By NEAL RENTZ The Lewisboro Board of Ethics has found that comments made on Facebook and in public by Councilman Daniel Welsh have not posed a conflict of interest under the town’s ethics code. Since the war between Israel and Hamas began last Oct. 7, Welsh has made postings critical of Israel’s actions in the conflict. His comments disturbed and angered some town residents, with several describing his remarks as antisemitic, which the councilman strongly denied.  On Feb. 13, the Lewisboro Town Board referred his recent social media postings and comments to the board of ethics for their review.   In a recent decision on a request for an opinion, the board of ethics stated that Welsh did not violate the ethics code in his social media posts and other comments. It said further that Welsh did not violate the code by continuing to make posts and comments about the conflict over the objections of residents and town board colleagues, who implored him to stop making public pronouncements on the war.  During a public comment period at the June 24 Lewisboro Town Board meeting, Welsh was criticized again by several residents.   Resident Cathy Deutsch cited guidance from legal experts who warned of the risks of public officials mixing personal and official posts on social media pages. She stated that Welsh mixes world politics with local posts, while “blocking comments at whim.” Deutsch said social media use guidance should be part of the town’s revised employee handbook, and personal comments from officials should be made separately from town business comments. Another resident, Daniela Goldman, who has been an outspoken critic of the councilman, reiterated her opinion that Welsh has been making antisemitic comments on his social media account and during town board meetings. Addressing the supervisor, she said, “Tony, you have allowed him to hide behind the statement that this is his First Amendment right to speak in such a manner, but is it?” she asked. As a town board member, Welsh “is speaking on behalf of the town,” Goldman said. The Supreme Court has ruled that public officials cannot delete public comments on their official government social media pages, she said. Welsh said in an interview following the meeting that his comments about the Middle East conflict were in keeping with what he has said in the past about wars. “I have actively commented on international issues with an anti-war perspective for years and years on Facebook,” he said. “No one ever commented that this was somehow inappropriate until I started opining and sharing about the genocide in Palestine. That should tell you all you need to know.”  Welsh said a small group of residents have “done everything they can to try to silence me, which just highlighted for me how important it is that I don’t give in to them. What would it say for us all if they succeeded? What is the next thing that somebody doesn’t like that should be silenced?” “And anyway,” he continued, “I am not a judge or something that I have to maintain an antiseptic exterior. I’m a legislator, and a citizen, and we are supposed to have opinions. And as these folks themselves have noted, international affairs are not in the scope of the town board, so no one can possibly imagine that when I post an article, say, on how Israel has destroyed every educational institution in Gaza, that this somehow represents town policy.” Welsh said he has deleted some Facebook posts from his page. “The group had vociferously commented on my posts from the start. I would let the smears go, but occasionally respond to those posts that actually had an element of content in them,” he said. Residents who opposed him and were outraged by comments on his page would call the Town House in response, Welsh said. “There was a request by one individual at least that I should not allow comments on my posts. Very reluctantly I stopped allowing comments by anyone,” Welsh explained. Welsh has also been the target of criticism from some residents and fellow board members who allege a conflict of interest because he is program director of Westchester Power, a municipal energy-buying cooperative that includes the town of Lewisboro. Welsh said there has been no conflict of interest. “A couple of board members and certain other members of the public have tried to make the case that there was a conflict of interest in this situation. I have always acted as advised by counsel on this, and there is, in fact and in law, no conflict of interest as Sustainable Westchester is a membership nonprofit.”  Welsh said the board of ethics wouldn’t rule against him in this matter if a referral was made. “But the board yielded to pressure by the group, yet another effort to take me offline,” he said. “This group is driving all of this, and it’s because they feel that critique of Israel is antisemitic, and so I am attacked regularly and publicly with that same descriptor,” Welsh said. “This is putting a chill on discussion,” he added. Supervisor Tony Gonçalves said Welsh waived his right to confidentiality as a town employee due to the referral of the war-related matter to the board of ethics. Gonçalves said there will be language in the new town employee handbook, which is being drafted by an outside human resources company, to include policies about social media use. “As to my feelings about mandating the separation of social media accounts, I agree that if an employee has a town account on social media, that account should be used for town relevant information and not for presenting personal views,” he said.

Motorbike parked on wrong property gets the hook On Tuesday, June 18, at 1:10 p.m., a caretaker working at a Mead Street residence reported there was a motorcycle parked on the property without permission. The bike, a 1982 Honda with New York plates, was parked 200 feet into the woods on the private property. Tire tracks showed it recently was ridden in from Mead Street. An officer ran the plates and saw the last time the bike was registered was 2015 when it belonged to a resident of North Salem. The bike was towed to impound. Meanwhile, police attempted to interview its last known owner. They reached the individual’s mother, who said her son currently lives in Colorado and might have sold it to a friend whom she named. Police contacted the friend who explained he had no place to store the bike and another Mead Street resident had offered to let him park it on their property; he said he had parked the bike on another property by mistake. He was informed his bike was at Sal’s Towing. No further action was taken. Monday, June 17 4:07 p.m. — An employee of a Big Y supermarket in Connecticut reported suspicious activity after someone purchased $5,000 in gift cards. Police paid a visit to a home in South Salem to investigate. No further information was available. 8:30 p.m. — Police were at a home in the vicinity of Mill River Road and Lake Kitchawan responding to a 911 call regarding an argument between a father and his adult daughter. She requested police assistance recovering her belongings as she was leaving. A New York state domestic incident report was completed.  Wednesday, June 19 9:54 a.m. — A deer was reported caught in recreational soccer netting in a South Salem driveway. On arrival, police saw its legs were completely tangled in the netting. A volunteer emergency technician was summoned to come out and cut it free. No information on the deer’s condition was available. Thursday, June 20 12:20 p.m. — A K-9 unit were dispatched by Lewisboro Police to assist the FBI who were at a park or playground in Ardsley with evidence recovered from a bank robbery. No further information was available. 2:11 p.m. — Police and Goldens Bridge firefighters went to a home on Flint Rock Ridge  Road for an activated alarm. On arrival they met with the homeowner who said the pressure release valve on a gas tank was activated and was spewing gas. Firefighters cooled the overheated tank with cold water. 4:50 p.m. — A traffic stop was conducted on Route 35 after an officer on patrol noticed the car’s registration was expired. The driver said the car belonged to his brother, not him, and was unable to provide proof of insurance or a valid driver’s license. A tow was called and the car was impounded. The operator requested to be dropped off at Cameron’s Deli, where he said he would get a ride. 6:15 p.m. — A car was stopped on Route 35 for tinted windows and suspended registration. A check of records revealed the driver also had a suspension on his license and expired insurance. His car was towed to impound and the driver requested to be left at the parking lot of the South Salem Fire Department until someone could pick him up. 7:17 p.m. — Police and emergency personnel went to a home in South Salem after a resident reported accidentally swallowing a moisture-absorbing gel pack inside his vitamin bottle. He had already contacted poison control who said he was not in danger. Ambulance crew advised the man to drink plenty of water, and he declined further assistance. Saturday, June 22 8:48 a.m. — Police went to Cameron’s Deli on Route 35 for a report of someone with a U-Haul who said he was there to pick up his property. Police found the person at the rear of the store talking to an employee on their break. Police asked this individual if they had any court documents to obtain their property or had spoken with the building owner. The individual said they did not. Police spoke with the employee, who said the property owner would return after the weekend. The person with the U-Haul said they there to retrieve furniture and other items. Police advised them no property could be retrieved until the owner returned. 12:15 p.m. — An officer patrolling Goldens Bridge Road pulled over a car whose registration showed up on a plate reader as suspended. The driver was also unlicensed and had no insurance. Three summonses were issued. The officer said he detected a strong odor of marijuana around the driver who admitted he had smoked pot earlier. The driver performed poorly on field sobriety tests and was taken into custody by a New York State Trooper who brought him to the Somers police barracks for further testing. The car was towed to impound. 9 :35 p.m. — A caller reported a dead dog on Route 35, Cross River. It appeared to have been struck by a car. Sunday, June 23 10:06 p.m. — Police went to a home in South Salem for an activated carbon-monoxide alarm. On arrival, all occupants were outside the house. Vista firefighters entered and took a reading, which was high. People who had been inside the house complained of headaches and requested transport to Norwalk Hospital. The home was ventilated. — Eve Marx, The Recorder staff writer This report was made from official reports provided by the Lewisboro Police Department.

What is that hissing sound? On Monday, June 24, at 10:07 p.m., a resident of Hack Green Road requested police assistance for an unknown animal they said was in the nearby brush making “hissing” sounds. Patrol arrived to investigate but saw nor heard signs of the reported wildlife. Tuesday, June 18 9:50 p.m. — An officer was dispatched to Lockwood Lane after a caller reported shots fired. They spoke with the reporting party and stayed on the scene for a while but no loud noises were heard. Wednesday, June 19 4:00 a.m. — Police responded to a residence on Westchester Avenue for a male who initially requested medical assistance but then refused the assistance when it arrived. No further action was taken. 8:30 a.m. — Honey Hollow Road was reported blocked by a large tree lying on power lines. On police arrival, NYSEG was already on scene. 10:30 a.m. — Police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked for 15 minutes on Pound Ridge Road; no reason was given for why the reporting party found this suspicious. An officer patrolled the area with negative results.  11:50 a.m. — A two-car collision was reported on Stone Hill Road. Police said no one was injured and neither car was towed. 12:15 p.m. — A burglary reported on Pettit Lane was turned over to New York State Police who are investigating. Thursday, June 20 9:35 a.m. — A suspicious parked vehicle was reported on Lons Lane; the caller said it was blocking the roadway. An officer found the operator who agreed to move their car. Sunday, June 23 10:30 a.m. — A resident of South Eastern Farm Road notified police she received a fraud alert on her phone after leaving her car unlocked overnight; the resident noticed the next morning that it had been rummaged through. She said her pocketbook was missing. She notified her bank and asked them to freeze her account. Police are investigating. 12:57 p.m. — A resident of Lower Shad Road reported their unlocked car was entered and rummaged. Nothing was reported stolen. 8:58 p.m. — A Pound Ridge male was transported from his home to Northern Westchester Hospital by Pound Ridge ambulance for an unspecified condition. Monday, June 24 2:40 p.m. — While patrolling Westchester Avenue, an officer observed a U-Haul truck with out-of-state plates parked legally on the street. Police said they would note if the vehicle remained parked there for more than 96 hours, in which case they deem it abandoned. 5:09 p.m. — A resident of Fancher Road reported a tree blocking the roadway. The highway department was notified. Forty-seven permits for parking passes for the upcoming fireworks display scheduled for Saturday, June 29, in Pound Ridge Town Park were issued throughout the day. — Eve Marx, The Recorder staff writer. This report was made from official reports provided by the Pound Ridge Police Department.

By Neal Rentz // The Pound Ridge Town Board agreed June 4 to authorize Supervisor Kevin Hansan to seek state grants for a potential establishment of a Scotts Corners Water District and subsequent water treatment plan for the area. The vote was 3-1 with Councilman Dan Paschkes voting against the resolution and Hansan absent. Councilwoman Alison Boak said at the June 4 meeting there is $325 million available from the state. “We are working around the clock to get our application in for this,” she said. The deadline for the grant application was June 14. The resolution indicated support for the grant application, Boak also said. Explaining his “no” vote, Paschkes said the resolution would give the supervisor “unfettered authority to execute any contract.”  An official public hearing to establish the district was held June 11. The importance of creating the new district was discussed in detail at the May 21 Pound Ridge Town Board meeting where several residents, including many from the business district, voiced their support for creating the water district. The discussion included Scotts Corners business owners who spoke of the dire situation created by inadequate water/wastewater solutions that has plagued their stores and restaurants for decades.  Resident Norman Bernstein said there should be “full and fair disclosure” to the town board about details of the project, the water use levels for property owners prior to the completion of the project and how long the project will take to complete. Bernstein said the sewer and water treatment project could cost between $24 and $30 million. The grant terms need to be presented to the public by Hansan before he is permitted to sign an agreement with the state, Bernstein said. Paschkes said an environmental review was needed and the town board needed to approve a negative declaration, meaning an extensive environmental review would not be required because the action would not have a significant negative environmental impact. If the determination was not being made at this meeting, he wanted to know when it would be voted on. “I think this is a separate issue,” said Deputy Supervisor Diane Briggs, who conducted the meeting in the absence of Hansan. “This is just allowing us to go forward with the application.” Paschkes said he wanted to be assured that the project “would be subject to the normal permitting process through the Water Control Commission.' “This resolution is just authorizing the application,” Briggs replied. If an environmental review is not conducted, there would be “less points” for the town in seeking funding for the project, said Paschkes. “We do have a serious problem,” resident James Best said. “This project will not happen without grants.”  Louise Paolicelli resigns Also at the June 4 meeting, the board voted unanimously to accept the resignation of Senior Program Coordinator Louise Paolicelli, effective June 14. The board also approved a proclamation to honor Paolicelli. Paolicelli, who resides in town, has been in her position for 15 years, running the highly popular Neighbor to Neighbor program. In a follow up interview, Paolicelli said she was leaving on account of personal health issues and her decision was unrelated to her role in the Recreation Department. “I love my job,” she said. She also explained that her position was created at the request of organizations that work with local seniors. Her duties include organizing events for seniors, such as field trips, and helping seniors receive access to social services, Paolicelli said, stressing that she is not a social worker. Paolicelli praised volunteers who provide assistance to Pound Ridge seniors, for instance, by helping seniors with grocery shopping and driving to medical appointments. Volunteers also regularly assist in the Café Conant program, which is held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays at Conant Hall. At these weekly events, seniors bring their lunches and enjoy the chance to socialize; tea and coffee are provided. Paolicelli’s last day was June 13, the day of the N2N Senior Picnic BBQ, which she worked to organize and didn’t want to miss.  ‘A safe space for survivors’ Also at the meeting, a presentation on the New Dawn Resource Center in Pound Ridge was made by its vice president, David Ryan, who was the town’s police chief for 23 years. New Dawn is a nonprofit organization that provides and expands support for programs and services for victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault, elder abuse and human trafficking. The New Dawn concept began when Gary Warshauer was town supervisor and Richard Lyman was serving on the town board in 2011, Ryan said. Warshauer wanted to create “a safe space here in this building,” Ryan said. “Dick was really the one who got it off the ground,” Ryan said. Prior to the establishment of New Dawn, victims seeking assistance had no local options, and had to travel either down county or north to Putnam County, Ryan said. Supervisors from five local towns, including Pound Ridge, Bedford and Lewisboro, agreed to create the North East Westchester Domestic Abuse Alliance, Ryan said. “A pretty diverse group” of representatives from faith-based organizations and law enforcement and others comprised the original board of directors, Ryan said. He noted there have been nine domestic violence-related murders in the five towns, including Pound Ridge, underscoring the need for a local resource like New Day, he said. Each of the towns provides $3,000 in annual funding to the organization, he added. “We don’t disclose the space for obvious safety reasons,” Ryan said, adding no one working for New Dawn receives a salary. New Dawn, which rents the space but does not itself provide services, has commitments of about $55,000 a year in donations, and it recently received a $50,000 grant from the state Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, Ryan said. “We probably have the most successful peer support group in Westchester County” for victims of abuse,” Ryan said. “It really has blossomed as a safe space for survivors.”  New Dawn provides food for Thanksgiving dinners on an annual basis for 300 families, mainly from northern Westchester, Ryan said. “Thank you, Dave, for your hard work and dedication,” Boak said during the update. 2021 annual financial report dispute During the first public comment period of the meeting, resident John McCown sharply criticized the town’s handling of its financial statements. The town filed its 2021 annual financial report with the state comptroller’s office a week before the meeting, McCown said. He faulted the report for “improper revenue recognition.” “What surprised me is that it showed $42 million in revenue for 2021, or four times what the 2021 audit shows for revenue. That is similar to the 2020 filing where revenue was also four times the audit,” McCown said. “Neither of those is GAAP, or Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. You don’t need to take my word for that. The town’s auditor has twice called that improper revenue recognition and has sent correcting journal entries in a letter to management. Because of this, for two straight years the auditor has also stated that a significant risk they identified during the audit was improper revenue recognition.” Despite the auditor’s warnings, the town filed reports for two years based on improper revenue recognition and the mistakes needed to be corrected, McCown said.  In January when the auditors presented the 2021 audit, they said most of the fieldwork for the 2022 was complete and would be finalized the following week, McCown said. Residents have been told that the 2022 audit would be presented to the town board in March and the 2023 audits presented soon after that; neither have been, he said. “I don’t understand what is going on with our financials,” McCown said. “Disclosure is good and when the financials are materially wrong and the latest is from 2021, that is bad.” Though town board members did not respond to McCown’s comments during the meeting, Director of Finance Steven Conti did reply to Mr. McCown’s statements later in the week. “There were inaccurate and misleading public comments related to the 2021 Annual Financial Report,” Conti said. “Mr. McCown was incorrect in his statements that we showed four times the revenue as compared to the audited financials for 2020 and 2021. Our auditors have explained that this variance is the amount in the custodial account in which we receive taxes for other jurisdictions. The GASB (Governmental Accounting Standards Board) released GASB 84 which changed the treatment of custodial funds. The New York State Open Book website shows $42 million in revenue for 2021 but the detail of the report includes $32,456,902 as an offsetting revenue and expense that accounts for the sharp increase. This is also the exact amount on page 26 of the 2021 audited financial statements.” “The auditors have not twice called out the town for improper revenue recognition and have not stated that a significant risk they identified during audit was improper revenue recognition,” Conti also said. “The town has not filed reports with improper revenue recognition and the reports that were filed do not need to be corrected. New York state auditors closed their review of the 2021 report and we are moving forward. Mr. McCown makes these statements as factual and absolute which can lead to public confusion. There is a responsibility with public comment to verify the information which could have been resolved before the meeting.” “Regarding the 2022 town audit, the New York State Comptroller’s Office has been conducting an audit since November 2023,” Conti said. “As they finalize their report, we will work with our auditors to close the 2022 audit and release the financial statements.” Conti said he planned to discuss the 2021 Annual Financial Report at the June 11 town board meeting.

By Neal Rentz // Members of the Lewisboro Planning Board and representatives of a proposed horse training facility agreed June 18 to move forward with a proposed review of the initial phase of the project. They also decided to review a proposal to subdivide a portion of the property separately in the future.  Double H Farms LLC is seeking planning board approval for a private riding academy on a 37.2-acre parcel located at 20 Boutonville Road South, Cross River. The property is located in a town R-2A residential zoning district and the Westchester County Agricultural District. The applicant also owns the adjacent 17.2-acre property to the east of the proposed riding academy. The current horse farm property includes a one-story frame barn, a one-story house, a sand riding ring and various paddocks as well as asphalt and gravel driveways. On the existing horse farm parcel, as part of the project’s initial phase, Double H Farms is seeking to construct an outdoor riding ring and a grand prix riding field on the northwest portion of the property.  The plan for phase two of the project would call for the teardown of the existing barn and construction of a new barn and indoor riding ring in the same location. Double H Farms is also proposing the rearrangement and regrading of various paddocks and reconstruction of the existing maintenance barn with housing above the barn. The applicant also wants to make asphalt and gravel driveway improvements. Double H Farms is also proposing a subdivision/lot line change, which would merge a total of 6.9 acres into the Reid family property located at 45 Cross River Road. Charles Martabano, an attorney representing Double H Farms, said the plan is for horse owners to leave their horses on the property, where the animals would be trained. The horses would be taken off the property to participate in competitions, he noted. Martabano said his client is operating horse training and boarding facilities in other parts of the country, including Ridgefield, Conn. Some of the horses could be owned by Double H Farms, he added. The proposal calls for “a very high end, very targeted training facility for horses,” Martabano said. He said his client is seeking to sell nearly 7 acres of an adjacent parcel to the Reid family. The sale would add to the 5 acres already owned by the Reids, enlarging their holdings to 11.9 acres. Planning board members and residents who participated in the public hearing expressed concern about the plans for the proposed expanded Reid property. Resident Ghy Manning said the property owners should not be allowed “to do what they want” if their land is combined with property currently owned by Double H Farms. Resident Jen Akin said she was also concerned about a potential development of an expanded Reid family parcel. Martabano told Manning that the Reid family has no plans to develop their land if it is expanded to include a portion of his client’s current parcel, which is in the Westchester County Agricultural District.  Dan Hollis, an attorney representing the Reid family, said his clients are interested in expanding the size of their property because they want “to buffer their existing property” from the site of the proposed horse training facility land. “It’s a merger,” he said. Planning Board Chairwoman Janet Andersen asked if the Reid family would consider seeking a conservation easement from the town to preserve the land from development. Mr. Hollis replied that the Reid family was not planning to seek a conservation easement. If the Reid family decided in the future to seek a subdivision of the proposed expanded property, they would be required to obtain planning board approval, he said. Without a conservation easement, there would be no guarantee that the Reid family would protect their property from development, Ms. Andersen said.  After further discussion, Martabano and the planning board members agreed to continue the review of phase one of the project at the board’s July 16 meeting, and will take up the subject of the proposed land transfer at a later date. Pound Ridge Stone Also at the meeting, the planning board voted unanimously to reapprove the special use permit for Pound Ridge Stone & Landscaping, located at 2 West Road, South Salem. The business is owned by Two West Road LLC. Pound Ridge Stone is proposing to construct a 24-foot-by-35-foot storage building, install 27 parking stalls with an outdoor material storage bin and outdoor display areas. The 0.7-acre property is located in a general business zoning district. No residents spoke during the public hearing, which was closed by the planning board. Town Planner and Wetland Consultant Jan Johannessen said the applicant would need to obtain a building permit from the town by no later than March 6, 2025. Cell tower approval extension Also at the meeting, the planning board agreed to vote next month to renew its special use permit approval for the T-Mobile Wireless Telecommunications cellphone facility at the Leon Levy Preserve, which is located on Routes 35 and 123, South Salem. The tower is owned by American Tower. “No changes to the facility are being proposed at this time,” Angela Poccia, an attorney representing T-Mobile, told the planning board.  No residents spoke during the public hearing, which was closed by the planning board. The board voted unanimously to instruct Johannessen to prepare an approval resolution for its July meeting.

Severely injured after leap from bridge On Sunday, June 23, at 6:25 p.m., an unruly patron was reported at the Bedford Hills Memorial Park town pool on Haines Road. Police spoke with a lifeguard who said the female, 18, from Bedford Hills, is well known to the staff. He said that day she refused to follow directions and was arguing and causing a safety issue for other patrons. She left on her own when police arrived. The pool director said he would follow up with her parents. Less than half an hour later, police received a call about a female on the overpass bridge at commuter Lot 4 in Bedford Hills. It was the same female who had left the town pool. When an officer attempted to speak with her, she jumped from the bridge, suffering severe injuries after landing in the parking lot. She was transported to Westchester Medical Center by Katonah Bedford Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps. No further details were provided. Monday, June 17 12:50 a.m. — Two people were reported throwing clothing in the roadway on Bedford Center Road; on arrival, police saw a couple walking on the shoulder. In interviews, the individuals said they were homeless. They just had a snack at a nearby church and said they were struggling to find food and shelter. The county mobile crisis response team was contacted and the couple driven to a shelter to receive additional support. No further mention was made of the reported strewn clothing. 1:12 p.m. — Damage was reported to a construction trailer sitting for 10 years at the front of a property on Twin Lakes Road. The coordinator for an ongoing construction project and owner of the trailer, who made the report said the trailer had sat there undamaged until now. A trail camera he installed showed multiple teen males vandalizing the trailer. Images of the teens were sent to the Fox Lane school resource officer who identified three of the five males. School authorities are reaching out to the parents for restitution for the damaged trailer. The trailer’s owner remains uncertain whether charges will be pressed. Tuesday, June 18 2:20 p.m. — A couple on Guard Hill Road, Bedford, walked into police headquarters to report threats made to them by a subcontractor. The individuals said they had already paid the subcontractor through a contractor hired to build a new deck. Despite the payment, the couple said the subcontractor continued to harass them, threatening to disrupt their daughter’s upcoming nuptials, and taking out a mechanic’s lien against the residence. Police advised this was mainly a civil matter, but due to the harassment and verbal threats, they advised the couple to contact police if the individual returns to the property. 10:27 p.m. — A  resident of Stone Hill Road, Bedford, told police he had left his wallet after taking a rideshare from Grand Central Terminal the previous night. He said he only realized he lost his wallet the following morning. He was able to make contact with the driver who said he had his wallet, but then the driver stopped taking his calls and has not called back. The man requested a police report to provide to the ride share company so they can handle the matter. Wednesday, June 19 5:55 p.m. — A male, 1, who accidentally swallowed a small amount of bleach was transported to Westchester Medical Center by Katonah Bedford Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps. Police on arrival said the baby was conscious and crying. The parent said the child accidentally knocked the bottle and the liquid poured on his face and some of it was ingested. Saturday, June 22 12:35 p.m. — Broken glass was reported in front of a home on Lake Marie Lane, Bedford Hills. On arrival, police saw a broken mailbox and some glass that possibly could have been from bottles thrown out a car window. Ring camera showed two unfamiliar cars in the parking area but neither of them was shown making contact with the mailbox and the images were too grainy to determine license plates. No further action was taken. 9:37 p.m. — A male, 17, was reported missing by his parents on Long Ridge Road, Bedford. His father said he left the house midafternoon. Police located the son at a restaurant in Harrison where he was participating in work training. Sunday, June 23 10:49 a.m. — A male, 5, was found wandering by himself on South Bedford Road near Interstate 684. On police arrival he was in the care of good Samaritans. The boy, who the family said has an autistic disorder, was in Bedford with family members for a therapeutic horseback riding lesson at a facility on Succabone Road. His grandmother who was with him at the riding lesson told the police he just ran off. Police said he was unhurt. His grandmother collected him from the police and said they planned to return to their home in New Jersey. — Eve Marx, The Recorder staffer. This report was made from official reports provided by the Bedford Police Department.

Burglar says stolen items were bequeathed to him  A Bedford Hills resident, male, 66, was arrested Saturday, May 25, at 6:49 p.m., on Adams Street, Bedford Hills, charged with home burglary. Police say he is related to the homeowners and entered their house through a rear window to remove items belonging to his deceased aunt that he said she gave him; the homeowners disagreed. Police saw him leaving the residence carrying two large trash bags stuffed with the deceased woman’s belongings. These items were temporarily taken into evidence to be logged and then returned to the complaining parties. The man was held in custody and transported to the Westchester County Department of Corrections. He appeared in court May 29.  Failed field sobriety tests  A Bedford Hills resident, male, 35, was arrested Tuesday, May 28, on Bedford Road, Bedford Hills, after police saw a car with significant front-end damage traveling on Bedford Road near Norm Avenue. A traffic stop was initiated at Woodland Road. The driver immediately admitted he had been drinking alcohol and was coming from his girlfriend’s home. He told police the front-end damage to his car occurred when he struck something in Mount Kisco. Due to a strong odor of alcohol on his breath and slurred speech, field sobriety tests were conducted; he failed the tests. The man was arrested and brought to headquarters for processing. His car was towed. At headquarters, the man was issued four tickets, including DUI. It was soon learned he had a prior conviction for driving while intoxicated 10 years ago. He was released on his own recognizance and scheduled to appear in court June 19.  Mother and two children saved from smoked-filled home  A mother and two children were rescued from a smoke-filled home after police responded Friday, May 31, at 2:46 a.m., on Park Avenue, Bedford Hills. Three people were reported trapped inside. On two officers arrival, the children’s mother could be seen in distress hanging out of a bathroom window. She confirmed two children were still inside. Entry was gained by kicking in a rear door; once inside, officers encountered a heavy smoke condition with poor visibility. Following the cries of a child, they found the 10-year-old and pulled him from the house. Bedford Hills firefighters arrived and entered while police broke windows and removed air conditioning units to locate the second child. Climbing on a low ledge, officers accessed a window to rescue the 9-year-old. All three survivors were transported to Westchester Medical Center by Katonah Bedford Hills Ambulance Corps to be treated for smoke inhalation. Bedford Hills firefighters quickly extinguished the fire which was not found to be suspicious.  Monday, May 27 5:44 a.m. — An officer improvised a 30-foot cord to lasso a snapping turtle and guide it to safety on Bedford Road, Bedford Hills. The turtle was released in a woodsy area adjacent to a water source.  Tuesday, May 28 5:44 a.m. — A resident of Pea Pond Road, Katonah, complained to police about loud music coming from a home located across the pond. Officers went to that residence and spoke with a female who was described as uncooperative although she agreed to turn the music down. The complainant was advised to call back if the noise continued.  1:35 p.m. — A caller on Babbitt Road, Bedford Hills, advised police of an injured coyote they saw heading into the woods behind Fellowship Hall. The caller directed police to the area where the coyote was last seen; police looked for the animal but couldn’t find it. The caller was advised to call back if it returned.  Wednesday, May 29 2:46 p.m. — A resident of East Field Drive reported what appeared to be a utility scam. They described receiving a call from a utility representative who said they were coming to his home to remove his meter for nonpayment. He said he always pays his bills on time and was referred to another number. The person answering said they were a representative of a different utility. The resident hung up but was besieged with more messages from the original caller who continued to threaten removal of the resident’s meter until the resident said he was calling the police. There were no more phone calls. A report was made for documentation.  Thursday, May 30 6:29 a.m. — A resident of Burbank Avenue, Bedford Hills, reported a neighbor’s dogs barking incessantly for over half an hour. An officer went to the address and saw two dogs contained by electric fencing. They barked when they first saw him but soon were quiet. The officer noted in the log they were not a nuisance.  7:23 a.m. — Police and emergency personnel went to a home in Bedford Hills for a report of a male, 77, unresponsive but breathing. Bedford firefighters were on-scene when police arrived and were engaged in emergency procedures. The man’s daughter said he had suffered stomach pain and taken medication. He was transported to Northern Westchester Hospital by Katonah Bedford Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps.  Friday, May 31 13:53 p.m. — A broken romance between young teens brought police to the Fox Lane Middle School campus to assist with an issue between students. Police said a young couple broke up and, over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the girl’s friends began sending the boy messages threatening physical violence. Police said none of this messaging occurred while the students were on school property. A report was made for documentation and police said school authorities will address the incident.  Saturday, June 1  5:10 p.m. — A female, 9, who fell off a horse at a home in Bedford Hills was transported to Northern Westchester Hospital for an arm injury. When police arrived, the child was on the ground and being attended to by Bedford Hills firefighters, who stabilized her until Katonah Bedford Hills Volunteer Corps medics arrived on scene.  6:30 p.m. — A female homeowner/landlord on Buxton Road, Bedford Hills, contacted police to discuss possible issues she foresaw arising in leasing property to a potential tenant, who was male. When the man arrived to check out the unit,  she “didn’t like his vibe,” she told police. The landlord Googled him and discovered things that caused her anxiety about his possible tenancy, the woman said. Police advised her to have no further contact with the man and, if he inquired again about the apartment, she should say it was already rented.    12:03 p.m. — Custody issues were discussed when officers went to a residence in Katonah after a man sent his current wife to pick up his children at a park for a hand-off from his first wife, the children’s mother. This triggered a situation resulting in an angry conversation between the women. The current wife, who reported the incident, said the mother was irate at seeing her and complained she hadn’t brought a booster seat to transport one of the children. The first wife was not present to be interviewed. A report was made for documentation only.  This report was made from official reports provided by the Bedford Police Department.

Ding-dong  A Parkview Road resident reported Friday, May 24, at 7:40 p.m., two young boys rang their doorbell but left before they could respond. They thought they saw the kids running towards a neighbor’s property. Police arrived and spoke with the caller’s neighbor who said his young son and his friend were starting their own lawn care business and thought the neighbor might be a potential client. Monday, May 20  5:40 p.m. — A caller on Trinity Pass Road reported a loose dog. Police searched for it with negative results.  6:36 p.m. — A Barnegat Road resident reported their neighbor’s landscaper was using gas leaf blowers on their property, a violation of local ordinance. A note was left for the resident but no summons.  Wednesday, May 22 6:55 a.m. — Hazardous material was reported spilled or leaked on High Ridge Road; an odor of gas was also reported. Police and firefighters responded and the home was checked. It was determined there was no danger.  9:20 a.m. — A dog was reportedly struck by a car traveling on Salem Road. A caller reported two dogs were loose after running through an electric fence. No further information was provided.  Thursday, May 23 7:00 p.m. — A large group of bicyclists were reported blocking the roadway on Stone Hill Road. Police patrolled the area looking for them but they had ridden off.   Friday, May 24  5:35 p.m. — A tree was reported down and blocking the roadway on Old Mill River Road. Police responding said the tree was not down, but a neighbor was doing some tree trimming. It was noted the road was clear and there was no problem.    6:35 p.m. — A one-car collision on Westchester Avenue resulted in property damage to the vehicle. No one was injured and the car wasn’t towed.   Saturday, May 25  5:30 p.m. — A Cross Pond Road resident reported seeing an unknown individual on her dock. They said they would be contacting someone at the Kitchawan Lake committee to see if they knew the person. Meanwhile, they only wanted the suspicious incident documented.  Monday, May 27  10:30 a.m. — A snapping turtle reported in the roadway on Pound Ridge Road brought police to the rescue. The road was shut down until the turtle was escorted to a safe location.    3:30 p.m. — A caller on Westchester Avenue reported a tree blocking the roadway. Police and firefighters responded and the tree was removed.  3:20 p.m. — An officer patrolling High Ridge Road came across a car apparently struck by a fallen tree. No one was in the car, no one was injured and the car did not require tow.  Tuesday, May 28 12:46 a.m. — A Pound Ridge resident, male, 54, was arrested and issued summonses for driving without a license or insurance after police were dispatched to the scene of a collision on Stone Hill Road; police said the driver struck a wall. The man was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in court June 24.   7:58 a.m. — The foreman of a roofing business was advised how to avoid receiving a summons for violating local ordinance after a caller on  Westchester Avenue reported unknown parties using gas-powered leaf blowers.   Wednesday, May 29  9:15 a.m. — Police went to a location on Old Logging Road after receiving a parking complaint about multiple parties parking on grass and blocking emergency access. They had a conversation with a homeowner who said they would tell their contractors to move their vehicles.  6:40 p.m. — Possible fraud was reported by a Kitchawan Road resident who reported receiving letters from a credit company that he continued to mark for return as undeliverable. The complaining party said he had already made a complaint to the Pound Ridge Post Office. Police advised they will stay in touch with the local postmaster.  Thursday, May 30  9:45 a.m. — A Salem Road resident came to headquarters to report a resident from a nearby group home repeatedly trespassed on his property. A police officer had a conversation with the manager of the group home to discuss the wandering resident’s safety. No further action was taken. Sunday, June 2  5:05 p.m. — A Cross Pond Road resident complained about noise due either to construction or landscaping in violation of local ordinance. Police patrolled the area with negative results.

By Herb Foster // Thursday, Nov. 19, 1874, was an important date in the history of northern Westchester. On that day, a serious fire started in a hotel basement in Old Katonah. As devastating as that blaze became, it provided the spark that eventually led to the creation of the Katonah Fire Department, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary throughout this year. That fire quickly spread, and eight neighboring buildings were burned. The local paper at the time — by the way, aptly named The Recorder — called the blaze “a sudden and terrible disaster,” and then went on to say, “the result might have been less disastrous had the village processed sufficient means of protecting against fire.” While a heroic effort by citizens saved the rest of the village, it was clear something had to be done. Two days later, a meeting was held, which led to the formation of two committees. One was tasked with collecting assessments to purchase ladders and buckets; the other was asked to study the cost of fire engines, extinguishers and equipment. The KFD owes its formation to those initial steps taken 150 years ago. This 150th celebration, visible during the department’s annual June 5 parade and at the three-day carnival that followed, will continue throughout the year. Special booklets capturing the 150-year history have been published, along with shirts marking the occasion. The commemorative booklets were sold at the parade and are available from the fire department. The importance of this anniversary is captured by Matthew Whalen, chief of department and a Bedford police detective, who says in the booklet, “The Katonah Fire Department has stood the test of time, day after day, year after year, decade after decade. We have remained a pillar in this community to this day.” The first piece of equipment the department purchased — an 1874 pumper, called “The Pride of Katonah” — rode on a trailer in the parade, accompanied by members in recreated uniforms from the 1800s. Normally, the pumper is proudly on display in front of the fire department’s main entrance. Another historic piece of equipment — the 1928 American LaFrance Engine, called “MaryAnn” — also traveled in the parade, utilizing its own power, with the department’s commissioners riding as passengers. In addition, residents along the parade route were able to contribute to obtain special commemorative sponsor placards, which they placed along the parade route. There have been a series of earlier anniversary events. On April 14, members and their families gathered at the Katonah Presbyterian Church for a 150th memorial service,  recognizing volunteers who had served. A special winter anniversary party was held in February. The commemorations will continue in October at the Katonah Fire Department’s annual Blaze, a neighborhood event, complete with live music, games and activities, plus a bonfire! The final event in the yearlong commemoration will take place at the department’s annual inspection dinner in November. This dinner is normally held earlier in the fall, but was moved to be closer to the date in 1874 when the department officially got started. Ex-chief Dean Pappas commented on the celebration events, saying, “We hope these activities will emphasize to the community that our service is so vital. Volunteering is essential for a community like Katonah. Nothing says community like a strong volunteer spirit.”When asked about achievements over the years, Whalen pointed out that the department has kept up with the modern technology and equipment, and has worked hard to improve member training. He also noted that the KFD leadership is getting younger, pointing to Lt. Ryan Hayes, who, at age 24, is responsible for organizing all the 150th anniversary activities. Department members march in the June 5 parade in Katonah; Jim MacLean photo. One of the volunteer firefighters, Gabe Palacio, has recorded a video series, “Stories of 150 years of the Katonah Fire Department.” These feature interviews with longtime members reflecting on their years with the department including advancements and interesting calls. They are available on the KFD website, katonahfd.org . A powerful blend of unity and strong bonds make the KFD seem more like a large family than a loose group of volunteers who fight fires. Indeed, family heritage can be seen throughout the department. Whalen, who joined when he was 16, has numerous relatives involved, including his brother, uncle, cousin and his father, an ex-chief who was a member during the 100th anniversary celebration. More than half of current KFD members is estimated to be following in their relatives’ footsteps. Jeff Kellogg, well known locally for his association with his family’s hardware store in Katonah, joined the department before this 18th birthday, continuing a family legacy. In the video stories, he says, “I had many relatives that were in the department at that time, and it just seemed like a natural fit. My dad was chief of the department in the early ‘50s. Both my grandfathers were members and my great-grandfather was in the department. My wife, Nina, both of her grandfathers were also in the department, and she has a great-grandfather who was a member as well.”Given their families’ deep connections to the KFD, Jeff and Nina Kellogg have yet another personal tie to the department: they met for the first time at the annual Katonah Fire Department Carnival. Whalen summarizes the members’ tight bonds and shared service mission well in his opening letter to KFD in the 150th booklet: “KFD is more than just a group of people that get together to do vital and heroic work, KFD is a family, a collection of people who would give anything to help each other.” The Katonah Fire Department is actively seeking volunteers. For more information, visit katonahfd.org .

Three members of the Pound Ridge Swim & Dive Team broke long-standing team records at the June 27 meet against Willowbrook Swim Club. Sophia Coppola, Patrick McGovern and Maddie Nurenberg together set new records in four events. Each team record had been on the books for at least 15 years. Willowbrook edged out Pound Ridge by a final score of 282-270. The following records were set at the meet: Sophia Coppola, 18-and-under women’s diving, 140.10. Patrick McGovern, 14-and-under men’s 50 butterfly, 29.04, and 14-and-under men’s 100 freestyle, 58.99. Maddie Nurenberg, 18-and-under women’s 100 freestyle, 1:02.03. Single winners included Evan Shreve, 13-and-under boys diving; Sophia Coppola, 18-and-under girls diving; Alana Sterling, 6-and-under girls 25 freestyle; Logan Zizic, 8-and-under boys 25 backstroke; Clara Blackburn, 8-and-under girls 25 backstroke; Eva Orscher, 14-and-under girls 50 breaststroke; Carmen Blanco, 18-and- under girls 100 breaststroke; and Lillian Siders, 8-and-under girls 25 freestyle.  Double winners were Sophia Nurenberg, 12-and-under girls 50 backstroke and 50 butterfly, and Daniel McGovern, 12-and-under boys 50 breaststroke and 50 freestyle. Triple winners were Maddie Nurenberg, 18-and-under girls 100 backstroke, 50 fly and 100 freestyle. Patrick McGovern, 14-and-under boys 50 breaststroke, 50 fly and 100 freestyle. Relay winners were 10-and-under girls 200 freestyle relay — Keira Burnham, Zoe Niguidula, Samantha Forester, Clara Blackburn; 10-and-under boys 200 freestyle relay — Luke Gorman, Wyatt Fay, Sebastian Mineo, Logan Zizic; 14-and-under girls 200 freestyle relay — Leah McNamara, Sophia Nurenberg, Chloe Lovig, Eva Orscher; 14-and- under boys 200 freestyle relay — Ethan Sorial, Finn Egan, Daniel McGovern, Patrick McGovern; and 18-and-under coed 200 freestyle relay — Emily Pastushan, Jack Cunningham, Andrew Cosetti and Maddie Nurenberg. Photo credits: Pound Ridge Rec Department

By Abby Luby // Town board members voted to approve the formation of the Scotts Corners Water District on June 11. The vote was 4-1, with town board member Dan Paschkes voting against the resolution. The town has strongly endorsed the creation of the water district, a status required to receive a state Water Infrastructure Improvement Act grant whose application deadline was June 14. If the grant is awarded it will help pay around 70% of the proposed project to install a drinking water distribution system. The urgency to create the district is not only the timely application for the state grant but to mitigate drinking water contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, and other substances such as tetrachloroethylene and methyl tert-butyl ether that has been found in private wells of the commercial and residential units. The project would involve purchasing treated drinking water from the Aquarion Water Company and would cost an estimated $10.8 million. If awarded, the state grant would be for $7.5 million. The water would be piped to the 39 businesses and residential units in the downtown business area. The town board vote was taken after the required public hearing where a packed room of Pound Ridge residents and Scotts Corners business owners aired their views for over two hours. Those favoring the resolution stressed the importance of ridding contaminated water from Scotts Corners business and residential private wells. Recent tests of those wells showed contaminants including two PFAS chemicals, perfluorooctanesulfonic acid and perfluorooctanoic acid that were above the state regulated acceptable level of 10 ppt. The current federal maximum contaminant limit for PFOA and PFOS set by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency is 4 ppt.     Joe DiPietro, owner of Chubby’s Hardware store spoke in favor of creating the water district. “We’ve been here for 40 years and my well has been contaminated from the Shell spill. My septic dates back to the 1940s. This town has never looked better and the business district is vital. The water district project will keep it that way.” Also supporting the water district was Barnwell Center owner, Mark Gjelaj, who has owned the downtown center since 2006. Gjelaj told of how his well backed up in 2021 and the PFAS reading was above the acceptable level of 10 ppt. “Many landowners are supporting this to move forward and to quickly get this problem solved,” Gjelaj said. Fred Albano, the owner of Albano Appliance, said when his father ran the business, water quality was also an issue and he supported forming the water district. “We’ve come this far. This could be a missed opportunity if we don’t aggressively pursue this. I own a business downtown and I am fully invested in the community. If the water issue causes us to shut down we lose our business, we lose everything.” Those pushing back on the project cited possible tax hikes on residents living outside the water district and voiced fears that private home wells could become contaminated with PFAS. John McCown referenced a report on costs and disputed estimated costs to operate the new drinking water system for downtown property owners. “I’ve compared the annual user fees of $247,000 to what the first year costs will actually be,” McCown told the board. “My conclusion is they will be at least twice as much as the report shows. That is the result even if the project comes in at $10.8 million with 70% paid by a grant. The $247,000 lowballs the real costs. That is not fair to the business district folks. They need a realistic estimate of the full cost, as the user fees cover less than half.” Twenty-four-year Pound Ridge resident, Cheryl Schacht, noted that many were concerned with how to deal with their own wells, some of which are already contaminated with PFAS. Referring to the number of downtown parcels that would benefit from the proposed treatment project, she asked “Have my needs and the needs of the residents been taken into account? Can’t we do more studies? Are we taking a bad situation from one part of the town and changing it to put it into another part of the town? I don’t want to lose my house, my health and safety.” Norman Bernstein also questioned if the water treatment system for the downtown would impact neighbors. He advocated for waiting for more data to come in and for new technology to be developed. “A sensible course is to simply do nothing now and allow time to get additional data on how serious the problem really is. Then, where needed, compel independent property owners to install filters on incoming water from the wells on their property if there is a health issue.” Throughout the meeting many town residents brought up concerns about aging septic systems that could be contaminating their wells. When asked about the town’s wastewater treatment plan they were told the plan had to be postponed in lieu of creating the Scotts Corners Water District. Others spoke of local realtors asking about possible contamination in wells of properties and how that would impact future property sales and marketability. Board member Paschkes asked the board not to vote on the resolution but rather hold a permissive referendum where business owners could vote, thereby having their voices heard. “There’s a right way to do this and a wrong way,” Paschkes said. “I understand the importance of the funding but for it to pass by a referendum is the proper way. I personally made promises to people assuring them the resolution wouldn’t be imposed by town board fiat. It’s a bait and switch and it’s not right.” According to town attorney, William Harrington, a permissive referendum for those in the proposed Scotts Corners water district would require two petition signatures, or 5% of eligible voters in the district to hold a vote. Don Rhodes of the Laberge Group, the town’s engineering firm planning the Scotts Corners water district, said putting the issue up for a permissive referendum vote would mean taking additional time to schedule an election and would be costly to the town. “We don’t like to do projects that are not supported but we believe the path the town is on is a good one and it is a good process,” Rhodes said. Board member Alison Boak, who is also the chairwoman of the Pound Ridge Water and  Wastewater Task Force, countered Paschkes’ comments by saying he was misinformed and his statements were inaccurate. “How the district is formed has been on the website for more than a year and our task force has had numerous meetings with the business owners you are hearing today. The way we are going about this is the more collaborative way with the business district as a partner.” One business owner at Scotts Corners who wasn’t in favor of forming the water district was Donna Simons, owner of Pound Ridge Organics. “I’m in favor of having my own personal filtration system,” she said. “I’m a very tiny landowner and business. Am I required to tap in? No one has ever approached me about this issue.” Homeowners were concerned with the proposed bond needed to pay for the project, fearing residents outside the water district would be charged. Harrington explained that if one of the 39 parcels do not pay the water district tax a lien would be enforced on their property and, if there is a default the town would bring legal action. “There is a well-established mechanism in place,” Harrington said. “The property owner would have to pay in full the interest and penalties or lose the property, which would be sold at auction. We do that now for homeowners that fall behind.” Pound Ridge Supervisor Kevin Hansan noted that the formation of the water district paved the way to apply for state funds for the project. He also said other grant opportunities were being looked into. “This is a unique opportunity to go out and have a valid chance of getting funds. If we wait another year, we fall behind more municipalities looking for funds to help deal with their own PFAS issues.” Hansan acknowledged that all public water systems have some level of PFAS. “They are all being forced to mitigate that but when it’s a centralized source it’s easier to treat.”

Just looking for the restroom A suspicious person was reported Tuesday, June 11, at 4:02 p.m., in the basement of a business on Westchester Avenue. Police located the individual and asked them for identification. They did so and explained they had entered the building to find a restroom. The person left the area soon after. Tuesday, June 11 4:30 p.m. — A complainant on Beech Hill Lane reported a landscaper operating a gas-powered leaf blower in violation of town ordinance. On arrival, an officer spoke with the landscaper who was not using a leaf blower but a speed spreader and a hedge trimmer and was not in violation. 4:45 p.m. — A caller notified police to complain Scofield Road was blocked to traffic. Police responding saw paving work was being done on the road surface and said the road wasn’t blocked and there were no hazards. Wednesday, June 12 11:30 a.m. — A caller on Gorge Lane complained someone was using a gas-powered leaf blower in the neighborhood in violation of town ordinance. On arrival, an officer observed a landscaper operating a commercial lawn mower, not a leaf blower. Thursday, June 13 1:57 a.m. — A resident who fell down in his home and was unable to get up and back into bed was assisted by Pound Ridge ambulance medics and a police officer. The man said he wasn’t injured and wished for no further assistance. 3:00 p.m. — A caller on Peters Lane reported a suspicious man knocking on doors and then abruptly leaving. Police caught up with the man who showed identification and said he was selling replacement windows. He was advised of various ordinances prohibiting him from going door-to-door hawking wares and soon left the area. Friday, June 14 12:45 p.m. — A caller on Westchester Avenue told police about a suspicious phone call they received. Police thought it was likely a scam and told them not to respond and to block the caller if necessary. Saturday, June 15 2:00 a.m. — A caller on Salem Road reported a suspicious car they said was heading towards Stamford, Conn. Police looked for the car with negative results. 2:00 p.m. — A caller on Joshua Hobby Lane also reported a suspicious car; police looked for the described vehicle with negative results. Monday, June 17 7:00 a.m. — A caller on Eastwoods Roads complained a neighbor’s contractor was starting work earlier than the legal start time allowed under town ordinance. Police arrived and spoke with the homeowner who said they would advise their contractor about the restriction. — Eve Marx, The Recorder staff writer This report was made from official reports provided by the Pound Ridge Police Department.