About two weeks ago a civic association President told me that she learned that a Town Board can, without state legislation, expand the number of members of the Board from 5 to 7. I think it’s a very interesting idea and would welcome your thoughts. All the comments I receive will be forwarded to the Town Board. If there is a consensus that the concept makes sense a referendum could be scheduled and voters would make the final decision.
THE PROPOSAL--TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF TOWN BOARD MEMBERS SO AREAS THAT CURRENTLY HAVE NO REPRESENTATION FROM THEIR NEIGHBORHOODS WOULD HAVE A BETTER CHANCE OF HAVING A NEIGHBORHOOD REPRESENTATIVE ON THE BOARD
I believe we have learned from our current National experience that many people everywhere, feel their voice is not being heard and that representation in government on any level, often does not appear to speak fully to the needs of every social group and geographic area.
Would neighborhoods in the town feel that there is a better chance of being heard if we would increase the membership of the Town Board, from five to seven elected members. Adding two additional, newly elected members would allow the Town Board to increase diversity in many areas and would hopefully allow individuals representing previously unrepresented areas in Greenburgh to become active voices in the Town’s future planning.
A seven person Town Board could provide greater intellectual resources and expertise, additional and varying fields of thought, needed woman/man power to tackle more deeply, issues relating to the Town and an opportunity for fresh ideas and thought.
Most recently, the Town has increased community participation in planning and zoning issues, by forming committees in specific neighborhoods, to provide local resident input and insight. The experience has been highly successful and the Town has garnered valuable information and real input from those of our residents who would be most personally affected by future decision making. This experience underscores the importance of greater representation and highlights the benefit of having an active, participating community.
I would greatly appreciate input from any and all Greenburgh residents regarding their thoughts on this matter. Please e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny.com
Respectfully submitted,
Paul Feiner
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
