I. TIME AND PLACE OF MEETING
Tuesday, October 2, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. at the East Windsor Town Hall
II. ATTENDANCE
Edward Filipone, First Selectman
Kenneth Crouch, Deputy First Selectman
Thomas Sinsigallo, Selectman
Gil Hayes, Selectman
Mark Simmons, Selectman
III. ADDED AGENDA ITEMS
MOTION: To add to Communications, Item C – Correspondence from Board of Finance/John Matthews and Item D – Correspondence regarding September 19, 2007 Board of Finance Minutes.
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Simmons
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION: To add to New Business, Item G – Update on Girl Scouts Proposed Ice Rink.
Made by Mr. Simmons, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
IV. PREVIOUS MINUTES
A. Regular Meeting Minutes of September 4, 2007
MOTION: To accept the regular meeting minutes of September 4, 2007, as submitted.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Hayes
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
V. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
MICHAEL BALF – 45 DEAN AVENUE
Mr. Balf of the Warehouse Point Fire Department has an issue with the situation with the Cemetery Association. As requested the Department wrote a letter to the Cemetery Association requesting the Fire Department Flags be put back – these were removed two weeks after Memorial Day and here it is almost Columbus Day. This situation is a shame. At the cemetery at Springdale it has been documented for 45 years, but could be as many as 60 years, that this tradition has taken place. The Cemetery Association is out of control and they made an arbitrary decision. What they did against the Veterans was against the law, so at least those got back. He felt a resignation should be asked for.
LOUIS FLYNN, ESQ. 17 SPRING STREET
Attorney Flynn was addressing the same issue as Mr. Balf. He has made several inquiries. State law prohibits destruction of Veterans flags at graves. WHPFD has spent their own money for 45-60 years to honor firefighters. It is no more than the American Legion does. The Town owes that much to its firefighters – who are up at 2:00 a.m. to help put fires out. A flag is put out on Memorial Day – it is not a day for good sales for shopping or car shopping. There is an impact with the Cemetery Association’s actions and the Board of Selectmen should act. The Board should know there is a gross underlying problem. The person who did this was in the fire department and there is bad blood. These items are $40 a piece – these actions are disrespectful
and hurtful. The letter from Burnham to the WHPFD (copy given to the Board at the meeting) basically states tough they cannot do anything. The Board of Selectmen should approach the matter – if it costs money – then appropriate the money for mowing. It is sacrilege for this to occur. It is a nice tradition on Memorial Day. He urged the Selectmen to take a hard look at this before it gets any nastier. To draw a line in the sand like this makes people angry. The Board should take intermediary steps before this gets out of control. There is a need to preserve this good tradition.
DEAN SAUCIER, 193 MAIN STREET
Mr. Saucier introduced himself as a Fire Commissioner with the Warehouse Point Fire Department. At the risk of echoing what has already been said – he needed to reiterate points made by Mr. Balf and Attorney Flynn. Many firefighters get up at 2:00 a.m. – they are out there saving lives. Fortunately this Town has not lost any firefighter directly in the line of duty, but we do not know how many died later in life as a result of cancer or cardiovascular issues which arose from fighting fires. He asks the Board to intervene on the behalf of the WHPFD and Warehouse Point Fire District with the Cemetery Association. It cannot cost that much to mow around the flags. These flags are placed adjacent to the American Flag, which is respectfully appropriate. It is an abomination
this has not been resolved. There is no legislation for this at this time, but the current congressman support the cause and hopefully a bill will be introduced addressing this issue. Mr. Filipone asked if these were American Flags? Mr. Saucier indicated these are fire department flags, which have been placed on the graves of firefighters for 45 to 60 years. Each year the flag is replaced with a new one – they are in a bronze holder. The holders are getting expensive. These are people who have served the Town, it is not a fraternal organization. These flags are put out every Memorial Day at most cemeteries. The firefighters stop at the grave, pay respects and replace the flag. The American Flag is taken care of by the Veterans or American Legion – the fire department does the same.
Mr. Balf interjected that two are deceased in St. Mary’s in Windsor Locks and 2 in St. Catherine’s and there is no problem at these cemeteries with the WHPFD flags.
There are a total of 32 flags in Springdale. BBFD does the same, but they are mostly located in St. Catherine’s Cemetery, so there is no issue with the Cemetery Association. The WHPFD knows exactly where these graves are.
WILLIAM LOOS, MELROSE ROAD
He is a 52 year member of the Broad Brook Fire Department. The Fire Department used to pay for the American Flags, before the Veterans Commission took over. Broad Brook did flags on the Broad Brook side and Warehouse Point on the Warehouse Point side. It used to cost $500 for flags and wreaths. Back then the fire department made sure the fire department and veterans were honored.
ROBERT LYKE, RYE STREET
He is speaking for himself, he has real concern – after reading an article – about the contract process for the police chief. Also in reading an internet letter and delving into a lot of concerns with the process of contracts with town officials – there are concerns. There are many stories. He asks the Board of Selectmen to take charge and act. He hopes they will do so with open minds. He sees nothing on tonight’s agenda regarding this, but he notes there are two meetings to be canceled. If it is in the best interest of the towns’ people, he asks that the Selectmen call a special meeting.
MOTION: To go out of agenda order to New Business, Item A.
Made by Mr. Hayes, seconded by Mr. Simons
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
A. Jim DeRagon/Smart Board Discussion and Demo
Mr. DeRagon presented the Smart Board and gave a demonstration. He indicated the Board of Education is using these, it prevents several people huddling over information and a computer. It is a direct connect computer, that is touch sensitive. Power point presentations can be done. Mr. DeRagon did several demonstrations on an overview of functions and how to use the Board, including the interactive notebook function, the access to email directly and recording features. He also fielded many inquires as to the cost of the Board, not only for Town Hall, but also for the schools. The 77” smart board is $1100. The total cost, including smart board, projector and computer is $2500. There will be training in house on how to use the board. He also outlined
different features expected in the future, including the ability to do web presentations. Also members of public can do presentations using a thumb drive or CD. Eventually the CAMA system can be loaded and the anticipated GIS system can be used. The Police Department is using a smart board for roll calls now. The maintenance for the smart board is basically replacing the light bulb. Replacement is done by the IT Committee members. The possibility of an intra-red remote was discussed as well. The security measures, including a lock box were discussed.
MOTION: To return to agenda order
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Simmons
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
VI. COMMUNICATIONS The following were for the Board’s information
A. Correspondence from DECD
B. Connecticut Labor Force Data/July 2007
C. Correspondence from Board of Finance/John Matthews
D. Correspondence regarding September 19, 2007 Board of Finance Minutes
MOTION: TO TABLE DISCUSSION ON COMMUNICATIONS ITEMS C & D. Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Hayes
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
VII. SELECTMEN’S REPORTS
A. Edward Filipone, First Selectman
· The abandoned right of way at Prospect Hill Drive is up for discussion. There is a neighbor interested in buying it. The Fire Department is not interested in it. The PZC has referred it to the Board of Selectmen as they have no interest and it could be put up for sale. The Assessor has it on the books at $1000. It was suggested as this is disposing of Town Property it should be an agenda item.
· PZC applications are slow – there are no applications for subdivisions. On October 1 the new regulations were in effect.
· Housing permits are a little below last year. The building department has processed applications for $100,000 revenue the first quarter, which is 43 ½ % of the annual projection. There is a lot from Mansions on the Scantic.
· There is a vocal agreement with an individual to fill the ZEO position. The position should be filled in 2 to 4 weeks.
B. Kenneth Crouch, Deputy First Selectman
· Elderly Commission – They will be making a $100,000 CIP request for five years for upgrades to the Senior Center. Also the Independent Transportation Network (INT) is an initiative being pursued by many towns. There are state grants attached as well. This will be here in March, 2008.
· Veteran’s Commission made a $5,000 donation to the American Legion for a new roof.
C. Thomas Sinsigallo, Selectman – No report.
D. Gilbert Hayes, Selectman
· Playground Committee – The ribbon cutting for the playground will be Friday at 2:00. A banner was donated by a local company. This committee will be disbanded, but they will continue their efforts. The next idea is a BMX park – Mr. Rand Stanley provided some details and thoughts on this popular project.
E. Mark Simmons, Selectman
· The PZC approved the new regulations, which took six years to redraft. The document was originally 240 pages – it has been condensed to a user friendly, simplified 100 page document.
· The ice skating rink was unanimously approved for Osborn Field. There will be lights there as well. The appropriate rules and regulations will be posted. This is funded by the Girl Scouts, with no cost to the Town.
· Park and Recreation – They will be putting in for a CIP request for a large storage area with office space – and the ability to have camp there on inclement weather days.
· Veterans Commission – A young and energetic group of people have taken over the American Legion.
Mr. Filipone requested that everyone make a report on their Boards/Commissions – as it seems many are not reported on. Mr. Hayes indicated two of his boards, Housing Authority and BOE, had nothing to report.
VIII. BOARD AND COMMISSION RESIGNATIONS & APPOINTMENTS
A. Resignation: none
B. Re-Appointment:
American Heritage River Commission
· Joanne Drapeau, (D) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
· Albert Floyd (D) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1 2011
· Richard Sherman (R) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
MOTION: To reappoint Joanne Drapeau, Albert Floyd and Richard Sherman to the American Heritage River Commission for a four year term to expire 10/1/2011.
Made by Mr. Hayes, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
Economic Development Commission
· Eric Moffett (R) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
· Josh Kapelner (U) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
MOTION: To reappoint Eric Moffett and Josh Kapelner to the Economic Development Commission for a four year term to expire 10/1/2011.
Made by Mr. Hayes, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
Historical Commission
· Marilyn Butenkoff (R) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
· Michael Hunt (U) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
MOTION: To reappoint Marilyn Butenkoff and Michael Hunt to the Historical Commission for a four year term to expire 10/1/2011.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
Park & Recreation Commission
· Nicole Hayes (D) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
· Blaine Simpkins (R) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
MOTION: To reappoint Nicole Hayes and Blaine Simpkins to the Park and Recreation Commission for a four year term to expire 10/1/2011.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Hayes
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
Planning & Zoning Commission
· Joseph Ouellette, (U) 4 yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
MOTION: To reappoint Joseph Ouellette to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a four year term to expire 10/1/2011.
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
C. New Appointments, Applications to be considered:
Elderly Commission
· Deborah A Donavan (U) 4-yr. term to expire 10/1/2011
MOTION: To appoint Deborah A. Donavan to the Elderly Commission for a four year term to expire 10/1/2011
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Hayes
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
D. Vacancies: Attachment
IX. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. *Adult Day Care Transportation
B. *Melissa Green Director of Parks and Recreation/Re: Signage Funding (Will return at the October 16th mtg.)
X. NEW BUSINESS
A. Jim DeRagon/Smart Board Discussion and Demo – Addressed above out of order.
B. Broad Brook Mill Project
Mr. Filipone updated the Board on UTC discussions with a potential business owner for this building. The business owner currently seeking this property suggests 300-500 new jobs for the area. It looks like this owner will outgrown the building within five years and maybe at that time turn it over to the Town. This could be used as an incentive for UTC to sell the building to the interested buyer for less. The renovations may go on while the remediation is still ongoing. The business in general terms, as patents are pending, involves a device for tractor trailers to prevent jack knifed trucks. There is a possibility that there will be other facilities in East Windsor that retro-fit trucks for the device. It was questioned why the Town was involved, we have no say
in this business owner buying the building. Mr. Filipone stated that no tax abatement has been offered.
C. Proclamations
· National Federation of the BLIND MEET THE BLIND MONTH
MOTION: To authorize the First Selectman to sign the Proclamation “National Federation of the Blind Meet the Blind Month”
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
· White Cane Safety Day
MOTION: To authorize the First Selectman to sign the Proclamation “White Cane Safety Day October 15, 2007”
Made by Mr. Hayes, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
· Author Michael C. White Day
MOTION: To authorize the First Selectman to sign the Proclamation for Michael C. White Day.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Crouch
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
D. Wavier of Conflicts/Re: Broad Brook Fire Department
The Broad Brook Volunteer Fire Department is interested in becoming a district, similar to Warehouse Point Fire Department. They contacted a lawyer who is familiar with this field of law and he is a member of the law firm of Pullman and Comley. Pullman and Comley is currently the firm representing the town in legal issues with the police department. It has been assured that the two different attorneys can avoid a potential conflict – and the letter presented puts an ethical wall up so there is no conflict between the two attorneys in the same firm. Mr. Filipone indicated the Board can vote to sign the waiver and assume nothing will happen or it can say no and tell BBFD they need to find a new lawyer. The Department has indicated interest in this lawyer as he has worked with the
legal issues involved in making a department a district. Discussion on what Broad Brook Fire Department is seeking was discussed. If they become a district they have the ability, as does Warehouse Point, to tax. Broad Brook can become a district without going through the Board of Selectmen. Mr. Filipone indicated the Town Attorney stated this waiver letter is not uncommon. Mr. Sinsigallo saw no conflict. Mr Crouch had no problem with the lawyer as long as it is not the same attorney working on both issues, but he foresees a problem with the fire equipment . Mr. Hayes can also see equipment issues, but felt there was no reason for BBFD to have the same lawyer’s office – the town has its attorneys, the BBFD should get their own – there are thousands in the yellow pages. Mr. Simmons felt the attorneys were okay recusing themselves. Mr. Crouch added that Pullman and Comley is only used on the police
department issue, the Town Attorney handles all other matters and he is from a different firm.
MOTION: For the First Selectmen to sign the Waiver of Conflict regarding Broad Brook Fire Department dated September 12, 2007.
Made by Mr. Crouch, seconded by Mr. Simmons
In favor: Crouch, Simmons, Sinsigallo, Filipone
Opposed: Hayes
MOTION CARRIED.
E. Upcoming Board of Selectmen Meetings
· Possible cancellation of the October 16th meeting
Due to business slated for the agenda, this meeting will occur as scheduled. No action.
· Cancellation of the November 6th meeting due to Town Election
MOTION: To cancel the Board of Selectmen meeting of November 6, 2007
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Hayes
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED
Mr. Crouch mentioned that the meeting of 11/20 will still have the current board in effect, due to the timeframes for a new elected board to take effect.
F. Tax Refunds
MOTION: To approve the tax refunds in the amount of $4071.66 as recommended by the Tax Collector.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Hayes
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED
G. Update on Girl Scouts Proposed Ice Rink.
Mr. Filipone referenced the PZC September 11, 2007 minutes which approved of the skate rink at Osborn Field.
MOTION: To approve the seasonal skate rink as proposed by the Girl Scouts and recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Made by Mr. Hayes, seconded by Mr. Simmons
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
XI. EXECUTIVE SESSION
A. In accordance with Connecticut General Statute Section 1-200 (6) (b)
Pending Litigation update
MOTION: To enter into Executive Session in accordance with Connecticut General Statute Section 12-200 (6)(b) at 9:05 p.m.
Made by Mr. Sinsigallo, seconded by Mr. Hayes
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION: To come out of Executive Session at 9:19.
Made by Mr. Hayes, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
No action taken in Executive Session.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: To adjourn at 9:20 p.m.
Made by Mr. Hayes, seconded by Mr. Sinsigallo
ALL MEMBERS IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.
*Starred items will not be discussed, but will remain on agenda pending receipt of additional information
Sincerely,
Cynthia D. Croxford
Recording Secretary
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