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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, JUNE 20, 2005
The 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, June 20, 2005. The meeting was called to order at 7:40 p.m.
PRAYER – The Prayer was given by Councilman Egan.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Crowley, Dodd, Edgar, Egan, Fiore, Kaupin, Mangini, Peruta, Reveruzzi, Tait and Tallarita. Also present were Town Manager, Scott Shanley; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Christopher W. Bromson; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Director of Information Technology, Charlene Bond
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #7900 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to accept the minutes of the June 6, 2005 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7900 adopted 8-0-3, with Councilmen Crowley, Egan and Tallarita abstaining.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Stated he attended a recent Board of Education meeting and noticed they had no trouble spending excess money found in their budget. He noted none of them attempted putting any of the excess toward the athletic fields. He stated his impression the Board of Education took offense to the idea that some of the Council wouldn’t support a referendum unless the Town took over the maintenance of the fields.
Mr. Sheridan stated Dr. Gallacher’s report to the state predicts a decline in school enrollment by 495 students by 2008. He noted he was told those numbers are notoriously inaccurate, however, he finds those figures very accurate over the past six years.
He stated his belief they can’t keep granting high pay raises to the Board of Education without seeing some results.
Mr. Sheridan questioned four additional people for field maintenance. He noted this wasn’t discussed during budget hearings.
He questioned when the Board of Education found extra money in their budget. He stated his belief there should be a full audit of the Board of Education budget. He noted if the Board of Education didn’t use the net budgeting process, perhaps they wouldn’t have all these mistakes.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Agreed with Mr. Sheridan’s comments. She stated her belief Enfield townspeople are being overtaxed. She went on to state her belief that the Town Council awarded the Board of Education an excessive amount of money in this year’s budget because it’s an election year.
Referring to the education budget, Ms. Jedziniak stated more and more money is going toward salaries and benefits and less to educating the students. She noted because of binding arbitration, the trend continues. She pointed out in 1998 the school budget was $28 million dollars and this year it’s $65 million dollars. She noted test scores have gone down while the budget has gone up, and Enfield’s scores are lower than comparable towns. She stated her opinion students should be learning the core subjects, i.e., reading, writing, and math.
Ronald Prostka, 34 Foxcroft Road
Noted at the June 14th Board of Education meeting, the Board stated the Town wanted to take over its tracks and fields. He stated his belief the referendum should include the takeover of the tracks and fields, along with hiring the School Superintendent. He questioned the Superintendent being a good budget manager. He noted taxpayers have no voice on how the School Board spends its surplus.
Mr. Prostka stated the Board stated littering could not be enforced because the fields are open to the public. He stated his belief the Town could do a better job of enforcement using limited hours, anti-loitering signs, and police enforcement. He noted installation of additional lighting and its maintenance and usage will drive up the school budget. He stated coaches should be required to assign players on a rotation basis to pick up debris before use. He noted the School Board made no attempt to offset the cost of its tracks and fields with its $525,000 surplus. He stated instead they implemented additional sports programs and late buses. He noted parents keep asking for higher pay to attract quality teachers, and the School Board counts on less experience and lower paid positions to fill in for retirees. He feels something is wrong with this equation.
Scott Vining, 10 Grove Road
Stated his belief the school system can manage with one athletic field. He noted such a consolidation wouldn’t necessitate a referendum. He added his belief the athletic fields should be in a separate location, i.e., Powder Hollow. He noted this way there wouldn’t be any animosity. He stated his belief people won’t support a referendum to address athletic fields at both high schools.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
Questioned how the school system is able to find money right after the Council approves the budget. As concerns a comment about the Superintendent of Schools having a low salary, she pointed out the salary appears low because of the other things he has in his package.
Ms. Turner stated her hope the town will implement a tipper barrel program.
She noted at the last Council meeting she spoke about a letter written by the Director of the Library, and he was soliciting funds for the Enfield Reads Program. She stated this letter was soliciting money on behalf of a non-profit – Friends of the Library. She stated her impression that the Friends of the Library hold the cash in their checkbook and they will forward it back. She noted they are not doing anything to participate in this program other than holding the cash. She stated when she raised the question of why they would use Town funds to solicit dollars when there’s a budget of a million plus, a letter was sent to the Director of the Library. She read the letter as follows: “At a meeting held on June 6th a resident brought up the fact that a solicitation was distributed on Town letterhead with a request for donations to the Friends of the Enfield Public Library. Since the Friends group is a separate non-profit of 5013c, it would have been more appropriate to have them solicit their own dollars.”
Ms. Turner stated she understands the purpose of the Friends of the Public Library is to support library programs. She acknowledged the letter was not misleading, but they are not an agent of the Town of Enfield, therefore, Town departments shouldn’t be soliciting funds on their behalf. She suggested perhaps they need to audit the library. She stated she would like to know who actually oversees the Enfield Reads Program. She noted the dollars are not in the budget to cover that program. She added she has been given some nonsense as a result of asking these questions.
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville Section
Stated her belief before the Superintendent gets a raise, the School System should be sure all the students have their textbooks.
Mrs. Collins questioned whether Town employees who are given Town cars for their use can use those vehicles to travel anywhere.
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Questioned why action wasn’t taken on behalf of the young person who was a victim of road rage.
Mr. Woods questioned why more people are being hired if the Town is looking into combining maintenance of school fields.
He questioned why the library was having an automobile show. He noted they were also selling tickets. He questioned whether this was authorized by the Town and whether there was liability insurance for this event. He acknowledged some of the programs put on by the library are good, but he questions some other programs. He questioned whether they’re trying to make a case for getting a new building.
As concerns leftover money from the school system, he noted this is taxpayers’ money and taxpayers should have a say on how that money is spent. He agreed with the idea of one central athletic facility for the high schools.
Referring to Ms. Turner’s comment about repercussions she experienced as a result of her questions about the library, Mr. Woods questioned how the “Whistle Blowers” law applies in this instance. He stated nobody should be retaliated against if they bring something to light before the Town Council.
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Commended the Public Works Department for the recent Hazardous Waste Collection Day.
Mr. Jedziniak voiced his concern about the bloated school budget.
Henry Dutcher, the Director of Libraries, made a presentation to the Council regarding Enfield Reads choosing Alice in Wonderland for the summer reading program.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini congratulated all the graduates of Enfield and Fermi High Schools.
Councilman Mangini reminded people the Fourth of July Town Celebration is coming up and the Committee has worked hard to put on a fine celebration.
Councilman Mangini stated she’s getting a lot of complaints about illegal firecrackers. She cautioned people to be careful with fireworks.
Councilman Crowley stated there’s some trash in and around the pond, and he would like to see this cleaned up. Mr. Vindigni indicated this would be addressed.
Councilman Crowley expressed his appreciation for the new play area at Brainard Park. He questioned when the crosswalk will be installed. Mr. Vindigni stated that will be done in the new fiscal year.
Councilman Fiore agreed with Councilman Crowley about the improvements at Brainard Park.
MOTION #7901 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move Items 13d., f., and g. to Miscellaneous.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7901 adopted 11-0-0.
Councilman Fiore stated the Veterans Day Parade will be held on Sunday, November 13th.
Councilman Fiore thanked Mr. Vindigni and Public Works staff for all the fine work done in the area of St. James and Elm Streets, particular as concerns the fire hydrant issue that was just resolved.
Councilman Fiore read the following letter into the minutes:
“For my Eagle Scout Service Project I plan to refurbish the veterans memorial monument in Enfield, Connecticut. The monument honors veterans of World War II and the Vietnam War. The project will consist of the following:
- Re-landscaping, digging out the flower bed, putting in fresh soil and mulch
- Trimming the shrubs back and removing some other items
- Cleaning the monument, which includes power washing the cement, treating the cement with fungicide, treating the stainless steel to remove the rust and corrosion with an acid wash
- Repainting the decorative title sign and re-cementing it into the main monument and replacing the nameplates”
Councilman Fiore stated his belief this young man should be commended for taking on this project. He suggested perhaps there’s something the Town can do to help, i.e., dropping off some mulch.
Councilman Edgar stated Fairview Avenue needs some patchwork. Mr. Kazmarski stated that was done today.
Councilman Edgar stated he would like a copy of the assault report that was raised by Mr. Woods. He questioned whether there’s been any follow-up to complaints raised by Mr. Christmas concerning Lincoln Street.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley stated there were a number of speed traps set up on Lincoln Street. He noted the School Department was contacted regarding school buses and he worked with the Social Services Director regarding Dial-A-Ride. He noted the speeding violations didn’t exceed 37 miles per hour on Lincoln Street. He noted they did catch a couple people.
As concerns the memorandum regarding solicitation of funds, Mr. Shanley stated this is something they are following up on for all departments. He noted in his department they’ve worked very closely to raise money for the veterans’ memorial, and the Police Department has worked very hard with the Maciolek Post over the years to help raise money. He noted there has been a close relationship between the non-profits and the Town. He acknowledged they probably should be better at separating all of that, and that includes the Friends of the Library and library staff.
As concerns the “Whistle Blower” law, this law applies to employees. He added he’s willing to speak with Mr. Woods regarding this matter.
Mr. Shanley stated Freshwater Pond looks great and many people enjoy it.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini reminded everyone about the Fourth of July Celebration. She noted the Committee is working very hard.
Chairman Tallarita invited everyone to enjoy the Fourth of July Parade.
Mr. Shanley invited Mr. Kazmarski to provide an update on the Road 2000.
Mr. Kazmarski stated for some reason the Connecticut DOT contract vendor in place for paving was rejected. He noted they re-advertised and they didn’t issue an award on that contract until last week, therefore, all the municipalities have been in abeyance as to what happened with their overlay work. He stated the low bidder has a sizeable backlog of private work at this time, and Enfield expects to be on their schedule in late July or early
August. He informed the Council he will provide a list of the overlay streets for the July 5th meeting.
Mr. Kazmarski stated the design is complete for Cook, Nonotuck, and Massasoit, and a public informational meeting will be scheduled the week of June 27th. He noted the roads will remain with the same configuration with no one-ways, and they will be made a uniform width of 20 feet. He noted sidewalks will be four-foot wide. He added sidewalks on Cook Avenue will be on the southerly side and whatever pieces remain on the northerly side will be removed.
He stated they met with the contractor recently who submitted his paperwork to DOT for a permit because he does have to do some work in the state right-of-way on Route 5, and they expect to start work right after the Fourth of July Celebration.
As concerns Section 14, Mr. Kazmarski stated he did write to the contractor who was the low bidder. He noted they responded that they agree to hold their bid prices up through June 30th. He stated they hope to sign a contract this week, and the contractor is ready to go.
Regarding Section 13, Mr. Kazmarski stated engineering staff is finalizing review of the contract documents with some minor revisions needed to the plans. He stated they spoke with Hallmark and letters have gone out to three property owners because they are going to advertise these plans with two off-site temporary detours. He noted because of the nature of these roads, they will insist the contractor concentrate on one road at a time. He stated they expect to advertise within two weeks, with a 30-day advertising period and bid opening date probably in early August with an award the latter part of August and starting work sometime after Labor Day. He noted Cottage Road can probably be completed between September and November, assuming they don’t find something unknown underground.
As concerns Northgate, Mr. Kazmarski stated Engineering is finalizing and coordinating the design for the Mass Mutual work. He noted they are dealing with Connecticut DOT on permit issues, and they’ve received a response back from DOT with their comments on the first request that went in and that’s for the sidewalk over Route 91.
Councilman Fiore questioned what overlays would be done, and Mr. Shanley stated overlays would include the Road 2005 and the outstanding Road 2000 overlays which they believe they can get through this year.
Councilman Edgar questioned when the meeting will be for Cook Avenue. Mr. Kazmarski stated they can schedule this for any day except Tuesday. He noted as soon as they have a date, they will let the Council know.
Councilman Edgar questioned when Parkway will be done. Mr. Kazmarski stated he will know more when they hold the pre-construction meeting. Mr. Shanley suggested Councilman Edgar instruct residents to call the Town Manager’s office for more information.
Councilman Crowley stated it would be helpful if a tentative schedule can be provided.
Councilman Egan stated the Friends of the Library have been meeting every other week and she joined them for a visit to the brand new library in Chicopee. She noted if anyone is interested she can get a list of all the goals and objectives of this committee.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL & TOWN MANAGER)
All appointments remained tabled.
MOTION #7902 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item c. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7902 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: COUNCIL/BOARD INITIATIVES (GROUNDS MAINTENANCE AND ATHLETIC FIELDS)
RESOLUTION #7903 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council will hold a Public Hearing in the Enfield Town Council Chambers, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Tuesday, July 5, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. to allow interested citizens an opportunity to express their opinion regarding the Athletic Fields Referendum Question.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Tait, seconded by Councilman Mangini to change the start of the Public Hearing to 6:00 p.m.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 11-0-0.
Chairman Tallarita questioned whether information will be ready for the Public Hearing and Mr. Shanley responded yes.
Councilman Fiore stated he would also like to see information about pricing for fencing at both schools.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7903 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: ADDING FOUR POSITIONS – GROUND MAINTENANCE
Present for this discussion was Chairman of the Board of Education, Kenneth Hilinski.
Mr. Hilinski stated the Board of Education is currently in negotiations with the ASCME union for renewal of their contract. He noted the majority of the Board of Education has directed the Superintendent and Director of Human Resources to proceed, as part of the negotiations, the delegation of the responsibility of the grounds maintenance to the Town.
Chairman Tallarita requested the Town Manager work with the school administration to establish these positions on the Town side so that they can take this up at the July 5th meeting.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief having the grounds maintenance issue addressed is critical to moving forward, and the Council appreciates the cooperation of the Board of Education.
MOTION #7904 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7904 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #7905 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7905 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: COMMUNITY CENTER/OLD SENIOR CENTER
Councilman Reveruzzi stated his belief the Committee has completed its task by identifying the work needing to be done. He noted Colleen Brand put together a schedule of work that needs to be done. He added there is an opportunity to obtain some CDBG grants for additional funding for this project. He stated his belief this is a good time to disband the Committee and turn this over to the professionals.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief the Committee did very well in providing this information. He expressed his appreciation for their hard work. He agreed it would be wise to turn this over to the staff and let them move forward.
Mr. Shanley stated this will be on the July 5th agenda.
MOTION #7906 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7906 adopted 11-0-0.
Items e. and f. remained tabled.
NEW BUSINESS
MOTION #7907 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the Consent Agenda items:
Request for Transfer of Funds from Town Manager Other Professional Services to Temporary Seasonal Salary $1,600
Request for Transfer of Funds from Social Services Other Professional Services to Salaries Temporary $1,100
Request for Transfer of funds from Town Attorney Judgement/Settlements to Legal $6,000 (Resolutions appended to Minutes)
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7907 adopted 11-0-0.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
NOMINATION #7908 by Councilman Fiore to reappoint Steven Bennett (U) to the North Central District Health Department for a term which expires 06/30/08.
MOTION #7909 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Egan to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7909 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Steven Bennett appointed to the North Central District Health Department by an 11-0-0 vote.
RESOLUTION #7910 by Councilman Tait, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
WHEREAS, the Enfield Town Council has determined that it will be against the best interest of the Town of Enfield to seek competitive bids for the purchase of a versa-lift personnel bucket truck; and
WHEREAS, the Fire Department has offered it to the Town for first refusal; and
WHEREAS, the Deputy Director of Public Works and the Fleet Manager believe it to be a real value operationally and in terms of cost;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the competitive bidding requirements as set forth in the Town Charter, Chapter V, Section 8, Paragraph (d) are hereby waived;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby authorizes the purchase of a versa-lift personnel bucket truck for $40,000 from the Thompsonville Fire Department.
Mr. McAlmond stated the primary use will be by the Water Pollution Control Department to help maintain their pump stations and Water Pollution Control Plant. He noted they will be able to use it in other areas as well, i.e., hanging banners.
Councilman Fiore stated his impression this is a good deal for the Town and it’s in the Town’s best interest if the Council waives the bid and they do this purchase from another taxing authority within the same town. Mr. McAlmond stated to buy this truck would cost between $80,000 and $100,000. He noted they reviewed the maintenance schedule and looked very closely at this truck and found it to be in excellent condition with low mileage.
Councilman Crowley questioned what the Town has been paying to rent this type of vehicle. Mr. McAlmond estimated between $5,000 to $10,000 per year.
Councilman Crowley questioned whether the Beautification Committee would have access to this vehicle. Mr. McAlmond responded yes. He pointed out this vehicle has a full-utility body so that when the truck isn’t being used as a bucket truck, it can be used for utility purpose, i.e., repairing pump stations, etc.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7910 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7911 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO : CIP – Police Cruisers $ 51,000.00
CIP – Various Drainage $119,231.33
FROM: CIP – Fletcher Road $170,231.33
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $170,231.33 is available from Account #3200-8307 as of May 20, 2005.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Councilman Kaupin stated he is voting against this resolution because it’s consistent with how he voted on the budget.
Councilman Tait stated he will also be voting against this because he feels it’s in conflict of what he feels is in the best interest of the Town in terms of how they passed this budget.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7911 adopted 7-4-0, with Councilmen Dodd, Egan, Kaupin and Tait voting against the resolution.
DISCUSSION RE: DISABILITY EXEMPTION SURVIVING SPOUSE
MOTION #7912 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Tait that the exemption be extended to Mrs. Carson.
Mr. Shanley stated the Finance Director is very familiar with the specifics of this case and is very confident that this is the kind of situation where the Council would want to extend this exemption.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7912 adopted 11-0-0.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
Consent Agenda items and Item b. will appear under New Business on the next Regular Meeting agenda.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS FROM WPC SALARIES, ETC. TO WPC OVERTIME - $35,000
Councilman Fiore referred to the Retirement Contributions account funds and questioned if this represents the contributions to the retirement plan or is this a line item to cover extra payouts or settlements due to a retirement. Mr. McAlmond indicated this represents a line item to cover extra payouts or settlements due to a retirement.
Chairman Tallarita stated this item will appear under New Business at the July 5th Council meeting.
DISCUSSION RE: CL&P SUMMER TREE TRIMMING PROGRAM
There was no representative from CL&P.
Chairman Tallarita questioned whether the State is mandated to follow the same requirements as CL&P as concerns notification for taking down trees. He noted the State removed a large, healthy looking tree on Route 5. Mr. Shanley stated he will speak with Mr. McGee regarding this.
DISCUSSION RE: ATHLETIC FIELD REFERENDUM QUESTION
Present for this discussion were Chairman of the Board of Education, Kenneth Hilinski and Director of School Facilities, Arthur Pongratz.
Chairman Tallarita read the following:
“Resolution to appropriate $5.7 million dollars for improvements to and/or new construction of high school athletic facilities and to finance the appropriation by using not less than $4.2 million dollars of unexpended funds from the elementary school project and by issuing bonds or notes in an amount not to exceed $1.5 million dollars, which bond or notes shall be reduced by any grants that may be received for the project and by the proceeds that may be received from the sale of Asnuntuck Community College Campus.
Chairman Tallarita stated the $5.7 million dollars is what is anticipated to be the budget for the two athletic field projects. He explained the $4.2 million dollars are funds that were left over or recaptured through reimbursement, therefore, this is a combination of funds that were not expended and funds that were received from the State. He stated the need for the balance of $1.5 million dollars could be done either by issuing of bonds or through grants and the sale of Asnuntuck, which is anticipated to be $2 million dollars, which has been approved in the Community College five-year budget, but not expected to be bonded until 2007. He stated they feel fairly confident that the State is going to move in the direction of Asnuntuck. He noted there’s the possibility they might not have to go out to bond.
Councilman Kaupin stated a question is being put forth to the voters, and if everything falls into line as they anticipate, the Town isn’t looking to bond additional funds, therefore, there would not be new tax implications on the voters.
Chairman Tallarita stated the Town needs to go out to referendum to get authorization from the community to spend that surplus.
Mr. Shanley stated there was a question about whether the Town can use that money to pay down the debt. He explained when the Town sold these bonds and the previous bonds, the interest rates were so low that they don’t have a call feature. He further explained that when there’s a seven to nine percent interest rate, there’s a feature on the bonds that allows reissuance of the bonds eight years later, but when the interest rates are so low there is no call feature.
Councilman Fiore stated if everything plays out financially the way it’s supposed to, the Town will not have to bond any dollars for this project based on anticipated revenues that are going to be coming or are already in. He stated his belief they should move forward with this. He commended Town and Board of Education staff for the fine work they’ve done in coming up with these funds and managing these projects.
Chairman Tallarita questioned whether there are any other projected dollars that may be requested on these projects that may not be included with the $4.2 million dollars. Mr. Pongratz stated not that he’s aware of at this point. He noted the projects are close to being totally shut down, and he’s hoping to be able to bring the final figures to the Board of Education this summer for their acceptance. It would then go to the Business Manager and onto the State for their final acceptance, and they then audit the project. Chairman Tallarita questioned whether Mr. Pongratz felt $4.2 million dollars is a good number to be associated with the referendum question. Mr. Pongratz responded yes. Mr. Shanley stated the $4.2 million dollars is on hand now. Chairman Tallarita questioned whether there’s potential for further savings on the school project, and Mr. Pongratz stated there is that potential after the audit is complete. Mr. Shanley stated Colleen Brand and Art Pongratz did superior jobs with this project.
Councilman Tait stated this all sounds great, but there is an on-going expense to maintain these fields. He noted the Council has to be very candid with the voters that they do have to spend a sizeable amount of money to maintain the fields every year.
Councilman Mangini questioned whether there will be an explanatory text available for the public. Mr. Shanley responded yes.
Councilman Egan thanked staff for all their hard work. She stated her belief this will be a win-win for the community.
Councilman Crowley commended staff for their work on this. He spoke of the necessity to address the fields which are deteriorating.
Mr. Hilinski commended the Committee for the great job they’ve done. He noted the citizens on this committee, including town and school staff have done a wonderful job.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief this is the next step, and an appropriate step, in addressing the Town’s infrastructure.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #7913 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO : Account No. 1300-0332 $1,500.00
Town Attorney
Legal
FROM: Account No. 1300-0432 $ 700.00
Town Attorney
Equipment Repair
Account No. 1300-0612 $ 800.00
Town Attorney
Office Supplies
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $1,500.00 is available from Account #Various Accounts as of 4/26/05.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7913 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUITON #7914 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the Town Manager to renew a lease agreement with Mary Lee Stiegler for the use of approximately 4,789 square feet of space located at 786 Enfield Street, Enfield, CT for use by Social Services, Community Development and other related municipal offices, the term of said lease to begin on July 16, 2005 and expire on July 15, 2008.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7914 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7915 by Councilman Mangini, 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 : Transfer to School Misc. Fund $105,000.00
FROM: Contingency $105,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $105,000.00 is available from Account #8030-840 as of June 17, 2005.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to change the amount to $154,000.
Councilman Fiore explained that is the amount of money that the Board of Education has indicated to the Council for the open choice dollars. He noted he is one of the proponents of net budgeting, and two years ago they attempted to eliminate net budgeting. He stated there has been a difference of opinion as to whether that can or should be done. He noted he has no problem supporting this transfer as long as they proceed to still investigate what is the appropriate way to handle these funds. He noted having been assured that is what’s going to happen, he advocates doing this transfer in a sense of unity and that they proceed to do the investigation.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 11-0-0.
Councilman Kaupin stated in the leadership meeting on Thursday, they were told that the Board has set aside $150,000 in their current operating budget that will fall into Reserve at the end of the Fiscal Year, therefore, this can be looked at as a wash. He noted the allocation is going to go out, but the funds are going to come in. He agreed with Councilman Fiore in that they have to come to a resolution over the issue of net budgeting.
Councilman Egan questioned where $105,000 came from. Mr. Shanley stated the Superintendent provided some numbers. Chairman Tallarita stated there were some additional funds associated with kindergarten.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7915 adopted 11-0-0.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
There were no comments.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #7916 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7916 adopted 11-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
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