TOWN COUNCIL
TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR
MINUTES Page 1 February 3, 2003
TOWN COUNCIL – Regular Meeting
Council Chambers – South Windsor Town Hall
Members Present: Mayor William Aman
Councillor Barbara Barbour
Councillor Paul Burnham
Councillor Thomas Delnicki
Councillor Judith Paquin
Councillor Edward F. Havens
Councillor John Pelkey
Members Absent:
Deputy Mayor Matthew Streeter
Councillor Deborah Fine
Also Present: Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan
Town Attorney Barry Guliano
Mayor Aman called the meeting to order at 8:05 p.m.
ITEM:
5. Public Input - None
6. Environmental Health & Safety Message - None
7. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meetings
Motion to accept the Minutes of the following Town Council Meetings: Work Session of December 16, 2002; Regular Meeting of December 16, 2002; and Work Session of January 6, 2003.
Was made by: Councillor Delnicki
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
8. Public Petitions - None
ITEM:
(At this point in the meeting, Councillor Burnham explained that the Shaolin Wushu Center, located in Town Center in South Windsor, sponsored a “United States/China” cultural exchange program in celebration of the Chinese New Year by bringing in a “Washu” team from China. . Councillor Burnham then introduced Michael Wong, the group’s interpreter, who gave a brief summary of the program and introduced those visitors who were present—including the team members, their coach, the referees, and the officials from China, as well as the “Master” from the South Windsor Shaolin Wushu Center.)
9. Communications from Officers and Boards Directly Responsible to Council
Joseph Carino, Chairman of the Water Pollution Control Authority, rose to comment on Agenda Item 17. E. Resolution Appointing Timothy Moriarty (R) a Full Member of the Water Pollution Control Authority. Mr. Carino lent his support to the appointment by pointing out that Mr. Moriarty, as an Alternate to the WPCA for over a year, had attended every meeting; been very active in the Authority; and, most importantly according to Mr. Carino displayed his interest as a new member by “asking a lot of questions”--obviously in an attempt to learn all he could about the workings of this agency.
Mr. Carino also pointed out that Mr. Moriarty has had to replace a full Member at almost every meeting he has attended since “coming on board.” The Chairman concluded his remarks by stating that he felt Mr. Moriarty would be “an asset to the WPCA and the Town of South Windsor; and he highly endorsed the recommendation.
Next to speak was Teri Dickey-Gaignet, Chairman of the “Memorial Day Student Essay Contest” for South Windsor’s Patriotic Commission. She informed the Town Council that the Patriotic Commission hoped for at least 300 essays this year. The essay topics would be as follows:
Grades K through 5 -“Why Should We Honor Our Veterans?”
Grades 6 through 12 - “What should the United States’ Role Be
In the World as its Peace-Keepers?”
ITEM:
9. (Continued)
She added that a prize of a $200 U.S. Savings Bond will be awarded to the Winner of each of the 3 age categories--Elementary (Ages 5 through 10); Middle School (Ages 11 through 14); and High School (Ages 15 to 18). Ms. Dickey-Gaignet then explained the parameters governing the essay’s submission; and the rewards to be “reaped” by being a Winner.
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
This evening, he said, he was asking the Town Council to pass a Resolution authorizing him to apply for a “STEAP Grant” (or) the “Small Town Economic Assistance Program” (STEAP) Grant. He then explained that this was Grant set up to assist communities with under 30,000 in population to apply for particular Grants that would help economic development. Up to recent times, only “major cities” were entitled to that type of money.
The Town Manager explained the requirements of the Grant application and specifications as to how these monies could be utilized. He added that this particular Grant was being “eyed” for the I-291 Corridor area—opening up utilities such as water, sewer; and roadwork in order to make it a more functional area and one that would entice more development.
Another project being looked at for this same I-291 Corridor, and one that State Representative Michael Christ was involved with, was another railroad crossing at that site that would match the other (east to west) side. This Grant, according to the Town Manager, would go toward projects that would help to “sell” this area.
Mr. Galligan then reported that the “plan” for smallpox vaccinations, should they become necessary, has been written by himself and South Windsor staff, and by Windsor’s Town Manager and staff. It will now be forwarded to the “regional health agencies.” When approval of the Plan is finally received, it will come back to the Town Council for approval and adoption.
The Town’s “Revaluation Program” is done, according to Mr. Galligan; and will henceforth have to be done every four (4) years, rather than every ten (10) years. Results, he added, showed that “commercial” held its own and did, increase, to some degree.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager (Continued)
He added that there was about a 3% shift between residential and commercial (including personal property and motor vehicles); however the percent with regard to the Grand List before the revaluation was 65.1% of the overall Grand List was attributable to “residential.” That figure now, he added, is about 65.7%. On the “commercial” side prior to revaluation, he added, was 17.1% of the overall Grand List, and is now 20.7%.
Stating that the “mill rate” is presently 37.55, Mr. Galligan reported that, following revaluation it will be at 27.98—or about a 10-mill “drop” in the rate.
Mayor Aman asked the Town Manager to make certain that residents understood that if they take the mill rate of 27.98, multiply it times their new assessment, they should have a “direct comparison to what they paid last year in taxes.”
Mayor Aman cautioned residents who wished to “appeal” their assessment to not pass the February deadline for filing.
Councillor Paquin noted for the public that State Representative Nancy Kerensky was “very instrumental” in obtaining the STEAP Grant of $500,000 for the Town. She felt that Rep. Kerensky should be given credit for her efforts.
Councillor Delnicki reminded the Town Manager about providing charts and tables on what the “effective tax impact” could be based on the new assessment. Mr. Galligan said he would. Councillor Delnicki then asked if this information could be put on the Town’s website. The Town Manager said he would see that it was.
Councillor Pelkey noted, for the public’s information, that the actual deadline date for applying for an appeal hearing was February 20, 2003, not the “end of February.”
Councillor Havens asked for a “quick calculation” showing the effect of this new tax rate on a “typical” $200,000 home in South Windsor. Mr. Galligan said he did not like to use an “average” example; because the one depicted showed an increase of $2.00, only.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager (Continued)
Mr. Galligan then used the example of a home valued at $200,000 which, at 70%, would have an assessable rate of $140,000, or (at the old mill rate) about $5,267); however, that same house times 45% increase in value—or a value of $290,000 would probably increase in taxes by $200.00 (and this did not include any tax increase following adoption of the upcoming new Fiscal Year Budget.
Councillor Havens felt that “the most important thing to come out of this meeting this evening, is public awareness of what their taxes could be next year
Town Manager Galligan concurred; and stated that this was the reason he wished to “run different types of scenarios.” What he said he would do is “show a chart showing the old assessed values (i.e., going from $75,000 to $400,000); and then take those values and push it forward as to what those values are today, and apply the new rate.
Councillor Havens asked Mr. Galligan when he planned to provide this chart—at the next Town Council meeting? Mr. Galligan said that, actually, he would be sending it out to the Council Members in the mail and, additionally it on the Town’s website. Councillor Havens asked him to get that information out as soon as possible. Mr. Galligan said he would be sending it out to Council this week—thus providing Council with an opportunity to examine it prior to the next Town Council meeting on February 18th.
Mr. Galligan also reported that he had recently met with the Economic Development Commission to go over several projects. He thanked the Town Council for their Joint Meeting with the Board of Education—he felt it was a very fruitful meeting. The Town Manager said that he and the Town Attorney would be attending “a lot of meetings this week” most of which were because of “Evergreen Walk” and the fact that the owners of the Buckland Hills Mall were applying for “intervenor status” and would probably receive it.
Referring to the “Budget Schedule” provided by the Town Manager’s Office, Mr. Galligan asked the Councillors to please take a look at it to see if this schedule met their needs with regard to the upcoming budget process; and if the dates were acceptable.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager (Continued)
The Town Manager said that he and his staff, State Senator Gary LeBeau, and State Representative Nancy Kerensky had met with officials from the Connecticut Department of Transportation to discuss various traffic problems either in South Windsor or in surrounding towns that directly affected the residents of South Windsor—notably the Avery Street/Deming Road area. DOT suggested at this meeting that a “traffic study” be done (as was done in the Waterbury area) wherein “traffic patterns, etc.” were examined for a region rather than for a specific city or town.
Continuing, Mr. Galligan informed Council that Senator LeBeau has instituted a Bill to the State Legislature that has been endorsed by himself, Representative Kerensky, Senator Handley, Representative Thompson, Representative Barry, and Representative Christ, which is an “Act Providing Funds for the Conduct of a Transportation Study in the Buckland Hills Area of Manchester and South Windsor.”
According to Mr. Galligan, Senator LeBeau is looking for an appropriation of $500,000 for the State Department of Transportation for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2004--specifically for the “Transportation Study of Manchester/South Windsor from Interstate Route 291 to Route 83 on Interstate Route 84 Including Local, State, and Federal Roads.” He offered his opinion that this Study would be “very instrumental in helping the whole area here.”
Councilor Burnham, referring to the “draft” Budget Meeting Schedule, asked the Town Manager if past practice didn’t schedule the individual Department’s budgets prior to scheduling the Public Hearing for the General Government Budget. He felt that by scheduling this Public Hearing too early there would be no opportunity for the public to determine if the areas they were most interested in were being cut in this new budget.
Mr. Galligan said that this has been done in the last few years since he has been here; however, it remains Council’s prerogative to make any changes in scheduling it wishes as long as the total Town Budget is accepted by May 22; and the tax rate is set by May 31st.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager (Continued)
Both the Town Manager and Mayor Aman felt that an extra week’s leeway was needed in case a problem or miscalculations were experienced in the budget process at the last minute. Councillor Burnham felt that more publicity was needed to keep the public informed of the Public Hearings associated with the upcoming proposed Budget. He suggested “signs” in front of the Town Hall, etc., so that those residents driving by would be reminded of the Hearing.
Mayor Aman felt that the “sign” suggestions was good; and asked the Town Manager to arrange for some such sign telling the public that there would be (for instance) a “Public Hearing this evening,” and where.”
Further discussion regarding possible Public Hearing dates, and other budget particulars, followed.
11. Reports from Standing Committees - None
12. Reports of Temporary Committees
Councillor Delnicki reported that the Town Council Subcommittee regarding the “Naming of Public Lands and Buildings” has a proposal on the recognition of the contributions of Charlie Enes who provided “lifelong” service to our community. The proposal, he stated, was to name the South Windsor Community Center in honor of Mr. Enes.
Continuing, Councillor Delnicki said the Subcommittee will be proposing a “discussion” the first meeting in April; with an action item on that proposal. He then recognized the Subcommittee Members as Deputy Mayor Streeter and Councillors Havens, Pelkey, and Delnicki.
13. Communications and Petitions from Council
Mayor Aman informed the other Council Members that the Town’s Open Space Task Force has requested a liaison from the Town Council. There is, he added, no formal precedent in this particular case; however, he asked if there was a Councillor interested to please let him know after the meeting.
ITEM:
14. Public Participation - None
15. Consent Agenda
Motion to approve Agenda Items 17. B. through 17. I. as the Consent Agenda.
Was made by: Councillor Delnicki and Councillor Havens
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
16. Unfinished Business - None
17. New Business
A. Resolution Acknowledging the Resignation of Joseph D’Amato (R) from the Board of Assessment Appeals
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council acknowledges, with regret, the resignation of Joseph D’Amato from the Board of Assessment Appeals, said resignation being effective immediately; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council extends its sincere thanks to Mr. D’Amato for the volunteer time and energy he has given to his community by serving on the Board of Assessment Appeals.
Was made by: Deputy Mayor Streeter
Seconded by: Councillor Burnham
Before a vote was taken on this Resolution, Councillor Pelkey asked if he understood it correctly and there were three (3) Members on the Board of Assessment Appeals, and this would be the agency that would “hear” assessment appeals following revaluations. Mayor Aman said this was correct—that most years the Board would be inactive; however, this year it would have been very busy.
Making the point that he felt, in that case, that this Board was a “very critical task” that would now be taken on by only two members (in light of Mr. D’Amato’s resignation). Councillor Pelkey’s principal concern with the make-up of this Board was the fact that they did not have any “Alternates” to fill in when necessary.
ITEM:
17. A. (Continued)
The Councillor suggested that the Town Attorney look into what had to be done in order for Council to “assign” two Alternates to this Board. Mayor Aman said that he was under the assumption that the Town Attorney was already looking into this matter; however, Atty. Guliano said that until this moment he did not recall having been asked to do this. Councillor Pelkey said that, if this was the case, he was now asking the Town Attorney to now consider this a request to do so.
The Mayor then called for a vote on the Motion. It was approved, unanimously.
*B. Resolution Acknowledging the Resignation of Cary Prague (R) as an Alternate to the Zoning Board of Appeals
(Deputy Mayor Streeter)
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council acknowledges the resignation of Cary Prague as an Alternate to the Zoning Board of Appeals, said resignation effective immediately.
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:
17. B. (Continued)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council thanks Mr. Prague for his continued willingness to contribute his time and talents in service to his community.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
*C. Resolution Appointing Timothy Moriarty (R) an Alternate to the Zoning Board of Appeals, and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council appoints Timothy Moriarty an Alternate to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term ending November 30, 2005, and hereby tables the same.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
*D. Resolution Appointing Cary Prague (R) to the Board of Assessment Appeals, and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council appoints Cary Prague to the Board of Assessment Appeals to fill the unexpired term of Joseph D’Amato, a term that ends on November 30, 2005, and hereby tables the same.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
*E. Resolution Appointing Timothy Moriarty (R) a Full Member of the Water Pollution Control Authority, and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council appoints Timothy Moriarty a full Member of the Water Pollution Control Authority to fill the unexpired term of Matthew Davis, a term that ends on November 30, 2007, and hereby tables the same.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
*F. Reappointment of Virginia Macro (D) to the Historic District Commission, and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council reappoints Virginia Macro to the Historic District Commission for a term ending November 30, 2007, and hereby tables the same.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
*G. Reappointment of Jay Knipple (D) to the South Windsor Housing Authority, and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council reappoints Jay Knipple to the South Windsor Housing Authority for a term ending November 30, 2007, and hereby tables the same.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
*H. Reappointment of Maxine Parrott (D) to the Human Relations Commission, and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council reappoints Maxine Parrott to the Human Relations Commission for a term ending November 30, 2005, and hereby tables the same.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
*I. Reappointment of Doris Avery (D) to the Patriotic Commission, and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council reappoints Doris Avery to the Patriotic Commission for a term ending August 31, 2005, and hereby tables the same.
(APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA)
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
J. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Execute an Amendment, if in the Best Interest of the Town, to the “Condominium Refuse Service Contract” with Waste Management Extending its Term, and Waiving Competitive Bidding for Same
WHEREAS, there is a contract dated August 21, 2000 between the Town of South Windsor and Waste Management for condominium refuse/recycling collection services which expires on June 30, 2003; and
WHEREAS, there is a contract dated July 3, 2001 between the Town of South Windsor and Waste Management for residential refuse/recycling collection services which expires on July 30, 2004; and
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor desires to extend the condominium refuse service contract for a period of one year so as to combine it with the residential refuse/recycling service contract for purposes of soliciting competitive bid proposals in 2004; and
WHEREAS, Waste Management has agreed to extend the condominium refuse/recycling service contract for one year without any increases in price for its services; and
WHEREAS, the procedure of using sealed bids and awarding the condominium refuse service contract to the lowest responsible bidder, separately, in 2003 might be against the best interest of the Town because the Town is likely to obtain lower bids if the proposed contract is for longer than one (1) year and combines all refuse/recycling collection services in one bid/contract
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to negotiate and possibly enter into an Amendment of the current condominium refuse service contract with Waste Management to extend the contract until June 30, 2004, if said Amendment would be in the best interest of the Town of South Windsor; and
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:
17. J. (Continued)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the requirement for obtaining sealed bids and accepting the lowest responsible bid for said Amendment to the contract be waived pursuant to Section 715 of the Town Charter because it might be against the best interests of the Town in that the Town is likely to obtain lower bids if the proposed contract is for longer than one (1) year and combines all refuse/recycling collection services in one bid/contract.
Was made by: Councillor Paquin
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
A discussion ensued whereby the Mayor explained that, “in simple terms,” the Town was trying to get the Town waste pickup and the condominium waste pickup of trash (that was added after the last contract was signed) to “line up.” This, he added, would give the Town Manager the opportunity to negotiate for the best possible “deal.” Questions followed from Councillors who questioned the stabilization (or not) of tipping fees—to which Mr. Galligan replied that it would not since the tipping fees would be set by CRRA - and, if CRRA raised these fees, it would affect the Town.
Other aspects discussed were the importance of receiving “competitive bids;” the option of doing the waste collection “in house” or in partnership with another Town or Towns. Councillor Havens objected, strongly, to the suggestion that it be done ‘in house’ and cited not only the capital expenditure “up front,” but also the ever accelerating wages and insurance costs of having our own personnel do the waste pickup. Some further discussion ensued.
Following this discussion, a Mayor Aman called for a vote on the Resolution. It was approved, unanimously.
K. Resolution Approving a Refund of Property Taxes to Thirty-Two (32) South Windsor Taxpayers
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council approves a refund of property taxes to thirty-two (32) South Windsor taxpayers, the total of said refunds being $8,762.42, and as shown on attached Exhibit A.
Was made by: Councillor Burnham
Seconded by: Councillor Delnicki
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
L. Resolution Introducing a Proposed Ordinance Setting Fines for Inland/Wetlands Violations and Setting a Time and Place for a Public Hearing Regarding Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby introduces a proposed Ordinance Establishing Citation Procedures and Fines for Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Violations; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby sets Tuesday, February 18, 2003, at 7:45 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the South Windsor Town Hall, 1540 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, Connecticut as the time and place for a Public Hearing to receive citizen input on said Ordinance, a copy of which is attached as Exhibit B. and is on file in the Office of the Town Clerk.
Was made by: Councillor Delnicki
Seconded by: Councillor Barbour
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
M. Resolution Authorizing the Transfer of $6,300 from Contingency to the Public Works Parks and Grounds Account for Repairs to the Rye Street Park “Playscape” and Replacement of its Fall Surface
WHEREAS, the Playscape at Rye Street Park has been the target of repeated vandalism since 1999 causing significant damage to the fall surface; and
WHEREAS, as of the Fall of 2002, the playscape has been taken out of service due to the latest vandalism; and
WHEREAS, the Public Works Staff has evaluated alternative repairs to mitigate vandalism attempts
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
ITEM:
17. M. (Continued)
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the recommended repair is to remove the existing fall surface and replace it with a loose fill material at a cost of $6,300; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby authorizes a transfer of $6,300 from Contingency Account Number 1910-9001-390 to Public Works Parks and Grounds Account Number 1335-3150-371 to cover the cost of said repairs.
Was made by: Councillor Barbour
Seconded by: Councillor Delnicki
Coming forward to speak to this Resolution and the reason for the request were Superintendent of Parks and Grounds Karl Reichle, and P&G Service Specialist Steve Lavigueur. Questions from the Town Councillors followed with regard to the choice of surface material and with regard to the “vandalism” that precipitated the need for a resurfacing.
Councillor Pelkey, in particular, was anxious that some sort of “reward” system be set up by the Town as an incentive for residents to come forward to provide information regarding the perpetrators of this type of vandalism; and as a preventative measure, perhaps, for those who would be tempted to vandalize Town property in the future.
Councillor Havens felt that the playscape should certainly be well lit; and that the parents of the young people using the playscape, and surrounding neighbors, keep an eye on the area for those who might destroy it. The Councillor said, if this did not work in one year then, he felt, the playscape should be taken down. Councillor Paquin agreed that if this happened again, the playscape should be taken down or relocated to a neighborhood open space parcel.
Following their presentation, Mayor Aman called for a vote on the Resolution. The Motion was approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
N. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to File an Application for and Execute an Assistance Agreement with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
WHEREAS, pursuant to the “Small Towns Economic Assistance Act,” the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development is authorized to extend financial assistance for economic development projects; and
WHEREAS, it is desirable and in the public interest that the Town of South Windsor make an application to the State of Connecticut for $500,000 in order to undertake the I-291 Corridor Municipal Development Project and to execute an Assistance Agreement
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council is: (1) Cognizant of the conditions and prerequisites for the State Assistance imposed by the “Small Towns Economic Assistance Act;” and (2) that the filing of an application for State financial assistance by the Town of South Windsor in an amount not to exceed $500,000 is hereby approved; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan is directed to execute and file such application with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development; to provide such additional information, to execute such other documents as may be required; to execute an Assistance Agreement with the State of Connecticut for State financial assistance if such an agreement is offered; to execute any amendments, decisions, and revisions thereto; and to act as the authorized representative of the Town of South Windsor.
Was made by: Councillor Paquin
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
O. Discussion Item – Proposed Street Sign Replacement Program
Michael Gantick introduced Superintendent of Street Services Mel Stead, Jr. who presented a power point presentation on this subject. Mr. Stead said that this discussion was about a proposal in the Capital Budget for an upgrade in the “street name sign program.”
Mr. Stead explained that the object of this project was to increase the size of the street sign from 6 inches wide to 9 inches wide; increase the size of the letters; and upgrade the sign-face material and letters to a retro-reflective material known as “diamond grade” material. He also the Town Seal would be added to each sign to make it unique to the Town of South Windsor.
Presently, the Superintendent informed the Council, retro-reflective material is “mandated” on all streets with posted speed limits of 30 miles per hour, or higher. Continuing, Mr. Stead told the Council that States are now required to increase the size of their signs to 9 inches wide with 6 inch letters; and, although at the present time, Towns are not yet required to do this, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Controller encourages and suggests that Towns start moving to the 9-inch size “blanks.”
Mr. Stead noted, particularly, that “emergency service personnel,” and residents have asked for a “larger more visible” street sign. Using signs he had brought with him, Mr. Stead demonstrated the difference in the size and material of the signs the Town currently uses, and that being proposed.
Acquisition of these signs, Mr. Stead explained, would be done through the “bid process;” installation would be done by Town forces; and it is estimated that it will take a little over “300 hours” to remove the old signs and install the new ones. Also, he added, most of the “poles” associated with these signs have already been replaced; however, there remains about 60 poles yet to be replaced.
In summary, the Superintendent said that the proposal is to bid out the fabrication and delivery of the street signs and the mounting hardware; begin installation of the signs in August of 2003 and have it completed by the end of October. The estimated cost of this, he said, was $75,000.
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
O. Discussion Item – Proposed Street Sign Replacement Program (Continued)
Mr. Stead then responded to questions from the Councillors.
Mayor Aman asked if there was a particular reason for doing this entire project all at once, rather than replacing with the larger signs as sign replacement is required. Mr. Stead said that, mainly, there is an economy of scale—i.e., the more you order, the cheaper the price. Referring to the Town Seal and the extra 7 inches it took up, the Mayor asked how much it added to the cost of the sign. Mr. Stead estimated that it added about $3.00 per sign.
Councillor Delnicki asked what the “basic cost per sign” would be. Mr. Stead replied that it would be $60 on an average size sign of 40 inches. Councillor Delnicki then asked if the size of the sign would make a difference with regard to the “winds” we get from blizzards or tropical storms. Mr. Stead said that the “mounting hardware” for the new signs is considerably longer, or 12” to 14.”
Councillor Paquin, alluding to the $75,000 price tag, felt that this proposal was a “tough sell in this particular (economic) climate. Councillor Barbour asked if the $75,000 included the labor costs for their installation. Mr. Stead said it did not; and that the in-house labor would cost about $7,000 more. The Councillor also asked if the old signs would be “collectible;” and could be sold to recoup some of the money. Mr. Stead replied that they had only looked at the return from selling the old signs as “scrap metal.”
With regard to the previously mentioned “mandates,” Councillor Pelkey asked if there was a deadline the Town must meet. Mr. Stead replied that none he has been able to find. When asked if the State roads in Town would have new signs. Mr. Stead answered that the State has no street names to replace, only Route Number signs. Councillor Pelkey, too, felt this proposal should be looked at again when financial times improved; but would not be supporting this proposal at this time.
ITEM:
17. New Business (Continued)
O. Discussion Item – Proposed Street Sign Replacement Program (Continued)
Noting that there was a sign maker in Town, Councillor Burnham asked if the Town had the technology to make these signs itself. Mr. Stead replied that it did; however, when the Town did signs, it did them in groups of 5, 6, or 7; however, when ordering 790 signs, these would be coming out on an “assembly line” within minutes--and the cost of their sign is all in material and technology; while the Town’s would be “all in labor” and it would cost the Town more to make the sign than to have them made in this volume.
At this point, Town Manager Galligan said he wished the Town Council to know that “we didn’t particularly pick this point in time” to make this request—the State picked this time to “go into a deficit situation rather than having to raise taxes.” This project, he added, is something that has been “in the works for two years now.”
Mr. Galligan pointed out, too, that the suggestion for bigger more easily readable signs has also been requested by our own emergency service personnel such as the Ambulance Corps who suggested that South Windsor have street signs similar to those in Ellington and other areas for public safety reasons.
18. Passage of Ordinance - None
19. Communications and Petitions from Council (Continued) - None
20. Executive Session - None
21. Motion to Adjourn
A Motion to adjourn was made at 10:10 p.m., duly seconded, and approved, unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia R. Brown, Clerk of the Council
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