TOWN COUNCIL
TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR
MINUTES Page 1 May 8, 2006
TOWN COUNCIL – Special Meeting
Council Chambers – South Windsor Town Hall
1. Call Meeting to Order
Mayor Streeter called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
2. Roll Call
Members Present: Mayor Matthew Streeter
Deputy Mayor Thomas Delnicki
Councillor Deborah Fine
Councillor Edward Havens
Councillor Kevin McCann
Councillor Tim Moriarty
Councillor John Pelkey
Councillor Cary Prague
Councillor Keith Yagaloff
Also Present: Matthew Galligan, Town Manager
Melanie Crucitti, Director of Finance
Janice Snyder, Chair, Board of Education
Dr. Joseph Wood, Superintendent of Schools
3. Public Participation
James Throwe, 1330 Main Street, Chairman of the Democratic Town Committee, came before Council to express his support for the Human Relations Commission and their work; and to ask that the Council not cut the $1,000 being contemplated from that Commission’s proposed budget.
Next to speak was Janice Snyder, speaking on behalf of the “Operation Graduation” committee. Ms. Snyder wanted the Council to know that there was a “problem with cash flow” with this project. In light of this, the Committee raising the funds was initiating a new way to raise money for this event—she added that it is called “flocking.” Flocking, she continued, was the placement of “pink flamingoes” on the lawns of some of South Windsor’s “prominent citizens;” and the paying of a “fine” in order to have them removed--$20 to remove; $25 to move it to someone else’s lawn.
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3. Public Participation (Continued
Ms. Snyder added that the Town of Newington has used “flocking” to raise money for various events and charities for a number of years—and with some measure of success—usually to the tune of $4,000.
Ms. Daniele Mills, 153 Gail Lane, (and) Carina Vargas, 26 Colony Road, two young women from South Windsor High School, addressed the Council, in support of the Human Relations Commission—particularly the good the Commission’s “Diversity” program has done at the public and student levels.
Ms. Lee Carmon, 208 Dogwood Lane, and Secretary to the Human Relations Commission, spoke on behalf of the Human Relations Commission; reminding Council of its “charge” and the good it provided to the community. Ms. Carmon informed the Council that the Commission’s annual budget has been $2,000 for some time.
Continuing, Ms. Carmon said that, in light of the huge success of the recent “Diversity Seminar” sponsored by the Commission and held in Town Hall a few days ago, the Commission intended to repeat the program for those who had missed it. Were the contemplated $1,000 cut to the Commission’s proposed budget to occur, she added, programs such as that could not be repeated—to go from a $2,000 budget down to a $1,000 budget, she stated, would “paralyze” the Commission.
Janice Favreau, Chairperson, Human Relations Commission, said she was present this evening “to fight for her budget.” Following her reminders of recent programs sponsored by the Commission that have met with success, Ms. Favreau recommended that the Town Council reconsider the Commission’s budget.
Another speaker addressing the Council to ask that they reconsider the cut to the Human Relations Commission’s budget was Dr. Joseph Wood, Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Wood, too, voiced his support of the Commission and its work.
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4. Communications - None
5. Town Manager’s Report - None
6. Special Business
A. Discussion Item – Proposed Fiscal Year 2006/2007 Town Budget
Mayor Streeter distributed to each Councillor a suggested “Budget Adjustments Summary” drawn up by the Republican majority, in caucus, for the Proposed 2006/2007 Town Budget (see attached Exhibit A.). This list, he added, had the assistance of the Town Manager and was being presented for discussion.
Mayor Streeter then went through the list and explained the figures associated with each item. The total reduction amount (as the Mayor explained, that are actually on the “expenditure” side of the budget) being suggested in this Summary is $84,206,883.
On the “Revenue” side of the budget, the Mayor stated, there are actually some additions. (He then named those additions and explained.)
The Mayor then opened up the subject for discussion.
The first to speak, particularly to address reductions in Boards and Commissions, was the Town Manager who said that all the Boards and Commissions “got hit this year.” He said he did not want anyone in this community to think we are “picking on one particular Commission.” He elaborated by pointing out substantial reductions in other Commissions’ budgets.
Councillor McCann stated that he would like to present a Resolution following discussion regarding the “funding of the defibrillators that were approved by the Town Council in 2004, but were never funded.” He gave a short history of the previous purchase and deployment of defibrillators in public buildings. He asked that the remaining now be placed at: the five (5) elementary schools; the Public Library; at the Public Works Facility; and at Veterans’ Memorial Park. (VMP, he added, is a new request.) He said he would be presenting an Amendment to add $16,000 for the purchase and deployment of eight (8) additional defibrillators of the same style as those previously purchased by the Town.
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6. A. (Continued)
Next to speak was Janice Snyder, Chairperson of the Board of Education. Ms. Snyder informed the Council that the possibility of delaying some of the “parts of the paving projects” had been discussed. The School Administration had taken a look at it and determined that there were “some projects we may be able to delay.” She added that “we’re not happy about it; but, if we do, Mr. Hankard had identified over a little bit over $100,000 that we may be able to put off.”
Continuing, Ms. Snyder explained that these paving projects were slated for” Eli Terry School (the South sidewalk and its curb); Philip R. Smith School (the main parking area); and Pleasant Valley School (Shipping and Receiving and the main parking lot area).
Ms. Snyder said that these facts had to be brought before the Capital Projects Committee because, as she said “I don’t believe we have to go over that $100,000; and Mr. Hankard did express his concerns about a couple of these (delays).
Councillor Pelkey asked if he had heard $100,000 savings out of that. Ms. Snyder replied that was correct—that the total cost of those three projects which were in the Capital Projects budget was $185,619; and after asking Mr. Hankard to review this figure, he replied that “if he had to, against his better judgment, he would be able to delay approximately $140,000 of that—leaving $45,590 in the 06/07 (budget). She added that, as the Board looked at it now, there are a “couple of areas” that Mr. Hankard “really does not want to do”—so the Board “may be able to come back and give you at least half if not a little bit more of that with no problem.” She concluded that “this would be up to Mr. Hankard.”
Mayor Streeter, following up on this, said that if it is the will of the Council, once the Budget is passed, to send this back to Capital Projects for further review, it would do so.
Councillor Pelkey said he was looking for a “bottom line figure” on this; however, it looked like the intent is to leave just $45,590 to replace the $185,619.” He asked if this was correct. Mayor Streeter said that, actually, it’s only reducing $50,000 off of the $185,619.
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6. A. (Continued)
Councillor Pelkey said that as Chair and Member of the Capital Projects Committee he had objected to developing a Capital Projects budget that did not include a cost for “Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditures Account.” He stated his reasons for this feeling. He agreed that cuts could be made to “Architectural Services” for $150,000; however, in light of this, he suggested that $100,000 of that money be put into Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditures.
Councillor Pelkey also objected to the monies taken from the planned Park and Recreation Commission’s$150,000, and reducing it to $100,000. He said that the park and Recreation Commission was counting on that $50,000 being in their budget for the next 9 years. He suggested that in prior years monies had been allocated in the Capital Projects budget for Open Space Management. He suggested that $50,000 of those funds be moved over to the Park and Recreation Commission. He assured the Council that this was “perfectly allowable” within the account.
Mayor Streeter also requested that the Capital projects Committee “take to heart” the suggestion a few years ago made by then Councillor Barbara Barbour—the consideration of going to bonding for some of the road projects, bridges, culverts, etc. to help move some of the projects “always see to be moving to the right.
Councillor Yagaloff reminded Council that if the Council doesn’t sufficiently fund the amount of money in Capital Projects for Park and Recreation, Council will not be able to stay on the Master Plan. He mentioned the future of the Lawrence Road Park as an example. Councillor Yagaloff also touched on the proposed Board of Education reduction, as well as the “very large surplus rising out of the Board of Education Budget. He reminded the Board he had requested, the previous week. He requested more information on what the Republican’s logic was behind leaving the Board of Education’s Budget alone—given that in the intervening few weeks, there has been a report of a possible $1 million surplus on
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6. A. (Continued)
Mrs. Snyder presented the Councillors with a handout listing all the Board’s accounts and the remaining “balance” by Program and personnel. (See attached Exhibit B.) The Mayor agreed that this would be discussed later when the Resolution regarding the Board’s Budget was being discussed and voted on.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki said he had concerns over the GIS position; and from what he has observed in other communities and areas, the GIS Department “grows and grows” with trickle-down information to line supervisors taking years. He asked if there was a “10-year plan” on where GIS going—will there be future positions coming into the budget, etc.? Or even a 5-year plan.
Town Manager Matthew Galligan stated that he felt the one position being requested would be sufficient. He explained why he felt this way. Deputy Mayor Delnicki said he would still like to see a 3-to-5 year plan; and suggested that Council not fund the position for a full year—rather look to implementing the position starting October 1 (or somewhere in that timeframe). This, he added, would give the Town Manager and his staff ample time to present a Plan to the Council as to where this idea and position are going.
Scott Roberts, IT Manager, spoke in support of funding and establishing this position and the benefits the Town could derive because of having someone there.
Councillor Pelkey asked what the position would pay. He was told between $35,000 and $40,000 and would be included in the Engineering Department’s budget. If the position did not commence until October, it was determined that about $10,000 in wages and $3,500 in benefits could be saved.
Councillor Fine spoke in support of the trash pick-up in the Parks. If people continue to trash the parks, she said, no one is going to use them; and not picking up the trash could also be a health hazard. Mayor Streeter then asked Director of Public Works Michael Gantick to come forward to provide a synopsis of what $38,000 would provide for this program.
Mr. Gantick said that $38,000 would assure that the full program would be reinstated to our Park facilities—including trash and recycling receptacles; and a program in the Park facilities to remove this trash on a weekly basis through Spring, Summer, and early Fall seasons.
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6. A. (Continued)
When asked which Parks would utilize this program. Mr. Gantick replied that, at this time, it would include Rye Street Park and Nevers Road Park; and they were currently looking at doing something at the Wildlife Sanctuary.
Councillor Havens reminded the Town Manager and the other Councillors that, in the current budget (2005/2006), the Town had run very short in its Contingency Fund. He also recommended that the compensation for the Fire Department become a “line item” next year—instead of always having to “dip into the Contingency Fund.”
Councillor Pelkey, referring to the “Citizens Mini-Grant Program, said it was funded $20,000 out of Contingency last year. Since the balance left on that account will go back into Fund Balance at the end of the Fiscal Year, he suggested adding a $10,000 line item either to the Town Council Account or the Town Manager’s Account. The Town Manager explained that there is $20,000 in capital, but the account is down to about $10,000 because of grants. He said that the $10,000 remaining would not go into the Fund Balance; however, to maintain $20,000, $10,000 would have to be added or replenish that account as long as you put it into a “capital-type account.”
Councillor Prague said he would be proposing an Amendment to add $10,000 back into the Human Services Department’s part-time wage account. He explained his reasons—particularly the growing “senior” population; the 300- plus “over-55” units already built in South Windsor and the ever-growing need for senior services. He asked Dennis Sheridan, Director of Human Services, to come forward to explain, once again, the Department’s needs.
Saying he was not aware of what items the deductions came out of. Mr. Galligan informed him of where they occurred; and Mr. Sheridan went on to explain why the hours were increased on the two part-time positions—which changes resulted in a request for a $16,701 increase in that budget item. Councillor Moriarty agreed with Councillor Prague’s comments and offered his support to the Amendment.
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6. A. (Continued)
Saying that he guessed he was “a little confused,” Councilor Yagaloff asked to be corrected if he was wrong with his next statement, but it was his understanding that coming here tonight the proposal was to “cut these things”-- and he felt there must have been a rationale for cutting them. However, what he was hearing at the meeting, he said, was “let’s support them.”
Using the $16,000 proposed cut from the Human Services Department budget for Senior Services as an example, Councillor Yagaloff asked the rationale, originally, for instance, behind that cut. He questioned if what was before him was the list being proposed; or, have there been changes since it was originally drawn up.
Mayor Streeter, speaking for the Republican majority on the Council, said they had caucused only yesterday and again this evening—hoping to come out of those caucuses, according to the Mayor, with a list of possible reductions at hand to select from, if so desired. He added that the Town Manager and different Councillors had contributed to the list; thus, the reason for this Discussion Item—in order to bring these suggestions forward.
Councillor Yagaloff asked if he was correct in assuming that all the items before him were to be cut, except four—(1) Human Relations Commission; and (2) the adult Senior Services. Mayor Streeter responded that in the case of the Human Services Department, although some of the Department request was being restored, the entire amount was not.
Further discussion ensued regarding the suggested cuts, including the topic of either cutting or restoring monies to the Pension Account.
B. Resolution Adopting the Budgets for the Special Revenue Pollution Control and Wastewater Treatment Fund and the Special Revenue Recreation Fund for Fiscal Year 2006/2007
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council adopts a Special Revenue Pollution Control & Wastewater Treatment Fund Budget and Capital Expenditures Budget totaling $3,534,763; a Special Revenue Recreation Fund Budget with expenditures totaling $911,841 commencing on July 1, 2006, and terminating on June 30, 2007.
Was made by: Councillor Fine
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
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6. Special Business (Continued)
C. Resolution Adopting the Board of Education Budget for Fiscal Year 2006/2007
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council adopts a Board of Education Budget with expenditures totaling $54,820,012 for the Fiscal Year commencing on July 1, 2006 and terminating on June 30, 2007 a copy of which Budget is on file in the Office of the Town Clerk.
Was made by: Councillor Moriarty
Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Delnicki
Prior to a vote on this Resolution, Mayor Streeter reminded Council that there was a question from Councillor Yagaloff for Board Chairperson Janice Snyder regarding the Unencumbered Expenses and projection for June 30, 2006. Ms. Snyder came forward to explain, and to answer Councillor Yagaloff’s additional questions.
Councillor Fine posed questions regarding the efforts of the Shared Services Committee; and what, to date, had progressed in order to save substantial amounts of money through this process. Deputy Mayor Delnicki, too, indicated he would be looking for some “good hard savings from shared services in next year’s budget.”
Councillor Pelkey asked Ms. Snyder if she felt the $551,000 cut to the Board’s Budget would “properly fund what the Board of Education wants to do next year.” Mrs. Snyder answered that “it will allow us to do what we need to do….and things will get better as revenues increase….if the Board and the Administration had the other $2 million that we reduced, there would be new programs and new incentives, but there won’t be this year.”
Councillor Pelkey then asked if the “Recorder” program and the Freshman Sports program would be funded with this budget; and was assured by Ms. Snyder that “absolutely” both would be funded. He then asked if there were any other educational programming that was being cut in order to balance this budget. Ms. Snyder said she and fellow Board Members were bothered by the lack of funding for more positions at the High School. She reminded Council that the High School “is packed” with close to 1,700 students; and would not “get any better in the immediate future.”
Prior to a vote being called for, Councillor Havens took time to pay tribute to Board Chairperson Jan Snyder and the Board for the work they did on this budget; and, particularly to retiring Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Joseph Wood. The Councillor stressed how hard Dr. Wood has worked, during his tenure, on behalf of the Town’s children and thanked him for all his efforts on their behalf.
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6. Special Business (Continued)
Mayor Streeter, too, extended his thanks to Chairperson Snyder for her leadership and the hours she, and the Board of Education, spent on this budget. He continued by stating that, this year particularly, as Mayor, he had an opportunity to meet and work with Dr. Wood on reaching a compromise on the school budget. The Mayor, too, recognized that the wellbeing of South Windsor’s young people, and the presentation of a quality education to our students were uppermost in Dr. Woods’ mind and the impetus behind his tireless efforts on their behalf. He again thanked Dr. Wood for this and wished him well.
Mayor Streeter then asked if there were any comments from the audience.
Coming forward to speak was Mr. Don Gonzalves, 40 Bayberry, asked how surplus funds are handled at the end of the Fiscal Year. Mayor Streeter informed him that the unencumbered expenses from the Board of Education, typically, roll over into the General Fund; however, he added, it has been the Council’s practice in the past for the Town Council to pass a Resolution returning those funds to the Board of Education.
Mr. Gonzalves then asked if the Board of Education, when referring to surplus or unencumbered funds, was talking about “where they’re going to be at the end of the year or where they are now?” Mayor Streeter remarked that it would be “imprudent for us to base our budget on a projection.” Chairperson Snyder came forward and informed Mr. Gonsalves that the figure used was the amount “as of March 31, 2006;”…………..”we may have anywhere between $200,000 and $500,000 left—and we won’t know that until June 30th. She indicated that other unpredictable issues (such as additional Special Education children moving into Town) could occur in the meantime.
Mayor Streeter then called for a vote on the Resolution. It was approved, unanimously.
D. Resolution Adopting the General Government Budget for Fiscal Year 2006/2007
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council adopts a General Government Budget with expenditures totaling $29,386,971, for the Fiscal Year commencing on July 1, 2006 and terminating on June 30, 2007 a copy of which Budget is on file in the Office of the Town Clerk.
Was made by: Councillor Prague
Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Delnicki
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
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6. D. (Continued)
Mayor Streeter moved to Amend the Resolution by increasing the total amount by $1,000 for the purpose of fully funding the Town Manager’s original request for the “Human Relations Commission” budget.
The Amendment was seconded by Councillor Pelkey. Councillor McCann then explained the “reasoning” behind the changes in the Human Relations’ budget. Mayor Streeter called for a vote on the first Amendment; and it was approved, unanimously.
Councillor McCann then proposed an Amendment to add $16,000 to the Town Manager’s Equipment Account for the purchase of eight (8) additional defibrillators to be deployed at the Elementary Schools, the Library, Veterans’ Memorial Park, and the Public Works Building. The Motion was seconded by Deputy Mayor Delnicki.
At this time, Town Manager Galligan suggested that the amount being proposed be changed to “$18,000” because the defibrillators cost $2,000 each; and putting each in its own casing would cost $250.00 a piece. Deputy Mayor Delnicki then withdrew his second; and Councillor McCann withdrew his Amendment and proposed a new Amendment to add $18,000 for the purchase of eight (8) defibrillators for deployment at the five (5) Elementary Schools, the Public Works building, Veterans’ Memorial Park, and the Public Library.
Councilor Pelkey asked if the cost to train staff in the use of the defibrillator (and in CPR) is included in the $18,000; or is there an additional cost? The Town Manager asked Assistant to the Town Manager Judith Hall if there was any cost to the Town involved with the training being provided. Ms. Hall said she did not believe there was.
Mayor Streeter then called for a vote on the second Amendment. The Amendment was approved, unanimously.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki then proposed an Amendment reducing the GIS Technician’s position by $10,000 to reflect an October 1, 2006 hiring date. The Motion was seconded by Councillor McCann. Councillor Havens asked what had been originally budgeted, and was informed it was $40,000 plus benefits, plus FICA, etc.
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
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6. D. (Continued)
Mayor Streeter then called for a vote on the third Amendment. The Amendment was approved 8 Ayes to 1 Nay, on a Roll Call vote, as follows:
Deputy Mayor Delnicki - Yes
Councillor Fine Yes
Councillor McCann Yes
Councillor Havens No
Councillor Moriarty Yes
Councillor Pelkey Yes
Councillor Prague Yes
Councillor Yagaloff Yes
Mayor Streeter Yes
Councillor Prague then Moved to Amend the Resolution by adding $10,000 to the Human Services’ Adult and Senior Services Account for the purpose of enhancing senior services in South Windsor.
Councillor Yagaloff said he would be supporting the Amendment because “obviously, we need to put more money in there.” He continued, however, by stating he was opposed to partially funding this item—the original amount requested being $16,701—accompanied by a “very clear stated purpose” for needing the full amount. He felt that if the Council “cared about Human Services and senior services” it should fund the full amount.
Councillor Moriarty did not agree with Councillor Yagaloff’s reasoning regarding this Amendment; and felt that the Department would find good use for the $10,000 and was “much better off with it than without it.”
Councillor Fine agreed with the feelings expressed by Councillor Yagaloff.
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
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6. D. (Continued)
Mayor Streeter then called for a vote on the fourth Amendment. The Amendment was approved 8 ayes to 1 Nay, on a Roll Call vote, as follows:
Deputy Mayor Delnicki - Yes
Councillor Fine Yes
Councillor McCann Yes
Councillor Havens No
Councillor Moriarty Yes
Councillor Pelkey Yes
Councillor Prague Yes
Councillor Yagaloff Yes
Mayor Streeter Yes
Councillor Moriarty then Moved to Amend the Resolution by increasing the funding for the Pension Plan by $15,000. The firth Amendment was seconded by Councillor Pelkey; and approved, unanimously.
Councillor Pelkey Moved to Amend the Resolution by adding $5,000 to replenish some of the expended funds of the Mini-Grant Program. The sixth Amendment was seconded by Councillor Havens; and approved 8 Ayes to 1 Nay, on a Roll Call vote, as follows:
Deputy Mayor Delnicki - Yes
Councillor Fine Yes
Councillor McCann No
Councillor Havens Yes
Councillor Moriarty Yes
Councillor Pelkey Yes
Councillor Prague Yes
Councillor Yagaloff Yes
Mayor Streeter Yes
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6. D. (Continued)
Councillor Yagaloff, prior to proposing an Amendment, asked the Town Manager if there was enough money in the Capital Projects budget to “do the Lawrence Road Park on schedule?” Mr. Galligan replied that last year Council had “put off” Lawrence Road until the “survey” had been done; and, to his knowledge, Lawrence Road Park was not included in any of the budgets. In this budget, he added, there was $100,000 for that purpose; however, the original intention in the Capital Projects budget, as he recalled, was to escalate from $100,000 to $125,000 to $175,000 and there was a 10- or 15-Year Plan to accompany this funding. Mayor Streeter reminded the Town Manager that the reason for holding off on additional funding on this Park was because there was a lawsuit pending with
regard to it—and still is.
Councillor Yagaloff then asked if Recreation Director Ray Favreau could come forward to answer a couple of questions. Referring to the results of the aforementioned “survey,” Councillor Yagaloff asked if the Lawrence Road Park is supposed to get started in the next Fiscal Year; and if it is, is there enough money now budgeted for this.
Mr. Favreau responded that there are “two parts” to that proposal—it was to be partially funded this year, but was delayed based on the request from Council to “gather more public input as to the desires and needs of that area.” He continued by saying that the Park and Recreation Commission will be meeting this week to wrap up those survey results and public input; and will be coming back to Council, in June, with the results and his and the Commission’s recommendations. He, too, said that preliminary work on the Park was scheduled for 2006/2007—and included the development of the parking areas, the trails, the picnic groves and, potentially, a “court” of some kind. This work, he added, has not been done to date.
Councillor Yagaloff then asked if Mr. Favreau was saying that there was currently $67,000 in that Fund Balance. Mr. Favreau said he was not certain how much was in the Fund Balance because work was still being done at Nevers Road to some of the baseball fields. Councillor Yagaloff then asked if, with the current $100,000, the ”clearing” and the trails. Mr. Favreau replied that this work could be done; however, there would probably not be enough money to provide basketball and tennis courts at this time.
Councillor Yagaloff asked if it is correct, as he had heard earlier, that there is an opportunity to “shift” funds in the Capital Improvement areas. Mr. Galligan said that he thought it was Councillor Pelkey who wished to take certain monies from the Open Space Fund and “move it over;” however, he added, it would require a Council Resolution to do this. If such can be done through a “Resolution,” Councillor Yagaloff felt it would not be necessary to propose an Amendment to the Capital Projects account.
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6. D. (Continued)
Councillor Pelkey, remarking that he thought Council had covered all the other Amendments other than Capital Projects, felt it would be wise to go “line item by line item” within the Capital Improvements account to determine Council’s wishes. Mayor Streeter then asked if there were any further Amendments other than Capital Projects—there were not.
Mayor Streeter suggested that, perhaps it would be more feasible if the Town Manager addressed these line items because of added LoCIP funds, etc. He continued by reminding Council that the only two items thee was a reduction in were “Architectural Services for Renovations of Elementary Schools” being reduced from $200,000 to $100,000; and, the three (3) school parking lot pavings, a total reduction of $50,000.
Mr. Galligan, explaining where the LoCIP funds were going—Phase I of Buckland Road resurfacing with a total project cost of $180,000 ($150,000 of which is LoCIP funds); the other project, he added, was the “GIS Mapping,” whose total project cost was $100,000—($50,000 of which is LoCIP funds).
Councillor Pelkey expressed concern about “cutting” the funding for the parking lot projects. As he recalled, he said, it was the general feeling that these parking lots “had to be done this year,” because it was a “real safety concern.” He said he has “great apprehension” in supporting any cut in those particular three items because he had received no clear message that the “safety issue” had been addressed. The Councillor recalled that the “Chair of the school board” really didn’t like the idea. He also recalled that, at the time these parking lots were discussed, etc., it was determined that by doing the three projects together, some savings could be realized. Now it sounded as though they would be “repaired” until the time a Referendum Question “passed for the Board of Ed.” Again, Councillor Pelkey emphasized his concern for supporting any cut in those particular three items.
Continuing, Councillor Pelkey said he also had “a big concern” about Council not funding the Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure Account, at all. He explained his reasons—one of which is the Town’s past experience, on several occasions, where the costs have escalated. The proposal to reduce that Capital Project for the school paving would bring that account “somewhere around $2,735,000. He asked the Town Manager for clarification.
Mr. Galligan said the number he had was $2,755,542 for the Capital Projects Account.
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6. D. (Continued)
Continuing, Councillor Pelkey said that he estimated a “little over 2% increase” in Capital Projects funding for this year—coming from additional revenue. He felt this was not an acceptable amount; and, in order to move some of these projects forward, they would have to be funded properly. He then proposed line-by-line Amendments for the Capital Projects—which left the total figure, for Capital Projects, at $2,805,542.
The Motion was seconded by Councillor Yagaloff. When asked by Mayor Streeter what the net tax impact would be, Councillor Pelkey replied “slightly over 6%,” or, $50,000. For the record, Mayor Streeter paraphrased what was transpiring here—that is, restoring $50,000 to the aforementioned items in the Capital Projects budget.
A discussion ensued regarding the original Capital Projects plan, the changes that were made in its budget; and, the original intent of the Capital Projects Committee. Councillor McCann disputed the remark made regarding a “concern for safety” because of the conditions of the school parking lots. He said he would be supporting the budget as proposed, and without the amendments presented by Councillor Pelkey.
Councillor Yagaloff said he would be supporting the Amendment. He suggested that if any money is spent on “architectural fees,” perhaps the Board of Education should spend it out of its own “surplus.” He felt that Councillor Pelkey’s recommendation that funds be put into the “Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditures Account” was appropriate because it allows Council the opportunity to make financial adjustments during the course of the year.
Councillor Pelkey then requested to hear, for clarification, comments made earlier in the evening. (However, because of the importance of the content of this meeting—the amending and setting of the Town Budget—and the fear of losing some of that content by searching for and rebroadcasting a portion of the meeting, on air, a recess was called at 10:00 p.m. in order to allow sufficient time for the Councillors to reach a compromise.
Mayor Streeter called the meeting back to order at 10:25 p.m., and called upon Councillor Pelkey who stated that his intent was to withdraw his previous Motion. He requested a withdrawal of the seconding of that Motion. Councillor Yagaloff withdrew his second, and Councillor Pelkey then withdrew the Motion.
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Special Meeting – Town Council
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6. D. (Continued)
Councillor Yagaloff then moved to Amend the Capital Projects Budget by adding $25,000 of new funds to the Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditures Account, which currently has a “0” balance); and shift $50,000 from the Architectural Services for Renovations of the Schools to that Capital and Non-Recurring Account such that the balance that remains in Architectural Services for Renovations would be $50,000; and the new balance in Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditures would be $75,000; and the total amount of the Capital Projects Budget would be $2,780,542. The Motion was seconded by Councillor Fine
Councillor Pelkey said he would not be supporting this Amendment; and, if it does pass, he would not be supporting the Budget as a whole. Saying he has been very “passionate” about the Capital Projects Budget; and felt the Council was going in the wrong direction with this budget, he wanted them to know that before he would support a Referendum Question for Capital Projects funding, he would have to see the proper linkage to the proper funding of the Capital Projects budget “from year to year.”
The Amendment was approved 8 Ayes to 1 Nay, on a Roll Call vote, as follows:
Deputy Mayor Delnicki - Yes
Councillor Fine Yes
Councillor McCann Yes
Councillor Havens Yes
Councillor Moriarty Yes
Councillor Pelkey No
Councillor Prague Yes
Councillor Yagaloff Yes
Mayor Streeter Yes
Deputy Mayor Delnicki said that, in light of this change in the budget, and the change in the GIS position, he would make a Motion to remove $3,750 from the Health Care associated with the GIS position, and $7,065 from the Social Security. The Motion was seconded by Councillor McCann. The Motion was approved 8 Ayes to 1 Nay, on a Roll Call vote, as follows:
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Special Meeting – Town Council
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6. D. (Continued)
Deputy Mayor Delnicki - Yes
Councillor Fine Yes
Councillor McCann Yes
Councillor Havens Yes
Councillor Moriarty Yes
Councillor Pelkey No
Councillor Prague Yes
Councillor Yagaloff Yes
Mayor Streeter Yes
Councillor Pelkey reminded the Council that, just prior to the recess, he had requested a “playback” of what had been recorded at this meeting earlier in the evening; but was denied the opportunity to listen to past remarks because of a “technological gap in our Town Hall that was discovered this evening;” and the risk of losing what was recorded up to the time of the request. Continuing, the Councillor stated that he finally relinquished his request, and chose, instead, to compromise and go the way that he was going with the vote.
Councillor Yagaloff then said that he would be supporting the budget as it stood at this point; however, he was not pleased with the way the Town was managing its expenses and revenue. He felt it would be nice to “think outside the box and try to do something a little bit different.” He then asked for a moment to talk, briefly, about revenue—concluding with the suggestion that, in the upcoming year, the General Government and the Board of Education focus on operating their businesses differently, so that each agency’s spending is more in line with its “revenues.”
Mayor Streeter thanked the Town Councillors for their hard work throughout the budget season. He felt the Town Council had reached a fair budget for the Town of South Windsor; and, he added….”like it or not, we are in the middle of an energy crisis; and the big winners are the utilities (he elaborated).” He informed the listening audience that these were “budget impact items” for many of the Departments’ budgets; and the Town Council had done what it could to mitigate these impacts on the taxpayers.
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Special Meeting – Town Council
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May 8, 2006
6. D. (Continued)
Concluding his remarks, Mayor Streeter said that the net impact will be about a 1.84% tax increase—and, on a $84 million budget, he felt the Council was doing what it had set out to do—control spending and presenting a reasonable tax increase to the homeowners. He felt that without the effects of the energy crisis upon Town operations, he was certain Council could have presented a budget with a “minimal tax increase.” He then called for a vote on Agenda Item 6. D. a Resolution Adopting the General Government Budget for Fiscal Year 2006/2007, as Amended.
The Resolution was approved 8 Ayes to 1 Nay, on a Roll Call vote, as follows:
Deputy Mayor Delnicki - Yes
Councillor Fine Yes
Councillor McCann Yes
Councillor Havens Yes
Councillor Moriarty Yes
Councillor Pelkey No
Councillor Prague Yes
Councillor Yagaloff Yes
Mayor Streeter Yes
E. Resolution Setting the Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2006/2007
BE IT RESOLVED that a tax rate of 32.54 mills be levied on the Grand List of October 1, 2005 based upon Total Revenues excluding current taxes of $66,528,758, which includes an appropriation from Fund Balance in the amount of $1,300,000 to finance total expenditures of $84,266,468 made up of a Board of Education Budget of $54,820,012, and a General Government Budget of $29,446,456 both of which have been adopted by the South Windsor Town Council, and exhibits of which are on file in the Office of the Town Clerk for the Fiscal Year commencing on July 1, 2006 and terminating on June 30, 2007.
Was made by: Councillor Delnicki
Seconded by: Councillor Havens
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6. E. (Continued)
The Motion, as Amended, was approved 8 Ayes to 1 Nay, on a Roll Call vote, as follows:
Deputy Mayor Delnicki - Yes
Councillor Fine Yes
Councillor McCann Yes
Councillor Havens Yes
Councillor Moriarty Yes
Councillor Pelkey No
Councillor Prague Yes
Councillor Yagaloff Yes
Mayor Streeter Yes
F. Resolution Appointing a Rate Maker for Fiscal Year 2006/2007;
and the Tabling of Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby appoints Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan as Rate Maker for Fiscal Year 2006/2007, and hereby tables the same.
Was made by: Councillor Yagaloff
Seconded by: Councillor Fine
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
G. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Submit a Grant Application to the State of Connecticut’s Office of Policy and Management for Phase II Improvements to Ellsworth School Gymnasium
(Councillor Pelkey)
WHEREAS, the South Windsor Town Council recognizes that the Ellsworth School gymnasium, at 1737 Main Street, is a widely used recreational facility in critical need of repairs; and
WHEREAS, the Town is seeking to complete Phase II of improvements to this facility which carried a total estimated cost of $18,500 - $5,500 of which has already been funded; and
(Resolution Continued on Next Page)
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6. G. (Continued)
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor wishes to submit a Grant Application to the State of Connecticut’s Office of Policy and Management for the remaining $13,000 cost associated with Phase II of this project, which improvements include interior painting, stage repairs, basketball goal and scoreboard replacements
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council authorizes Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan to submit a Grant Application to the State’s Office of Policy and Management for $13,000, said funds to be used to complete Phase II improvements to the Ellsworth School gymnasium.
Was made by: Councillor Pelkey
Seconded by: Councillor Havens
Following a brief explanation of this Resolution by Councillor Pelkey, Councillor Prague Moved to Table this Resolution, citing his past membership on the Park and Recreation Commission and his continued presence at their meetings Councillor Prague said he did not remember this project being discussed either on the P&R Master Plan, or at the Commission’s meetings. He requested that before a vote is taken someone from the Parks and Recreation Commission come forward to offer the Commission’s opinion as to where the $13,000 Grant monies should go.
The Motion to Table was seconded by Councillor McCann; and was approved 5 Ayes to 4 Nays, as follows:
Deputy Mayor Delnicki - Yes
Councillor Fine No
Councillor McCann Yes
Councillor Havens No
Councillor Moriarty Yes
Councillor Pelkey No
Councillor Prague Yes
Councillor Yagaloff No
Mayor Streeter Yes
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May 8, 2006
6. Special Business (Continued)
H. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Submit a Grant Application to the State of Connecticut’s Office of Policy and Management for $37,000 to be Used to Complete Phases II and III Construction of the High Elements Ropes Course at the South Windsor Team Building & Leadership Center at Nevers Road Park
WHEREAS, the South Windsor Town Council recognizes the importance and educational and recreational benefits of the completed Phase I Low-Elements Ropes Course at the South Windsor Team Building & Leadership Center located at Nevers Road Park; and
WHEREAS, Phase I, at a cost of $10,000, is complete and operational; and Phase II, at an estimated cost of $52,000 has, to date, been partially funded by $15,000; and
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor wishes to submit a Grant Application to the State of Connecticut’s Office of Policy and Management for the $37,000 needed to complete construction of Phase II (high-elements ropes course) and initiate Phase III (storage for high elements ropes course) of this ongoing project at the Team Building & Leadership Center at Nevers Road Park
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council authorizes Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan to submit a Grant Application to the State of Connecticut’s Office of Policy and Management for $37,000 in funds to be used to complete Phases II and III of the High-Elements Ropes Course at Nevers Road Park.
Was made by: Councillor McCann
Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Delnicki
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
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May 8, 2006
7. Executive Session - None
8. Motion to Adjourn
At 10:55 p.m., a Motion to Adjourn was made by Councillor Prague; seconded by Councillor Moriarty; and was approved, unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia R. Brown
Clerk of the Council
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