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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, MARCH 20, 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 20, 2006.
PRAYER – The Prayer was given by Councilman Nelson.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Crowley, Edgar, Hilinski, Kaupin, Lee, Mangini, Maxellon, Nelson, Ragno and Tallarita. Councilman Peruta was absent. Also present were Assistant Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Chief of Police, Carl Sferrazza; Deputy Chief of Police, Anjo Timmerman; Captain of Police, Gerard Tobin; Director of Social Services, Pamela Brown; Youth Services Director, Jean Haughey.
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #8706 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the March 6, 2006 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8706 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8707 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to accept the minutes of the March 6, 2006 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8707 adopted 10-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Frank Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Suggested erecting another Town Council meeting sign in the Hazardville section to notify people in that area about Town Council meetings.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated she is not against the Head Start Program, however, she was definitely against the Enfield Board of Education breaking away from the federally funded Head Start Program. She noted part of that funding came from Hartford’s CRT and part of it
came from Boston. She pointed out the per capita income in Enfield is a little over $21,000, and she feels it was wrong of the Board of Education to saddle taxpayers of Enfield with approximately $1 million in Town taxes by building the new Head Start building. She stated her belief that building was built under controversial circumstances.
Ms. Jedziniak stated her belief the school demographic study is a waste of money. She noted she sometimes has difficulty getting documentation from the school system, i.e., how many teachers have a minor or major in the subject they teach. She stated in the end she did get some information.
She noted there was a 40-year period that children weren’t learning to read properly because of the methodology being used.
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville Section
Raised the following questions:
· How many children are in the day care?
· How much staff is in the day care?
· Where are the monies going?
She questioned the high cost of the rent.
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Stated he would like to see an audit of the school budget, and he would like to see some improvement for the dollars being spent. He stated his belief the school system should be accountable for all the money that is being spent, and taxpayers should know how that money is being spent.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
Stated at the last meeting she made a comment about Councilman Mangini’s reaction to comments made by another Councilman. She noted the word “disdain” was used, however, that word was not directed directly at Councilman Mangini. She noted at the end of that meeting, Chairman Tallarita made a comment to her. She stated her belief she has never said anything derogatory to any Councilman, and she takes exception to that. Directing herself to Councilman Mangini, Ms. Tuner stated if she insulted Councilman Mangini, it was not intentional.
Ms. Turner stated at the last meeting there was a comment about the open boards and commissions. She pointed out there are only three open boards and commissions related to Republicans. She noted the rest are Democrat held, or Unaffiliated, therefore, there are lots of seats that the Council could be filling. She stated she has Republicans that are willing to come forward and fill those seats.
Ms. Turner stated at the last meeting there was a comment about the open boards and commissions. She pointed out there are only three open boards and commissions related to Republicans. She noted the rest are Democrat held, or Unaffiliated, therefore, there are lots of seats that the Council could be filling. She stated she has Republicans that are willing to come forward and fill those seats.
Ms. Turner referred to Carl Scarfo, who recently passed away, and noted Mr. Scarfo had a conversation with Bill Ballard a few months ago at which time he stated he was very much against a strong mayor government. She noted Mr. Scarfo told Mr. Ballard that if he ever felt that was happening, he would bring that concern before the Town Council. She stated her belief they will have to bring Mr. Ballard to the table on behalf of Mr. Scarfo.
Ms. Turner referred to the demographic study and stated she found it rather disheartening to see that committee had little public participation, but rather most members consisted of teachers, principals, and one or two board members. She noted she would appreciate the Council doing something to open up that committee to include some people with statistical knowledge.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini commended the Social Services Department regarding their strategic planning process. She requested the Council be kept informed as to the status of this planning process.
Councilman Mangini requested a status report on Governor Rell and her position regarding the Town’s FEMA money.
Councilman Mangini stated some residents expressed concern regarding road repairs on Eastgate. She noted she would like an update on the Bass/Colonial issue she raised at the last Council meeting.
Councilman Nelson agreed with Mr. Jedziniak about the need for more public attendance at Town Council meetings. He stated his hope they can advertise Town meetings on the local access channel.
Councilman Kaupin stated the Scantic Spring Splash is scheduled for this weekend. He noted registration starts at 9:00 a.m.
Councilman Kaupin stated he received a call inquiring about whether the transfer station will open up for people to drop off spring yard waste and when that would happen. He also questioned whether the curbside pick-up of yard waste has begun.
Councilman Kaupin requested an update on the status of the neighborhood meeting in response to the basement flooding.
MOTION #8708 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move Items 13d & e to Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8708 adopted 10-0-0.
Councilman Maxellon requested an update on the vacant house at Elm/St. James Streets.
Councilman Maxellon noted Councilman Peruta is looking for an update on the JFK sinkhole.
Chairman Tallarita stated last week a number of Councilmen attended the National League of Cities Conference in Washington, D.C. He noted this was a successful conference and Councilmen attended some good classes. He stated this conference was particularly nice because Councilman Mangini was present as a Board of Director with NLC. He noted Councilman Mangini does a fine job representing Enfield.
Addressing Ms. Turner’s comments about an exchange that took place at the March 6th Council meeting, Chairman Tallarita referred to the rules of decorum as follows: “…that all members of the Council shall accord the utmost courtesy to each member, Town employees, and to members of the public appearing before the Council and shall refrain at all times from rude and derogatory comments, reflections as to integrity, abusive comments as to motives and personality. The public members attending the Council meeting also shall observe the same rules as Council members. All remarks and questions shall be addressed to the Council, as a whole, and not to any individual member.”
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Vindigni stated responses will be provided to Council members and Mrs. Collins by the end of the week.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Chairman Tallarita stated Attorney Bromson is absent this evening due to a family priority.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated the NLC is looking at CDBG funding. She noted the President is looking to reduce or eliminate the $4.5 billion dollars for CDBG funding. She noted NLC is also looking to reform immigration laws in the U.S. She stated they are also looking to receive funding for unfunded mandates for education reform. She noted they lobbied in Washington, D.C. for these issues, as well as funding for transportation and sanitary waste.
Councilman Lee updated the Council regarding live televising of Council meetings. He noted he spoke with Peter Talbot, the Regional Director for Cox Communications. He stated the big question they had for Mr. Talbot was whether Cox would be providing the video signal modulator, which is the device that takes the feed from Town Hall, sends it to Cox and then out onto the system. He stated Cox will provide that equipment which is provided for in the franchise agreement. He noted Mr. Talbot informed him that the pieces of equipment that the Town would need to invest in if they wished to do live programming from the Council Chamber would be a personal computer (Cox provides the software). He explained this personal computer would generate a community bulletin board. He added they would also need a tape deck. He informed the Council that within their packets he provided estimates as to what the cost would be in the coming year if they wished to move to live programming. He stated it appears the next step would be a decision by the Town Council as to whether they wish to move forward with live programming. He noted if they do, it would require they direct the Town Manager’s office to file the letter with Cox requesting they install the live feed within Town Hall.
Councilman Maxellon referred to the High School Fields Committee and reported the RFQ is moving forward for the first phase of the design. He noted the bids are actually due Wednesday. He stated they had about 22 responses to the RFQ, and he believes this is a very good response.
Councilman Hilinski referred to the recent NLC Conference and stated they were able to meet with Congressman Simmons and Senator Lieberman, and they were gratified that they were able to have a personal meeting with these men. He noted the items addressed included the restoration of the CDBG money and to fully fund the Title I funding and the IDEAS funding for the educational system. He noted they also asked for funding for various projects in Thompsonville, particularly the storm/sewer issue and Pearl and North Main Street improvements. He stated there was also a question of whether the train station dollars were $2 million or $2.5 million, and Congressman Simmons verified it’s $2.5 million dollars.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCL & TOWN MANAGER)\
All appointments remained tabled.
Item c. remained tabled.
MOTION #8709 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to remove item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8709 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: VIDEOTAPING OF COUNCIL MEETINGS
Councilman Mangini agreed the Council should go forward in pursuing the live televising of Town Council meetings.
Chairman Tallarita questioned whether this will be a fixed, wall-mounted camera. Mr. Lee stated his belief this wouldn’t be a fixed camera, but rather it would be very similar to the manner in which meetings are currently filmed.
Chairman Tallarita questioned whether they would also be able to film the Board of Education meetings. Mr. Lee responded yes, other board and committees could be scheduled.
Councilman Hilinski questioned what type of precautions would be made with live feeds in order to avoid any inadvertent comments they would not want on the air. Councilman Lee indicated he didn’t know the answer to that question. He added he can look further into this.
Councilman Crowley questioned whether the Town would still be paying a per meeting fee to have these meetings filmed. Mr. Lee stated he believed so.
Councilman Maxellon stated his impression additional staff may be needed if they plan to maintain a bulletin board.
Chairman Tallarita raised the question of the staff doing this job, and Councilman Mangini stated Manchester has two to three people involved in the filming of meetings. Mr. Lee added those three people are part of a team that takes care of the meetings.
Councilman Kaupin stated he wants to move forward on the budget piece of this. He noted he would like to nail down a better dollar figure so that the Council is prepared as they start to work on the budget next week. He added they have to decide which meetings and how many meetings will be filmed.
Chairman Tallarita questioned once this process is started, does the Board of Education lose the opportunity to be on the other channel. Councilman Lee stated his belief the Board is televised on Channel 16. Chairman Tallarita stated his impression that the Council would have to budget for a couple of tape decks and the software to drive those.
Mr. Lee stated Mr. Talbot believed they could get a couple machines with a thousand dollars.
Councilman Crowley questioned the possibility of filming athletic events, and Mr. Lee stated if the municipality or the Town Council wishes to include athletic events, that would be the prerogative of the Council.
Councilman Ragno stated he likes the idea of subcontracting out the actual videotaping of the Council meetings. He noted perhaps there could be some type of cooperation with the schools, Asnuntuck Community College, volunteers, etc., as concerns editing and programming. He stated his belief the Town Manager’s office is the gatekeeper as far as the information that’s disseminated on behalf of the Town of Enfield. He added his belief there needs to be some type of control to insure what’s being presented across the airwaves. He agreed with Councilman Kaupin in that they need to move forward with this. He noted they need to work out the planning and policies for this. He added his belief this could be expanded to showcase Enfield in a lot of ways, especially if they expand the programming for athletic events, education, and different parades in Enfield.
Councilman Lee stated he and Councilman Mangini can make more inquiries of Manchester regarding their taping process. He went on to state his belief it would be wise to get the letter out to Cox Communications indicating they can extend the wire from the Town Green to the Town Hall and at the same time request a quote to learn what would be involved in wiring JFK Middle School at the same time. Chairman Tallarita requested Mr. Vindigni draft that letter.
Chairman Tallarita stated he recalls reading about a free consulting service that builds informational videos on a community. He noted he will get more information regarding this and pass that onto Councilman Lee.
MOTION #8710 by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Mangini to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8710 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8711 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8711 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: PLANNING AND ZONING REQUEST FOR ROAD CUT PENALTY REVIEW
Chairman Tallarita stated the Council did receive a letter from the Town Attorney’s office. Mr. Vindigni stated the Town Attorney’s letter stated the enabling legislation for fines has been increased from $25 to $100 for each fine.
Chairman Tallarita questioned if Town staff is recommending that the Council increase the fine to $100, and Mr. Vindigni responded yes.
It was the consensus of the Council that the fine would be raised to $100. Chairman Tallarita requested they start the process.
MOTION #8712 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item 11e. from the agenda.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8712 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #8713 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to remove Item f. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8713 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: JOINT FUEL VENTURE WITH BOARD OF EDUCATION
Present for this discussion was Assistant Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond.
and Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons.
Mr. Vindigni pointed out the resolution before the Council was reviewed and amended by the Town Attorney’s office.
MOTION #8714 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to waive the reading of this resolution.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8714 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8714A by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Lee.
Councilman Maxellon stated the resolution within the Council’s packet included the language that they discussed at the last meeting, which is the Enfield Fire Chief’s Association is going to be a liaison, however, the new language omitted that wording. He explained his concern that language was included to improve communications between the Town and fire services. He stated his belief this would be a benefit to the fire district since their revenue is also generated from taxes. He noted he would like to retain the language they suggested at the last meeting.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Maxellon, seconded by Councilman Mangini to amend the third paragraph of the resolution as follows:
“…and School Facilities Manager, and a liaison representative of the Enfield Fire Chiefs Association.”
Councilman Lee stated the fourth paragraph does state this, and Councilman Maxellon indicated the word “may” isn’t specific enough.
Chairman Tallarita suggested tabling this item until the Town Attorney is before the Town Council to explain why this resolution was changed.
Mr. Simmons stated his belief this language is trying to say they can sign contracts on behalf of the Town, but they cannot do that on behalf of the fire districts or any other entity that’s not part of the Town, which would include the schools.
Councilman Maxellon stated he understands that, however, he just wanted to be sure they are part of that group in a liaison capacity.
Councilmen Maxellon and Mangini withdrew AMENDMENT #1.
Councilman Nelson questioned if “gasoline” should read “motor fuels” within the first paragraph of the resolution to encompass diesel fuel as well.
Mr. McAlmond stated they already address diesel fuel by purchasing through CCM and CRCOG. He noted they still could change the wording to “motor fuel” to be more inclusive within this document.
Mr. McAlmond questioned if the Council is looking for a liaison from the Fire Chiefs Association or someone from each district. It was the consensus of the Council that they are only looking for one liaison. Councilman Maxellon stated the Fire Chiefs Association represents all five fire districts.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether the Fire Chiefs Association answers to the Commissioners of each individual fire district, or are they more of a loose-knit group of professional fire chiefs getting together to meet. Councilman Maxellon explained the Fire Chiefs Association represents the fire chiefs, and they bring back information to their commissions. He pointed out this is a liaison position and it acts as a communication line.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief changing the word “may” to “shall” within the fourth paragraph might be enough.
MOTION #8714B by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8714B adopted 10-0-0.
NEW BUSINESS
There were no Consent Agenda items this evening.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
The appointment to the Human Services Advisory Commission will appear under New Business on the next Regular Meeting agenda.
CONSENT AGENDA – REVIEW
Items 1 through 5 will appear under New Business on the next Regular Meeting agenda.
DISCUSSION RE: TRASH HAULING PERMITS
Councilman Nelson referred to the list of contractors and stated Carl Nelson Construction hauls its own debris and this firm is not considered a waste hauler, and this firm should not be on this list. He stated this holds true for over 50% of the contractors on this list. He went on to question who is maintaining inspection on all the dumpsters and vehicles.
Mr. Kazmarski explained this program dates back to the early 1990’s, and it was a requirement of the Connecticut General Statutes in that “any collector hauling solid waste generated by residential, business, commercial, other establishments in a municipality shall register with such municipality.” He noted this legislation, along with Enfield joining CRRA which created other enabling legislation, required that the Town pass some type of ordinance or requirement that anyone hauling waste in the Town of Enfield be registered in the Town of Enfield. He stated this doesn’t necessarily mean that they are a waste hauler, but rather if a contractor is hauling waste material from or within the Town of Enfield, they have to be registered. He went on to state the Town Code was written to generally comply with the General Statute, and there are probably a number of areas in the Town Code that may need revisiting.
Mr. McAlmond stated at the present time if someone hauls refuse that doesn’t belong to their own property, they should be licensed. He noted the State requires this, and the Town basically fulfills its obligation under State Statutes. He noted they do not look for people that are hauling a load. He stated every year they send out a notice to commercial haulers to remind them to renew. He noted if it comes to the Town’s attention that someone is hauling on a regular basis, they approach that firm and look for them to become compliant.
Councilman Nelson stated they are also supposed to be inspecting equipment, and he has witnessed dumpsters in disrepair. He questioned who is in charge of inspecting equipment. He questioned how many letters went out in the last couple years to contractors. He stated he does not agree two permits is enough for USA vehicles and
20 dumpsters. He noted the Town Hall dumpsters do not have permits. Mr. McAlmond pointed out USA no longer has any dumpsters on any Town or School properties. He noted any dumpsters on Town or School property belong to the Town, and they are not obligated to permit their own dumpsters. Councilman Nelson questioned when that change occurred, and Mr. McAlmond responded over the last two or three months.
Mr. Vindigni stated this is an example of an unfunded state mandate whereby State law is requiring municipalities to undertake this endeavor, however, the funding to do the enforcement is not present.
Councilman Nelson questioned if someone is going after a particular contractor. He stated his impression this isn’t going across the board with this enforcement. He noted it was a select few that received these letters, and he does not feel that’s right. He stated they need to enforce this 100%. He noted from a legal standpoint, the Town needs to do this.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief this was generated out of the Solid Waste Task Force. He stated his belief the part of this ordinance that’s most cumbersome is the registration of every container. He noted he would like to know what in this ordinance doesn’t work, and can they get out of it.
Mr. McAlmond suggested reactivating the Solid Waste Task Force so they can address this issue as well as other issues relating to solid waste collection. He noted then they might be able to update the ordinance to meet the current situation they’re facing.
Councilman Ragno agreed with Councilman Nelson in that this can be viewed as selective enforcement. He noted if this is an unfunded mandate and the Town lacks the resources to adequately police this program, perhaps this should be suspended in the short term until the ordinance can be revised so that it is uniformly applied to all those that transport waste.
Mr. McAlmond stated if the Town becomes aware of someone who is hauling, then they’re obligated to send them a letter. He went on to state it’s the Council’s prerogative if they want the Town to have a moratorium on this.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief they should wait for legal counsel before making any decision to suspend this. He added he likes the idea of re-establishing the Solid Waste Task Force to look at this as well as the tipper barrel program and the whole transfer station issue. He noted there had been discussion about having some type of allowance for each resident so that they don’t get charged the first time they come to the landfill.
Mr. Kazmarski cautioned about having a moratorium on the entire ordinance. He noted some of the language within the ordinance also deals with the Town’s contractual obligation with CRRA. Chairman Tallarita agreed and stated that is why they need legal advice as to how the Council should proceed with this.
Mr. McAlmond referred to a question raised earlier about yard waste and noted yard waste pick-up is scheduled to commence April 3, 2006.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: ADOPTION OF POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Chairman Tallarita noted the Town Council’s subcommittee met earlier and came forth with the suggestions before the Council. He noted the members of that subcommittee were Councilmen Edgar, Mangini, and Ragno.
Councilman Edgar stated it was recommended the policies and procedures stay the same.
Councilman Lee proposed the following change to Item 2, 17 (b):
(b) Applies only if prior to 11:00 p.m.
He noted this would open up Public Communication to the second meeting of the month.
Chairman Tallarita stated his understanding that this would have a second opportunity for public communications at the second meeting of the month if before 11:00 p.m.
Councilman Hilinski stated his belief this is a good idea as long as it’s on the subject matter of the meeting and not too repetitive.
Councilman Kaupin voiced his agreement with the change.
Chairman Tallarita stated he has no problem with this.
Councilman Nelson voiced his support of the change.
It was the consensus of the Council to make this change.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: CIP REFERENDUM LIST
Mr. Vindigni stated this informs the Council about projects which didn’t make it into this year’s proposed budget.
Councilman Kaupin questioned what’s different in this budget that they can’t be a “pay-as-you-go community” as they’ve practiced in the past. Mr. Kazmarski stated that is a decision that has to be made during budget deliberations as to how many mils they want to increase the tax rate. He referred to the Board of Education’s priorities and noted they have six items that amount to $4.4 million dollars. He noted those were not items the Town brought up, but rather those were items that were apparently being discussed by the Board of Education with the previous Town Manager in October and November of 2005. He stated those were included. He noted in November some consideration was being given toward bonding a number of projects. He stated the list before the Council was a secondary list that was provided by Mr. Pongratz in conjunction with him, Mr. McAlmond and Ms. Brand. He noted this list represents items of necessity, i.e., the science lab improvements, asbestos removal, etc.
Mr. Vindigni stated this is an opportunity to allow the Council to start thinking about which strategy they want to use on addressing these issues as they come up.
Chairman Tallarita stated every year it’s becoming more difficult to capture the dollars necessary to address all of the CIP projects. He noted Enfield has always been a pay-as-you-go community. He pointed out Enfield has one of the lowest debt rates in the State.
Councilman Nelson questioned how accurate the numbers are, and Mr. Vindigni stated the estimates from the school department were developed by Mr. Pongratz who submits his annual CIP list to the Town, and the Town’s estimates are prepared by Town staff.
Chairman Tallarita questioned whether the Director of Finance has anything to add. Mr. Simmons stated obviously pay-as-you-go is the cheaper way to go in the long run, however, most communities don’t because they don’t have the ability to raise the taxes that much to keep up with the demands of the infrastructure of the town. As concerns CIP, he noted this past year’s funding was $1.6 million dollars, and in prior years it was always over $2 million dollars, and they had a revenue item coming into the CIP from the prison fine for the sewage flow. He explained this year they have to make up for the lack of the fine, and they’re starting at a lower level of general fund support, and that is why they’re in the predicament they’re in.
Mr. Kazmarski stated over the years there has been discussion about a sinking fund to set aside a set amount every single year toward eventual replacement of various large ticket items, i.e., $200,000 to $300,000 pieces of equipment that are utilized in Public Works. He noted these types of equipment have 10 to 15 years of longevity. He stated some communities have embarked on a sinking fund for the replacement of these capital items. He noted this is another alternative to bonding.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: NCAAA SUPPORTIVE SERVICES GRANT RENEWAL AND RESPITE GRANT RENEWAL
Present for this discussion was Pamela Brown, Director of Social Services.
Ms. Brown explained both of these grants are for the adult day care center which serves about 120 frail elderly people every year. She noted this would be federal money that would allow them to have a part-time staff person. She stated they are now at full capacity on a daily basis and they are very strapped in terms of staffing and trying to meet all the needs, therefore, this would be a great help. She noted there is a match requirement. She stated right now the Adult Day Care Center is almost completely self-supporting, with the exception of the Town paying for taxes and benefits. She noted the revenues have increased again this year, therefore, there would be no problem with matching either of the grants.
She explained the Respite Grant would allow for a scholarship fund for frail elders. She noted people come into the Adult Day Care Center, and they may have some resources, but those resources get spent out, and they are then in a poverty level and then income eligible for this type of scholarship. She noted there are some other state funds that they do help people apply for, but if they received this grant fully funded, there would be no interruption in services.
Councilman Mangini voiced her support of these programs. She referred to the Supportive Services Grant and questioned why they didn’t grant the full amount last year. Ms. Brown stated the North Central Area Agency on Aging received three times the amount of what they had for money, therefore, they basically cut everyone by approximately a third. She noted she’s anticipating the same thing may happen this year.
She stated they’re requesting the same amount as they requested last year.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: DRUG FREE COMMUNITIES SUPPORT PROGRAM
Ms. Brown explained the Youth Services Department would like to apply for a federal grant through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration for funding a Drug Free Communities Support Program.
She stated two years ago, Youth Services initiated a community task force which is now called the Enfield Alliance to Combat Underage Drinking. She explained the purpose of this task force was to address the growing concern in the community about the increase of drug use, especially in middle school. She noted partners of the Enfield Alliance include the Police Department, Enfield Public Schools, local non-profits and community members. She stated the group has applied for and received and fully implemented small state grants successfully, and they have a very strong collaboration. She noted in October, 2005, the survey of student resources and assets was administered to 544 students in Grades 8, 9 and 10 at the JFK Middle School, Enfield High and Enrico Fermi High Schools. She stated this survey indicated that a high percentage of youth in Enfield are using drugs and alcohol. She noted in Grade 10, 57% of the students reported having used alcohol once in the last month; 38% reported having used marijuana during the past year and 28% had smoked cigarettes in the past month. She stated this survey did not ask about the use of narcotics or inhalants, but these are known by police, schools, and service providers to be increasing in use in Enfield.
Ms. Brown stated to combat underage drinking, the Enfield Alliance would like to submit a federal grant application for $100,000 annually that can be renewed for five years. She noted the purpose of the grant is to promote a drug free community. She stated the Alliance would implement a five-step evidence based process for community planning and decision making, which would include a needs assessment, capacity building, planning and evaluation.
Ms. Brown stated the goal would be to create a community-wide sense of common purpose to promote the positive development of youth. She noted there would be four ways this would be accomplished – by raising community awareness; increasing the developmental assets of youth and changing the school and home environments through increasing positive relationships, as well as a community campaign that would include PSA’s, educational brochures, and parent meetings. She noted the outcome for the community will be to reduce the age of onset of drug use, reduce the frequency of use of drugs, increase the perception of risk and harm from drug use and increase the perception of disapproval of drug use by parents.
Ms. Brown stated the $100,000 grant would pay for a full-time staff person to oversee the program and secretarial support. She noted it would also pay for consultants for strategic planning, program evaluation and survey design and it would cover the cost of a community campaign, educational materials for the community, professional training, and would promote drug free youth activities. She noted the match would be provided in kind by all of the members of the Alliance, and they would all sign memorandums of understanding. She stated this would not require any cash match, but rather the match would all be provided with services and programs that already exist.
Councilman Kaupin questioned how this program dovetails into the new substance abuse program in the schools. Ms. Brown stated DARE was replaced with Project Alert, and one of the first steps that this task force took was to form a cooperative curriculum committee to look at evidence base models. She noted children need sustainable programs that exist for longer periods of time through their growing years. She noted they don’t have a lot of prevention programs in the middle school and high school. She stated they need to look at where they need to increase their protective factors with the Town’s youths. She noted these monies would help them increase their resources and capacity to provide these needed resources and services to Enfield’s youths.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether this is a renewable grant after that first five-year period. Ms. Brown responded yes.
Councilman Nelson questioned whether the Board of Education and Police Department are willing to commit these monies to match the $100,000. Ms. Brown stated the match would be those things that the Police Department and Board of Education are already doing in their programs, therefore, this would not require those departments allocating any additional money.
Chairman Tallarita questioned if any additional funding would be required on the Town side, and Ms. Brown responded no.
Councilman Ragno stated he sees these programs as a safety net for families. He noted a wonderful program for schools is Junior ROTC because it teaches leadership skills, peer level counseling, and other activities.
Ms. Brown stated one of their strategies is capacity building. She noted after they do the needs assessment, they will be doing capacity building and something like the ROTC program may come with some funding.
Councilman Ragno questioned how they identify at-risk youths, and Ms. Brown stated the Connecticut Juvenile Justice System would identify at-risk children as youths that have impulsive high risk behaviors; youths that come from chaotic families, or they look at suspension and expulsion rates, and the number of times youths have been arrested.
Chairman Tallarita voiced his support of this program, and he feels this is the right approach.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #8715 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made:
TO: Police Overtime $135,000.00
FROM: Police Full-time $135,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $135,000.00 is available from Account #2100-110 as of March 13, 2006.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Present for this discussion was Chief of Police, Carl Sferrazza.
Mr. Vindigni stated this would normally be an internal transfer, but due to the large amount, they wanted this to come before the Council. He noted this is necessitated by the vacancies and overtime is reflective of the new contract approved in November.
Chief Sferrazza stated it’s not uncommon for the Police Department in past years to come before the Council to request a transfer of funds. He noted it’s not usually anywhere near this amount, however, there are extraordinary circumstances that the Police Department has been experiencing. He stated the officers received their 12.5% retroactive pay last year, but nothing was put in the overtime budget from November or December forward to cover that cost. He noted the real issue is that they have 92 officers working at this time, and they have an authorized strength of 94, however, out of those 92, there are a dozen officers unable to work. He explained five are in some form of training, i.e., the FTO Program or the police academy; five other officers are on long-term leave due to illness or disability, two officers retired, and two officers were terminated. He stated despite this shortage of personnel, between July 1, 2004 and March 17, 2005, the department had 108 narcotic investigations which resulted in 169 arrests. He noted as a result of the new initiative they launched in Thompsonville, that figure went from 108 narcotic investigations to 188 for the same time period, and this is a 75% increase in narcotic investigations. He stated their arrest numbers went from 169 narcotics arrests to 214. He noted overall from July to March 17th, the department handled 38,067 services or cases, which is a 2,384 case increase from the previous year. He noted this is being done with much less staff than they’ve ever had before.
Chairman Tallarita questioned if they’re looking at new ways of recruiting, and Chief Sferrazza responded yes, they’ve launched a couple initiatives. He explained they’ve tried to get involved with the criminal justice programs at the colleges, whereby they take advantage of the college career days. He noted they were even at the recent Home Show in Enfield. He pointed out the staffing problems they’re experiencing aren’t unique to Enfield, but rather this is a nation-wide phenomenon. He added compared to surrounding towns, Enfield is doing well. He pointed out that when they gave their last police exam, Enfield had approximately 51 applicants for the exam; Windsor had eight applicants, and West Hartford had 20. He noted years ago, hundreds of people took the exams. He stated they continue to find every available means possible to find qualified recruits. He added they do not want to lower those standards they have in place for entry level officers.
Councilman Ragno agreed with Chief Sferrazza’s comments.
Councilman Nelson stated his belief the Police Department is doing a phenomenal job. He voiced his support of the Enfield Police Department. He questioned whether officers are happy with the new replacement vests, and Chief Sferrazza responded yes. He added they had some problems with the fit, but that’s a minor problem being worked out. He noted Enfield is fortunate to have talented and hard-working officers.
Councilman Crowley stated the Police Department is doing a great job in Thompsonville. He voiced his support of the resolution.
Councilman Mangini voiced her support of this resolution. She commended the police officers of Enfield for the work they do.
Councilman Ragno questioned when absent officers will be returning. Chief Sferrazza stated the long-term injury officers range from by-pass surgery, strokes, to broken legs and broken ankles. He noted these are not all on-the-job injuries.
Chairman Tallarita stated he has received some positive comments from residents and business owners in Thompsonville about the Police Department, and he noted that positive feeling reverberates throughout the whole community. He went on to state whenever the Council can be of any assistance to make sure the Police Department has the tools they need to do the job, the Chief of Police should feel comfortable coming before the Council to express that need.
Chief Sferrazza stated the Police Department appreciates the support of the Council.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8715 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8716 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of the Town of Enfield to enter into contracts with the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection; and
TTHEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Acting Town Manger Christopher W. Bromson is duly authorized to enter into and sign contracts with the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection on behalf of the Town of Enfield; and Acting Town Manager Christopher W. Bromson is further authorized to provide such additional information and execute such other documents as may be required by the state and federal government in connection with said contracts and to execute any amendments, recisions, revisions thereto; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, Town Clerk, Suzanne F. Olechnicki, is authorized to impress the seal of the Town of Enfield on any such document, amendment, recision, or revision.
Chairman Tallarita thanked the entire Town staff and legislative contingent for all their hard work in pursuing this.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8716 adopted 10-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Thanked the Town Council for giving the public a second opportunity to speak at Council meetings.
Mr. Woods stated he was approached by a resident in town who did some home remodeling and took his little trailer to the dump and it cost $45.00. He stated his belief $45 seemed high.
Chairman Tallarita noted earlier in the meeting he suggested a Solid Waste Task Force might talk about having some type of allowance for each resident so that they don’t get charged the first time they come to the landfill.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #8717 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8717 adopted 10-0-0. |