|
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 21, 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, October 21, 2002 at 7:45 p.m.
PRAYER - The Prayer was given by Councilman Egan.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL - Present were Councilmen Egan, Fiore, Hall, Jones, Kaupin, Mangini, Strom, Tait, Tallarita, and Vayda. Councilman Edgar was 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 Public Works, John Kazmarski; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Recreation Supervisor, Mary Keller
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #6209 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Tait to accept the minutes of the October 7, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6209 adopted 8-0-2, with Councilmen Egan and Tallarita abstaining.
MOTION #6210 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the October 7, 2002 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6210 adopted 8-0-2, with Councilmen Egan and Tallarita abstaining.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated his belief the upcoming referendum should be put off for at least another year. He suggested thinking more about the education of the students rather than recreational matters.
Charles Wood, 11 Westerly Drive
Questioned the order of the agenda, noting the public doesn't have an opportunity to speak after items have been discussed by the Council. Chairman Vayda explained the Council does not typically act on items for discussion on the same evening and those items are available for discussion again at the following meeting. He added at every first meeting of each month, there is a second opportunity for the public to speak at the end of the agenda.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated she was very surprised and concerned to hear about maintenance problems at the Enfield Police Department. She stated her hope the Council will do something to rectify those problems.
Mrs. Collins, 25 Gordan Lane
Voiced her dissatisfaction with the road work being done on Gordan Lane and Cooper Road. She noted damage has been done to her property and the project is still underway. She added the workers leave litter behind.
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Questioned who paid for the road markers for the recent road race. Mr. Shanley indicated an answer can be provided. Chairman Vayda added a private group organized that event.
He questioned the purpose of the large, new addition in front of JFK Middle School. Chairman Vayda responded that is the new JFK Middle School library and media center.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Referring to Mrs. Collins comments, Councilman Kaupin requested an update be provided on the road project in the vicinity of Gordan Lane and Cooper Road. Mr. Shanley stated Mrs. Collins has written a letter with an intent to sue, therefore, this item would be addressed in a different arena.
Councilman Tait requested a report regarding the maintenance condition of the Enfield Police Department.
Councilman Jones questioned whether the letter has gone out regarding the leaf pick-up, and Mr. Shanley responded yes.
Councilman Jones noted he attended the recent Jack-O-Lantern event on the Town Green. He commended everyone involved with this successful event.
Councilman Mangini expressed her appreciation for the Town staff arranging the public information sessions regarding the upcoming referendum. She also expressed her appreciation for the participation of the public.
Councilman Mangini shared a pamphlet from a municipality which provides helpful information about the municipality and how it works. She suggested something similar be developed for Enfield.
Councilman Tallarita stated months ago, the Council discussed some type of recognition or appreciation program for the people that volunteer to be on boards and commissions. He noted he'd like an update regarding this. Mr. Shanley indicated he would address this.
Councilman Tallarita stated there was also an earlier discussion about the Citizens Police Academy. He noted they discussed doing something similar in other areas of Town government, i.e., how the Council functions or how the Town Manager's office functions. He questioned if there's been any further thought on trying to expand this program into other areas of the community.
Councilman Jones stated this agenda has again omitted the vacancy on the Zoning Board of Appeals. He added his understanding the Council was also supposed to schedule a work session with the steering committee from the Civic Participation Project. He noted he would like this to move forward.
Chairman Vayda suggested having a special meeting at the Enfield Police Department. He noted at that time, the Council could also tour the facility and see what condition the building is in.
Chairman Vayda stated the library addition at JFK Middle School is large because this middle school is one of the largest in the state. He pointed out one of the measurements of a school system is how well they manage their libraries and what they have for library resources. He noted this is an attempt to bring this library up to standard with the rest of the country. He pointed out the current library at JFK is very inadequate for a school of that size. As concern other schools wanting the same size library, he pointed out the elementary school level has a different set of requirements than the upper level does. He pointed out Enfield High School is going to have a new library and media center as well.
As concerns Mr. Jedziniak's concerns about signage, Chairman Vayda suggested perhaps in a future budget session, the Council could include funding for new meeting signage.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley stated Mr. McGee has been working with Mrs. Collins for some time. He noted he received a letter from Mrs. Collins indicating she intends to sue the Town, and that will be put through the appropriate legal process.
As concerns showing appreciation to volunteers of boards and commissions, Mr. Shanley stated they are working on a plan and are targeting June to have an appreciation event for volunteers.
Councilman Tallarita stated he would also like to see letters of appreciation sent out to people when they leave a board or commission.
Mr. Shanley stated he has not done anything on the Citizens Academy. He noted this needs to be very well thought out and developed.
Mr. Shanley referred to the painting job the Town crew has been doing at Town Hall. He noted this paint job was contracted out in the past. He stated his belief the Town crew has been doing a terrific job. He added the Town is saving a significant amount of money by using Town employees to paint the Town Hall.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Attorney Bromson reported the Freedom of Information Commission affirmed the hearing officer's decision in the Mancuso vs The Town of Enfield case, which ruled that all the meetings were legal. He added the leadership meetings and the other meetings held by the leadership are perfectly permissible Chairman Vayda questioned if the appeal period has passed, and Attorney Bromson responded yes.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated she represents Enfield for the Financing Administration Intergovernmental Relations Committee, which deals with national economic policy, general financial assistance programs, liability insurance, intergovernmental relations, municipal bonds and finance, municipal management, anti-trust issues, citizens participation and civil rights. She stated they did accomplish a great deal. She noted at a recent meeting in Iowa, they reviewed a number of items, i.e., an airport bond issue resolution; taxation of interstate sales; federal government infrastructure financing, a medal of honor posthumous award committee to review individuals that may have been discriminated against in prior years. She pointed out the people on this committee are representatives from all over the United States. She stated there will be a news release going out to the local papers from the National League of Cities that supports the committee.
Chairman Vayda spoke about White Cane Safety Day. He explained he received information from a resident of District #1, who is also a member of the Lions Club, and he requested a proclamation be done for White Cane Safety Day. Chairman Vayda stated unfortunately that particular day was October 15th, and he received this correspondence after the last meeting, therefore, this didn't get addressed until now. He stated this is an important issue for the community. He explained White Cane Safety Day identifies the importance of being aware of the fact there are blind individuals in the Community who should have consideration and keep in mind that individuals with a white cane or guide dog have the right-of-way. He pointed out by law, drivers must stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk. He stated White Cane Safety Day is sponsored by the National Federation of the Blind. He stated they should have a reminder to recognize this day next year.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCI & TOWN MANAGER) - No appointments
MOTION #6211 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Jones to address Item g. under Old Business out of order.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6211 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #6212 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Jones to remove from the table the Discussion re: Thompsonville Skateboard Park.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6212 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: THOMPSONVILLE SKATEBOARD PARK
Councilman Fiore stated he, as well as other Council members have been contacted by a private concern that has had some formal or informal discussions with staff about the Thompsonville skateboard park.
Mr. Vindigni stated the Council has a status report which reflects staff actions to date. He noted they met with the Board of Education on the proposed adjustments to the Parkman court, and they have endorsed that according to the Superintendent's e-mail. He stated a Parkman neighborhood meeting has been scheduled for November 7th at 7:00 p.m. at the Parkman Elementary School so that they can get feedback from the residents.
Mr. Vindigni stated he just received the Skate Lair proposal this evening, and he's not in a position to discuss it since he needs to review this with the Risk Manager, Ms. Keller, and Building & Grounds, as well as other staff. He added probably they'd also have to meet with Mr. Mundy.
Chairman Vayda invited Mr. Mundy to address the Town Council.
Present for this discussion were Eric Mundy, owner of Skate Lair and building contractor, Jason Hillman.
Mr. Mundy distributed a proposal and graphics to the Town Council and staff.
Mr. Mundy stated he has spoken with and contacted Council members and Town staff concerning a skateboard park in the Thompsonville area. He stated his belief the idea of a skateboard park in this area is a good idea because there are many skateboarders in this part of Enfield. He noted his proposal is self-explanatory and he invited questions from the Council.
Councilman Fiore stated his understanding there are two sets of skateboard ramps within the proposal and Mr. Mundy would donate one set of ramps and work with Town staff to set up those ramps. He added his understanding that set of ramps is primarily wood, but Mr. Mundy would cover them in some type of metal protection. He added there's also a proposal whereby an additional set of ramps could be purchased. Mr. Mundy responded that is correct.
Mr. Mundy explained his business not only retails the equipment, but they also have a skateboard team that provides professional demos all over New England. He noted other towns contract them to put on demos. He pointed out they were recently contracted to do a demo in Waterbury, Connecticut.
He stated he currently has ramps in storage and would like to donate them to the Town. He added his belief his ramps would attract more skateboarders than the existing parks do.
Councilman Fiore stated his perception that the equipment that the Town purchased is good equipment manufactured by a fine company, but that company specializes in a lot of different things, whereby Skate Lair specializes in skateboarding. Mr. Mundy responded that is correct and added there's a mathematical, geometrical method that a lot of ramp producers do not understand because they do not skateboard.
Councilman Fiore stated his perception the existing skateboard parks are great parks for six to ten-year olds, but they're not attracting the older skateboarders. Mr. Mundy agreed the existing parks are great for novice skateboarders; however, more experienced skateboarders will not use those ramps. He noted he spoke with other towns and some of these towns have spent a hundred thousand dollars on their parks. He acknowledged these towns are heading in the right direction; however, they may not be using the right type of equipment.
Councilman Tallarita stated he recently visited a skateboard park behind the Somers Town Hall on town property. He noted several people were skateboarding at the park and he asked the person overseeing the park how it operates. He learned Somers provided the land and seed money to start this park and then it became self-sufficient. He noted this organization runs it, collects the fees from it, oversees it, repairs it, and makes alterations to it on a regular basis so that it remains challenging and entertaining for the skateboarders. He noted this park has existed for a couple years and seems to be well-received by the children and the community. He stated this park receives private donations from the community. He noted this gentleman referred him to Mr. Mundy and he questioned how this might happen in Enfield. He noted Mr. Mundy understands the different skill levels and ages associated with those skill levels and what the skateboarders are looking for. He questioned how that opportunity can be made available in Thompsonville since there's an interest on the part of the youth to do this, as well as an interest on the part of the municipal offices, community policing and businesses.
Mr. Mundy stated his belief a good skateboard park in Thompsonville will get a lot of use. He pointed out towns contract them to build parks and put on demos and they work. He noted they only need the opportunity to do this. He pointed out there's more than enough interest in Thompsonville for a skateboard park. He noted by accepting his donation of these ramps, the Town would be able to see first hand the benefit of such a park.
Councilman Tallarita stated he would like to explore the opportunity of a private/public venture. He stated although the Enfield Recreation Department does a wonderful job, he acknowledged the Town is not in the skateboard business. He noted this is a particular element that Mr. Mundy understands better than the Town understands. He pointed out the Town of Somers had the same conditions and problems to face with regards to liability and funding that the Town of Enfield would face, but they were able to get past that point and were able to develop this. He went on to state his understanding the current skateboard parks don't meet the needs of the skateboarders who move beyond the novice level. He suggested the Council might want to explore this opportunity before moving Parkman's equipment to Thompsonville. He suggested looking at this as a blank page, i.e., learn what Somers and other towns have done and take the best practices from those towns and implement them in Enfield with some type of reliance on Mr. Mundy's organization to take this forward and move with it. He stated Mr. Mundy expressed an interest in participating in this. He stated he would like the Town to explore these opportunities.
Councilman Tallarita stated his understanding Northampton had a regional competition that brought in thousands of people from the region to participate in that event. He invited Mr. Mundy to comment on the type of economic stimulus skateboarding events have on the local economy. Mr. Mundy stated skateboarding events attract many skateboarders and parents of skateboarders who in turn visit local restaurants and shopping malls.
Councilman Tallarita stated when he asked the gentlemen in Somers who oversees that skateboard park how this idea might be further explored, he suggested talking to Mr. Mundy. He stated Mr. Mundy is an incredible resource right in Enfield, and he's known throughout the skateboarding community, he is a good businessman and approaches things in a good business manner. Councilman Tallarita stated since Enfield has this resource in town, he believes the Council should certainly at least seize upon that opportunity and try to explore any potential this might have.
Mr. Mundy pointed out the last page of his proposal contains references from people all over the country who know of him or his shop and what they do. He pointed out his shop and skateboarding team are known all over the country.
Councilman Mangini referred to Mr. Mundy's comment about the mathematics and geometrics involved in building ramps and questioned whether Mr. Mundy has a mathematical background. Mr. Mundy referred to Jason Hillman, his building contractor. Mr. Mundy stated he assists in the building of the ramps. He pointed out there is a mathematical way to make the transitions while building these ramps. He noted other people who construct these parks don't understand there's more to a ramp than a simple arc.
Councilman Mangini questioned the cost of labor to install the donated ramps. Mr. Mundy stated there would be no charge to install the donated ramps. He pointed out he would donate the ramps that are labeled "a" through "e". He went on to note there would obviously be costs if the Town wished to build more ramps.
Councilman Mangini questioned whether Mr. Mundy has had any conversations with Town staff, Mr. Vindigni or Ms. Keller. Mr. Mundy noted Mr. Vindigni visited his shop.
Councilman Mangini suggested this be discussed with the Recreation Department to further explore any opportunities. She went on to express her appreciation for the proposal and stated her belief it's very impressive.
Councilman Kaupin questioned Mr. Mundy's recommendation regarding fencing for the Thompsonville skateboard park. Mr. Mundy recommended fencing and lighting to deter vandalism. He stated his belief the Higgins site is a good location for the park because of its good visibility and it can be easily policed.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether there's value to include the Parkman skateboard equipment so that there's equipment for the younger children. Mr. Mundy stated he would not incorporate the Parkman equipment and suggested perhaps they could add that equipment to the Green Manor skateboard park.
Councilman Jones thanked Mr. Mundy for a nice presentation. He noted one of the reasons the Town purchased the current equipment is because it had low to no maintenance costs. He questioned if Mr. Mundy's equipment is all wood. Mr. Mundy stated if his ramps are to be outdoors, he would protect them with metal.
Councilman Jones questioned the durability of Mr. Mundy's ramps. Mr. Mundy stated his belief they are more durable than the existing skateboard park ramps. He stated he has full and total respect for his contractor's workmanship. He pointed out as long as these ramps are protected from the elements by layering them in metal, they last. He acknowledged there will have to be routine maintenance. He noted they would be taking care of those items since they will often be at the park.
Councilman Jones questioned the lifespan of these ramps with regular maintenance. Mr. Hillman estimated at least over five years.
Chairman Vayda referred to the design of the ramps and resultant speed and questioned whether the Town wants faster ramps and what might they expect to see in terms of injuries. Mr. Mundy stated it's not so much that they're building ramps to make them faster, but rather they're building them correctly so that maneuvers are actually easier to do on these ramps. He noted the Windsor skateboard park was built by a million dollar company, which used scrap from a piping company which was pawned off as ramps.
Chairman Vayda questioned if the skateboard parks in Hebron and Northampton are municipal or private parks. Mr. Mundy responded they're town parks.
Mr. Mundy stated they were involved with a hundred thousand dollar skateboard park in Hartford, but at the time the new mayor came on board, that project was put on hold.
Councilman Tallarita questioned whether beginners could use Mr. Mundy's ramps. Mr. Mundy stated if he was allowed to build a park at the Higgins site, every skateboarder would be at that location. He noted it is not that younger children cannot use his ramps, it is just that they are more challenging for the more experienced skateboarders because they're built correctly.
Councilman Tallarita questioned whether Mr. Mundy is familiar with any knowledge of injury rates for skateboarders as compared to other sports. Mr. Mundy stated in a report brought forward regarding a skateboard park in Hartford, emergency room statistics showed skateboard injuries had one of the lower percentages for injuries requiring medical attention.
Mr. Shanley questioned whether the Council wants staff to work with Skate Lair to design toward the upper end of skill, rather than the lower end of skill for the Thompsonville location, not withstanding the comment that users with less skill can use the facility.
Chairman Vayda highlighted areas he feels may need further exploration:
" A public/private venture
" Options the Town could utilize that might allow them to proceed with the building of a skateboard park, or having a skateboard park built on the Town's behalf
" What skill level they want to target
" What are the things this activity does for a community and how does that fit in
" What has the experience been in other communities
Mr. Shanley stated the tradition has been to offer these services for free. He questioned if this is something whereby the Town could be looking at the revenue side. He noted he doesn't entirely understand the arrangement in Somers. He stated his impression Somers provides the space and the private sector runs it.
Councilman Tallarita stated he would like the Town to explore providing the space. Mr. Shanley questioned the entire Council as to whether this is a direction the staff is allowed to go. Chairman Vayda responded at least to the extent of finding out more information, i.e., what the practical realities are and what can and cannot be accomplished.
Councilman Mangini suggested Town staff contact some of Mr. Mundy's references to get some idea of the skill levels being served. She noted she does not want to shut out the younger children to appease older or more expert skateboarders. She requested research be done to learn how the mix would be.
Mr. Mundy stated by no means is this park meant to shut out any young beginners. He noted those skateboarders would be present as much as the more experienced users, but this park would offer something for the more experiences skateboarder that the other parks do not. He emphasized the park he would like to construct would not shut anyone out.
Councilman Fiore stated his belief staff has done a tremendous job with the skateboard parks currently on line, and he feels they have served a need. He went on to state he does not want to see skateboarders skating on the sidewalk or fountain at Town Hall or on the properties of businesses. He stated if it's necessary to resort to this type of park to satisfy the 12 years and up age range to get them off the streets and public property, then so be it. Mr. Mundy stated those skateboarders would utilize this park.
Chairman Vayda questioned whether Hebron's skateboard park is still open. Mr. Mundy stated that park is still operational, but they close it for the season.
Chairman Vayda stated at this point they are gathering information.
Mr. Shanley stated there will be an upcoming public hearing at Parkman relating to the skateboard park at Parkman. Councilman Tallarita stated his belief they should proceed with that public hearing to get feedback since that will be part of the exploration of information.
Councilman Jones agreed and stated it's possible they may get feedback that the residents wish to retain the skateboard park at Parkman. Chairman Vayda agreed they should proceed with that Public Hearing to learn what the neighborhood thinks, and he feels this would be beneficial information for the Council as they make a decision later on.
MOTION #6213 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Jones to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6213 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #6214 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Strom to remove Item c. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6214 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: CIVIC PARTICIPATION PRESENTATION
Councilman Jones stated he would like to schedule a work session on this item. Chairman Vayda suggested a work session sometime in November.
MOTION #6215 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Jones to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6215 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #6216 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Jones to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6216 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: INDOOR RECREATION - SCHOOL USE POLICY
Councilman Fiore noted he was unable to make the recent meeting when this item was discussed. He requested an update.
Chairman Vayda stated there is a policy that is being reworked by the Board of Education. He noted the intent is to continue with that policy. He stated the Board of Education will try to develop a procedure that will help them centralize the administration of the calendars for the various indoor recreation facilities so that Mary Keller can go to that one person and get an answer without having to call every single school. He noted basically the stated priorities, in terms of who would use the facilities and how they use it starts with the schools first, then Town recreation and all others afterwards. Chairman Vayda stated they also asked that the Board come back to the Council in a month or two.
Councilman Fiore questioned the custodial fees. Chairman Vayda stated there's no change regarding custodial fees. Councilman Fiore stated he would have liked to see those fees dropped. Ms. Keller stated $44,000 was budgeted last year for custodial fees. She noted weekend activities result in custodial overtime. She added she also gets a cleanup charge as well.
Councilman Mangini stated the custodial charge is something that is supposed to be reviewed.
MOTION #6217 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Jones to remove this item from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-0F-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6217 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #6218 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Strom to remove Item e. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6218 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: ALARM ORDINANCE
Mr. Shanley stated the Council has a copy of the Wethersfield document. He noted staff is looking for direction as to whether they prefer going the state route as was discussed by the Chief of Police or going with the local route. He noted the Wethersfield document is a good example of the local route.
Councilman Fiore questioned who collects the money when there's a traffic ticket. Attorney Bromson stated the revenue from traffic tickets go to the State of Connecticut.
Councilman Hall questioned the enforcement on this if someone doesn't pay, and Mr. Shanley responded there is no enforcement. He noted this does work as a deterrent for Wethersfield.
Councilman Hall stated her belief a $50 fine for a corporation is minor. She questioned whether there could be a progressive fine. Mr. Shanley noted that is up to the Town Council.
Councilman Hall questioned the Chief of Police's preference. Mr. Shanley stated the Police Chief's original preference was for the state, but the Town Council wanted to take a hard look at local. He noted if the Council prefers to go local, this is the model he suggests be used.
Attorney Bromson stated he would like an opportunity to discuss this with the Police Chief. He noted the courts are backlogged as it is, and they won't be receptive to issues such as this coming before them. He noted he does not know what the Town's liability would be if the Police did not respond because a person did not maintain their alarm system or pay their fine. He added there might be a way to put teeth into this.
Councilman Hall stated she would like staff to look into the issue of continuously responding to a property that doesn't correct their alarm problem. Attorney Bromson noted that can be looked into.
Councilman Jones stated if they did have progressively escalating fines, and it got to a certain level, can they at that point say it's no longer local, and they issue an infraction.
Mr. Shanley stated if the Town actually had something in place for a year, similar to Wethersfield's ordinance, they would have the answers to a lot of these questions.
Councilman Tallarita stated his belief it's not necessary to go the court route at this time. He suggested going with something similar to Wethersfield to see how it works.
Councilman Kaupin pointed out they will need something clear for the public hearing. He suggested drafting an ordinance modeled after the Wethersfield ordinance so that people have a clear idea what is being considered.
Mr. Shanley stated a draft can be ready in about a week.
RESOLUTION #6219 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Jones.
RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council will hold a Public Hearing in the Enfield Town Hall Council Chambers, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 7:15 p.m. to allow interested citizens an opportunity to express their opinions regarding the Proposed Changes to the Alarm Ordinance.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini to change the date of the Public Hearing to November 18, 2002.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6219
MOTION #6220 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Egan to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6220 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #6221 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove item f. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6221 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: RESIDENCY POLICY
Mr. Shanley stated a lot of effort has been put into this. He stated his belief this addresses two out of the three issues that the Council had. He stated he's not sure they can do better than this. He noted they could try it for a year and see how it works. He stated it did address Councilman Kaupin's concerns to a certain degree regarding the percentages, but it reduced it to numbers for ease of management.
Councilman Jones stated one thing that stood out to him was that they were looking for non-residents not to be subsidized at all and will a 25% surcharge cover that. Ms. Keller stated the 25% surcharge is for the programs that are run through the Recreation Department, and they would figure the fee to break even for whatever the cost of the program is.
Mr. Shanley stated the idea is to cover all the costs with the fees.
Councilman Fiore stated he appreciates the effort staff put into crafting this legislation which probably has a lot of holes in it. He noted this is a great work on the part of staff to try to satisfy the needs that have been mentioned over the last few months. He stated he is concerned they will not be able to enforce this with non-recreational leagues. He stated they are asking the residents of Enfield to expend $9.95 million dollars to improve recreation, and he believes this is not the time to be opening things up so that more non-residents can participate on Town properties. He stated he will be voting in the negative.
Councilman Mangini agreed with Councilman Fiore. She thanked staff for their efforts. She noted the Town currently has a residency policy and she questions why they have to resurrect that policy. She stated Councilman Fiore has a very valid point regarding how this can be enforced. She added she will not be voting in favor of this.
Councilman Kaupin stated if it's felt a league is a worthwhile league to have, how do they determine that such a league is moving forward, or do they allocate that space somewhere else, i.e., to a different league or a different sport. Ms. Keller stated her belief they made an accommodation as far as any sports league that's run by the recreation division. She noted she does not control the outside leagues.
Councilman Kaupin stated his assumption a whole team gets assessed a fee, and the surcharge applies to that team fee as well. Ms. Keller stated if it is run as a team, then the surcharge would go on the team fee. If it's run as its run now where they pay at the door, then it's on the individual fee. Councilman Kaupin stated if adult basketball was a non-resident team, would they add 25% to that team, and Ms. Keller responded yes. Councilman Kaupin stated his belief after a policy is instituted, it's always good to review it to see if it's working. He noted they can look at this again in another year if they feel it's not working and it can be tweaked.
Chairman Vayda stated his belief this has gotten very involved, and he can see the difficulty in monitoring this. He stated his belief they should have left this alone.
Ms. Keller stated there were two things she was trying to accomplish. She noted in the first three paragraphs, it only described programs. She stated sports leagues could be under a program, but if they wanted it more clear cut, it could be programs/sports leagues. She noted either way it does not matter to her. She explained they would still run it the same, and she believes that would accommodate the volleyball. She pointed out anything that the Recreation Department runs would fit into the first three paragraphs. She referred to the last paragraph regarding the outside sports league not affiliated with the Recreation Division and noted there was an issue about the percentage. She stated instead of trying to go to the percentage to make matters worse, they tried to break it down staying with the two non-residents that they had and making that equitable across the board.
MOTION #6222 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Egan to accept the residency policy as attached to the October 17, 2002 memorandum.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6222 adopted
6-4-0, with Councilmen Fiore, Mangini, Tallarita, and Vayda voting against the motion.
MOTION #6223 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Fiore to remove Item h. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6223 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: NORTHGATE
Councilman Tallarita stated his understanding traffic is a problem in this area. He noted while he was in Toronto, they had speed bumps everywhere. He questioned whether this could be looked into. Mr. Shanley stated the Town Council spent a couple years on a traffic calming policy and that policy doesn't include speed bumps. He noted the fire and ambulance departments recommended not including speed bumps. He went on to note the plan for Northgate did include a number of traffic calming methods for the side streets in that area.
MOTION #6224 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Jones to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6224 adopted 10-0-0.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTION #6225 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby amends the employment contract for the Town Manager under section six, Compensation, effective January 1, 2002 shall be increased by four percent (4%), effective January 1, 2003 shall be increased an additional four percent (4%).
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that section fourteen, Sick Leave, is amended to allow for the buy back of fifteen (15) days accumulated sick leave for calendar year 2002.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that section nineteen, Retirement Compensation, is increased by two thousand dollars ($2,000) effective January 1, 2003 into a plan of the employee's choice.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6225 adopted 10-0-0.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
MOTION #6226 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Mangini to suspend the rules to address Item a. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6226 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: POLICY ON SUSPENDING BUSINESS WITH TAX DELINQUENT BUSINESSES
Mr. Shanley stated at least one Council member requested a discussion regarding this policy. He noted the Town has a current policy as to how they deal with businesses that are tax delinquent.
Mr. Simmons stated they currently have an informal policy whereby the tax office monitors the delinquent taxes for personal property for businesses. He noted if the tax office knows the Town does business with a particular business, they let them know when they're delinquent, and the Town puts that account in a hold status until such time that their taxes are paid up, and then they release the hold. He explained this stops a check from being cut, but it doesn't stop the Town from doing business with these vendors, it just means that they're not going to get paid until they pay their taxes. He stated there is a state statute that allows the Town to do this; therefore, it's perfectly legal.
Councilman Kaupin stated if this is an average business, and there are several similar businesses in Town, he'd prefer funneling the business to a business that's paying their taxes on time and being a good corporate citizen vs someone that's in arrears.
Councilman Egan agreed with Councilman Kaupin.
Mr. Shanley stated if someone is in arrear of taxes, it doesn't mean they're violating the law. He noted it's perfectly legal to be in arrear of taxes as long as they eventually pay them. He acknowledged it could reach a point where they are in violation. He stated the policy would need to be very clear regarding the issue of doing or not doing business with a business.
It was agreed perhaps this could be looked into regarding the alarm ordinance as well.
It was agreed to keep this item on the agenda for further discussion at the next meeting.
MOTION #6227 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Tait to suspend the rules to address Item c. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6227 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: MEMORANDUM ON THE BOE PLANS TO PURCAHSE A NEW FINANCIAL SYSTEM
Mr. Simmons stated before the process of splitting the Information Systems Department between the Board of Education and Town of Enfield, they went through a joint process of selecting financial accounting software. He noted the committee that went through that process was made up of the school Business Manager, the Director of Finance, the Deputy Finance Director and the Information Technology Director. He stated they selected Access Municipal Financial and created a combined chart of accounts and a shared vendor file.
Mr. Simmons stated they went through the whole process and satisfied themselves that this system is working and it meets the internal control requirements. He noted there are some things they have to do by Charter, such as monitoring all disbursements that take place in the Town from any department, including the Board of Education, and they're able to do that with the current system. He stated once they went through the IT separation, there was some talk about the school department going with their own financial planning software. He noted he heard this talk for about a year, but he never really thought it would be done until he received an e-mail with two days notification to attend a pre-bid conference because it had already been out to bid, which was not enough time for him to clear his schedule and attend that pre-bid conference. He stated that is when he started formulating his concerns and his issues with the school system separating and becoming completely autonomous with their financial system. He explained some of the concerns have to do with the disbursement processing. He added with a joint system, they have sequentially numbered checks and purchase orders. He noted everything is basically controlled centrally, but able to operate in two separate locations. He stated he doesn't know if they'll still have that level of control with whatever the school system chooses to go with. He stated there are also vendor issues. He explained at the end of each year they have to issue 1099's to vendors and they are one entity with one taxpayer I.D. number which means they have to issue one 1099 to each vendor that receives more than $600 in compensation from the Town. He stated with a separate system and a separate vendor file, he does not know whether they could merge that type of information. He noted a recommendation was made to do it by taxpayer identification number, and he feels that might be the only way to do it, which means they would both need to have 100% of those numbers included in their system in order for it to work. He went on to note financial reporting is another issue. He explained whenever grantor agencies, auditors, or the Town Council want financial reports, he is now able to provide a true, consolidated financial picture of the Town at any given time. He noted with a split, he would not be able to do that since it will be a matter of getting the Board of Education's data to come into the Town. He stated it's possible it could be merged electronically, and if not, it's going to be a journal entry, which means additional effort on the Town's part and a time delay, and they wouldn't be getting true, live transactions because they're doing it after the fact.
Mr. Simmons stated he was hoping to get the school department to stop for a second and consider the current system and consider if there are ways that they can amend the current system to meet their needs without them taking this step and going with their own system.
Councilman Mangini questioned what the Council can do to assist with this problem.
Chairman Vayda stated he discussed this with the Chairman of the Board of Education, and there is a desire to meet with members of Town staff as well as Board of Education staff and representatives from both the Council and the Board of Education to discuss these issues and to identify the School and Town's concerns and come up with a solution that's in the best interest of the Town as a whole, and that includes not going out and buying another system.
Mr. Simmons stated he hasn't heard much of anything in the past year, therefore, he assumed everything was okay.
Chairman Vayda questioned whether Mr. Simmons has a summary of those things that the Board requested in terms of enhancements to the financial package. Mr. Simmons stated they have records of what was changed.
Councilman Tait questioned if there will be a meeting to resolve this. He stated his belief he's confounded by this since the world is moving towards a centralized information system, and it seems the Board of Education is trying to decentralize information and waste a lot of taxpayer's money.
Councilman Egan stated her hope they are not too late in this. She questioned if they've chosen a vendor, and Mr. Simmons responded he does not believe they've chosen a vendor.
Mr. Shanley stated the first notification the Town received was when the Director of Finance and Treasurer were invited to a pre-bid meeting, and this was the first they knew of the Board moving in this direction. He noted the Superintendent has asked any concerns be expressed by tomorrow so that they can keep their process moving.
Councilman Fiore stated his hope the Town can make whatever modifications necessary to this system to prevent the Board from going their own way.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief the Town should make it known this is not the way to go. He added his belief the Town should take a strong stance on this.
Councilman Strom stated her hope that the reason they're moving this way is because they don't realize what it causes if they separate. She stated her hope during discussions they will look to work with the Town and drop the idea of going out for new software once they learn the implications that it causes.
Councilman Hall stated her belief the Council is unanimous regarding this, in that they don't want to see this happen. She questioned whether the Board can do this without the Town's cooperation. Mr. Simmons stated if the Town really had to dig its heels in, they would have to look back to the Charter and the responsibilities of the Finance Office and managing Town funds.
Chairman Vayda requested a meeting be set up with Dr. Gallacher.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #6228 by Councilman Jones, seconded by Councilman Tait.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: 1500-432 Equipment Maintenance $2,150.00
FROM: 1500-170 Other Compensation $2,150.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $2,150.00 is available from Account #1500-170 as of October 8, 2002.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6228 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #6229 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Connecticut General Statute 12-81(20) and the duty of the Collector of Revenue, the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the abatement of 2001 taxes levied upon Patricia E. Buehler, motor vehicle tax bill #M54312, in the amount of $68.76.
Mr. Shanley clarified this is one of the very few exceptions of the Council or the local government having the authority to remove interest, lien charges and taxes and that is specifically related to this statute and discharge from the military and disability and when it occurred. He noted it's extremely rare that anyone would actually qualify for this.
Councilman Kaupin questioned if this is an action for the 2001 grand list. He questioned if this action carries forward for future payments, and Mr. Shanley responded yes, because they are properly listed.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6229 adopted 10-0-0.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Mangini stated she would like an item for discussion returned to the agenda relating to recognition of 100-year businesses. Mr. Shanley stated they have identified those businesses; however, staff needs direction as to what the Council would like to do in terms of recognition.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #6230 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Jones to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6230 adopted, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:34 p.m.
|
|
|