Latimer Files “Cup of Joe” Report with MyRye.com – a Joe Blow-Out

State Assemblyman George Latimer held his regular "Cup of Joe with with George and Judy" (County Legislator Judy Myers) meeting this past Saturday at Ruby's on Purchase Street where he makes himself available to the citizens of Rye to hear the pressing issues of the day.

Latimer filed this report with MyRye.com:

The turnout on Saturday, Jan. 30th for the most recent "Coffee with George and Judy" District Office Hours was the largest ever in its five years' existence – nearly 35 people braved the cold morning weather to meet with Assemblyman George Latimer and County Legislator Judy Myers and to score a cup of joe at Ruby's Oyster Bar on Purchase Street.

The attendance included a few neighbors from Port Chester, Mamaroneck and Larchmont, but most there hailed from Rye, and the lead topic was the threat to the #76 Bus route, serving Rye. Legislator Myers updated the group – which included David Kucera from the bus operating company – on her plans to save the route through the end of the year, with an expected vote upcoming in the County Legislature planned to authorize transfer funds to do so. The quick response – all played out within the last 7 days – was well-received by the many who inquired about the route, including former City Councilman Arthur Stampleman, Joe Murphy, Bill Lawyer and others.

The issues raised ranged from the status of the County Airport, from Linda Lefkowitz, to ideas regarding Playland from David Hood (a few topics were ones outside Rye, such as Mamaroneck's discussions over purchasing the Hampshire Country Club); there was a vigorous discussion about municipal consolidation issues, with former Councilman and Judge John Alfano offering topics which deserved study such as a District Court system to replace the many town, village and small city courts, and to identify impediments in  consolidation.

Bernie and Peggy Althoff asked for an update on County and State efforts to mitigate flooding (Latimer and Myers describing monies from both governments to help pay for the sluice gate project); Peg Sweeney and Jack Zahringer each discussed issues of school district costs, and Sue Luckhardt asked about the status of State Budget.

Latimer noted the next local public meeting of import would be his annual State Budget Community Hearing, to be held this year at The Osborn in the Main Auditorium, on Thursday, Feb. 18 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Residents are invited to speak for up to 4 minutes on any topic of the budget, and provide written testimony of any length. The meeting is fully open to the public to attend and listen if they so choose. State budget information is on-line at www.budget.state.ny.us.

The next Coffee dates in Rye have not been established, but the larger crowd may require a larger venue to insure easy discussion among all attendees. The two officials held a similar session in Mamaroneck Saturday afternoon with an equally large attendance. Latimer will also hold session next Saturday in New Rochelle, and the following week in Port Chester.

-State Assemblyman George Latimer