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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MAY 6, 2002
Before the Regular Meeting began, Chairman Vayda presented the following proclamations:
Fight Hunger Week Presented to Gerry Wilson Enfield Food Shelf
Letter Carrier's Food Drive Day Presented to Jerry Ugone Branch 86 Vice President NALC
National Public Works Weeks Presented to John Kazmarski Public Works Director
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, May 6, 2002 at 7:40 p.m.
PRAYER The Prayer was given by Chairman Edgar.
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; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Director of Finance, Gregory R. Simmons.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #5860 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hall to accept the minutes of the April 8, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5860 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #5861 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Egan to accept the minutes of the April 10, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5861 adopted 9-0-2, with Councilmen Edgar and Kaupin abstaining.
MOTION #5862 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Tait to accept the minutes of the April 15, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5862 adopted 9-0-2, with Councilmen Egan and Hall abstaining.
MOTION #5863 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the April 15, 2002 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5863 adopted 9-0-2, with Councilmen Egan and Hall abstaining.
MOTION #5864 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the April 17, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5864 adopted 7-0-4, with Councilmen Egan, Hall, Kaupin and Tallarita abstaining.
MOTION #5865 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to accept the minutes of the April 22, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5865 adopted 9-0-2, with Councilmen Tait and Tallarita abstaining.
MOTION #5866 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the April 24, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5866 adopted 9-0-2, with Councilmen Falk and Kaupin abstaining.
MOTION #5867 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to accept the minutes of the April 29, 2002 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5867 adopted 8-0-3, with Hall, Tait, and Tallarita abstaining.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Al Courchaine, 460 Hazard Avenue
Referring to the new Hazardville sidewalks, Mr. Courchaine questioned why the pavers on the north side of the street stop in front of Kelly Fradet. He stated his recollection these pavers were supposed to go to Randolph Street. He noted if the pavers stop in front of Kelly Fradet, they should stop in front of St. Bernards on the opposite side of the street so that they appear equal.
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Commended the Public Works and Highway Departments for the good job they've been doing and are still doing.
Mr. Jedziniak stated he and his wife are against the $102 million dollar budget. He stated his belief this is a lot of money, and it's a bloated budget.
He stated his belief the Town Council and Town Manager should give this budget a lot of consideration.
Mr. Jedziniak stated because the School Department refused to merge with the Town's IT Department, they should take away $900,000.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Mangini commended the TOPS Soccer group. She noted the Town Manager's office prepared a very nice proclamation. She stated this proclamation was very well received and appreciated.
MOTION #5868 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to add Item d. under New Business to continue the discussion on Section 7A Roads and Sidewalks.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5868 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #5869 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move Item 12k to become 9b and Item 12d to become Item 9a.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5869 adopted 11-0-0.
Referring to the pavers on Hazard Avenue, Councilman Kaupin stated four or five months ago when they were looking at the allocation of money, the cost, and how much money was in the current capital budget, they could only go so far. He noted they decided to go to the first driveway past St. Bernard's Church going east and matching that on the northerly side as well. He stated there are two driveways almost across from each other, and the limitation in the funding had them going to that point vs going to Randolph and across the street from Randolph.
Chairman Vayda received the following letter from Sean McNeff, a fifth grade student:
"Dear Mr. Vayda: I am writing this letter on behalf of Mrs. Chamberland's fifth grade class at Alcorn School. For our Earth Day project we would like to clean up the boat launch area. We would not go into the water or on private property. We are asking your permission to do this class project. Your assistance in this matter would be greatly appreciated. You may contact us in care of Mrs. Chamberland. Thank you."
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley stated they were expecting a structural analysis report this evening concerning the Enfield Food Shelf. He noted he was just informed that will not occur tonight. He stated this will be moved to the next Regular Meeting of the Council in two weeks.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There is no formal report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Egan stated there was an update two weeks ago to go over what has been done on the Plan of Conservation and Development that was passed a couple years ago. She noted this was a very productive meeting and there was a lot of discussion regarding open space.
Councilman Mangini stated the Fourth of July Committee is moving along very nicely. She stated they have a tremendous schedule of events coming up. She noted the Town should be very proud of the efforts of all the people involved.
Councilman Kaupin stated the Redistricting Committee continues and there will be a meeting tomorrow night. He stated the loss of Mary Lou Flynn is a big loss, but the Committee will forge ahead. He noted the Town staff Charlene Bond and her department; Suzanne Olechnicki and her department, and Jose Giner from Planning has
done a tremendous job in pulling things together.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE
Present for this discussion were Randy Daigle, Chairman of the School Building Committee and Director of School Facilities, Arthur Pongratz.
Mr. Daigle stated Bid Package #3 was opened on April 29th and they're very pleased to announce that it was over $700,000 less than their estimated construction costs. He noted the apparent low bidder is W.J. Mountford at $6,698,000. He pointed out they're also the general contractors on the first bid package. He noted they're very happy with this firm. He stated their change orders are well below 1%. He stated Enfield Builders is the general contractor for the second bid package. He noted the contractors, the Building Committee, and the Town has established a great working relationship. He stated last week the Building Committee voted to approve the award to W.J. Mountford for the bid package.
Mr. Daigle then spoke about Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (FF&E). He noted in the beginning of this process they came up with an estimated construction cost with left over funds of $197,400 which would go toward the FF&E package. He noted it was known that this figure would not be enough money to furnish any of the schools. He stated in the end if there was any money left over, those funds would go toward the FF&E. He noted they then got down to the bare minimum required to furnish the classrooms and additions. He stated that bid package is $1,042,593.
Mr. Daigle stated the initial architect's contract states they're allowed 10% over the bid package amount which was $197,000. Therefore, any money over that which would be allocated towards FF&E by contract, they're allowed 10%. He stated due to the relationship that Jeter, Cook & Jepson has with the Town and the familiarity of the project and the redundancy of a lot of the equipment, they knocked it down to 7.5%. He noted after further looking at this with their interior department, they found greater savings that they can offer the Town. He noted at this time their fee is $42,000.
Mr. Pongratz stated they will be bringing the FF&E bid package to the State Department of Education for their approval to go to bid next Wednesday.
Mr. Daigle stated by having this bid package go out at this phase, they will receive 66% reimbursement on the furniture. He noted if this is done at a later stage, they will be paying 100%, therefore, there's additional savings by acting now.
Councilman Hall stated when they first started originally, and they had an estimate of $200,000 for FF&E, the Building Committee knew full well that this amount was not going to fulfill the needs of these buildings. She stated they also knew that once all the bid packages had come back and they knew exactly what the hard dollar numbers were that the FF&E package was going to grow substantially. She clarified this isn't the Building Committee going from $200,000 to a million dollars and frivolously spending money. She noted everyone knew all along that this money was going to grow substantially once the bids came in. She also clarified they are way under budget. She noted they received some projected numbers from Jeter, Cook & Jepson recently. She stated the preliminary numbers are $1.3 million dollars under budget. She noted the Committee is not dipping into those funds to fund this FF&E. She stated they are also ahead of schedule. She noted they are in great shape, thanks to the Building Committee, Mr. Pongratz, the Public Works Department and Jeter, Cook & Jepson.
Councilman Tallarita questioned if the $1,042,000 price for all the schools includes the architect's fee, or is the architect's fee added onto that amount. Mr. Daigle stated the architect's fee is a separate line item calculated off that number. He explained the $1,042,000 is specifically for the FF&E items.
Councilman Kaupin commended Mr. Daigle, the Committee, School staff, the Town and liaisons to this committee. He noted their hard work put out great packages and they received great bids. He stated his belief the FF&E is well worth the money to make the new space useable. He commended everyone for coming in under budget and ahead of schedule.
Councilman Egan commended the committee for the hard work they've put into this. She questioned if everything in the FF&E allocation would be reimbursed at 66%, and Mr. Daigle responded yes.
Councilman Mangini noted the FF&E for Head Start is not listed. Mr. Daigle stated FF&E will be a separate grant.
Mr. Pongratz stated they are in good shape with Head Start. He noted they opened two additional classrooms for Head Start in January at Central Office. He stated the majority of the furnishings for the new building are close to being purchased. He noted some is currently in use and some is in storage.
Councilman Edgar commended the committee for coming in under budget. He stated he likes hard numbers when voting on an item. Mr. Daigle stated all the funds come out of one purse and they are not re-encumbering any funds. Mr. Shanley stated this would require no general fund monies whatsoever, but rather these are all bond funds and only bond funds.
Councilman Fiore commended the committee for a job well done.
Councilman Tallarita questioned the process in going to the State to get their approval regarding FF&E. Mr. Pongratz stated they have been very conservative and he sees no problem in getting acceptance from the State.
Councilman Tallarita questioned whether the State will be responsible for 66% of the $34 million, and Mr. Daigle responded it's close to that number. Mr. Shanley stated in the case where the gymnasiums are larger than the state requirements, that amount which is larger does not qualify for the 66% reimbursement.
Councilman Edgar questioned why they are being asked to approve the resolution before the State approves the funds. He stated with the State budget being what it is, he feels it's conceivable they can refuse this. Mr. Pongratz stated the State has actually already approved the funding. He noted they will reimburse the Town 66% of the eligible costs. He added there's no reason for the state to refuse this.
Chairman Vayda thanked the Building Committee for their hard work.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether it will be a problem for W.J. Mountford to take on another project. Mr. Daigle stated W.J. Mountford is a big enough company to handle this plus several more projects.
MOTION #5870 by Councilman Hall, seconded Strom to move this item to Miscellaneous.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5870 adopted 11-0-0.
PRESENTATION RE: THOMPSONVILLE AND ENFIELD LITTLE LEAGUE
Present for this discussion were Hank Blethen, representing the Board of Directors for the Thompsonville Little League; Roger Pease, President of the Enfield Little League and Kevin Collins, President of the Thompsonville Little League.
Mr. Blethen stated their fields and facilities for opening day were excellent. He thanked the Town for its support to these leagues. He noted he recently wrote a letter to the Editor of the Journal Inquirer thanking Geoffrey McAlmond, David Tuttle and Mark Gahr for their support of the Little League.
He stated there are currently over 800 children involved in Little League and the numbers are on the rise. He explained the Enfield and Thompsonville Little Leagues share the fields. He noted both leagues have proposals whereby they would like to see lights put on their fields. He stated he also runs District #8 Fall Little League baseball. He noted Enfield and Thompsonville both had three teams last year, and they played numerous games at Asnuntuck and Powder Hollow. He stated they can't really practice in the evening and can only have weekend games.
Mr. Blethen stated 82 businesses within Enfield have donated money amounting to $10,000 to the Little League. He noted this is an all time record and next year they anticipate to raise about $35,000.
He stated they would like to see lighting at their major league diamond at Asnuntuck, which would be shared between the Enfield and Thompsonville Little League. He pointed out they are not looking for this for free. He noted they've raised a lot of funds and want to put forth a lot of money. He stated they have an alternative plan to fund this lighting through Musco Lighting Company at 8%, which is the bargain rate at this time. He noted the timing is right since the Little League is in very good shape, and they're ready to put forth some money. He added they are looking for support from the Town Council. He stated his belief this would be a win-win situation for the Town of Enfield, the Enfield Little League and the Thompsonville Little League.
Mr. Pease stated the Enfield Little League is backing a proposal to raise the money for the lighting system. He noted he has all the facts and figures from Musco Lighting. He stated a 60-foot diamond costs $35,000 for just the equipment, which consists of four towers measuring 60 feet in height, the lights, power boxes and wiring. He noted the 90-foot diamond would cost $77,000, and this includes six towers measuring 70 feet in height, the lights, power boxes and wiring. He stated all of this equipment comes with a ten-year warranty, and at the end of the ten years, Musco Lighting will replace all of the light fixtures. He requested the Council consider helping them in this improvement, either in the cost or installation of these towers.
Mr. Pease stated through fund raising, the Enfield Little League can and will be ready in March of 2003 to install the lighting, whether it be one field, or both fields at the same time. He noted there will be a separate account set up at the Enfield Federal Savings on Hazard Avenue that will hold all funds raised for this purpose.
Mr. Pease stated he has already spoken to Kevin Collins, the President of the Thompsonville Little League, and he agrees the Girls' fast pitch softball can and will use the facilities on the 60-foot diamond after the lights are in Friday and Saturday nights.
He stated other teams that will benefit from this include Enfield and Fermi High Schools, JFK Middle School, Enfield Little League and the American Legion. He noted he plans to have all these groups get involved in the fund raising.
Mr. Pease stated hosting tournaments such as the District #8 and State becomes possible with lighting. He noted that can't be done at this time because they can't put all those teams together on one field. He stated bringing in visitors from other towns will result in revenue for local businesses.
He went on to state he has been offered a two-story building, measuring 16' by 20' concession stand with an announcing booth to be placed in Powder Hollow. He noted this will not cost the Town any money. He questioned how he could go about getting approvals to place this building in Powder Hollow.
Mr. Shanley stated Mr. Vindigni can provide some assistance regarding the building referred to by Mr. Pease.
Mr. Blethen stated Musco Lighting indicated they would have spill and glare control for the lights so that these lights would not disturb the abutting neighborhood.
Mr. Blethen stated the Thompsonville Little League is basically looking for $27,500 in funds from the Town, and the League would contribute $20,000. He noted Geoffrey McAlmond and his crew should be able to assist with a trench digger to get power to the poles.
Councilman Fiore stated his hope the Council will consider this proposal. He stated his belief they do not need any detailed plans or analysis done on these two facilities at this time. He added his feeling that what they do for one organization, they must do for the other organization. He stated his belief they should help subsidize the Thompsonville League and Enfield Little League for the same amounts of money. He noted if the Thompsonville Little League is ready to go today, then the Council should assist them in moving ahead. He stated they can always pull the same amount of money and hold it aside in a separate CIP account until the Enfield Little League is ready to move. He noted the funds are available. Referring to Project 88116, he stated there's approximately $255,000 that's not being used as of yet this year. He stated additionally, they have about a $5,000 balance from the Asnuntuck account. He noted they could authorize the Town Manager to utilize $27,000 out of the $256,000 to assist the Thompsonville Little League to get those lights up this year. He added they could also authorize the Town Manager to create a transfer to pull $27,000 out of that same account into a separate CIP account and hold it aside for when the Enfield Little League is ready to proceed.
Councilman Kaupin questioned the difference in cost, equipment and installation for the Enfield Little League's proposed lighting at $70,000. Mr. Blethen stated the cost of $55,000 is the same for both leagues according to Musco Lighting. He noted that is for the 60-foot diamond, but the 90-foot diamond is twice the price. He stated after talking with Geoffrey McAlmond, he learned there wouldn't be a problem to run the electricity out to the four post position. He noted he then asked the installer if that could be done, what would be deducted from the price, and he was told $7,000.
Mr. Pease noted he's looking to raise the funds for all ten poles by March, 2003. He stated he would like to get help from the Town regarding the installation of those poles in Powder Hollow.
Councilman Kaupin stated to move forward with a proposal, he believes they should do the same thing for both leagues.
Councilman Kaupin questioned how moveable these units are. He noted if they're making that investment, can that equipment be relocated if need be. Mr. Pease indicated he didn't not know that answer, however, there's a concrete base that goes into the ground and everything connects to that. Mr. Blethen stated his belief this equipment would be very difficult to move once it's installed.
Councilman Hall questioned whether it's labor rather than dollars that the Little League is seeking. Mr. Pease responded yes.
Councilman Hall stated she's reluctant to hit the recreation fund. She noted if the referendum fails in November, that fund could be a source they could use to do some of the other projects they're looking to do. She questioned how much money the Thompsonville Little League has in their account right now, and Mr. Blethen responded $11,700.
Councilman Tallarita questioned whether Enfield Little League feels they'll derive some benefit from the Thompsonville Little League moving forward. Mr. Pease responded the Enfield Little League would benefit as well.
Councilman Tallarita commended the Leagues for trying to contribute in this process. He noted this is a real opportunity to take a step forward and be a benefit to the entire community by advancing the baseball side of Enfield's recreation.
Councilman Strom stated if the Council moves ahead with this, where do they plan to go from there.
Councilman Mangini stated she favors lighting the fields and noted they have to be fair to both groups.
Councilman Fiore stated he would like to see the lighting at the Asnuntuck Field. He went on to note the referendum items include potentially fixing Fermi and Enfield High School fields; Shaker Soccer complex, Green Manor pool, Brainard Park. He stated his belief the $255,000 wouldn't buy much relief if the referendum fails.
Mr. Shanley pointed out this involves more than just installing lights. He noted this has to be approved by Planning & Zoning. He noted in order to get approval from the Planning & Zoning Commission, detailed plans will be needed. He went on to note the Town requires a bid process. He pointed out this has the potential for being an important project, but a big project. He strongly advised that if the Council wishes to do this in Powder Hollow that they not use Town forces to any degree. He noted if Town forces are spending time constructing, then they won't be spending time with maintenance.
Chairman Vayda stated there are a lot of issues whereby they need to be sure they are working with Town staff and not against them. He noted they should have the Little League plans given over to Town staff so that they can have an opportunity to analyze those plans so that they can put together a responsible schedule in terms of how this can happen.
Councilman Tait stated the bottom line is there is no master plan for any of this. He noted they don't know what the long-range plan is for Asnuntuck, and there are too many unanswered questions.
Councilman Falk stated he would want to know the total cost for the overall project. He stated his belief they need to look at everything before making a commitment.
Councilman Egan commended the Little League for coming forward. She went on to state this evening's discussion shows there are a lot of questions needing to be answered.
Chairman Vayda questioned whether the Little League representatives would be willing to work with the Town Manager and Town staff to help provide answers to questions and to be able to work together to identify all the loose ends and assist with a schedule. He noted they can then have another work session with the Little League representatives to go through the process and understand where they're going.
Chairman Vayda stated he would like to see support for this endeavor since this would be an opportunity to do something very positive for the community. He added they need to do this in a way that's manageable and not harmful to the Town or Town staff. He stated a fall target date is a worthwhile target if possible, however, there is a lot of up front work involved. He pointed out staff is currently extremely busy. He stated at the next leadership meeting, they can get an update on where this is going and what information is needed and what additional things need to be done to make this happen.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
MOTION #5871 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Hall to remove Item #7 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5871 adopted 11-0-0.
NOMINATION #5872 by Councilman Strom to appoint Yvonne Wollenberg (U) to the Cultural Arts Commission for a term which expires 5/31/04.
MOTION #5873 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Hall to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5873 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Yvonne Wollenberg appointed to the Cultural Arts Commission by an 11-0-0 vote.
All other Town Council appointments remained tabled.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
MOTION #5874 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Tallarita to accept the Town Manager's recommendation to remove Item #10 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5874 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #5875 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Hall to accept the Town Manager's recommendation to reappoint Gerald Fitzsimons (D) to the Development/Redevelopment Agency for a term which expires 2/1/2007.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5875 adopted 11-0-0.
Item c. remained tabled.
MOTION #5876 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5876 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: WORLD WAR II HONOR ROLL
Mr. Shanley stated an agreement has been negotiated with Milone and McBroom. He noted about two weeks ago, he authorized spending some money for soil samples. He stated they were also able to get a survey group.
RESOLUTION #5877 by Councilman Kaupin, 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: Town Council Account #1100-590 Misc. Purchased Service $75,000.00
FROM: Town Council Account #8030-840 Contingency $75,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $75,000.00 is available from Account #8030-840 as of May 3, 2002.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Councilman Falk questioned if this $75,000 is included in the proposed $150,000 total, or is this in addition to the $150,000. Mr. Shanley stated the $150,000 isn't available until July, and he already committed to spending money and there is money in this account. He stated this $75,000 will pay for the Milone & McBroom study, soil samples by Welti and Palmberg's survey work. He noted the funds that are remaining will be encumbered toward the quarry in Vermont and that will be there to augment the $150,000.
Councilman Falk questioned the total cost. Mr. Shanley stated they will know the total cost after this is engineered.
Councilman Tait stated in looking at the report from Milone & McBroom, he recollected that Chairman Vayda had requested the specifications include some information about this project being done in increments, however, he does not see that included as part of the plan the Council is asking Milone & McBroom to develop. Mr. Shanley responded they'll look at this as a two-phased project.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5877 adopted 11-0-0.
Items e. and f. remained tabled.
NEW BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
NOMINATION #5878 by Councilman Kaupin to reappoint Barbara Kelly (R) to the Cultural Arts Commission for a term which expires 5/31/04.
MOTION #5879 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Falk to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5879 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Barbara Kelly reappointed to the Cultural Arts Commission by an 11-0-0 vote.
All other Town Council appointments remained on the agenda.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
MOTION #5880 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hall to accept the Town Manager's recommendation to reappoint Paul Censki (U) to the Housing Code Appeals Board for a term which expires 5/1/07.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5880 adopted 11-0-0.
Item c. remained on the agenda.
DISCUSSION RE: SECTION 7A ROAD & SIDEWALK
Chairman Vayda stated his understanding they were to hear from the hotels. Mr. Kazmarski stated there's insufficient right-of-way to provide a sidewalk and snow shelf. He noted there are some fairly mature trees involved, as well as landscaping on the Radisson property. He stated his belief they asked Milone & McBroom to regenerate their plan with some minor changes as discussed earlier before the Radisson and Phoenix stated they were no longer interested. He noted Roger Alsbaugh contacted both businesses, and he was supposed to talk with Jeff Bord about reinstituting the discussions with them.
Councilman Fiore stated he still feels it's within the Town's right to do this project, and he feels this project should be done because he feels it would be a tremendous benefit for those walkers to be able to access the businesses on Route 5. He noted this would help toward an economic revival for that section of town. He stated his belief clear direction should be given to staff as to which direction the Council wishes to go.
Councilman Mangini agreed with Councilman Fiore from a safety standpoint. She stated she would like to see this project go forward. She noted those businesses would contract out for snow removal and maintenance.
Councilman Kaupin stated according to a previous meeting, he recalls being in favor of the sidewalks. He stated his belief contact should be made with the Radisson in the next couple weeks and let them know the Council feels very inclined toward putting these sidewalks in.
Councilman Strom stated her belief it would be to the advantage of the businesses to have these sidewalks. She stated her impression the majority of the Council wants those sidewalks.
Councilman Hall stated her feeling that if the businesses don't want sidewalks, then she would not be in favor of putting sidewalks in that area. She noted there are areas in Enfield that could greatly benefit from sidewalks in the sense that they have children walking in streets that are very dangerous.
Councilman Tallarita stated his belief it's a benefit to move people up into the area where they can take advantage of nearby businesses.
Councilman Egan questioned where the money would come from. Mr. Shanley stated this would be Road 2000 money in the amount of approximately $60,000. Mr. Kazmarski stated his impression the Road 2000 monies were earmarked for the replacement of sidewalks. He stated his belief any new installation where none existed previously would be a special action by the Council. He added other expenses include moving fences, relocating landscaping, etc. Mr. Shanley stated it would be necessary for the Town Council to authorize the expenditure from the Road 2000 money.
Mr. Kazmarski stated they will probably have to go through an eminent domain process to put those sidewalks in at some logical place to provide a snow shelf and avoid some of the amenities that currently exist. He stated they will try to minimize the disruption of the existing landscaping.
Councilman Fiore stated he would like to see the businesses voluntarily participate in these improvements.
MOTION #5881 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5881 adopted 11-0-0.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION:
MOTION #5882 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Mangini to suspend the rules to address Items a., b., e., f., and j. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5882 adopted 11-0-0.
Item c. will appear on the next Regular Meeting agenda.
MOTION #5883 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Fiore to suspend the rules to address Items g., h., and i. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5883 adopted 11-0-0.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #5884 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
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, June 3, 2002 at 7:15 p.m. to allow interested citizens an opportunity to express their opinion regarding the 2002 NEIGHBORHOOD ASSISTANCE ACT proposals.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5884 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5885 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Hall
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Town Council $235,000.00 Acct. #1100-335 Land & Bldg. Services
FROM: Town Council $235,000.00 Acct. #8030-840 Contingency
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $235,000.00 is available from Account #8030-840 as of May 3, 2002.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5885 adopted 10-1-0, with Councilman Fiore voting against.
RESOLUTION #5886 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Tait.
WHEREAS, the charge of the School Building Committee requires the Town Council of the Town of Enfield review progress prior to award of the construction bids; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council has been informed to its satisfaction and had its questions answered;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby authorizes the Town Manager to enter into agreements for bid package number 3, including John F. Kennedy Middle School, Enfield Street and Head Start.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Fiore to include "with the W.J. Mountford Company" at the end of the last sentence of the resolution.
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 #5886 adopted, as amended, by an 11-0-0 vote.
RESOLUTION #5887 by Councilman Strom, seconded by Councilman Hall.
WHEREAS, the charge of the School Building Committee requires the Town Council of the Town of Enfield review progress prior to award of the construction bids; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council has been informed to its satisfaction and had its questions answered;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby authorizes the Town Manager to enter into necessary agreements to execute the committee's furniture and fixture recommendations.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5887 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5888 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Strom.
WHEREAS, the Town of Enfield entered into agreements with professional engineers via a Request for Proposal process in conjunction with the initiation of the Road 2000 Program,
WHEREAS, said professional service providers have expediently carried out the assigned survey, design work and construction inspection as assigned, to the benefit of the Town of Enfield,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in the best interest of the Town of Enfield, the said agreements shall be extended through June, 2005.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5888 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5889 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hall.
RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby appoints the auditing firm of Kostin, Ruffkess & Company to conduct the annual financial audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5889 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5890 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Egan.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Acct. #4310-730 $800.00 Adult Day Care Other Equipment
FROM: Acct. #220-9951 $800.00 Social Services Fund Balance
CERTIFICATION:
I hereby certify the amount of $800.00 is available from Account #220-9951 as of April 10, 2002.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5890 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5891 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Acct.#500-324 $525.00 Youth Services Field Trips
FROM: Acct. #220-9951 $525.00 Social Services Fund Balance
CERTIFICATION:
I hereby certify the amount of $525.00 is available from Account #220-9951 as of April 10, 2002.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5891 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5892 by Councilman Tallarita, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Collector of Revenue $5,000.00 1820-130 Salaries/Temporary
FROM: Finance Administration $5,000.00 1800-110 Salaries/Full time
CERTIFICATION:
I hereby certify the amount of $5,000.00 is available from Account #1800-110 as of April 22, 2002.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5892 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #5893 by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilman Strom.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: DPW Recreation Programs Acct. #3625-0120 Salaries
Part Time $21,000.00
FROM: DPW Recreation Admin Acct. #3600-0130 Salaries
Temp/Seasonal$21,000.00
CERTIFICATION:
I hereby certify the amount of $21,000.00 is available from Account #3600-0130 as of 4/26/02.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Councilman Kaupin questioned for what period of time the $21,000 will fund and what will the total allocation be for a full year of skateboard parks. Mr. Vindigni stated a full year for skateboard park operation, according to the upcoming budget, is around $21,000 to $22,000. He noted there are other recreation program activities in here to be funded for the balance of the year. He noted this includes water safety instructions, swimming lessons, water aerobics, tennis programs, basketball, etc. He stated they paid for the skateboard parks during the first part of the year out of the recreation program accounts with the budget monies here. He noted they are now getting into the final stretch of the spring and the first week of summer which falls into their current fiscal year that has to be paid for.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #5893 adopted 11-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
James LaFountain, 58 Elm Street
Stated Enfield has several fire departments. He questioned why there isn't one chief with one assistant chief at each fire house. He added his impression Enfield has more fire equipment than Hartford.
Mr. Shanley stated the State Charter empowers the structure, and the Town does not have power to change that structure.
Donna Szewczak, South Road
Referred to the possibility of a moratorium on leaf pickup and noted bagging leaves in the heavily treed areas of Enfield may be something the Council might wish to think over.
Janet LaFountain, 58 Elm Street
Stated her impression many people did not know about the budget, nor that the mill rate was going up. She suggested future budget hearings be better publicized and perhaps there can be a full-page ad on the budget a month prior to the budget hearing. She added perhaps there could be a pre-meeting before the budget hearing to discuss the budget books so that people are better prepared to make their statements at the formal budget session.
COUNCILOR COMMUNICATIONS
Chairman Vayda stated the Town does advertise about the budget hearings in the newspaper. He added they could discuss the idea of doing an ad for future budgets.
Councilman Strom agreed other people had stated the same thing concerning the budget.
Mr. Shanley agreed they could do a paid ad.
Chairman Vayda suggested this discussion be continued prior to next year's budget session.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #5894 by Councilman Falk, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #5894 adopted 11-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:35 p.m.
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