Mayor's MessageFellow Residents of Bellerose Village,
On April 2nd, the Board of Trustees held its Annual Organization Meeting. The agenda was highlighted by the swearing in of Trustees Margaret Hagan and Ken Moore. Both Trustees were re-elected for another two-year term. It should be noted that they ran as unopposed candidates and that their re-election was a telling endorsement by the residents of Bellerose Village and a statement of satisfaction with their commitment and service to the Village. I thank and congratulate them and look forward to continue focusing our interactive efforts to preserve our Village and to make it better.
Additionally, numerous residents were appointed to the various vital volunteer service roles which are necessary to supporting and maintaining Village operations and the Village's character. These residents donate their time, effort, and expertise and by so doing allow substantial cost savings to the entire community. Their service is honorable and greatly appreciated.
At the regular Board meeting on April 23rd we had a full agenda and three public hearings: a Site Plan Review for the proposed "Dollar Tree" store at 250-80 Jericho Turnpike; the presentation of the proposed 2012/2013 Village budget; and the consideration and ratification of a formal zoning map.
The "Dollar Tree" plan was presented by the property owners' agents and representatives from "Dollar Tree." All questions and concerns were expressed by the interested residents at the hearing and addressed by the owners' agents and "Dollar Trees" representatives. The open process combined with prior public information efforts resulted in an orderly, responsive, and informative hearing. A final decision was reserved by the Board and the hearing was adjourned until the next meeting on May 21st.
The Village budget was then presented with a detailed listing and explanation of expenses; accruals for future operational equipment needs and reserve funds to meet potential tax grievance refunds; and projected revenue sources.
The budget totals $1,429,835 with projected revenues of $1,358,503. Reserves of $71,322 were applied to balance the budget. In formulating the budget, the Board of Trustees was committed to staying under the 2% tax increase cap and accomplished that goal with a modest 1.9% increase. The typical home in the Village will have a Village tax increase of about $45 for the year. After receiving no questions or comments from the members of the public in attendance, the Board unanimously passed the budget for Fiscal Year 2012/2013. Copies of the approved budget are available to all at the Village Office.
The third matter addressed was the presentation of a zoning map for ratification. While the Village Code specifically defines the business/apartment district and the residential district of Bellerose Village, no map of the Village could be located in the Village archives. This necessitated the adoption of an official map by the Trustees. After display and review, the Board unanimously approved the map. Copies of the map are available to any interested party at the Village Office.
The Board of Trustees and I urge all residents to please consider attending Board meetings to observe, comment, and question. If a more immediate response is needed concerning Village services, etc. please call the Village Office (516-354-1000) for assistance or information.
Thank you for your continued support.
Respectfully submitted,
Henry J. Schreiber, Mayor
