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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 20, 2006
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Deputy Mayor Kenneth Hilinski in the Council Chambers of the Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Monday, November 20 2006. The meeting was called to order at 7:31 p.m.
PRAYER – The Prayer was given by Councilman Mangini.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL – Present were Councilmen Crowley, Edgar, Hilinski, Kaupin, Lee, Mangini, Maxellon, Nelson and Ragno. Councilmen Peruta and Tallarita were absent. Also present were Town Manager, Matthew Coppler; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki; Town Attorney, Christopher Bromson; Director of Public Works, John Kazmarski; Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond; Director of Finance, Gregory Simmons; Revenues Collector, Suzanne Guinness; Director of Social Services, Pamela Brown.
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Deputy Mayor Hilinski made the fire evacuation announcement.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Frank Dubish, 42 O’Hear Avenue
As concerns a business being operated at 40 O’Hear Avenue, Mr. Dubish questioned if any determination has been made and is the Council going to look into this. He presented photographs to the Council.
Reg Leonard, 42 Fairfield Road
Noted he was present at last week’s meeting, and he addressed two issues. He referred to the item on this evening’s agenda concerning street excavation permits and noted he has not heard anything about whether the Town will increase fines.
Mr. Leonard referred to a newspaper article where Councilman Maxellon stated, “The officials became aware of the violation only after someone dug a hole and either the concrete or the patch failed.” He noted that wasn’t the original complaint to Planning & Zoning. He questioned Councilman Maxellon as to whether this is another complaint that was received on that particular incident.
Mr. Leonard stated development in Enfield has to work with the State because the State mandates regulations in regards to storm water runoff permits. He noted he provided those regulations to the Town Manager last week. He pointed out all those regulations are referenced in Enfield’s building and inland/wetlands permits. He noted it states that
Enfield has to work with the State, and the State expects municipalities to follow through on these regulations. He noted if the Town references these State regulations, someone should be checking on those regulations. He pointed out he has respect for the Town Departments, however, the State regulations help the Town make informed decisions.
COUNCILMAN COMMUNCATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini stated she and Mayor Tallarita attended the Prudence Crandall Elementary School children’s election. She noted they had 12 candidates running for President, they had voting booths set up, and they did a dynamic job. She commended the school and parents for their support in helping children learn about the voting process.
Councilman Mangini expressed her appreciation to everyone in Enfield who continually supports the Enfield Food Shelf.
Councilman Mangini stated she and Councilman Peruta requested an agenda item be included to discuss library expansion, however, it did not make this agenda. She stated she wants the public to know that the Council will be discussing the library expansion in the goals meeting for next Monday.
MOTION #8899 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to suspend the rules to move Items 13 B., C. and D. to Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8899 adopted 9-0-0.
Councilman Crowley stated the Enfield Ramblers B Team won their Super Bowl championship yesterday. He noted the Ramblers send their special thanks to the Town Council, Board of Education, Public Works Department and especially Building & Grounds for all the help and assistance given to them throughout the course of the year.
Councilman Crowley congratulated the Public Safety Director whose daughter is a State champion girls’ soccer player this week.
Councilman Kaupin commended the Police Department and citizens who participated in the recent Police Academy classes. He stated this is the 14th year for this program and hopefully more people will become involved with this program.
Councilman Kaupin stated last Friday, the Police Department held a ceremony where they recognized officers and dispatchers for service that went above and beyond in
certain instances. He stated his hope this will be an annual celebration of the good work done by the Police Departments.
Councilman Kaupin stated he’s getting a lot of positive feedback regarding this year’s leaf program. He commended the Public Works Department for doing a good job.
Councilman Maxellon questioned if there’s any response to the costs that he and Councilman Nelson submitted regarding winterizing the Higgins building.
Referring to the milestone schedule from Public Works, Councilman Maxellon stated he noticed that Booth Road wasn’t included. He noted he would like to see Booth Road included so that they can track the progress in that area.
Councilman Maxellon stated his belief this is his fourth request regarding EMS as concerns their income vs. what they’re projecting for the budget. He noted it appears there’s going to be a large shortfall based on the numbers he received from the Director of Finance.
Councilman Maxellon referred to the Public Works schedule regarding EMS and stated his impression they were going forward with an RFP for an architect engineer. He stated his belief they need to straighten out the budget because this is supposed to be a self-supporting department, and once that is done, he feels they need to determine whether that building is the right location. He stated his belief there needs to be more study on this, i.e., look at the response area, time frames, etc. As concerns getting a preliminary budget from the architect engineer, he believes Public Works can do that with just some round figures.
As concerns the HVAC position for Public Works, Councilman Maxellon stated his understanding they have not yet filled that position. He noted perhaps they should look at re-vamping that position so it can be filled or turn it into an electrician’s position. He stated his belief either position would be an asset to Building & Grounds.
Responding to Mr. Leonard’s question about which area he was referring to in the newspaper article regarding road excavation, Councilman Maxellon noted this had to do with the excavation on Washington Road.
Councilman Nelson referred to the Northgate project and noted the trees were planted, the sidewalks are completed to the bridge, but from the bridge to the establishment, “You Save”, they haven’t done any work. He questioned whether anything will be done in the area where the sidewalk runs right along Route 5, and where there’s no guardrail or protection if a car should jump the curb.
MOTION #8900 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Lee to add a Loan Review Committee appointment to Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8900 adopted 9-0-0.
MOTION #8900A by Councilman Lee, seconded by Councilman Mangini to add a Loan Review Committee alternate appointment to Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8900A adopted 9-0-0.
Deputy Mayor Hilinski questioned if it’s certain that these Loan Review Committee positions are open at this time. Councilman Mangini stated there are actually three positions currently open – the alternate and two regular positions.
Councilman Kaupin stated they should be sure that the agenda is kept updated so that the public is aware that these openings exist. He noted people always look at the website and agendas to learn of open positions.
Mr. Coppler stated his office sent a memo dated November 16th to the Town Council which listed two positions coming up for expiration on the Loan Review Committee and they hadn’t received anything back at the point the memo was written as to whether these individuals wished to be reappointed. He stated according to his records there are at least two positions that will be expiring.
Referring to Mr. Leonard’s comment about street excavation fines, Councilman Nelson stated the Council is in agreement that the fines are too low, however, the Town is bound by State Statute as to how much they can raise fines. He noted they’re working with State representatives to allow fines to be raised.
Deputy Mayor Hilinski stated he also attended the Police awards ceremony last Friday and he was gratified to see that they are honoring officers and dispatchers who show exemplary service.
Deputy Mayor Hilinski stated he appreciates Mr. Leonard’s input and his interest that all procedures are being followed. He went on to note the street excavation issue is on this evening’s agenda, but it’s his understanding the Council does not have a lot of information to address that matter this evening.
As concerns the comments of Mr. Dubish, Deputy Mayor Hilinski noted the Council did receive a very comprehensive memorandum from the Town Manager a couple weeks ago regarding the situation on O’Hear Avenue, and the Town Manager did an extensive investigation and at this point has determined that there are no violations of any Town ordinances or rules with the situation as it is today. He added his belief the Town Manager sent Mr. Dubish a letter regarding this. He went on to state it is allowable to have one commercial vehicle and one personal vehicle in the driveway, and those were the vehicles that were seen at the time of the investigation. As concerns night lighting, he noted the light meets all of the Town regulations and is not a violation at this point in time.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Coppler stated at the last meeting there was discussion regarding leaf drop off at the transfer station. He pointed out the Town is not charging for leaf disposal, but they are charging for brush disposal. He noted the leaves on Cooper Street were picked up on Thursday, November 9th. He stated leaf pick up is about 70% complete as of today.
As concerns the Northgate project, Mr. Coppler stated his understanding the contractor was pulled off to another job and is supposed to be back to finish off that one section next Monday. He noted he’s uncertain whether there are plans to separate the sidewalk from the travel lane. Mr. Kazmarski indicated there wouldn’t be any barrier.
Mr. Coppler stated there will be discussion on December 4th about the next steps for the EMS building.
As concerns EMS funding, Mr. Coppler stated a profit/loss statement has been put together, and this will help the Council keep track of where they stand on a monthly basis. He noted this will be available before the December 4th meeting.
Mr. Coppler stated he will be working with the Town Attorney’s office to finalize a resolution regarding adjusting the street excavation fine. He noted he’s not sure if going to the maximum allowable fine will resolve this problem. He added they will keep working with the State to try and provide more teeth to this process.
Regarding O’Hear Avenue, Mr. Coppler stated that based on Enfield’s codes, this resident is in compliance. He noted it was requested that the Town Manager’s office put together a list of what is allowed within residential areas.
Regarding home businesses, Councilman Kaupin questioned if it’s really the purview of the Council, or would it be that the Council could talk to P&Z members prior to any proposed changes that come before them, or do they wait for feedback from residents.
Mr. Coppler stated his belief the Town Council has the ability to address the zoning code to make sure it’s reflective of what the community wants. He stated there is a necessity to work with the Planning Commission since they are on the front line of how this is being implemented, and they would have some good information as to how to change that particular code to meet what the Council is trying to address.
Councilman Maxellon clarified that he’s not against using the old fire house for EMS, but he wants to be sure they’ve looked at everything closely before spending a lot of money on that building. Mr. Coppler stated that is really the point of the discussion that they’ll have on December 4th.
Councilman Maxellon questioned whether the winterizing costs for the Higgins building have been reviewed, and Mr. Coppler stated he does not yet have those numbers.
As concerns 40 O’Hear Avenue, Councilman Edgar emphasized there are no violations at the present time. He pointed out if a lot of these businesses are legitimate now, they may be grandfathered in if changes are made with Planning & Zoning. Mr. Coppler stated he can sympathize with what the Dubish family is dealing with, however, the Town is restricted to look at what the code says.
Councilman Crowley stated his understanding the Town Council can communicate with the Planning & Zoning Commission, but the Planning & Zoning Commission has the final say regarding any changes being made.
Deputy Mayor Hilinski stated perhaps it’s time to have a review of some of these rules so that people are not subject to certain types of things in their neighborhoods.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Attorney Bromson stated there’s no status on any pending litigation for the Town. He noted from his experience, the issue of businesses in neighborhoods can be very contentious and volatile. He stated there are hundreds of situations such as this. He noted the Council doesn’t have the authority to act on these types of things, but rather it could be a matter where the Council could interface with the appropriate board and make recommendations. He suggested it might be appropriate to have a workshop where they could discuss things such as home businesses, signage, trucks, etc.
Attorney Bromson stated because EMS is almost fully staffed, it’s quite a strain on the facility at the Public Safety Complex, and they will have to deal with that perhaps in the short term.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Lee stated he and Councilman Mangini are working to get back in touch with Cox Communications to see if they can get an update from them as to where they are with the engineering report and also a time table for implementation for the initial drop for live cable feed at Town Hall. He noted once they have that, they will work with the Assistant Town Manager and Mr. Coppler to map out the next set of decisions that need to be made at the Town and Council level.
Councilman Crowley reminded everyone about the Torchlight Parade on December 3rd at 6:00 p.m., and a carol sing in front of Town Hall will follow.
OLD BUSINESS
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
MOTION #8901 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item #11 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8901 adopted 9-0-0.
NOMINATION #8902 by Councilman Mangini to reappoint Edward J. DeMarco (U) to the Ethics Commission for a term which expires 10/31/2008.
MOTION #8903 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Lee to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8903 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Edward DeMarco reappointed to the Ethics Commission by a 9-0-0 vote.
MOTION #8904 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item #12 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8904 adopted 9-0-0.
NOMINATION #8905 by Councilman Kaupin to reappoint Bruce W. Lovell (R) to the Ethics Commission for a term which expires 10/31/2008.
MOTION #8906 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8906 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Bruce Lovell reappointed to the Ethics Commission by a 9-0-0 vote.
All other Town Council appointments remained tabled.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN MANAGER)
All Town Manager appointments remained on the table.
Items C. through H. remained on the table.
NEW BUSINESS
CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION #8907 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to accept the Consent Agenda.
Councilman Maxellon referred to the lease program for the motorcycles and noted the figures he originally had are a little different than they are now. Attorney Bromson stated the Chief of Police noted there was some adjustment that saved money in the long run.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8907 adopted
9-0-0.
APPOINTMENTS (TOWN COUNCIL)
NOMINATION #8908 by Councilman Kaupin to reappoint Paul A. Nabors, Jr. (R), to the Housing Authority for a term which expires 11/30/2011.
MOTION #8909 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8909 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Paul Nabors reappointed to the Housing Authority by a 9-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #8910 by Councilman Mangini to reappoint Rudolph S. Kuraska (D) to the Board of Assessment Appeals for a term which expires 12/31/2009.
MOTION #8911 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Crowley to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8911 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Rudolph Kuraska reappointed to the Board of Assessment Appeals by a 9-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #8912 by Councilman Mangini to reappoint Shirley Carpenter (D) to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/2009.
MOTION #8913 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Lee to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8913 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Shirley Carpenter reappointed to the Commission on Aging by a 9-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #8914 by Councilman Mangini to reappoint Barbara J. O’Hara (D) to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/2009.
MOTION #8915 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Lee to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8915 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Barbara O’Hara reappointed to the Commission on Aging by a 9-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #8916 by Councilman Mangini to reappoint Colleen Ann Cross (D) to the Enfield Beautification Committee for a term which expires 12/01/2009.
MOTION #8917 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Crowley to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8917 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Colleen Cross reappointed to the Enfield Beautification Committee by a 9-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #8918 by Councilman Kaupin to reappoint Diane Tapp (R) to the Enfield Beautification Committee for a term which expires 12/01/2009.
MOTION #8919 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8919 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Diane Tapp reappointed to the Enfield Beautification Committee by a 9-0-0 vote.
NOMINATION #8920 by Councilman Kaupin to reappoint Ann Duren (R) to the Library Board of Trustees for a term which expires 12/31/2009.
MOTION #8921 by Councilman Crowley, seconded by Councilman Mangini to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8921 adopted 9-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Ann Duren reappointed to the Library Board of Trustees by a 9-0-0 vote.
All other appointments will appear under Old Business on the next Regular Meeting agenda.
DISCUSSION RE: DELINQUENT TAXES/DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Present for this discussion was Suzanne Guinness, Collector of Revenue.
Ms. Guinness stated she has identified about 60 properties in Enfield that exceed three years of delinquent real estate taxes. She noted she is in the process of sending certified letters to these property owners.
Councilman Crowley questioned the time table involved in attempting to collect these taxes. Ms. Guinness stated in the past she had a delinquent tax collector that handled this, therefore, she’s just starting this herself. She explained once someone has reached more than three years, they are in danger of foreclosure based on the ordinance. She noted it has been found that letting people know the risk of foreclosure tends to get people’s attention.
Councilman Crowley questioned if there’s a separate list for businesses. Ms. Guinness stated she deals with personal property taxes separately from real estate. She noted they have a 99% collection rate on personal property.
Councilman Maxellon questioned if any thought was given to turning this over to a collection agency or sheriff’s department. He noted this might offset staff’s time in going through the foreclosure process. Ms. Guinness indicated that in 1995 they did use a collection agency for delinquent motor vehicle taxes, but for the amount of money it brought in, it wasn’t worth it. She noted they try to get people to pay their taxes before things become unmanageable.
Councilman Ragno questioned if these 60 properties cover the period 1990 to 2002, and Mr. Simmons responded not necessarily. He explained some may have more than three years of back taxes. He noted the real estate portion of the grand list means anything classified as real estate, i.e., houses, vacant land, or open space. He noted in some cases a developer hasn’t deeded an open space to the Town, but they don’t take the final step. He noted that company dissolves and moves on, and they’ll never pay those taxes because they consider that space as Town land. He noted it is then a technical issue whereby the Town has to somehow claim that land as open space. He stated in the meantime, it stays on the tax rolls until that step takes place. Councilman Ragno questioned how many properties does that apply to, and Ms. Guinness estimated about a dozen. Councilman Ragno questioned if they know which properties those are so that they can rectify that problem in the future through a financial reporting system so that they can flag those properties. Mr. Simmons agreed it would be a good idea to somehow flag such properties. Councilman Ragno stated he would like to have that loop closed as soon as possible. He noted perhaps there’s something with the Town’s software system that allows them to flag these types of properties.
Councilman Ragno stated the Town could be losing substantial interest with these delinquent taxes. He questioned how many people on a payment plan have defaulted, Ms. Guinness stated she has very few people on monthly payments. She noted people generally pay up the whole bill or they let it go until they’re pressured by the Town.
Councilman Ragno stated his belief the Town needs to be aggressive because the Town is losing money, and it’s not fair to the law-abiding citizens who pay their taxes on time. He pointed out this is one of the most important revenue streams for the Town, and they need to make sure they’re getting what’s due the Town.
Mr. Simmons stated Enfield residents are very good about paying their taxes, and there is a good collection rate. He noted over the past ten years, the collection rate exceeded 97%.
Councilman Nelson referred to the builders who are supposed to deed open space to the Town and noted those builders also have the option of paying a fee in lieu of open space. He questioned if they’re getting around deeding this land over to the Town, how many are getting around paying that fee in lieu of open space. He stated his belief they really need to look into this, and before they start releasing bonds to builders, they need to make sure these deeds are taken care of so that they can get these properties turned over to the Town and get them off the tax records. He pointed out this is the builder’s responsibility, not the Town’s responsibility.
Councilman Mangini commended Mr. Simmons for his collection program. She stated her belief it does work well.
Councilman Edgar questioned if all 60 properties are private, and Ms. Guinness responded yes, they are residential.
Councilman Edgar questioned how many commercial properties are delinquent, and Ms. Guinness estimated about a dozen, and they’re small commercial properties.
Councilman Edgar requested an estimate of the total delinquent taxes for both commercial and private, and Ms. Guinness responded about $1.2 million for real estate, and that’s a figure that’s stable from year to year.
Councilman Edgar voiced his concern that these delinquent accounts go back to 1990. He stated his understanding that as soon as it goes over 15 years, one year drops off, therefore, the Town is losing a year in any property that goes over 15 years. He stated he’s aware that Suffield and Windsor Locks have recently made use of a state marshal to collect delinquent taxes, and this is working very well. He noted the Town might consider doing this. He stated Enfield did this some years ago, and it brought in a lot of back taxes.
Councilman Kaupin stated once the Council has the excel file concerning delinquent taxes, he would like to see some type of written, detailed recap that a layman can look at and understand.
Councilman Kaupin questioned if the 60 properties are in jeopardy of being foreclosed, and Ms. Guinness responded yes. He questioned how often these properties were sent notification of delinquent taxes, and Ms. Guinness stated they get a regular bill every six months, and they also get delinquent bills. She added these properties also get notified before a lien is placed against the property.
Councilman Kaupin questioned if this should be a revolving system so that they’re not taking it in five-year chunks, and Ms. Guinness responded yes.
Councilman Kaupin questioned how this system is managed so that as soon as someone falls into the delinquent three-year stage, the process kicks in. He raised the question of whether the Town is giving the tax department the tools to make that happen, and the Council would want to know if that wasn’t happening. He also raised the question of what would be the ideal situation so that these accounts are addressed on an annual basis.
Deputy Mayor Hilinski agreed with Councilman Edgar’s suggestion that possibly the Town could get some marshals to do some work for Enfield because other towns have been very successful using that method.
Councilman Ragno referred to the software and questioned if they have any type of in-house or vendor collection system. Mr. Simmons stated it’s in-house and it was developed many years ago by the IT staff. Councilman Ragno questioned if there are delinquency-aging categories so they can track these accounts. Mr. Simmons stated they track it, but they don’t have the level of automation that automatically puts out a certified letter when someone is at the third-year mark.
Councilman Ragno stated if they’re successful in recouping some of those dollars, perhaps they can look at newer software that can do more tracking, or perhaps the IT Department can look at some type of software customization or code upgrades that can address some of these issues.
Councilman Mangini credited Ms. Guinness for using the human touch with people, which is also very important.
DISCUSSION RE: AQUIFER PROTECTION AREA PROGRAM, MODEL MUNICIPAL REGULATIONS
Deputy Mayor Hilinski stated the Council was considering setting up a committee to evaluate this. He noted this committee could consist of some Councilmen, Planning & Zoning representatives and some citizen representatives. He noted this is another unfunded mandate that the Town has to deal with. He questioned if there are any updates on this item.
Mr. Coppler stated his belief the earlier discussion by the Council was conveyed to the Planning & Zoning Commission He noted a meeting will be set up with the Chair of the Planning & Zoning Commission so that they can discuss the formation of this committee. He added they will also talk with Council leadership about getting the committee together.
RESOLUTION #8922 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Crowley.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Child Day Care Center run by the Town of Enfield be renamed the Enfield Child Development Center.
Present for this discussion was Pamela Brown, Director of Social Services.
Mr. Coppler stated there was an inquiry regarding whether this name change might change funding aspects or the way that the State Constitution might perceive this name change because of the educational component. He noted he asked Ms. Brown to see if other programs are called by this name.
Ms. Brown stated there are 39 different accredited child development centers in the State of Connecticut. She noted these are day cares. She supplied a list of these centers to the Council.
Councilman Nelson questioned the reason for changing the name. He noted there is also a cost involved to change the name.
Ms. Brown stated at this time all slots are filled, but they are trying to increase the number of full-paying parents. She stated parents look for a good educational component to a day care program. She noted this is to attract more income into the program. She explained that in terms of cost to change the name, they don’t use letterhead, and they’ll continue to use up their current brochures. She stated they will not print up any new brochures until the old ones are used up.
Councilman Nelson questioned if they have to have a certain amount of financial assistance children along with the full paying parents. Ms. Brown responded that’s true. Councilman Nelson stated if those slots are full, how is that shifted if the State is telling them who they have to take. Ms. Brown stated they have a grant that allows them to provide a certain amount of subsidized child care slots on a sliding fee scale.
Councilman Lee questioned if Enfield’s program competes with private day cares in Enfield for the paying clients. Ms. Brown stated she does not look at this program as being in competition. She noted the Family Resource Center does collaborative training with other day care providers in Enfield. She stated in comparison to the cost for Enfield’s day care program, it’s about in the middle.
Councilman Mangini voiced her support for this name change and stated her understanding this is to capture additional funding. She noted overall, Enfield’s program is outstanding. As concerns competition, many organizations in Enfield work hand-in-hand.
Councilman Ragno referred to the flyer from November, 2006 and questioned if day care teachers are certified teachers, and Ms. Brown responded they are certified to teach child day care.
Councilman Ragno stated if they go forward with a name change, will that have any effect on the position classifications whereby they would have to upgrade those positions. Ms. Brown responded no.
Councilman Crowley questioned if they might lose people who are looking for just day care, and Ms. Brown stated her belief because of their hours of 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., they will meet the needs of those looking for day care.
Councilman Crowley questioned whether they will lose any state money for day care if this name is changed, and Ms. Brown responded no.
Councilman Crowley questioned if there’s any chance of the fees increasing since they’re becoming more of a developmental center. Ms. Brown stated their goal is to keep their fees in the mid-range so that they stay full.
Councilman Crowley questioned if there’s any cost to the Town, and Ms. Brown responded no.
Councilman Kaupin questioned what became of the idea of an expansion of the day care building space. He went on to question if this name change will slide the percentage of full pay to a greater percentage, and what will be the impact on those people on a sliding scale. He noted the purpose of this program was to provide day care for people who needed it, and he feels that has to be the main premise of this program. He noted he does not want to take an action that’s going to hurt the main purpose of the day care, however, he would like to see it become self-sufficient. Ms. Brown stated they actually get a higher rate per child for the subsidized slots than they do for the full-time slots. She noted the State reimburses them around 20% above what they would get for the full rate. She stated the stronger business way to go would be to get more subsidized slots in the future when there’s additional state money. As concerns expanding their space, she noted they did sketch that out, however, because that is more internal space and because there is a requirement that there be light for the children, they really couldn’t have any more internal classrooms in order to get the funding that they would need. She stated they can only use internal classrooms for after school care, and that doesn’t bring in enough income. She stated they really couldn’t see a way whereby expansion in that space would make sense.
Councilman Kaupin stated at the last meeting Councilman Lee asked for a legal opinion, and he cannot vote on this without that legal opinion. Mr. Coppler stated that can be available for the next meeting.
MOTION #8923 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Lee to table this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8923 adopted 9-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: STREETLIGHT PURCHASE
Present for this discussion was Deputy Director of Public Works, Geoffrey McAlmond.
Councilman Maxellon stated he’s not convinced this will be a cost savings. He noted he would like to see some cost analysis. He questioned what they’re paying now for a fixture, and once the Town takes it over, what will it cost to maintain that fixture. He stated he would like to see a spreadsheet cost analysis. Mr. McAlmond stated they can’t get a cost for the buy-out until they actually file a letter of intent to purchase. He noted this would not obligate the Town to purchase anything, but it just starts the process. He stated he would also like to put out an RFP for the service because they envision contracting out this service. He stated in this way they would be dealing with concrete numbers rather than estimates. Attorney Bromson stated his office can review the letter to make sure the Town isn’t bound beyond the intent.
Councilman Nelson stated he would like written information as to how long these lights last and what’s the cost to rebuild one of these lights. Mr. McAlmond suggested proceeding with the RFP so that they can get real numbers. Councilman Nelson stated he has no problem doing this as long as the Town isn’t bound.
Councilman Kaupin questioned whether Mr. McAlmond had put together at some point in time what he thought the cost savings might be. Mr. McAlmond stated the cost savings at this time are projected at $300,000 per year, and they project the maintenance expense to be $100,000, and the net savings would be approximately $200,000 per year.
Councilman Crowley clarified this is for the light itself, and not the poles. Mr. McAlmond stated this is for the light and the metal bracket on some poles, and in other cases, it’s the light and the pole. Councilman Crowley stated he would like clarification as to whether the Town would have to pay to use poles, and Mr. McAlmond indicated he’d check into that.
Councilman Crowley stated there are streetlights around Town and at schools. He questioned if those lights are included in this package, and Mr. McAlmond responded yes.
Attorney Bromson stated there is a draft of the letter of intent. He suggested the Council review that letter.
Councilman Lee questioned if purchasing the street lights increases the amount of electricity that the Town needs in its bulk purchase agreements. Mr. McAlmond stated it was included in the Town’s bulk purchase of electricity, and that helped the Town get a fixed rate for four years that will cover all the buildings. He pointed out streetlights are a load that continues throughout the night when everything else is shut off.
Referring to how the letter reads, Councilman Maxellon questioned if this obligates the Town to purchase by January 1, 2007 or that the Town is eligible to purchase. Mr. McAlmond responded no, the intent is to proceed with a purchase. He stated his opinion the Town has every opportunity to turn back. Attorney Bromson agreed and stated this shows the Town’s intent, but they won’t honor anything unless there’s a resolution authorizing the Town Manager to enter into a purchase and sale agreement. He explained step one would be to pass a resolution saying the Town intends to purchase based on the information they get and the next step would be to pass a resolution for a purchase and sale agreement, and the Town Attorney’s office would review that agreement.
Attorney Bromson stated his belief when they passed the budget, this was anticipated to be done. Mr. McAlmond stated there will be a $25,000 a month shortfall beginning in January if they don’t proceed.
Councilman Maxellon stated he wants to be sure this doesn’t turn the other way whereby it’s costing the Town money, rather than saving money.
Councilman Nelson stated if the Town buys the lights off of Northeast Utilities, is the Town bound to buy the electricity from them. Mr. McAlmond responded no, they will be buying electricity from Trans Canada beginning in January.
Councilman Crowley stated he would also like to know the cost to add streetlights.
Councilman Nelson stated in the case of a new subdivision where a new streetlight is required, the builder is required to pay for the pole and the light and then gift it to the Town if it’s on a Town road.
RESOLUTION #8924 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
WHEREAS, the Town Council along with the Board of Education of the Town of Enfield have entered into an agreement for the cooperative purchasing of electricity, to take advantage of increased purchasing power as part of a collective purchasing group organized by the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities;
WHEREAS, it is advantageous for the Town to purchase the public streetlights currently rented from the Connecticut Light & Power Company and incorporate their electrical load into that of the Town and the Board of Education to receive a reduced electric supply rate;
BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Manager is hereby authorized to notify the Connecticut Light & Power Company of the Town’s intent to purchase the public streetlights within the Town of Enfield.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8924 adopted 9-0-0.
Item H. will appear on the December 4th Regular Meeting agenda.
RESOLUTION #8925 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
WHEREAS, Jeffrey J. Filiault has agreed to convey a Conservation Easement to the Town of Enfield consisting of 2.29+ acres and known as “Proposed Conservation Area” on the map entitled “Plan of Land Prepared for Jeffrey Filiault”, a copy of which Conservation Easement is attached hereto;
WHEREAS, this Conservation Easement is subject to the review of the Planning and Zoning Commission, per Connecticut General Statute §8-24; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Enfield wishes to accept the Conservation Easement from Jeffrey J. Filiault.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council hereby accepts the Conservation Easement from Jeffrey J. Filiault subject to the review and recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, per Connecticut General Statutes §8-24.
Councilman Maxellon clarified the conservation easement is the back piece, and Deputy Mayor Hilinski responded that’s correct.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8925 adopted 7-1-1, with Councilman Crowley voting against and Councilman Edgar abstaining.
RESOLUTION #8926 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
WHEREAS, Jeffrey J. Filiault has requested that the Town of Enfield convey a driveway easement across a portion of the unpaved area of Falcon Crest;
WHEREAS, the Town of Enfield wishes to convey the driveway easement to Mr. Filiault, a copy of which Driveway Easement is attached hereto; and
WHEREAS, this Driveway Easement is subject to the review of the Planning and Zoning Commission, per Connecticut General Statute §8-24;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council hereby grants the above-referenced Driveway Easement to Jeffrey J. Filiault, and authorizes the Town Manager to sign any required documents, subject to the review and recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, per Connecticut General Statute §8-24.
Councilman Maxellon clarified that all they are doing is granting an easement across from Falcon Crest onto Fourth Street, which is a paper street, to gain access to the property. He noted if at some future time the Town makes Fourth Street a real road, that easement can be taken back, and Mr. Filiault would just have a driveway off of that street.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8926 adopted 7-1-1, with Councilman Crowley voting against and Councilman Edgar abstaining.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #8927 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
RESOLVED, that the Enfield Town Council does hereby authorize the Town Attorney, Christopher W. Bromson, to settle the outstanding tax assessment appeal in the following action: CUNO, INC. and 3M COMPANY v. TOWNOF ENFIELD, Docket Number HHB-CV-06-4011218 S (RTX), the fair market value of the non-exempt, taxable personal property to be $3,586,236 and assessed value to be $2,510,365.
Mr. Coppler stated after reviewing it, it was found that certain aspects of what was on the Town’s list of equipment that CUNO had was in fact not located in the Town of Enfield. He explained this brings in line what is actually at the facility.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8927 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8928 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: Library
Part Time Salary $ 5,825.00
Travel 534.00
Printing 500.00
Library Books $16,000.00
_________
$22,859.00
FROM: Library
Other State Grants $22,859.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $22,859.00 is available from Other State Grants as of 11/8/2006.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8928 adopted 9-0-0.
RESOLUTION #8929 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 : Library
Part Time Salary $ 2,748.00
Contractual Services 1,000.00
Printing 1,350.00
Travel 223.00
Supplies 610.00
Library Books 8,050.00
_________
$13,981.00
FROM: Other State Grants $13,981.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $13,981.00 is available from Other State Grants as of 11/8/2006.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #8929 adopted 9-0-0.
NOMINATION #8930 by Councilman Mangini to move Gene Giuliano (D) from the Alternate position to the full member position on the Loan Review Committee.
Councilman Kaupin questioned what the expiration date is for this appointment. Councilman Mangini questioned if Mr. Coppler can research that and get that information to the Council.
Councilman Kaupin questioned if it’s very important to make this appointment this evening. Councilman Mangini responded yes and explained they need enough voting members to vote on projects.
Councilman Edgar voiced his concern they are not following proper procedure for making appointments. He stated his recollection the Council set up a procedure whereby they had to have something in writing regarding vacancies.
Discussion followed as to the best course of action to follow regarding this appointment.
MOTION #8930 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to table this appointment.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8930 adopted 9-0-0.
Deputy Mayor Hilinski suggested possibly this appointment can be included on the November 27th Special Meeting agenda.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Spoke about how the Head Start program became part of the Enfield School System and the resulting cost to taxpayers. She voiced concern that the same thing will happen if the Enfield Day Care changes their name to anything that coincides with education.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Crowley for the benefit of those watching on television again congratulated the Enfield Ramblers B Team who won their Super Bowl Championship.
Councilman Maxellon questioned if there’s any update on CL&P’s underground utility issue with Eppendorf. He asked the Town Manager to again give an update on the progress of the leaf program.
Councilman Kaupin agreed with Councilman Maxellon about the great athletic happenings in Enfield and congratulated the Fermi soccer team on their playing in the State championships.
Mr. Coppler stated he does not have an update on the Eppendorf matter, but he should have something very shortly. As concerns leaf collection, they’re about 70% done as of last Friday. He noted leaves can be dropped off at the transfer station at no charge, however, there is a charge for brush drop-off.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #8931 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Crowley to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #8931 adopted 9-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:05 p.m. |