MAYOR'S UPDATE
From the desk of Mayor Rika Levin

One of the best things about Ossining is its diversity. In addition to the many events surrounding Black History Month, I would like to share a unique and interesting new event that might be of interest to the community. "The Telling: A Gathering of Remembrance" brings together experiential learning from descendants of enslaved Africans and the Jewish Haggadah, which recounts the exodus of a different slavery experience. To learn more about this innovative and free public event, CLICK HERE.

It's that time again! The Best of Westchester's elimination round is live and open until March 3 @ 5 PM. We are proud that so many Ossining businesses are included – be sure to vote on your favorite. Click here https://bestof.westchestermagazine.com/

Did you know Westchester County has six cities, 16 towns, and 23 villages? Each of these municipalities has home rule authority on all matters relating to planning and zoning. Each adopts its own zoning ordinances, establishes rules for processing subdivision and site plans, and enacts unique environmental regulations. Although the ground rules for this authority are set under New York State law, this situation makes local and regional planning no small challenge. It is, however, important as it keeps each municipality in charge of its own destiny and prevents smaller municipalities from being overshadowed by larger, more well-financed municipalities.

Like most municipalities, Ossining has prepared and recently updated its ten-year comprehensive plan, which allows residents and developers alike to understand the municipality's collective goals, infrastructure plans, and long-term plans. In effect, individuals' needs to not override those of the larger community, and the community should not deflect the needs of individuals when appropriate measures are in place. This week we will be hearing from all four of our land use boards on progress made to date in the municipality, their challenges, and what they suggest we look to do for the future. The four land use boards, each of which functions independently with a combination of lawyers, staff, and community volunteers, are the Zoning Board, Historic Preservation Commission, Environmental Advisory Council, and Board of Architectural Review Planning Board. Land Use Boards (https://www.villageofossining.org/boards).

This week’s Work Session will be held on Wednesday, 2/22, at 16 Croton Avenue at 7:30PM.

We will begin with a short conversation with Mike Grella to discuss the Village’s updated asks for the 136-140 Croton Avenue PILOT.

Last, cabaret licenses seeking BOT approval—Grace Hall and 3 Westerly will be discussed.

In recognition of this year’s Black History Month, Senator Pete Harckham honored six individuals, including our Village Historian, Joyce Sharrock Cole, as well as Ossining residents Jermain Smith and Tamarah Bridgewater, cofounders of ENU Builds, for their leadership and commitment to our community. Congratulations on this distinguished honor – and thank you so much for your service to Ossining.

Click here to learn more from the River Journal Article on February 21, 2023