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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 18, 2000
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was held in the Council Chambers of the Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, December 18, 2000. Chairwoman Strom called the meeting to order at 8:12 p.m.
PRAYER - The Prayer was given by Councilman McGuire.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL Present were Councilmen Dodd, Egan, Falk, Fiore, Giddings, Hall, Kaupin, Mangini, McGuire, Strom, and Vayda. Also present were Town Manager, Scott A. Shanley; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel T. Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki; Director of Public Works, John J. Kazmarski; Sr. Assistant Town Attorney, Maria N. Stavropoulos; Director of Finance, Gregory R. Simmons; Director of Social Services, Dorothy C. Allen; Deputy Director of Social Services, Marla Hauslaib.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING
MOTION #4961 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Vayda to accept the minutes of the November 29, 2000 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4961 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman Dodd abstaining.
MOTION #4962 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to accept the minutes of the December 4, 2000 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4962 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman McGuire abstaining.
MOTION #4963 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Falk to accept the minutes of the December 4, 2000 Regular Meeting
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4963 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman McGuire abstaining.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
William Zimmerman, 32 Orbit Drive
Mark Sheehan, 3 Harding Circle
Messrs. Zimmerman and Sheehan were present as representatives of the Enfield Ramblers Youth Football Organization. They expressed their appreciation for the promptness with which the Council responded to their request for lighting for their football field. They noted the lighting made a tremendous impact, and their team has done very well this season. They presented thank you cards from the members of the football team, the cheerleaders, and the coaches.
Roger Mullins, 18 The Laurels
Stated he visited all the condominium complexes in Enfield last month and examined their refuse collection process, as well as their roadways and collection access.
Mr. Mullins referred to comments made that inferred that condos and condo residents are inferior in some way. He feels this is a prejudicial view, and he urged the Council to ignore this attitude. He went on to refute a statement in the Hartford Courant that the Associations pay property taxes. He noted the deeded homeowners are the taxpayers, not the Association. He pointed out condominiums can no more be considered a business than any other home in town. He stated the condominium conversions in the 1980s produced individual ownership on properties that were previously rental units. He noted since that time condominium construction in Enfield has progressed to the point where its difficult to recognize a single family home or duplex from those joined together in a condo association. He added his opinion the services offered them should also be modified to provide uniformity.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini stated she had the opportunity to volunteer at the hospice booth for the Enfield Seniors, and she feels this is a wonderful opportunity for people to come out and get their packages wrapped and to contribute a small donation to help the hospice program in this community.
Councilman Mangini stated another young child in Enfield is very ill with a brain tumor. She noted the Children Helping Children group is going to have a fund raiser, which will be a dinner dance on January 6th. She noted the cost is $20.00 and it will be held at the Elks Club on North Maple Street. She noted people can get phone numbers from the Town Manager and Town Clerk Offices.
Councilman Giddings stated he has been a member of the Connecticut River Assembly for the past few years. He noted they are a state-wide assembly consisting of 13 towns along the Connecticut River. He stated their charge is to review any development that is done directly on river banks or within sight of the river. He noted theyre an advisory committee that the state and most towns in the area will come to if theres a development on the river to ask their recommendation as to whether a development should be done or not. He stated this organization has been involved with the Eagle Estates in Suffield, and there were a couple developments along the river in Windsor Locks that they addressed. He stated they are asking their membership communities, of which Enfield is a member, for a $500 contribution to help with administrative expenses. He requested the Council consider this. He also requested the Council consider making this a budget item during budget time.
Referring to the Cultural Arts Commission, Councilman Fiore requested the Town Manager ask the Chairman of the Cultural Arts Commission to learn what programs this group supported or initiated in the last two years. He added he would also like to know their expenditures over the last two years. Mr. Shanley indicated he could invite the Chairman of this Commission to come before the Council.
Councilman Falk stated he has been a liaison to the Cultural Arts Commission for a number of years and attended many of their meetings. He noted they try to put on some cultural activities such as musical groups, singing, or dancing, i.e., the Hartford Ballet or Hartford Symphony. He noted they do a variety of events and they also interact with the schools in some programs. He pointed out in many respects, this Commission has been very successful, however, they have been limited by funds. He stated it costs about $16,000 to bring in the Hartford Symphony, and the Town provides between $7,000 to $8,000 for this program. He feels based on the money the Town has provided them, this Commission has done very well. He noted if they had more money, theyd be doing a lot more. He pointed out they try to put on events that are affordable to the public, therefore, they never make money.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There was no formal report this evening.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There was no formal report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Kaupin stated the third meeting of the Condominium Subcommittee will be held tomorrow evening. He noted at that time they will have a report on the road specifications, as well as an updated report on the Public Works expenditures for the proposal that was offered at the last go around on the front end loader, as well as additional labor and the savings from not paying a private collector. He stated there was also an invitation made to Planning & Zoning.
Councilman Mangini spoke about the Loan Review Committee. She explained this Committee is sponsored by the Office of Community Development to review loan applications for those individuals in Town that are in need of funds to make necessary repairs to their homes, roofs, furnaces or boilers. She noted they had a meeting earlier this evening, and they did vote in some money allocations toward a couple applicants. She added there were also another couple applicants that were denied. She pointed out this Committee is moving along and making very good judgment calls.
Councilman Mangini then spoke about the Town/Prison Liaison Committee. She noted the Mayor received great accolades on her giving out some diplomas at the graduation ceremonies. She went on to note the numbers are about the same Enfield at 725; Willard at 1,036, and CRCI at 1,150. She noted nothing eventful is happening at the prisons. She went on to note there has been some discussion about erecting some new signs at the entrances to the prisons.
Councilman Mangini stated neither Enfield or Somers submitted an expansion proposal, however, Suffield may have done so. She noted they are awaiting the outcome of this.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
MOTION #4964 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Fiore to remove Item #1 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4964 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #4965 by Councilman Mangini to appoint Mary Ellen Hillis (D) to the Greater Hartford Transit District for a term which expires 6/30/02.
MOTION #4966 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Dodd to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4966 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Mary Ellen Hillis appointed to the Greater Hartford Transit District by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #4967 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item #4 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4967 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #4968 by Councilman Fiore to appoint Barbara Kowalski (D) to the Cultural Arts Commission for a term which expires 5/31/02.
MOTION #4969 by Councilman Egan, seconded by Councilman Mangini to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4969 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Barbara Kowalksi appointed to the Cultural Arts Commission by an 11-0-0 vote.
All other Town Council appointments remained on the table.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
All Town Manager appointments remained tabled.
MOTION #4970 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman McGuire to remove Item c. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4970 adopted 11-0-0.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE
Mr. Shanley reported staff will be meeting again on January 5th , and theyve scheduled a briefing for the Council on January 15th with some specific recommendations.
Councilman Falk questioned the next step. Mr. Shanley explained the Town Attorneys Office is creating a matrix of the various ordinances to see if theres any overlaps or gaps. He noted they would be looking to make very specific recommendations at the ordinance level, i.e., junk cars. He added there will be recommendations for further discussion of specific new ordinance work, i.e., relating to lawn care.
MOTION #4971 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4971 adopted 11-0-0.
Item d. remained tabled.
MOTION #4972 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Falk to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4972 adopted 11-0-0.
CONTINUED DISCUSSION RE: USE OF NORTH SCHOOL
Councilman Fiore questioned if theres a consensus to remove this item from the agenda. He pointed out this item is part of an item that came out to be the Councils fourth highest goal.
Chairwoman Strom stated her belief this item was kept on the agenda strictly because of the negotiations that were going on with the Enfield Food Shelf. She agreed all such buildings were on the Councils list of goals and a very high priority. She pointed out the use of the North School wasnt on the agenda to see what the Town was going to do to fix up that building, but rather to learn whether the Enfield Food Shelf was going to be using that building.
Councilman Mangini stated she has been speaking with Jerry Wilson, and its her understanding hes been working with Town staff to work out any details and particulars. Mr. Shanley noted Mr. Wilson has quite a list of remodeling needs for this facility in order to make it useful to him. He stated eventually something should come before the Council regarding this. Councilman Mangini stated in light of this, she would prefer this item remain on the agenda.
MOTION #4973 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4973 adopted 11-0-0.
Item f. and g. remained tabled.
MOTION #4974 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Falk to remove Item h. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4974 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: OPEN SPACE/CONSERVATION COMMITTEE
Chairwoman Strom stated they met with the Open Space/Conservation Committee for input as to whether they will look at splitting Inland/Wetlands and Conservation. She noted there was a lot of discussion with the Chair and Vice Chair, and its their feeling they have no problem with it being split as long as current members can serve on both bodies. She went on to note there were some Council members who were not in favor of it splitting, while she and others were in favor of a split. She explained her reasons for splitting is that it gives them a start in the right direction so that they can expand the Conservation Commissions current charge and work towards having it a very active Conservation/Open Space Commission.
Councilman Kaupin stated he didnt know if they could legally say there couldnt be overlaps with membership between the Inland/Wetlands and a Conservation Commission. He went on to say it was his inclination to keep this group together, and this had to do with the possibility of members not being able to serve on both bodies. He stated if they can allow people to have membership on both bodies, he wouldnt be against a split as much as he was previously.
Councilman Egan stated she envisions this being a very pro-active commission and taking on a lot of new responsibilities, and she feels it would be wise to have two separate commissions.
Councilman Mangini stated she will not support splitting this commission because the members of that commission have expressed their interest in staying together as a group. She pointed out this group works well together.
Councilman Fiore stated his belief there could be a perception of a conflict of interest by people serving on both bodies.
Chairwoman Strom stated the reason for splitting this commission would be to have an expanded conservation role. She noted there are people on the current body who wish to serve on both and others who dont wish to serve on both bodies. She added this would allow for an expanded membership and an expanded conservation charge and they could get more done.
Councilman Fiore stated he has heard that the majority of the Conservation Commission does not want to split.
Councilman Falk stated there are many things that the Council wants to achieve regarding open space, and a larger time commitment is needed in this area. He noted the existing group is interested in doing this, however, they cannot cover this area in their existing meetings. He stated he supports the proposed split.
Councilman Vayda stated there needs to be a good understanding of what the charge would be if there was to be a split and what the expectations would be.
Councilman Kaupin questioned if it was decided to split, when would this take place in order to have time to develop a charge. He went on to state his belief people can serve on both bodies. He noted the question should be posed to members as to whether theyd favor a split if there was the opportunity to serve on both bodies.
Councilman Hall stated the commission recently took a vote to go to an extra meeting a month, which would be dedicated strictly to conservation. She noted there seemed to be a consensus of the commission that theyd like to "have a go at this" together, as one group to see what they could accomplish with the extra meeting. She stated shes against splitting them at this time because she feels they should be given the opportunity to work together as a group. She noted she doesnt see the rush to split them apart. She stated if the workload becomes too much, she would prefer that the Committee makes that known.
Councilman Dodd stated his belief splitting the group is a natural progression for the workload thats coming their way.
Chairwoman Strom stated she would like to see this item on the agenda again for January 2nd along with a proposal at that time. She noted this does not mean they would be voting on a proposal at that meeting.
Councilman Fiore stated the check and balance for the land use boards is that the Inland/Wetlands remains Town Manager appointed and that the Council should then appoint the environmental group.
Mr. Shanley stated the Inland/Wetlands can go with which ever appointing authority the Council designates. He noted it can be the Town Manager or the legislative body. He noted if its a 131a Conservation Commission, it must be the Town Manager.
Councilman Fiore stated hes more comfortable with Inlands/Wetlands remaining with the Town Manager and the environmental group with the Town Council.
Councilman Falk questioned the next step. Mr. Shanley stated they could put together a proposal. He questioned whether the Council wants the Inlands/Wetlands group appointed by the Council or the Town Manager. Chairwoman Strom stated she has no problem with it being appointed by either the Council or the Town Manager.
Chairwoman Strom suggested the Town Manager put together a proposal for January 2nd.
Councilman Mangini stated in the event this group splits, she would like to see the charge spelled out specifically for each group in conjunction with their input on the projected language.
MOTION #4975 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4975 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #4976 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item i. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4976 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: EHS LIBRARY
Chairwoman Strom stated the Board of Education would like to discuss the Enfield High library with the Town Council prior to moving ahead and forming a Building Committee. It was suggested meeting January 2nd before the Regular Town Council meeting begins. She requested Mr. Shanley speak to Dr. Gallacher tomorrow to learn if thats a good night for them to meet with the Town Council. She suggested meeting another night that week if January 2nd is not good for the Board of Education.
MOTION #4977 by Councilman Giddings, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4977 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #4978 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Falk to remove Item j. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4978 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: AMENDING TAX DELINQUENCY POLICY
Mr. Shanley stated they will be providing an update and briefing as concerns progress on all the tax policies that were passed in the last year. He requested the Council consider holding off on amending their policies at this time to allow staff to go through at least nearly a cycle under the existing policies to see how theyre working. He noted after that cycle, they can then make all the amendments the Council feels necessary.
Councilman Kaupin agreed.
Councilman Vayda questioned the date of the original policy. Mr. Shanley stated last month the six month warning went out for the residential/owner occupied. He noted theyre currently in the process of putting together a tax lien sale for all of the vacant property. He stated theyve already auctioned some tax liens, and the foreclosure component for industrial/commercial has borne the fruit it was intended to.
MOTION #4979 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item j. from the agenda.
Councilman Vayda requested this be kept as a reminder for future action. Mr. Shanley suggested this be brought up in December of next year.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4979 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #4980 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item k. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4980 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER
Councilman Kaupin stated he would like to see a resolution for the next meeting appropriating the maximum dollar amount for the project out of the Social Services Fund Balance, with the understanding the Council will review the remaining piece as part of their budget, whether it should come out of that same fund balance, or come out as a capital project in Fiscal 2001/2002.
Councilman Egan supported Councilman Kaupins suggestion.
Chairwoman Strom stated that would also allow them to go forward with the design and the architects.
Councilman Fiore stated he would be much more comfortable being able to take the maximum that they could out of the Social Services fund now, and in addition, take the remainder out of the Social Services fund in July. Chairwoman Strom noted this is something that can be discussed at the budget process. She stated they are looking for a resolution to take the maximum out of the Social Services fund at this point.
Councilman Kaupin stated he doesnt have a problem taking this out of the Social Services fund right now and the next time, however, at budget time they need to see how that fund is being replenished. He noted his preference is to take it out of such a fund so that it opens capital dollars for other projects that need to be done, however, hes unsure whether they can make a resolution today that binds them for a future vote later on.
Councilman Fiore stated he would like to find a way in which they could do this so that it will not have a negative impact on their budget process or any other programs theyre thinking of doing next year.
Chairwoman Strom stated she considers this a very important project and a high priority.
Councilman Mangini stated she also feels very strongly about this program. She commended the Social Services Department for carrying through with this program. She feels its time to do what needs to be done to move forward with this.
Chairwoman Strom stated there will be a resolution at the next meeting.
MOTION #4981 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hall to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4981 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #4982 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Giddings to remove Item l. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4982 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: FAIR RENT COMMISSION
Mr. Shanley stated he had a conversation with the Chairman of the Housing Authority and discussed with him the concept of creating a Fair Rent Commission from some of the membership of the Housing Authority. He noted the Housing Authority has an enormous amount of knowledge and expertise regarding the rental market in Town, issues regarding code, specific personality issues, etc. He noted after meeting with the staff members who staff the Fair Rent Commission, they came to the conclusion that perhaps that might be a good direction to go, whereby they would create a new Fair Rent Commission from the tenant representative on the Housing Authority, plus three other members, and then add Mr. McGill who is the current chair of the Fair Rent Commission as a landlord, another landlord and another tenant when they meet as the Fair Rent Commission. He pointed out the Fair Rent Commission doesnt really meet very often. He noted he hopes to have something structured for the next Council meeting.
MOTION #4983 by Councilman Vayda, seconded by Councilman Falk to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4983 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #4984 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item m. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4984 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: CHARGE FOR ENFIELD REVITALIZATION AND RELATED COMMITTEES
Mr. Shanley stated a draft charge will be put together regarding this committee. He noted this draft will be presented at the January 2nd Council meeting.
MOTION #4985 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Hall to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4985 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #4986 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Hall to remove item n. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4986 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: GOALS
Councilman Vayda stated his belief there are some questions about the goals as stated. He suggested perhaps those questions can be forwarded directly to the Town Managers Office.
It was agreed to discuss this further at the next meeting.
MOTION #4987 by Councilman Vayda, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4987 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #4988 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Dodd to remove item o. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4988 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4989 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Egan.
WHEREAS, CONNECTICUT GENERAL STATUTE 7-149a allows municipalities to establish an ordinance designating highways or portions of highways as scenic roads; and
WHEREAS, THE STATUTE sets forth certain criteria for the designation of a highway as a scenic road; and
WHEREAS, THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE is appended to this Resolution;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council shall consider the proposed scenic road ordinance, in accordance with the requirements of the Enfield Town Charter, Chapter II, Section 6.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Vayda, seconded by Councilman Falk to amend the following paragraph to read as follows:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council hereby adopts the scenic road ordinance, in accordance with the requirements of the Enfield Town Charter, Chapter III, Section 6.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4989 adopted 11-0-0, as amended.
It was the consensus of the Council to include on a future agenda an item regarding Laughlin Road.
NEW BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
NOMINATION #4990 by Councilman Fiore to appoint Joan Smith (D) to the Enfield Beautification Committee for a term which expires 12/01/03.
MOTION #4991 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Dodd to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4991 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Joan Smith appointed to the Enfield Beautification Committee by an 11-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #4992 by Councilman Fiore to reappoint Rudolph Kuraska (D) to the Board of Assessment Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/03.
MOTION #4993 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Egan to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4993 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Rudolph Kuraska reappointed to the Board of Assessment Appeals by an 11-0-0 vote.
All other Town Council appointments remained on the agenda.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
MOTION #4994 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the Town Managers recommendation to reappoint the following people:
Gary Sullivan (R) to the Building Code Appeals Board for a term which expires 11/01/05 Shirley Carpenter (D) to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/03 Joanne Parlante to the Economic Development Commission for a term which expires 12/31/05
Dr. Harvey Irlen to the Economic Development Commission for a term which expires 12/31/05
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4994 adopted 11-0-0.
All other Town Manager appointments remained on the agenda.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
Appointments to the Connecticut River Assembly will appear under New Business on the next agenda.
Councilman Fiore stated Mr. Jasminski is interested in being reappointed to the Connecticut River Assembly.
Councilman Giddings stated he does not want to be reappointed to the Connecticut River Assembly due to time constraints.
DISCUSSION RE: CAMP, DRESSER & MCKEE RECREATION STUDY
Councilman Vayda stated now that theyve had an opportunity to review the results of the CDM study, he recommends the Council start taking some positive steps toward achieving some of these goals. He pointed out theres a lot to be done. He noted the Council has not yet discussed its long-term vision for the Towns recreational facilities. He stated before they can even start talking about methods for financing this project, including alternative financing or what they can or cannot afford to accomplish, they need to agree upon a vision and have both a long term and short term plan to support it.
Councilman Vayda recommended they maintain a high level of visibility for this project so that they dont leave the impression this is not a priority. He suggested setting specific target goals or activities that are related to the project that can be accomplished each month. He noted these can be placed on the agenda and they can aim at having them accomplished each month to keep things moving so that they can set some momentum. He noted obviously there will be times when they can only take small tasks and accomplish them on a monthly basis, particularly during the budget season.
Councilman Vayda stated his belief they should be working on two tracks. He noted the first is the long view of what their ultimate vision should be and how they should accomplish that. He stated a second track should be directed at identifying what sort of short term solutions are available which can provide residents with a satisfactory interim, or perhaps a long term solution that can be visible even this summer.
He stated with budget sessions in the very near future, he feels its appropriate to start considering some alternatives that could be used as starting points. He noted CDM made specific recommendations on improvements to existing parks. He stated additionally, playing fields at the two high schools are going to be required regardless of whats done at Asnuntuck or Mancuso Park. He noted any work done to these fields will not be wasted because at a minimum they expect to utilize these as practice fields. He noted improvements to these fields are needed now, and they should be targeted for the opening of the 2001/2002 School Year.
Councilman Vayda requested the Council ask Parks & Recreation, along with the School Athletic Department to put together a list of realistic improvements with projected costs that would accomplish the goal of upgrading school fields to the point where at least they could continue to host games at each high school and also to satisfy some of the individual objectives listed in the CDM study.
He stated his belief they need to have these alternatives broken down into manageable components that they can select and match to Council agreed upon short term objectives. He noted without knowing the financial impact of any one alternative, they cannot effectively evaluate options for the upcoming budget season.
Councilman Kaupin questioned who on staff would be the point people on this project, and have they all been identified and do they know this is a major emphasis of the Council. Mr. Shanley stated as soon as the Council adopts their goals, they will. He noted theyre already in the process of looking at the CIP balances to be able to identify some funding sources. He noted there are some things they can get moving on quickly and not necessarily have to wait for the next budget process. He stated with direction from the Council, they can bring forward that information. He noted there are already some projects that are already in process, i.e., doing a schematic drawing of the VFW park, which they have value engineered, and that project could move forward quickly. He noted there are projects that they can move forward on very quickly, and also other projects that the Council designates that they want to have fully engineered so that they can get those detailed costs. He stated staff who would be point people might vary, i.e., Public Works, Engineering, Finance, or Parks & Recreation.
Chairwoman Strom stated perhaps the Towns recreation department can identify what they feel are priority items, and the school system can do the same. She agreed the Council needs to move forward.
Councilman Hall suggested perhaps the Council could have a workshop in January to discuss the CDM study, and then perhaps they could have a good sense of where theyre going, and at least this will prepare them for the budget discussions which begin in March.
Mr. Shanley questioned what would the Council like prepared from staff to make the most of that workshop. Councilman Hall stated she sees this workshop as a brainstorming meeting from the Councils perspective rather than staffs perspective. Mr. Shanley suggested identifying funding in advance to assist in that brainstorming and perhaps get some cost estimates as to what it might take to engineer certain projects, i.e., Brainard Park, or Green Manor Park. He added they could also identify some short term things that could be done relatively quickly.
Councilman Hall stated perhaps Art Pongratz at the School Department could provide some costs for the different field projects.
Councilman Mangini stated she would like to see some attention paid to the high school fields. She requested Mr. Shanley put emphasis on getting information from the School Department regarding what the fields are lacking.
Councilman Vayda stated the Recreation Department needs to tell the Council what needs to be first to resolve problems. He added they should at least be able to bring the fields back into a playable condition.
Councilman Mangini stated the school fields are in deplorable condition. She added her belief before looking at any centralized facility, they need to take care of what they currently have.
Councilman Vayda stated the Council puts money in the education budget to maintain its fields. He questioned if the Council should somehow make sure those funds are used for that particular purpose. He stated he recognizes that the Board of Education has their priorities that are set based on education needs. He raised the question of whether theres a way to modify the way Council does the budgeting for that particular component of the budget, similar to how they do their CIP projects.
Councilman Kaupin stated when asking the Board their priorities for the athletic fields, they also have to understand theres a limited pool of CIP dollars. He noted the Board has to be willing to buy off in this process as well as to how much theyre willing to commit.
Councilman Mangini agreed with Councilman Kaupin.
Chairwoman Strom stated this can be discussed again at the workshop.
MOTION #4995 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Mangini to suspend the rules to address Items c., d., e., f., and g. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4995 adopted 11-0-0.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #4996 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Egan.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Information Technology $60,000.00
Acct. #1210-0334 Tech Services ~
FROM: Information Technology $60,000.00
Acct. #1210-0110 Full-Time Salaries ~
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $60,000.00 is available from Account #1210-0110 as of December 5, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4996 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4997 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO : Various, see attached* $72,960.00
FROM: 8030-930 P/R Collective Bargaining $72,960.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $72,960.00 is available from the various accounts shown on the attached spreadsheet as of December 15, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4997 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4998 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO : 8020-160 Stipends $10,200.00
FROM: 8030-930 Transfer P/R Collective Bargaining $10,120.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $10,120.00 is available from Account #8030-930 as of December 15, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Councilman Vayda questioned if theres any employee in this group that works at the Board of Education. Mr. Shanley responded no.
*Appended to minutes
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4998 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4999 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Falk.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO : Various, see attached* $20,980.00
FROM: 220-9951 Fund Balance Undesignated $20,980.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $20,980.00 is available from Account #220-9951 as of December 15, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4999 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5000 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hall.
WHEREAS, Lego Building Corporation wishes to convey to the Town of Enfield a Conservation Restriction and Easement, a copy of which is attached to this resolution;*
WHEREAS, the Town of Enfield wishes to accept the Conservation Restriction and Easement;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council hereby accepts the Conservation Restriction and Easement from the Lego Building Corporation.
Mr. Shanley clarified although its not included here, the Town will be offered to own one of these conservation areas so that the Town has more impermeable surface related to Jablonski.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5000 adopted 11-0-0.
*Appended to minutes
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Fiore wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #5001 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5001 adopted 11-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:14 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jeannette Lamontagne
Secretary to the Council
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By Suzanne F. Olechnicki
Suzanne F. Olechnicki
Town Clerk
Clerk of the Council
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