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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 17, 2001
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairman Vayda in the Council Chambers of the Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, December 17, 2001 at 7:40 p.m.
PRAYER The Prayer was given by Councilman Falk.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL Present were Councilmen Edgar, Egan, Falk, Fiore, Hall, Kaupin, Mangini, Tait, Tallarita, and Vayda. Councilman Strom entered at 7:42 p.m. Also present were Town Manager, Scott A. Shanley; Assistant Town Manger, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Christopher W. Bromson; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Director of Social Services, Dorothy Allen; Town Assessor, Joyce Jacius.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #5582 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Hall to accept the minutes of November 28, 2001 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5582 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman Kaupin abstaining.
MOTION #5583 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Egan to accept the minutes of the December 3, 2001 Special Meeting.
Referring to Page 8, last paragraph, Councilman Fiore stated the second sentence should read as follows: “He questioned the philosophy behind funding that program”.
Referring to Page 9, Councilman Fiore pointed out comments were omitted from Senator Kissel concerning Mohegan Suns fund which is disbursed among all the towns and the new slot machines and whether thats going to increase or decrease the amount of funding the town might get.
Mr. Shanley pointed out he made the comment concerning the slot machines.
MOTION #5584 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Edgar to table these minutes.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5584 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman Kaupin abstaining.
MOTION #5585 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Strom to accept the minutes of the December 3, 2001 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5585 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman Kaupin abstaining.
MOTION #5586 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Egan to accept the minutes of the December 10, 2001 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5586 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #5587 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the December 13, 2001 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5587 adopted 9-0-2 with Councilman Fiore and Tait abstaining..
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Kenneth Estvanik, 14 Winter Way
Read a statement on behalf of Valley Repertory Company. (Copy appended)
Hank Blethen, 9 Nevins Avenue
Spoke representing the Enfield and Thompsonville Little League. He noted he is the Executive Vice President. He introduced Roger Pease, the President of the Enfield Little League and Kevin Collins, President of the Thompsonville Little League. He noted this organization is growing, and they have over 800 children playing Little League. He stated they have developed Little League Girls Softball, which is a separate league from the Enfield Girls Softball Association. He noted they have no home for Girls Softball. He pointed out many improvements are needed to their Little League fields and facilities. He stated they have placed before the Council a proposal from both the Enfield and Thompsonville Little League which is a complete list of improvements on their wish list. He noted one of the major items that the Enfield Little League would like to see is a lighted 90-foot diamond at Powder Hollow. He added they would love a lit field, a larger concession stand, a place for their announcer, a pavilion, a play scape, and more of a park atmosphere in this area. He explained Little League has expanded from a spring season to a fall season and lights are a necessity now. He stated they travel to neighboring towns to play their games. He pointed out they met with Dan Vindigni, Geoff McAlmond, and Mary Keller on December 10th and discussed all these items with them.
He stated the Thompsonville Little League is located behind the Asnuntuck Community College. He noted they are looking for a re-sodded field as well as lights and upgraded electricity which is very important because they have purchased a scoreboard which they would like the Town to install.
He pointed out that on behalf of both Little Leagues, they are not looking for all of these improvements for free. He stated they have dedicated fund raising events for both leagues and they believe they can collect thousands of dollars. He added they would be willing to put those monies towards this project.
Beth Turner, 23 Davis Avenue
Spoke concerning an application for a tennis court which is being built in her neighborhood. She stated she and her neighbors have spoken against this application for two years. She noted in the final application on November 15, 2001, the application was approved with conditions. She explained some of those conditions have to do with hours of operation, which were approved from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., as well as a tree line to be developed between the building and the neighborhood. She pointed out these conditions were overturned in a meeting held on November 29th at 11:30. She stated the new hours were approved at 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. without the neighborhoods knowledge. She stated her belief this seems very unfair to the neighbors in consideration of all the time, energy and concern theyve put into this matter. She stated she wanted to make it known to the Council what was going on at the zoning meetings. She noted neighbors felt it was underhanded to the neighborhood to not let them know they were continuing to have meetings concerning this matter without their knowledge.
Kathleen Toro, 4 Davis Avenue
Stated she and her neighbors battled the tennis court development for two years. She noted initially they won, however, the developer kept coming back and finally got approval. She pointed out neighbors were unaware they were planning to extend the hours of operation. She noted it was not made known to neighbors that this meeting was being held, and there were a lot of meetings scheduled that the neighborhood did not know about.
Ms. Toro stated her belief Enfield is over developed.
Referring to her neighborhoods attendance at the Planning & Zoning meetings, Ms. Toro stated her belief there was a lack of professionalism. She stated her feeling the Council should appoint people who are thinking of the welfare of the citizens in Enfield. She went on to note neighbors were not assured of any help should there be any damage to their property as a result of this development, i.e., damage to their wells.
Larry Toro, 4 Davis Avenue
Stated he is proud of his neighborhood regarding the tennis court issue. He stated his belief you cant fight city hall. He noted every step of the way a bigger speed bump was put up against the neighbors. He pointed out he heard a member of the Wetlands Commission who had been on the board for 15 years state in a public hearing that in those 15 years he never felt the political pressure that was put on that commission like there was for this tennis court. He noted when the final vote was taken to approve it, the member that proposed that they approve it said in his 30 years of serving, this was the hardest decision he ever made. Mr. Toro stated this tells him that they werent really sure about the decision they made. He pointed out his neighborhood has water problems, and now they will be putting up a very large structure. He stated although the development was originally proposed to have eight courts and now is down to five courts, they are certain they will increase the number of courts eventually.
He stated he called one member of the Planning & Zoning Commission and learned he had stood up to voice concern that the neighbors were not at the final vote. He noted he called another Planning & Zoning member to question whether it was true this member suggested extending the tennis court hours even longer, and this member responded yes. He noted he started to ask this member another question, and was told call a lawyer and the member hung up on him.
Mr. Toro stated he was disturbed to see a previous mayor promoting business in Enfield during the Fourth of July Celebration while he lives in Somers, however, during the Planning & Zoning tennis issue, one member could not sit in on the meetings because it was a conflict of interest.
He concluded stating his belief the businesses run the town of Enfield, not the people.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini questioned the status on the town meeting sign. Mr. Shanley noted he will check into this.
Councilman Mangini requested a large rut on the corner of Colonial and Bass Roads be checked out.
Councilman Fiore referred to the special meeting with Senator Kissel and the discussion regarding the PILOT money and the manufacturing rebate. He noted Senator Kissel stated if the Council wished to disagree with the philosophy they should let him know formally. Mr. Shanley stated if theres a consensus, he can write a letter to Senator Kissel regarding this. There was a consensus by the Council for the Town Manager to write this letter.
MOTION #5588 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to suspend the rules to address an item out of order by placing Item 12a before Old Business on this evenings agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5588 adopted 11-0-0.
Councilman Hall stated the recent Voices, Inc. concert was excellent.
Councilman Hall stated the Hazardville Institute is selling a Christmas ornament to raise funds to renovate that building. She noted these can be ordered through Bill Lee who is on the Revitalization Committee.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether CRRA is anticipating a change in the tipping fee.
Councilman Kaupin referred to the Davis Avenue issue and questioned how its legally possible when Planning & Zoning closes a public hearing, votes on something, but within a week or two, they reopen it without any notification. He referred to an instance when a legal notice for Head Start was published a day after the decision, therefore, no subsequent action would be able to be taken. He pointed out this Planning & Zoning issue is two weeks after the fact, and the legal notice still wasnt published, so it allowed P&Z to reconvene and change. Mr. Shanley stated his belief they reconsidered, which means a person who voted in the affirmative requested a reconsideration. He added he would defer to the Town Attorneys Office for legal advice.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley pointed out the conservancy which is responsible for the Hazardville Institute just received a 501C3 status last week, which allows them a lot more flexibility in fund raising.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
The Town Attorney did not have a report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated the Prison Liaison Committee met last week. She noted one of the concerns of the Committee is that they are looking for a representative from the Police Department to attend these meetings. She noted it is in the charge that one of the police representatives should attend, however, they have not had that representation in the past couple years.
Councilman Mangini stated the Loan Review Committee had an emergency session, and they looked at six applications. She noted as times become more difficult economically, they will be seeing a little more in this area. She stated they do have availability for a committee member. She invited anyone interested to fill out an application.
Councilman Mangini stated there was a meeting of the Revitalization Committee, and they are looking at the Councils goals as part of their goals for their charge.
DISCUSSION RE: LIST OF MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS COMPILED BY THE MEMORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE BY THE TOWN
Present for this discussion was Theodore J. Plamondon, Jr. Councilman Fiore, a liaison to the Memorial Advisory Committee, joined Mr. Plamondon for this item.
Mr. Plamondon stated the Memorial Advisory Committee is looking for some guidance. He noted they are at a standstill. He stated they completed the list of names, they recommended a spot on the Town Green, and they have a preliminary design. He noted additionally, they have some high level costs and some local business people in the position to donate some services for this monument. He noted they had discussions with the Beautification Committee, and it has been stated to them that a majority of these members are in agreement with Option 1. He stated in order to proceed they would need the following:
- some time from the Town Clerks Office to verify the names
- some monies allocated for a detailed design, or official allocated time from the Town Engineer to help draw up the final plans
- a discussion on the option for the physical position on the Town Green
Councilman Fiore supported Mr. Plamondons position on this in that they are at a standstill. He noted in September or October three locations on the Town Green were presented to the Council as to where this monument could potentially be located. He stated at that time, it was his perception and the Committees perception that the Town Council liked those options and were in agreement with the Committee that Option #1 was probably the most appropriate place. He noted at that point in time, the Committee went forward with some preliminary designs, spoke with the monument company and all under the notion that Option #1 would probably be the location for the monument. He stated in November there seemed to be some discussion and difficulty as far as whether the Town Green might be appropriate.
He noted the Chairman of the Beautification Committee has been involved with the Monument Committee meetings and assured them that if a formal vote was taken, the majority of the Beautification Committee members would agree that Option #1 is the most appropriate place for this memorial.
Councilman Fiore stated if there is a commitment by the Council to do this monument, then the Memorial Advisory Committee needs the money to go out and hire a professional architect to help them with the design.
Mr. Plamondon stated his hope the Council will take this into consideration. He stated his hope to have this erected for Memorial Day.
Councilman Mangini voiced her support of this. She questioned how much money is needed. She noted this is a big undertaking for the Town Clerks Office, and she questioned whether the Town Clerk could use volunteers to check these names. Ms. Olechnicki stated they would have to discuss this with Mr. Plamondon to learn what the expectation is. Mr. Plamondon voiced his willingness to work with the Town Clerks Office on this.
Mr. Plamondon stated the granite company would be looking for half the amount of the monument in order to cut the granite. Councilman Tallarita questioned what that figure might be. Mr. Plamondon responded $120,000 to $130,000. Councilman Fiore stated his belief they need to have a professional design before the stone is cut.
Councilman Kaupin stated at this time he does not feel the Town Green is the appropriate place for the monument. He noted this is a public place to gather and putting up monuments is changing the intent for the Town Green. He pointed out there are other groups that need to be recognized, i.e., Vietnam, Korea, and Desert Storm veterans. He suggested a Veterans Memorial Park, which would be a reflective place and a place that recognizes everyone. He pointed out there will be a big piece of land available in the center of Hazardville as a result of the realignment of Hazard Avenue and Elm Street. He went on to state he also has issues about proper design of the monument, and he would like the architect to come up with a proper design.
Councilman Fiore stated the original charge of the Memorial Advisory Committee was to catalog all the existing monuments, and that did include the monument that did exist at one time.
Mr. Plamondon stated if the Town Council had carried out what they were supposed to do in 1984 and in 1988, they would not be in this predicament. He pointed out this is the same design as the World War II memorial that existed previously. He added that memorial was also located on the original Town Green.
Councilman Egan stated her belief this is a serious matter that has to be discussed in more detail. She noted they do have to look to the future in honoring all the veterans.
Councilman Strom stated her belief the Committee was given a very narrow charge. She noted there needs to be a plan on how to handle all the monuments for all the wars. She added she is in favor of going out to bid for a design.
Councilman Edgar stated the original monument was on the Town Green, and that was inadvertently destroyed by the Town. He agreed the other veterans deserve recognition, however, this particular plan is ready to move forward, and they would like it done for Memorial Day. He pointed out many World War II veterans are passing away.
Councilman Mangini stated her belief they should expedite this matter.
Councilman Falk stated he would like an architect to look at this design to see if it can be scaled down. He stated his belief the current design creates a massive monument.
Councilman Tallarita agreed they should move forward on this monument. He stated his belief they have to first build consensus on where to place this monument.
Councilman Hall agreed with Councilman Tallarita and stated her belief they need to expedite the World War II monument. She added they also have to consider how the World War II monument will coordinate with all the other monuments. She agreed this should go to a professional designer with the understanding there are other war memorials to coordinate.
Councilman Tait stated he wants to see the World War II Memorial erected soon. He noted they have to determine where this monument will be placed and how its going to look.
Mr. Plamondon stated they are looking to keep the memorial where it was before. He pointed out every day many World War II veterans are passing away.
Councilman Strom agreed this has to be moved on, but it has to be done right. She stated she would like to see the architect come up with a design.
Councilman Tallarita suggested perhaps they could look at a number of locations for this memorial.
Chairman Vayda agreed with Councilman Tallarita. He added his belief the World War II memorial should be the first priority. There was a consensus by the Council that the World War II memorial should be a first priority.
Councilman Edgar stated his belief they should appropriate money for an architect to first look at Option #1.
Councilman Fiore pointed out the Committee did look at other areas for the monument, i.e., Thompsonville, and the historic area of Enfield Street.
Councilman Tait questioned who will maintain the other memorials. Mr. Plamondon stated his belief the Committee was going to suggest Public Works maintain the Scitico memorial and the new World War II memorial. He added none of the other existing monuments will be taken down.
Councilman Falk questioned what the original World War II memorial looked like, and Mr. Plamondon noted they do have photographs of the original monument. Councilman Falk stated he would like to see a picture, and Mr. Shanley noted he does have a photo in his office and that can be provided.
Councilman Kaupin stated there is a park at School Street and Hazard Avenue and it was intended this park honor three Vietnam veterans. He noted in speaking with two of the families, he has learned they would like the monument to remain in that park. Mr. Plamondon noted that monument can remain there if the Council wishes.
Councilman Tallarita stated there was some discussion about extending the Town Green across North Main Street toward the Freshwater Brook. He questioned the possibility of doing something along the walkway. Mr. Plamondon stated his belief theres a lot of vandalism in that area.
Chairman Vayda suggested perhaps there could be a consensus to ask Town staff to come up with a formal resolution to do an analysis that would include Option #1 and other possible sites so that they have something more concrete to evaluate. Mr. Shanley questioned whether Chairman Vayda is referring to a site analysis, and Chairman Vayda responded yes and noted they can then learn which sites are feasible. He noted perhaps Town staff could look at what would be needed in order for them to work with the Committee to verify all the names for the memorial.
Councilman Edgar stated his belief if they do not approve the engineering fees for Site #1 tonight, it will be impossible to complete it for Memorial Day. He stated his belief they should proceed with that part of it immediately.
Chairman Vayda stated his belief no one wants to delay this, and he feels there is a consensus that the Council wishes to move forward on this.
Councilman Fiore recommended they look at only a very limited amount of sites, i.e., Options 1, 2 and 3 on the Town Green, across the street as suggested by Councilman Tallarita, and the Hazard/Elm Street open space area. He noted they may gain some time if they limit the scope of the sites.
Councilman Strom agreed with Councilman Fiore regarding limiting the sites they look at.
Mr. Shanley stated Town staff will help verify the names for the memorial and they will probably get photographs of the suggested sites and how this would be presented to an architectural firm.
Councilman Mangini stated she would like to be sure the Memorial Committee, including the liaison to that Committee, is asked for input on any of the sites.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
MOTION #5589 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to remove Item #6 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5589 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5590 by Councilman Strom to appoint Robert Tanguay (R) to the Connecticut River Assembly for a term which expires 12/01/04.
MOTION #5591 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5591 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Robert Tanguay appointed to the Connecticut River Assembly by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #5592 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Hall to remove Item #12 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5592 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5593 by Councilman Falk to reappoint John H. Zdebski (R) to the Board of Assessment Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/04.
MOTION #5594 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5594 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared John Zdebski reappointed to the Board of Assessment Appeals by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #5595 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to remove Item #14 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5595 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5596 by Councilman Strom to appoint Robert Egan (R) to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/05.
MOTION #5597 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tait to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5597 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Robert Egan appointed to the Planning and Zoning Commission by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #5598 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Strom to remove Item #15 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5598 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5599 by Councilman Edgar to appoint James A. Hickey, Jr. (D) to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/05.
MOTION #5599 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Tait to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5599 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared James A. Hickey, Jr. appointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #5600 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Tait to remove Item #16 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5600 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5601 by Councilman Fiore to reappoint Frank M. Dentamaro, Jr. (D) to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/05.
NOMINATION #5602 by Councilman Hall to appoint Karen Krebs (U) to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/05.
MOTION #5603 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to close nominations.
Councilman Fiore stated he will be supporting Mr. Dentamaro, therefore, he will not be able to vote for Ms. Krebs, although he feels she should also be appointed. Councilman Mangini agreed with Councilman Fiore.
Councilman Edgar stated his preference to vote on each individually.
Councilman Kaupin stated there is also the option of initially voting for whom a person is supporting, and then changing their vote in the interest of having a unanimous vote.
Councilman Falk pointed out if another opening comes up for Planning & Zoning, a name can come up again.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5603 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Karen Krebs appointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission by a 9-2-0, with Councilmen Fiore and Mangini voting for Mr. Dentamaro.
MOTION #5604 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to remove Item #17 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5604 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5605 by Councilman Tallarita to reappoint Karen Weseliza (D) to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/05.
MOTION #5606 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Hall to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5606 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Karen Weseliza reappointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #5607 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item #19 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5607 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5608 by Councilman Fiore to appoint John Rinaldi (D) to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/05.
MOTION #5609 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Strom to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5609 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared John Rinaldi appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #5610 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Tait to remove Item #20 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5610 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5611 by Councilman Falk to reappoint Lisa M. Semple (R) to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/05.
MOTION #5612 by Councilman Egan, seconded by Councilman Tait to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5612 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Lisa Semple reappointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #5613 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item #21 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5613 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5614 by Councilman Edgar to appoint Eileen Russell (D) to the Historic District Commission for a term which expires 08/31/05.
MOTION #5615 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5615 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Eileen Russell appointed to the Historic District Commission by an 11-0-0 vote.
MOTION #5616 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Tait to remove Item #22 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5616 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5617 by Councilman Falk to appoint Scott Giddings (R) to the Beautification Committee for a term which expires 01/20/04.
MOTION #5618 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Mangini to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5618 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Scott Giddings appointed to the Beautification Committee by an 11-0-0 vote.
All other appointments remained tabled.
Items c., e., and g. remained on the table.
MOTION #5619 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tait to remove Item f. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5619 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5620 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the Town Manager to enter into a lease agreement with the Tanguay-Magill Post 80 American legion for the property located at 566 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut, known as the “Dingle”.
Mr. Shanley stated he met with Mr. DAmato and they reviewed the lease. He noted they now have a better map that specifically identifies two separate parcels.
Councilman Edgar questioned whether they came forward with insurance paperwork, and Mr. Shanley responded yes.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5620 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #5621 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item d. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5621 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: CAMP, DRESSER & MCKEE RECREATIONAL STUDY
Mr. Vindigni stated the Brainard RFPs were opened on December 6th. He noted they had 12 firms submitting proposals, and they ranged from a low of $8,000 to a high of $74,000. He stated the majority appeared to be in the $40,000 range. He noted the report will show the breakdown. He stated they will form a team to review the proposals and to come up with a list of firms to meet with and a recommendation to the Town Council on the project.
He stated in terms of the Little League, they did meet with representatives from both the Thompsonville and the Enfield Little League, and they presented him with the list of items that they would like to see in the way of improvements. He noted a number of the Powder Hollow recommendations will follow into a master plan approach.
Mr. Vindigni stated they are also looking at trying to implement some improvements at the Asnuntuck facility.
Councilman Fiore referred to the Asnuntuck facility and if the Town were to go out to referendum for a recreational complex at that site, he questioned if that would be put off to around the year 2007. Mr. Vindigni responded that is correct.
Councilman Fiore questioned why there was such a disparity in figures for the Brainard Park, and how long will it be in forming the review team. Mr. Vindigni stated they are looking to have this team meet in January after the holiday season. As concerns the disparity in figures, he believes it has to do with the amount of research done by the individual firms.
MOTION #5622 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5622 adopted 11-0-0.
NEW BUSINESS
DISCUSSION RE: AUTHORIZATION TO BID BID PACKAGE #3 PER BUILDING COMMITTEE CHARGE
Present for this discussion were Gregg Smolley from Jeter, Cook & Jepson and Donna Szewczak from the School Building Committee.
Mr. Smolley showed presentation boards for each of the schools in bid package #3. He noted the actual bid documents were made available for Council review on Friday.
He first highlighted JFK Middle School as follows:
- a 14,000 square foot addition which includes a library, computer room, and administrative offices (fully sprinkled)
- the old library will become an additional computer lab
- renovation of existing offices to create room for English As a Second Language and Speech rooms
Mr. Smolley stated the addition in the front of the school is still 70 feet from the roadway.
Mr. Shanley stated with the exception of Head Start, the other two projects did go through the Planning & Zoning process and were approved.
Mr. Smolley highlighted the Enfield Street School project as follows:
- the addition will be installed at the north end of the existing Enfield Street School and will effectively close off the courtyard to the north of the school
- a library of about 2,200 square feet
- a gymnasium of about 5,000 square feet
- support rooms (electrical/mechanical rooms, rest rooms)
He explained the reasoning for the placement of the addition. He noted the topography at the north end of the site prevented them from moving the building back, and the desire of the educational program to allow circulation without sending the students from the far corner of the building down through the entire school and back out.
Mr. Smolley stated there is the addition of a few more parking spaces in the back, as well as an introduction of a water line to supply water not only to Enfield Street School, which now needs to be fully sprinkled, but also to Head Start. He stated they are currently exploring options with DPW and Connecticut Water as to the ownership of that line. He clarified that what Council members saw when they stopped in to look at the plans will differ just slightly based on what the Building Inspector asked them to do. He explained the Building Inspector indicated he would be more comfortable if the entire school had sprinklers. He noted the plans are being redone to have this building fully sprinkled.
Councilman Falk questioned what will happen to the courtyard in the middle of the building. Mr. Smolley stated if the Town does anything other than keep the courtyard planted, they are considered to be useable space, and all of the exiting would have to be figured from there. He noted at this time the courtyard has grass, trees, and plants, and that is how it is intended to stay. Councilman Falk questioned how they would get the lawn mower into the courtyard to mow it. Mr. Smolley stated there is a corridor/doorway to access the courtyard. Councilman Falk questioned whether codes allow a gasoline engine to be pushed inside of a building. Mr. Smolley responded yes, however, the lawn mower cant be stored inside.
Councilman Edgar questioned what is gained in classroom space. Mr. Smolley stated the introduction of the addition does not gain a lot of classroom space, but rather they get the introduction of a cafeteria and large gym, which the school lacks at this time.
Councilman Fiore questioned the retaining wall on the east side. Mr. Smolley stated changes to the site plan since they last spoke have eliminated the need for the retaining wall.
Councilman Fiore questioned how many more parking spaces are gained, and Mr. Smolley responded around ten.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether there are plans to improve the playground area. Mr. Smolley responded that is not part of this project.
Councilman Fiore questioned the status of the grease trap. Mr. Smolley stated the Health Department was requesting a grease trap for the Head Start building, however, it was determined a grease trap is not needed since meals will not be prepared in the Head Start
Building.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether there are plans to install a grease trap at the Enfield Street School, and Mr. Smolley responded no.
Councilman Fiore questioned where the dumpster enclosure is located, and Mr. Smolley stated his belief plans showed it off the end of the driveway behind the school.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether Mr. Smolley feels ten additional spaces near the gymnasium are sufficient. Mr. Smolley stated the eastside of the parking area is marked as a fire zone, and they would not be able to park there. He stated the introduction of the
ten additional spaces is predicated on the additional number of classrooms. He noted the school is not sized based on how many people can fit into the gymnasium.
Councilman Edgar questioned whether theres any detention pond on this site. Mr. Smolley stated there is a small detention pond in the southwest corner and that exists because of the Enfield Street School, and its not for Head Start because Head Start drainage would be going the other way. Councilman Edgar questioned whether this drains into the 18” pipe away from Mitchell Drive, and Mr. Smolley responded yes.
RESOLUTION #5623 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
WHEREAS, the School Building Charge requires the Town Council to approve final plans prior to bid, and
WHEREAS, the Town Council, having met on numerous occasions with the School Building Committee throughout the design process and having reviewed the final plans finds them acceptable
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby authorizes the bidding of Bid Package #3 which includes Enfield Street School, Head Start, and JFK Middle School improvements.
Councilman Fiore stated he will vote in favor of this, however, he would feel more comfortable if the grease traps were included.
Mr. Smolley explained grease traps function by liquids moving through them, and they need to have a certain amount of liquid move through them each day in order to work effectively. He noted if someone is not cooking, then not enough water is being moved through the structure in order to keep it functioning and then theres a tendency to coagulate below or within the baffles or within the pipe feeding in, and this can cause trouble. He stated the advice from the engineers is that if the town does not believe the grease traps will be used to their design capacity, they would rather not see them installed.
Mr. Shanley commended the work done by Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski, to keep things moving forward with these projects.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5623
adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: REVALUATION BRIEFING
Present for this discussion was Town Assessor, Joyce Jacius.
Ms. Jacius stated the most important step in the appeals process is to go to CLT. She noted they have a staff to handle it. She noted the next step in the appeals process is to go to the Board of Assessment Appeals. She pointed out after she signs the grand list in February, she cannot make any changes. She noted only the Board of Assessment Appeals can do this and later the superior court.
She explained state statute requires there be a revaluation as of October 1, 2001. She noted there are some inequities that exist at this time because as they move further away from the last revaluation, there is disparity because property values shift from one place to another. She noted while she does not see a huge shift from class to class, she does see a lot of changes within the residential area.
She stated the notices for residential properties are being sent out December 26th and the commercial property notices will be sent out about a week later.
Ms. Jacius stated the assessment is based on 70% of the market value as of October 1, 2001.
She stated there are three components to the grand list real estate, personal property, and motor vehicles.
Mr. Shanley stated there will be a significant increase in the assessed value in the residential area because the value of the property has gone up. He suggested people be asked what they believe they could get for their home if they tried to sell it and then look at the assessed value and it may seem more reasonable. He added these are preliminary numbers, and there are two appeals processes. He pointed out they will provide the Town Council with as much support as possible.
Councilman Fiore questioned when this is done, can the Assessors Office provide the Town Council with percentages of the ranges for residential. Ms. Jacius responded yes. She explained they should have a street list available soon.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether Target, Lego, the TTLC building on Depot Hill Road are 100% operative and assessed for this grand list. Ms. Jacius stated the new Lego building will be on this grand list as will Target. She noted all of the new buildings are pretty much represented here.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether there are plans to publish the assessments in the newspaper, and Mr. Shanley indicated that could be discussed.
Councilman Egan pointed out the cut off date to report to CLT is January 10th. Mr. Shanley stated they can check to see if they can push them to have a few more days.
Mr. Shanley stated people need to keep in mind that typically after evaluation, the mil rate goes down. He stated just because a persons property value goes up 15%, that doesnt mean their taxes have to go up 15%. It was agreed to add wording to the effect that the increase in assessment doesnt automatically mean an increase in the dollars that are paid in taxes.
Mr. Shanley suggested speaking with CLT to see if theres some way they can field questions.
DISCUSSION RE: ORDINANCE/ESTABLISHING A YOUTH COMMISSION
Present for this discussion was Dorothy Allen, Director of Social Services.
Ms. Allen stated she has heard that youth feel they have no official voice, nor do they feel their advice is accepted or taken seriously.
She stated they are in the process of writing a juvenile delinquency grant which requires a significant amount of youth involvement and input. She stated she and several other people felt this would be an opportunity for the Council to establish a commission which is equivalent to the Commission on Aging and have the kind of power that would attract young people. She feels this would be a sizeable undertaking for the Council, School Administration and the Town Administration. She noted there should be a mentoring role by the Council members to let them see how decisions are made and why theyre made and what goes into making those decisions and how they prioritize things. She stated she does not see this as a social service project at all. She noted she is just presenting this because she feels its something that would officially recognize the input from young people in a decision-making role.
Councilman Mangini stated her belief this is a good idea. She suggested perhaps Mary Keller could play a role in this from the town side. She added her belief this is a wonderful way to get the kids involved.
Councilman Kaupin agreed this is a great idea and suggested possibly appointing two members from seventh, eighth and ninth grades. He added they should think about the terms they serve.
Ms. Allen stated she asked the Superintendent if he would staff this from his office and he said he would.
Councilman Tallarita stated his belief this is a great idea and questioned if any other towns are doing this. Ms. Allen stated shes not aware of any other towns in this area doing this.
Councilman Tallarita questioned if theres any way to find out how such a program is working elsewhere.
Mr. Shanley noted his office is currently overloaded with work. He stated his belief this needs more research. He added he doesnt see implementation of this for several months.
Councilman Hall stated shes very supportive of this program. She noted Amy Witbro might be the person to drive something like this. She stated her belief there should be more discussion on this and possibly the Council could include it in an upcoming workshop.
Chairman Vayda stated his belief they would need more teaching staff in this.
Councilman Falk suggested a survey through CCM or NLC might come up with some communities that have something like this in effect. He agreed with Chairman Vayda in that teaching staff should be involved with this. He also agreed this requires more research.
Chairman Vayda stated perhaps they could discuss this with the Board of Education to see how this might be handled.
DISCUSSION RE: ESTABLISHMENT OF A BUILDING DESIGN
SUBCOMMITTEE
Mr. Shanley stated he would like a subcommittee to work with the Town Planner, specifically regarding the Family Resource Center, to go over the plan, take input from the Planning Department staff as to what they would recommend since they have the regulatory responsibilities, have a public hearing, etc. so that this project can be moved forward. He recommended five members appointed by the Mayor.
Chairman Vayda stated he will appoint five people.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether this will be the same group that will be laying the groundwork for how they want to handle these types of projects and buildings in the future if the Council is to continue in this role. Mr. Shanley responded yes. He noted some towns do this just at the staff level, and he does not feel thats appropriate. He added his recommendation will be to follow very closely with Planning & Zoning requirements that they currently have.
DISCUSSION RE: NORTHGATE
Councilman Fiore stated he and the Town Manager are very prepared to provide an update this evening, however, due to the lateness of the hour, he suggests addressing this at the next meeting.
It was agreed to address Items f. and g. at the next meeting.
MISCELLANEOUS
No items were raised.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
There were no further Councilmen communications.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #5624 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Strom to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5624 adopted 11-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 11:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jeannette Lamontagne
Secretary to the Council
Suzanne F. Olechnicki
Town Clerk
Clerk of the Council |