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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
JULY 15 , 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, July 15, 2002 at 7:59 p.m.
PRAYER - The Prayer was given by Councilman Kaupin.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL - Present were Councilmen Edgar, Egan, Falk, Fiore, Hall, Kaupin, Mangini, Strom, Tait, Tallarita, and Vayda. Also present were Town Manager, Scott A. Shanley; Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Director of Planning and Community Development, Jose Giner; Director of Information Technology, Charlene Bond; Director of Economic Development, Raymond Warren; Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond; Director of Human Resources; William Mahoney; Chief of Police; Ronald Marcotte; Assistant Director of Libraries, Mary Palomba.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #6015 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Hall to accept the minutes of the June 17, 2002 Regular Meeting.
Referring to Page 13 and the discussion regarding no parking signs, Councilman Edgar pointed out the street should read Fairview Avenue.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6015 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman Kaupin abstaining.
MOTION #6016 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to accept the minutes of the July 1, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6016 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6017 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hall to accept the minutes of the July 1, 2002 Regular Meeting.
Councilman Tait referred to Page 4, first paragraph - the motion moved by Councilman Tait, seconded by Councilman Hall to consider an item under Miscellaneous. He noted this should read Items for Discussion rather than Miscellaneous.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6017 adopted 11-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Merrill Bent, Abbeywood Drive
Commended Councilman Falk for doing a great job for the Town of Enfield.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
Commended Councilman Falk for always being a good listener. She expressed her appreciation for him and noted he will be missed.
William Ballard, 321 Abbe Road
Stated Enfield has had the good fortune of having people like Roxy Burke and Paul Gaylord serving the town. He went on to state his belief Councilman Falk is an outstanding individual. He stated Enfield has been very fortunate to have Councilman Falk on the Town Council for many years.
Laurence Avery, 148 Pleasant Street
Urged the Town Council to approve lighting at Powder Hollow and Asnuntuck for the Little Leagues. He noted this would make it possible to have more than one game per night.
Mr. Avery expressed his appreciation for all the service Councilman Falk has given the town.
Kevin Collins, 14 Field Road (President of the Thompsonville Little League)
Stated the Assistant Town Manager, Dan Vindigni, has been working with the Little League regarding the issue of lighting for their fields. He expressed his appreciation for the support of all Town staff.
Robert Tkacz, 1300 Enfield Street
Stated Councilman Falk is an outstanding Councilman and has served the town very well.
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated his belief Enfield is a blue collar community and a lot of people feel the taxes are too high, however, he doesn't see any of those people present at this meeting tonight.
Ryan Hillis, 7 King Court
Commended Councilman Falk and noted the whole town will miss him. He went on to urge the Council to support the Little League in their hope for lights.
Chris Senior, 85 Middle Road
Spoke in support of women's sports in the Town of Enfield and stated his belief it's time to address the inequities between girls' sports and other sports in Enfield. He noted the girls' fields are in very poor condition. He acknowledged the Recreation Department did do outstanding work on the fields this year, but they don't have a lot to work with.
Mrs. Collins, 25 Gordon Lane
Stated she finds her tax bills too high. She added she doesn't understand how the revaluation works. She questioned how they assess the motor vehicle tax.
Russ Crow, 22 Carol Street
Spoke in favor of providing lights for the Little League.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Questioned whether there will be a hike in fees for bulky waste and bulky waste transfer station fees. She noted since the revaluation, many people are putting their homes up for sale in Enfield. She requested clarification on Item g. under Items for Discussion.
David Smith, 12 Sandpiper Road
Spoke in favor of lights for the Little League fields. He noted they recently had to call a game due to the fact it was getting dark outside and then continue the game on another evening.
Donald Pitsky, 30 Allen Street
Stated his hope the Council will support lights for the Little League.
Joanne Therrien, 39 Whitworth Street
Spoke in support of lights for the Little League.
Edward Ramsey, 27 Steele Road
Spoke in support of lights for the Little League.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
Questioned the latest concerning Dr. Gallacher's earlier plan regarding Alcorn.
Ms. Turner questioned why soccer fields are before Planning & Zoning when this is a referendum item for November.
Robert Tkacz, 1300 Enfield Street
Acknowledged the need to improve the quality of life in town, however, people need to know what impact the recreation referendum will have on the town budget.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated her belief Enfield should be trying harder to attract more business to town. She noted more businesses would help alleviate the tax burden to residents.
Ms. Jedziniak commended Councilman Falk for doing his best.
Michael DeLisa, Roseanne Street
Noted he is a volunteer for the Enfield Food Shelf and hopes this charitable organization will be able to move into the old senior center.
Mr. DeLisa acknowledged some deteriorating signage has been addressed, however, there are still some problem areas.
Laurence Avery, 148 Pleasant Street
Reiterated his hope the Council will support lighting for the Little League fields.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Falk stated he started with the Council in 1989. He noted it has been a great learning experience and he had the opportunity to meet a lot of nice people. He stated it has become very difficult for him to juggle his personal life and Council life. He noted it's with regret that he submitted his formal resignation from the Enfield Town Council effective July 16, 2002. He stated his hope he will be able to continue serving the Town in other ways that require less of a time commitment. He thanked the voters who supported him over the years. He also thanked fellow Councilmen and Town staff for all their support. He noted he worked hard to help make Enfield a better place for everyone to live and work.
Councilman Hall commended Councilman Falk for his service to the Town and noted she finds it refreshing to have worked with a person of such high moral fiber. She stated Councilman Falk always followed his heart and did what was best for the community.
Councilman Hall distributed pictures submitted by Mr. DeLisa regarding the signage needing attention.
Councilman Fiore commended Councilman Falk and stated he will miss him tremendously.
Councilman Fiore stated if the referendum is to go forward, and the Brainard Park piece is to go forward, he hopes there will be at least one lighted field that will be dedicated to the Women's' softball league.
Councilman Fiore stated the Town has again been awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. He commended the Director of Finance, Gregg Simmons, and his staff. He requested a copy of this Certificate of Achievement be included in tonight's minutes.
Councilman Fiore questioned the status of the blinking light situation at the top of Booth Road.
Councilman Mangini stated she has been proud and honored to serve with Councilman Falk. She noted Councilman Falk is held in very high esteem with his peers and the people of Enfield.
Councilman Mangini congratulated Councilman Kaupin for being the Chair of the Fourth of July Committee. She commended everyone who serves on this Committee and noted they did a wonderful job with the last celebration.
Councilman Mangini commended Mr. Simmons and Town staff for receiving another Certificate of Achievement.
Councilman Tallarita expressed his appreciation for all that Councilman Falk has done. He stated Councilman Falk is a man of integrity and has always been well prepared and a man of detail.
Councilman Tallarita questioned how it came about that a certain section of Enfield Street is now being mowed.
Councilman Egan stated the Town Council will definitely miss Councilman Falk. She noted he has taught the Council how to care about people and listen to people and respect people.
Councilman Tait stated Councilman Falk has been his mentor and inspiration. He noted Councilman Falk will be missed.
Councilman Tait congratulated Mr. Simmons for his Certificate of Achievement.
MOTION #6018 by Councilman Tait, seconded by Councilman Fiore to add Item d. Parker Street Incident with M&M Construction Company to New Business.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6018 adopted 11-0-0.
Councilman Edgar stated it has been a pleasure to serve on the Council with Councilman Falk.
Councilman Kaupin stated serving with Councilman Falk has been a learning experience, and he truly considers him a mentor. He noted he mostly cherishes his friendship with Councilman Falk.
Councilman Strom thanked Gregg Simmons and the Finance Department for the ninth straight year of receiving this Certificate of Achievement.
Councilman Strom stated she has been getting many positive comments about the work Public Works is doing along Main and Pearl Streets.
Councilman Strom stated she has worked with Councilman Falk a very long time. She noted she has great respect for him as a Councilman, a person, and a friend. She stated she values his friendship over everything else. She noted Councilman Falk will be very missed and the Council will never be the same without him.
Chairman Vayda stated he has had the pleasure of working with Councilman Falk for almost eight years and it has been an honor. He noted he has learned a lot from Councilman Falk. He stated Councilman Falk is always a gentlemen and always a friend. He noted everyone respects him and he will be missed.
Chairman Vayda commended Mr. Simmons and Town staff for the Certificate of Achievement.
Referring to a comment by Margaret Jedziniak regarding the Town not doing enough to attract business, Chairman Vayda stated his belief the Council feels the opposite is true. He stated his belief the Town does everything possible in an attempt to attract more business, and they try attracting business that's appropriate to the community. He pointed out the industrial park has only one vacant parcel at this time.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley noted many department heads are present this evening in honor of Councilman Falk.
Mr. Shanley referred to the upcoming July 22nd meeting where Milone & McBroom will be present to go over the improvements at the two high schools. He noted he has sent an invitation to the Superintendent of Schools.
As concerns the recreation crew, Mr. Shanley stated a couple years ago the Council reduced staff in some areas and added staff to the recreation maintenance area. He stated his belief this decision is showing results.
Regarding the evaluation questions raised by Mrs. Collins, Mr. Shanley stated he or Mr. Simmons can take a phone call from her to detail out how the revaluation works.
Referring to Ms. Jedziniak's inquiry about Item g. on the agenda, Mr. Shanley explained this relates to a grant received from the Department of Social Services at the state level, and according to state law, the Council is required to add that to the appropriation, and it has nothing to do with an item that was on the agenda in the past with respect to technology.
Mr. Shanley stated he will forward Ms. Turner's question regarding the Alcorn School to the Superintendent of Schools.
As concerns the soccer fields going to the Planning & Zoning Commission, Mr. Shanley explained the design of the complex on Shaker Road is such that it requires a significant amount of discussion with wetlands, and in order for the Council to have a full understanding of exactly what configuration can be accommodated at that location, it was necessary to bring it to wetlands and subsequently the P&Z so that they could know what can be done on that site. He noted in this way at the public hearing of July 29th, the general public will have a good idea exactly what direction the Council is planning to go.
Mr. Shanley stated he will check into Councilman Tallarita's question regarding the mowing on Enfield Street.
He stated the Chief of Police has an update on Booth Road. Chief Marcotte stated he has learned they are waiting for a part to repair that traffic light, and that should be happening any day now.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There was no report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Hall stated they had an EMS Meeting recently. She highlighted the following areas discussed at that meeting:
- as of July 1st, the maintenance of the EMS vehicles came over to the Town
- the Town is absorbing the operating costs and expenses at this point for those vehicles
- the attorneys are still working on the ambulance life insurer and that will expire at the end of September - it's hoped to have an easy transition before the expiration of the license
Mr. Shanley clarified the Town has taken over the maintenance of the hardware, but the Town hasn't taken over the hardware. He noted the hardware still remains the property of the Maciolek Post and Community Ambulance, Inc. He noted they're currently working on the transfer to take place.
- they're looking at revenue recovery - some plans should be available and coming before the Council in November or December
Councilman Hall stated the feedback she received indicates the new Director is very well liked.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
MOTION #6019 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Fiore to remove Item #6 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6019 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #6020 by Councilman Kaupin to appoint Patricia Nelson, 116 Enfield Street and Donald Christmas, 25 Lincoln Street to the Enfield Revitalization Committee.
MOTION #6021 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6021 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Patricia Nelson and Donald Christmas appointed to the Enfield Revitalization Committee by an 11-0-0 vote.
All other appointments remained tabled.
MOTION #6022 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to remove Item c. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6022 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: CAMP, DRESSER & MCKEE RECREATIONAL STUDY
Mr. Shanley questioned whether the Town Council had an opportunity to discuss any changes to Brainard Park or Green Manor pool that they might be able to incorporate before the July 29th Public Hearing. He questioned whether the Council is interested in including a water slide or play area.
Councilman Fiore stated he was interested in moving the playground from the back to the front and possibly upgrading the playground equipment. As concerns Brainerd Park, he stated his belief the cost could be reduced by using a 10% contingency.
Councilman Falk stated two fields have been lost over at Enfield Street School, and he believes the Women's Softball League could benefit by having two fields over at Brainerd Park, rather than one.
Councilman Strom stated although she would like to see another field added at Brainerd Park, she didn't believe the configuration would allow for another field. She stated her belief the design showing three fields is the best design. As concerns Green Manor Pool, she agreed with Councilman Fiore about moving the play area to the front.
Councilman Fiore didn't agree with adding another field at Brainerd Park. He stated his understanding Mr. Vindigni, Mr. McAlmond and other Town staff have done a lot of work looking at other areas this year to accommodate the women's leagues. He stated his belief there will be improvements next year with some of the schools coming back on line.
There was a consensus of the Council to go with Plan B for the Green Manor Park without the amenities.
Chairman Vayda stated perhaps the Green Manor design could allow space for a spray area in the future.
Chairman Vayda stated he was under the impression that one of the fields at Brainerd Park was going to be dedicated to women's softball. He noted that should be clarified.
MOTION #6023 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6023 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6024 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Edgar to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6024 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: WORLD WAR II HONOR ROLL
Mr. Shanley stated he met with Mr. Plamondon today regarding the float that Mr. Raffia did in the parade. He requested the ability to leave this float on the Town Green so that people can review the names for the monument. He noted they received many calls with respect to names that are not on the memorial and that people believe should be included. He stated Mr. Plamondon requested a tarp be provided for the float so that the rain does not destroy it.
Mr. Shanley stated they received a geo-technical report on Site #3. He noted there are issues with this site as concerns potential stability. He stated using that site would require excavating some old fill material in that area and/or expanding the footings which their geo-technical advisors believe is necessary. He noted he has already asked to have similar borings done at Site #1 and Site #2, and once those boring samples are available, they'll have more information for the Council.
Councilman Falk stated his earlier suggestion about several smaller monuments might be more suitable to the location.
Councilman Tallarita questioned the time line for the borings. Mr. Shanley stated the borings can be done July 22nd and a report available by the end of the month. He noted they can then make a determination about the footing design.
MOTION #6025 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tait to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6025 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6026 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Tait to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6026 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: GOALS
Councilman Falk stated it seems the goals have been established. He suggested perhaps the Council should vote on them.
MOTION #6027 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the goals as presented February 14, 2002.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6027 adopted 11-0-0.
Item f. remained tabled.
MOTION #6028 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item g. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6028 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: BRIGHT MEADOW BOULEVARD - SECTION 7A SIDEWALKS
Mr. Kazmarski presented an illustration of the original concept. He stated the Council directed staff to go ahead with a plan to install the sidewalks. He noted they came up with a modification to the plan. He explained the plan carries the sidewalks from Friendly's to the Radisson driveway on the east side, and at the Radisson driveway they cross the road to the westerly side and proceed on down to the Phoenix. He noted this would eliminate some cross-over and all of the disruption to the Radisson property on the easterly side. He explained they did run into some problems at the cross-culvert and there are some fairly significant grading rights that would have to be acquired from the State of Connecticut in the I-91 right-of-way and extensive grading rights acquired from the D.O.T. at the north part of the culverts and on the center side of the culverts from Phoenix Life who owns a triangular piece in that area.
Mr. Kazmarski displayed another plan which keeps the northerly end of the sidewalk identical and when they get to the Radisson it jumps over to the westerly side. He explained the major difference in this plan in that from the Radisson driveway southerly to the Phoenix, they eliminate the median and they take the streetlights in the median and place them on the shoulder side of the sidewalk. He explained in addition to eliminating the median, they start a taper of the roadway from approximately a 52 foot width, including the median just north of the Radisson driveway down to 36 feet at the Phoenix guard shack. He noted this allows them to rebuild the roadway at a lesser cost, eliminate the median which is a maintenance headache and allows them to put the sidewalk adjacent to the roadway and include a five-foot snow shelf throughout and avoid major reconstruction. He added this plan would also eliminate the need for any grading rights. He recommended this be the approach they follow at this time.
Mr. Shanley questioned whether the issue with the abutting property owner was resolved and the responsibility for maintenance. Mr. Kazmarski stated research work will have to be done because of the fact that the Town's plan indicates that Phoenix Life owns to a point and they are of the understanding that they own a strip of land all the way to Route 5. He noted there are two conflicting maps. He stated the Town has a map from 1982 when the roadway was being turned over to the Town, and there's a direct reference to a map by title and date and that map is on file in the Town Engineer's office, however, it was never filed in the land records. He explained the map that they are currently using shows a 60-foot right-of-way throughout and as it gets to Phoenix, it jumps to a 70-foot right-of-way. He noted this map conflicts with what's shown on the assessor's maps. He pointed out the assessor's map indicates a 50-foot right-of-way with a ten-foot strip running all along the westerly side, all the way to Route 5. He stated research work will have to be done to learn what is really owned by the Town. He noted once that's cleared up, hopefully they can proceed.
Councilman Fiore thanked the Mr. Shanley, Mr. Kazmarski and Town staff for all their work on this.
There was a consensus to go forward.
Councilman Falk questioned if the dollar amount allocated for the Road 2000 is less than what it's going to cost, will this come back. Mr. Shanley stated this will come back once they know the dollar amount. He noted they will not do work on the sidewalks until the Council actually approves the appropriation of funding for the sidewalk because that's outside the scope of maintenance in the Road 2000 monies.
MOTION #6029 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to remove Item h. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6029 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: OLD SENIOR CENTER
Chairman Vayda referred to Mr. DeLisa's comment regarding the Enfield Food Shelf and the old senior center and informed Mr. DeLisa that there was a work session before this Regular Meeting of the Council this evening in order to discuss options for the old senior center. He explained this particular discussion item is on the agenda because this is a work in progress. He stated his belief there wasn't any intention on the Council's point to discuss this item any further this evening.
MOTION #6030 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6030 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6031 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item i. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6031 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: LITTLE LEAGUE LIGHTS
RESOLUTION #6032 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Tallarita.
WHEREAS, the Town Council has discussed and deliberated a proposal to provide funding for the lighting of Little League fields;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of Enfield authorizes the allocation of funds for the installation of lights for Little League fields.
Councilman Tallarita stated his belief this is a nice opportunity to achieve something in a relatively quick period and something that would benefit the children and Little Leagues immediately. He added this is an opportunity to partner with a non-profit group to achieve something immediately. He pointed out East Windsor has beautiful Little League fields with lights. He voiced his strong support of this and stated his hope fellow Councilmen will also support this.
Councilman Fiore noted this is an opportunity for the Town to do a joint venture with the Thompsonville Little League that would cost the Town approximately $27,000 and put aside an additional $25,000 to $27,000 for the Enfield Little League for whenever they are ready. He stated the Town is looking at basically between $55,000 and $65,000. He stated he is concerned about the cost of the referendum, and he will be very concerned what is added to that referendum.
Councilman Mangini voiced her support of this resolution and urged the Council support going forward with this project.
Councilman Edgar stated he's been impressed by the number of contacts he's received. He voiced his support of this resolution.
Councilman Strom stated she would like to see this included on the referendum so that this is done equally.
Councilman Tait stated he would like to see this go on the referendum so that there's parity for both leagues. He added he would also like something included in the referendum to refurbish the fields.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief the most practical way to go is to place this on the referendum.
Councilman Falk stated his belief this should be addressed on the referendum.
Councilman Egan agreed with Councilman Falk. She added she's not comfortable with the financing. She noted she's also concerned about the condition of the fields.
Councilman Hall noted the Town Council has worked very hard on the CDM study and getting input from all the different sports and a very comprehensive plan was put together. She stated her belief the fairest thing to do is to put this on the referendum.
Councilman Fiore stated the referendum will propose lighting the all purpose fields for both high schools which will satisfy the majority of the high school needs. He noted in addition to that, outside the referendum, they moved lights over to JFK for the Enfield Ramblers. He stated additionally, they've had two lighted baseball fields for men at Brainerd Park for 20 years. He noted the referendum will hopefully include one new field that will be a lit field dedicated to the girls or women. He added additionally they have a lit field at Higgins. He noted once the Brainerd field is available, perhaps the Higgins field could be used by girls. He stated his belief lighting needs are being addressed in the referendum. He pointed out the Soccer league is willing to forego lit fields at the Shaker Soccer complex.
As concerns moving Enfield Ramblers lights to JFK, Councilman Hall pointed out this was only done because the Enfield Rambler's football field was taken away to accommodate the new Head Start building.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6032 defeated by a 5-6-0 vote, with Councilmen Egan, Falk, Hall, Kaupin, Strom, and Tait voting against the resolution.
There was a consensus to direct the Town Manager to add these two fields to the referendum.
Councilman Tallarita stated if they're planning to light only two fields, perhaps the Council might consider the Asnuntuck field (which could be shared between the two leagues) and the larger field at Powder Hollow. He noted this would accommodate the younger and older players. He suggested this idea be further investigated.
Chairman Vayda questioned if the wording can be structured for the July 29th Public Hearing. Mr. Shanley stated they do need to have a proposal that people can react to. He noted they could do a three-field proposal and knock it back to a two-field proposal.
Councilman Mangini stated she would like more clarity before agreeing to new questions on the referendum.
Mr. Shanley stated they can present the concepts in such a way that they can get some clarity on the concepts, and then they can provide clarity on the funding at the same time.
Councilman Hall questioned why the Town wouldn't light their own field, rather than the Asnuntuck field. Councilman Tallarita stated his belief the State will never take away the Asnuntuck field.
RESOLUTION #6033 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council will hold a Public Hearing in the Enfield Town Hall Council Chambers, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, August 5, 2002 at 6:30 p.m. to allow interested citizens an opportunity to express their opinions regarding the Proposed Changes to the Bulky Waste Transfer Station - Fees of the Town of Enfield.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6033 adopted 8-0-0. Councilmen Falk, Fiore, and Tait were absent at the vote.
RESOLUTION #6034 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, the Enfield Town Council hereby endorses the Director of Public Work's implementation of Bulky Waste Transfer Station - Fees, as per attachment entitled "Bulky Waste Transfer Station - Fee" dated July 15, 2002;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the "Disposal Rates" effective November 1, 2002 of $0.05 per pound of material, shall be based on the tare weight assigned the vehicle or trailer at the time of permitting by the Town of Enfield, as determined by a scale designated by the Town, certified for accuracy by the State of Connecticut.
Mr. Kazmarski stated this resolution is on the agenda for the Council's information only, and if a vote is to be taken, it should be taken after the Public Hearing.
Councilman Fiore stated if they are paying by the pound are they still charging for an annual resident permit. Mr. McAlmond stated this is required.
MOTION #6035 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to table this resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6035 adopted 10-0-0, Councilman Strom absent at the vote.
Item k. remained tabled.
It was agreed to remove Item l. as an agenda item.
MOTION #6036 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item m. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6036 adopted 8-0-0. Councilmen Edgar, Falk, and Strom absent at the vote.
DISCUSSION RE: ABANDONED/INOPERABLE MOTOR VEHICLES
Chief of Police, Ronald Marcotte, was present for this discussion.
Mr. Shanley stated there was discussion at the last meeting regarding making an amendment to this ordinance with respect to the property line, and in order to do that, they would need a public hearing to change the ordinance. He stated the Council has a resolution before them scheduling a Public Hearing. He noted this specifically addresses the issue of people who have one unregistered motor vehicle, but their backyard or side
yard is too small to accommodate the vehicle and this would allow them to keep it in front of the house.
RESOLUTION #6037 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Egan.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council will hold a Public Hearing in the Enfield Town Hall Council Chambers, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, August 26, 2002 at 7:15 p.m. to allow interested citizens an opportunity to express their opinions regarding the proposed amendment to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance.
Councilman Fiore stated his understanding of this dilemma, however, he will vote against this because he voted for the original policy for specific reasons. He stated he would not like to open the door at all because of the success they've had with the current policy.
Chief Marcotte stated this would address people who do not have a place to put the car, but they would be required to cover the car and follow all the other rules. Councilman Fiore stated he prefers seeing the car in a garage or in the back. He noted he does not want to see unregistered cars in front of the property.
Councilman Kaupin agreed with Councilman Fiore. He stated his belief inoperable motor vehicles belong in a garage or in back of homes. He noted he wouldn't want to see covered cars in front of residences. He stated his belief that is unsightly. He stated he would like to see the strict enforcement of this ordinance.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6037 defeated 0-11-0.
NEW BUSINESS
DISCUSSION RE: ALARM FEES
Councilman Fiore stated he's very much in favor of enforcing the false alarm policy and reviewing the policy. He stated he would like to see a raise in fees to $50.00. He questioned who is exempt from this. He noted he would want to see Town and municipal buildings exempt, as well as schools and churches, however, he does not want to see state or federal buildings exempt. He stated he would like to move forward with this.
Chairman Vayda agreed with Councilman Fiore regarding exemptions. He noted if the Chief indicates there's a problem with any non-exempt buildings, it should be made a priority to address that problem.
Councilman Hall indicated she would like to know how many alarms outside the Town buildings are monitored through the Police Department.
Councilman Tallarita explained how the town of Wethersfield handles their ordinances. He explained a citation is issued, and there are no boards, commissions, or appeals. He stated the Chief of Police is the only deciding factor. He spoke about the advantage of having no exemptions so that people do address their alarm problem.
Councilman Strom suggested perhaps on a quarterly basis, the Chief could provide a list of those alarms that were waived. Chief Marcotte suggested setting up the ordinance in the way the Council would like it to be set up, and then the Council can suggest that every three months the Chief of Police provide a list.
Councilman Edgar stated the Council should be voting against recommendations one through four as mentioned in Mr. Bouchard's e-mail. He noted if they went with recommendation #1, the town would receive no revenue - it goes entirely to the state. He referred to recommendation #2 which would remove the appeal procedure. He noted this can't be done because anyone who receives an infraction can plead not guilty and a judge will then make the decision. He went on to note recommendations #3 and #4 are pretty much dependent on recommendations #1 and #2.
Mr. Shanley stated his understanding the Council wants to generate revenue, the fine should be $50, the Chief of Police should have the discretion on the enforcement side, the Council wants a quarterly report as to what discretion was exercised, the Council is interested in perhaps some municipal exemptions. He noted they could draft the ordinance that the Council will consider in such a way that they can debate this at a later time as relates to what to exempt and what not to exempt.
It was the consensus of the Council that there be no exemptions.
MOTION #6038 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Strom to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6038 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6039 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6039 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #6040 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
A Resolution re: Altering the Boundaries of the Council Districts
- copy appended -
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6040 adopted 11-0-0.
Item c. remained on the agenda.
DISCUSSION RE: PARKER STREET INCIDENT WITH M&M CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
Councilman Tait stated there's no enumeration available for this person. He stated his belief the bottom line is that any taxpayer in this town who has injury as a result of an agent the Town hires has no recourse except to sue the Town in order to get their money. He requested the Town Council authorize the Town Manager to pay the full cost of the damages done to Mr. LaRusso's property.
Mr. Shanley explained M&M Construction was doing sidewalk work on Parker Street. He noted Mr. LaRusso's daughter was visiting. He explained the construction company placed metal pins relating to the framing or boxing out for the pouring of the concrete. He stated the daughter backed out of the driveway, hit a pin and the pin ripped off the front of the vehicle. He noted there are different views of the situation. He stated Mr. LaRusso and his daughter take the position that the way the cars were parked and where the supervisor for M&M was standing made it difficult to back out of the driveway in a way that she normally would and she strayed out further than she normally would have and that's why she hit the pin. He noted Mr. LaRusso also has a problem with M&M because he contracted to have some private work done, and he's not happy with the private work either. He stated the insurance companies were contacted and one insurance company relied primarily on photographs of the site and both M&M and the Town's insurance company determined that it was not the fault of the Town or M&M. He stated the reason this is not the responsibility of the Town is that the Town requires subcontractors to carry insurance. He noted this is done to protect the Town from lawsuits related to work conducted by the contractors. He stated the Town's insurance company did help considerably by contacting the insurance company for M&M to be sure they actually paid a visit to the site and reviewed the situation. He noted ultimately M&M's insurance company found it was not the fault of the contractor, and the Town's insurance company didn't necessarily disagree with that finding.
Councilman Tait pointed out Mr. LaRusso has lived in his home for over 50 years, owned a business in Town for many years and finds his only recourse is to sue the Town that he has been paying taxes to for his entire life.
Mr. Shanley started they did ask Mr. LaRusso to contact his own auto insurance company to act as the advocate for him with M&M's insurance company, however, he believes Mr. LaRusso does not want to do that because he doesn't want to risk his insurance company hiking his premiums.
Chairman Vayda stated since a lawsuit has been mentioned, perhaps this should be discussed further in Executive Session with the Town Attorney.
MOTION #6041 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Tait to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6041 adopted 11-0-0.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
Appointments to the Historic District Commission and Enfield Beautification Committee will appear under New Business on the next agenda.
MOTION #6042 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tait to suspend the rules to address Items b., d., e., f., and g. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6042 adopted 11-0-0.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #6043 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Strom.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby cancel the second regular meeting of the Council scheduled for Monday, August 19, 2002; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the second regular meeting of the Enfield Town Council be held on Monday, August 26, 2002.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6043 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6044 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Strom to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6044 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #6045 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Tait.
A Resolution re: Adoption of Community Development
Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plan
- copy appended -
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6045 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6046 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6046 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #6047 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Tallarita.
A Resolution re: Adoption of Community Development
Block Grant - Small Cities Programs Section 3 Plan
- copy appended-
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6047 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6048 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Tait to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6048 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #6049 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
A Resolution re: $100,000 Transfer of Funds
- copy appended -
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6049 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #6050 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Tait to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6050 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #6051 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Tait.
A Resolution re: $121,552 Transfer of Funds
- copy appended -
Councilman Edgar requested clarification on this item. Mr. Simmons explained this is part of the Special Education State statute regarding the Excess Cost Grant whereby the Board of Education can spend beyond their budget and the towns have to reduce the amount. He noted the town is charged by the State that the town has to net transactions for excess costs. He explained this piece of it, which is a Medicare portion, the State has pushed back to the towns the requirement to compile all the information for Medicare reimbursement from the federal government. He noted if they do that, the State then reimburses the town for their share of the Medicare. He stated the Board of Education in this case has to hire a professional staff person to do that, and that's where the costs are incurred and where the grant revenue came from. He noted the way it's different from excess cost in this case is they're required to increase their budget for the amount of grant revenue they received.
Councilman Edgar stated he would like to see an amendment that this is specifically reimbursement for the Medicare costs. He stated his belief it's too broad.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to include Connecticut General Statute, Section 10-76d(a)(8) as the reason the Council is taking the action.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #6051 adopted 11-0-0, as amended.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Tallarita suggested the idea of naming the Head Start building for Roxy Burke.
Councilman Strom stated her belief this is an excellent idea. She suggested bringing this up with the Board of Education. She requested the Town Manager outline the procedure as to how this is done.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #6052 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Tait to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #6052 adopted 11-0-0.
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