Board of Selectmen -1- November 16, 2004
TOWN OF EAST WINDSOR
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
I.~~~~~~TIME AND PLACE OF MEETING
Mrs. Roberts called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. at the East Windsor Town Hall.
II.~~~~~ATTENDANCE
SELECTMEN PRESENT:
Linda Roberts, First Selectman
Kenneth Crouch, Deputy First Selectman
Michael Balf, Selectman
Thomas Sinsigallo, Selectman
SELECTMEN UNABLE TO ATTEND
Al Regina, Selectmen (scheduled)
III. ADDED AGENDA ITEMS
MOTION: To add the following item to the agenda under Board and Commission resignations: Richard Demirgian, Building Committee
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED
IV. PREVIOUS MINUTES
a. Regular meeting minutes of October 19, 2004.
MOTION: To accept the regular meeting minutes of October 19, 2004, as submitted
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Balf.
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED
V. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION – None
VI. COMMUNICATIONS –
For the Board’s Information:
a. Thank you from Board of Education;
b. Thank you from Officer Marisol Flores/East Windsor Police Explorer;
c. Acknowledge from VNA;
d. Certificate of Appreciation from North Central Conservation District;
e. Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Approval;
f. Secretary of the State’s fourth annual Public Service Awards Ceremony;
g. The Attorney General/Investigation of potential illegal practices in insurance and insurance brokerage industry.
VII. SELECTMEN REPORTS –
No reports – suspended due to extensive agenda
A. L. Roberts, First Selectman
B. K. Crouch, Deputy First Selectman
C. A. Regina, Selectman
D. Tom Sinsigallo, Selectman
E. M. Balf, Selectman
MOTION: To go out of Order to New Business, Item D. East Windsor Ambulance re: request for added appropriation
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
Unfinished Business – Item D:
EAST WINDSOR AMBULANCE REQUEST FOR ADDED APPROPRIATION
Guy Henry, Assistant Chief of the Ambulance came before the Board and made a presentation and provided Specs for a new ambulance. He provided the quote they were looking to accept from AEV, who had a firm bid. He further detailed the new ambulance and its various components. As requested he did seek information on demo ambulances for sale, the one that he found is $20,000 more than the one they are seeking. The cost of the ambulance three years ago was $97,000, the current quote is $108,000±.
Discussions took place about the chassey on the current ambulance being used again, Mr. Henry will investigate this scenario and report back to the selectmen with more information in that regard. He will also provide comparison bids (three) for the Board to review.
When asked what the Association’s contingency plan is should this request not come to fruition, Mr. Henry outlined the Association would fund this itself and somehow make it work.
MOTION: To table this item to a future meeting
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION: To stay out of Order to New Business, Item A. CIRMA Presentation
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS. ITEM A. CIRMA PRESENTATION
Four gentlemen, specifically the Vice President of Claims, Of Counsel from Pomeranz, Drayton and Stabnick, a Senior Underwriter and a Special Investigator/Educator from CIRMA came before the Board and introduced themselves, gave their backgrounds and made a collective, detailed presentation to the room at large regarding the insurance programs for the Town of East Windsor for Firefighters.
They presented CIRMA’s history from the inception to now, financial status and workings, as well as day to day operations. Throughout the extensive discussions, handouts and back-up were provided to all. Specific information on the Connecticut State Statutes that regulate the acceptance and/or denial of volunteer firefighter claims were outlined, as well as the different packages available to municipalities. The coverage process is the same for all, as it is statute driven. It was suggested that these CIRMA individuals can come back at least once a year for a scheduled presentation to update and/or inform new members and department heads of the insurance parameters.
The definition of an active volunteer firefighter as defined by statute was discussed. Several questions were fielded regarding who is considered an “active” firefighter, including concerns about retired but active volunteers, junior members, and even police explorers. It was stated the fire departments need to keep an current roster (every three months) for the eligibility purposes of potential claims.
Individuals have one year to make a claim, CIRMA then has 28 days to accept or deny the claim. “Portal to portal” was defined and explained. It was stressed that the Workers’ Compensation Commissioner makes the determination of who qualifies and considers each case on a case by case basis, with the facts of each specific case being weighed. The scenario of pre-existing medical conditions and the need for additional information extending beyond the 28 days CIRMA has to decide and how that process works was discussed as well.
Claims can be made at 1-800-OKCIRMA. The first notice initiates the claim, then an adjuster is assigned to investigate the claim. Nurse managers are also on staff.
Compensation is based on yearly earnings, self employment salary figures into your yearly earnings if you pay into a workers’ compensation policy, firefighters who collected social security and rules that apply to them were discussed as well. Compensation is based on Average Production wage and filing status was discussed. As of October 1, the amount was $754 weekly. Workers Compensation is not to make things better than they were, but to make things whole.
MOTION: To stay out of Order to New Business, Item I. Appointment of Town Historian
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS. ITEM I. APPOINTMENT OF TOWN HISTORIAN
Mr. Butenkoff came before the board and outlined the nomination of Michael Hunt for Town Historian.
MOTION (as amended) To appoint Michael S. Hunt as Town Historian and to draft a resolution to that effect to be signed by the First Selectman.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION: To stay out of Order to New Business, Item F. Warehouse Point Library re: repairs.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS, ITEM F. WAREHOUSE POINT LIBRARY REPAIRS
Four members of the Library Association came before the Board of Selectmen.
Discussed first was the need for a five member committee (2 BOS, 2 Library Association, 1 BOF) to report back to the selectmen with the status of the library, its financial situation and town status as an agency, as well as possible scenarios the Town can look into to remedy the current hardships the Library is fielding.
The CIP’s struggle with the Library’s request was discussed as well, as the library is not a town owned property/building. The CIP Committee is slated to discuss this at future meetings.
Secondly, the bid for the roof replacement and all that entails was presented to the Board. The members were asked what their contingency plan was should the request not go through. They indicated they have a small non recurring capital expenditure account of $35,000 but the outlined what other projects they are planning on using that money for.
MOTION: To recommend to the Board of Finance an added appropriation of $19,402 to the Warehouse Point Library Line for emergency roof replacement.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Balf
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION: To appoint a five member Committee to investigate the alternatives to the Warehouse Point Library’s maintenance/independence, to report back to the Board of Selectmen with a recommendation at the first meeting in February, 2005.
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
Discussion: The first member on this Committee from the Board of Selectmen will be Mr. Balf. Ms. Roberts will check with Mr. Regina as to his interest to serve on this committee, if Mr. Regina declines, Mr. Sinsigallo agreed to be the second member.
MOTION: To stay out of Order to New Business:
Item B. Discussion of Town Agencies – BBFD; and
Item C. BBFD request for added appropriation
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS. ITEM B. DISCUSSION OF TOWN AGENCIES
BROAD BROOK VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Chief Cal Myers, and Captains Pippin and Madigan came before the Board to outlined the Broad Brook Fire Department and their main function which is to provide the town with fire fighting and rescue services to save life and property. They also add to a sense of community through volunteerism, patriotism and community involvement. The history of the department was detailed, from its establishment in 1886, and independence and then on to full Town funding.
The Board was provided with back up of the department’s personnel/roster, corporation papers, insurance paperwork, bylaws and budget. The department’s budget was discussed, as well as that portion which serves the Senior Center, specifically heat and electricity costs. The Board suggested this item be brought to the Finance Board’s attention at budget time.
The five year forecast was full of observations of a changing world and the amount of volunteerism that can be expected, but the department has good leadership and a young membership. Potential future problems include day time response, space and maintenance of aging station, and a potential second driveway to allow Senior Center activities to come and go separately from fire personnel. Also with the increase in build out for the Town, an increase in fire services will be needed.
ITEM C. BROAD BROOK FIRE DEPARTMENT RE: REQUEST FOR ADDED APPROPRIATION
The immediate service and a quote for same for the 1986 Rescue 139 was discussed with the Board. When asked what the contingency plan was if the monies are not approved, the Chief indicated the department has a general repair line, which can be used, but using it means running out of money in that line now or in June.
MOTION: To recommend to the Board of Finance an added appropriation of $8,000 to the Broad Brook Fire Department for repairs to Rescue truck 139.
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.~
MOTION: To stay out of Order to New Business: Item E. Ordinance Regulating Alarm Systems
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS. ITEM E. ORDINANCE REGULATING ALARM SYSTEMS
Chief DeMarco and Richard Sherman of the Police Commission came before the Board and detailed the draft ordinance. Last year there were 910 alarm system responses by the Department, 10 of which were a true emergency. There are repeat violators who do not respond to the Departments request to fix the systems. This scenario presents a nuisance to neighbors and safety issues for police personnel. The suggested ordinance will decrease the amount of alarm system malfunctions while increasing safety and making for responsible alarm users.
The specifics as to fees and fines, administration, computer equipment, various alarm systems, monitoring, registration and renewal, grace periods, all of which are defined in the draft ordinance, were over viewed for the Board. This ordinance was drafted mirroring other surrounding Town ordinances addressing similar issues. This ordinance lays blame where it is appropriate, including the Alarm companies into the equation.
The Alarm Administrator for the P.D. will also meet with various agencies, for example, the Board of Education, to discuss the alarm systems and management of same. Alarms in Town are currently not registered. As alarm systems in homes are a growing trend, registering these systems brings current, vital information into the Department, which is used when responding to alarm activity.
Chief DeMarco indicated it is up to the Boards of Finance and/or Selectmen where the funds collected through this ordinance will be distributed. It was suggested they could go to fund the management of this system, or into building security for the P.D. The ordinance will be forwarded to the Town Attorney. Selectmen were asked to review this ordinance as it falls within the Board’s jurisdiction.
MOTION: To return to agenda order.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
VIII. BOARD AND COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS
a. Vacancies:
American Heritage River Commission (three reg. R term to expire 11/01/04, one four year term, four alternates, 4 year terms)
Cable Television (one reg. R, 2-yr. term to expire 06/30/03) To fill vacancy
Central Region Tourism District – One regular, vacancy to be filled, three year term expiring 10/01/06
Conservation Commission (one alt. R & U, term to expire 01/01/04)
Municipal Building Code Board of Appeals (five regular members)
Property Maintenance Code Bd of Appeals (One Reg. R or U, 4 yr term)
b. Resignations
Parks and Recreation Direction, Donna Winn - FYI, no action by Board
BUILDING COMMITTEE
MOTION: To accept, with regret, the resignation of Richard Demirgian from the Building Committee
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
c. Re-Appointments
ELDERLY COMMISSION
MOTION: To re-appoint Claire Badstubner to the Elderly Commission for a four year term to expire December 1, 2008.
Made by Mr. Balf, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
d. New appointments, Applicants to be considered:
CENTRAL REGIONAL TOURISM DISTRICT
MOTION: To appoint James C. Richards as representative to the Central Regional Tourism District, for a three year term, expiring 10/01/06.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
IX. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. *Employee Handbook
b. Charter Revision (Organizational meeting of Charter Revision to take place January 6 at 7:30 at Town Hall.)
c. *Property located at 47 Woolam Road (waiting response from Park and Recreation Commission)
d. *Code of Ethics revised Ordinance (waiting for Town Attorney)
e. *Refuse Ordinance (waiting for Town Attorney)
f. *Historical Commission re: Report of Progress to date
X. NEW BUSINESS
A. CIRMA Presentation – previously addressed above
B. Discussion of Town Agencies: BBFD - previously addressed above
C. BBFD request for added appropriations – previously addressed above
D. East Windsor Ambulance Association – request for added appropriation – previously addressed above
E. Ordinance Regulating Alarm Systems – previously addressed above
F. Warehouse Point Library re: repairs – previously addressed above
G. 2004 Plan of Conservation and Development
Ms. Roberts outlined the Plan’s suggestions to split the Inland Wetland Conservation Commission into two agencies, a conservation commission and an wetland commission. The Farmland Preservation group would be part conservation part – this will be an item at the first December meeting. The Town attorney is looking into the possibilities of doing this split prior to charter revision.
H. Resolution for Home Land Security Funding
MOTION: To send the 2004 Homeland Security Grant Resolution, Memo of Understanding and Exhibits A, B and C (all attached hereto) to Town Meeting, date to be selected by the First Selectman.
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED
I. Appointment of Town Historian – previously addressed above
J. Holiday Hours
MOTION: To close at 4:30 p.m. on December 23, 2004, and to be closed December 24, 2004~and December 31, 2004.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Balf
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
K. Set Board of Selectmen’s meeting dates and times for year 2005
By consensus, the Board of Selectmen will continue to meet on the first and third Tuesday of every month at 7:30 at the Town Hall.
L. Tax Refunds
MOTION: To approve the tax refunds in the amount of $7454.17 as recommended by the Tax Collector.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo and seconded by Mr. Balf
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
XI. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: To adjourn at 10:15 p.m.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Balf.
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
* Starred items were not discussed, but will remain on the agenda pending receipt of additional information.
Respectfully submitted,
Cynthia D. Croxford
Recording Secretary
| 
