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November 25, 2008, work session A representative of Phoenix House, the drug rehabilitation facility on Stony Street, discussed with the board the organization's plan to renovate the existing building which is over 50 years old and also to introduce some new programs. The discussion was more of an “FYI” meeting as the organization does not plan any major changes to the facility that would require town board approval. It will, however, have to comply with town building codes. The facility was designed to house 330 clients but is currently serving only 95; during most of the facility's history, it has not come close to serving the maximum number of clients. The facility currently serves teenagers and includes a New York City public school that provides the residents with all needed educational services. None of the clients attend Yorktown schools. The lower than anticipated usage is creating financial problems for the organization; hence the need to introduce new programs. The organization plans to introduce a new program that will serve about 15 mothers with small children. This program has already been approved by state officials. A second possible program will serve adult women. Phase I of the building renovation plan will reconfigure the building to create a physical separation in the building in order to conform to state regulations that do not permit the mixing of teenagers and adults. Phase I will cost $5 million which has already been funded by NYS. Phase II of the renovation, estimated to cost $10 million, will upgrade the building itself including electrical systems, the roof, the building exterior, etc. Phoenix House has not yet received state funding for this portion of the plan. |