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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 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, October 17, 2005 at 7:35 p.m.
PRAYER – The Prayer was given by Chairman Tallarita.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Crowley, Dodd, Edgar, Egan, Fiore, Kaupin, Mangini, Peruta, Reveruzzi, and Tallarita. Councilmen Tait was absent. Also present were Town Manager, Scott Shanley; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Christopher 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; Deputy Chief of Police, Carl Sferrazza.
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #8055 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to accept the minutes of the October 3, 2005 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8055 adopted 9-0-1 with Councilman Reveruzzi abstaining.
MOTION #8056 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to accept the minutes of October 3, 2005 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8056 adopted 9-0-1 with Councilman Reveruzzi abstaining.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville Section
Thanked Councilman Egan for her many years of service on the Town Council. She questioned whether the storm drains, which were installed on Cooper Street about four years ago, have been cleaned. She noted there was a lot of debris around those storm drains.
Laurie Prouty, 46 Yale Drive
Stated as a result of the nearby culvert not being able to drain, her front and side yards collapsed into the gully. She stated her belief this blocked culvert attributed to all the flooding in the area of Meadowlark Road and Broadleaf Lane. She stated her belief this flooding could have been avoided if that culvert had been cleaned.
Ms. Prouty questioned whether there will be any relief made available by the Town and/or State of Connecticut. She concluded questioning what action will be taken to correct this culvert problem.
Michael Poirier, 62 Broadleaf Lane
Stated he made numerous complaints about the need to clean out the culvert in his area not only during this storm, but in past storms as well. He pointed out he cannot return to his home until inspections are done on his home. He questioned why water was coming up through his floor drain and sinks. He pointed out his home has suffered a lot of damage due to flooding. He stated the fire department was very helpful.
Scott Prentiss, 60 Meadowlark Road
Expressed his appreciation for the Mayor’s visit. He stated his belief flooding was caused by the drainage pipe being too small and the drainage area not being cleaned in the Beeman’s Brook area.
Kelly Regan, 61 Meadowlark Road
Stated she was evacuated from her home on Friday evening due to flooding. She expressed her appreciation to the fire department. She noted she does not have flood insurance, and she has about $15,000 to $20,000 worth of damage. She stated her belief this was due to clogged drains. She noted she did not see any Town personnel present.
Debbie Moody, 62 Belmont Avenue
Stated her home was flooded. She praised the fire and police departments for their help. She stated her belief there were not good communications during this event, and things would have been less stressful if people were able to get answers. She noted there should have been more communications on television or radio to provide information to residents. She stated her belief the Town needs to assist people who were flooded.
Scott Owen, 28 John Street
Stated when he purchased his home in 1991, he was told flood insurance wasn’t needed. He noted every time they get a big storm, there is a lot of water in his neighborhood. He pointed out his home was flooded in this last storm. He praised the fire departments for their help. He noted a neighbor went to Town Hall today and found a FEMA document dated 2002 which redesignated his neighborhood a flood zone, however, residents weren’t notified of this. He questioned why the Freshwater Pond gate wasn’t opened earlier.
Mr. Owen questioned whether flood victims will be given any assistance.
Eva and Mark Carragher 33 Lynch Terrace
Stated her home was damaged by flooding. She praised the fire and police departments for their assistance. She noted the Town informed them they would have storage units available and the landfill opened at no extra charge. She stated this information isn’t documented on the Town’s website, and there should be a contact person to address people’s concerns and questions.
Ms. Carragher stated when they purchased their home and refinanced their home, they were told they were not in a flood zone.
She stated her big concern is the health hazards caused by mold and mildew.
Mr. Carragher questioned why the gate wasn’t opened sooner at Freshwater Pond. He noted perhaps the pond should be drained in heavy rains. He stated residents have a lot of questions and concerns, and the Town needs a contact person or liaison to address these concerns.
Dennis Territo, 5 Meadow Street
Stated his cellar filled up very quickly, and he believes the nearby brook should have been cleaned. He stated his hope the Town will help flood victims.
Scott Vining, 10 Grove Road
Referred to the Enfield Public Schools custodial contract and stated only two school employees will be transferred to the Public Works Department, and he cannot understand why five custodians are getting a $2,500 bonus.
Joseph Partridge, 103 Steele Road
Stated he had some flooding at his home, and he has not yet seen anyone from the Town even though he made numerous calls. He noted he had to rent a dumpster to clean up. He noted if the Town doesn’t rectify flooding problems, flooding will continue. He questioned whether there will be any help for people.
Patricia Welk, 16 Claremont Avenue
Stated two months ago, she called the Town because the sewer collapsed in front of her home. She noted the Town patched up that area, but it collapsed again. She stated during the flooding this past weekend, her car was inundated with water.
Terry Chase, 42 Pearl Street Ext.
Stated Friday evening his basement flooded and everything was ruined. He noted neighbors were clearing storm drains to help the water drain. He noted he also lost his car in the flooding. He stated he’s having difficulty getting a response from a utility company. He concluded stating he would appreciate any assistance the Town can provide.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Raised the following questions:
- What should be more of a priority to the taxpayers of Enfield – being able to pay for the high price of gasoline to go to work in order to be able to earn money to buy fuel to heat their home?
- Is it more important to cater to a small percentage of a special interest group for recreation?
Ms. Jedziniak stated the new Town grounds workers were given a $2,500 bonus in their new contract, and she questioned exactly what that was for. She stated her belief this should not have been done, but rather that money should have been put to better use.
She referred to a 1985 newspaper article concerning the time when the Enfield Taxpayers’ group questioned why their 1984 petition of 2,700 names requesting a referendum on the 1984-85 budget wasn’t acted upon by the Town’s elected representative. She questioned what steps would have to be taken in order for the taxpayers to be able to vote on a referendum. She questioned what initiative taxpayers have in order to straighten out the priorities in the Town of Enfield.
She congratulated Deputy Chief Carl Sferrazza for the excellent program he has been conducting for the public, which is called the Citizens Police Academy. She noted by attending this program, she has learned how the Police Department operates, and she feels they’ve done a good job, such as their assistance during recent flooding. She feels the Police should receive a raise, instead of giving out bonuses to other departments.
Joseph Rader, 26 Windham Road
Spoke about his flooding problem and stated his belief storm drains not being cleaned turned a non-flooding area into a flooded area. He questioned whether the Town has reached out for federal or state help. He thanked the Mayor and Councilman Peruta for their help over the weekend. He also thanked the fire and police departments for their assistance.
Jack Loughran, owner of 25-77 Prospect Street
Susan Connery, 77 Prospect Street (tenant)
Stated his tenant’s cellar was flooded, and the tenant lost belongings. He noted there has been a road project underway in this neighborhood, and he questioned why this project is taking so long.
Miele Kido, 40 O’Hara Avenue
Thanked the Mayor for visiting her home. She noted her home and garage were flooded. She noted about eight years ago, they had flooding and had flood insurance. She stated when they refinanced three years ago, they were told they didn’t live in a flood
zone. She noted everything in her cellar was destroyed and her car was totaled. She stated she has heard conflicting information about whether or not the Freshwater Pond gate was open.
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Recommended using some of the reserve funds to help people. He noted they just passed a referendum for $26 million dollars to fix roads, perhaps the Town could make the flooded areas a priority.
Mr. Woods questioned adding another layer of organization to the IT Department. He noted the idea of combining the two IT Departments was to realize a common use of resources and perhaps lower costs.
David Consolini, 18 Trinity Drive
Stated he called the Town about two years ago concerning the need to clean the storm drains. He noted he had some flooding, and they don’t have flood insurance. He stated he is concerned about health hazards and believes flood victims need assistance.
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville Section
Stated her belief someone should be responsible for the cleaning of the storm drains
Michael Poirier, 62 Broadleaf Lane
Questioned why electricity was turned back on while he was pumping water out of his basement.
Laurie Prouty, 46 Yale Drive
Stated she and her husband own a cleaning company that specializes in clean-ups after flooding. She noted they received 150 calls after this storm. She noted mildew is a toxic substance, and this is a very serious concern for flood victims.
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
He noted in order to put things in perspective for taxpayers and flood victims, there are proposals to spend $3.5 million dollars for a tunnel under the Amtrack railroad track to access a fishing area and $5.7 million dollars for recreation fields and an estimated cost of $319,000 per year to maintain those new fields. He added there’s also an additional $80,000 per year for a life expectancy that is said to be 12 years for artificial turf.
Patricia Welk, 16 Claremont Avenue
Stated roads in her neighborhood have gaping holes. She urged the Town to look into this area which she feels is dangerous.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
MOTION #8057 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to add Item 10a – “Storm Flood Update” and 10b – a second round of Public Communications.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8057 adopted 10-0-0
MOTION #8058 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move the following items to Miscellaneous – 13b 17, 13c, d, f, g and h.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8058 adopted 10-0-0.
Councilman Mangini stated the Council received a letter from the Hazardville Water Company regarding a contamination violation. She noted she is looking for an update at some point regarding this matter. She would like to know if there’s compliance and is the public being notified of this violation. Mr. Shanley indicated a letter is supposed to be going out.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley reported on the work being done at the old senior center. He noted things are progressing and the bid documents have been completed regarding the demolition of the back section of that building.
Mr. Shanley stated Councilman Mangini has been thanked by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) for serving and participating in the needs study.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Attorney Bromson stated he did not have a formal report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
There were no reports this evening.
DISCUSSION RE: STORM FLOOD UPDATE
Chairman Tallarita stated the Town will assist flood victims. He noted they have sent letters to the Governor requesting assistance and that the Governor go to the federal government for assistance. He noted in the meantime, the Town of Enfield will begin addressing immediate needs. He stated they will also mobilize “Enfield Cares” again to start fundraising. He noted people have already volunteered to help.
Mr. Shanley reported the following:
- One home on Meadowlark Road was condemned as a result of flooding.
- The police department received 460 calls for service on Saturday (does not include calls looking for information).
- 38 officers on duty on Saturday (some working 16 hour shifts).
- Police Explorers worked as volunteers.
- Four dispatchers on duty at all times.
- Entire Public Works crew was on duty.
- As of Sunday morning, all of the roads that were closed were reopened. (22 different road closing during the storm in all different locations)
- Water Pollution Control plant designed to handle ten million gallons per day, and on Saturday they handled 31 million gallons. Some pumps overheated, but they continued to work and there were no major breakdowns.
- There were boat rescues. Many people called to volunteer. (People should call Dan Vindigni in the Town Manager’s office to be a trained volunteer for the CERT team so they can mobilize in emergencies.)
- Prospect Street had a sewer blow-out in the spring, and that project was under construction, but was washed out with all the rain. This project took a long time because it had to be properly designed and bid out to get the best price
- Bob’s Stores parking lot is designed to flood and this area is a detention area.
· Freshwater Pond has a 24” pipe with valve and the pond can be drained, however, it was never designed or intended to be a flood control device. The Freshwater Brook watershed consists of 11.5 square miles, and the 24” pipe is an irrelevant piece of drainage for a watershed of this size. This valve was open from 7:00 a.m. Thursday morning until 11:00 a.m. Friday morning when the water level had dropped. It was reopened 11:15 p.m. Friday night and closed 4:15 p.m. on Sunday. Baystate Environmental stated the water coming out of the 24” pipe could theoretically amount to no more than 4.3% of the amount of water leaving the pond, therefore, this pipe is not a significant factor. Baystate Environmental stated if the pond were emptied during this storm, the pond would have refilled within 17 minutes.
Mr. Shanley stated his belief it’s important to really understand where they need to make significant investments. He pointed out Enfield spent millions of dollars on drainage in the last five years, and millions more could be spent. He emphasized it’s important to focus on those things that could really have an impact and really make a difference.
He explained there may have been some type of blockage under Interstate 91 on the commercial side, and the water found a low point around Claremont and crossed Route 91 because it could not get under Route 91. He pointed out no one recalls Route 91 ever flooding.
Mr. Shanley stated another problem occurred at Route 5. He noted the Town has spoken with the State about the culvert where the water goes under Route 5.
As concerns Beeman’s Brook, he stated Town Councils set aside hundreds of thousands of dollars since 1999 to do a lot of drainage work at Beeman’s Brook. He noted the work done there wasn’t designed to handle a 100-year flood situation. He added they haven’t yet had word as to whether or not this was a 100-year event, but judging by the water levels they’ve seen thus far, it was between a 50 and 100-year event. He noted in the middle to late 1990’s there was discussion of taking a farm between Route 91 and Route 5 by imminent domain to make that area a flood detention area, but at that time the Council did not want to do that.
Mr. Shanley stated it might be a good idea to have a public meeting specifically on specific neighborhoods to learn what investments have been made.
Mr. Shanley stated the Town does have a culvert maintenance program, and it takes three to four years to do all of the catch basins in Enfield. He noted about four years ago the Town hired a private firm to clean catch basins. He pointed out they spent hundreds of thousands per year doing this, and if they want to accelerate that process, they would have to spend more money. He pointed out their records do show that in the fall of 2004, the storm drains were vacuumed in the Yale/Trinity area.
As concerns the question regarding information being made available to the public, Mr. Shanley stated they did issue press releases to the various television stations and hope the television stations put the information on the air and that the people were watching the television station. He noted in the future perhaps they could put this information on the website, however, these methods are not very helpful if the power is out. He pointed out communication during the height of a storm is difficult. He emphasized the Town does make an effort and there are procedures in place to make sure that television and radio stations are kept abreast of what’s going on, and it’s up to them to put it on the air, and people need to be listening.
Mr. Shanley stated he is very concerned and would like to learn more about comments made by people who were told they are not in flood zones. He suggested people give him more details about this.
Mr. Shanley stated the gas company does its own re-inspections. He noted it’s understood the gas company is requesting a turn on charge, and although the gas company is a private company, the Town will look into this charge.
He stated he was present for the discussion about turning off the power on Meadowlark, Trinity and Yale, and the idea was for safety reasons. He noted he’s unsure why power was turned back on.
Councilman Dodd questioned if sewage back-ups in some areas are caused by the practice of roof leaders being tied into sewers. Mr. Shanley noted that’s possible. He stated it’s a long-term project to make these separate. Councilman Dodd stated perhaps they could inform people on Route 5 and to the east of Route 5 about the importance of not having roof leaders connected to the sewer system.
Chairman Tallarita questioned if they can develop a specific website regarding this flood issue to inform people about debris disposal, action by the state, etc. Mr. Shanley stated this can be done.
Chairman Tallarita suggested designating a point of contact for the community. Mr. Shanley designated Tom McGee at 272-5270 or 763-7599 – e-mail tmcgee@enfield.org.
Mr. Shanley stated residents can also contact their Council representative if they’re having difficulty getting through to Town staff.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether they need any additional staff right now to get things done. Mr. Shanley referred to the bridge on Cottage Road being washed out and noted they already have a contractor for Section 13, and they will use the engineer and contractor for Section 13 to address that problem.
Discussion followed about assisting flood victims with disposal of debris. The Council agreed the Town’s website will have a list of streets with a schedule for curbside pick up of flood debris. If someone needs flood debris pick-up and their street is not listed on the website, they need to call for an appointment. This curbside service will take place until November 5th. There will be no charge to pick up flood debris. The Council also agreed to leave the transfer station open to the public with residential transfer station permits to dispose of flood debris. Other than the $5.00 permit fee, there will be no weight charge from now until November 5th (open Sundays-closed Mondays). This free service applies only to non-commercial vehicles. The website will list items that cannot be picked up at curbside, i.e., refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, computers, etc. These items have to be brought to the transfer station.
Councilman Dodd questioned whether any surrounding towns are having a Hazardous Waste Day, and Mr. Shanley indicated he could check into that.
Councilman Fiore pointed out that it will cost the Town about $800,000 just to take care of flood debris.
Chairman Tallarita raised the health concern about mold. Mr. Shanley suggested perhaps they could have an informational meeting so that people can learn how to properly deal with mold issues. He noted he will speak with Bill Blitz from the Health Department concerning the issue of mold.
Chairman Tallarita questioned if they could look into any available funding from Community Development or Neighborhood Services to help people deal with issues such as new furnaces, electrical boxes, etc. so they can get back into their homes. Mr. Shanley stated that can be looked into. He noted Community Development money needs to be spent in a pre-determined district, and that money doesn’t come through quickly. He stated some of the non-profit or private organizations might be in a better position to help. Councilman Mangini stated perhaps CCM has some ideas.
Councilman Kaupin questioned when would it be an appropriate time to talk to the State about their culverts. Mr. Shanley stated that today they made a list of those things that need to be taken up with the State.
Councilman Fiore stated he witnessed all of Town staff out and active during this flood period, and he saw a lot of coordination with the police and fire departments.
Councilman Fiore stated his impression they still have a split system in the Belmont Road area because he heard two complaints about sewage coming into people’s cellars. He requested someone look into the problem experienced at 68 Belmont Road.
Councilman Fiore stated the Town needs to come up with a plan that’s more aggressive with cleaning storm drains.
Councilman Fiore stated his understanding the Claremont Road neighborhood is part of the next road improvement project. Mr. Shanley stated part of that flooding was an aberration because of the way the water came across Route 91.
Councilman Fiore stated he was concerned about the flood zone information that was given out to some people. He stated his understanding they did a flood zone plan a few years ago, and he questioned if some areas were reclassified. Mr. Shanley stated he plans to follow up on that.
Councilman Fiore stated if any area in Town is reclassified as being in a flood zone, would the residents be notified with some type of letter. Mr. Shanley stated he will be checking into this.
Councilman Fiore stated some residents were adamant about a culvert in the Yale Drive area that was supposed to be cleaned. He questioned what happened to that particular culvert. He requested that information be forwarded to Councilman Edgar.
Councilman Peruta questioned whether the Town Council should lobby with their representatives, state senator and congressman to be sure Enfield gets representation if there’s some funding available.
Mr. Shanley stated he spoke with Rep. Tallarita today and she told him there would be a letter from the Governor’s office asking them to put together information regarding costs.
Councilman Mangini questioned if there’s a system regarding the opening and closing of the valve at the Freshwater Pond. Mr. Shanley explained the pipe/valve is not the solution to prolonged rain.
Councilman Edgar agreed storm drains need to be cleaned more often. He added something must be done about the Beeman’s Brook issue.
Councilman Edgar stated when John Street was worked on in the mid 1990’s, there was discussion about the separation of sanitary sewers, and he would like the records checked to see if that was done.
Councilman Edgar commended the police department for their assistance on Meadowlark. He commended Officer Pedemonti who went through deep water to get residents out. He noted a resident on Meadowlark called him this afternoon to say she still hadn’t received sandbags.
Councilman Edgar stated in the past, the valve at Freshwater Pond stayed open as soon as a major storm hit, and the valve remained open. He questioned why it was closed at one point. Mr. Shanley stated he was told from 7:00 a.m. Thursday to 11:00 a.m. Friday, the water level in the pond dropped, and when it got to a point where it was at a normal level, they shut the valve. He stated when the water started rising, they opened the valve again. He emphasized that is a 24” pipe draining 11.5 square miles of watershed. He noted there has been a history of opening that valve, however, from an engineering perspective it doesn’t handle enough water to have a significant impact.
Councilman Edgar stated there was advance notice of this storm, and he feels the valve should have stayed open no matter what the level of the pond. He went on to note a Prospect Street resident is under the impression the Town doesn’t have the money to finish Prospect Street. Mr. Shanley stated the project defined on Prospect Street will be completed. Mr. Kazmarski stated the Prospect Street project runs up to the intersection of Oak Street.
Councilman Edgar stated his belief they should re-look at how they’re going to spend the Road 2005 money to see if they can address some of these problem areas.
Councilman Reveruzzi stated one major issue relates to the culvert under Route 5 which has never been wide enough to accept the flow that has to come through there. He noted they’ve never been able to get the State to agree to expand the size of this culvert. Mr. Kazmarski agreed with Councilman Reveruzzi and added another factor is that watershed begins in East Longmeadow near Milton Bradley. He noted there is development going on in that area, and they don’t rely much on stormwater detention, and that’s contributing to problems over the state line.
Councilman Crowley questioned whether the Town will send letters to the gas and power company to encourage them to relieve turn-on costs. Mr. Shanley stated he’s unsure as to whether there’s a turn-on cost by the power company. He noted he did hear the gas company had a turn-on charge. He stated his belief they can call the utilities and speak with them.
Chairman Tallarita stated he witnessed Town staff, fire and police departments functioning very well during this storm event. He assured the public the Town is looking at this whole situation and will find some answers.
Laurie Prouty, 46 Yale Drive
Stated she’s certain the culvert near her home has not been cleaned in many years. She noted her front yard was flooded. She would like to know when the culvert will be cleaned. Mr. Shanley indicated he will look into this.
Eva & Mark Carragher, 33 Lynch Terrace
Stated she’s a nurse volunteer for the Red Cross, but she never received notification about a need in Enfield. Mr. Vindigni stated they did notify the Red Cross, but the Red Cross was unable to help. Mr. Shanley stated they’ve used the Red Cross in the past, and they were very helpful, however, in this particular instance, the resources of the Red Cross were overwhelmed.
Mr. Carragher questioned if the Town can condemn a house because of mold which might result in leaving someone destitute. Chairman Tallarita stated his belief the Town won’t be put in a position to condemn a house due to mold.
Scott Prentiss, 60 Meadowlark Road
Suggested the Town look into the “Reverse 911” notification process. He went on to state an engineer study indicated water problems in the Beeman’s Brook neighborhood had less to do with the widening of Route 91 and more to do with the condominium project in that area. He stated if he is able to access low interest loans, that would be helpful to him since his basement was flooded. He noted because the value of his home has dropped, he would like the Council to think about a tax abatement or tax relief. He stated he would appreciate a special meeting on the Beeman’s Brook, and it would be helpful to see the consultant study, engineering plans, what was actually done and what was not done. He concluded stating some thought should be given to where road monies should be spent. He stated his belief it should be applied toward drainage.
Kelly Regan, 61 Meadowlark Road
Questioned if her home is condemned. Chairman Tallarita stated he would hope anyone would know if there home is condemned. Ms. Regan stated she has no gas or electricity. Chairman Tallarita stated the homeowner has to call the utilities to get their gas and electricity turned back on. He suggested Ms. Regan and Mr. Kazmarski discuss this further.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENT (TOWN COUNCIL)
MOTION #8059 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove item #9 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8059 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8060 by Councilman Kaupin to appoint Lisa Irving (R) to the Enfield Revitalization Strategy Committee for a term which expires 4/3/08.
MOTION #8061 by Councilman Egan, seconded by Councilman Dodd to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8061 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Lisa Irving appointed to the Enfield Revitalization Strategy Committee by a 10-0-0 vote.
All other Town Council appointments remained tabled.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
All Town Manager appointments remained tabled.
Item c. remained tabled.
MOTION #8062 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 #8062 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: FACILITY/ASSET NAMING POLICY
Councilman Kaupin stated the Republicans would prefer the naming only be done for deceased persons. Chairman Tallarita stated his personal opinion is that they could leave it up to future Councils as to whether it should be named after a living individual or a person who has passed away.
MOTION #8063 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Edgar to accept the draft as presented.
MOTION #8064 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Reveruzzi to waive the reading of the draft.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8064 adopted 9-0-1, Councilman Mangini absent at vote.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8063 adopted
9-0-1, Councilman Mangini absent at vote.
MOTION #8065 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Edgar to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8065 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8066 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Crowley to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8066 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8067 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Crowley.
8-24 Action Shaker & Elm Property/Galaxy
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8067 adopted 10-0-0.
Item f. remained tabled.
RESOLUTION #8068 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Peruta.
WHEREAS, Connecticut Public Act 05-3, June Special Session, allows municipalities to waive interest due on any property tax installment, for up to one year, for assessments on the Grant List of 2003 for the spouses of military personnel who were called to active service for military operations in Iraq and were serving in the Middle East on August 2, 2004 and February 1, 2005.
WHEREAS, Taxes on the Grant List of 2003 were due on July 1, 2004 and January 1, 2005,
WHEREAS, the Act requires that the waiver be established by Ordinance,
WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Enfield wishes to show its support for the families of the brave and dedicated individuals who are serving their country in the Middle East,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council does hereby adopt the attached Ordinance Waiving Interest on Real Property Tax for Armed Forces Members Serving in the Middle East.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8068 adopted 10-0-0.
Items h., i., and j. remained tabled.
NEW BUSINESS
There were no Consent Agenda items.
All appointments will remain on the agenda.
RESOLUTION #8069 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
WHEREAS, Resolution #6461 establishing the Patriots Award Committee states that said Committee shall serve two year terms concurrent with municipal elections in November, and
WHEREAS, said Committee members duties for all intents and purposes end in July, and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that staggered terms are more appropriate than concurrent with municipal elections;
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby eliminates the wording “concurrent with municipal elections” from Resolution #6461;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield does hereby change the term of office to be two years, to begin upon appointment with municipal elections and expiring on July 31. Three will expire on July 31, 2007 and two will expire on July 31, 2008.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove the words “with municipal elections” from the last paragraph.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8069 adopted 10-0-0, as amended.
RESOLUTION #8070 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: Social Services Administration $1,000.00
Travel
FROM: Social Services Administration $1,000.00
Professional
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $1,000.00 is available from Account (Professional) as of 9/22/05.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8070 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8071 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to move Item 13e. to Miscellaneous.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8071 adopted 10-0-0.
MISCELLANEOUS
NOMINATION #8072 by Councilman Fiore to reappoint Deborah Fiore (D) to the Library Board of Trustees for a term which expires 12/31/08.
MOTION #8073 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Dodd to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8073 adopted 10-0-0
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Deborah Fiore reappointed to the Library Board of Trustees by a 10-0-0 vote.
RESOLUTION #8074 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Peruta.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: 440-580 $1,100.00
Travel
FROM: 4400-322 $1,100.00
Professional Development
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $1,100 is available from Account #4400-322 as of October 3, 2005.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8074 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8075 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Fiore to accept the draft of the “Educational Mini-Grant Program Overview of the Process”.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8075 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8076 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Kaupin.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Buildings & Grounds Maintenance
Building Repairs & Maintenance $29,000.00
FROM: Highway Maintenance
Rental Equipment $ 5,000.00
Equipment Maint. & Repair
Gasoline $24,000.00
_________
$29,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $29,000.00 is available from Account (Rental Equipment-Gasoline) as of October 11, 2005.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8076 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8077 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby approve the four (4) year collective bargaining agreement between the Town of Enfield and AFSCME Council 4, Local 1029 dated July 1, 2005 through June 30, 2009.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8077 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8078 by Councilman Mangini, 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 Adult Day Center Supportive Service Grant – 10-01-2005 to 09-30-2006, and to affix the Corporate Seal.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8078 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8079 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Peruta.
RESOLVED, that the Town hereby amends and adopts the attached as the Eligible 457 Governmental Deferred Compensation Plan for employees of the Town, Said Plan shall be referred to as The Town of Enfield, CT – Hartford 457 Plan
(Plan will keep the Town in compliance with recent IRS regulations and is available in Human Resources for review.)
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8079 adopted 10-0-0.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Egan thanked Town staff and her fellow Councilmembers for all their support.
Councilman Dodd thanked Town staff and his fellow Councilmembers for all their support.
Councilman Fiore stated it has been a privilege to represent District #4 and he expressed his appreciation to Town staff and his fellow Councilmembers for their support.
Councilman Reveruzzi thanked everyone who faithfully attended Council meetings. He expressed his appreciation to Town staff and fellow councilmembers for their spirit of cooperation.
Councilman Kaupin thanked his fellow councilmembers for their years of service.
Councilman Crowley expressed his appreciation for everyone’s support.
Councilman Mangini thanked Town staff and her fellow councilmembers for all their support.
Councilman Edgar thanked Town staff and his fellow councilmembers for their support.
Councilman Peruta expressed his appreciation for everyone’s support.
Chairman Tallarita thanked Town staff and his fellow councilmembers for their service.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #8080 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8080 adopted 10-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 11:45 p.m. |