By Eileen Gallagher
In order to strengthen, attract, and revitalize business in downtown Chappaqua, the town board approved the formation of the Business Development Advisory Committee. Headed by town board member Adam Brodsky, this committee will draw upon the talents of residents with commercial and real estate experience: Phil Luria, Joan Simon, Corey Shanus, Erik Nicolaysen, David Perlmutter, Barry Mishkin, Jeffrey Blockinger, Phil Altman, Solveig McShea, Randy Katchis, and Lee Anchin. Brodsky read from the resolution creating the BDAC, which will help the town to “identify and recommend policies and initiatives that will strengthen our existing business, attract new and desirable businesses to New Castle, and help our community revitalize our existing business hamlets.” The committee will be tasked with considering strategic redevelopment uses for town owned property, while maintaining the small town values and community spirit of New Castle.
Chappaqua Crossing: Restaurant Considerations
According to Ed Phillips, town counsel, carry-out restaurants are currently permitted under local law for Chappaqua Crossing. A discussion considering restrictions on fast-food and chain restaurants followed. Per Phillips, there is a “relatively new phenomena” in which some municipalities have legislated the existence of chain restaurants. Supervisor Rob Greenstein commented, “Not all chains are created equal.” Resident John Erlich contributed the idea of using the number of tables, length of stay, and “linen table service” as guides rather than restricting “chain” restaurants.
In other News…
The West End/Millwood Advisory Board met with the New York State Department of Transportation on October 31 to discuss the screening of fuel tanks from the public view. Beginning in 2015, the DOT will plant 38 trees as well as install a guardrail with fencing around the area.
“Small Business Saturday” will take place on Nov. 29 (and always occurs the Saturday after Thanksgiving). As Greenstein stated, “They support us, we must support them.”
Councilman Jason Chapin announced budget savings of $600k refuse collection, $400k workers’ comp, and $200k health insurance, and thanked the respective department heads for their work in achieving these savings.
Slow Down
The speed limit in downtown Chappaqua will be reduced to 25 mph on South Greeley Avenue from its intersection with Washington Avenue to the intersection of Quaker Road, as the town board unanimously requested.
Sidewalk repaving in front of Bank of America will take place the week of Nov. 17 (Monday to Friday).
Take It or Leave It closes on Nov. 22 after a successful season, attributed to its new location near Allen Place in the train station parking lot.
