TOWN COUNCIL
TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR
MINUTES Page 1 June 18, 2001
TOWN COUNCIL Regular Meeting
Council Chambers South Windsor Town Hall
Members Present: Mayor Lassman Fisher
Deputy Mayor Havens
Councillor Aman
Councillor Burnham
Councillor Delnicki
Councillor Fine
Councillor Pelkey
Councillor Streeter (Arr. 8:40 p.m.)
Councillor Williams
Also Present: Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan
Town Attorney Barry Guliano
ITEM:
The Regular Meeting was called to order at 8:10 p.m.; immediately recessed to continue the Work Session; and reconvened at 8:35 p.m.
5. Public Input
The first speaker to address Council was Paul Oates, 44 West Road, who said he was present this evening as President of Wapping Community Church and, as such, to describe the proposed improvements anticipated for that House of Worship, how they were doing it, why they were doing it, and how it contributes to the Town. What was being done, he said, and as indicated on the handout he had presented to Council which depicted a before and after schematic of the building. The main purpose of these renovations, he said, was to make the building handicap accessible. Next October, according to Mr. Oates, is the 200th anniversary of the Meeting House (the Church building), and renovations to the Church Sanctuary interior will be a part of this project.
ITEM:
5. (Continued)
Next to speak was Vinnie Wilson, 264 LeFoll Boulevard, and Chairperson of the Town s Park & Recreation Commission. Ms. Wilson, referring to this evening s Agenda Items 17. N. and O. (Proposed Resolution Authorizing Funds for Design Plans, and Preparation of Documents Necessary to Develop a Possible
Referendum Question on Implementation of a Portion of the South Windsor Recreation Master Plan, said she was present to inform Council of the Commission s feelings with regard to these two items.
Stating that the Commission, at its most recent meeting, had voted to support the proposed Resolution; and was also in favor of the $6,000,000 figure. Continuing, Ms. Wilson (referring to Agenda Item 17. O.) said that the Commission was in favor of projects #1. and #2.; however, the Commission had many questions on projects 3., 4., and 5. contained in this Resolution. She requested that Council keep the Park & Recreation Commission informed because when the Plan was developed, it was developed with a time line. So far, she added, these projects did not appear to adversely affect that time line but they wished to be kept informed of future meetings regarding this as they came up.
She reiterated that the Park and Recreation Commission, and the Master Plan Sub-Committee, were supportive, at least in part, of this proposal.
Mayor Lassman Fisher asked Ms. Wilson if the Master Plan Subcommittee continues to meet. Ms. Wilson replied that it met with this proposal came out to discuss it with the full Commission.
Next to speak was William Krawski, 130 Buckland Road. Mr. Krawski came before Council to inform them that yesterday, June 17, the lower level of this property was washed out due to the recent heavy rains and what he claimed was water run-off from the new Target and Lowes buildings recently erected in South Windsor near the Buckland Mall.
Claiming that his land adjoins the lands of Target and Lowes, for about 900 feet, Mr. Krawski said that he had discussed the possibility of this happening with Planning and Zoning and Inland/Wetlands, and all the meetings of development of Target and Lowes.
ITEM:
5. (Continued)
Claiming that included in this flood site was a building used by the Democratic Ladies Club (offered, too, to the Republicans), as a meeting place for the Wapping Community Church business meeting, etc, Mr. Krawski said that the interior of this building was along the lines of the Mill on the River, stone floors, brick arches, etc., and he had built all of it himself.
After distributing pictures showing the flooding, and expressing his dismay at the damage caused by this flooding, Mr. Krawski said he knew this was coming, however, you can t get flood insurance unless you re in a flood plain. He felt that, all over Town, there are drainage retention ponds doing nothing. He claimed this was bound to happen when you put 32 acres of rooftop and amesite on a side hill.
Mayor Lassman Fisher interrupted to ask Town Attorney Guliano if it was not true that the Town Council had nothing to do with approval of the placement of Lowes and Target Stores, nothing to do with the drainage, or anything that happens up on that hill. She asked where Mr. Krawski should be bringing his complaint.
Mr. Krawski interjected that he had already been to Planning & Zoning, and was here this evening as a citizen of South Windsor, and will return to Inland/Wetlands. He was appreciative of the fact that Walter Mealy, Chairman of Planning & Zoning was at his residence yesterday to look at the problem, as was a representative from Inland/Wetlands.
The Mayor asked the Town Attorney where Mr. Krawski should be to which Attorney Guliano answered that detention basins would traditionally be Inland-Wetlands; and there may also be some zoning elements as well. The Town Attorney said that he believed Planning & Zoning would be discussing this tomorrow evening. Mr. Krawski said it no longer mattered that it was history that he was sitting down there with a pure mess.
Saying that he had gone to Target and Lowes, who sent down Servo-Pro (?) who, he said, is supposed to be the finest clean-up there is and, the company said they were in over their heads. They wouldn t touch it.
ITEM:
5. (Continued)
Mayor Lassman Fisher then asked Mr. Krawski what he was seeking from this Council. He replied that if there is a bond on the Target and Lowes project, Council should know about it. Saying that Council had nothing to do with issuing bonds, she asked the Town Attorney for clarification.
Atty. Guliano said that the bond is held by the Planning Department; and Council could potentially become involved in this issue if a claim is made against the bond his office, in particular. The Mayor asked Mr. Krawski if he had made a claim against the bond. He replied that he did not know where to turn that this sort of thing could happen again and again.
Again, Atty. Guliano said he had been told this morning that this issue is going to be addressed at P&Z s meeting on June 19, 2001; and, if P&Z saw fit, they could direct that whatever bonds there are be called, etc. He felt this was one of the remedies that Planning and Zoning had.
Mr. Krawski said there is no remedy and said he did not want to be another Phil and Harry Welles (referring to two South Windsor landowners in the Beelzebub Road/Avery Street area) where you people take their farm to drain Benedict Drive the first sub-development in Town which area had already been declared a flood zone.
Again, the Mayor suggested that Mr. Krawski go to Planning and Zoning with this problem; and asked the Town Attorney if it would not be best that Council await the decisions of Planning & Zoning, and/or Inland/Wetlands Agency, as to responsibility and possible remedy of this situation. He agreed. The Mayor said that the process had to be followed. Mr. Krawski said he was aware that he would have to go to the proper commissions; however, he felt that the Council should want to know what is going on in its Town.
6. Environmental Health & Safety Message - None
ITEM:
7. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meetings
Motion to accept the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of June 4, 2001.
Was made by: Deputy Mayor Havens
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
8. Public Petitions - None
9. Communications from Boards and Commissions Directly Responsible
to Council
Dennis Sheridan, Director of Youth and Family Services at the Human Services Department, said he, together with Ms. Kerry Weinzimmer, the Regional Health Care Agency Member and Chairperson of the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Commission, were present this evening to make Council aware of the activities of this very busy Commission.
After giving the Council a brief history of the Commission, the make-up of its Members, and its purpose, Ms. Weinzimmer said they were present this evening to make a presentation of a cooperative project done at Timothy Edwards Middle School to address smoking awareness. She said the Commission had worked closely with the ERASE group to receive data; and showed that smoking begins in the younger years. The Commission, therefore, targeted the 6th Graders on an annual basis (this being the 4th year) and hold a Smoking Awareness Week.
Also present this evening was Mr. Dave Pearson, Assoc. Principal at Timothy Edwards Middle School. Ms. Weinzimmer informed Council that a part of this evening s presentation will be a video made by the students at the Middle School. She then listed other ongoing programs associated with this anti-smoking campaign.
Mr. Sheridan then introduced the other members of the Commission who were present this evening in addition to himself, Ms. Weinzimmer, and Mr. Pearson. They were Sgt. Tom Field (Police Department); Commission Member Joseph Kennedy, and new Member Kelly Weinzimmer. Mr. Sheridan then named the other members who were not present; and reminded Council of its liaison to this Commission, Councillor Paul Burnham.
ITEM:
9. (Continued)
Mr. Sheridan informed Council that, besides a Poster campaign, two (2) 30-second anti-smoking videos were put together with the help of two of the technology teachers Steve Potter and Wendy Schwartz. He felt that the Council would like to see these videos and get some insight into what the Middle School students, and the Commissioners, were working on together. (Mr. Sheridan then had the students show the videos to the Council and viewing public.)
Following this, Mr. Sheridan then asked the Mayor to help him present a small gift to two students who, he said, did much of the background work for these two videos--Adam Cavanaugh and Steve Ferrardi.
Following this presentation, Mr. Sheridan filled the Council in on the many other anti-drug and alcohol activities of the Commission.
Councillor Delnicki questioned the information contained in a hand-out presented by the D&AP Commission particularly the results of a survey held in other Towns. Mr. Sheridan explained that the South Windsor High School had conducted a similar survey, on its own, and published the results in their newsletter, South Winds.
Councillor Williams mentioned another excellent program that is available to everyone on the Web Site and that was called Every 15 Minutes. She said that Manchester Hospital had just participated in this program with Manchester High School. She informed the Council that the whole community gets involved in this program; and the young people actually go to a morgue, to an area hospital, to the local Police Station and actually experience what happens if you are involved in an accident, etc.
Adding to this discussion, Mayor Lassman Fisher also mentioned a brochure called Teen Parties and the Law, She said that contained in this brochure were the appropriate Ordinances that apply to parties at young people s homes, and adult liability something, she felt, all parents should be aware of. The Mayor concluded by saying that anyone wishing to obtain this brochure should call the Town Hall and it would be sent out to them.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
Mr. Galligan reminded the Council that the Route 30 Interchange program will be starting this September; and DOT has redesigned the entranceway.
Referring to the Bid Award on tonight s Agenda for refuse collection. Saying that this was a very complicated contract, the Town Manager said he would be happy to discuss it more fully when Agenda Item 17. M. was reached.
Regarding Agenda Item 17. O. (re. the Development of Design Plans, etc. for a Possible $6,000,000 Referendum Question on the Implementation of a Portion of the Recreation Master Plan), Mr. Galligan said that the Town s financial advisor had prepared some information on a $6 million bond assuming that $6,000,000 was done all at once; however, in reality, some of the projects involved in the $6 million authorization would probably be done over a period of time.
The Town Manager said that the Town Council s Space Needs Committee has met a few times and the report regarding their findings would be made available to the Town Council on July 2.
As of today, Mr. Galligan said, the Plans for Evergreen Walk were filed with the Planning and Zoning Commission; and would be officially accepted on June 26, 2001, with scheduled Public Hearings set for sometime in September. The Town Manager suggested that Councillors take a look at these Plans, and felt they will be very happy with what is planned. He also reminded the Council that the Chamber, too, would be sponsoring a Breakfast on June 27, from 7:30 to 10:00 at the Community Center, at which the Developers of Evergreen Walk would be present to discuss the development with the business community.
Councillor Aman said that a few weeks ago, he had asked for information regarding the comparison of South Windsor for expenditures that we kept getting quoted that we ranked somewhere far over 100 in spending per student; however, we ranked around 39th in spending per resident. He continued to feel that these two statistics were very much at odds with each other. He asked if the Town Manager had looked into this.
Mr. Galligan said he had not had time to take a look at this; however, he had received the fiscal indicators which showed South Windsor at 140+ out of 169 which is a State report. He would continue to track down this information for the Councillor.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
On another matter, and referring back to a question posed by Councillor Burnham a couple of weeks ago regarding the mosquitoes on Main Street, Councillor Aman said he has received several calls regarding this same problem. Councillor Aman s reply to the callers was that Council had been told that spraying does no good. However, immediately following this discussion, the newspapers had headlined the fact that the Town of East Hartford was spraying along the Connecticut River. He asked that the Town s Health Director please explain for the residents sake why mosquito-spraying is good in East Hartford and not in South Windsor.
Quoting from a Press Release by the State Management Mosquito Program, Mr. Galligan said that what they seemed to be saying at the present time is that there is no threat or presence of West Nile Virus in East Hartford, at this time. The decision to spray in East Hartford is, apparently, a local decision however, the Connecticut Mosquito Program, he added, is not spraying nor does it recommend it.
Councillor Aman said he did not feel the main concern was regarding contracting the West Nile Virus but rather, the fact that people are complaining they can t go outside their house anymore it s so bad.
Mr. Galligan said he would have Dr. Gerald Schwartz come before Council once again at its Special Meeting on June 25. The Mayor added that she has been receiving the same calls regarding the situation with mosquitoes this year.
11. Reports from Standing Committees
12. Reports of Temporary Committees
13. Communications and Petitions from Council
The Mayor then informed the Council and listening public that the Town had made a proposal to the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund for installation and maintenance of a Fuel Cell at the South Windsor High School. This is big news for our Town, according to the Mayor, because the Town s purpose for seeking the installation of a fuel cell is to prepare the Town for an emergency response preparation for a disaster and in the event there is a power outage.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
Continuing, Mayor Lassman Fisher said this was a new concept for municipalities; and, as the public is aware, there is a company here in South Windsor International Fuel Cells, which is a leader in the manufacture of fuel cells. She felt it was a great feat for South Windsor to be a part of this program.
Communications have been made with the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund to get the ball rolling. This proposal has been studied for about a year; however, the thing that precipitated interest by the State was a Bill that was put forward by Senator Gary LeBeau a couple of months ago that called for installation of fuel cells in public schools.
The Mayor then introduced Sen. LeBeau who was present at this evening s Council meeting.
State Senator LeBeau said that one of his primary duties at the Legislature was to Chair the Commerce Committee. As such, he continued, one of the areas of cognizance he had included Connecticut Innovations, and other economic development areas. He pointed out that he has been interested in this area, and particularly fuel cell production as clean energy, and the associated development of jobs relating to that field, for a long time.
The Senator pointed out that, although there has been a tremendous growth at International Fuel Cells, there are two other fuel cell manufacturers in Connecticut. Senator LeBeau said that the Mayor, the Town Manager, and the Superintendent of Schools has been doing a tremendous amount of work on this project.
The installation of four (4) fuel cells, throughout the State hopefully from two different companies--was the original goal of the Commerce Committee according to Senator LeBeau. Secondly, he said, this Bill was combined with another Bill which includes tax incentives for fuel cell purchase. The Senator remarked that you would be looking at a $2 million Bill for the installation of a fuel cell, with a 6% Sales Tax of $120,000 in the private market. The Committee was trying to get the Sales Tax eliminated on the purchase and installation of this item. He felt this would give a boost to this entire industry; in, in this case, to International Fuel Cells.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
The Town was close enough to the prospects of receiving $2 million from the Clean Energy Fund to begin to look at what may be technical problems associated with the installation of a fuel cell at South Windsor High School. He expected, or least hoped, that the Clean Energy Fund would be able to make a final commitment at the end of the Legislative Session, or very soon thereafter.
In terms of the project, itself, according to Mayor Lassman Fisher, what it would involve would be the installation of a fuel cell which would operate as an emergency generator. The gain to the community in terms of promoting our local company (International Fuel Cells) is obvious however, the Mayor said, the gain to our students was not so obvious; and that the purpose of this package and plan is to incorporate an education program that will get our High School students involved with the fuel cell itself.
The Mayor then quoted from an article regarding this project written by Superintendent of Schools Joseph Wood in which he said that this is cutting edge technology and is consistent with what the goals of our High School students are--to keep them on top of science and technology and to get them in a position for a great future.
Mayor Lassman Fisher also pointed out another obvious benefit, and that is the significant number of dollars that could be saved in electricity at an estimated minimum of $79,000 a year in electric savings. She then asked if any of the Councillors had comments.
Councillor Williams said she felt this was wonderful. She noted to the Senator that e had broadened the scope from schools to other industry. She asked the Senator if he had an estimate as to when this would all take place 2, 5, or 10 years??
Mayor Lassman Fisher replied that the Plan being proposed, presently, is a 10-year Plan that the Town would install and maintain the fuel cell in South Windsor High School; and all the costs of installation and maintenance would be covered for 10 years.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
When asked by Councillor Williams what the plans were for the other fuel cells, Sen. LeBeau said they, too, may be installed in public schools that these facilities could certainly use the help. The Senator said that although other sources of clean energy were being looked at i.e., solar, wind, etc., the bulk of the Clean Energy Fund is slated toward the development, installation, and maintenance of fuel cells.
John Trocciola, International Fuel Cells, was next to speak. Saying that he and the Company were pleased to respond to this need, said that this project, in parlance, was a four bagger it would save the Town energy, provide emergency power, educate students and, potentially, provide an economic boost (via contracts) to a local company and taxpayer (International Fuel Cells).
Mr. Trocciola again emphasized that this will be a first in the Country, first in the world; and, although there are fuel cells in four schools around the Country, this will be first one that will provide energy to an emergency shelter.
Deputy Mayor Havens said that it seemed the whole discussion centered on providing energy to an emergency shelter. He asked why energy from the fuel cell could not be used full-time. Mr. Trocciola explained that the fuel cell runs all the time, but when the electric grid goes down, there s a switch you throw and it would power the critical parts of the building i.e., those areas in the school used primarily to house and feed emergency shelter occupants.
More comments and questions were forthcoming from the Council, after which the Councillors expressed their appreciate for all the work that had gone into bringing this project this far along; and for everyone s efforts in handling the work that remained to be done in the immediate future.
The Mayor promised that as soon as something definitive was learned from the State and, in particular, the Clean Energy Fund, she would report back to the Town Council and the Board of Education.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
On another item, Deputy Mayor Havens, too, brought up the subject of complaints from residents regarding the mosquito population. He, too, felt that very few residents were worried about the West Nile Virus but were, instead, concerned about the fact that they could not go out in their yards after dusk without getting bit any number of times. He asked the Town Manager to look into spraying and, if that was not possible, why not! Mr. Galligan said he would ask Dr. Gerald Schwartz to come before Council with a report on the situation.
Deputy Mayor Havens asked the Town Manager if he had, as requested, written a letter to the Board of Education asking them where they had come up with that sudden Surplus ? Mr. Galligan said that he had not, but had mentioned to Dr. Wood that it would be forthcoming.
The Deputy Mayor then asked that someone from the Council to step forward and act as Moderator for a South Windsor talk show on Town projects, etc. He alluded to other Towns that did this sort of thing; and continued to feel that South Windsor should select a forum to come forward and run a show for the Town. Mr. Galligan, responding to this request, said that the biggest problem was acquiring the equipment and the engineering for such an undertaking.
Continuing on this subject, the Town Manager said that Town staff has a Media Relations Committee; and the program the Deputy Mayor was speaking of, has already been set up and will be called Inside South Windsor. The Moderator for this program will be Director of Recreation Ray Favreau. At the moment, according to Mr. Galligan, people were being trained to work the cameras, use the facility, etc. Mr. Richard Boudreault, Adm. Assistant to the Director of Public Works, has already received the digital camera budget whereby the State will try to get the equipment at a discount price.
All this, the Town Manager said, has been going on for about a year. After that first program is run, he said, any Member of the Town Council or anyone in the community who is able to acquire a Producer, etc. can run a program. Mr. Galligan felt that the Towns do not use the TV enough. Once everyone is trained, Mr. Galligan said these programs will be conducted at the Cox Cable facility in Manchester.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
Councillor Fine then reminded the Town Manager of another practice that had been suggested some time ago that being the one whereby, on a regular basis, various Department Heads would come before Council at its meetings, to make an informational presentation on the functions of his or her Department. The Councillor felt that if the Council and members of the public knew, in advance, which Department would be appearing at the next Council Meeting, the residents could either be present, or could call or write in the questions associated with that Department to be addressed that evening.
Other suggestions were forthcoming regarding subjects that could be addressed either at a Council meeting, or in the course of the extra programming being considered.
Councillor Burnham reminded the Town Council of the Hartford Marathon coming up, once again, on October 13; and, as in the past, the Race route in South Windsor would include parts of King Street and all of Main Street, before returning to Hartford once again. He said that, as a resident of Main Street, he and other residents of that area had been invited to a meeting at which Beth Schluger, Race Director, was present.
According to Councillor Burnham, the purpose of the meeting was to address some of the issues the people on Main Street had with the Race particularly the time they closed the street to traffic i.e., 7:30 a.m. Remedies to this problem, and other concerns, were going to be addressed by the Hartford Marathon organization. The Councillor said he would keep the Council informed of the progress of the Marathon.
14. Public Participation - None
15. Consent Agenda
Motion to accept Agenda Items 17. A., B., C., and D., as the Consent Agenda.
Was made by: Councillor Delnicki
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was Approved, unanimously
ITEM:
16. Unfinished Business - None
17. New Business
*A. Acceptance of Suspense List
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council accepts the Suspense List as proposed and submitted by the Collector of Revenue, said List shown as Exhibit A., attached hereto and made a part hereof.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
*B. Resolution Authorizing the Close-Out and Transfer of Completed Capital Projects Within the Sewer Special Revenue Fund
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the close-out and transfer of two Sewer Special Revenue Fund completed Capital Projects; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the balance of $14,987 for the Pollution Main Pump Control project (Account Number 004-4000-4043-320), and the balance of $14,274 for the Above-Ground Tanks at the Pump Stations Project (Account Number 004-4200-4427-320) should be closed and transferred to the Sewer Special Revenue Reserve for Capital Projects (Account Number 004-4600-4699-320).
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
*C. Resolution Approving a Transfer of $2,400 from Casualty and Liability Insurance Account to the Economic Development Coordinator s Professional Account
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the transfer of $2,400 from the Casualty and Liability Insurance Account Number 1920-9004-320 to the Economic Development Coordinator s Professional Account Number 1146-1460-320 to pay professional fees for economic development services through June 30, 2001.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
*D. Resolution Authorizing the Transfer of $800 from the Casualty and Liability Insurance Account to the Debt Service Interest Account
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the transfer of $800 from the Casualty and Liability Insurance Account Number 1920-9004-320 to the Debt Service Interest Account Number 1710-7003-320 to cover the interest expense on bonded debt through June 30, 2001.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
E. Resolution Approving Refund of Property Taxes to Two (2) South Windsor Taxpayers
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves a refund of property taxes to two (2) South Windsor taxpayers, the total of said refunds being $240.89, and as shown on attached Exhibit B.
Was made by: Councillor Burnham
Seconded by: Councillor Aman
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
F. Resolution Approving a Transfer of $14,845.30 to Cover the Town s Share of the Purchase of One (1) Twenty-Passenger Van
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the transfer of $4,023.00 from the Human Services Mini-Bus Account Number 1421-4240-000 and $10,822.30 from the Casualty and Liability Insurance Account Number 1920-9004-320 to the Capital Projects Fund; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the payment of $14,845.30 from the Capital Projects Fund to the Greater Hartford Transit District as the Town s share of the purchase of one twenty-passenger lift-equipped van to be used for the transportation of the elderly and persons with disabilities.
Was made by: Councillor Williams
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
ITEM:
17. F. (Continued)
Before calling for a vote on this Agenda Item, Deputy Mayor Havens asked if this was the end of the present contract with GHTD for these buses; and, if so, was anyone on Town staff looking to the prospects of a new future contract.
Town Manager Galligan felt that there will be strong feelings to bring this program back, particularly if the lack of updated transportation affected local Senior programs.
Councillor Aman asked why these funds were not being transferred into Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditures Account. Mr. Galligan explained.
The Deputy Mayor then called for a vote. The Resolution was approved, unanimously.
G. Resolution Accepting the Resignation of Karen Gano (D) from the South Windsor Historic Commission
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council accepts, with regret, the resignation of Karen Gano as an Alternate to the South Windsor Historic Commission, said resignation effective immediately; and offers Karen its thanks for her service to the Town..
Was made by: Councillor Williams
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
H. Resolution Accepting the Resignation of Peter Plummer (R) from the South Windsor Library Board
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council accepts, with regret, the resignation of Peter Plummer from the Library Board, said resignation effective immediately, and offers Peter its thanks for his years of service to the Town of South Windsor.
Was made by: Councillor Streeter
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
I. Resolution Appointing Amanda Lisowski (R) to the Library Board, and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council appoints Amanda Lisowski (R) to the Library Board for a term expiring November 30, 2003, to fill the unexpired term of Peter Plummer, and hereby tables the same.
Was made by: Councillor Streeter
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
J. Resolution Approving the Agreement Between the Town of South Windsor and the South Windsor Police Union, Local 1480
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the proposed Agreement Between the Town of South Windsor and the South Windsor Police Union, Local 1480, and Council 15, AFSCME, AFL-CIO, for the period July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2006.
Was made by: Deputy Mayor Havens
Seconded by: Councillor Delnicki
Explaining very briefly, the Town Manager said that, basically, it is a 5-year contract; and much in the language has been cleaned up. Continuing he said that Officers and Agents, effective 2001 will get 3%; 2002, 3%, effective 2003, 2-1/2%, effective 2004, 2-1/2%, and 2005 a 0 percent increase in pay. Sergeants, he said, in the same years will be a 3-1/2% across the board until the 5th year when they will receive a 0 percent increase in pay.
Referring to other issues related to this bargaining unit contract, Mr. Galligan said that as Council knew, overtime has been a controversial issue; and the Police Union has agreed to sit down with him and Chief Tyler and look at various new scheduled coming out of other Police Departments to see if the overtime costs by doing overlapping shifts, etc. Mr. Galligan said that, eventually, one additional officer may be needed to help reduce this overtime.
ITEM:
17. J. (Continued)
Another item addressed by this contract is that the carry over of comp time will be reduced from 80 hours to 40 hours therefore, it will be a more pay as you go system because there always seems to be a crunch in the last three months of the year when people try to use up their booked time. By getting away from that crunch it may help to reduce, once again, some impacts on the overtime issue.
Mr. Galligan continued by saying that other language changes were being looked at which should assist the Chief in things such as promotions, and have a system for a Patrolman to be Agent; for Agent to be Sergeant, etc. One of the proposals, he said is that if the Town was going to start promoting people from Agent to Sergeant, the Town would require these people to continue their college education; and, if not, they will be demoted back.
The Town Manager continued to discuss other changes.
Following the discussion regarding this item, Mayor Lassman Fisher called for a vote. The Motion was unanimously approved.
K. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Sign a Reimbursable and Maintenance Agreement with the State of Connecticut
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council is hereby authorized to sign an Agreement with the State of Connecticut entitled Reimbursable and Maintenance Agreement Between the State of Connecticut and the Town of South Windsor for Construction and Inspection of the Gateway Component for the Realignment of Route 30 at U.S. 5.
Was made by: Councillor Fine
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
L. Resolution Authorizing the Close-Out and Transfer of Completed Capital Projects
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby approves the close-out and transfer of all completed Capital Projects as outlined on the attached Exhibit C.
Was made by: Councillor Fine
Seconded by: Councillor Streeter
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
M. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Execute an Agreement with Waste Management of Connecticut, Inc. for a Three-Year Contract
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor solicited competitive proposals for Residential Refuse and Recycling Collection/Disposal Services; and
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor received, on May 14, 2001, a single proposal from Waste Management of Connecticut, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, the Town has determined that Waste Management of Connecticut, Inc. is a qualified contractor
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby authorizes Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan to execute an Agreement with Waste Management of Connecticut, Inc. for a three-year contract based upon the proposal submitted.
Was made by: Councillor Pelkey
Seconded by: Councillor Fine
After some discussion on this item, the Resolution was approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
N. Discussion Item Proposed Resolution Authorizing Funds for Design Plans and Preparation of Documents Necessary to Develop a Possible Referendum Question on Implementation of a Portion of the South Windsor Recreation Master Plan
Mayor Lassman Fisher asked Councillor Aman to commence the discussion on this item, since it had been he who had requested its consideration.
Councillor Aman first asked the Town Attorney if he would, during this discussion period, write an Amendment to the Resolution that would be coming up as 17. O. He then described specifically what he wished to be amended.
On the subject itself, Councillor Aman said that he would like to see the Town go to Referendum, this Fall, for a bond issue to start implementing the Park and Recreation Master Plan. To do this, he said, particularly in a municipal election year, would require in his opinion a unanimous Council to take a look at the prospects of having a Referendum Question and determine that this is not a political issue this is an issue for the good of the Town.
Councillor Aman felt that the questions Council had to ask itself were: (1) Do we want to try to make a Referendum this November? He was aware that, traditionally, Referendums have passed better in Gubernatorial Election Years and Presidential Election Years; but, again, he said he had confidence in this Council that the reason Referendums have died in municipal years is because it became a political issue between the two parties.
Again, the Councillor reiterated his feelings that if there is the possibility this possible Referendum Question could become a political issue between the two parties, it should absolutely not bring it to Referendum.
Outlining what he felt was the timeframe that had to be met in order to bring these projects to Referendum, Councillor Aman said Council would probably have to meet several times during the Summer, because Council would be required to vote in August to review the plans and legal work done in preparation for a
ITEM:
17. N. (Continued)
Referendum. He also felt that, in general, the Council has to be convinced that each can get its political party not only to support this proposal and a possible Referendum, but to support it enthusiastically.
Referring to the numbers he had used, Councillor Aman said that the $6 million figure was arrived at by looking at the upcoming Capital Projects Budget, and determining that in his estimation the Town could probably afford somewhere between $5 million and $7 million and that $6 million would be a reasonable amount to take to the public. He said he also looked at what he felt were the less controversial projects things that he felt would receive more public acceptance that is why, he said, the Priest property is not on the list.
Also not included on the list is an indoor pool. As in the case of the Priest property, Councillor Aman felt that either of these two items could spell the defeat of the Referendum Question were they a part of it.
Explaining that he understood that $6 million would accomplish only a part of what had been proposed, and that some of the work would be done through the Town s normal Capital Projects Account however, he felt that this proposal would be a good start.
Councillor Aman said what he was asking in the actual Resolution and the bonding for the Bonding Counsel and the plans is that they be as general as possible when written up yet still providing the public with a very clear idea of what the Town could be doing with the monies appropriated.
The Councillor guessed that although the Master Plan contained estimated costs, those numbers were already two years old, and noted that the bids for Manchester s ballfields came in almost 100% over engineering estimates; and Ellington s bids for the same, again almost 100% over the estimate.
Continuing, Councillor Aman believed that our planning people should be able to come back to Council before the 1st of August with a reasonable updated estimate of what could be done with $6 million. However, he felt the primary question the Council must answer is Do we feel that this Fall is the right time to go ahead with a Six Million Dollar Referendum Question; and, regarding same, was looking for unanimous approval from the Council and to hear what the other Councillors views were.
ITEM:
17. N. (Continued)
Councillor Fine said she did not understand why the Town had to spend $50,000 designing Plans, when she was under the impression that all of this was done in the Master Plan.
Mr. Galligan replied that the Master Plan includes estimates; and, if these projects are approved, more specific plans and details would have to be forthcoming.
Councillor Fine asked for clarification with regard to the purpose of the upcoming Resolution was it to expend the funds to get ready for a Referendum? Or, was it now to be a Resolution authorizing a Public Hearing? Mr. Galligan explained that because the monies that would cover these design plans and the preparation of the necessary legal documents, etc. have been transferred into Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditures Account, a Public Hearing is required in order to remove these funds and use them for the purposes stated.
As a point of clarification Councillor Aman stated that the Resolution tonight will be setting a time and place for a Public Hearing; and that is all the Resolution will be saying. However, he continued by saying that he fully expected that by the July 2 Town Council meeting (the night of the Public Hearing) the Town Attorney and the Town Manager will also have prepared a Resolution for that Council will pass, after the Public Hearing, authorizing the Town Manager to spend money to go ahead and start developing the Plan.
Councillor Aman again reminded the Council that they were beginning to run out of time. Councillor Fine said that, historically, Council has chosen not to vote on something on the same night that the proposal is heard in Public Hearing. Councillor Aman said this would mean that the vote authorizing the Town Manager to go ahead with the design plans, etc. would have to be delayed
The crucial date was determined by Councillor Aman to be September 4, 2001. Mr. Galligan suggested that the Resolution be placed on the July 2 Agenda, and listen to the public. If, he said, there is strong support for it, the Resolution could always be tabled. Another suggestion from the Town Manager was that Vollmer Associates has already done most of the work on this Master Plan; and, in order to expedite the proceedings, Mr. Galligan said he would look into contracting with them to continue with the more final designs and contract documents. He concluded by saying he needed direction from the Council.
ITEM:
17. N. (Continued)
Councillor Streeter thanked Councillor Aman for bringing this item forward, and felt it was an opportunity for the entire Council to take a positive step forward for the Plan Council had accepted. He felt that, before the present Council s terms expired, it should seriously consider this Plan and its implementation. He pointed out that the Allen Report, a previous Recreation Plan done a number of years ago, had languished on the shelves and was never acted upon.
The Councillor felt that the Council now had the opportunity to take some action on the new Master Plan. He, too, felt this proposal should be non-political.
Councillor Williams, too, thanked Councillor Aman for bringing this forward; but felt that this was, as she saw it, the natural progression of these projects from the Capital Projects Committee. It was her opinion that the commitment from Council was there.
Councillor Burnham asked the Town Manager if this was approved at a November Referendum, when would the residents begin to see the impact of the $6 million.
Mr. Galligan replied that the Town would probably bond in January because that has usually been favorable after the year-end. He did not feel that the whole $6 million would be done immediately that Lawrence Road, alone, is a $3 million project.
Councillor Pelkey said it was obvious to him, and he assumed most people who kept an eye on world finances, that money is dirt cheap. And, if there was ever a time to borrow money to do a project, he felt this was the time; and, if the Town was looking at a 10-year project, it was probably looking at the best rates ever seen. If the Town were to delay even one or two years from now, Councillor Pelkey felt those rates would very well go up.
The only question Councillor Pelkey had was would Council be comfortable with only $75,000 when it did not know what projects it would be putting forth.
(Further discussion continued regarding bonding, interest rates, and the fact that the Park and Recreation Master Plan suggested specific timetables for specific projects; and, although some deviation from the order suggested was to be expected perhaps in this case the deviation was too much.)
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
O. Resolution Authorizing Funds for Design Plans and Preparation of Documents Necessary to Develop a Possible Referendum Question on Implementation of a Portion of the South Windsor Park and Recreation Master Plan
WHEREAS, the Town Council adopted a Park and Recreation Master Plan for the Town of South Windsor on April 2, 2001; and
WHEREAS, the South Windsor Town Council wishes to commence the implementation of a portion of those projects listed in said Plan namely
1. Lawrence Road Park Complete Plan $3,111,000
2. Veterans Memorial Park Complete Plan 1,005,100
3. Rye Street Park Partial Plan 501,000
4. Nevers Road Park Partial Plan 382,900
5. Miscellaneous and Cost of Referendum - 1,000,000
for an estimated total of $6,000,000 and,
WHEREAS, a possible method to fund said projects is through the issuance of bonds, if said method is approved, by Referendum Question on the November 6, 2001 Ballot.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby authorizes Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan to appropriate an amount not to exceed $75,000 to cover expenses associated with design plans, and legal and other expenses incurred with the implementation of the above-listed projects; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that said funds shall be expended from the Capital Improvements Park Improvements Account.
Was made by: Councillor Aman
Seconded by: Councillor Delnicki
17. O. (Continued)
(As requested previously by Councillor Aman, Town Attorney Guliano suggested the following Amendments to the Resolution 17. O.)
WHEREAS, the Town Council adopted a Park and Recreation Master Plan for the Town of South Windsor on April 2, 2001; and
(Remove 2nd Paragraph in its entirety, and replace it with the following.)
WHEREAS, the South Windsor Town Council wishes to commence the implementation of a portion of those projects listed in said Plan for an estimated expenditure of $6,000,000; and
WHEREAS, a possible method to fund said projects is through the issuance of bonds, if said method is approved, by Referendum Question, on the November 6, 2001 Ballot
(Remove paragraphs 4 and 5 in their entirety and replace them with the following.)
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that a Public Hearing be scheduled for Monday, July 2, 2001, at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the South Windsor Town Hall, 1540 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor to receive citizen input on the transfer of up to $75,000 from the Town s Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditures Account to an appropriate account to cover expenses associated with design plans, and legal and other expenses incurred for such a Referendum and the implementation of said projects.
Was made by: Councillor Aman
Seconded by: Councillor Delnicki
There was a brief discussion wherein Councillor Fine said she wished to amend the Amendment by inserting in the second paragraph, after the words listed in said Plan, the words in accordance with the timeline of the Master Plan Committee and the Park and Recreation Committee. . However, after further discussion, Councillor Fine withdrew her request.
17. O. (Continued)
The Mayor then called for a vote on the Amendment. The Amendment was approved, unanimously.
Following this, the Mayor called for a vote on the Amended Resolution. It was approved, unanimously.
18. Passage of Ordinance - None
19. Communications and Petitions from Council (Continued)
20. Executive Session - None
21. Motion to Adjourn
A Motion to adjourn was made at 11:15 p.m.; duly seconded, and unanimously approved.
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia R. Brown
Clerk of the Council
Attmts.
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