Dog Run

Calling All Brookside Dog Owners:
 

On February 3rd (Super Bowl Sunday) from 11 - 1 with the help of some volunteers we will be holding a registration event in the neighborhood. We will be collecting forms and handing out keys to the dog run.
 

Depending upon the weather we will make the final determination where in the neighborhood we will be holding the event.
 

Under the “Living Here” Section
Click on the Dog Run Section

The rules, regulations and fees for the Dog Run are there, please read through them.

Scroll to the bottom of the  page
“Permit Application” is an active link
Click on that to download the form to be filled out.

Please make sure to bring the following in order to receive a key:

• Owner’s Driver’s License or Photo ID

• Copy of Dog’s license & tag information

• Proof of rabies vaccine, DHLPP (distemper) vaccine, Bordetella (canine cough) vaccine

• Completed Registration Form

• Check made payable to Brookside Village

If you have any questions you can find me on Facebook and message me: Carol Marcum Dounn

Thank you - look forward to seeing everyone that day

October 2018

Hello October! Well, it really doesn’t feel that way yet but hopefully soon…

We are in the process of integrating our landscaping plan and have started with the Fall plantings.  I am sure all of you have seen the Landscapers (and sometimes the Arborist) around the neighborhood.  They are beginning by removing dead trees and shrubs. We are also, at the same time, doing new plantings.  These plantings are just the first part as seasonally we can only plant certain things at specific times of the year.  

Please be aware that the area around your unit is a common area.  Our Homeowners' Association is responsible for the upkeep of all common areas.  If our professional Landscaper & Arborist determines that something is dead or going to be a problem, we do have the right to remove it; Section 7 of the Rules & Regulations. Although we allow annuals to be planted in some "fill-in" areas around the homes, all permanent plantings do have to be approved by the Association's Board.  

We look forward to a beautiful Brookside this coming Spring.

Thank you for your co-operation

What's Wrong with this Picture

Hello Brookside,

What’s wrong with the photographs above?

That’s right,  Neighbors didn’t dispose of their garbage properly!

Beside for being inconsiderate to your neighbors, it costs the community as a whole to have it removed.  On average it costs us an additional $200-$250 a month that could be used for other projects in the neighborhood

There is a section on this web-site dedicated to Garbage & Recycling.  We will also be distributing a handout that breaks down Westchester County & Mt Kisco rules into an easy to read reference.

Your cooperation is most appreciated

ReCap of the 2018 Annual Meeting

A Letter From The Board President

Our annual Brookside Village Homeowner Association meeting was held Tuesday, August 7, 2018. Valya Dessaure stepped down, after having served 4 years - Thank You! Steve Zanon stepped in to serve a 3 year term. Sandy Fenton and Jacquie Broth will continue their service to the Board for 3 more years. 

Of course, all roadways have been paved and that heads up the progress we have made in the past year. Please note: when you turn your steering wheel without moving the car, power steering marks damage our asphalt. Other progress we have made this year includes: 

• Replacement of damaged sidewalks

• 4th cul de sac wall replaced and area widened

• Massive drainage project completed

• Tennis and Basketball/Multi-use Court replaced and resurfaced

• Dog Play Area created

• 131 work orders completed since 2017 annual meeting

Ongoing progress includes:

• Removal of dead trees, and pruning decorative trees

• Trees along drive into Brookside were replaced, due to a cooperative effort with our neighbor

• Our website, which continues to provide the latest updates and information affecting our quality of life in Brookside

Of course, all projects were paid for in full - No assessments! No Loan! Our Board has vision, and the discipline necessary to fulfill that vision, and it is an honor to work on this Board.

We continue to focus on:

• Alternatives to refurbish and/or replace decks

• Reinforce retaining walls on the property line

• Regular maintenance of siding, roof boots, window wells, damaged stone steps

• Alternatives to the wood steps that continue to fail

Life here continues to flourish with movie nights and summer parties. We hope you will consider building on these experiences with a book club, a garden club, tennis tournament, tag sale - contact Heritage Management and they will put you in touch with a Board member. 

Jody Stokhamer

Board President, 2017 - 2018

Annual Meeting Notice 2018

Hello Brookside,

It’s that time of year again for the Brookside Village Annual Meeting.  

This year it will be held on August 7th at 8 pm - upstairs at the Mount Kisco Library.

Besides the agenda of topics for the evening there is also an election for Board Members.

We have a Board of 9 Homeowners - every year 3 spots on the board are up for election.  The term is for 3 years, we meet the first Wednesday of every month plus maybe another 2 additional meetings at different times.  

There is a responsibility to the community when being a Member of the Board.  Many times you have to put aside personal interests in lieu of what’s best for the entire community.

We hope that many of our neighbors will come out for the annual meeting and hopefully some will consider running for a position on the board.

Looking Forward to Seeing You All

Thank you,

The Brookside Board of Managers

Happenings at 333 Property

There are a lot of zoning changes that the Town is planning for the property across the street from us.  Besides wanting to move in Shoprite there is also an aspect to the zoning regarding “Family Entertainment /Family Recreational Facility” that could truly change the nature of our section of Mount Kisco.  

Not that anyone is opposed to changes in our Town but it needs to be done thoughtfully keeping in mind that there are neighborhoods of families that will be impacted by these decisions.  There is a tremendous amount of information on the Town website where all the agendas and paperwork is available to read.

It is very important for our neighborhood to make a showing at the following meetings.

Please attend the following Village of Mount Kisco Board Meetings and make your voice heard regarding significant zoning changes to Local Law 5-2018 which will significantly affect our neighborhood.

Monday April 23rd at 7pm

Monday May 7th at 7pm

Thursday May 10th at 7pm

All meetings will be held at Village Hall on the second floor. Public comment regarding this proposed law change is held at the beginning of the meetings on April 23rd and May 7th.

There is a scheduled meeting with Diamond Properties regarding zoning changes for 344 N. Bedford Road.  This meeting is specifically for Foxwood and Brookside residents, at Village Hall, on Thursday May 10th at 7:00 pm.

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

We as a community need to write e-mails & letters to the Mayor and Board voicing our concerns: 
MayorGinaPinich@mountkiscony.gov
DeputyMayorFarber@mountkiscony.gov
TrusteeAlbanese@mountkiscony.gov
TrusteeGrunthal@mountkiscony.gov
TrusteeSchleimer@mountkiscony.gov
ebrancati@mountkiscony.gov  Village Manager

We need to assure the town that we are interested in smart development of business’ and commerce along Route 117 – but we was want to make sure that they take into account the residential neighborhoods that exist.

We also need to raise questions including issues about traffic safety, the aesthetic design of the area, and the general promotion of healthy, walkable, family-friendly outdoor spaces and community parks, etc.

It would be good to get folks from our neighborhoods to attend that and speak to our needs and concerns and vision.

Thank you

Spring is in the Air

Ok so we have 1 more storm to go…I hope.   With nice weather right around the corner means soccer, baseball and other outdoor sports are about to start up.  Brookside has wonderful backyards and the multi-purpose court next to the pool that is a fantastic place for practise.  Please don’t use the parking lots as that is not safe for anyone either playing or driving.

Update on the Dog Park - We are still ironing out some of the fine points.  We really appreciate all the Homeowners came to the meeting.

February

We need you!

When:  Sunday February 25, 11AM  

Where:  By the Dog Run, near the Tennis Courts

You are invited to meet with Board of Managers Members

We will discuss the necessary rules that will allow this space to be used safely and cooperatively.

The minutes from this committee meeting will be submitted to the Board of Managers March meeting, for final approval.

Please contact Heritage Management if you have any questions about this meeting - 914-276-2619

Fire Safety

OKSIDE VILLAGE

Hello Brookside,

After the tragic fire in the Bronx we thought it would be a good idea to go over some fire safety that we probably don't think about very often.

We all know that if you smell gas, call 911 and to Con Ed Emergency, call 1-800-752-6633

Fire Extinguishers:

Every home should have one.  When is the last time you looked at yours?  If you can’t remember, then it is most likely expired; and they do expire.  Time to buy a new one.  Something else to think about whether you want one that can handle kitchen fires?  The chemical composition for a grease fire is a bit different.  Do NOT put water on a grease fire - it will spread.  Grease fires need to be covered.

For more fire information, click on this link:

Red Cross Fire Information

Smoke Detectors:

Smoke detectors these days do expire, who knew?  With advances in technology improvements are made all the time.  Besides the usual maintenance of changing the batteries in your Smoke Detectors, check to make sure they are up to date.

Common Smoke Detector/Fire Advice:

Change the batteries with the clock changes in the Spring & Fall.

If there is a fire in your house, remember to shut doors behind you (to keep it contained) as you are running out.

Don’t forget  STOP...DROP...ROLL - still excellent advice.

Check and clean out dryer vents on a regular basis - a clogged vent is a huge fire hazard.

Have escape plans in place for every member of the household

The American Red Cross has an app: Red Cross Monster Guard to help educate children ages 7-11

 NFPA: Smoke Alarms

 NFPA: Safety Messages about Smoke Alarms

Everyone stay safe!

The Brookside Board  

January 8, 2018

Hello Brookside,

Well, we have made it to the home stretch and our neighborhood looks fantastic!  Thank you all for your patience and cooperation as we could not have done this otherwise.

This has been a giant project, from the drainage to the paving.  By the end of next week Inter County will be finished and off property entirely!

1. Outdoor Spigot Units: Now that the work is completed, please TURN OFF the spigot to the outside water.

2. The doors to Dumpster areas will be reinstalled - please be mindful that not everything you want to throw away belongs in the dumpster area.  

3. Striping of the tennis and the basketball courts will be done in the spring, and the tennis net will be installed as well.  In the meantime, these areas can be used for play.  

4. Speed Bumps will be going in after the winter.  They will be better placed than they previously were.  We did look into removable ones but they leave holes in the blacktop which leaves an opening for water and shortens the lifespan of the road.

5. Many may have noticed that some of the Homeowners have re-finished their porches.  Please DO NOT do any further painting or staining as The Board has decided that we will be painting/staining/replacing the decks and porches in 2018.  

6. Curbs are going to be repainted yellow - There is NO PARKING in yellow areas.  Cars will be towed and stickered.  

7. Personal items are not allowed to be stored on any common elements.  Any items that are stored or left in the common areas are subject to being removed and discarded without notice as per our rules & regulations.  PLEASE NOTE - this includes items left on the tennis & basketball courts.

8. Please note that our new dog run will be officially opened in the Spring.  Until that time the gate will be locked.  We need to make sure that we do our due diligence with regards to rules and confirm that all dogs are licensed and up to date with their vaccines.  This is for the safety of everyone.

9. As of January 1st, 2018, Brookside is instituting a Reserve Contribution for new owners - it will consist of 1 month’s common charge that will be deposited into the reserve fund at the time of purchase.

Again, thank you for your patience and cooperation!

The Brookside Board   

12/9/2017

Our Board of Managers met on Sunday morning, on site. We walked Brookside Village to assess condition of property and buildings, as well as improvements to consider next year. We discussed final touches on the tennis court, including surface painting. How do you like the new fenced -in dog run? Rules of engagement will be discussed and published shortly. We did notice that quite a few units had sliding glass door sills that were peeling and rotted. This is a homeowner repair. Consider that when you replace your sliding glass door, you might want to also replace and/or repair that sill. Please submit the scope of both jobs to Heritage Management - both need prior written Board approval. 

Trish Spano of InterCounty joined us to discuss the drainage and asphalt paving project. Drum Roll!! - we are coming to the end. Next week you will see the end of the drainage work in first cul-de-sac, and milling and paving in 3rd and 2nd cul-de-sac. These are large machines that come in - Trish said they're the size of a bus, with chutes and ladders - quite formidable. Keep your pets inside. Keep your kids inside. Cars will be towed if they are not in compliance with our No Parking rules. 

Any inconvenience you experience next week will be very short lived, and we will live with the benefits for 25 years! Remember - there is off site parking available at 280 North Bedford Road. You will see signs "Brookside Village". There is also off site parking across the street, down the hill and to the right. This area is also clearly marked "Brookside Village".

I am looking forward to the before and after pictures.

Jody Stokhamer

President, Board of Managers

Brookside Village

Letter from the President 10/23/2017

Halloween Move Night on the tennis court was a SCREEEEAM! Trish Spano of InterCounty brought treats for everyone. Kevin Cullen of Heritage Management supplied the popcorn, and 33 Brookside Village residents enjoyed an evening under the stars. 

The drainage improvements, curbing and asphalt paving projects continue ahead of schedule! Remember - these items have been identified in a physical assessment report as being past their useful life. Therefore, the Board of Managers has budgeted for these contracts.

Week #3 10/23/17 - 10/27/17 work continues on the tennis court, curbing and drainage. InterCounty is doing a great job of communicating with residents through flyers and signs. For the safety of all, please drive with care in the work zone. Please supervise your children - this is a construction zone.

Letter From the President

Day Two - Inter County (IC )is fast and neat and that's a good thing. It's important to remember that there are a lot of moving parts to this job, and we hired experts that we have to trust. Traffic control was not in the contract that our atty wrote - I didn't catch that. But the truth is that we only need traffic control while the hill is one way. It would have been terrific if off site parking was established before the project started, but we ran into glitches - the Town won't allow 24/7 rental parking - so we move on to Plan B. There are 30 spaces on Diamond's property - yes it's 1/4 mile away. This is Temporary! Consider arranging for a pickup with a family member or a neighbor. Let's stay in the solution.

The 20 spaces by the wall below us would have been terrific, but the property owner put an indemnity clause into the contract that is not reasonable for our purposes. In spite of these unexpected twists and turns and disappointments, let's stay focused on the big picture, which is an improvement with the least amount of conflict. A movie on the tennis court is exactly what we need to maintain a cohesive community - it is emotional equity and will allow for a tremendous exchange of information. Please consider supporting the decisions that IC and Heritage are making. Let's keep our concerns and comments respectful as we make our way through a very worthwhile project. 

Jody Stokhamer

President, Brookside Village Board of Managers

Update 10/14/2017

Notice to Brookside Residents for

Week 2 – October 16 – 20

1. WORK WILL CONTINUE ON THE MAIN ENTRANCE SIDEWALK.

2. WORK WILL CONTINUE ON THE TENNIS COURT.

3. DRAINAGE WORK IN THE LAWN AREAS BEHIND UNITS #69-73 AND #52-54 WILL BEGIN – PARKING SPACES 71 AND 72 WILL BE REASSIGNED TO TWO GUEST SPOTS IN THE SAME PARKING AREA (LOOK FOR THE NUMBERS TO BE PAINTED OUT AND ON STAKES MARKING THE TEMPORARY SPOTS).  PLEASE LEAVE 71 AND 72 CLEAR FOR EQUIPMENT ACCESS TO LAWN AREA.

4. CONCRETE CURBS WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE FRONT OF DRIVEWAYS.  YOU WILL RECEIVE A NOTICE THE NIGHT BEFORE IF WE NEED ACCESS TO YOUR DRIVEWAY THE FOLLOWING DAY.  IF YOU RECEIVE A NOTICE, PLEASE HAVE YOUR CAR OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY ON THE DATE WRITTEN ON THE NOTICE SO WE CAN PERFORM THE WORK FOR YOU. YOU CAN RETURN AT THE END OF THE WORK DAY.

URGENT:  WE MUST AGAIN ASK THAT YOU DRIVE SLOWLY AND WITH CAUTION WHEN DRIVING IN THE BROOKSIDE COMMUNITY.  THERE HAVE BEEN A FEW CLOSE CALLS WITH PEDESTRIANS AND PEOPLE DRIVING AT AN EXCESSIVE RATE OF SPEED IN THE WORK ZONE.  PLEASE BE SAFE!

IMPORTANT MESSAGE RECEIVED TODAY FROM OUR CONTRACTOR INTERCOUNTY:
GOOD AFTERNOON.  I WAS INFORMED THAT SOME KIDS FROM THE DEVELOPMENT WERE DOWN ON THE TENNIS COURT THIS WEEKEND TRYING TO TAKE MY GOLF CART FOR A SPIN.  I CAN'T STRESS ENOUGH THE IMPORTANCE OF KEEPING EVERYONE OFF OF THE EQUIPMENT.  PLEASE RESIDENTS WITH CHILDREN DISCUSS WITH THEM THE NEED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE MACHINERY.  THIS IS FIRST ABOUT THEIR SAFETY AND THEN NOT DAMAGING PROPERTY. 
WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM BROOKSIDE BOARD: 

It has been reported that some Our Kids have been hopping the fence into our back neighbors property.  They said that the Owner said they could visit.  From the Town of Bedford meeting with the Property Owner: she specifically said, on record, that she did not want any trespassing on her property - especially from Brookside. 

Tennis Courts

Hello All - Heard something in the hood that needs to be clarified about the tennis courts. They are being redone right now NOT due to movie night?! They are being redone now because to bring in all the big equipment needed to redo it later after we have just repaved would destroy all the work that had just been done. Thanks for all your cooperation during this work process, the neighborhood is going to look great when all this is complete

Conduit

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THERE IS NO PARKING OR STANDING CARS ON THE HILL UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

PARENTS, FOR PICK UPS PLEASE WALK DOWN THE HILL.

WE REQUEST THAT THERE BE NO CAR PICK UP OF YOUR CHILDREN OFF THE SCHOOL BUS

WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE

THERE WILL BE MORE UPDATES TO FOLLOW

THANK YOU

The Hill

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THERE IS NO PARKING OR STANDING CARS ON THE HILL UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

PARENTS, FOR PICK UPS PLEASE WALK DOWN THE HILL.

WE REQUEST THAT THERE BE NO CAR PICK UP OF YOUR CHILDREN OFF THE SCHOOL BUS

WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE

THERE WILL BE MORE UPDATES TO FOLLOW

THANK YOU

1st Letter From the President

Over the years, Brookside Village HOA residents have planned, executed and paid for many improvements. What makes this next project so unique is that it is paid in full. I am so grateful to our resident Board Treasurer for her vision and focus. 

Our Board is guided by a physical assessment report - prepared by an engineer -  that provides cost estimates for the systems and components of our property that require repair, replacement or upgrade. Our roads are due to be replaced, and the new roads are expected to have a useful life of 25 years. 

As this project unfolds over the next few weeks, you can be assured that your Board has discussed, researched and made every effort to support our decisions with facts. We are working with the best! Kellard Sessions prepared our bid specs http://www.kelses.com/.  InterCounty Paving http://intercountypaving.com/services/ will repair our drainage and pave our roads. And of course Heritage Management http://heritagemanage.com/ will coordinate every phase of this project. Follow the links to read more about these local companies!

Trish Spano of InterCounty is scheduled to appear at our movie night on the tennis court - Friday October 20 at 6PM - come on by and meet the woman behind the blacktop.

Jody Stokhamer

President, Brookside Village Board of Managers

Pool & Tennis Closed Until Further Notice