|
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, JUNE 5, 2006
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairman Tallarita in the Thomas Alcorn Elementary School Cafeteria, 1010 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, June 5, 2006 at 8:09 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, Mangini, Maxellon, Nelson, Peruta, Ragno, and Tallarita. Also present were Acting Town Manager, Daniel Vindigni; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Christopher Bromson; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #8820 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Peruta to accept the minutes of the May 11, 2006 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8820 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #8821 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to accept the minutes of the May 13, 2006 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8821 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #8822 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to accept the minutes of the May 15, 2006 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8822 adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #8823 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the minutes of the May 15, 2006 Regular Meeting.
Referring to Page 4, Paragraph 7, Councilman Maxellon stated the final words in that paragraph should be “…and used in Enfield’s housing stock.”
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8823 adopted 11-0-0, as amended.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS AND PETITIONS
Mrs. Collins, the Hazardville Section
Stated her hope the Town will show some special recognition for Yvonne Prestwich who recently passed away.
Mary Ann Turner, 7 Meadow Road
As concerns the self-appointment of Public Safety Director by the then Acting Town Manager, Christopher Bromson, Ms. Turner stated her impression $52,000 sounds like a lot of money for 22 hours of work per week. She questioned how the accounting is effected regarding the hiring of a police officer. She expressed concern about a conflict of interest between the Town Attorney and Public Safety Director positions resulting in possibly more expense for an outside attorney when there is a conflict of interest. She stated her belief the appointment to Public Safety Director could have been done when Mr. Vindigni became Acting Town Manager. She added her feeling that the way this was done does not seem proper.
David Ragion, 22 Celtic Court
Stated he was disturbed by the fact he was unable to have a say at the recent Thompsonville Fire Department annual budget meeting, even though he is a property owner in Thompsonville. He pointed out he pays taxes to this fire district, and he feels this was wrong. He added he plans to go to the State with this complaint.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Read a letter from Public Works responding to her inquiry regarding fencing at Fermi. She noted this fencing costs $17,557, and she heard different versions of where this fencing was purchased.
She questioned why items in the Town’s budget book are bunched together but are purchased separately. Referring to the budget book, she questioned how a person can tell what is being purchased for each Town building.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini congratulated Fermi High School on their recent music band awards.
Councilman Mangini commended Enfield Street School in the celebration of their one-year Constitution anniversary. She explained the fourth and fifth grades put together a constitution that they believed they should live by.
Councilman Mangini stated she recently attended a Fermi High School civics class. She noted she distributed copies of the Enfield Town Charter to the class. She commended the class in their understanding of how an agenda works, rules and procedures of meetings, etc. She commended the school system regarding the education of Enfield’s children.
Councilman Kaupin thanked Mrs. Collins for mentioning Yvonne Prestwich. He agreed Yvonne should be recognized for her many contributions to the community, i.e., her involvement with the Enfield Press as Editor, the Neighborhood Assistance program, the Hazardville Institute, her photography and many other contributions.
Councilman Kaupin thanked the Veterans Council and Town staff regarding the veterans’ memorial in Hazardville.
Councilman Peruta thanked Mr. Vindigni for addressing the complaint on Standish Street.
Councilman Peruta requested a list of roads that are being engineered and put out to bid in the southern end of Enfield.
Councilman Peruta spoke highly of the Leadership Academy of Hartford. He noted last week he attended a special event at Henry Barnard School. He noted this honored the first graduates from the Leadership Academy of Hartford. He added this was sponsored by Enfield Public Schools and Mass Mutual.
Councilman Peruta agreed with David Ragion and his comments about having no representation at the fire district meeting.
Councilman Peruta stated his belief it might be beneficial and attract more residents if Town Council meetings were held in different locations around Enfield.
Councilman Maxellon questioned when the Northgate work will resume.
Councilman Maxellon thanked Mr. Vindigni for the quick response to the collapsing barn on Shaker Road.
Councilman Maxellon agreed with Mr. Ragion’s complaint about having no representation at fire district meetings. He added he too owns property in that district and has no say at those meetings.
Councilman Maxellon stated he prefers people give their name and phone number when sending him correspondence. He noted in this way he can follow up with these people.
Councilman Crowley stated he does not want a letter in his packet unless it includes a signature.
Councilman Crowley advised Mr. Ragion to put a request in writing to the fire district asking for a copy of their bylaws.
Councilman Nelson agreed with Mr. Ragion and noted he also owned property in Thompsonville.
Chairman Tallarita referred to Mr. Ragion’s comments and stated his belief one of the reasons people aren’t allowed to participate at fire district budget meetings is that they are supposed to be registered to vote within that district. He pointed out the Town Council has no control over fire districts.
Councilman Nelson pointed out tenants are registered voters and are allowed to vote.
Councilman Nelson stated the storm drain in front of 31-33 Tabor Road is always full. He noted foot drains drain into that storm drain. Mr. Kazmarski indicated he’d look into this.
Councilman Nelson commended the Riley Dance School for putting on a great dance recital recently.
Councilman Ragno questioned when Powder Hill Road will be repaired. He added he would appreciate some attention being given to this area.
Councilman Ragno stated he was disappointed to learn that the Terra Nova program is being cut by the Board of Education. He noted most of these students come from dysfunctional homes, and he challenges the Board of Education to come up with a replacement program.
Councilman Ragno questioned whether the State is addressing the storm drainage issue along the Route 91 corridor.
Councilman Ragno stated he has noticed a lot of Enfield residents have out-of-state registrations on their vehicles. He pointed out this results in a lot of lost revenue to Enfield.
Councilman Ragno referred to the suspense list and noted he wants to be sure the Town is doing all that it can to collect delinquent taxes.
Councilman Ragno commended the Veterans’ Council for a great Memorial Day Parade, however, he was disappointed with the turnout at the Town Green ceremony after the parade. He pointed out Memorial Day is to remember those who served and are serving this country. He added he was extremely disappointed to learn a constituent was politicizing this occasion.
Councilman Lee raised the matter of a letter from Enfield Public Schools regarding the demutualization settlement, and Mr. Vindigni indicated he would address this under the Town Manager’s report.
Councilman Lee requested documentation be placed in the Town Council’s packet relating to the Main Street program, and this has to do with the commercial revitalization program. He added he has a synopsis about the benefits and processes of this program.
Councilman Lee stated he is following up with some programs through the Connecticut Clean Energy funds. He noted they’re hosting a community workshop, and he will be attending that and bringing back more information.
Councilman Hilinski commended the Veterans’ Council for a great parade.
Councilman Hilinski stated tomorrow night an event is being held where gold, silver and bronze medals will be conferred on girl scouts.
MOTION #8824 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Mangini to move Item 13h to Item 10a.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8824
adopted 11-0-0.
MOTION #8825 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Mangini to suspend the rules to address Items 13b. - g and 13i - k. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-0F-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8825 adopted 11-0-0.
Chairman Tallarita stated he knew Yvonne Prestwich and she was dedicated to doing whatever was asked of her. He noted his family is deeply saddened by her passing.
Chairman Tallarita stated June 10th will mark the final Voices, Inc. event. He noted there should be some kind of proclamation regarding this.
Chairman Tallarita stated the Maciolek Post was recently presented with a proclamation from the Town Council for 61 years of service to the Town of Enfield. He noted the post has been very helpful to Enfield. He added they are most notable for raising funds for free ambulance service in Enfield.
Chairman Tallarita agreed that he does not want unsigned correspondence in his Council packet.
Chairman Tallarita stated he does not get involved in day-to-day operations of the Town, i.e., where they purchase fencing.
In response to Ms. Turner’s comments about the Public Safety Director, Chairman Tallarita pointed out the dollars are in the Town Manager’s budget, and this was unanimously approved by the Council. He explained the monies were moved from the Police Department because when they talked about this during budget deliberations, the Chief of Police recommended that they could take money from his police budget and place it in the Town Manager’s budget because he believed he wasn’t going to be able to utilize those funds this year for staffing because the recruitment and training process takes so long that he wouldn’t be able to expend those dollars.
As concerns the Public Safety Director appointment, the Council agreed times have changed. He noted they looked at the Charter, and the Charter states there shall be a Public Safety Director. He stated in the past the only responsibility this position had was overseeing the Police Department, and the Town Manager did that anyway. He noted in the last year the Town took on other responsibilities, i.e., EMS, and it was felt at the time that based on Attorney Bromson’s involvement with EMS from the very beginning, as well as his knowledge of the judicial process and his contribution to the police department, it was a wise choice to establish a Public Safety Director. He pointed out every Town Manager in the history of Enfield has appointed himself to become the Public Safety Director, and this appointment happened six months ago. He noted the Council decided they wanted to keep Attorney Bromson as the Public Safety Director because it was believed that was in the best interest of Enfield. He pointed out this decision was supported by all eleven Council members, all the fire chiefs, the Chief of Police, the Chief State Attorney at the courthouse in Enfield, as well as the EMS Director. He noted that position will respond to the new Town Manager, and the new Town Manager was briefed on this to see if he had any problem with this. He pointed out the new Town Manager can decide to change that if he doesn’t believe it’s in the best interest of Enfield.
As concerns any conflict of interest, Chairman Tallarita stated Attorney Bromson’s firm has not done any business with anyone that has been before the Town of Enfield or arrested by the Town of Enfield since he took over as the Acting Town Manager, and this will continue as he serves as Public Safety Director. He pointed out the Attorney General of the United States oversees the FBI, which is the top police force. He stated the Council was able to make this decision due to Attorney Bromson’s professionalism and his commitment to Enfield. He noted Attorney Bromson has demonstrated that professionalism and commitment to Enfield over the years of service he has given to Enfield, as well as the past six months while he was the Acting Town Manager.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Vindigni stated the State has a prospective buyer for the Elm/St. James home. He noted the lawn has been mowed.
As concerns the memorandum from the Board of Education regarding the demutualization of Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Mr. Vindigni noted there’s a tremendous amount of litigation involved, and he defers any discussion of this matter to Executive Session.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT
Attorney Bromson indicated he had no report this evening.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated the Fourth of July Committee continues to meet and are working toward putting on a dynamic Fourth of July celebration.
Councilman Mangini stated the National League of Cities Board of Directors is meeting in Washington, D.C. tomorrow through Thursday. She noted the Finance Committee will be talking to the congressional staff, and they’ll be asking for support with regards to CDBG funding, affordable housing, immigration and other issues. She noted one message all the states have for congress is no more unfunded mandates.
Councilman Lee questioned whether the Town Manager’s office has received any response from Cox Communications. Mr. Vindigni responded no.
Councilman Lee explained a letter was sent to Cox Communications requesting they provide an engineering survey and a time table according to the Town’s request.
Councilman Lee stated the Revitalization Committee is working on a redevelopment option for the Higgins building. He noted he expects to have more information for the Council within the next 60 days.
Councilman Maxellon reported for the School Fields Building Committee and informed the Council they propose going out to bid on June 12th. He noted they’re hoping for a two-week turnaround with bids on the remediation. He stated there should be a contract by the end of June and hopefully the remediation will be complete before school re-opens.
RESOLUTION #8826 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to Chapter VI, Section 1 of the Enfield Town Charter, the Enfield Town Council does hereby appoint Matthew Coppler as Town Manager for the Town of Enfield, said appointment to take effect on July 1, 2006; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize Mayor Patrick L. Tallarita to sign the employment agreement for Matthew Coppler as Town Manager for the Town of Enfield.
MOTION #8827 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Hilinski to suspend the rules to act on this item under Miscellaneous at this time, out of the regular agenda order, and then revert back to the regular order of business.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8827 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8826 adopted 11-0-0.
Chairman Tallarita introduced and welcomed Mr. Coppler and his family.
Mr. Coppler thanked the Town Council for their support and confidence. He noted he looks forward to meeting Town staff.
Councilman Kaupin welcomed Mr. Coppler and his family to Enfield. He added he is very impressed with Mr. Coppler’s qualifications and the experience he is bringing to Enfield.
Councilman Nelson stated his belief Mr. Coppler is getting a phenomenal Assistant Town Manager. He noted Mr. Vindigni has served Enfield as Assistant Town Manager for 14 years, and he believes they will make a great team. He thanked Mr. Vindigni and Attorney Bromson for all the work they’ve done up until this point.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL & TOWN MANAGER)
All appointments remained tabled.
Items c. and d. remained tabled.
NEW BUSINESS
There were no consent agenda items under New Business.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
NOMINATION #8828 by Councilman Kaupin to reappoint K. Walter Shermer (U) to the Area 25 Cable Television Advisory Committee for a term which expires 6/30/08.
MOTION #8829 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Crowley to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8829 adopted 11-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Walter Shermer reappointed to the Area 25 Cable Television Advisory Committee by an 11-0-0 vote.
All other Town Council and Town Manager appointments remained on the agenda.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
Consent Agenda items will appear under New Business on the next regular meeting agenda.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #8830 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Connecticut State Statutes, the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the transfer of $303,674.69 to the Suspense List as follows:
October 1, 2001 Supplemental Motor Vehicle Taxes $27,573.34
October 1, 2002 Personal Property Taxes 80,981.51
October 1, 2002 Motor Vehicle Taxes 195,119.84
Councilman Ragno stated his hope the Town is doing all it can to collect this. Mr. Simmons stated the suspense list is not real estate, but just motor vehicle and personal property. He noted the biggest enforcement collection they have with motor vehicle taxes is the registration at the Department of Motor Vehicles. He stated if someone tries to register in Connecticut within a two year period of not paying their taxes, the Motor Vehicle Department will stop them and refer them back to Enfield to pay their taxes. He stated the majority of taxes on this list relate to people moving out of state. He noted the Town does not have a lot of collection enforcement unless people move back to Connecticut.
Councilman Ragno asked if delinquent taxes are referred to credit bureaus, and Mr. Simmons responded no. Councilman Ragno stated his belief this should be reported to a credit bureau. Mr. Simmons stated they can look into that.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8830 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8831 by Mangini, seconded by Councilman Hilinski.
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on June 5, 2006 to allow interested citizens an opportunity to express their opinion regarding which programs shall be included on the Town of Enfield’s application under the provisions of the “Neighborhood Assistance Act;” and
WHEREAS, a proposal was submitted by the Hazardville Institute Conservancy Society, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, the following proposal is acceptable to the Enfield Town Council within the guidelines for proposed programs under the “Neighborhood Assistance Act:”
- Hazardville Institute Conservancy Society, Inc. – Storm Window Related and Entrance Door Improvements to the Institute.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT:
- The Town of Enfield’s 2006 proposed program application submitted to the State of Connecticut Department of Revenue under the provision of the “Neighborhood Assistance Act” shall consist of the proposal identified in the preceding paragraph.
- The Enfield Town Manager is hereby authorized to submit this application to the State Department of Revenue, and to approve any donations received as a result of this application.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8831 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8832 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Lee.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council hereby approves the three year rate lock agreement with CIRMA for Property and Liability Insurance Coverage for the fiscal years 2006/2007 through 2008/2009, and;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the rates currently in place will not increase during that three year period, but may decrease depending on industry trends and economic conditions, and;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to sign the contract with CIRMA for this rate lock program.
Present for this discussion was William Strachan, Risk Manager.
Mr. Strachan explained this requires CIRMA to maintain their current rate on a per exposure unit basis. He noted if they add more buildings or vehicles, the premium goes up but the rate per vehicle stays the same.
Councilman Mangini questioned if they’re willing to go out to bid on this. Mr. Strachan stated there’s a downside to bidding too frequently. He noted they do not know where the insurance marketplace is going. He stated they shouldn’t go to bid unless they’re going to make a substantial change in their program.
Councilman Nelson stated the document shows Christopher Bromson as Acting Town Manager. He questioned if this should read Daniel Vindigni. Attorney Bromson agreed. He added this has been reviewed, and he believes this is a good deal for the Town.
Councilman Lee stated he will abstain from voting on this since he has a business relationship with CIRMA.
Chairman Tallarita questioned whether the Board of Education has approved this, and Mr. Strachan responded yes.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8832 adopted 10-0-1, with Councilman Lee abstaining.
RESOLUTION #8833 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby approves the attached job description for a new position in the Assessor’s office titled Assistant Assessor, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council additionally approves the elimination of the position Assessment Aide, effective immediately.
Mr. Simmons explained by doing this, it’s believed they can restructure that office to take them through the next revaluation, and it would save substantial amounts of money from the prior revaluation without an increase in the overall number of staff in that department.
Councilman Kaupin questioned the value of this. Mr. Simmons stated this person will be trained to be an expert in the personal property declaration area. He pointed out they don’t have an in-house expert in this field. He explained this employee would be most familiar with the personal property declarations. He noted this person will be able to go out to the various companies and do spot check audits of their equipment.
Mr. Simmons stated on the revaluation side, they are splitting between the commercial and the residential property revaluation. He noted they will still need outside experts for the commercial revaluation so that write-ups can be provided, and they can provide expert testimony when the Town ultimately gets sued. As concerns the residential property revaluation, they feel confident that between the Assessor, the Deputy and this assistant, they can greatly reduce the amount of reliance on an outside contractor. He added his belief they could save close to 25% over the prior revaluation contract.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8833 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8834 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Nelson.
RESOLVED, that the Town Manager, Dan Vindigni, is empowered to accept a grant on behalf of the Town of Enfield, Enfield Public Library from the Connecticut State Library in the sum of $13,821 for Collaborations to Support Children’s Literacy. The grant period will run from July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Manager, Dan Vindigni, is empowered to accept a grant on behalf of the Town of Enfield, Enfield Public Library from the Connecticut State Library in the sum of $22,859 for Programs for Older Adults. The grant period will run from July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007.
Present for this discussion was Director of Libraries, Henry Dutcher, Mary Palomba, Lisa Sprague and Ellen Phillips
It was explained to the Council that the collaboration to support children’s literacy focuses on emergent literacy skills for children ages 0 to 6, and that would cover pre-reading skills. This also focuses on children who are not frequent library visitors.
Words on Wheels is a homebound delivery service. This would bring materials to people who cannot come to visit the library in person. The grant would provide materials so that they do not tie up the whole library collections when they bring out books to patrons. This will also help offset fuel and staffing.
Mr. Vindigni stated the local match is the in-kind services from the library.
Chairman Tallarita questioned how they would continue funding these programs if at some point in the future the grant is no longer available. Mr. Dutcher stated with most grants the expectation is that the grant is for the institution of a particular service, and that is what these grants are. He noted it is then the expectation that there is a commitment to maintain these services afterwards, and that is the expectation of the grantors in these particular situations. As concerns the emergent literacy grant, he noted the only thing they would need beyond the grant time of institution would be a continuation of some of their part-time professional librarians. He noted they anticipate they would ask the Town Council for about a thousand dollars in addition to their normal budget. As concerns the Words on Wheels, they are setting this up through volunteers. He noted for this program, he anticipates $3,000 to $5,000 within the book budget to purchase the additional materials for this program.
Councilman Peruta suggested consideration be given to congregate living people as concerns the Words on Wheels program.
Mr. Dutcher pointed out this does go along with their long-range plan.
Chairman Tallarita commended library staff for these initiatives which will be beneficial to the community.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8834 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8835 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield does hereby establish a School Building Committee consisting of the Town Council and Town Manager, or his designee, for the purposes of remediating contaminated soils at the Enrico Fermi High School.
AND WHEREAS, the Town Council has approved $1,350,000.00 to fund the remediation of contaminated soils at the Enrico Fermi High School from the 2006/2007 Capital Improvement Plan and other appropriations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the preparations of drawings and specifications for the Enrico Fermi High School Soil Remediation Project;
AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the Enfield Board of Education and its designee(s) to execute Form(s) ED049 “Grant Application and Executive Summary of Educational Specifications for a School Building Project”, and related documentation for the above referenced school building project.
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief the remediation plan is a good plan to keep the community safe. He expressed his appreciation to staff for their diligent effort on this, as well as their work with the outside agencies. As concerns comments about there not being more people present this evening, he believes that may also be attributable to the type of information that came out about this situation from the very beginning. He noted the Town was open, honest and forthright with that information, and they explained it to the community and explained what they were dealing with. He added the information was made available on the Town’s website. He added the fact that the Town went to the State with this matter right away helped in this process.
Councilman Lee stated his belief it’s important for people to realize that hopefully next year 66% of the remediation expense may be reimbursed by the State, and the Town may be able to replenish its Fund Balance.
Chairman Tallarita added the Town isn’t giving up on the balance either. He noted they are working with their federal contingent in Washington to see if they can recover more money. He pointed out the purpose of a contingency fund is to cover unexpected situations such as this.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8835 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8836 by Councilman Mangini, 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: Transfer to Other Funds $1,070,000.00
FROM: General Fund-Fund Balance $1,070,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $1,070,000.00 is available from General Fund-Fund Balance as of May 31, 2006.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8836 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8837 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: Fermi High Remediation $1,070,000.00
FROM: Transfer from General Fund $1,070,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $1,070,000.00 is available from Transfer from General Fund as of May 31, 2006. /s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8837 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8838 by Councilman Hilinski, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council does hereby adjust the compensation of Assistant Town Manager, Daniel T. Vindigni during his service as Enfield’s Town Manager by an additional $500 per week, effective from May 24, 2006 to when the new Town Manager begins his service with the Town of Enfield.
Councilman Kaupin expressed his appreciation to Mr. Vindigni for stepping in as Acting Town Manager over the next five weeks. He noted this compensation is really justified.
Chairman Tallarita agreed with Councilman Kaupin and expressed his appreciation for all Mr. Vindigni’s service to the Town. He noted the Council appreciates Mr. Vindigni’s effort, commitment and quality of work.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8838 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8839 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby endorse the installation of the South Street Elementary School Memorial Stone purchased by the members of the Enfield Beautification Committee.
Mr. Vindigni stated this is a small memorial that was requested by a nearby merchant to commemorate the site of that building which stood in that location over 100 years. He noted the Committee was enthusiastic in moving forward. He added they did check with the Town Planner’s office, and there is no site plan requirement at this location by the Town Planner or by the Planning & Zoning Commission. He stated the Committee wanted the Council’s endorsement before placing the stone on this site.
Councilman Edgar stated his understanding the barber across the street who is recommending this memorial stone has agreed to plant a tree at his expense.
Chairman Tallarita requested Mr. Vindigni extend the appreciation of the Council to the Beautification Committee for going forward with this. He added appreciation should also be extended to the merchant who has volunteered to plant a tree at this location.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8839 adopted 11-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8840 by Councilman Mangini, 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 : DPW – Highway Maintenance Division $57,500.00
Overtime
FROM: General Fund $57,500.00
FEMA Reimbursement
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $57,500.00 is available from the General Fund as of June 2, 2006.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Chairman Tallarita questioned if this is the FEMA reimbursement for the flooding. Mr. Vindigni stated his belief this is for snow recovery funds that occurred the prior winter. He noted they’re still waiting to receive word back on the October floods, and now they’re waiting for reimbursement for the February blizzard.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8840 adopted 11-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Robert Tkacz, Bernardino Avenue
Stated there seems to be a leveling off on elementary enrollments, and he noted the reason for that is because the previous projections showed it was declining. He noted parochial schools are losing enrollment in Enfield, therefore, more and more students are going into public schools vs. parochial.
Mr. Tkacz stated he is on a demographic committee and there will probably be some good news. He noted they will recommend some changes in the buses, and this should save some money. He added they might recommend a change in the configuration of the school system, and this would result in a tremendous amount of room yields, which would probably reduce the amount of teachers needed.
Jack Sheridan, 7 Buchanan Road
Stated he does not see an agenda item regarding disposal of mercury contaminants. He noted he would like to see that on an upcoming agenda. Chairman Tallarita stated his belief this would be a good item to include on the agenda for the Solid Waste Task Force.
Mr. Sheridan stated he did attend some demographic meetings. He noted the demographer proposed three scenarios. He noted the first scenario reconfigured some of the boundaries of the various schools, and it appeared this was a good approach. He noted if they put all of those students in the school districts they belonged in, there would be 16 empty classrooms throughout the school system. He added that could also save a minimum of three buses, and that’s $100,000.
Chairman Tallarita stated at the leadership level, there has been discussion about the summer meeting schedule. He noted rather than having a regular meeting at the beginning of July, it may be better to have a special meting June 28th. He noted it may be necessary to call a special meeting sometime in July.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #8841 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Crowley to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8841 adopted 11-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:20 p.m. |