ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, MARCH 21, 2005
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairman Tallarita in the Council Chambers of the Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, March 21, 2005. The meeting was called to order at 7:37 p.m.
PRAYER – The Prayer was given by Councilman Mangini.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Crowley, Dodd, Edgar, Egan, Fiore, Kaupin, Mangini, Peruta and Tallarita. Councilmen Reveruzzi and Tait were absent. Also present were Town Manager, Scott Shanley; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Christopher Bromson; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Director of Information Services, Charlene Bond; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Director of Social Services, Pamela Brown; Director Senior Citizens Center, Susan Lather; Director Adult Day Care, Holly Vannucci.
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #7743 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Dodd to accept the minutes of the March 7, 2005 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7743 adopted 8-0-1, with Councilman Fiore abstaining.
MOTION #7744 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Peruta to accept the minutes of the March 7, 2005 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7744 adopted 8-0-1, with Councilman Fiore abstaining.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Stated his understanding the Police Department will be administering a test for promotions when they already have a list. He added his understanding it costs approximately $10,000 to do this test. He questioned the purpose of retesting people and the cost for this test.
Mr. Woods stated his belief the Town is dragging its feet regarding the settlement of the police contract. He pointed out the teachers have no problem getting their contract settled, and he feels the same consideration should be given the Police Department.
He stated many people are here concerning the senior center policy on the agenda this evening. He stated his hope the Council can provide a synopsis concerning this policy before public communications.
Chairman Tallarita stated the recommended policy before the Council this evening was suggested by the Senior Center Advisory Committee. He explained the Council does not have a problem with this policy. He noted the policy states it's for senior related groups since they’re the primary users of the building, and other town programs would be decided on a first come, first serve basis, and the Senior Center Director would decide who could and could not use the building. He invited the public to comment on this policy.
Don Ambrosini, 8 Gem Grove
Spoke on behalf of retired teachers concerning the demutualization of Blue Cross/Blue Shield. He read the following letter into the record for Council consideration on behalf of retired teachers:
“Dear Councilmembers: You have been elected and delegated the responsibility of representing your constituents with integrity and honesty. You have, therefore, been entrusted with protecting your constituents and municipal employees from misappropriation of funds. You are being asked to demonstrate your integrity and honesty with the Anthem demutualization funds by appropriately distributing such funds to those who paid for the insurance premiums.
The Connecticut Supreme Court on October 26, 2004 ruled in favor of the Wallingford Education Association, the bargaining agent for teachers employed by the Board concerning the proper distribution of certain stock proceeds allegedly realized by the Town of Wallingford as a result of the demutualization of Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, the teachers’ medical insurance provider.
I have reviewed the agreement between the Enfield Board of Education and the Enfield Teachers’ Association dated January 7, 2005 regarding the distribution of the Anthem demutualization funds. In keeping with the spirit and intent of the agreement, I respectfully request a premium holiday and/or a cash settlement. The windfall from Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield demutualization funds legitimately belongs to the individuals who paid the premiums. Municipalities, by law, cannot exercise the stock options. Whatever funds the Town has received or will receive from the sale of the Anthem stocks should be issued to the stockholders or technically to the individuals insured. The Town’s wait and see attitude should seriously take into account the court’s decisions. Shouldn’t the Enfield Town Council and Administration try to avoid spending more money on litigation that would ultimately force the Council to distribute the proceeds from the sale of the Anthem stocks to the stockholder, namely the members of the policy.
Since retirees pay 100% of their coverage, the distribution must also reflect 100% of the shares owned by these members. Your cooperation and timely acknowledge will be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Donald Ambrosini
cc: Senators Dodd, Lieberman, Rep. Simmons, Sen. Kissel, Reps. Jarmoc, Tallarita”
Mr. Ambrosini stated since the Town settled with the teachers currently working, it’s only just that the Town apply the same formula to settle with the retired teachers. He pointed out the retirees are paying 100% of the premiums. He stated the retired teachers are hopeful that the Council will take prompt action and be fair to the people who have given the Town many years of loyal and dedicated service. He noted they are appealing to the integrity of the Town Council on this matter. He stated they would like to work with the Council to reach an equitable settlement.
Bill Gallager, 17 Carmela Terrace
Spoke concerning the senior center policy. He pointed out employees and volunteers perform admirably despite Town pressures to increase revenue or lose the fitness program as it presently exists. He questioned whether other Town departments are pressured also. He stated the policy recommended by the Senior Center Advisory Committee opens up a Pandora’s Box of questions, namely risk insurance coverage, maintenance, additional employees, curtailment and restrictions of programs for seniors.
He stated his belief the Senior Center usage should not be restricted due to non-senior complimentary programs.
Mr. Gallager stated seniors are not in favor of the proposed policy as recommended by the Senior Center Advisory Committee.
Phillip Connors, 49 Hunter Lane
Stated he and his wife were teachers in Enfield for many years. He agreed with Mr. Ambrosini’s comments about the demutualization. He noted since the retired teachers no longer have any group to represent them, they rely on the Town Council to do what’s fair.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated she and her husband pay 100% of their insurance.
Ms. Jedziniak referred to the March 2, 2005 Journal Inquirer article and stated her belief this is an insult to the parents and the rest of the taxpayers in Enfield who care about the students and the quality of education they are receiving from the Enfield School System. She explained this has to do with new diploma requirements and the related test. She noted students score below peers.
She stated her belief school administrators had a well-kept secret in “dumbing down” of the pupils. She feels it has been unconscionable that more and more millions of dollars are being thrown into a school system that isn’t paying dividends. She stated it’s evident that the money is helping the salaries go up, but not the learning.
Ms. Jedziniak voiced her concern with a statement by the Superintendent in that he would like to find a solution to work around the problem concerning students receiving 22 credits but not in the subjects required in order to receive a diploma. She feels the school system should get rid of all the unnecessary subjects. She stated her belief Enfield’s Board of Education should not be given more money to send the students out into the real world with this type of inferior education.
Mrs. Collins, Hazardville Section
Stated she does not want to hear more discussions about changing the names of buildings.
Mrs. Collins questioned how much Enfield is paid for the 70 students from Hartford.
She went on to note certain people get high raises, however, she believes the Police Department hasn’t had a salary increase in about four years. She went on to praise the Police Department and Public Works Department.
Michael DeLisa, 12 Roseanne Street
Pointed out the referendum was for a senior center, not a community center. He stated his belief to allow other groups to use the senior center would place a burden on the volunteers who work very hard at the senior center. He stated his belief the senior center should be kept as a senior center.
Robert Tkacz, 1300 Enfield Street
Referred to the Yankee Institute study and noted the data on Enfield’s school system was terrible.
Mr. Tkacz thanked the Town Manager for attending the Republican Town Committee meeting and providing an overview on the Town budget and how the Town works. He noted the Town Manager should also visit the Senior Center and other groups in Enfield because there are a lot of myths, mysteries, and misinformation.
He stated Enfield has a big, growing pre-kindergarten program even though the kindergarten classes have been cut to half-days. He stated his belief they’ve been expanding the pre-kindergarten to bump up enrollments.
Mr. Tkacz referred to the referendum to expand the school buildings and the claim that this would provide more meeting space for town groups. He stated his impression the school system is shutting out the public, and this is why the town continues having a shortage of meeting room space. He stated his belief town groups should be allowed to use the schools since they’re paying the taxes on the schools.
He stated his belief the real problem isn’t social security, but rather Medicare and the new drug prescription program. He pointed out President Bush is using 1997 actuary data, but the 2005 data shows no problem with social security.
Mr. Tkacz stated his belief the Town should look at the salary structure in the Police Department because Enfield is losing good officers to other towns with better pay scales.
He then spoke about the sewer problems on Enfield Street. He noted there is a problem between the old fire station and the Enfield Street School. He pointed out three big trees are growing over the sewer lines. He stated the sewers in that area are backing up and the Town’s insurance carrier is paying for the clean up, which is very costly. He stated his impression Public Works isn’t addressing this issue, and he believes the Town should remove the trees and install a new sewer line.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini commended Loaves and Fishes for their hard work. She noted they are currently serving 16,442 children, they’re serving over 36,000 meals and 6,000 emergency meals. She feels it’s important to recognize this group. She encouraged people to support this group either in volunteer time or a money donation.
MOTION #7745 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move Item 13g. to Item 10a.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7745 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #7746 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to suspend the rules to address Items 13b., c., d., e., f., and k. to Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7746 adopted 9-0-0.
Councilman Fiore requested an update on the status of the road program as relates to Sections 13 and 14.
Councilman Fiore referred to the Council’s packets and noted an item wasn’t included on the agenda relating to a request by the Assistant Town Planner about coinciding with Preservation Month.
Councilman Fiore stated at the last couple Council meetings people complained about Council meetings not being televised. He went on to note there are vacancies on the Cable Television Advisory Committee, and he invited people to serve on this committee.
Councilman Kaupin stated last Saturday, he, Councilmen Dodd and Egan attended the Senior Expo at the Enfield Senior Center. He noted this was a tremendous event. He commended the many people who helped put on that event.
Councilman Kaupin referred to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Hartford and noted Peter Falk, a former Deputy Mayor for Enfield, was the honoree from the Enfield Claddaugh Club and he was the Grand Marshal for Enfield. He noted this was a great recognition for Mr. Falk. He stated there was a large turnout for this parade.
Councilman Kaupin stated this coming Saturday, the Scantic Spring Splash will be held and registration begins at 9:00 a.m.
Councilman Edgar stated he was unaware of any sewer problem on Enfield Street. He stated he would like a complete update on this problem. He requested Public Works go back 15 years and explain what has been going on in that area. He voiced concern that this might be a health and safety problem. He requested this report be supplied as soon as possible.
Referring to Mr. Ambrosini’s comments, Councilman Edgar stated his belief he had requested an opinion from the Town Attorney as to how retirees were effected by the demutualization. He requested that opinion be given as soon as possible.
Referring to the Senior Center Expo, Councilman Egan stated it was a perfect day and it was so much nicer to have this event in a nice location such as the senior center. She commended everyone who took part in this event.
Councilman Peruta referred to the comment about the school system not accommodating the public for meeting space. He pointed out he hasn’t had problems acquiring space at Barnard, Parkman or Enfield Street Schools. He stated there is a form available at any school office for groups interested in meeting space.
Councilman Peruta referred to comments about the school system being inadequate and noted he has two children in the Enfield School System and they are doing very well. He noted he frequently visits the schools, and he feels his children are getting a great education in Enfield.
Councilman Crowley stated the Democrats were not at the senior expo because they had a St. Patrick’s Day breakfast at the same time.
Councilman Crowley questioned if the Freshwater Pond will be ready for opening day of the fishing derby.
Councilman Dodd commended everyone involved in putting on the Senior Center expo.
Councilman Dodd questioned if Public Works is planning to paint or do any repairs to the power panel system at Parkman School. He noted this would make the area more attractive.
Chairman Tallarita referred to televised Council meetings and noted a letter was forwarded to Cox Communications requesting a live line to Town Hall. He noted this is being looked into to see if they can have live transmission of Council meetings.
Chairman Tallarita stated tomorrow evening at 5:30 in the Enfield Room of Town Hall Senator Kissel is having a meeting dealing with the Cox Communications franchise renewal. He encouraged people interested in this topic to attend that meeting.
Chairman Tallarita reminded people there will be a meeting at JFK Middle School. He noted at that time the Board of Education will be receiving two presentations from two individual companies that are proposing to do a demographic study for Enfield’s educational system. He encouraged people to attend this meeting.
Chairman Tallarita stated the Blue Cross/Blue Shield issue will be addressed by the Town Attorney.
Chairman Tallarita requested the Town Manager respond to comments about the Police Department contract.
Chairman Tallarita stated he has three children in the Enfield School System and he believes they’re getting a wonderful education.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley stated there will be a fishing derby the first week of June. He noted the fish for stocking have been ordered, and the pond will be stocked the week before the derby. He stated this event will be well-advertised.
Mr. Shanley stated they will look into the sewer problem on Enfield Street.
He stated Councilman Mangini was appointed to the Task Force on Health Reform by the National League of Cities.
He noted Section 14 was bid, however, they’re not prepared to announce the award as yet. He stated a report will be supplied on Section 13. He went on to note they hired engineering firms to work on Road 2005.
As concerns the collective bargaining process as relates to the Police Department, Mr. Shanley explained the contract expired in June, 2002 and they began negotiations about six months before that. He noted a significant amount of back and forth took place, and the union filed for arbitration and they proceeded along that route. He stated ultimately there was a negotiated settlement with the leadership of the Police Department union and there was a tentative agreement. He noted that tentative agreement was initialed by both the union and the management representatives. He explained the tentative agreement went back before the membership of the Police Department on October 7, 2003, and the membership of the Police Department voted against the tentative agreement. He noted since that time, they’ve been going through the arbitration process, which is a very long, tedious process. He stated this process is defined by the State Legislature, and this is driven by how the state requires it to be done. He noted they’ve had ten sessions and have exchanged enormous amounts of paper and there is yet process to be had. He stated all the meetings have to be reduced to transcripts and there have to be offers, counteroffers, briefs, and it’s a very prolonged process He pointed out the end product is a mandated, binding decision by the arbitrator. He stated hopefully sometime this year they will have a result.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Attorney Bromson referred to the demutualization topic and pointed out the Town Attorney’s Office is not representing the Town. He explained this is a state-wide litigation and many municipalities are involved. He added his office cannot comment on pending litigation.
He stated Councilman Edgar’s question was sent to the attorneys from Robinson & Cole and they did send back a memo, which is attorney/client privilege because it is in litigation, but it was more of a procedural status about where discovery is, interrogatories, etc. He noted if they want more information, they would have to ask them more specifically and perhaps an attorney from Robinson & Cole could address the Council in Executive Session. He pointed out this isn’t just Enfield’s litigation, but rather it’s a consortium of towns and unions that are litigating this issue.
Chairman Tallarita questioned the possibility of summarizing where things stand so the Council can respond to inquiries. Attorney Bromson stated they can at least get a synopsis from the attorneys.
Councilman Fiore stated the Town might be putting itself and other towns in jeopardy by making any settlements since there haven’t been any other rulings at this point, particularly as it concerns the retiree groups. Attorney Bromson agreed.
Mr. Shanley stated it is important to note that none of that money has been spent to date.
Councilman Edgar questioned whether there’s any specific litigation involving retirees. Attorney Bromson noted he’s unsure, however, they will get more information from their attorneys.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated the Prison Liaison Committee met earlier in the month, and the report was that everything is quiet for the prison system. She noted their notification system is working quite well.
Councilman Mangini stated the Enfield Food Shelf had its monthly meeting, and they’re still in need of food and any kind of monetary donations anyone can make.
Councilman Mangini reported on the following initiatives of the National League of Cities – the transportation bill, the opposition of the elimination of the CDBG grants, protection of the Section 8 housing voucher program, protection of Homeland Security programs, and support of tax reform proposals. She went on to note the FAIR Steering Committee has come up with a work plan for 2005 – monitoring tax reform initiatives at the national level, educating the membership on the municipal bonding issues, reviewing unfunded mandates reform act, developing the list of the local government values related to the federal tax reform, working with public finance panels, discussion of the growth tax exempt priorities and impacts on the local governments.
Councilman Crowley stated the Cemetery Association will be doing their spring clean up very shortly. He advised people to clean their grave sites of any valuables so that they aren’t thrown out.
Councilman Dodd stated the Council has within their packets the modified building committee report on 100 High Street. He pointed out under miscellaneous repairs, they’re planning to remove the two-base sink and cap the plumbing, as well as cap the exhaust flue where the hood was removed. He explained these are items that would have to be done to conform to the health code. He noted in the first section of the recommendation, they tried to put the building into a condition whereby it could be used by various committees and meetings without doing any demo work or anything else that they might want to look at in the future.
Councilman Peruta stated the action plan of the Blue Ribbon IT Committee is coming along very nicely. He added it’s quite a lengthy process.
DISCUSSION RE: SENIOR CENTER POLICY
Chairman Tallarita read the policy as follows:
“The Enfield Senior Center should be used by and for the older adult population. Programming priority should always be given to those benefiting the Senior Center and senior groups. Realizing that the Enfield Senior Center is a vital part of the Enfield community, complimentary programs benefiting the Town and the community’s older adults are invited to use the facility as is available. Requests should be submitted to the Senior Center Director.”
Present for this discussion was Senior Center Director, Susan Lather and Senior Center Committee members Herb Foy, Trudy Dorous and Daniel Vindigni.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether the AARP Branch 1209 signature sheet has anything to do with the Senior Center Advisory Committee that reports to the Director of the Senior Center, and Ms. Lather responded no.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether this policy as presented to the Town Council has the approval of the Director of the Senior Center. Ms. Lather indicated she’s comfortable with this policy.
Councilman Egan pointed out the Commission on Aging reviewed this and supports it as well.
Councilman Kaupin questioned if the full Senior Center Advisory Committee supports this policy, and Ms. Lather responded yes.
Councilman Kaupin stated he supports this and would like to see it move forward.
Mr. Foy pointed out this policy was approved unanimously by the advisory committee.
Chairman Tallarita pointed out the Advisory Committee, Commission on Aging, the Director of the Senior Center, and Assistant Town Manager support this policy. He added the AARP submitted 60 signatures in support of this. He stated he would leave usage up to the reasonable discretion of the Senior Center Director. He suggested the Council support this policy. He pointed out if the policy doesn’t work or has problems, they can look at it again.
Mr. Vindigni explained the purpose for bringing the policy before the Council this evening is to have some formalization of what has been endorsed by the Commission and this will help the Senior Center Director as she deals with the numerous inquiries about using space at the Senior Center.
There was a clear consensus in support of this policy.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL & TOWN MANAGER)
There were no appointments this evening.
MOTION #7747 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item c. from the table.
Upon SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7747 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: COUNCIL/BOARD INITIATIVES
Mr. Shanley stated some time ago he was asked to get an updated figure on the cost of the plan for the athletic fields. He noted if Enfield High School was done in 2006 and Fermi High School was done in 2007, they’re at about $5,650,000. He noted this is about a one-half million dollar increase over the figure given 18 months ago. Chairman Tallarita questioned the justification for this increase. Mr. Shanley stated the numbers were re-run based on the consultants they have working for them. He pointed out over the last several years they’ve seen inflation rates of 10, 12 and 15% in the construction industry.
MOTION #7748 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Peruta to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7748 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #7749 by Councilman Dodd, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7749 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: COMMUNITY CENTER/OLD SENIOR CENTER
Present for this discussion was Sonya Dean
Councilman Dodd stated the new listing shows a few changes in order to make the facility useable by groups. He noted most items are superficial. He went on to note 40% of the items deal with maintenance, and if they don’t address those maintenance issues, the building will greatly deteriorate over the next year. He stated one item consists of safety and that involves the back ramp. He noted if they’re going to bring groups in, two or three items need to be done in the old kitchen so that they conform to health codes.
Chairman Tallarita stated his understanding groups would be able to use the building after Phase I is completed. He questioned what types of groups would be able to use the facility after Phase I. Ms. Dean stated none of the use questions that the Council raised previously were discussed at the last meeting.
Mr. Shanley pointed out the Fire Marshal’s office and the Building Inspector’s office have everything to say about when the building is useable.
Chairman Tallarita stated there was also discussion about grants that could be applied for, as well as operating costs.
Councilman Dodd stated that was brought up in a meeting, and he believes Colleen Brand has the operating cost. He pointed out the building is being heated now. He noted the only thing that would change would be cleaning of the building.
Ms. Dean stated the four groups that were initially listed were groups looking for a permanent residence in this building. She noted there is an additional list which she provided to Colleen Brand which consisted of over 30 groups expressing an interest in using this space on an on-going basis, i.e., a once per month meeting.
Councilman Dodd stated it was intended the Council look at this during the budget process.
Ms. Dean stressed the maintenance issues are very critical. She noted the plaster falling from the ceiling is critical. She pointed out she has seen deterioration over a short time, i.e., broken windows.
Ms. Dean stated she knows of several community organizations that have tried to meet in the schools and have been rejected.
Chairman Tallarita suggested compiling all the information, i.e., the interested groups, grants, maintenance costs, etc.
MOTION #7750 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Edgar to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7750 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #7751 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7751 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: CHARGE FOR ENFIELD REVITALIZATION STRATEGY COMMITTEE
Councilman Fiore expressed his appreciation to Town staff and the Town Attorney’s office for the corrections. He noted he agrees with all of these corrections. He recommended two other changes – start the charge April 30, rather than March 31st and to balance the Committee with the current P&Z charge for the village reviews, he recommends the following sentence at the bottom of the document: “Through this process the ERC will use the Town Council as the vehicle for coordinating any efforts with other Town commissions, agencies and/or boards, except that the ERC shall directly interact with the Enfield Planning & Zoning Commission in order to comply with federal, state and local laws, regulations and bylaws.
Councilman Fiore stated although it’s not in the resolution, they’re also recommending members reapply when their terms expire. He stated there should be a letter to current members notifying them they would need to reapply when their term expires.
MOTION #7752 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7752 adopted 9-0-0.
NEW BUSINESS
MOTION #7753 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Fiore to accept the Consent Agenda.
Transfer of Funds Social Services Fund Adult Day Care Contributions/Donations to Social Services Fund Adult Day Care Furniture & Fixtures $1,878
Request for Removal of Autumn Olive from Select Areas within an Area Subject to Conservation Easement Restriction
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7753 adopted
9-0-0.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: WINTER MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS
Councilman Fiore questioned if this is to realign their accounts due to the fact that they’ve exceeded the snow removal. Mr. Shanley responded yes and noted this involves salt, sand, plow time, and contractor services.
Councilman Fiore questioned the purpose of the Building & Grounds Maintenance Division Electricity Account. He questioned if this is for buildings such as the Senior Center and Town Hall. Mr. Shanley responded yes, that’s the electric maintenance. He
noted he asked them to identify any funds within the Public Works budget that could be transferred before they get to Contingency. He noted they’re looking at a net of about $88,000 in FEMA money coming in which helps offset expenses.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS FROM GENERAL FUND TRANSFERS TO VARIOUS PAYROLL ADJUSTMENTS/CONTRACT SETTLEMENTS, ETC. - $426,730
Mr. Shanley explained these are all obligations based on contractual arrangements – approved pay, retirements or separations. He explained this isn’t new money, but money that was in a separate account to be distributed into salary accounts when everything was settled.
Councilman Fiore stated he doesn’t recall doing all of these in one transaction. Mr. Shanley stated this allows them to get a report that accurately reflects what’s actually going on when the Council gets the budget.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #7754 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Egan.
RESOLVED, that the Town Manager, Scott Shanley, is empowered to enter into and amend contractual instruments in the name and on behalf of the Town of Enfield with the North Central Area on Aging for an Adult Day Care Grant, 10-1-2005 to 9-30-2006 and to affix the Corporate seal.
Present for this discussion was Pamela Brown, Social Service Director
Councilman Fiore questioned if this is a new additional program for the Adult Day Care. Ms. Brown responded this is a new proposal. Councilman Fiore questioned if there’s a contingency plan if they are not approved for this grant in the future. Ms. Vannucci stated she’s fairly confident that the client fees will cover the costs if there are any.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7754 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7755 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Peruta.
RESOLVED, that the Town Manager, Scott Shanley, is empowered to enter into and amend contractual instruments in the name and on behalf of the Town of Enfield with the North Central Area on Aging for Respite Care – 10-01-2005 to 09-30-2006, and to affix the Corporate Seal.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7755 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7756 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter V, Section 14 of the Town Charter the salaries and rates of pay for certain employees of the Child Day Care Center, part-time, and seasonal employees of the Town will be increased according to the attached schedule effective July 1, 2005.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7756 adopted 8-0-1, with Councilman Fiore abstaining.
RESOLUTION #7757 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Dodd.
WHEREAS, with the passage of Roads 2005 – town staff is closing out final accounting for Road 2000 projects; and
WHEREAS, any residual monies remaining will be used for Road 2005, specifically Section 14; and
WHEREAS, Road 2000 made use of numerous CIP accounts in support of activities, many of which were initially started to do a piece of the work that Road 2000 did completely; and
WHEREAS, the total authorization of the referendum of 21.6 million will not be exceeded; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby authorizes the following CIP accounts be dissolved and the balances applied to Road 2000, with any excess applied to Road 2005:
1) Roosevelt Drainage (3200-8309)
2) Post Road 2000 (3200-8530)
3) Green Manor Sidewalks (3200-8506)
4) Outside ROW Drainage (3200-8322)
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7757 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7758 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Egan.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield refers the attached proposed .48 acre sale to the Planning & Zoning Commission for advice.
Councilman Fiore stated in future documents, he would like to see language regarding maintenance of sidewalks on the Route 91 side. He questioned if there’s been a public release of this information. Mr. Shanley responded there hasn’t been any announcement. He noted they have to be sure Planning & Zoning, Mass Mutual and the Town Council are comfortable with the plan.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7758 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7759 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the Town Manager to accept on behalf of the Town of Enfield the conveyance of two (2) parcels from the State of Connecticut Department of Transportation as described in the attached Quit-Claim Deed in accordance with Public Act No. 04-186, Section 18.
Councilman Fiore stated this is the second piece that the Town Manager and Assistant Town Manager have been working on. He noted this allows the Town to take this open space parcel from the state.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7759 adopted 9-0-0.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Crowley referred to Resolution #7757 and stated he would like to see proper signage and crosswalks for this sidewalk.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #7760 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Peruta to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7760 adopted 9-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 9:27 p.m.