|
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 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, December 5, 2005 at 7:35 p.m.
PRAYER – The Prayer was given by Councilman Edgar.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Crowley, Edgar, Hilinski, Kaupin, Lee, Maxellon, Nelson, Peruta, Ragno, and Tallarita. Councilman Mangini was absent. Also present were Acting Town Manager and Town Attorney, Christopher Bromson; Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Director of Social Services, Pamela Brown; Director of Community Development, Raymond Warren; Director of Information Technology, Charlene Bond; Library Director, Henry Dutcher; Assistant Library Director, Mary Palomba.
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #8113 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Peruta to accept the minutes of the November 14, 2005 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8113 adopted 9-0-1, with Councilman Edgar abstaining.
MOTION #8114 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to accept the minutes of November 21, 2005 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8114 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8115 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Lee to accept the minutes of the November 21, 2005 Regular Meeting.
Referring to Page 13, 3rd paragraph, second sentence, Councilman Maxellon pointed out it should read “Davis Bacon Act wages”, rather than “union project”.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Maxellon, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to make this amendment to the minutes.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0.
Chairman Tallarita requested the tapes be reviewed to reflect the question he asked of Colleen Brand regarding the roof on Town Hall and whether they could make it through the winter. He further clarified the comments had to do with waiting until next year to construct the dormer, and if they were to wait until constructing the dormer, then why not wait to do the whole project. He suggested tabling this motion to be sure these comments are included in the minutes.
MOTION #8116 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Nelson to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8116 adopted 10-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Thomas Arnone, 5 Cartier Road
Stated he is present representing the Thompsonville Little League. He stated this year they are dedicating their playing season to the Town’s Buildings and Grounds Division. He noted without the hard work and dedication of those employees it would be impossible for them to provide the quality program that they provide to their 39 teams on their seven playing fields. He stated during the tournament season they host many towns on these fields, and not a game goes by where they don’t get comments on the service they receive in Enfield from the Building and Grounds Department.
Mr. Arnone stated on their opening day they invited David Tuttle to throw out the opening pitch for the year. He stated on behalf of the Thompsonville Little League, they are presenting a plaque to the Building and Grounds Division. He requested the Acting Town Manager or Assistant Town Manager present it to the Building and Grounds employees.
He stated the Buildings and Grounds crew has come through with every request made and it’s very much appreciated.
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Stated at the last meeting, he was concerned about the dormer addition on back of Town Hall. He noted he did go up into the Town Hall attic to check out that space. He noted he sees minimal water problems in that area, and he feels the problem is around the flashing of the cupola. He stated his belief there needs to be a closer look at this area and perhaps some patching with tar may help them get through the winter.
Mr. Sheridan acknowledged there are a lot of boxes stored in the Town Hall attic. He added they are stored very neatly and he was impressed at how nicely things were stored. He noted he saw a lot of mechanical equipment, i.e., air conditioning pumps, compressors and duct work. He estimated 20 to 25% of the space is already occupied by mechanicals. He questioned what is the weight capacity of this area and how much weight is stored there. He stated his impression this section of the building is very well built.
He questioned the actual pitch of the proposed dormers. He stated his belief for the cost of new dormers, they could probably put trusses on the Higgins building and construct a pitched roof. He noted they could gut that building and use it for storage of records. He went on to suggest storing records in the empty classrooms at the Eli Whitney Elementary School.
Mr. Sheridan referred to energy efficiency at Town Hall and noted the doors at the entrance of Town Hall don’t close tightly. He stated his belief that before they worry about high cost airlock doors, they should fix the front doors so they close properly.
Laurence Avery, 148 Pleasant Street
Commended the Buildings and Grounds Department for the work they do. Mr. Avery stated it would be nice to have one of the Asnuntuck athletic fields lighted for night games. He added this would make it possible to host some tournaments. He noted visiting teams are impressed with their fields.
Debbie Moody, 62 Belmont Avenue
Stated her belief community policing is important, and there’s not enough money to keep a consistent level of community policing in place. She noted community police officers are pulled for patrol and other various duties. She feels it would be in the best interest of the community to have consistent community policing.
Ms. Moody stated she was at an October Council meeting concerning flooding at her home. She noted she made a request through Councilman Edgar, and he filed a request through the Town. She stated she had asked that someone from the Town look at the storm drain system on her street. She noted this storm drain is located right in front of her home. She pointed out the expansion of Route 91 created more water runoff and she questions whether this is an adequate drainage system. She noted she suffered a substantial loss from recent flooding and prefers not to go through that again.
Ms. Moody agreed with Mr. Avery in that a nice, lighted playing field is a draw for visitors to Enfield. She noted after the game, visitors might go to local restaurants.
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Stated his belief the firing of the Town Manager was an abuse of political power on behalf of the Democrats. He noted if citizens elected the whole Council, the whole Council should be involved. He stated his belief the Democrats had nothing to lose because they had the power of the vote, therefore, there’s no reason why they shouldn’t have invited the Republicans to have their say in this. He questioned if this was a payoff to the fire departments to return the EMS, or is this a situation where the Democrats know that the Police Chief is retiring and they want their man to be in there rather than selecting someone from another town. He stated his belief it was a conflict of interest to appoint the Town Attorney as Acting Town Manager regardless of whether or not other towns do this. He stated today he initiated a call to the Attorney General to investigate what is happening in Enfield and to learn if there’s a conflict of interest and whether there’s some other rationale that the Democrats are using to perform these actions. He stated he is not saying that he wasn’t happy to see the Town Manager go because he has discussed this with other people before, but the way it was done, he does not believe was the correct way of doing it in a free society. He stated he begins to wonder what they have in Enfield – is it a communistic state or is it a dictatorship. He noted he would hate to see either one of these situations.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
Stated this evening’s filming of the Town Council meeting is courtesy of the Enfield Republican Town Committee.
Ms. Turner stated at the October 17th meeting there was mention of how debris would be picked up at curbside and the Council also agreed to leave the transfer station open to the public to dispose of the flood debris, and other than the $5.00 permit fee, there would be no weight charge until November 5th, and the free service applies only to non-commercial vehicles. She stated she was told that people were able to go during that time frame and not have to pay the $5.00 fee. She noted the Council, as a whole, had decided to charge the $5.00 fee. She stated Mr. Shanley wanted to be sure the Town knew who was coming in and out. She stated she was told one of the Councilmen came to the transfer station and told the people who worked there to waive that $5.00 fee. She requested this be looked into to see if that’s true because she believes the reason they have a Council meeting and have the Town Council vote on things is to make sure they don’t have people going outside of the boundary.
Ms. Turner stated she recently used the Enfield High School running track and noticed someone actually drove a vehicle onto the track and caused damage. She noted she notified the police about this.
She stated her hope this Council will get the tipper barrel program up and running. She stated her belief they need the right equipment for this program. She went on to question why some of the schools still have USA Hauling dumpsters.
As concerns leaf pick-up, Ms. Turner suggested giving each homeowner a $100 credit to have their leaves picked up. She stated her belief this will get the leaves picked up faster.
Ms. Turner stated they will see how they can come up with a few more dollars to film the next Council meeting. She stated she’s sure that she and the Chairman of the Council will be talking about this.
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville Section
Stated there’s trouble in Powder Hollow in the area of the Scantic River Park. She noted this is a gathering place for Massachusetts cars and she believes there’s negative activity taking place in this area. She voiced concern about these problems extending to her nearby property.
Mrs. Collins stated she listened to the recent presentation of the Library Planning Committee and believes the library is fine as it is and they shouldn’t be competing with Barnes and Noble.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated one problem regarding maintaining athletic fields in Enfield has to do with the fact that there are two high schools in town, therefore, it’s more costly to maintain fields in Enfield as compared to other communities.
Ms. Jedziniak stated she heard talk about crowding in certain Enfield schools. She questioned if this has to do with non-compliance of the Omega Demographic Report, or is there too much choice allowed by the school management. She questioned what happened to the sister school arrangement which was to solve the problem. She noted it appears certain parents want to send their children to certain schools.
She referred to the Enfield Day Care on South Road and stated her understanding an Enfield official made a deal with the owner of that building that the tenant will supply and install the kitchen equipment, playscape and signage in exchange for rent. She noted she’s been unable to get any figures showing any savings for rent.
Ms. Jedziniak stated a resolution was passed in 1999 to allow the Save the Strand Committee to borrow up to $250,000. She noted so far they have borrowed up to $164,028 and have not paid any money back. She questioned how this money can be collected from people who are no longer on the Town Council. She feels that was a conflict.
She stated she is unhappy with the tipper barrels because she finds them very heavy to push.
Ms. Jedziniak stated her belief some people moving into Enfield consider themselves elitist and think Enfield is like Greenwich. She noted many people in Enfield are having difficulty paying their electric bills.
She stated her belief there’s a trend happening in Connecticut whereby Board of Education members are running for Town Councils. She questioned who these people would be speaking for.
Ms. Jedziniak stated her belief there should be term limits for Council people.
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Referred to a new proposed subdivision and noted the engineers were asked to do a calculation using a 50-year storm, and it was pointed out that state statute requires they only use 25-year storm numbers. He suggested the Council look into changing that figure because of the history of that area. He stated his opinion the law requires they would need to disclose the fact that the water table is higher than the curtain drains in the house, and in two of the houses, the curtain drains are actually lower than the storm drains. He stated he is concerned about this because history shows the litigation and costs of repairing these problems in subdivisions in Enfield land on the shoulders of Enfield taxpayers. He feels for these reasons it’s important to look into the 50-year storm calculation requirement.
Mr. Sheridan stated his belief the Town should look into who really owns the land on the other side of the Scantic River.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
Stated her belief Chairman Tallarita said something to her when she walked away, and she found it to be a little offensive. She noted when she said they would talk about taping meetings, it was her offer to put something out in writing to the Chairman. She pointed out that was not meant in any derogatory way. She stated if the Chairman has something he needs to say to her, he can call her office.
Thomas Arnone, 5 Cartier Road
Stated the Little League would love to have a lighted field, especially for the fall program which is over at about 5:30 p.m. He noted Enfield has two Little Leagues – the Thompsonville Little League and the Enfield Little League. He noted both leagues have been working closely for the last few years and when this topic is addressed in the future,
they will be unified.
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville Section
Stated she will take the $100 credit offer for leaf pick-up as mentioned by Ms. Turner.
Mrs. Collins stated she maintains her land that abuts the state property along the Scantic River.
John Shlatz, South Road
Stated there’s no maintenance of the fence area that divides his property from Town property.
Debbie Moody, 62 Belmont Avenue
Stated she would like to see meetings that have a more open forum. She added her belief it’s very beneficial to televise these meetings since many people are too busy to attend meetings. She noted she heard there will be more Executive Sessions.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Crowley stated the Parks & Recreation Department did a great job with last night’s carol sing.
Councilman Crowley commended Public Works for doing a great job cleaning up after the snowstorm.
Councilman Nelson stated his belief the Police Department did a wonderful job in Thompsonville recently, and he supports them 100%.
Councilman Nelson stated his mother lives in Nutmeg Village and has asked why Somers is still picking up her trash when the Town has purchased a front-loading truck.
Councilman Nelson commended everyone for putting on a wonderful carol sing.
Councilman Peruta stated Councilman Mangini is at the National League of Cities conference in North Carolina, and she’s representing Enfield on the Finance Administrative Intergovernmental Relations Committee.
Councilman Peruta stated there’s an organization in Enfield called TRIAD which is a local chapter of a national organization that promotes programs and services for seniors. He noted TRIAD is comprised of local seniors from the Senior Center, the Senior Center Director, Police, Fire, EMS, the Director of Dispatch, and some local business leaders. He explained they implement and support programs for the seniors. He noted one of the programs allows for a senior to call the senior center which in turn arranges for the fire department to visit that home and make sure there’s a smoke and carbon monoxide detector and they’ll replace batteries. They make smoke and carbon monoxide detectors available at no cost. He stated a couple programs which really improve on emergency services involve a beacon/flashing light, and if a person flicks their switch a couple times, this aids emergency vehicles to find the home more quickly after a 911 call. He noted it costs only $2.00. He noted there is also a “yellow dot” program whereby people put a yellow dot on a car, and in a situation where a person is unable to speak, emergency personnel will know the yellow dot means they can find medical history information in a special envelope in the glove compartment. He stated TRIAD wants to be sure these programs get advertised as much as possible, and they would like to attend a Council meeting to speak about these programs. He noted the Director of the Senior Center can be contacted to learn more about this program.
Councilman Peruta stated the Board of Education is looking for people interested in being on the Budget Advisory Committee.
Councilman Peruta questioned if the Town patrols the trouble area in the Scantic River area which was mentioned by Mrs. Collins. Attorney Bromson stated that will be looked into.
Councilman Edgar referred to Ms. Moody’s concern about the storm drain on her street and noted an e-mail was sent to Public Works, but he has not seen an answer as yet. He added they did check out the drainage issue this past week, and he assumed they’ll get something this week. He addressed Mr. Vindigni and stated Mrs. Hayden has the notes on this.
Councilman Edgar stated a vote has been taken, and they should move forward and not keep rehashing the old issue. He stated his belief they have one of the finest legal minds, and they need that mind with the litigation in Town. He noted it’s only on a temporary basis. He stated there are good reasons on his part for this. He stated he takes offense to the reflection that this is a communist state or a dictatorship, and he feels that comment shouldn’t be made by a retired veteran.
Councilman Kaupin thanked the Enfield Republican Town Committee for filming this meeting. He stated his understanding they’re working as a Council to make the filming of Council meetings a permanent happening. He stated his belief Mary Ann Turner’s
challenge may be that the Republican Town Committee footed the bill for tonight’s filming, and perhaps the Democratic Town Committee can foot the bill for the next one.
Councilman Kaupin requested they look into the Enfield High School issue of a vehicle driving over the track. He stated this is important as concerns going forward with the new fields and keeping gates secured and not having vehicles driving on the track and over new fields once they’re in place.
Councilman Kaupin requested there be research into the waiving of the $5.00 fee at the transfer station.
Councilman Kaupin stated the Council received correspondence regarding the front-end loader in the past. He noted perhaps Mr. Kazmarski can provide an update on this.
Councilman Kaupin agreed with Councilman Peruta about checking into the enforcement issue regarding the Scantic River Park.
Councilman Kaupin requested someone look into the Day Care issue regarding a swop of service in lieu of rent-paying.
Councilman Kaupin referred to the suggestion of term limits and noted this might be a Charter question.
Councilman Kaupin apologized to Mr. Shlatz for not following up on the weed problem behind his property and near the library. He requested this be looked into.
Councilman Hilinski stated the Board of Education has offered to provide Board of Education picture badges for the schools which will allow Council members to visit the schools whenever they wish.
As concerns storage space at Eli Whitney School, Councilman Hilinski stated there’s one empty classroom at this school. He noted it consists of 900 square feet and is currently being used to store the Connecticut Mastery Test paperwork, and they’re looking into possibly using it for storing some of the voting machines.
As concerns the Enfield Democratic Town Committee paying for broadcasts of Town Council meetings, Councilman Hilinski stated his belief they’d be up for the challenge, however, they’d have to speak to the committee. He noted they were planning on donating some of their money to the Enfield Food Shelf, therefore, they’d have to check their treasury to see if there are any monies left. He added he would also have to check to see if it’s legal for them to provide the televised format here.
MOTION #8117 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to suspend the rules to address Items 13 d., e., f., g., and h. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8117 adopted 10-0-0.
Chairman Tallarita questioned if there’s a request into the State DOT to explore the flooding issue in the area of the Route 5 culvert. He noted this was part of what shut down an interstate highway system. Attorney Bromson stated he will check into this.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Attorney Bromson invited Mr. Kazmarski to update the Council on the leaf collection program and the front end loader.
Mr. Kazmarski stated they’ve collected leaves in about 75% of the town. He noted because of the forecast for snow they did not mount all the trucks today with leaf boxes, however, they did make an effort to get crews out to some areas. He stated they still have the southwest corner of Enfield remaining to be done. He noted if tonight’s storm doesn’t materialize and they get good weather, they can probably finish the balance in about five days.
Councilman Crowley questioned how this compares with last year’s schedule, and Mr. Kazmarski stated they are a little behind last year’s schedule because they delayed the start of the full-scale pick-up by one week because the leaves were not coming off the trees.
Attorney Bromson stated the front end loader was supposed to arrive in September, however, it didn’t. He stated his belief they will be on track and they will fully implement the collection at the condominiums. Mr. Kazmarski stated Mr. McAlmond contacted the vendor and they worked out a deal that when it became apparent that the delay was going to be too long of a time period in getting the Town’s piece of equipment in, they give the Town a front end loader to be used at no charge until the Town’s truck came in. He noted they were going into the condo units with the loaned truck, however,
he does not know the specifics. He noted the Town’s truck was supposed to come in this week.
As concerns EMS, Attorney Bromson pointed out that plan has been adopted and there’s been no change whatsoever. He noted this is a Town plan, and it’s imperative that people know that the Town has a top flight EMS program that the Town is running. He stated personnel is being added pursuant to schedule and they are out there doing the job, and there’s been no retreat from that plan. He added they will be going for another state license for a satellite station off Enfield Street, and Art Groux is working on that. He noted this is the course that the Council chose, and there has been no discussion that has gone contrary to that.
Attorney Bromson stated the Council adheres to FOI, and there are very limited reasons for which the Council can go into Executive Session, and he sees no departure or change of past practices of Councils to do it more or less often.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
There were no reports this evening.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
MOTION #8118 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Edgar to remove Item #11 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8118 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8119 by Councilman Kaupin to reappoint Marlene Hoginski (R) to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/08.
MOTION #8120 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Maxellon to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8120 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Marlene Hoginski reappointed to the Commission on Aging by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8121 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item #12 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8121 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8122 by Councilman Hilinski to reappoint William Marr (D) to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/2008.
MOTION #8123 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Lee to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8123
adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared William Marr reappointed to the Commission on Aging by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8124 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Crowley to remove Item #13 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8124 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8125 by Councilman Edgar to reappoint Judith Partridge (U) as an Alternate member to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/08.
MOTION #8126 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Crowley to close nomination.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8126 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Judith Partridge reappointed to the Commission on Aging.
MOTION #8127 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Edgar to remove Item #15 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8127 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8128 by Councilman Crowley to appoint Kay Tallarita to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/08.
MOTION #8129 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8129 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Kay Tallarita appointed to the Commission on Aging by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8130 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Maxellon to remove Item #16 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8130 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8131 by Councilman Kaupin to appoint Jason Jones (R) to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/09.
MOTION #8132 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Edgar to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8132 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Jason Jones appointed to the
Planning & Zoning Commission by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8133 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Crowley to remove Item #17 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8133 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8134 by Councilman Hilinski to reappoint James Hickey (D) to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/09.
MOTION #8135 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Crowley to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8135 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared James Hickey reappointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8136 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Ragno to remove Item #18 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8136 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8137 by Councilman Edgar to appoint Elizabeth Ballard (R) to the Planning & Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/09.
MOTION #8138 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Crowley to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8138 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Elizabeth Ballard appointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8139 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Crowley to remove Item #19 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8139 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8140 by Councilman Hilinski to reappoint Kathleen Sarno (D) as an Alternate member to the Planning & Zoning Commission for a term which expires 12/31/09.
MOTION #8141 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Nelson to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8141 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Kathleen Sarno to the Planning & Zoning Commission by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8142 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Peruta to remove Item #21 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8142 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8143 by Councilman Crowley to reappoint John Rinaldi (D) to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/09.
MOTION #8144 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Ragno to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8144
adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared John Rinaldi reappointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals by a 10-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8145 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Maxellon to remove Item #22 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8145 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #8146 by Councilman Hilinski to reappoint Paul Thorogood (D) as an Alternate member to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/09.
MOTION #8147 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Crowley to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8147 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Paul Thorogood reappointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals by a 10-0-0 vote.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
All Town Manager appointments remained tabled.
Item c. remained tabled.
MOTION #8148 by Councilman Peruta, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8148 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8149 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Peruta.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to execute a
contract with Community Health Resources, Inc. for the provision of transportation services for Community Health Resources clients by the Town of Enfield’s Dial-A-Ride program.
Pamela Brown, Director of Social Services, was present for this discussion.
Ms. Brown stated Dial-A-Ride has been providing these services to Community Health Services for the past ten years with a verbal agreement. She stated her belief this needs to be formalized and money should go directly to the Town. She explained the money was going to the Senior Citizens Bus Committee and then being donated to the Town at budget time. She noted many of the people who benefit are residents of the Town of Enfield. She stated the contract has been reviewed extensively by the legal department.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8149 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8150 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8150 adopted 10-0-0.
Councilman Crowley left the meeting at this time.
MOTION #8151 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Ragno to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8151 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8152 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hilinski.
Tax Abatement
Present for this discussion was Raymond Warren, Director of Community Development.
Chairman Tallarita explained this is the Enfield Federal Savings and Loan Association tax abatement.
Mr. Warren stated this is an abatement agreement for the $3.2 million dollars in private investment that’s occurring in Thompsonville with the construction of a new corporate headquarters for Enfield Federal. He stated this is a large private investment on this side of Route 91 which clears up a deteriorated neighborhood. He noted this institution has promised, by agreement, to create 39 new jobs. He pointed out this is all new taxes, and it’s an agreement that allows the phase-in to 100% of full taxation over a seven year period, and the personal property taxes of over a million dollars is not included in this agreement, nor is the fire tax to the Thompsonville district, which represents about $15,000 per year.
Mr. Warren pointed out this is a rare use of this power. He noted the Town of Enfield has approved approximately 17 abatements in the last 20 years, and they’ve been judicious in recommending them.
Councilman Edgar stated prior to this, there had to be compliance on a yearly basis or the abatement would be lost. He noted the way this resolution reads, they just have to create 39 jobs during the life of the agreement. He stated he would like to amend the resolution so that they include the yearly new hires as was done in the past.
Mr. Warren stated the annual job creation would be part of the agreement that they have to sign, and if they don’t comply by year one, the agreement is over. Attorney Bromson added this resolution is just authorizing the Town Manager to enter into the contract, and the contract will go according to that yearly requirement.
Councilman Kaupin voiced his support of the resolution. He noted all of his questions were answered during previous discussions. He pointed out this is the corporate headquarters for Enfield Federal Savings and they’re expanding in Enfield and creating 39 new positions and this is in line with the abatements done in the past.
Councilman Nelson requested Mr. Warren elaborate on Enfield Federal Savings & Loan helping make loans downtown.
Mr. Warren stated they are in discussions with Enfield Federal Savings & Loan. He noted Enfield Federal Savings & Loan has encouraged the Town to work with the bank and with a private non-profit community organization to apply for funds to the Federal Home Loan Bank for grant funds from their parent organization to be awarded to Enfield Federal that can be used in Enfield for Community Development activities. He noted he suggested to the Town Manager that they concentrate on using those grant funds to promote home ownership in the Thompsonville section in Enfield to reverse the proportion now which is 25% home ownership to 75% renter, which is the exact opposite of the overall Town of Enfield. He pointed out the Town already has a small home ownership program. He noted this would be no capital into that program, which could include things such as down payment assistance for people who have difficulty raising the first portion of capital to purchase homes in the Thompsonville neighborhood. He noted there’s a deadline for that application which is February or March, and they’re committed to going forward with that application. He stated the bank is growing substantially, and they have a new infusion of capital, and they are looking for small business loans. He noted in addition to the job creation that occurs as a result of this incentive agreement, by virtue of the loans that they’ll be making to the small business community, they will also be creating jobs and further investing in Enfield. He stated they have represented their community contributions to him, not the least of which is a contribution towards the fund to assist flood victims in Enfield, as well as their participation in all community activities that take place here.
Attorney Bromson stated Enfield Federal Savings also announced a program for Enfield Police officers to encourage them to have home ownership and live in Enfield. He noted the bank will be offering below market rates with favorable conditions to Enfield police officers to buy homes in Enfield, in particular to encourage them to buy in the Thompsonville area. He noted they are working out the details between the bank and the police department. He stated they’ve had officers come forward already who are very interested in this program.
Councilman Ragno thanked Dan Vindigni and Ray Warren for providing information about the Community Reinvestment Act. He noted he was glad to see that Enfield Federal Savings did receive a satisfactory rating on the CRA, and there’s only one level above this rating. He stated based on what he has seen and heard, he will support this resolution.
Councilman Hilinski voiced his support of the resolution. He noted this institution has been in Enfield for a long time and they’ve been a very good neighbor and deserve this support. He stated he’s encouraged to see they’ve made the decision to keep their corporate headquarters in Enfield and to beautify a corner of Enfield near Town Hall.
Chairman Tallarita voiced his support of this resolution. He emphasized the Council takes abatements very seriously, and they do not hand out abatements freely. He noted these abatements have to fit certain criteria. He pointed out this is a tool for the Council to participate in the economic development of the community by trying to encourage businesses to either develop or expand their businesses in Enfield. He stressed this is new money and jobs that will be coming into Enfield. He noted the structure itself adds to the revitalization of Thompsonville.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8152 adopted 9-0-0.
Councilman Crowley returned to the meeting.
MOTION #8153 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Edgar to remove Item f. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8153 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: VIDEO TAPING OF COUNCIL MEETINGS
Chairman Tallarita expressed his appreciation to the Republican Town Committee for the taping of tonight’s Council meeting. He noted in leadership, it was suggested they form a subcommittee that could look into the regular video taping of Council meetings. For this subcommittee, he appointed Councilmen Mangini and Lee. He suggested working with Walter Shermer who currently tapes these meetings and Cox Communications. He added there are some other ideas to research, i.e., working with Asnuntuck Community College. He suggested visiting Manchester to see their excellent taping setup. He requested the subcommittee keep the Council updated.
MOTION #8154 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Peruta to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8154 adopted 10-0-0.
Item g. remained tabled.
NEW BUSINESS
MOTION #8155 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Peruta to accept the Consent Agenda.
Transfer $350
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8155 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8156 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Crowley to remove Item c. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8156 adopted 10-0-0.
Item d. will appear under Old Business on the next agenda.
MOTION #8157 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Ragno to remove Item e. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8157 adopted 10-0-0.
Item f. will appear under Old Business on the next agenda.
DISCUSSION RE: ATHLETIC FIELDS
Chairman Tallarita stated the Council did get a draft resolution that would establish the building committee for the Enfield High and Fermi High athletic fields. He suggested this be a five-member voting committee consisting of athletic representatives from Enfield High and Fermi High, preferably a coach and three citizens. He noted non-voting members would include two Council members and two Board of Education members. He suggested putting together a non-voting group consisting of members of the student body, one from each high school. He stated perhaps they could suggest to the school system that they appoint either a Freshman Class President or Freshman Class Vice-President, and those students could be a way of getting information back to the schools.
Councilman Crowley questioned whether the appointment of a student would be an appointment of the position or the person. Chairman Tallarita stated his belief it would be the position. Councilman Hilinski stated his impression it would be the person that they would appoint.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether the athletic representative has to be an Enfield resident. He noted he prefers an Enfield resident because they would have a double investment. Chairman Tallarita stated he has no problem with the athletic representative being an Enfield resident.
Councilman Kaupin stated he agrees with the make-up of the Committee. He noted they can expedite this process by having leadership review the applications and then make a recommendation to the full Council.
Councilman Nelson questioned if coaches also have to fill out applications. Chairman Tallarita stated through the Town Manager’s Office, they can get in touch with the Superintendent’s office to open this up to coaches, and they can review those applications as well. He noted the suggestion to appoint a student body President from the freshman class of each school should also be relayed to the Superintendent’s office. He stated if the President is not interested, then the Vice President of the freshman class can be invited to join the Committee.
Chairman Tallarita requested the Council to be ready to discuss this resolution next week so that it can be passed so they can get this Committee up and running before the end of the year
.ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
Town Manager appointments will appear under New Business on the next agenda.
Item c. will appear under New Business on the next agenda.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #8158 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council does hereby authorize the Acting Town Manager to sign the attached contract amendment with the Capitol Region Council of Governments, also known as CRCOG, which will extend the existing Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Enfield and CRCOG for the administration of grant funds under the State Homeland Security Grant Program, the Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Program, and the Citizen Corps Program.
Chairman Tallarita stated a couple years ago there was some trouble with the money coming through. Mr. Vindigni stated the initial money was all timed in with the reorganization of the State Office of Emergency Management and the State Office of Homeland Security. He noted this created a domino effect regarding the flow of the money from the federal to state government. He went on to note the Town has benefited already with funding from this program, i.e., the overtime for the May 15th full scale exercise and some additional training in communications. He noted this just extends the period out so that Enfield can continue to benefit from the program.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8158 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8159 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Edgar.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Town Attorney
Part-time salaries $14,000.00
FROM: Contingency $14,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $14,000.00 is available from Contingency as of 12/2/05.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Councilman Nelson stated his understanding all of the acting heads have a contract which details what the work will be. He questioned if there should be a contract that details out what he is being compensated for.
Chairman Tallarita stated he is not aware of the Town having contracts with each of the Town’s directors. He requested Attorney Bromson outline what he’s doing and the time he’s putting in.
Attorney Bromson stated the Town does not have contracts with department heads. He noted he will fulfill the Town Manager’s job description, which is to perform all of his functions, which is what he has been doing. He stated this amounts to about $200 per day, and most attorneys charge that per hour.
He stated he has been involved in meetings on Thanksgiving Day and Friday, the day Town Hall was closed. He noted he has been at the night meetings, and he was at Town Hall on Sunday. He stated he is putting in more time than he anticipated and has been on call 24/7. He stated he has spoken with department heads, and he believes they’re getting the job done, and he will put in whatever hours it takes to get the job done. He noted if he encounters any problems or the time constraints are such that he cannot fulfill these duties, he would let the Council know. He went on to note that he has met with Mr. Vindigni every morning for staff meetings, as well as afternoons, and he was in Town all day today and visited the landfill and police department. He stated even though he’s wearing other hats, he believes the Town is getting a bargain. He noted if the Council were to go the contract route, he believes the Town would lose because compensating him hourly would end up costing a lot more. He stated his belief he can put in these hours. He noted they also have the expertise of the department heads. He stated the Town has great employees, and the department heads are superb. He noted everything is getting done and everything is on schedule. He stated he would come to the Council immediately if he thought something was slipping through the cracks.
Councilman Hilinski voiced his support for this resolution and stated his belief the Town is getting a bargain for the amount of hours that Attorney Bromson is putting in.
Councilman Kaupin stated leadership had a very frank and open discussion as to what would be fair compensation, no matter who the Acting Town Manager is. He noted this is what they believed to be fair and equitable for this position. He voiced his support of this resolution. He noted he has been impressed with the amount of work being done by Attorney Bromson. He commended both Attorney Bromson and Mr. Vindigni on their working relationship. He added he’s very comfortable with the responsibilities Attorney Bromson’s undertaken as well as the abilities he possesses.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8159 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8160 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hilinski.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby recognizes and commends the work of the Library Long Range Planning Committee culminating in a plan for library services in the Town of Enfield; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield supports the concept of a Library Long Range Plan to serve as a guideline for future development of library services in Enfield, subject to the financial constraints of the Town and its budgetary process.
Chairman Tallarita explained this Committee received a grant from the State of Connecticut to put together a plan about the future of the libraries. He noted this long range plan serves as a road map for where the libraries will go. He stated this will act as a guide as they move forward. He commended all the members for their work on this plan.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8160 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8161 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Hilinski.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Adult Day Care
Professional Services $2,800.00
Part-Time Salary $2,436.00
________
$5,236.00
FROM: Adult Day Care $5,236.00
Revenue NCAAA Grant
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $5,236.00 is available from Revenue NCAAA Grant as of November 30, 2006.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Mr. Vindigni stated this is used to support the Adult Day Care operations and this is an external source of revenue and not part of the tax base.
Chairman Tallarita questioned what is NCAAA, and Mr. Vindigni responded North Central Area Agency on Aging.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8161 adopted 10-0-0.
APPOINTMENTS/TOWN COUNCIL RULES AND PROCEDURES SUBCOMMITTEE
Chairman Tallarita stated under the Charter, it states that at the beginning of every new Council, a rules and procedures subcommittee will be put together that will act on the rules and procedures for the coming two years. He appointed the following to serve on this committee: Councilmen Edgar, Mangini and Ragno. He suggested these Council members get together and report back to the Council by the first meeting in January.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Debbie Moody, 62 Belmont Avenue
Questioned whether two members of the public can be included on the subcommittee for rules and procedures. Chairman Tallarita stated it’s always been the Council that formalized the rules and procedures. He noted members of the public can provide their input to the Council members who serve on that subcommittee.
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Questioned who is getting the tax abatement – the bank or the property owner, and Chairman Tallarita responded the bank.
Mr. Woods stated he is a veteran, and he swore to defend his country against all enemies, foreign and domestic, and if he feels anyone is doing something wrong to his country or town, he will attack. He noted that is the purpose of what he says and does and has nothing to do with anything else.
William Ballard, 321 Abbe Road
Stated he’s pleased with the design of the new bridge and is glad to see they will start from scratch.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Questioned if it’s always the case that tax abatements are given to the business, or do they ever give tax abatement to the property owner. She noted there is an instance where the property owner is getting the tax abatement, and it involves the same people.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
Thanked the Council for including a Public Communications agenda item at the bottom of the agenda at the first meeting of the month.
Ms. Turner thanked Councilman Nelson for raising the questions about the Town Attorney/Manager. She noted she’s concerned that he has to wear two very important hats. She stated her belief it’s going to be difficult for people to go to the Town Attorney when they need to discuss Town Manager type of issues. She went on to state her belief it may be difficult to find a qualified Town Manager in 14 weeks, unless they’ve already been looking for a Town Manager and the public is not aware of that. She encouraged the “other side of the table” to become aware of the reasons for letting the Town Manager go, because it just leaves the question being constantly asked.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Chairman Tallarita requested Attorney Bromson respond to Ms. Jedziniak’s question about tax abatements. Attorney Bromson stated because this building has other tenants not eligible, the tax abatement was done with the bank. He noted in different circumstances, the tax abatement could go with the property owner.
Attorney Bromson invited Council members to let the Town Manager’s office know if they’re interested in the December 15th tour. He went on to get a consensus about the January 7th workshop. It was the consensus of the Council that January 7th was a good date.
Attorney Bromson stated Ms. Jedziniak visited the office earlier today regarding her day care question, and his staff is already working on that.
As concerns a search for a new Town Manager, Attorney Bromson stated there is an active search by the subcommittee. He noted they do not have a candidate. He explained the reason the Acting Town Manager is appointed on the basis of 14 weeks is because the Town Charter provides that they can appoint an Acting Town Manager for 90 days.
Councilman Kaupin referred to the tax abatement and noted the bank is responsible in their lease for payment of the property tax, and it’s similar to the arrangement that Bernie’s has with their property owner.
Chairman Tallarita stated the Town Manager was not fired – he resigned his office. He noted there have been comments made by the Democratic caucus that have been published in all the newspapers as to why they believed it was time for a change.
Councilman Ragno stated his belief it would be appropriate to have some type of public forum when the rules and procedures subcommittee gets together.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #8162 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Peruta to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8162 adopted 10-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:01 p.m. |