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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A SPECIAL MEETING
MAY 23, 2000
A Special Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairwoman Strom in the Enfield Room of the Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Tuesday, May 23, 2000 at 7:06 p.m.
ROLL-CALL Present were Councilors Dodd, Egan, Falk, Fiore, Kaupin, McGuire, Strom and Vayda. Councilor Mangini entered at 8:30 p.m. Councilors Hall and Surapine were absent. Also present were Town Manager, Scott A. Shanley; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki; Director of Information Systems, Charlene Bond; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons, Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES SYSTEMS RFP
Present for this discussion were Fire Chiefs, Earl Provencher and Jack Flanagan; Chief of Police Ronald Marcotte and Chairman of the Enfield Community Ambulance Fund, Stanley Halgas.
Mr. Vindigni stated the Council has before them a draft of specifications that are being proposed to engage the services of a consultant who would do a comprehensive assessment of Enfields EMS system.
The Council watched a short video that was put together by the Community Ambulance Fund. Some of the highlights of the video were as follows:
o a history of the ambulance service
o currently this service transports about 2,500 patients annually
o the ambulance network consists of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) from the Enfield Police, firemen from North Thompsonville, Thompsonville, Hazardville and Enfield, along with paramedics from American Medical Response.
o Emergency ambulance service is available at no out-of-pocket costs
o the Ambulance Committee conducts annual fund drives to pay for the operating expenses of the ambulance network
o police and firefighters currently have for their use over one-quarter million dollars in vehicles and medical equipment, which have been purchased by the Ambulance Committee
o with the latest addition of defribillators and paramedic services, Enfield has a high quality service
o Enfield is the only town in Connecticut with a free ambulance service
The Maciolek Post takes care of the costs for all the operations, the ambulances themselves, and the EMS cars that the tree fire districts use
Mr. Vindigni then summarized the RFP process. He noted theyre looking for the Councils endorsement to go out for RFPs to engage the services of a consultant who would do a comprehensive assessment of Enfields EMS system.
He stated the Fire Chiefs Association and Chief of Police came before the Council to present a report on the Town of Enfield Emergency Medical System, and it was basically their proposal on how to formalize the existing organizational structure of EMS and how its delivered in Enfield, which consists of multiple agencies between the fire, police, the commercial ambulance and community ambulance. He noted based on Council feedback, this was followed up with a more formal written proposal entitled, "Enfield Community Ambulance Business Plan Emergency Medical Services, 2000-2004", which was presented to the Council in December of 1999.
Mr. Vindigni reviewed the workload of EMS for this current year as of May 22, 2000. He noted last year they had a total of over 3,900 EMS calls of which the fire department handled 68% of those calls. He stated of the total fire department workload, approximately half has been attributed to EMS. He stated all five fire departments did a total of about 5,200 calls. He noted 1,500 of the total EMS calls were ALS transports in 1999. He went on to note where ALS transports were required, there were 205 calls, but unfortunately it was not available, either due to multiple calls occurring or unavailability of a paramedic unit. He pointed out this was one of the factors influencing the fire chiefs and police chief working toward this business plan and where there could be enhancements.
Mr. Vindigni stated for the year 2000, as of May 22nd, theyve had almost 1,300 EMS calls. He stated 164 calls required ALS, but a unit was not available, and this is a concern of the medical providers.
Mr. Vindigni stated there are two objectives in the RFP to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the Town of Enfield EMS system and to develop recommendations to enable EMS to continue meeting community needs. He stated in accomplishing these objectives, the RFP has the following parameters:
o one town-wide system with BLS and ALS
o consistent burden of financial responsibility borne throughout the municipality
o Maciolek Post retains a critical role in EMS
o Town of Enfield continues maintaining legal and operational control of EMS
Mr. Vindigni stated because of the way EMS is delivered in Enfield, involving multiple agencies in both the private and public sector, they dont have a comprehensive idea of what is the cost of delivering EMS in Enfield.
He stated the RFP will require the determination of a method to deliver EMS. He noted operating structures to be evaluated may consist of:
o utilize existing providers (police and fire)
o contract with a private concern
o contract with public agencies (one or more fire districts)
o create a third service within Town government
o some combination thereof
He noted it will be necessary to identify advantages and disadvantages for each structure, along with estimated expenditures.
Mr. Vindigni stated they would require the consultant to give their perspective regarding the issue of revenue recovery.
Councilor Kaupin stated he would like to see this move forward.
Councilor Dodd questioned whether the consultant will make suggestions on the fund raising aspect, particularly in the area of revenue recovery. Mr. Vindigni agreed that could be brought up.
Councilor Egan questioned whether this study would eliminate two ambulances appearing at the same time. Mr. Provencher responded the study wouldnt, but subsequent actions may. Mr. Shanley added it would create a management structure and a way of doing business whereby ultimately protocols would come out of that.
Councilor Fiore questioned if CRCOG can assist in this study. Mr. Vindigni stated CRCOG mainly focuses on communications and related legislation. He noted there are firms that specialize in this type of service.
Councilor Fiore questioned why Shaker Pines Fire Department doesnt participate in this, and Mr. Flanagan stated they dont have the amount of personnel needed to participate at this time. Chief Marcotte noted possibly that can change in the future.
Councilor Fiore questioned how they envision the selection committee, and Mr. Vindigni stated it would be consistent with prior practice. He noted they would also include the Maciolek Post.
Councilor McGuire questioned the possibility of doing this study internally, and Mr. Shanley pointed out none of them have ever run an ambulance company. He stated the real question is what is best for the residents of Enfield in terms of their medical care, and whats the best structure. He noted another question is what is the affordability of that structure for a governing body. He noted they can get that objectivity and experience from a consultant.
Councilor McGuire questioned if theres a count for under-availability, and Mr. Shanley stated his belief the consultant should look into this.
Councilor McGuire questioned if there are any plans to do paramedic training. Chief Marcotte responded not for the police department, but the fire department may have this.
Councilor Falk questioned if Enfield is the only community that provides free ambulance service. Chief Marcotte stated East Windsor, Windsor Locks, and Suffield have volunteer service, however, they charge.
Councilor Vayda expressed his appreciation for this service.
Councilor Dodd stated his belief its in the Towns best interest to go with a consultant due to the size and complexity of this program.
It was the consensus of the Town Council that they move forward with the RFP.
RESOLUTION #4634 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Dodd.
WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield has expressed a desire to amend the current pension benefits for certain employees who work for the Town, and
WHEREAS the Town desires to offer an early retirement incentive plan (hereinafter "ERIP") to certain eligible employees, and
WHEREAS, negotiations have been completed between the Town and the unions representing affected employees,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with the Town Pension Plan, the Enfield Town Council does hereby agree to an ERIP for the benefit of Town employees who are employed in bargaining units represented by AFSCME Council 4 Locals 1029 and 1303-359, who are employed in the bargaining unit represented by the SEIU Local 531 Professional and Technical Employees Unit, who are employed in the bargaining unit represented by the SEIU Local 531 Supervisors Unit, and all non-union employees. Said ERIP will extend the benefits to members of this group as are provided
for in the attached agreements* between the Town and the above referenced unions. Additionally, the pension plan for the above referenced employees will be amended to make the following permanent changes. The early retirement penalty will be reduced and the calculation of the interest rate on contributions to said plan will be changed in accordance with Enfield Town Council Resolution No. 4535 and 4536. These two (2) permanent changes shall take effect on July 1, 2000. The agreements ratifying this ERIP and pension enhancements between AFSCME Council 4 Locals 1029 and 1303-359, SEIU Local 531 Professional and Technical Employees Unit and SEIU Local 531 Supervisors Unit are hereby ratified by the Enfield Town Council.
(*Agreements appended to minutes)
Councilor Falk questioned whether all the unions agreed to this, and Mr. Shanley responded yes.
Councilor Falk questioned if this applies to all Town employees, excluding police, and Mr. Shanley responded yes.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4634 adopted 8-0-0.
FORMATION OF ENERGY DEREGULATION SUB-COMMITTEE
Mr. Shanley stated this discussion is a result of the work done by Mr. McAlmond. He noted currently there are a lot of changes in the marketplace, and one recommendation by Mr. McAlmond would be to create a subcommittee to look at a wide range of issues.
Councilor Falk questioned how deregulation works, and Mr. McAlmond explained deregulation allows any group to purchase a utility separate from the distributor, and this allows for competitive pricing. He added this can allow for a guaranteed rate for peak periods. Mr. Shanley pointed out this will help stabilize rates.
Councilor Falk questioned if they would get locked into this, and if so, for how long. Mr. McAlmond stated its recommended going for a one-year lock-in.
Councilor Egan questioned whether it would be wise to go with CCM, and Mr. McAlmond stated theres potential in being grouped with other municipalities.
Mr. Shanley stated at the next meeting, they will have a charge for the committee, along with a series of recommendations for Council consideration.
PRISON FUNDS REALLOCATION
Mr. Shanley stated this is the balance of funds provided to the Town in order to improve the transportation routes to and from the prison. He noted theres an unallocated amount
of $334,000. He stated one recommendation they would like to make is the overlay of Taylor Road. He added another project would be Somers Road, which could be charged to these funds because that road does serve the prison.
Councilor Falk questioned the possibility of using some of the funding for the waste water treatment facility. Mr. McAlmond pointed out these state monies were designated to be spent on access roadways to and from the prison.
Councilor Dodd questioned whether the repairs near the intersection of Brainard Road and Route 5 have been completed, and Mr. McAlmond noted hes not aware of that and will refer this to the Director of Public Works.
RESOLUTION #4635 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Egan.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Council, the Town of Enfield, does hereby reallocate Prison Fund monies from the G. Washington Road Design to the Brainard Road Reconstruction in the amount of $5,981.67.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #4635 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: STORM DRAINAGE CLEANING
Mr. Shanley stated this came up during the budget process, and within the CIP Fund theres $150,000 for this. He noted they would like to contract with a firm one time to catch up with storm drainage cleaning. He explained they would like to do all the catch basins and then go back to a new maintenance schedule. He pointed out they need to speak to Local Union 1029 regarding this
Chairwoman Strom questioned what the estimated cost will be, and Mr. McAlmond responded about $100,000 for cleaning and disposal of materials.
Councilor Dodd questioned whether the cleaning unit would be adaptable to the leaf program, and Mr. McAlmond responded possibly.
Councilor Kaupin questioned why there are "Xs" on some storm drain covers on North Street, and Mr. McAlmond explained this indicates the storm drain needs repairs.
Councilor Egan questioned if all storm drains are cleaned will Town crews be able to maintain them, and Mr. McAlmond responded 25% to 30% is what can be addressed with one crew and one truck per year.
Councilor Falk questioned when the outside firm comes in, do they only clean whats in the hole, or do they go sideways as well, and Mr. McAlmond noted they only clean the hole.
DISCUSSION RE: JOINT TECHNOLOGY
Mr. Shanley stated Councilor Vayda gave an overview at the last meeting. Councilor Vayda pointed out the next meeting of the Joint Technology Committee is scheduled for Thursday, May 26, 2000.
Regarding the maintenance of Total Recall, Councilor Fiore questioned whether its planned that the school system eventually moves this off into their own arena. He went on to voice his concern that e-mail and Outlook software may pose a problem. Ms. Bond stated they will provide exchange on a service level agreement. She stated they will give the school system a standard that they need to meet in order to avail themselves of Town services.
Chairwoman Strom questioned whether the Joint Technology Committee has gotten the feelings of the entire Board of Education and Town Council regarding this decision to separate. Councilor Kaupin stated his belief that at the next meeting of the Joint Technology Committee they will find out where they are at.
Councilor Dodd stated he would like to see time limits established through the Joint Technology Committee as to when this separation is to take place.
Councilor Falk questioned how much this separation will cost, and Mr. Shanley responded that is in process.
Councilor Falk questioned if the Town endorses two separate entities will the Town then be required to fund those two separate entities.
Councilor Vayda stated his belief no one expects having a more decentralized system will be less expensive, but he feels the benefits to the Town will be the ability to move in a direction in a more effective manner. He added it has to be the Board of Educations decision that this separation is important enough to them to spend their money in this fashion.
Councilor Falk stated before voting on anything he would like to get costs. Chairwoman Strom pointed out Ms. Bond is coming up with some numbers just for the Town side.
Councilor Mangini questioned whether the Joint Technology Committee will be an on-going committee. Councilor Vayda stated one thing coming out of this is the formalization of the Joint Technology Committee. He noted they also need to look at the transitional period.
Councilor Egan stated the Town Council, as the fiscal body, should let the Board know that this will be education dollars they have to be willing to pay, and the public should also know this.
Chairwoman Strom stated her belief it will be very difficult at budget time. She stated she would have preferred seeing this go to a centralized structure.
Mr. Shanley indicated a centralized structure would only work with a willing partner.
Councilor Dodd stated he does not want to have to pay more as a result of separation.
Chairwoman Strom questioned where things stand right now, and Mr. Shanley stated the transition period is a difficult spot. He went on to note they are moving ahead through the creation of service level agreements.
Councilor Vayda stated his belief that through the Joint Technology Committee, they will try to resolve issues.
DISCUSSION RE: SUMMER MEETING SCHEDULE
It was agreed to set the summer meeting schedule as follows July 11 & 24; August 7 & 21.
DISCUSSION RE: MAIN STREET BRIDGE
Mr. Shanley stated they are asking the Council to move the money from the Old King Street bridge account to the North Main Street bridge account. He explained the Old King Street bridge project is completed and paid for, and theres money in that account. He noted this will appear under New Business on the next meeting agenda.
MOTION #4636 by Councilor Kaupin, seconded by Councilor Mangini to recess the Special Meeting to hold a Water Pollution Control Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4636 adopted 9-0-0, and the meeting stood recessed at 9:58 p.m.
MOTION #4637 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Kaupin to reconvene the Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4637 adopted 9-0-0, and the Special Meeting reconvened at 10:03 p.m.
MOTION #4638 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Fiore to go into Executive Session to discuss Personnel Matters, Pending Litigation, and Real Estate Negotiations.
Upon a SHOW OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4638 adopted, and the meeting stood recessed at 10:04 p.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Executive Session of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairwoman Strom at 10:05 p.m.
ROLL-CALL Present were Councilors Dodd, Egan, Falk Fiore, Kaupin, Mangini, McGuire, Strom and Vayda. Also present were Town Manager, Scott A. Shanley; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki.
Personnel Matters, Pending Litigation, and Real Estate Negotiations were discussed with no action or votes being taken.
Chairwoman Strom adjourned the Executive Session at 11:20 p.m.
Chairwoman Strom reconvened the Special Meeting at 11:21p.m.and stated that during Executive Session they discussed Personnel Matters, Pending Litigation, and Real Estate Negotiations with no action or votes being taken.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #4639 by Councilor Falk, seconded by Councilor Egan to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #4639 adopted 9-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 11:22 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jeannette Lamontagne
Secretary to the Council
By Suzanne F. Olechnicki
Suzanne F. Olechnicki
Town Clerk
Clerk of the Council |