Bronxville Board Welcomes 3 New Police Officers

The July Bronxville Board of Trustees meeting began with the introduction of three new police officers, who joined the force three weeks ago.

The appointments, all for second-year officers, were approved at the June Board meeting and went into effect on June 21. 

Police Chief Christopher Satriale introduced each of the officers, explaining that all previously worked for the White Plains Police Department, which had recently laid off 11 officers.

Six candidates were interviewed for the position, which were then narrowed down to the three hired, Satriale told the Board.

He then individually introduced each officer—Wilson Valentin, Thomas Roviezzo and James Mazzucca. Satriale noted that Valentin is fluent in Spanish, a skill needed by the Department, that Roviezzo graduated with a degree in criminal justice from Westchester Community College and that Mazzuca has been an EVAC volunteer for nine years.

The new appointments come as a result of the retirement of three officers, who had a combined service of 62 years to the Village, Satriale said.

"I just think you bring a wonderful skill set, so very different and so very much needed by the Village," said Mayor Mary Marvin.

Other agenda items included:

Public hearing date set for proposed new law

The Board approved a public hearing date on a proposed law addressing solar energy and renewable energy system installations in the Village.

According to Village Administrator Harold Porr there had been interest expressed through the building department about using solar panels and wind turbines. Currently, building codes don't address the issue, he said.

The legislative intent and purpose of the law—which Mayor Marvin read—states, "The purpose of these provisions is to allow and encourage solar energy systems and equipment within residential and business districts, according to certain safeguards and conditions. The intent is to balance the desirability and demand for alternative energy systems with maintaining the aesthetics of the Village and minimize the potential for any negative impact by these systems; and to protect the health, safety and welfare of the residents of the Village."

She said, "I think we're one of the first communities to step up on this issue."

The public hearing was set for September 13 and a copy of the proposed law is available at Village Hall.

DPW appointment

The Board approved the appointment of Scarsdale resident Marcello Runco as a laborer in the Department of Public Works, beginning July 26.

Porr told the audience that Runco had previously been the caretaker at the library. With this appointment, there is still one funded vacancy in the DPW.

Grant to buy new police car

The Board approved a grant that the Village received from Senator Klein's office for $25,000 for police equipment. The money will be put towards a new police car.

Traffic light to be installed at Kraft and Cedar street intersection

The Board approved the award of a contract to install a streetlight at the intersection of Kraft Avenue and Cedar Street to Mount Vernon-based Verde Electric Maintenance Corp.

Porr said that there have already been some improvements made to the intersection, including to the walking areas and curbs, along with the addition of parking spaces, but that it's still difficult. The aim is to increase safety in the area.

"This has been a corner that I know the police chief in particular has wanted to address since I've been the mayor," said Mayor Marvin, stating that the improvement is long overdue.