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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, MARCH 6, 2006
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, March 6, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
PRAYER – The Prayer was given by Councilman Maxellon.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Crowley, Edgar, Hilinski, Kaupin, Lee, Mangini, Maxellon, Nelson, Peruta, Ragno, and Tallarita. 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; Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond; Director of Social Services, Pamela Brown; Library Director, Henry Dutcher.
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #8288 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to accept the minutes of the February 21, 2006 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8288 adopted 9-0-2, with Councilmen Lee and Tallarita abstaining.
MOTION #8289 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to accept the minutes of the February 21, 2006 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8289 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman Lee abstaining.
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Stated that what some people may perceive as complaining on the part of speakers that come before the Council is really an effort to bring things to light and to have good communications.
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville section
Stated she did not appreciate the reaction of a Town Council member when she got up to speak at the last meeting.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated she is still waiting for answers to questions she raised at previous Town Council meetings. She shared a letter she wrote to the newspaper about a few different issues in Enfield – Should the Enfield Town Council resurrect the Town Farm Poorhouse which used to be on Town Farm Road? Are Enfield’s taxes too high, causing an expected 2,000 elderly homeowners to apply for tax relief? She pointed out Enfield’s taxes are much too high and are particularly burdensome to the elderly. She noted the elderly are the ones that built and kept this town running over the years.
Ms. Jedziniak stated she previously asked whether the Town is taking an inventory on all town-owned vehicles to save on insurance maintenance, registration, etc. She noted she still hasn’t received an answer to that question. She further questioned why the Council had to make a resolution to waive bids. She stated her belief that is not proper, and no one should have that power.
She questioned the wisdom and practicality of bringing forth the idea of adding a dormer to Town Hall. She noted Jack Sheridan, the President of the Enfield Taxpayers’ Association and Councilman Nelson brought to light the fact this addition would result in only an additional 1,000 square feet at the cost of $500 per square foot.
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Suggested the Council refer to the demographic study when considering the school budget this year. He noted this demographic study indicates there are many rooms not being used as classrooms. He pointed out that while they have empty classrooms and dropping student enrollment, they’re asking to increase the teachers and the cost of running the schools. He stated his belief the Town Council caters to the whims of the school system because there are a lot of votes involved.
Robert Tkacz, 1300 Enfield Street
Spoke about the empty classrooms in every school. He went on to note Hartford has big graduation classes, and the percentage of students going onto a four-year college is twice the percentage of the students going to a four-year college in Enfield. He stated his belief the biggest problem relates to the middle and high school education. He stated his feeling the administration isn’t doing the job in Enfield. He noted test scores are declining in Enfield. He pointed out the Town is still giving more money to the school system.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini requested an update on the traffic study for the Bass and Colonial Drive area.
Councilman Kaupin requested an update from Public Works regarding the progress being made on the North Street area.
Councilman Kaupin referred to the topic of the proposed dormer for Town Hall and explained this idea was brought about by the previous Council when there was a conversation about doing the roof. He stated there was the idea that if they were doing the roof, it might be the appropriate time to get a cost for a dormer. He pointed out there was never a commitment from the Council to go forward with a dormer, but rather collect information to learn what the overall cost would be. He stated at the last Town Council meeting, it was decided not to move forward with a dormer. He noted this idea did not come from staff, but rather it was at the direction of the previous Council to gather that information so that all the facts and figures were available before proceeding with roof work alone, or roof work with the inclusion of a dormer.
Councilman Nelson referred to Ms. Jedziniak’s comment about waiving bids, he noted the Council did waive the bid process for the beginning stages of the athletic fields project. He noted this had to do with some testing of the soil, and a company already had started that work, and it was more cost efficient to stay with that company and let them finish that work. He noted the fields are going out for full bids, and no bids are being waived for that work.
As concerns Mr. Sheridan’s comment about the Council siding with the school system in order to get votes, Councilman Nelson stated he could care less if the school board votes for him. He noted this Council has five new members, and Mr. Sheridan has no idea how this Council will vote as far as the school system is concerned. He stated he will not side with anyone unless he feels it’s right for the town.
Councilman Nelson requested an item be included on the next agenda about the dumpsters and trucks. He stated it appears someone is being singled out in this situation. He noted he has been looking at dumpsters recently, and he has not found one with a sticker.
MOTION #8290 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move Items 13b, c., d., e., and f. to Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8290 adopted 11-0-0.
Councilman Crowley requested an update regarding the sinkhole behind JFK Middle School.
Councilman Peruta thanked Mr. Vindigni for addressing the concern about the Parkman Elementary School parking lot safety issue. He also thanked Mr. Vindigni for staying on top of things.
Councilman Peruta invited people to contact Council members if they have questions or concerns about anything. He noted Council members’ e-mail addresses and phone numbers are on the Town website.
Councilman Peruta requested clarification on the inventory of the vehicles. He invited Ms. Jedziniak to speak with him after the meeting regarding this.
Councilman Lee requested an update on the streetscape lights in Hazardville.
Councilman Lee requested an update on the feral cat issue on Walnut Street.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Attorney Bromson updated the Council on the Town Manager search and noted the Council has a copy of the Town profile which has been mailed out to different places around the country and it is on numerous websites. He stated they’ve heard from several candidates from Connecticut and five or six from other states. He noted most of the applications should be arriving over the next couple weeks.
Attorney Bromson stated his office will look into the feral cat issue.
As concerns Councilman Mangini’s question about the traffic study for Bass and Colonial Drives, Mr. Vindigni stated this matter has been referred to the Traffic Safety Officer by the Police Department to check into the proper signage for that location.
As concerns the issue of potholes and poor road conditions raised by Councilman Ragno at the last meeting, Mr. Vindigni stated any patching done at this time is temporary in nature until the weather improves and they are able to do permanent repair work. Councilman Ragno stated three areas of concern are Town Farm Road, Powder Ridge Road, and Elm Street in front of Ms. Starr’s house. He stated his belief the Public Safety Department and Public Works Department should communicate with each other about safety issues.
Attorney Bromson stated he has had discussions with Public Safety and noted they already had an informal process whereby they communicate with Public Works about hazardous conditions. He added they will let Public Works know when they see the types of situations mentioned by Councilman Ragno.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
There was no formal report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated the Fourth of July Committee has been meeting regularly and they plan to put on a wonderful celebration.
Councilman Mangini stated she and Councilman Lee have been communicating with Cox Communications and they are working on a subcommittee report for the next Council meeting. Chairman Tallarita stated this will be a consideration as they enter into the budget process.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL AND
TOWN MANAGER APPOINTSMENTS)
Chairman Tallarita encouraged Town residents to serve on boards and commissions. He thanked those residents who do volunteer to participate on boards and commissions. He pointed out right now the Town has a specific need for a resident that lives in the Enfield Historic District to serve on the Historic District Commission.
All Town Council and Town Manager appointments remained tabled.
Items c., d., and e. remained tabled.
MOTION #8291 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item f. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8291 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #8292 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item f. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8292 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #8293 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item g. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8293 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #8294 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to waive the reading of the resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8294 adopted 11-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: JOINT FUEL VENTURE WITH BOARD OF EDUCATION
Present for this discussion were Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond and Director of School Facilities, Arthur Pongratz.
Chairman Tallarita stated this is before the Council because this is a multi-year agreement, and Council approval would be required.
Mr. McAlmond explained the proposal is to go out for energy needs jointly with the Board of Education and purchase through the Connecticut Council of Municipalities (CCM) or through the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG). He noted they are primarily looking at electricity for all Town and School buildings and natural gas for heating purposes. He stated if they bundle or package their utility needs together, the joint savings will be there for both the Board and Town. He added they’d also have the opportunity to keep that price for a five-year term. He noted that is why they have a resolution because this would be a longer term than the normal three years. He pointed out CCM’s vendors typically look for a five-year term, and with the five-year term, they see the best economics come into play.
Mr. Pongratz stated the combined load is about 21,000 megawatts annually. He noted the school district brings about 13,000 megawatts and the Town is roughly 8,000 megawatts. He stated the biggest demand for the school system is during the daytime when school is in session and streetlights are at night which offsets some of their time of day costs, and the DPUC runs 24 hours a day and 365 days. He stated this provides for a nice profile because they’re trying to sell their load to a vendor through CCM.
Councilman Mangini questioned if they’re in discussions with the fire departments so they can participate in this process. Mr. McAlmond stated at this point the Thompsonville Fire Department and the Enfield Fire District cooperatively purchase their diesel fuel and heating fuel requirements through the Town’s cooperative buying. He stated if they proceed further with this, they would learn whether all the fire departments wanted to get further involved with electricity and natural gas.
Councilman Maxellon stated in his conversations with the fire service, it’s his understanding they’re all interested in getting involved in this. He referred to the second paragraph of the resolution and suggested the following amendment:
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Maxellon, seconded by Councilman Mangini to change the second paragraph of the resolution to read as follows:
“BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town create an Energy Policy Committee made up of the Finance Director as Chairman, Deputy Director of Public Works, Purchasing Assistant, School Business Manger, School Facilities Coordinator and a liaison from the Fire Chief’s Association for the purpose of reviewing and recommending participation in any cooperative purchasing agreement.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether the Housing Authority falls under the Town’s umbrella today.
Chairman Tallarita agreed it’s a great idea to have groups take advantage of this, however, he sees this Energy Policy Committee as a group that would be reviewing and making recommendations based on the major user, which would be the Town and School departments. He stated his belief that Committee should set up a process within their group that can communicate with outside groups that might want to take advantage of this.
Councilman Lee stated his belief the participation will be there because it will be in the best interests of the Committee to have that greater usage profile. He noted he does not favor the amendment because he feels the Committee should consist of the municipality and those that have the authority to contract.
Chairman Tallarita stated the fire departments have the ability to enter into an agreement with CCM without any involvement of the Town of Enfield. He noted CCM wants to attract as many users or purchasers as they can in order to increase the volume of what they’re trying to procure. He noted the fire departments can join that consortium right now without any involvement of the Town of Enfield. He explained a big reason why the School Department is before the Council at this time is because the School Department doesn’t have the ability to enter into a long-term agreement. He noted the main focus of this resolution is to allow the school board to enter into a long-term agreement. He went on to note they’re setting up this Committee so that the Town Finance Department is aware of what’s being done and it’s being done in the best interest of the long-term needs of the Town’s financial picture.
Councilman Mangini suggested the last paragraph of the resolution could be omitted and language included in the second paragraph which would state the Committee would include or welcome other taxing entities.
Councilman Maxellon stated the fire departments are not direct members of CCM, therefore, he’s not sure they can contract direct. He noted he is suggesting the fire departments have a representative on the Committee as a liaison, not a voting member.
Chairman Tallarita agreed with Councilman Maxellon and noted perhaps some wording can be included in that this Committee will take action to encourage the participation of other taxing entities.
Attorney Bromson indicated this needs more legal review. He noted he wants to be sure the language makes it clear that each entity is responsible for their respective costs. He stated the second paragraph has to be clear that they won’t have a majority vote of this Commission. He noted the language should state the Commission will review it and make a recommendation to the Director of Finance, and the Director of Finance will refer it to the Town Manager. He went on to state his belief the Housing Authority is not a taxing district. He indicated there could be some language that includes the fire departments in a liaison role.
Councilman Ragno agreed with Attorney Bromson’s comments.
Chairman Tallarita stated his understanding the second paragraph will need to be re-vamped almost entirely. Councilmen Maxellon and Mangini withdrew their amendment.
He noted this item is going to be re-tabled this evening and another draft resolution will come before the Council which reflects this evening’s comments and suggestions.
Councilman Peruta stated he is comfortable with the Director of Finance and Town Manager having the ultimate responsibility.
Councilman Lee questioned whether a longer term contract would come back before the Council before final approval, and Attorney Bromson responded yes.
Attorney Bromson suggested he could include language in the resolution that the Commission try to make best efforts to come before the Council unless time-wise it’s impractical.
Councilman Crowley questioned if including the fire departments would result in a better package. Mr. Pongratz stated his belief the fire departments will bring in additional load, but will not make a big change in the structure of the package. He added his belief the fire department will benefit quite a bit. He noted some of the larger entities don’t make out as well as the smaller entities.
Councilman Kaupin stated he likes the idea of the Energy Policy Committee and the process outlined by the Acting Town Manager. He stated his belief they’re miles ahead in improvement compared to where they were a few months ago. He noted this keeps the controls where they need to be on the Town side.
Chairman Tallarita stated another advantage of this is that they now have the ability to budget more closely than in the past.
MOTION #8295 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Edgar to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8295 adopted 11-0-0.
NEW BUSINESS
MOTION #8296 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to approve the Consent Agenda.
Transfer of Funds - Senior Center Advertising to
Other Professional Services $1,400
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8296 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8697 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby convey their endorsement of the proposal from the Enfield Rotary Club to create a community garden on approximately one-third of an acre of land at the Enfield Senior Center subject to the following requirements.
- Said community garden will be for the sole purpose of benefiting food banks and kitchens which are located in Enfield and offer assistance to the community’s less fortunate residents. Such entities include, but are not limited to, the Enfield Food Shelf, and Enfield Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen.
- The community garden may be present for a period of five (5) years and may be extended for further periods of time, subject to Town Council approval.
- The Town of Enfield reserves the right to terminate this activity after providing thirty (30) day advance notice.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this endorsement be communicated to the Enfield Planning and Zoning Commission as a Section 8-24 review request in accordance with the Connecticut General Statutes.
Councilman Ragno stated his belief the term, “community” is being expanded because this isn’t really what he considers a community garden because he believes a community garden would be open to all the citizens of Enfield. He appreciates the altruism to help
the less fortunate, but this is one specific organization basically providing for the needs to another specific organization on town-owned property. He voiced concern about possible incidents of lack of control, liability issues, where the volunteers come from, who will supervise people going to this site, etc. He stated his feeling the Town is expanding things to consider special interest groups doing things on Town property, and they’ll be hard-pressed not to okay other suggestions from special interest groups to use Town property for other uses.
Councilman Mangini voiced her full support of this resolution. She commended the Rotary Club for coming up with this idea. As concerns liability concerns and the use of Town property, she pointed out the Fourth of July Town Celebration and parades occur on Town property. She pointed out they will not only be servicing the needs of those less fortunate, but this will also foster community spirit.
Councilman Ragno pointed out the Fourth of July Town Celebration is a true community event and does not cater to a special interest. He added this is a great thing and he appreciates doing things for the less fortunate, however, he believes this bears more scrutiny because there could be concerns in the future.
Councilman Lee suggested perhaps the administrator of this program could submit a summation report to the Town Council at the end of each gardening season to update the Council as to how the program went, what the output was, and who benefited. He noted the Council could then decide whether to move forward with this project.
Chairman Tallarita stated he appreciates Councilman Ragno’s concerns, but he feels they’re approving an overall concept. He referred to Item #3 within the resolution which states the Town reserves the right to terminate this activity after providing thirty days notice and noted this gives the Council an out clause should problems develop. He noted he would not suggest striking this down based upon premonitions on what may or could occur. He feels this is a good idea and good concept and they should see how it develops. As concerns providing the Council with a report, he feels that’s not necessary since they can rely on the Senior Citizens Director and staff to be able to report back if they have any problems or inconveniences associated with this activity.
Councilman Crowley pointed out other special interest groups that use Town facilities include baseball, basketball and football teams.
Councilman Peruta stated his belief this is a great idea and he will support this, however, he does have a few questions he would like Mr. Dutcher to address at a future meeting.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8697 adopted 11-0-0.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #8698 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
WHEREAS, the Town of Enfield would benefit by controlling real estate known as 33 North River Street in Enfield, CT; and
WHEREAS, the property consisting of a 22,925 square foot, four story industrial building on .258 acres of land is no longer occupied by Dow Mechanical Corporation; and
WHEREAS, the owner of 33 North River Street has agreed to grant the Town of Enfield a two year Option to Purchase followed by a Right of First Refusal as set forth in the attached Option to Purchase Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Town needs the Option to Purchase period in order to conduct due diligence inspections of the property, including appraisals, surveys, engineering studies, structural testing and environmental testing as prescribed in the Option Agreement (attached hereto),
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council authorizes the Acting Town Manager to execute an Option to Purchase Agreement with Mr. Peter T. Dow, President of the Dow Mechanical Corporation, formerly of 33 North River Street.
Councilman Kaupin stated he supports this resolution. He noted the Town has been looking for ways to revitalize Thompsonville for many years. He stated with the support of Congress, the Governor’s office, and hopefully the support of the Legislature, Enfield might see the rail returning to Enfield, and this property could possibly become the train station for that type of activity. He noted the Town needs the two years to be able to do the work to see if this idea is viable and at the same time learn the costs to implement this idea. He stated his belief it would be very beneficial if they could get an active train station back in Enfield.
Councilman Hilinski agreed with Councilman Kaupin. He noted a rail facility would help commuters get into the cities. He feels this is a good first step to get things moving.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief it’s important to recognize that a lot of this opportunity is coming from suggestions of the Transportation Committee at the state level and the recommendation to the Governor’s office that they reinstate a commuter line. He noted the Governor has endorsed this. He stated the other opportunity that presented itself was the Transportation Reauthorization Bill that Congress passed last year. He stated to help bring this to fruition, people should encourage the General Assembly to act upon this and to fund it appropriately.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8698 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8699 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: Town Council $13,000.00
Buildings
FROM: Contingency $13,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $13,000.00 is available from Contingency as of 2/24/06.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8699 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8700 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
WHEREAS, the Town of Enfield and the State of Connecticut have reached an agreement with regard to the excess sewage flowage into the Town’s sewage treatment system;
WHEREAS, the terms of the agreement are set forth in the Amendment to Agreement between the State of Connecticut and the Town of Enfield, which Amendment to Agreement is attached hereto;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby authorizes Acting Town Manager Christopher W. Bromson to sign the above-referenced Amendment to Agreement.
Chairman Tallarita stated this is the agreement between the Town of Enfield and Department of Corrections which will allow them to amend the original contract on the excess costs.
Councilman Kaupin thanked the Town’s legislative delegation – Senator Kissel and Representatives Jarmoc and Tallarita, the Town Manager and staff, the Town Attorney and staff and Public Works. He noted everyone worked together to resolve this.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8700 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8701 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
BE IT RESOLVED, that Christopher W. Bromson, Acting Town Manager, is authorized to accept a grant award on behalf of the Town of Enfield in the amount of $2,500 as part of the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8701 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8702 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Hilinski.
RESOLVED, that Christopher W. Bromson, Acting Town Manager, is empowered to execute and deliver in the name of and on behalf of this municipality, an application and contract with the State Library for an Historic Documents Preservation Grant.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8702 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8703 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that the Acting Town Manager, Christopher Bromson, is empowered to enter into and amend contractual instruments in the name and on behalf of the Town of Enfield with the State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management, Policy Development and Planning Division for the Breaking Down Barriers Grant – 07-01-2006 to 6-30-2007 and to affix the Corporate Seal.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8703 adopted 11-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Apologized to Councilman Nelson or anyone who took offense to what he said about catering to the vote.
Mr. Sheridan noted the resolution for the community garden stated “one-third of an acre”, and he thought it was closer to three-quarters of an acre. Chairman Tallarita stated that was corrected.
As concerns the bid waiver, Mr. Sheridan questioned if they paid a person to do the work, does the Town then own that work product. He questioned why this work product would have to be re-done.
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville section
Referring to the money coming from the State for excess sewage flow, Mrs. Collins questioned whether the prison system will be going back on the meter. Chairman Tallarita responded yes. Mrs. Collins stated the Town should be certain to have that in the contract.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
Questioned whether the Council will place public participation at the beginning and end of both Council meetings.
Ms. Turner questioned when the Town will start paying Mr. Shermer for taping these meetings. She noted she is currently paying him.
Ms. Turner stated she had an opportunity to work with various departments about a Section 8 house across from her home, and those departments did a wonderful job. She suggested if a particular department sees something that would be of interest to another department, perhaps they can communicate that information. She stated that communication does not happen at this time, and the resident must continue that crusade.
As concerns getting people to serve on boards and commissions, Ms. Turner stated she knows of times when people have submitted paperwork, and they’re not getting an answer. She noted those people should either be moved forward or given a denial.
Ms. Turner stated a few weeks ago she questioned the Town Attorney about the incident at the dump, and he responded with a letter that she then questioned. She noted the Town Attorney stated an employee made a decision to let people pass through the dump during the flood issue. She stated she asked the Town Attorney how an employee can do that. She noted she visited the transfer station and talked with the employees and it’s her impression these employees just follow orders. She stated if someone arbitrarily decided to waive someone past the scales, that would be a violation of their job. She feels there is an issue here. She stated if a person at the dump allowed people to pass through without following what the Town Council signed off on, then she feels something is wrong. Attorney Bromson stated he has looked into this and responded. He noted if someone had done something wrong in normal circumstances, they would take action. He stated this was an emergency, and he would give people slack if they act in the best interest of the Town.
Ms. Turner stated the Council voted 100% to have everyone come to the dump during that time period and pay $5.00.
Ms. Turner stated her husband e-mailed Councilman Peruta, but he has not yet received a response.
Ms. Turner stated she did not believe it was appropriate for Councilman Mangini to show disdain when another Council member had a different opinion.
Ms. Turner referred to Councilman Mangini’s comment about Fourth of July Celebrations and parades taking place on Town property and pointed out those functions have to take out insurance, and the community garden resolution doesn’t mention insurance.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Questioned how close is Enfield’s Water Pollution Control plant to operating at capacity. She noted she is concerned about this and the adverse effect this could have on taxpayers in Enfield.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Mangini stated the North Central Connecticut Chamber of Commerce is having their yearly home show on March 17, 18, and 19.
Councilman Crowley commended the Public Works Department for their work during the last snowstorm.
As concerns comments by Mr. Sheridan regarding the re-bidding process, Councilman Nelson stated when an engineer stakes a property and puts everything into his computer and works out all the maps and prints out that information onto paper, the Town owns the paper. He noted the Town does not own the work, i.e., when the engineer went out and surveyed the land and placed all his benchmarks. He noted if the Town had to get another company, they would have to start all over again, because the first surveyor owns that particular part of the job, and he will not turn that work over to another surveyor or engineer. He pointed out that is why it’s more practical to stay with the first engineer for this part of the project.
As concerns the question raised by Ms. Turner about public communications, Chairman Tallarita stated the Council approved the report of the Rules and Procedures Committee, however, they did not take any action. He stated they can include that on a future agenda.
Chairman Tallarita stated he appreciates Ms. Turner’s comments, however, he feels her comments on particular issues and particular Councilmen gets close to subjective, i.e., the comment made about Councilman Mangini. He noted he would appreciate her refraining from that type of comment in the future.
Attorney Bromson stated in response to Ms. Jedziniak’s question about the sewer plant’s capacity, Mr. McAlmond informed him the Water Pollution Control Plant is at 60% capacity.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #8704 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8704 adopted 11-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 9:20 p.m. |