OLD SAYBROOK POLICE COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 22, 2007
A regular meeting of the Old Saybrook Police Commission was held on Monday, October 22, 2007 at the Old Saybrook Town Hall. PRESENT: Chairman Conklin, Vice Chairman Gallicchio, Commissioners Burnham, Metsack, Sparaco and Winkler. Also present were Chief Mosca, Lt. Spera and Detective Sergeant Heiney.
Chairman Conklin called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
1. Minutes
Chairman Conklin asked for discussion or approval of the Minutes of the July 23, 2007 regular meeting. Motion was made by Comsr. Winkler and seconded by Comsr. Gallicchio to approve the Minutes of the July 23, 2007 regular meeting, as submitted. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
Chairman Conklin asked for discussion or approval of the Minutes of the August 27, 2007 special meeting. Motion was made by Comsr. Sparaco and seconded by Comsr. Winkler to approve the Minutes of the August 27, 2007 special meeting, as submitted. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
2. Comments from the Public
No members of the public were present.
3. 06-07 Budget
The Chief reported that the unaudited figures for the 2006-2007 fiscal year show the department to have concluded the year with the bottom line well in the black.
4. 07-08 Operating Budget
Chief Mosca reported the contract has been settled, and there is provision in the budget for base pay increases only, but not for retroactive pay or the increased overtime rate. He said the Selectmen have directed that the retroactive pay and increased overtime expenses be paid from the department's budget, and that if the bottom line is a deficit at the end of the fiscal year, the town will make an adjustment. Chief Mosca stated that the Personnel portion of the budget is currently ahead because the department is two people down, and he is hoping that with careful spending and limited overtime, the total budget will end in the black despite these payouts. Chief Mosca reported that calculation of the retroactive payments is somewhat complicated due to varied overtime rates, but is in the final stages. It will
then go to Attorney McHale for review and approval, so that checks can be cut. Personnel will be offered an opportunity to go over the figures in the next two weeks, so they understand how calculations were made.
Comsr. Sparaco suggested sending a letter to the Board of Finance advising them of the possible short-fall. Chief Mosca stated that figures would be reported at the next meeting, and could be used as the basis of a letter to the Board of Finance.
Comsr. Gallicchio asked if Vehicle Maintenance Expense in the operating budget is so high because the department did not buy a third vehicle last year. Chief Mosca responded that the high-mileage vehicles, being four with over 100,000 miles and two close to 100,000 miles, do contribute to the unusually high vehicle maintenance expenses the department continues to experience.
5. 07-08 Capital Budget
Chief Mosca reported that in appreciation of their success at the New England Association of Chiefs of Police conference, LoJack has offered to install one of their systems in the new SUV. Chief Mosca said he feels it will be an invaluable tool for locating stolen cars in town.
Comsr. Gallicchio asked the status of the weapons purchase. Chief Mosca replied that Lt. Stuart, who is currently in a weapons training class, will evaluate several weapons. He will discuss his choices with personnel and a presentation will be made to the commission for final determination of the firearms to be purchased.
Chief Mosca called attention to a budget preparation memo given to each commissioner, asking for their suggestions for the 2008-2009 budget.
6. Personnel
Chief Mosca said he would like to respectfully notify the Commission that retired Sgt. Jack O'Brien had passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. He thanked those commissioners who attended services for Sgt. O'Brien for their support, which was very much appreciated by the department and the family. He then asked for a moment of silence in memory of Sgt. O'Brien, who was with the department for 27 years. A moment of silence was observed.
7. Accreditation
Det. Sgt. Heiney distributed a proposed policy regarding recertification. He reported that while the department already follows the standards in connection with recertification and the proper keeping of training records, the department must also have a policy in writing. He asked commissioners to read the proposed policy to enable discussion and a possible vote at the December meeting.
8. Training
Chief Mosca noted that Lt. McDonald was not present because he was in Florida on vacation with his family; and Lt. Stuart was excused because he was commuting to Springfield each day for weapons training. He will become a certified firearms instructor and will assist Det. Sgt. Heiney with department training. A written training report was in each commissioner's packet, a copy of which is attached to and made a part of these Minutes.
In response to a question by Chairman Conklin, Chief Mosca reported the department is mid-way through a testing process for replacement officers. He stated he hopes to have candidates ready for the commission to interview at the December meeting, or at a special meeting early in January. He has secured slots for the next training session at the academy in anticipation of having selections made in time. He stated there are 48 candidates who have passed the written exam and expressed an interest in working in Old Saybrook. They will go through agility testing on October 27th and will then go through orals. The Chief said he is encouraged by the number of applicants participating in this testing process. He said that it is a normal part of the process for the number of applicants to be reduced at each
phase of testing, but with the large group that began the process, he expects a good number to make it through, which should offer the department a good number of prospective patrolmen.
9. Traffic
Chief Mosca reported that an individual at Knollwood had written, requesting that stop signs be installed at the intersection of Clubhouse Lane and Sea Crest Road. A letter of concurrence was received from George Dagon, President of Knollwood Beach Association, asking for four-way stop signs at all Clubhouse Lane intersections. The Chief reported that he had viewed these intersections and agreed that stop signs should be placed as requested in the interest of safety. After a short discussion, a motion was made by Comsr. Gallicchio to approve stop signs as requested by Knollwood Beach Association. Motion seconded by Comsr. Metsack and carried by unanimous vote.
Chief Mosca stated that a table tennis club will be locating on Mill Rock Road at Research Park. He and Ptl. Gardner looked at the area, and feel a stop sign should be placed where traffic exits the circle on Mill Rock Road. They will watch the development and make final recommendations at a future meeting.
Chief Mosca reported the state has taken an interest in traffic issues in connection with the affordable housing planned on North Main Street. He reminded the commission he had made recommendations regarding emergency access, and feels that his future recommendations will probably be consistent with those made by the state once it has completed its surveys.
Chief Mosca said that the department has been working with the Registrars of Voters and the Selectmen's office in addressing traffic concerns in connection with the November 6th elections. He stated that both districts will vote at the Parks and Recreation building, which will cause traffic and parking congestion. This situation is unavoidable due to construction at normal poling locations and a lack of other suitable sites. Lengthy discussion followed regarding traffic, parking areas, congestion during school opening and closing times, signage and police presence. In particular, the Chief asked the commission to designate Sheffield Street, from Main Street to just past the sports fields, as an "Election Parking, One Hour Only" area. There was also lengthy discussion regarding placement of campaign
signs and notification of both parties and the public, in advance to reduce confusion on election day. After further discussion of particulars, motion was made by Comsr. Metsack and seconded by Comsr. Burnham to place "Election Parking, One Hour Only" signs on Sheffield Street from Main Street to just beyond the sports fields, from midnight on November 4th until midnight on November 6th; to allow campaign signs along the street so long as they do not interfere with parking and meet poling place regulations; and to notify both political parties, and the public by press releases, of these parking, traffic and signage plans. Motion carried with five in favor, and Commissioners Sparaco and Gallicchio opposed.
10. Communications
Chief Mosca reported the communications project is moving along as planned. He stated that Lt. Spera and Ptl. Gardner traveled to Illinois to see the unit in operation, and discovered some problems that were resolved before delivery. He said a problem has also developed in connection with a fee being imposed for use of another tower. He reported the Attorney General may become involved and he expects the issue to be settled.
11. Events
The Chief reported the Fire Department's Haunted Hayride has begun, attracting huge crowds, which require police services. The Chief reminded the commission that overtime for the Haunted Hayride, Mischief Night and Halloween is reflected in the budget.
Chief Mosca thanked those commissioners who participated in the NEACOP Conference in September by taking part in training events and attending the banquet. He said the Taser, DNA and school violence training were very successful. The school violence instructor has been invited back to Connecticut to do the program for school administrators from across the state. He reported that for the conference next year, the department is working on training components that will be accredited by P.O.S.T. He feels the conference will be bigger and training will be fully subscribed next year.
Comsr. Metsack said he spent time at the Taser display and picked up a training DVD, which he offered to other commissioners to view. He said that after speaking with Taser representatives and viewing the DVD, he feels the department needs Tasers.
Chief Mosca stated that when the commission is ready, Taser people will do a presentation and demonstration, and answer questions.
Comsr. Sparaco said he spoke with Taser representatives about his concerns regarding defibrillators and pacemakers, and was assured Tasers would not interfere with their operation. There was further discussion about the prevention of misuse and automatic recording of discharges. It was generally felt that since a period of time has passed since Tasers were introduced, allowing for necessary improvements and general acceptance, it might be a good idea to look at them again in hopes of reducing workers compensation claims and officer injuries.
12. Correspondence
Correspondence received since the July 23, 2007 regular meeting was circulated for commissioners to review.
13. Activity Report
Det. Sgt. Heiney reported 6,125 incidents, 1,063 citations and 86 criminal arrests since the July 23rd meeting. He discussed the investigation of a suspicious death of a 49-year-old female; he updated the commission on the departments assistance to DEP in the investigation of a boating accident that resulted in the death of a 53-year-old woman; and several other cases including assaults, disorderly conduct, larceny, embezzlement, criminal trespass and cruelty to animals.
In response to a question regarding the infant death on Forest Glen Road, Det. Sgt. Heiney indicated a warrant for arrest of the mother is on the judge's desk, awaiting signature.
Chairman Conklin asked if the department is aware of a possible scam taking place whereby insistent telephone requests are being made on behalf of an injured local officer who needs money for medical bills. The Chief said the department has received no complaints or inquiries and would like to be notified of any such calls that are received.
14. Comments & Concerns of Commissioners
Chairman Conklin expressed great appreciation for all Chief Mosca has done for the town and for law enforcement through his efforts and involvement in professional state, regional and federal law enforcement organizations. He also congratulated the Chief on being elected to the prestigious position of Vice President at Large of the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Chairman Conklin said that the Chief's involvement in these organization has led to the inception of many programs such as School Resource Officer, DARE, and Community Policing in Old Saybrook long before they were put in place in other towns. Chairman Conklin said he feels these many programs keep the department on the cutting edge of law enforcement services to the town, which he feels is quite an accomplishment considering the size of the
department.
Chief Mosca thanked Chairman Conklin for his comments and recognition.
Comsr. Burnham expressed an interest in continuing discussions about reorganization and promotions at the next meeting. Chairman Conklin agreed and suggested the possibility of a revised agenda to allow time to discuss these issues.
Comsr. Gallicchio said that Comsr. Dobratz, who was unable to attend the meeting, asked to have election of officers placed on the agenda at the next commission meeting.
15. Sub-Committee Reports
Chairman Conklin reported plans to do a Power Point presentation before the Board of Finance to better familiarize them with the day-to-day activities and operations of the Police Department. He feels this would give the Board of Finance a better understanding of the department's needs and help substantiate requests made during the budget process.
Chief Mosca stated that a former member of the Board of Finance has expressed an interest in attending the Citizen's Police Academy, which will start on November 8th and run on Thursday evenings until the second week of January. He said that nine people have signed up, leaving three vacancies available.
Comsr. Sparaco stated that he misses having a Board of Finance liaison, as was the practice in the past. He feels the liaison served an important role in keeping the Board of Finance aware of department developments and budgetary needs. There was discussion about this practice having been discontinued, after which Chairman Conklin said he will make an effort to have a Board of Finance liaison appointed.
Chairman Conklin said he was glad to hear that the contract has been settled. Comsr. Burnham confirmed that it was, and that negotiations will begin again very soon for the next one. Chief Mosca reported that personnel were not aware they had a contract when they received their raises, and many still express disbelief because they have not been told they have a contract, nor have they been given copies of a contract by their union. Chairman Conklin thanked Commissioners Burnham and Dobratz for their time representing the Police Commission during the negotiations.
Motion to adjourn made by Comsr. Metsack and seconded by Comsr. Winkler. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
JoAnne Klingerman
Executive Assistant
These Minutes are subject to approval at the
next regular meeting of the Old Saybrook
Police Commission.
| 
