No, according to Sammy Joe Piney was along from day 1. He might not have played a part but he was consulted and asked to "bring over the old timers" once it was over with

Sammy said him and frank decicco spoke to him in person & he informed them Joe Gallo was made aware too. "He doesn't want no part but will go along with it".

Sammy & franker proceeded to ask Piney what happens if Gallo tips off Paulie? piney tells them "I'll kill him".

Sammy," that was good enough for us"