TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR
Minutes Page 1 October 15, 2007
TOWN COUNCIL – Regular Meeting
Council Chambers – placePlaceNameSouth Windsor PlaceTypeTown Hall
1. Call Meeting to Order
Deputy Mayor Delnicki called the meeting to order at 8:00 p.m.; Recessed the Regular Meeting in order to finish the Work Session. The Regular Meeting began at 8:25 p.m.
4. Roll Call
Members Present: Mayor Matthew Streeter – arrived at 8:30 p.m.
Deputy Mayor Thomas Delnicki
Councillor Edward Havens
Councillor Daniel Jeski
Councillor PersonNameKevin McCann
Councillor PersonNameTim Moriarty
Councillor PersonNameJohn Pelkey
Councillor Cary CityplacePrague
Councillor PersonNameKeith Yagaloff
Also Present: Matthew B. Galligan, Town Manager
5. Public Input
Ms. Janice Favreau, addressStreet25 2-Arthur Drive, voiced support for Councillor Jeski’s proposal announced at the last Town Council Meeting regarding reduced or free admission for disabled persons and veterans for use of the pool at placePlaceNameVeterans PlaceTypeMemorial Park. As a mother of an adult disabled son, Ms. Favreau stated that she is well aware of the income limitation of those who are disabled often face. This proposal will not have a negative impact on the Town’s bottom line because the potential number of users will only minimally affect the overall attendance at the park, however it would mean a great deal to those persons who qualify and would especially honor our veterans who have sacrificed so much for us.
Mr. Don Gonsalves, 40 Bayberry Trail, asked if he would be able to speak on the Senior Tax Relief, when that issue comes forward? Deputy Mayor Delnicki stated he would allow that.
ITEM:
5. Public Input (continued)
Mr. Don Gonsalves then said that he is very disappointed in the whole election process that is going on in the Town. Not one person has made a position yet on the elementary school project which is a very important issue to the tax payers of placeSouth Windsor.
The following is a list of residents that came forward to speak in favor of the clean energy resolution that is on the agenda:
Ellen Castaldini, addressStreet311 Twin Circle Drive
Carter Sutherland, Pleasant addressStreetValley Road
John Namnoum, addressStreet108 Kelly Road
Tom Rosfjord, addressStreet175 Orchard Hill Drive
A resident from addressStreetAmato Drive
Joan Segal, addressStreet23 Windshire Drive
Mrs. Nicole Dibenedetto, 85 Orchard Hill Drive approached the Town Council to address her concerns regarding the Orchard Hill Elementary School walkers. There is a Committee which has been formed to look at this matter and also update the policy. She stated that there are a lot of safety issues that children face as walkers. If a child is too young to stay home alone, then it is fair to say that they are too young to walk to school alone. Presently all of the other elementary schools have no walkers.
Mrs. Sheila Appleton, addressStreet161 Woodland Drive came forward to support Councillor Jeski’s agenda item about busing for Orchid Hill. I feel strongly that legislating is about choices, working together this Town Council and the Board of Education must make wise choices. Listening to the recent debate about the busing for the children at Orchard Hill, one thing comes to mind, the $125,000 that was cut from the Board of Education budget could easily have supplied a cross walk, lights, a crossing guard or even the buses that the parent of Orchard Hill are requesting. I submit to the Town Council and to the citizens of placeSouth Windsor that there should never be a choice about whether we should make our children safe. Our children are our future and we need to protect that future.
ITEM:
5. Public Input (continued)
Mrs. Kim Silverman, addressStreet200 Orchard Hill Drive stated that there are approximately 50 walkers from Orchard Hill and Timothy Edwards. Mrs. Silverman’s five year old son who is required to walk to school one way because the Town will only pay for him to be bused one way. When Mrs. Silverman moved to Town she was told that her kids would have to walk through a path in order to get to their school, she then decided to become a bus driver because she felt this was an unsafe situation. As a bus driver she has watched kids that are three houses away from Orchard Hill being driven to school. There are no crossing guards or adult supervision provided for these children.
Mr. Bob Dickinson, addressStreet19 Birch Road suggested that a walking bus be established for those children that are required to walk. This type of program would have an adult walk to each house, instead of a bus.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki turned the gavel over to the Mayor
6. Environmental and Safety
Mayor Streeter stated that as we are getting into fall we are getting into leaf raking season and would like to remind the residents as they rake their leaves please try to keep your sidewalks clear yet keep the leaves from going into the street and to also use caution while driving.
Mayor Street also told residents that with Halloween coming up please use caution when driving down the street.
Councillor McCann wanted to remind people that once again October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast Cancer is not just a women’s issue. Ten percent of all breast cancers are diagnosed in men. When breast cancer strikes your wife, mother, sister, daughter it also affects your life. Councillor McCann encouraged all men to become aware themselves, to alert their loved ones, to encourage their loved ones to remain vigilant and to support research for the cure of this disease.
ITEM:
7. Adoption of Minutes
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council approves the Minutes of the following Town Council meeting: Regular Meeting of September 17, 2007.
Was made by: Councillor Havens
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The motion was: Approved, unanimously
8. Public Petitions – none
9. Communications from Officers and Board
Mr. Robert Moeller who is the Chairperson for the Patriotic Commission came forward to inform the Council Members of the events that are being planned by the Patriotic Commission for the coming year. They are as follows:
placeCity· Hartford’s Veterans Day Parade will be held on Sunday, November 4, 2007.
· The Annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the placePlaceNameVeterans PlaceTypeMemorial Park will be held on Sunday, November 11, 2007 at 11:00 a.m.
· The Annual Essay contest will begin on November 15 and end on January 18, 2008. The topic for all grades will be “What makes South placeCityWindsor a great place to live”.
· There will be no Christmas Concert this year.
· Armed Forces Day will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2008, at PlaceNameplaceNevers PlaceNameRoad PlaceTypePark.
· The Annual Memorial Day Parade will be held on Monday, May 26, 2008 with the parade stepping off at 10:00 a.m.
· The retirement of unserviceable American Flags on Flay Day will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2008
ITEM:
9. Communications from Officers and Board (continued)
· Mrs. Jan Favreau from the Human Relations Commission came forward to inform Council Members of two upcoming events that the Human Relations Commission is sponsoring. They are as follows:
· Internationally Acclaimed Lincoln Artist and Guest Speaker, Wendy Allen will bring her art and her program entitled “In Search of Americas Sole” to the Town Council Chambers on Thursday November 8, 2007 at 6:30 p.m.
· The Human Relations Commission will once again present its diversity puppet show, (Human Relations Diversity Puppet Show). This event will be held at 11:00 am at The Family Awareness Day on Saturday, October 27, 2007 at the placePlaceNameCharles PlaceNameEnes PlaceTypeCommunity Center.
Mrs. Favreau then introduced two new members of the Human Relations Commission. Mr. David Peck who is retired as State Human Resource Director of the State of StateplaceConnecticut. He is the inspiration because he is the Lincoln Scholar among us for our event which is upcoming and also Mr. Charlie Margolis who is Vice Chair and he is a Retired Art instructor from the Town of CityplaceNewington. Mr. Marolis was extremely instrumental in helping us with the judging of our Diversity Poster Contest.
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager
Town Manager Galligan reported on the following items:
· He received a letter from Alan and Sally Osit. They are talking about doing some work at the Boundless Playground. I think it is a great project that they would like to donate and we are going to allow them to do that.
· Attended the ICMA Conference. Some issues that were discussed at the conference were Pandamic Flu, Municipality web-sites, succession planning, leveraging retail to expand your economic development Initiatives, and disaster assessment. Mr. Galligan stated that it was a good conference and was very informative.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager (continued)
· On Saturday, October 13, received a call from Ray Favreau about VMP pool. The pool was torched in a certain area of the toddler pool, the pool cover was completely burnt, and some of the plastic barrels that float under the cover were burnt. The pool cover alone will cost between $30,000-$35,000. CIRMA, our insurance carrier, has been notified. The Police Department is holding an investigation. If the individual(s) who did this are caught, the Town will prosecute and look for restitution.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki asked when is the Town going to install some security cameras there at the pool? Mr. Galligan explained that when the pool was being constructed, this item for security cameras was cut from the proposal in order to keep costs down. Also cut out of the proposal was the high fencing.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki recommended that a resolution be brought forward to waive competitive bidding because this is a situation that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Mr. Galligan stated that if the Council would entertain that, he would do that.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki noted that the Town Council received a legal opinion pertaining to the truck traffic ordinance and he was glad to see that Ordinance #180 is a legal ordinance, but notice that signage has to be 300 feet from any addressStreetState Highway. addressStreetEllington Road and addressStreetSullivan Avenue are both State Highways and therefore does that mean that the signs that are presently at the intersections of Beldon and Rte. 30; and addressStreetGovernors Highway and Rte. 30 have to have a setback of 300 feet? Attorney Forsyth answered that yes they must be 300 feet away from the addressStreetState Highway. The prudent thing to do right now is to go to the State Traffic Commission and get permission to keep the signs were they are presently.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki then questioned if the Town has a road that goes into another Town, would there be a problem placing “No Thru Traffic” signs up? Attorney Forysth stated that if you do have a road that goes from your Town to another Town and you are prohibiting through traffic, that is problematic.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager (continued)
Deputy Mayor Delnicki asked if the Town could preclude, by weight, some of the trucks that travel on addressStreetDeming Street, not because of the through traffic issue, but quite frankly because of the safety issue on that street? Attorney Forsyth said he would like the opportunity to look at that.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki questioned since addressStreetDeming Street is adjacent to Rte. 30, would the State Traffic Commission need to approve signage there as well? Attorney Forsyth stated that if it is within 300 feet the answer is yes.
Councillor Pelkey complimented the shade structure that is being proposed at the Boundless Playground. The only concern would be that he would like to see a within the structure a security camera that can be monitored by the Police Department.
Councillor Pelkey suggested that signs that say, “addressStreetBest Truck Route” be posted through the Town which would guide trucks around the addressStreetDeming Street area. He then questioned if approval would be necessary from the State Traffic Commission? Attorney Forsyth explained that any sign, regardless of what it says is subject to approval by the State Traffic Commission as to its location. Anything that is going to help traffic flow and get traffic to use the best possible route I would think would be received favorable by the State Traffic Commission.
Councillor Prague reiterated the request to place a security camera at the Boundless Playground and then also suggested that a security camera be placed at the Rotary Field. He then stated that the Deming Road Truck Traffic is important and would like to see the Town Council do something soon to ease the traffic on that road.
Councillor McCann suggested that the Police Department take a look at the comprehensive view of the Town and then come to the Town Council with a recommendation for where security camera’s should be located in town. He then suggested that the Police Department, on their daily routes of patrolling, take time to drive by the walking trail that leads to PlaceNameOrchard PlaceTypeHill PlaceTypeSchool and placePlaceNameTimothy PlaceNameEdwards PlaceNameSchool on a regular basis, both in the morning and afternoon. This would give added security while issues are being resolved. Lastly, Councillor McCann stated that he feels it would be appropriate for the Town to seek the State Traffic Commissions approval for restrictions of truck traffic on addressStreetDeming Street.
ITEM:
10. Communications and Reports from Town Manager (continued)
Council Members discussed the addressStreetDeming Street area further. Town Manager Galligan made a suggestion of going to the State Traffic Commission for them to approve the creation of a 90 degree intersection on the road. Councillor Yagaloff voiced concern that the 90 degree intersection would not solve all the traffic issues, just truck traffic. Town Manager Galligan explained that the Police Chief would also be involved in this issue because he is effectively, the Traffic Commission. After discussions with the Chief of Police, Town staff will come back to the Council with a plan.
Councillor Havens felt that the answer is to go back to the T formation in the road. That portion of the road is about 25 feet wide and the only way to get traffic to slow down would be to go to the T intersection.
11. Reports from Standing Committees - none
12. Reports of Temporary Committees - none
13. Communications and Petitions from Council
Councillor Havens attended the Bunham Acres Water Association meeting on October 9, 2007. The private system is approximately 50-60 years old. The Metropolitan District Commission tested the water and found it to be poor in nature and almost not meeting the standards. They also found that all of the underground piping is bad. MDC will most likely be taking over the system and the updated system would be in operation in the year 2008.
Councillor McCann informed the Town Council and the public that the Board of Education is conducting informational meetings concerning the Steering Committee’s recommendation on elementary school improvements, the D3 plan. There has been a number of informational meetings already held and it seems that feedback thus far shows that individuals have received misinformation. No plan has been decided upon, the Steering Committee has recommended the D3 plan. The D3 plan has nothing to do with how many elementary schools will be operating in the future. The number of students will determine how many elementary schools will be operating. The D3 plan calls for PlaceNameWapping PlaceTypeSchool to be open longer then under other scenarios because placePlaceNameWapping PlaceTypeSchool will be needed
as part of the entire transition of the plan. It has been said that the five small neighborhood schools will be gone forever, but under the D3 plan, fewer students will be housed in each school then some of the current
ITEM:
13. Communications and Petitions from Council (continued)
schools. The school administration will decide if they want to change the alignment of grades that has been recommended by the Steering Committee. The referendum will determine how many schools and what kind of schools will be built or renovated. Financially, the D3 plan is a sound economic plan. The D3 plan is supported by every member of the Steering Committee which includes the Superintendent of Schools, the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, the Principal of Orchard Hill School, the Curriculum Specialist for Special Education, the Director of Curriculum Materials, Special Education Aides, School Librarians, and ten other educators including teachers from PlaceNameWapping PlaceTypeSchool, and placePlaceNameEli PlaceNameTerry PlaceNameSchool. If these people are supporting a plan that
is educationally disastrous, then the Town has bigger problems then a referendum can solve. The D3 plan was presented by thirty-two unanimous members of the Steering Commission who came together with one common goal, and that goal is to come up with the best plan for our children’s education and for the Town of placeCitySouth Windsor.
Councillor Yagaloff began by stating he is against the D3 option, it is a complete economic and educational disaster. He feels it is too expensive of a plan and there has never been a public discussion by the Board of Education of the closing of placePlaceNameWapping PlaceTypeSchool, nor has the Board of Education had any public discussions regarding the grade configurations. The national trends are moving towards K-6 or K-8, not converting them to K-2 and 3-5 in different schools. The D3 plan is disastrous, the reorganization of the elementary schools is wrong and there is no evidence to support the reconfiguration of the schools.
Councillor Prague stated that everyone must remember one thing, the Steering Committee and Board of Education only make the recommendation, it is the voters who make the final decision, the only decision that counts.
Councillor Prague then announced the following events:
· On October 27, 2007 - Family Awareness Day
· On October 27, 2007 the Mom’s Club will be having their annual children’s toy and clothing consignment sale at the Fire Department.
· On October 28, 2007 there is a ribbon cutting for PlaceNameplaceHuntington PlaceNameLearning PlaceTypeCenter.
ITEM:
13. Communications and Petitions from Council (continued)
· On October 18, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. the Chamber of Commerce is hosting a meeting with the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Planning Department to discuss sign regulations.
Councillor Moriarty came forward and explained that he will not have input regarding the elementary school project until after the Board of Education comes forward and states their recommendation for the referendum.
Councillor Havens voiced his displeasure with the discussion between Councillor McCann and Councillor Yagaloff.
Councillor Pelkey announced that he had attended the Employee Recognition Event, and explained what the Project of the Year consisted of. Councillor Pelkey then requested that the employee’s who did this project be at a future Town Council Meeting.
Councillor Jeski voiced his disappointment that Councillors would take the time at a Town Council Meeting and personally attack another Councillor. He then thanked all Town employees for the wonderful job they do.
Councillor McCann explained that he spoke regarding the D3 plan in order to have residents of placeSouth Windsor not just receive misinformation on this matter. There will be a presentation of the D3 plan being held at 8:00 a.m. at the Chamber of Commerce on October 16, 2007. Councillor McCann then stated that he attended a meeting last week to discuss the potential of having a synthetic turf field for the athletic programs at the High School. Councillor Jeski suggested that lighting for the fields also be discussed.
Mayor Streeter stated that he attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for Nomads Adventure Quest and said that it is a very impressive facility.
ITEM:
14. Public Participation
Mrs. Kathy Hale, addressStreet54 Orchard Hill Drive came forward to speak in regards to the Freeze Plan for Senior Citizens. There is a report from the Town Assessor indicating that there would be needless complexity on the tax freeze option. This option was presented because it was felt that it is the simplest, clearest, and least option subject for debate. There are other options available that could be reviewed for consideration in order to benefit South Windsor Seniors. Mrs. Hale then submitted a list of individuals in favor of the tax program.
Mrs. Hale then stated that she is in favor of the Clean Energy Resolution. She explained how programs and savings could occur for the Town, what other Towns have joined, and the savings that have occurred.
Mayor Streeter questioned if the list is a petition because the Town Council Rules and Procedures prohibit the Council from taking action on a petition that is given the same night? Ms. Hale explained that it is not a formal petition.
Mr. Don Gonsalves, 40 Bayberry Trail stated that he doesn’t understand why individuals are allowed to speak on an item that is on the agenda, but the Town Council has not gotten to that portion of the agenda yet. People should be waiting for the item to come up on the agenda.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki made a motion to Suspend the Rules in order take 17. D. and 17. H. out of order Councillor McCann seconded the motion; and it was Approved unanimously
17. New Business
D. Resolution Accepting a Modification to a previously approved Resolution regarding Expanded Use of Clean Energy
WHEREAS, the South Windsor Town Council promotes conservation, the efficient use of energy, and the study of the use of renewable energy sources; and
ITEM:
17. D. (continued)
WHEREAS, electricity generation produces air pollution and emissions known to diseases including respiratory illnesses, as well as contributing to global warming; and
WHEREAS, the price of energy from fossil fuels continues to rise and is largely purchased from foreign sources; and
WHEREAS, the placeStateConnecticut legislature has mandated the creation of a clean energy option on the electric bill of consumers who support the increased use of clean energy; and
WHEREAS, more than 100 South Windsor residents have enrolled in the Connecticut Clean Energy Communities Program, thus demonstrating their commitment to the conservation and efficient use of energy
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Council, out of concern for the welfare of its citizens and desire to reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil, will commit the Town of South Windsor to take reasonable measures to purchase 20% of its energy needs from clean energy sources (e.g. low-impact hydro, wind, solar, biomass, and fuel cells) by 2010; and that the Town staff will investigate options for meeting this goal, including the purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates, local clean energy installations, and possible state and federal funding opportunities; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Town staff shall explore the Connecticut Clean Energy Communities Program that provides qualified cities and towns with clean energy systems, and shall enroll placeSouth Windsor in said program so long as such enrollment is in the Town’s best interest. The benefits of the program include a no-cost option for the Town, reduced electricity demand on the state’s transmission and distribution system, reduced emission of harmful environmental pollutants, and increased energy independence; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Town Council agrees to allocate electricity savings derived from the program for the purchase of additional clean energy; and
ITEM:
17. D. (continued)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Town Council will encourage residents and businesses to choose the clean energy option on their electricity bill, and will continue its support of its Energy Taskforce for the purpose to promote awareness of the town’s commitment to the 20% by 2010 initiative and to recommend additional conservation efforts.
Was made by: Councillor Yagaloff
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The motion was: Approved, unanimously
Councillor Yagaloff explained that the first version of this resolution had passed back in March of 2007. At that time the Town Council reached a mutual agreement to begin the process for clean energy by easing our way into the program. One of the reasons for doing it the way that was decided upon was because Council Members were not exactly clear about the number of Towns that were enrolling into this program. There have been changes in circumstances, one being that there are now 100 families in placeSouth Windsor that have engaged into the program. If you are reading the paper and look about cost of energy and what is happening with alternatives to energy, you realize it is not a far fetched abstract concept any more, this is a day to day reality. Councillor Yagaloff also read that 15% of
asthma cases in the placecountry-regionUS are presumably caused by household cleaners and by aerosol sprays. Tonight the Town Council can enter into this program and should support alternative fuel sources.
Councillor Pelkey stated that the community needs alternative energy sources and the Town should commit to what the future is going to hold.
Councillor Havens said that he would be in support of this resolution.
Mayor Streeter also stated that he is in support of this resolution.
Councillor Moriarty said that he felt the resolution that was passed back in March was sufficient. The greater impact to the community would be solved if Congress would mandate the Energy Department to allow clean energy generators to operate at 100% instead of the small percentage they currently operate at to supply power to the grid.
ITEM:
17. D. (continued)
Councillor McCann questioned how close is the Town to meeting this 20% goal right now? Town Manager Galligan explained that right now we have our energy coming from Trans-Canada. I would say we are pretty close.
Councillor McCann asked if the Town Manager would consider that as taking reasonable measure to purchase 20% of our energy from renewable sources? Town Manager Galligan answered yes and there are programs out there that the clean energy has and Town staff is constantly looking at these new programs.
Councillor McCann stated that there was large support for proposal in March. This resolution adds the Town of placeCitySouth Windsor to take reasonable measures to purchase 20% of its energy needs from clean energy sources. It also adds that the Town shall enroll placeSouth Windsor in said program so long as such enrollment is the Towns best interest. I think that is a reasonable measure to put in there. Another change that has occurred is the addition that more than 100 South Windsor residents have enrolled in the Connecticut Clean Energy Program and Councillor McCann stated he would be interested to know that 100 people have actually signed up for this because that is an important factor in making the determination regarding this resolution. Councillor McCann then informed Councillor Yagaloff
that the D3 plan provides for clean air through increased air transfers in the schools.
Councillor Jeski said that he believes currently that the State of placeStateConnecticut had a 50% reimbursement rate for any kind of solar panel electrical systems. That is a tremendous reimbursement rate and feels the Town should seek to see if solar panel electrical systems could be incorporated in new construction in the Town.
Councillor Prague stated that in March he was against this resolution. In one sense he is still worried because he does not want citizens to check off a 10% box and spend $600 to $1,000 per year that they did not know they were spending. That being said, after the last meeting regarding clean energy he has begun to believe that global warming is real and will be supporting this resolution tonight.
Mayor Streeter then called for a vote on the Resolution, it was Approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
17. New Business (continued)
H. Discussion Item – Orchard Hill Students that are required to walk to school
Councillor Jeski began the discussions by commending Mrs. Nicole Dibenedetto and Mrs. Kim Silverman for their efforts to rally their communities behind the safety of their children. I do know that the Board of Education is re-evaluating their walking policy, but currently we have a safety issue that needs to be addressed immediately. Councillor Jeski feels the Town Council should be in a position to do whatever is necessary to protect the health and welfare of these young citizens.
Councillor Pelkey felt this option should be up to the parents who know their kids the best. The only options parents presently have is to have their children walk, walk with them or drive them to school. The reference to the $125,000 earlier, I think the point trying to be made is if the $125,000 was in the budget there would be options available to the Board of Education, although the money probably could be found if it was wanted. As a Council Member the only thing we can do is make recommendations.
Coucillor Prague responded that the $125,000 was turned back because it was in the best interest of the tax payers to balance the budget and come up with a tax rate that the residents of placeSouth Windsor could live with. That being said, there is always money available when you need it. Councillor Prague stated that he thinks the cost of a bus is approximately $33,000. A Committee has been formed, not just to look at this issue, but to look at the whole transportation issue which includes transportation to the daycare centers. This issue could have been solved two weeks ago, but not one person from the Board of Education showed up at the hearing. The Town Council has no jurisdiction here, the only thing the Council can do is write a letter to the Board of Education making recommendations.
ITEM:
17. H. (continued)
Councillor Yagaloff agreed that this issue is not the Town Council’s jurisdiction, but feel that there is a safety concern. The Board of Education is going to have a Committee study this issue, but this will take a couple of months and we don’t know what the outcome is going to be. What do we do as a Council if we disagree with the Board of Educations assessment about the safety of kids walking in the morning, because fundamentally if the Town Council believes there is a safety concern in this town, don’t we have a duty to take action
Councillor Jeski stated that the Board of Education has been doing a complete review of the transportation system for four months now. The safety of these children can not wait another four months, it is something that needs to be addressed immediately.
Councillor Moriarty agreed that the Board of Education could have and should have done something about this issue. For $33,000 this should have been a non-issue and just taken care of.
Deputy Mayor Delnicki recommended a resolution be put on the table encouraging the Board of Education to step up to the plate on this. A letter is nice, but a resolution has a little more authority and a little more value to it.
Mayor Streeter made a motion to extend the meeting past 11:00 p.m.; Councillor Havens seconded the motion; and it was Approved unanimously.
Councillor Havens felt a letter or resolution to the Board of Education would be a good idea and would be done without stepping beyond our responsibilities.
Mayor Streeter stated that he has a kindergartener and could not imagine him walking to school. Only 1% of children walk to school and seems like they should just all be bused. Mayor Streeter then said that with the consent of the Council he would like to send letter to the Board of Education, there were no objections.
ITEM:
15. Consent Agenda - none
16. Unfinished Business – none
17. New Business
A. Resolution Approving the Transfer of $60,000 from the Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure Account to the Community Center Parking Lot Account
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council, having conducted the required Public Hearing at 7:30 p.m. on October 15, 2007, approves the transfer of $60,000 from Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure Account to the Community Center Parking Lot Account, to cover the cost of the new parking lot at the Community Center, addressStreet150 Nevers Road.
Was made by: Councillor Moriarty
Seconded by: Councillor Pelkey
The motion was: Approved, unanimously
B. Resolution Approving to dissolve the William R. Wood Trust Account and Transfer $32,090 to the Community Center Parking Lot Account
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby Approves to dissolve the William R. Wood Trust Account and transfer $32,090 to the Community Center Parking Lot Account, to cover the cost of the new parking lot at the Community Center, addressStreet150 Nevers Road.
Was made by: Councillor Pelkey
Seconded by: Councillore Havens
The motion was: Approved, unanimously
ITEM:
17. New Business (continued)
C. Resolution Approving the Transfer of $56,910 from Various Accounts to the Community Center Parking Lot Account
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby Approves a transfer of $6,560 from Town Garage Storage Account, $9,877 from Police Departmetn Computers Acocunt, $29,000 from Web-site Development Account, $2,072 from Communication Tower Account, $441 from AV Upgrade Council Chabers Account, $1,375 from Architect for Police Department Renovation Account and $7,585 from Dispatch Records Management Account for a total of $56,910 to be transferred to the Community Center Parking Lot Account, to cover the cost of the new parking lot at the Community Center, 150 Nevers Road.
Was made by: Councillor Prague
Seconded by: Councillore McCann
The motion was: Approved, unanimously
E. Resolution Accepting Parcels A, B, D, and E as Town-owned land if the Dzen Tree Farm Subdivision is approved by the placeSouth Windsor Planning and Zoning Commission
WHEREAS, the Open Space Task Force has strongly recommended that the Town Council accept as Town-owned land those parcels shown on the Dzen Tree Farm Subdivision Plan as Open Space, parcels A, B, D, and E; and
WHEREAS, the Open Space Task Force Recommends that the Town Council not accept as Town-owned land that parcel shown on the Dzen Tree Farm Subdivision Plan as Open Space parcel C
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby agrees to accept Parcels A, B, D, and E as Town-owned land if the Dzen Tree Farm Subdivision is approved by the South Windsor Planning and Zoning Commission.
Councillor McCann made a motion to table this Resolution. The motion was seconded by Councillor Pelkey and was Approved, unanimously.
ITEM:
17. New Business (continued)
F. Resolution Submitting Evergreen Walk Roadway Project to Planning & Zoning Commission Pursuant to Section 8-24 of the Connecticut General Statutes
Councillor Jeski made a motion to table this Resolution. The motion was seconded by Councillor Pelkey and was Approved unanimously.
G. Discussion Item – Senior Tax Freeze
Councillor Yagaloff explained that Connecticut General Statute 12-170v and w allows municipalities to put a freeze on taxes for senior citizens and this plan has been available since June of 2006. placeSouth Windsor doesn’t participate in this program which is available.
The Council discussed if there would be a 75% cap on this program and also discussed the issue of liens.
Mr. Charlie Danna, the Town Tax Assessor explained to the Town Council the administrative portion of this program. When the program begins the Assessor’s Office will not be able to tell applicants for about two years when the benefit begins or the amount of this benefit because the way the program is set up. Concerns for the future Councillors would consist of changes or cuts to the program. There is presently a program that works exceptionally well, but perhaps it is time to increase the factor or see if there are other choices that could be explored other than just freezing the accounts. Mr. Danna gave examples and explained how the program would work for certain individuals. The Town Council will have to decide which direction the community would like to go. The Assessor’s
Office will put into effect whatever is chosen.
Councillor Yagaloff asked Mr. Danna to come back to the Town Council with a revision to this program which would include eliminating the 75% cap.
Councillor Moriarty questioned what would be included in the financials to see if any applicant qualifies for this program? Charlie Danna explained that the Town under the existing program uses the State guidelines and require full disclosures. The Town examines the initial application to make sure it meets the requirements, it is then forwarded to the State and once approved by the State it then comes back and gets qualified at the local level as well.
ITEM:
17. New Business (continued)
G. Discussion Item – Senior Tax Freeze
Commissioner Moriarty then questioned if an applicant meets all the requirements, purchases a condo for $350,000-$450,000 in the 55 and over complex and has $3.6 million dollars in stocks, bonds and cash, but they only make $14,000 in their tax return, could they still have their taxes frozen? Mr. Danna answered yes.
Councillor McCann stated that this tax freeze could save the Town money in the long run, but would like the Town Council to take a close look at all of the issues with this program and discuss this further at future meetings.
Councillor Pelkey express that it is his feeling that seniors need this tax freeze program because while campaigning he has heard from several seniors that everything is increasing in cost, and they are on a fixed income. This program would help those that really need it.
Councillor Prague stated that he would like to see a senior tax freeze program, but does not want other tax payers in Town to have to pay the difference.
Mr. Don Gonsalves, 40 Bayberry Trail came before the Town Council and stated that while he lived in Fairfield, there were seniors that lived in one million dollar homes and wanted a tax freeze, this was absolutely insane. A lien should be placed on homes of the individuals that receive this benefit. There are individuals in Town that need more assistance than some of the seniors.
18. Passage of Ordinance
A. Resolution Adopting an Amendment to Ordinance #180, an “Ordinance Prohibiting Tractor-Trailer Truck Traffic on portions of addressStreetTroy Road and addressStreetBrookfield Street” the Town of placeCitySouth Windsor
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby adopts an Amendment to Ordinance #180, an “Ordinance Prohibiting Tractor-Trailer Truck Traffic on portions of addressStreetTroy Road and addressStreetBrookfield Street in the Town of placeCitySouth Windsor” said Ordinance more fully described in attached Exhibit A., a copy of which is on file in the Office of the Town Clerk.
ITEM:
18. Passage of Ordinance (continued)
Councillor Pelkey made a motion to postpone consideration on this Resolution until the November 19, 2007 meeting. The motion was seconded by Deputy Mayor Delnicki and was Approved, unanimously.
B. Resolution Adopting an “Ordinance to Grant as Exemption of Property Tax for Hybrid Electric Vehicles and Certain Authorized Alternative Fuel Vehicles” in the Town of South Windsor
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby adopts an “Ordinance to Grant an Exemption of Property Tax for Hybrid Electric Vehicles and Certain Authorized Alternative Fuel Vehicles” in the Town of South Windsor, said Ordinance more fully described in attached Exhibit B., a copy of which is on file in the Office of the Town Clerk.
Councillor Pelkey made a motion to postpone consideration on this Ordinance until the November 19, 2007 meeting. The motion was seconded by Deputy Mayor Delnicki and was Approved, unanimously.
C. Resolution Adopting an “Ordinance Providing for Preference to Town Based Bidders on Town Contracts” in the Town of placeCitySouth Windsor
BE IT RESOLVED that the South Windsor Town Council hereby adopts an “Ordinance Providing for Preference to Town Based Bidders on Town Contracts” in the Town of South Windsor, said Ordinance more fully described in attached Exhibit C., a copy of which is on ifle in the Office of the Town Clerk.
Councillor Pelkey made a motion to postpone consideration on this Oridnance until the November 19, 2007 meeting. The motion was seconded by Councillor McCann and was Approved, unanimously.
19. Communications and Petitions from Council (Continued)
Councillor Havens and Jeski thanked Councillor Moriarty for his service to the Town of placeCitySouth Windsor and wished him well in all future endeavors.
Mayor Streeter thanked both Deputy Mayor Delnicki and Councillor Moriarty for their years of service and wished them the best for the future.
ITEM:
20. Communications and Reports from Town Manger (Continued)
none
21. Executive Session
Deputy Mayor Delnicki made a motion to go into Executive Session at 10:20 p.m. to discuss pending litigation and a personnel issue; Councillor McCann seconded the motion; it was Approved, unanimously.
22. Motion to Adjourn
The Executive Session and Regular Meeting were both adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah W. Reid
Clerk of the Council
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