Eastchester Town Board: New Assessor Appointed, Library HVAC Contract Approved

Starting Monday, there will be a new assessor in Eastchester.

At Tuesday night's meeting, the Board approved the appointment of Todd Huttunen as assessor, to replace Richard O'Donnell, who is retiring.

Huttunen's appointment will be effective from September 13, 2010 through September 30, 2013 at an annual salary of $100,000.

Supervisor Colavita said that this marks a reduction from O'Donnell's salary.

Colavita called Huttunen, "very, very knowledgeable" and said he recommended him without reservation.

The replacement comes after O'Donnell took part in a New York State-offered retirement incentive program, which was approved at the July meeting. The program is set to save the town over $90,000 in a five-year period, Colavita said at the time, since there will be reductions in the salaries of hired replacements.

Describing Huttunen as diligent, hardworking and extremely conscientious, O'Donnell who was present at the meeting and spoke before the Board said, "I think that he will do a wonderful job for the town of Eastchester."

O'Donnell worked for the town for over 20 years and went on to thank the Board for the ability to serve the town.

Of O'Donnell, Colavita said, "Rich has done a magnificent job as a tax assessor." 

Library HVAC system bid approved

The Board approved awarding contract for the library HVAC (heating and ventilation/AC) system upgrade to J&M Heating & A.C. Inc at a cost of $654,000.

Supervisor Colavita said that the bids were opened on September 2 and this was within the budget.

Robert Cartolano, President of the Eastchester library board, thanked the town board for approving plans to upgrade the system.

He said the current system has been in place for over 40 years, when the building was first constructed and called the improvement "an important step forward."

Fuel system upgrade contract approved

In other approvals, the Board awarded the contract for upgrading the central fuel system at the highway department to Conklin Services in the amount of $17,925.

Colavita said the cost was under the $18,000 budgeted for the improvement. Currently, town vehicles, the school district and departments like EVAC use the fuel there.

Problem between resident and workers using leaf blowers

In her report, Councilwoman Ford explained a situation between workers using leaf blowers and a local resident. She said that she received a letter from a resident who was upset about workers using leaf blowers near her home and casting debris and other materials on her driveway and street. The resident said the workers wouldn't listen to her and she believes it's a matter the Board should address.

After speaking with police chief Timothy Bonci, who was on hand at the meeting, Ford said the message to the community is to call police if there is inappropriate workmanship in the community.

Twin Lakes to get new tree, benches

In his report, Colavita said that there would be a holiday tree installed near Leary and Highland Avenue. Some of the old benches will also be replaced with new ones, he said.