Mayor Responds to Roundabout Criticism: Letter to the Editor

To the Editor:

I was surprised by the recollection of our conversation that Mr. Felsenfeld expressed in a recent letter to the editor [Letter to the Editor: Appalled by Ossining Forum on Downtown].

Following the Community Meeting, he and I had a friendly exchange about how it is very typical for a community to be resistant to a roundabout before construction, yet after construction most people are happy with it. Studies have been done demonstrating this pattern of shifting opinions pre and post roundabout construction. It appears to be human nature. The Glens Falls video that many of us have watched online, is an example of this experience.

The intention of establishing the Downtown Redevelopment Working Committee (DRWC) is to bring together a diverse group of engaged community members to recommend a path for redeveloping our downtown.

I find there is a noticeable correlation between a person's opinion about the roundabout, and their skepticism of the mission of the DRWC.

The decision on whether or not the roundabout moves forward will be determined by the BOT. In May, once we have the bids and we have moved through the SEQRA process, the BOT will decide whether or not to award the bid and construct the roundabout this summer. This is the next step in the process that was determined last November, and affirmed in February.

The fact that members the BOT are considering not moving forward with this plan, is a reflection of a strong desire to be responsive to concerns and questions raised by Ossining residents.

Thursday's meeting was an opportunity to have a public conversation about how to work together to determine the future of our downtown. While there were a number of comments and questions on the roundabout, the focus was intended to be on the mission, membership and timeline for phase one of the DRWC. We are already receiving interest from folks looking to serve on the DRWC. Applications for appointment to this committee will be accepted until Tuesday, April 18. The Board looks forward to reviewing the applications, and making appointments at the April 26 meeting.

If the roundabout moves forward, the DRWC could choose to focus on developing recommendations about elements of the roundabout construction, particularly with regards to the Market Square area. Some communities have chosen to make the most of roundabouts as a tool for encouraging a pedestrian-friendly, vibrant downtown. The mission we presented for the DRWC was a broader vision than the roundabout, but we also left the goals and recommendations flexible to enable the DRWC to guide the scope and direction.

It's surprising to me that some people believe the decision of whether to award the bid has already been made. Barring any unanticipated results from the bid or SEQRA processes, I can confidently predict the decision of whether to award the bid will not be unanimous. However, any clear vision of the Board's intention beyond that is a mystery to me.

The BOT, like the community, represents anti roundabout, pro roundabout, and ambivalent positions. I have stated very clearly that I believe not moving forward would be irresponsible and negligent. Trustee Bazemore has stated clearly that he does not support the roundabout. I actually have no idea how our other three colleagues will feel in a few weeks. This is the most independent-minded Board I've ever served with.

It's unfortunate that the current climate does not foster a greater level of confidence in the motivation and integrity of local elected officials. Each of us works hard to make the best decision we can, taking seriously our obligation to act in the best interest of the community.

This is my assessment of where we are right now. My colleagues may feel and express their perspectives differently.

Victoria Gearity

Mayor, Village of Ossining