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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
JUNE 5, 2000
Before the Regular Meeting was called to order two proclamations were presented:
A Proclamation to Johnson Memorial Hospital designating June 14, 2000 as Osteoporosis Day in Enfield.
A Proclamation to Timothy Bui in recognition of his winning the "World of Words" writing contest. A citation from the State of Connecticut for Timothy Bui was read as well.
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, June 5, 2000. Chairwoman Strom called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.
PRAYER - The Prayer was given by Councilor Fiore.
ROLL-CALL - Present were Councilors Dodd, Egan, Falk, Fiore, Hall, Kaupin, Mangini, McGuire, and Strom. Councilor Surapine entered the meeting at 7:47 p.m. Councilor Vayda was absent. Also present were Town Manager, Scott A. Shanley; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Director of Information Systems, Charlene Bond; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Town Assessor, Joyce Jacius; Director of Libraries, Henry Dutcher; Assistant Director of Libraries, Mary Palomba.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #4637 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Falk to accept the minutes of the May 11, 2000 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4637 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #4638 by Councilor Mangini, seconded by Councilor Kaupin to accept the minutes of the May 15, 2000 Special Meeting.
Councilor Kaupin pointed out there are two "Page 7's"
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4638 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #4639 by Councilor Dodd, seconded by Councilor Kaupin to accept the minutes of the May 15, 2000 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4639 adopted 9-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Congratulated students at Enfield High School and Enrico Fermi High School on their upcoming graduation.
Mr. Jedziniak stated the crosswalks in the area of South Road and Raffia Road need to be repainted.
MOTION #4640 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Hall to suspend the rules to amend the agenda to move Items h. and i. from Items for Discussion to follow Item h. under Old Business.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4640 adopted 9-0-0.
COUNCILOR COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Referring to the matter of picking up trash at condominiums, Councilor Kaupin requested the Town Attorneys office draft a document that would begin the discussion on protecting the Town on the legal issues of going onto private property. He noted he would like to see this discussion move forward.
Councilor Kaupin stated he met with Don Lord, the Chair of the St. James/Elm Street Realignment group. He noted Mr. Lord asked for an update on the issue of traffic calming and the work that would be done in that neighborhood. He stated he told Mr. Lord that he would bring forth the five issues and get back to him as information came forward. Those five items are as follows:
- an option of cul-de-sacing, or dead-ending Cartier Road at Ridge Road and Holly Road at Ridge Road - as an item to be discussed to see if that would work in the neighborhood, and whether this would be acceptable to the neighbors, both on the St. James Avenue side of the neighborhood, and the Cartier Road side of the neighborhood.
- the latest traffic counts for St. James Avenue - apparently a recent count was done, and Mr. Lord would like those figures
- screening that would be done after the intersection is realigned
- are sidewalks on St. James Avenue, Field Road, and Katherine Road part of the Road 2000 program, and if so, would they change from bituminous to concrete
- are there any plans for re-zoning the north side of Elm Street from residential to business
Councilor Kaupin stated Mr. Lord is questioning what the next steps are for the committees.
Councilor Kaupin thanked the Town Manager and Town Attorneys office for the legal opinion regarding the title of "Councilor" and the issue over the disposal of police weapons.
Councilor Mangini noted she received a couple calls from Colonial Drive and Deepwood Drive since it appears pothole work is done on a regular basis on those roads. She stated some of the residents are concerned as to why it has to be done on a regular basis and if there might be a problem that theyre not fully aware of.
Councilor Mangini expressed appreciation for the recent Memorial Day Parade and all those who showed their support.
Councilor Egan requested a report be supplied regarding the meeting held last Friday down state on the matter of the aquifer regulations that will be coming out.
Councilor Egan expressed her appreciation for the wonderful outpouring of people at the Memorial Day Parade.
Councilor Falk commended the Veterans Council for including a grammar school essay contest and the presentation of awards and certificates on the Town Green after the Memorial Day Parade.
Councilor Falk stated Voices, Inc. is having their spring concert on Wednesday at Enfield High School at 7:30 p.m. and Thursday at 6:00 and 8:30 p.m.
MOTION #4641 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Kaupin to add Item l. which is a meeting change from June 19th to June 20th, and Item m., which is a transfer of funds for the EMS consultant.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4641 adopted 10-0-0.
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
Councilor Mangini commended Councilors Kaupin, Dodd and all the members of the Fourth of July Celebration Committee for their hard work on this Committee.
Councilor Mangini stated she attended a Restorationist Seminar with Debbie Oppermann and the Revitalization group in Guilford, Connecticut. She noted she took a session on "building up vs tearing down", and learned a lot. She stated this was very educational, and she learned there are a lot more values to older buildings than just tearing them down.
Councilor Hall updated the Council on the School Projects Building Committee. She stated the architects have the preliminaries on Phase I roughed out, and theyre moving into Phase II. She noted there have been some adjustments to the actual placement of some of the additions, and in the upcoming quarterly address, the Building Committee will display all the new drawings and plans so the Council can see how some of these additions and changes were made. She stated theyre right on schedule and are moving forward fairly quickly.
Councilor Kaupin updated the Council on the Town Green. He noted there are two outstanding projects for the Town Green Advisory Committee, and one is the laying of the bricks that have been purchased since the last installment was done. He pointed out they had a little hold-up in finding available brick to be engraved. He stated a meeting is planned for this week, therefore, there should be an update on that. He noted another item has to do with the restructuring of the fountain in front of Town Hall. He stated theyre investigating whether a particular product is compatible with the fountain, and if not, the Committee decided if the issue isnt resolved by Wednesday, the Committee will come before the Council on June 19th to ask that the Committee be dissolved and the money in the Town Green account be used to maintain the existing fountain.
Councilor Kaupin stated on June 19th at Henry Barnard, the Board of Education Space Subcommittee will be meeting to discuss some issues regarding the Enfield High School Library grant application process.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
MOTION #4642 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Falk to remove Item 3. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4642 adopted 10-0-0.
Councilor Kaupin stated the Council had previously had an application in their packet for Kevin Kibbe who wishes to be appointed to the Conservation Commission, and he is interested in serving on the Zoning Board of Appeals as an Alternate. He noted the Council can wait until the next meeting to act on this.
Councilor Mangini questioned this applicants party affiliation, and Councilor Kaupin stated Mr. Kibbe is a Republican. He noted on the Zoning Board of Appeals there are three alternates, and currently there is one democrat and one republican with a vacancy.
Councilor Mangini suggested perhaps this can wait until the next meeting in the event there might be another interested candidate.
Councilor Kaupin requested the Town Manager pull Kevin Kibbes old application.
Councilor Fiore stated there was a ruling on this from the Town Attorney based on the discussion of how the party split happened with regular members vs alternate members, and the Town Attorney did rule that the count of the majority/minority starts back over fresh with alternate positions.
It was agreed this item could wait until the next meeting.
MOTION #4643 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Mangini to re-table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4643 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #4644 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Egan to remove Items 5, 7, and 8 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4644 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #4645 by Councilor Falk to reappoint the following individuals to the Cultural Arts Commission for terms which expire 5/31/02 - Item 5 - Barbara Kelly (R); Item 7 - Priscilla McManus (R); Item 8 - Marie-Louise Starski (R).
MOTION #4646 by Councilor Dodd, seconded by Councilor Egan to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4646 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared all three nominees appointed to the Cultural Arts Commission by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #4647 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Kaupin to remove Item #11 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4647 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #4648 by Councilor Falk to appoint S. Harry Madler (R) to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/01.
MOTION #4649 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Dodd to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4649 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared S. Harry Madler appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals by a 10-0-0 vote.
All other Town Council appointments remained tabled.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
MOTION #4650 by Councilor Hall, seconded by Councilor Fiore to accept the Town Managers recommendation to remove Item #4 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4650 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #4651 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Fiore to accept the Town Managers recommendation to appoint Chris Casey to the Economic Development Commission.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4651 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #4652 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Egan to accept the Town Managers recommendation to remove Item #7 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4652 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #4653 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Hall to accept the Town Managers recommendation to appoint Pauline LaCroix to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/02.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4653 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #4654 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Dodd to accept the Town Managers recommendation to remove Item #10 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4654 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #4655 by Councilor Surapine, seconded by Councilor Mangini to accept the Town Managers recommendation to appoint Deb Giddings to the Enfield Beautification Committee for a term which expires 1/20/01.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4655 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #4656 by Councilor Surapine, seconded by Councilor Kaupin to remove Item c. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4656 adopted 10-0-0.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE (BLIGHTED PROPERTY)
Councilor Surapine stated perhaps the Council can begin focusing in on how they may want to have an ordinance regarding this. He suggested perhaps they could use West Hartfords property ordinance as a guide to bring about an Enfield property ordinance.
Councilor Mangini stated she received a call from a resident in the North Thompsonville area pertaining to a blighted area. She noted she did make a request through the Town Managers office to look into a potential health or fire hazard regarding certain issues. She agreed its important that the Council begin looking more closely at a property maintenance ordinance.
Councilor Surapine suggested copies of the sample ordinances be distributed to the Council.
Chairwoman Strom stated her belief this could be an item for an upcoming special meeting since this will be an involved discussion. She added her belief the Town Attorney should be present for that discussion.
MOTION #4657 by Councilor Surapine, seconded by Councilor Egan to re-table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4657 adopted 10-0-0.
Item d. remained on the table.
MOTION #4658 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Dodd to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4658 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4659 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Kaupin.
RESOLVED, that the Town Manager, Scott Shanley is empowered to enter into and amend contractual instruments in the name and on behalf of the Town of Enfield with the State of Connecticut, Department of Transportation for State Project No. 170-1921, Rehabilitation of Railroad Tracks. This requires the detour of traffic over Town owned/maintained streets. The closure of Route 190 (Hazard Avenue) is necessary for a period of 2 (two) days due to reconstruction of the railroad grade crossing. The States Contractor will install and remove all necessary signs to detour traffic around the construction site.
Councilor Falk questioned whether the cost for a traffic officer to direct traffic will be covered by the applicant.
Mr. Shanley stated he did hear them say theyd be happy to pay for any necessary police coverage. He added if the DOT is the requesting agency, they can ask them to do this. He noted if the DOT doesnt agree to this, he will come back to the Council.
Councilor Mangini stated neither the purpose, nor the justification of this project has ever been made clear, therefore, she cannot support this.
Councilor Fiore stated if this resolution was not voted on this evening, or ever voted on, what would be the outcome. He questioned whether the State of Connecticut can proceed to shut down the road.
Mr. Shanley stated by not acting on this, the Town is not granting approval to use local streets as a detour. He added hes uncertain what legal recourse they have and what authority the DOT can then exercise to move forward with their plans.
Councilor Fiore stated in another project theres a reallotment of money for the North Street railroad approaches. He questioned if the $200,000 is directly related to this project. Mr. Shanley stated its indirectly related.
Councilor Fiore stated he will vote against this resolution because he feels this is an inconvenience to people in that area. He added he hasnt heard the justification for this project.
Councilor Kaupin stated he has a letter from a resident which he would like to be forwarded to Mr. Bellevieu for his response. He noted there are questions concerning the type of freight, what type of indemnification, what are the standard operating procedures in case theres an accident, certificates of insurance, the location of a pipeline under the railroad trestle, and the fact that Springborn employees park their cars over the railroad trestle.
Councilor Kaupin stated with proper planning companies can utilize the rail to move heavier equipment. He noted it gets tractor trailer trucks off the road. He pointed out these trains move much slower than trucks, and its a much safer alternative for moving freight. He stated Mr. Bellevieu is speculating hell be able to line up companies to haul their products. He noted there is an inconvenience of a couple days, however, it could lead to improvements to the business climate in the area.
Chairwoman Strom voiced her support of the resolution. She stated this does help to take traffic off the roads, and thats a benefit to the Town of Enfield.
Councilor McGuire stated his belief there are still unanswered questions, i.e., who will cover the cost of a traffic officer and questions raised in the letter mentioned by Councilor Kaupin.
Councilor Mangini stated her belief they need to put the peoples interest first.
Councilor Fiore stated that the Town wasnt asked if they wanted to reopen the rail line, this is only a courtesy. It is between the state and a private contractor and the residents of Enfield should be informed of that fact. It was not an Enfield Town Council or administrative initiative.
Councilor Hall stated the Town of Enfield did not have any say in the re-opening of that line, but, if they did, she would not support the resolution. She noted the frustration she feels about this as well as the people who attended the information session that were against the reopening in that they did not have any say in this decision; and, although she does not support this, she will vote in favor of the resolution simply because she has no real vote about the matter.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4659 adopted 7-3-0, with Councilor Fiore, Mangini, and McGuire voting against the resolution.
RESOLUTION #4660 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Dodd.
RESOLVED, that the Town Manager, Scott Shanley is empowered to enter into and amend contractual instruments in the name and on behalf of the Town of Enfield with the State of Connecticut, Department of Transportation for State Project No. 170-1921, Rehabilitation of Railroad Tracks. This requires the detour of traffic over Town owned/maintained streets. The closure of Route 191 (Broad Brook Road) is necessary for a period of 3 (three) days due to reconstruction of the railroad grade crossing. The States Contractor will install and remove all necessary signs to detour traffic around the construction site.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4660 adopted 7-3-0, with Councilor Fiore, Mangini, and McGuire voting against the resolution.
Items f., g., and h. remained tabled.
DISCUSSION RE: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE FOR THE EXPANSION AND ALTERATION OF THE ENFIELD HIGH SCHOOL & RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE FOR THE REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT OF EXTERIOR WINDOWS AT E. H. PARKMAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Present for this discussion were Arthur Pongratz, Director of School Facilities and Nicholas Sinsigalli, chairman of the school space Committee.
Mr. Pongratz stated theyre before the Council to request consideration for resolutions to allow them to apply for grant funding from the State of Connecticut for the Enfield High School Library expansion and alteration and for the E. H. Parkman energy conservation project.
Councilor Falk questioned whether the new elevator only goes from the ground floor to the second floor, and Mr. Pongratz responded thats correct, to service the library.
Councilor Falk questioned what the cost would be if they only addressed the library, and he requested Mr. Pongratz ask this question of the architect.
Chairwoman Strom pointed out that by applying for this grant at this point, its reserving that money. Mr. Pongratz added this also provides the opportunity to hold that money for up to two years.
Councilor Surapine stated his understanding there was a discussion about the elevator going all the way to the third floor. He questioned the size of the elevator accommodating wheelchairs. Mr. Sinsigalli stated the existing elevator is on the small size, however, it can handle a wheelchair. He noted one of the main reasons theyre installing an elevator for the library is to help move freight. He added they did talk about bringing that elevator to the third floor, and he believes the architect did look at that, however, he has not seen the new specs as yet. He added his belief its one of the possibilities that they can opt to go to the third floor with the elevator.
Chairwoman Strom questioned if the plan is detailed, and Mr. Pongratz stated this plan is very conceptual. He noted this is basically to provide good square footage numbers so that he can apply for the grant.
Councilor Dodd suggested early in the plan they include the elevator running to the third floor.
Councilor Kaupin voiced his support for the resolution. He noted hes the liaison to this Committee and pointed out the Committee did a lot of hard work on this. He added his belief they should formalize the Building Committee so they can work out all the details.
Mr. Pongratz then spoke about the removal and replacement of exterior windows at E. H. Parkman. He described the type of windows being proposed.
Councilor Mangini questioned whether theyll be addressing ventilation, and Mr. Pongratz stated they have ventilation, however, not air conditioning.
Councilor Fiore questioned whether the windows are tinted, and Mr. Pongratz responded yes.
Councilor Fiore questioned whether these types of windows will be more expensive regarding pane replacements, and Mr. Pongratz responded yes and noted window breakage has gone down significantly over the past five years.
Councilor Fiore questioned whether they will be doing window replacements for one school per year, and Mr. Pongratz responded yes.
Councilor Egan questioned whether these windows are aesthetically more appealing than whats currently there, and Mr. Pongratz responded vastly.
Councilor Dodd questioned the framing material on the windows, and Mr. Pongratz responded aluminum with thermal barriers.
Councilor Falk questioned whether this will be tied in with the renovation of Parkman, and Mr. Pongratz stated its their hope to do this work this summer.
Councilor Surapine questioned whether theyll be able to replace broken windows promptly, and Mr. Pongratz responded yes.
MOTION #4661 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Mangini to suspend the rules to move Items h. and i. to Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4661 adopted 10-0-0.
NEW BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
NOMINATION #4662 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Falk to reappoint K. Walter Shermer (U) and Clinton F. Williams (R) to the Area 25 Cable Television Advisory Committee for terms which expire 6/30/02.
MOTION #4663 by Councilor Egan, seconded by Councilor Dodd to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4663 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared K. Walter Shermer and Clinton F. Williams appointed to the Area 25 Cable Television Advisory Committee by a 10-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #4664 by Councilor Falk to reappoint Elizabeth Ballard (R) to the North Central District Health Department Board of Directors for a term which expires 6/30/03.
MOTION #4665 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Egan to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4665 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Elizabeth Ballard reappointed to the North Central District Health Department Board of Directors by a 10-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #4666 by Councilor Fiore to reappoint Richard Woods (D) to the North Central District Health Department Board of Directors.
MOTION #4667 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Dodd to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4667 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Richard Woods reappointed to the North Central District Health Department Board of Directors by a 10-0-0 vote.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
MOTION #4668 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Dodd to accept the Town Managers recommendation to reappoint Louis DeCaro (D), Donna Koseian (R), and Samuel McGill, Jr. (D) to the Fair Rent Commission for terms that expire 6/30/02. (Items #1, 2, and 4)
Councilor Mangini questioned whether the Town Manager has been in touch with Mr. DeCaro, and Mr. Shanley indicated Mr. DeCaro indicated to Joan Smith that hes interested in reappointment.
Councilor Fiore stated he would appreciate the Town Manager waiting until the next meeting for the first appointment (Item #1).
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared Donna Koseian and Samuel McGill, Jr. appointed to the Fair Rent Commission by a 10-0-0 vote.
RESOLUTION #4669 by Councilor Dodd, seconded by Councilor Falk
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: 1210-0334 (Tech Svc - Consulting) $4,500.00
FROM: 8030-740 (Contingency) $4,500.00
CERTIFICATION:
I hereby certify the amount of $4,500 is available from Account #8030-740 (Contingency)
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4669 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4670 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Dodd.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: DPW - Highway Maintenance $100,000
Acct. #3700-490 Other Property Services ~
FROM: DPW - Highway Maintenance ~
Acct. #3700-339 Other Profess. Services $ 10,000.00
Acct. #3700-614 Supplies Salt & Sand $ 30,000.00
Acct. #3700-622 Street & Traffic Lighting $ 60,000.00
~ $100,000.00
CERTIFICATION:
I hereby certify the amount of $100,000 is available from Account #Various (see above) as of May 31, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Councilor Fiore questioned whether they can deliver the new catch basin cleaner sooner. Mr. Kazmarski explained theres a long lead time for these trucks.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4670 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4671 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Kaupin.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Capital Improvement Program $97,342.00
Acct. #99-3200-130 FY 98/99 ~
North Main Street Bridge Replacement ~
FROM: Capital Improvement Program ~
Acct. #97-3200-003 FY 99/00 $50,000.00
Acct. #97-3200-002 FY 98/99 $42,017.00
Acct. #97-3200-003 FY 97/98 $ 5,325.00
Old King Street Culvert-Beemans ~
~ $97,342.00
CERTIFICATION:
I hereby certify the amount of $97,342.00 is available from Account #Various (see above) as of June 2, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4671 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4672 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Egan.
BE IT RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council does hereby establish an Energy Supply and Operation Committee to investigate energy supply and usage options available to the Town of Enfield as a result of the Energy Deregulation process put in place by the Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control; at least one Public Hearing will be held to provide for citizen input; periodic status reports shall be provided to the Town Council with a final report due no later than one year from the date of establishment; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said committee shall consist of:
Regular Members
- One member of the Town Council shall serve as a liaison, appointed by the Mayor
- Seven citizens shall be appointed as members by the Town Manager
- The Public Works Director or his designee shall serve as a staff liaison to the Committee
Councilor Mangini questioned why theyre appointing one member of the Council as a liaison and seven citizens. She noted normally they have two Council liaisons, a Republican and Democrat.
Chairwoman Strom noted there could be two liaisons. She pointed out the recommendation from the staff was one, basically because there will be a lot of meetings. She noted members will have to do a lot of studying as to the various options available.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilor Mangini, seconded by Councilor Kaupin to appoint one Republican and one Democrat from the Enfield Town Council as liaisons.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0.
Councilor Fiore stated he will support this as a Town Manager appointment because he feels it is a Town Manager commission.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4672 adopted 10-0-0, as amended.
RESOLUTION #4673 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Falk.
RESOLVED, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield, does hereby reallocate Prison Fund Project List and budget in accordance with the attached "State Prison Agreement - Capital Project Funding" listing dated 6/5/2000. (List appended to minutes)
Councilor Mangini suggested prior to passing this resolution, perhaps they could approach the railroad company and DOT to make a contribution towards this. Mr. Shanley stated his belief the State may say that this is state money, and the railroad person would be under no obligation to re-grade Enfields roads.
Councilor Kaupin disagreed with asking a business for a contribution.
Councilor Egan voiced her support of this resolution.
Councilor Hall stated she recalled a question being asked at a previous meeting as to whether the railroad owner would work with the Town on the North Road intersection. Councilor Kaupin stated his belief this had to do with grade elevation as to what the railroad owner would have to do with the track at that location, in conjunction with what the Town would have to do with the road. He noted this work has to be done together. Mr. Shanley added theyd at least want the design work to be done simultaneously.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4673 adopted 9-1-0, with Councilor Mangini voting against the resolution.
RESOLUTION #4674 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Mangini.
WHEREAS, the regularly scheduled first meeting in July falls on July 3rd which is in the middle of a "holiday" weekend; and
WHEREAS, Council has determined that its workload precludes the elimination of a meeting;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby postpones the meeting of July 3rd to Tuesday, July 11th, at 7:30 p.m., in the Town Council Chambers; and
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the Town Council postpones the meeting of July 17th and moves it to July 24th.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4674 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #4675 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Hall to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4675 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4676 by Councilor Dodd, seconded by Councilor Falk.
A Resolution re: Approval of Proposed Neighborhood Assistance Act Grant Applications
(Copy appended to these minutes)
Councilor Falk questioned if theyre limited to dollar amounts as far as how much they can request. Mr. Vindigni explained the organizations ask for the amount of money they need. He noted the 40% or 60% figure is based on the population that is being served.
Councilor Mangini stated the YWCA in Hartford is listed as one of the applicants, however, they dont have an application. She requested the Town Manager revisit this organization. Mr. Vindigni stated the state deadline is July 3rd. He noted the Council can vote on this at the next Council meeting. Chairwoman Strom questioned whether another public hearing would be necessary. Mr. Vindigni indicated hes unsure. Chairwoman Strom stated her understanding the applications have to go through a public
hearing in order for the Council to be able to vote on them. Councilor Mangini suggested perhaps the Town Managers office could make contact with the YWCA for the future. Mr. Vindigni stated he can do a follow-up phone call, and as he has done in the past, he
will include them on the distribution list. He pointed out the YWCA has been on the distribution list for a number of years.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4676 adopted 10-0-0.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
Town Council appointments will appear under New Business on the next agenda.
DISCUSSION RE: FLOOD HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
Present from Maguire Group, Inc. were Terry McCarthy and Bethany Tassone.
Mr. Vindigni explained last year the Town Council approved the submission of a grant to the State Department of Environmental Protection. He noted the total project cost was $10,000, of which 75% would be paid for by the DEP, and the other 25% by the Town of Enfield. He stated the purpose of developing this plan was to formalize the Towns approach in how they address issues regarding flooding, and how to prevent floods from reoccurring. He stated flood hazard mitigation deals with a non-emergency setting, and its dealing with a systematic process through using capital improvements, public education and awareness, and planning.
Mr. Vindigni stated at this point, the Town Council is the last municipal body that needs to review this plan. He noted there is a resolution requesting a public hearing for the July 11th meeting. He stated following that public hearing, the Council could vote on the plan the same evening.
Ms. Tassone highlighted the following areas of the Town of Enfield Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan:
- introduction
- community description
- history of flooding in Enfield
- existing mitigation measures
- new objectives that have been identified
- technical and financial resources
Councilor Kaupin questioned if there are any mitigation efforts that Enfield is not undertaking that they recommend Enfield should start to do. Ms. Tassone stated it seems
Enfield is very willing to put forth the effort. She referred to the last section of the Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Councilor Egan stated her understanding Maguire Group worked in conjunction with the regulatory bodies in Enfield to come up with this Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan, and they were all in agreement with this plan. Ms. Tassone responded thats correct.
MOTION #4677 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Mangini to suspend the rules to address items c. g., j., k., l., and m. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION#4677 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: 2001 REVALUATION OF PROPERTY/RFP
Present for this discussion were Town Assessor, Joyce Jacius and Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons.
Ms. Jacius stated the Town of Enfield is required to begin implementing the 12-year physical and statistical revaluation. She stated her understanding they should do a full physical revaluation for October 1, 2001. She explained revaluation is the process of estimating new values based on specific rules and current data. She noted the rules include laws, court decisions and standards of practice. She noted the data includes sales, replacement costs, neighborhood trends, and current use. She stated when the rules or the data changes, values become obsolete and inaccurate. She noted there will be a systematic process in which all data is collected or verified. She stated through this process theyll discover the most probable price in terms of money that a property would sell for on a free and open market and from there go to the new assessment.
Ms. Jacius stated they have a computer-assisted appraisal system in place at this time. She noted theyre currently drafting three options for RFPs. She stated they would require a certified re-evaluation company to do a full inspection of all properties and ultimately establish a value for each parcel. She noted the new request is to add a video imaging service, which would photograph all the properties.
She stated the expensive part of re-evaluation is the data collection. She stated her belief that since they have excellent data on their residential cards, and they have everything in place for the computer system, they will give the revaluation company their existing field cards. She noted if the company sees any upgrades, it can be so noted on the cards. She added data mailers will be sent to each homeowner containing pertinent information with
a request for verification of that data. She stated after values are derived, review appraisers would re-visit each of these residential properties to ascertain whether the final
value is appropriate.
Ms. Jacius stated they need a legal opinion from the Town Attorney regarding the word "view", because the statute says, "to view each property". She noted they also need to see the price difference between a full interior inspection and an exterior view.
She stated the success of the project depends greatly on the ability to educate the public and to be sure to appraise the properties accurately and in accordance with state statutes.
Councilor Kaupin questioned which option Ms. Jacius recommends, and she stated it depends on the price difference.
Councilor Kaupin questioned if its planned to do a full-blown revaluation in 2001, and then get into the statistical every four years, and Ms. Jacius indicated thats correct.
Councilor Falk questioned the cost of the 1993 revaluation, and Mr. Simmons stated it was close to $600,000.
Councilor Falk questioned the estimated cost at this time, and Mr. Simmons stated theyre hoping to be able to save money, i.e., the reliance on the assessors records. He estimated the cost to be about $450,000.
Councilor Falk questioned whether this is something that has to be budgeted for over multiple years, and Mr. Shanley stated they have been setting aside funds on an annual basis, and they intend to set aside funds this fiscal year as well.
DISCUSSION RE: SUSPENSE LIST
Mr. Simmons stated each year, an amount is transferred to suspense, which is determined by the Tax Collector, and its made up of taxes, not including real estate. He noted its personal property and motor vehicle, most of it being motor vehicle. He stated these are taxes that the Tax Collector feels are uncollectible at this point from her efforts, which are repeated mailings. He stated the catch that they have for motor vehicles has to do with when the owner has to re-register their car, the Town puts a block on that re-registration. He noted the owner would still have to pay their taxes if they ever wished to register a car in Connecticut.
Mr. Simmons stated the figure that they have right now is $220,735.25. He noted at the next meeting, they will have a resolution for the Town Council.
DISCUSSION RE: METROHARTFORD VETERANS DAY PARADE
Chairwoman Strom stated the Veterans Council needs to know whether or not the Town Council will be participating. It was the consensus of the Council that they would participate.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #4678 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Dodd.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council will hold a Public Hearing in the Enfield Town Hall Council Chambers, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 7:25 p.m. to allow interested citizens an opportunity to express their opinion regarding the proposed Town of Enfield Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Falk to change the meeting time to 7:15 p.m.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4678 adopted, as amended, by a 10-0-0 vote.
RESOLUTION #4679 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Library ~
Acct. #5100-0642 Library Books-Adult 30101 $20,000.00
FROM: Library ~
Acct. #5100-0334 Tech. Service $ 5,000.00
Acct. #5100-0580 Travel 500.00
Acct. #5100-0612 Office/Adm. Supplies 1,500.00
Acct. #5100-0613 Technology Supp/Matls 4,000.00
Acct. #5100-0110 Salaries - Full-Time 9,000.00
~ $20,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $20,000.00 is available from Account #Various (see above) as of May 24, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4679 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4680 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Kaupin.
RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield does hereby establish a School Building Committee consisting of the Town Council and Town Manager, or his designee, for the expansion and alteration of the Enfield High School;
AND WHEREAS, as a result of a study by the Board of Education Space Subcommittee, the Enfield Board of Education has adopted a plan and approved Educational Specifications for meeting the current and anticipated future facility requirements for the Enfield High School;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the preparation of schematic drawings and outline specifications for the expansion and alteration of the Enfield High School as recommended by the Board of Education;
AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the Enfield Board of Education and its designee(s) to execute Form(s) EDO49 School Facilities Grant Data Form, and EDO41 Notice of Applicant Funding for the above referenced school building project.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4680 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4681 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Egan.
RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield does hereby establish a School Building Committee consisting of the Town Council and Town Manager, or his designee, for the removal and replacement of exterior windows at the E. H. Parkman Elementary School;
AND WHEREAS, the Town Council has approved a six-year Capital Improvements Plan
to fund window replacement projects which provided an initial appropriation of $150,000.00, for FY-2000-01 and an additional proposed appropriation in future years through 2005-06;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the preparation of drawings and specifications for the E. H. Parkman Elementary School Energy Conservation Project;
AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the Enfield Board of Education and its designee(s) to execute Form(s) EDO49 School Facilities Grant Data Form, and EDO41 Notice of Applicant Funding for the above referenced school building project.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4681 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4682 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Account #1600-170 Town Clerk Salaries-Other $800
FROM: Account #8030-840 Contingency $800
CERTIFICATION:
I hereby certify the amount of $800 is available from Account #8030-840 as of May 30, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4682 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4683 by Councilor Mangini, seconded by Councilor Kaupin.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Personnel $2,100.00
Acct. #1700-0540 Advertising ~
FROM: Personnel $2,100.00
Acct. #1700-0133 Salaries-Intern ~
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $2,100.00 is available from Account #1700-0133 as of May 31, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4683 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #4684 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Egan.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby reschedule its regular meeting of June 19th to June 20th;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a Special Meeting be scheduled for June 14th at 7:00 p.m. in the Enfield Room of the Enfield Town Hall.
Councilor Kaupin stated hes against the resolution since he will be unable to attend these meetings.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Dodd to add:
RESOLVED, that the Public Hearing scheduled for June 19th is also rescheduled to June 20th.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4684 adopted 9-1-0, with Councilor Kaupin voting against.
RESOLUTION #4685 by Councilor Hall, seconded by Councilor Falk.
BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Town Manager ~
Acct. #1200-339 ~
Professional Services-Other $36,000.00
FROM: PVTA Subsidy ~
Acct. #7095-890 $36,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $36,000.00 is available from Account #7095-890 as of June 1, 2000.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4685 adopted 10-0-0.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #4686 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Surapine to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4686 adopted 10-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jeannette Lamontagne
Secretary to the Council
By Suzanne F. Olechnicki
Suzanne F. Olechnicki
Town Clerk
Clerk of the Council
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