TOWN COUNCIL
TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR
Action Minutes Page 1 October 3, 2006
TOWN COUNCIL – Regular Meeting
Council Chambers – South Windsor Town Hall
1. Call Meeting to Order
Mayor Streeter called the meeting to order at 8:00 p.m.
4. Roll Call
Members Present: Mayor Matthew Streeter
Deputy Mayor Thomas Delnicki
Councillor Edward Havens
Councillor Kevin McCann
Councillor Tim Moriarty
Councillor John Pelkey
Councillor Cary Prague
Councillor Keith Yagaloff
Members Absent: Councillor Deborah Fine
Also Present: Town Manager Matthew Galligan
ITEM:
5. Public Input
Ms. Cate Evans, Executive Director of the South Windsor Chamber of Commerce came forward to inform the Council that on November 2, 2006 they will be having their South Windsor Chamber of Commerce Booming Business Expo. It will take place at Maneeley’s Banquet Facility from 3:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. She explained that the event will open with a speaker who will provide some business education; then there will be 50 exhibitors who will have booths showcasing the businesses and services that are now available in South Windsor. Ms. Evans said that this is the second time that they have had the Business Exp and last year there were over 400 people that attended. She also explained that there will be goody bags, free drawings, refreshments, and the drawing for the 2006 Jaguar.
Ms. Evans also reported that 150 people turned out last Thursday evening for the Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting where they recognized their Business Person of the Year, and that this year their Honoree was Cary Prague.
ITEM:
6. Environmental Health & Safety Message
Councillor Prague mentioned that there was a car accident the other day and how he is always pleased to see how well the Fire Department, Police Department, and Ambulance respond to incidents and he thanked everyone.
Councillor McCann alerted everyone to the fact that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. He explained that it is a preventable and curable disease if it is caught early and a disease that affects one in seven women during their lifetimes. He stated how important it is that all women be aware of the disease, to do self examinations, and to have Mammograms done.
7. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meetings - None
8. Public Petitions - None
9. Communications from Officers and Boards Directly Responsible to Council
Mr. Robert Moeller of 203 Sandstone Drive and Chairman of the Patriotic Commission came forward to inform the Council about the Essay Contest that will run from November 1 through December 31, 2006. This year’s topic is broad enough for all students at all levels to write about. The topic is, “There are many patriots who made America great, choose one and explain why you picked that person.” The winners will be announced by May 1, 2007, participate in the Memorial Day, and receive their awards at the first Council Meeting in June.
Mr. Moeller also reported that arrangements are being made for participation in Hartford’s Veterans’ Day Parade. He said that as in the past, they will be using a bus provided by the Community Center. The bus will depart the Community Center at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 5. All Veterans from South Windsor are invited to join them and as in the past, they will also be joined by the Timothy Edwards Middle School Band.
He said that the annual Veterans’ Day Ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 11 at 11:00 a.m. at Veterans’ Memorial Park.
Mr. Moeller also said that the Patriotic Commission has invited back the 102nd Army Band to perform their Christmas Concert on December 3 at the Timothy Edwards Middle School Auditorium. The performance will begin at 4:00 p.m. He said that last year’s performance was one of their most successful attended events. The Auditorium holds approximately 600 people. The price of admission is an unwrapped toy, food card, or phone card, per individual attending.
ITEM:
9. (Continued)
The Commission also hopes to bring the United States Coast Guard Band to the Recreation Department’s Summer Concert Series.
In the spring of this year, the Patriotic Commission looked at the prospect of minting a commemorative or, as called in the military, a challenged coin. The purpose would be so that it could be given to a person or organization in recognition for their contribution of time or effort in support of the Patriotic Commission. He explained that the design of the coin has the Town of South Windsor Seal on one side and a reproduction of the Town Memorial at Veterans’ Memorial Park on the other side.
Mr. Moeller presented 3 of the first coins to former members of the Patriotic Commission and explained their contributions. The recipients were Colonel Retired John Rafael, Elizabeth Pendleton, and Councillor Timothy Moriarty.
Councillor Pelkey read a list of South Windsor residents who have served, or are currently serving, in either “Operation Iraqi Freedom,” or “Operation Nobel Eagle.”
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
Town Manager Galligan explained that Mr. Charlie Danna, Assessor would not be able to attend the next meeting, but that he would probably be able to attend the first meeting in November to discuss and answer any questions regarding some of the elderly programs and issues in the Assessor’s Office.
The Town Manager also discussed the memorandum he received from Mel Stead, Superintendent of Street Services regarding the T-Square Equipment Show, which shows the skills of people using various heavy-duty equipment. He thanked the Public Works Department for their job well done.
He discussed the report from CCM regarding the payment of CL&P to various towns. He explained that the “PS” means that it was previously settled, which is what South Windsor did. South Windsor chose to do an audit rather than go to lawsuit.
Councillor Yagaloff discussed the Flu Clinic that is being held on October 25th and thought that a charge of $30 for people that do not have insurance is a little high and asked the Town Manager to look into having the cost reduced. Town Manager Galligan said that he would look into that.
ITEM:
10. (Continued)
Councillor Yagaloff also discussed the horrific crimes that have been happening against young people. He asked if the Police Chief could come in the future and give some guidance and answer any questions regarding if this were to happen in South Windsor. Town Manager Galligan explained that some of this can be discussed in public, but some does need to be discussed in Executive Session because there are issues under Homeland Security relating to how things are handled. He said that he would also make sure that the Town Attorney was comfortable with discussing this.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki complimented Mr. Danna’s report, but asked that the Veterans’ Exemption be discussed, i.e., where the Town is presently, how many people are using, what the impact is on the Town, where the Town should be going with it, and are there any other programs for veterans that the Town is presently not using and could possibly consider.
He also asked the Town Manager to convey to the registrars that Family Awareness Day is Saturday, October 28th.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki asked about the previous report from the Police Department that discussed the School Resource Officer at Timothy Edwards Middle School being pulled out because the Department was short staffed. Town Manager Galligan said that he saw him there today, he didn’t know if it was permanent, but they are trying to get him back into the school.
Councillor Havens also discussed how it is important that the Chief of Police come in to discuss how they tie into the Fire Department, the Town Staff, and the rest of the Community in protecting children.
He also asked in regard to the elderly program, if Mr. Danna visits any of the senior citizens. Town Manager Galligan explained that some of the applications are done at the Community Center and then it is sent to the Assessor’s Office for processing.
Councillor McCann asked a few questions regarding the CL&P street light audit that was done. He said that there is two parts to the settlement. One being the rebate for the over charges and the other part is the adjustment for the charges going forward. He wanted reassurance that the Town is participating in the revamped charges going forward. Town Manager Galligan stated that they are and that CL&P is also redoing lights that were outdated.
ITEM:
10. (Continued)
Councillor McCann also asked about the reimbursement for certain costs regarding lights in the condominiums. Town Manager Galligan explained that the Town only gives them reimbursement for the lights that are two hundred feet apart along the roadways, not parking areas.
11. Reports from Standing Committees - None
12. Reports of Temporary Committees
Deputy Mayor Delnicki discussed the Citizen Satisfaction Survey and stated that they had approximately 590 responses, which is about a 30% return rate. He said that they were hoping to have a report out for the first meeting in November.
13. Communications and Petitions from Council
Councillor Havens stated to Deputy Mayor Delnicki that he is most concerned about what the citizens think about the Council.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki informed everyone that the Volunteer Fire Department is having their Open House on Sunday, October 8th. Chris Hack, Captain of the South Windsor Volunteer Fire Department gave an overview of what will be at the Open House.
Councillor Pelkey spoke about the Diversity Training that he attended that the Human Relations Commission put on.
He also discussed the Human Relations Committee, a subcommittee to the Human Relations Commissions, and how it has grown and is now up to 50 high school students who are members.
Councillor Yagaloff reminded everyone that the South Windsor Historical Society has their Heritage Day Event, Saturday, October 7th from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
He also discussed the Business Expo that is going to be on November 2nd at Maneeley’s and how it is an incredible event.
Mayor Streeter informed everyone that he has the honor of attending an Eagle Scout Ceremony at the Wapping Community Church for Robbie Cvejanovich, a High School Junior.
ITEM:
13. (Continued)
The Mayor also discussed the informational meeting that will be held in the Council Chambers on Wednesday, October 4th at 7:00 p.m. regarding the future of the Treatment Plant. Town Manager Galligan gave further information.
Councillor Havens stated that he is afraid that there is not enough information for the public regarding the referendum question that will be in the November Election. Town Manager Galligan explained that the only way to get information out to the public is to have a Political Action Committee. He also explained that the Council, as an individual member, can say that they support something as long as tax payer dollars aren’t used.
Councillor McCann followed up on the comments made by Councillor Havens and stated that he agrees with what was said. He stated that he would like to find out from the Town Attorney as to what extent they can go, to support or oppose a referendum question.
Councillor Havens asked the Town Manager to ask the Town Attorney about whether or not the Council can speak to it as citizens. Town Manager Galligan explained that when this was discussed with Mr. Garfield from CROG, Mr. Garfield said that talking about it is not an expenditure of funds, but he would have the Town Attorney verify that.
Councillor Yagaloff explained that he interprets the law as stating that it is not just the expenditure of funds, but also the use of Town property. He said that this meeting being broadcast and being on Town property, is a use of Town funds and resources. He also wanted everyone to know that not all Councillors are behind this issue and he doesn’t feel that it should be discussed at this meeting. Mayor Streeter asked the Town Manager to also ask the Town Attorney about using air time.
14. Public Participation - None
15. Consent Agenda - None
16. Unfinished Business - None
ITEM:
17. New Business
A. Discussion Item – Proposed Purchase of a “Tower Ladder” for the Volunteer Fire Department (Deputy Fire Chief Jay Knipple, and Committee, to report)
Deputy Fire Chief Jay Knipple and his Committee distributed information regarding the New Tower Ladder and explained it at length. (Attached as Exhibit D.)
Various questions were answered at length for the Council.
B. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Enter into a Contract for the Purchase of a New “Tower Ladder Truck” for the Town of South Windsor’s Volunteer Fire Department
WHEREAS, the South Windsor Fire Department had developed a Capital Plan for the purchase of various Fire Department vehicles to be purchased over the next few years; and
WHEREAS, South Windsor Fire Chief Philip Crombie, and his staff, have determined that a priority need for the fire safety of South Windsor’s businesses and residences is the purchase of a new Tower Ladder Truck to meet those needs; and
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor has appropriately advertised, bid, and accepted bids on this vehicle, and the apparent successful bidder has met all of the Specifications required by the South Windsor Volunteer Fire Department in order to meet all of the standards, goals and objectives of its Department
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the South Windsor Town Council hereby authorizes Town Manager, Matthew B. Galligan to sign and execute an agreement for the purchase of a Tower Ladder Truck in the amount of $860,039; and
ITEM:
17. B. (Continued)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan is authorized to rebid additional equipment to be provided on the Tower Ladder Truck in an amount not to exceed $70,000, in order to provide that the Tower Ladder Truck be fully operational upon its delivery to the Town of South Windsor.
Was made by: Deputy Mayor Delnicki
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
C. Resolution Approving a Tax Abatement for Eligible Members of the South Windsor Volunteer Fire Department
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor wishes to provide funds to the South Windsor Volunteer Fire Department Inc. in lieu of tax abatements, to be used for any purpose the South Windsor Volunteer Fire Department Inc. chooses
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council authorizes the transfer of $51,293 from the Contingency Account to the Volunteer Abatement Account Number 10000205-10718; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council authorizes the payment of $51,293 from the Volunteer Abatement Account to the South Windsor Volunteer Fire Department Inc. in lieu of tax abatements, said funds to be used for any purpose.
Was made by: Councillor Havens
Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Delnicki
After a lengthy discussion regarding the process and reasoning for the way the transfer is done, the Motion was Approved, unanimously.
D. Resolution Approving a Tax Assessment Agreement with DST Realty Connecticut, Inc.
WHEREAS, the Town of South Windsor’s Economic Development Incentive Program, established pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Section 12-65b, is intended to encourage the development and expansion of quality businesses in Town through tax and other economic incentives, and is designed to attract businesses that will generate substantial additional tax revenues and employment opportunities for the Town while providing quality goods and services; and
ITEM:
17. D. (Continued)
WHEREAS, the South Windsor Economic Development Commission recommends, pursuant to said program, that a tax assessment agreement be offered to DST Realty Connecticut, Inc. to construct a 50,000 square foot addition to its existing facility at 125 Ellington Road, South Windsor, Connecticut, at an estimated cost of $3,500,000 for building improvements
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council is pleased to offer a Tax Assessment Agreement between the Town and DST Realty Connecticut, Inc. reducing the amount of the assessment of a new building having an estimated overall assessment of $2,450,000 by eighty percent (80%) for a period of seven (7) years; therefore, the estimated assessed value of the new improvements to the real property would be $490,000 for a period of seven (7) years, commencing with the Grand List following the date of the Certificate of Occupancy on the new addition; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council offers DST Realty Connecticut, Inc. this Tax Assessment Agreement upon the condition that the business located at the property owned by DST Realty Connecticut, Inc. shall (1) meet the improvement cost figures and agree to the estimated assessment figures; (2) continue operations in South Windsor for a minimum of ten (10) years; and (3) maintain its local facilities approximately at a minimum of the currently proposed levels of employment during this 10-year period; and, if it fails to meet these conditions, DST Realty Connecticut, Inc. agrees to refund to the Town of South Windsor all of the tax savings described herein which the Company has received.
Was made by: Councillor Moriarty
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
After a lengthy discussion, the Resolution was Approved 7 to 1 by a roll call vote with one dissenting vote cast by Councillor Moriarty.
E. Resolution Introducing a Proposal to Authorize the Town Manager to Enter into a Mutual Assistance Agreement with the Town of Manchester for the Designation of Fire Marshals; and Setting a Time and Place for a Public Hearing to Receive Citizen Input on Same
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby introduces a proposal to authorize Town Manager Matthew B. Galligan to execute a Mutual Assistance Agreement with the Town of Manchester, Connecticut for the designation of Fire Marshals, a copy of which Proposal is attached as Exhibit B.; and
ITEM:
17. E. (Continued)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby sets Monday, October 16, 2006, at 7:30 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 proposed Mutual Assistance Agreement.
Was made by: Councillor Yagaloff
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
F. Resolution Authorizing the Residents of Cornerstone Drive to Maintain the Proposed Open Space in Their Area
WHEREAS, the residents of Cornerstone Drive, South Windsor, have submitted a request for the maintenance of open space in the area; and
WHEREAS, the residents have followed all protocols and procedures in requesting such permission to be allowed, at their cost, to maintain some of the open space areas in their neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council held a Public Hearing on September 5, 2006, at which they received input from various residents on the issue; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council had a Work Session on September 18, 2006 to discuss said proposal
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, based upon the information that was presented at the Public Hearing and discussions of the Town Council, the Town Council hereby authorizes the residents of Cornerstone Drive to maintain the open space in that area, as proposed by the residents of Cornerstone Drive; and follow all proposals as outlined in Exhibit C; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if there is any encroachment into the wetlands area, it would have to be approved by the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission.
Was made by: Councillor Prague
Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Delnicki
ITEM:
17. F. (Continued)
Councillor Prague suggested that the Resolution be Amended to add an Exhibit C. Councillor Pelkey Amended the Resolution; the Amendment was Seconded by Councillor Prague; and Approved Unanimously.
After a brief discussion on the Amended Resolution, it was Approved unanimously.
G. Resolution Approving a Refund of Property Taxes to Thirty-three (33) South Windsor Taxpayers
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council approves a refund of property taxes to thirty-three (33) South Windsor taxpayers, the total of said refunds being $6,444.72, and as more fully described on attached Exhibit A.
Was made by: Councillor Yagaloff
Seconded by: Councillor Delnicki
The Motion was: Approved, unanimously
18. Passage of Ordinance - None
19. Communications and Petitions from Council (Continued) - None
20. Communications and Petitions from the Town Manager (Continued) - None
21. Executive Session
At approximately 10:20 p.m., a Motion was made by Deputy Mayor Delnicki to go into Executive Session to discuss personnel matters (Requested by Councillor Prague); (and) To discuss possible purchase of property by the Town of South Windsor (Requested by Town Manager Galligan). The Motion was seconded by Councillor Yagaloff; and approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
22. Motion to Adjourn
The Meeting was adjourned immediately following the conclusion of the Executive Session.
Respectfully submitted,
Vanessa Perry
Assistant to the Clerk of the Council
Attmts. Exhibit A., B., C. & D.
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