarah Lawrence and Sotheby’s International Realty on North Greeley Avenue) and the first bus providing transportation for seniors. The Northern Westchester Hospital and the ambulance corps have also benefited greatly.

One of the major recipients is the New Castle Historical Society, Kraus shares Williams’s interest in preserving the town’s cemeteries and serves on the board of Fair Ridge Cemetery. “That’s our local history,” Kraus notes.

“There is a lot of interesting history right in our midst.” He also mentions a burial ground on the west end of town where freed slaves are interred. Another project, the refurbishment of Horace Greeley’s statue, is completed thanks to Kraus’s generosity.

His decision to place a high priority on public service stems from several early memories. In 1961, President Kennedy pronounced these formative words:  “Ask not what your country can do for you–ask what you can do for your country.”

“I heard these words at an early age and they made an impression,” Kraus recalls. In addition, his father served on the nominating committee for the Chappaqua school district and his mother was very involved in the community. “My parents enforced the importance of doing public service.”

In describing his role as town judge, Kraus is exuberant: “It could well be the best job I’ve ever had. It’s terrific to be able to do something that’s useful to the community.” The judgments he delivers from the bench reveal Kraus’s understanding of the impact of a sentence on an individual and on society. The way in which cases are dealt with “can make a difference in a person’s life.” he observes. “Often times, we’re able to get people into rehab or other treatment programs to help them get on a more constructive path.”

Kraus’s professional life also bears the imprint of his dedication to public service. He retired recently from Skadden Arps, a firm which has always placed a high importance on pro bono work. In the 1990s, Kraus chaired the firm’s pro bono committee. He has also served on the boards of the Legal Aid Society and the New York Lawyers for the Public Interest.

Those who know and work with Kraus in the community sing his praises. When Dick Burns was Town Supervisor, Kraus served on the town board. “I can’t think of anyone I would rather work with than Doug,” Burns says. “He’s extremely bright and has a good sense of humor.” An appreciative Gray Williams chimes in: “He’s generous and public-spirited.”

Sarah Ellen Rindsberg admires the dedication and enthusiasm demonstrated by Justice Kraus.