|
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 12, 2002
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, November 12, 2002 at 7:40 p.m.
PRAYER - The Prayer was given by Councilman Egan.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL - Present were Councilman Egan, Fiore, Hall, Jones, Kaupin, Mangini, Strom, Tallarita, and Vayda. Councilmen Edgar and Tait were absent. Also present were Town Manager, Scott A. Shanley; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Christopher W. Bromson; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond; Recreation Supervisor, Mary Keller; Risk Manager, William Strachan
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #6231 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Egan to accept the minutes of the October 16, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6231 adopted 7-0-2, with Councilmen Fiore and Tallarita abstaining.
MOTION #6232 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Strom to accept the minutes of the October 21, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6232 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #6233 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Jones to accept the minutes of the October 21, 2002 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6233 adopted 9-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Stated his belief the Town and School system should share the same financial technology system.
As concerns a skateboard park, Mr. Woods stated he did not hear what the participation might be. He noted if the other skateboard parks have little participation, he feels there's no sense in having them. He stated his belief the Town should question in depth every idea that comes before them and how beneficial it will be to the community.
Mr. Woods stated his belief the Town should first hire Enfield residents before hiring from out of town.
He stated according to the union president, the union is not against using prison inmates to help maintain parks. He added his belief this should be researched further.
Mr. Woods stated his belief it's not a good idea to hold another referendum in April. He added his belief the elimination of the leaf vacuuming service had a negative impact on the recent referendum. He questioned how the saved man-hours are being utilized now that the leaf vacuum service doesn't exist.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Questioned why the Town is already considering another referendum. She suggested it might be a good time for the Town to take a poll to learn whether taxpayers can afford another referendum.
Ms. Jedziniak stated the Chairman of the Board of Education stated the School Department already knows that the school system needs $1.8 million dollars for fixed costs. She stated her belief there will be a lot more on top of that request for the school budget which will affect taxpayers. She voiced her concern about future generations having to pay for these bonding programs.
Robert Tkacz, 1300 Enfield Street
Pointed out referendums throughout the state were defeated recently.
Mr. Tkacz stated the recent referendum information sessions were not well run because people were allowed to speak out of turn when they hadn't even signed up to speak.
Mr. Tkacz stated his belief the Board of Education doesn't want the Town to know about their budget or line items because they would be very revealing.
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated he would like the Town Council to tell the townspeople about all the projects currently underway.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini congratulated Jason Devon who recently earned his Eagle Scout badge.
Councilman Mangini commended all the poll workers who gave of their time and energy this past Election Day.
She suggested perhaps the Director of Finance can bring the Council up to date on the delinquent tax issue and foreclosures.
Councilman Kaupin stated he continues getting comments from people regarding the lighting at the Elm Street/Hazard Avenue intersection. He noted this area seems very dark and hazardous due to the lack of lighting. He stated his belief this issue has to be addressed now.
Councilman Kaupin suggested investigating the possibility of having the transfer station open on Mondays.
As concerns the financial technology system between the Town and School System, Councilman Kaupin stated there was recently a meeting between the Town and Board of Education. It was agreed that the Director of Finance and his counterpart should meet to see what the current system can do to meet the concerns of the Board of Education. He noted the Director of Finance will keep the Town Council apprised of what will happen over the next few weeks.
Councilman Kaupin stated there was a good turnout for the recent Veterans Day Parade. He noted Councilman Tait spoke at the ceremony after the parade, and his comments were very well received.
Councilman Strom stated it was encouraging to see the good voter turnout on Election Day.
As concerns the recent referendum information sessions, Councilman Strom pointed out these sessions are meant to be informal and within an atmosphere that encourages public participation.
Councilman Strom pointed out Jason McClennan, who owns a barber shop on Pearl Street, has started a reward to apprehend the vandals who recently overturned stones at the St. Adalbert's Cemetery.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley stated the Town will be moving forward regarding the need for lighting at the Hazard Avenue/Elm Street intersection.
Mr. Shanley stated contracts with Local 1029 do not permit contracting out work which is currently performed by union employees.
Mr. Shanley clarified that although the leaf vacuuming has been eliminated, the Town is still picking up bagged leaves. He noted leaf vacuuming requires leasing vacuum trucks and hiring raking labor. He stated Town employees are being used to pick up bagged leaves.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There was no formal report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
There were no reports this evening.
MOTION #6234 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Jones to suspend the rules to add an item to the agenda regarding overtime hours for the transfer station.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6234 adopted 9-0-0.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL & TOWN MANAGER)
There were no appointments this evening.
MOTION #6235 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Strom to remove Item c. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6235 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: CIVIC PARTICIPATION PRESENTATION
Councilman Jones requested a date be set for a meeting where this item can be discussed. It was agreed to discuss this item at a meeting scheduled for November 26, 2002.
MOTION #6236 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Strom to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6236 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #6237 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Jones to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6237 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: ALARM ORDINANCE
Councilman Kaupin questioned the possibility of getting this ordinance onto the website. Mr. Shanley stated this ordinance is available at the Town Manager's Office, the library, the senior center and it has been published in the newspaper. He added he will confirm whether it's on the website.
Councilman Jones noted the Council discussed escalating fines, but this draft shows a flat $50 fine. Mr. Shanley noted escalating fines are a possibility and noted that topic could be discussed at the public hearing.
Chairman Vayda suggested the presentation at the public hearing include other items being considered by the Town Council.
Councilman Jones stated at the last meeting he raised a question as to whether they could turn over a case to the state if they got to a certain level of fine that wasn't paid. Attorney Bromson indicated that couldn't be done. Mr. Shanley stated his recollection that at the last discussion they discussed proceeding at the local level, and if after several months it's not working out, they could then consider the state level.
MOTION #6238 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Fiore to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6238 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #6239 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6239 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: THOMPSONVILLE SKATEBOARD PARK
Mr. Vindigni summarized his November 8, 2002 status report.
" They have initiated an unstaffed skateboard operation trial at Green Manor Park. He noted a discussion with the Recreation Supervisor today indicates there have not been any problems as yet that they're aware of. He added they will monitor this to see how it progresses.
" A Parkman neighborhood meeting was held last week. Over 200 flyers were distributed to abutting streets. Five residents attended. The unanimous consensus of those present was that they'd like to see the skateboard fixtures removed. He noted those residents present expressed an interest in seeing tennis courts returned to that location. He stated a capital investment would be required to do that. He pointed out the Town has been following an overall tennis court plan for the past couple years.
" Regarding the private business proposal from the Skate Lair, there was a meeting with the proprietor with a number of staff present. In summary, staff's main concerns from this meeting had to do with the equipment and the need to inspect it; warranties associated with the equipment; liability concerns with the proprietor's volunteers assisting at the skateboard park; the capacity to handle large participation associated with demos put on by the proprietor.
" The possibility of leasing land to a private entity and then develop a contract as to what the responsibilities would be for the leaser and lessee.
" Included is a memo from the Risk Manager regarding the issue of the equipment
Mr. Vindigni stated in the recent meeting with Eric Mundy, the proprietor of Skate Lair, he spoke in depth about the demonstrations he conducts and the large number of people who are drawn to those demos. He noted it was made clear to him the Town is looking at a neighborhood-oriented skateboard operation on a smaller scale. He added they also discussed with Mr. Mundy the need to inspect his equipment. He noted they also inquired about warrantees, and Mr. Mundy said he'd be willing to write one up. He stated staff also inquired about liability insurance, and Mr. Mundy stated he has this on his building and probably can get one for the equipment as well. He added they didn't get a lot of detail from him on either one of those two items.
Councilman Tallarita agreed they want to make sure they protect the community regarding liability issues, etc. He questioned whether anyone had a discussion with Somers and how they did this. Mr. Vindigni stated Ms. Keller did do a review of the Somers skateboard park as well as the park in New Britain.
Ms. Keller stated she had a lengthy conversation with Conrad McIntyre, the Director of Parks and Recreation in Somers. She noted the Somers skateboard park has always been owned by the Town. She stated there was a group that got together in the beginning to help fundraise money, and they were supposed to be an involved group as concerns maintenance, etc. She noted they helped fundraise the money and got the park started. She added the town has always been responsible for it and has always staffed it. She noted as time went on that group disappeared, and the Town took on more responsibility for the maintenance of this park. She stated the staff person who works is employed by the Recreation Department, and he does all the general maintenance.
Councilman Tallarita stated in his conversation with the gentleman on the weekend, he learned he wasn't a town employee and he wasn't paid by the town. He noted this person told him there was staff that was employed during the week, however, it was the volunteer staff that re-shaped and created the park.
Ms. Keller stated she did speak to New Britain regarding the skateboard park that was mentioned in the proposal originally and learned that is not being used. She added she spoke with Bill D'Ameo who is the Director of Parks and Recreation in New Britain and was told they get close to 100 kids per day using a concrete bowl and they hold all kinds of activities on the weekends and it's heavily used.
Referring to Parkman residents suggesting tennis courts, Councilman Fiore stated his understanding the Board of Education had ideas as to how they would use the space vacated by the skateboard park. Mr. Vindigni stated the report just references what was stated at the Parkman neighborhood meeting and is not a recommendation from the staff. Mr. Shanley stated staff would not recommend installing tennis courts at Parkman, because the Town does have a plan that they've been working on for a number of years regarding eliminating a certain number of tennis courts and then consolidating courts and putting tennis courts at Parkman would be counter to that plan.
Councilman Fiore stated he fully endorses the tennis court replacement plan that has been in place for a number of years. He stated he would like the Town to still proceed with what they were talking about doing at Parkman prior to this memo being issued.
Councilman Egan questioned how many demos would there be at the Thompsonville skateboard park. Mr. Vindigni stated he doesn't recall discussing how often Mr. Mundy has demos.
Councilman Kaupin questioned the necessity of posting a sign at Green Manor park as concerns this park being unstaffed and that skateboarders are skating at their own risk. Mr. Vindigni stated signage also exists regarding safety guidelines for skateboarding.
Mr. Shanley explained the Risk Manager's job is to advise the Town as to where the liabilities are so that they can be addressed. He stated his belief they need to accept that professional advice as it's given, but recognize it's not necessarily the last word.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief they need to keep the Parkman court as a play area that can be used by the school, and he feels the Town needs to stick with the tennis court plan.
Councilman Kaupin requested feedback regarding which way to go with the Skate Lair proposal. Mr. Vindigni stated the private/public venture isn't something that has been dismissed. He pointed out there's at least one other business entity that does skateboarding and has expressed an interest in joining some venture. He noted if there is an interest, they can pursue it and explore it, but given the limitations and constraints of the Higgins site, there are concerns as far as going to a higher level of skateboarding and the draw it could attract.
Councilman Tallarita questioned if the concern is the attendance, i.e., the crowd being accommodated around that area. Mr. Vindigni stated there are concerns about parking, sanitation, etc. He noted this site is limited in what it can handle.
Councilman Tallarita stated if concerns were addressed, the site probably could accommodate more numbers since they're able to accommodate people for the Fourth of July event.
Councilman Strom stated she would like the Town to keep the door open and get a lot more information before making any kind of decision. She stated she does not envision the Higgins facility being a regional facility. Mr. Vindigni stated the staff's intent was that this be for local municipal use. Councilman Strom added her belief when Mr. Mundy was talking about demonstrations, she does not believe he was talking about weekly demonstrations, but rather demos in the area to show local children what very experienced skateboarders can do. Mr. Vindigni stated Mr. Mundy was talking more on a regional basis when he met with the staff. Councilman Strom stated she envisions regional skateboarders coming in once or twice a season to put on demonstrations for the kids. She noted she doesn't want the Council to overreact now, but explore this further before making any decisions.
Councilman Mangini questioned who would carry the product liability insurance. Mr. Strachan stated in this situation, as it was proposed, Skate Lair is the manufacturer. He noted by donating it to the Town, the Town becomes the end user and would be subject to the same product liability if the Town were to maintain it.
Councilman Mangini referred to Mr. Strachan's memorandum where he expresses concerns that the Skate Lair could not maintain the necessary coverage should even one claim be made against their policy. Mr. Strachan indicated that's a possibility. He noted insurance companies are extremely touchy in the current conditions and a lot of them are hurting from a capital standpoint and they're very tight in their underwriting at this time. He stated Mr. Mundy should have at least $1 million dollars of product liability coverage for at least five years (for the length of the warranty). Councilman Mangini questioned the need for an umbrella policy, and Mr. Strachan responded yes, and he would like that to be primary to any of the Town's insurances.
Councilman Fiore stated he would still like to see this proceed and wait to see what Mr. Mundy comes back with. He feels there's plenty of time to look into this further.
Councilman Hall stated she can't imagine not being able to handle visitors for a few demonstrations throughout the season, especially if it was well thought out and well organized. She noted she does not want to shut the door on this idea because she feels it's intriguing and she would like staff to look at the equipment to see if it will work for the kids. She stated she can appreciate the liability issues with this, however, she feels those liabilities exist with the other parks as well, although the equipment might be different.
Councilman Tallarita stated he wants to remain focused on the original intent which was to accommodate an activity in the Thompsonville area, and they're trying to meet the requests of the business owners in the area so that kids aren't using skateboards and roller blades on private or public property. He noted Enfield has an experienced individual in this community and he suggests trying to utilize that experience. He stated if the Town can partnership with someone where they don't place the Town at risk, but they meet the original two needs, they need to explore that. As concerns product liability, he recalls Somers skateboard equipment being homemade and it's located on Somers property and is maintained by Somers personnel. He questioned how Somers is doing this since they would have to have the same type of liability issues as Enfield would have.
Mr. Shanley stated the role of the Risk Manager is to identify what the exposure is, and it's up to the Town as to whether they accept that exposure. He noted the manufacturer of the current skateboard equipment stands behind this equipment. He explained if someone were to be injured as a result of a problem with a piece of equipment, the Town could go after the insurance company for the manufacturer, and that's the reason for making sure that this particular manufacturer has some form of insurance.
Chairman Vayda requested clarification on a lease agreement. Mr. Vindigni stated they could look at a lease agreement to lease land to an enterprise that wants to do a skateboarding venture. He noted it would then be up to the other party to get all the site plan approvals, do site improvements, run the business, and the Town is paid rent. He noted they would also have to post a certain amount of insurance. He added there could be any number of different covenants. Chairman Vayda stated his belief this idea should stay on the table at least for consideration. He questioned whether this idea was passed by Mr. Mundy, and Mr. Vindigni noted the idea was raised to Mr. Mundy, and he did not discount it.
As concerns the Parkman facility, Chairman Vayda agreed they should not put a tennis court in that location, however, he would like to see some alternatives for that site. Mr. Vindigni stated staff met with the school department regarding that site. He noted their main concern is where they will locate the structures currently at Parkman.
MOTION #6240 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Strom to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6240 adopted 9-0-0.
Item f. remained tabled.
NEW BUSINESS
DISCUSSION RE: POLICY ON SUSPENDING BUSINESS WITH TAX DELINQUENT BUSINESSES.
Mr. Shanley stated there is only one business involved in this issue at this time.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief they should establish some type of guidelines and suggested something be drafted up for Council consideration.
Councilman Strom stated her hope such a business would be in contact with the Tax Department and have some sort of payment arrangement.
Councilman Fiore stated he would like a formal policy so that staff knows precisely what they need to do.
Mr. Shanley stated his belief they need to have real clarity in this policy.
Councilman Egan stated consideration should be given if someone is making a good faith effort to pay off their taxes.
Councilman Kaupin stated there are businesses paying their taxes and the Town's business should be focused on those people when they get into an environment where there are multiple businesses providing the same service.
Councilman Mangini stated a point to bring out is that there are residents who have fallen upon hard times and can't pay their taxes, and they're in a worse position than most businesses. Mr. Shanley stated the Town's policy gives residents an optimum amount of time and years of opportunity to make payments and that has worked quite well.
Councilman Tallarita questioned if it's an option for the Town to go ahead and attach some type of garnishment from the payment. Attorney Bromson noted the state statute does empower them to do certain things with withholding and where they credit it. Mr. Shanley explained the Town's current policy is that they don't withhold business from people - they just don't pay them, and in the past that has provided an incentive for people to pay their taxes if they wanted to get paid.
Councilman Strom stated she would rather see the payment owed to a business applied toward the taxes. Attorney Bromson stated he's not sure the state statute provides for that. Mr. Simmons stated as far as he knows, the statute does provide for the Town to take the money and apply it to their taxes, however, they've never done that because they let the vendor know that they won't get paid until they pay their taxes. He pointed out there have been instances where a business has come into pay their taxes, and on the same day, the Town is ready to pay them for their services.
Mr. Shanley stated a draft will be provided for the next meeting.
DISCUSSION RE: MEMORANDUM ON THE BOE PLANS TO PURCHASE A NEW FINANCIAL SYSTEM
Mr. Simmons stated after the meeting with the Board of Education, he and Patricia Brooks, the School Business Manager, met and went over their list of items. He noted some items on this list were rather vague. He stated they both made sure they understood exactly what the concerns were of the users and they will bring them back either to the Town's IT Department if its an internal function or to the manufacturer of the financing system, which is Access. He stated hopefully they'll be getting back together again this week and then they will schedule meetings with Access and IT.
Councilman Strom questioned whether the Town ever received a copy of the RFP that was sent out by the School Department. Mr. Simmons stated he has a copy of the RFP.
Chairman Vayda requested a copy of the RFP be supplied to the Council.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether the RFP contains a question about the cost to transfer the financial data from one system to another. Mr. Simmons responded not as far as a cost breakdown. He noted there was a statement that the information did have to be shared with the Town system in a way that it could recognize it.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether the RFP includes the modifications that will be needed to take data from the new financial system and then feed it to the Town's IT financial system. Mr. Simmons stated there is a statement within the RFP that the software has to do that.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether there's a timetable the School Department wants to adhere to. Mr. Simmons stated their time line is driven by the RFP which expires in 90 days; therefore, they have to make an award recommendation 90 days from the date of the opening, which was October 15th.
Councilman Strom stated one of the things discussed at that meeting was the role of the Finance Director according to Town Charter. She noted one of the items brought up by the School Department was that there are other schools where the town's finance function and the board's finance function are separate, although they didn't state whether any of those are separate but using compatible systems. She noted under Town Charter, it is written that the Finance Director is solely responsible. She stated other towns they're referring to might be those that have Boards of Selectmen and Boards of Finance and not structured the same way that Enfield is structured. She questioned if under Enfield's Town Charter, would Mr. Simmons be the person who prescribes what form the finances needed to be reported in. She questioned whether this has been researched. Mr. Simmons stated that is his understanding, in that it's the Director of Finance's position that decides the form of accounting reporting. He noted this is not only according to Town Charter, but it's also state statute that dictates some of those rules as well, in regards to who signs checks. He went on to note that most towns, even those that have different systems, have some way of downloading the data into the finance system.
Chairman Vayda questioned if Mr. Simmons is pursuing getting a legal opinion on these issues so that it's understood where the approval lies. Attorney Bromson stated the authority and the responsibility lies with the Director of Finance. He stated if the Council feels more comfortable having a legal opinion rendered, that can be done. Chairman Vayda stated they can wait on that. He went on to state his understanding that approval of any purchase of that financial package really has to come through the Director of Finance. Mr. Simmons stated indirectly, however, the School System can still go forward since they can spend their money however they choose. He noted they could use their system up to the point of cutting a check and at that point they'd have to come back to the Town's system to get their checks cut. He went on to note that so far, the School System certainly seems to be willing to look at what the current system can do. He stated his hope that will progress and work out.
Chairman Vayda stated this item will remain on the agenda and the Council will get further information and updates.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL & TOWN MANAGER)
MOTION #6241 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to suspend the rules to address Items a.2, c., f., and g. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6241 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: BLIGHT ORDINANCE ADDENDUM AND RESOLUTION SETTING PUBLIC HEARING DATE
Mr. Shanley stated the Town Attorney's Office feels this is language that should be in the ordinance. He noted a public hearing will be scheduled asking this language be added which basically references a state statute which then drives a specific due process which ensures they're able to act as a municipality rather than going through the courts. Attorney Bromson added this is similar to the alarm ordinance with keeping the fines local as opposed to having to use the court. He noted currently they have to seek injunctive relief through the Superior Court, which is timely and expensive. He explained this just gives them an enhancement under the state statute which allows the Town to levy fines and go through that procedure, but to do that, there has to be an appointment by the Town Manager of an individual and an appeal process which is fairly simple and streamlined. He stated his belief this would be a great tool for the Town and would save a lot of time and expense.
DISCUSSION RE: NEW JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Mr. Shanley stated these are updated job descriptions of jobs that currently exist. He noted per the Town Charter, the Town Council approves all job descriptions.
DISCUSSION RE: RECREATION REFERENDUM
Councilman Strom stated at the voting polls she learned most people were voting "no" because all the projects were rolled into one question. She stated she would like to hold some kind of informal hearings to get feedback from the public. She added her belief people are willing to look at the high school fields. She pointed out players are getting injured on these fields. She stated she would like discussion about the high school athletic fields going out to referendum in the spring.
Councilman Egan stated a lot of people indicated to her they would prefer a choice. She added she heard many people acknowledge the need to address the high school fields. She stated her belief there's a real obligation to take care of the school athletic fields. She noted she would like to hear from people again.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief it's the Council's role to bring these ideas before the voters, and it's up to the voters to vote yes or no. He added he likes the idea of a spring referendum since the Council is setting the budget in May. He stated his belief it's important the Town Council go back and revisit why the referendum failed. He agreed the Council should have more informal sessions.
Councilman Tallarita stated the Town Council has an obligation to recognize what the Town is facing. He noted while he was campaigning, many concerns centered on recreation, and when the Council heard the presentations from the recreation study, they recognized the deficiencies. He went on to note the high school athletic fields are a reflection of Enfield. He noted it's the Council's responsibility to bring this need to the voters for their decision. As concerns a spring referendum, Councilman Tallarita stated he's not inclined to rush into this. He stated his belief they need to take a look at how to reduce the cost. He added he'd prefer looking at a central location and using the school locations as practice fields.
Councilman Hall stated she agrees with putting the question back out. She added her belief everyone recognizes the need to address the high school athletic fields.
Councilman Hall stated she would like to see the leaf vacuum program reinstated and that should be done before a referendum is presented. She added her belief the removal of this service played a part in the referendum failing. She stated she would support a spring referendum.
Councilman Fiore stated before he would agree to a spring referendum, he would like to know the cost for a recreation referendum. He added he might be more open to putting this out to referendum next November. He went on to state one of the reasons they did not split up the question was because they did not want to divide up the community. He agreed with Councilman Hall in that discontinuing the leaf vacuum program had a negative impact. He added his belief the leaf vacuum program should be reinstated.
Councilman Jones stated his belief they should have hearings to learn more from the public. He added his belief most people support the athletic fields for the high schools. He agreed the leaf program needs to be reinstated.
Councilman Strom stated when the leaf vacuum program was discontinued, it was intended to come up with a plan so that it could be reinstated and run in a more effective and efficient way. She acknowledged that on Election Day everyone heard about the leaf vacuum program being discontinued.
Chairman Vayda stated he has no problem with reinstating the leaf program and he agrees with Councilman Strom regarding re-thinking how that program is run. He agreed the Council has to go back to the community to learn what they really want. He added his belief they need to have several information sessions. He cautioned rushing out for a spring referendum.
Councilman Tallarita stated the maintenance issue is a big concern to people, and the Council needs to address this area and understand how they will fund maintenance. He stated his belief the informational sessions have to be non-threatening.
Mr. Shanley stated the cost for a referendum outside of the cycle is about $10,000 to $12,000.
Mr. Shanley stated his belief this year is a good example of the difficulty with the leaf program. He pointed out many trees still have leaves.
Referring to the referendum, Mr. Shanley stated once the Council has voted on the question during the process, that essentially silences the staff. He noted he would like to take this opportunity to address the maintenance issue. He pointed out Town staff has done a tremendous job in maintaining and operating the Green Manor pool for 50 years.
Chairman Vayda stated his belief Town staff has taken an unfair beating regarding maintenance. He expressed his appreciation for the work Town staff does with maintenance in difficult situations.
Chairman Vayda suggested that at the next leadership meeting they target some dates when they can have some public forums. Councilman Mangini suggested doing something similar to the Board of Education public forum which is held at the Radisson.
MISCELLANEOUS
NOMINATION #6242 by Councilman Jones to reappoint William Ballard (R) to the Housing Authority for a term which expires 11/30/07.
MOTION #6242A by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Fiore to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6242A adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared William Ballard reappointed to the Housing Authority by a 9-0-0 vote.
RESOLUTION #6243 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Strom.
WHEREAS, the Hazardville Institute a municipal building of some historical significance located in the Hazardville section of the Town of Enfield, requires emergency stabilization of its exterior masonry to maintain the integrity of the building; and
WHEREAS, a group has formed the Hazardville Institute Conservancy Society, Inc. a 501c3; and
WHEREAS, the Council budgeted funds to execute said emergency repairs and said committee has expressed a desire to solicit contractor's proposals to expeditiously effect the emergency repairs outlined by the structural plans developed by an engineer on the committee; and
WHEREAS, said subcommittee has also requested authorization to enter into contract for the required emergency masonry repairs, on behalf of the Town of Enfield; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Manager is hereby authorized to proceed to solicit contractor's proposals and enter into an agreement with a contractor for the emergency repair to stabilize exterior masonry of the Hazardville Institute on behalf of the Town of Enfield, with the waiver of the normal bid process to expedite the work.
Gretchen Pfeiffer-Hall and Richard Szewczak came forward to join the discussion.
Mr. Shanley stated Mr. Szewczak donated his structural engineering expertise in this and came up with a plan. He noted bid documents are not ready and they're not in a position to go out to bid, however, they are in a position to make a selection. He stated they did remove the fuel tank and there was no leakage or contamination. He noted he also authorized the removal of the hazardous material inside the building.
Mr. Shanley stated if they're to continue this as a town project, they will need bid waivers along the way, and they'll need some flexibility to meet the kinds of time lines that the Conservancy is interested in. He noted the other option the Council has is to convert it to a grant.
Councilman Fiore questioned where they appropriated this money in the budget. Mr. Shanley stated the Council received a report from a structural engineer that indicated what would be necessary at a minimum in order to make the building last for five years so that the Conservancy can attempt to accomplish its goal of raising funds to re-do the building and find an appropriate use.
Councilman Fiore questioned how much money was appropriated, and Mr. Shanley responded $125,000.
Councilman Fiore questioned if it looks like they'll stay within that $125,000. Mr. Shanley noted he cannot go beyond the $125,000.
Councilman Fiore questioned the involvement of the Enfield Revitalization Committee, and Mr. Shanley stated there's some cross-over of membership.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether this project is part of the Revitalization portfolio. Mr. Shanley stated it's certainly part of the interest of the committee, but the Conservancy has organized itself as a 501c3 to handle this, and they have a 99-year lease.
Mr. Kazmarski stated he and Mr. Szewczak had numerous conversations over the past week and they talked about getting a ballpark figure as to what the masonry might cost. He stated his belief Mr. Szewczak has some information from at least one potential vendor regarding the cost for that work.
Mr. Szewczak stated they did get a response from one contractor; however, he does not want to give out any dollar amounts because they're very favorable. He noted at this time it appears they could do the work they're interested in doing and provide a safe environment for that area with the dollar amount that has currently been allocated.
Councilman Fiore stated when the Council waives the right to bid, it's his perception it's an emergency situation and a very abnormal situation that they should not take lightly. He questioned if this is an emergency situation whereby it's advantageous for the Town Council to waive this bid. Mr. Szewczak stated this is actually an emergency stabilization, and repairs should be made as soon as possible.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief this has been well thought out, and he feels this should be approved so that they can move forward. He commended this group for their work.
Councilman Tallarita stated the bid waivers the Council has done in the past had a dollar threshold, however, he does not see that here. Mr. Shanley stated he does not yet have cost information since they can't even solicit proposals to get dollar amounts without the bid waiver.
Councilman Tallarita requested more information on the grant idea. Mr. Shanley stated doing the grant policy will relieve them of the burden of governmental process, however, it doesn't provide for any oversight to insure that the funds are going to where the Council intended them to go.
Councilman Egan thanked Mr. Szewczak for all the work he has done and the entire committee for working with the Town Council.
Councilman Mangini thanked the Conservancy group for this tremendous effort. She questioned who is carrying the liability insurance for exposure. Mr. Szewczak stated for the design of the building, he carries liability insurance. As concerns the contractors, they carry their own liability insurance. He noted because of the state of disrepair that this building is in, they have no insurance because they can't get insurance. He stated the only way they can get insurance is if they rectify the deficiencies that exist.
Councilman Strom commended this committee for their hard work. She stated her belief they should move forward with this waiver.
Councilman Tallarita questioned how much time it takes to act on a grant. Mr. Shanley stated the Council could vote to move this out of the capital fund and move it into a different line item. He stated his belief the Council should have a lot of discussion about that because of the precedence it sets and what expectations does the Council have of that grant. He noted if they were to go the grant route, the expectations need to be very clear.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6243 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #6244 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Jones.
WHEREAS, the terms of membership for all members of the Memorial Advisory Committee expires on December 31, 2002; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council and members of the Memorial Advisory Committee are continuing to discuss the installation and completion of the World War II Honor Roll on the Town Green; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council and members of the Memorial Advisory Committee are continuing to discuss the installation and completion of the World War II Honor Roll on the Town Green; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council does not expect the Committee to complete the charge before December 31, 2002;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Council, of the Town of Enfield, hereby extends the terms of the membership of the Memorial Advisory Committee to May 31, 2002.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to change the year in the final paragraph to read 2003.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 7-0-0. (Councilmen Hall & Strom out at vote)
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6244 adopted 7-0-0, as amended.
RESOLUTION #6245 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Jones.
WHEREAS, the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) has worked for months with Enfield's participation to draft a plan to address fiscal disparities as required by Public Act 01-158; and
WHEREAS, Hartford, having been identified through the criteria in the act as a "distressed" city triggers the requirement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield supports the recommendations outlined in the CRCOG Report dated October 4, 2002.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6245 adopted 7-0-0. (Councilmen Fiore and Hall out at vote. Councilman Fiore left the meeting at 9:50 p.m.)
It was agreed to discuss the item concerning overtime hours at the transfer station at the next regular meeting.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Regarding the referendum issue, Mr. Woods stated the Enfield Taxpayers' Association recognizes the need for some items to be addressed; therefore, they're looking at ways to address those needs without spending a lot of money. He stated he likes the idea of one central athletic facility.
Chairman Vayda suggested raising these ideas at the public forums. He noted at that time, they can go into depth and have back and forth discussions.
Mr. Woods stated he heard of the possibility of the Alcorn School being turned into a magnet school because of decreasing enrollment. He noted he also heard the Board of Education is still looking for a home, and he feels one of the logical places would be the Higgins building. Mr. Shanley stated that was defeated at referendum in 1999.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Referred to a Councilman's suggestion to hold a community forum at the Radisson. She stated her belief this is not a good location due to parking constraints.
Richard Strait, 50 Brook Road
Stated people voted "no" on the referendum because they don't want more taxes.
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Noted Enfield is a blue-collar community, and that is why the referendum was turned down. He stated his impression the school system is putting sports ahead of education.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
There were no further comments from the Council.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #6246 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6246 adopted 8-0-0. (Councilman Fiore absent at the vote.) The meeting stood adjourned at 11:03 p.m.
|
|
|